GRACE

                                                               ABOUT GRACE:

 Grace is most commonly understood as God’s unmerited, as it is writing while we are yet sinners, Christ died for us, and that through his death, he might save us from the sin and the wrath of God. Eph. 2:8-9.
God’s grace did not only purchase forgiveness of sin for us but was also readily available as God’s enabling power. Eph. 1:4-6. It is through the enabling grace of God that we are transformed and equipped for the new life in Christ Jesus. 2 Cor. 5:17.
It is through the grace of God that we can maintain a constant walk with God.
It is also the grace that can help us to grow and be strong in the Lord. Jn. 2:1
Examples of Men of God’s grace in the bible: Moses- Ex. 3:11-13; 4:1-13. Gideon- read Judges 6:1-24. Apostle Paul – Acts 15:40, 2Cor. 11:22-33, 2 Cor. 12:9.


FUNCTIONS OF GOD’S GRACE IN OUR LIVES AS BELIEVERS:
Bold access onto the throne of grace. Heb..4:16
Equipped for every good works. 2Cor. 9:8

LESSON 11:

WATER BAPTISM:

To be ‘baptized’ means to be totally immersed. It is one of the injunctions which our Lord Jesus gave to the Church. Matt. 28:13-20, Mark. 16:15-18. when a person repents of his or her sins and believes that Jesus died for him, he is to be baptized in the water.

SYMBOLISM OF BAPTISM:

Identification with the death of Christ. Rom. 6:6-7
We are buried with him in baptism. Rom. 6:3-4.
We were raised with him from the death, Rom. 6:4-5
WHAT WATER BAPTISM STANDS FOR:
It is the funeral of the old man.
It is the resurrection unto New life
It is a declaration of our transition from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of Christ. Col. 1:13, from the Adamic race to the new creation of God’s Kingdom. 1Cor. 15:22, Rom. 5:12, Rom.5:6, 1Cor. 15:22; 15:45-49; 2Cor.5:7; Eph. 2:10
Lesson12:
HOLY SPIRIT:
Before His death and resurrection, and power to his ascension, Jesus made a promise of   sending to his disciples the Holy Spirit (John. 14:16-18; 16:5-7, Acts 1:1-8) who according to the scripture is the 3rd person of the Godhead. Acts5:34, 1Cor. 3:17.
GOD’S GIFT TO MAN:
The Holy Spirit is God’s gift to every believer, and it is received when a person believes in Jesus and receives the salvation that he offers. Acts 2:38, 39.
Works of Holy Spirit in a believer’s life:
He testifies of our relationship with God. Rom. 8:16
He teaches. John 14:26
He guides. Rom 8:14
He helps us live a life pleasing to God. Gal. 3:16.
He helps us in our prayers. Rom. 8:26.
He gives life to our bodies. Rom 8:11.
In the believer for service:
He gives power and boldness to witness. Acts 1:8; acts 2:14-40.
He introduces the supernatural realm. 1Cor. 12:14, 8-10; Acts 2:4; 10:49; 79:6.
He test5ifies about Christ. Acts 5:30-32; Acts 4:31-33.
He brings a fresh understanding of the word of God. 1Cor.2:9-10; John16:13
He fills our spirit with true worship to GodEph.5:18; 19. John 4:24.
He glorifies Jesus, John 16:13-15; 15; 26.
How to baptize in the Holy Spirit:
It is a gift promised by God; you must ask for it. Lk..11:13.
Begin to praise as you receive in faith Lk.. 24:52;53.
You can speak with a supernatural language. Acts 19:6, Matt. 16:17; Acts 2:4; 10:45, 46.
Lesson 13:
Temptation:
What is temptation? It is enticement or persecution to device temptation is not sin, but yielding to temptation is sin. Satan attacks individual Christians mostly through temptation. He focuses his attacks on two major areas.
Desires of the world: He attempts to make the believer to be absorbed into the world system.
To make the material blessings the world offers a central desire.
To make honour and recognition of the world an important goal and,
To make the comfort of being one with those our basis for security.
We are admonished by the scripture not to love the world and all that is in it, 1Jhn 2:15; James 4:4; 2 Tim. 6:6-11.
THE DESIRE OF THE FLESH:
Though we have been delivered from the power and consequences of sin, but we are still living a physical world which is subjected to natural appetite and desires. Satan will use these to try and get a Christian to place greatest importance on them more than the prompting of the Holy spirit within him (Rom 8:54, James 7:14; Eph. 2:3.
Victory won by Christ:
Christ has won the ultimate victory Satan and His deliver my spirits and giving us a platform to overcome them. Through His life Lk. 4:1-11; Heb. 4:15.
Through His Death and resurrection. Rom. 8:9, Heb. 2:14; Rom. 8:3, 4.
Christian Victory:
Based on the foundation of this great victory which Christ has won forcus, the Christian through faith in Christ can now defeat the attacks from enemy. 1 John 5:6; 5.
Know the victory is already won
Walk in step with the spirit Gal. 5:22-25
Recognize temptation for what it is – temptation is not sin, yielding  to temptation is sin James 1:15; Gal. 6:4; 7
Understand there is a way of escape provided 1Cor. 10:13, James 4:7
Keep the right in life Col. 3:1,2; Ph. 4:8; 1Tim. 6:11; 12; 2Pet. 3:11-13.
Keep away from obvious areas of temptation. Ps. 101:3;
Beware of Satan’s scheme. 2Cor. 2:11.
He is a liar John 8:44
He is a slander and accuser of brethren Rev. 12:10
He is a deceiver. Rev. 12:9
He is a tempter. Matt. 4:1-11
He is an oppressor. Acts 10:38
He is a hinderer. 1 Thess. 2:18
He is like a roaring Lion 1Pt. 5:8
He can transform himself into an angel of light. 2Cor. 11:14
We are called to live a life of victory in Christ Jesus over the flesh Gal. 9:16, over the world. 1John 5:4; over the enemy Eph. 6:11; 13.
Lesson 14:
Fellowship: What is fellowship?
Fellowship is from the Greek word “komonia”, which is interpreted variously as participation. It is a true association of believers. Characteristics of a fellowship is shared group believe and interests.
Purpose of Christian fellowship:
To encourage, comfort and grow the believer in Christ. Rom. 1:11, 12.
The world will know that Jesus was sent of God John 17:22; 23.
To give proof.
Condition of fellowship:
A basic commitment to one another Rom. 12:10. Without basic trust   there can be no fellowship. Depth of fellowship vary according to depth of commitment
Our commitment must be based on “agape”. Agape is a one way love, which loves in spite of not “because of” such a commitment therefore will not be affected by the other persons inconsistent behaviour John 13:34.
True fellowship is Christ-contented. 1John 1:3, Ph. 2:12.
WaLk.ing in the lights: our fellowship embraces the need for openness, honesty and truth fullness with one another.
Confessing our sins to others, or lovingly covering another sin. 1 Jhn. 1:6, 7, Matt. 18:15
Obedience to the light – general and specific commandments God has given.
Removal of any mask of covering. 1 Pt. 1:22
Genuine interest in the other’s wellbeing Ph. 2:3,4
A willingness to lay down one’s life. John 15:12-13. Love involves more than physical life. It includes our material possessions, our personal interest, and preferences e.t.c. James 21:15-16.
Meaning of fellowship in the Church:
Sharing all things. Acts 2:44, 45.
Laying down lives. Rom 16:3,4
Devoted to serving the brethren 1Cor. 16:15
Sharing in suffering. Ph. 4:14
Being a channel of supply to others in need 2Cor. 8:14; 1Cor. 16:17
Sacrificial giving 2 Cor. 8:9
Practicing Hospitality
Building up and encouraging one another 1Ths. 2:8; 2Tim. 3:10-14
Result of fellowship:
Fear of God. Acts 2:43
Joy. Acts 2:46
Favour with all people. Acts 2:47
Addition of new believers. Acts 2:47
All needs are supplied. Ph.14:19
Emergence of leadership. 1 Cor. 16:15,16.
Lesson 15: Generosity:
Generosity is the quality of being kind, understanding and not selfish. It is also defined as the willingness to give money and other material things to others. It is one spiritual laws set in motion by God to govern life. 2Cor. 9:6.believers as partners with God (1Cor. 3:9) 2 Cor. 5:20; 6:10. As partners with God, it is important we understand where responsibilities lie
Ownership with God. Ps. 24:1; Ps. 89:11; Job 41:11; 1 Chron. 29:10-14
We are not owners but stewards. All ownership is with God. Every single created thing living or not, ultimately belongs to Him, including everything material or immaterial that we may personally have in life; possession, carrier, families.
He gives us all things to enjoy. 1 Tim. 6:17, and when we realize that they still belong to God, we can rest in the assurance that God also has ultimate responsibility for them. Matt. 6:25-33
Stewardship is with us.
We are not owners but stewards. A steward manages and takes care of that which belongs to someone else.
God owns everything but as stewards, we man and take care of it for Him.
We have an obligation to be faithful in this stewardship.
Areas of stewardship:
Our life. (acts 17:25, 1Cor 6:19, Gal. 2:20; Job 33:4
Our time. Ps. 90:12; Eph. 5: 15; 16. Col. 4:5.
Our Talents and abilities. 1 Pet. 4:10; 1Cor. 12:4-7, 11
Our possessions. Matt. 6:19-21; Col.3:1,2
Our finances. 1 Tim. 6:6-10; 17-19; Matt. 6:24.
The message of the gospel. 1 Cor. 4:19, 16, 17; 1Tim. 6:20.
A living sacrifice: for a believer to experience the full blessings of God stewardship – He or she must be totally surrendered to God – unreserved submission of one’s entire life possessions and plans to God have will and purpose. It is only when we give ourselves to God that we learn what it means to give some of the possessions (or money) God has given us.
Giving in the early church:
They supported the needy. Acts 6:1-3.
Churches gave sacrificially to one another. 2 Cor. 8:23 Cor. 8:1;2
The church supported travelling ministries. Acts 18:3. 2 Thess. 3:7-9. Ph. 4:18-18
Christians worked to be able to give. Eph. 4:28.
Giving was the proof of their love 2Cor. 8:14-24; 7-15, 1Cor. 16:1,2, 1John 3:11, 18.


Lesson 16:
 Kingdom Living:
A believer is one who is delivered from Satan’s dominion (ruler ship or headship) we are now under a new authority – that of Christ Jesus our Lord. As he grows in his life in the Lord, the believer soon discovers that the only way to enjoy living in God’s Kingdom is to live in right relationship with Jesus (Eph. 1:17; Ph. 3:10.
Understanding our relationship with Christ:
He is our savior. It is the primary relationship which we have with him. Matt. 1:21. We cannot know God as father or friend until we first have a revelation of Jesus as savior. John.
He saved us from the judgment of God. 1 Ths.1:10; 5:9; Rom. 5:9.
Satan’s power (Acts 26:18; Col. 1:13; Heb. 2:14; 1 John 3:8.
He saved us from ourselves. Th. 3:19, 2 Cor. 5:15, Titus 3:3-6, 1Pet.1:18, Heb. 5:8-9, Heb. 2:10. 2Tim. 1:10
He is the Lord of the redeemed. Knowing him as savior brings us into God’s kingdom and as the king of the kingdom he becomes our Lord. Col. 2:6, 1Cor. 12:3, John 13:13, Rom. 1:4, 1 Cor. 8:6, 1 Cor. 4:5.  Being under the dominion of Christ liberates us from the domineering influence of sin. Col. 2:9; 10, 1Cor. 8:6. Christ is the model citizen of the kingdom of God. His life is an example of what the true citizen of the kingdom should be; who though he is the king of the kingdom took the place of a servant. Ph. 2:5, John 13:13-15, Matt 20:26-28.

Lesson 17:
Kingdom citizens:
As a member of his kingdom, we enter a master servant relationship with him. Matt. 6:24
As Jesus was committed to do the will of God in all things (Heb.10:5-9)
He displayed the kingdom lifestyle to please God. Eph. 5:8-10.
In the spirit, we are expected to have this servant heart just as he is.
Paradox of Christian Life:
In slavery, there is freedom. Rom.6:22, 16-23, 12:1, 1Cor. 7:22. 2Cor. 3:17, Eph.6:6, 7. 1Pet. 2:16
In being a servant, there is greatness. Matt. 23:11, 12; Matt. 20:26, 27; Mark 9:35; 10:34, John 12:26.
In humility there is exaltation. Matt. 18:14; Prov. 29:23; James 4:10; 1 Pet. 5:5,6 Matt.19:50.
In submission, there is authority. Lk. 7:7-8; James 4:7. The lifestyle of the kingdom is a lifestyle of submission and obedience to God. Matt. 12:50; Eph. 6:6; Heb. 13:21 1John 2:17.
Reason for submission:
Because of all he has done for us. Rom. 12:1; Eph. 4:1; Titus 3:4-7.
There is fulfillment in submission. Ps. 40:18
Because of love. John 14:15; 1Jhn. 5:3.
The fruit of the kingdom: when we are in the kingdom God expects us as citizens to bring forth fruits of the kingdom. Matt. 21:43; 1 Thess. 2:11, 12.
Love, joy, peace. Gal. 5:22-23.
Goodness, righteousness, truth. Eph. 5:9; James 3:13-17.
Righteousness, peace and joy. Rom. 14:17; Heb. 12:11; 1 Pet. 2:11; Col. 1:10; 2:6, Eph. 4:1.

Lesson 18:
Worship:
There are 3 main understanding we desire of worship from the bible.
Blessing God. Ps. 103:1. To bless is to speak good thing concerning someone or thing. We bless God through our praise and worship of him. Ps. 34:1-3.
Praise: another word which is implied in worship is ‘praise’; praise is an expression of admiration and appreciation for God. Praise has to do with acknowledging God’s character and power. Ps. 63:3-4.
Reasons for praise:
Because of whom he is. Ps. 47:6, 7
Because of what he does Ps. 103:1-5
Who can praise God?
Those who seek God. Ps. 22:26.
Everything that has breath. Ps. 150:6.
When do we praise God?
At all times. Ps. 34:1.
In every circumstance. 1 Thess. 5:16-18.
Where do we praise God?
The congregation of His people. Heb. 2:12.
Among the nations. Ps.57:9.
On our beds. Ps. 63:4-8
Worship: the 3rd connotation of worship is the word worship itself. Worship is an expression of love and adoration. It has to do with the love we have for Him. Deut. 6:4-5; Mark 12:33.
Genuine worship must be in the spirit. John 4:23-24. True must proceed from inner man, in response to the promptings of the spirit of God. Only believers can offer true worship to God because only the spirit can stair it up in an individual. John 5:5-8; 1Cor.2
Must be in truth: john 4:23-24. To worship God in truth is to worship him as the bible says we should worship. Num. 3:4; 26:6
Expression of worship:
With mouth.
Singing. Ps. 9:2;11
Praising. Ps.103:1
Shouting. Ps. 47:1
With hands:
Lifting the hand. Ps. 63:4
Clapping the hands. Ps. 47:1
Musical instruments. Ps. 150.
With the body:
Standing. Ps. 134:1.
Kneeling, bowing. Ps. 95:6.
Dancing and leaping for joy. Ps.30:11.
The greatest thing we can do in this life or eternity is to worship God. So determine today to be a true worshipper and make it your supreme goal in life.

Lesson 19:
Prayer:
 The times we spend with God in prayer can release the most dynamic, history changing power ever known in the world.
 Divine invitation to pray: Matt. 6:6. We have been invited by God himself to go into the secret place of prayer with him. Heb.. 4:
To enter into the secret place with him the following are required:
Right motive. Matt. 6:5
A right relationship with God. Lk.. 11:11-13.
Full trust in God. Ps. 55:16-17.
A dispensing of false fronts. Mark 7:6,7.
Five biblical commands in regards to prayer:
Watch and pray always. Lk. 21:36 Mark 13:35-37.
Pray lest you fall into temptation. Matt. 26:41
Pray for workers. Lk. 10:2
Pray for those in authority. 1Tim. 2:1,2.
Pray for your enemies. Lk. 6:28
When to pray: while the bible injunction is to pray always, many examples abound in the scriptures of people who pray at regular intervals or times. 1Chr.4:10, Is. 55:16-17, Dan. 6:10.
Jesus’ example of clearly pattern of regular, whole hearted prayer:
Early in the morning. Mark 1:35.
Before each meat. Mark 6:41.
All night. Lk.. 6:12
What to pray for:
Ourselves. 1 Chr. 4:10.
One another. James 5:16.
The ministries in the body of Christ. 2 Thess. 3:1.
The sick and draught. James 5:14-16.
Those enslaved with sin. 1 John 5:16.
Role of the spirit in prayer: one of the primary purposes of the spirit is to guide or help us in our prayer. Rom. 8:27. We pray in the spirit when a special anointing of the spirit rests on us to pray. Eph. 6:18, Jude 20. To help us pray effectively, the Holy Spirit also provides the special gift of speaking in another tongue. 1 Cor. 12:47, 1Cor.14.

Prayer of agreement:
Two believers join together in prayer provides a very big advantage. Matt. 18:19
Co-operate prayer. Acts 4:24.
Lesson 20: Heaven.
What is Heaven?
Heaven is the dwelling place of God. Job 22:12; Deut. 26:15
Heaven is the throne room of God. Ps. 103:19, Is. 66:1.
Heaven is the place of God’s full glory. Dan. 7:9, 10.
Nature of Heaven: heaven is a place far beyond anything we can possibly imagine. 1Cor.2:9; 13:12. It is a place of holiness, full glory, and without end.
Some scriptural revelations of Heaven:
A place of great glory. Mark 13:43
A place of continual worship. Rev. 19:1-6; Rev. 5:11-12.
A place that will never end. 2 Pet. 1:11; 1
A place untainted by evil, rev. 21:27
No night. Rev. 22:5
No cause. Rev. 22:3
No cry, sorrow. Rev. 21:4
No death. Rev. 21:4
Heaven is a place of the full manifestation of God, what God is like. Heaven is a place of holiness, full of glory and without end.
Our connection with heaven: believers, now live life in special relationship with Heaven.
We belong there. Heb. 12:22, 23; Ph. 3:20. Our citizenship.
We are enthroned there. Eph. 2:6
We have our source of life there. Eph. 1:3.
We have our name recorded there. Lk.. 10:20; Heb.. 12:23.
We have been sent by God who lives in Heaven. We are heaven’s ambassadors. John 17:16; 18. 2Cor. 5:20.
 We have our eyes fixed there 2 Cor. 4:17, 18. Heb.. 11:9-16.
We have eternal treasure in Heaven. 1 Pet. 1:3,4.
Heaven is our final destination. Ph. 3:13, 4; Jn. 14:12.
Lesson 21:
The second coming:
A promise of the return: The second coming of the Lord Jesus to the earth is one of the most important subjects for Christians. It was referred to more than 300 times in the New Testament.
Jesus spoke about His Own Return. Matt.24:30; John 14:23.
Angels foretold it. Acts 1:10, 11.
The early Christians encouraged one another with it. 1Thess. 4:16-18, Rev. 1:7
The Holy Spirit bears witness of it. 2 Cor. 5:5; James 5:7, 8. Heb. 10:37.
Nature of His Return:
Unexpectedly. 1 Thess. 5:1-3; 4-11.
Like the lightning. Matt. 24:27; Lk. 17:24
The same way that He left. Acts 1:10, 11.
With great power. Lk. 21:27
In view of all. Rev. 1:7
Dramatic events that will occur at the second coming:
The mystery of the age will be completed. Rev. 10:6,7; Rom. 16:25-26
God’s people will enter their full glory
The dead in Christ will be raised to life 2Cor. 4:14; John 6:40; 11:25
Those believers still alive will be caught up to meet Him. Matt. 24:31
Creation will be set free from its bondage. Rom. 8:19-21, 22. Isa. 35:1-7
Every enemy will be destroyed. 1 Cor. 15:24, 25; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; 2-8.
Satan will be bound. Rev. 20:1-,3; 7-10
Judgment will be meted out. 2 Thess. 1:6-9.
A kingdom will be set up that will never be destroyed. Jn.2:44; Rev. 19:15-16.

Lesson 22: Call of God:
God has a wonderful plan for the life of every individual believer in Christ. Not only does his call involve a wonderful purpose for us through eternity, but we also have an expression of that calling on earth. 2 Tim. 1:9; Rom. 8:17, 28-30.
We are called of God:
From the foundation of the world. Eph. 1:4,5; 2:10, Matt. 25:34.
To be separated unto him. 1 Pet. 2:9; Rom. 9:23-26
To fulfill His purpose. 2 Tim. 1,8,9. Rom 8:28; Ph. 3:14.
Our calling on Earth:
The general calling – A servant of Christ. 1 Cor. 7:22,23. 1Cor. 16.
Every believer by the virtue of Jesus Christ becomes a bond man to serve him.
The special calling – separated to be an Apostle. Just as Paul had a special calling in his life, so does every believer. Paul was called to be an Apostle, but there are many different callings in the body of Christ. Rom. 12:3-8; Eph. 4:7-16. God’s special calling is revealed to us as we earnestly seek his will.
The particular calling – separated to the Gospel within each special calling there is a particular calling. For example, Peter and Paul were both Apostles, but one to the gentiles, and the other to the Jews. Rom. 11:13. We move into our special and particular calling only as we prove ourselves as love-slaves. For we must first love the authority of Christ before he can send us. Matt. 28:18, 19.
Why does he call us?
Because the world is in darkness. 1 Jn. 5:19; Eph. 6:12
Because people are hungry and are in need. Matt. 8:36
To prove His Wisdom. Eph. 3:10, 11.
Time is short. John 4:35.
What happens when he calls us?
We are made by him. Matt. 4:19. Jer. 18:1-10.
We are taught by Him. John 14:26; 1 Cor. 2:12; 1 Jn. 2:27.
We are sent by Him. John 17:18; Mark 16:15.
You must make a total commitment to this plan of God for our lives and follow him all the way.
Lesson 23:  Regeneration (Born of God):
Intro: regeneration that a person receives a new Holy nature from God. We need this new nature to be part of God’s Holy Kingdom.
Synonymous terms with regeneration:
Being Born of God:
Opposed to earthly life. John 1:12,13
Those born of God do not continue to Sin.
Those born of God are characterized by love.
Believe Jesus as the Christ.
Born again: John 3:3-7.
Born of Water and Spirit. John 3:5.
Born of the Spirit as opposed to the flesh. John 3:5
New creation. 2 Cor. 5:17
Created to be like God. Eph. 4:24.
New thinking producing righteousness and holiness. Eph. 4:22-24.
Washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. 1 Pet. 1:23; Titus 3:5.
How can a person be born again?
Believe the gospel. John3:14-16.
You were dead in sin and alive in Christ. Eph. 2:1-7; Rom. 6:11.
It is not by works. Eph. 2:8,9.
It is a work of the Spirit. John 3:4.
Human being’s part of being born again:
Believe the gospel. Jn.3:14-16.
Separate from sin. 1 Jn. 3:9, Rom. 6:12,13.
Renew our mind. Rom.12:2.
We should not allow the world to shape our thought and actions.
We should know and obey God.
We must put off the old man, which is corrupted by sin. Eph. 4:22.
Put on the new nature. Eph. 4:24
Made new in our thought. Eph. 4:23.
Purity ourselves by obeying the truth.
Love one another fervently. 1 Pet. 1:22.
Evidence of being born again:
Freedom from sin. 1 Jn.3:8-9.
Producing good works. Eph. 2:10.
Producing the fruit of the spirit. Gal. 5:22-25 as opposed to the deeds of the flesh.
Is accomplished by the spirit not by fleshly act. Jn. 3:6.
Basic requirement.
Death of the flesh (sinful nature). Eph. 2:1-10.
Conclusion:
The New birth or regeneration is a basic necessity into the kingdom. It is an experience that generates a lifestyle. Christianity without experience is nothing but a hollow religion. John 3:3.
Lesson 24:
Baptism of the Holy Spirit:
Introduction: the baptism unto the Holy Spirit involves both the Holy Spirit and Jesus Christ the Baptizer. It is preceded by a life of total surrender and absolute commitment to the Lord without which you cannot be baptized in the Holy Spirit.
WHAT IS BAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT?
It is supernatural Empowerment for supernatural service. Acts 24:49, Acts 1:8, and Acts 2:1- 4.
WHO CAN BE BAPTISED?
Anyone who has been born again and sanctified can be baptized into the Holy Spirit, Joel 2:28, Acts 2:1- 4, 17 – 18, Acts 2:38 – 39.
NEED FOR BAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT:
Power over sin Gal 5:16.
Power for service. Acts 1:8
 Power to deal with the forces of evil. Mark 16:17 – 18.
It produces a dramatic change of life. Acts 9:1 – 2, Acts 21:8, 11-13.
 It is a command from God. Eph 5:18.

EVIDENCE OF BAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT:

Speaking in tongues: Acts 2:1 – 4, 16-21; 10:44-48, 19:1-7.
Prophecy Joel: 2:28-32.
Praising God: Act 10:44-48.
Power Availability: Luke 24:49, Acts 1:8.
Boldness to preach: Acts 2:1-4, 16-21.
Fruit of the Spirit: Gal. 5:22.
Willingness to die for Christ: Acts 1:8.
Ability to minister in the Supernatural. Isa 61:1, 1cor. 12

BIBLICAL EXPERIENCE OF SPIRIT INFILLING OR BAPTISM:
The 120 disciples of Jesus Christ at Pentecost. Acts 2:1-4. (Acts 4:31).
Timothy: 1 Tim. 1:6.
John the Baptist Lk.. 1:15.
Our Lord Jesus Christ: Lk.. 4:1.
Elisabeth: Lk. 1:41.
Peter: Acts 4:8.
Stephen: Acts 7:55.
Paul: Acts 13:9.

OLD TESTAMENT CHARACTER WHO WERE FILLED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT:
The Seven Elders.
Othniel: Judges 3:10.
Samson: Judges 14:6.
David: 1 Sam 16:13.
Ezekiel: Eze. 2:1-2.

CONCLUSION

 For effective Christian love and service, Baptism in the Holy Spirit is sine qua non. Every believer should continually seek for this experience.


Lesson 25: Hell  .

Introduction:
The doctrine of hell is the doctrine of the eternal destination of the wicked. While many people deny the existence of an everlasting hell, the bible was very clear.

            The reality of hell: What is hell?
Hell is eternal banishment from the presence of God. 2 Thess. 1:9. It is the place of torment and everlasting punishment. Lk. 16:23 Rev 20:15, Isa. 33:19.

                               Nature of Hell

Place of punishment
Place of torment
Place of eternal fire: Matt. 13:42, 50.
Place of worms: Mark 9:44-46, 48.
Disconnection from God: Lk. 16:27.
No mercy: Lk. 16:24-27.

Hell was originally prepared for the devil and his wicked angels. It is never originally prepared for human beings but by insisting on rejection of God, by rejecting Jesus Christ, human beings have made the conscious choice of following the devil into hell: Matt. 25:4.
Conclusion:

One gets to hell by rejecting Jesus as his Lord and personal saviour.

Future Glory and Christian Rewards:
Introductions:

The bible speaks of monetary or light affliction that is the lot of believers in the present world. But, we are made to understand that the moment we cross to the other side of eternity, our moment of affliction will be exchanged for an exceeding and eternal weight of Glory.

FUTURE GLORY OF BELIEVERS:

To be with Christ: Jn. 14:3.
To behold his face: Ps. 17:15, 2 Cor. 4:6, Rev. 22:4.
To behold the Glory of Christ: Jn. 17:24.
To be glorified with Christ: Rom. 8:17, 18.
To reign with Christ: 2 Tim. 2:12; Matt 25:20, 23, Lk. 19:12-19.
To inherit all things: Rev. 21:7; Acts 26:18.
To shine as stars Dan. 12:3.

CROWNS TO BE WON BY BELIEVERS:

Crown for runners. 1 Cor. 9:24-25, Heb. 12:1.
Crown for soul winners. 1 Cor.2:19.
Crown for righteousness. 2 Tim 4:8.
Crown of life for the faith. James 1:12, Rev. 2:10.
Crown of glory for shepherds and church leaders. 1Pet 5:4
Crown of gold for all the redeemers. Rev. 4:4.
Conclusion: God has reserved many rewards for us as believers but to receive these rewards, we must be faithful.
VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE CHURCH:
Visible Church consist of those whose names are on the Local Church rolls, all earthly denominations and sects, good, bad and indifferent is part of the visible church.
The invisible church is made up of those whose names are written in the lamb’s book of life. Rev. 21:27. This can be referred to as the true Church.
The Church:
Introduction:
The Church is from the Greek word “Eklessia” meaning, “called out ones”. It is made up of those who have had their sins forgiven because of the blood of Jesus shed at the cross of Calvary.
The local Church:
The local Church is made up of believers who gather in a particular locality to honour God. Matt. 18:20.
Universal Church: all believers in Christ as Lord and Saviour irrespective of their denominations or Local are a part of the universal Church. Matt. 16:18. Members of the universal Church flow from the Local Assembly where one belongs. Biblical emphasis of the Church is on the Local Assembly where each member can be nurtured and function as part of the Church is executed at the Local Church setting. Rev. 2:3; Rom. 16:1-5; Acts 2:42; Heb. 10:25.
Foundation of the Church:
Christ is the head of the Church. Eph. 1:20-22; Matt. 16:18.
And it is founded on the rock which is Christ the son of the living God. Matt.16:16-18. 1 Cor. 3:10.
Jesus Christ is not only the foundation; He is the Chief corner stone of the Church. Eph. 2:20.
Everything in the Church revolves around him. i.e His person, His life, His work, His death and resurrection.
The apostles and Prophets are the foundational and foundation laying ministries. Eph. 2:20.
The commissioning of the Church:
The Church was officially commissioned on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit of promise was released upon the 120 believers gathered in the upper room in Jerusalem. Acts 2:1-4.
Nomenclature of individual believers in the bible:
Believers. Acts 4:32; 5:14.
Saints. Acts 9:13; 1 Cor. 1:2; Rev. 13:7.
Brethren. Acts 12:17; Rom. 1:13; Matt. 23:8-10
Christians. Acts 11:26 26:28.
Elect. Mk. 13:27; Rom. 8:33
Description of the Church:
God’s workmanship. Eph. 2:10.
Created to do good works. Eph. 2:10.
Created to be Holy. Eph. 4:24.
Citizens of God’s Kingdom. Eph. 2:19.
Separated unto God. 2 Cor. 6:16-17
Members of the household of God. Eph. 2:19; 1 Tit. 3:15.
Children of God. Eph. 1:5; 3:14-15; 5:8
Temple of God. Eph. 2:20-22.
Indwelt by the spirit of God. Eph. 2:22; 1 Cor. 3:16
To be a holy priesthood. 1 Pet. 2:5.
Bride of Christ. Eph. 5:25-32.
Loved by Christ. Eph. 5:25
Gave himself for it. Eph. 5:25.
Cleanse the Church. Eph. 5:26.
Will be united with Christ. Eph. 5:31-32.
Christ is the bridegroom of the Church. John 3:29; 2 Cor. 11:2.
Wedding supper of the lamb. Rev. 19:9
A great mystery. Eph. 5:24-32.
Body of Christ. Eph 1:22, 4:15, 1 Cor 12:27; Col 1:24.
a. Jesus lives in us. Gal 2:20.
b. Christ as the Head. Eph 1:22, 4:15, Col 1:18, 2:19.
c. Interconnected. Eph 4:11-16; 1 Cor 12:26, Gal 6:2.
         7. Temple of the Holy Spirit. Eph 2:20-22; 1 Cor 3:16-17.
Members are living stones. 1 Pet 2:5.
Jesus is the corner stone. 1 Pet 2:6; Eph 2:20.
Apostles and prophets are the foundation. Eph 2:20.
Family. Eph. 2:19.
All I have one father. Isaiah 63:16; 9:6, Hosea 11:1; Rom 8:15, John 1:12; Gal 4:5.
All are brethren; Matt 12:30; 1 Timothy 5:2, James 2:15.
 Flock. Isa 40:11; Eze 34; Zech 9:16; John 10; Lk. 12:32; Act 20:29.
Jesus is the Chief Shepherd. John 10; Matt 18:10-14.
We are his Sheep. Ps 100; Isa 40:11, Lk. 12:32; John 10.
False Shepherds are hirelings. John 10:13.
False brethren are wolves. Matt 7:25; Act 20:29.
Satan is the chief wolf. Lk. 10:3; John 10:12.
                               MEMBERSHIP OF THE CHURCH:
Repentance from sin. Act 2:38.
 Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as the Son of God, Saviour and Lord. Matt 16:16-18.
 Water Baptism. Acts 2:38; Matt 28:19; Acts 10:47; 48; Acts 22:16.
 Continuance in the apostolic teachings and doctrine. Acts 2:42.

ORDINANCES OF THE CHURCH:

Baptism Matt 28:19-20; Matt 16:16. Acts 2:38-41; Acts 8:36-40; Acts 10:4.
The Lord’s Supper. Acts 2:42-46; Acts 20:7; 1 Cor 11:20-34.

The Purpose of the church:
To minister to God by worshiping and glorifying him on earth. Eph 1:4-6.
The Mission of the church
God’s commission to his people – Adam, Noah – Be fruitful and multiply, Abraham: Through whom all the nations shall be blessed. Gen 12:1-3, 18:18.
Repeated to Isaac. Gen 26:4.
Repeated to Jacob. Gen 28:14.
Repeated to David. 1 Chr 16:15-24.
Revealed to korah. Ps 47.
Revealed to Isaiah. Isa 49:12; Isa 11:9-12.
Moses to raise a kingdom of priests: Ex 19:6.
Jesus: The great commission.
Spoken Matt 25, Mk 16, Lk. 24.
Paul to preach the gospel to the gentiles.
Peter the gospel to all people. Acts 10:9-48; 11:15-18, 1 pet 2:9.

GOD’S LOVE FOR THE NATIONS:
Many heathen in the Old Testament believed in Jehovah to its people.
Melduzedek: Gen 14:18-20.
Jethro: Ex 18:9-12.
Nebuchadnezzar: Dan 4:34-37.
Ruth: Ruth 1:16-17.
Rehab: Josh 6:25, Heb. 11:31.
Ninevites- Jonah.
Woman of Zarephath. 1 Kg 19:8.
Neman, 2 Kg 5:15
Job-Job.
God’s people who testifies to him before nations.
Joseph-Egyptians.
Naomi-Moabites.
 Moses-Midiahites.
 Solomon-Arabians.
Elisha-Syrians.
David-philistines.
Elijah-phoenians.
Daniel-Babylonians.
Jonah-Assyrians.
People or all nations will be in the kingdom.
God’s Spirit will be upon all flesh. Joel 2:28.
Many nations will desire the blessings of God. Isa 2:2; 3, 3; 55:5, 6. Isa 60:3; Zech 8:23.
 John’s great vision of all nations in the kingdom. Rev 5:9; 10:7-9; 10.

JESUS THE MESSAIAH FOR ALL PEOPLE
The Four women in Jesus genealogy are gentiles. Matt 1, Tamar- Canaanites, Rehab- Canaanites, Ruth- Moabites, BathsHeba - Hittite. Prophecies Concerning Jesus; Zachariah’s prophecy. Lk. 1:72-79.
Simeon’s blessings Lk. 2:29-32.
Angel’s announcement Lk. 2:10, 14.
John’s testimonies Lk. 2:10, 14.
King’s of east come to worship him. Matt 2:1-12.
Begins ministry among gentiles. Matt 4:15-23.
Told disciples to love their enemies. Matt 5:44.
Includes all nations in his kingdom. Matt 8:11.
Prepares disciples to testify to the gentiles. Matt 10:18.
Ministry to the gentiles prophesied, Matt 12:18-21.
Kingdom taken from Israel and given to gentiles. Matt 21:42-43.
Kingdoms to be preached to all people before the end will come. Matt 24:14.
Disciples to be made from all nations.
MISSION AND THE BOOK OF ACTS
Baptism in the Holy Spirit
Power to testify. Act 1:8, 4:7-10.
Jerusalem- Locally.
Judea- Regionally.
Samaria- across cultural, racial barriers.
To the uttermost parts of the earth- All people.
The outpouring on Pentecost gift of tongues enable 72 nations to   hear the truth, peter has new power and boldness to testify. Act 2:14-40. The apostles begin to perform signs and wonders. Act 2:43. The church experienced tremendous growth. Act 2:41; 4:4, 6.
Yet the Apostles were still unwilling to testify to all nations.
For 20 years did not take the gospel outside or Jerusalem, God scattered them through persecution. Acts 8:1-4.
Philip preached to foreigners. Acts 8:4-17.
God confronted the unwillingness of peter 10.
Peter was strongly opposed by the Jewish brethren. Acts 11:1-18.
It was only in Acts 15, that the church leaders finally embrace mission. Acts 15.
The church in Antioch was the first to send mission. Acts 13:1-4; Acts 13-28.
THE MESSAGE OF THE CHURCH
THE   GOSPEL
        The Gospel or the goodness is that Jesus has come, died on the cross for our sins to mend our broken relationship with God.
         Jesus is the Saviour who came to save us from the penalty of sin (death) and the power of sin (bad habits and other bondage through faith in him and the victory he won on his death, burial and resurrection, We are reconciled to god. 1 Cor. 15:1-4, Heb. 2:14,15, Rom 3 :21- 26.

The Necessity of the Gospel:

The fall of man; Gen 3, Gen 4, Rom 3:23.
Sin in the world.

              CONTENT OF THE GOSPEL:

Promised in the Old Testament: Gen 3:15-16; Rom 1:2, 2 peter 1:18-21, Isa 29:18, 41:27, 52:7, 61:1-3.
Jesus Christ is the fulfillment. Rom 1:3-4.
We were freed from wrath through him. 2 Cor. 5:19.
Concerns Jesus Christ: Rom. 1:1-4.
Born of a virgin. Isa 7:14.
Truly flesh from king David’s life. Rom. 1:8-4, 2 Tim 2:8.
Truly the Son of God. Rom 1:4.
Lived a complete sinless life. Heb. 4:15.
Crucified on the Roman Cross. Acts 2:23.
Died for our sins. 1 Cor. 15:3.
His blood satisfied the demand of God. Act 20:28, Rom 5:9-14, Heb.. 9:14-15.
He was buried. 1 Cor. 15:4.
Resurrected from the dead. Rom. 1:3-4, 1 Cor. 15:4, Acts 2:24.  Appeared to many people. 1 Cor. 15:5-8.
Ascended into heaven glorified. Acts 1:9-11, 1 pet 1:21.
Will come again as Judge. 2 Thess. 1:7-8, Acts 7:9-11.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE GOSPEL:
It’s the power of God to save. Rom. 1:16;  1 Cor. 1:18; 15:1-2.
Source of grace. Acts 14:13; 20:32.
Acceptance of the Gospel.
Repentance. Mk. 1:15.
Faith. Mk. 1:15; Heb. 4:2.
Brings peace. Eph. 6:15
Brings Hope. Col. 1:23; 1 Pet. 1:3.
It’s absolute and exclusive. Gal.1:8,9
The Gospel in Romans:
Preconditions;
Was promised in the Old Testament.
Because of Adam, we all inherited death. Rom. 5:12-14.
All are under the wrath of God, both gentiles and Jews. Rom. 1:18-32; Rom. 2:1-29.
Jews and gentiles alike are under sin. Rom. 3:9.
All need to be saved because all have sinned.
Purpose of the law was to point out sin.
Gospel of power of God for salvation. Rom. 1:16.

COMPONENTS OF THE GOSPEL:
Cancers Jesus Christ, son of God. Rom. 1:3-4.
Truly flesh from king David’s line; 1:3-4
Truly the son of God (divine). Rom. 1:3-4.
Resurrected from the dead. Rom. 1:3-4.
Jesus Christ is our Lord. Rom. 1:3-4.
Important element is faith (believing). Rom. 1:5-8.
All are called to believe him. Rom. 1:5-6.
A righteousness from God by faith. Rom. 1:17.
A righteousness apart from the law. Rom. 3:21.
Righteousness by faith in Christ Jesus. Rom. 3:22
Redemption is by God’s grace. Rom. 3:24
We must anchor faith in His blood. Rom. 3:25
All by faith not by law. Rom. 3:27-31.
God will save us because of the blood of Jesus Christ. Rom. 5:9-11.
Faith brings peace with God. Rom. 5:1-2.
It all depends on God’s mercy not our efforts. Rom. 9:16.
Salvation is by grace not by works. Rom. 11:5-6.
CONTENT OF THE GOSPEL:
God’s love; while we are yet sinners, Christ died for us. Rom. 5:18.
Our justification came by Christ Jesus. Rom. 3:24.
Christ died for us while we were powerless. Rom. 5:6.
Christ rose from the dead. Rom. 14:9.
We must confess that Christ is Lord. Rom. 10:9.
We must believe God resurrected Him. Rom. 10:9.
We are to be baptized. Rom. 6:3-14.
God gives the Holy Spirit to us. Rom. 5:5.
We are to turn away from sin. Rom. 6:1-23.
Life in the Spirit and adoption. Rom. 8:1-17.
Prepared for the coming of the Lord Jesus. Rom. 13:8-14.
We will all be judged by God. Rom. 14:10.
Judgment will be according to the Gospel. Rom. 2:16.
Future glorification. Rom. 8:18-39.
Likely to suffer for our faith. Rom. 5:3.
Suffering works character in us. Rom. 5:3-4.
Jews or gentiles all shall be saved.
Israel will be saved when the fullness of the gentile have been saved. Rom. 11:25.
God’s intention is that all Nation believe. Rom. 16:28
FALSE GOSPEL:
Church has safeguards against false teachings:
Church ministry to protect believers. Eph. 4:11-16.
Fellowship of believers. Heb. 10:23-25.
Word of God (Bible) is truth. John 17:17.
God’s word is exalted even above his name. Ps. 138:2.
Transgressors do not keep the word.
Holy Spirit Guides us. Isa. 30:21. Prov. 3:5-6. John 10:4; 16:12-13; 2 Pet. 3:17.
God’s judgment on false teachers:
Condemnation to those who teach falsely. Gal. 1:8, 8.
False teachers:
Promise liberty but brings bondage. 2 Pet. 2:19; Gal. 2:4.
Falsehood does not satisfy. Isa. 32-6.
Teach damnable heresies. 2 Pet. 1:21-22.
And people love it. Jer. 3:31.
Have false visions and prophesies. Jer. 14:14-15; Jer. 23:25-32.
Have false dreams. Jer. 23:32; Zech. 10:2
Pretends to be Christians (Sheep). Matt. 7:15; Gal. 2:4; 2 Pet. 2:1-31.
Watch people live not only words. Matt. 7:16-20.
Can perform great miracle and signs. Matt. 24:24; Mk. 13:22.
Types of false Gospel:
Another Jesus
Another Spirit
Another Gospel
Some teach Christ less Gospel. 2 Pet. 2:1.
Fables and genealogies 1. Tim. 1:3-7. Heb.. 13:9.
Human philosophy. Col. 2:8; Matt. 15:9. Mk. 7:7.
Material Science. Col. 2:8.
Some teach harsh treatment of the body. Col. 2:16-17.
Not eating some foods. Col. 2:16-17; 20-22.
Mistreating the body. Col 2:23
Sabbaths and special days. Col 2:16
Marriage is forbidden. 1 Tim 4:3
Preaching for marital Gain. 2 Cor 2:17; 4:2
Preached by ignorant people. 2 Pt 3:16
Worship of angels. Col 2:8
Gospel of Laws and religions works. Gal 3:1-5, Acts 15:24, 1 Tim 4:3
Special Foods (water, oil, etc). Heb 13:9
Idols. Rom 1:18-23, Zech 10:2
People deified. Rom 1:23, Acts 12:22, Acts 15:24, 1 Tim 4:3
Demons worshiped. De 32:17, Ps 106:37, Re 9:20, 13:4.
    CHURCH GOVERNMENT
Introduction:
Church government can be defined as the operational or governance     structure in the church. The purpose of church government is to maintain order and functionality of the church.
Overseers (Pastors/ Bishop, Elder and deacons are the three ministries appointed to see that the needs of the members of the local church are met.
General Characteristics. 1 Peter 5:1-4.
Fear God, Trustworthy, Hate, Dishonest gain. Ex 18:21
Multitude of counselors brings safety. Pro 11:14, 15:22, 24:26
He who leads must be a servant of all. Mk 9:35; 10:42-45.
b) Overseer (Pastor/Bishop) Qualification.
Family Concern
Must not have more than one wife. 1 Tim 3:2
Must manage his Family well. 1 Tim 3:4
His children must be obedient. 1 Tim 3:4
Character
Not over bearing.
Self Control.
Not Violent, but gentle.
Not quick tempered nor quarrelsome.
Disciplined, moderate in habits.
Reputation
Good reputation with outsiders. Tit 3
Blameless, above reproach. Tit 1:8
Not given too much wine.
Careful with money. Tit 1:7, 1 Tim 3:2
Hospitable. Tit 1:8
Upright, respectable. Tit 1:8, 1 Tim 3:2
Ministerial Abilities
Love what is good. Tit 1:8
Holy. Tit 1:8
Must firmly believe the truth. Tit 1:9
Must not be a recent convert. Tit 3:6.
Must be able to teach. Tit 1:9, 1 Tim 3:2.
(2) Elders.
Refers to all leaders help in the church and those so designated
Apostles are referred to as elders Act 15: 2, 4, 6, 22, 1 Peter 5: 11
The elder is one of the spiritual leaders in the church with specificfurction above the deacon and below the pastor or minister of the church
He is ordained in the minister by the laying of on hands Act 14: 23, Titus 1:5.
Qualification of an elder
Blameless Titus 1:6
Husband of one wife Titus 1:6
Faithfull children, obedient and under control Tit 1:6
Not self willed Titus 1:7
Not soon angry Titus 1:7
Not given to wine Tit 1:7
Not given to filthy lover Titus 1:7
Not striker Titus 1:7
A lover of hospitality Titus 1:8
Duties of an Elder:
He is charged with the spiritual activities or Church.
To attend Church services regularly and take interest in all department.
May be appointed a departmental head.
To be fully involved in special events like Evangelizing and soul winning campaigns.
To visit the sick and pray for them.[James 5:14-6].
6. Capable of leading in spiritual services.
7. To partake in the meeting in the church council.

DEACONS/ ATTENDANT/ SERVANT.

They are one of the categories or leaders appointed to serve in the church.

NEED FOR DEACONS [ACT 6:1-6].

  1. The need for division of labour.
  2. The need for proper cure or the mind ate affairs of the church.
  3. The need for focus the pastoral team on preaching and teaching on the word.

QUALIFICATION OF DEACONS

Men of honest report, good reputation both inside and out of church. Acts. 6:3.
Men full of the Holy Spirit. Acts 6:3.
Men full of wisdom. Acts 6:3.
Grace. 1 Tim. 3:8.
Not doubled tongued. 1 Tim. 3:8.
Not given too much wine.1 Tim. 3:8.
Not given fully lucre. 1 Tim. 3:8.
Holding the mastery of faith in pure conscience. 1 Tim. 3:9.
Husband of one wife. 1 Tim. 3:12.
Ruling their household well. 1 Tim. 3:12.

DUTIES OF DEACONS

Look after the  business and financial need of the church.
Collectivity church funds, banking or keeping the money and employing all the church funds to meet the financial need of the church as stipulated in the financial policy of the church.
Take care of poor people in the church.
Example to the future congregation in church attendance.
Deaconess should assist in baptism of female candidates
Visit the sick and give some advice to the girls and women of the church.
May be appointed to lead many departments in the church.
Sits in church council with Elders and Overseers.

LAY PERSONS IN THE CHURCH

The church is not meant to be a one- man altar nor is it the exclusive place the leadership cadre to serve in the church. Every Christian believer is appointed by god to serve.
Every Christian according to the plan of God witness.
A lawman is a person not of the clergy, any other member of the church apart from the clergy.

HOW THE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH CAN PARTICIPATE IN THE MINISTRY OR THE CHURCH.

By bringing prepare to church in our cars, paying transport fares or
Accompanying them to church. Jn. 1: 40-42.
By distributing of bibles, Christian book and tracks.
By giving your money for missions at home and abroad.
By encouraging your pastor. Help him to keep actively fighting the battle. I.e. word of encouragement, prayers, compliments, smile, hand shake and sharing.
You can teach a Sunday class when permitted by      and  talents.
In campaigns be a good ‘inviter; of others.
By a quite invitation to the person next by you in campaign to receive Christ.
By being a counselor or helper.
Be wiling to share test/memos with other to establish them in the faith of Christ. Ps. 50:15
 By conversing about the bible being able to turn conversation in the beauty parlour or barbing salon to the things of lord and truth as found in the scripture.
 By visiting and comforting bereaved. You choose appropriate tracks flowers, Christian literature, run e4rrand for the sick.
 By giving food to the hungry, water to the thirsty and cloths to the naked, visiting jails. Matt 25:34-36.
 By caring for the fatherless (orphan) and widows. James 76:27.
 By radiating happiness.
 Can preach in the church by appointment.
 By singing, and being involved with the coral team.
 By praying regularly for church and involving with the church prayer team.
 By doing what we can, as best as we can, all the time. Ecl.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR EFFECTIVE WITNESS

By doing what we can do according to the gifts and talent we possess. Mark 14:3-9.
By prayer.
By bible study. 2 Tim 2:15.
By seeking the guidance of the holy spirit.-he know the heart of others, their needs and problems and can arrange academic meeting for us.
By a quiet, consistent Christian testimony. Lk. 11:5.
By living out the preacher’s sermons, Sinners listen to the preachers then look to you, an ordinarily layman, for the practical out working in the daily life.
By watching the sermon of senior Christians.
By attempting small tasks first later as you become proficient in these you can expand your activities.
By reading biographies or auto-biographies of others.
By practical- you never learn by listening to lectures or reading books.

CHURCH DICIPLINE

The ultimate purpose of church discipline is to restore the backslidden or falling brethren the love of god and to maintain the purity of the church ad discourage bad. 1 cor. 5:1-5; 2 cor. 12:19-20; 2 cor. 13:2; 1 cor. 13:2; 2 cor. 13:10; 1 Tim. 1:20; 1 Tim. 3:10.

RULES FOR CHURCH DISCIPLINE

Rule of love.
New testament discipline should from o.t. which is eye. Ex. 21:24; Dem. 19:21.
We command to love our neighbor our enemies. Matt. 5:43-45; Luk. 6:27, Luk. 12:20, 1 th. 5: 15.
We must re-affirm our love for the fallen brethren.
The importance of rebuking sin in love. Rom. 3:19, Ps. 27:56, job 5:17, 18.
Rule of forgiveness
Forgive in the same way as you want forgiveness. Matt. 6:14; 15 :22-35, Mk. 11: 25; Eph. 4:32.
Rebuke and if repentance, forgive .17: 3-4, gen. 45:15; 50:15-21.
rule of condemnation
Do not condemn, you will be condemned the same way. Matt. 7:1-5
We are to discern between good and evil. Matt. 7:15-20.
Don’t be judgmental. Rom 14:13, 1 cor 8:7-12.
Set no stumbling block on the way for your brother.

DESPISING THE CHURCH

To despise is to look down on with contempt or aversion; to regard as neglible, or despiteful.
The sin of despising the church is the attitude of placing less value or importance to the church and its activities.
The church is more than an earthly organization, but the body of Christ. So, any negative attitude against the church is a sin the body of Christ.

HOW THE CHURCH MAY BE DESPISED.
By unbelievers and atheists reducing the church as a despicable and useless organization
Believers despite the church by attitude towards communion. 1 cor. 11:22.
Forsaking the church attendance. Heb. 10:25.
We despite the church by accepting its benefits not accepting its responsibilities. cluld declaration, marriage celebration, registered as members, enjoy Easter and charismas programmes;  bury our dead by the church. Etc.
To many it is nothing but a social club.
By failing to make preparation for service.
by failing to listen to or being irrelevant during service.
We despise the church by lax religious beliefs, views, and convictions regarding doctrine.
 By wrong and inconsistent lives.
To live wrongly after professing Christ is to despise the body of Christ.
By unworthy giving to he church.
By using your talent poorly.
When you can employ your talents and gifts elsewhere and not the church, you are using your talent poor.
By being a Christian detached from the church. Heb 10:25
By refusing to join the church.
Consequences of Despising The Church
The lord must feel hurt, since we are sinning against his body.
The earthly organization is weakened.
The church needs every one of us and we need the church.
The sinner is stumbled and turned away from the saviour.
As a result who do attend are weakened and over burdened. The task is too great for so few people.
Basically the non attender is the loser.
Spiritually – your spiritual life is stymied.
Economically – God gives to those who gives to him.
Morally – you need moral teaching and strengthing of the church.
Physically – God requires that you leave work and worship him one day in a week.
Offices/ Ministries/ Gifts
      Introduction:
            For effectiveness and efficiency of the church, God have gifted certain individual in the church with special ability to function in different capacities within and outside the body. These spiritual abilities are the primary requirement or qualification for the work of the ministry in the local assembly. In this lesson we are going to look at the major spiritual abilities mentioned in the bible.
 The five fold ministry/ office gifts. Eph 4:11-17
These are spiritual abilities bestowed severally on certain individuals in the body of Christ to execution some leadership function with in the context of the church.
Purpose of the five fold ministry
To prepare Gods people for service Eph 4:12
To unity the faith of Gods people. Eph 4:13
To mature the people spiritually. Eph 4:13
To protect against false doctrine. Eph 4:13
Apostles; foundation layers and founders of the local church.
They are individual employed by God to pioneer new Christian works.
Jesus first and greatest apostles. Heb. 3:1
The twelve apostles of our lord were the first to occupy the office besides Christ. Mark. 3:11-13
They were ordinary men. Acts. 4:13, Matt. 4:18
Called by God. 1 Cor. 1:1, Acts. 20:24, 13:2-4
They were all of Jewish descent. Matt. 10:5, 6; 19:28; Luke. 22:30.
Ascension apostles. Eph. 4:11, 12.
Were foundational (supporting not ruling).
Paul. I Cor. 9:1; 2 Cor. 1:1
Barnabas. Acts. 14:14
Andronicus. Rom. 16:7
Junias. Rom. 16:17
Silvanus. 1 Th. 1:1; 2:6
Timothy. 1 The. 1:1, 2:2
Titus. 2 Cor. 8:23
James the lord’s brother. Gal. 1:9
Others. 1 Cor. 9:5
Distinguishing marks Of The Apostolic of Office
Empowered to do miracles. Mt 10:1; Mk 16:20; Lk 9:1; Acts 2:43
Authority to correct the church. 1 Co 5:3-5, 2 Th 3:6
Preaching, Teaching and Evangelism.
Ready to die for Christ. Rev 12:   Acts 20:24
Kingdom builders – called beyond the network of their local assembly.
Have the heart of a servant. Mk 10:42, 43-45.
Intimate walk with God.
Endure hardship for the sake of the gospel. 2 Cor 11:17, 12:8
Receives supernatural revelation and speaks by inspiration.
PROPHETS
A prophet’s primary function in the Old Testament is to serve as god representative or ambassador by communicating god’s word to it’s people. Ex. 4:12; Deut. 18:18; Jer. 1:9; Ezek. 2:7, 12; Ex. 15:20; Jud. 4:4.
Our lord Jesus Christ is the chief prophet. Deut.18:15; Acts. 3:22.
Examples of Jesus prophetic ministry. Matt. 24:1-51, Mk. 10:32-34.
Required to speak all of and god’s word to the people. Ezek. 3:10, Deut. 18:20.
 Prophets speak by the influence of the Holy Spirit. Chr. 1:6; 2 Pt. 1:21.
Prophets teachers in the church at Antioch. Acts. 13:1
Agabus, Anna Acts. 11:26; 21:10; Luk. 2:36.
Judas and Silas. Acts 15:32.
Paul, Peter, John prophesy against false prophets.
FUNCTIONS OF PROPHETIC OFFICE
To speak for God
To exhort and direct the body of Christ.
Deal with spiritual climate. Jer. 1:10.
Are front line intercessors. Jer. 27:18.
Challenge dead tradition of men and dangerous spirit of religion.
Predicting future events. Amos 3:7; Acts 13:1
Contend with false prophets. Kgs. 18:19.
Speaks to nations and kingdoms.
Prophets may posse spiritual gifts of prophecy, revelation and wisdom.
 EVANGELIST Eph. 4:11
An Evangelist is a believer supernaturally empowered by god and totally devoted to the proclamation of the gospel of our lord Jesus Christ and populating Gods Kingdom with converted souls.
Every Believer in Christ is expected to do the work of the Evangelist, 2 Tim. 7:5 but not all evangelist are calling.
Jesus Christ is the greatest of all evangelists. Mk. 1:14; Luk. 4:43.
Philip was an evangelist. Acts. 8:26-39; 21:8.
He was one of the seven Acts. 6:5 preached in Samaria Acts. 8:5
Led of the spirit. Acts. 8:26.
Preached to Ethiopia event. Acts. 8:26-30.
Stephen was another Example of an evangelist. Acts. 6:5; Acts. 7
FUNCTIONS OF AN EVANGELIST
He/she must be a preacher of the gospel. Tim. 4:1-3.
To be instant in season out of season.
Preachers to the lost.
Win sinners to Christ.
Edify the church.
Can open a new church with converts.
Appoints leaders for the new church or hand over to demon national groups for pastoral care.
PASTORS
A pastor is a matured believer who is called and charged with the oversight function or the local assembly.
Jesus the chief shepherd of the church 1 pet. 2:25; 1 pet. 5:1-4.
He is also the good shepherd. Heb. 13:20; John. 10:11, 14
There shall be one fold and shepherd. John. 10:16, Heb. 13:20
Shepherd contrasted with hireling. John. 10:12
People’s need for a shepherd. Matt. 9:36; Mark. 6:34
God’s promise for pastors in the church. Ver. 3:15
                                                       DUTIES OF PASTORS
Keeps the flock together. Ezekiel. 34:5
Lead the flock by examples. 1 Peter. 5:3
Are willing to lay down their life for the sheep. John. 10:11
Feed the flock with the undiluted word of God. Acts. 20:28
Teachers – Gifted to teach the word.
Jesus is the greater teacher. Matt. 4:23
Prophet and teachers in the church at Antioch. Acts. 13:1
Paul thought in Antioch, Corinth and Rome. Acts. 11:26, 15:55, 18:11, 28 :31
Appolos was also a teacher. Acts. 18:25, 26
Qualification of a good teacher:
Filled by the Holy Spirit. 1 Cor. 2
In depth knowledge of the word of God. 2 Tim. 2:15
Aptriess to teach
DUTIES OF TEACHERS
Sound exposition of the word of God.
Feeding the flock with undiluted word of God.
Refutation of errors in the body of Christ by establishing the truth. John. 7:32
MINISTRY GIFTS IN THE CHURCH
The ministry gifts refers to some of the spiritual activities which are found in the body of Christ.
There gifts are given according to the grace of God operational in one’s life.
Prophesying – speaking forth a message from God.
Every man is to prophesy according to his faith. Rom. 12
He is to speak as the mouth piece of God. Amos. 3:8
The speaker must prophesy under the influence of the Holy Spirit. Lk. 1:67; 2 Pet. 1:21
Prophesy is one of the most exciting and impactful gifts and every child of God is to desire to prophesy. 1 Cor. 14:1
Functions of prophesy
To edify. 1 Cor. 14:3
To exhort. 1 Cor. 14:3
To comfort. 1 Cor. 14:3
It is for the believers not unbelievers. 1 Cor. 14:22
                                                  HOW TO HANDLE PROPHECY
All may prophecy, one by one. 1 Cor. 14:31
Prophecy should be judged:
By other prophets around. 1 Cor. 143:29
By he word of God. Isa. 8:18
Through Experience.
Should not be quenched or forbidden. 1 Cor 14:39, 1 Thess. 5:20
          1.   SERVING: Service is the special ability given to individual to perform some duties.
                                                   MOTIVATIONAL GIFTS
The motivation gifts refer to the seven spiritual gifts listed in Rom. 12:4-8.Each Christian receives one of this gifts or the other at the point of salvation. It is the tool through which god works in his children to see the needs and to do something above the needs.
These equip believers to play vital role in the church.
PROPHECY
It is the spiritual motivation to be god’s spokesman, to meet particular needs by declaring God’s message, to  
FUNCTIONS
It edifies the church. 1 cor. 14:3.
It exhorts. 1 cor. 14:3
It comforts.
It stimulates the Christian will and spirit.
Disclosed the secret of a sinner’s heart. 1 cor.14:24.
It foretells the future. Acts. 11: 27-30.
HOW TO HANDLE THE GIFT IN THE CHURCH.
All may prophecy. 1 cor. 14:3.
Prophecy should be judged, by other prophets around. 1 cor. 14:29.
By the word of God. Isa 8:18.
Should be quenched or forbidden. 1 cor. 14:39.
SERVING
Motivated to demonstrate love by meeting of practical needs of others.
It is expressed by action not words, and exercise under leadership of Christ and in the power of the holy spirit.
NATURE OF THE GIFT
Ability to recall specify, likes and dislike of people.
alertness to detect and meet practical needs
Motivation to meet needs as quick as possible.
Physical stamina to fulfill needs.
Willingness to use personal funds to avoid delay.
An involvement in variety of activities or inability to say no.
Jesus is our perfect example of the gift of service. Matt. 20:28; Phil. 2:7.
He washed the feet or the disciple. Jn. 13:1-17.
We should as unto god not unto men. Eph. 6:5-7; col.3:22-23.
TEACHING
Motivated by the desire to explain the word of God to others; clarify the truth. He/she is not content with the word simply being proclaimed by the explanation of same. He wants God’s word elaborated and made clear.
Nature
Believe that this gift is foundation to all other gifts.
Emphasizes the accuracy of words.
Tests the knowledge of others who teach you.
Delights in research and personal study.
Seek to present the truth in a clear, orderly and systematic way.
Have greater joy in research than in presenting it.
Desire the people is well grounded in the word.
ENCOURAGEMENT/EXHORTATION
Motivated to give encouragement and wise counsels to persons in need.
Encourage spiritual growth through counseling and speaking.
Urges others to pursue a course of conduct through the scripture and how to apply the word of God in their daily life.
NATURE OF THE GIFT
A desire to visualize specific achievements and prescribe specific steps of action.
A tendency to avoid system of information which lack application.
Ability to see how tribulation and suffering can produce new level of maturity.
Barnabas was called the son of encouragement. Acts. 4:36/37.
Moses as an encourager. Ex. 14:13/14.
Jesus encourages Paul in prison. Acts. 23:11.
GIVING
Motivated to entrust personal assets, to others for furtherance of the ministry. He/she is motivated to make quick decision regarding the immediate needs of others.
He/she is a channel of divine blessing to individual and the church.
NATURE
Conscious awareness of the call of god to be a channel of blessing and a genuine desire to keep the flow.
Absence o f greed.
Delight of giving.
A desire to give quietly to effective projects and ministries.
Often gives to motivate others to give.
Give real enjoyment of meeting needs without appeal.
Barnabas sold a field and gave the church the money to the church. Acts. 4:34-37.

LEADERSHIP
Love to give leadership, to coordinate the activities of others for the achievement of common goal.
It includes the ability to supervise others, cast vision, assemble a time and chart a course with an unflagging zeal or diligence.
CHARACTERISTICS
Ability to see the overall picture and clarify long term goals.
A motivation to organize that which he is responsible.
A desire to complete task as quick as possible.
An awareness of the resources available to complete task.
An ability to know what can and cannot be delegated.
A tendency to assume leadership of no structured leader exit.
A willingness to endure action from workers in other to accomplish the ultimate task
A fulfillment in seeing the work completed and others enjoying the finished products
Fears God. Ex. 18:21
Hate covetousness. Ex. 18:21
A servant of all. Ex. 18:21
Serves with diligent. Roms. 12:8.
MERCY/CARE  
It is the spiritual ability given to some in the body of Christ in which the person demonstrate a strong ability to empathize with others with compassion,, words, and action.
CHARACTERISTICS
Able to provide relief  to those going through tough times physically, spiritually, emotionally. Attracted or drawn to people who are suffering or in distress.
Strong desire to help the sick, needy, disabled, elderly, etc.
People who are having a tough time comes to you for help.
Kind and gentle.
Able to serve and reflect the atmosphere around them.
must reach out and get involve.
Are back bone of the prayer power in the church.
love the unlovable i.e. handicapped, ill, elderly, and wounded in spirit.
tough in sin.
Using the gift.
Cheerfully. Roms. 12:8.
To these in distress. Luk. 10:37.
To the poor. Pro. 14:3.
To the backslider. Luk. 15:18; 20; 2:6-8.
EXAMPLE OF MERCY MINISTRY
God’s mercy and forgiveness is extended to those who love him. Ex. 34:19, Num. 14:18; Ps. 86; 5; Dan. 9:9.
God’s mercy is extended to cell men. Rom 11:32; Tit. 3:4-5; Eph 2:4-5; Rom. 9:15-16; Matt. 5: 44-45.
Its mercy was demonstrated through Christ. Matt. 9:36; 14:14; 15:32; Mk. 6:34; 8:2; Mk. 15:22.
He is presently seated on the mercy seat. Heb. 4:14-16.
    Gift of the Holy Spirit
The gift of the Holy Spirit, others called the none gifts of the Holy Spirit, are spiritual abilities distributed among the members of the body of Christ, through which the spirits presence, power and wisdom is demonstrated in the church. 1 Cor. 12:7
It is primary function is to allow God to minister to the needs of the believer in Christian gathering. 1 Cor. 12:7
It is also enable us to do the lord’s word in a new and powerful way.
Understanding the Gifts of the Holy Spirit
 For one to operate in the gifts of the Holy Spirit there is heed for proper understanding of the Gifts.
Ignorance is one of the greatest hindrances that limits the ability of a child of God to manifest the gifts of the Holy Spirit. 1 Cor. 12:1
Distinguish between the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and Demonic manifestation. 1 Cor. 12:2-3
Every gift that is of God glorifies Christ and profits the believer. 1 Cor. 12:3; 7
Different Gifts of His
The three groups of Spiritual Gifts.
Revelational Gifts – Words of wisdom, Words of knowledge and Discerning of spirits.
Vocal Gifts – Tongues, Interpretation of tongues, and prophecy.
Power Gifts – Faiths, Healings, and Working of miracles.
Revelation Gifts
Word of Wisdom
Supernatural Wisdom for a particular situation.
    MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
What is Marriage?
Marriage is divine premeditated and calculated institution between one man and one woman in a life long relationship as husband and wife.
The Family
The biblical family unit is comprised of one man and his spouse, and children (biological or adopted).
A good Christian family is built on the foundation and principles of God as contained in the word of God.
Marriage is instituted by God
Adam and Eve were the first couple. Gen. 2:24; Matt. 19:4
Jesus blesses marriage by his presence and performed his first miracle in Cannan wedding. John. 2:1-11
God desire is that marriage be honored by all. Heb. 13:4
                 THE CHRISTIAN AND MARRIAGE
Every man should have his own wife. 1 Cor 7:2
Every woman should have her husband. 1 Cor. 7:2
A Christian may abstain from marriage if he so desires. 1 Cor. 7:1; 7
Marriage between a Christian and an Unbeliever.
Forbidden by the word of God. 2 Cor. 6:14-18; 1 Cor. 7:39
Unless marriage before conversion. 1 Cor 7:12-14
A Christian is free if an unbeliever chooses to leave. 1 Cor. 7:12-16
                    Gods Blessing on the Homes of Faithful believers. Ps. 128
True Happiness. Vs. 2
God unlimited Favour. Vs. 2
Fruitfulness. Vs. 3
Posterity will inherit the blessings. Vs. 3, 6, Gen.
                                                              Husbands/Wifes
Husband’s duties
Love your wife as Christ loves the church. Eph. 5:25
 Be sensitive to her weakness as a woman. 1 Pet. 3:7
 Provide for the family. 1 Tim. 5:8
 Give to his wife her Conjugal rights. 1 Cor. 7:3, Eph. 5:3
  Nourish and cherish the wife as his own body. Eph. 5:28, 29
  Provide headship for the wife. Gen. 2:22; 1 Cor. 11:3
Praise and appreciate her. Pro. 31:28
Please her. Pro. 5:18; Ecl. 9:9; Peter. 24:5; 1 Cor. 7:33
Speak tenderly to her. Ca. 2:10-14; Hos. 2:14
                    Duties of the Wife
Submit to her husband. Eph. 5:22; 24, Col. 3:18
Honour her husband. Ex. 1:20; Pro. 31:23.
Obey her husband. 1 Pet. 3:6.
 Love her husband. Tit. 2:4.
Be full of good deeds. 1 Pet. 3:1-6.
Give special consideration for the home. Tit. 2:5; Pro. 31:15,22.
Be sensible, chaste, domestic, and kind. Tit. 2:5.
 Dress modestly, Adorn her inner jewel of the heart. 1 Pet. 3:3-4; 1 Tim. 2:9, 10.
Please her husband. 1 Cor 7:14.
Be a Helper to her husband. Gen. 2:18-20.
Show hospitality. 1 Tim. 5:10.
Spiritual examples of Godly marriage.
Godly affection in marriages. Jacob/Rachael. Gen. 29:29.
Beatifies of mental love. Songs of Solomon.
Godly parents. Joseph/Mary. Matt. 1:2; 24:2.
MARRIAGE AS A TYPE OF RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
God and Israel. Jer. 3:14; Ezek. 16:18.
Jesus and the church; Eph. 5:21-33; 2 Cor. 11:2; Rev. 21:29; 22:17.
MARRIAGE OF ADAM AND EVE AS THE TYPE OF CHRIST AND THE CHURCH
No creature found suitable for a bribe for Adam.
Sinful man is not suitable for a bribe of Jesus, must be born again to quality as a bribe. John 3:3-7.
Eve taken out Adam side.
CHURCH CAME OUT OF THE PIERCED SIDE OF CHRIST.
Eve is the flesh and the bone of Adam. Gen. 2:23.
The church is the flesh and the bone of Jesus. John 3:6; Eph. 5:30-32.
Eve has the life of Adam taken out of Adam. Gen. 2:23.
Our new life is in Christ. John. 17:20-23; 2 Cor. 5:17
DIVORCE
God hate divorce. Matt. 2:16
Moses law allowed divorce for various reasons. De. 24:1-4
Reasons for Moses law permitting divorce.
Because of their hard hearts. Mt. 19:8, Mk. 10:2-12
It was not from the beginning. Mt. 19:3-5; Mk. 10:6-9
TERMINATION OF A MARRIAGE COVENANT/CONTRACT
Death of one person frees the other to remarry. Ro. 7:2-3; 1 Cor. 7:39
A believer is free to marry if desired by an unbeliever spouse. 1 Cor. 7:13-16
Sin of Adultery. Mt. 5:31-32; 19:9
A spouse can still reconcile with the partner after Adultery. Jer. 3:1
                         SCRIPTURE WARNS AGAINST SOME MARRIAGES
There were no restrictions in the beginning.
 Cain and Seth probably married close relations.
Abraham married a close relative. Gen. 20:11-12
Jacob married a close relative. Gen. 29:21-30
The law forbids marrying close relatives. Le. 18:5-30; 20:17-23
John the Baptist condemned Herod for marrying his brother’s wife while he was alive. Mt. 14:3-4
A believer should not marry an unbeliever. 2 Cor. 6:14-16
Homosexual relationships are condemned. Le. 18:22; 20:13; 1 Cor. 6:9, 10; 1 Tim. 1:9; 10
POLYGAMY
Polygamy is forbidden in the bible.
For Israel kings. De. 17:17; Rev. 1:6
For all Israel. Mal. 2:15
It was one man one wife from the beginning. Gen. 2:24, Mk. 10:6-8
Church leaders must have only one wife. 1 Tim. 3:2; 12, Tim. 1:6
First man to practice polygamy is Lamech. Gen. 4:19
Descended from the line of Cain. Gen. 4:17-18
He was a murder. Gen. 4:23-24
Abram married Sarah and Hagar, Sarah’s servant. Gen. 4:6-3
He believed Sarah instead of the promise of God. Gen. 16:2
A quarrel broke out in the family between Hagar and Sarah. Gen. 16:4-5
Results in sorrow for the family especially Hagar. Gen. 16:16; 21:10-13
And the seed of Enmity was sown between Ishmael and Isaac their offspring. Gen. 16:12, 21-9
Esau had two wives. Gen. 26:34
His marriage is a source of sorrow to his parents. Gen. 26:35
Jacob was tricked by Laban to marry two wives. Gen. 29:22-30
Jacob loves Rachel more than Leah. Gen. 29:22-30
Rachel Jealous of Leah because of children. Gen. 30:1
Servant girls given as wives to gain the Favour of the husband. Gen. 30:3, 9
Trouble between children from different wives. Gen. 37:11, 26-28
Gideon had many wives. Judge. 8:30
One son murdered 70 of the others. Judge. 9:1-5
Samuel’s father has two wives. 1 Sam. 1; 2
He loved Hannah more than the other woman. Isa. 1:5
Penninah was a rival and cause discord in the home. Isa. 1:6-7
David had many wives. 2 Sam. 3:2-5
He married Bathsheba through murder. 2 Sam. 11:26-27
Incest and rape became a problem between his children. 2 Sam. 13:1-15
Absalom killed Amon. 2 Sam. 13:28-29
Absalom later slept with his father’s wives. 2 Sam
There was rivalry between his sons for the throne. 1 Kgs. 1:17-21
Solomon has many wives. 1 Kgs. 11:3-4
He practices idolatry to please his wives. 1 Kgs. 11:7
God was angry against Solomon. 1 Kings. 11:9-13
Solomon’s kingdom was to be lost because of indulging his many wives. 1 Kgs. 11:9; 11
Rehoboam preferred one wife over the other. 2 Ch. 11:18-21

                                  MARRIAGE BEFORE CONVERSION
Christians are not to change marriage made by salvation. 1 Cor. 7:20
                     PARENTS AND CHILDREN
The perfect example of parents /child relationship are found in how God relates to us as his children and we respond to him as our father.
    PARENTAL DUTIES TOWARDS THE CHILD
To bless our children not to curse them. 2 Sam. 6:20
To teach one’s children. De. 6:6; 4, 9
To train one’s children. Pr. 22:6; Eph. 6:4
Provide for one’s family. 2 Cor. 12:14
Sanctify them unto the lord. Job. 1:5; Luk. 2:22-23
Nurture one’s children. Eph. 6:4
To reprove them. Pr. 29:15; Rev. 3:19
To control them. Isa. 3:13; 1 Tim 3:4-12
To discipline them. Pro. 13:24; 22:15; 29:15
To love them. Tit. 2:4; pro. 13:24
Do not provoke them to anger. Eph. 6:4
To be a Godly example to them. 2 Tim. 1:5; 2 Chr. 26:4
To be forgiven towards them. Lu. 15:20-24
To involve them in worship. Jos. 8:35, Ne. 12:43
       CHILDREN DUTIES TO THEIR PARENTS
Honour and Respect. Ex. 20:12; Eph. 6:2
Obey parents in all things. Col. 3:20
Make their parents happy. Pro. 23:24; Pro. 10:1
Not to mock or despise them. Pro. 30:17
Pay close attention to their words. Pro. 6:20-23
Take care of them when they are old. 1 Tim. 5:3; 4

BARRENNESS/NO CHILDREN IN A MARRIAGE
Not a spiritual ground for divorce.
Many of the beloved women in the bible started barren god intervened and some of these children are the most important people in the bible.
Sarah Abram’s wife was barren. Gen. 11:29-30.
God’s promise of a son. Gen. 12:23; 15:4-6; 18:10.
Wrong human’s effort produces Ishmael. Gen. 16:1-5.
Isaac is born according to the promise. Gen. 21:1-7.
Rachael Jacob’s wife was barren. Gen. 30:7.
False human’s effort. Gen. 30:3.
Joseph was born according to god’s will. Gen. 30:22-24.
Samson’s mother. Jud 13:2.
.God’s promise through an angel for a special child. Jud. 13:3.
Samson is born according to the promise of God. Jud. 13:24-25.
Hannah was barren.
She prayed to God. 1 Sam 1:10-12.
Samuel was born as a result of divine intervention. 1 Sam.1:20.
Shunamite human. 2 Kings 4:4-14.
She was a promise child. 2 Kgs. 4:16.
Child is born. Kgs. 4:17.
Child is miraculously raised from the dead. 2 Kgs. 4:32-35.
Elizabeth, Zachariah’s wife. Luk. 1 5-7.
Angel Gabriel appeared to the husband with promise. Luk. 1:13.
John the Baptist is born. Luk. 1:57-58.
CHURCH MINISTRY
LEADERSHIP CHARACTER
The ministry of the church like that of any human organization is built on leadership. It is effectiveness of leadership cadre to great extent determines the efficiency of the organization.
Leadership character: One of the factors that determine the effectiveness of leadership is character. Most things stand and fall in leadership on the character of leadership.
Christ leader traits.
Quad Christian leadership quality must be handled after the pattern of Christ as revealed to us in the scripture and produce in us by the Holy Spirit.
When a person accepts Jesus as his/her lord and personal saviour, he/she is no longer expected to manifest old Adam nature but the nature of Christ through in dwelling Holy Spirit. Rom. 8:9.
A little baby receives from its parents the nature and character of the family.
So Christ must be seen in the leader who through the process of new birth has been spiritually integrated into the family of God. 2 cor. 3:18.
We to become like him in nature, word and deed.
Christ character: The fruits of the Holy Spirit. Gal. 5:22.
The fruit of the Holy Spirit is a word picture of Christ character. Each fruits represent a specific character or quality of life, an aspect of its being.
Enumeration of the fruits of the Holy Spirit.
Love. Gen. 5:22.
Love is the nature of God. 1 Jn. 4:8.
God demonstrated his love by sending Jesus. 1 Jn. 4:9.
God demands to we lie live a life of love as a proof of our identification. Luk. 7:42.
Character of love
Long suffering. 1 Cor. 13:4.
Kind. 1 Cor. 13:4.
Does not envy. 1 Cor. 13:4.
Is not proud. 1 Cor. 13:4.
Is not boastful. 1 Cor. 13:4.
Does not dishonor. 1 Cor. 13:5.
Not self seeking. 1 Cor. 13:5.
Not easily provoked. 1 Cor. 13:5.
Keeps no records of wrongs. 1 Cor. 13:5.
Does not rejoice in inequity. 1 Cor. 13:6.
Rejoices in truth. 1 Cor. 13:6.
Bears all things or protect always. 1 Cor. 13:7.
Always trust. 1 Cor. 13:7.
Always hopes. 1 Cor. 13:7.
Always preserves. 1 Cor. 13:7.
Never fails. 1 Cor. 13:8.
He that led in the body of Christ must have a heart of love.
Heart full of love for God.
And a heart full of love for man.
JOY
Joy is an expression of gratitude or for the wonderful things that God has done is doing and has promise to do for the believer. 2 Pt. 1:4; Thess. 5:15-18; Roms. 12:15.
Joy is a spiritual; Send essential being the very nature of God.
 Joy is very important for us to develop variety of healthy emotions.
It produces gratitude.
Contentment
Optimism.
Sense of freedom.
Other positive attitude.
ATTITUDE THAT INHIBIT JOY
Self pity.
Greediness.
Covetousness.
Self centeredness.
Envy.
Joy is one of the core requirements for an effective kingdom lifestyle. Roms. 14:17.
It is the source of strength for service. Neh. 8:10; Col. 1:10, 11.
God is our Source of joy. Ps. 43:4.
It is given by the Holy Spirit. 1 Thess. 1:6; Roms. 15:13; Acts. 13:52.
We rejoice because our salvation. Luk. 10:17-20; Isa. 12:3; 25:9; Ps. 51:8-12.
Joy is associated with the following.
Singing. Zeph. 3:14-17; Ps. 27:6; 67:4; Isa. 65:10.
Shouting. Ps. 98:4; 100:1; 132:9, 16.
Dancing. Jer. 31:13
Music. Job 21:12; Ps. 98:6.
God’s Word. Ps. 119:162.
Prayer. Isa. 56:7, Ph. 1:4.
Thanksgiving. Isa. 51:3.
Righteousness. Pro. 29:26; 28:12.
Labour. Ex. 3:22; 5:19.
Health. Isa. 66:14.
Relationship with spouse. Eccl. 9:9; Pro. 5:18.
A leader with the fruit of joy will make sheep wreck of leader like soul, when the Spirit of the Joy left him.
He sees everybody around him as an enemy and that will negative impact on the work of leadership.
PEACE  Vs 42; 5:22
Peace can be defined as rest in the must of the storm. Lk. And it can be categorized into three divisions.
Peace with God – Which is a result of our reconciliation and acceptance by God. Rom. 5:1; James 3:17. Peace of mind which is a product of freely understanding your place with God and a deep foundation in the word God. 2 Pet. 1:2. And peace with others. Mt. 5:9
To experience the peace of God one has to be Spirit minded. Rom. 8:6; Isa. 26:3
Peace of mind always put in control of the situation. Mt
PATIENCE Gal. 5:22
God is a God of patience. Rom. 15:15
Job was also a perfect example of patience. James. 5:11
It is one characters required from every leader who is to lead over men. 1 Tim. 3:3; 6:11, 2:1, 2:24
Patience is needed to navigate of the sea of troubles and challenges that encounter leadership. Rom. 12:12; Rom. 5:3, Na. 1:3
To persevere in service until the coming of the lord. Jas. 5:7-8; Rom. 2:7; 15:4; Heb. 12:1
To help us to mature in leadership. Jas. 1:4; Luk. 8:15
And inherit the promise of God. Heb. 10:16, 36
And even as we approach the end time patience is very essential.
VIRTUES OF FRANKLIN BENJAMIN
Temperance: Eat not to dullness; Drink not to Elevation/No Alcohol
Silence: Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself – Avoid trifling conversation.
Order: Let all your things have their places, let each part of your business have its time.
Resolution: Resolve to perform what you ought to perform without fail what you resolve.
Frugality: Make no excuse but to do good to others; or yourself.
Industry: Lose not time be always employed in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions.
Sincerity: Use no hurtful deceit, think innocently and Justly, and speak accordingly
Justice: Wrong none by doing injuries, or emitting the benefits that are your duty
Moderation: avoid extremes; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve.
Cleanliness: Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, cloths, or habitation.
Inter-personal relationship skill development
Love Listening.
Advice and problem solving.
Confronting.
Conflict management explores biblical rules for effective conflict resolution; and examines a step by step strategy for managing conflicts and manages conflict.
Community: Learn what destroys community and what attitude, and skills can help to build community.
Suffering loss: Study the process involved in loss and grief and identifies ways to help others who are grieving or have suffering loss.
Inter-personal skills are the necessary skills needed for effective interaction with one another. The enable we to interact with people at an individual or group level. Inter-personal skills promote success both personally and professionally.
Communication is to convey your message effectively.
` PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SKILLS
What personal development skills
KEYS
Continuous learning.
Posivity.
Personal excellence: Some to do your best in everything you do.
 Honesty.
Know yourself.
Appreciate the moment- seek happiness in the present moment.
Communicate well: Learning to communicate well with others is an essential skill, speaking, writing, listening well and body I am.
Embrace mistakes: Mistakes are perquisite to personal development. It is ream opportunity.
Embrace change: change is constant in lye, and integral to personal development, and success.
Increase your value: make a different esteem by changing yourself internally.
Be a giver: seek to be giving compassionate, loving, gentle, and humble, knowing you receive what you give out.
Balance: Seek balance in all areas of life, considering your family recatiemphels career, business health leisure, and spirituality.
Be grateful: Be grateful for the gifts and opportunity of life.
 Find your excitement.
Proper time management.
Maintain healthy living.



Basic 200:

Fundamental of Christian Leadership:

201: Waiting upon the Lord:

Many who are called by God into leadership position are hindered by a feeling of inadequacies. They believe they are too weak to be strong leaders. This short course is designed to enable us over our weaknesses, and inadequacies to enable us fulfill our potentials in Christian leadership.

God uses the Weak:

God’s choice of leaders is not based on how clever, talented, or educated he may be. 1 Cor. 1:19; 1 Cor. 1:25-28.
God reveals this wisdom through our weaknesses, our faltering our shortcoming. Through our helplessness God displays His power. His strength is made manifest through our weakness.
God’s original plan is to use the weak. Thug of the tarsh to confounded.
The wise: Ps. 8:2.
Example of people God uses.
Moses – A fugitive and stammer.
Gideon – fearful and weakling
Jephtah – Son of a Harlot.
David. The last son of Jesse.

Turning strength into weakness: Isa. 40:29:

God is the source of our strength to do whatever task he has assigned us to do Ps.  Ph. 4:13
We cannot do anything independently on our own.
To generate power in the mist of weakness.
Depend more on God:
To gain strength and overcome your perceived weakness we must develop a prayerful department relationship with God;
God strength is made perfect in our weakness the personal weakness which makes us aware of our lack of ability or power to lead should cause us to turn our heart to God in prayer and fasting
It is in the place of prayer and fasting that dis love strength will strengthen our Isa 40: 29
The attitude of dependence upon God attracts his attention and draws him to us and causes him to gloriously manifest his power through us.
Our in adequacies are seen as blessing in disguise when the press us to depend in Christ
Confess the word
Inferiority complex is a camel pre –occupation with our selves. It can result in a view of us which says: ‘I am no god; I am just a useless wash pot.  God cannot use me.
To overcome this low self esteem, our attitude of confession of the word of God is important.
By affirming what the scripture says about us, we are made over comers. Ph. 4:13; Lk. 10:19and inferiority complex with the scriptural meek uess that it is not the same
Draw near in prayer.
The kind of weakness to where God responds is that which produces a sense of dependence on him.
When we pray, God works on our behalf. We become like David who prayed …… My soul longs for thee, oh God” (Ps. 63:1, 84:2)
This sense of need contributes to the development of a healthy devotional and prayerful life.
Self Consciousness is a barrier that will prevent God’s power from flowing through us.
We must renounce carnality and recognize that God is the strength of our lines, and we need not be afraid. Ps 27:1. He will should himself strong on behalf of those who reverence, worship and depend on him. Exchange your strength for his strength.                                              The bible says, ‘Even youth shall faint and be weary young men shall utterly fail; but they that wait upon the lord shall 4renew their strength. Isa. 40:30, 31’.
The key word in this verse is renew. As we wait upon the Lord, He will take away our strength and replace it with his own.
It is not a matter of combining our strength with His, but a complete removal of our strength and put on His. When we depend on our strength God cannot use us.
What to do to exchange your strength for His.
Acknowledge your need. Ps 34:6, Ps 73:22.
Both David and Asaph received God’s Strength because they were willing to humbly acknowledge their need and weakness.
God’s promise to satisfy the desire of seeker who are hungry for more of his strength. Isa 41:17, 20.
Paul also discovers that if he acknowledges area of weakness in his life it will result in the strength of God coming to him in more powerful measure. 1 Cor. 12:7, 8, 9, 10.
This is the principle or the gospel works, when we are weak and sense our great need of God, this makes us completely dependent on Him.
LEARN TO WAIT ON GOD Psalm 41:31

Two concepts of waiting:

Waiting for God time – That is take no major action until God show’s you it’s time to act. Eccl. 3:1-10.
Waiting in prayer and fasting to spend time in prayer in God’s presence in devotional exercise, sometimes involving fasting and prayer.
Waiting for the time of God.
We should not be in a hurry to launch out into the ministry of leadership responsibilities in the body or Christ. Having a calling is not equal to a sending to execute the assignment
The apostles were called to preach the gospel but were asked to learn to wait in Jerusalem. Lk. 24:49.
We must realize that God does not work with our time but with his own time.
God’s calling and sending are not the same.
Paul was called in Acts chapter 9 but had to wait until chapter thirteen to be fully sent by God. Acts 9:1-6, Acts 13:1-3.
Why we need to wait.
Because of our immaturity.
Because we are going to face the strongest for i.e on Earth and need to confront them with divine energy and strength. Zech 4:6-7.
God needs to train us and prepare us for the work. Mark 3:13-14.
We gain experience through the years of waiting.
God controls the time.
It was in the fullness of time that God sent his son to die for mankind. Gal 4:4.
We need want because he has time for all things.
So we need to wait for Him until he reveals his time to us.
      3. Waiting in Prayer and Fasting
          If we are to exchange our limited strength for His unlimited power, we must establish consistent daily devotional habit. Disciplining oneself into a regular prayer (and fasting) is one of the most difficult things for most church leaders to do.
          Power of Daily Devotional Time
It is in the place or daily devotions that we empty ourselves of human strength and abilities and have put on divine strength and power.
It is only when the grace of God has replaced our human weakness and fructifies that we will be ready to live of life of exploit.
How to Conduct Your Daily Devotional Time

Confession of sins. 1 Jn. 1:9:10.
Spend time to praise God. Ps 100.
Surrender the day to God.
Pray for Family, Church and all Believers.
Pray for Leaders, Missionaries and Evangelism.
Pray in other tongues. 1 Cor. 14:13, 14.
Write down what the lord gives you and do it.

                 Hearing the Voice of God

It is possible to hear the voice of God because God is still speaking, even today through the Holy Spirit just as he did in the Bible times.
Many churches leaders believe and teach that God only speaks to us how by what is written in the bible and nothing more.
Many will die to defend what god has said in past centuries but refuse him that presently speaks from heaven. Heb 12:25.
God wants us to develop a listening ear so we can hear him speak. Rev 2:7, 3, 23.

                    The Need to Hear:

The bible told us that man does not live alone by bread but by every word that proceeded out of the mouth of God.
“Proceeded” Speaks of a present continuing function. It speaks of something that happened in the past, is happening in the present, and will happen in the future.
God is continually speaking to his people and has not gone dumb.
God speaking does not mean that the bible is still being written and we need to add to it. No, the bible is a complete book that needs not to be added onto.
The bible teaches that God wants a people whom he will dwell in and walk. People who are living epistles known are read of all men. 2 Cor. 6:16, 2 Cor. 3:2, 3.
We can only live the life God desires for us by hearing His voice and receiving words that continually come out of his mouth.

We Need to Hear the Word of God to Know His Will.

One of the question we face as church leaders is the question of what God wants us to do and where does my responsibilities end and God’s begin?
God holds his servants responsible to know his will, and to take action to do the will of God. Zach 4:6, Lk. 12:49.
God wants church leaders who know and do their lord’s will. The will of God establishes the limit of responsibility. If we do not know his will, we will be judgeless harshly, though we will still be judged. To do the will of God we must know his will, to know the will of God, you must hear his voice.
To know the will of God you must develop a sensitive and a willingness to be guided by the Holy Spirit.
You must develop a listening ear for God to speak to you.

               Hindrances to Hearing

Hearts not perfect before God.
God searches the heart he deals with us according to the    condition and contents of our hearts. He is interested in a heart that is perfected towards Him. 2 Chr. 16:1.
The heart is according to the bible is the seat of:
Emotion or affliction.
Motives.
Intentions of the person. God is concerned with these things.
Worldly affection: if our affections are set on things on earth rather than things in heaven. God is offended. 1 Jn 2:15. The bible tells us to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, strength (Matt 22:37).
Impure motives: If our motives (or motivations) are impure like the prophet Ballam (Num 23) then God will severely Judge us. Ballam bartered God miraculous gifts for money fame and prestige.
Wrong intentions: Ananias and Saphirra (Acts 5) were pretending to give all their money to the work of the lord, but were really keeping back much of it for themselves. Because their intentions were wrong, God killed. We need to guide our affections motives and intension to make sure they are pure. Pro 4:23, God knows all we have in our hearts. 1 Sam 16:7. We can hide these things from men but not from the Lord. An imperfect heart before the lord will seriously hinder us from hearing his voice. Hardness of hearth. The scripture says, “Today, if you want to hear his voice, do not harden your heart”. (Heb 4:1).
Unforgiveness stops God’s voice. When we fail to forgive someone who has offended or wronged us, that failure to forgive causes a hardness of the heart that blocks us from the voice of God, and can lead us into many health problems.
Forgiveness brings a return of God’s voice
2 Chron. 7:14, A hard heart, a callous heart, an unbelieving and other unhealthy heart condition can prevent us from hearing God’s word/voice.
An unregenerated heart until a person experience the new birth in Christ, it will be very difficult to hear the voice of God (John 3:3-6 1 Cor 2). It does not matter how long one has been in faith or the title or position one occupies, the new birth experience is imperative for hearing the voice of God. Rom 8:16, 1 John 5:16.
Saving faith intellectual agreement. We must distinguish between saving faith and intellectual agreement with the historical facts recorded about Christ in the bible. Intellectual agreement does not save a man but can make you a good religious or Christianized person. James 2:19.
You can know you are saved. The bible says that God’s spirit beareth witness with our spirit that we are children of God. 1 John.
When Jesus comes into your heart he cleanses it and sweeps it from sin and darkness, and takes away the hard heart and gives you a soft and tender heart of flesh so that you can hear the voice of God. Ezekiel 36:25-27.
      4) Disobedience stops God’s voice. When a leader is in a habit of disobeying the voice of God, it will be difficult for God to continually speak to the person. To hear God’s voice doesn’t mean just to hear with your ears. It means to respond obediently what he said. Roms 10:17.
Pride prevents obedience. A proud person is always what people will say or what will be the result of his response to the voice of God. We are often afraid of what people will think about us that we are held back from doing the word of God. Pro 29:25. In obeying the voice of God we should we should not be careful about what people will say or think about us for those inconsequential. Fear of man is the root of disobedience to his voice.
We cannot be sure of the truth of the word of God until we have proved it. 1 Thess 5:21. The only way you can prove something is to try it. You may fail in the cause of trying but then, risk is one of the elements of faith. Do not let fear paralyze you. Try to do what you feel God wants you to do, though you may have some failure – there will be some success too. You have to take the risk; step out in faith and attempt great things for God.
         b) Pre-conception hinders obedience. The biblical story of Elisha and Naaman serves as an illustration on our pre-conception can hinder obedience. Naaman had an incurable disease of leprosy. His maid told him a prophet in Israel called Elisha who had power from God to heal. When Naaman arrived at Elisha’s modest home, the prophet sent out his servant to tell General Naaman what God said he must do vs. 10. Naaman was angry and decided to walk away; he was thinking that the man would have the courtesy to come out and out and see him. He thought he would have laid hands on him and call upon the name of the lord and heal him so, before he came to Elisha he already had a pre-conception on how God will heal him. 2 Kgs. 5.
It was only the intervention of one of his servants that prevailed on him to do the instruction of the man of God, by discarding his pre-conception. 2Kgs. 5.
Pre-conception is rooted in pride. “I know everything; I can conceive things before they happen (a Deitic quality) and when things fail to happen the way we conceive the will. It undermines our deitic (pride-filled image of ourselves, and like Naaman, we tend to walk away angry and resentful.
God’s pattern for your life.
Our theology (pre-conception about God) often comes into conflict with the spirits in our life and when it does we are faced with the great danger of missing the will of God.
We should be fixated with the pattern of God that is revealed to other ministers of God, but to the pattern revealed to ‘us’ Heb 8:5. God pattern for your life is to do what he has asked you to do as he has asked you to do it. We should not just do things because it is the way it has been done but because it is the way he asks us to do it. John 5:19.

 OBEY GOD’S VOICE:

There are two Greek words translated as words in the English Bibles “LOGOS” and Rhema Logos often refers to the written or unscripted “word”
Example of the use of logos and Rhema is matt 4:4; where logos is used for the word (written) and Rhema for “word”.
A Rhema from God. A Rhema is usually a communication from God designed and empowered to apply to a specific situation.
When we are reading the bible and a certain verse suddenly strike us with power, we are receiving a Rhema (living word) for our personal need.
When we are praying from God’s wisdom or God’s answer for an insoluble problem, and suddenly God’s speaks the solution into our ear practical terms which solve the problem that is Rhema.
When we are in the most of some mission related activity and we have a sudden impression to take some specific action, which results in great blessing that is Rhema.

Caution: we should not assume every urge, impression or feeling is a Rhema. No Rhema will ever be, contrary to the scripture (logos), Gods eternal word.
Rhema produce faith. So then faith comes by hearth, and hearing the word of god. (Rom. 10: 17)
When god speaks to you comes alive in you if you will obediently respond to what God said, miracles will take place for you just like they did in the bible acts 3: 1-2 Ezekiel 37: 1 – 10

Relationship not formula:

God’s life giving word seldom comes in response to religious forms and formula Jesus did not employ one formula in performing his miracles. He healed one blind man by mixing dust, and spittle, forming mud, and applying it to the blind man’s eye. The blind man was sent to the pool of Siloam to wash the mud out of his eye and was healed. John 9.
God did not establish a pattern or formula for the opening of the eyes of the blind through these miracles. It can only work for you if you hear from God.
So, it is not about forms and formula, it is about hearing from God and taking obedient action in response to what God said (Matt 9:29; Mark 10:52). A proper relationship with his heavenly father was the secret of Jesus ministry john 8:29. Because the state of Jesus heart was always right with God, he will easily hear and obey his father’s voice.

                        Spending Time with God

To hear the voice of God, we need to spend time with him. Although Jesus was an authority in the word of God John 2, the secret of his ministry was his sensitivity to the voice of God John 5:19.
In other to hear the word of God, Jesus often times separate himself unto God in prayer. His ministry began with forty days of prayer and fasting (matt 4:1-11) even after that we see him spending some rights in prayer, and sometimes he will withdraw himself from the multitude and going into the desert to pray.
Sensitivity to the voice of God is produce out of a deep devotional life. The more time we spend with him the more of his voice we hear. We need to develop a strong relationship with God through the times we spend with him in prayer and fasting.
Emphasis should be placed on God’s word and spirit academic qualification, which only tends to pride.
We should pursue the voice of God, excellence in the exercise of the gift of the spirit theological degree. We must recognize that God’s priority is the preaching of the Gospel to all creatures and nations Matt. 28:18-20, Mark 16:15.
We must obey the biblical instruction of spreading the gospel, how men are brought back to the lord Mark 16:20, Rom. 1:16, Rom. 15:20, 1 Cor. 1:23-24.
God does not only guide us by the Rhema but by the written word.
How to be guided by the written word
Familiarity with the word – We get familiar with the word.
Constant reading of the word.
Studying of the word.
Memorizing the word.
Believing the word.
Obeying specific instructions of the word.
Constant application of the word to specific situation.

                              Patience Endurance

           Life is in phases, each phase of a man’s life is characterized by its own peculiar experience. Some may be tough and some easy. One of the hall marks of a true believer is that ability to stand when others has fallen. The grace of standing in the face of obstacle and trial is what distinguish true believers from pretenders.
The scripture wants us to expend every scriptures effort to stand in the face of adversity Eph 6:13-14, pro.
To be standing when everyone else has fallen requires patience endurance.                                        
  It is only those who through in their faith patiently endure hardships and deprivation that wins divine approval and recommendation Heb 11:35-38.

 Tests and Trials

One of the ways through which God prepares us for great responsibilities in his kingdom is by permitting trials and tests to come our ways.

                               Sources of Trials and Tests

God tries the righteous Ps 11:5.
The devil is also sometimes involved in our tests and trials.
We can also face trials and tests through our own misdeeds – David example in the case of Besheba, God permitted Jobs sufferings.
From the scriptural account of the sufferings of Job, we learnt that God permitted the devil to tests Job 1. And never for one day blame the devil but God for his woes Job 19:21, 13:15, he refuse to acknowledge Satan for his troubles, even when it was obvious that Satan was the one behind his problems. While it is true that the devil can buffet a child of God for a reason, we should rest on the confidence assurance of his not been able to touch us unless it is permitted by God.

Why God Tests and Tries Us

Pressure produces Enlargement Ps.4:1; God can us                       chastisement and sufferings to make us better Christians and leaders.
Trial proves and humble us Deut 8:15; God allow us sometimes to go through sufferings to do us good at the end. God wants to discover whether we love him or whether we serve him for all the blessings he gives.
Trials help to mature the believer James.

                            Victorious Christian Life

Introduction:
          The goal of the Christian life is to be like Christ in all things. Christ lived a holy life, a life of victory of sin and the world. In this lesson we are going explore ways through which we can live a victorious Christian life.

Possibility of a Life of Victory in Christ

The scripture teaches that a child of God can experientially live a life of victory over the sin, Satan and the world. 1 Jn. 5:4, 1 Jn. 4:4, Rom. 8:37-39, John7:31, 38, John 16:10, Rom 6:14, 2 Cor. 2:14, 1 Cor. 10:13.