CENTRAL TRUTH

The use of the gifts of the

Spirit in an orderly manner
LESSON 1
promotes spiritual growth.

BIBLICAL GUIDELINES FOR THE

USE OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS.
MEMORY VERSE: The spirits of prophets are subject to the
control of prophets. For God is not a God of disorder but of Peace.
1 Corinthians 14:32-33

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain the Biblical instructions relating to the use of spiritual
gifts.
2. Edify the Body of Christ by the proper use of spiritual gifts.

LESSON TEXT: 1 Corinthians 14:12-19; 27-32

1 Corinthians 14: I will sing with my spirit,

but I will also sing with my
12. So it is with you. Since you are
understanding.
eager for gifts of the Spirit, try
to excel in those that build up 16. Otherwise when you are
the church. praising God in the Spirit,
how can someone else, who is
13. For this reason the one who
now put in the position of an
speaks in a tongue should pray
inquirer, say “Amen” to your
that they may interpret what
thanksgiving, since they do not
they say.
know what you are saying?
14. For if I pray in a tongue, my
17. You are giving thanks well
spirit prays, but my mind is
enough, but no one else is
unfruitful.
edified.
15. So what shall I do? I will pray
18. I thank God that I speak in
with my spirit, but I will also
tongues more than all of you.
pray with my understanding;
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19. But in the church I would rather
speak five intelligible words
to instruct others than ten
thousand words in a tongue.
27. If anyone speaks in a tongue,
two—or at the most three—
should speak, one at a time, and
someone must interpret.
28. If there is no interpreter, the
speaker should keep quiet in
the church and speak to himself
and to God.
LESSON OUTLINE
29. Two or three prophets should
speak, and the others should
weigh carefully what is said.
30. And if a revelation comes to
someone who is sitting down,
the first speaker should stop.
31. For you can all prophesy in
turn so that everyone may be
instructed and encouraged.
32. The spirits of prophets are
subject to the control of
prophets.

I. THE VALUE OF THE GIFTS.

II. THE USE OF THE GIFTS.

BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION: wants us to understand them,
so he has given instructions
This week, we will temporarily
concerning them in His word. A
move away from studies on the
good deal of these instructions is
life of Solomon and examine
found in 1st Corinthians chapter
Biblical guidelines on the use of
12, 13 and particularly 14.
the gifts of the Holy Spirit we
discussed during the beginning
The proper use of the spiritual
of the year. God does not want
gifts in the church leads to
us to be ignorant concerning
greater unity and maturity of the
the spiritual gifts and their use.
body of Christ. In today’s lesson,
Spiritual gifts are given to edify
we will learn the proper use of
and unify the Body of Christ,
the spiritual gifts.
never to confuse and disrupt.God

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I. THE VALUE OF speaking, when accompanied by
SPIRITUAL GIFTS interpretation in public worship,
The gifts of the Spirit are builds up the spiritual life of the
extremely important for the church, just as prophesy does.
spiritual life of the Church. Paul Tongues without interpretation
encourages believers to “be does nothing for the church as a
eager to possess” the best gift (1 whole.(Fire Bible, 2010)
Corinthians 12:31) and “Desire
spiritual gifts” (1 Corinthians In writing to the church at
14:1,5). Paul testified, “I thankCorinth, Paul did not only desire
God that I speak in tongues more the Church to possess the gifts,
than all of you”(1 Corinthians he also wanted the gifts to be
14:18), indicating that he was used. And more so he wanted
aware of the value of the gifts. them to be used in the right way,
All of the gifts are valuable that is, intelligently, lovingly,
and none should be despised. for the good of all, in an orderly
However, Paul’s admonition manner, and for edification. The
is “He who prophesies is gifts that the spirit gives, through
greater than one who speaks in which the Lord ministers, and the
tongues, unless he interprets” (1Father operates (1 Corinthians
Corinthians 14:5). The value of a12:4-6) are too valuable to be
gift is dependent upon the degreemisused. The gifts have been
given to us for the building up
that it is able to edify or build up
the Church. of the body of Christ. They are
for the good of every part of the
INSIGHT body. As Pentecostal believers,
we ought to use them for that
Paul’s wish here refers to purpose.
tongues-speaking in private
prayer and worship to God. Possession of gifts of the spirit
Clearly, such tongues have value is not necessarily an indication
for the individual Christian’s of spirituality and maturity for
personal worship and prayer. either a church or an individual.
Paul adds that authentic tongue- For example, the church at
Corinth did not lack any spiritual

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gift (1 Corinthians 1:7), and yet it must exhibit true obedience.
was carnal rather than a spiritual “If any man think himself to be
church (1 Corinthians 3:1-4). a prophet, or spiritual, let him
This church was torn by acknowledge that the things
divisions and lawsuits. It that I write unto you are the
permitted drunkenness and commandments of the Lord”
gluttony at the table of the Lord. (1 Corinthians 14:37). This
It tolerated sexual immorality obedience includes obedience
within its ranks. Besides, some in the matter of correct use of
of its members denied the the gifts of the spirit. Important
apostolic authority of Paul and as the gift is, spirituality is
the resurrection of Jesus Christ dependent upon the conduct of
from the dead. All because they the person through whom the
did not allow the spirit of God to gifts are manifested.
direct the proper use of the gifts.
II. THE USE OF SPIRITUAL
There are other conditions in GIFTS
addition to possession of the gifts
God’s word has established
of the spirit which must be met
principles to govern the use
before a church can be seen to be
of the gifts which He has
truly spiritual. This is true also
bestowed to believers. In
of the individual Christian. They
Paul’s instructions to the
Corinthian church, he set
forth the following;
1. The gifts should be
used intelligently. “Now
concerning spiritual gifts,
brethren, I would not have
you ignorant” (1 Corinthians
12:1). “Brethren, be not
children in understanding:
… in understanding be men
..God is not a God of Disorder but of (of full age)” (1 Corinthians
peace. 1 Corinthians 14:32-33

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 14:20). God is intelligent; He 14:33, 39, 40).
expects us to be intelligent in 5. The gifts should be used for
the exercise of the spiritual edification. “Let all things
gifts. be done unto edifying” (1
2. The gifts should be used Corinthians 14:26). The
lovingly. The “more excellent gifts may be used privately
way” (1 Corinthians 12:31) for personal edification
is the way of charity or love. (1Corinthians 14:2, 4, 18,
“Follow the way of love” 19, 27, 28), but when used
(1 Corinthians 14:1;13:1-3). publicly, they should edify
The gifts should not be used or build up all the assembled
maliciously. There should be believers. “Seek that ye may
no rivalry in their use, for excel to the edifying of the
rivalry promotes schisms church” (1 Corinthians 14:4,
or divisions in the body of 5, 12).
Christ (1 Corinthians 14:23,
30, 37; 12:21-25). From Paul’s instruction to the
Corinthian church, it is obvious
3. The gifts should be used for that two gifts were being
the good of all. Selfishness misused at Corinth: tongues and
has no place in the use of prophecy.
the gifts. They should either
be used for the common 1. Tongues. Of the two gifts,
good, or should not be used it seems the gift of tongues
at all in public worship (1 was the most misused
Corinthians 12:7;14:31). because of the amount
of corrective instruction
4. The gifts should be used in
given concerning it. Some
an orderly manner. “For
prevailing conditions that
God is not the author of
needed correction were:
confusion, but of peace, as in
all churches of the saints. Let (a) They were overly
all things be done decently speaking in tongues in
and in order” (1 Corinthians public worship without

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 interpretation. The person
speaking in tongues was
edified because in the spirit
he was speaking mysteries
unto God. However, the
church was not being
edified because there was
no understanding of what
was being said(1 Corinthians
14:2-11, 16, 17).
To correct the condition, Paul
instructed, “… try to excel in
gifts that build up the church.
For this reason, anyone who
speaks in a tongue should pray
that he may interpret what he 2. Prophecy.
says” (1 Corinthians 14:12,
13). To speak in the spirit is in
itself not sufficient. There must a. All were prophesying at the
be interpretation in a public
assembly. So, Paul instructs here
that if there is no interpreter,
the one who speaks in a tongue
should pray that he may interpret
it, or keep quiet (1 Cor. 14:28).
(b) All were speaking in
tongues at the same time
in public worship without
interpretation (1 Corinthians
14:23).This refers to tongues
in relation to prophesy.
To correct the condition, Paul
instructed, “If anyone speaks in a
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tongue, two -or at the most three
-should speak, one at a time,
and someone must interpret” (1
Corinthians 14:27). “For God
is not a God of disorder, but of
peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33).
(c) There were numerous
prophetic messages in
tongues. To correct this
condition, Paul instructed that
the number of utterances be
limited to two or to three(1
Corinthians 14:27).
The gift of prophecy was
also being misused.
same time. To correct this
condition, Paul instructed,
“Let two or three prophets
speak, and the others should
weigh carefully what is said”
(1 Corinthians 14:27; 29).
b. There was a reluctance to
give others an opportunity
to prophesy. To correct this
condition, Paul instructed,”
And if a revelation comes
to someone who is sitting
down, the first speaker
should stop”(1 Corinthians
14:30).
 LIFE APPLICATION QUESTIONS
1. Why were the gifts of tongues and prophecies the most abused
in the Corinthian church? Discuss.
2. How is the use of these gifts being abused in our churches
today?

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. Gifts given according to grace - Romans 12:6-8
Tues. Manifesting the gifts as stewards - 1 Peter 4:10-11
Wed. Stir up the gifts in you - 2 Timothy 1:6-7
Thu. Manifest the gifts soberly - Rom. 12:3-8
Fri:. The gifts build up the church - Eph. 4:12-13
Sat:. The gifts are to glorify God - Exodus 31:1-6

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 CENTRAL TRUTH
LESSON 2 The exercise of Godly wisdom
brings physical blessings.

SOLOMON’S WISDOM, WEALTH

AND FAME
MEMORY VERSE: Humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth
and honour, and life. Proverbs 22:4.

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Recount Solomon’s wisdom, wealth and fame.
2. Depend on God for wisdom, wealth and fame.
LESSON TEXTS: 1Kings 3: 16-22; 4:21-34
1Kings 3: the night and took my son from
my side while I your servant
16. Now two prostitutes came to
was asleep. She put him by her
the king and stood before him.
breast and put her dead son by
17. One of them said, “Pardon me, my breast.
my lord. This woman and I live
21. The next morning, I got up to
in the same house, and I had a
nurse my son—and he was
baby while she was there with
dead! But when I looked at him
me.
closely in the morning light, I
18. The third day after my child saw that it wasn’t the son I had
was born, this woman also had borne.”
a baby. We were alone; there
22. The other woman said, “No!
was no one in the house but the
The living one is my son; the
two of us.
dead one is yours.” But the first
19. “During the night this woman’s one insisted, “No! The dead
son died because she lay on one is yours; the living one
him. is mine.” And so they argued
20. So she got up in the middle of before the king.

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1Kings 4:
21. And Solomon ruled over all the
kingdoms from the Euphrates
River to the land of the
Philistines, as far as the border
of Egypt. These countries
brought tribute and were
Solomon’s subjects all his life.
22. Solomon’s daily provisions
were thirty cors of the finest
flour and sixty cors of meal,
23. ten head of stall-fed cattle,
twenty of pasture-fed cattle and
a hundred sheep and goats, as
well as deer, gazelles, roebucks
and choice fowl.
24. For he ruled over all the
kingdoms west of the Euphrates
River, from Tiphsah to Gaza,
and had peace on all sides
25. During Solomon’s lifetime
Judah and Israel, from Dan
to Beersheba, lived in safety,
everyone under their own vine
and under their own fig tree.
26. Solomon had four thousand
stalls for chariot horses, and
twelve thousand horses.
27. The district governors, each in
his month, supplied provisions
for King Solomon and all who
came to the king’s table. They
saw to it that nothing was
lacking.
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28. They also brought to the proper
place their quotas of barley and
straw for the chariot horses and
the other horses.
29. God gave Solomon wisdom
and very great insight, and a
breadth of understanding as
measureless as the sand on the
seashore.
30. Solomon’s wisdom was greater
than the wisdom of all the
people of the East, and greater
than all the wisdom of Egypt.
31. He was wiser than anyone else,
including Ethan the Ezrahite-
wiser than Heman, Kalkol
and Darda, the sons of Mahol.
And his fame spread to all the
surrounding nations.
32. He spoke three thousand
proverbs and his songs
numbered a thousand and five.
33. He spoke about plant life, from
the cedar of Lebanon to the
hyssop that grows out of walls.
He also spoke about animals
and birds, reptiles and fish.
34. From all nations people came
to listen to Solomon’s wisdom,
sent by all the kings of the
world, who had heard of his
wisdom.
 LESSON OUTLINE

I. WISDOM III. FAME UNEQUALED

DEMONSTRATED A. Increasing Wisdom
A. Wisdom Needed B. Unparalleled Wisdom
B. Wisdom Expressed
C. Wisdom Recognized

II. WEALTH ENJOYED

A. A happy People
B. A Prosperous Ruler

BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION and gave him opportunity to
Lastweek’s lesson described exercise the gift God had given
Solomon’s concern for him. It led to a decision that was
God’s people and how God clearly right and that profoundly
promised him the wisdom and impressed all who heard of it.The
understanding he wanted and remainder of the lesson goes on
needed to rule them. Then, to describe the wealth and fame
God graciously promised extra of Solomon and the prosperity
blessings of wealth, honour, and and happiness of the people.
glory. Now we continue exactly I. WISDOM
where that lesson left off, and the DEMONSTRATED
Bible shows us how quickly and - 1 Kings 3:16-28
how remarkably God kept His
word. A. Wisdom Needed - 1 Kings
3:16-22
The first part of this lesson Though the king was the final
deals with a specific situation court of appeal for the nation,
which tested Solomon’s wisdom even the poorest and the lowest

10
had access to him. Among the Yet it proved to be a word of
first to come were two harlots wisdom, a flash of divinely given
who gave birth to sons only three insight from One who knows the
days apart. One accidentally hearts of all men. It stirred the
suffocated her baby to death by bowels (Compassion, heart) of
lying on it in her sleep. Then she the true mother and brought a
exchanged her dead child for the response that made it perfectly
living one. obvious who she was.
The case was indeed a difficult C. Wisdom Recognized
one. Both women claimed - 1 Kings 3:28
the child, but both were of The news of Solomon’s judgment
questionable character. There (wise decision) soon spread over
were no witnesses and no the land. They recognized that
positive evidence. The women God was indeed ministering
were friendless. No one else a gift of wisdom through him
had seen the babies or could and that they could expect real
identify the living child. Cross- judgment (justice).
examination brought nothing but This had a healthy effect on
denials. them. They began to be afraid
B. Wisdom Expressed to do anything which might
-1 Kings 3:23-27 bring them before Solomon for
Without hesitation, Solomon judgment. We can be sure this
called for a sword and gave them a greater respect for
commanded that the living the Law and for the Lord as well.
child be divided into two. Both II. WEALTH ENJOYED
claimed the child. Both would - 1 Kings 4:20-28
have a part. Josephus, the A. A Happy People -
ancient Jewish historian, records Vrs :20, 25
the reaction of the audience. He God’s blessing on Solomon
says: “Whereupon, the people brought an increase in population
privately laughed at the king, and a rich supply of needs. The
as no more than a child.” The whole nation enjoyed a new
decision seemed foolish to them. safety and security, “every man

11
under his vine and under his most of the territory between the
fig tree.” (This was a common Euphrates River and Egypt. (His
expression picturing peace and dominion stretched nearly 800
prosperity 2 Kings 18:31; Micah miles. Subject kingdoms poured
4:4; Zechariah 3:10). tribute into his coffers, and the
At first glance, the expression of daily provision for the royal
verse 20 might make it appear tables was enough for about
that the people were misusing fifteen thousand people.
the good things God gave them. III. FAME UNEQUALLED
“Eating, drinking, and making - 1 Kings 4:29-34
merry” is sometimes used in A. Increasing Wisdom -
a bad sense (Luke 12:19, 20; 1 Kings 4:29
Isaiah 22:13, 14; 1 Corinthians This verse is no mere repetition
15:32, 33). However, the same of previous statements concern-
words are often used in a good ing Solomon’s wisdom. The
sense (Proverbs 17:22; Jeremiah Hebrew indicates that God was
30:19; Luke 15:23, 24, 32; James continuing to give him wisdom.
5:13). Here, the making merry That is, as he exercised wisdom,
means rejoicing with thankful God gave him more and more.
joy and implies music, singing,
With this came increasing un-
and worship. God gave them derstanding (including discern-
prosperity, but they rejoiced in ment and insight), and largeness
more than His blessing. They of heart (or breadth and compre-
rejoiced in Him. Their joy was hensiveness of mind). God thus
the joy of the Lord. gave him increasing capacity
B. A Prosperous Ruler - for receiving and communicat-
Vrs 20, 25 ing knowledge and for putting
As God promised, Solomon it to practical use. As Solomon
became more prosperous than himself said, “Happy is the man
any king of Israel either before that findeth wisdom, and the man
or after him. In addition to ruling that getteth understanding: for
over a loyal, happy people in the merchandise [profit] of it is
Israel, his rule extended over better than the merchandise of

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silver, and the gain thereof than B. Unparalleled Wisdom -
fine gold” (Proverbs 3:13, 14). 1 Kings 4:30-34
Though he was rich and had eve- Solomon’s God-given wisdom
rything this world could offer, he was not only outstanding;
came to realize that happiness it was unrivalled. Men of
was not in these things. Real joy the East country (the North
comes through the wisdom and Arabian Desert) had an age-
understanding which only God old reputation for wisdom, but
can give. they could not match Solomon.
Egypt, the land of the pyramids,
Wealth in itself often leads to
had many brilliant men, but
the love of money and to all
Solomon topped them all. Israel
kinds of evil (1 Timothy 6:10).
had its singers and poets, such as
God has promised to supply our
Ethan and Heman, but Solomon
needs, but His wisdom warns
excelled these too. God’s
us of materialism, selfishness,
promise to Solomon proved true
and greed. The selfish interests
beyond any possible question.
of Ananias and Sapphira
It is no wonder that Solomon’s
brought God’s judgment (Acts
fame spread in all directions.
5:1-10). Jesus warned against
covetousness (Luke 12:15).
Godly wisdom should lead us to
devotion and self-sacrifice for
the cause of Christ (Philippians
3:7, 8). Solomon himself failed
in this respect. Thus the Bible
points us to Christ as a greater
than Solomon (Matthew 12:42).
In Him we find a greater treasure
and a better wisdom that includes
“all riches of the full assurance
of understanding” (Colossians The wisdom of Solomon
2:2, 3) (James 1:5; Daniel 12:2, was divinely given
3).

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Solomon passed this wisdom
on to others through prolific
writings of proverbs and songs
(including psalms and poems).
He was especially apt at using
the variety in nature to illustrate
spiritual and moral truths.
(Proverbs 6:6-8; 17:12; 26:11,
17). The result was that people
came from all directions to hear
his wisdom and find answers to
their questions.

LIFE APPLICATION QUESTIONS

(1) Why does submission to God bring great blessing?
(2) Is material prosperity a sign of God’s blessing?
(3) Why is wisdom such an important commodity in the economy
of God?

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon: God is the source of Wealth - 2 Chron. 32:27-29
Tue: Warning against Enticement by Riches - Job 36:18-19
Wed: Riches do not sustain Life - Psalm 49:12-14
Thu: Do not envy the Rich - Psalm 49:16-19
Fri: Wisdom to administer Justice - Ezra 7:25
Sat: God promises fame and Riches - Hosea 14:5-7

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CENTRAL TRUTH
We are building each day
a life which should be a
LESSON 3
temple to honour our Lord.

SOLOMON BUILDS THE TEMPLE

MEMORY VERSE: Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders
labour in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards
stand watch in vain. Psalm 127:1

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Narrate how Solomon built the temple
2. Apply the principles to building the church and his life

LESSON TEXT: 1 Kings 5:1-12

1. When Hiram king of Tyre
heard that Solomon had been
anointed king to succeed his
father David, he sent his envoys
to Solomon, because he had
always been on friendly terms
with David.
2. Solomon sent back this message
to Hiram:
3. “You know that because of the
wars waged against my father
David from all sides, he could
not build a temple for the Name
of the LORD his God until the
LORD put his enemies under
his feet.
4. But now the LORD my God has
given me rest on every side, and
there is no adversary or disaster.
5. I intend, therefore, to build a
temple for the Name of the
LORD my God, as the LORD
told my father David, when he
said, ‘Your son whom I will put
on the throne in your place will
build the temple for my Name.’
6. “So give orders that cedars of
Lebanon be cut for me. My men
will work with yours, and I will
pay you for your men whatever
wages you set. You know that
we have no one so skilled in
felling timber as the Sidonians.”

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7. When Hiram heard Solomon’s providing food for my royal
message, he was greatly household.”
pleased and said, “Praise be
10. In this way Hiram kept Solomon
to the LORD today, for he has
supplied with all the cedar and
given David a wise son to rule
juniper logs he wanted,
over this great nation.”
11. and Solomon gave Hiram
8. So Hiram sent word to
twenty thousand cors of wheat
Solomon: “I have received the
as food for his household, in
message you sent me and will
addition to twenty thousand
do all you want in providing the
baths of pressed olive oil.
cedar and juniper logs.
Solomon continued to do this
9. My men will haul them for Hiram year after year.
down from Lebanon to the
12. The LORD gave Solomon
Mediterranean Sea, and I will
wisdom, just as he had promised
float them as rafts by sea to the
him. There were peaceful
place you specify.
relations between Hiram and
There I will separate them and
Solomon, and the two of them
you can take them away. And
made a treaty.
you are to grant my wish by

LESSON OUTLINE

I. PREPARATION III. MAGNIFICENCE

FOR BUILDING OF THE TEMPLE
A. Cedar and Workmen A. A House for the Lord
Sought B. Divine Encouragement
B. Materials Received and C. Carved Cedar and Gold
Paid For

II. ASSIGNMENT
OF WORKMEN

BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION Temple he built for the Lord in
Apart from his wisdom, Solomon Jerusalem. David had desired
is remembered for the beautiful to build the Temple but was not
16
allowed to do so because he had temple in which He dwells
a different ministry (1 Chronicles (Ephesians 2:20-22; 1 Peter 2:5).
22:8). His task was to establish I. PREPARATION FOR
the kingdom. God wanted a man BUILDING - 1 Kings 5:1-12
of peace to build His house.
A. Cedar and Workmen
But this did not hinder David from Sought - 1 Kings 5:1-6
making many preparations and
gathering material and treasure Solomon wanted the very best for
for the building (1 Chronicle the Temple so he used the hard,
22:3-5). David also bought the close-grained wood of true cedar
threshing floor where the Temple that resists rot and was most
was to be built (2 Samuel 24:24) suitable for carving. Ancient
and then the entire hill for its people came from long distances
courts (1 Chronicles 21:25). to get cedars of Lebanon for their
Solomon himself realized the finest buildings. This demand
importance of a strong center of also caused the Phoenicians
worship, not only for Israel, but as to develop skills in cutting the
a testimony to the nations around lumber and preparing it for use.
them. He made the Temple the
first order of business after he
was established on his throne
and his opponents disposed of.
The building of the Temple is
worth our attention for another
reason. It is a type or illustration
of what God is doing in the
Church. Our bodies are temples
of the Holy Spirit. Our lives are
meant to be a spiritual house Solomon sets priority for his
where every attitude and action Kingdom business
should reflect God’s glory and
praise. We are also living stones Hiram, king of Tyre, had been
built into one great spiritual a good friend of David and
made the first move by sending

17
a message of congratulation. must have come from above. He
Solomon then made his request responded by blessing the Lord
for cedar and workmen. He and by making arrangements to
did not treat this as an ordinary send Solomon both cedar and fir
business transaction, however. (Cilician cypress, another hard,
He made it an opportunity to fragrant, durable wood). These
give testimony to what the Lord were made into rafts and shipped
had done for David and for him. by sea to Joppa (2 Chronicles
He made it clear that David’s 2:16).
God was Solomon’s God as well. Solomon did not ask for the
It was possible now to build the building materials for free. He
Temple only because God had gave full value for what he
then given peace and prosperity received (about 124,000 bushels
to the land. of wheat and 1,162 gallons of the
One of the marks of a worldly finest olive oil per year). They
person is that he does not let also made a league (cut a solemn,
what little religion he has binding covenant ratified by
interfere with his business. But a sacrifice to the Lord). Since
the man who loves the Lord Israel did not have the wood or
finds it easy to do as Solomon skilled workmen and Phoenicia
did. Solomon’s references to the did not have the wheat or oil,
Lord were not forced. They were the treaty was of benefit to both
not said out of a sense of duty or parties.
as an after thought. Rather, they II. ASSIGNMENT OF
were the spontaneous expression WORKMEN - 1 Kings 5:13-
of Solomon’s own living 18
relationship with the Lord. Apparently, the people were not
B. Materials Received and as openhearted toward building
Paid the temple as their ancestors
For - 1 Kings 5:7-12 had been toward building the
Though Hiram was not a follower Tabernacle (Exodus 35:21).
of the Lord, he recognized that the Solomon thus found it necessary
wisdom young Solomon showed to conscript a levy of forced
labour.

18
Thirty thousand men were sent in the forces of time and decay and
shifts, each working away from would be able to support God’s
home for one month in every Temple (Ephesians 2:20).
three months. The work was well III. MAGNIFICENCE OF
organized, however, and he used THE TEMPLE
a variety of people for a variety - 1Kings 6:1-38
of jobs. Though salvation comes
as we respond freely to God’s A. A House for the Lord
grace, there is a sense in which - 1 Kings 6:1-10
God puts a compulsion on us for Archaeological studies indicate
service. the Temple was begun in 958
The Bible shows also that God B.C. The Bible, however, dates it
always has a plan for His work. with relationship to the Exodus.
He wants to see it well organized The Exodus was the beginning
and properly carried out. Nothing of an era. The building of the
shoddy or careless pleases Temple began a new era. God’s
Him. He also uses a variety of time is marked, not by political
material and a variety of people triumphs as in secular history,
of different races, personalities, but by spiritual high points.
abilities, and training. Yet, as God
Since the Temple was a house
directs the work, they all fit into
for the Lord, Solomon did not
the holy temple He is building. have to depend on his own ideas
This unity in diversity is one ofor desires. God had already
the chief characteristics of the given the plan for the Temple to
Body of Christ and mobilizing David by the Spirit (1 Chronicles
people and resources for God’s 28:11,12). The horizontal
buildings. dimensions were double that of
Hard, white limestone blocks the Tabernacle (Exodus 26:16-
for the foundation and the walls 23).
were carefully hewn (from The height was tripled. We must
quarries near Jerusalem) and remember, however, that the
squared. The great foundation Temple was not an auditorium
stones were then laid deep in for the people but a place where
the earth so they would resist

19
God would dwell and manifest hollow squares). Above this was
His presence and glory. Thus, probably a layer of brush, a layer
it was not large by human of packed clay, and a layer of
standards. (It faced east and its crushed limestone rolled flat
inside dimensions were about (which became as smooth and
90 feet long, 30 feet wide and 45 hard as concrete).
feet high.) B. Divine Encouragement -
Solomon thus followed God’s 1 Kings 6:11-13
plan; doing God’s work in God’s God interrupted Solomon during
way not man’s. On the other hand, the erection of the Temple with
the plan of the Temple was not so a renewed command to live by
odd or different that the nations the Word. Solomon was building
around would fail to recognize it a magnificent Temple, but God
as a Temple. Solomon also built was looking for a humble,
a three-story building around the obedient heart. The finest
Temple on three sides for storing building does not please God
its treasures as well as other if it houses empty, unspiritual
things needed by the priests. formality, or if the people glory
The Temple was 5 cubits (7 and in the beauties of its architecture
a half feet) above this building, more than in a daily walk with
allowing for narrow, latticed God.
windows above it which gave We see also the Temple itself was
ventilation to the holy place. no guarantee of God’s blessing.
All the work of preparation was (Jeremiah 7:4, 5, 7, 9, 10.) God
done far enough away so the wants to satisfy the deep needs
sound of hammer or axe was not of our hearts with himself, not
heard at the Temple site. When just with what appeals to the eye.
the stones were cut and polished When the great stones of Herod’s
into exactly the right shapes, they temple aroused the pride of the
were taken and fitted together to disciples of Jesus, He was quick
build the Temple. It was covered to rebuke them and let them
(roofed) then with cedar rafters know every one of those stones
at right angles (probably forming would be toppled down (Mark

20
13:1, 2). He directed their eyes to The wood was beautifully carved
the hope of His coming in glory and overlaid (inlaid) heavily with
(Mark 13:26). This hope helps gold. Precious stones were also
us to live in the place where God set into the building (2 Chronicles
can make us not only His temple 3:6).The oracle (inner sanctuary,
but His sons (1 John 3:2, 3). holy of holies) was a perfect
cube of about 30 feet, unlighted.
C. Carved Cedar and Gold
(Archaeologists indicated
- 1 Kings 6:14-38
that it was probably elevated
The clean, sweeping lines of
7 and a half feet and reached
the Temple gave it a beauty
by steps.) Within it Solomon
and simple dignity that was
placed new, larger cherubim
unsurpassed. Inside, it was full of
(plural of cherub) possibly like
the fragrance of cedar and sandal
the cherubim Ezekiel saw in his
wood and the rich, exquisite
vision (Ezekiel 1:5-11; 10:14,
beauty of gold and jewels.
21, 22).
All the wood paneling was also
In front of the Temple he
put in place without the sound
placed two free-standing pillars
of a hammer. Each section was
(columns of copper about 27 feet
prefabricated elsewhere and then
high and 6 feet in diameter) called
brought and fitted together so
Jachin (“He shall establish”), and
perfectly that the ceiling panels
Boaz (“in Him is strength”). The
could be put up and then the wall
Temple’s outward dignity and
panels shoved under them to hold
testimony and its inward beauty
them in place. What a picture of
thus made it a worthy house for
the Church with each member
the Lord.
in place and each dependent on
every other member, no matter
how small or insignificant he
might seem.

21
 LIFE APPLICATION
Why must the work of God be done in God’s way?
Solomon followed God’s plan in building the Temple. He used the
materials God had specified. He followed God’s directive in the
manner of construction. From beginning to the end, the Temple was
built according to the plan of God.
It is easy in our day to use the methods of the world to do God’s work.
Since the world attracts big crowds with entertainment, it is tempting
of the Church to do the same.The church is not dependent upon the
world for its methods and means. The Scriptures are adequate as a
guide on how to build the Church. If God’s ways are respected and
followed, the Church will grow and prosper.
This, however, does not mean thatthe Church should be immune
to progress. New methods are not forbidden. The challenge before
the Church has never been greater. With modern methods of
communication the gospel can be proclaimed with greater success
than ever. And yet the Church must not forget that in the final
analysis, it is not by might (men’s natural abilities), but by the Spirit
of the Lord that the Kingdom is built.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. Builging with care - 1 Corinthians 3:9-15
Tues. Our foundation for building - Ephesians 2:19-22
Wed. Built as a spiritual house - 1 Peter 2:4-8
Thu. Built on Christ - Psalm 127:1-2
Fri. Commitment to build for Christ - Exodus 36:3-6
Sat. Establishment through God’s word - Luke 6:47-49

22
CENTRAL TRUTH
Christian dedication requires
complete commitment to God.
LESSON 4
SOLOMON DEDICATES THE TEMPLE
MEMORY VERSE: Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s
temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? 1 Corinthians 3:16

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain the requirement for Christian dedication
2. Dedicate himself to the Lord

LESSON TEXT: 1 Kings 8:54-63

54. When Solomon had finished all may he never leave us nor
these prayers and supplications forsake us
to the Lord, he rose from before
58. May he turn our hearts to him,
the altar of the Lord, where
to walk in obedience to him and
he had been kneeling with
keep the commands, decrees
his hands spread out toward
and laws he gave our ancestors.
heaven.
55. He stood and blessed the whole 59. And may these words of mine,
assembly of Israel in a loud which I have prayed before the
voice, saying: Lord, be near to the Lord our
God day and night, that he may
56. “Praise be to the Lord, who has
uphold the cause of his servant
given rest to his people Israel
and the cause of his people
just as he promised. Not one
Israel according to each day’s
word has failed of all the good
need,
promises he gave through his
servant Moses. 60. so that all the peoples of the
earth may know that the Lord is
57. May the Lord our God be with
God and that there is no other.
us as he was with our ancestors;

23
61. And may your hearts be fully
committed to the Lord our God,
to live by his decrees and obey
his commands, as at this time.”
62. Then the king and all Israel with
him offered sacrifices before
the Lord.
LESSON OUTLINE
I. PRESENCE OF
JEHOVAH
A. The Symbol of God’s
Presence
B. The manifestation
of God’s Presence
II. PRAYER OF
DEDICATION
A. A Call to Worship
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
This week’s lesson is a
continuation of last week’s
and emphasizes some of the
same truths. It focuses on
the dedication of the temple.
Solomon knew that the fact that
the Temple was finished was not
enough. God had been good. No
accident had brought a cloud
of gloom. Nothing had delayed
24
63. Solomon offered a sacrifice of
fellowship offerings to the Lord:
twenty-two thousand cattle and
a hundred and twenty thousand
sheep and goats. So the king
and all the Israelites dedicated
the temple of the Lord.
B. A Plea for guidance and
blessing
C. A Benediction
III. THE PROMISE
RENEWED
A. Divine Guidance
assured
B. The Promise and its
conditions
them. God’s plan had been
followed in every detail, and
all was in readiness. But there
was something Solomon could
not do and the priests could
not do. They could not bring
the blessing. Only God himself
could do that. So Solomon and
the priests stepped aside. Then
the glory fell. There is a time for
us to do our part. There is also a
time for us to get out of God’s sacrifices they expressed their
way and let Him move. gratitude and recognized the ark
as a symbol of God’s presence in
I. THE PRESENCE
their midst.
OF JEHOVAH -
1 Kings 8:1-11
A. The Symbol of God’s
Presence
- 1 Kings 8:1-9
After the Temple was completed
and all preparations made, it
was ready to receive the Ark
of the Covenant. Of all the
furniture of the Temple, the
ark was central and chief. It
represented the throne of the
divine King and symbolized His The Lord requires a dedicated life
faithfulness. As the receptacle
for the tablets of stone bearing
the Ten Commandments, it was Finally, the priests set the ark in its
place under the overshadowing
the visible assurance of God’s
wings of the cherubim. Never
covenant.
again was it to be moved or
In bringing up the ark Solomon brought out for public view. The
avoided the mistake David made people had seen it for the last
when he first tried to bring the ark time. Once a year the high priest
to Jerusalem. Solomon was very would behold it as he entered
careful to follow the directions the holy of holies to sprinkle the
in God’s Word (verse 4). blood of atonement on the solid
The occasion was the Feast of gold mercy seat which covered
Tabernacles (about October), the ark (Leviticus 16:15). This
and representatives of the tribes continued until Nebuchadnezzar
took part in the ceremony, with destroyed the Temple in 586
many others crowded along the B.C. Already in Solomon’s time,
way as spectators. With many the pot of manna and Aaron’s

25
rod that budded were gone, the manifestation of His glory.
possibly lost when the Philistines In a similar sense, baptism in the
captured the ark (1 Samuel 4:11). Holy Spirit is God’s seal upon
But the stone tablets were there our bodies as temples of His
as assurance that God would Spirit (Ephesians 1:13).
honour His covenant and be with II. THE PRAYER OF
His people. DEDICATION -
B. The Manifestation of 1 Kings 8:12-61
God’s Presence- A. A Call to Worship-
1 Kings 8:10,11 1 Kings 8:12-21
In response to obedience and Solomon went on to draw
united praise the cloud and the attention to God’s dwelling in
glory filled the Temple as it the darkness of thick clouds.
had once filled the Tabernacle. Though the glory cloud, the
(Exodus 40:34; 2 Chronicles Shekinah, was a manifestation of
5:12-14. Cf. Luke 24:53; Acts God’s presence, to some extent it
2:1,2). also veiled His presence.
The old rabbis called the cloud The glory they saw was thus
and glory the shekinah, a Hebrew but a small sample of an infinite
word meaning “that which glory yet unseen.
dwells or settles down to stay.” Then Solomon presented the
The word, though not found in house (Temple) to the Lord as a
the Bible, may be alluded to in place for Him to abide forever (in
Isaiah 60:2; Matthew 17:5; Luke contrast to the Tabernacle which
2:9; Romans 9:4. The Shekinah was only a tent, a temporary
could well describe the Holy dwelling). Solomon had in mind
Spirit as He comes to abide also God’s promise to David that
(John 14:16). the Lord would establish the
The Shekinah indicated God Davidic throne forever. As far as
had graciously accepted the the actual reigning of the Davidic
house prepared for Him. It was line and the endurance of the
His seal of approval upon the Temple, these were conditional
Temple as a place set apart for on the obedience of the king and
people.
26
Further revelation also showed
that both the throne and the
Temple find their eternal
fulfillment in and through Christ.
After presenting the Temple to
the Lord, Solomon turned, faced
the people, and invoked God’s
blessing upon them. Then he
called on them to join him in
blessing or thanking God for His
faithfulness. God had promised
David that his son would build
a temple. Now the Temple
stood complete in all its beauty.
God knows how to fulfill His
promises. He is worthy of praise.
B. A Plea for Guidance and
Blessing - 1 Kings 8:22-53
As Solomon stretched out his
hands before the altar of burnt
offering in the court of the
Temple, he sank to his knees
(verse 54), and offered a prayer
of dedication for the Temple.
First, he recognized God as
unique, a keeper of covenants
and mercy (faithful love) with
those who live for Him with all
their hearts. He recognized also
that a man lives in a house. God
is so great that the whole universe
cannot contain or confine Him.
He is above and beyond it all, as
27
well as in it all. Solomon’s desire
was that the prayer, praise, and
cries (shouts of joy) made at
the Temple would ascend into
heaven itself and that God would
hear and forgive, restore, and
bless.
Notice that there is not one
reference to sacrifice in the
entire prayer. The Bible shows
that sacrifices were a means,
not an end in themselves.
Sacrifices were given to make
it possible for people to enter
into the fellowship of prayer
and worship. The Temple was
primarily a house of prayer.
Solomon asked that God respect
the prayers of Israelites scattered
out of theland who prayed
toward the Temple. He asked
also that God would hear the
prayers of strangers (foreigners)
who would come because of
His name (character) and power
(verses 41-43). Solomon saw
that the Temple should be truly
a house of prayer for all nations
(Isaiah 56:7; Mark 11:17).
The prayer begins with adoration.
It follows with petitions for God
to hear when men sin, are smitten
before their enemies, suffer
drought, famine, plague, war, or 7,11,14), God also promised
captivity. Then the prayer ends to put His name there (at the
with thanksgiving and praise to Temple). From this point no
God. What a wonderful example sacrifice was to be offered at
of prayer! any of the local altars, shrines,
or high places in Israel. The
C. A BENEDICTION -
worship was to be centralized in
1 Kings 8:54-61
Jerusalem as a testimony to the
In benediction, Solomon thanked
nations that Israel worship only
the Lord for His faithfulness to
one God. It also emphasized
His promises. He then summed
the fact that He was not to be
up the requests of his previous
identified with any of the other
prayer by asking for God’s
so-called gods (as the Romans
presence to be with them and for
later identified Jupiter with the
the world to know He is God.
Greek Zeus, for example). Israel
Finally, he challenged the people
was a little island of monotheism
to a consecration that would
in a whole world that had turned
make their lives a witness to
to the worship of idols. The
what the Temple represented.
world needed this witness that
III. THE PROMISE there is only one God, the God
RENEWED - who created the heavens, who
1 Kings 9:1-9 dwells in eternity, and who yet
A. Divine comes to dwell with those of a
Guidance Assured- 1 Kings contrite and humble spirit (Isaiah
9:1-3 57:15).
For a second time God appeared B. The Promise and its
to Solomon in a dream at night. Conditions- 1 Kings 9:4-9
(See 1 Kings 3:5.) In it, God Solomon’s prayer was primarily
answered Solomon’s prayer for others, but God in answer
for the Temple, promised the renewed the promise to
guidance the people would need, Solomon personally. In doing
and more, (See James 5:16). so, however, God drew attention
In fulfillment of the promise to to the condition that Solomon
Moses (Deuteronomy 12:3,5- must walk before Him as David

28
walked. David desired to do
all God’s will (Acts 13:22).
When he failed, his repentance
was deep and genuine, and his
mistakes drove him to a deeper
dependence on God (Psalm 51).
God also warned that His
judgment would fall on David’s
descendants and their people
who sinned.
They would be exiled and the
Temple destroyed completely.
By this, all would know that it
was destroyed because of Israel’s
sin, not because of any inability
on God’s part to protect it. But
the promise was still there that
God would hear when His people
repent (2 Chronicles 7:14).

LIFE APPLICATION
What are some of the various types of prayer?
Prayer involves a person in communion with God, Creator, Redeemer
and Friend. The form of prayer depends upon its major purpose. The
purpose determines the emphasis of the praying. Prayer is a reaching
out to God through Jesus Christ. As the Book of Revelation says, God
records our prayers-at least they are preserved and offered as incense
in heaven. Therefore, the sincere involvement of the Christian in his
praying is important. Sometimes prayer is described as an offering;
sweet-smelling incense ascending to God from the heart of the
believer It involves the person in thanksgiving and adoration.
Often, prayer of confession of sins to God is made. Jesus complimented
the publican on his humble prayer in God’s house, David’s great
prayer of confession, requesting forgiveness and cleansing, is
recorded in Psalm 51. Often prayer takes the form of petition for
God to intervene in asituationbeyond our control. Hannah prayed
for a son and God gave her Samuel. The Early Church prayed for
guidance in Acts 1; 24. All of these requests were forms of petition.
In the word of God we are encouraged to ask for physical needs as
well as spiritual needs.

29
Intercession speaks of intensive prayer. It literally involves the person
in earnest petition and supplication of sustained effort untilassurance
is given that the intercessory prayer has been or will be answered
.This is the type in which we become involved when we pray for
the salvation of souls. There is a type of dedicatory prayer which is
often more formal than the types previously mentioned. Solomon’s
prayer at the dedication of the temple was formal but powerful. The
glory of the Lord filled the temple. We need to be taught how to pray,
but the principal quality which Jesus emphasized was sincerity. This
means honesty with God. Jesus also mentioned the need of prayer in
faith. This expresses confidence in God who is able and willing to
help us. He delights in our willingness to communicate with Him in
this manner.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. Honouring our vows - 1 Sam. 1:22-28
Tues. Having a renewed mind - Rom. 12:1-2
Wed. Walk in God’s counsel - Psalm 1:1-6
Thu. Learn to appreciate God - Nehemiah 12:27-43
Fri. You are God’s temple - 1Cor. 3:16-17
Sat. Children dedicated to the Lord - Mark 10:13-16

30
CENTRAL TRUTH
Christ has answers to all
life’s problems.
LESSON 5
SOLOMON AND THE QUEEN OF
SHEBA
MEMORY VERSE: It is because of him that you are in Christ
Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our
righteousness, holiness and redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. State the reasons for the queen of Sheba’s visit to Solomon
2. Seek answers to life’s problems from Christ

LESSON TEXT: 1 Kings 10:1-13

1. When the queen of Sheba heard
about the fame of Solomon and
his relationship to the Lord, she
came to test Solomon with hard
questions.
2. Arriving at Jerusalem with
a very great caravan—with
camels carrying spices, large
quantities of gold, and precious
stones—she came to Solomon
and talked with him about all
that she had on her mind.
3. Solomon answered all her
questions; nothing was too hard
for the king to explain to her.
4. When the queen of Sheba saw
all the wisdom of Solomon and
the palace he had built,
5. the food on his table, the
seating of his officials, the
attending servants in their
robes, his cupbearers, and the
burnt offerings he made at the
temple of the Lord, she was
overwhelmed.
6. She said to the king, “The report
I heard in my own country
about your achievements and
your wisdom is true.
7. But I did not believe these
things until I came and saw

31
 with my own eyes. Indeed,
not even half was told me; in
wisdom and wealth you have
far exceeded the report I heard.
8. How happy your people must
be! How happy your officials,
who continually stand before
you and hear your wisdom!
9. Praise be to the Lord your God,
who has delighted in you and
placed you on the throne of
Israel. Because of the Lord’s
eternal love for Israel, he has
made you king to maintain
justice and righteousness.”
10. And she gave the king 120
talents of gold, large quantities
of spices, and precious stones.
Never again were so many
spices brought in as those the
queen of Sheba gave to King
Solomon.
LESSON OUTLINE
I. A ROYAL QUEST
A. Seeking for Answers
B. Seeking Sincerely
II. CONVINCING
REVELATION
A. Solomon’s Wisdom
B. Solomon’s Wealth
32
11. (Hiram’s ships brought gold
from Ophir; and from there
they brought great cargoes
of almugwood and precious
stones.
12. The king used the almugwood
to make supports for the temple
of the Lord and for the royal
palace, and to make harps and
lyres for the musicians. So
much almugwood has never
been imported or seen since
that day.)
13. King Solomon gave the queen
of Sheba all she desired and
asked for, besides what he
had given her out of his royal
bounty. Then she left and
returned with her retinue to her
own country.
III. A MAGNIFICENT
CONCLUSION
A. Expectations Exceeded
B. People Congratulated
C. God’s Love
Acknowledged
D. Gifts Exchanged
 BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
Early in Solomon’s reign people
and kings began coming to
Jerusalem to hear his wisdom and
seek answers to their problems (l
Kings 4:34). Solomon’s desire,
however, was that they would
come, not merely to him but to
the Lord. He was not so much
interested in spreading his own
fame as he was in exalting the
Lord’s great name (I Kings
8:41,42).
Of the inquirers who came,
the most famous and coming
from the greatest distance was
the queen of Sheba. Volumes
have been written about her
and her visit to King Solomon.
Some traditions call her Balkis.
Over the years, many traditions
grew up which connected her
with Sheba in Ethiopia. But
archaeological discoveries now
connect her more with the Sheba
in Yemen at the other end of the
Arabian Peninsula about 1500
miles from Jerusalem. (Genesis
10:28,30; 25:3,6 which connect
Sheba with eastern Arabia.)
I. A ROYAL QUEST -
33
1 Kings 10:1, 2
A. Seeking for Answers -
1 Kings 10:1
The queen of Sheba was intrigued
when she kept hearing reports of
Solomon’s wisdom and wealth,
and about Solomon’s God who
was the source of it all, and to
whom it all belonged. Ships and
traders, some of whom were
Solomon’s own (sailing from his
seaport on the Gulf of Akabah, 1
Kings 9:26), carried these reports
to various parts of the then known
world. All declared Solomon’s
wisdom surpassed anything ever
before known among the wise
men of the world. All testified
that it could not be accounted
for except by recognizing the
greatness of Solomon’s God.
Thus Solomon’s fame reflected
glory on the name of the Lord.
What the queen of Sheba heard
seemed too good to be true. She
was a ruler of a wealthy nation
that has been famous for a long
time. Solomon was king of a
new, almost unknown country.
But she was a thoughtful person
with problems and perplexities
her wisest counsellors found the position and status of King
difficult to answer. Solomon. She assembled a
So, she determined to test magnificent caravan loaded with
Solomon with hard questions. the famous spices of’ Arabia and
She desired to see if his God with gold and jewels. Then she
could really help him give her came to Solomon and proceeded
the answers she needed. In this, to tell him the questions and
we can see a dissatisfied soul problems that were on her heart
awakened to a sense of her need and mind.
of the Creator. This was the first II. A CONVINCING
step toward future blessing. REVELATION -
(Romans 10:14, 15, noting 1 King 10:3-5
that, preacher also means “pro- A. Solomon’s Wisdom -
claimer” or “herald” and applies 1 Kings 10:3
to personal workers as well.) The queen probably asked
B. Seeking Sincerely - 1 Kings many things concerning the
10:2 fundamental problems of sin,
Some people ask questions out suffering, human relations,
of mere curiosity without any society, God, life, death, and
desire to put the answers into immortality. Solomon told her
practice. Others ask because (made clear to her) the answers
they love to argue or because to all her questions. None of
they want to trap someone by them puzzled him. Nothing was
tricky questions. Still others hidden from his understanding.
think they know the answers and He explained all her problems.
want opportunity to show off What a joy it must, have been
their knowledge. But the queen to her to pour out her heart to
of Sheba spent time getting her someone with the wisdom and
questions together and came understanding Solomon had.
with an honest heart prepared to Thank God, we are able to take
listen. our questions and problems to the
She made other preparations Lord. As we pray and wait upon
also which showed she respected Him, He is able to give us the
guidance we need. He has given

34
us the Holy Spirit too and the
Spirit is able to guide us, check
us, and make the Scriptures
real. The Lord has also raised
up for the Church many godly
pastors, teachers, evangelists,
and other ministers to help us
with our problems. (Ephesians
4:11-13.) The Holy Spirit wants
to use members of the Body to
bring a word of knowledge or a
word of wisdom as it is needed.
Let us accept the help the Lord
has provided just as the queen of
Sheba accepted the God-given
wisdom of Solomon.
B. Solomon’s Wealth -
1 Kings 10:4, 5
King Solomon must have taken
the queen of Sheba on a tour
of the house (palace) which he
had built. Everywhere she saw
the fruit of Solomon’s wisdom,
the practical results of his
sagacity. She was overwhelmed
by the splendor and startling
magnificence of Solomon’s
court.
She noticed the bountiful
provision of his kitchens (1
Kings 4:22, 23). She saw the
sitting (assembly) of his servants
(courtiers, officers, officials
35
set over various parts of the
government), the attendance
(assignment) of his ministers
(personal servants, palace
servants) and their uniforms,
the cupbearers (who were also
advisers to the king).
Everything was so well
organized, so thorough, so
efficient, so bountiful. All these
gave further evidence of the
wisdom of Solomon, a wisdom
“more precious than rubies”
(Proverbs 3: 15).
The queen was also impressed by
the magnificent ascent (arched
viaduct) over the valley between
the palace and the higher temple
hill. (The word ascent may also
refer to the royal procession
from the palace to the Temple
at the hours of prayer. The
Hebrew may also be translated
“his burnt offerings which he
offered to the Lord.”) This seems
to be the climax of all she saw.
It must have impressed her that
Solomon really considered the
fear or worship of the Lord as the
beginning of wisdom (Proverbs
9: 10) and as the source of
blessing (Proverbs 12:8). In fact,
all this wisdom, wealth, and
worship literally took her breath
away. “There was no more spirit passes (surpasses, goes beyond
in her.” the bounds of knowledge)
(Ephesians 3:19). It will take all
III. A MAGNIFICENT
eternity even to begin to fathom
CONCLUSION -
it.
1 Kings 10:1-13
A. Expectations Exceeded B. People Congratulated -
- 1 Kings 10:6, 7 1 Kings 10:8
Not only was the queen impressed The queen of Sheba could find
by what she saw, she confessed nothing to criticize. She had only
that she had been skeptical when good to say, adding that to be a
she first heard about Solomon. servant (including even being a
Now she had to admit that the slave) of such a wise king was
reports were not exaggerated. In a privilege. In fact, theirs was
fact, they had not told the half a happiness that came because
of the wisdom and prosperity they continually heard the
(goodness) she now observed. wisdom of Solomon, a practical
How like the experience of wisdom that helped them in their
those who find for themselves own problems and difficulties.
the love and goodness of the (The word here translated
Lord (Psalm 34:8). The gospel is “happy” is translated “blessed”
good news, good news of God’s in Psalms 1: 1; 2: 12; 32: 1,2 and
power, glory, love, salvation, speaks of a fullness of blessing.
healing, blessings, gifts, and The Aramaic form of this word
promises that are all ours through is probably the one Jesus used in
Christ’s death and resurrection the Beatitudes [Matthew 5;3-11;
and through the Holy Spirit’s Luke 6;20-23]. It is a happiness
ministry. that is deep, real, and lasting.)
No matter how much we come C. God’s Love Acknowledged -
to understand the glories of the 1 Kings 10:9
Christian life, the promises of The queen then proceeded
God, or the things to come, the to bless or thank the Lord,
fact remains that the half cannot recognizing that God took
be told. The love of God in Christ pleasure in Solomon and set him

36
on the throne because of His
eternal love for Israel. This love
not only made Solomon king, but
also enabled him to do judgment
and justice (act in justice and
righteousness), something many
earthly rulers have not been able
to do even when they tried.
Solomon’s fame exalted the Lord
This praise given to the Lord
shows that Solomon bore
testimony to the Lord. He gave
the Lord credit for all the wealth
and wisdom he enjoyed. He also
told the queen of Sheba the story
of how God had made promises
to David and fulfilled them.
More than that, he explained the
love of God that was behind the
giving of the Law and covenants
(Deuteronomy 7:7-10).
37
D. Gifts Exchanged - 1 Kings
10: 10-13
The queen gave Solomon over
100,000 ounces of gold (on
the basis of the 2500 shekel
talent [910 ounces] in use at the
time), plus spices and jewels.
The spices were the world’s
best. (From the same region,
that is, from Ophir near Sheba,
the navy of Tyre brought gold,
jewels and almug or algum [East
Indian white sandalwood] trees
that made superb pillars (or
balustrades) for the Temple as
well as harps [lyres, something
like guitars] and psalteries
(small, triangular harps) used in
the Temple orchestra).
The queen gave her best to
Solomon, but she did not really
lose anything by it. In return,
Solomon gave her whatever
she asked. Then, in addition, he
poured out his royal bounty, so
that his gifts to her were far more
abundant and valuable than hers
to him. How like the Lord this
is? (Ephesians 3:20; Luke 6:38;
James 1: 17.)
 LIFE APPLICATION
1. How can the believer avoid the common error of drawing
people to himself instead of to Christ?
The queen of Sheba was amazed beyond words by the prosperity and
blessing which characterized the kingdom of Solomon. But she did
not direct her commendations of praise to Solomon but instead to
the God of Solomon. This shows the theocentric spirit of Solomon.
He knew the source of every blessing and refused to gather praise to
himself.
It is imperative that the Church of today follow this example. Too
often personalities are featured in such a way that Christ is visible
only in the shadows. Sometimes leadership uses its persuasive
qualities to attract a following but they fail to encourage them to
give God alone the praise and worship.
Each of us must be on guard against this error. How easy it is to
draw people to ourselves—to our doctrine, persuasion, life-style,
tastes, etc., instead of to Christ. When this happens people are easily
disillusioned. They see human failure and their faith is shaken. If,
however, they glory only in Christ, the object of their affection is
constant. Following Christ involves giving Him pre-eminence.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. Fellowship with one another - Heb. 10:24-25
Tues. A call to humility - 1 Peter 5:6-7
Wed. Christ our inheritance - 1 Peter 1:3-5
Thu. Make friends wisely - Prov. 22:24-25
Fri. Pursue unity in love - Col. 3:12-14
Sat. Two are better than one - Eccl. 4:9-10

38
CENTRAL TRUTH
God is the source of true wisdom LESSON 6
GODLY WISDOM

MEMORY VERSE: Wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things
that may be desired are not to be compared to it. Proverbs 8:11

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain the source of true wisdom
2. Apply godly wisdom in daily life

LESSON TEXT: Proverbs 8:11-33

11. for wisdom is more precious those who seek me find me.
than rubies, and nothing you
18. With me are riches and honor,
desire can compare with her.
enduring wealth and prosperity.
12. “I, wisdom, dwell together with
19. My fruit is better than fine gold;
prudence; I possess knowledge
what I yield surpasses choice
and discretion.
silver.
13. To fear the Lord is to hate evil;
20. I walk in the way of
I hate pride and arrogance, evil
righteousness, along the paths
behavior and perverse speech.
of justice,
14. Counsel and sound judgment
21. bestowing a rich inheritance on
are mine; I have insight, I have
those who love me and making
power.
their treasuries full.
15. By me kings reign and rulers
22. “The Lord brought me forth as
issue decrees that are just;
the first of his works,, before his
16. by me princes govern, and deeds of old;
nobles—all who rule on earth.
17. I love those who love me, and 23. I was formed long ages ago, at
the very beginning, when the
world came to be.
39
24. When there were no watery
depths, I was given birth,
when there were no springs
overflowing with water;
25. before the mountains were
settled in place, before the hills,
I was given birth,
26. before he made the world or its
fields or any of the dust of the
earth.
27. I was there when he set the
heavens in place, when he
marked out the horizon on the
face of the deep,
28. when he established the clouds
above and fixed securely the
fountains of the deep,
LESSON OUTLINE
I. WISDOM’S
INVITATION
A. Wisdom is available
B. A call to truth and right
II. WISDOM’S GIFTS
A. Wisdom, the best gift
B. Choice treasures
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
Solomon as a young man
was very much concerned
with helping people meet the
40
29. when he gave the sea its
boundary so the waters would
not overstep his command,
and when he marked out the
foundations of the earth.
30. Then I was constantly at his
side. I was filled with delight
day after day, rejoicing always
in his presence,
31. rejoicing in his whole world
and delighting in mankind.
32. “Now then, my children, listen
to me; blessed are those who
keep my ways.
33. Listen to my instruction and be
wise: do not disregard it
III. WISDOM’S
PRESENCE AT
CREATION
IV. WISDOM’S
EXHORTATION
problems, difficulties, and
temptations of life. He knew he
needed wisdom from the Lord
and he wanted others to see
their need as well. The Book of understanding) is pictured as
Proverbs spends a great deal of a teacher who takes her stand
time showing the importance of openly on the high places
wisdom and the foolishness of (heights, prominent places in
rejecting it. Wisdom from above the city), by the crossroads, and
is the key to a godly, useful, at the gates. Her cry (call) is to
happy life. all manner of men. The very fact
The high point in the book’s that we are human means we
discussion of the nature and need wisdom and understanding
importance of wisdom is chapter (Psalm 49: 1-3; cf. Mark 16:15).
8. Some have called it a hymn Two groups receive a special in-
to wisdom. It does more than vitation. First, the simple (inex-
celebrate the excellence of perienced, immature) are called
wisdom, however. It personifies to understand wisdom (discre-
wisdom, treating it as something tion, sensibleness, prudence,
real, something with life and as in verse 12; not the ordinary
power. Since the early centuries word for wisdom). These young
of Christianity many Bible people have not had their lives
students have connected this so tangled by sin that they are
chapter’s description with John hardened. They are not juvenile
1:1, the pre-incarnate Word, delinquents, yet they are often
and have seen it as a marvellous thoughtless and are all too easily
picture of the Son of God who influenced by the world around
embodies the wisdom of God. them. Basically, however, they
I. WISDOM’S INVITATION want to do right and are open to
- Proverbs 8:1-9 truth. Wisdom’s disciples must
A. Wisdom is Available concentrate on them in order to
- Proverbs 8: 1-5 save them from the sorrows and
Proverbs 7 describes a false, bitterness that a life of sin will
sly adulteress who lies in wait bring.
in the darkness, hoping to trap Wisdom still offers herself
the innocent and the un-wary. freely to those who are already
In contrast to this, wisdom mixed up in sin. Here we can
(here made the equivalent of

41
see the marvelous grace of God have understanding. Those who
behind wisdom’s call. Her call find knowledge (especially the
is for the fools (the morally knowledge of God and His
deficient who are guided by lusts Word) will find them right (and
and fleshly desires) to be of an pleasing).
understanding heart (that is, letFrom this we learn that wisdom
them pay attention to the things distinguishes clearly between
of the heart and mind and try to right and wrong. The world may
understand true knowledge and see everything as relative or
the principles of life). dependent on the situation, but
These foolish ones seem to the Bible does give us standards,
be young people who are not and the Holy Spirit is able to
hardened criminals. Too often, teach us and give us guidance.
they simply do not take the time We see also that we cannot learn
or make the effort to determine wisdom unless we walk in the
what is right or wrong, so they ways of truth and right. (See John
get into trouble. 7:17; 8:31, 32.) We cannot know
B. A Call to Truth and Right wisdom or get understanding by
- Proverbs 8:6-9 sitting on the sidelines. We must
Nothing but truth and right ever seek the truth, make a decision,
comes from the lips of Wisdom. and step out on it. This is also the
She is worth listening to, for she only way we really get to know
speaks of excellent things (things the Bible.
noble and powerful because they II. WISDOM’S GIFTS
are true). Never is there a word - Proverbs 8:10-21
that is underhanded, wicked, A. Wisdom, The Best Gift
or deceiving. Never is she -Proverbs 8: 10-13
tortuous and crooked or perverse
(twisted, in error). There is a Wisdom itself is the best gift,
rightness about her words and better than rubies (or highly
they are all plain (straight, to prized coral). Instruction in
the point, with- out any double- wisdom and the knowledge it
talk) to the one who comes to gives (from the Lord) is better
than gold or silver. Job tells

42
how men risk their lives going
down into mines, travel to the
uninhabited places of the earth,
overturn mountains, divert
courses of rivers, all for gold,
silver, and jewels. Yet so few put
that kind of effort into seeking
the wisdom God gives even
though it is more valuable than
all the gold and diamonds in
the world (Job 28: 1-28; James
1:5,6).
This most valuable wisdom
is, of course, not the wisdom
of the philosophers or wise
men of this world. Nor is it the
wisdom of those who claim
some deep truth that ordinary
folk cannot understand. It is
personified here as dwelling
with prudence (practical good
sense) and as finding out “witty
inventions”(giving discretion,
insight, and ability to plan and to
see new ways to combine ideas
so they will work). There is a
negative side to it too. In the fear
of the Lord wisdom hates the evil
of pride (conceited self-praise),
arrogance (including snobbery),
the evil way (any way of life that
brings injury or wrong to others),
and the perverse mouth(always
saying the opposite thing, always
43
denying the truth).
B. Choice Treasures -
Proverbs 8: 14-21
We see just how valuable
wisdom is when we see its gifts
and its fruit. They include:
1. Counsel and sound wisdom
(the common sense and skill
that enables one to give practical
advice and real help).
2. Strength or power (for a better,
happier life).
3. The ability kings and princes
need to govern justly. The
prophets condemned rulers who
followed their own ways. God-
given wisdom enables rulers
and all in places of authority
to accept their responsibilities
of worship to God and justice
toward the people (administered
in understanding and mercy).
4. Riches and honour. This
includes material substance
(wealth). The Bible does not
put a premium on poverty, and
God does bless people in a
material way. But the emphasis
is on a more durable (choicer)
wealth—a wealth seen in godly
character, spiritual progress,
spiritual joys and blessings, as
well as in a happy home and a Day by day (during the six
fruitful life. creation days) wisdom was
God’s delight and rejoiced in
5. The ability to use riches,
God. Wisdom also rejoiced in
blessing, and horror in a way
the habitable part of the world.
that will bringblessing and help
God from the beginning of
to others. Those who use what
creation was preparing for man.
they have in righteousness
It was always His intention that
(appropriately, with stewardship,
the earth be inhabited (Isaiah 45;
charity, and love) and judgment
18). Wisdom’s joy in creation
(justice, without respect of
expressed a love for man because
persons or partiality) will find
man could respond to God and
wisdom bringing them a rich
share in His wisdom. Wisdom
inheritance and filling their
is not something theoretical. It
treasuries.
exists to be part of the life and
experience of men.
III. WISDOM’S PRESENCE
AT CREATION -
Proverbs 8:22-31
Wisdom is important, not only
because of its gifts, but because
it has its source in Cod. He
possessed it (brought it forth from
within himself) before He began
His work of creation. He set it
up (gave it a place of princely
dignity, or poured it out like the
Spirit) from eternity. Then in
every part of the creation of the Ask God for the principal thing –
heavens and earth, wisdom was wisdom
with God as one brought up with
Him (as His Son; or the Hebrew It is worth noting also that
could mean as His architect, as most of what is said here about
the director of His work, or as wisdom can be said about Christ.
one binding all together). In Him we see the wisdom of

44
God objectively personified and
revealed. In this sense, Christ
is the wisdom of God He was
the active Agent in creation,
the living Word by whom God
spoke the worlds into existence
and through whom He took the
dust and made man. (See John
1:3.) Through Him also all
things consist or hold together
(Colossians 1:17).
IV. WISDOM’S
EXHORTATION -
Proverb 1:32•31
Wisdom concludes the
presentation of her claims with
a challenge to give her the full
attention she deserves. There
is a fullness of blessing, a deep
abiding happiness for anyone
who keeps wisdom’s ways (puts
them into practice).
Why do so many lack wisdom?
The real reason is so often
they do not hear (give heed to)
instruction (discipline, including
that which comes through
the chastening of the Lord, as
translated in Proverbs 3:11). The
really happy, blessed man is not
the one who refuses (avoids,
neglects) the lessons even the
45
hard lessons through which
wisdom comes. Rather, he is
the one who is like a student
anxious to learn, so anxious that
every day finds him waiting at
the doors of wisdom’s school
ready to receive all wisdom has
to offer.
Wisdom, thus, is no mere
intellectual exercise. To find
wisdom is to find life and the
favour of the Lord. To sin against
(miss the mark with respect to)
wisdom is to take the way of self-
destruction and eternal death.
The New Testament gives a
fuller revelation of this wisdom
in Christ and the Cross. It is a
wisdom that seems foolish to
men, but it is really wiser than
men and stronger than men
(1 Corinthians 1:23-25). We see
it also in the work of the Spirit (1
Corinthians 2:7-13).
 LIFE APPLICATION
1. How should a Christian respond to the intellectual who argues
that reason is the source of all wisdom?
The ancient Greeks believed that man’s ability to reason was the
wellspring of all knowledge and wisdom. Much of modern thought
has followed these ancient forms. The secularism of our day is its
evidence. Solomon clearly teaches that reason is not the source of
true knowledge and wisdom. Rather, true wisdom is revelational and
has its source in God. It is this wisdom that man must seek, which
Solomon describes.
2. What can the church do to strengthen its ministry of instruction
and training in the home?
Solomon placed a high premium on instruction and training. The
pursuit after wisdom must use these doors. Only through discipline,
training, and instruction can wisdom be imparted. And it is the
responsibility of parents as well as pastors to see that this takes place.
What can the church do to help parents in this important task?
1. Inspiration. A committed pastor will find opportunities to
challenge parents to the awesome responsibility of training their
children in the ways of God. God expects that parents will teach
their children.
2. Helps. Numerous devotional aids are available.
3. Counsel. Some families need assistance in getting started.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon: Obedience brings Godly Wisdom - Deut. 4:5-6
Tues: Godly wisdom brings Promotion - 1 Kings 10:23-25
Wed: God’s wisdom is Profound - Job 9:1-4
Thu: Godly wisdom is Priceless - Job 28:12-19
Fri: The righteous speaks Godly Wisdom - Psalm 37:30-31
Sat: Wisdom during adversity - Luke 21:14-15

46
CENTRAL TRUTH
Temperance in life is the
mark of a truly wise person.
LESSON 7
THE WISDOM OF TEMPERANCE
MEMORY VERSE: Everyone who competes for the prize is
temperate in all things. 1 Corinthians 9:25 (NKJV)

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain the need for temperance
2. Demonstrate temperance in all situations

LESSON TEXT: Proverbs 23:12-35

12. Apply your heart to instruction
and your ears to words of
knowledge.
13. Do not withhold discipline from
a child; if you punish them with
the rod, they will not die.
14. Punish them with the rod and
save them from death.
15. My son, if your heart is wise,
then my heart will be glad
indeed;
16. my inmost being will rejoice
when your lips speak what is
right.
17. Do not let your heart envy
sinners, but always be zealous
for the fear of the Lord.
18. There is surely a future hope for
you, and your hope will not be
cut off.
19. Listen, my son, and be wise,
and set your heart on the right
path:
20. Do not join those who drink too
much wine or gorge themselves
on meat,
21. for drunkards and gluttons
become poor, and drowsiness
clothes them in rags.
22. Listen to your father, who gave
you life, and do not despise
your mother when she is old.
23. Buy the truth and do not sell
it— wisdom, instruction and
insight as well.

47
24. The father of a righteous child
has great joy; a man who fathers
a wise son rejoices in him.
25. May your father and mother
rejoice; may she who gave you
birth be joyful!
26. My son, give me your heart
and let your eyes delight in my
ways,
27. for an adulterous woman is a
deep pit, and a wayward wife is
a narrow well.
28. Like a bandit she lies in wait
and multiplies the unfaithful
among men.
29. Who has woe? Who has
sorrow? Who has strife? Who
has complaints? Who has
needless bruises? Who has
bloodshot eyes?
LESSON OUTLINE
I. CASE FOR
TEMPERANCE
A. The dangers of
self-indulgence
B. The hope of the future
II. CASE AGAINST
INTEMPERANCE
A. Intemperance brings
48
30. Those who linger over wine,
who go to sample bowls of
mixed wine.
31. Do not gaze at wine when it is
red, when it sparkles in the cup,
when it goes down smoothly!
32. In the end it bites like a snake
and poisons like a viper.
33. Your eyes will see strange
sights, and your mind will
imagine confusing things.
34. You will be like one sleeping
on the high seas, lying on top of
the rigging.
35. “They hit me,” you will say,
“but I’m not hurt! They beat
me, but I don’t feel it! When
will I wake up, so I can find
another drink?”
poverty
B. Immorality is a trap
C. Alcohol brings misery
III. RESULTS OF
INTEMPERANCE
A. Confusion
B. Addiction
 BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
In addition to proverbs by
Solomon, the Book of Proverbs
includes a collection of the
sayings of other wise men of
Israel. (Proverbs 22:17 where
“the wise” is plural and probably
indicates a number of unnamed
wise men). Their chief emphasis
is on the wisdom of temperance.
Temperance in the Bible is always
self-control. The corresponding
verb is translated “contain”
in the sense of containing
or controlling oneself (1
Corinthians 7:9). It is contrasted
with running uncertainly
(without any certain aim or
definite goal). It is contrasted
also with unskilful boxers who
cannot control their blows and
hit only the air (1 Corinthians
9:26). God as a loving Father
disciplines us. But He would
rather see us cooperate with the
spirit in self-control. (2 Timothy
1:7 where “a sound mind” is
literally “self-discipline”). God
wants our lives to be temperate
self-controlled) in all aspects (1
Corinthians 9:25).
49
I. CASE FOR
TEMPERANCE -
Proverbs 23:1-18
A. The Dangers of Self-
Indulgence - V 1-9
The Bible has in mind here the
sad experiences of men who
have gone before. Those who
have feasted too freely with
absolute rulers have sometimes
incurred their disfavour, which
usually meant death.
The warning is given that it
would be better therefore to put
a knife to your throat than to
indulge your appetite. Moreover,
the dainties (tasty food) of these
rulers might seem desirable,
but they are really deceitful
(disappointing, treacherous).
Too often these rulers would
feast their victims to throw
them off guard and get them to
do something they would not
otherwise do.
The same self-indulgent desires
that cause some to lose their
integrity as they attract the favour
of rulers cause others to labour
to be rich. Though the Book of
Proverbs encourages diligence,
it shows the foolishness of an our sweet words (flattery) will
exhausting pursuit of riches that be lost (wasted). In the same
takes your strength, gives you way these words of wisdom are
ulcers, and makes it impossible wasted if spoken in the ears of a
for you to enjoy what you do fool (a morally deficient person
have. What a tragedy that so who is not interested in learning
many set their eyes on earthly what is right or wrong and who
riches that have no permanence. is guided by lusts and fleshy
(The Hebrew can mean: Will desires).
your eyes flit to it?-It is gone! B. The Hope of The Future
That is, if we give all our attention - Proverbs 23:10-18
to the pursuit of riches, our eyes Another place where temperance
will respond to any signs of it or self-control is needed is
with greed and lust. But, when in business. In Bible times
we grab it without self-control, it fields were marked by ancient
will be gone). landmarks (boundary stones). To
Not only do riches, like an eagle, remove (move) these boundary
disappear in a moment; many stones was a way of cheating
who do gain wealth find their a neighbour out of part of his
lives still empty. The desires of inheritance. Moving them even a
the self-indulgent will also trap few feet could cheat him out of a
them into feasting with those considerable amount of his crops
who have an “evil eye” (that is, each year as well.
who are envious, stingy, or up This was most often done in
to no good). They may seem the case of orphans who had no
generous, but their true nature is
one to watch out for them. But
not apparent. In their hearts they
the ones who engaged in such
are thinking (calculating) what practices forgot that those who
they can get of you. If we thinkseem so helpless have a Father
we can accept their dainty food in heaven who is their mighty
and flatter them into going our Redeemer (Kinsman-Redeemer,
way, we only deceive ourselves. Deliverer, Avenger, Saviour). He
The end will be only nausea and is their sure hope.

50
In view of this we must all Excessive eating and drinking
apply our hearts (and minds often express the same lack
to instruction. We must also of self-control and the same
discipline and encourage our inner problems. Both involve
children. The rod is necessary to the misuse of time, money,
deliver (rescue) his soul (or life)
talents, and energies. Both end
from the road that leads to hell in a drowsiness (stupor) where
(sheol, the place of the dead). the individual is more like a
The Hebrew does not imply vegetable than a being created in
harsh punishment, however, the image of God.
and the inspired writer goes on God made us for something more
to express the joy of the parent than the satisfaction of physical
whose child become wise. His appetites and fleshly desires. He
reins (kidneys, considered the has given us powers far beyond
seat of the emotions) rejoice the mere physical and natural
when their children speak right (Genesis 1:26; Romans 8:29;
(upright) things (things right in 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians
God’s eyes). They encourage 4:24). We have capacities that
them not to envy sinners but to can only be satisfied by the
fear the Lord and look to an end riches of heaven and the joys of
(a future), knowing that their fellowship with the Father and
expectation (hope) will not be the Son in the Holy Spirit.
cut off (or fail). Uncontrolled appetites mean we
II. CASE AGAINST have forgotten we are temples of
INTEMPERANCE - the Holy Spirit. Why should we
Proverbs 23:19-31 trade the riches of God’s own
A. Intemperance glory, grace, and power for the
Brings Poverty - V 19-21 poor substitutes that confuse
The Bible puts drunkards the mind and destroy the lives
(habitual drinkers) and gluttons of the man who is dominated by
(including wasteful squanderers his appetites (Ephesian 1:18, 19;
of food, spendthrifts, and 5:18; 1 Corinthians 3:16).
prodigals) in the same class.

51
B. Immorality is a Trap
- Proverbs 23:22-28
The wise child heeds his parents,
buys (gets, acquires) truth
(faithfulness, reliability), and
does not sell it (give it up). As a
result he gets wisdom, instruction
(including self-discipline), and
understanding. No wonder his
parents rejoice.
One of the areas where a young
man needs to heed his parents is
in the area of morality. The Bible
is very clear about the need for
self-control in matters of sex. It
pictures the sorrow and death
that came because of sins like
those of David and Amnon. The
immoral woman (the Hebrew
includes both the habitually
immoral and the socially
acceptable person who slips only
occasionally) is a deep ditch (pit
where one is trapped).
The strange woman (prostitute,
wayward woman) is a pit (cistern,
shaped like an inverted cone
with a narrow mouth easier to
get into than out of). Immorality
makes us a prey, robs us of self-
control and self-respect. It also
increases transgressors (those
unfaithful to God’s moral law).
That is, it is never satisfied and
52
leads to many other sins. (We
must keep in mind here that the
Book of Proverbs is addressed to
young men. The same warnings
are needed by young women
with regard to the temptations
they have).
C. Alcohol Brings Misery -
Proverbs 23:29-31
The remainder of this chapter
gives special attention to a
particular kind of intemperance
or lack of self-control—
drunkenness. Nothing brings
more misery, more fights, more
regrets to more people than
alcohol. Men who boasted of
their exploits (sprees), who
were proud of how much they
could hold, who bragged of
being connoisseurs (specialist)
of liquor, all helped to bring
the downfall of Israel, and God
condemned them again and
again through the prophets.
Those who are regular drinkers
(including social drinkers) have
woe (Hebrew, oi, an exclamation
expressing the miseries of a
hangover), sorrow (aboi, the
misery of the needy whose
money is gone), contentions
(because they pick fights),
babbling (talkativeness or
regretful talking to themselves),
wounds for no good reason, and
redness (or troubled sadness)
of eyes. (Mixed wine is wine
mixed with spices or drugs to
give it more effect). There is
only one way to avoid all this
misery, and that is not to look at
it when it is fermented. Even one
drink actually deadens the higher
centres of our brains and robs us
of real control.
smooth surface as a safe place
to lie down) and becomes like
an unconscious drowning man.
He is like a man on top of a
mast (rocking to and fro, not
realizing his danger, not able to
help or save himself). His mind
is confused.

III. RESULTS OF
INTEMPERANCE -
Proverbs 23:32-35
A. Confusion - V 32-34
The initially stimulating,
seemingly pleasant effects of
alcohol soon give way to effects
Temperance, a mark of
that show it is a poison as serious a truly wise person
as the poison of any snake and in
the end just as deadly.
B. Addiction - Proverb 23:35
The poor victim confused by Hit a confirmed alcoholic and he
alcohol loses control of mind will say, “I am not sick” (I do not
and body. Strange women feel any pain). He forgets home
(Hebrew, strange things, which and family. Even pleasure means
might possibly mean immoral nothing anymore. All he lives
women but more likely means for is another drink. The sad part
hallucinations, horrible visions is that any social drinker might
and delusions as in delirium become an alcoholic. The only
tremens) terrify him. He is safe course is not to take that first
like a person lying down in the drink.
midst of the sea (mistaking its
53
 LIFE APPLICATION
What Does the Bible Say? What is meant by the word self-control?
Why is it of serious consequence to sacrifice principles to gain the
favour of the affluent? How can the use of the rod save a child from
hell? Are drunkenness and gluttony in the same class, according to
the Bible? Why are the sins associated with immorality especially
consequential? What are the effects of abusing alcohol usage?
1. Is total abstinence defensible?
There are several cultural matters that need to be brought into focus:
i. During Jesus’ day drunkenness was not a common sin among the
Jews. It was generally thought to be a Gentile vice. When Paul
exhorted Timothy to “use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake”
he had in mind the medicinal properties of wine, and he did not
intend his words to be an invitation to indulgence.
ii. Without modern means of preservation, grape juice quickly
turns to wine. This was not so much an intended consequence
as a natural consequence. The people of Jesus’ day accepted
fermented grape juice as a part of everyday life.
iii. Pure water was not as available in some instances as wine.
Therefore wine was a common beverage during Bible times.
However, our day has a different set of circumstances and cultural
factors:
• Drunkenness has become a serious problem in our society:
Countless homes have been broken and lives ruined through the
excessive use of wine and other alcoholic beverages.
• Better means of preservation have made fresh juices readily
available. Pure water is available. Modern man, therefore, has
other choices open to him.
• Science has shown that the consumption of alcoholic beverages
is detrimental to good health and destroys the clear function of
the mind.

54
The Bible warns about the dangers of drinking wine. Proverbs 23
depicts in a dramatic way the pitfall of those who are given over to the
excessive use of wine. It shows the consequences—psychologically,
socially, and spiritually.
Since the danger is so apparent and since we have a solemn
responsibility for the well-being of our brethren, it is only right that
Christians be forceful advocates of temperance and total abstinence.

2. What can the church do to help people who have a problem

with gluttony?
The writer of these proverbs makes a strong statement about gluttony
(and by extention unrestrained appetite): Put a knife to your throat if
you are given to gluttony. As is explained in the “Bible Exposition,”
it must be noted that the main thrust of this statement has to do with
being caught in a compromising situation with people of affluence
simply through their generosity. However, self-restraint should
become a principle of life to be practiced under any circumstances.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. Walk by the Spirit - Gal. 5:22-25
Tues. Transformed by Christ - 1 Cor. 6:9-11
Wed. You reap what you sow - Gal. 6:7-8
Thu. The concept of dedication - Dan. 1:12-16
Fri. Be awake and sober - 1 Thess. 5:6-8
Sat. Endurance through suffering - Rom. 5:3-5

55
 CENTRAL TRUTH
LESSON 8 The first place in our lives
belongs to God.

SOLOMON’S FOLLY
MEMORY VERSE: No man can serve two masters; for either he
will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one,
and despise the other. Matthew 6:24.

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. State the causes of Solomon’s folly
2. Avoid the lifestyle of materialism

LESSON TEXTS: 1 Kings 10:23-29; 11:1-6

1 Kings 10:
23. King Solomon was greater in
riches and wisdom than all the
other kings of the earth.
24. The whole world sought
audience with Solomon to hear
the wisdom God had put in his
heart.
thousand horses, which he kept
in the chariot cities and also
with him in Jerusalem.
27. The king made silver as
common in Jerusalem as
stones, and cedar as plentiful
as sycamore-fig trees in the
foothills.

25. Year after year, everyone who 28. Solomon’s horses were
came brought a gift—articles of imported from Egypt and from
silver and gold, robes, weapons Kue—the royal merchants
and spices, and horses and purchased them from Kue at the
mules. current price.

26. Solomon accumulated chariots 29. They imported a chariot from

and horses; he had fourteen Egypt
hundred chariots and twelve

56
1 Kings 11:
1. King Solomon, however, loved
many foreign women besides
Pharaoh’s daughter—Moabites,
Ammonites, Edomites,
Sidonians and Hittites.
4. As Solomon grew old, his
wives turned his heart after
other gods, and his heart was
not fully devoted to the Lord
his God, as the heart of David
his father had been.

2. They were from nations about 5. He followed Ashtoreth the

which the Lord had told the
Israelites, “You must not
intermarry with them, because
they will surely turn your hearts
after their gods.” Nevertheless,
Solomon held fast to them in
love.
3. He had seven hundred wives of
royal birth and three hundred
concubines, and his wives led
him astray.
goddess of the Sidonians, and
Molek the detestable god of the
Ammonites.
6. So Solomon did evil in the eyes
of the Lord; he did not follow
the Lord completely, as David
his father had done.

LESSON OUTLINE
I. SOLOMON’S A. Heathen wives
MATERIALISM B. Apostasy
A. Wealth displayed
B. More Luxury sought III. SOLOMON’S
JUDGMENT
II. SOLOMON’S SENSUAL A. Angry judgment
LIFESTYLE B. David remembered

BIBLE EXPOSITION
Introduction
No Old Testament king had
greater or more numerous
blessings than Solomon. He
knew God in a real and personal
way. God poured out upon him
wisdom, riches and fame beyond
any of the Old Testament saints.

57
He became a wonderful help,
blessing, and testimony to others.
The queen of Sheba was just one
example of the many people
from other lands who gave glory
to the Lord because of what He
had done for Solomon.
Yet, Solomon fell. In spite of
all God’s gracious provision, he
forsook the Lord and crashed into
the swamp of self-confidence,
disobedience, unholy ambition,
sensuality, and the lust of the
flesh. Pride and the love of
material things filled his heart
and made him misuse what God
had given him. It was not a big
step then to turn away from the
Lord altogether.
I. SOLOMON’S
MATERIALISM –
1 Kings 10:14-29
A. Wealth Displayed – V 14-23
The queen of Sheba was
impressed by Solomon’s wisdom
and wealth – in that order. But the
time came when the order was
reversed. (verse 23) The queen
was also impressed by Solomon’s
worship and his concern over the
house of the Lord. But as we
look over these verses we see
none of that concern expressed.
58
Instead, we see an emphasis on
the luxury provided by an annual
income of 666 talents of gold
(worth about 30 million dollars,
taking the talent at 910 ounces
Troy or 23.8 kilograms).
Rather than delighting in the
Temple, Solomon turned his
attention to the house of the
forest of Lebanon, a spacious
building on the other side of
his palace. For it he made gold
targets (large decorative shields)
of 600 shekels weight (6.8
kilograms) and smaller shields
of three pounds (150 shekels,
1.7 kilograms) weight. Since
gold is too soft for combat use,
these were probably for display
and for processions honouring
Solomon.
We see also that Solomon was
not content with the simple
throne used by David. Even the
throne of King Tut in Egypt
was like a carved, padded chair
without arms. But Solomon
had to have an ivory and gold
armchair flanked by lions, not
only beside the chair, but on each
step leading to it. Notice, too, that
the throne was on the seventh
level, indicating the perfection
Solomon thought his rule had 1Kings 11: 1-8
attained. Self-satisfaction was A. Heathen Wives –
leading him away from the 1 Kings 11: 1-3
complete dependence on the When Solomon asked for
Lord he once felt. wisdom he was more concerned
about God’s people than about
himself. But as he began to seek
and enjoy more luxury, he soon
began to feel that no personal
desire needed to be withheld.
Since polygamy was permitted
under the Law, and he could
afford many wives, he did not feel
he needed to put any limits on his
emotions either. But he made the
mistake of adding to his harem
Dejection: The result of vanity (group of women) every woman
he desired, without considering
her attitude toward the God he
B. More Luxury Sought – served. Thus, to an unrestrained
1 Kings 10:24-29 enjoyment of material wealth, he
While the world around added an unrestrained pursuit of
continued to seek, and recognize sensual pleasures. But the worst
the wisdom God in mercy kept part of this is that he gave his
giving Solomon, Solomon heart to heathen wives including
himself sought for more luxury. some from nations God had
Much of this was in the form forbidden Israel to associate
of expensive gifts which with (in marriage or otherwise;
Solomon had no right to accept. Joshua 23: 3-7).
(Deuteronomy 17:16,17.) He
also disobeyed the Lord in The large number of wives
multiplying horses. probably shows further the same
love for display that was behind
II. SOLOMON’S SENSUAL making the golden shields and
LIFESTYLE-

59
the ivory throne. Oriental kings David sinned, when faced with
considered the size of their his sin, he repented, sought the
harems a measure of their power Lord and once again followed
and wealth. Solomon apparently him with his whole heart. When
wanted to outdo them all. he saw he was lagging, he pressed
on went fully after the Lord.
The fact that the majority were
But Solomon lagged further
wives (in most harems the
and further behind and did evil
majority were concubines) also
(worshiped idols). Finally, he
indicates that he married mostly
even built shrines for the cruel
women from important families.
gods of Moab and Ammon.
He probably included many
princesses, hoping that by the
presence of a daughter in his III. SOLOMON’S
harem their fathers would be JUDGMENT–
more likely to stay at peace with 1 Kings 11:9-13
him. A. Angry Judgment – V 9-11
Solomon’s idolatry aroused God
B. Apostasy – 1 Kings 11:4-8 to anger. This does not mean
Little by little Solomon’s acts of God lost His temper. He never
disobedience began to pile up. loses control. But God is holy
Little by little, he gave more and and He cannot be indifferent to
more of his heart to unbelieving sin. The opposite of indifference
wives. Once he loved the Lord to sin is anger against it. We
(1 Kings 3:3). But when he was must remember also that the
old (probably about forty-five, worship of these heathen gods,
prematurely aged by luxurious required human sacrifice and
living), his wives found it not was associated with immoral
hard to turn away his heart. acts. Solomon was not ignorant
He began by worshiping heathen of God’s requirements. God
gods and goddesses in addition personally appeared to him twice
to going through the forms of (1 Kings 3:5; 9:2). Yet Solomon
worship to the Lord. His heart held on to his sin and clung to his
was not perfect (completely heathen wives. Sooner or later
devoted) to the Lord. Though all sin has to be dealt with.

60
The Old Testament sacrifices and
the death of Christ on Calvary
demonstrate this truth (Romans
3:25). Though God is loving
and long-suffering, the time of
judgment is sure to come. (2
Peter 3:9,10) Now God told
Solomon He was determined to
tear the kingdom away from him
and give it to one of his servants
(1 Kings 11:26; Ecclesiastes
8:18).
B. David Remembered –
1 Kings 11:12,13
One thing tempered the judgment
due Solomon. God could not
and would not forget the faith of
David and the promises He had
made to him (2 Samuel 7:15).
God had promised David that his
son Solomon would enjoy His
mercy and He would not take it
away from him as He had taken
it from King Saul. Thus, David’s
faith and prayers postponed the
judgment. But this did not mean
God would overlook Solomon’s
sin. The kingdom would be
torn away from Solomon’s son.
(Actually, Solomon did not
go entirely unpunished. His
adversaries harassed him for
the rest of his days and he lost
control of a considerable part of
his territory, 1 Kings 11:14-25).
For David’s sake also, God
tempered the judgment by
promising it would not be total.
One tribe (Judah) would be left
to Solomon’s son. (Simeon was
included in Judah. Later, part
of Benjamin was included for
Jerusalem’s sake. Otherwise
Jerusalem would have been
practically surrounded by
Benjamin). Clearly, God would
never forget David or Jerusalem.

LIFE APPLICATION
What is materialism? Why is materialism sinful?
Philosophically, materialism has to do with matter as an explanation
for the universe. Ethically, materialism has to do with an undue and
inappropriate pre-occupation with material things.

Solomon was richly blessed as the king of Israel. Gold, silver and
other commodities of high value flowed into his kingdom. In the

61
early years of his reign Solomon gave God thanks for all that He had
bestowed upon him. The queen of Sheba was not only impressed
with all that her eyes beheld – she also marveled at the God whom
Solomon served. This attitude would indicate that Solomon had the
proper regard for material things- he saw them as gifts from God.

Later, Solomon turned from God to the life of luxury and indulgence.
His motives changed. He now sought to accumulate more and more
so he could show his prosperity to others. Solomon had turned his
attention from the Giver to the gift and had developed a sinful attitude
toward material things.
We have here an excellent illustration of the two attitudes that prevail
about material things. All that we have must be regarded as a gift
from God. However, for some, materials things have become a god
in themselves. These people are possessed by their possessions. They
are driven by a desire to accumulate. This is sinful and displeasing
to God.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. Tempted by our desires - James 1:13-14
Tues. Lay aside every sin - Heb. 12:1-2
Wed. Wisdom of seeking Godly counsel - 1 Sam. 23:9-12
Thu. The folly of rejecting God - Gen. 11:1-9
Fri. The wisdom of obeying God - Matt. 7:26-27
Sat. Walk in godly wisdom - Eph. 5:16-17

62
CENTRAL TRUTH
Dependence on material things
for happiness in life, results
LESSON 9
only in disappointments and
disillusionment.

THE EMPTY LIFE

MEMORY VERSE: Do not store up for yourselves treasures on
earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and
steal. Matthew 6:19

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain the emptiness of a materialistic life
2. Avoid materialistic lifestyle
LESSON TEXT: : Ecclesiastes 2:1-13
1. I said to myself, “Come now, 5. I made gardens and parks and
I will test you with pleasure to planted all kinds of fruit trees in
find out what is good.” But that them.
also proved to be meaningless.
6. I made reservoirs to water
2. “Laughter,” I said, “is madness. groves of flourishing trees.
And what does pleasure
7. I bought male and female slaves
accomplish?”
and had other slaves who were
3. I tried cheering myself with born in my house. I also owned
wine, and embracing folly— more herds and flocks than
my mind still guiding me with anyone in Jerusalem before me.
wisdom. I wanted to see what
8. I amassed silver and gold for
was good for people to do under
myself, and the treasure of
the heavens during the few days
kings and provinces. I acquired
of their lives.
male and female singers, and a
4. I undertook great projects: I harem as well—the delights of
built houses for myself and a man’s heart.
planted vineyards.

63
9. I became greater by far than was meaningless, a chasing
anyone in Jerusalem before me. after the wind; nothing was
In all this my wisdom stayed gained under the sun.
with me.
12. Then I turned my thoughts
10. I denied myself nothing my to consider wisdom, and also
eyes desired; I refused my heart madness and folly. What more
no pleasure. My heart took can the king’s successor do than
delight in all my labor, and this what has already been done?
was the reward for all my toil.
13. I saw that wisdom is better than
11. Yet when I surveyed all that my folly, just as light is better than
hands had done and what I had darkness.
toiled to achieve, everything

LESSON OUTLINE
I. MEANINGLESS LIFE
A. The Emptiness of Life
B. An Endless Cycle
C. An unsatisfying Wisdom
II. A DISSATISFYING PLEASURE
A. Disappointment
B. Frustration
III. A HOPELESS FUTURE
A. Man’s Helplessness
B. Unprofitable Speculation

BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
The Book of Ecclesiastes
records the words of the preacher
(Hebrew: kohelet, the speaker
in or convener of a religious
assembly; Ecclesiastes 1:1,2,
12; 7:27; 12:8-10). The name of
Solomon is not mentioned, but it
fits Solomon at the end of his life
as he looks over the results of his
backsliding.

64
In his younger days, Solomon
felt his need for divine wisdom,
sought instruction, accepted
teaching, and kept at it day in and
day out (Proverbs 9:10-11). But
after his wives turned his heart
away from the pure worship of
the Lord, he soon began to feel
the futility of life without God.
The book records the struggles
in his thinking that finally led
him back to the conclusion of
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14.
I. A MEANINGLESS LIFE
- Ecclesiastes 1:1-18
A. The Emptiness of Life -
V 1-3
Ecclesiastes expresses the
emptiness of life lived with self
as the center. The book begins
with an exclamation and a
question. The sum total of life
as the ageing Solomon looks
back on it is vanity (Hebrew,
hebel, emptiness, vapour, breath,
futility). Men work hard, but
after it is all over, what can they
say is the profit (advantage toil
and sorrow).
This feeling of emptiness has
been a common reaction ever
since man fell. Adam and Eve
named their second son, Abel
(Hebrew, Hebel, the same word
65
that is translated “vanity” here),
probably as an expression of
the emptiness of life outside
the Garden of Eden. Lamech,
Jacob, Moses, and even David
felt the same frustration at times
(Genesis 5:29; 47:9; Psalms
39:5; 90:10).
B. An Endless Cycle -
Ecclesiastes 1:4-11
To the aging Solomon part of the
emptiness of life is the apparent
ceaseless round of existence.
Generation follows generation,
but the same old earth is still
here with the same old problems.
(Solomon does not necessarily
mean here that the earth really
will last forever. He means only
that it seems that way to the
unbeliever. The Bible promises a
new {brand-new} heaven and a
new earth).
It is hard for the worldly person
to see any meaning in this
ceaseless round. The sun comes
up; the sun goes down. What
for? Apparently just to come up
and go down again. (Solomon is
looking at things the way they
appear to the human eye. He is
not trying to give an explanation
of how anything really takes
place).
The wind blows around only to
blow around some more. Rivers
run into the sea, not to fill it up,
but only to run some more. The
whole universe is in motion. All
its work is too much for man to
describe, and what he does see
and hear does not satisfy him or
bring him any real understanding
of it. Nor are today’s theories any
more permanent or satisfying.
With this in mind, Solomon said
there is nothing new (nothing
really new, no real advance)
under the sun. Even today,
though we have better television,
is the entertainment really new
or any better? We have new
automobiles, planes, multitudes
of gadgets, but do they really
make life any more worth living?
In our pride over our new things
we forget the things of the past
men took pride in. Our so-called
new things will be forgotten in
their turn. The earth is filled with
vanity and cannot change itself.
All efforts for real advance by
earthly means or mere human
intelligence are doomed to
failure.
But this should not discourage much wanting (lacking) so
us. Not only has God promised many facts missing. Nature did
us a new earth and a new
Jerusalem from God out of
heaven (Revelation 21:2; 2 Peter
3:13; Isaiah 65:17; 66:22), we
can have a new life now. Vanity
began with man’s fall. But life
is given fullness and meaning
when we let the Holy Spirit do
a creative work in us as we put
our faith in Jesus (2 Corinthians
5:17).
C. An Unsatisfying Wisdom -
Ecclesiastes 1:12-18
The wisdom of the Book of
Proverbs has its beginnings in
the fear of the Lord. Solomon
enjoyed this wisdom as God’s
gift. But when he turned from
God he tried to keep up his
reputation by a human wisdom
that comes through searching
(research). As he gave his heart
(mind, will) to this wisdom,
however, he found sore travail
(bad business, worthless tasks),
everything empty and vexation
of spirit (or a striving after wind).
By this wisdom he was not able
to make the crooked (twisted and
sinful) straight.
His searching only found so
66
not provide any conclusive or throw himself into the pursuit
final understanding of anything. of pleasure. But this was just
Even though he became more as disappointing. Laughter
advanced in wisdom than any (lusty, unrestrained merriment)
who preceded him in Jerusalem proved to be mad (makes a fool
(and this may go all the way of you). Mirth (happiness and
back to Melchizedek), all his excitement) does not really do
searching into the wisdom and anything for you.
folly of this world still proved Solomon then made deliberate
unsatisfying experiments with wine and with
Actually, as Solomon gave his folly to find out what pleasure
heart to (that is, threw himself men get from them. Then he tried
into) the pursuit of wisdom and everything else men get pleasure
attempted to understand human from: great works, houses,
madness (mad revelry) and folly vineyards, gardens, orchards
(moral and spiritual foolishness), (parks like a paradise), making
he found only grief (vexation) great pools to keep his plantings
and sorrow (pain, suffering). The green and beautiful. He bought
same is true today. Our advance slaves and cattle, gathered silver
in knowledge is greater than and gold and everything else that
any time in past history. But kings treasure. He surrounded
the possibilities of war, famine, himself with singers, luxuries,
and death are greater too. Along and music.
with our increase in knowledgeWhen the worldly person today
we need to echo the cry of thefinds one thing unsatisfying,
apostle Paul, “That I may knowhe tries something else. When
him!” (Philippians 3:10). one pleasure loses its thrill, he
II. A DISSATISFYING supposes that if he could only go
PLEASURE - Ecclesiastes on to another he would be happy.
2:1-26 But Solomon was great, and
A. Disappointment - had enough wisdom still to see
Ecclesiastes 2:1-17 what was available. In fact, he
Disappointment in the pursuit tried everything, for he had the
of wisdom, Solomon decided to money to do it. He did not hold

67
back from any joy. But it was all for it. More than one wayward
emptiness, a striving after wind, person has brought shame on his
completely without profit. hardworking father’s name. The
In all this he saw that wisdom is only solution is to recognize God
indeed superior to folly. The wise as the source of all good things
man has his eyes open. He does and enjoy what He gives.
not stumble around in the dark
like the fool. Yet, when the wise
man faces death, he is suddenly
discouraged. His human wisdom
still leaves his heart empty.
In fact, when we consider the
wisdom of man even today, we
see nothing but theories and
speculations whose whole intent
seems to be try to rob us of that
“far more exceeding and eternal
weight of glory” God has for us
...And what does pleasure
(2 Corinthians 4:17).
accomplish? Eccle 2:26
B. Frustration -
Ecclesiastes 2:18-26
The emptiness of materialistic III. A HOPELESS FUTURE -
Ecclesiastes 3:1-22
striving is seen further by the
frustrating nature of all human A. Man’s Helplessness - V 1-15
toil when God is left out. God Some suppose that living a care-
makes us fellow labourers with free life is the secret of happiness.
Him and assures us of the glories But when Solomon said there is
of the resurrection. But the a time for everything, he meant
worldly person who works hard man is limited by the kind of
often dies before he can enjoy the world he finds himself in. He
fruit of his labour. All the results cannot choose to be born. He
of his wisdom, knowledge, and cannot choose not to die. He
equity (skill) may be wasted by a cannot plant his garden in the
person who has no appreciation midst of a snowstorm. He cannot

68
harvest fruit too early or too late from the place of judgment,
and have it be good. Within these he saw wickedness. Where he
limits there is a great deal of expected to find righteousness,
beauty, but it cannot satisfy. he found iniquity (lack of ethics).
This made him think that both the
Material things never satisfy, for
righteous and the wicked deserve
God has put eternity in man’s
God’s judgment. This sinfulness
heart and mind. That is man has
and the limits and circumstances
the ability to see beyond himself,
of our human activity seem
beyond the physical, beyond the
to make it apparent that men
here and now. He wants to know
themselves are but beasts (dumb
many things. But if he depends on
animals). To the person who
the vanity (emptiness) of human
does not know God, death also
reason to give him answers that
seems to put him in a class with
satisfy, he never finds them.
the animals. All their bodies go
Neither science nor philosophy
to one place (that is, the earth)
can tell him where he came from
and return to dust. In the natural,
or where he is going. He needs
one does not have pre-eminence
revelation from God to give him
above (advantage over) the
the answers.
other. Without New Testament
B. Unprofitable Speculation - assurance (2 Corinthians 5:1-6),
Ecclesiastes 3:16-22 man still feels the way Solomon
When Solomon looks over the did here.
world, instead of justice coming

LIFE APPLICATION
1. Why does the self-centred life always lead to vanity?
Solomon lived a life without restraints. Whatever he desired he had.
He was wealthy, wise, secure, sought after, and respected. And yet
he concludes, “All is vanity!” Why?
Man is body, soul, and spirit. The body is man’s physical properties—
arms, head, muscles, bones, etc. The soul refers to man’s mind,

69
emotions, will, and personality. The spirit has to do with that inner
place of communion where man enjoys fellowship with God.
The life of indulgence provides satisfaction only for the physical
or “body” part of man. The other areas are unsatisfied and man is
disappointed with life. Solomon knew what it was to have his bodily
appetites satisfied and even some of his soul’s needs met. But later in
life his spirit was barren and unfaithful. He had lost fellowship with
God through his idolatrous and wicked acts.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. The Shepherd of our soul - Psalm 26:1-6
Tues. A call to rest - Matt. 11:28-19
Wed. Preserved in Christ - Rom. 8:38-39
Thu. God is our refuge - Psalm 95:7-11
Fri. Christ, our burden bearer - Isaiah 53:4-6
Sat. Safe in Christ - Psalm 12:1-8

70
CENTRAL TRUTH
Pleasing God and living for
His glory should be the main
LESSON 10
goal of life.

THE GOAL OF LIFE

MEMORY VERSE: Fear God, and keep his commandments; for
this is the whole duty of man. Ecclesiastes 12:13

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. State the goal of life
2. Live to please God

LESSON TEXT: :Ecclesiastes 12:1-14

1. Remember your Creator in grinding fades; when people

the days of your youth, before
the days of trouble come and
the years approach when you
will say, “I find no pleasure in
them”—
2. before the sun and the light and
the moon and the stars grow
dark, and the clouds return after
the rain;
3. when the keepers of the house
tremble, and the strong men
stoop, when the grinders cease
because they are few, and those
looking through the windows
grow dim;
4. when the doors to the street
are closed and the sound of
rise up at the sound of birds, but
all their songs grow faint;
5. when people are afraid of
heights and of dangers in the
streets; when the almond tree
blossoms and the grasshopper
drags itself along and desire no
longer is stirred. Then people
go to their eternal home and
mourners go about the streets.
6. Remember him—before the
silver cord is severed, and the
golden bowl is broken; before
the pitcher is shattered at the
spring, and the wheel broken at
the well,

71
7. and the dust returns to the
ground it came from, and the
spirit returns to God who gave
it.
8. “Meaningless! Meaningless!”
says the Teacher “Everything is
meaningless!”
9. Not only was the Teacher wise,
but he also imparted knowledge
to the people. He pondered and
searched out and set in order
many proverbs.
10. The Teacher searched to find
just the right words, and what
he wrote was upright and true.
11. The words of the wise are like
LESSON OUTLINE
I. RESPONSIBILITIES OF
YOUTH
A. Youth’s Opportunity
B. Youth’s Obligation
II. PERILS OF
PROCRASTINATION
A. Give the best years to
the Lord
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
Much of the central part of the
Book of Ecclesiastes is occupied
with man’s inhumanity to man.
72
goads, their collected sayings
like firmly embedded nails—
given by one shepherd.
12. Be warned, my son, of anything
in addition to them. Of making
many books there is no end, and
much study wearies the body.
13. Now all has been heard;
here is the conclusion of the
matter: Fear God and keep his
commandments, for this is the
duty of all mankind.
14. For God will bring every deed
into judgment, including every
hidden thing, whether it is good
or evil.
B. A Decaying House
III. MAN’S GREATEST
DUTY
A. How Wholeness Replaces
Emptiness
B. God’s Justice Vindicated
Man himself is responsible for
much of the emptiness of life.
Solomon does not paint a rosy
picture, but he tries to present the
facts as he sees them.
A man works hard to develop a right perspective restored.
some useful skill. Do people Ecclesiastes 12: 13, 14 is a key
appreciate him for it? No, they passage for the entire book.
just get jealous. A man builds
up a fortune. Does it make him I. RESPONSIBILITIES OF
happy? No, it just robs him of YOUTH - Ecclesiastes 11:9-
sleep. Another man reaches a 10
place of wealth and honour, but A. Youth’s Opportunity -V 9
is cut off in the prime of life andSolomon was not here promoting
a stranger takes over. So much the philosophy of eat, drink, and
seems to depend on time and be merry, for tomorrow we die
chance (Ecclesiastes 9:11). Few (1 Corinthians 15:32-33). On
get the honour they deserve. For the other hand, he did not expect
example, Solomon saw a little young people to go around
city surrounded by a great army. with long faces and depressed
A poor wise man came up with a attitudes. The youthful age is the
plan and the city was saved. But time to enjoy life to the full, to be
did anyone remember the wise happy, to use the ideas of a quick
man? mind, and to use the eyes to take
Apparently, because he was in all the beauty and wonder God
poor, someone else took all has provided.
the credit and got away with it. We must understand this also
Worse than that, men can spend in the light of the first part of
years building a reputation for this chapter. The young man
wisdom and honour, only to should use the energy of his
have it all forgotten because of youth to take advantage of every
some foolish, little thing done in opportunity. He must cast his
their old age (Ecclesiastes 10:1). bread on the waters (invest more
Chapters 4 through 10 do and be generous).
include some proverbs that point
toward God, however. Then, as Too many do nothing while
we come toward the end of the waiting for just the right
book, and possibly toward the opportunity. But the sower who
end of Solomon’s life, we find waits until there is no wind may

73
never get his crops planted. The
reaper who waits until no rain is
forecast may never get his crops
harvested. It is foolish to wait for
ideal opportunities. The thing to
do is take the opportunities at
hand, get busy, and keep busy.
As Ecclesiastes 11:6 points out,
we cannot know in advance what
will prosper or be successful.
This makes the Christian glad
that he has the Holy Spirit as his
Guide and Helper and that he has
a God who is able to open and
close doors.
There is another side to consider,
however. Though the youthful
age is indeed the time to enjoy
our powers to the full, we must
not think we have license to
enjoy these powers in a sensual
or sinful way. The youth have
a responsibility to use their
powers remembering that all are
accountable to God and there
is a judgment day coming. The
best way is to delight in the Lord
and trust in Him (Psalm 37:3-5).
This means taking Jesus as both
Saviour and Lord. He will give
real joy.
B. Youth’s Obligation -
Ecclesiastes 11:10
74
In spite of their strength, ability,
and opportunities, young people
are often restless, discontent, and
even vexed with their situations.
The result is that they often
break away from the restrictions
of right and wrong and become
involved in the evils of the flesh.
The young person, therefore,
has an obligation to put out of
his heart any sorrow (vexation,
discontent, especially with God’s
leadings). He must also put away
evil (everything that would harm
or injure) from his flesh. Youth is
vanity (because it is soon gone).
Young people will find it too late
that they have missed the real
joy God has for them unless they
remove and avoid everything that
hinders the full development of
their spiritual and physical well-
being. It is our responsibility
to put to death the things of the
flesh limited to our youth. The
Hebrew word for youth in this
verse is shaharut from shahar,“be
black”; referring to the hair.
Ancient Jewish commentators
took it to mean “days of black
hair,” that is, the whole period of
adult strength.
Actually, we never cease to have himself, and we give ourselves
the obligation of ridding our to Him. In fact, as our Creator,
lives of anything that might hurt God has a right to us. We have
us, hinder our spiritual growth, no right to claim His blessings
or rob us of the joy of the Lord. unless we first acknowledge Him
and give ourselves to Him.
II. PERILS OF
PROCRASTINATION - Solomon also reminds us that
Ecclesiastes 12:1-8 evil days (bad days, miserable
A. Give the Best Years to days full of the sufferings of old
The Lord - V 1 age) are coming. If we wait till
The young person who wants his that time we may be so fixed
life to be full of the joy of the in our habits that all we can do
Lord must do more than live a is look back with regret over a
clean life and avoid those things wasted life.
which injure our bodies and Our old age need not be bad
souls. He must remember his days, days without joy, days full
Creator. Forgetting God means of misery, however. Moses’ eyes
turning our backs on Him to never became dim (Deuteronomy
serve the world, the flesh, and 34:7). Daniel as a youth
the devil. Remembering Him
interpreted the dreams of others.
means just the opposite. It means In his old age God gave Daniel a
stepping out on His promises and new ministry with many visions
consecrating ourselves to serve of his own from God. Even
Him in ways that will please though the Infirmities of old age
Him. do come to us so the outward
Remembering Him as our man is perishing (gradually
Creator also means that we dying), “yet the inward man is
recognize Him as the true Source renewed day by day.”
of our being. We are not in our B. A Decaying House -
true element until we are “in Ecclesiastes 12:2-8
Christ” and through Christ in In order to stress the importance
God. We are never truly satisfied of remembering our Creator in the
until we realize He made us for days of our youth, Ecclesiastes

75
pictures a joyless old age. The his breath short. Even a burden
light of life grows dim and the as light as a grasshopper seems
ability to enjoy it grows less. heavy to carry. Finally, he cannot
As one grows older,the youthful even want anything and nothing
pleasures of life no longer thrill. remains for the body but its long
Like an old house, the body home (the tomb).
gradually decays. The keepers What a warning to remember
(hands and arms) tremble with our Creator before that time
age. The strong men (the bones comes and the silver cord of
of the back and legs) are bent life is broken, before the golden
and twisted. The grinders (teeth) oil bowl of life can no longer
cease. hold the spirit, before the body
becomes as a shattered earthen
vessel or a beaten-up wheel
which can no longer turn. Thank
God, also, the New Testament
assures Christians of a new
house (2 Corinthians 5:1, 2, 4;
1 Corinthians 15:42-44, 49, 51-
54). We shall be changed. For us
the sting of death is gone and its
terror taken away (1 Corinthians
15:55-58).
…The whole duty of man
III. MAN’S GREATEST
The eyes are darkened. The DUTY - Ecclesiastes 12:9-
doors (lips) are shut. He sleeps 14
so lightly that the sound of a bird A. How Wholeness
wakes him, but he is too deaf to Replaces Emptiness -
hear the daughters of music (the Ecclesiastes 12:9-13
notes of a song). Fears come Though Solomon found human
upon him. He cannot climb. A wisdom disappointing, he still
short walk on the road terrifies sought to teach the people
him because his legs are stiff and acceptable (delightful) words,

76
words of truth (faithfulness). He Ecclesiastes has been trying to
realized again that the words of say is that the vanity (emptiness)
the wise which goad (stimulate of human life points us to God.
and direct) us and give us nails To fear (worship and serve) God
(fixed points) to hold to, are all and keep His commandments is
from the one Shepherd, God. the whole duty of man.
As we turn to God instead of
In view of this, Solomon warns
vanity or emptiness we find
us not to give all our time to
wholeness. As we follow the
heathen books. They come
Lord He makes us whole. The
from minds full of the ideas of
way is simple. The way is bright
a godless, materialistic world.
(Isaiah 35:8; Proverbs 4: 18).
New books and new theories are
being produced constantly.
B. God’s Justice Vindicated -
But their source is vanity and
Ecc1esiastes 12:14
they can only lead to vanity.
Much of the Book of Ecclesiastes
Those who become lovers of the
shows that the apparent futility
books of godless or humanistic
of life is seen not only in its
thinkers do not find the answers
emptiness without God, but also
they are looking for. They only
in its inequalities, inequities, and
find human ideas which will
unfairness. The final judgment
soon be displaced by other
will take care of these. We can
human ideas. The final result is
afford to suffer a few reverses
only a wearying of the flesh.
now. The battles are not over.
The conclusion of the whole The final victory will be the
matter, of all that the Book of Lord’s.

LIFE APPLICATION
Why does Solomon admonish young people to “remember thy
Creator”?
After Solomon had expended himself in a quest after- knowledge
and wisdom, he admitted that all is vanity. But in a final conclusion
to the matter he says: “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for
this is the whole duty of man.”

77
Solomon saw the importance of this truth as it relates to young
people. If the youth will confess God as their Creator, they will have
the centre around which they may gather all the knowledge and
experiences of life.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. Fear God and keep His commands - Eccl. 12:13-14
Tues. Called as light to the world - Matt. 5:13-16
Wed. You have a future and a hope - Jer. 29:11-13
Thu. Honour your leaders - 1 Thess. 5:12-18
Fri. Commit to wise teachings - Prov. 3:1-7
Sat. Avoid vain arguments - 2 Tim. 2:14-15

78
CENTRAL TRUTH
God has a definite plan for every
individual life
LESSON 11
BORN FOR A PURPOSE

MEMORY VERSE: . . . for you will go on before the Lord to

prepare the way for him. Luke 1:76

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. State the purpose of John the Baptist’s birth
2. Live to fulfil God’s purpose for his life

LESSON TEXT: Luke 1:57-77

57. When it was time for Elizabeth
to have her baby, she gave birth
to a son.
58. Her neighbors and relatives
heard that the Lord had shown
her great mercy, and they
shared her joy.
59. On the eighth day they came to
circumcise the child, and they
were going to name him after
his father Zechariah,
60. but his mother spoke up and
said, “No! He is to be called
John.”
61. They said to her, “There is no
one among your relatives who
has that name.”
62. Then they made signs to his
father, to find out what he would
like to name the child.
63. He asked for a writing tablet,
and to everyone’s astonishment
he wrote, “His name is John.”
64. Immediately his mouth was
opened and his tongue set free,
and he began to speak, praising
God.
65. All the neighbors were filled
with awe, and throughout the
hill country of Judea people
were talking about all these
things.
66. Everyone who heard this
wondered about it, asking,
“What then is this child going

79
 to be?” For the Lord’s hand was
with him.
67. His father Zechariah was
filled with the Holy Spirit and
prophesied:
68. “Praise be to the Lord, the God
of Israel, because he has come
to his people and redeemed
them.
69. He has raised up a horn of
salvation for us in the house of
his servant David
70. (as he said through his holy
prophets of long ago),
71. salvation from our enemies and
from the hand of all who hate
us—
72. to show mercy to our ancestors
and to remember his holy
covenant,
73. the oath he swore to our father
Abraham:
74. to rescue us from the hand of
our enemies, and to enable us to
serve him without fear
75. in holiness and righteousness
before him all our days.
76. And you, my child, will be
called a prophet of the Most
High; for you will go on before
the Lord to prepare the way for
him,
77. to give his people the
knowledge of salvation through
the forgiveness of their sins,

LESSON OUTLINE
I. THE NAMING OF THE III. THE PROPHECY OF
CHILD ZECHARIAH
A. Friends Rejoice A. A Mighty Saviour
B. His Name is John B. John’s Ministry
II. THE REACTION OF
THE PEOPLE
A. Holy Spirit Inspired Praise
B. Continued Discussion

BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION privilege of preparing the way
This lesson deals with the for God to come to His people
birth of one who had the high in the person of His Son. The

80
people recognized John as a true and relatives coming by to
prophet as great as Elijah, Isaiah, congratulate Elisabeth on the
Jeremiah, or any of the other birth of her son. Since it was
prophets of the Old Testament considered a shame for a woman
(Matthew 14:5). to be childless in those days, we
can be sure her friends were happy
that this shame was removed.
But Elisabeth was quick to tell
them how the Lord had “showed
great mercy [compassion] upon
her.” That is, she told them of
God’s promise and gave all the
glory to Him. God had done the
impossible. The birth of the child
was a miracle, an evidence of the
power and compassion of the
Lord.Elisabeth’s real rejoicing
“Make straight the way of was in the Lord. Her friends and
the Lord...” Matthew 3:3 relatives joined in this with her.
B. HIS NAME IS JOHN -
Jesus recognized him as a Luke 1:59-63
prophet and more than a prophet
In the Book of Ruth, we read that
(Matthew 11:9-11). This lessonNaomi’s friends and neighbours
focuses on the attitudes of named Ruth’s child (Ruth 4:17).
John’s parents. They were mostThe friends and relatives of
important in equipping the oneElisabeth proposed to do the
who would prepare the way for same thing for her. But when they
Jesus. began to call the baby Zechariah
I. THE NAMING OF THE (“the Lord has remembered”),
CHILD - Luke 1:57-63 Elisabeth stopped them. Her
A. Friends Rejoice - friends probably felt the name
Luke 1:57,58 appropriate, for the Lord truly
The lesson text begins with a had remembered His promise to
pleasant picture of neighbors the baby’s father (Luke 1:13).

81
But Elisabeth insisted that the
boy be named John (“the Lord
is gracious or shows grace”), a
name which spoke of the grace
of God about to be revealed
in the birth and ministry of the
Messiah.
The relatives could not
understand this departure from
tradition. No one in the family
or among the relatives had that
name. Perplexed, they beckoned
to Zechariah to get his opinion.
He motioned for a writing
“table” (a little wooden tablet
probably covered with wax to
make it possible to write on it
with a metal stylus). Without
hesitation, he wrote, “His name
is John.” Though Zechariah
failed to express faith when the
angel first promised him a son,
the fulfillment of the promise
took away all doubt. He was
determined now to obey the
Lord and give the child the name
the Lord himself had chosen.
At this, the friends marveled.
Apparently, neither Zechariah
nor Elisabeth had told the full
story of what the angel promised.
They waited for God to work it
out first. Perhaps, this was wise.
Their testimony was certainly As
more effective now that God
82
had fulfilled His word. When
God speaks, it is often best to
go about in quiet obedience,
waiting to see how He works out
the details.
II. THE REACTION OF THE
PEOPLE - Luke 1:64-66
A. Holy Spirit-Inspired Praise
- Luke 1:64,
When Zechariah obeyed God,
and named the child John, he
was expressing faith that what
God said about this child and
the coming Messiah was true.
In response to this faith, God
restored Zechariah’s power of
speech.
Zechariah’s faith and trust then
poured out in spontaneous praise
to God. (The Greek indicates that
as soon as he began to speak he
praised God and kept on praising
God.) Praise is always the
response of a heart in tune with
God and is one of the evidences
of the moving of the Holy Spirit.
Zechariah saw something of the
greatness and glory of God and
was filled with assurance of His
faithfulness. A sense of the grace
and mercy of God overwhelmed
him, and he could not help but
praise the Lord.
Zechariah continued to
pour out praise to the Lord,
the amazement of his friends
and relatives give way to fear
(reverential fear and awe). This
was God. The miracle of healing
let them know God was working.
The torrent of praise was very
different from the formal praises
they were used to repeating in
their synagogues and temple.
This praise as well as John’s
birth and the miracle of healing
made them conscious of the
supernatural.
B. CONTINUED
DISCUSSION
- Luke 1:65-66
For a time, the events connected
with the birth of John became
the chief topic of discussion in
the hills south of Jerusalem.
Everyone who heard about
these events “laid them up in
their hearts” (kept them in their
minds, did not forget them). This
is Luke’s way of telling us he
talked to some of these people
who were still alive and checked
the facts carefully.
III. THE PROPHECY OF
ZECHARIAH -Luke 1:67
-80
A. A Mighty Saviour -
Luke 1:67-75
83
Zechariah’s praise made it easy
for God to fill him with the Holy
Spirit. Praise recognizes God
for who He is. It is a sacrifice
that really pleases Him. In the
Old Testament calves were the
sacrifices of the Law(Hosea
14:2) but praise from the lips is a
better sacrifice (Jeremiah 33:11;
Hebrews 13:15, 16; 1 Peter 2:5).
Immediately upon being filled
with the Spirit, Zechariah
prophesied. Like the Old
Testament prophets, he was
moved (borne along, led along)
by the Spirit of God (2 Peter
1:20, 21).
The first part of Zechariah’s
prophetic message is a wonderful
expression of thanksgiving for
the coming of the Messiah and
for the deliverance He would
bring. Zechariah begins by
blessing (giving thanks to) God
for visiting His people to redeem
(ransom and deliver) them. (Note
the past tense used here.
The birth of John the Baptist
was evidence that the work was
begun and as good as done.) God
was about to raise up a horn of
salvation (a mighty Saviour)
among the descendants of David.
(The horn was symbolic of might they could serve (and worship)
and power.) Since Zechariah and Him without fear. Some say
Elisabeth were of the tribe of that this promise meant nothing
Levi, the reference to the horn more to Zechariah than the
of salvation applies to Jesus. deliverance of the Jews by the
Elisabeth had already voiced overthrow of the Roman Empire.
a Spirit-inspired utterance that But they forget that these are not
honored Mary as the mother of the words of Zechariah but of the
the Messiah. Now the same Holy Holy Spirit. Whatever promise
Spirit confirmed this through of the overthrow of enemies in a
Zechariah. physical sense as included here
The Saviour from the house must be referred to the second
(descendants) of David would coming of Jesus (2 Thessalonians
also fulfill the word and 1:7-9).
promise of God given by the Like the Old Testament
prophets since the world (age) prophets, Zechariah was not
began. (That is, the prophets permitted to see the time gap
who prophesied throughout between the first and second
the preceding age, possibly comings of Christ. Yet, the Old
beginning with Abraham who Testament was concerned about
was the first one the Bible calls a spiritual religion. God’s purpose
prophet (Genesis 20:7). All these in bringing deliverance through
prophets spoke of a salvation, a this mighty Saviour was that they
deliverance, a performance of might serve and worship him
God’s mercy and faithfulness in holiness and righteousness.
that would carry out the oath Spiritual deliverance was the
and promise given to Abraham first and primary work of the
(Genesis 22:16-18; Hebrews Lord.
6:13-18). B. John’s Ministry -
The promise was that God would Luke 1:76, 77
deliver His people from their The second part of Zechariah’s
enemies with the implication prophecy turns from
also that He would keep them so contemplating God’s goodness

84
in sending the Messiah as a
mighty Saviour and directs
our attention to the baby John.
Zechariah’s emphasis was not
on the fact that John was his son.
Rather, he addresses the baby
simply as “child.” The human
relationship was not as important
as the ministry John would have.
He would be the prophet of
the Highest (of God), and men
would recognize him as such.
John’s primary function would
be to prepare the hearts of the
people to receive the Messiah
(Luke 1:43; 2:11; Isaiah 40:3;
Malachi 3:1). The Old Testament
passages which John fulfilled
emphasize the fact that God
was coming back to His people
in salvation, restoration, and
blessing.
The aim of John’s work as a
fore-runner, then, was to give
them knowledge of a salvation, a
salvation which would be by the
remission of their sins (that is, a
salvation which would consist
in the forgiveness of their sins).
John himself, of course, could
not bring them this forgiveness.
But the people had wrong ideas
about God’s promised salvation.
Many supposed God would save
them simply because they were
His chosen people. They needed
to know the Messiah would
deliver them from their real
problem: Sin. That is why John’s
message called for repentance.

LIFE APPLICATION
What is God’s message to men today?
In the days preceding the coming of Jesus and His forerunner, John
the Baptist, there had been four hundred years of silence from God,
literally a famine of “hearing the words of the Lord.” But God had
some whose ears were attuned to His voice and whose hearts were
receptive. Among them were Zechariah and Elisabeth.

Today God is still talking. He is calling men everywhere to repentance

as He has always done. But, whereas His Message to Zechariah
concerned preparation for the first advent of His Son, today His
message relates to preparation for the second coming of His Son.

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DAILY BIBLE READING
Mon. Called to live godly lives - Titus 2:11-14
Tues. Blessings for those who fear the Lord - Psalm 128:1-6
Wed. Called by grace - Titus 2:11-14
Thu. Called and sent by the Lord - John 17:17-20
Fri. Assurance of God’s protection - Psalm 73:21-28
Sat. Conform to the character of Christ - Phil. 3:10-11

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CENTRAL TRUTH
The Word of God provides
strength to overcome temptation.
LESSON 12
THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS CHRIST
MEMORY VERSE: I have hidden your word in my heart that I
might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this Lesson the student would be able to:
1. Narrate how Jesus was tempted
2. Apply the word of God to overcome temptation
LESSON TEXT: Matthew 4:1-11
1. Then Jesus was led by the his angels concerning you, and
Spirit into the wilderness to be they will lift you up in their
tempted by the devil. hands, so that you will not strike
your foot against a stone.’”
2. After fasting forty days and
forty nights, he was hungry. 7. Jesus answered him, “It is also
written: ‘Do not put the Lord
3. The tempter came to him and
your God to the test.’”
said, “If you are the Son of
God, tell these stones to become 8. Again, the devil took him to a
bread.” very high mountain and showed
him all the kingdoms of the
4. Jesus answered, “It is written:
world and their splendor.
‘Man shall not live on bread
alone, but on every word that 9. “All this I will give you,” he
comes from the mouth of said, “if you will bow down and
God.’” worship me.”
5. Then the devil took him to the 10. Jesus said to him, “Away from
holy city and had him stand on me, Satan! For it is written:
the highest point of the temple. ‘Worship the Lord your God,
and serve him only.’”
6. “If you are the Son of God,” he
said, “throw yourself down. For 11. Then the devil left him, and
it is written: “He will command angels came and attended him.

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 LESSON OUTLINE
I. THE STRATEGY OF THE TEMPTATION
TEMPTER A. Knowledge and
A. The Lust of the flesh Application of the word
B. The Pride of Life of God
C. The Lust of the eyes B. Resist the Devil
C. Pray for Strength
II. VICTORY OVER

BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION to the evils the scriptures mention
After willingly offering Himself in 1 John 2:16. (1) the lust of the
for water baptism by John the flesh, (2) the pride of life and (3)
Baptist, Jesus came out of the the lust of the eyes; for which we
Jordan river after the affirmation are admonished to resist.
of the Father – “This is my The flesh represents the passions
beloved Son”. Immediately and needs of the body which
Jesus was led into the wilderness
become sinful when we do not
to be tempted by the devil. Satan
control them. Satan first tempted
tempted Jesus in three differentJesus to turn stones into bread
ways but Jesus did not yield to to satisfy his hunger. There was
any. nothing evil about Jesus’ hunger,
Our lesson for this week sets but if He had used his divine
out how Jesus, when tempted power in a self-serving, boastful
overcame the Devil and this way to command the stone to
should motivate us to resist allchange into bread it would have
temptations in life. become evil – lust of the flesh.
I. THE STRATEGY OF THE Satan the “ancient serpent,” used
TEMPTER – Matt. 4:1-9 (Revelation 12:9) this strategy
A. The Lust of the flesh - in the Garden of Eden when he
Matt.1-4 twisted the word of God and
Satan tempted Jesus in three enticed Eve to accept that the
different ways that corresponds forbidden fruit was “good for
88
food” (Genesis 3:2-6). Here Eve telling him to jump off the
failed to bring her desire under pinnacle of the temple to show
control. his faith and perhaps prove the
The desires of the body are not word of God in Psalm 91:11.
evil in themselves, but failing to This was a temptation to show
put them under control makes pride. Jesus refused to misuse
them lustful. Jesus’ condition of the promises of God. He refused
hunger showed his humanity, at to use God’s word to draw
other times too he was tired and attention to himself. We ought
thirsty – John 4:6-8; 19:28. In not to expect God to answer our
these circumstances he did not prayer when we are asking for
sin. The scripture states that “He something not according to his
was tempted in all ways, but he will. Satan tempts people to twist
God’s word for proud and selfish
did not sin. (Hebrews 4:15).
purposes.
INSIGHT
Jesus was hungry and weak after C. The Lust of the Eyes.
Matthew 4:8-9
fasting for 40 days, but he chose
Finally, Satan showed Jesus all
not to use his divine power to
satisfy his natural desire for food. the kingdoms of the world and
promised to give them to him if
Food, hunger and eating are
good, but the timing was wrong. he would fall down and worship
Jesus was in the wilderness to him (Satan). Jesus refused.
fast, not to eat. And because Indeed, the earth and the fullness
Jesus had given up the unlimited, there of belongs to Jesus. (Psalm
independent use of his divine 24:1). (1) He did not need
power in order to experience anyone to give them to Him.
humanity fully, he wouldn’t use (2) Through him all things were
his power to change stones to made; . . . (John 1:3) Jesus did
bread. (Life Application Study not yield to the temptation of the
lust of the eyes [unlike Eve in the
Bible, 2007; Tyndale.)
Garden of Eden “Genesis 3:6 . .
B. The Pride of Life – . pleasing to the eyes” (Genesis
Matt. 4:5-7 2:6)] Covetousness – the desire
Satan next tempted Jesus by for riches, the desire for power,

89
the desire for fame; has caused
many to fall. This temptation
often manifests in politics,
business and even in churches.
It is written, it is written, it is
written… Away from me Satan!!!
Many desire to be number one,
even if it means engaging in
all kinds of evil practices and
dedicating their souls to Satan.
To excel is not evil at all, but to
use subtle and evil methods (“by
hook or crook” or “ways and
means”) to achieve it is evil.
II. VICTORY OVER
TEMPTATION –
Matt. 4:4,7,10
A. Knowledge and Application
of the Word of God
In all three instances of Jesus’
temptation he stated “It is
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written” and quoted the word of
God. (Matt. 4:4, 7, 10). Jesus,
who is the embodiment of the
Word of God appropriately
applied scripture to overcome
Satan’s temptations when he
tried to twist scripture. David
said he had hidden the word of
God in his heart so he will not
sin against God (Psalm 119:11).
We need to memorize scripture
until it is part of our mind and
spirit. We must meditate on it
day and night, and obey the word
as the Holy Spirit prompts and
directs us.
INSIGHT
Jesus was able to resist all of the
devil’s temptations because he
not only knew Scripture but he
also obeyed it. Ephesians 6:17
says that God’s word is a sword to
use in spiritual combat. Knowing
Bible verses is an important step
in helping to resist the devil’s
attacks but we must also obey
the Bible. Note that Satan had
recognized scripture, but he
failed to obey it. Knowing and
obeying the Bible helps us follow
God’s desires rather than the
devils’. (Life Application Study
Bible, 2007; Tyndale.)
B. Resist the Devil – v. 10-11 God’s strength; we can obtain
Jesus resisted Satan this through prayer. Prior to his
saying,“Away from me Satan!” temptation, Jesus had spent forty
. . . v. 10 and Satan left him. days and forty nights in fasting,
James in writing to the believers (and obviously in prayer). This
admonished them saying “. . gave him spiritual strength and
. Resist the devil and he will sharpened his sensitivity to the
flee from you” James 4:7. The word of God in him. Before going
word of God, accompanied by to the cross, Jesus cautioned his
the Spirit of God will give us disciples to “watch and pray, lest
power to resist Satan’s advances. they fall into temptation” (Matt.
Resisting requires that we make 26:41). With this in mind Paul
a conscious effort not to yield to encourages us to be alert and
temptation. pray always (Ephesians 6:18, 1
C. Pray for Strength Thess. 5:17). Through Prayer we
To keep our desires under control, connect to God who is the source
we cannot do it alone, we need of our strength.

LIFE APPLICATION
Jesus was not tempted in the Temple but in the wilderness where
he was most vulnerable, physically weak, hungry, and alone. When
there is the option of disobedience is when our obedience to the
Word of God is tested. Satan tempts us when we are exposed. We
must remember that temptation is not sin, but when we yield to
temptation then it is sin. Jesus overcame. He is our example. We
can overcome temptation. Paul’s words to the Corinthian church
are most encouraging “No temptation has seized you except what is
common to man . . . But when you are tempted; he will also provide
a way out so that you can stand up under it” (1Cor. 10:13).
God does not tempt us, Satan does, but God gives us the victory
through His word. When we overcome temptation, we confirm the
power of God and our character is strengthened. Besides, those who
overcome temptation are able to help others who are tempted.No
temptation, no victory.
91
1. Knowing the word of God alone is insufficient to combat
temptation. Discuss.
2. Why do we often blame the devil when we are tempted and fail?
Discuss.
3. Can any good come out of temptation?

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon: Cause of Temptation. - James 1:13-14
Tue: Flee Temptation. - 2 Tim. 2:22-23
Wed: Jesus ready to help the Tempted. - Hebrews 2:18
Thu: Pray for Guidance. - Matthew 6:12-13
Fri: Caution against Temptation. - Galatians 6:1-2
Sat: Safeguard against Temptation. - Matthew 26:40-41

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CENTRAL TRUTH
Obedience is the first step
in discipleship
LESSON 13
JESUS CALLS HIS FIRST DISCIPLES
MEMORY VERSE: So they pulled their boats up on shore, left
everything and followed him. Luke 5:11
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this Lesson the student would be able to:
1. Narrate how Jesus called His disciples.
2. Obey the call to discipleship
LESSON TEXT: Luke 5:1-11
1. One day as Jesus was standing 5. Simon answered, “Master,
by the Lake of Gennesaret, the we’ve worked hard all night
people were crowding around and haven’t caught anything.
him and listening to the word But because you say so, I will
of God. let down the nets.”
2. He saw at the water’s edge 6. When they had done so, they
two boats, left there by the caught such a large number
fishermen, who were washing of fish that their nets began to
their nets. break.
3. He got into one of the boats, 7. So they signaled their partners
the one belonging to Simon, in the other boat to come and
and asked him to put out a little help them, and they came and
from shore. Then he sat down filled both boats so full that they
and taught the people from the began to sink.
boat.
8. When Simon Peter saw this,
4. When he had finished speaking, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said,
he said to Simon, “Put out into “Go away from me, Lord; I am
deep water, and let down the a sinful man!”
nets for a catch.”

93
9. For he and all his companions
were astonished at the catch of
fish they had taken,
10. and so were James and John,
the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s
partners. Then Jesus said
LESSON OUTLINE
I. THE BUSY FISHERMEN
II. THE AMAZING
MASTER
A. The Power of Christ’s
word
B. Amazed and humbled
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
Very early in Jesus’ ministry
crowds began to gather around
Him. Some came because of the
miracles. Most, however, came
because of His teaching. He
was soon known as the Teacher
(Master, Rabbi). From time to
time Jesus gave some a special
call to follow Him and learn of
Him. Among the first of these
were four fishermen, Peter,
Andrew, James and John. During
the first year of His ministry,
these disciples (students)
accompanied Him from time to
time but still lived at home. At
94
to Simon, “Don’t be afraid;
from now on you will fish for
people.”
11. So they pulled their boats up
on shore, left everything and
followed him.
III. The Commissioned
Disciples
A. Reassured and
commissioned
B. The Call Obeyed
the beginning of the second year,
He called them to go with Him,
He would make them fishers of
men (Matthew 4:1-22, Mark
1:16:20). But after touring some
of the villages of Galilee, they
returned to Capernaum and to
their fishing business.
I. The Busy Fishermen –
Luke 5:1-2
It may seem strange to see the
crowds pressing around Jesus,
eager to hear the Word of God,
while a little way up the shore
some of His followers seemed
too busy to stop and listen to Him.
Jesus did not criticize them for
this however. He had permitted
them to go back to their fishing
and He knew they had a job to
do. If they failed to wash the
nets it would make things harder
for others.Often we show our
consecration to God best by our
devotion to whatever work He
permits us to do, no matter how
ordinary or secular it may seem.
The Bible expects us to be
faithful to our responsibilities,
our jobs, and our families, even
during times of great spiritual
revival and blessing. We never
lose anything by being faithful.
Faithful shepherds saw the
angles on the night Jesus was
born. Faithful men, busy at
their work, whether fishing or
collecting taxes heard the call of
Jesus to become His disciples.
Examine the Gospels. When did
Jesus ever choose a man who
was deliberately or habitually
idle? Nor did he ever suggest
that anyone should sit around
waiting for a call. Our business
is to seek first the Kingdom or
rule of God (seek to make God
the King in our lives) and to seek
His righteousness (Matthew
6:33). We can all have power
also to be His witness (Acts 1:8).
95
If the Lord had a call to special
training and special service
for us, that is His choice, not
ours (John 15:16). Some men
He takes captive and gives as
gifts or ministries in the church
(Ephesians 4:8-11). But all are
expected to be faithful.
II. The Amazing Master –
Luke 5:3-9
A. The Power of Christ’s Word
- Luke – 5:3-7
Because of the increasing
pressure of the crowd, Jesus
got into Simon Peter’s boat and
asked him to push out a little
away from the shore. Jesus then
sat down and continued teaching
the people. When He finished, he
told Peter to launch out into the
deep water and let down his nets
for a catch.
To Peter, after a long night of
hard work with no results, this
did not seem reasonable. Tired
and discouraged as he was, he
hardly felt like launching out
again. Possibly, too, he may have
wondered how a carpenter from
Nazareth could know anything
about the habits of fish or make
any promises about where or
when they would be caught.
Peter, however, did not refuse
to do what Jesus asked. During
the year or more he had known
Jesus, he had already learned to
love and trust Him. He had seen
Him do the seeming impossible.
Therefore, in spite of his
misgivings, he responded that at
Christ’s word (on the strength of
His word, relying on His word),
he would let down the net. In
other words, his confidence
was in Jesus rather that in the
circumstances.
By his trust and obedience, Peter
showed the same Spirit Noah
showed when he built an ark on
dry land and that Moses showed
when he lifted his rod over the
Red Sea, expecting God to make
a way where there was no way.
The result was such a great
number of fish that the net began
to break. Frantically, they (Peter
and Andrew) signaled their
partners (James and John) to
bring out the other boat and help
them. Even then, the number of
fish was so great that both boats
were on the point of sinking.
The context shows that this must
be applied to soul winning. We
must not be satisfied to sit in
the comfort of our churches on
96
the shore. We must launch out
into the deep and sometime
dangerous water of humanity,
out where the fish are. But we
must do it in obedience to and in
dependence on Christ’s Word, As
long as Peter was working hard
in his own strength, he caught
nothing, but when He went out
with a simple faith in Jesus, the
results surprised him.
This did not mean Peter worked
any less hard. He and Andrew
still had to row out into the deep
water and cast their net. The fish
did not jump into the boat. They
had to work to bring the net in.
They even had to get others to
come and help them. But the
results came because the Lord
was working with them. The
apostle Paul put it another way.
He planted. Apollos watered.
But all the while it was God who
was giving the increase. They
were just fellow labourers with
Him (1 Cor. 3:6-9).
We must remember also that
Jesus told His disciples later
to stay in Jerusalem until they
received the promise of the
Father. Only then could they
fulfill His commission to carry
the gospel to the world (Acts really saw what Jesus had done,
1:4, 8). As we read in the Book he fell down at the feet of Jesus
of Acts, we see that they were and took hold of His knees,
also given new, fresh filling crying out. “Depart from me for
with the Spirit as they face new I am a sinful man.” He and the
opportunities and new crises others were all astonished, but as
(Acts 4:8,31;13:9). That is, God usual, Peter was the impulsive
enlarged their capacity as they spokesman.
stepped into new avenues of This was more than a simple
faithful service. Without these reaction to the supernatural.
new fillings their work would They saw in the miraculous
have been fruitless. God’s way catch of fish an evidence of the
is always “not by might, nor by lordship of Jesus over nature.
power, but by my Spirit, saith the This made them realize the
LORD (Zechariah 4:6). divine power and glory of their
teacher. They knew also that God
is above all, holy. Thus, a sense
of divine power and holiness
overwhelmed them and made
them conscious of their own
unworthiness and sinfulness.
God gave Isaiah a similar
experience when the young
prophet was in the Temple the
year King Uzziah died (Isaiah
6:1). It may be that Isaiah was
…From now on you will be
congratulating himself that he
fishers of men
was not a presumptuous sinner
B. Amazed and humbled – like the king. But suddenly
Luke 5:8-9 Isaiah saw the heavenly temple
At first, Peter was too busy to with fiery seraphs chanting,
realize what has happened. But “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of
when the boats were full and he Host: the whole earth is full of

97
his glory. This drove all thoughts
of King Uzziah from his mind
and Isaiah too was overwhelmed
with a sense of his own sinfulness
and need of cleansing. Job also,
in the presence of God, was
overwhelmed with his own lack
(Job 42:6).
Peter in his heart did not want
Jesus to leave, however He did
not run and hide as Adam and
Eve did in the Garden.He fell
down in an attitude of worship,
took hold of Jesus, and called
Him Lord. Previously, he had
called Him Master (Rabbi,
Teacher, Supervisor, Training-
master). Now he called Him
LORD (often used by the Jews
as a title of Jehovah. By this
he recognized Jesus was more
than a man and had more than
mere human authority. He also
realized how foolish and sinful
he was when he hesitated to let
down the net.But his confession
was a step toward a greater faith
and eventually, an even greater
confession (Matt. 16:16).
III. The Commissioned
Disciples
A. Reassured and
commissioned – Luke 5:10
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Jesus immediately told Peter to
stop being afraid. This reassured
Peter’s companions also for
they felt the same terrifying
amazement, fear and awe. Then
Jesus reminded Peter of the
work to which He had already
called him, in a language drawn
from Peter’s own occupation,
language Peter could understand.
Jesus commissioned him to
“catch” men.
It might be worth noting that the
word for “catch” used here is
not the ordinary word. It is used
in only one other place in the
New Testament. 2Timothy 2:26
speaks of those taken captive by
the devil. But where the devil
takes men in life in order to bring
them to eternal death, Peter was
commissioned to take men alive,
men who were dead in trespasses
and sins (Eph. 2:1) in order to
bring them to eternal life.
B. The Call Obeyed -
Luke 5:11
These disciples realized there
was finality in Christ’s call this
time. No longer would they live
at home and follow Jesus part-
time. Now they had to make a
choice, and they made it. As soon
as they brought their ships to land
(up on the shore after unloading
them and disposing of the fish),
they forsook all and obeyed the
call. The old life was left behind,
and from this point on they were
fulltime disciples (students) and
followers of Jesus.
Though after Christ’s
resurrection Peter went back to
the fishing business once more,
Jesus dealt with him in love
and recommissioned him once
again (John 21:15-19). Then
after Pentecost, Peter and the
other disciples never went back
to their nets again. In fact, on
the Day of Pentecost Peter first
learned what Jesus meant when
He said he would “catch” men,
for 3,000 were converted on that
day (Acts 2:41).
At the moment it may have
seemed hard for Peter and
the other disciples to leave
everything. They had good homes
and a successful fishing business,
even needing hired men to help
them (Mark 1:20). Zebedee
and the hired men undoubtedly
LIFE APPLICATION
1. Why does God call busy men?
It is often been said that if you want a job done, get a busy made
to do it. The scripture teaches, “whatever your hand finds to do,
do it with all your might…” (Ecc.9:10).
99
carried on the business after
they left. They made the choice
without hesitation.
That they made a firm choice was
shown about a year later when it
was subjected to a severe test.
After Jesus fed the 5,000 and
taught them about His body and
blood, the crowds turned away
from Him, including many who
considered themselves disciples.
Then Jesus turned to the Twelve
and said, “Will ye also go away?”
but Peter the very one who in
this lesson said to Jesus, “Depart
from me,” now said, “Lord, to
whom shall we go? Thou hast
the words of eternal life” (John
6:67-68).
God may or may not have a call
for us for full-time service. But
choosing Christ is still the only
way to eternal life. “Catching”
men for eternal life is also a
responsibility put on us all.
There is no work more important
than this.
2. How much must one forsake to follow the Lord?
“Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord to thee,” How often
we sing the words of this hymn without realizing the commitment
we are making. These words are a prayer. What would happen
if we really gave ourselves to Jesus Christ in that total manner
our hands, our feet, our voice, our lips, our silver and gold our
moments and days, our intellects our all?
For Peter, Andrew, James and John, God’s call meant the
forsaking of their former occupation. For Matthew, it meant to
cease his job of tax collection. Joseph went to prison to be true
to God. Moses gave up position, honour, and wealth, “He chose
to be mistreated along with the people of God,…because he was
looking ahead to his reward” (Heb. 11:24-26). Abraham forsook
his home in Ur.
All of the above made their decisions in the light of the priority
which was given to the Lord’s concerns. What we forsake will be
based on our desire to satisfy our Lord.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. Responding to God’s call - 1 Sam. 3:1-9
Tues. Consequences of rejecting God’s call - Matt. 22:8-14
Wed. A call to transformation - Gen. 12:1-4
Thu. God who calls is faithful - 1 Thess. 5:16-24
Fri. Called to be holy - 1 Cor. 1:1-3
Sat. Called and loved by God - Rom. 9:17-26

100
CENTRAL TRUTH
Jesus’ Authority transcends all
powers.
LESSON 14
JESUS DRIVES OUT AN EVIL SPIRIT
MEMORY VERSE: How God Anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the
Holy Spirit and power and how he went around . . . healing all who
were under the power of the devil . . . Acts 10:38
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain how Jesus delivered the demon possessed man.
2. Depend on the Holy Spirit in confronting demon-possessed
persons.
LESSON TEXT: :Mark 1:21-28
21. They went to Capernaum, and 25. “Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly.
when the Sabbath came, Jesus “Come out of him!”
went into the synagogue and
26. The impure spirit shook the
began to teach.
man violently and came out of
22. The people were amazed at his him with a shriek.
teaching, because he taught
27. The people were all so
them as one who had authority,
amazed that they asked each
not as the teachers of the law.
other, “What is this? A new
23. Just then a man in their teaching—and with authority!
synagogue who was possessed He even gives orders to impure
by an impure spirit cried out, spirits and they obey him.”
24. “What do you want with us, 28. News about him spread quickly
Jesus of Nazareth? Have you over the whole region of
come to destroy us? I know Galilee.
who you are—the Holy One of
God!”

101
 LESSON OUTLINE
I. JESUS THE TEACHER
A. Teaching in the
Synagogue
B. Teaching with Authority
II. A MAN POSSESSED BY
AN EVIL SPIRIT
A. Controlled by a demon
B. Acknowledges Christ
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
Sometime after Jesus had
selected his first disciples he
set out to fulfill his mission on
earth “to preach the good news,
to proclaim freedom . . . to bring
recovery of sight . . . to release
the oppressed . . .”and proclaim
the acceptable year of the Lord”
(Luke 4:18,19) It was on the
early stages of this mission that,
while teaching in a Synagogue he
encountered a demon possessed
man. In this lesson, we will
learn how Jesus delivered a man
tormented by an evil spirit and
how his fame spread abroad.
I. JESUS THE TEACHER –
Mark 1: 21 – 22
A. Teaching in the Synagogue
– vrs. 21
102
III. JESUS SPEAKS TO
THE EVIL SPIRIT
A. Commands with
Authority
B. The Spirit Obeys
IV. THE EFFECT OF
DELIVERANCE
A. Amazed People
B. His Fame Spread Abroad
Jesus began his ministry with
teaching without compromise.
Jesus taught wherever the
opportunity came by, He often
taught in the Synagogues, where
people often gathered per the
Jewish practice (Luke 4:15, 16).
In his teaching ministry Jesus
used various parables to
simplify truths to his hearers.
He used parables to teach about
Heaven (Matt. 13:24-45), good
neighbourliness (Luke 10:30-
37), forgiveness (Matt. 18:21-
35), and the Word of God (Matt.
13:3-9).
INSIGHT
Because the Temple in Jerusalem
was too far for many Jews to
travel to regularly for worship,
many towns had synagogues
serving both as places of worship
and as schools. Beginning in the
days of Ezra, about 450 B.C.,
a group of 10 Jewish families
could start a synagogue. There,
during the week, Jewish boys
were taught the Old Testament
law and Jewish religion. Each
Sabbath, the Jewish men would
gather to listen to a rabbi teach
from the Scriptures. Because
there was no permanent rabbi
or teacher, it was customary
for the synagogue leader to
ask visiting teachers to speak.
This is why Jesus often taught
in the synagogues in the towns
he visited. While the Jewish
teachers often quoted from well-
known rabbis to give their words
more authority, Jesus didn’t
have that need. Because Jesus
is God, he knew exactly what
the Scriptures said and meant.
He was the ultimate authority.
(Life Application Study Bible –
Tyndale 2007)
B. Teaching with Authority
– vrs. 22
During the time of Jesus ministry,
the Rabbis were the recognized
teachers of the law and all who
needed clarification of the laws
of God came to them. But when
103
Jesus began to teach the people
they noticed the difference. As
the people listened attentively
to Jesus they were amazed at his
teaching because as the scripture
puts it, “he taught them as one
with authority.”
Nicodemus, a teacher of the Law
was so amazed at Jesus teaching
he came to Jesus in the night hour
to seek tutorials about Eternal
life. He addressed Jesus “Rabbi .
. .” (Great Teacher) (John 3:1-2).
In that exclusive encounter Jesus
took time to teach Nicodemus
the steps to salvation. He left the
presence of Jesus with answers
he needed and subsequently
became a disciple of Jesus.
II. A MAN POSSESSED BY
AN EVIL SPIRIT –
Mark 1:23 – 24
A. Controlled by a Demon –
vrs. 23
While Jesus was teaching in
the Synagogue a man whom
the bible says was possessed by
an evil spirit came shouting to
disrupt the teaching session.The
incidence of people possessed of
evil spirits was not uncommon in
the days of Jesus ministry, as it
also pertains today. Many people
suffer from Satan’s oppression • We notice from scripture
and influence due to evil spirits that:
that take up residence in their • Evil spirits are powerful
bodies and gain control of them. (Acts 19:16)
• They cause infirmity (Luke
13:11)
• They cause deaf and
dumbness (Mark 9:25)
• They can cause madness
(Mark 5:1-15)
• People can be possessed of
multiple of demons: Mary
Magdalene was healed of 7
demons (Luke 8:2),a man
was possessed of many
demons (legion) (Mark 5:8-
Jesus has authority over all 13).
circumstances, situations and
conditions
INSIGHT
Demons are spirit beings that
During Jesus ministry, he have personality and intelligence.
encountered men and women As members of Satan’s kingdom
who were possessed of evil (Matt. 12:26), they are part of
spirits. He met a man living in the a highly organized empire of
tombs and who broke chains off evil that has authority over “the
his body and cut himself because kingdom of the air” (Eph. 2:2).
of the power of evil spirits in As agents for carrying out Satan’s
him (Mark 5:2-13).Some women purposes, demons are enemies of
who were possessed of evil God and humans (Matt. 12:43-
spirits were also cured – (Luke 45). Demon spirits are totally
8:2; Mark 7:25).Similarly, in the evil, filled with hate and under
ministry of the Apostles people Satan’s authority (Matt. 4:10). In
were delivered of evil spirits order to overcome the schemes
(Acts 5:16; 8:7; 19:12). and temptations of Satan and
demonic forces, Christians must

104
wage continual spiritual warfare and resurrection (John 12:31),
against them (Eph. 6:12). by which he paid the penalty for
The many accounts in the Bible our sin. This victory shattered
make it clear that it is common the power of Satan’s kingdom
for demons to dwell in the bodies and restored the power of God’s
of some people who do not have Kingdom in people’s lives. (Fire
a personal relationship with God Bible: Global Study Edition
(Mark 5:15; Luke 4:41; 8:27- 2010)
28; Acts 16:18). The evil spirits B. Acknowledges Christ –
make slave of the individual vrs. 24
they “possess.” They use the The evil spirit acknowledged
possessed individuals’ voice to Jesus as the “Holy One of God”,
speak and can influence them The Messiah. The bible teaches
toward evil, immorality and that evil spirits acknowledge
destruction. Jesus and tremble at his presence
(James 2:19, Mark 3:11). Evil
In his miracles, Jesus often
spirits know who Jesus is, that
attacks the power of Satan and
he has power over all of them.
demonic forces (e.g., Mark 3:10-
God’s word teaches us to humble
11; 5:1-20; 9:17-29; Luke 13:11-
ourselves under His hand and
16). Jesus states clearly that one
resist the devil and he will flee
of his purposes in coming to
(James 2:9).
earth was to destroy the works
of Satan and to set free those III. JESUS SPEAKS TO
the devil holds as slaves (Matt. THE EVIL SPIRIT –
12:29; Mark 1:27; Luke 4:18). Mark 1:25 - 26
A. Commands with Authority
One way Jesus binds and
destroys Satan’s power is by When the man began to shout,
driving out demons (i.e., by his Jesus knew it was not actually
authority forcing them to leave the man who was speaking but an
the person’s body and give up evil spirit. He therefore did not
control of the individual life). allow the evil spirit to continue
But the total defeat of Satan and speaking, He immediately shut
evil came through Jesus’ death him downVrs. 25.Evil spirits

105
are deceptive and would do spirit did not negotiate with him.
anything to distract attention as Jesus is Lord over all. He indeed
also happened in Philippi when announced his mission in Luke
the young girl with the spirit of when he was given the scroll to
divination followed Paul and his read in the scriptures. No demon
team(Acts 16:16-18). can stand in His presence.
He has given this commanding
INSIGHT
Jesus did not permit the demons authority to His followers (Mark
to speak “because they knew he 13:13-15; Mark 6:7, Matt. 10:1).
was the Christ.” Perhaps Jesus Some people dismiss all
wanted to reveal his identity accounts of demon possession
and purpose through his own as a primitive way to describe
words and actions in his own mental illness. Although
time; therefore, he would not throughout history mental
allow demons to interrupt his illness has often been wrongly
plans. He sometimes gave diagnosed as demon possession,
people the same instructions not clearly a hostile outside force
to tell what he had done (Mark controlled the man described
1:44), but probably for different here. Mark emphasized Jesus’
reason, including the fact that conflict with evil powers to show
he did not want people to focus his superiority over them, so he
too heavily on his miracles and recorded many stories about
miss his message. He also did Jesus driving out evil spirits.
not want to cause overwhelming Jesus didn’t have to conduct an
opposition to his ministry before elaborate exorcism ritual. His
he had completed his mission. word was enough to send out
(Fire Bible Global Study Edition the evil spirit. (Life Application
2010) Study Bible – Tyndale)
He then commanded the evil IV. THE EFFECT OF
spirit to come out. On many other DELIVERANCE.
occasions Jesus commanded evil Mark 1:27, 28
spirits to come out (Luke 9:42, A. Amazed People
Luke 8:29) this time the evil The people were amazed as
always when Jesus performed

106
a miracle. When he calmed the
sea, the disciples were amazed
(Matt 8:27). So also in Matt
9:32-33 when Jesus had healed a
demoniac the people proclaimed
“Nothing like this have ever
been seen in Israel.”
The same reaction came when
the lame walked and the blind
received their sight in Matt
15:31. The withering of the fig
tree also drew amazement of
the disciples. Matt 21:20. We
should go beyond amazement
and excitement at God’s power,
it should draw us into intimate
relationship with Him.
B. Jesus’ Fame Spread Abroad
The demonstration of the power
of God was not common in those
days (Mark 2:12; Matt.9:32-
33). Soon Jesus’ fame spread
across the region as a result of
this supernatural manifestation.
Essentially the purpose of
miracles and signs are to draw
men and women to God(Acts
9:40-42; 13:9-12). What Jesus
did was not for Praises to be
showered on him; He wanted
men and women to see the
power of God and give glory to
Him(John 8:49-50). His goal was
to reveal the Father to mankind;
so, that in seeing the father they
will turn to him and serve Him.

LIFE APPLICATION
We learn from the Bible that though Christians cannot be demon-
possessed because of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, (2 Cor. 6:15-
16) they can be influenced by demons in their thoughts and actions
if they do not continually allow the Holy Spirit to direct them. The
power of God is the only source that sets us at liberty from the power
of the devil and brings God’s peace and joy to us.
DAILY BIBLE READING
Mon: Authority to cast out demons. - Mark 3:13-19
Tue: Praise God for Supernatural Manifestation - Matt. 15:29-31
Wed: Preaching accompanied with Power to cast out demons -
Matt. 10:7-8
Thu: Sign of Believers - Mark 16:17-18
Fri: Demons obey Spirit-filled Christians - Acts 16:16-18
Sat: Consequences of Imitating Christ’s Power - Acts 19:13-16
107
 CENTRAL TRUTH
LESSON 15 Christ’s second coming
is the Christian’s ultimate hope.

HOPE OF CHRIST’S COMING

MEMORY VERSE: Live self-controlled, upright and godly lives
in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope – the glorious
appearing of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Titus 2:12-13
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Anticipate the soon return of Christ.
2. Live by the promise of Christ’ return.
LESSON TEXTS: 1 Thessalonians 4:13 -18, 5:1- 6;
1 Corinthians 15:51-57;
1 Thessalonians 4: call of God, and the dead in
13. Brothers, we do not want you Christ will rise first.
to be ignorant about those who 17. After that, we who are still
fall asleep, or to grieve like the alive and are left will be caught
rest of men, who have no hope. up together with them in the
14. We believe that Jesus died and clouds to meet the Lord in the
rose again and so we believe air. And so we will be with the
that God will bring with Jesus Lord forever.
those who have fallen asleep in 18. Therefore encourage each other
him. with these words.
15. According to the Lord’s own 1 Thess. 5:
word, we tell you that we who
1. Now brothers, about times and
are still alive, who are left till
dates we do not need to write to
the coming of the Lord, will
you,
certainly not precede those who
have fallen asleep. 2. For you know very well that the
day of the Lord will come like a
16. For the Lord himself will come thief in the night.
down from heaven, with a loud 3. While people are saying,
command, with the voice of the “Peace and safety,” destruction
archangel and with the trumpet
108
 will come on them suddenly,
as labour pains on a pregnant
woman, and they will not
escape.
4. You are all sons of the light
and sons of the day. We do not
belong to the night or to the
darkness.
5. So then, let us not be like
others, who are asleep, but let
us be alert and self-controlled.
1 Corinthians 15:
51. Listen, I tell you a mystery: we
will not all sleep, but we will all
be changed –
52. in a flash, in the twinkling of an
eye, at the last trumpet. For the
trumpet will sound, the dead
will be raised imperishable, and
we will be changed.
53. When the perishable has been
clothed with the imperishable,
and the mortal with immortality,
54. then the saying that is written
will come true: “Death has been
swallowed up in victory.”
55. “Where, O death, is your
victory? Where, O death, is
your sting?”
56. The sting of death is sin, and
the power of sin is the law.
57. But thanks be to God! He gives
us the victory through our Lord
Jesus Christ.

LESSON OUTLINE
I. MESSAGE OF HOPE III. VICTORY OVER
A. Found Through Faith DEATH
B. Provides Comfort A. Anticipated by
Believers
II. BE READY
B. Available Through
A. Uncertainty of Time
Christ
B. Remain Faithful
BIBLE EXPOSITION
Introduction assistance during trials, but there
Life is complicated at times. are times when God seems far
Events press in and develop away. How is it possible for
great stresses under which a Christian to prevail? Hope
many people struggle daily. remains in spite of life’s trials
Christians are not immune to when Christians realize their
these difficulties. God promised future is already well established.
Jesus is coming again!
109
Repeatedly, Scripture encourages
Christians with the anticipation
of Jesus’ return. They are
admonished to encourage each
other with this hope. Such
admonition is senseless unless
Christians accept some basic
principles: trials are part of life,
Jesus’ promises are dependable,
Jesus is coming again to gather
all believers to be with Him
forever, and what time we have
remaining prior to Jesus’ return
is precious.
I. MESSAGE OF HOPE
A. Found Through Faith -
1 Thessalonians 4:13-15
The Thessalonians had come to
the Christian faith through the
ministry of the apostle Paul.
Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica
had been cut short due to
persecution. So in a letter to these
recent converts, Paul addressed
concerns that had surfaced over
the state of their dead loved ones.
Christian faith changed their
lives and encouraged faithfulness
to God. They lived in the hope
of Jesus’ return. But if a believer
died before Jesus returned, then
what? “How does the Christian
view of death differ from most
other concepts of death?” Jesus
established a new death reality.
110
He conquered death, and it is
no longer final. Although the
Thessalonians accepted this
truth, old cultural concepts were
hard to abolish. Some questioned
how a believer’s death affected
Jesus’ promises, and false
teachings arose encouraging
ancient desperations. Paul
reminded the Thessalonians
that a Christian retains hope,
because Jesus conquered death
(1 Thessalonians 4:14). In Jesus
is the promise that as He was
raised from death to life so all
believers who die in their faith
will live again. This promise is
so sure that even being alive at
the time of Jesus’ return is of
no advantage (1 Thessalonians
4:15). “Why is it important for
non-Christians to see a Christian
response to death?” Violence
in many areas of the world has
escalated in recent years causing
hopelessness to abound. In the
storminess of hopelessness,
God’s calming peace remains
effective. Faith in Jesus provides
hope that allows a Christian to
face death triumphantly.
B. Provides Comfort –
1 Thessalonians 4:16-18
There are several phrases in 1
Thessalonians 4:16-18 that stand
out. The first one is worthy of
special consideration. “The Lord
himself” will come and gather
His followers. The Christian’s
ultimate hope is that Jesus will
return for all believers, both
living and dead. How Christ
promised to return is also
significant. He comes with a
“shout,” probably an indication
of a victor’s cry, and the voice of
an archangel. The trumpet call of
God also will announce Christ’s
return. This imagery is familiar
to Jewish eschatological themes
and battle ideas. The point is
that Jesus will return triumphant
over all. The effects of Christ’s
return are pervasive. Those who
have died with faith in Jesus will
rise and, together with the living
believers, be “caught up” to meet
Jesus in the air. This catching
away is called the Rapture.
“How is it possible to view the
Rapture as a source of hope and
encouragement?” Paul said to
“comfort” (verse 18) [KJV] or
“encourage” [NIV] each other
with the hope of Christ’s return.
The “therefore” beginning this
verse summarizes the facts of
hope: Jesus rose from the dead,
Jesus promised to come again,
Jesus will be with His people
111
forever. This is a big “therefore”!
The promise of His coming
provides stability, comfort, and
encouragement to those whose
faith is in Jesus, even during
times of severe trial. God’s
assurances of Christ’s return
are foundational to a confident
lifestyle of hope.
What shall separate us from
God’s love?
II. BE READY
A. Uncertainty of Time -
1 Thessalonians 5: 1-3
“What does it feel like to
anticipate an important event
(like a wedding or a funeral)?”
Anticipation is a fickle emotion,
it is erratic influence tempered
by focus. For instance, Jacob
worked 7 years for his uncle
Laban so Rachel could be his
wife, but to Jacob it seemed
only a few days (Genesis 29:20).
But if one awaits punishment, a
few minutes can feel like many
dreadfully long hours. What
makes the wait worth the wait?
The prize. Having resolved the
Thessalonians’ concerns about
believers who had died before
the coming of the Lord, Paul
shifted to the “when” of Jesus’
return (1 Thessalonians 5:1).
The Thessalonians’ distress
had caused over-anticipation
of Jesus’ return. This focused
anticipation allowed them to
fall prey to false teaching and
misguided attempts to establish
the time of Jesus’ return. Paul
alluded to Jesus’ instruction
before His ascension (Acts 1:7).
The times and seasons do not
need excessive consideration
– they are under the Father’s
control. Yet attempts to establish
the date of the rapture remain
prevalent. Several pseudo-
Christian doomsday cults
in recent years have ended
tragically due to false and
deceptive teachings concerning
Christ’s return. A proliferation
of ministries that focus on
eschatology (the study of the
end times) also reveals concern
with Jesus’ return. Although
112
awareness of possible evidences
(or signs) preceding Jesus’ return
should foster spiritual alertness,
the specific time is still known
only by God.
A main concern with Jesus’
return is not when but how He
comes. The phrase “day of the
Lord” pertains to Old Testament
references concerning God’s
judgment (1 Thessalonians 5:2).
The Jews accepted this day as a
time of judgment within history
and as a reference to God’s final
overthrow of evil in the end
times. Paul connected the rapture
and God’s judgment together.
The previous paragraph (4:13-
18) describes the rapture of
believers. In 5:1-11, the phrase
“day of the Lord” connects
the Rapture with judgment on
God’s enemies. Judgment is
not only assured, it will come
quickly – without warning, like
a thief in the night (verses 2,3).
The usual time for stealing is
at night. For unbelievers, Jesus’
coming will be sudden, without
warning like a thief in the night.
While unbelievers try to assure
each other of security, Jesus will
return.
B. Remain Faithful. Vrs: 4,5
Paul extends the “day of the
Lord” into Hebraic themes
of day and night representing
good and evil. Christians are of
the day; therefore “that day”,
referring to the day of the Lord,
will not take them by surprise (1
Thessalonians 5:4). Christians
are to live in the light (principles
of godliness), and be prepared at
all times for Jesus’ coming (verse
5). Note that Christians are never
told specifically when Christ will
come any more than others are.
Christians are simply to remain
ready for Jesus to come at all
times. This requires determined
discipline (verse 6). In contrast,
nonbelievers are surprised by
the coming day because they are
of darkness. These people are
asleep, unaware of their pending
doom. In a sense they are also
asleep spiritually, having no
personal relationship with God.
Believers are to exercise self-
control, continually wearing
the armour of faith, love,
and salvation (verse 8). One
blessed comfort is that, as
believers,God’s pending wrath is
not appointed for them (verse 9).
God’s promise assures Christ’s
deliverance at the appointed
time. Believers can be confident
that Jesus will return for them
113
whether they are alive at the
time of His returning or not
(verse 10). “Since believers have
this promise, what are they to
do?” This promise brought Paul
to a critical conclusion in verse
11. With a sure foundation in
God’s promise, all believers are
to work diligently, encouraging
each other to remain faithful.
III. VICTORY OVER DEATH
1 Corinthians 15:51-57
A. Anticipated by Believers
V 51-52
It is significant that Paul
used an entire chapter to
teach about resurrection. He
emphasized Jesus’ resurrection
as the Christian faith’s main
foundation (1 Corinthians 15:
1-11). Because Jesus was raised
from the dead, Paul concluded
that bodily resurrection for all
believers is an indisputable fact
and the basis for appropriate
Christian conduct (verse 12-34).
Paul also explained the nature
of the resurrected body (vs.35-
49); finally arriving at a victory
proclamation (verses 50-58). This
concluding section erases two
doubts. First, all believers will be
changed bodily before entering
into God’s eternal kingdom.
Second, this anticipated change
is a source of comfort and hope.
Change is essential, for the
mortal or “fleshly” is incapable
of an eternal relationship with
God (verse 50). At the moment
of the Rapture, all believers,
both living and dead, will be
changed. Old fleshly things,
all of them – pain, suffering,
stress, discomfort, concern,
worry, disease, heartache – will
vanish. An incomprehensible
transformation will take place
as God changes the believer’s
body from earthly flesh to an
incorruptible, immortal spiritual
body that can be eternally in
His presence (verse 51-53).
It will happen so quickly,
practically immeasurable by
human standards of time. It will
happen so thoroughly, scarcely
reasonable to human thought.
Therefore, it remains a mystery.
Paul so anticipated the pending
changes from mortal to immortal
that he seems to indicate he
would be alive when the Rapture
happens (verse 51). Paul had no
further information concerning
the time of Christ’s return, and
the ultimate changes it will bring
on human-kind, than Christians
have today. What he did possess
was unbridled anticipation. He
114
longed for Christ’s appearing.
In that anticipation, he included
himself as part of these pending
changes. Paul knew well the
difficulties of human existence
and longed for his transformation.
B. Available Through Christ -
1 Corinthians 15:54-58
“How can thinking about death
be encouraging?” Anticipation
of the change from mortal to
immortal is possible for believers
because death rules no more (1
Corinthians 15:54, 55). Death,
eternal separation from all one
can know mortally, is no longer
to be feared. One fears death
because of uncertainty. Salvation
removes that uncertainty. Sin
provides the sting to death, for
sin separates humanity from
God (verse 56). God’s law is
unable to help,for, it only shows
how sinful humankind is without
offering a means of redemption.
Jesus, on the other hand gives
eternal victory over sin through
His atoning death (verse 57). God
raised Jesus back to life, proving
that victory has been achieved
over death. The fear of death has
lost its power over everyone who
has accepted Christ as Saviour.
He assures that the promised
transformation will happen
at His second coming. “How
are Christians to live because
of the hope they have through
Christ’s return?” “Therefore,”
on the basis of victory through
Jesus Christ, all believers have
hope (verse 58). Such hope
remains constant no matter what
trials life may bring. Whether a
believer lives or dies is not the
issue, rather faithfulness to God
is the one constant concern for
a Christian. Because Christians
have hope in Jesus’ return, they
must always be faithful in service
to God. Anything accomplished
for God in the time available
prior to Jesus’ return is valuable
eternally. On the basis of Christ’s
assurances, steadfastness in spite
of any opposition is essential –
and possible.

LIFE APPLICATION
Consider this: If you knew beyond any doubt that this was your last
hour to live, what would you do? Jesus will come again to gather
His followers together to be with Him for all eternity. No one knows
the time of Christ’s appearing. The one thing we do know is that
Jesus’ return will be sudden. Our responsibility is simply to be
ready at all times – to live with the end in sight. With the complete
assurance that Jesus might come today, every believer should order
his personal walk before God with the thought that this could be
the day Jesus comes. It is this conviction that should move us into
committed action. Our labour is not wasted when it is invested with
eternal value.
1. How does your life reflect the hope found in the return of Christ?
2. Describe how the return of Jesus will be “as a thief in the night?
3. Why will believers be changed when the Lord returns?
BIBLE READING
Mon: Hope Given - Genesis 12:1-3
Tue: Hope Personified - Deuteronomy 18:15-22
Wed: Hope of the Redeemed - Isaiah 63:1-9
Thu: Rejoice in Hope - Romans 5:1-10
Fri: The Certainty of Hope - Hebrews 6:13-20
Sat: Looking for the Hope - 2 Peter 3:8-14
115
 CENTRAL TRUTH
LESSON 16 Signs of Christ’s coming point to
the consummation of redemption

SIGNS OF CHRIST’S COMING

MEMORY VERSE: :“At that time the sign of the Son of Man will
appear in the sky, and all the nations of the earth will mourn. They
will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with power
and great glory”. Matthew 24:30
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Notice the signs of Christ’s second coming
2. Serve Christ faithfully.
LESSON TEXTS: Matthew 24:5-11, 15-21, 42-47
Matthew 24:5-11
5. “For many will come in my 10. At that time many will turn
name, claiming, “I am the away from the faith and will
Christ,’ and will deceive many. betray and hate each other,

6. You will hear of wars and 11. and many false prophets will
rumours of wars, but see to it appear and deceive many
that you are not alarmed. Such people.”
things must happen, but the end
is still to come. Matthew 24:15-21
15. “So when you see standing in
7. Nation will rise against nation,
the holy place ‘the abomination
and kingdom against kingdom.
that causes desolation,’ spoken
There will be famines and
of through the prophet Daniel –
earthquakes in various places.
let the reader understand –
8. All these are the beginning of
16. then let those who are in Judea
birth pains.
flee to the mountains.
9. “Then you will be handed over
17. Let no one on the roof of his
to be persecuted and put to
house go down to take anything
death, and you will be hated by
out of the house.
all nations because of me.
116
18. Let no one in the field go back at what time of night the thief
to get his cloak. was coming, he would have
kept watch and would not have
19. How dreadful it will be in those
let his house be broken into.
days for pregnant women and
nursing mothers! 44. So you also must be ready,
because the Son of Man will
20. Pray that your flight will not
come at an hour when you do
take place in winter or on the
not expect him.
Sabbath.
45. “Who then is the faithful and
21. For then there will be great
wise servant, whom the master
distress, unequalled from the
has put in charge of the servants
beginning of the world until
in his household to give them
now – and never to be equalled
their food at the proper time?
again.”
46. It will be good for that servant
Matthew 24:42-47
whose master finds him doing
42. “Therefore keep watch, because so when he returns.
you do not know on what day
47. I tell you the truth; he will
your Lord will come.
put him in charge of all his
43. But understand this: If the possessions.”
owner of the house had known
LESSON OUTLINE
I. THE LAST DAYS B. Warned in Advance
A. Do Not Be Deceived III. BE FAITHFUL
B. Persecution of Truth A. Watchful and Ready
II. THE GREAT B. Faithful Always
TRIBULATION
A. The Abomination of
Desolation
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION allowed the prophet to see only
Prophecy is best understood with the “mountaintops” of the future.
two paradigms for interpretation. Many details in God’s plan were
First, it is limited to the view left for future discovery.
God gave the prophet. Often God
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Second, prophecy often has
multiple fulfilments. Historically,
the prophet’s message meant
something to his immediate
audience. Also, historical events
after the prophet’s time often were
additional fulfilments of God’s
message. The final fulfilment of
some prophetic announcements
awaits the end times. In each
instance, the message remains
true. Keep this in mind as you
study signs of Christ’s coming
from Matthew 24.
I. THE LAST DAYS
A. Do Not Be Deceived –
Matt 24:3,4
Jesus’ reactions to events in His
last week of ministry and to the
religious leaders in Jerusalem
– caused some questions. The
disciples were confused already,
but when Jesus predicted the
complete destruction of the
temple, their doubts exploded
into the need for answers. Their
concerns fell into two questions:
When would the temple’s
destruction happen? When would
Christ return to usher in the end of
the world? (Matthew 24:3). Jesus’
disciples were Jews living under
Roman oppression. The temple
represented their national identity
and symbolized the religious
separation of Judaism. The
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temple visibly represented God’s
presence among them. If the
temple complex were destroyed,
the central identification of their
cultural distinctiveness would
be gone. There are a variety of
interpretations of the disciples’
questions based on different
beliefs of when the Rapture will
occur in relation to the Great
Tribulation. Yet their questions
indicate that the disciples believed
Jesus would give them clear
insight into their future.Desire
for knowledge is positive until
it becomes so consuming that it
negates sound reasoning.
There is a danger of becoming
so consumed in wanting to
understand biblical prophecy that
we miss the full counsel of God’s
Word.The study of God’s Word is
essential for all Christians. But we
must understand that some aspects
of God’s message cannot be
completely grasped at this time.
Jesus’ command in verse 4 to “take
heed” against deception is valid
today. Some people claim to have
the accurate (only) interpretation
of biblical prophecy. Visible signs
in culture and nature are used to
support personal interpretations
and elevate personalities into
central positions of prophetic
authority. For example, some
people are positive they know
exactly when Jesus will return,
even though Jesus said only the
Father knows this (Acts 1:7).
Jesus’ warning to avoid deception
still applies to believers today.
B. Persecution of Truth –
Matthew 24:5-14
With the word “then,” Matthew
24:9 continues Jesus’ teaching on
the last days. “In what sense are
we to understand the usage of the
word ‘then’?” Jesus’ instruction
to the disciples was not so much
sequential as it was relational. The
chronology of end-time events
is irrelevant unless a person has
made a personal commitment
to God. Every generation of
believers has noted certain
biblical evidences pointing to
Jesus’ return. Such signs should
revitalize a believer’s relationship
with God by increasing his or
her expectation of the return of
Christ. If unbelievers oppose
Christian influence to the point
of persecution, Christians must
remain focused on Jesus’ imminent
return (verse 9, 10). People who
commit their lives to Jesus face
the possibility of persecution and
death. Christians must remember
that in every generation,
somewhere in the world, their
brothers and sisters in Christ are
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suffering. Because of persecution,
false prophets, and increasing sin,
many believers will fall from faith
in Christ (verse 11, 12). Yet Jesus
made a specific promise that those
who remain faithful “to the end,”
even though persecuted would be
“saved” (verse 13). This means it
is possible to remain faithful to
God in spite of persecution. And
this passage seems to indicate that
persecution would actually assist
Christianity, as it would force
the message of the gospel around
the world (verse 14). In spite of
persecution, all Christians are to
stand inseparably bound for the
common goal of glorifying God
by proclaiming the gospel while
awaiting the Saviour’s return.
II. THE GREAT
TRIBULATION
A. The Abomination of
Desolation –
Matthew 24:15-21
The nature of biblical prophecy
allows several possible
interpretations for Matthew’s
reference to the abomination of
desolation” from the Book of
Daniel (Daniel 9:27; Matthew
24:15). Although Daniel had
specific reference to an event
closer to his time (Antiochus
Epiphanies’ desecration of the
temple in 168 B.C.), and Jesus’
reference to a pending doom for
Jerusalem (destroyed in A.D. 70
by the Romans), it is clear both
had a future focus as well – an
event that will occur during the
Great Tribulation. The image of
the beast referred to in Revelation
13:14 is still future fulfilment of
both Daniel’s and Jesus’ prophecy.
(Many Bible scholars believe this
image would be set up in a newly
built Jewish temple.)
For the Jew, the desecration of
God’s temple was the worst thing
that could happen. The temple
represented God’s visible presence
within the world. For this reason,
the desecration of the Holy of
Holies in the temple symbolized
absolute rejection of anything
sacred, a complete disregard for
God. In the Jewish mind-set, life
became hopeless when the temple
was defiled. From the reactions of
the people in the prophecy, it is
clear that Jesus was referring to
this feeling of hopelessness with
the historical and prophetic events
(verses 16-20). “Other than the
Bible, do you have anything that
serves as the core of your faith?
What would be your reaction if
it were to be destroyed?” Jesus
indicated that life’s situations
might get unbearable. When
He made reference to Daniel’s
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message, He knew those familiar
with it would be agitated.
Therefore keep watch!!!
When one’s very essence is
jeopardized, reactions vary. It is
important to note that the people in
Jesus’ story are engaged in routine
activities of life (verses 16-18).
When the unthinkable happened,
their response was to immediately
flee destruction, seek shelter, and
depend on God’s provision. This
happened around A.D. 70 when
many Christians fled Jerusalem
just prior to its destruction.
Potentially life-threatening
opposition might occur prior to
Jesus’ gathering the Church in the
Rapture. But the text makes it clear
that similar events will happen
during the Great Tribulation
when the Antichrist completely
abolishes anything sacred. Some
people, trying to survive with their
limited knowledge of godliness,
will flee pending destruction.
B. Warned in Advance –
Matthew 24:22-26
Much debate about Matthew
24:15-26 focuses on how to
correctly divide the passage into
an appropriate sequence of events
during the Great tribulation and
how to identify its focal references.
The correct identification of
“those days” and “the elect” (verse
22) has been greatly debated. But
possibly a more important concern
would be to determine just what
Jesus was implying by these
references. “What was Jesus’
point in Matthew 24:22-26?” One
sign of Jesus’ return will indeed
be increased persecution prior to
the Great Tribulation. However,
the greatest need will not be
deliverance from persecution,
but strength to remain faithful to
God. Jesus warned believers that
persecution would come.
Prior to the Great Tribulation,
false leaders with abilities to draw
great attention through miraculous
activities will lead many away
from the truth. Rather than disturb
or distract the elect, opposition
should draw one’s attention to
the truth. Jesus told believers
to be prepared (verses 23-25).
“How should Christians prepare
for spiritual opposition?” Jesus
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warned believers in advance of
persecution so preparations could
be made. Christians must focus on
strengthening their relationship
with God daily, especially when
events arise that could be equated
with end-time signs, reminding
them that Jesus is coming soon.
Commitment to Jesus must solidify
into unyielding determination.
Visible signs surrounding Jesus’
return must intensify conviction
that God’s final redemption
prevails. There is an end time
and Christians must serve God
faithfully as time speeds toward it.
Jesus is coming soon!
III. BE FAITHFUL
A. Watchful and Ready –
Matthew 24:42-44
“What does it mean to you to
be ready for Jesus’ returning?”
The foundation for anticipation
of Jesus’ return is uncertainty.
Christians are certain that Jesus is
coming, they simply do not know
when. Uncertainty over when Jesus
will return is actually spiritually
healthy. Living in the tension
between knowing that Jesus is
coming but not knowing when
should keep Christians prepared
all the time. It is this mind-set that
is so critical. Cars require routine
maintenance. If this is not done,
mechanical systems break down,
potentially with devastating
results. Similarly,Christians who
live without constant preparation
to meet Jesus could meet with
disaster. Jesus is coming!
Christians must be ready always.
Jesus used an analogy to focus on
the need to be constantly prepared
(verse43). No one would allow
their house to be unguarded if they
knew a thief planned to break in.
In the same way, we know Jesus is
coming again, but since we do not
know when, we must be ready at all
times. It is unfortunate that many
will grow lazy in their expectation
of Jesus’ return. As Christians, we
must not allow such complacency
to overshadow our commitment
to be faithful to God. Rather than
an “I’ve heard this all before”
attitude when we are reminded of
Jesus’ promised return, we must
rejuvenate our desire to see our
Lord at any moment.
B. Faithful Always –
Matthew 24:45-47
“How will Jesus’ coming test
His servants?” Several biblical
passages record Jesus’ teachings
about servant evaluations. They
all focus on faithfulness. Jesus is
not as concerned with the type or
quantity of service as much as He
is about one’s faithfulness.
In Matthew 24:45-47, Jesus
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questioned who would be
considered a faithful and wise
servant. It was common for
householders to put a trusted
servant in charge of providing
for the rest of the servants. This
person had the responsibility of
providing food at appropriate time
and in correct amounts for the
servants’ needs. In this way, the
master of the house could attend
to other matters, leaving the
dailyresponsibilities of his house
to his trusted servant. Jesus said
this servant was wise if the master
could arrive unannounced and find
the servant faithfully doing the
appointed task without need for
direct supervision. The analogy
bears significance to Christian
servanthood in several ways.
First, our Master–the Lord Jesus–
has servants placed in positions
of responsibility as He sees fit. If
He places a servant into a position
of responsibility it is because the
Master knows that servant has the
ability to complete the task.
Second, the Master needs not
worry about the servant doing
the job. The task was assigned;
the servant does it. The servant is
expected to be faithful.
Third, the Master will come
again to check on the servant’s
faithfulness to the task. The
servant will be held accountable
for what was entrusted to him.
Finally, faithfulness is rewarded.
“Blessed is that servant…he [the
master] shall make him ruler over
all his goods” (verse 46, 47).
Faithfully serve the Lord, “for now
is our salvation nearer than when
we believed” (Romans 3:11).

LIFE APPLICATION
We all experience stress – tension in daily life. Some stress is destructive
as it makes life miserable. However, not all tension is bad. Being under
a deadline can energize creativity or stimulate productivity. At times,
accountability is the greatest element to success.
Spiritually we all live in tension. For example, we know that maturing
spiritually is essential, but living the disciplined lifestyle that leads to
Christian maturity is not always easy.
We desire biblical knowledge, but do we have regular Bible study?
We long for stronger communication with God, but do we pray
consistently?
There is a positive tension in the life of every Christian who anticipates
the coming of the Lord. Christians are convinced that Jesus is coming
soon. How is it possible to justify the paradox of soon but not yet?
By living with the hope found in the promise of his return. This hope
ignites faithful service to Christ. And it will be worth it all when we see
Jesus.
1. How should knowing that Jesus could come today affect the way
you live?
2. How can you explain your long-term plans to a non-Christian if you
tell him you believe Jesus could come at any moment?
BIBLE READING
Mon: Corruption and Violence - Genesis 6:9-13
Tue: Defence of Jerusalem - Zechariah 12:3-9
Wed: False Christ - Luke 17:22-25
Thu: Perilous Times - 2 Timothy 3:1-9
Fri: Pleasure Seekers - James 5:1-8
Sat: Unbelief - 2 Peter 3:1-7
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 CENTRAL TRUTH
LESSON 17 Christ will return victorious over His
enemies.

CHRIST RETURNS
MEMORY VERSE:Look, he is coming with the clouds, and every
eye will see him. Revelation 1:7
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this Lesson the student would be able to:
1. Narrate the events of Christ’s return
2. Prepare for Christ’s return.
LESSON TEXTS: Revelation 19:11-21, 20:1-3
Revelation 19:11-21
11. I saw heaven standing open and
there before me was a white
horse, whose rider is called
Faithful and True. With justice
he judges and wages war.
12. His eyes are like blazing fire,
and on his head are many
crowns. He has a name written
on him that no one knows but
he himself.
13. He is dressed in a robe dipped
in blood, and his name is the
Word of God.
14. The armies of heaven were
following him, riding on white
horses and dressed in fine linen,
white and clean.
15. Coming out of his mouth is a
sharp sword with which to strike
down the nations. “He will rule
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them with an iron scepter.” He
treads the winepress of the fury
of the wrath of God Almighty.
16. On his robe and on his thigh he
has this name written: king of
kings and lord of lords.
17. And I saw an angel standing
in the sun, who cried in a loud
voice to all the birds flying in
midair, “Come, gather together
for the great supper of God,
18. so that you may eat the flesh of
kings, generals, and the mighty,
of horses and their riders, and
the flesh of all people, free and
slave, great and small.”
19. Then I saw the beast and the
kings of the earth and their
armies gathered together to
wage war against the rider on
the horse and his army.
20. But the beast was captured,
and with it the false prophet
who had performed the signs
on its behalf. With these signs
he had deluded those who had
received the mark of the beast
and worshiped its image. The
two of them were thrown alive
into the fiery lake of burning
sulfur.
21. The rest were killed with the
sword coming out of the mouth
of the rider on the horse, and all
the birds gorged themselves on
their flesh.
Revelation. 20:1- 3
LESSON OUTLINE
I. CHRIST’S
TRIUMPHANT RETURN
A. As the Sovereign Judge
B. As the Conquering King
II. CHRIST VANQUISHES
HIS ENEMIES
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
How does it make you feel to be on
the winning team? Although we
teach that sportsmanship requires
being a good loser, few really are.
Within each of’ us is a place that
enjoys winning, at least sometimes
and at some things. If you do
not enjoy winning in a sporting
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1. And I saw an angel coming
down out of heaven, having the
key to the Abyss and holding in
his hand a great chain.
2. He seized the dragon, that
ancient serpent, who is the
devil, or Satan, and bound him
for a thousand years.
3. He threw him into the Abyss,
and locked and sealed it
over him, to keep him from
deceiving the nations anymore
until the thousand years were
ended. After that, he must be set
free for a short time.
A. Battle Preparations
B. Captured Beast
III. SATAN IS BOUND
A. Satan’s Authority
Limited
B. Satan’s Influence
Removed
competition, you might like
getting an “A” on a test or a bonus
from your employer. Winning may
not be the most important thing
in many situations, but a time is
coming when losing will be more
than just a disappointment, it will
have eternal consequences. When
Jesus returns to the earth again,
it will be to battle against evil.
But the winner of this contest is
already known; evil has lost this
battle already. This is one time
that being on the winning team is
everything! Jesus will judge evil
in full measure and no evil will
escape God’s judgment in this
battle. Christians can rejoice in the
knowledge that they will share in
Jesus victory.
l. CHRIST’S TRIUMPHANT
RETURN – Revelation
19:11-16
A. As the Sovereign Judge -
Revelation 19:11-13
John recorded a vision of Christ’s
second coming in Revelation
19:11-13.
A key concept illustrated by the
symbolism in this vision is God’s
sovereignty. Jesus returns this
time as ruler of all creation. This
coming will be different from His
first advent when He limited His
godly attributes, although every
attribute of God existed within
Jesus bodily (Philippians 2:6-7;
Colossians 2:9). This limitation
was self-imposed. But His second
coming is different. He will return
without limitations. John saw
Jesus seated on a white horse as
the Conqueror. The white horse
is symbolic of victory. Jesus will
not win the battle against evil in
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this conflict. Jesus has already
won. The titles, “Faithful and
True,” indicate Jesus will keep
His promises to the Church and
to the world. His coming ushers
injustice (Revelation 19:11). In
popular theology God is depicted
only as a God of love, seldom as
a God who dispenses judgment.
This viewpoint betrays the
accountability of all people to God
and permits a liberal lifestyle that
ignores or makes light of God’s
holiness. Jesus comes with the
balance of correction. Although
God’s love for all creation is
unquestioned, His judgment
against sinfulness is real. “Why
must Christians remember that
God is loving, holy, and just?”
Lack of understanding of the nature
of God can make faithfulness to
Him seem unprofitable at times.
A life that is not influenced by
the whole truth of who God is can
lead to unwise and sinful choices.
Believers have observed that,
at times, evil seems to prosper
while good suffers. God’s Word
addresses this apparent injustice
and the struggle His people have
with a seeming lack of interest on
God’s part in seeing justice done
(Psalms 13 and 73). But when
Jesus returns to earth, He will
bring justice (Revelation 19:11).
The description of Jesus in verses
12 and 13 further symbolizes His
role as the sovereign and righteous
One who embodies the will of
God bringing justice to the earth.
Christ’s Triumphant Return
B. As the Conquering King –
Revelation 19:14-16
The identity of the army in
verse 14 is often debated. One
common assumption is that
angels rally with Jesus. Although
angels are present during these
events, this assumption overlooks
important characteristics of these
soldiers. They ride white horses,
symbolizing they are victors. This
army is probably the redeemed
saints of God who, through the
power of Jesus’ sacrifice, have
overcome sin. Their white robes
are clean because they are washed
by Jesus’ blood. Although caution
must be exercised in a study
of biblical symbolism, (also
127
known as typology) a deeper
understanding can come from
it. Revelation is written in an
Old Testament apocalyptic style,
with many truths expressed in
symbols. In Revelation 19:15,
John used symbols to reveal a
dynamic truth. Christ’s sword is
not in His hand, but proceeds out
of His mouth. This symbolizes
the power in God’s Word. God’s
Word is powerful because it is
true, dependable, creative in force,
and always effective. It is with
this power that Jesus pronounces
judgment. He does not fight with
physical strength because the
power of God’s Word is sufficient
to overcome evil. John used
three Old Testament references
symbolic of Christ’s authority.
First, Jesus will strike the nations
(Isaiah 11: 3,4). Jesus is not
sovereign over the Jewish nation
alone; He rules over all people.
Second, Jesus will rule with
an iron rod (Psalm 2:9). This
indicates the force of Jesus’
authority. Jesus’ rod is made
from the strongest metal known
in human history. When ancient
armies acquired iron weapons they
were considered unbeatable. Jesus
will rule with unbeatable power.
And finally, Jesus will pour out
God’s wrath (Isaiah 63:1-6). This
is not in small measure, but is the
full fury of God. Workers pressing this evil force, He is proclaimed
out grapes climbed into a large the Victor.
vat, usually hewn out of rock.
Second, God’s justice respects no
When the winepress was filled
status. The birds are called to eat
with fruit, they stomped the juice
the flesh of the fallen, including
out of the grapes. The arduous
everyone from kings to slaves.
work was accomplished with joy
All are appointed for wrath. God’s
because of the anticipated harvest.
demands arc clearly revealed in
Such deliberate pounding became
His Word. Everyone ‘has the same
a visual image for severity. When
opportunity to accept or reject
Jesus returns, it will be clearly
God’s salvation and leadership
known who He is. He will come
through Christ. By rejecting Him,
not as a vulnerable baby, but as
one accepts fully the coming
the triumphant King of kings and
wrath of God’s judgment that
Lord of Lords (verse 16).
will be equally distributed. After
II. CHRIST VANQUISHES the Battle of Armageddon, no
HIS ENEMIES – martyrs’ cemeteries will be erected
Revelation 19:17-21 with rows of memorials to fallen
A. Battle Preparations - heroes.This conflict ends with all
Revelation 19:17-18 those who reject Christ suffering
There are two lessons that can he eternal damnation. Before then,
learned from Revelation 19:17- believers had been raptured to the
18.First Jesus’ ability to prevail presence of God.
in this conflict is unquestioned
B. Captured Beast -
(except by the Antichrist and his
Revelation 19:19-21
forces). An angelic messenger
In Revelation 19:19, John saw
comes onto centre stage crying
the Antichrist and all his allies
for birds to gather. The vision of
who had received his mark gather
human carnage is overwhelming.
against Jesus and His host.This
The battle takes place in a valley
formidable embattlement indicates
just south of Nazareth.
a vast pending struggle, but as
Revelation 16:16 calls this place
soon as it begins, it is over (verse
Armageddon, or the hill of
20). Without explanation, the
Megiddo. Note, however, that the
Antichrist and his false prophet are
battle is not yet joined. Before
captured, judged, condemned, and
Jesus pronounces judgment on
punished. What can be concluded
128
from the brevity of this battle
account? Jesus is omnipotent;
Satan is not. It is apparent that this
is not really a battle but ajudgment.
Jesus pronounces judgment on all
evil, and God’s justice prevails
(verse21). The Antichrist will
deceive most of the human race
with false power. The miraculous
signs of his prophet shall cause
people to believe the Antichrist’s
lies.This is a strong reminder that
the miraculous by itself is not
proof that a miracle worker is
from God. The true prophet points
people to Christ alone. The beast
and false prophet will be cast alive
into the lake of fire (verse 20).
“What is the relationship between
the lake of fire and hell? What
happens to people who die
without Jesus? What about those
killed at Armageddon? Non-
Christians enter a place called
hades. Translated as both hell and
the grave in the English Bible,
hades is an intermediate state
that is a place of punishment and
separation from God. But this
place is not the final state of the
wicked. This of course is not the
same as purgatory as taught in
some religious circles. After the
Great White Throne judgment,
both “death and hell [hades]
were cast into the lake of fire”
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(Revelation 20:15). Those who
have rejected Jesus will be cast
into the lake of fire along with
Satan, the Antichrist and the false
prophet (verses 11-15). Another
word translated “hell’ in the New
Testament is the word gehenna.
This is used to refer to the place
where “the fire . . . never shall
be quenched” (Mark 9:43), and
the wicked will be tormented
forever. This is the lake of fire
referred to in Revelation 19:19
and 20:13, 14. God did not create
hell for people but for the devil
and his angels (Matthew 25:41).
But God has made the way for
all people to avoid hell and gain
heaven through the work of Christ
on the cross. Christians who die
go immediately to be with Christ
(Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:8:
Philippians 1:23). This is part of
the victory Christ provides to those
who receive Him. The invitation
to be victorious through faith in
Christ is extended to everyone
(John3:16,17).
III. SATAN IS BOUND –
Revelation 20:1-3
A. Satan’s Authority Limited -
Revelation 20:1
Ambassadors bear the authority
of their sending country. Siblings
often bear the authority of a parent
with statements like, “Mummy
said that . . .” But ambassadors
and siblings do not seem to carry
the same weight or importance as
the president or mummy. Consider
that for generations Satan has
been the primary adversary
against Christians. This very real
enemy has gained an exaggerated
reputation. Although not the only
source of trials and temptations,
for ages he has been using his
power to draw believers away from
Christ and keep unbelievers from
accepting the Saviour. However,
in the end, it will only take an
angel, a messenger from Jesus, to
put Satan where he belongs: the
bottomless pit (Revelation 20:1).
Christians can rejoice in the
knowledge that Satan’s authority
is negligible when compared to
Jesus’. The most insignificant
messenger sent with Jesus’
authority can put Satan to endless
flight. In fact, it doesn’t take an
angel to put the devil to flight. Any
Christian who submits himself to
God and resists the devil causes
him to flee (James 4:7).
B. Satan’ Influence Removed -
Revelation 20: 2-3
In Revelation 20:2, Satan is
described as “that old serpent.”
a reference to Adam and Eve’s
temptation that led to humanity’s
fall into sin (Genesis 3:1-19). For
since that time, Satan has battered
people incessantly, but it will end.
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The time for conflict with evil will
be over. For a thousand years, Satan
will be bound unable to influence
and deceive. For these thousand
years of peace, people will live in
the way God originally intended
life to be enjoyed. Satan is real.
Scripture states that Satan’s goal is
to destroy (1 Peter 5:8; Revelation
12:10). Dealing with temptation is
a constant struggle for everyone.
But when Jesus returns, this will
be no longer true. An angel will
put Satan into a bottomless pit
prepared for Satan’s confinement
(20:2-3).
This pit will be sealed to prevent
Satan’s escape. The seal is
symbolic of God’s authority to
keep Satan bound. No one but God
has the authority to let Satan out
of that prison. While he is bound,
Satan will be unable to influence
anyone. Satanic trials and
temptations will be non-existent
as God keeps Satan away from
creation. Only after the thousand
years are accomplished will Satan
be released, and then it is only for
a short period of time. Knowing
Christ will return victorious
over His enemies should cause
Christians to rejoice. It also ought
to make every person examine
himself. Does the way you live
now reflect the way you want to
be living when Christ returns?
 LIFE APPLICATION
Jesus is coming! This thought could inspire great joy or horrible fear:
it depends on whether or not you are prepared to meet Him. Many
people know Jesus is coming. Some arc familiar with this promise
from an association with church. Some people have intellectual
understanding of Jesus, but their hearts are not right with God. It is
not enough to know about Jesus. To be ready for Christ’s coming a
person must accept Him as Saviour. With this commitment settled,
knowing that today might be the day Jesus returns becomes an
incredible joy.
When Jesus returns, it will be as the sovereign Victor over all evil.
Jesus has already won this battle, but the reality of his victory over
evil seems at times to be far away. Christians can honestly admit
that the battle against evil is not easy. But at the same time, they can
rejoice in Christ’s victory and trust that this victory will be shown
through their lives daily.
1. What can you do today to be sure you’re prepared for Jesus’
return?
2. How does the promise that Jesus overcomes evil with divine
justice affect you today?
3. How can you live in the promise of Jesus’ ultimate victory this
week?

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon: King of Glory - Psalm 24:1-10
Tue: The Lord Reigns - Psalm 97:1-12
Wed: God Defeats His Enemies - Isaiah 66:10-16
Thu: Christ, Victorious Over Satan - Luke 4:1-13
Fri: Christ Has Triumphed - Colossians 2:9-15
Sat: Christ Revealed - 2 Thessalonians 2:1-13

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 CENTRAL TRUTH
LESSON 18 Those who accept Christ’s lordship
today will reign with Him forever.

CHRIST’S MILLENNIAL KINGDOM

MEMORY VERSE: His dominion is an everlasting dominion
that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be
destroyed. Dan. 7:14
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this Lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain Christ’s millennial reign
2. Proclaim His Lordship today
LESSON TEXTS: Revelation 20:4-6; Daniel 7:14; Isaiah 11:1-10
Revelation 20: The second death has no power
4. I saw thrones on which were over them, but they will be
seated those who had been priests of God and of Christ
given authority to judge. And and will reign with him for a
I saw the souls of those who thousand years.
had been beheaded because Daniel 7:
of their testimony about Jesus
14. He was given authority, glory
and because of the word of
and sovereign power; all nations
God. They had not worshiped
and peoples of every language
the beast or its image and had
worshiped him. His dominion
not received its mark on their
is an everlasting dominion that
foreheads or their hands. They
will not pass away, and his
came to life and reigned with
kingdom is one that will never
Christ a thousand years.
be destroyed.
5. (The rest of the dead did not
Isaiah 11:
come to life until the thousand
1. A shoot will come up from the
years were ended). This is the
stump of Jesse; from his roots a
first resurrection.
Branch will bear fruit.
6. Blessed and holy are those who
2. The Spirit of the LORD will rest
share in the first resurrection.
on him— the Spirit of wisdom
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 and of understanding, the Spirit the lion and the yearling[a]
of counsel and of might, the together; and a little child will
Spirit of the knowledge and lead them.
fear of the LORD—
7. The cow will feed with the
3. and he will delight in the fear bear, their young will lie down
of the LORD. He will not judge together, and the lion will eat
by what he sees with his eyes, straw like the ox.
or decide by what he hears with
8. The infant will play near the
his ears;
cobra’s den, and the young
4. but with righteousness he will child will put its hand into the
judge the needy, with justice he viper’s nest.
will give decisions for the poor
9. They will neither harm
of the earth. He will strike the
nor destroy on all my holy
earth with the rod of his mouth;
mountain, for the earth will be
with the breath of his lips he
filled with the knowledge of the
will slay the wicked.
LORD as the waters cover the
5. Righteousness will be his belt sea.
and faithfulness the sash around
10. In that day the Root of Jesse
his waist.
will stand as a banner for the
6. The wolf will live with the peoples; the nations will rally to
lamb, the leopard will lie down him, and his resting place will
with the goat, the calf and be glorious.

LESSON OUTLINE

I. THE KINGDOM B. Eternal Kingdom

ESTABLISHED
A. Ruling Authorities III. CHRIST’S REIGN
B. The First Resurrection BRINGS PEACE
A. Righteous Judge
II. THE DOMINION OF B. Peace in all Creation
CHRIST
A. Foolish Rebellion

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 BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION it stirs our desire to see it
How many times have we happen. This study considers
been shocked to hear about a the millennial kingdom of Christ
man, considered by his peers and explores how this coming
to be normal—hard worker, kingdom can affect Christians
good family man, generally today.
considerate of others, suddenly I. THE KINGDOM
become violent and do harm to ESTABLISHED –
himself or others? Or the news Revelation 20:4-6
reports that a highly respected A. Ruling authorities -
leader was disgraced because his Revelation 20:4
moral failure had been exposed. What does John’s vision of throne
The power of sin over fallen man symbolize? The symbolism
is evidenced in such instances in the Book of Revelation is
and in so many other ways every significant. The thrones that
day. John saw indicate leadership,
One promise related to the return authority, power, and ability.
of Jesus will be that He will Those seated on these thrones
reign for a thousand years over possessed all of these attributes.
the earth in a restored creation. These people are associated with
Many aspects of God’s intended Jesus as leaders in the millennial
purpose for humanity will be in kingdom.
place during Jesus’ millennial As Christ establishes His
reign. Imagine a time when authority on earth for a thousand
satanic influence is gone, all the
years, those seated on the
desires of God are in force, allthrones share in this authority.
creatures live in peace, and allTheir authority is not their own,
people are treated with justice.but conferred on them by God.
Although this seems like an The authority they express is
impossible dream, not only is itas an ambassador; they are
possible, this time is coming. given authority through their
When we consider the relationship with Jesus. This is
possibilities of this kingdom, just one of the promises given to
134
those who overcome the world
through their faith in Christ.
What is the identity of those
seated on the thrones? John’s
second phrase in Revelation
20:4 begins “and I saw” without
clear indication if he means
those seated on the thrones were
the same ones who were killed
because of their testimony, or if
those martyred were a different
group from those on the thrones.
If it is the first possibility, then
what is recorded is the elevation
of those who were killed for their
faith to positions of leadership
over the world that rejected
them. If the second possibility
is the right one, then the identity
of those seated on the thrones is
still in question.
Classical Pentecostal doctrine
accepts that those seated on the
thrones are the saints from all
ages who participated in the
Rapture. They return with Christ
for the Battle of Armageddon
and reign with Him during
the subsequent Millennium.
John’s specific mention of
those martyred is a testimony
to their faithfulness, both those
from all ages who endured this
persecution and those who will
die for refusing to accept the
135
mark of the beast during the
Great Tribulation. This latter
group participates with the rest
included in the reign of Christ.
All who are faithful to Christ
share in the blessings that come
from loving and serving Him.
B. The First Resurrection -
Revelation 20:5-6
John made clear reference to the
pending state of the unrighteous
dead (Revelation 20:5). These
remain in their intermediate
state until the end of Christ’s
millennial reign. At that time,
John stated that the Great White
Throne judgment will call all the
dead into account for the final
judgment (verses 11-15). This is
the second resurrection. The first
resurrection includes all those
gathered at the call of Christ
earlier (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
and those martyred for Christ
during the Great Tribulation.
Why did John call those in
the first resurrection blessed
and holy?John’s proclamation
indicates the character of those
prepared to reign with Christ
(Revelation 20:6). They are
blessed by their complete
fellowship with God. No
hindrance separates these people
from God nor can it ever again.
Their holiness is that of complete
dedication to God, separated
from evil and focussed on God
alone. Their fellowship with God
is so complete that they never
need to fear again.
The second death is eternal
punishment that includes
separation from God. Those of
the first resurrection will never
know this as God’s immutable
blessing and fellowship will rest
on them. One significant aspect
of scriptural priesthood is that
these believersstood between
God and people, bridging the gap
from holy to secular. The exact
function of the rulers John saw
on the thrones in Revelation 20
is not stated. What is evident is
that in some way they represent
God to the people who enter
Christ’s millennial reign. These
individuals stand to bridge any
gap between God and the nations
that might exist during Christ’s
millennial kingdom.
The fullness of Christ’s kingdom
will be established then. Those
who love Him and have been
faithful to serve Him will be
given places of authority to
continue serving Him in His
millennial kingdom. Today
would be a good time to examine
136
your life. Since it is known
that those who accept Christ’s
lordship will reign with Him
forever, it would be worthwhile
to make certain Jesus is truly the
Lord of your life today.
II. THE DOMINION OF
CHRIST
A. Foolish Rebellion -
Psalm 2:1-12
This Psalm is prophetic in
nature. While it had relevance
to its time, it also seems to
point to a future time, probably
to the final rebellion at the end
of the Millennium described in
Revelation 20:7-9. In Psalm 2:1-
3, David depicted people who
rebel against God’s leadership,
who actually believe that they
are capable of stepping away
from God’s authority. The vanity
of their behaviour is almost
beyond comprehension. There is
no doubt about their expressed
desire to throw off God’s power,
but the possibility of doing this
is utterly ridiculous. Since God
is omnipotent,it is absurd to
think that circumventing God’s
power is possible, but people
still continue to live this way.
Many believe God is incapable
of affecting human existence.
Or at least they believe a
person can simply choose to
ignore God and be completely
out of His influence. Such
self-deluded people will be
unpleasantly surprised when the
truth about God’s omnipotent
superintendence of this world is
clearly revealed.
Explain how you feel about
God’s response to the nations
in Psalm 2:4-6. God is not
indifferent about human
arrogance and rebellion. David
characterized God’s response in
human terms of derision. How
is it possible that creation would
ever believe the Creator could
be ignored? God is sovereign
over all creation and cannot be
removed from His position.
Because people allow pride
to cloud their perception,
God will eventually rebuke
the rebellious with complete
authority by reaffirming that
He has established His Messiah
as the King. At Jesus’ baptism
(Luke 3:22), the heavenly vision
and voice are an unmistakable
connection to the promise in
Psalm 2:7-9. Jesus is God’s Son,
the Messiah whose dominion
is God-ordained. The nations
belong to Christ and He rules
them now as Lord. Some choose
137
to ignore this leadership that
God established. But wisdom
demands complete acceptance of
Jesus as Lord today, which will
assure God’s future blessings
(verses 10-12).
B. Eternal Kingdom -
Daniel 7:14
The main theme of Daniel’s
prophecy is that God is sovereign
over all affairs of all people.
Daniel saw the flow of power
through specific governmental
forces until God established His
Messianic King (Daniel 7:1-14).
In several places Daniel revealed
this flow of power from one
empire to succeeding empires.
(These empires were the
Babylonians, the Medo-Persians,
the Greek, and the Roman).
Although this flow of power
seems at times outside of God’s
control there is no period when
God’s power is diminished.
What Daniel’s visions do relate
is that God’s final kingdom
would abolish all existent world
systems. In the final millennial
kingdom, God’s world system of
leadership is all that will remain.
And in this millennial kingdom,
God’s leader—the Lord Jesus
Christ—is the only One in power.
Daniel 7:14 reveals the transfer of
world power to God’s anointed
King. Jesus is granted complete
authority over creation. All
the present world systems will
bow to His authority. Christ’s
dominion is eternal in scope and
duration. All peoples, nations,
and languages will bow to
worship Jesus as Lord.This final
kingdom is just that -final, no
And Satan will be bound for
a thousand years
power shall ever again attempt
to usurp God’s authority.
When does Jesus begin to
exercise authority as God’s
messianic King?Jesus claimed
the right to this authority through
His victory at Calvary. Jesus is,
therefore, this reigning King
now. Only during the coming
138
millennial kingdom will all
people living on this earth realize
His lordship. Until that time,
many people will choose to live
apart from Jesus’ lordship. It is
possible, however to personally
accept Jesus as Saviour today,
entering into a relationship with
Him, and begin enjoying the
leadership of Christ’s indwelling
presence.
III. CHRIST’S REIGN
BRINGS PEACE –
Isaiah 11:1-10
A. Righteous Judge -
Isaiah 11:1-5
The use of caricatures or cartoons
may effectively represent a
person’s position, nature, or
even personality. When the
characterizations represent
truth, they can be powerful tools
to convey a large amount of
information in a single picture.
Isaiah gave a dynamic
characterization of Christ, the
messianic King. Through potent
symbolism, Isaiah delivered
great insight about Jesus (Isaiah
11:1). Isaiah called attention to
Jesse, David’s father. One may
question why the messianic
ancestry is traced back to Jesse,
instead of David. It is possibly
symbolic of Jesus’special
selection for His royal position,
as was the son of Jesse. The
Spirit of God rested on David
and certainly on Jesus. All of this
points to God’s promise given to
David that an eternal kingdom
would come through David’s
lineage (2 Samuel 7: 16). But
Jesus is not only in the lineage
of God’s appointed royalty; He
is God’s appointed eternal King.
Jesus is characterized as a
righteous Judge (Isaiah 11:2-
5). The fullness of God’s Spirit
on Jesus is represented by six
godly characteristics (wisdom,
understanding, counsel, power,
knowledge and the fear of the
Lord). The greatest characteristic
of Jesus’ judgment is that He
cannot be influenced by anything
but the truth. Jesus is focussed
on God and cannot be influenced
by powers that so often distract
justice today. So righteous and
truthful is Jesus’ justice that
Isaiah characterizes Him as
dressed with righteousness and
faithfulness (verse 5).
B. Peace in All Creation -
Isaiah 11:6-10
Most people can reflect on a
time when circumstances in life
seemed to fit into their proper
place. In those moments of life,
139
one senses great satisfaction or
peace. Isaiah described such a
time.
Biblical accounts of life
preceding the Fall are limited.
However, the Bible does give
hints that conditions before the
Fall were vastly different from
the way things are now. Much
of the stress in nature seems a
direct result of sinfulness, just
as similar effects are present in
people. Fear, abuse, conflict,
destructive tendencies, and many
such difficulties were never
intended as part of creation.
Imagine what this world could
be if these evils were removed. It
would be like Isaiah’s description
of the millennial kingdom. God
will restore all creation into the
order He intended for it from the
beginning (Isaiah 11:6-10).
A striking characteristic of
the millennial kingdom is the
universal influence of God’s
presence. The knowledge of
God will permeate creation like
waters cover the sea (verse 9).
Jesus’ influence as the messianic
King will be felt worldwide.
Isaiah was so overwhelmed by
this possibility that he exclaimed
“his resting place will be glorious
(verse 10). When considering
Christ’s future reign, it is the peace of Christ today, for He
impossible to completely grasp is our Saviour, Lord, and King.
its total joy. What is possible is
that as Christians we can receive

LIFE APPLICATION
While most people cannot imagine life without chaos, Christians have
an insight into peace. Many situations in life may remain stressful
and any honest Christian must admit that Jesus never promised to
remove life’s problems. Christians however can experience some of
the wonderful blessings of Christ’s kingdom as they live as pilgrims
and strangers in this world.
Jesus is coming! This assurance flavours the Christian lifestyle with
peacefulness. We know that God’s purpose for the future is assured
no matter what circumstances in life may confront us now. This
knowledge will not make bad times any more enjoyable, but it can
give Christians confidence to trust God even during difficult times.
Jesus is Lord already. The future millennial kingdom is only the
earthly reality of what Christians can begin to enjoy now.
1. How has the peace Christ gives helped you in a difficult situation?
2. In what ways can Christians demonstrate Jesus’ lordship through
their lives?

DIALY BIBLE READING

Mon: No More War - Isaiah 2:1-4
Tue: Divine Instruction and Justice - Micah 4:1-8
Wed: The New Temple - Zechariah 6:9-15
Thu: Pre-eminence of Christ - Ephesians 1:1-10
Fri: The Lamb Is Worthy - Revelation 5:1-8
Sat: Universal Worship - Revelation 5:9-14

140
CENTRAL TRUTH
Those who reject Christ will
be eternally condemned
LESSON 19
DESTINY OF THE LOST
MEMORY VERSE: If anyone’s name was not found written in the
book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire. Revelation 20:15
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this Lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain the reality of Hell
2. Avoid eternal separation from God
LESSON TEXTS: Luke 16:19-31; Matthew 25:41-46; 13:49-50;
Revelation 20:11-15
Luke 16:19-31 Lazarus by his side.
19. “There was a rich man who was 24. So he called to him, ‘Father
dressed in purple and fine linen Abraham, have pity on me and
and lived in luxury every day. send Lazarus to dip the tip of
his finger in water and cool my
20. At his gate was laid a beggar
tongue, because I am in agony
named Lazarus, covered with
in this fire.’
sores
25. “But Abraham replied, ‘Son,
21. and longing to eat what fell
remember that in your lifetime
from the rich man’s table. Even
you received your good things,
the dogs came and licked his
while Lazarus received bad
sores.
things, but now he is comforted
22. “The time came when the here and you are in agony.
beggar died and the angels
26. And besides all this, between us
carried him to Abraham’s side.
and you a great chasm has been
The rich man also died and was
set in place, so that those who
buried.
want to go from here to you
23. In Hades, where he was in cannot, nor can anyone cross
torment, he looked up and over from there to us.’
saw Abraham far away, with
141
27. “He answered, ‘Then I beg
you, father, send Lazarus to my
family,
28. for I have five brothers. Let him
warn them, so that they will
not also come to this place of
torment.’
29. “Abraham replied, ‘They have
Moses and the Prophets; let
them listen to them.’
30. “ ‘No, father Abraham,’ he said,
‘but if someone from the dead
goes to them, they will repent.’
31. “He said to him, ‘If they do
not listen to Moses and the
Prophets, they will not be
convinced even if someone
rises from the dead.’ ”
Matthew 25:
41. “Then he will say to those on
his left, ‘Depart from me, you
who are cursed, into the eternal
fire prepared for the devil and
his angels.
42. For I was hungry and you gave
me nothing to eat, I was thirsty
and you gave me nothing to
drink,
43. I was a stranger and you did not
invite me in, I needed clothes
and you did not clothe me, I
was sick and in prison and you
did not look after me.’
44. “They also will answer, ‘Lord,
when did we see you hungry or
142
thirsty or a stranger or needing
clothes or sick or in prison, and
did not help you?’
45. “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you,
whatever you did not do for one
of the least of these, you did not
do for me.’
46. “Then they will go away to
eternal punishment, but the
righteous to eternal life.”
Matthew 13:
49. This is how it will be at the
end of the age. The angels will
come and separate the wicked
from the righteous
50. and throw them into the blazing
furnace, where there will be
weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Revelation 20:11-15
11. Then I saw a great white throne
and him who was seated on it.
The earth and the heavens fled
from his presence, and there
was no place for them.
12. And I saw the dead, great and
small, standing before the
throne, and books were opened.
Another book was opened,
which is the book of life. The
dead were judged according to
what they had done as recorded
in the books.
13. The sea gave up the dead that
were in it, and death and Hades
gave up the dead that were in
 them, and each person was
judged according to what they
had done.
14. Then death and Hades were
LESSON OUTLINE
I. SEPARATION FROM
GOD
A. Death and Judgment
B. A Hopeless State
II. UNRIGHTEOUS
JUDGED
A. The Cursed Depart
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
Consider your responses to the
following statements. Also,
consider what response you would
observe if these statements were
made by people you work with.
• “Hell is a literal place that
exists just as Heaven exists.”
• “All who reject Christ will be
eternally condemned to this
place of judgment.”
• “In the Bible, Hell is only a
symbol of punishment; it does
not refer to a real place.”
• “God in His mercy would
never condemn someone to
eternal punishment.”
143
thrown into the lake of fire. The
lake of fire is the second death.
15. Anyone whose name was not
found written in the book of life
was thrown into the lake of fire.
B. The Final Judgment
III. ETERNAL
CONDEMNATION
A.Condemnation of the
Unrighteous
B. Condemnation of Death
and Hades
Hell fire, Perdition and Eternal
doom were terms that once
conveyed a sense of fear for even
the hardest hearts. Today they
often are only associated with
horror movies or religious cults.
But Scripture clearly teaches that
there is eternal punishment for
those who deny Christ as Lord.
The Bible records in frightening
detail, future events taught by
Christ in the Gospels and by others
in the New Testament.
Salvation must be more than fire
insurance, but the reality of Hell
should cause everyone to fear the
eternal separation from God that
Hell brings. The Epistle of Jude the circumstances of these two
states: “Be merciful to those who men. It appears that the rich man
doubt; snatch others from the fire did not even notice the needs
and save them;…” (verses 22- of poor Lazarus. When Lazarus
23). There is a Hell to shun and a died, angels took him to a place
Heaven to gain. of peace. The rich man also died
and his body was buried. Unlike
I. SEPARATION FROM GOD
Lazarus, he was taken to Hell to
– Luke 16:19-31
suffer torment (verse 22, 23). Note
A. Death and Judgment – Luke
that there is not even a mention
16:19-23
of a burial for the beggar, but he
What comes to mind when
had found his salvation in God.
someone mentions the word hell?
The Jewish culture at the time of
The word Hell is used less and
Jesus considered wealth a sign of
less today, even in the church.
God’s blessings (Matthew 19:23-
It has taken on an archaic or
25). With this in mind, how do
obsolete connotation, suggesting
you think Jesus’ listeners would
something of a by gone era when
have reacted to this part of the
fear and manipulation might have
story? The contrast between the
been used to frighten “ignorant”
conditions of the rich man and
people to accept Christ. It is not a
Lazarus would have shocked
subject considered appropriate for
Jesus’ listeners. Along with them,
discussion in the more intellectual
we need to recognize that material
climate of the day. However, the
possessions are not the ultimate
Bible refers many times to the
indication or endorsement of
reality of Hell. One story told by
God’s blessings on a person’s life.
Jesus was about a rich man and
It is possible to be rich in this
a poor man. It shows the sharp
world and poor in the sight of God.
difference in destinies of two
Yet one can be materially poor
men after death who saw each
but rich in faith (James 2:5). True
other nearly every day. A certain
and lasting riches are found only
wealthy man, who lacked nothing
through a relationship with Jesus
and who might have appeared
Christ. Do worldly riches always
on the outside to be greatly
result in spiritual poverty?Explain.
blessed by God, often passed
Riches alone did not send the rich
by a poor hungry beggar named
man to Hell. Abraham and Job
Lazarus (Luke 16:19-21). There
were rich. Jesus had some good
is an obvious contrast between
144
friends among the rich who were
godly, upright, and generous men.
But this rich man had a wrong
view of life. To him life meant
clothes, food, pleasure, status, and
nothing more (Luke 16:19). He
had no concept of life as God’s
gift or of life as a relationship to
Him. In fact, it seems he had no
room in his life for service to God
or man. Nothing meant anything
to him but money and the pursuit
of his own pleasure.
B. A Hopeless State –
Luke 16:24-31
In Jesus’ story the rich man had
made himself and his needs the
centre of his life, ignoring God’s
command to help those in need.
Because of his selfish decisions he
found himself now in Hell, crying
out to Abraham to send Lazarus
to him with just a drop of water
to ease his pain (Luke 16:24).
Despite the fact that he had never
shown mercy to Lazarus, he was
begging for mercy from the heat
of the flames that were all around
him. But the rich man’s plea
for help could not be answered.
Abraham explained to him that
the life of greedy pleasure he had
sown had reaped an end full of
torment. Furthermore, the gulf
that lay between them could not
be crossed (verse 25-26). The
145
rich man’s torment in that horrific
place must have finally awakened
him to the needs of others, for
he now displayed his first hint of
mercy. As he was suffering, he
began to beg for Lazarus to send to
warn his brothers of their possible
doom, (verses 27-28). Abraham
stated that the Scripture would
provide their warning using the
phrase “Moses and the prophets”
to denote the Old Testament. The
rich man’s brothers could repent if
they would listen to and heed the
Word of God (verse 29).
Those who reject Christ will be
rejected eternally
What does a person do to repent”
Repentance involves one’s turning
from a sinful, self-centred lifestyle
and surrendering one’s life to the
Lordship of Christ. Yet it is not
merely asking for forgiveness. It
also involves a concentrated effort
and dependence on God to change
how one thinks and acts. The rich
man believed his brothers would
repent only if someone came
from the dead to warn them. This
suggests he had known Scripture
and what repentance involved, but
had rejected God’s Word. Now he
hoped his fate could be avoided by
his family through the resurrection
of a man (verse 30).
What miraculous events have
happened to people you know,
yet they still reject Christ? Sadly,
there are many stories of people
who cried out to God to intervene
in their situations. God answered
their prayers miraculously, but
they broke their promises to live
for God. Abraham looked on
the rich man, who was now the
beggar pleading for help, and
spoke to him words that must have
evoked feelings of hopelessness.
If someone rejects the divinely
inspired words of Scripture and
fails to turn to God, not even a
resurrection may alter his course
(verse 31). These stirring words
ended the story, but there is little
doubt that the story was meant to
rebuke the well-to-do Pharisees.
They listened to Jesus’ teachings
but refused to believe him. Jesus
was attempting to warn them
not to ignore the witness of His
resurrection. The powerful miracle
146
would be proof to the validity of
His teachings that only through
faith in Him could a person avoid
hell and enter heaven.
II. UNRIGHTEOUS
JUDGED
A. The Cursed Depart-
Matthew 25:41-46
What does the word ‘parable’
mean as used in the New
Testament? A parable is a story
using common things of the day to
relate a single spiritual truth. Jesus
used this method quite often to
disclose truth to some and conceal
it from others. Many of His
parables related aspects of Heaven
or Hell.The parable of the Sheep
and Goats draw on a shepherd’s
act of separating his animals into
two groups. This section of the
story relates the King’s response
to those on his left, the goats.
These are cursed to a place of
eternal fire originally created for
the devil and his angels (Matthew
25:41). Note that Hell was not
prepared for people, but for Satan
and angels who fell. How would
you answer someone who argued
that, according to this parable,
salvation is by works? Works
are external actions or behaviour
that can be unrelated to the true
internal nature of the individual.
Jesus’ parable did not suggest
that mere works, apart from faith
or grace, could save anyone. The
overwhelming evidence of His
own words and those of other
New Testament writers clearly
teach otherwise. What is strongly
suggested in this parable is that
acts of compassion and mercy are
characteristic of those who truly
belong to the King. These people
who find themselves judged as
“cursed” should have lived lives
full of merciful expressions,
filling the hungry and thirsty with
good things, showing kindness to
strangers, clothing the destitute,
and visiting those in prison (verses
42-43), but instead they ignored
those in need just as the rich man
had ignored Lazarus. They did
not realize such expressions of
love denote the faithful followers
of Christ who, like Him, display
mercy and compassion through
what they do.Eternal punishment
awaits those who fail to live in
a Christ-like manner. They will
be forced to leave His presence
forever (verses 44-46).
B. The Final Judgment –
Revelation 20:11-13
What comes to mind when you
hear the term Judgment Day?
Perhaps in recent times this phrase
brings to mind a threatening scene
in which one comes face-to-face
147
with his or her sins in a courtroom
drama. It is not generally thought
of with the seriousness that John
had as he penned his Spirit-
inspired vision of the judgement
of the dead. He revealed the Great
White Throne. Christ sat on the
throne as Judge. So awesome is
His presence that even the earth
and sky fled from His presence
(Revelation 20:11).
All the wicked dead – small and
great, rich and poor – will stand
before this great throne as books
are opened containing the record
of the lives of all people on earth.
The righteous will already have
been resurrected by this time.
Every person from across the
earth, even those who died in
the sea or were in the place of
the dead, will be brought before
Christ to face judgment (verses
12-13). God keeps books of each
person’s deeds. In another book
called the book of life are recorded
the names of those who have been
born again. Every person will be
judged according to his works
and what is written in these books
(verse 13).This is not a judgment
that includes a possibility of
salvation. Rather, this judgment
will end in eternal punishment.
These passages reveal that the
unrighteous will be judged. A day
of reckoning is coming. People
foolishly think God is so loving
and kind that He will never judge
people. Don’t be deceived. God
will judge sin, and that judgment
will be righteous.
III. ETERNAL
CONDEMNATION
A. Condemnation of the
Unrighteous –
Matthew 13:49-50
Jesus told the Parable of the Net
to relate how the judgment would
take place at the end of the age
(Matthew 13:49). As fishermen
work together to haul up their catch,
the angels will gather the wicked
and the righteous together and
then separate them as fishermen
would separate the good fish from
the bad. It is clear from this vivid
description that not all people go
to heaven when they die. There
will be a definite judgment that
will forever separate the wicked
from God’s presence and draw his
own forever into His peace. At this
point in the judgment, the angels
will take those who have denied
Christ as Lord and cast them into
a flaming furnace where they will
suffer forever (verse 50). With
“wailing and gnashing of teeth,”
the wicked will endure eternal pain
and torments. It is unnecessary
for anyone to suffer the torments
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of Hell. Christ suffered and died
on the cross so all who come to
Him may be saved. Although it
would be bitter for one to enter
the eternal torments of hell by
rejecting Christ as Saviour, many
will do so of their own choice.
B. Condemnation of Death
and Hades –
Revelation 20:14-15
In his vision of the Great White
Throne Judgment, John saw death
itself along with hell (the grave,
the place where the dead were
awaiting judgment) hurled into the
scorching lake of fire (Revelation
20:14). These enemies of God’s
people are almost personified;
two hideous evils being lifted
and thrown out of the court of the
King. What once caused fear and
pain are now forever cast away
beyond the realm of the righteous.
They can no longer afflict distress
on those who follow Christ.
The books that record each
person’s works and the Book
of Life will stand as witnesses
against all who rejected Christ
as Lord. Those without Christ
will be thrown into the lake of
fire (verse 15). This tormenting
moment is but the first of an
eternity of separation from God.
Those who are driven from His
throne will forever be removed
from his peace, His holiness, and
His mercy. The painful sensation
of burning and perpetual heat
without death or decay denotes a
suffering no one has ever endured
before. It will be agony unlike
anything ever imagined, for it will
never cease.
With the torment of the lake of fire
is the knowledge that all hope is at
an end. In this life, we can endure
much pain if there is hope of
relief or gain, or if we believe our
suffering is for a good cause. But
in hell, there is no hope for relief
from the constant suffering. It will
continue forever.

LIFE APPLICATION
The reality of hell as a place of suffering and punishment is made clear
throughout Scripture. However, scripture is also clear that God has
provided a Saviour to bring people into a right relationship with Him.
The revelation of Hell’s existence is a warning; the message of Christ
is a great promise. It is vital today to realize that our attitude towards
Christ and others are factors involved in the eternal destiny of our lives.
Those who reject Christ will stand before Him at the Great White
Throne Judgment. There will be no more opportunities to repent and
be saved. It will be the end of all joy, peace and comfort for those
who hear the words, “Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire”
(Matthew 25:41). As Christians, we are commissioned to make every
effort to reach the lost in our families, neighbourhoods, and world so
they will not suffer the agony of torment in Hell when that final day
arrives.
1. Why would God reveal to us the horrors of Hell through His Word?
2. How should a belief in the reality of Hell affect the way the unsaved
live and the way Christians live?
DAILY BIBLE READING
Mon: The Forfeited Blessing - Genesis 25:29-34
Tue: Judgment on the Wicked - Exodus 14:23-28
Wed: Judgment Announced - 1 Samuel 28:7-19
Thu: A Ruined Life - Luke 6:43-49
Fri: Hypocrisy Judged - Luke 11:39-52
Sat: Liars Judged - Acts 5:1-11
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 CENTRAL TRUTH
LESSON 20 The hope of heaven encourages
believers to serve Christ faithfully.

DESTINY OF THE RIGHTEOUS

MEMORY VERSE: : We make it our goal to please him, whether
we are at home in the body or away from it. 2 Corinthians 5:9

LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this Lesson the student would be able to:
1. State biblical truths concerning heaven
2. Live in anticipation of an eternal home
LESSON TEXTS: 2 Corinthians 5:1-10, Revelation 21:3-4;
Revelation 22:1-5,12
2 Corinthians 5:1-10 us for this very purpose is God,
1. For we know that if the earthly who has given us the Spirit as
tent we live in is destroyed, we a deposit, guaranteeing what is
have a building from God, an to come.
eternal house in heaven, not 6. Therefore we are always
built by human hands. confident and know that as long
2. Meanwhile we groan, longing as we are at home in the body
to be clothed instead with our we are away from the Lord.
heavenly dwelling, 7. For we live by faith, not by
3. because when we are clothed, sight.
we will not be found naked. 8. We are confident, I say, and
4. For while we are in this tent, would prefer to be away from
we groan and are burdened, the body and at home with the
because we do not wish to be Lord.
unclothed but to be clothed 9. So we make it our goal to please
instead with our heavenly him, whether we are at home in
dwelling, so that what is mortal the body or away from it.
may be swallowed up by life.
10. For we must all appear before
5. Now the one who has fashioned the judgment seat of Christ,

150
 so that each of us may receive
what is due us for the things
done while in the body, whether
good or bad.
Revelation 21:3-4
3. And I heard a loud voice from
the throne saying, “Look!
God’s dwelling place is now
among the people, and he will
dwell with them. They will be
his people, and God himself
will be with them and be their
God.
4. ‘He will wipe every tear from
their eyes. There will be no
more death’ or mourning or
crying or pain, for the old order
of things has passed away.”
Revelation 22:1-5, 12
1. Then the angel showed me the
river of the water of life, as
clear as crystal, flowing from
the throne of God and of the
Lamb
LESSON OUTLINE
I. PRESENT WITH GOD
A. An Eternal House
B. God with Us
II. FAITHFULNESS
REWARDED
A. At the Judgment Seat of
Christ
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2. down the middle of the great
street of the city. On each side
of the river stood the tree of life,
bearing twelve crops of fruit,
yielding its fruit every month.
And the leaves of the tree are
for the healing of the nations.
3. No longer will there be any
curse. The throne of God and of
the Lamb will be in the city, and
his servants will serve him.
4. They will see his face, and his
name will be on their foreheads.
5. There will be no more night.
They will not need the light of
a lamp or the light of the sun,
for the Lord God will give them
light. And they will reign for
ever and ever.
12. “Look, I am coming soon! My
reward is with me, and I will
give to each person according
to what they have done.
B. At Christ’s Coming
III. SPLENDOR OF
HEAVEN
A. The City of God
B. The Glory of God
 BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
The majority of religions of
the world, including Judaism,
Christianity, and Islam, teach of
a paradise or heaven for those
who are righteous or good. In our
modern pluralistic society, the
notion of heaven has often been
disassociated from any belief or
faith in God. Many assume that
almost anyone who dies enters a
place of rest and peace.
Christ taught quite clearly about
the nature of Heaven and that
people could only enter its gates
through him. He spoke with
authority since He had been with
God and knew He would return to
God (John 14:1-6).
It is God’s desire that none would
perish apart from His grace. It is
a person’s free will and pride that
would keep him from entering the
home that God is preparing for all
who come to Him for salvation.
I. PRESENT WITH GOD
A. An Eternal House –
2 Corinthians 5:1-8
How do you tend to respond
when you hear a discussion about
Heaven? Heaven is discussed in
both secular and sacred contexts
though the conceptions expressed
are totally different. The secular
152
mind-set focuses more on an
experience being “heavenly”.
Scripture relates heaven as the
perfect place of God’s creation
where an overwhelming sense of
peace comes from being in His
holy presence. It is good to know,
however, that words in the Bible
translated as “heaven” often have
diverse definitions.
Christ made numerous promises
to His followers, many of
which refer to the time when all
his followers will be in God’s
presence forever. The apostle Paul
wrote to the church in Corinth
about the promises that sustain
believers with hope through even
the most difficult situations. The
ultimate hope of a Christian is to
be with God in Heaven forever.
Paul began this discussion by
contrasting the present state of
believers with the state when
their mortal bodies are clothed
with immortality (2 Corinthians
5:1). If you have lived in an area
ravaged by natural disasters such
as fire or flood, you may have seen
temporary shelter or tents set up
to house people made homeless
by the tragedy. This is the thought
expressed by Paul as he relates
how mortal bodies are momentary.
Just as God has made “our earthly
house of this tabernacle,” God has
also prepared both a home and a
body for us that will be eternal.
Mortality is going to end for
those who have found salvation
in Christ, as God’s eternal life
fully replaces this temporary
existence (verse 2-4). This focus
on what will be can give the great
hope Christians need to carry on
through difficult times.
The guarantee or security of this
promise of life comes through the
Spirit of God poured out on us
through Christ (verse 5). He gives
us the confidence we need to live,
not merely according to what can
be seen but also through a faith
that grasps the eternal nature of
those things invisible to mortal
eyes (verses 5-7). Paul then made
the powerful declaration that
when death does come it ushers
the believer into the very presence
of God (verse 8). It is trust in this
promise that allows Christians to
face death with confidence.
B. God with Us –
Revelation 21:3-4
From the first promises of God
found in Genesis concerning His
chosen people and His coming
Messiah, God demonstrated His
faithfulness by dwelling with His
people. God has promised that
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when He creates a new Heaven
and Earth, He will dwell with His
people (Revelation 21:3). The
Spirit revealed to John things that
are still to come. He saw a vision
of a heavenly city and heard a
voice declaring God’s presence
among His people. But it will not
be through a temporary dwelling
like the tabernacle or temple.
Rather, God himself, in all of His
glory, will dwell with His people.
Consider the differences between
what life is like in the world
now and the way life will be in
heaven as described in the Bible
when God dwells with his people
in the New Jerusalem. Describe
the major distinctions between
life in the present world and life
when we will live eternally in
God’s presence? Some significant
differences are mortality versus
immortality, sickness versus
wholeness, pain versus peace,
and decay versus agelessness.
But perhaps the most significant
difference between this present
life and the one to come is that
God himself will live among his
people forever (verse 3).
How will life be like in Heaven?
Because of sinfulness, God’s good
earth became corrupted and is in
a sense of agony or distress as it
waits for His promise of newness.
Stress, sorrow, pain, destruction,
loss of life – these are all common
occurrences in the world.
The believers ultimate aim is to be
with the Lord in Heaven
In his vision, John encountered
a greater reality that would
overpower this present age. In
heaven, God’s presence will affect
his followers in such a way that all
the things that have caused them
pain will dissolve, as a bad dream
melts away with the rising of the
sun. Because the former things, the
old ways, will be gone and a new
order of life in God’s presence will
come, all those things of pain and
loss will disappear forever (verse
4). At the time, God’s promises
will be completely fulfilled and
His peace will forever reign in the
lives of those who have Him.
II. FAITHFULNESS
154
REWARDED
A. At the Judgment Seat of
Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:9-10
A time is coming when all
believers will stand before the
Judgment Seat of Christ (2
Corinthians 5:10). However, this
will not be a time for finding
salvation. This accounting will
be for those who are already in
Christ. The believer in Christ is
saved by God’s grace, not works.
As believers, we are saved in
order to bring God honour through
what we do, our good works. Paul
stated to the church at Corinth that
the goal or purpose in this life is
to bring honour to God, pleasing
Him through one’s actions and
attitudes (verse 9). Although we
should be aware that our service
done in love will one day reap
rewards from God, our actions
and speech are to be motivated
by God’s mercy, compassion,
and holiness. So it should be our
desire, as God’s children, to bring
Him pleasure.
This time of judgment (often
referred to as the Bema Seat or
Judgment Seat of Christ) will
make known the true virtue and
character of Christ’s followers.
It should be clearly noted that
both good and bad things will
be evaluated in this accounting
(verse 10). This great truth should
motivate us to live our lives in in His coming He would reward
such a way that we display the “every man according as his work
character of Christ in all we do shall be” (Revelation 22:12).
and say. While we are not certain For those who have trusted in
of the exact nature of the reward Christ, all the times of physical
Christ shall give to those who are or emotional pain will vanish. But
faithful, we can be certain that not all in the world will be a part
whatever “sacrifices” and efforts of this great reward. How will
we have put forth on earth will God’s faithfulness be revealed in
be worth it. The greatest reward the way He rewards the righteous
is that we will forever be with the and the wicked? God is faithful.
Lord. He does not neglect his own nor
will He fail to give honour to those
B. At Christ’sComing –
who have served Him faithfully.
Revelation 22:12
It is His desire to reward all who
Centuries have passed since
have responded to His grace and
believers walked with Jesus and
mercy expressed through Christ.
first heard His promise to return
Part of this involves restoring us
– over two thousand years seems
to His companionship, allowing
a great length of time. Many New
us to one day live forever within
Testament passages suggest that
the home He is preparing for the
those living at the time believed
righteous. Those who have refused
His return would be immediate,
Christ and rejected His will that is
and so they lived their lives
expressed in the gospel will also
accordingly. However, looking
receive their “reward.” Sadly, that
at it from a human perspective is
reward is the wrath and judgment
often limited at best and faulty
of a righteous God. Yet even in
at worst. Because such a great
judgment, we find that God is
length of time has passed and so
faithful to reward faithfulness.
many events have transpired that
Is God’s faithfulness a source of
seem to find direct connections in
comfort or fear to you?
Scripture, Christ’s return can be
seen as closer than ever. The daily
III. SPLENDOUR OF
news brings us word of events
HEAVEN
transpiring that make us long for
A. The City of God – Revelation
His return. Jesus declared that He
21:10-21
would be coming soon, and that
How would you describe heaven
155
to a child?Heaven, because it is those who have little or no church
so full of God’s presence and is background, are the streets of this
so unique from the things we are city paved in the purest of gold
familiar with on earth, is difficult and the gates of the city made of
to describe with mere words. One huge pearls. What God is making
might mention to a child the pure for His people is almost beyond
river of life, or God’s great throne, comprehension.
or the light that never ends.
B. The Glory of God – Revelation
John was carried away by the 21:22 through 22:5
Spirit to a mountain where he
Why will this Holy City not need a
viewed a magnificent city coming
temple or sunlight? Moving from
from heaven (Revelation 21:10).
his brief description of heaven’s
The splendour of this city was
beautiful structure, John began to
described as brilliant jasper,
describe the powerful sense of the
surrounded by twelve gates
Lord’s presence permeating the
inscribed with the names of the
city. This city needs no temple, for
twelve tribes of Israel, supported
God and the Lamb have become
by twelve foundations inscribed
its temple (Revelation 21:22).
with names of the twelve apostles,
God himself and His Son provide
and perfectly secure with twelve
light for the city and its people so
angels at the twelve gates (verses
no sun or moon is needed (verse
11-14). For a singular city, what
23-24). Because there is no night
was revealed to John was larger
and no need to fear, the gates are
than any metropolis on earth. This
never shut. Heaven’s holiness,
beautiful city of God, the Holy
light and peace are found through
City, was measured by the angel
the Lord’s presence within.
and found to be in the shape of a
cube (verses 15-17), about 1,400 Who will have access to this city?
miles in length, width, and height. No one who commits any act that
“defileth” (verse 27, KJV) or is
John, detailing his vision in verse
“impure” (NIV) will ever enter
18-21, describes the gold of the city
the city. Only the righteous, those
and the clear walls of jasper. He
whose names are written in the
then lists twelve precious stones
Lamb’s book of life, are allowed
that covered the foundations.
inside. The perfection of this
Perhaps the two most memorable
heavenly city is made complete
characteristics of heaven, even for
with the pure water of the river
156
of life flowing “down the middle
of the great street of the city” and
the tree of life constantly bearing
fruit, a crop every month (22:1-
2). This tree gives healing and
wholeness to all people. Verses 3-5
triumphantly declare God’s glory
with this heavenly place. All who
have served God will be with Him
forever, marked with His glorious
name and reigning with Him. The
curse of sin and death will be done
away with completely. This will
be a place of peace forever for all
who have followed Christ.
The full revelation of His glory is
incomprehensible in this life.

LIFE APPLICATION
Many Christians have sung these words. “My heavenly home is bright
and fair; I feel like travelling on.” The truth of Heaven should cause
those who walk by faith in Christ to anticipate this eternal home. Yet
when one reflects on Heaven and this glorious place of God’s fullness,
it can seem like a dream that is so far away. Hints of heaven fill the New
Testament and should create in us a longing for this place of peace and a
desire to live holy lives so we may one day share it with the Lord.
God’s word is quite clear concerning the nature of Heaven. All who
follow Christ are welcome to enter into it. He is the only entrance into
the sacred gates of the Holy City of God, and only those who do His will
shall enter there. Consider the promise of heaven both as a challenge to
stand firm in Christ and as strong assurance of God’s mercy and grace.
1. How can thoughts of heaven guide the daily choices you make?
2. What is one truth about heaven that encourages you to be faithful
to God?
3. How might your hope of heaven be used to witness to others about
Christ?
DAILY BIBLE READING
Mon: Walk with God - Genesis 5:21-24
Tue: Blessing of Heaven - Isaiah 65:17-25
Wed: River of Life - Ezekiel 47:1-10
Thu: Inherit God’s Kingdom - Matthew 25:34-40
Fri: Faith Secures Salvation - Luke 23:39-43
Sat: Glimpse of Paradise - 2 Corinthians 12:1-6
157
 CENTRAL TRUTH
LESSON 21 Effective communication is a
necessary foundation for a
successful family life.

COMMUNICATION IN THE FAMILY

MEMORY VERSE: . . . Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to
speak, and slow to become angry. James 1:19
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this Lesson the student would be able to:
1. State the essential principles in family communication
2. Adopt communication patterns that build up family members
LESSON TEXTS: James 1:19-21, 1 Cor. 13:1-13
James 1:19-21
19. My dear brothers and sisters, can fathom all mysteries and all
take note of this: Everyone knowledge, and if I have a faith
should be quick to listen, slow that can move mountains, but
to speak and slow to become do not have love, I am nothing.
angry, 3. If I give all I possess to the
20. because human anger does not poor and give over my body to
produce the righteousness that hardship that I may boast, but
God desires. do not have love, I gain nothing.
21. Therefore, get rid of all moral 4. Love is patient, love is kind. It
filth and the evil that is so does not envy, it does not boast,
prevalent and humbly accept it is not proud.
the word planted in you, which 5. It does not dishonor others, it is
can save you. not self-seeking, it is not easily
1 Cor. 13:1-13 angered, it keeps no record of
1. If I speak in the tongues of men wrongs.
or of angels, but do not have 6. Love does not delight in evil
love, I am only a resounding but rejoices with the truth.
gong or a clanging cymbal. 7. It always protects, always
2. If I have the gift of prophecy and trusts, always hopes, always
perseveres.
158
8. Love never fails. But where
there are prophecies, they will
cease; where there are tongues,
they will be stilled; where there
is knowledge, it will pass away.
9. For we know in part and we
prophesy in part,
10. but when completeness comes,
what is in part disappears.
11. When I was a child, I talked like
a child, I thought like a child, I
reasoned like a child. When I
became a man, I put the ways
of childhood behind me.
12. For now we see only a reflection
as in a mirror; then we shall see
face to face. Now I know in
part; then I shall know fully,
even as I am fully known.
13. And now these three remain:
faith, hope and love. But the
greatest of these is love.

LESSON OUTLINE
I. Principles of Effective Communication
II. Patterns of Communication in the Family
III. Hindrances to Effective Communication
IV. Building an Effective Communication Pattern

BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
This lesson uses several Bible
passages to help us learn the
principles and the practice of
communication.The goal of
communication in the family
is to share ideas, joy and plans
with spouses and members of
the household in order to build
up one another. The family
setting offers every individual
the best opportunity to develop
and grow to become his/her best.
Unfortunately the home can also
be the place where one can receive
159
the worst support for life when
family members tear each other
down through verbal and non-
verbal means.
I. THE PRINCIPLES
OF EFFECTIVE
COMMUNICATION
Communication is defined as a
process of sending a message to
another person through the use
of symbols so that the receiver
of the message understands and
responds to the message that the
sender has in mind. The factors in
the communication process that
play key roles in ensuring that
the message achieves its intended
purpose are:
A. The sender of the message
This is the person who first
conceives of an idea and decides
to share it with another person.
The sender of a message has the
responsibility of choosing words
carefully so that the receiver or
audience will clearly understand
the message. The body language
of the sender of the message
such as facial expressions is as
important as the words used.
B. The medium
The medium is the channel that is
selected to convey the message.
This includes the symbols that are
used. If the words or language are
not clear it is difficult for it to be
understood. If written medium is
used to convey a message instead
of a spoken word, it must be
ensured that the receiver has the
ability to read and understand the
written word.
C. The receiver of the message
The receiver has the responsibility
of listening or reading the
message carefully so that the
intended meaning that the sender
wanted to communicate is
understood. The receiver must
not just listen to the words being
communicated, but must also
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“listen” to the body language of
the speaker. The receiver must
respond to the message and seek
clarification if the message or an
aspect of it is not clear. In family
communication, the receiver of
the message must not assume the
position of a “mind reader” who
knows what the sender is saying
before the message is completed.
D. Feedback
Feedback is the intended and
unintended response the receiver
sends to the sender of a message.
Whenever we respond to a message
without listening or understanding
it as the sender intended, we are
sending a feedback that we do
not care about the person and the
message being conveyed. In the
family setting, spouses have the
tendency of not listening to one
another before responding. Parents
also often do not take much time
to listen to their children resulting
in frustration and sometimes
withdrawal on the part of the
person having something to share.
E. Noise factor
In communication, a noise factor
is any condition that prevents
the message from reaching the
ear and being understood. Noise
factors may be physical conditions
such as sheer noise, or too much
background music. It can also be
a person’s body language or angry
expressions which contradicts the
verbal message.
II. PATTERNS OF
EFFECTIVE FAMILY
COMMUNICATION
A. Levels of Communication:
There are generally three levels
at which we communicate. These
are:
1) The Cliché Level: This level of
communication is surface because
it does not involve one’s opinion
or feelings. Everyone feels safe
communicating at this level
because it is devoid of conflict.
2) The Opinion Level: At this
level people share opinions and
preferences concerning more
personal issues. These may
include the food people like,
their political ideologies, choice
of colours and model of cars and
preferences of shops. This level
of communication has a greater
tendency of conflict because
people often differ in their choices.
3) The Feeling Level: This is the
most intimate level where people
communicate not only their
opinions but also their feelings
and expressions of love and
anger. Since the goal of family
communication is to convey
love, support and encouragement
161
to the members of the family,
it is important that people learn
to share their opinions, needs,
apprehensions, joy and fears
freely. Most often this is not
achieved because people fear
they will be rejected. Many
people think that keeping quiet
or agreeing to everything their
partner says is the solution to the
fear of being rejected. However,
this situation may lead to anger
and withdrawal.
B. What to communicate:
In the family, opportunity must be
given to every member to express
his/her opinion. This will include,
1. His/her personal plans
2. His/her needs
3. His/her fears, appreciation,
joy and victories
4. We must communicate
warmth, touch, understanding
and empathy
C. What not to communicate:
It is important that we do not use
our freedom to insult, disrespect or
harshly criticise family members.
We must not look down on each
other and not take each other for
granted.
III. HINDRANCES TO
COMMUNICATION
Certain behaviours can hinder free
communication. These include:
A. Silence: When we fail to speak,
it hinders us from hearing the
opinions of members of family.
B. Anger: When we express anger,
it can intimidate our spouses or
children, making them feel unsafe
to open up to us.
C. Tears: Our tears can become
weapons that we use to fight our
battles.
D. Unresolved conflicts:
When we harbour anger and
unresolved conflicts, it makes it
difficult for us to open up in our
Healthy Communication: vital to
family life
communication.
E. Dishonesty: The Bible enjoins
us to speak the truth to one another.
It is difficult to build trust in an
atmosphere of dishonesty.
F. Guilt feeling: It is when we
162
feel we have done something
wrong or the feeling that we are
not up to the task and do not have
the opportunity to talk about it.
G. Suspicion: When we hold an
allegation about a member of the
family, it makes us keep certain
things from them and makes us
unable to share our deep secrets
with them.
IV. BUILDING EFFECTIVE
COMMUNICATION
PATTERNS
A. Characteristics of effective
communication in the home
1. A sense of freedom to express
yourself.
2. A sense of being understood
3. A sense of win-win arguments
4. A sense of being safe and
secured in the relationship
5. A reduction of tension
(Judson Switharsts, 1988)
B. How to build your lifeline to
communication
1. Acceptance:
We each have an emotional need
for unconditional acceptance from
the person closest to us. The fear
of being judged will keep us from
expressing ourselves.
2. Understanding:
Make it a practice to give each
other complete attention when
talking together. Don’t jump up to
conclusions about what a family
member is saying.
3. Attentive listening:
It means “What you have to say
is important because you are
important”.
C. How to replace
arguments with effective
communication
1. Do not let your disagreement
sound like disapproval.
2. Speak the truth in love.
3. Learn to share your feelings
with members of your family
without making them feel
criticized.
4. Learn to clarify unclear
statements without
interrupting one another.
5. Learn NOT to be defensive
when there is wrong doing
on your side. There is always
wrong on every person’s side.
“I was wrong” can prevent a
fight, even a divorce.
(Ed Wheat with Gloria O.
Perkins, Why Marriages Fail,
1998)

LIFE APPLICATION
1. What is the number one reason why you think couples disagree?
2. Why is it difficult for couples to say, “I am sorry,” or “I was wrong,”
to one another?
3. Why is there often conflicts between girls and their mums, and boys
and their dads? How can these differences be resolved?
4. What causes siblings to disagree and what help can parents offer to
resolve these?
DAILY BIBLE READING
Mon. Have pure thoughts - Phil. 4:8
Tues. Avoid unwholesome words - Eph. 4:29
Wed. Avoid selfish behaviours - Phil. 2:3-4
Thu. Demonstrate Godly love - 1 Cor. 13:4-7
Fri. Control your anger - Eph. 4:26-27
Sat. Bear one another’s burden - Gal. 6:2

163
 22
CENTRAL TRUTH
LESSON Healthy in-law relationship
is a necessary condition for
successful marriage.

RELATIONSHIP WITH IN-LAWS

MEMORY VERSE: If it is possible, as far as it depends on you,
live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this Lesson the student would be able to:
1. State the issues involved in in-law relationships.
2. Apply appropriate steps to improve in-law relationship.
LESSON TEXTS: Ruth 1:6-18, Exodus 18:1-9
Ruth 1:6-18 of another husband.” Then she
6. When Naomi heard in Moab kissed them goodbye and they
that the Lord had come to the wept aloud
aid of his people by provid- 10. and said to her, “We will go
ing food for them, she and her back with you to your people.”
daughters-in-law prepared to 11. But Naomi said, “Return home,
return home from there. my daughters. Why would you
7. With her two daughters-in-law come with me? Am I going to
she left the place where she had have any more sons, who could
been living and set out on the become your husbands?
road that would take them back 12. Return home, my daughters; I
to the land of Judah. am too old to have another hus-
8. Then Naomi said to her two band. Even if I thought there
daughters-in-law, “Go back, was still hope for me—even if I
each of you, to your mother’s had a husband tonight and then
home. May the Lord show you gave birth to sons—
kindness, as you have shown 13. would you wait until they grew
kindness to your dead husbands up? Would you remain unmar-
and to me. ried for them? No, my daugh-
9. May the Lord grant that each of ters. It is more bitter for me
you will find rest in the home than for you, because the Lord’s

164
 hand has turned against me!”
14. At this they wept aloud again.
Then Orpah kissed her mother-
in-law goodbye, but Ruth clung
to her.
15. “Look,” said Naomi, “your sis-
ter-in-law is going back to her
people and her gods. Go back
with her.”
16. But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge
me to leave you or to turn back
from you. Where you go I will
go, and where you stay I will
stay. Your people will be my
people and your God my God.
17. Where you die I will die, and
there I will be buried. May the
Lord deal with me, be it ever
so severely, if even death sepa-
rates you and me.”
18. When Naomi realized that Ruth
was determined to go with her,
she stopped urging her.
Exodus 18:1-9
1. Now Jethro, the priest of
Midian and father-in-law of
Moses, heard of everything
God had done for Moses and
for his people Israel, and how
the Lord had brought Israel out
of Egypt.
2. After Moses had sent away his
wife Zipporah, his father-in-
law Jethro received her
165
3. and her two sons. One son was
named Gershom, for Moses
said, “I have become a foreigner
in a foreign land”;
4. and the other was named
Eliezer, for he said, “My
father’s God was my helper;
he saved me from the sword of
Pharaoh.”
5. Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law,
together with Moses’ sons
and wife, came to him in the
wilderness, where he was
camped near the mountain of
God.
6. Jethro had sent word to him, “I,
your father-in-law Jethro, am
coming to you with your wife
and her two sons.”
7. So Moses went out to meet his
father-in-law and bowed down
and kissed him. They greeted
each other and then went into
the tent.
8. Moses told his father-in-law
about everything the Lord
had done to Pharaoh and the
Egyptians for Israel’s sake and
about all the hardships they had
met along the way and how the
Lord had saved them.
9. Jethro was delighted to hear
about all the good things the
Lord had done for Israel in
rescuing them from the hand of
the Egyptians.
 LESSON OUTLINE
I. Necessity of Healthy In-Law Relationship
II. How to Develop Healthy In-Law Relationship
III. Benefits of Healthy In-Law Relationship

BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
In some parts of the world,
marriage is an exclusive
relationship between a man and
a woman. However, within the
African setting, the unity of
married couples does not preclude
the need for good relationship
that ought to exist with relatives –
especially the in-laws. In-laws are
the parents, the siblings, and close
relatives of one’s spouse. The
Bible enjoins Christians to live in
peace with all people.
...as far as possible live in peace
with everyone
166
In Ghana and many other
African communities, there are
many situations that call for the
collaboration, cooperation and
consent of the in-laws. Namely –
naming of children, marriage of
one’s children, burial and funeral
ceremonies of spouse, inheritance
or property sharing and other
social issues.
There is also the need for
right courtesies in fostering
good relationship. Spouses of
some cross-cultural marriages
sometimes are confronted with
“culture shock” when dealing
with in-laws. Culture shock means
the disorientation one experiences
when one finds oneself in a
different cultural setting with
their ways of life, value systems,
and courtesies which makes one
confused, afraid, and insecure.
It is therefore necessary for people
to have adequate knowledge of
the culture of their spouse: the
right approach, reception and
greeting of one’s in-laws; what
constitute respect or disrespect of
one’s in-laws and other issues that
can promote good relationship.
It is unfortunate that the issue
of in-law relationship is not
addressed in most marriage books.
Christians should not pretend that
their in-laws do not matter in
their marriages since many family
troubles are rooted in strained in-
law relationships.
N.B. Due to the practical nature
of this lesson, emphasis should
be on discussion focusing on the
scripture references given.
I. NECESSITY OF
HARMONIOUS IN-LAW
RELATIONSHIP-
Exodus 18:1-9, 24-27
A. Marriage brings the
families of spouses together. By
this, the spouses must reckon each
other’s parents, siblings and other
close relations as their own.
The parents and other relatives
must have the same mind towards
the spouses with the attendant
trust and confidence.
B. Couples may need the help of
in-laws in challenging times. The
need may not necessarily have to
do with finances but it could be
counselling or direction or some
important information.
C. In-laws’ collaboration,
cooperation, and consent at certain
occasions (Naming ceremonies,
167
marriage of one’s children, burial
and funeral ceremonies, sharing
of property etc) are indispensable.
II. HOW TO DEVELOP
HARMONIOUS IN-LAW
RELATIONSHIP –
Ruth 1:8-18
A. Loving devotion to God and
in-laws – Ruth 1:14; 1 Jn. 4:7-
12, 20-21
B. Lovely demonstration of
godly principles towards in-
laws – Jn. 13:34-35.
• Love your in-laws as your
own parents and they will love
you in return – Proverbs 16:7.
• Love difficult in-laws –
Romans 12:19-21; Proverbs
15:21-22
C. Loyal dedication to spouse
and in-laws – Ruth 1:16-17
• Loyalty is necessary in
relationships
• Avoid suspicion and baseless
accusations against in-laws
(This is the cause of many
rifts between wives and their
mothers-in-law).
III. BENEFITS OF
HARMONIOUS IN-LAW
RELATIONSHIP –
Exodus 3:1; Ruth 2
A. Peaceful coexistence of
spouses/family
B. Sowing and reaping is a
 principle that is applicable in
every human endeavour. Both
spouses and in-laws must
consciously sow positive acts
and attitudes in each other.
C. Mutual Benefits: Both the
spouses and the in-laws stand
to benefit from harmonious
relationship.
• Moses served his father-in-
law. Exodus 3:1
• Moses benefited from his
good relationship with his
father-in-law.
- In the care of his family in
critical times. Exodus 18:2, 3
- Learned the need for
“Delegation of Responsibility”
from Jethro which helped him
in his leadership administration
(Exodus 18:13-27).
• Through Moses, Hobab
(Moses brother-in-law) shared
in the promised blessing of
Israel. Numbers 10:29 – 32
(cf. Judges 1:16; 4:11).
• Ruth served Naomi, her
mother-in-law.
• Naomi influenced Ruth’s
relationship with Boaz (Ruth
2).
• Thus, good in-law relationship
is beneficial to both the married
couple and their relatives.

LIFE APPLICATION
1. What are some of the factors that give rise to misunderstanding
between in-laws?
2. How can such misunderstandings be resolved?
3. Why are mothers-in-law often perceived as trouble makers?
4. Name some of the causes of misunderstanding that brothers and
sisters-in-law may cause to the marriage of their siblings?
5. What would you do as an individual to enhance your relationship
with your in-laws.
DAILY BIBLE READING
Mon. Promote marital union - Matt. 19:4-6
Tues. Love as Christ loved - Eph. 5:23-33
Wed. The two shall be one - Gen. 2:24-25
Thu. Honour your in-laws - Ruth 1:1-22
Fri. Do not speak evil against one another - James 4:11-12
Sat. Tempted by lust - James 1:14-15
168
CENTRAL TRUTH
Conflict can strengthen a family
relationship if members of the family
LESSON 23
choose biblical principles in resolving
it.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN
THE FAMILY
MEMORY VERSE: Be kind and compassionate to one another,
forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this Lesson the student would be able to:
1. Identify some causes of conflict in the family.
2. Resolve conflicts in family using biblical principles.
LESSON TEXTS: Ephesians 4:25-27, 29-32

25. Therefore each of you must
put off falsehood and speak
truthfully to your neighbour,
for we are all members of one
body.
26. “In your anger do not sin”: Do
not let the sun go down while
you are still angry,
27. and do not give the devil a
foothold.
29. Do not let any unwholesome
talk come out of your mouths,
but only what is helpful for
building others up according to
their needs, that it may benefit
those who listen.
30. And do not grieve the Holy
Spirit of God, with whom you
were sealed for the day of
redemption.
31. Get rid of all bitterness, rage
and anger, brawling and
slander, along with every form
of malice.
32. Be kind and compassionate
to one another, forgiving each
other, just as in Christ God
forgave you.

169
 LESSON OUTLINE
I. CAUSES AND EFFECTS
OF FAMILY CONFLICTS
A. Conflict defined.
B. Causes of conflicts.
C. Effects of conflict.
D. Divine benefits of
conflict.
INTRODUCTION
Conflict in family is inevitable in
view of the fact that people differ
in nature, opinions, temperaments,
orientations, perceptions and
preferences. Marriage as the
foundation of the family is not
exempt from conflicts. The
institution of Marriage is a
training school through which
God teaches couples about love.
In any school setting, tests are
expected. Conflicts therefore are
to be expected as normal in the
school of marriage. The fact that
a couple may be going through
marital conflict is not sinful in
itself. What is important however
is the way that conflict is managed
for the benefit of the family.
Like fire or water, conflict is a
powerful force and it can work for
good or for bad. One cannot avoid
conflict in the family, but one can
either choose to make conflict
170
II. RESOLVING FAMILY
CONFLICTS
A. Reactions to conflict.
B. Styles of managing
conflicts.
C. Steps to resolving
conflicts.
work to strengthen one’s family or
destroy it.
VICES THAT ENGENDER
CONFLICTS
Paul in the above passage
admonishes that when people
become Christians, they must put
off their old life in as much as they
would put off their old clothes for
which they have no further use.
The traits of the old life that are to
be banished, include:
• Falsehood – including
deliberate and unconscious
lies. This has the tendency
of destabilizing oneness in
families, and the body of
Christ.
• Anger – A Christian may be
angry, but it must be for a
just cause. Jesus our perfect
example, was angry at the
rigid application of the law by
the Scribes and Pharisees to
impose unnecessary suffering
 BIBLE EXPOSITION
on a fellow human being
as they watched to see if he
would heal the man with
withered hand on the Sabbath
day (Mark 3:5). He was also
angry when he drove out the
money changers and traders
from the Temple courts (John.
2:13-17).
Paul however, cautions that
Christians must never let the
sun go down on their anger. The
wisdom in this advice is that the
longer we postpone resolving a
conflict, the less likely we will
ever be able to sort things out.
Therefore, if there should be any
conflict between married couples
or family members, the best way is
to deal with it as soon as possible.
The longer it is left to flourish,
the more bitter it will grow, and
thereby give the devil a foothold
in the relationship.
• Unwholesome talk – or outsiders) in the same way as
Christians should speak words
that build and not destroy
others (Job 4:4).
• Grieving the Holy Spirit –
Whenever we act contrary to
Biblical teaching, particularly
during conflict, we grieve the
Holy Spirit, and thereby hurt
171
the Triune God.
• Bitterness – As Christians,
we must avoid nursing anger
or brooding over insults and
offences we have received,
as well as long-standing
resentments.
• Rage, brawling, slander and
malice – Shouting at each
other or the use of insulting
language and spreading of
malicious information about
others are traits of the fallen
nature, and thus must be
banished.
Paul concludes his advice to
Christians with the admonishing
to be kind towards one another,
tender-hearted and forgiving
one another as God for Christ’s
sake has forgiven them. In other
words, he advices us to treat
others (whether family members
Christ has treated us. The virtues
of kindness, tender-heartedness
and forgiveness are the marks
of true Christian fellowship that
could always help to either prevent
or resolve conflicts.
I. CAUSES AND EFFECTS
OF FAMILY CONFLICTS
A. Conflict Defined
Conflict has been defined as “the
struggle between two opposing
forces where each of the opposing
forces (individual or group) tries
to drive home its desires, goals,
opinions as to what should prevail.
(New Encyclopaedia Britannica:
2003)
B. Causes Of Conflicts
Conflict occurs when people have
different views or beliefs that are
opposed to each other. Conflict
may also occur when couples
misunderstand each other and
jump to the wrong conclusions.
Family conflicts may emerge
from sources such as individual
differences, the need for autonomy,
competition for scarce resources,
failure in communication, poor
understanding of marital roles,
and unresolved disagreements.
Couples are advised to look out
for signals that serve as source of
conflict in the family. These may
include lack of cooperation, poor
communication and increased
verbal and non-verbal attacks
from each other. Each stage of the
family cycle may bring with it new
and different stresses or potential
conflicts. These transitions that a
family goes through may include
learning to live as a new couple,
managing a new born baby and
172
subsequent children, seeing a child
through school, and grooming a
young person into adulthood.
Changes in the family situation of
a couple can also take a toll on the
family, leading to conflict. Such
changes may include separation or
divorce, relocating to new place or
change in financial circumstances
of the couple.
C. Effects Of Conflict
Satan often takes advantage
of disagreements in the family
by making it work to fulfil his
purposes. He is the father of lies
(John 8:44), and so he craftily
makes one believe the lie that the
other family member is an enemy.
Satan comes only to steal, to kill
and to destroy (John 10:10). In
a conflict situationin the family,
Satan seeks to steal the closeness,
love and communication that
exist. He is able to achieve this by
encouraging misunderstanding,
distance and silence. Ultimately,
his goal is to kill the relationship
and destroy the family by making
them dishonour the family bonds.
D. Divine Benefits Of
Conflict
Thankfully, God also can use
conflict situations in the family
to fulfil His higher purposes in a
relationship (Gen. 50:20). God
can also use conflict to teach
couples unconditional love (1 Cor.
13:5), unlimited forgiveness (Col.
3:13), selflessness, humility (Phil
2:3) and perseverance, leading
to character refinement and
maturity (Jam. 1:2-4). Conflict
therefore can lead to greater
understanding, closeness and
character refinement; and thereby
strengthen the family relationship
if the members choose Biblical
processes of resolution.
II. RESOLVING OF FAMILY
CONFLICTS
A. Reactions To Conflict
Depending on one’s relationship
with Christ, a person may react to a
conflict situation either negatively
or positively.
1. Negative Reactions:
Negative reactions to conflict may
include the following:
• Denial – pretending that no
problem exists or refusing to
do what needs to be done (1
Sam 2:22-25).
• Flight – Ending the
relationship or filing for
divorce (Gen 16:6-8).
• Suicide – Thinking that death
will end the matter (Matt.
27:1-5).
• Assault – Verbal attacks,
gossip, slander, physical
violence or assault.
173
• Litigation – Although
conflicts involving criminal
offences may legitimately
be taken to the law courts,
law suits usually damage
relationships. Christians are
therefore admonished to settle
their differences within the
confines of the church (1 Cor.
6:1-8).
• Murder – People can go to
the extent of killing in their
attempt to win disputes.
2. Postive Reactions:
The above reactions to conflict
can all be classified as non-
Christian reactions which must be
avoided at all cost. The Christian’s
reaction to conflict should be that
of depending on God to use the
situation to teach unconditional
love, unlimited forgiveness, and
for developing authentic Christian
character which honours God as
well as serve as a testimony to
the world. These reactions are
positive, transformational and
Bible based.
B. STYLES OF MANAGING
CONFLICTS
Individuals may adopt different
styles of managing family conflicts
depending upon their backgrounds,
upbringing, temperaments and
level of maturity in the Lord. The
commonest styles often used are
“Must Win”, “Withdraw or yield”,
“Negotiate” and “Resolve”.
The “Must Win” style is more
often used by husbands who
feel insecure and threatened
when others disagree with their
opinions.
On the other hand, the “withdraw
or yield” style is often used by
spouses who feel that withdrawing
or yielding during a disagreement
is the best option to maintain peace
in the relationship, particularly
when one’s spouse is perceived as
a “Must Win” person. Sometimes
also, couples may adopt the
“Negotiate” approach in a conflict
situation in order to arrive at a
fair deal for each person. This
is essentially a give and take
approach where compromises are
made by both parties.
Although it may not be advisable
to condemn outright all the above
approaches to conflict resolution,
it is highly recommended that
Christian couples and family
members rely on God and explore
the “resolve” approach whenever
conflicts occur in their family.
This is where couples choose to
listen carefully to each other and
try to understand and appreciate
the other person’s viewpoints,
feelings, and reasoning in order
174
to help arrive at an appropriate
conclusion in resolving the conflict.
This helps to build on the oneness
of the marriage relationship and
leads to greater understanding and
closeness of the family, thereby
glorifying God.(A Pre-Marriage
Counselling Handbook by Allan
…as far as possible live in peace with
everyone
Goerz with T.B. Dankwah;
Challenge Enterprises of Ghana,
1984)
C. STEPS TO RESOLVING
CONFLICTS
Whenever conflict occurs in a
Christian home, frantic efforts
should be made to resolve it as
quickly as possible in order not
to give Satan a foothold in the
family. The following processes
are recommended as Christ-
honouring steps for resolving
conflicts in a Christian home.
1. Keep in mind that your goal is
 to resolve the conflict, and not
to win an argument.
2. Remember that the other party
is not obliged to agree with
you on everything.
3. Learn to control your anger
(Gen 4:3-8). Pray and ask God
to help you bring the anger
under control (Eph. 4:26-27).
4. Keep the conflict a private
affair, and avoid taking it to
outsiders, particularly friends.
5. Take time to talk in turns about
the conflict and the resolving
process. This involves
praying, listening to each
other attentively and stating
each person’s view point
openly and honestly. In this
process, it is helpful to define
the problem and stick to it.
Stay calm and put all emotions
aside. Also, avoid interrupting
the other person while he or
she speaks. Make sure you
understand the other person
by asking relevant questions,
and aim at attacking the
problem, and not the person.
If at any time in the process
of talking, the parties realize
that emotions are getting out
of control, they should agree
to take “time out” in order to
175
cool off and revisit the issue
once again when tempers are
well under control.
6. Work as a team in seeking a
God-honouring solution to
the conflict. Once both parties
understand the views and
feelings of each other, they
should work out a solution
together. They may come
up with as many alternative
solutions as possible, and
stick to what would be best
for their relationship.
7. Focus on changing your
behaviour. Often the solution
to a conflict would require a
change in behaviour of both
parties. Each person should
focus on changing his or her
own behaviour, and allow the
other party to work on his or
hers.
8. Finally, choose to forgive
each other, and continue to
live in peace without holding
anything against one another.
(A Pre-Marriage Counselling
handbook - by Allan Goerz
with T.B Dankwah)
 LIFE APPLICATION QUESTIONS
1. What are some of the causes of family conflicts?
2. How do “outsiders” become a source of family conflict in the
home?
3. What are some of the consequences of unresolved family
conflicts?
4. What practical steps should a family take to resolve their
differences?

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. Avoid confrontation - Matt. 18:15-17
Tue. Do not judge hastily - James 1:19-20
Wed. Tolerate one another - 1 Peter 3:8-11
Thu. Do not revenge - Matt. 5:38-42
Fri. Vengeance belongs to God - Rom. 12:17-21
Sat. Avoid bitterness - Heb. 12:15-16

176
CENTRAL TRUTH
God has provided a means
of escape from the bondage
LESSON 24
of every addiction.

THERE IS HOPE FOR THE

ALCOHOLIC
MEMORY VERSE: Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to
debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Ephesian 5:18
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this Lesson the student would be able to:
1. State the biblical view on alcoholism
2. Avoid the temptation of alcoholism
LESSON TEXTS: Proverbs 23:31-35; Ephesians 5:15-18.
Proverbs 23:31-35 36. When will I wake up so I can
31. Do not gaze at wine when it is find another drink?”
red, when it sparkles in the cup, Ephesians 5:15-18
when it goes down smoothly!
15. Be very careful, then, how you
32. In the end it bites like a snake live—not as unwise but as wise,
and poisons like a viper.
16. making the most of every
33. Your eyes will see strange opportunity, because the days
sights, and your mind will are evil.
imagine confusing things.
17. Therefore do not be foolish, but
34. You will be like one sleeping understand what the Lord’s will
on the high seas, lying on top of is.
the rigging.
18. Do not get drunk on wine,
35. “They hit me,” you will say, which leads to debauchery.
“but I’m not hurt! They beat Instead, be filled with the Spirit,
me, but I don’t feel it!

177
 LESSON OUTLINE
I. ALCOHOLISM – A TRAP
A. A Little Alcohol May Be
Too Much
B. Social Drinking –
A Deception
II. ALCOHOLISM CAUSES
TRAGEDIES
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
Alcoholism has been an age-old
addiction plaguing (destroying)
mankind with far reaching
consequences for families and
generations – it destroys lives and
disintegrates society. It is tearing
up the national moral fabric.
Christians cannot take a posture
of neutrality about it. They must
be determined to address the
relevant issues and in fulfilling
the mandate of reaching the lost,
offer the necessary help to persons
caught in the trap of Alcoholism.
Unfortunately, some Christians
are in the habit of drinking in
secrecy.
This lesson seeks to provide the
biblical perspective to this canker
and God’s provision for getting off
the tentacles of this “Satanic tool”.
I. ALCOHOLISM – A TRAP
178
A. Self-Inflicted
B. Total Destruction
III. THE ANTIDOTE
A. Call to Holiness
B. Call to Abstinence
– Prov. 23:31-33
A. A Little Alcohol May Be Too
Much
The Christian who advocates
or condones “drinking in
moderation” is providing Satan
an opening he would not have
had with an individual committed
to total abstinence. By medical
definition, alcohol is a drug. The
moderate drinker is naïve if he
does not recognize the risk of
eventually becoming addicted.
God’s Word gives clear warning
of the final tragedy, in the end it
“bites like a serpent, and stings
like a viper” (Proverbs 23:32).
The individual who refuses
to have anything to do with
such a dangerous taskmaster is
wise indeed. No alcoholic ever
intended to become an alcoholic
when he/she took the first drink
and no individual who persistently
refuses to take the first drink could
ever become an alcoholic. The
church of Jesus Christ must take a
bold stand against this evil.
B. Social Drinking –
A Deception
The term social drinking may
connote or mean “drinking in a
social gathering in order to feel
accepted” as opposed to drinking
regardless of the environment.
There was a time it would have
been unthinkable that one would
have to speak out against social
drinking among Christians.
Presently, however, this problem
has crept in quietly and grown
to distressing proportions
across the world and this shows
what a powerful and insidious
(deceptive) influence the present
age exerts on the church of Jesus
Christ. The Holy Spirit can deliver
people from the shackles of social
drinking. All who may have fallen
into his bondage ought to cry out
for God’s help immediately.
Invariably many people who
experience psychological
problems are tempted (and some of
them unfortunately are Christians)
to seek an easy solution in “a little
bit” of alcohol. But what is used as
a supposed cure has caused even
greater problems. We are set free
from psychological and spiritual
179
problems not through a drug that
dissipates and destroys us when
we submit to its influence but
through surrender to Jesus Christ,
for He was anointed and “sent to
heal the broken-hearted, to preach
deliverance to the captives to set
at liberty them that are bruised”
(Luke 4:18).
II. ALCOHOLISM CAUSES
TRAGEDIES – Prov. 23:33
-35
A. Self-Inflicted
Drinking of Alcohol on the onset
has the trappings of excitement
and thus urges the unsuspecting
casual drinker on. Eventually, the
victim willingly makes a choice
which leads to habit, with the
attendant dire consequences.
Noah , after saving his family
from the destruction of the
Flood, planted a vineyard,
made wine, feasted on it and
became intoxicated, and brought
disastrous results on himself and
his family (Genesis 9:20-27).
Noah was no doubt surprised, upon
his return to sobriety and clear
thinking, to realize his simple act
of taking a drink had ended in such
shame. Also, the two daughters
of Lot made their father drink
liquor until he became drunk; then
they committed incest with him
(Genesis 19:30-38).Belshazzar, in
a state of drunkenness, committed
sacrilege with sacred vessels from
the Jewish temple. That very night
he was killed as fulfilment of
prophecy (Daniel 5).
Christ provides deliverance
from alcoholism
B. Total Destruction
The eventual effects of alcohol are
vividly described in Proverbs 23.
There is a physical and emotional
impact. “Who has woe? Who has
sorrow? Who has complaints?
Who has wounds without cause?
Who has redness of eyes?”
(Proverbs 23:29, NKJV). The
answer is obvious “Those who
linger long at the wine” (vs 30).
But the woe, the sorrow, the
contention, the complaints, the
injuries, are not reserved for the
drunkard in the gutter. They begin
all too frequently with the social
drinker.
180
Just like every other temptation
of Satan, the drinking of alcoholic
beverages has its attraction. Hence
the warning of the Scripture: “Do
not look on the wine when it is red,
when it swirls around smoothly”
(Proverbs 23:31, NKJV). The
warning is so strong because the
attraction of the temptation soon
turns the pleasure seeker into a
pathetic embarrassment to the
human race: “Your eyes will see
strange things, and your heart
will utter perverse things” (23:33
NKJV). Even the normal physical
protection systems of pain and
caution are defeated by alcohol
(23:34, 35).
“Wine is a mocker, intoxicating
drink arouses brawling, and
whoever is led astray by it is not
wise.” (Proverbs 20: 1, NKJV)
God’s will is for His people to
abstain from this deceitful betrayer
that mocks and destroys the basic
dignity of mankind.
INSIGHT
A World Health Organization
(WHO) Global Status Report on
Alcohol estimates that there are
about 2 billion people worldwide
who consume alcoholic beverages
and 76.3 million with diagnosable
alcohol use disorders.
Alcohol consumption has health
and social consequences via
intoxication. In addition to
chronic diseases that may affect
drinkers after many years of
heavy use, alcohol contributes to
traumatic outcomes that kill or
disable at a relatively young age,
resulting in the loss of many years
of life due to death or disability.
There is increasing evidence that
besides volume of alcohol, the
pattern of the drinking determines
the health outcomes. Most health
professionals agree that alcohol
affects practically every organ
in the human body. Overall there
is a casual relationship between
alcohol consumption and more
than 200 types of disease and
injury. Alcohol is estimated
to cause about 20-30% of
oesophageal cancer, liver cancer,
cirrhosis of the liver, homicide,
epileptic seizures, and motor
vehicle accidents worldwide
(WHO, 2012).
Already, doctors are reporting
a steady rise in cases of Fetal
alcohol Syndrome, (FAS) where
children are born already drunk
because their mothers drank
heavily during pregnancy. Such
children will require a great deal
of medical care, which will tax an
181
already overburdened and under
resourced health system.
Those who do not get this care –
and there will be many – would
end up being at once a burden and
a loss to society, from alcoholics
to criminals to loafers who live
off the sweat of others. They will
be the architects and carpenters
and masons and accountants
whom we would need for national
development but would not have
because they were sick and could
not be educated.
Among men, liver diseases,
often associated with alcoholism,
are also reported to be on the
increase. The economic and
social implications – now and in
the future – are many. Extended
absenteeism from work by these
victims of excessive alcohol
consumption means loss of
family income and a step towards
poverty, or worsening of the
poverty situation.
Those unable to afford the
expensive treatment for kidney
diseases may eventually die,
leaving behind single-parent
families to fend for themselves.
To the degree that single-parent
families are more likely to be poor,
this too undermines any national
efforts at “poverty reduction”.
(www.modernghana.com)
III. THE ANTIDOTE
– Eph. 5:15-18
A. Call to Holiness
The standard for God’s people is
no less in the New Testament than
in the Old Testament. Warnings
about the abuses and excesses
of alcohol become in the New
Testament a call to holy living
through the power of the Holy
Spirit. Our bodies are the temples
of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians
6:19). We need to cleanse them
from all profane habits, including
alcohol. Opening up the human
temple to the possible influence
and control of alcohol is absolutely
contrary to the Biblical admonition
to keep those temples filled with
the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18).
The only safe way is to leave
alcoholic beverages alone.
First Timothy 3:3 states that a
bishop must be one “not given to
wine” A spiritual leader should
set the highest example for all
Christians to follow. The apostle
Paul willingly invited his fellow
believers to follow his example,
even as he followed the example
of Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).
A minister who drinks alcohol
risks disobedience to the Word of
God. Some well-meaning people
have misused the instruction
given by Paul to Timothy in 1
182
Timothy 5. When Paul suggested
that Timothy “Stop drinking
only water, and use a little wine
because of your stomach and your
frequent illness” (5:23, NIV), he
was not recommending wine as a
social drink. The fact that Paul had
to mention the medicinal use of
wine indicates rather strongly that
Timothy was already committed
to abstinence as a lifestyle.
INSIGHT
This text (1 Tim. 5:23) clearly
implies that Timothy did not
normally drink wine of any kind
– fermented or unfermented.
(Fermentation is the biochemical
process by which yeast acts on
sugars, breaking them down into
alcohol, causing a beverage to
become potentially intoxicating).
If it had been Timothy’s habit to
drink wine, Paul would not have
had to advise him to use a little wine
for medicinal purposes. Timothy’s
stomach trouble was probably due
to the alkali (a mineral salt) in the
water at Ephesus.
For this reason, Paul recommends
that Timothy use a little wine
with that water to neutralize its
harmful effect. Wine used for the
stomach, according to ancient
Greek writing on medicine, was
often unintoxicating. Athenaeus
states, “Let him take sweet
wine, either mixed with water
or warmed, especially that kind
called protropos [juices coming
from the grape before they are
pressed], as being good for the
stomach, for sweet wine does not
make the head heavy. (Fire Bible,
Global Study Edition 2010)
The call to holy living is most
appropriate for a Church that
looks with expectation for the
soon return of Jesus Christ and
the eventual inauguration of His
kingdom on earth. Jesus warned
His disciples, as well as all who
would live between their time
and the end time, “Take heed to
yourselves, lest your heart be
weighed down with carousing
drunkenness, and cares of this life
. . .” (Luke 21:34).
Watch therefore, and pray always
that you may be counted worthy
to escape all these things that
will come upon mankind at the
return of Jesus; our senses should
be as sharp and clear as they can
possibly be.
B. Call to Abstinence
Even in small amounts alcohol
begins its subtle work of
destruction, taking its toll on
mental and physical reactions.
God knew this fact very well when
He gave instructions that priests
183
and kings (spiritual and secular
leaders) should refrain from any
use of alcoholic beverages.
In the Old Testament instruction
to the Levites (the spiritual
leaders of Israel), priests were
commanded to abstain from wine
or intoxicating drink when they
went into the presence of the Lord
to minister (Leviticus 10:8-11).
This requirement of abstinence
was given so that the ministering
priest would be able to distinguish
between the holy and the unholy,
between the clean and the unclean,
and so he could be a teacher of all
the statutes of God.
Today, all born-again Christians
have been made priests to God
(1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 1:6). As
such we should always give our
best and be at our best in His
service. We believe that standard
of abstinence demanded of the
Old Testament priest should be the
standard of every Christian today.
We too must distinguish between
right and wrong. We must be
Spirit-led teachers in a society that
greatly needs divine instruction
and godly example.
Even secular leaders are advised
to abstain from alcohol. “It is
not for kings to drink wine, nor
for princes intoxicating drink;
lest they drink and forget the
law, and pervert the justice of
all the afflicted” (Proverbs 31:4,
5, NKJV). If the prohibition is
absolutely essential for spiritual
and secular leaders, it is certainly
essential for every believer. We
who are kings and priests unto
God (Revelation 1:6) must live
according to His standards.
Alcoholic beverages should
have no place in the life of the
Christian. Let there be no doubt
about the Assemblies of God stand
on this critical issue. We declare
unequivocally our conviction that
total abstinence from alcoholic
beverages is the only acceptable
way of life for the Christian.
We call upon every member and
adherent in our Organization,
including both the clergy and
the laity, to teach by word and
example a lifestyle that abstains
totally from the consumption of
alcoholic beverages.
To those in the grip of alcoholism
the Lord’s invitation is still open
“Come unto me, all ye that labour
and are heavy laden, and I will
give you rest.” (Matt. 11:28 KJV)

LIFE APPLICATION
The path to alcoholism starts with a careless attitude towards the
consumption of alcoholic beverages. The consequent high cost to
society human misery, destruction of property, insidious affliction lead
eventually to death. It is a clarion call for all Christians to reach out
to the unsuspecting youth of today especially with God’s word which
provides answers to the stress and peer pressures of this world which
invariably lead people subtly to Alcoholism.
As Christians we must draw a line on the use of alcohol. If we draw
the line of total abstinence we will save a multitude of young and old
people from the danger of alcoholism.
DAILY BIBLE READING
Mon: Source of Anguish and Sorrow. - Proverbs 23:29-30
Tue: Determine to Abstain. - Daniel 1:8
Wed: Keep your body holy. - 1 Cor. 3:16-17
Thu: Dangers of Alcohol. - Proverbs31:4-7
Fri: Maintain pure thoughts. - Philippians 4:8
Sat: Rest for the burdened. - Matthew 11:28

184
CENTRAL TRUTH
Pollution of the environment
threatens the survival of all
LESSON 25
living creatures.

CLEAN ENVIRONMENT: OUR

RESPONSIBILITY
MEMORY VERSE: I brought you into a fertile land to eat its fruit
and rich produce. But you came and defiled my land and made my
inheritance detestable. Jeremiah 2:7
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain the negative human actions that pollute the environment.
2. Desist from such negative acts and advise others accordingly.
LESSON TEXTS: Genesis 1:26-31; Isaiah 24:4-6
Gen. 1:26-31 the sea and the birds in the sky
26. Then God said, “Let us make and over every living creature
mankind in our image, in our that moves on the ground.”
likeness, so that they may 29. Then God said, “I give you
rule over the fish in the sea every seed-bearing plant on
and the birds in the sky, over the face of the whole earth and
the livestock and all the wild every tree that has fruit with
animals, and over all the seed in it. They will be yours
creatures that move along the for food.
ground.”
30. And to all the beasts of the
27. So God created mankind in earth and all the birds in the sky
his own image, in the image of and all the creatures that move
God he created them; male and along the ground—everything
female he created them. that has the breath of life in
28. God blessed them and said to it—I give every green plant for
them, “Be fruitful and increase food.” And it was so.
in number; fill the earth and 31. God saw all that he had made,
subdue it. Rule over the fish in and it was very good. And there
185
 was evening, and there was
morning—the sixth day.
Isaiah 24:4-6
4. The earth dries up and withers,
the world languishes and
withers, the heavens languish
with the earth.
5. The earth is defiled by its
people; they have disobeyed
LESSON OUTLINE
I. POLLUTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
II. EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
III. PREVENTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL
POLLUTION
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION Today’s lesson is to remind us
When God created the earth, He
gave all living things the ability
to reproduce and replenish the
earth. God then gave humans
the special duty to watch over
the land. This duty is vital to
sustaining all life. If human
beings are good stewards of the
land it will continue to sustain
all life and provide a means of
livelihood...When we neglect
this duty, the land will not only
fail to produce food but also
become unfit for all living things.
(Africa Study Bible, 2016. p.8).
186
the laws, violated the statutes
and broken the everlasting
covenant.
6. Therefore a curse consumes
the earth; its people must bear
their guilt. Therefore, earth’s
inhabitants are burned up, and
very few are left.
of our responsibility towards
the environment and the need to
preserve it.
I. POLLUTION OF THE
ENVIRONMENT
In Genesis 1:26 the Hebrew
word translated “reign over”
(some older translations say
‘’have dominion over’’) means
to take responsibility for and
protect. In Genesis 2:15 the
Hebrew words translated ‘’tend’’
and ‘’watch over’’ mean to serve
and preserve. We are to serve the
land, not dominate it. God has
commanded us to care for the
wellbeing of all he has created,
to preserve creatures and plants
so they survive and thrive. God
made the world and said it was
very good. He told us to care for
it. We should understand some
of the threats to God’s creation
and what we can do about it.’’
(Africa Study Bible. p.74-75)
Environmental Pollution is
the addition of any substance
(solid, liquid or gas) or any
form of energy (such as heat,
sound or radioactivity) to the
environment at a rate faster
than it can be dispersed, diluted,
decomposed, recycled, or stored
in some harmless form. (Jerry
A. Nathanson –Encyclopaedia
Britanica).
Environmental pollution can
be caused by natural events
such as forest fires and volcanic
activities. However the word
‘pollution’ implies that the
contaminants (substances that
contaminate or pollute the
environment) come from sources
created by human activity. The
major kinds of pollution are:
air pollution, water pollution,
and land pollution. Modern
activities and achievements have
187
brought along their trail other
forms of pollution such as: noise
pollution, light pollution, and
plastic pollution.
There are many ways by
which we have neglected our
responsibility and abused the
land. We have spoiled the land,
contaminated the air we breathe
and polluted the water we drink.
The plastic bags and containers
we carelessly throw away are
major problems. Our industries
put harmful chemicals into the air
and water to destroy plants and
animal life. The results of such
abuse are very big- including
flooding, drought, disease and
pestilence. Cutting down our
forests either to expand our
cities or for firewood contribute
to significant changes in the
environment... (Africa Study
Bible p.8).
II. EFFECTS OF
ENVIRONMENTAL
POLLUTION
“Since primitive times man has
been altering his environment
dramatically in ways that upset
the ecological balances. Early
hunters used fire to drive out their
game (animals). Agricultural
people everywhere clear their
fields and dam streams and wipe
out stock predators and kill plants
that get in the way of their chosen
crops”. Peter Lewis (God’s Hall
of Fame p.16, Christian Focus
Publishers 1999). Environmental
degradation continues to be on
the ascendancy. This has caused
extinction of many plant and
animal species.
There is a popular saying that:
“Present generation does not
own the environment; it holds it
in trust for the next generation”.
This means that we may explore
and exploit the creation of God,
be it the sky, the soil, the flora
and fauna or the water bodies
but we should not over exploit or
pollute it so as to deny the future
generation of the benefit of such
natural resources .
Environmental Pollution is
harmful to all creatures in
general; especially to human
beings, animals and plants.
When the air, water bodies and
land are polluted it negatively
affects the creatures that depend
on them for survival.
Environmental Pollution has a
lot of harmful effects on human
health. When food crops or
medicinal plants absorb polluted
materials from the soil or the
atmosphere, they eventually
188
pass them on to humans who
use them. It results in many
types of diseases. Air pollution
also causes many sicknesses
including respiratory, heart and
eye problems.
Agrochemicals as well as traces
of pollutants in chemicals used
in the production of processed
foods can cause cancer. It
must be noted that insanitary
conditions in our environments
are the causes of diseases such
as malaria, hepatitis, typhoid,
diarrhoea, cholera etc.
Effects on Animals:
Environmental pollution causes
harm to the living environment of
animals. Acid rains, pesticides,
weedicides, chemical fertilizer,
industrial wastes and chemicals
from mining sites eventually
end up in rivers, seas, and other
water bodies. These harmful
chemicals affect the composition
of the water making it toxic
(poisonous) to aquatic creatures
and other animals including
humans.
Effects on Plants: Environmental
pollution likewise poses great
danger to the survival of plants.
Pesticides, weedicides, and
chemical fertilizers, if not
properly regulated, can be
harmful to plant life. Ozone in
the lower atmosphere can block
plant respiration.
The soil is another aspect of God’s
creation that is indispensable to
all living organisms. All kinds of
plants, great and small, grow on
the soil to provide food and other
forms of support to all creatures
including human beings. The soil
therefore needs to be nourished to
perform its God-given functions.
Rotten trees, leaves, flowers,
fruits, vegetables, animals
and other foodstuffs serve as
nourishment or organic fertilizer
helping the soil to perform its
natural function producing food
medicinal plants etc. However,
the soil can also be polluted.
Soil pollution occurs when man-
made (inorganic) chemicals
(originally not found in nature)
get into the soil.
III. PREVENTION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL
POLLUTION
The rampant environmental
degradation taking place
worldwide today is one of
the moral issues ignored by
Christians. It is clear from both
the Old and New Testament
that nature occupies a special
189
place in the heart of God, as the
Psalmist indicated in Psalm 147,
all nature declares praise to God.
Irresponsible Home &
Responsible Home
Paul also said that the creation
shows God’s “eternal power and
divine nature”(Romans 1:20).
God pays attention to the life
and death of even a sparrow
(Deuteronomy 22:6-7; Matthew
10:29; Luke 12:6). If God cares
so much about nature, we must
too.
Not only does the destruction of
nature show disrespect for God
and the environment He created,
it also shows a lack of concern for
the consequences environmental
destruction has on humanity
forcurrent and future generations
(micahgbennett@yahoo.com).
As the data continues to come
in, we are beginning to see more
clearly the real connections
between environmental pollution
and degradation and worsening
health and livelihood both at a
local and global level
We Christians are in a unique
position to offer thoughtful
solutions to the environmental
and natural resource problems
and issues we face in the world
today.
We find the origin of man’s
responsibility for nature in God’s
commands to Adam. From
the two accounts in Genesis
1 and 2, God declares man’s
responsibility to “subdue” and
have “dominion” over the earth
and its creatures (Genesis 1:28),
but also he is to “work” (or “till”)
and “keep” the Garden, and by
extension, nature (Genesis 2:15).
According to Strong’s
concordance the Hebrew word
for “work” in this passage means
to use, and the word translated
“keep” means to guard, to
protect, and to preserve. Thus,
from the very beginning God
expected us to use the products
of nature for his sustenance,
likewise, to be responsible in
its use and to preserve the life-
giving systems and creatures
190
of creation (micahgbennett@
yahoo.com).
Many of us Christians today
seem to be unconcerned about
environmental issues. Although
God promised to help His people,
this providential care will not
protect us from the results of
human sin and negligence. We
live in a sin-altered, fallen world
in which the consequences of
our actions are felt every day.
Whatever one sows, that will he
also reap(Gal. 6:7).
Many might say environmental
protection is not important in
Christianity, but by examining
the Scriptures we see its place
in the heart of God and its
connection to the mission of
Christ and the church. We
increasingly face environmental
issues in our society today, and
the church cannot be silent or
ignorant of the responsibility we
have been given to be stewards of
God’s creation. As we examine
the theme of environmental
stewardship in the Bible, let us
not neglect our responsibility in
this regard.
 LIFE APPLICATION QUESTIONS
1. What are some of the things we do that result in environmental
Pollution? Discuss
2. What must we do to avoid environmental Pollution? Discuss
3. Name some of the effects of environmental pollution.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon. Respect for the environment - Exodus 23:10-12
Tue. Being responsible for your actions. – Genesis 3:13
Wed. Positively dominating God’s creation – Gen 1:26
Thu. Sense of preserving nature – Psalm 104:27-30
Fri. Do not defile His land – Jeremiah 2:7
Sat. Care and respect for wildlife - Deuteronomy 25:4

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 CENTRAL TRUTH
LESSON 26 Jesus, the eternal Word,
became flesh that He might
bring light and life to all
who believe.

THE LIVING WORD (CHRISTMAS)

MEMORY VERSE: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word
was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain why Jesus is the Word
2. Believe in Jesus as the Word
LESSON TEXT: John 1:1-17

1. In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God,
and the Word was God.
2. He was with God in the
beginning.
3. Through him all things were
made; without him nothing was
made that has been made.
4. In him was life, and that life
was the light of all mankind.
5. The light shines in the darkness,
and the darkness has not
overcome it.
6. There was a man sent from God
whose name was John.
7. He came as a witness to testify
concerning that light, so that
through him all might believe.
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8. He himself was not the light; he
came only as a witness to the
light.
9. The true light that gives light to
everyone was coming into the
world.
10. He was in the world, and
though the world was made
through him, the world did not
recognize him.
11. He came to that which was
his own, but his own did not
receive him.
12. Yet to all who did receive
him, to those who believed in
his name, he gave the right to
become children of God—
13. children born not of natural
 descent, nor of human decision
or a husband’s will, but born of
God.
14. The Word became flesh and
made his dwelling among us.
We have seen his glory, the
glory of the one and only Son,
who came from the Father, full
of grace and truth.
15. John testified concerning him.
He cried out, saying, “This is
LESSON OUTLINE
I. REVELATION OF THE
WORD
A. Living and Eternal
B. The Giver of Life
II. REJECTION OF THE
WORD
A. Coming into the World
B. Unrecognized and
BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION
As we approach the Christmas
celebration, the world is taken up
with Father Christmas, gifts and
decorations. In the midst of it they
may even tolerate the Baby in the
manager. They may become even
somewhat sentimental about Him.
Our focus on Christmas should not
only be Jesus born in Bethlehem.
Actually, it is rather tragic to
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the one I spoke about when I
said, ‘He who comes after me
has surpassed me because he
was before me.’ ”
16. Out of his fullness we have all
received grace in place of grace
already given.
17. For the law was given through
Moses; grace and truth came
through Jesus Christ.
Rejected
III. RECEPTION OF THE
WORD
A. Sonship conferred
B. Grace and Truth
Experienced
walk among the crowds that
fill our department stores at
Christmastime and realize that
few know Him and even fewer are
asking the question, “Who is this
Jesus who is called the Christ?”
Interestingly many who bear
His Name and call themselves
Christians would not recognize
Him if He were to come into our
midst today.
May we take every opportunity
to declare that the message of
Christmas is not just about a
Baby in a manger. Its theme is the
eternal Son of God who left His
glory, humbled Himself to take
a place with us in a true human
life, and then took our place on
Calvary to receive the judgment
our sin deserves. The message of
Christmas is the story of Love that
brings us deliverance from the
slavery of sin, gives us privileges
of being God’s children, provides
light and guidance for our lives
now, and ultimately receives us
into eternal glory.
I. REVELATION OF THE
WORD - John 1:1-4
A. Living and Eternal- V 1-2
The story of Christmas does not
begin at the manger of Bethlehem
nor even with the angel’s visit to
Mary on the hills of Nazareth.
To help us understand what
happened, John begins his Gospel
by taking us back to the very
beginning, back before the first
star was placed in the heavens,
before the first angel became a
swift messenger of God’s will.
There in the timeless past the all-
pervasive presence of God filled
a universe where no created thing
had yet come into being. In that
dateless eternity of long ago, the
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Son of God already bore the title
“the Word.”
The Bible gives many names
and titles. Each one expresses
something about His character
or ministry. He is called Lord
to express our relationship to
Him under the new covenant.
He is called Jesus to express His
ministry as the Saviour of the
world. He is called Christ because
He is the Anointed One sent from
God to do God’s work as Prophet,
Priest, and King.
He is called the Lamb of God
because He gave Himself on the
cross in our place and on our
behalf. He is called Immanuel
because He is God-with-us. He is
the Good Shepherd, the Door,
the Way, the true Bread of Life,
the True Vine. These and many
other names and titles give us
insight into the infinite and many-
sided character of the Son of God.
But the first of all His titles is “the
Word”
Why is Jesus called “the word”?
For what purpose are words
used? Are they not intended to
convey one person’s thoughts and
meaning to another person’s heart
and mind? Words are wonderful
things. What would we do without
them? No pantomime (drama
without speech) can give the full
expression of thoughts, ideas,
and desires that words can. We
use words to reveal what we feel
inside and what we are like in our
hearts. Just so, God has revealed
himself through the living Word,
His Son. Through Jesus we
come to know God and His love.
Through Jesus we come to know
God’s grace, will, and power. He
is the “express image” of God’s
person (Hebrews 1:3). He does
more than bring God’s message.
He is God’s message.
How does this passage relate “the
Word to God”?
1. The Word was with God.
This means more than mere
existence alongside God. The
Greek preposition translated
“with” is not the ordinary word
so translated. In fact, the same
word used here is translated 539
times in the King James Version
as “to, unto, or towards.”It always
implies mutual fellowship and
intercommunication. Thus, as the
Word with God, the son was face-
to-face with God in close, personal
relationship, a relationship that
had no beginning and which will
have no end, for it is part of the
eternal nature of God.
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How does this show that the Word
was not a mere thing or idea or
principle? It is impossible to have
fellowship with a thing, idea, or
principle. Both communication
and fellowship demand the
presence of another person. This
fellowship also implies prefect
and continuous harmony made
possible by love, for God is love
(1 John 4:16).
And the Word was God. John 1:1
To put it in another way, the
very fact that God is love made
necessary this personal fellowship
of the Word with God. The Bible
teaches that perfect love is active,
self-giving love. For its fullest
expression, it must also have a
response. Could God have been
love if there were ever a time
when He had no one but Himself
to love? Certainly not. All self-
centered love, all self-love is
condemned in the Bible. God
could be perfect love because
there was another Person within
the very Being of God. Thus
before that first Christmas Day, the
Father and Son had always shared
a glory and a fellowship far more
wonderful than our human minds
can comprehend.
2. The Word was God. He was
eternally and truly Deity. He
shares the nature and being of
God, yet with eternally separate
identity and personality. He did
not become God. He is God, has
always been God, and always will
be God. Why do people have so
much difficulty understanding
the nature of the divine Trinity?
We do not fully understand the
human trinity. We cannot always
draw the line between such things
as memory, emotions, and will. If
we cannot understand ourselves,
it should not seem strange if the
divine Trinity remains somewhat
of a mystery.
Comparisons with the human
trinity fall short too, for we are
limited beings, finite beings. On
the human level, we can have only
one person to one being. But God
is infinite and He is not subject
to human limitations. There is no
reason God, on the divine level,
cannot have three Persons to one
Being.
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Actually, in the final analysis,
we must put all illustrations and
comparisons aside. There is only
one Trinity. There is nothing else
like it. We must be satisfied to
know that the divine Word was
with God and that the Bible does
not get them mixed up. He was in
the beginning with God, and the
wonder of it is that on that first
Christmas day He came to be with
men.
Why does the Bible reemphasize
that He was in the beginning with
God? To emphasize that Jesus had
no beginning. He always was. He
said to John on the Isle of Patmos,
“I am Alpha and Omega, the
beginning and the ending, saith
the Lord, which is, and which was,
and which is to come” (Revelation
1:8). Not only was He in the
beginning, He is the beginning.
B. The Giver of Life –
John 1:3-4
When John wrote his Gospel,
some men were already saying
Jesus was a created being. They
made Him the first and highest
of God’s creation, but still only
a created being. But John states
that the Living word was Himself
the agent of creation. Nothing
came into being apart from His
action. There could be no clearer
way of saying that the Word was
not made. He did not come into
existence. He always was.
This adds to our knowledge gained
from the first chapter of Genesis.
There we see God as the Creator
with the Holy Spirit hovering
over what God has made. Now
we see Jesus as the Living Word
through whom God spoke the
worlds into existence. Through
Him also God took the clay and
formed it into man. Through Him
God breathed the breath of life so
that man became a living soul, a
living person. Ever since then,
men are sustained through Him.
“By Him all things consist (or
hold together)” (Colossians 1:17).
How was the life in Christ the
light of men in the days before
Jesus was born of Mary? All real
light came to men through the
ministry of the Living Word, the
son of God. There seems to be
a reference to Him as the Giver
of life and light in “the angel of
the Lord,” mentioned so often in
the Old Testament. Some ancient
Jewish commentators did, in fact,
describe this angel as “the Word of
the Lord.” The Bible describes the
angel differently from any other
angel. He is able to pardon sins.
The name of the Lord is in Him
(Exodus 23:20-23). “Mine angel
shall go before thee” is varied as
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“My presence (my face) shall go
with thee.” Thus, the face of the
Lord may be seen in Him. Jacob
identifies this angel with God
Himself and calls the place Peniel,
which means “the face of God”
(Genesis 32:30; 48:16). Christ, the
one Mediator between God and
man, was Mediator in Creation,
in Old Testament manifestations,
in redemption, and He will be
in the coming resurrection and
judgment.
II. REJECTION OF THE
WORD - John 1:5-11
A. Coming into the World –
John 1:5-9
In the course of history, the One
who is the Word of God and the
Light and Life of men came into
the world and John the Baptist
bore witness to Him. He came
as light shining into the darkness
of the world. He came bringing
eternal life, spiritual life, the kind
of God-breathed, Spirit-filled life
that God said would bring light to
the nations (Isaiah 42:1, 5, 6; 9:2).
Though the darkness tries to
overwhelm it, this light will prove
invincible. Sin, ignorance, and
atheism may fight it in attempt to
cover and hide it through traditions
and dogmas. Communism tries to
discredit it and destroy it. Cults
and modernists or liberals try
to water it down and strip it of
meaning. But the Living Word
has already conquered. He who
rose from the darkness of death
and the grave will someday expel
darkness altogether.
In what ways is Jesus likened to
light?
1. Light sustains life. Through
photosynthesis, plants take
the energy of sunlight and
build food upon which animal
and human life depend. But
Christ is the original light, the
source of light first shone out
of darkness. He is the direct
source of our spiritual life. He
will be the only light in the
New Jerusalem. There we will
have no need of the sun for
he will mediate to us directly
all the energy we need for our
new bodies.
2. Light is impartial. Like the
sunlight falling on hut and
place alike, so Christ offers
Himself to all.
3. Light is pure. It can shine into
filth and retain its purity. In the
same way, Christ is the Friend
of sinners; yet no taint of sin
ever marred His character.
4. Light is gentle. In the same
way, Jesus gently touched
broken lives to heal them. Too
often men think of violence
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when they think of power,but
constructive power can be
gentle when it is under perfect
control.
5. Light reveals. What a relief
day-break brings to the lost
traveller. What joy the light of
Christ brings as it lights up the
way for the pilgrim on life’s
road.
B. Unrecognized and Rejected
– John 1:10-11
The tragedy of Christmas is that
Jesus came into the world that
was made by Him, and the mass
of the people failed to recognize
Him. Even worse, His own people
did not receive Him. Though
the promise to Abraham and to
Israel spoke of the seed and the
land, when the one true Seed of
Abraham (Galatians 3:16) came
to that land, His own people did
not want Him.
Would they have rejected and
crucified Him if they had really
understood who He was? Never!
(1 Corinthians 2:8). Yet the
prophets pointed to Him, and his
people could have known if they
would (Isaiah 53:3-4). They were
therefore guilty and blameworthy
for what they did.
Is the guilt theirs alone? No. All
who reject him are just as guilty.
For God has shown abundant
mercies to Christian communities,
but many still live and die rejecting
Christ (John 3:19).
III. RECEPTION OF THE
WORD - John 1:12-17
A. Sonship Conferred – John
1:12-13
God’s plan did not fail because
some did not receive Jesus. He
found others who would receive
Him.
Who were these others? They
were both Jews and Gentiles who
accepted Jesus by faith as the Son
of God. The Jews as a whole had
rejected Him, but many did accept
Him as Saviour (Acts 2:41; 4:4).
The Gentiles had not had any
inheritance or right among the
people of God. Compare verse
12 with Acts 13:46, 47; 28:27,
28. Now they are given the right
to become sons and heirs, not
because of any human ancestry,
not by intermarriage with the Jews,
not by any human means, but by a
new birth whereby they are born
of God. No more are they “aliens
from the commonwealth of Israel,
and strangers from the covenants
of promise,” but through the blood
of Jesus are “fellow citizens with
the saints” (Ephesians 2:12-19).
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B. Grace and Truth
Experienced – John 1:14-17
Through the miracle of the Virgin
Birth on that first Christmas,
the divine Word became flesh.
Though he dwelt among men
only temporarily, they beheld a
greater glory than Israel saw in the
tabernacle. John the Baptist, who
did not bow to pressure before
the kings of earth, was the first
to humble himself before Him.
But His disciples did more than
behold his glory.
They received of the fullness of its
love, goodness, his grace and truth
in ever-increasing waves.
In this, Jesus was greater than
Moses. Moses caught a glimpse of
the glory but could not pass it on.
All he could give was law. Jesus
could unfold the fullness of God.
He could impart divine grace,
truth, and reality. He could reveal
God because He is God.
 LIFE APPLICATION
In the midst of the shepherds and Wise Men and all the trappings of
Christmas, we must see the shadow of the Cross. The Baby was born
and grew up with that shadow over Him. All our sentiment about
Christmas means nothing if we forget to honour the One who is now
the crucified and risen Lord.
We do not say the good feelings people have at Christmastime are
worthless or entirely meaningless. But they are not enough. Men must
accept God’s provisions for redemption. To try to quench the fires of sin
in self or in the world by good deeds or good feelings is like trying to
put out the fires of a volcano with a cup of water.

Would you become a son of God? There is only one way. Believe and
receive Christ. That is all you have to do.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon: The world created by the word. - Genesis 1:1-3
Tue: The Son Promised. - Isaiah 9:6
Wed: The Son-Sustainer of all things. - Hebrews 1:1-6)
Thu: Jesus the embodiment of the Name of the Lord. -
Exodus 23:20-23
Fri: Jesus the Chosen One. - Isaiah 42:1-7
Sat: He gives peace. - John 14:27

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CENTRAL TRUTH
Devotion to God brings
spiritual renewal.
LESSON 27
RENEWING DEVOTION TO GOD
MEMORY VERSE: Love the Lord your God with all your heart
and with all your soul and with all your mind. Matthew 22:37
LESSON OBJECTIVES:
That at the end of this lesson the student would be able to:
1. Explain why sincere devotion to God results in spiritual renewal
2. Become more devoted to God.
LESSON TEXT: Genesis 35:1-15
1. Then God said to Jacob, “Go buried them under the oak at
up to Bethel and settle there, Shechem.
and build an altar there to
5. Then they set out, and the
God, who appeared to you
terror of God fell on the towns
when you were fleeing from
all around them so that no one
your brother Esau.”
pursued them.
2. So Jacob said to his household
6. Jacob and all the people with
and to all who were with him,
him came to Luz (that is,
“Get rid of the foreign gods
Bethel) in the land of Canaan.
you have with you, and purify
yourselves and change your 7. There he built an altar, and
clothes. he called the place El Bethel,
because it was there that
3. Then come, let us go up to
God revealed himself to him
Bethel, where I will build an
when he was fleeing from his
altar to God, who answered
brother.
me in the day of my distress
and who has been with me 8. Now Deborah, Rebekah’s
wherever I have gone.” nurse, died and was buried
under the oak outside Bethel.
4. So they gave Jacob all the
So it was named AllonBakuth.
foreign gods they had and the
rings in their ears, and Jacob
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9. After Jacob returned from
Paddan Aram, God appeared
to him again and blessed him.
10. God said to him, “Your name
is Jacob, but you will no
longer be called Jacob; your
name will be Israel.” So he
named him Israel.
14. Jacob set up a stone pillar at the
11. And God said to him, “I am
God Almighty; be fruitful
and increase in number. A
nation and a community of
nations will come from you,
15. Jacob called the place where
and kings will be among your
descendants.
12. The land I gave to Abraham
and Isaac I also give to you,
and I will give this land to
your descendants after you.”
13. Then God went up from him at
the place where he had talked
with him.
place where God had talked
with him, and he poured out
a drink offering on it; he also
poured oil on it.
God had talked with him
Bethel.

LESSON OUTLINE
I. SPIRITUAL RENEWAL III. DEMONSTRATING
COMMANDED LOVE
A. Focusing on God A. New Beginning
B. Pursuing Purity B. New Direction
II. OBEDIENT RESPONSE
A. Journey of Faith
B. Altar of Dedication

BIBLE EXPOSITION
INTRODUCTION plan for his life had gone down.
Kojo had been a strong member This change was so subtle that
of his church and a devoted Kojo didn’t realize it at first. One
Christian. However, a series day a fellow worker questioned
of events in his life had drawn him about the Bible and living
him away from church. His for the Lord. Kojo was unable
commitment to God and to God’s to give an adequate answer and
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realized how far he had drifted in
his Christian life.
Kojo knew that he had lost the
enthusiasm for serving God that
he once had. But what steps could
he take to begin rebuilding his
Christian life and become fully
devoted to what God wanted him
to do?
Take away the old garment of
corruption and put on the robe of
devotion.
I. SPIRITUAL RENEWAL
COMMANDED -
Genesis 35:1-3
A. Focusing on God
Jacob’s life is one of contrast,
showing dramatically how God
can bring about change in an
individual and call that person
into His service. This study
concentrates on one of the
key events in Jacob’s life that
demonstrated that change. When
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we look at Jacob’s life after God
molded him, we see that there are
few Old Testament characters
who are better example of
devotion to God. The entire story
of his life is a testimony to what
God can and will do for someone
who will commit himself to the
plan of God.
One of the most obvious things
about Genesis 35:1 is also the
most important. God called
Jacob to build an altar to Him.
Our devotion should be centered
on and directed to God.
“How do believers sometimes
lose this exclusive focus on
God?” Christians will sometimes
focus more on a pastor,
evangelist, or a celebrity rather
than on God. Believers must
constantly be aware of where
their worship is directed and be
certain their commitment to God
does not waver.
God identified himself to Jacob
by referring to a previous act.
Jacob was reminded that the One
speaking was the same One who
had met with him before. This
was not simply a dream. It was a
direct call from God himself for
a specific action to be taken.
When God deals with our hearts,
He often does so by reminding
us of what He has done for us in
the past. As believers, we look to
the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus, as
the supreme example of God’s
boundless love and concern
for us. Believers who focus on
the salvation they have been
given through Christ will gain
additional motivation to live a
God-pleasing life.
“Does God speak to people
today? How can we discern
the real voice of God?” God
still speaks to people today, but
perhaps none of us will have
the kind of encounters with God
which Jacob enjoyed. This is not
a loss. God chooses to speak to
us and deal with each of us in
the manner that will bring the
greatest benefit.
This should always be consistent
with scripture. Our responsibility
is to stay close to the Lord
in prayer, to study and apply
the Scriptures, and to keep in
fellowship with other believers.
Then we will be able to discern
God’s voice.He will also be able
to lead us if we are following
Him daily with our spiritual eyes
and ears open.
B. Pursuing Purity
In order to obey God, it is
necessary to be pure before
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Him. If the believer knowingly
harbours sin in his life, outward
acts of ministry will not be
pleasing to God. Jacob knew that
before he could embark on his
journey, his household needed to
be rededicated to the Lord. Those
with him were required to put
away all of the “strange gods,”
that is, everything they had held
on to that detracted from their
walk with God (verse 2).
That Jacob even had to make
this request is a sad commentary
on the spiritual state of his
household. Yet, when Jacob
called for change, he demanded
that the change be complete.
The people were to cleanse
themselves and put on new
clothing as further testimony of
their renewed commitment to
God.“Is idolatry still an issue
in our culture?” Idolatry can
take many forms today. A job,
talents, or wealth can keep us
from following God. Renewing
our devotion to God may mean
restructuring our lives so God
again becomes our priority.
We see from Jacob’s example
the importance of sharing our
commitment to God with others.
Jacob was not called to obey in
isolation.
He had the responsibility of
sharing God’s will with his
household. Today, believers have
been called to share the gospel
with the lost. The Christian who
is solely concerned with his own
relationship with God has lost
sight of the Great Commission.
II. OBEDIENT RESPONSE
- Genesis 35:4-8
A. Journey of Faith
God’s call requires our
immediate attention and our
complete compliance. “How
does verse 4 illustrate this?”The
tone of the verse indicates
Jacob’s household responded
quickly. There is no interval of
time recorded between Jacob’s
call for their purification and
their obedience. They also gave
up “all” the strange Gods they
had possessed.
Once the idols had been put
away, it was time for his journey
to begin. Jacob and those with
him had consecrated themselves
to God and were in agreement
on what needed to be done.
The blessings of God were
immediately evident.
When the Bible speaks of the
“terror of God” (verse 5) upon
those around them, another
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event in the life of Jacob needs to
be reviewed. Genesis 34 records
a sad affair in which Jacob’s
daughter was defiled by a local
prince. In response, two of
Jacob’s sons enacted their own
cruel revenge and massacred the
men of that town. Jacob knew his
family was in danger of suffering
reprisals from other cities in the
area. When God called Jacob
to journey to Beth-el, however,
God protected the people along
the way. The magnitude of
the “terror” shows that God
himself was protecting them
and proving His strength among
the neighboring peoples. He put
a divine fear into the hearts of
Jacob’s enemies.
This is a great lesson for us today.
No one lives a perfect life before
the Lord. Yet each of us has the
promise that God wants to use us
and will use us. When we yield
ourselves to him, He provides
for and protects us.
B. Altar of Dedication
Verse 6 records the end of the
journey. Jacob had traveled to
Luz in the Land of Promise.
There he built an altar and named
it “El-bethel.” Some translate
this to be “God of the House of
God,” which would refer to the
fact it was God himself who
called Jacob. Others translate it
as “the strong God of the House
of God.”
This would refer to the strength
God showed when He delivered
Jacob and watched over him. In
either case, Jacob recognized
that the God who called him
was the One True God and Jacob
built an altar as a testimony of
that belief. The indication is that
it was a sanctuary of some sort.
This would be different from a
simple monument and indicates
the impact this experience had
on Jacob. He realized that God
had watched over, protected, and
delivered him even though he
had been less than faithful. We
can look at our own lives and
see God’s faithfulness shown in
spite of our shortcomings.
We read in verse 8 that Deborah,
the nurse of Rebekah, Jacob’s
mother, died and was buried.
Her service must have been
noteworthy for it to have been
mentioned. Jacob may have
relied on her for counsel, and she
may have played a significant part
in his upbringing. Regardless,
she died at this time, right in
the midst of Jacob’s victory in
following the Lord and showing
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himself faithful and obedient.
“What does this event add to the
narrative?” Verse 8 reminds us
that devotion to God does not
exempt one from problems and
difficulties. Servants of God will
experience grief because we are
still living in a harsh world. Our
God, however, is able to preserve
us in such times.
III. DEMONSTRATING
LOVE - Genesis 35:9-15
A. New Beginning
God reaffirmed that Jacob would
be called Israel from that time
forward. His new name was
a sign of the change God was
bringing about in his life. Instead
of being labeled a deceiver,
Jacob was identified as one who
had drawn close to the Lord and
found divine favor. “Israel” has
been defined in several ways.
Some scholars lean toward
the emphasis of grappling or
wrestling with God. Others
emphasize the ultimate position
of favor Jacob found. Both ideas
contribute to our understanding
of what God was working
out in Jacob’s life. Jacob had
struggled with God, but God had
graciously continued to work in
his life and had brought about
wonderful blessing.
We have the same assurance
that when we come to God and
seek Him, He will accept us.
Renewing our devotion to God
begins with this simple step—
turning and following after God.
We do this when we accept Christ
as Saviour. And it is significant
that we experience a name
change as well. As “Christians,”
we are really being identified as
“little Christs,” and all that we
do must reflect the will of our
Saviour and bring glory to God.
B. New Direction
“What has been your response
when God has spoken to you?”
When we are committed to
God, we cannot experience
his direction without a sense
of urgency resulting. When
He speaks to our hearts, new
crossroads in our lives appear
and we are faced with new
direction.
So, it was with Jacob. Verses 11
and 12 record God’s continued
promise of future blessing, and
Jacob must have been impressed
with the far-reaching impact
of what the Lord was saying.
Jacob was forced to look not
only at how he would continue
to relate to God, but at all those
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who would come after him that
would-be part of this great plan.
Jacob immediately took action.
He erected a stone pillar and
then presented an offering. A
drink offering was followed
with anointing the monument by
pouring oil on it. The monument
was constructed and the offerings
were given to God in recognition
of who He is, what He had done,
and what He promised and
commanded. Each of us must
approach God in the same way.
When we enter God’s presence
we should come away with a
renewed sense of direction.
We must allow Him to show
us where we have lost sight of
spiritual priorities and where we
can draw closer to Him.
The baptism in the Holy Spirit
is a powerful way for believers
to stay close to God and hear
Him speak. All believers should
actively seek this experience and
make being continually filled
with the Holy Spirit a daily part
of their Christian experience.
 LIFE APPLICATION
“Pastor, we don’t need revival,” a deacon once argued in a church
board meeting. At the root of his statement was a fundamental
misunderstanding of what revival means. Christians sometimes shy
away from the idea of renewal or revival because they feel they are
admitting spiritual defeat in themselves or in their local church. A
misconception of revival is that it only comes as a remedy to spiritual
emptiness. Acknowledging the need for revival, however, can take
the form of simply admitting the need for more spiritual maturity. In
applying this study to our lives, we may not find that we have drifted
far from God. We may discover in Jacob’s example new depths of
faith God desires us to experience.
The wonderful truth about spiritual renewal is that God offers it to all.
If we have allowed sin to separate us from Him, it is never too late
to come back to the Lord and resume our walk with Him. If we have
remained faithful, we can look to the promise of revival as a deeper
and greater experience with God that is available. Maturity in our
relationship with God is a result of continually devoting ourselves to
Him and to His will.
Believers must never take for granted the status or condition of their
relationship with God. When fresh experiences in the Lord remain
the central goal of life, spiritual renewal and revival can occur
regularly. Knowing God, will both come from, and result in, our
renewing devotion to Him.

DAILY BIBLE READING

Mon: Vow of Loyalty – Genesis 28:16-22
Tue: Challenge to Serve God – Joshua 24:14-18
Wed: Consequences of Forsaking God – Judges 2:11-15
Thu: Repentance Commanded. – Luke 3:1-8
Fri: Called to Consecration. – Romans 12:1-3
Sat: Fellowship with God. – 1 John 1:5-10

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