RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER'S MANUAL LESSON THIRTY-NINE (39) SUNDAY 24TH OF MAY, 2020 TOPIC: THIRD QUARTER REVIEW SUMMARY OF LESSONS 27 - 38

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER'S MANUAL
LESSON THIRTY-NINE (39)
SUNDAY 24TH OF MAY, 2020
TOPIC: THIRD QUARTER REVIEW

SUMMARY OF LESSONS 27 - 38

LESSON TWENTY-SEVEN (27)
TOPIC: OVERCOMING BARRENNESS
BIBLE PASSAGE: Deuteronomy 7:11-14

MEMORY VERSE: "Thou shall be blessed above all people: there shall not be male or female barren among you, or among your cattle." Deuteronomy 7:14

INTRODUCTION:
God wants us to experience fruitfulness in every area of our lives - spiritually, physically, mentally, financially, relationally, etc. To be fruitful, we need to deal with barrenness. Barrenness means being unfruitful, unproductive, unprofitable, sterile, infertile, etc. It is the opposite or absence of fruitfulness. When you are in a state of barrenness, you have certain feelings such as shame, disgrace, forsaken, deserted or grieved in spirit ( Isaiah 54:4,6). God has good plans for us, if we will be opened to Him. It is to take us from barrenness to fruitfulness (Jeremiah 29:11).

OUTLINES OUTLINES:
LESSON OUTLINE 1: AREAS OF BARRENNESS
A. Teacher should ask the students what barrenness is to test the contemporary knowledge of of the lesson
B. Teacher should ask the students to explain the meaning of the following form of barrenness according to the Bible passages:
i. *Spiritual Barrenness*: according to Matthew 25:18, 24-28, Luke 13:6-9, Gal. 5:22-23.
ii. *Physical Barrenness*: according to Luke 16:20-21; 2Kings 4:1-2.
iii. *Marital Barrenness*: according to Isaiah 34:16; Gen. 11:30; Exodus 23:26.
iv. *Mental Barrenness*: according to 1Cor. 8:2; Hosea 4:6.

C. Teacher should check the students responses against the answers below:

i. *Spiritual Barrenness*: Spiritual dryness, emptiness, loss of zeal for God, disconnection from God, lack of souls winning, unfruitfulness, etc
ii. *Physical Barrenness*: Lack of fund, begging, lack of food, poverty ailments, indebtedness, emptiness, etc.
iii. *Marital Barrenness*: Lack of mate or spouse, lack of child, miscarriages, etc.
iv. *Mental Barrenness*: Ignorance, poor knowledge, lack of idea, peril, etc.

*LESSON OUTLINE 2: FROM BARRENNESS TO FRUITFULNESS*
Class should discuss how the following can relocate the people from barrenness to fruitfulness:
i. Faith in God. James 1:6-8; Hebrews 11:11.
ii. Prayers. 1Samuel 1:9-11, 20.
iii. Prayer in the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:26; James 5:16b.
iv. Appropriate use of the word of God 2Corinthians 1:20; Psalm 19:14; 49:3.
v. Giving to God or Sowing Genesis 26:1,12; 1 Sam.1:11.
vi. Submission to God's timing Ecclesiastes 3:1-3, 11a
vii. Patience, Hebrews 10:36, Job 14:14.

*SUMMARY*: God hates barrenness and loves fruitfulness. God's children can break barrenness by applying the Bible principles of faith, prayer, sowing, Patience, and right words

*CONCLUSION*: *Barrenness is not in the plan and programme of God for our life. You can overcome it by the grace and mercies of God*.

*LESSON TWENTY - EIGHT (28)*
*TOPIC: HANDLING MARITAL DELAY*
*BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 29:15-21*

*MEMORY VERSE*: "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD." Proverbs 18:22

*INTRODUCTION*:
Marriage is an institution ordained by God since the creation of man (Gen. 2:18). The divine order is that man should not be alone and that no one should lack his/her mate (Isaiah 34:16). Marital delay is, therefore, a situation whereby someone who is 'due' or 'ready' to marry is not yet married as a result of circumstances, sometimes, beyond his/her control. It should be noted, however, that anyone who chooses not to marry for 'genuine' reasons may not be in error (Matthew 19:12, 1Corinthians 7:7-8). Marital delay is a global phenomenon that gives parents, pastors, relatives, church members, marriage counsellors and the society at large serious concern. Hence, as believers, it is important to learn how to manage such a situation.

*LESSON OUTLINES:
1. *LIKELY CAUSES OF MARITAL DELAY*
A. Teacher should first allow the students to mention how the following issues/behaviour can cause marital delay

i. Character Defect
ii. High Mindedness
Iii. Excessive Career Focus
Iv. Emotional Trauma
v. Racial/Tribal Sentiments
vi. Delay In other of life Achievement
vii. Demonic Influence

B. After the teacher has listened to the students' comments, teacher should explain the seven identified factors as presented below:
i. *Character Defect*: Such as anger, malice, laziness, dirtiness, inferiority/superiority complex, overbearing, stubbornness, pride, etc. May repel prospective partners from someone due for marriage (Proverbs 21:9,19, Eccl. 10:1, 2 Corinthians 10:12, Proverbs 16:18).
ii. *High Mindedness*: Waiting for or insisting on marrying a partner of high educational status, high standard of living, and high paying job in a reputation organization, wealthy family background, and top position in office or society, high level of spirituality, tall and heavily built, physically beautiful etc. Although, these qualities are good and desirable, such personalities may not be easily found (Phil. 2:3).
iii. *Excessive Career Focus*: Excessive focus on one's career or business at the expense of preparation for marital relationship sometimes leads to delay in getting married (Eccl. 1:3-4).
iv. *Emotional Trauma*: Past experiences of failed relationships, sexual abuses, disappointment, domestic violence, parental/guardian misconduct, etc. usually constitute emotional imbalance for the victim and may lead to marital delay (Isaiah 43:18, Psalm 147:3)
v. *Racial/Tribal Sentiments*: Most people who practice this are sometimes compelled or supported by their parents who insist they only get married to people from a particular race or tribe (Romans 10:12, Galatians 3:28).
vi. *Delay In Other Of Life Achievement*: Experience of delay in other spheres of life like educational pursuit, employment, financial stability etc, may be stumbling blocks to timely marriage (Psalm 90:14)
vii. *Demonic Influence Or Generational Curse*: Like in the case of Daniel's petition, some marital delays are as a result of demonic influence (Daniel 10:12-13). Others may experience marital delay due to unbroken generational covenants or curses.

2. *WHAT TO DO WHILE YOU WAIT*
i. Hold on to God's promises (Hebrews 10:36)
ii. Be self-descipline and avoid unnecessary hang-out with opposite sex (1Corinthians 6:12).
iii. Be humble and define your relationship with the opposite sex, beware of exploiters (Prov. 6:3, Proverbs 12:26).
iv. Refine flawed character by crying out to the Holy Spirit to help and live by the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23).
v. Be positive and maintain right balance in faith that God will do it (Jeremiah 32:27).
vi. Pay good attention to your health, physical appearance and mannerism (S.Sol 2:14, 5:15,)
vii. Be responsible in your affairs (Psalm 112:5)
viii. Pray against the forces of delay and (demonic influence) (1Corinthians 4:10).

*SUMMARY*:
i. Marital delay can be cause by demonic influence, racial/tribal sentiment, emotional trauma, high mindedness etc.
ii. There is hope for those experiencing marital delay if they can hold on to God and take necessary correction where flaws are identify

*CONCLUSION*: Where God the Father is present, delay factor must leave.

*LESSON TWENTY-NINE (29)*
*TOPIC: MARITAL BLISS*
*BIBLE PASSAGE: Proverbs 5:15-20*

*MEMORY VERSE:* "Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth." Proverbs 5:18

*INTRODUCTION*:
Marriage is a sacred vow between a man a woman publicly acknowledged, permanently sealed and physically consummated. Bliss in marriage means having spiritual, physical and emotional Joy in your marriage. Therefore, marriage must be based on agreement -Amos 3:3, nurtured with love continuously. It also requires adjustments and sacrifices by both the husband and wife (Colossians 3:18-19).

*NOTE*: The word "bliss" could mean: happiness, Joy, felicitation, gladness, blessedness etc.

*LESSON OUTLINES*:
*1. FOUNDATION FOR MARITAL BLISS*
A. Teacher should distribute the following Bible passages to the students (preferably ten or more students) and ask them to read and relate them to a blissful marriage
i. (Eccl. 5:4-6), ii. (Proverbs 4:5-6) iii. (Luke 17:3-4), iv. (Proverbs 5:15-20; 1John 3:18).
v. (Proverbs 16:28). vi. (Romans 12:17-18, 21).
vii. (Luke 14:28; Proverbs 18:15). viii. (James 1:19), ix. (S. Sol. 4:1,7; Ephesians 5:21).
x. (1Corinthians 7:5).

B. Teacher should look out for the following key words or phrase in the students' explanations and where the key word
i. (Eccl. 5:4-6) truthfulness to vow (marriage vow to one another)
ii. (Proverbs 4:5-6) Wisdom of God to deal
iii. Luke 17:3-4). Willingness to forgive at all time
iv. (Proverbs 5:15-20; 1John 3:18) Bond of love, romance and intimacy
v. (Proverbs 16:28) Right and appropriate limit boundary with third party
vi. (Romans 12:17-18, 21). Conflicts resolution no winner approach
vii. (Luke 14:28; Proverbs 18:15). Financial planning, Prudence and intelligence.
viii. (James 1:19). Effective communication, listening and been expressive
ix. (S. Sol. 4:1,7; Ephesians 5:21). Gratitude Appreciation etc
x. (1Corinthians 7:5), sex in marriage

*2. ELEMENTS OF CONTINUOUS MARITAL BLISS*
*A*. Teacher should state the following elements of continuously marital bliss:
i. Intense/regular prayers and fellowship (Matthew 18:19; Song of Solomon 2:10,13).
ii. Thanksgiving and acknowledgement to God (1Thessalonians 5:18).
iii. Training of children in God's way (Genesis 18:19; Proverbs 22:6).
iv. unlimited companionship (Genesis 2:24-25).
v. Make Heaven ultimate goal

*SUMMARY*:
According to the lesson, the foundation for blissful marriage has 10 components and for the marriage to continue to blossom, five elements are essential as indicated in today's lesson

*CONCLUSION*:
A blissful relationship can take some work and sacrifices. It also requires constant attention. If properly nurtured, it will thrive, but if neglected, it will wither and die.

*LESSON THIRTY (30)*
*TOPIC: MARITAL BLOWS*
*BIBLE PASSAGE:* Malachi 2:13-17

*MEMORY VERSE:* "Yet ye say, wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant". Malachi 3:14

*INTRODUCTION*
Marriage brings out the best and the worst in most people, as two separate individuals struggle to live as "one flesh" ( Matthew 19:6; Mark 10:8). It is never to face marital problems and deal with the pains and wounds that have been inflicted. However, if couples are willing to stay and work it out, they can usually restore the marriage and be happier than before.
It should be noted that when God approaches marital problems, He does so from the perspective of how to fix them, not how to dissolve the marriage (Malachi 2:16). The message of God for you today is that there are ways to get your marriage back on track.

*LESSON OUTLINES*
*1: WHY MARITAL BLOWS?*
*A*. Teacher should find out from the students the meaning of marital blows and the causes. (Responses should be very brief to save the time)
*B*. What is marital blows?
From the lesson introduction, marital blows are problems, pains wounds which are capable of derailing the marriage
C. Class should discuss how the following items can result into marital blows
i. Wrong Foundation. Psalm 11:3; 2 Corinthians 6:14-16.
ii. Infidelity of either of both partner s Proverbs 5:15-20; Eccles 9:9.
iii. Secrecy. Gen. 2:25
iv. Emotional withdrawal after a disagreement or grudges Eph. 4:31; James 5:9.
v. Unreasonable Demand. Phil. 4:6-7, 19.
vi. Faults finding Phil. 2:3
7. Engaging third party to settle quarrel (1Cor. 6:5-6; Jam. 5:16.
8. Laziness. Proverbs 6:6-8; 1Timothy 5:8.
9. Stinginess. Proverbs 31:10-12.
10. Sexual defraud. 1 Corinthians 7:3-5.

*2 : IT CAN BE BETTER STILL*
*A*. Teacher should distribute the following Bible passages to the students and request them to find out remedies to marital problems.
i. Malachi 2:16; Romans 7:2-3
ii. James 5:16a; 1John 1:9
iii. Acts 5:29; John 12:48
iv. 1Timothy 2:1; James 5:16b
v. Phil. 2:3; 1Peter 3:7
vi. Colossians 3:13; Proverbs 15:1
vii. Ephesians 4:15; 1 Corinthians 7:2-3.

*B*. The expected answers from the Scripture are stated below:
Teacher should check the answers against students' response and where the answers are wrong, teacher should correct as appropriate.
i. Malachi 2:16; Romans 7:2-3 - Lifetime/forever
ii. James 5:16a; 1John 1:9 - Patience, sorry and repentance etc.
iii. Acts 5:29; John 12:48 - Obedience to God
iv. 1Timothy 2:1; James 5:16b - Presence and prayer
v. Phil. 2:3; 1Peter 3:7 - Appreciation to one another
vi. Colossians 3:13; Proverbs 15:1 - Tolerance and apology
vii. Ephesians 4:15; 1 Corinthians 7:2-3 - communication, love, truth
Each participants should score 10 marks

*SUMMARY*: Marital blow properly fixed, can turn around to become marital bliss

*CONCLUSION*: The main idea in today's teaching is to focus on restoring the connection and put the past in the past. This will save the marriage and connect you back to God when you feel like all hope is lost.

*LESSON THIRTY-ONE (31)*
*TOPIC: CHILD ADOPTION*
*BIBLE PASSAGE: Exodus 2:1-10*

*MEMORY VERSE*: "And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter". Esther 2:7

*INTRODUCTION*:
Child adoption is a process whereby a person assumes the parenting of another person's child. It is also the act of leaving one's natural family and entering into the privileges and responsibilities of another family. Adoption process usually goes through the law court, in order to be made legal. Moreover, as in all parent/child relationships, it is a relationship of promise and an acceptance of an unconditional gift. God Cares for orphan, the poor, the abandoned, the abused and the displaced people (through war, natural disaster, etc.)-James 1:27. Hence, the need for child adoption.

*LESSON OUTLINES:*
*1. BIBLICAL INSTANCES OF CHILD ADOPTION*
*A*. Instances of biblical adoption.
i. Moses was adopted by Pharaoh's daughter Exodus 2:5-10, Exodus 3:9-10; 7:1, 6.
ii. Esther was adopted by Mordecai - Esther 7:6-10; 8:11, Esther 2:5-7,
iii. Samuel was raised by Eli -1 Samuel 1:24-28, 1 Samuel 16:11-13.
iv. Eleazar was raised by Abram - Genesis 15:1-3
v. Jesus was accepted by Joseph - Matthew 1:18-21

*B*. Teacher should raise discussion on what the stories in the bible could have been without the role of the adopted parents and the child in the five examples given above. For instance:
Moses:
I. The child could have died.
ii. There could not have been freedom from Egypt.
iii.There could not have been miracles of plagues and crossing the Red Sea.
iv. There could not have been the Ten Commandments.
v. The earth could not have opened it's mouth.
vi. There could not have been Joshua, etc.

*2. REASONS FOR CHILD ADOPTION AND ITS BENEFITS*
*A. Question: What are the reasons for child adoption?*
Answers:
i. Need for every child to be raised from home. 1 King 11:20, Ex. 2:10.
ii. Need to impact or receive proper training and discipline Proverb 22:6; Acts 7:20-22.
iii. Need to expand the family and extend their impact as parents to children who are not theirs biologically.
iv. Need to help the child fulfill his/her purpose for living. Jeremiah 29:11; Esther. 2:17-20.
v. Opportunity for waiting couples to have children.

*B. Question: What are the benefits of child adoption?*
Answers:
i. Those who adopt will be divinely blessed. Matthew 10:42,18:5.
ii. Believers too are adopted as joint - heirs with Christ Romans. 8:17.

*C. Question: How should the adopted child be treated?
Answers:
i. Be conferred with full status of a biological child.
ii. Unprepared persons should not adopt a child. Proverbs 21:13.

*SUMMARY:* Child adoption is good for both married and unmarried couples who are capable of doing so because it attracts divine blessings.

*CONCLUSION*: As God adopts those who receive Christ as Saviour into His spiritual family, so should we all, prayerfully, consider adopting children into our own physical families.

*LESSON THIRTY-TWO (32)*
*TOPIC: CHILD TRAINING*
*BIBLE PASSAGE:* Genesis 18:18-19*

MEMORY VERSE: "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.." -- Proverbs 22:6

*INTRODUCTION*
The Bible tells us that children are a reward from God (Psalm 127:3). Raising and training a child within the context of Proverbs 22:6 means that it beings with the Bible. This is because 'All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for in righteousness' (2Timothy 3:16). God testified of Abraham, that he would train his children in the way of the Lord (Genesis 18:19). Lois and Eunice also trained Timothy (2Timothy 1:5). Training must begin as soon as a child recognises gestures or responds to communication. Therefore, parent, guardians or care-givers must train up children appropriately.

*LESSON OUTLINES*
*1. WHAT ARE WE TO TEACH CHILDREN AND HOW?*
A. Teacher should outline the direction of teaching which should be giving to children as indicated below:
i. Morals and good attitudes. Proverbs 1:8-15
ii. Respect for rules, authority, elders and order. 1 Peter 2:13.
iii. Spiritual discipline of praying, fasting, attending the Bible, praying, fasting, worshiping and attending Church services and programmes. Joshua 1:8; Hebrews 6:10-25.
iv. The word of God. Ephesians 6:4
v. Fear of God. Proverbs 8:13; 9:10
vi. Righteous living. 1Timothy 6:11
vii. Diligent at work. Proverbs 6:6-11; 22:29
viii. Genuine service to God/sowing to the kingdom. 1Samuel 2:18; John 6:9.

*B*. Teacher should outline how the above lessons/trainings should be handled/executed as indicated below:
i. Through constant prayer. 1 Thess. 5:17
ii. Through discipline in love. Proverbs 3:12; 29:17; 13:24.
iii. Through wisdom. Ephesians 6:4
iv. Through presence (with the family).Acts 10:33
v. Through dignity ant curtsey. Eph. 6:4
vi. Through conducive friendly atmosphere at home. Psalms 128:1-6

*2. REASONS FOR CHILD TRAINING*
The reasons for and benefits of child training are numerous. They include:
i. The need for children to recognise and obey God's command's. Deut. 6:7-9.
ii. To live safely in the world and enjoy the blessings of God. Lev. 25:18; Deut.12:28; 30:16
iii. To please God and live victoriously. Proverbs 16:7.
iv. To acquire necessary skills and knowledge for success in life. 1 Samuel 16:17-18; Daniel 1:4, 17.
v. To give the parents, guardians and care-givers rest, peace Proverbs 29:17 and respect. Hebrews 12:9
vi. To thoroughly equip them to do good works. 2 Timothy 3:17.
vii. To prepare for the future (Eccl. 12:1); make them fit well into the society and stand in the defence of faith. 1 Peter 3:15.

*SUMMARY*: Parents should train their children, while children should accept their parental training.

*CONCLUSION:* Parents, guardians and care-givers must teach, discipline and love their children. Children are precious to God and must be well taken care of Psalm 127:3.

*LESSON THIRTY-THREE (33)*
*TOPIC: SEXUAL VICES*
*BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 6:13-20*

*MEMORY VERSE:* "What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?."1 Corinthians 6:19

*INTRODUCTION*
The truth that God created humanity as "male and female" reveals that we are created as sexual beings (Genesis 1:27). God's command to "be fruitful and multiply" cannot be fulfilled without sex (Genesis 1:28). Sex was designed to consummate the lifetime Union between a man and woman (Genesis 4:1; Matt. 19:6). Purity is a reflection of God's own character. Hence, sexual purity is a treasure to be guarded and valued. However, sex has been misused and abused (Romans 1:24-25) in the world because of sin (Romans 3:23).

*LESSON OUTLINES*
*1. SOME SEXUAL VICES*
*A*. Teacher should state the following ten (10) forms of sexual vices as indicated below:
i. Fornication.
ii. Homosexuality.
iii. Insect.
iv. Paedophilia.
v. Bestiality.
vi. Rape.
vii. Pornography.
viii. Masturbation.
ix. Cyber/Phone-sex.
x. Adultery.

*B*. Teacher should allow students to give their contributions or make comments on the ten (10) forms of sexual vices so identified.

*C*. Teachers should look out for the following brief explanation from the students' comment and where the students' explanations are devoid of the right words, teacher should supply the right answer.

*NOTE*: Hypothetical illustration or examples are allowed.
i. Fornication: sexual activity between unmarried people.
ii. Homosexuality: Sexual acts between/among same gender. Lev.18:22, Romans 1:26-27.
iii. Incest : Sexual activity between family members. Lev.18:7-18
iv. Paedophilia: Sexual activity towards children.
v. Bestiality: Sexual activity with animals. Lev. 18:23
vi. Rape: Sexual violence without consent of partner. 2 Sam. 13:10
vii. Pornograghy: Sexual stimulations though visual depiction of erotic materials, pictures, substance, writing, etc.
viii. Masturbation: Sexual activity through stimulation of the genital organs by self or another or toys.
ix. Cyber/Phone-sex: Sexual activity using Phone/Internet to stimulate erotic intent.
x. Adultery: Sexual activity between persons other than spouse. Ex 20:14

*2. CONSEQUENCES AND THE WAY OUT*
*A. CONSEQUENCES:*
i. Destruction e.g Sodom and Gomorrah. Gen.19:4-13, Prov. 6:25-28, Eph. 4:19
ii. Some could become addictive e.g Pornography. 1 Corinthians 6:12; 2pet. 2:19
iii. Sexual Transmitted diseases (STD) 1Corinthians 6:17
iv. Limit the powers of the holy spirit 1Corinthians 10:8
v. Brings God's wrath Numbers 25:1-11; Eph 4:31
vi. Attract devil/demons to operate 1 Corinthians 6:19
vii. Guilt and condemnation Psalms 51:3
viii. It can destroy marriage.

*B. WAYS OUT/SOLUTIONS:*
i. Confess and ask the Lord for cleansing 1John 1:9; Romans 12:2
ii. Ask the lord to give you a pure mind. Philippians 4:8
iii. Possess your body holy 1 Thess. 4:3-4
iv. Have sex with your *spouse ONLY*. 1 Corinthians 7:1-5, Prov. 5:15,18-19.
v. Walk in the spirit only not in the flesh Galatians 5:16
vi. Exercise self-control. Genesis 39:7-9; 1 Corinthians 6:18.
vii. Engage yourself in spiritual activities of prayer, fasting, studying the scripture etc,
viii. Seek right counsel from God's people and forgive yourself after God has forgiven you. Proverbs 11:14.

*SUMMARY*: Flee sexual vices.

*CONCLUSION:*
Do not give your body to sexual vices, give it to the Lord by holy presentation.

*LESSON THIRTY-FOUR (34)*
*TOPIC: DESTINY DESTROYER*
*BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Kings 11:1-11*

*MEMORY VERSE:* "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end". Jeremiah 29:11

*INTRODUCTION*
Destiny is God's purpose for a man's life. It is a divinely pre-planned destination. It is the totality of God's counsel for a person and what God has decided concerning a person even before conception (Jeremiah 1:5).
As good as it is, at several points in life, it still depends on one's attitude and agreement with God. God has a prepared destination for us and we must surrender totally to Him so as to avoid destiny destroyers that may want to scuttle God's plan for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11).

*LESSON OUTLINES*
*1. SOME DESTINY DESTROYERS*
*A*. Teacher should state the seven (7) destiny destroyers as indicated below:
*i. LACK OF KNOWLEDGE:* Lack of knowledge is a destiny destroyer (Hosea 4:6; Proverbs 29:18). If we are aware of our destiny, we shall be free, focused and fulfilled. Failure to do so may lead to destruction. John 8:32; Isa.61-9; Heb.11:13.
*ii. PURSUIT OF VANITY:* Solomon pursued so much of vanity until he became a complete backslider. The privileges of wealth and lack of self-control ruined his destiny (Eccl.2:10-1, 1 Kings 11:1-10).
*iii. LACK OF FAITH:* Lack of faith is also a destiny destroyer (Hebrews 4:2; 1 Tim. 1:19).
*iv. PRIDE*: Pride is excessive self-esteem. It is when you are filled with an exciting sense of credit due to yourself. Pride is a sin and it leads to loss and destruction ( James 4:6; Dan. 4:28-32; Prov.29:23)
*v. SINFUL LIFESTYLES:* Sins not confessed and forsaken are dangerous because they provoke God to anger. A man who is living in sin cannot fulfill his destiny or attain destination which God has promised (1 John 3:4).
*vi. ANGER:* Anger is another destiny destroyer. Uncontrolled emotional outburst has led many people out of God's purpose for their lives (Eccl.7:9; Pro.29:22).
*vii. PRAYERLESSNESS:* Prayerlessness is can cause the enemy to take advantage of a man's destiny (Matt. 13:25; 26:41; Luke 18:21).

*B*. Teacher should ask students to explain how the following can assist to support or fulfil destiny.
i. Knowledge
ii. Contentment
iii. Faith
iv. Humility
v. Holiness
vi. Meekness
vii. Prayerlessness

*C*. Teachers should note that the above seven factors are opposite of earlier identified destiny destroyers. Encourage students to migrate from destiny destroyers to destiny fulfilling factors.

*2. BIBLICAL INSTANCES*
*A*. Teacher should observe that the destiny of the following people were destroyed.
i. Solomon. 1 Kings 11:1-11
ii. Samson. Judges 16:6-18
iii. Judas Iscariot. Luke 22:2-5, Matt.27:3-5
iv. Demas. 2 Tim.4:10
v. Gehazi. 2 Kings 5:20-27
vi. Reuben. Genesis 49:3-4
vii. Achan. Joshua 7:24-25

*B. Teacher should raise discussion on what these seven personality should have done to prevent their destinies from being destroyed.
For instance: *ACHAN*
i. Achan could have heeded Joshua's instructions not to touch an accursed thing.
ii. Achan should not have stolen
iii. Achan should have faced his assignment of fighting the war.
iv. Achan should have trusted God for raiment, etc.

*SUMMARY*: Students should avoid the destiny destroyers.

*CONCLUSION:* Do only those things which the bible support and you are on your way to fulfill destiny.

*LESSON THIRTY-FIVE (35)*
*TOPIC: DESTINY RECOVERY*
*BIBLE PASSAGE:* 1 Chronicles 4:9-10

*MEMORY VERSE*: "At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honour and brightness returned unto me; and my counsellors and my lords sought unto me; and I was established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me*. Daniel 4:36

*INTRODUCTION*
In addition to knowing what destiny is, we have also discovered that there are destroyers of destiny that must be dealt with. The good news is that through the grace of God, it is possible to recover a lost destiny as long as there is life and the victim is able to retrace his path to God (Job 14:7).

*LESSON OUTLINES*
*1. RE-DISCOVERING DESTINY.*
*A. Truth of the matter:*
i. Many people are ignorant of their destiny,
ii. Some handle the issue of destiny with levity,
iii. Some even mismanage it and consequently lose it,
iv. Some deliberately destroyed their destinies through their deliberate acts.

*B. Means of re-discovery*
Destiny can be rediscovered through the following means:
i. Through intense prayers which can produce divine revelation or inner witness by the holy spirit. Matthew 7:7-9; Ephesians 1:17-19; Acts 13:1-4; Acts 7:22-25; Genesis 37:5-10.
ii. Through observation by self or others of gifts, passion, friends, interest, talent, etc 1 Chronicles 4:9-10; Luke 2:19; Proverbs 11:14; 27:17.

*2. RECOVERING DESTINY*
A. Teacher should enumerate the five points stated below in outline two:
i. Repent and retrace your steps back to God in case you have drifted away from Him (Daniel 4:34-36; Acts 9:1-6).
ii. Defeat laziness. Rise up and do something meaningful with your life (Proverbs 22:29, Ecclesiastes 9:10).
iii. Discover what God's will is for your life by diligently studying The scriptures (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:1-3).
iv. Deal with any habit of worldliness and live godly (1John 2:15; Hebrews 12:1-2).
v. Watch and pray earnestly against the operations of your adversaries in order to remain on the path to destiny fulfilment (Matthew 26:41; 1Corinthians 16:9).

*B. DISCUSSION/ACTIVITY*:
Teacher should allow student to discuss/respond to the following question:
i. Why did some people refused to retrace their steps and repent their ways?
ii. Why is it that so many people work hard, yet they never prosper as others?
iii. Why do people miss the will of God?
iv. How can believers live a holy life?
v. Why do many people prefer quick solutions through other means to prayer?

*SUMMARY*: Destiny can be rediscovered and recovered.

*CONCLUSION*: God can still enlarge the coast of His children and bless them indeed.

*LESSON THIRTY-SIX (36)*
*TOPIC: MANAGING ANGER (PART 1)*
*BIBLE PASSAGE: John 2:13-17*

*MEMORY VERSE:* Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27

*INTRODUCTION*:
Anger or wrath is an intense expression of emotion. It involves a strong uncomfortable and hostile response to a perceived provocation, hurt or threat. There are two Greek words in the New Testament translated as 'anger'. One means 'passion' or 'energy' and the other means 'agitated' or 'boiling'. Everyone struggles, to varying degrees, with anger. Sadly, people tend to justify their anger instead of accepting responsibility of it. The question now are what does the Bible say about anger and at what pointing does it become a sin?

*LESSON OUTLINES*:
*1. WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT ANGER?*
A. Teacher should distribute the Bible passages in the outlines to the students and ask the following questions:

*GROUP 1*: What is God's to the wicked or wicked acts according to Psalm 7:11; Mark 3:5; John 2:13-17?
*GROUP 2*: Can the believers be angry and to what limit according to Ephesians 4:26?
*GROUP 3*: How does the Bible describe those that are hasty to anger according to Ecclesiastes 7:9; Proverbs 14:29?
*GROUP 4*: God gave the commandments to His children according to Ephesians 4:31, James 1:19, Proverbs 16:28. What are they?
*GROUP 5*: What do "grievous words" do according to Proverbs 15:1, 18?
*GROUP 6*: God warned His children regarding anger in Matthew 5:22 and Proverbs 22:24, 21:19. What are the warnings?
*GROUP 7*: Describe wrath and anger according to Prov. 27:4a?

B. *EXPECTED RESPONSES AND ANSWERS FROM EACH GROUP:
GROUP 1:"God is angry"
GROUP 2: "Angry"
GROUP 3:"Foolishness"
GROUP 4: "Put away anger and slow to anger"
GROUP 5: "Stir up anger"
GROUP 6: " Without a cause", carefulness in associating with an angry person.

*WHEN DOES ANGER BECOME A SIN?*
*A.* Teacher should enumerate the seven (7) points below:
1. When it is motivated by pride (1Samuel 18:6-9; James 1:20) or borne out of jealousy (Genesis 4:3-9).
2. When it is expressed hastily or blown out of proportion (Eccl. 7:9; Numbers 20:10-12).
3. When it is unproductive and thus distorts God's purposes (Exodus 33:19-20; 1 Corinthians 10:31).
4. When it is allowed to linger or leads to malice (Ephesians 4:26-27; 1Corinthians 14:20).
5. When instead of attacking the problem at hand, we attack the wrongdoer out of bitterness of heart (Ex. 2:11-12; Heb. 12:15).
6. When it is allowed to boil over without restraint, resulting in a scenario in which hurt is multiplied (Proverbs 29:11), leaving devastation in its wake.
7. When the angry one refuses to be pacified, hold a grudge, or keeps it inside (Gen. 27:36-41, Genesis 34:13-19, 25-26).

*SUMMARY*: God does not want His children to sin because of anger.

*CONCLUSION*:
Anger is a natural emotion like love. However, the bible warns us against excessive, unproductive and destructive anger which leads to sin.

*LESSON THIRTY-SEVEN (37)*
*TOPIC: MANAGING ANGER (PART 2)*
*BIBLE PASSAGE: Numbers 20:8-12*.

*MEMORY VERSE:* Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. Psalms 37:8

*INTRODUCTION*:
It is important to re-emphasis that anger is valid emotion and is not always sinful. God allows for "righteous anger" which is anger with the proper focus, the proper motivation, the proper control, the proper duration and the proper result. Our problem is that our temper is often motivated by selfishness and directed towards other people instead of toward sin (Eph. 4:31). Managing anger is an important life skill. Thankfully, God's word contains principles regarding how to handle anger in a godly manner, and how to overcome sinful anger.

*LESSON OUTLINES*:
*1. CAUSES AND DANGERS*
*A. Questions*: what are the causes of anger?
*Answers*:
i. Relational misunderstanding. Genesis 13:7-8, 1 Sam. 20:30
ii. Pride. Esther 3:5
iii. Frustration/Job Pressure. Numbers 20:10
iv. Grievous words. Prov. 15:1
v. Feeling of being cheated. 2 Kings 6:28-29; Luke 15:25-28
vi. Injustice. Matt. 18:32-34
vii. Abuse. 2 Sam. 13:14, 16, 22
viii. Memory of a traumatic experience, infidelity, stress, financial issues.
ix. Poor social, environmental situation, etc.

*B. Question*: What are the dangers of untamed anger?
*Answers*:
i. It can shatter communication and tear apart relationship
ii. It can break fellowship and bring damage to the church
iii. It can run both joy and health of many
iv. It can result in bitterness and resentfulness
v. It can lead to self destruction and destruction of properties.
vi. It can harm others physically and emotionally
vii. It can lead to murder
viii. It can hinder one from making Heaven. Matt. 5:21-22, 1 John 3:15, Psalm 37:7, Gen. 49:7; 5:19-22

*2. HOW TO HANDLE ANGER BIBLICALLY*
*A*. How can believers manage anger without sin?
*Answers*:
i. Recognise and admit your error. Prov. 28:13; 1 John 1:9
ii. View anger as a trial of faith. James 1:2-4:; Gen. 50:20
iii. Depend on God to manage your anger. Gen. 50:19; Rom. 12:19
iv. Avoid revenge. Do good for evil. Gen. 50:21; Rom. 12:21
v. Effective communication and understanding. Prov. 15:21; Eph. 4:15; 4:25-26, 29-32
vi. Set limit to anger ("No matter what, I can't go to that extent") Matt. 7:6
vii. Avoid anger factor (man or situation)

*B. Question*: How can we overcome anger?
*Answers*:
i. Tell it to God in prayer
ii. Rely on the word of God and Holy Spirit
iii. Do not let anger tarry with you.
iv. Follow peace with all men. Rom. 12:18; Heb. 12:14
v. Do not keep record of offence till the other day. Mark 11:25
vi. Learn to forgive offenders
vii. Bear fruit of the Spirit of peace, patience and self control. Gal. 5:22-23
viii. Do not lose your temper.

*SUMMARY*:
Believers cannot be angry beyond the Biblical limit

*CONCLUSION*:
Since we may not be able to control the way others would behave or react to situation, at least, we can control the way we react. Therefore, the word, "behave yourself" is appropriate to manage anger.

*LESSON THIRTY-EIGHT (38)*
*TOPIC: DISCERNING OF SPIRITS*
*BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 John 4:1-4*.

*MEMORY VERSE:* "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world". 1 John 4:1

*INTRODUCTION*:
There is a spirit behind most actions that people take. There are different spirits but there is one Holy Spirit. In Matthew 10:1, we are told of unclean spirits. 1 Timothy 4:1 talks of seducing spirits. In 1 Kings 22:23, we are told of lying spirits. 1 John 4:6 talks of the spirit of error and 1 John 43 talks about the spirit of Antichrist. How do you know which spirit is in operation for a situation? We look at the issue of discerning spirits today.

*LESSON OUTLINES*:
*1. WHAT IS DISCERNING OF SPIRITS*
i. Before the teacher provides the answer to this question, teacher should ask the students what they understand by discerning of spirits.
ii. Teacher should refer to 1 Cor. 6-7, 10 where the Bible mentioned diverse operations and manifestations of the Holy Spirit's gifts to believers of which "discerning of spirits" is one.
iii. Teacher should now answer the question: *WHAT IS DISCERNING OF SPIRITS?*
Answers:
i. Discerning of spirits is the supernatural ability to identify the spirits or spirit in operation. 1 Cor. 2:11-15
ii. Discerning of spirits is a type of spiritual x-ray which shows the real spirit, intention and plan behind what appears normal and harmless. 2 Cor. 1:14
iii. It is the ability to examine doctrines, situations or people and know whether they are of God or Satan. 1 Tim. 4:1; 2 Peter 2:1-2
iv. Discerning of spirits is the ability to see into and hear from the spiritual realms. Luke 1:26-37.

*2. PURPOSE OF DISCERNING OF SPIRITS*
*Question*. What is the purpose of discerning of spirits?
Answers:
i. To receive a clear, in-depth and prolonged insight into the realm of the spirit. e.g. John in the island of Patmos. Rev. 1:10-20
ii. To know in advance the coming judgement. Gen. 18:17-22
iii. To spot doctrinal forgeries that have plagued the church. Eph. 4:14
iv. To assure God's people if His presence with them in times of grace danger. 2 Kings 6:14-17; Acts 27:21-24
v. To expose the motive and spirit behind people's actions. Acts 16:16-18

*SUMMARY*:
We need the gift of the discerning of spirits more than ever before now in the church.

*CONCLUSION*:
The manifestation of the spiritual gift of discerning of spirit will bring abundant profit in the spiritual realms to the church.

Share this

DIGITAL OLOFOFO NEWS