Month: May 2024

OPENING PUZZLE

If God is all-powerful, why didn’t He use His power to stop satan or prevent Eve from collecting the fruit in the garden of Eden? (Gen. 3:4-6).

LESSONS FROM THE ATTITUDES AND ACTIONS OF THE FATHER

1. In this parable, the father knows that he might force his son to stay but he could never force him to return his father’s love. Love can’t be compelled, it has to be freely given. You can’t force someone to love you!

▪︎If you turn your back on God, reject His love and go your own way, He probably won’t try to stop you (Deut. 30:15, 19-20).

▪︎As much as it grieves Him to do it, He will allow you to leave,  and allow you to suffer the consequences of your decision. He will watch and wait until you finally “come to your senses” and go back to Him of your own free will.

2. While the son was away, the father was patiently waiting for his son to return.

▪︎Because of God’s love for the sinner and the runaway believer, He patiently waits fo his return (2Pt. 3:9).

3. The memory of the father’s goodness brought the prodigal son to repentance (Lk. 15:17).

▪︎All the goodness of God is meant to draw man to Himself.

▪︎During His earthly ministry, whenever Jesus does any miracle, the ultimate purpose is to bring glory to God and draw people to God’s kingdom (Jn. 9:2-3; 11:4).

4. The prodigal son was satisfied to return home as a slave but to his surprise and delight, he is restored back into full privilege of being his father’s son. Look up Ps. 40:2;103:4.

▪︎Not only are we forgiven in Christ but we receive the spirit of adoption to sonship (Rom. 8:15).

▪︎While the son condemned himself, the father did not condemn him. See Rom. 8:36.

5. While the son was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him (Lk. 15:20).

▪︎God’s heart is full of compassion for his children (Matt. 9:36; Lam. 3:22-23).

6. The Honourable And Compassionate Reception

The father expressed his kindness before the son expressed his repentance.

▪︎That is characteristic of God. Check Is. 65:24.

The father expressed all dimensions of God’s mercy:

a. Eyes of Mercy: quick-sighted (Lk.15:20b).

▪︎Shows God’s desire of the conversion of sinners, and His readiness to meet them that are coming to Him. He is aware of the first inclination towards Him.

b. Bowels of Mercy

▪︎God has Compassion for the suffering sinner, though he brought the misery upon himself (Hosea 11:8-9; Judges 10:16).

c. Feet of Mercy (The son came slowly but the father ran to meet him (Lk. 15:20).

▪︎This shows how swift God is to show mercy (Lam. 3:22-23).

d. Arms of Mercy-stretched out to embrace him (fell on his neck). Though guilty and deserving to be beaten, dirty and just coming from swine, the father takes him in his arms and lays him in his bosom.

▪︎True penitent sinners are so dear to God that upon repentance, He embraces them even with their dirtiness.

e. Lips of Mercy (He kissed his son). This kiss not only assured him of his welcome, but sealed his pardon. See 2Sam. 14:33.

▪︎This shows how ready, and free, and forward the Lord Jesus is to receive and entertain poor retuning repenting sinners.

Reflection: Compare the son’s rehearsed speech in Verses 18-19 with his actual presentation in Verses 20-21. Can you see any difference? Why (You may read Verse 22 also). Look up Jer. 31:18-20 (where Ephraim bemoaned hinself).

7. It is strange that there’s not one word of rebuke at all.

▪︎When God forgives the sins of true repentant sinners, He forgets them and remembers them no more. See Ezk.18:22.

8. The young man would have thought it sufficient and been thankful if his fatther had told him to go to the kitchen and get his dinner with the servants.

▪︎God does for those who return to Him and cast themselves upon His mercy, more than they could ever ask or think (Eph. 3:20).

9. The Splendid Provision The Father Made For His Returning Son:

a. The son came home in rags and his father not only clothed him but adorned him with a special (the best) robe, the garment of princes and great men.

▪︎When backsliders repent, they shall be received and dressed in their “first robes.”

▪︎Upon salvation, we receive in Christ the robe of the Redeemer’s reghteousness (Is. 61:10), putting on the Lord Jesus Christ (a new nature).

b. The ring on his hand (An emblem of the family). It speaks of sonship authority.

▪︎We receive the privilege of partaking of the spirit of adoption (Eph. 1:5). Look up Gen. 41:42,44.

▪︎Rich people wear rings (though he wasted his fortune, he will still receive more).

c. Shoes on his feet: A sign of his not beng a servant (servants don’t wear shoes).

▪︎Our sonship is what guarantees us to be partakers of God’s inheritance (Gal. 4:7).

▪︎It also signifies preparation of the gospel of peace (reconciliation). Rom. 10:15.

▪︎When God receives repentant penitent sinners, He makes use of them for the converting of others by their examples.

d. He came home hungry and his father not only fed him but feasted him (Lk. 15:23).  The fatted calf was reserved for special occasions.

▪︎There is excellent food provided by our heavenly Father for all those that arise and come to Him. See Is. 55:1.

▪︎Christ Himself is the bread of life (Jn. 6:35).

e. Not a feast for him only but a festivel for the family. “let us eat and be merry” Lk.15:23b.

▪︎The conversion of sinners is greatly pleasing to the God of heaven, and all that belong to His family ought to rejoice in it (1Thes. 3:9;2:19).

f. The conversion of a soul from sin to God is the raising of that soul from death to life ,and the finding of that which seemed lost (Lk. 15:24). Compare Philem. 11.

g. Instead of condemnation and banishment that the prodigal son deserved, he received no word of rebuke.

▪︎The Lord does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities (Ps. 103:10-14).

▪︎We are free from condemnation and passed from death unto life (Rom .8:1; Jn.5:24). Instead of being condemned, we are restored.

10. Take note of “my father” (Vs. 18, 21); “his father” (Vs. 20); “my son” (Vs. 24).

▪︎When a believer falls into sin, he loses his fellowship with God but the Father-son-relationship is still intact.

CLOSING CHARGE

We often have this idea of God as inaccessible (not only geographically but emotionally), but God is not emotionless. On the contrary, when we repent, He’s overjoyed and filled with compassion and love. Look up Heb. 4:15-16. Compare Jn. 11:35. He calls the host of heaven over and throw a big party to celebrate our return. Because He loves us with a boundless, limitless love. Nothing we do can diminish it. Look up YBH 588 (Enikan mbe t’ O feran wa).

INTRODUCTION: A disciple is a pupil or follower of any teacher; a true disciple is not just a student or a learner, but a follower, one who applies what he has learned from his teacher.

Who then is a true follower of Christ? A true follower of Jesus Christ is someone who believes in Jesus Christ, follows His teachings, examples and commandment with humility, love and dedication.

Let’s consider some of the characteristics of true disciples of Jesus Christ as seen in the scriptures:

1.     True disciples live according to God’s word (Matthew 4:4): the word of God remains the food which true disciples live by; obeying the word and applying the word to every aspect of life, the word of God is like a lamp and light guiding the life and decision making of true disciples (Psalm 119:105). The word of God is sweet to the true disciple, they consider it sweeter than honey (Psalm 119:103). The word of God gives them understanding in the things of God (Psalm 119:104). The word of God stored in their hearts keeps them from sinning as it is the manual that contains the commandments of God (Psalm 119:11)

2.     True disciples follow the example of Jesus (1Corinthians 11:1): imitating Christ is one of the chief marks of true disciple, the name Christian is directly linked with imitating Christ; it was first given to the disciples of Christ by those who observed them and was able to see clearly in the disciplescharacteristics of Jesus Christ (Acts 11:26). Jesus makes it clear that those who claim to be His disciples but don’t resemble Him is a false disciple (Luke 6:46)

3.     True disciples bear fruit (John 15:16): Our Lord made is clear that He chose us to bear fruit, it is the desire of our Lord that we who are His disciples should bear fruit and that our fruit that should abide.We see in the call of Peter in Mark 1:16-18 that our Lord mentions categorically that Peter was to become a ‘fisher of men’. Each disciple is a fisher of men in a unique way, according to the measure and dealing of God with each one, but one thing that will mark every true disciple is fruit bearing.

4.     A true disciple Seeks a close relationship with God (Psalm 119:18-20): we see repeatedly in Psalms 119 the longing and heart desire of every true disciple, which is to be closer to God and to know more about God; he cries “open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things out of your law”. His desire is “hide not your commandments from me”, his soul is consumed with “longing for ordinances of God at all times”. He knows that a day spent in God’s house is better than a days spent elsewhere, he further affirms that being a door keeper in God’s house is a great delight (Psalm 84:10), His soul ‘longs’ and even ‘faints’ for the courts of the Lord (Psalm 84:2). This must be the longing of our hearts if we will be true disciples of Jesus Christ

5.     A true disciple is one who is ready and willing to serve others (John 13:14-16): our Lord during His last meal with His disciples showed them a perfect example of how we, who are His followers should relate to one another; He washed their feet, in Jewish culture this washing of feet was reserved for the lowest of servants, but our Lord not only set aside His glory in heaven to wear our corruptible matter but also in the flesh goes further to show us a true example of humility; He goes on further to tell us that we are to do the same. He tells us in Mark 10:43-45 that the greatest of us must be the one who serves the others, He tell us that even He is our example in this by telling us that He, the Lord of Glory “did not come to be served but to serve others and to give His life a ransom for many”. If we would be true disciples, we must be willing to serve other and to deny ourselves and to place others above ourselves

6.     True disciples deny self and bears the cross (Matthew 16:24): our Lord Jesus Christ lays this down as an imperative for discipleship; though anyone and everyone is free to become a disciple, however there is a demand that must be met, self-denial and the bearing of the cross daily and following Him. This self-denial spans across the following spheres:

**Willingness to lose one’s life for the sake of following Christ (Matthew 16:25)

**Willingness to renounce all (family and property) in order to be a disciple (Luke 14:33)

**Placing God above all else (John 21:15)

**Loving one’s neighbor as one’s self (Matthew 22:39)

7.     True disciple forgives (Colossians 3:13): Paul reminded the Colossian disciples that it is very important that those of us who have received God’s forgiveness must also extend such to others who have offended us, in fact he stress it that we should be patient with one another, reminding them that someone will offend but we must extend the same grace and kindness which God has extended to us in Christ to others who are outside. This quality of forgiveness is most sought after in Christians at all times, people especially unbelievers are fond of expecting Christians to forgive every offense committed against them, and rightly so, we must live up to what is expected of us not only by the watching world but by our Lord when He says “be perfect just as your Father in Heaven is perfect”(Matthew 5:48)after having taught us in details how we should behave as His disciples in the previous chapters

8.     True disciples continue in the teaching of Christ (John 8:30-31): while we become disciples of Jesus by believing in Him, it is also true that only those who continue in obedience to His teaching are His true disciples, it is in continuance in these teachings of His that certainly leads to greater and greater freedom (John 8:32), this is clearly taught in the Parable of the Sower, all received the word, but some for various reasons failed to bring forth fruits to perfection because of certain things, thus proved that they were never true disciples to begin with, but there is that which receives the word, understands it, and indeed bears fruit and yields and in one case, a hundred folds, in another sixty folds and in another thirty folds. Which are you?

9.     True disciples live in humility and gratitude (Romans 12:1): fortified with knowledge of the great mercy that God has shown to us in Christ, we are humble by it and with heart full of gratitude we live our lives in a way that shows that we are grateful by presenting our bodies daily to God as a living sacrifice, devoted to doing what is pleasing to God, avoiding the corruption that is in the world through lust.

10.   True disciples witness to unbelievers (Acts 1:1): the are two ways of representing religion said the saintly Jonathan Edwards, through words and deeds, both of which was clearly seen in our Lord and which is also required to be seen in us who are His followers; it is true that not all will be preachers and evangelists but all can certainlybe a voice bearing witness to the gospel which remains the power of God unto salvation to all who believes, if we call ourselves Christian, our lives must also be in agreement with our Christian claims whether preachers or not. In conclusion, the big question is this: are you a true disciple of Jesus Christ? If yes, congratulations, hold on to Christ, but if no, the gates are still open wide still though narrow they may be, for anyone and everyone who is willing to become a true disciple, His call still resonates daily, “come to Me”, His arms are extended still to rescue those who will call on Him, the word remains ever faithful and true; for God so love the world that He gave His Only Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life; whoever comes to me, I will by no means cast out. Come to Jesus and become a true disciple today…

INTRODUCTION

The Parable of the Prodigal son is the third in the series of three parables given by Jesus in response to comments of the Pharisees who wondered how Jesus would allow the tax collectors and sinners come near Him and even eat with them.

THE MEANING OF THE PARABLE OF THE PRODIGAL SON

The word PRODIGAL means “spending money or using resources freely and recklessly.” It is being “wastefully extravagant.”

From the opening verse of this parable (Lk. 15:11), we can know that the story has to do with relationships: between a father and his sons, and between an older brother and a younger brother. It shows that God values relationship.

The major theme of this parable is not so much about the conversion of the sinner, as in the previous two parables of Luke 15 but rather the restoration of a believer into fellowship with the Father.

The Father Reference

The character of the forgiving father is a picture of God. In telling the story, Jesus identifies Himself with God in His loving attitude towards the lost.

The Younger Son Reference

The younger son, as illustrated in the parable, represents the tax collectors and sinners who came to hear Jesus (Lk. 15:1).

▪︎It is the picture of a believer who fell off into sin but later repented of his sins and returns into the waiting arms of a forgiving and loving God.

The Older Son Reference

The older brother represents the self-righteous Pharisees and the teachers of the law.

▪︎It is the picture of those who think they have earned their entitlement to the Father’s blessings by their works rather than by the grace and mercy of God.

LESSONS FROM THE PARABLE OF THE PRODIGAL SON

For us to have a proper and comprehensive understanding of the lessons enbeded in this parable, we shall examine the attitudes and actions of each of the three chracters, starting with the younger son

The Younger Son

1.According to Jewish law, he is entitled to one-third of his father’s estate.

▪︎By implication, he has asked for what rightly belongs to him (Lk. 15:12). Look up Deut. 21:15-17.

Reflection: If the younger son is entitted to what he asked from his father, did he really do anything wrong in asking as he did? Support your answer with reasons.

2.He valued his father’s assets more than he valued his father.

▪︎Many Christians want the material benefits of sonship without the obligations and responsibilities of relationship.

▪︎They handle God like they handle sugar and salt in their homes.

▪︎Such Christians have lost focus. Look up Matt. 6:33; 2Cor. 4:18.

3.He was tired of living under someone else’s rules. He craved for freedom and independence.

▪︎Like the prodigal son, we all possess a foolish ambition to be independent. Consider Gen. 3:6; Rom. 1:28.

▪︎Many of us do not want to submit to God’s authority or follow His rules. We want to run our own lives our own way.

4.He thought he was missing out by remaining with his father.

▪︎Many see a life of dedication, commitment and devotion to God as being deprived of fun and enjoyment. They see such a life as boring. They prefer to “JAPA” to a better life in the world. But the world has nothing to offer than misery and destruction. Look up Prov. 14:12-14; 1:10; 1Jn. 2:15.

5.He gathered his things together and travelled to a distant country (Lk. 15:13).

He has made that journey in his heart. The physical departure is a display of his willful disobedience to all the gooondes his father had offered him. See Matt 6:21; 12:34b.

▪︎Every action or attitude is preceded by a thought (Prov. 23:7). Beware of your thoughts.

6.Did you notice that he monetised all his essets? “… gathered all together…” Lk.15:13a.

▪︎Money is a powerful tempter and the love of it (above God) leads to misery and destruction. See 1Tim. 6:9-10; Lk.16:13; Eccl 5:10.

 7.He lavished all his inheritance on lushful living until he ran out of money and became broke (Lk.15:13).

▪︎When you separate yourself from God, you are  bound to lose all His graces upon your life- Eph. 2:12. Compare Jn.15:4-6.

8.He subjected himself to slavery in the hands of a Gentile (Lk. 15:15). Feeding pigs is a detestable job to the Jewish people (Lev. 11:17).

▪︎When a man willfully rejects or abandons God’s grace, he has automatically makes himself a candidate of disgrace.

▪︎The prodigal son toiling in the piggery is a picture of the lost sinner or a rebellious Christian who has returned to a life of sin (2Pt. 2:19-22).

Reflection: Compare the situation the prodigal son found himself with his expectation when he was leaving home.

9.He came to himself (Lk. 15:17).

▪︎His painful circumstances helped him to see his father in a new light and hope begins to dawn in his heart.

▪︎His realization is reflective of the sinner’s discovery that apart from God, there is no hope. Check Ps.147:11; Is. 40:30-31; Eph 2:12.

▪︎The way of the sinner is an insane way (Ps. 14:1). When a sinner comes to his senses, repentance follows, along with a longing to return to fellowship with God.

10.He devised a plan of action that shows that his repentance was genuine (Lk.15:17-19).

▪︎He admitted that he was in a bad shape.

▪︎He recognized the cause of his problem which was his own sin.

▪︎He didn’t try to shift blame by blaming his friends, or the economy or bad luck.

▪︎Не асknоwеdgеd that he had no claim on his father as a son.

▪︎He determined to seek mercy and grace, not justice. Justice would keep him in the piggery but grace (undeserved favour, unmerited gooondes) would keep him in his father’s house and love.

▪︎Now, he is not coming with a heart of entitlement but with a heart of service.

Similarly, when we find ourselves distant fron God, we need to repent and do the needful:

▪︎We need to acknowledge our sin.

▪︎We need to confess our unworthiness.

▪︎We need to seek God’s mercy, grace and forgiveness.

▪︎We need to pledge a renewal of our loyalty, commitment, dedication, and devotion to serving Him.

▪︎The good news is that when we do this, He is certain to recieve us. Check 1Jn. 1:9. Compare Jn. 6:37.

The prodigal son did not have just a wishful thinking. He acted upon his decision immediately (Lk. 15:20a).

▪︎ Procrastination is a terrible enemy of a blessed return to God.

Closing Charge

Have you also “japa” from the Lord and His love? Have you found yourself in a terrible and disgraceful situation as a result of being distant from the Lord? Maybe you have even made some wrong choices in the past and the consequences have become like a hunting shadow to you today. You can borrow a leaf from the action of the prodigal son by acknowledging your sins, repent of them and start afresh with the loving and waiting Lord, as we sing this hymn of prayer and commitment, YBH 222 (Bi Mo Ti Ri-Laisawawi).

²⁵ And ye shall serve the Lord your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee. ²⁶ There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil. ²⁷ I will send my fear before thee and will destroy all the people to whom thou shalt come, and I will make all thine enemies turn their backs unto thee.

Preamble

The scriptural passage for today (Exodus 23:25-27) reveals another promise of God that can be relied upon by the children of God who serve Him wholeheartedly.

This is a promise of God with a pre-requisite condition.

The truth is that God will fulfill every of His promises as stated in the scripture once man abide by His instruction.

What is Kingdom service?

1. All forms of service render in the vineyard of God can be categorised as the kingdom service- 2 Tim.2:20-21

• Any business by the children of God in God’s vineyard is a worthy business- Eph.2:10- For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

• Any service that promotes the Kingdom of the Father and bring glory to His name – 1 Cor.10:31- Therefore, whether you eat, or drink, or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God; Col.3:17-.

• Service is the meeting of needs or the filling of gaps, offering of help, kindness or assistance.

• Avenue of service cut across many areas of need; Prayer platform; Ministry platform; Mission platform; Follow up/visitation platform; Giving/ financial platform; technical/infrastructure; Secret labour/ designated task

Pattern of Kingdom service

1. The kingdom service is an individual responsibility- And ye shall serve the Lord your God.

‘’ye’’ refers to you.

A specific call to serve God with what you have been blessed with

It is a call to serve as individual and not group(s).

Even in group task, individual shall answer the specific call- Matt.25:15; Luke 19:13; Matt.20:8

• The kingdom service is rendered with God in focus- And ye shall serve the Lord your God.

The modus operandi is how God wants it done. Anything done to please self, or man is not service unto the Lord.

Your service must be unto God- who sees everything. God is the only Master to be served no other- Matt.6:24.

Acceptable Kingdom service

1. Serve reverently and in the fear of God-Heb. 12:28-29
2. Serve with dedication and passion-Rom. 12:11- not slothful in business; fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; Don’t drag your feet to do the things of God. Spend all the energy you have and be dutiful.
3. Serve with your whole heart not with eye service- Eph. 6:4-6
4. Serve with the mentality of being privileged and not entitlement (Heb. 5:4; 1 Cor.4:7-

Covenant Blessings of Kingdom service

1. Kingdom service attracts supernatural supplies, sustenance and sufficiency-(Ex. 23:25; Jer.17:8; 1 Kings 17:5-6; Psalm 37:18-19)…… and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water;
2. Kingdom service attracts Divine health and vitality (Ex. 23:25; Matt.9:35-36)- and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee
3. Kingdom service attracts longevity- the number of thy days I will fulfil.– Ex. 23:25-26; Deut. 34:5, 7)-. Psalm 91:16
4. Kingdom service guarantee all-round fruitfulness and flourishing- There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land:  Psalm 92:13-14
5. Kingdom brings about divine protection, covering and security- I will send my fear before thee and will destroy all the people to whom thou shalt come, and I will make all thine enemies turn their backs unto thee.

THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP – LUKE 15:3-7

INTRODUCTION

There are several parables of Jesus recorded in the Bible, but in this study series, we will focus on only a few of them, especially the common ones that we are somehow familiar with. Today we shall consider THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP, as recorded in Luke 15:3-7.

THE BASIS FOR THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP

The Parable of the lost sheep was given by Jesus in His response to the disapproving comments of the Jewish religious leaders who were not happy that Jesus welcomed those they considered to be unworthy of His company and His dining with them. Their judgemental attitudes toward the “cheaters and liars” (the tax collectors) in the society prompted Jesus to tell this parable, to correct them by emphasising the love and care of God for all.

THE MEANING OF THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP

The Sheep Reference

▪︎In many places in the Bible God’s people are referred to as sheep. Look up Ps. 100.3; Matt. 10:6; Mk.14:27; Is. 53:6; Jer. 50:6.

The Shepherd Reference

▪︎Multiple references are also found in the Bible concerning the shepherd. And if the people are the sheep, God Himself is the Shepherd- Ps 23:1

▪︎God is not just any shepherd but the “good Shepherd” (Jn. 10:11), the “great Shepherd” (Heb. 13:20), and the “Chief Shepherd” (1Pt. 5:4).

▪︎There are also Christian human shepherds in the form of Pastors, who are to shepherd and disciple the flock as Christ would do. Check Act 20:28; 1Pt. 5:2-3.

The Lost Sheep Reference

▪︎The lost sheep in this parable represents the unsaved (Jn. 10:16). However, it also speaks of “the backsliding saved.” Look up Lk.19:10; Matt.15:24

The Ninety-Nine Sheep Reference

▪︎The ninety-nine sheep represents the believers who are in right standing with God, who have not only chosen to be with the Lord but remain with Him.

▪︎They are also seen as those who adhere to the law given by God, as the Pharisees always claim to do.

▪︎Jesus calls them the “ninety-nine persons who do not need to repent”(Lk. 15:7). However, this is just an illustration of their self- righteousness.

LESSONS FROM THE PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP

1. It confirms the nature of man as sheep…

▪︎To stray (Is.53:6)

▪︎To fall short (Rom. 3:23)

▪︎To sin (Rom. 3:29)

Consider the confession of Apostle Paul in Rom. 7:15.

Reflection: Mention some of the characteristics or experiences of a lost sheep (animal) that you can think of.

2. The Parable of the lost sheep confirms the purpose of the Shepherd…

▪︎To seek (Ezk. 34:16)

▪︎To call (Rev. 3:20)

▪︎ To carry (Is. 46:4)

▪︎To save (Jn. 3:17)

3. This Parable confirms the value God places on the individual person as His sheep…

▪︎Of the sinner (Lk. 15:17)

▪︎For the saint (Matt. 18:14)

4. The parable of the lost sheep confirms the Redemptive grace (Lk.15:4)

▪︎Christ died for us when we were still in our sins (Rom. 8:5),

▪︎Securing an eternal redemption for us (Heb. 9:12)

▪︎Tearing the curtain between us and God (Heb. 10:20)

▪︎That from His fullness we can receive grece upon grace (Jn. 1:16)

5. The parable confirms the ownership position of responsibility of the Shepherd…

▪︎The Shepherd goes after the sheep who are His (Lk. 15:4). Compare 2Tim. 2:19.

▪︎His sheep hear and recognize their Shepherd’s voice (Jn. 10:16, 27).

6.The parable also places responsibility on the believers and religious leaders…

▪︎As a member of the body of Christ, have proper attitudes toward the spiritually lost and the least of believers (Lk.15:2; Matt. 7:1,3; 1Cor. 10:12; Gal. 6:1), having a heart of compassion and forgiveness.

7. This parable confirms the heart of God, as a Father caring for His own (Matt. 6:26,30)…

▪︎In love (1Jn. 3:1; 4:16)

▪︎For joy (Lk. 15:7)

▪︎Not wanting anyone to perish (2Pt. 3:9).

8. It was for the lost sheep that Jesus came…

▪︎Leaving heaven as our Shepherd (Jn. 3:13; 2Cor. 8:9).

▪︎To lay down His life as a lamb (Jn. 10:15b; 1Jn. 3:16; 1Cor. 5:7).

▪︎Becoming sin for the sinner (2Cor. 5:21).

▪︎Chose to endure the cross, simply for the joy set before Him (Heb. 12:2). His joy as His sheep are sought, called, and placed on His shoulders for the journey home (Lk.15:5).

9. The parable of the lost sheep confirms that no matter how far we might have strayed away from the Lord and His love, He still loves us and is willingly seeking for us to lead and carry us back home (Rom. 5:8; 2Pt. 3:9).

10. Every single soul won for the kingdom of God attracts and results in great joy and celebration in heaven (Lk. 15:7).

CONCLUSION

The Parable of the lost sheep speaks to the complete body of Christ: the sheep who are already In the fold, the sheep who are yet to come, the lost but found sheep, and the human shepherds that the Chief Shepherd places on His flock. These shepherds must reflect and portray the attitude of the Chief Shepherd toward the sheep.

INTRODUCTION

The desire of God for us all, (men, women, old and young) is to live in peace with everyone around us. It is the duty of Christians to follow peace with all men, even with those who may be instrumental to our sufferings.

MOTHERS AS PEACE SEEKERS

The aim of this year’s Mothers’ day theme is to sensitize every woman to be determined, in whatever situation, to seek peace with everyone they come in contact with (Rom. 12:18).

▪︎It is to encourage every woman to be tolerant and forbear other people’s excesses, that peace may reign at all times in our relationships.

▪︎A woman who will make impact in her home and everywhere she finds herself is expected to be a peace seeker.

There’s an interesting story for us to learn from, in 1Samuel Chapter 25.

There are three main characters in this story: David, Nabal, and Abigail.

DAVID

▪︎He was a man of war and violence. Violence was his language.

▪︎He was a man of vengeance (1Sam. 25:21-22).

▪︎He would have destroyed his future with his anger and violence, if not for Abigail’s intervention (1Sam. 25:33-34).

NABAL

▪︎He was an evil and wicked man (1Sam. 25:3).

▪︎He was a drunk (1Sam. 25:36).

▪︎He was a fool (1Sam. 25:25). The meaning of his name is “fool”, “worthless”, “good-for-nothing”.

▪︎He was rude and mannerless (1Sam. 25: 10-11; Prov. 18:21; 21:23).

▪︎He was a son of Belial (1Sam. 25:25; 2:12).

▪︎He was an abuser (1Sam.  25:17,25). Like Eli’s sons (1Sam. 2:22).

▪︎He was greedy and stubborn (1Sam. 25:17b).

▪︎He died a premature and shameful death (1Sam. 25:38).

This is the picture of many men today and many women have found themselves in the captivity of such men, suffering in silence.

▪︎There are women today who are beautiful, intelligent, industrious, diligent and married to wealthy men. They have their own servants, loyalty of their husband’s staff and unquestioned access to all the household abundance. But beneath this wealth and affluence, they’re navigating in a marriage to a difficult and worthless man, with bitterness and tears. May the Lord intervene in their situation in Jesus’ name.

ABIGAIL

▪︎She was a beautiful and an amazing woman (1Sam. 25.3).

▪︎She was a woman full of wisdom (1Sam. 25:3).

▪︎She was caught between two powerful systems (Nabal’s and David’s) threatening both her life and those of her houschold. But she was able to navigate her way out with wisdom.

▪︎Out of wisdom, she didn’t consult her husband before going to meet with David. Nabal would have complicated the matter more.

▪︎She was a smart businesswoman. The servants went to her because they knew she’s capable of solving the problem at hand (1Sam. 25:17a).

▪︎She made good use of the executive opportunity she had: Unhindered and unquestioned access and authority to resources (1Sam. 25:18). She deployed them to save her household from disaster.

▪︎She was a woman of kind and soothing words (Prov. 15:1). She attested to her husband’s foolishness (Vs. 25a). She told David that things would have been different had it been his men met her instead of her husband (Vs. 25b). An indication that she was the one in charge of the business, her husband was just the front.

▪︎She was a skilled diplomat. She applied diplomacy in solving the problem. She convinced David to believe that she was on his side.

▪︎As a soldier, David was a strategist but she proved to be a greater one. David was quick to take action for violence but She was also quick to make effort to avoid violence.

▪︎She was a courageous woman. Rather than sending a mediator in her place, she courageously approached David.

▪︎She saved herself and her household, as well as David’s future (1Sam. 25::28, 33-34).

▪︎By what she did, she gained the honour of becoming an “old-testament-type of Christ.”

>She came riding on a donkey.

>She presented offerings for Nabal’s trespass.

>She asked David to let the blame for the offence fell on her alone. (substitutionary sin).

>She prophesied about David’s reign, declaring the kingdom.

>She is a peacemaker.

CONCLUSION

Being peaceful and a seeker of peace is an attribute of God that can only be given by grace. May the Lord grant all mothers the grace, wisdom and understanding needed to be real peace seekers everywhere they find themselves in Jesus name.

PRAYERS

1.            Father, make me an agent and a carrier of peace. Help me and grant me the grace to pursue peace wherever I find myself in Jesus’ name.

2.            I receive peace in my home and in all areas of my life in Jesus’ name, Amen.

In continuation of our lessons from the parables of Jesus, our text for the day points out to us another way Jesus describes those that are kingdom citizens. In our previous lesson, it was pointed out that this address by Jesus was given to specific people and not just anybody. I hope the challenge gotten so far still resonates in our minds.

What is light? It is that which makes vision possible. It also can be said to be a spiritual illumination Jh1:5. Light can also be that which is said to be that which informs or make known, in some cases, that which shines or brighten up a place, an idea, etc. is itself called the light. It also can be said to be the presentation of a view upon which one stands

While on earth, Christ affirmed that He was the light on earth Jh 8:12, 9:5 and the light gave sight to those lacking in spiritual understanding, and living in assumptions. These are those not in-line with the ways of the kingdom. He restored many, and attracted many to God and HIs kingdom. Light is that which a life gets and becomes having dealt with the issue of sin and iniquity Eph 5:14. This light that Jesus was, represented, and proclaimed is what believers are today. Eph 5:8 and we have the duty to walk as one with all thankfulness and sense of duty Col1:12., 1Thess 5:5  because as Christ was then, believers are now, the light of the world John 9:5. The radiance and illumination we give to our world ought to be such that all can perceive, see and experience. From, our text, the words of Jesus indicates a global relevance.  

What does it mean to walk as light?

What Light Does

1. Light helps to see and appreciate beauty Gen 1:31
2. It brings reveals the hidden things of darkness  and reveals the counsel of the heart 1 cor 4:5,
3. Eph 5:13 it points out to us those things that are reproved, condemnable
4. Luk 15:8 it helps in the recovery of that which is lost.
5. The availability of the light of God keeps one form stumbling Jh 11:9-10
6. The introduction and empowerment of light dispels darkness and the works of darkness Jh 1:5
7.  The light guides those in the grip of darkness and death out in the way of peace, luk 1:79
8. The light reveals to us our destination Jh 12:35, Isa 60:2
9. The presence of light makes the journey of life easy

Some of the things the Bible says about light

1. Jesus is light and the glory of the divine illuminates Rev 21:23
2. The appearance of Christ and his covering is light Matt 17:2, Acts 9:3-4
3. The life of God is light unto men Jh 1:4
4. Darkness cannot comprehend, pull down, over power the light of God Jh 1:5
5. The appearance of light announces salvation for those without and glory for those in the fold of God. Luk 2:29-32
6. The abode of God is light. 1 Tim 6:16
7. It is the revelation of the glorious gospel of Christ, the revealer of God 2 Cor 4:4
8. Light connotes daytime and the activities of the day. That it is day tells us that we have been called to duty. Jh 9:4.

Since we have been called to duty, to work; why do some Christians still complain about being the ones saddled with the responsibilities of doing good works?

• Believers being chosen generation, royal priests, holy nation, ones belonging to God, are so called in order to show forth God’s praise who has called from darkness to light. 1Pet 2:9
• Those who are not the children of the world are regarded as the children of light Lk 16:8

On the final note, Jesus’ admonitions in Luk 11:33-36 and Matt 5:16 should re-echo in our minds as children of God living in the light of God and who also are the light of the world:

1. Your light should not be hidden
2. Your reception of the light of God determines to a great extent how much of God you enjoy. It is like God is saying that He already has shed His light abroad, however, that which will be of benefit to any life is that which the life is able to bring in (if your eyes be …then your body will be…)
3. Believers do not need more light in order to function maximally, what is needed is the more reception, accommodation, usage, application, of the light that you are and have
4. Be sure to keep your lamp burning, your light shining. Luk 12 :35  
5. The light of God affecting and influencing a life can be rejected. However, note that this is also a rejection of the LIFE of God both now and hereafter Jn 3:19

Consider Jh 3:20-21, and point out why people go after darkness and light respectively as a choice

Note that a life living in darkness stands the risk of being uprooted Matt 15:13. Why? God does not intend that His children be involved with/in darkness. Consider the warning and call and God’s intervention in Eph 5:11-14 and Eph 2:1-4

• The light you shine as a child of God should be beautiful enough to attract others to your God. Matt 5:16

    The point of Jesus calling the believers the light of the world is in relation to the view that anyone that is now born of God now has the Life-Light on his inside and therefore can be said to be a life created by The Light to be the light. 

INTRODUCTION

The church is a spiritual organisation an every service is an opportunity to worship and fellowship with God. All activities during a worship service centres on and revolves around God.

The nature and character of God define and display excellence. Every Service Leader is therefore expected to build and imbibe excellence as a ministry culture. Every role, task or service is best delivered through a connection that God deserves the best.

WHAT IS CULTURE?

Culture is simply defined as a way of life of a particular people or society. It includes the ideas, values, customs and social behaviour of the people.

In the church setting, culture involves attitude, values, beliefs, policies, mode of perception, language and habits of thoughts and activities of a particular church.

WHO IS A SERVICE LEADER?

By the reason of this retreat, we shall define a Service Leader as anyone who partakes in leading worshippers in one capacity or the other, or performs one activity or the other in connection with worship services. Not only those who climb the altar or mount the pulpit. They are ministers and must see themselves so. They function in one ministry or the other during worship services.

INTENTIONAL

To be intentional is to do something with intention or on purpose (intended). It involves making deliberate, voluntary and willing choices with full consciousness of the nature of one’s act and its consequences.

An intentional Service Leader is one who performs his tasks on purpose. Not accidentally or incidentally but deliberately.

The word BUILDING, as used here is from the action word BUILD, which means to make, develop, raise, form, create, cultivate, establish, find and maintain, focus with intention, in constant pursuit of betterment and improvement.

WHAT IS EXCELLENCE?

Excellence is defined as the quality of being outstanding or extremely good. The very best. It is striving to do more than the ordinary and regular.

Excellence is more than “packaging.” It is actually doing the RIGHT THING in an EXTRAORDINARY way. First is “doing the right thing” then delivering it in an “extraordinary way.” The key word is EXTRA, added to the ORDINARY. That is, doing ordinary things in extraordinary ways.

In Ecclesiastes 9, Solomon infers that, while having consciousness of death, it is our wisdom to make the best use of life that we can while it does last. It implies that we make the best use of every available opportunity by striving for the best.

EXCELLENCE AS A CULTURE

According to Aristotle, “excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intentions, sinere effort and intelligent execution. It represents the wise choice among many alternatives. Choice, not chance determines excellence.” Excellence occurs when opportunity meets with preparedness. That “preparedness” is the culture of excellence. You don’t become a thief because you stole. You stole because you are a thief.

Excellence has to do with mindset. If all Service Leaders can cultivate this mentality and form the mindset of it, it will run on every of their operational delivery.

HOW TO PURSUE AND BUILD EXCELLENCE AS A SERVICE LEADER

1.            Desire it

▪︎A desire to go above and beyond the ordinary. Don’t settle for less or average.

▪︎A desire to have order in all activities, even beyond church operations.

This can be powered through praying for the spirit of excellence.

2.            Get informed

▪︎Excellence is driven by the level of information available to you. What you hear, see and experience will provide the foundation to pursue excellence.

▪︎Get informed through books, videos, locations, interactions, meetings, seminars and mentorship.

3.            Get exposed to excellence (locations and people connected to excellence).

▪︎With proper planning, well documented and organised processes, training and seminars, accountability and orderliness.

▪︎Don’t be too big to learn from someone who knows more or is better than you. Be humble.

4.            Benchmark with the best

▪︎Consider a mentor or a leader who is excellent in his service delivery.

▪︎Set him as a standard for your personal operations.

▪︎Measure your performance against the standard.

▪︎Adjust where necessary.

These aid a consistent development until excellence becomes a culture.

5.            Intentionally Improve Your Time Management

▪︎To avoid persistent lateness. Promptness is a sign of culture of excellence.

▪︎Avoid rushing to church five minutes to the commencement of service. It makes you unsettled and disorganised.

6.            Document your assigned role in the service and how you intend to carry it out.

▪︎Document instructions given to you.

7.Be intentional through adequate preparation.

▪︎Never perform a role without adequate preparation, unless it is an emergency. Even at that, ask the Holy Spirit to help you out.

8.            Avoid reactive tendencies.

▪︎Learn to be proactive by thinking ahead for possible hitches.

9.            Pay attention to little details

▪︎When you ignore the details and deliver your tasks with no consciousness of ensuring all things are done well, it leaves tiny deviations with heavy repercussions.

▪︎As tiny as changing the battery in the microphone.

▪︎As tiny as checking the offering box to ascertain its legs are intact.

▪︎As tiny as checking to make sure the keyboard is not transposed, to avoid playing on the wrong key.

▪︎As tiny as reading the bible passage over and over again before mounting the pulpit to read to the congregation.

▪︎Always do a double check to make sure all things are in order.

Paying attention to tiny details can boost your (as well as the church) culture of excellence.

10.          If your task in the service involves you holding and using the microphone, learn basic Microphone Techniques and Management.

▪︎Know whether the microphone is “omnidirectional” (captures sound equally from all directions) or “unidirectional” (picks up sound from the top, with less than 50% from the sides and about 10% from the back).

▪︎Know how to power the microphone on and off.

▪︎Know how to position the microphone for maximum output.

▪︎Know how to position the microphone to avoid unpleasant feedback interferences (noise).

11.          For those in the Media and Technical, check and test run all the equipment at least 45 minutes before service starts.

12.          Always focus on delivering your task better than the last time.

▪︎Never try to show off or else you will be off the show

CONCLUSION

Excellence is not an incidental or momentary thing but a culture that is learned and built over time. It is powered by orderliness and commitment. Our God deserves the best and the best we should offer Him in our services. To joke with excellence is to swim in mediocrity. May that not be our portion in Jesus’ name.

Counting on the Lord’s promises is one sure way to guarantee survival at every phase of life. Nothing is more assuring like what God has promised.

To count on Him implies relying on everything He has spoken concerning you and me. And receiving them as the surest way to get going in life.

In 2 Corinthians 1:20, God’s word says ‘’For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.’’(KJV) For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so, through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. (NIV). Therefore, the assurance of God’s promises is made perfect in Christ.

How then do we count on God’s blessing?

1. God demand absolute trust from all His children for them to enjoy the divine promise. Without trusting God, nothing can be received. Trusting in the promises of God starts with trusting God for who He says He is. Psalm 145:13 says: “The Lord is trustworthy in all his promises and faithful in all he does.” As we begin to trust Him in His character and attributes, we see His incredible power translating into His actions.
2. Leaning on the wisdom of God above earthly wisdom and knowledge will go a long way to access God’s promises and enjoy the covenant-backed promises. Gen.26:3-4;12-13. God’s wisdom is divine and surpasses all other wisdom- James 3:17-18; 1:17.
3. Living according to the will of God commit the integrity of God to do what He says He will do. No short cut can bring God to fulfill His specific blessing to His children but only who walk uprightly in consonance with His law and will. – Deut. 28:1-2; II Chron. 7:14-14

PRAYER GUIDE

1. Thank you, Jesus, for your promises are real and great and I will enjoy them in full this month onward in the name of Jesus.

• Joshua 21:45- none of your promises shall fail in my life but they will all be accomplished timely and readily in the name of Jesus.
• Job.10:12- This new month, the Lord will preserve me all through the days and He will show me His kindness, goodness and favour in all my plans and endeavours in the name of Jesus.

• Psalm 55:22- Father in Jesus’name, You will help me carry all my burden this month, your divine grace will carry me through, and I will not suffer in any form. For your mighty hand shall sustain me in the name of Jesus

• Psalm 68;19 & Matt. 6:11 – All through the day, the week and the entire month, I receive full delivery of my divine benefits. My divine allocation will not elude me this month in the name of Jesus

• Isaiah 55:12- My going out all through this month shall be characterised with divine joy; peace of God shall lead all through the days of this month. Every encounter in the month shall bring forth unending laughter, joy and celebration in Jesus’ name

• Eph.3:20- This new month and all the days in it, the Lord will surprise me beyond my imagination and comprehension, and I will experience His abundant provision all round in the name of Jesus

• Matt 6:9-10; Luke 10:19- Father, only your will is permitted in my life all through this month of may. Let your will be done for me and continually reign in my life in Jesus’name. no power of devil shall reign in my life in Jesus’ name

• Acts 2:41, 47- In our camp this month, the Lord will increase us daily, we shall not diminish and we shall enjoy favour of God together

1. Psalm 90:14- Dear Lord, satisfy me early this month with all your unfailing promises and I will be glad all through the month