Ayo Bello Memorial Baptist Church, Ilorin – Nigeria

INTRODUCTION

Prayer is communication between man and God. It means contact with, communion with, and fellowship with God. It is not simply asking God for things.

▪︎ It is the privilege of all to pray (Luke 18:3, 11, 13, 18, 38). To Christians, there should be a right understanding of, and a regular engaging in, the privilege of prayer. This is the focus of the parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge.

There are two characters in this parable:

1. An Unjust Judge

To be unjust means not based on, or behaving according to what is morally right.

▪︎ It is to be improper, dishonest, unfair or biased. It speaks of treating someone badly in a way that they do not deserve.

Why Is The Judge Described As Unjust?

In Jewish Community, a judge is expected to be impartial, to judge righteously and to recognize that judgement ultimately belongs to God. Look up Deut.1:16-17. This particular judge was not so.

▪︎ The judge is also described as having no fear of God and no compassion for the people under his jurisdiction (Lk. 18:2). It can easily be said of him as unfit.

2. A Needy Widow

According to Jewish law, widows deserve special protection under the justice system. Check Deut. 10:18; 24:17, 19-21; James 1:27.

▪︎ This particular widow was ignored by the judge. Nevertheless, she refused to give up. Eventually, the judge granted her the justice she was seeking. Not because the judge pitied her but because he wanted to free himself from being continuously troubled and disturbed by the widow (Lk. 18:4-5).

Reflection: (a) Why are cases pursued up to the Supreme Court?

(b) It is often said that “the judiciary (courts) is the last hope of the common man.” Why? How true is this in Nigeria?

MEANING OF THE PARABLE OF THE PERSISTENT WIDOW

In this parable, our Lord Jesus Christ stresses the great importance of prayer and of praying. He emphasised that, if an uncaring, unfit, ungodly judge answers with justice in the end, how much more will a loving and holy Father give what is right to His children (Lk. 18:7-8a).

▪︎ We only need to be persistent in asking and have faith that God will eventually answer, no matter how long it takes. He is never late but always on time. See Hab. 2:3.

LESSONS FROM THE PARABLE OF THE PERSISTENT WIDOW AND THE UNJUST JUDGE

1. We do not always get immediate results when we pray.

▪︎ Our definition of swift justice is not the same as the Lord’s. Check Is. 55:8-9.

▪︎ God answers according to His will and not our selfish desires (James 4:3).

▪︎ But in all, we can fully count on Him to answer when, where, and how He chooses (1Jn. 5:14-15). Compare Hab. 2:3.

2. Effective prayer requires tenacity and faithfulness.

▪︎ Tenacity is the quality of being determined. It speaks of persistence.

▪︎ A genuine disciple must learn that prayer never gives up and is based on absolute trust and faith in God. See Matt. 7:7-8.

3. The widow continued to go to the judge because she believed that he will eventually grant her request.

▪︎ Persistence in prayer also hangs on faith. Look up Heb. 11:1, 6; 10:23; Is. 55:11.

4. Like the persistent widow, we are needy, dependent sinners who trust in our gracious, loving and merciful God alone to supply what we need. Check Is. 59:1-2. Compare Exd. 33:19; Rom. 9:14-15.

5. Faithful, never-ceasing, persistent prayer is the permanent calling of every disciple of Christ who is committed to living a fulfilled life.

It is an obligation (Lk. 18:1; 1Thes. 5:17).

▪︎ Our new life in Christ can only be maintained by  prayer (Matt. 26:41).

▪︎ Only as we pray can our lives be what God wants them to be, can we know the secret of victory over sin and the power of the Enemy, and can our christian service be what it ought to be. Look up Jer. 33:3.

▪︎ In His Word, God has given us many great and precious promises (2Pt.1:4), a blank cheque book signed with the name of Jesus Christ (Jn. 14:13; 16:23), and with a Bank of Heaven that has limitless resources (Phil. 4:19). Only by prayer can we cash these cheques and obtain the promises (Phil. 4:6).

▪︎ Prayer is the key that locks and unlocks all doors.

6. The unjust judge lacks the fear of God and couldn’t do good.

▪︎ Where no fear of God is, wisdom is lacking and no good is to be expected (Pro. 9:10). But the power of importunity (i.e. the quality of repeatedly asking for something) can change the narrative (Lk. 18:4-5)

7. There are people in the world that are God’s people, His elect (Lk. 18:7).

▪︎ They meet with a great deal of trouble and opposition in this world but they have assurance of victory over all their adversaries (Lk. 18:8a). See Jn. 16:33.

Reflection: Who are the elect of God. Look up Is. 45:4; Deut. 7:6-8; 1Pt. 2:9-10.

…to be continued

Understanding the concepts of being sold:

To be sold out to God means relinquishing control and surrendering all at His feet.

A sold-out life in the literal sense is saying my body, spirit, and soul belong to Christ.

It should be our lifestyle as children of God who are committed to the deep things of God.

Selling takes place when goods are exchanged between two individuals for monetary gain and satisfaction – the concept of service and satisfaction

Terms and conditions applied.
The service offer is usually proportional in direct version to the payment made. The satisfaction of either party is likewise related and strongly linked to the price involved. _Matthew 19:27-29-; Luke 18:28-29

Being sold can also be used when a master sells his belongings to another with or without the approval of the subjects.- the concept of servanthood but not servitude

The servanthood in us as children of God makes it possible to live for Christ.

The servant yields to the master in all respects. What the master says inform and dictate the movement of the servant. Servant permits himself to be used of God anyhow and anyway.-

The 3rd concept about being sold out is the willingness of the subject to be released to a superior buyer even when one understands the attending consequences – the concept of sacrifice and submission

Being sold out to the master will only be possible when the subjects willfully surrender to be course.

A life of sacrifice in full. Yielding to Christ in total.
Isaac yielded to the Father not minding what lie ahead- Gen.22:4-5

The Hope of Sold-out Life.

Nothing is sweeter than having a sure hope in Christ

Hope for life in Christ is both in the contemporaries and the world to come.( 1 Cor.15:19

Heb.11:6- God rewards everyone who comes to Him- “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him”.

Abundant life and harvest are the lots of life sold out for Christ

Pattern of life sold out to Christ

Every man has only one life. This life is corrupt by nature until transformation takes place in our heart being about a new regenerated life at salvation.

For this life to be profitable optimally for Christ, it must be exhibit and demonstrate the following virtue.

1. Must be ready to embrace the word of God – John 6:63
2. It’s an individual decision and not a collective response.
3. The call to answer first is to be with Jesus. Being with Him makes you His Disciple and gain an understanding of the Master’s lifestyle- Acts 11

Self-denial is critical. Self must be displaced at the centre of your life for Christ to rule and reign- Luke 9:23. John said, “

Cross is the centre of the pursuit of every life sold for Christ. Without understanding the message of the cross, there is no life1 Cor.1:18; Gal.2:20; Phil. 1:21; Matt.10:23; Luke 14:27.

The life of God (Zoe) must be lived at the expense of any other options. Seeing God first and His righteousness remains the priority, no alternative for consideration ( Matt.6:33).

The soul of every child of God sold out to Christ must be preserved. Nothing in this world must be allowed to corrupt your soul. Your heart must be thoroughly guarded to secure things that matter to Christ.( Prov. 4:23)
Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

PREAMBLE

The Prevailing Hopelessness

The world today is full of varying and diverse challenges defiling human solutions.

It runs across individuals, families, regions, national and sub- nationals as well as globally

The problem ranges from social to economic; poverty to scarce resources; natural versus man- made disaster cum climate challenges; strange order of diseases and epidemics ravaging the world.

The problem of the world seems endless, and solutions appear not to catch up.

The scripture foretells and we need to know- in Psalms 46:2-3 (NKJV) “Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; [3] Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling”.

Alas, things may not be better globally due to the uncontrol geometric rate of ungodliness, unrighteousness, and unabated sinful living (Romans 1:18 -32; Psalm 82:5).

God’s anger manifests in many ways across nations today (Romans 1:28-32; Isaiah 13:11-13; 24:19-20.

More Prevailing Hope and Divine Exemption in the World of Hopelessness- Psalm 46:4-5;7,9-11.

Here is the Goodnews!!!; 

We have hope. The hope is Christ- Col. 1:27

The hopelessness in the world cannot match God’s provisions and exemption for His children. – Psalm 91:10-12- 

His unfailing promises give us hope against the hopelessness situation surrounding us.

Hope according to the scripture involves supernatural expectancy. Hope is the womb for manifestation- Romans 8:19

Hope comes when you begin to see yourself with what God has promised you, instead of seeing yourself without it.

Now is time not to give up, even if you are weary-Prov.24:10

Psalms 46:4-5- “There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, The holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High. God is in the midst of her. She shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.

Let’s look at What hope offer us

• When hope comes, fear shall give way. Psalm 46:2a – therefore we will not fear or be afraid.
• Hope transforms wilderness experience to abundance water that satisfies- Psalm 46:4a——– “There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God; Isaiah 48:21; 30:25. The river connotes heavenly resources- Gen.2:10
• Hope brings joy and gladness in place of sorrow and sighing- Psalms 46:4a; Isaiah 55:11
• Hope symbolises divine presence and manifestation of God- Psalms 46:4b; 16:11
• Divine hope makes the children of God unshakeable even in this unstable world we found ourselves- Heb.6:19-20.
• Hope in Christ offers all forms and dimensions of help (timely help; unsolicited; compelling, tireless help- 1 Chron.12:22; Luke 5:18-19; 2 Kings 5:3,13).

William Bradford and Priscilla J. Owens summarises the hope in this manner:

Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
when the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain,
will your anchor drift, or firm remain?

Refrain:
We have an anchor that keeps the soul
steadfast and sure while the billows roll;
fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love!

Hope in Christ a Sure and Supreme Hope- Hebrews 10:19-21:

Nothing else, and no one else guarantees hope in this world except Jesus, the great high priest (Heb.4:14-15; 2:17 ;3:1).

Hope in God is unique and supreme because it is premise on the faithfulness of God that cannot change or diminish.

Hope in Christ reveals God as follows: THE GOD WHO CARES; WHO IS CONCERN; WHO IS COMMITTED AND CONSISTENT

1. God who cares for His own Psalm 23; 55:22; Matt.6:25-26

2. God, that shows concern for us- Psalm 138:8; Matt.10:30

3. God that is committed to the course of His children – Romans 8:31-32;  Isaiah 41:10; Zech.2:8; Deuteronomy 32:10

4. God, that is consistent in action – Jeremiah 29:11; Lam.3:22; Psalm 68:19

Hope in Christ is for you – Heb.10:22-23

This is how you can obtain hope in Christ day in and day out.

You can renew your hope so that you have faith and strength to receive everything God has promised you- Heb.11:40

1. Learn to come to Him alone and come always- Matt.6:11

2. Come with a sincere heart. A sincere heart receives from Him all times

3. Come with your faith in full- Heb. 11:6

4. Come believing and with absolute trust in God

INTRODUCTION

Today we want to study the most neglected part of the parable of the prodigal son, which relates to the older son. The main lesson the Lord was teaching the Pharisees and the Scribes is contained in the attitudes of the older son.

LESSONS FROM THE ATTITUDES OF THE OLDER SON

1. His relationship with his father was based on works and merit (Lk. 15:29). He points out to his father that he has always being obedient and working so he had earned himself a party.

▪︎Christians should know that the blessing we received from God is not according to our own efforts but by His mercy and grace. Check Rom. 9:16.

2. He found service a toil instead of a joy (Lk. 15:29). He was certainly a good worker and not lazy but he thought of himself a slave, instead of a son that he truly is.

▪︎Believers should not serve God with the energy of the flesh but learn to do less themselves so that God may do more through them. Look up Phil. 2:13; 4:13.

▪︎Service to God should be seen as a privilege and not a burden, and should be done in joy. Check Ps. 100:2; Heb. 12:28-29.

Reflection: Is there any difference between working for God and working with God? Explain.

3. He was dominated by SELF (Lk. 15:29).

(a) He was self-righteous. Truly he had not done awful things his brother is guilty of but his “holier-than-thou” attitude is not a kingdom virtue. Compare Lk. 18:11-12.

(b) He was self-centered. Take note of the words “I”, “me”.

▪︎Are you always talking about yourself, of your experience and achievements? Do you always or sometimes want to be the centre of attention? Those are the manifestations of MR. SELF.

(c) He was full of self-pity. He acted like a baby, making a sad and sorry spectacle of himself. Compare 1Cor. 3:1-2.

▪︎The cure for self-pity is to fix our eyes on Jesus. See Heb.12:2.

(d) He was self-satisfied. He was content with his efforts to obey his father’s orders.

▪︎This is a picture of one (a believer) still living in bondage to the law. Check Rom. 8:15-17.

4. He was full of ingratitude (Lk.15:29).

As the older son, he had received the larger part of his father’s property (two-third) yet he was complaining. He perceived his father as being stingy and unfair.

▪︎Worldly Christians are not grateful for many blessings they have in Christ but focus only on what they have not received. Check Eph.1:3-5. Compare Gen. 2:16-17; 3:6.

▪︎Carnal Christians see God as being unfair by accepting tax collectors and sinners into His family and blessing them who are undeserving.

5. He was filled with envy and jealousy towards his brother (Lk. 15:30). He should have been thrilled with gratitude that his brother had returned but he was consumed with justice and equity.

▪︎Jealousy is a very cruel thing (Prov. 27:4). It is killing (Prov. 6:34-35; SOS 8:6b). It is a symptom of carnality (1Cor. 3:3), and can starve one of joy and peace.

▪︎Believers should be filled with gratitude for repentant sinners rather than being jealous and envious of the grace they would enjoy by returning to God, in place of condemnation and punishment they deserved.

6. He showed no concern or sympathy for the lost (Lk.15:30). He preferred his brother remain an outcast rather than returning and having a place in the home. He severed kinship with his brother. “…this your son..”

▪︎Christians should be filled with sympathy and loving concern to see sinners saved and to help restore the backslider.

▪︎Any one who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in darkness. Look up 1Jn. 2:9-11.

▪︎Believers and repented sinners are both brothers and co-heirs in the kingdom.

7. He does not understand grace and has no room for forgiveness (Lk. 15:30). The demonstration of grace by his father made him angry (Lk.15:28).

▪︎Grace and forgiveness is quite necessary and appropriate. “meet that we should make merry” (Lk.15:32).

▪︎Believers should rejoice and celebrate on the return of every sinner.

8. He was out of sympathy with his father and didn’t share his father’s burden. He rather picked up argument and quarrel with his father.

▪︎Instead of being content for sinners to remain in the far country and to die in their sins, believers should share the passion, the love, and the spirit of our Master. Look up Matt. 9:36; Lk. 19:10.

9. Rather than enjoy fellowship with his father, brother and the community, he stayed outside the house and nursed his anger.

▪︎Believers should not harbour bitterness in their hearts to the extent of choosing misery and isolation over restoration reconciliation.

10. The remedy for worldliness and self-centeredness is found in the amazing and tender words of the father (Lk. 15:31):

(a) “My son..” (Privilege)

▪︎Christians should rise to the full dignity of their high calling in Christ as sons of God and act accordingly. Compare 1Jn. 3:1-3.

(b) “You are always with me….” (Position).

▪︎Christians are heavenly people with Christ (Eph. 2:6). It is therefore unworthy for heavenly citizens to be so earthly minded. See Col. 3:1-3.

(c) “Everything I have is yours…” (Possessions).

▪︎God has given everything to us in Christ. We only need to be conscious of it and posses our possessions, instead of being envious of others’ blessings and gifts. If you’re not receiving, it’s because you’re not asking. Look up 2Pt. 1:3; Jn. 16:24; Matt. 7:7.

CONCLUSION

The older son lives today! He is presented as a “son”, meaning a believer, but a carnal one he is. Born again (Jn. 1:12-14) but worldly (1Cor. 3:1-4). Saved but dominated by self. Examine yourself, are you the older son? Repent today and forsake the attitude of the older son. May the Lord help all of us so to do in Jesus’ name.

INTRODUCTION

Stewardship is based on the realization that everything we have belongs to God and He wants us to use them to accomplish His purposes.

WHY THIS PARABLE?

Jesus was in the middle of teaching when a man requested: “Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me” (Lk.12:13).

The first response from Jesus was to explain that this wasn’t his job (Lk. 12:14).

Reflection 1: Why do you think Jesus said it is not His work to judge in the matter brought before Him? Does it mean that He has no judicial power, despite being the King of kings and the Lord of lords? Look up Jn. 18:36. Compare Lk 12:15.

THE MEANING OF THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL

The point of the parable of the rich fool is twofold:

1. We are not to devote our lives to the gathering and accumulation of wealth. Look up Ecl. 2:18. Compare Matt. 6:25, 31-33.

▪︎If money is your master, that means God is not (Matt. 6:24. Compare Mal. 1:6.

2. We are not blessed by God to hoard our wealth to ourselves.

▪︎We are blessed to be a blessing in the lives of others and to build the kingdom of God. To abound in every good work.

▪︎If we honour God with what He has given us, He will bless us with more so that we can honour Him with more. Look up 2Cor.9:6-9.

LESSONS FROM THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL

By all standard, the world will call this man a successful, wise and intelligent man but God called him a fool.

▪︎Note that Jesus did not condemn the man for being rich, and we were not told that he got his wealth dishonestly.

▪︎A food in Biblical language is not a description of mental ability but of spiritual discernment.

WHY DID GOD CALLED THE MAN A FOOL?

1. He did not see the hand of God in his harvest but only his own effort (Lk. 12:16).

▪︎ Our material blessings are either a mirror through which we see ourselves (our efforts) or a window through which we see God.

▪︎The man might have worked hard but it was God who crowned his efforts with success. Look up Rom. 9:16; 1Cor. 3:6.

2. The man thought within himself (Lk 12:17), but his thoughts were heard and examined in heaven, which is not slow to pronounce judgement on him.

▪︎God sees our hearts and hears all our thoughts, and He will deal with us accordingly. See Prov. 21:2; 1Sam. 16:7; Jer. 17:10; Ps. 44:21.

▪︎Remedy for ungodly thoughts- 1Chr. 28:9; Rom. 12:2.

3. He speaks as one at a loss and full of perplexity (Lk. 12:17)

“What shall I do” instead of “God, what do you want me to do with this harvest?”

Reflection 2: In what other ways do you think the man should have handled his surplus?

4. It was folly for the man to call the fruits of the ground his fruits and his goods (Lk. 12:17). Compare Ps. 24:1.

▪︎Whatever we have is lent to us to use. We should be able to differentiate between ownership and Stewardship. Check Hos. 2:8-9.

5. It was folly for this man to make plans and leave God out (Lk.12:18).

▪︎We should acknowledge and involve God in our plans. See Prov. 3:5-6.

6. He was concerned about himself alone. We could notice the words “I” six times and “my” five times. This is a display of pride, ego and fear.

▪︎God is never happy with the proud (James 4:6), and He has not given us the spirit of fear (2Tim. 1:7).

▪︎Worrying about our provision is on act of unbelief, and anxiety is opposite of faith (Matt .6.32).

7. He was trying to control the fate of future crops by the present harvest. (Lk. 12:18-19).

▪︎God owns and knows what tomorrow would bring. See James 4:13-16; Dan. 2:21.

▪︎The barn that was too small today could be too big tomorrow. Consider Pharaoh’s dream (Gen. 41:29-30).

▪︎The bible does not discourage us from looking to the future with great expectations, but we are to plan from the perspective that ultimately, God is in charge, and with humility to Him.

Refection 3: What is your opinion about people who hoard goods with the aim of selling when price increases?

8. He was storing his treasures in the wrong place. He failed to plan for treasure in heaven, forgetting that there is life after death.

▪︎We should store up treasures in heaven by partaking in the work of the kingdom. Look up Matt. 6:19-20.

9. He was trying to satisfy his soul with the things meant for the body “…eat, drink, be merry” (Lk. 12:19).

▪︎We don’t live to eat, we eat to live. Check 1Cor. 6: 13a; Matt. 4:4.

10. He missed the point of life (Lk. 12:20).

▪︎Life is a loan that must be repaid back to God upon demand, and whatever we accumulate here on earth, we would leave behind (Prov. 39:6). Why then should we struggle and wear ourselves out to accumulate them? Look up Eccl. 2:21-23; Job 27:8.

▪︎The major weakness of earthly riches is that, they have no purchasing power after death. Check Jam. 2:5; 1Tim. 6:18-19.

CONCLUSION

The central focus of Jesus in this parable is to speak on the matter of covetousness and greed, which was the origin of the problem with the two brothers.

If you fail to acknowledge God for your achievements, make plans and leave God out of it, live for the moment without thinking of heaven, or live without the understanding that life is a loan which must be paid back when demanded, you are a fool in God’s eyes. Am I a fool?. May the Lord help us to amend our ways in Jesus’ name.

INTRODUCTION

Today, God will be opening our mind to understand the relationship between God’s promises and His covenant.

The weight the covenant of God has on His promises are part of the confidence and assurance will have in whatever God has said. ( WHAT IS SAYS HE WILL DO; THAT’S WHAT HE WILL DO THAT IS WHY YOU ARE CALLED JEHOVAH—-TO RI NAA LE SE N JE OLUWA…..)- Malachi 3:6

Promises are what God blesses His children with and the covenant of His faithfulness and righteousness are the unbroken seal and anchor that make the promises unfailing in our lives

Covenant is the string that link promises and fulfillment. The covenant will propel us through a journey into the place of fulfillment of the will of God. Romans 4:20-21

GAINING FURTHER UNDERSTANDING OF GOD’S PROMISES- Psalm 103:17a. The promises of God are demonstration of God steadfast love and mercy to His children.

The promises of God are valid and unfailing- “Praise be to the Lord who has given rest to His people Israel just as He has promised…. Not one word has failed of all the good promises he gave through his servant Moses” (1 Kings 8:56). The promise of God is validated from many pages of the scripture-

• Promise of rest: 1 Kings 8:56 vs Exodus 33:14 /Deut.12:10 / Joshua 22:4 /Jeremiah 6:16 / Heb.4:8 / Matt 11:20.  God is not tired of giving us His rest up till today.
• 1. Promise of abiding presence of God-1 Kings 8:57- this is also established and validated by God’s unfailing covenant. His presence guarantee direction, protection, security and preservation. 1 Kings 8:57-  ‘’May the Lord our God be with us, as He was with our fathers. May He not leave us nor forsake us’’. ( 1 Kings 8:57 vs  Deut.4:31/ Deut.31:6 / Matt.28:20/ Heb.13:5
• Promise of abudant provisions- Psalm 36:8 Evidence around us year in and out has proven God’s surprise packages for us His children. I will bless her with abundant provisions;  her poor I will satisfy with food- Psalm 132:15. God has entered into a covenant with us, promising to provide our every need. This Covenant of Provision is backed up by God’s unfailing and unbreakable Word and is accessed by us through faith. Check this too- Psalm 23:2; 63:5; Psalm 65:4; Isaiah 25:6; Jeremiah 31:12,14.
• Provision of Health and wholeness- Exodus 15:26; Isaiah 33:24- No one living in Zion will say, “I am ill”; and the sins of those who dwell there will be forgiven. When God say no one, He means no one. His covenant for us distinguishes us from the Egyptians. Neh. 9:21 & Exodus 16:35 say. For forty years you sustained them in the wilderness; they lacked nothing, their clothes did not wear out nor did their feet become swollen. In Malachi 4:2; the scripture speaks healing wings’ vigour and vitality. Matt 8:17 confirm Jesus bore our sickness so its no longer ours. His promises also cover restoration to the sick (James 5:14; Jer. 30:17; 33;6).

COVENANT AND PROMISES- GOD’S SECURED STRATEGY FOR SATISFACTION- Psalm 103:17a.

God’s strategy and secret is revealed in vs 17 of our scripture, this secure our promises in Him

• God’s unchanging love and mercy– The promises of God is covenant-linked and it is eternally. This mean nothing is so strong to alter or change it.

The everlasting nature of God’s loving kindness assures us of His unwavering love and faithfulness. It is not influenced by our performance or circumstances. We can find comfort and security in knowing that His love for us will endure through all seasons of life.

• The Pattern of Generational Blessings:

God’s righteousness extends to children’s children. This highlights the generational impact of living in a covenant relationship with Him. This is seeing in God’s seven folds blessing upon Abraham in Gen 12:1-3 and from their it flow to all seed and heirs in Christ ( Galatians 3:16-17; 29).

Get out of your country, from your family and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you. I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed. (cf. Genesis 12:1-3).

Consider these scriptures: four eternal unconditional covenants that He makes. The first one is Genesis 12:1-3. That is unconditional. The second one is Deuteronomy 30:1-10 is unconditional. 2 Samuel 7:10-16 and Jeremiah 31:31-40.

Then there is one that is very conditional and that is Deuteronomy 28:1-68. At the fullest of time Jesus came (Galatians 4:4); in Him who all promises are fulfilled and ratified. ( Luke 24:44; Matt.5:17; 2 Cor.1:19-20). Jesus brought us into this promises ( Ephesians 2:11-13; 2 Pet.1:3-4).

COMMITMENT TO SECURE GOD’S PROMISES- Psalm 103:18

• Walking in the fear of God
• Walking to keep the covenant and its terms
• Walking in obedience with God’s word

When we walk in obedience and keep His covenant, we are creating a legacy of blessing for future generations.

Our faithfulness today has the potential to shape the lives of those who come after us, leading them to experience God’s goodness and righteousness.The psalmist emphasizes that those who fear God, keep His covenant, and obey His precepts are the ones who receive His loving kindness and righteousness. Obedience is beyond a mere legalistic requirement but a response of love and gratitude to God’s grace. It is through our obedience to His Word that we align ourselves with His purposes and experience the fullness of His blessings.

Preamble

Having understood from our last lesson the quality of God’s promises.  We want to take steps forward to actualize the promises of God for our lives both now and times to come.

What does it mean to obtain?

To obtain is to receive; to get; to acquire or secure something.

What will you be willing that the Lord should do for you?   Know today that you can obtain it in accordance with His will (3 John 2; Jeremiah 29:11; Hebrews 11:40.)

God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect – Heb.11:40.

Therefore, understand that you have a role to play. It’s your role to seek, know, to understand, and do what must be done in obtaining God’s lots and portions for you at all seasons ( Psalm16:5; Daniel 9:2-3)

Psalm 16:5: LORD, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure.

What does Obtaining the Promises Entails:

Firstly, the First things first:

Regarding the promises of God, the first truth to underscore is that these promises are coming from God.

They do not originate from man (men) (Numbers 23:19), so it’s not subject to probability or uncertainties (  James 1:17), regardless of how many they are (II Cor.1:19-20).

James 1;17: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning”

…..who does not change like shifting shadows.(NIV)

Therefore, the focus of anyone who will obtain or receive what has been promised must be on the promise (Matt. 24: 35) and the God who has spoken (Heb.12:2; Heb.10:25; 1 Thessalonians 5:24).

Secondly, you are to look unto Him for everything — Isaiah 45:22-23:

It’s not enough to know what God promises are. But you must look unto Him who is all knowing; all powerful and all doing (Isaiah 45 vs 22-23).

Everyone who wants Him can look unto Him. He said …”all you ends of the earth…- (Psalm 34:5; Matt.11:28;)

Whosoever would look unto Him will be saved and live (Numbers 21:8-9 & John 3: 14-15).

Where do you look unto; who else or what else do you call upon- Psalm 37:4?

God says in Isaiah 45:22c, …” there is none else”.

Even this season that we are in as a nation, if you will not ignore Him and truthfully look unto Him, you will live; thrive and succeed upon His promises. (Prov.3:5-6; Psalm 37: 18-19;25).

God said His words have integrity, and His promises are sworn blessings. It’s a great deal to look and be steadfast in your focus- Isaiah 45:23

And I wonder—in a time that we’re living in now—what could we look to that would be more solid than God?

And God is the Word (John 1:1). So, look to the Word of God today for your answer. The Bible has the answer for this day. It’s had for other days. It’s got it forever because it is Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Thidly, Hope in God is the next critical step to obtain God’s promises.- Romans 4:18.

Abraham hopes against all hopelessness (Gen. 15:5 vs 17:17; 21:5)

Hope beget expectation. Proverb 23:18; Romans 8:24-25)

Hope preserves the promises of God in our hearts, and it makes us persevere.

When you look unto God, Hope keeps your eyes on Him until He delivers.

There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off-Prov.23:18

But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish-Psalm 9:18.

Strive to obtain the word of God for your life, it worth hoping for – Romans 4:18b…..” just has it has been said (NIV).

Edward Mote taught believers hope in Christ alone. All other systems will fail, but hope in God only will stand the test of time.

My hope is built on nothing less

than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;

I dare not trust the sweetest frame,

but wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

Refrain:

On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand:

all other ground is sinking sand;

all other ground is sinking sand.

The fourth step for consideration is “A Strong and Growing Faith”- Romans 4:19-20.:

Faith is what can make you as a believer look unto God for what He has for you.

Faith fuel the hope to wait with expectation

Faith in God delivers God promises to us as His children.

It may not be wrong to have small faith, but your faith in Christ must grow large to become gteat and daring ones.

“without weakening in his faith….”

A weakening faith can not obtain God’s promises.

Note “his faith.”

It’s your faith that will deliver for you. The faith of others may help, but yours is most important.

Faith doesn’t deny facts (Romans 4:19b; ) but trust the faithfulness of God( Heb.11:11

Faith and obedience are intertwined in the actualisation of the promises of God- Gen.17:17, 23. Both fast track and guarantee fulfilment of promises of God.

Faith and believe are closely linked in the journey of seeing God fulfilling what He has said. When you believe in God and His words( Luke 1:45), it helps to checkmate unbelief.

Faith is inside believe and believe manifest through faith. Your believe in God can only be shown and sustained through faith.

Lastly, the fifth step is to base your persuasion and confidence on the power of God- Romans 4:21: … being fully persuaded that God had the power to do what he had promised.

The power of God is the fulcrum upon which your confidence can stand.

Confidence is found absolutely and what God has said and the power He has to deliver.

THE CALL TO COUNT ON GOD, THE PROMISE KEEPER

• To count on means to trust somebody to do something or to be sure that something will happen. Or if you count on something or count upon it, you expect it to happen and include it in your plans.
• This is the charge of God for us this month of June- to learn to depend absolutely on what He has said He would do for us all year round
• Would you count on Him who is able to do all things even beyond your thought and imagination? – Ephesians 3:20
• This is a call to cast all your cares upon Him who cares for you so much than anyone, both now and even tomorrow- Jer.29:11; 1 Pet.5:7

Psalm 55:22- ‘’Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.’’

INSIGHT INTO THE PROMISES OF GOD- ROMANS 4:20-21

Abraham is the father of faith that is ever qualified to instruct through the Holy Spirit.

He highlighted two major things about God and His promise from Romans 4:20-21:

1. God has a promise for His children for every situation or condition of time or season. The promise of God; in Genesis 15:5, and Genesis 17:16.

He also speak of the capability of God to do whatever He says- Isaiah 58:11; Jeremiah 1:12-; 1 Kings 8:15‘’ 

The LORD said to me, “You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled.”  

He is able to do all that He promised, – Joshua 21:45; Eph.3:20

UNDERSTANDING THE QUALITY OF GOD’S PROMISES

The quality of a matter determines its strength, nature, and characteristics.

It tells of how much of it to be engaged or considered. Understanding the quality of God’s promises keeps us abreast with God and what He says.

1. It is sure – Psalms 145:13c; 2 Cor.1:19-20; Heb.10:23; Psalm 23:6a.
2. It is real, realistic, and realisable- Gen. 37:5-8; 42: 6,9; 43:26,28;44:14; 50:18-19
3. It is great, unfathomable, and may not be comprehensible to man – Job 9:10; Deut. 6:22-23; Jeremiah 32:21-23
4. It is numerous and uncountable – 2 Cor.1:19-20
5. It is timely and appropriate – Hab.2:3; 1 Pet.3:9; Isaiah 46:13; Eccl.3:11
6. It is dependable and reliable – Psalm 126:1-3; Numbers 23:19
7. It is unquenchable and unstoppable – Isaiah 55:11, Galatia 4:4; Job 23:14
8. It is undeniable – Gen.21:6-7; Psalm 126:2b
9. It is infallible – Psalms 119:89; Isaiah 54:10; Luke 1:37; Luke 2:25-26; 29
10. It accomplished purpose: Jeremiah 1:12; Ezekiel 12:25, 28; God watch over, guarded, and delivered in full all of His promises.

Conclusion

The admonition today is to always count on the promise of God. When you do so, you are guarantee of the blessing and fulfillment of His promises.

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…