Anglican Bible Study Outline for 2023 – Church of Nigeria. Do you read Our Daily Manner Devotional? Follow the link here.
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STUDY 1
SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS JANUARY 1 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: God‘s Reign 1
TOPIC: The sovereignty of God.
TEXTS: Psalm 97:1-7
AIMS:
- to understand the sovereignty of God and
- to see how God can use any situation or creature to fulfil His purpose.
INTRODUCTION: The sovereignty of God simply means that God has the authority (right), power, and wisdom to exercise his rule over his creation. Every part of His creation: all places, objects, creatures, people, and even Satan is under His will and rule. He takes order from none of His creatures. His order is supreme. However, the sovereignty of God is never to will or do evil but can use any of His creatures to fulfil His purpose on earth and in eternity.
STUDY GUIDE:
- In your understanding, explain the Sovereignty of God in the context of Psalm 97:1-7; Psalm 135:5-7; Rom 11:33; Col 1:16.————————————————————————————-
- Read the following Bible passages: Dan 3:22-25; Acts 12:5-8; Acts 16:25-26 and explain how God manifested His sovereignty on both living and non-living creatures. ————————————————————————————-
- How can you prove the sovereignty of God over Satan in Job 1:12? Compare with Mk 5:6-13 and Luk 10:17-19. ————————————————————————————-
- How can God use unfavourable situation and occasional wickedness to fulfil His purpose for His people? Compare Gen 39:20 with Gen 41:14,38-40 and Gen 45:4,5,7; Also Compare Job 1:9-11and 42:12. ————————————————————————————-
CONCLUSION: God’s supremacy cuts across everything He created and uses any to fulfil His purpose.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: God is supreme and only His will is final.
MEMORY VERSE: Psalm 135:6 “Whatsoever the LORD pleased, that did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep places”.
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Anglican Bible Study Outline for 2023 – Church of Nigeria
STUDY 2
FIRST SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY JANUARY 8 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: God’s Reign 2
TOPIC: God’s Reign on Earth
TEXTS: Col 3:12-17; Rev 3:20
AIMS:
- to study how God whose throne is in heaven does reign on earth and
- to expound on the manner of His reign on earth.
INTRODUCTION
The stunning question that can arise from today’s topic is: how could God whose throne is in heaven, reigns at the same time on earth? Before Jesus Christ left the world, He promised us His peace (John 14:27) and always to be with us till the end of the age. Matt 28:20. The reign of God is a peaceful one and it is witnessed wherever His virtues are allowed in peoples’ hearts and livelihood. We can see from our Bible passage (Col 3:12-17) the godly virtues that easily lead to peaceful co-existence; which is an evidence of God’s reign in people’s hearts. How then can we achieve these virtues? Let’s study together for more exposition.
DISPLAY ADS
STUDY GUIDE
- From our Bible passage (Col 3:12-17) How can you justify the fact that God whose throne is in heaven reigns on earth?————————————————————————————-
- How can God reign in our world? Joel 2:12-13; Jam 4:8; 1Pet 1:22; Rev 3:20. ———————————
- How do you understand Jam 4:1-2 in line with what is happening in our contemporary world? ————————————————————————————-Does it mean that God is no more on earth? If not, why are wickedness and ungodliness reigning? Ps 2:2-3. ———————————————————
- As Christians, how can we be factors of God’s reign on earth? Phil 4:5-7; Col 3:16; 1Pet 2:11-12.————————————————————————————-
CONCLUSION: Despite the fact that God’s Throne is in heaven, He also rules on earth when we forsake sinful habits, surrender our lives to Him and allow Him in our hearts. Therefore, the more we allow God in our hearts, the more we enjoy His peaceful reign in our world.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: The more we surrender to the Lordship of Christ, the more we enjoy His peaceful reign on earth.
MEMORY VERSE: Rev 3:20 “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hears my voice, and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me”.
Anglican Bible Study Outline for 2023 – Church of Nigeria
STUDY 3
SECOND SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY JANUARY 15 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: God’s Reign 3
TOPIC: The Throne of God
TEXTS: Rev 20:11-15
AIMS:
- to visualize the heavenly Throne of God and
- to expose the essence of God’s reign in heaven.
INTRODUCTION
The Bible identifies heaven as the “Throne of God” (Isaiah 66:1), but also locates the Throne of God as “in heaven” (Psa 11: 4) Throne is the symbol of a reigning ruler. Therefore, God sits upon His heavenly Throne to rule eternally. The heavenly Throne of God is full of righteousness unlike some ungodly thrones of wickedness on earth. Only the righteous will be able to behold the face of God on His Throne and without command, the unrighteous will flee from beholding the face of the enthroned God in heaven. (Rev 20:11b)
DISPLAY ADS
STUDY GUIDE
- From the Bible passage today, how can you describe the Throne of God? Rev 20:11. What does white symbolised? Ps 33:5————————————————————————————-
- From the description f God’s throne, why is it different from the Throne of worldly ruler? Compare Ps 45:6-7a with Ps 2:2-3.————————————————————————————-
- In line with Psalm 11:4-6, what is the essence of God’s reign in heaven? Compare with Rev 20:12-15.————————————————————————————-
- What is the portion of the wicked and the righteous before the heavenly Throne of God? Rev 20:10; Rev 21:7-8————————————————————————————-
CONCLUSION: Unlike the corrupt earthly rulers who reign with terror and selfishness, the reign of God in heaven is with righteousness. The ungodly can never behold His righteous throne of judgment; therefore, they are bound to flee from His presence. As pilgrims to the heavenly kingdom of God, we have to follow the path of righteousness and manifest as true heirs to the King of kings so as to reign with him in eternity.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: No matter the reign of wickedness on earth, it has no place before God’s Throne in heaven.
MEMORY VERSE: Rev 20:11 “And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them”.
Anglican Bible Study Outline for 2023 – Church of Nigeria
STUDY 4
THIRD SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY JANUARY 22 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: The concept of a Pilgrim 1
TOPIC: Universal concept of a Pilgrim
TEXTS: 1Sam 1:1-11.
AIMS:
- to define a pilgrim in global usage and
- to discuss the religious importance of pilgrimage to mankind.
INTRODUCTION
Pilgrimage is a universal conception of believers in various religions. It is not limited to a particular religion, but cuts across everyone who believes in the existence of God. Over the ages, various religious believers have their various forms and places for pilgrimage. A pilgrim is therefore, someone who embarks on a journey to some sacred places for a spiritual purpose. Pilgrims are different from tourists. While Tourists travel for relaxation and for fun, pilgrims travel for spiritual reasons, to search for meaning, purpose, values and truth. Our text reveals the annual journey of Elkanah and his family to Shiloh for the unique purpose of worshipping the Almighty God. From Shiloh, it is conceived; they pray and ask God for renewal of blessings. Hannah became a beneficiary of this conception. (1Sam 1:19-20)
STUDY GUIDE
- Explain the universal concept of a pilgrim and differentiate between a pilgrim and a tourist.————————————————————————————-
- From today’s text, explain the main reason for the annual pilgrimage of Elkanah and his family to Shiloh. Read 1Sam 1:3a, 21, 22, 23-24.————————————————————————————-
- The Christians visit Jerusalem, Rome and some other Holy sites for earthly pilgrimage and were awarded Jerusalem Pilgrim (JP). From your experience, are all the pilgrims living up to biblical standards? Share your experience.————————————————————————————-
- What should be the essence of Christian pilgrimage on earth? 1Sam 1:3; Matt 28:19; Gal 2:1-2.————————————————————————————-
CONCLUSION: Christians, like other religious believers, visit Jerusalem and other Holy places on earth. Their aim should never be for site seeing nor pleasure alone. Their main aim should be to acquire more knowledge about the Bible and to come back to use their knowledge and conviction to positively impact lives and to make more Disciples of Christ by preaching and teaching about what they have been taught and seen.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Christian pilgrims should never be fun seekers but seekers of more knowledge for Christian discipleship.
MEMORY VERSE: 1Sam 1:3a “And this man went up out of his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in Shiloh”.
STUDY 5
FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY JANUARY 29 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: Concept of a pilgrim 2
TOPIC: Biblical concept of a pilgrim
TEXTS: Deut 12:5-7;Lk 2:41-49
AIMS:
- to study the biblical concept of pilgrimage and
- to contextualise the essence of biblical pilgrimage to our Christian living
INTRODUCTION
Deut 12:5-7, revealed the context of worship as revealed to Moses. From the time of Joshua (Josh 18:1 we see the establishment of the Ark of Tabernacle in Shiloh, where all the Tribes of Israel were to go for worship of the Almighty God; until David brought it back to Zion (2Sam 6:17). Solomon finally placed the Ark inside the Jerusalem Temple (2Chr 5:2-3) thereby turning Jerusalem into a pilgrimage site till the time of Jesus Christ. (Luk 2:41-49). Not many of us will be opportune to go on pilgrimage to Jerusalem, but all of us worship in churches.
STUDY GUIDE
- Briefly analyse the timeline of pilgrimage in the Bible. 1Sam 1:3; Luk 2:41-49————————————————————————————-
- How can you compare our weekly Church worship to pilgrimage as recorded in 1Sam 1:3 and Mk 1:21————————————————————————————-
- Some pilgrims encountered Christ on the Pentecost’s day. Acts 2:5, 37. From their response to the gospel, what should be the attitude of pilgrims and worshippers to the gospel message?————————————————————————————-
- From the earlier and later pilgrimages of Jesus Christ to Jerusalem on earth, what is the essence of Christian pilgrimage? Compare Luk 2:49 (as had been read in our text) and John 2:12-16.————————————————————————————-
CONCLUSION: The essence of pilgrimage in the biblical context is for spiritual cleansing and empowerment. Jesus’ pilgrimages to Jerusalem in his early and later years were not exception to this. Our pilgrimage on earth, if we are opportune is to be for spiritual renewal of our livelihood and for empowerment to preach the gospel in other to disciple others into Christendom.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Every journey to worship centres is like pilgrimage. Utilize them for discipleship.
MEMORY VERSE: Luk 2:42 “His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover”.
Anglican Bible Study Outline for 2023 – Church of Nigeria
STUDY 6
SEPTUAGESIMA SUNDAY FEBRUARY 5 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: SUB-THEME: Concept of a pilgrim 3
TOPIC: The concept of Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom
TEXTS: Psa 90:1-12
AIMS:
- to study the concept of heavenly pilgrim,
- to visualise mankind as a transient image of God on earth and
iii. to discuss the essence of mankind on earth.
INTRODUCTION
Our Bible passage today exposes us to the concept of heavenly Pilgrim. Christians (and especially all mankind) have no permanent home on earth (Psa 90:3-11); our citizenship is not here; we are mere sojourners, and are passing on to our eternal home in the heavens. Ecclesiastes 12:7 reveals to us this transient nature of mankind, created in the image of God with the breath of God. At last, the whole mass shall decompose; reduce to dust, from which it was originally made; and the spirit, (haruach), which God at first breathed into the nostrils of man to become a living soul, an intelligent, rational, discoursing animal, returns to God who gave it. Therefore, how we allow the spirit or the flesh (matter) to control us shall determine our final destination in eternity.
STUDY GUIDE
- Describe Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom in the context of 1Chr 29:15; Psa 90:5-6 and Eccl 12:7; Phil 3:20. ————————————————————————————-
- Human beings are composed of flesh (body) and spirit. Explain why we should live according to the spirit and not according to the flesh. Ro 13:14; Ga 5:16; 1Pet 2:11.————————————————————————————-
- What is the essence of mankind in the image of God? Eph 2:10; 4:24-27————————————————————————————-
- Expatiate the fact that all human beings are transient image of God in the context of Gen 2:7 and Eccl 12:7; Heb 11:16. ————————————————————————————-
CONCLUSION: We came from God through the breath of His Spirit and are on pilgrimage here on earth and shall return to God after our sojourn to give account of all we have done. Therefore, the whole essence of mankind is to live according to the Spirit of God and return to Him in the Spirit and not in flesh; so that, after our pilgrimage on earth we shall reign with Him eternally in heaven.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: To end our earthly pilgrimage in heaven we should live by the Spirit of God on earth.
MEMORY VERSE: Eccles 12:7 “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it”.
Anglican Bible Study Outline for 2023 – Church of Nigeria
STUDY 7
SEXAGESIMA SUNDAY FEBRUARY 12 2023
THEME:GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB THEME: The Pilgrim’s Lifestyle 1
TOPIC: Salt of the world
TEXT: Matthew 5:13.
AIMS:
- to expose the bitterness in an ungodly life,
- to discuss the heavenly pilgrim as the salt of the world and
iii. to point out the dangers of losing value as the salt of the world.
INTRODUCTION
The importance of salt in cooking can never be over emphasised. In the ancient world, salt has great value to the point that Roman soldiers sometimes were paid their wages in salt. Jesus in his sermon on the mount called the attention of his disciples to manifest themselves as salt in the decaying world. Jesus also drew their attention to the implication of salt losing its value (Matt. 5:13).
STUDY GUIDE
- What are the purposes of salt in ancient times and in our present age? Lev. 2:13; Eze 43:24; Mk 9:49————————————————————————————-
- Mention some of the signs of a decayed generation 1Cor 5:1-2; 2Tim 3:1-5. How can Christians be salt in such decadence? Rom. 12:9-21; 2Cor 6:14; Tit 2:7,15. ————————————————————————————-
- Explain how some Christians are losing their relevance as salt today? Rom. 1:29-32; 2Tim. 4:10;1 Tim. 6:10.————————————————————————————-
- What are the benefits of Christians’ manifestation as salt of the world? Hab. 2:14; Ps. 22:27; Jer. 31:34; Rom. 12:18.————————————————————————————-
CONCLUSION
As Christians, we should always live as the salt of the world in other to maximize our ability to flavour or bless others through our good works. We must always manifest as preservation so as not to lose our relevance and become insignificant.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: We are salt to preserve godliness.
MEMORY VERSE: Matt 5:13 “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt has lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men”.
Anglican Bible Study Outline for 2023 – Church of Nigeria
STUDY 8
QUINQUAGESIMA SUNDAY FEBRUARY 19 2023
THEME:GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB THEME: The Pilgrim’s lifestyle 2
TOPIC: Life of mercy
TEXT: Matthew 18:23-34
AIMS:
- to understand that we ought to show mercy to others just as we receive mercy from God.
- to examine the essence of showing mercy in the society and God’s kingdom on earth.
INTRODUCTION
Mercy, the topic of today, is the combination of compassion and forgiveness. The parable in today’s text is all about the king who forgave and showed mercy to his servant who owed him. Unfortunately, the servant who had been forgiven vehemently refused to show mercy to his fellow servant thereby making his own issue and debt to be revisited. Our Christian livelihood must always manifest mercy as our Father in heaven is merciful (Luk. 6:36).
STUDY GUIDE
- What is your understanding of mercy from the texts? How are believers expected to show mercy? Read Luke 17:3-4; Luke 10:33-35. ————————————————————————————-
- Why do some people find it difficult to show mercy? Gen 37:18-20; Mk 10:21-22————————————————————————————-
- What is God’s injunction on mercy? Prov. 3:3-4; Luke. 6:36————————————————————————————-
- What is the effect of mercy in a society, community? Ps. 37:25-26; Prov. 20:28; 21:21. ————————————————————————————-
CONCLUSION
We do ourselves more good when we show mercy to others. To live in an environment of mercy is to live in an atmosphere of peace, healing and growth. Mercy is needed to save and win the world for Christ.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: He who shows mercy establishes God’s kingdom on earth.
MEMORY VERSE: Lk 6:36 “Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful”.
STUDY 9
FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT FEBRUARY 26 2023
THEME:GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB THEME: The Pilgrim’s lifestyle 3
TOPIC: Lightening the World
TEXT: Matt. 5:14-16
AIMS:
- to understand the functions of light in scriptural context and
- to study the relevance of Christians who radiate as light.
INTRODUCTION
Light dispels darkness, reveals everything in its state, it enables us to find our way and is essential for growth and healing. Light from the scripture means illumination, something that brightens and brings happiness. Jesus informed his disciples that they are the light of the world. He made them understand that their light is not meant to be hidden. As believers we are called to shine as light in the world through holy living, holding on to the truth always and reconciling men back to God. The truth is, when we illuminate the world, we are granted maximum access to enjoy the kingdom of God on earth and the reign of God will be established.
STUDY GUIDE
- What are the physical functions of light? What is the biblical injunction for Christians as light? Eph 5:8.
- How can Christians function as light in the world in a morally decadent world? Phil. 2:14-16; 1Pet. 2:9; 2Pet. 1:5-7.
- Explain the manifestations of agents of darkness in the world today. John 3:19-21; Gal. 5:19-21.
- What are the effects of Christians shining as light in the world? Hab. 2:14; Matt 5:16.
CONCLUSION:
The reign of God will be established on earth when Christians shine as light in their families, places of work and in the Society. When Christians fail to shine as light, we would witness chaos in the world.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Shine your light to save the world from chaos.
MEMORY VERSE: Eph 5:8 “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light.”
Anglican Bible Study Outline for 2023 – Church of Nigeria
STUDY 10
SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT MARCH 5 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB THEME: The Pilgrim’s Lifestyle 4
TOPIC: Purity of heart
TEXT: Ps. 24:3– 4
AIMS:
- to discuss the concept of purity as related to heart and
- to identify the blessings attached to purity of heart
INTRODUCTION
A man’s heart is the centre of his life; it is the organ that gives him direction and will, stimulates his purpose and controls his actions. To be pure means to be blameless, without corruption, clean and without hypocritical behaviour. Purity of the heart therefore connotes absolute and uncompromising desire to please God. The Bible passage today affirms those who can ascend into the presence of God as only those with “clean hands, and a pure heart” because a pure heart can never pander vanity and deceit. As we go into our study guides, we shall discover the habits from pure hearts and the blessings of God on them.
STUDY GUIDE
- What is your personal understanding of the phrase ‘pure in heart’? Ps 24:4; Isa 33:15. ————————————————————————————-
- How can one have a pure heart? Ps 32:3-5; 1Jo 1:8-10. ————————————————————–
- Mention some of the habits from a pure heart? Ps 15:2-5; 24:4; Heb 12:14; ————————————————————————————-
- What are the blessings on a pure heart? Matt 5:8, Psalm 24:3-4, Rev 22:4————————————–
CONCLUSION
As Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom, a pure heart is highly essential because it overcomes all conscious sin. Let us therefore continuously allow our hearts to be refined and purified by biblical godly living
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: The thought of a person produces his or her action.
MEMORY VERSE: Matt 5:8 “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God”.
STUDY 11
THIRD SUNDAY IN LENT MARCH 12 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB THEME: The Pilgrim’s lifestyle 5
TOPIC: Peace-making
TEXT: Hebrews 12:14-15
AIMS:
- to understand the concept of peace-making in a heavenly pilgrim’s life,
- to enumerate the factors that can destroy peace and
iii. to see ways for peaceful co-existence.
INTRODUCTION
Peacemaking is central to the kingdom of God. The kingdom lifestyle is of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17) Our text is emphatic in describing peace-making as a prerequisite to seeing the Lord. As citizens of God’s kingdom, Christians are called to pursue, follow, ensure and live at peace with all men; even in a world filled with chaos and trouble.
STUDY GUIDE
- In your own view, what does it mean to be a peace maker? Gen 13:7-9; discuss on Gen 45:3-7. ———————————————–
- What are the factors that can destroy peace? Rom 8:6-7; 1Tim 6:4-5; Jam 4:1———————————
- From Prov 16:7, Phil 4:2 and Rom 12:19-21, mention various ways we can live at peace with all men? ———————————————–
- What are the rewards of following peace with all men? Prov 12:20; Matt 5:9. ——————————–
CONCLUSION
The entire world requires peace makers to prune the rising tide of war and hatred. As children of God on our journey to His Kingdom, our peaceful living is a virtuous example to those who are yet to encounter Jesus Christ, the prince of peace. Therefore, let us always preach peace and live the peaceful life.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Live wisely! Because, No war in God’s kingdom.
MEMORY VERSE: Heb 12:14 “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord”.
STUDY 12
FOURTH SUNDAY IN LENT (MOTHERING SUNDAY) MARCH 19 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB THEME: The Pilgrim’s Lifestyle 6
TOPIC: Forgiving livelihood
TEXT: Matt. 5:23–24
AIMS:
- to study forgiveness as a pilgrim’s virtuous lifestyle and
- to expose the dangers of an unforgiving spirit.
INTRODUCTION
Forgiveness is an attribute of a God–fearing Christian and a necessary condition for reconciliation. It is an act whereby an injured individual allows the one responsible for the injury to go scot-free Forgiveness lies in the heart of the Christian faith, with our Saviour extending forgiveness even when He was dying on the Cross. As God forgives us, so He requires that we extend forgiveness to others.
STUDY GUIDE
- According to Gen 45:4-5, what is forgiveness in your own understanding and why should we forgive and forget? Lk11:4a. ———————————————–
- Unforgiving is a capital sin. Discuss in line with Matt 6:15; 11:25; Jam 2:13————————————-
- Why do some believers find it difficult to forgive? Rom 1:28,31; Heb 3:12; 12:15. —————————
- Forgiveness is an important attribute of a God–fearing man. How can we as Christians cultivate this? Eph. 4:31-32; Col. 3:12-13. ———————————————–
CONCLUSION
Forgiveness is not about the one who hurts us; it is about restoring our relationship with God and man. The more we forgive, the more the love among believers on their earthly journey to the kingdom of God.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: He who forgives ends the quarrel.
MEMORY VERSE: Mk 11:25 “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.”
STUDY 13
FIFTH SUNDAY IN LENT MARCH 26 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: Conditions for Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom 1
TOPIC: New birth
TEXT: 1Pet 1:18-23
AIMS:
- to study the concept of the corruptible and incorruptible birth and
- to differentiate between the canal birth and the new birth in Christ.
INTRODUCTION
In our present Sub-themes, we shall be discussing the conditions for Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom. It is about the determining actors for Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom. Without these conditions, it may be difficult to continue the journey beyond earthly morals or lifestyles.
We are starting with the New Birth. The New Birth is an incorruptible one that differs from the natural human birth. The Abrahamic lineage in which the Jews were initially made heirs of the kingdom of God is of corruptible birth, but the new birth is through the incorruptible WORD OF GOD, which is Jesus Christ himself who shed his blood for the redemption of our souls.
STUDY GUIDE
- From the context of our study, how can you explain the new birth”? Joh 3:5; 1Pet 1:23———————-
- What are the Characteristics of the new born in Christ? 1Joh 3:9; 5:18. ————————-
- Differentiate between the canal birth and the new birth in Christ. Heb 9:13-14, 1Pet 1:18-19. ————————-
- What are the conditions for the new birth in Christ? 1Pet 1:22-23————————-
CONCLUSION: As Christians, we must know the difference between moral religiosity and a born again Christian. While moral religion ends on earth, the new Birth in Christ Jesus is the visa that takes every believer to the kingdom of God.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Morality ends on earth, but new birth is the Pilgrim’s visa to heaven.
MEMORY VERSE: 1Pet 1:23 “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever”.
STUDY 14
PALM SUNDAY APRIL 2 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: Conditions for Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom 2
TOPIC: Courage
TEXT: Matt 16:20-25
AIMS:
- to study the courage of Jesus Christ on his way to the cross and
- to impart the same courage on all pilgrims to the kingdom of God.
INTRODUCTION
Courage simply means the mental or moral strength to persevere and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. It is also the ability to move on even when others are falling aside. In our Text, we see Jesus Christ revealing his tragic end in Jerusalem to his disciples. What a dangerous path he foresaw, but yet was ready and bold to venture into it Peter’s discouragement has no place in the heart of our courageous saviour to move on in his mission to redeem the world on the cross of Calvary.
STUDY GUIDE
- How can you define courage in the context of Jesus’ attitude towards the cross? Matt 16:20; Mk 8:31; 9:31; 10:33; Lk 9:22. ————————-
- Explain the phrase “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me”. What does the cross in Lk 14:27 mean to you?————————-
- What are the crosses on the path of Christian pilgrims on earth? Matt 10:16-18, 21-22; Act 5:40; 12:1-4-
——————————————
- What is the courageous repose to all Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom? Deut 31:6; Matt 10:19-20; Lk 10:18-19. ————————-
CONCLUSION: The heavenly path is rough, narrow and full of dangers, intimidations, persecutions and frustration.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: No Courage, no crown of life
MEMORY VERSE: Deut 31:6 “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you”.
STUDY 15 EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 9 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: Conditions for Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom 3
TOPIC: Vigilance
TEXT: Mk 13:30-37
AIMS:
- to expose vigilance in the context of Jesus’ second coming and
- to discuss reasons for Christians’ vigilance.
INTRODUCTION
Vigilance is the action or state of keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulty. In our text today, Jesus admonished his disciples to keep watching because his second coming would be sudden. There are always the devil’s pranks, the lusts of this world, spiritual slothfulness and other reasons for Christians to be prayerfully vigilant. Our Study guides will expose more of these reasons.
STUDY GUIDE
- How do you understand the teachings of Jesus concerning vigilance in our text today?——————–
- From the following passages; Mt 24:42; Lu 21:36; 1Pe 4:7. Mention reasons for Christian watchfulness. ———————————————
- How best can we be vigilant on our journey to the kingdom of God? 1Co 16:13; 1Th 5:6. ———————————————
- What are the warnings for every child of God from the concept of vigilance? Luk 21:34; Rom 13:13. ———————————————
CONCLUSION: Christians must always be alert and prayerful because the devil is always at work to use all available means to divert and trap pilgrims from the path of salvation to the path of eternal condemnation.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Be vigilant and prayerful because the journey is packed with temptations.
MEMORY VERSE: 1Pet 5:8 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”
STUDY 16
FIRST SUNDAY AFTER EASTER APRIL 16 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: Dangers on the path of Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom 1
TOPIC: Sin
TEXT: Rom 1:18-32
AIMS:
- to affirm the knowledge of Christians about sin,
- to torchlight the deviant paths of children of God and
iii. to see the reaction of God to sinfulness.
INTRODUCTION
Sin can be defined as any transgression of God’s Instructions and all ungodly acts. The text today affirms the fact that Children of God are quite aware of the will of God, (Rom 1:18-19) but some deliberately deviate from the righteous path of God to their own canal dictates (Vs 22) which thereafter lead them into the path of condemnation (Vs 23-32). Our study Guides will torchlight more on the deviant path of Children of God and the implication.
STUDY GUIDE
- Define sin according to the concept of our text today. See Rom 1:21-23 compare with Gen 3:2-3
- Expatiate on this statement: Children of God are quite aware of the will of God, but some deliberately deviate from the righteous path of God to their own canal dictate” in line with Rom 1:18-23 and compare with 1Sam 27:8-10.
- In line with Rom 1:25-31, how can sin hinder one’s manifestation of God’s glory and power? Compare with Psalm 66:18 and Isa 59:1-2.
- Explain God’s reaction to deviant practices of His Children. 1Sam 28:6; Rom 1:24, 32; 2Th 2:11-12;
CONCLUSION: The glorious light of salvation has been shown to us as Christians. We should therefore be always careful on how we live our lives so as not to abuse the grace and thereby allow sin to becloud our manifestation as God’s Children on earth.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Sin is a slave master that keeps its victim from manifesting God’s glory.
MEMORY VERSE: Isa 59:1-2 “Behold, the LORD’S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear”.
STUDY 17
SECOND SUNDAY AFTER EASTER APRIL 23 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: Dangers on the path of Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom2
TOPIC: Unfaithfulness
TEXT: Jer 3:6-9.
AIMS:
- to study unfaithfulness in religious and social context and
- to discuss how it can hinder Christians from manifesting as Children of God
INTRODUCTION
STUDY GUIDE
- From our Bible passage (Jer 3:6-9), how can you explain unfaithfulness? —————————————
- Explain unfaithfulness in the context of the following (a) unfaithfulness towards God-Acts 5:3-5 (b) unfaithfulness in relationships/marriage- Gen 39:7 (c) unfaithfulness in one’s duty post-Matt 24:48-51 ———————————————
- Discuss some of the effects of unfaithfulness on the society with reference to Josh 22:20; 1Sam 4:10-11 (Ref 1Sa 2:32,34); Amos 1:13-15 ———————————————
- From the summary of the stories of Samuel in 1Sam 8:1,3-5 and Judas in Acts 1:16-18, how can unfaithfulness hinder believers from manifesting as children of God on earth? ———————————————
- What is God’s injunction concerning unfaithfulness? Ps.95:10-11; Prov 22:12; Re 22:12 ———————————————
CONCLUSION: Any act of unfaithfulness covers the glory of God in a Christian’s life and hinders his or her manifestation as pilgrims to the kingdom of God. Let us determine now to abhor unfaithfulness so that we can continuously manifest as PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Unfaithfulness is a moral burden that only faithfulness can heal.
MEMORY VERSE: Prov 22:12: “The eyes of God watch over knowledge; but he frustrates the words of the unfaithful.” (WEB version)
STUDY 18
THIRD SUNDAY AFTER EASTER APRIL 30 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: Dangers on the path of Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom 3
TOPIC: Legalism
TEXT: Mk 3:1-6
AIMS:
- to introduce the concept of legalism and
- to expatiate on the menace of legalism to Christianity.
INTRODUCTION
Legalism is a theory relating to, or exhibiting strict adherence to the law, especially to the letter of the law rather than its spirit. Legalism will always criticise virtuous acts in order to prove selfish and man-made tradition. Legalists advocate laws that rigidly prescribe punishments and rewards for specific behaviours. In today’s Bible passage, Jesus placed prominence on love to save the sick rather than obedience of the Sabbath code.
STUDY GUIDE
- Explain the word legalism from the context of the Bible passage. ———————————————
- Some Christian denomination and settings have laws guiding prayers. What is the right time and posture for prayers? Psa 55;17; 95:6; Mk 1:35; Luk 6:12; 1 Tim 2:8. ———————————————
- In the worship of God, what are the godly virtues that transcend legalism? 1Sam 15:22; Pr 21:3; Matt 5:23-24.———————————————
- Why is legalism a menace to pilgrims on the road to heaven? Matt 23: 25-28; 2Cor 3:6b ———————————————
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Obeying the laws is meaningless if we do not develop godly virtues
MEMORY VERSE: 2Cor 3:6b “for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life”.
STUDY 19
FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER EASTER MAY 7 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: Dangers on the path of Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom 4
TOPIC: Moralism
TEXT: Mk 7:1-13
AIMS:
- to introduce the concept of moralism and
- to expatiate on the menace of moralism to Christianity.
INTRODUCTION
STUDY GUIDE
- How can you define moralism in the context of our study today? ———————————————
- Mention some of the denominational traditions on dressings and use of technology in our generation and how it has affected the Church of God. See 1 Peter 3:3-4. ———————————————
- How can moral tradition retard the growth of the Church? Acts 10:28; Gal 2:11-13. ———————————————
- How can you explain Christian love in the context of Jesus’ life and ministry? Read Lk 7:36-37; Joh 4:7-10, 27, 40-41. ———————————————
MEMORY VERSE: Col 2:8 “Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ”.
STUDY 20
ROGATION SUNDAY MAY 14 2023
THEME: GOD’S CHILDREN AS PILGRIMS TO THE HEAVENLY KINGDOM: MANIFESTATION OF GOD’S REIGN ON EARTH
SUB-THEME: Dangers on the path of Pilgrims to heavenly Kingdom 5
TOPIC: Sanctimony
TEXT: Luk 18:9-14
AIMS:
- to expose the attitudes of a sanctimonious believer and
- to discuss the menace of sanctimony to the pilgrims’ path to God’s kingdom
INTRODUCTION
loyalty to God. Our Lord Jesus Christ condemned such an attitude in the Pharisees’ life in today’s Bible passage.
