BIBLE STUDY OUTLINE. 11/21/04
TOPIC: THE CALLING OF GOD
INTRODUCTION: SOME DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT ITS TO BE CALLED; CONFUSE CALL WITH CHOOSE PEOPLE ARE CALLED IN DIFFERENT WAYS. CALL IS AN INTERESTING WORD. IT COULD MEAN TO BE INVITED OR APPOINTED. GOD INVITES US AND THOSE WHO RESPOND ON THE CONDITION OF FAITH AND BELIEVE, THE DESIGNATES AS HIS CHOSEN ONES [MATT 22:14]. ANY ONE CAN COME, IF HE/SHE WILL, BUT ALL WILL NOT COME. FAITH IN JESUS IS WHAT SEPARATES THE CALLED AND CHOSEN. EVERYONE HAS THE CHOICE OF WHETHER OR NOT TO RESPOND TO THE CALL OF GOD.
THE SRIPTURE CONTAIN SEVERAL CALLS:
1. UNIVERSAL/GENERAL CALL: FROM NATURE: Ps.19:1. THE SOUND AND VOICE ARE EVERYWHERE IN THE WORLD AND EVERYONE HEARTS IT THE WORLD, SPACE, AND ALL VISIBLE COMPONENTS ANNOUNCE GODS PRESENCE AND DEMONTRATE GODS POWER [ROM: 1:20; 3:19].
2. THE CALL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT-CONVICTION. THE CONVICTS THE WORLD OF SIN, WHATS WRONG, TESTIFIES TO RIGHTEOUSNESS. WHAT IS RIGHT AND WARNS OF JUDGEMENT AND THE INEVITABLE CONSEQUENCES [JOHN 16:8].
3. CALL OF THE GOSPEL [OR JESUS CALL]: THE PURPOSE OF THE GOSPEL IS TO SUMMON US; CALL US TO ORDER, INVITES US TO GODS GRACE AND MERCIES. ISAIAH1:18; 55:1; MATT.11:28]. JESUS SAYS I HAVE COME TO SEEK AND TO SAVE, SO TOU ARE INVITED.
4. CALL OF CONVERSION: THOSE WHO HEED THE CALL ENJOYS ETERNAL SALVATION. JOHN6:37; ROM 10:13; JOHN3:36; 2THESS 2:13-14; 1COR 6:11; TITUS 3:5].
CHRISTIAN LIFESYMBLISES GODS CALL ON US TO SAVE, PRESERVE, REDEEEM, PROTECT AND PROSPER. HE CONSTANTLY CALLS UA WHEN WE HEAR THIS CALL HOW DO WE RESPOND? DO WE HARDEN OUR HEARTS, MAKE FUN OF IT, RESPRESS IT IN OUR MIND OR ANSWER.. GODS MESSAGES IS TO THOSE WHO ARE CALLED [JUDE 1-2].
SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY OUTLINE:
TOPIC: NO GOD, BUT GOD [1ST COMMANDMENT] PSALM 46:1-13
Last Week: We look at Ten Commandments in exodus 20:1-7 as received by most in Mount Sinai. This was a covenant entered by God with the ancient Israelites which is still applicable to the new covenant children of Israelites. Its of great importance to the Church; the only formation of religious principles held in common among different group and root of the civil laws of many lands. Christians today are still required to observe and keep these laws; know them and teach them to our children.
This week: We commence a new season of lent to renew our baptismal vows to renounce Satan and pledge ourselves a new to the Lordship pf Jesus Christ. We affirm that God is our creator and we are His creature. We believe that there is only but one God who created mankind in His image and likeness. He has a legal claim over us. He is the God of our salvation and accepted us while we were unacceptable. Lent is a period of self examination and denial. God commands, You shall have no thing or no one before me. Most western style democracies guarantee freedom of religion. For example: The Bill of right of the USA constitution ensures that American citizens are free to practice whatever religion they chose [as long as they are not harming anyone]. This state of liberty seem to misinform people today to assume that all religion, beliefs and system are the same and lead to same God; theres no other God beside Him {Isaiah 46:9}. To the modern ears this is intolerant and insensitive. This conflict has led many astray into unbelief and meaninglessness. But God does not compromise His stance and claim. One is left to agree with Him or call Him a liar, but there is no middle ground.
Even if we deny that God alone is God that does not affect God in the least. He simply says we are wrong and remind us that we are mortals who are made and shall pass away. God refuses to be bound by our ideas of Him; He declares I am God and theres no other. A myth against Christianity says it does not matter what you believe, all religion are the same.
CONSIDER/PONDER:
1] What does the first commandment say? [Exodus 20:2-3; Isaiah 41:4, 10:-13; 42:5-8]
What is the case for this law? [Mark 12:29-31].
2] Why was God always emphasizing this law? is it still relevant today?
3] Does all religion lead to the same God?[Acts 4:12; Psalm115:3-11; Isaiah 44:9-11]
4] What are idols or images? What are the common idols in our age?
5] Why are there struggles today to keep the Ten Commandments out of public places?
6] We are called to heed to Gods laws. Explain the saying, obedience is better than sacrifice [1 Sam. 15:22-23; John 14:15].
7] Im God theres no other How and where would our children learn this laws since it has been ban from schools and public places?
[PREPARED BY ELDER OGBONNAYA. G.]SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY
THE LAMB OF GOD JOHN 1:29-39
The first mention of the Lamb was in Genesis 22:7-8. Here Isaac typifying Christ asked his father Abraham, Behold the fire and the wood but where the lamb for the burnt offering is is? [Heb.11:17-18]. A lamb was an animal used for sacrifices. In most cases, it was without blemish, a male of the first year [Rev. 5:6-10; 1 peter 1:19; numbers28:3-4(3-29)]. A lamb of god is also a symbol of Christ [Isaiah 53:7; Acts8:32; Rev.5:6-13]. Little wonder when John saw Jesus coming by he said, Behold the lamb of god which takes away the sin of the world [john1:29]. John confessed I did not know Jesus, but knew the father who sent Jesus [vs31, 33]. It was he who called and sent me [John] to reveal the mind of god, bear witness and prepare the mind of the people of the world concerning Christ first coming. John saw the Holy Spirit came on Jesus during his Baptism and heard a voice from heaven confirm that Jesus his son [vs. 32-34].
Another day john was standing with two of his disciples-Andrew and probably John the apostle [john19:].he saw Jesus as he walked passed by. John the baptize repeated, behold the lamb of God. These two heard Johns comment, were so intrigued that they followed Jesus. When Jesus noticed these two men following Him, He asked them, What are you looking for? They answered Him, the Rabbi, which could be interpreted master. They asked Him where you live. Jesus responded come and see He took them to where He lived and they spent a day with Him.
1] Why did John call Jesus the Lamb of God?
2] How did John testify of Jesus since He neither know nor met Him? People often have a head knowledge [read or heard about] someone and talk as if theyve a personal knowledge [know or lived with] the person for long. How different was John testimony?
3] Why did John re-identified Jesus the second time to the hearing of his two disciples?
4] Explain why the two disciples left John and follow Jesus? How did John feel that his disciples left him for Jesus?
5] What would be your defense if asked, why do you believe in Jesus salvation? Why are you His follower? Answer from your heart.
6] The two disciples asked Jesus, where do you live? What in your opinion was the motive/reason for that question?
7] These two disciples spent a whole night with Jesus. How often do we spend quality time with Jesus; whats the importance.
8] As a Christian how many souls or person have you introduced to Christ? How often do you witness/testify Christ to other people?
Christendom needs people who have the will and power to witness the salvation of God in Christ Jesus; to live, taste and testify the goodness of the Lord to the world. The Church need people who have faith in Jesus and defend it anywhere, anytime and in any place /situation. Most people became Christian through the witness of other people. Some Christians live as if God is absent and Christ still on the Cross. If God is ever present and Christ risen victoriously, let us live and testify same.
[Prepared: Elder Ogbonnaya G.]SUNDAY MORINING BIBLE STUDY OUTLINE 01/23/15
JESUS IN THE TEMPLE LUKE 2:40-52
The Gospel of Luke appears to be the only one that made a brief recording of Jesus early years. Luke recorded Jesus His presentation in the temple and being blessed by Simeon and Prophetess Anna.
Yearly His parent [Joseph and Mary] want to Jerusalem for the feast of Passover. What Jesus was about twelve years old, the parent took him to the feast of Passover. The parent thinking he was walking in their midst, traveled a whole day and started looking for him among their relatives and friends. After a fruitless search, they traveled back to Jerusalem. After three days they found him in the temple sitting among teachers of the law, listening and asking them questions. His intelligent contributions were amazing and overwhelming to all his hearers. His parent was astonished when they saw him his mother asked Son why have you done this to us?
We are living in an age and time that manifest a drift in our culture and values. Many of our values have been eroded or been cooked. In the new environment we have migrated to or have found ourselves and are raising our children, we seem to have locked up our rich values. Too often our values and beliefs reflect the bankrupt values of a shallow, hurting society. Instead of offering hope to a weary world, we offer disappointment and hopelessness.
1] why was it necessary that Jesus want with the parent to the feast of Passover?
2] What occasions/events in our era should we take our children along and why?
3] What parental error did Joseph and Mary make on their return from the feast and how did they correct it? How common is that human error in our society today? And its remedy?
4] What was Jesus doing in the temple court with the teachers of the law?
5] Dont you know I had to be in my Fathers house? what did Jesus parent think about this comment and how did they react to it?
6] Jesus returned to Nazareth with his parent and was obedient to them. And Jesus grew in wisdom, stature and in favor with God and man.
Facts about Jesus:[Vers 40-52].
[i] Grew in body [v40] [ii] grew strong in mind [v40] [iii] was filled with wisdom [v40] [iv] lived in Gods grace [v40] [v[ had a gift of teaching [v47] [vi] knew his life mission [v49] [vii] Was a model boy [v51] [viii] increased in wisdom [v52] [ix] grew in maturity, adulthood [x] grew in favor with God and man [v42; Psalm 119:97-104; Isaiah 50:4]. [Prepared by: Elder Ogbonnaya G.]SUNDAY MORING BIBLE STUDY OUTLINE 12/12/04
TOPIC: THE CALLING OF HOD {PART III}
JOHN THE BAPTIST {MESSIAHS FORERUNNER} MATT 3: 1-11 Luke 3:1-14
INTRODUCTION: The Bible introduces John the Baptist in all four gospels. Born to Zechariah and Elizabeth described as upright before God and blamelessly in obeying all the Lords precepts and ordinances {Luke 1: 13-17, 76: Matt 11:10}. John lived with his parents in the wilderness of Judea until he appeared to perform his role to prepare the heart of the people for the Messiah and his kingdom. Johns personality and message reflected a dry, hard and tough desert lifestyle. In todays setting, many moderates would have named him an extremist. He would not be good in politics and not in religion. His bold and uncompromised message coupled with his austere appearance put people off. He was firm and zealous with conviction, about morality, judgment to come, and called for repentance and return to God. Though he looked un-kept but had a conviction message. Many repented and were baptized by John. How would you describe/guess the state of life that brought John the Baptize [Gods bulldozer] into the world scene and made his message relevant? What are those obstacles? Are there found among us?
JOHNS MINISTRY BACKGROUND (Luke 1:17)
· Described as the beginning of the gospel {Mark 1:1; Act 1:22: Luke 3:142}
· In the 15th year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar about late AD 26 or 27
· Lived with parents in the hills of Judea; familiar with desert area- uninhabited, arid and hot except for the Jordan valley, north of the Dead sea {Luke 1:80}
· His father was a priest and because he was a special child was groomed in line with Gods direction. Could meditate and commune with God, as he sought his daily needs.
· Filled with the Holy Spirit and prophet of the Most High [Luke 1:15, 76]
HIS MESSGAE {VERSE} John 1: 29-34.
· Had an old testament input {Ezekiel 18:30-32; Malachi 3:2; 4:1}
· Call people to repentance from sin; change from heart
· Announced the imminent coming of the kingdom of heaven.
· Prepare their hearts for the coming messiah and his kingdom
· Remove obstacle that might impede the messiah and his kingdom {John 10:40-42}
HIS PERSON {VERSE 3, 4} [Isaiah 40:3]
· A voice of one calling in the desert
· Wore cloth made of camels hair and leather belt around his waist.
· Food- was locusts and wild honey
ITS AUDIENCE: VSC, 6
· People from Jerusalem, all Judea and whole region of Jordan.
· Jews and non Jews, every one willing to confess their sins
· Were excited and enthusiastic, ready to respond. {John 3:23}
· Reintroduced Baptism to the New Testament era.
· John Baptism-Different from Christian Baptism. {Act 2:38; 19:1-5}
CHALLENGE OF HIS MESSAGE {VS 7-11}
· Both pharises and Sadducees came forth to Baptism scene to see what was going on. They were two opposing group. Nothing makes better friends than a common enemy. Luke 7:29-30.
· As they came, John challenged their hypocrisies, you blood of vipers; not afraid or threatened
· They believed God had no judgment on them as a nation because they were Abrahams children. {John 8:31-41, Rom 4:16} we cant inherit salvation from our parents we are children of Abraham
· The trees has been marked, the tree cuter has his ax ready to cut down every tree that does not bear good fruit. {Vs 10}. He shall spare no one.
· Repent and be baptized. {Act 2:38} and produce fruit of repentance
GENERAL: Judgment is imminent, no one shall escape it. God is no respecter of
Persons. God shall hold everyone accountable for his/her misdeed and failings. Is Johns message still relevant today as it was when he first preached it? The wise shall always heed to warnings. Apostle Paul said Therefore, theres now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus [Rom 8:1] Are you sure you are in Christ Jesus?
[Prepared by: Elder Ogbonnaya]SUNDAY MORINING BIBLE STUDY OUTLINE: [MATTH. 1:16-25; 2:13-23] 01-02-05
THE CALLING OF GOD [VI]: JOSEPH A RIGHTEOUS MAN
INTRODUCTION: Joseph was a carpenter of Nazareth. He was a descendant of the tribe of King David such heritage gave the Jews hope on the redemption hes in their domain. His father named Jacob was the husband of many of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ [Matt 1:16], [Luke 2:4-5]. Mary Jesus was pledged [promised in marriage] to be married to Joseph, but they were yet together and he found out the Mary her wife was pregnant by the Holy Spirit. He was a model of a just or righteous man, such that God chose him to be the earthly father of the Messiah. We are not told his age, his education, details of family and home life, but he was God fearing, trusted and obeyed God. he portrayed himself as a man after Gods own heart. Joseph did no union with her until she gave birth to a son; he gave him the name Jesus. [Matt 1: 20-21,24-25]. Who among us would have his pledged wife get pregnant and he still accepts her and decides not to disgrace her or make public of the affair? [Matt 1:19]
In our day pregnancy outside marriage is all too common; often, there is little disgrace or stigma but its fast becoming an acceptable norm in our society. Most times the Church is faced with the challenge of baptizing children born out of wedlock and accepting their parent as members. Acts 15:02; 1Cor5:1-5].
1. How did Joseph respond with obedience to Lords calling?
2. When the angel addressed him, by name- Joseph, son of David- what was the significance? [Isaiah 11:5;15:3 Jere 33: 14-17]
3. Have ever been faced with the challenge to choose between obedience and common sense?
4. When adultery carries the death penalty under the Law of Moses [Deu22:23-24], why did Joseph not expose his wife to such death penalty; was he facing a tough choice?
5. Why did Joseph not choose to divorce Mary quietly in a private manner? Evaluate Joseph actions between the law and compassion based on obedience.
6. Sometimes Gods instruction does not make sense to an ordinary person. How do we cope with this conflict? Could Joseph have considered what other people might say versa vice Gods instruction?
7. How often have you looked back on a situation and believed Gods providence had been at work even if you did not recognize it at the time? Could it be an incident with your spouse, coping with stubborn children, betrayal of s close friend or relation?
8. Why did Joseph not choose to sleep with Mary until Jesus was born?
9. What tough choice do we have to face in our faith journey? Marriages, children, family union, in the church, at work etc.
10. What was Joseph parental role: [Matt 2:13-15, 19-21, 23]? What do we learn from it? Does it conflict with our parental responsibilities today?
Great Fathers of faith listen to Gods instructions and obey without knowing the outcome. No wonder hymn writer says when we walk with the Lord- Trust and obey for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus but to trust and obey.
[prepared by Elder G. Ogbonnaya]
SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY OUTLINE: MATTHEW 2:1-12
THE CALLING OF GOD [VIII]-WISEMEN GIFT TO JESUS
THE STORY OF Jesus birth will not be complete without the mention of vital part the shepherds and wise men played. Biblical history reveals that these astronomers came from Iraq. They responded to Gods call and had great quest for the new king-the Messiah. They were learned men with great knowledge of history and prophesy. Most books of 0ldtestament prophesize of the birth of Christ/coming of the Messiah. There was a prophesy, place and provision (3ps) The three men went out in search for the new born king, When they saw Jesus, they worshipped Him and presented Him with 3 gifts item of significance.
(1) GOLD-Kingly present. Its a heavy yellow metallic highly valuable chemical element; precious metal, money or wealth. This is a very important item because of its economic worth and value; money answers all things. Its the cause for greed, covetousness, gamble and sometimes murder and robbery. It is a durable item. Christians are charged: Matt 10:19, Act 3:6; 20:33-34, Titus 1:7and 1 Thess.2:5.
(2) MYRRH- (Song 3:6, Matt 2:11)
A Fragrant gum used in anointing oil (Ex. 30:23), perfume (Psalm 45:8) and embalming Matt 15:23; John 19:39. Its obtained from a stem of a low thorny, ragged tree growing in Arabia and East Africa. It is pure- meaning free flowing and one of the ingredients of holy incense. It has a faith though agreeable small and a bitter taste (Psalm 45:8).
(3) FRANKINCENSE- (Matt 2:11) Priestly present.
Is the most important of the aromatic gum and is regarded by itself as a precious perfume. It comes from
a tree that grows abundantly in India (Song 4:14). Frankincense is not used in sin offering (Lev. 5:11)
rather used in meat [food] offering not of flesh of animals. These offerings had oil poured upon them and
frankincense set upon them (Lev. 2:1-3, 9). It is a priesthood ingredient of sacrifice [1 Chron. 9:26-29].
Ø Why these people were called wise men?
Ø What was the significance of the gifts?
Ø Is it scriptural to visit new born child and present gifts to him/her? Does our culture support this action?
Ø Why does God give us gifts?
Ø (1) To establish a path to himself as our source.
Ø (2) To reveal his nature as a giver, Ps. 84:1; Matt 7:7-8.
Ø (3) To give us the opportunity to becoming givers like him.
[Man hoards, Satan Steals, but God Gives]
SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY
THE CALLING OF GOD [PART IV] Mary the handmaid of the Lord [Luke 1:26-38; Matthew 1:18-21]
Introduction: Theres an unfounded opinion that in the bible, God calls men only and no women. A view at our Christian television channels put more questions than answers to such opinion. The liberal Christian view is that God calls whoever He desires according to the purpose and fulfillment of His plans. Theres also another worldly believe that personal conduct does not matter in choosing a person for a public leadership role. After all, most people cast their votes on party labels and campaign promises rather than the character of the individual running for the office. Against this norm and practice, God selects leaders according to what He sees in their heart. Little surprised God chose Mary, a lowly peasant girl. She came from unknown family background and unpopular town but had an enviable moral value a virgin. In todays world, this virtue is uncommon and considered timidity.
The now culture witnesses a continued decline in moral values and pursuits, on biblical beliefs, righteousness and experiential knowledge of Christ. In our days, marriages are sick while most end in divorce; those that survive exist in cracks, full of tension and conflicts and living lonely together. The foundation of our family life is dying and fidelity in and chastity out is an exception. Our children do not see, learn or experience selfless love in the family-juicy and warm. At the mercy of sex dominated television screen, they battle with gay/lesbian, nudeness, abortion, rape, drugs, internet dating, violent, murder and other vices. Gods suitability for one He chooses rest on character. Character is what one does when nobody is looking at him/her.
This season brings Gods closer to us; a period of expectation and hope. In it we expect good news and Gods favor. It calls for a new star with God He makes impossible things.
WHAT TYPE OF PERSON WAS MARY? WHAT ROLE SHE PLAYED IN GODS REDEMPTION PLAN?
MARYS CHOICE: [vs 26] Say to someone: This is your season of good news; you are highly favor
– 6 months after Elizabeth had conceived [vs 26, 36]
– Angel Gabriel paid a surprised visit to Mary [Greek-Miriam] and announced good yet astonishing news.
– She was still a virgin [vs 27, 34, 38; Isaiah 7:14] promised in marriage to a man named Joseph- a descendant of king David.
– Greetings, you are highly favored, the Lord is with you; blessed art thou among women [vs 28, 48].
She was deeply troubled for the visit of an angel [strange personality]; the import of such salutation was too
much for Mary to grasp. She was full of emotional mind-set. Nothing like this had ever happened to anyone she
knew or heard of. Every blessing comes with responsibility. Why me and What shall I do, Mary pondered? [vs
29]
– Angels reaction: Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You shall conceive in your womb
and give birth to a son and shall call his name Jesus. The second greetings may not resolve the puzzle but
gives some assurance [vs 31]
God did not choose Mary because she was perfect, came from a wealthy family, had most extraordinary physical beauty than her mates, sings in the choir, speaks many foreign languages and in tongues or friendly with everybody. It was Gods favor. Favor literally means friendly regard, approval, kindness or obliging act. Such approval comes when one live in Gods fear and obedience to His word [vs50].
God is still looking for men and women to use for furthering His redemption plan. God has no pet or superstar but only those who believe in Him and His word. The word works for those who believe in it. Those who are willing to honor God trust Him and keep His WORD; are available for use. He does not exclude anyone. Why cant God depend on you? [Prepared by: Elder G. Ogbonnaya]
SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY OUTLINE: MATTHEW 2:13-23 01/09/05
THE CALLING OF GOD (VII)-THREE PRINCIPAL RESPONSES TO JESUS
Jesus was a new born king. Traditionally, when a child is born, parents, relatives and acquaintances gather and rejoice over the gift of a child, safe delivery and thank God for His mercies. They sing, dance and present different gifts to the new born. John the Baptize birth was great with such joyful response [Luke 1:14, 58].
The birth of Jesus attracted the response of THREE [FOUR] PRINCIPAL CHARACTERS:
1) The Three Wise Men: responded referencey, to worship Him (vs.2)[Micah 5:2].
They presented the King with gifts of: gold, myrrh and frankincense {vs.11}.
[B] The Angel a multitude of heavenly host praising God (Luke 2:13-14)
2) Joseph: responded maliciously: (vs: 13-15; 19-23). Sudden relocation to Egypt caused pains, frustration and
Hardship, but God made the provision. Joseph and many suffered hardship for the sake of Christ. Christians must
Be prepared to make commitment, witnesses, moves and relocation, suffers for the sake of Christ. What was Josephs parental role? What do we learn from it? Does it conflict with our parental responsibilities today?
2) Herod, the king: responded maliciously (vs. 16-18). Herod responded angrily and with desire to harm Jesus;
order killings of young male below 2 years.
Vs. 3-4: The news of Jesus birth troubled Herod;
Vs. 7- : provoked diligent search for the new born king with an aim to kill Him.
Vs: 12ff: God warned the wise men not to return to Herod. Herod felt his position was threatened
In our age and generation, many people kick against God. His Lordship and callings.
They revolt against His will, kick against, withdraw, threaten and fear abiding with the Lord. Instead of accepting Jesus, They planned to destroy Him. Some Church folks do not come to worship Jesus, but to try Him, attempt to scatter His flocks and pollute his sacred temple. Who is man that God should be mindful of him? [Psam8:4]. King Herod failed in his fight against God. Why do the heathen rage and imagine vain things? The Lord decreed, Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee. [Psalm2:1ff, 7-8, 9-12]. All who fight against God fails. On the cross Jesus put all His enemies to flight and destroy every demonic inclinations and plans.
Ø What is your response to the newly born king?
Ø Do you respond like Herod? Or do you respond like the three wise men or Joseph and Mary?
Ø How you respond to Gods call in His Church, your family & our world?
Ø Do we yield/surrender to Him; praising and worshiping him?
Ø Do you war-ship or worship Him? What does worship mean to you?
im really exited