LESSON 7 16/10/2016



RAISING CHILDREN WITHIN THE FAMILY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 270, 271

Devotional Reading: Gen. 18:17-19

Topic For Adults: Avoid Parenting By Proxy

Topic For Youths: You Are Not Wiser Than Your Parents

Topic For Intermediates: Accept Your Parents’ Training

Scripture Lesson: Deut. 6:4-9; Isa. 50:4; Acts 7:22; Col. 3:1; Prov. 22:15; 13:24; Eph. 6:1-3

Memory Verse: Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. (Prov. 22:6) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thurs. 13/10/2016

Train Up A Child In The Way He Should Go

Prov. 22:6

The Bible says “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it” (Prov. 22:6). To train is to prepare someone for something through learning skills. It is to instruct that person what he or she should do to achieve whatever is his desired goal. The training is not always easy as it involves rigorous teaching and instruction, and it is not a day job, rather it spans over a long period of time. Parents have these responsibilities of training the children in all aspects of life so that when they grow up, they will continue to do those things they have been taught by the parents. The training must continue until the children become mature and are able to stand on their own and are able to discern between good and evil.



Point Of Emphasis: Teach your children right from wrong.

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to teach my children how they should live useful lives.

LESSON 7 16/10/2016



RAISING CHILDREN WITHIN THE FAMILY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 270, 271

Devotional Reading: Gen. 18:17-19

Topic For Adults: Avoid Parenting By Proxy

Topic For Youths: You Are Not Wiser Than Your Parents

Topic For Intermediates: Accept Your Parents’ Training

Scripture Lesson: Deut. 6:4-9; Isa. 50:4; Acts 7:22; Col. 3:1; Prov. 22:15; 13:24; Eph. 6:1-3

Memory Verse: Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. (Prov. 22:6) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING



Fri. 14/10/2016

Diligently Teach The Word Of God

Deut. 6:4-9

If there is any area of child training that many families are falling short, it is in the area of diligent studying and teaching of God’s word in individual family. If a survey is made on how many families are opening the Bible at least once in a day to read and meditate on it by all members of the family, the result will be shocking that even most Christian homes have no time for the word of God. Children raised in such environment will only be applying worldly wisdom and standard to all they are doing instead of basing them on the word of God. Parents must go back to the basics by finding time to teach and explain life issues to the children from God’s word. Don’t think they are young, start early and they will catch the truth of God’s word.



Point of Emphasis: The Bible is believers’ life manual; study and teach its contents.

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to be closer to my Bible through reading, meditating and teaching it to my family than ever before.

LESSON 7 16/10/2016



RAISING CHILDREN WITHIN THE FAMILY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 270, 271

Devotional Reading: Gen. 18:17-19

Topic For Adults: Avoid Parenting By Proxy

Topic For Youths: You Are Not Wiser Than Your Parents

Topic For Intermediates: Accept Your Parents’ Training

Scripture Lesson: Deut. 6:4-9; Isa. 50:4; Acts 7:22; Col. 3:1; Prov. 22:15; 13:24; Eph. 6:1-3

Memory Verse: Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. (Prov. 22:6) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 15/10/2016

Discipline In Love

Col. 3:21; Prov. 23:13-14; 13:24

Children will always be children. It is not all the time that you give them instructions that they will conform. They will disobey you and want to see what would happen if they refuse to take heed to your instructions. At such a time, parents must let the children know that, though they are free to decide their actions, but they must also be ready to bear the consequences of the actions, whether positive or negative. Having made them to realise this truth, anytime they go wrong you must apply the necessary punishment which may be denying them to watch their favourable T.V. programme, social outing or even canning if the need be so as to drive home your point that there is consequences for every action. However, all these must be done in love and for the purpose of correction and not to show superiority over the children. Parents should avoid inflicting injuries on their children while trying to correct them.

Point of Emphasis: He who loves his child disciplines him promptly (Prov. 13:24)

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to correct my children in love always.

LESSON 7 16/10/2016



RAISING CHILDREN WITHIN THE FAMILY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 270, 271

Devotional Reading: Gen. 18:17-19

Topic For Adults: Avoid Parenting By Proxy

Topic For Youths: You Are Not Wiser Than Your Parents

Topic For Intermediates: Accept Your Parents’ Training

Scripture Lesson: Deut. 6:4-9; Isa. 50:4; Acts 7:22; Col. 3:1; Prov. 22:15; 13:24; Eph. 6:1-3

Memory Verse: Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. (Prov. 22:6) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sun. 16/10/2016

Children Obey Your Parents

Eph. 6:1-3

There is nothing that brings pain to the parents than seeing that their children are not obeying them. This gives parents heart sore and they are not always happy. This even hinders some to commit themselves to all that the children need in life. If children are aware of this fact, they should, therefore, determine to be obeying their parents’ instructions and guidance. They should decide to be a source of joy and not of sorrow and shame to their parents. They must do things that will bring prayers out of their parents’ mouth to them and not curse. It is then, and only then, that God’s promise of good life and longevity will come to pass in their lives.



Point of Emphasis: Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is the right thing.

Prayer Point: Lord, give me and all my children the Spirit of total obedience to Your word and instructions.



BACKGROUND

This week’s lesson centres on one of the most important responsibilities of parents to their children that are often neglected and pushed to the church, the schools and the larger society. This responsibility is the training and raising up the children in a godly way so as to be able to fulfil their God-given purposes in life.



NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: SPIRITUAL TRAINING (DEUT. 6:4-9)

It is a known fact that the spiritual controls the physical. This is the more reason why the first aspect of the upbringing of the children that parents must give adequate attention to is the spiritual training of the children. It should be known that there is no child who will want to pray, go to church, read the Bible, love God on his or her own accord. It is the duty of parents to do all within their means to inculcate spiritual virtues into their children.

Many parents fail in this aspect by thinking within themselves that the children would be taught spiritual lessons in the children department or at school by the secular teacher. This is an error which must be avoided by all parents. From the passage, God himself understood that parents cannot give what they do not have and that is why He first emphasised the spiritual qualities that parents must have. A parent that will teach a child to love the Lord, must himself or herself love God with all of his life (vv. 4,5) and be obedient to God’s word, (v. 6).

Having settled their own spiritual life with God, it is expected that the truth about God they have known must be communicated to the children. How should parents do this? First, through diligent teaching of God’s word to the children. They must make out time for family Bible study where issues will be thrown open for discussion and allow the Bible to guide the discussion. Second, there should be spontaneous correction if any of the children do anything contrary to God’s word. There, must be constant and fervent family altar where the children will learn the acts of praying to God on daily basis trusting Him and committing all things into God’s hand. Fourth, there must be almanac and calendars that display the word of God that will constantly be reminding the children that they belong to God and therefore, unique being who must not behave like people without God (vv. 8,9). Fifth, parents must not leave their children behind while going to church, they must go together. Sixth, constantly cross-check their notes or jotter or ask them questions about what they learn in church to ascertain whether they are gaining anything in church or not. Seventh, labour on the salvation of their soul. Don’t assume that they have been saved, be sure of their salvation, for it is then you can breathe a sign of relief.



PART 2: EDUCATIONAL TRAINING (ISA. 50:4; ACTS 7:22)

There are two types of education that parents must give to their children. The first is the formal education. This is the education that a child receives within the four walls of educational institutions. This is very important and every child deserves to get the best of education. Gone are the days when a child would finish primary six and would be asked to go and learn a trade. It is not that learning a trade is not good, but it is better when a person gets proper education before learning a trade. This will assist him in improving on the trade and it will also affects the calibre of customers and companions that will be patronising him or her. Parents must therefore invest in the formal education of their children.

The second type of education that parents must give to their children is the informal education or what can be termed moral or home training. Many parents give the first education and neglect the second, leaving the children to be useless to themselves. Moral training includes how to sweep the floor, wash the ditches, wash clothes, take proper care of the house, cook good food, entertain visitors, greetings of elders and the right postures depending on the culture, proper and decent dressing, good and acceptable characters and behaviours, etc. Many of these moral trainings are lacking in the family and that is why the society is filled with many irresponsible children and some have even become adults and have become problematic adults in the society.

Parents must give all-round and balanced education to their children so that they will grow up to become responsible children to the family, the church, the society and humanity in general.



PART 3: CHILD DISCIPLINE (COL. 3:21; PROV. 22:15; 13:24)

There is no doubt that children will naturally do things that will not make the parents to be happy. They will go against the instructions given to them. In such a situation, the Bible gives us basic principles on how to correct the child. The first is to correct the child in love. The Bible says “Father, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged” (Col. 3:21). The Bible gives this instruction to the Fathers because naturally mothers love their children and don’t want anything to hurt them. To correct in love is to scold the child and explain the reason why what he or she has done is wrong. Correct with word and love.

However, if a child is being corrected over and over for the same wrong behaviour, the Bible encourages the second principles of applying beating for correction. Parents must not spare the rod and spoil the child where necessary (Prov. 23:13-14; 29:15). A note of caution must be sounded here, many parents who use rod often beat children out of hatred and bitterness in their hearts. Some have injured their children in the process. This is no longer correction but wickedness. Parents must bring their emotion under control when they discipline a child so as to get the best result of the essence of beating, which is to correct the child. Never resort to child labour in the process of applying child discipline.



PART 4: CHILDREN’S RESPONSE TO PARENTAL GUIDANCE (EPH. 6:1-3)

The first three sub-divisions have highlighted some of the responsibilities of parents in raising up godly, educated and morally upright children that will be a delight to God, their families, church, society and humanity. However, the process cannot be complete and bring forth positive result without a corresponding positive response from the children. This is why the Bible enjoins the children to obey their parents. Know that your parents are more matured, more experienced than you do, therefore, obey their instructions, do things that will make them happy that they have you as their children. Not only will you attracts God’s blessing to yourself, your parents will also do everything to make you happy.



CONCLUSION

Raising up children in a godly way is not an easy task. Parents must therefore seek God’s face on daily basis to give them wisdom, strength and the needed resources to be able to raise their children up in the way of the Lord.



QUESTIONS

What do you understand by the word “Training”?

Mention some of the things parents must do to ensure spiritual training of their children.

What is the difference between formal and informal education?

Differentiate between child discipline and child labour

How should children respond to their parents guidance?

LESSON 8 23/10/2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON THE FAMILY



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 83, 86

Devotional Reading: Jeremiah. 10:1-10

Topic For Adults: Behave Your Belief

Topic For Youths: Watch What You Watch

Topic For Intermediates: Guard Against World Pollution

Scripture Lesson: Gen. 2:18-25; Isa. 11:9; Dan. 1:17; 12:4; Jn. 17:9-17



Memory Verse: And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Rom. 12:2) NKJV



DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Mon. 17/10/2016

God’s Original Purpose For Couple

Gen. 2:18-25

God understands that for two people coming from different socio-economic, and at times, cultural backgrounds to be able to live together in harmony and unity, there is the need for the two to be separated from external parental forces that have been controlling them and live together. During this period of living together, the process of cleaving together in thought pattern, discovery of each others likes and dislikes is set on motion. At this early stage of marriage, couples must try their best not to allow anything to take them away from each other to allow the cleaving together to take place. This foundation must be solidly laid so as to weather any environmental challenge that may be experienced by the family in the future.



Point of Emphasis: For this purpose shall a man leave his parents and be joined to his wife.

Prayer Point: Lord, give me the grace to cleave to my wife alone, forsaking other women.

LESSON 8 23/10/2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON THE FAMILY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 83, 86
Devotional Reading: Jeremiah. 10:1-10
Topic For Adults: Behave Your Belief
Topic For Youths: Watch What You Watch
Topic For Intermediates: Guard Against World Pollution
Scripture Lesson: Gen. 2:18-25; Isa. 11:9; Dan. 1:17; 12:4; Jn. 17:9-17

Memory Verse: And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Rom. 12:2) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Tue. 18/10/2016

Provide Basic Necessities Of Life
1 Tim. 5:8


There is economic recession all over the world. This has constituted a big environmental factor that affects the family. In most cases, parents have to hustle to make both ends meet. Some leave the house early when the children are yet to wake up and come back late when the children are already in bed, leaving no time for parents-children interaction. The situation becomes worse when the parents cannot provide basic necessities of life for the children. This may make some children to become stubborn and wayward. Some may start begging for money and for food from opposite sex and thereby be sexually abused. Parents must strive to overcome this challenge by providing basic needs for their children.

Point of Emphasis: Don’t be an infidel, provide for your home.
Prayer Point: Lord, bless me economically to be able to fend for my family needs.

LESSON 8 23/10/2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON THE FAMILY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 83, 86
Devotional Reading: Jeremiah. 10:1-10
Topic For Adults: Behave Your Belief
Topic For Youths: Watch What You Watch
Topic For Intermediates: Guard Against World Pollution
Scripture Lesson: Gen. 2:18-25; Isa. 11:9; Dan. 1:17; 12:4; Jn. 17:9-17

Memory Verse: And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Rom. 12:2) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Wed. 19/10/2016

Teach By Example

1 Tim. 4:12

Parents should know that children learn fast from what they see than from what they hear. Parents should, therefore, live a godly life. They should behave what they believed and teach their children the same thing. If the children discover that you are living a double-standard life, they will do worse than you do. So if you don’t want your children to tell lies, don’t do the same. Be thou an example of true believer in words, conduct, love, spirit, faith and in purity.

Point of Emphasis: Let others see Jesus in you.

Prayer Point: Lord, make me an example of genuine believers to others.

LESSON 8 23/10/2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON THE FAMILY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 83, 86
Devotional Reading: Jeremiah. 10:1-10
Topic For Adults: Behave Your Belief
Topic For Youths: Watch What You Watch
Topic For Intermediates: Guard Against World Pollution
Scripture Lesson: Gen. 2:18-25; Isa. 11:9; Dan. 1:17; 12:4; Jn. 17:9-17

Memory Verse: And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Rom. 12:2) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thurs. 20/10/2016

Don’t Learn The Way Of The World

Jer. 10:1-10

God, through Prophet Jeremiah, was giving advice to the children of Israel that when they get to the Promised Land, they would see so many side attractions, foreign cultures, lifestyles, strange religions, etc, but they must not learn the way of the Gentiles. Why? This is because worldly customs and fashions are futile and godless (v. 3). They cannot add any value to one’s life but rather deplete one’s life, make one an enemy of God and eventually send the person to hell. Know that all that are in the world – the lust of flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life – are not of the Father. Therefore, don’t copy worldly systems, don’t learn them, be godly and live life that is pleasing to God.



Point of Emphasis: Do not conform to the system of this world.

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to love God and His ways more than anything else.

LESSON 8 23/10/2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON THE FAMILY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 83, 86
Devotional Reading: Jeremiah. 10:1-10
Topic For Adults: Behave Your Belief
Topic For Youths: Watch What You Watch
Topic For Intermediates: Guard Against World Pollution
Scripture Lesson: Gen. 2:18-25; Isa. 11:9; Dan. 1:17; 12:4; Jn. 17:9-17

Memory Verse: And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Rom. 12:2) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Fri. 21/10/2016

Flee Adultery And Fornication

1 Cor. 6:18-20; 1 Thess. 4:1-8

One of the negative impacts of environmental factor affecting the family is wrong use of sex. Many married coupled engaged in extra-marital sexual affairs with opposite sex who are not their rightful spouse. Many unmarried singles are also engaged in pre-marital sex even among Christians and they do not see anything wrong in it. Know that anyone who engages in such an act has destroyed the sanctity of the family and has broken the marriage vow. You must repent, confess to your spouse and start building a strong family. As youth, be determined to keep yourself for your rightful husband or wife, let no one despise your youth.



Point of Emphasis: Abstain from all appearance of evil (1 Thess. 5:22)

Prayer Point: Lord, help me not to fall into sexual sin. I will not pollute my destiny and my family.

LESSON 8 23/10/2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON THE FAMILY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 83, 86
Devotional Reading: Jeremiah. 10:1-10
Topic For Adults: Behave Your Belief
Topic For Youths: Watch What You Watch
Topic For Intermediates: Guard Against World Pollution
Scripture Lesson: Gen. 2:18-25; Isa. 11:9; Dan. 1:17; 12:4; Jn. 17:9-17

Memory Verse: And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Rom. 12:2) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 22/10/2016

Avoid Bad Friends

1 Cor. 15:33-34

Another environmental impacts on the family is the negative influences of peer-groups pressure on the children. Many Christian children have unbelievers as friends in school, who teach them wrong values. And in their own “foolishness” these children think that their friends are wiser than their parents and, therefore, heed the advice of their friends than that of their parents. Once your children start having friends, parents have the responsibility of guiding them into choosing godly friends and discouraging them from moving with children of doubtful characters. Know that children are easily influenced by those they move with if not checkmated on time.



Point of Emphasis: Be not deceived, evil communication corrupt good manners.

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to separate from all those who negatively influence me to do evil.

LESSON 8 23/10/2016

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ON THE FAMILY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 83, 86
Devotional Reading: Jeremiah. 10:1-10
Topic For Adults: Behave Your Belief
Topic For Youths: Watch What You Watch
Topic For Intermediates: Guard Against World Pollution
Scripture Lesson: Gen. 2:18-25; Isa. 11:9; Dan. 1:17; 12:4; Jn. 17:9-17

Memory Verse: And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God (Rom. 12:2) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sun. 23/10/2016

Learn From Joshua’s Family

Jos. 24:1-15

This was the valedictory speech of Joshua to the Israelites. As old as he was, he recounted vividly how God started with Israel to the point of dividing their inheritance for them in the Promised Land. He then advised and encouraged them that they should not be ungrateful by forsaking the Lord, but they should rather serve the Lord in fear, sincerity and truth and to put away all foreign gods. He then stated that if it seems evil in their sight to serve God, then they can choose whom they will serve but as for him and his household they will serve the Lord. What a glorious testimony. He was sure that his wife and children are with him in the faith. What about you? Are all your family members already serving God in sincerity and truth? Think and work on this.



Point of Emphasis: As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.

Prayer Point: Lord, save me and every member of my family and help us to serve You till the end of our lives on earth.

BACKGROUND

The family is one of the basic units of the larger society. It is not independent of the society but constantly interacts with the society. Many at times, the society introduces some negative vices or influences that are at variance with healthy family living, and thereby negatively impacts on the family. This week’s lesson wants to consider some of those negative societal impacts on the family so as to be able to avoid them in our family.



NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: ECONOMIC IMPACT (GEN. 2:18-25)

Right from the beginning of creation and of marriage institution between the first man and the first woman, the purpose or pattern God intends for marriage partners is to cleave or join together in all spheres of life. The Bible says “therefore shall a man leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh”. (Verse 24). ‘To be joined to his wife’ indicates living together, eating together, sleeping together, sharing each person’s feelings and aspirations together, talking together, and many other things that can forge genuine cleaving together.

However, looking at the society today, one discovers that there are lots of economic factors that have negatively impacted on the family and have not allowed the cleaving or joining together of the couple to be possible. Such economic factors have reared their ugly heads in the area of husbands job not located in the town where the couple settles down in, or either the husband or the wife get transferred immediately after the wedding, making the couple to be temporarily separated and only to see each other either by weekend or every forthnight or once in a month or more depending on the distance and the risk involved in frequent traveling. In other instances, it may be the loss of job of the husband who is supposed to be the bread winner of the family. Also the husband may ruin the business of wife through buying things on credit from the woman or borrowing money from the wife’s capital without paying back.

These and many other economic factors have negative effects on many families and if not properly handled, can lead to the disintegration of the family. Couples need God’s wisdom and intervention to be able to overcome any economic challenge that may confront their family so that they will be what God intends for them.



PART 2: TECHNOLOGICAL IMPACT (ISA. 11:9; DAN. 1:17; 12:4; HAB. 2:14)

Many prophets of the Old Testament have prophesied about the fact that in the end time knowledge shall increase. For instance, Isaiah prophesied “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea” (Isa. 11:9). Daniel also in a strange land admitted that it is God who gave him and the three Hebrew boys knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom and that made Daniel to have understanding in all visions and dreams. He also affirmed that in the last days knowledge shall be increased (Dan. 1:17; 12:4)

One major area where this prophecy has been fulfilled in our world today is in the area of Information Communication Technology (ICT). With the advancement of technology, every group of people has evolved from being mono-cultural to being multi-cultural. The world has become a global village with the influx of foreign cultures influencing and sometimes swallowing the indigenous culture. Unfortunately, it is the ungodly part of foreign cultures that indigenous people always imbibe.

Technology is good if it is used in God’s way. For example, one can reach thousands of internets users with the gospel just by posting the gospel message on facebook or youtube or by sending e-mail to people. One can communicate easily with anybody in any part of the world within few minutes, etc, However, many also use it in a wrong way and this has impacted negatively on the family. For instance, youths are tempted away from the faith through cultures imbibed as they watch television, browse the internet to watch pornographic pictures, online dating, wasting of precious time on the internet for unproductive activities, etc, through which many people learn negative and violent behaviours that make them to become uncontrollable for the parents. This has made the family to be seriously under attack by this environmental factor.

Christian parents must understand this truth and do everything possible to curb their children from falling victim of the negative effects of technology. This they can do by they themselves (Parents) living a godly life and being example of believers to the children. They must find considerable time praying for the children by name. they should strive to get their children involved in Christian activities. They should be interested in the kind of programme their children watch on television and the websites they visit on the internet. Children should be taught to recognise and steer clear of godless programmes being offered through the electronic and print media. Parents must be their children’s friends so that the children will feel free to open up to them on their challenges.



PART 3: EFFECT OF WORDLY SYSTEM (JN. 17:9-17; 1 JN. 2:15-17; ROM. 12:1-2)

From the prayer of Jesus for believers in John 17, one discovers that Jesus Himself knew that the world and its system are not suitable for believers. But because He wants believers to continue the work of preaching the gospel, He prayed to the Father to keep them in the world from following the worldly system. But the truth is that a man is always influenced by the environment he lives in by what he sees, hears and smells. Initially, there is always a clear cut distinction between a born again Christian and an unbelievers in the area of dressing, hair do, music, taste and what a person values; however, because of the influence of the worldly systems on believers things have changed.

For instance, how will one describe a sister wearing mini-skirt to Church, brother with sagged trouser on, wedding gown with half of the breast outside for public view, listening to worldly music, watching immoral films on the television, kissing or pecking an opposite sex, hugging all in the name of civilization, etc. All these have impacted negatively on the family and they have to be addressed by the parents and the church for the family to be what God intends it to be on earth.

CONCLUSION

There are many environmental factors that are negatively impacting on the family today. Identify which one is affecting your home and work on it and make your family to be a godly model for others in our corrupt society.

QUESTIONS

Mention some economic factors that can affect a family.

What are some of the negative effects the economic factors can engender on the family?

Identify some negative effects of technology on the family and solutions.

In what way can worldly system affect the family?

LESSON 9 30/10/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS WITHIN THE CHURCH

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 61, 80

Devotional Reading: Ps. 133:1-3

Topic For Adults: Be A Change Agent

Topic For Youths: Be Appreciative

Topic For Intermediates: Be A Good Follower Of Christ

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 8:25-27; Heb. 10:25; Eph. 4:13; Jn. 13:34-35



Memory Verse: A new commandment I give to you that you love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (Jn. 13:34a-35) NKJV



DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Mon. 24/10/2016

Christians Are God’s Family On Earth

Eph. 2:8-22

To be a Christian is not to be born into a Christian family or given a Christian name. Rather it is to have a genuine encounter of salvation in Christ and by grace and faith in Christ. Such a person was once living contrary to God’s word, ways and will; was a stranger to the commonwealth of Israel and was without God. But at salvation, he or she is brought near to God and automatically becomes fellow citizen with the saints and members of the household of God (v. 19). Those who have made such decision are now members of God’s family on earth and must relate with one another as family members. Are you part of this family or you are just pretending to be one? God is giving you another opportunity to really belong to this great family on earth.



Point of Emphasis: Genuine salvation is the pre-requisite for membership of God’s family

Prayer Point: Lord, help me not to be a black sheep in God’s family.

LESSON 9 30/10/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS WITHIN THE CHURCH

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 61, 80

Devotional Reading: Ps. 133:1-3

Topic For Adults: Be A Change Agent

Topic For Youths: Be Appreciative

Topic For Intermediates: Be A Good Follower Of Christ

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 8:25-27; Heb. 10:25; Eph. 4:13; Jn. 13:34-35

Memory Verse: A new commandment I give to you that you love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (Jn. 13:34a-35) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Tue. 25/10/2016

Shun Tribal Sentiment

Gal. 3:26-29

One of the issues in the body of Christ, which was alien to the Church before, is tribal considerations in the manner of doing some things like attending ceremony and human interaction. Those who are from a certain part of the country and are attending the same church tend to relate more with one another than others from other parts. This is nothing dissimilar to what is obtained in the world where people form “Egbe omo Ilu” (Town Association). In Christ, all members are children of God irrespective of their tribe, race, colour, language, social status, educational attainments, or lack of it. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male or female, but all members are one and equal before God.



Point of Emphasis: No one is superior or inferior among Christians. We are all one.

Prayer Point: God, destroy every spirit of discrimination among believers in Jesus’ name.

LESSON 9 30/10/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS WITHIN THE CHURCH

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 61, 80

Devotional Reading: Ps. 133:1-3

Topic For Adults: Be A Change Agent

Topic For Youths: Be Appreciative

Topic For Intermediates: Be A Good Follower Of Christ

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 8:25-27; Heb. 10:25; Eph. 4:13; Jn. 13:34-35

Memory Verse: A new commandment I give to you that you love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (Jn. 13:34a-35) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Wed. 26/10/2016

Dwell Together In Unity

Ps. 133:1-3

There is power in unity. This is demonstrated in the saying that “united we stand, divided we fall”. For the Church to fulfill her God-given purpose and mandate on earth, members of the body of Christ must relate together in unity. To be united is to have and pursue the same kingdom goal, understand one another, overlook other’s shortcomings, support any programme and project of the Church that have been agreed upon, respect other people’s opinions, even if they are contrary to your own etc. Do everything possible to ensure that the cord of unity does not break from your hand.



Point of Emphasis: It is good and pleasant for brethren to dwell in unity.

Prayer Point: Lord, make me an agent of unity in Your Church.

LESSON 9 30/10/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS WITHIN THE CHURCH

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 61, 80

Devotional Reading: Ps. 133:1-3

Topic For Adults: Be A Change Agent

Topic For Youths: Be Appreciative

Topic For Intermediates: Be A Good Follower Of Christ

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 8:25-27; Heb. 10:25; Eph. 4:13; Jn. 13:34-35

Memory Verse: A new commandment I give to you that you love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (Jn. 13:34a-35) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thur. 27/10/2016

Be A Dependable Christian

Eph. 4:25-32

For people to describe a person as dependable, honest, sincere, straight-forward, reliable, trustworthy, etc, such a person must have been tried, tested and found to be consistent in his behaviours in certain areas of life. The above passage highlights some of the qualities that a dependable Christian must possess – no telling of lies (whether small or big, white or red); not getting angry for long before he or she forgives the offender; not stealing (either real stealing or inflating price of what fellow believers asked him or her to buy on their behalf); not a lazy person; not speaking corrupt or ungodly words and slangs; putting of bitterness, wrath, clamour, and be kind to other people. Do you possess all these qualities?



Point of Emphasis: Speak no lies to your fellow Christians

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to possess the qualities that will make me a dependable Christian

ESSON 9 30/10/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS WITHIN THE CHURCH

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 61, 80

Devotional Reading: Ps. 133:1-3

Topic For Adults: Be A Change Agent

Topic For Youths: Be Appreciative

Topic For Intermediates: Be A Good Follower Of Christ

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 8:25-27; Heb. 10:25; Eph. 4:13; Jn. 13:34-35

Memory Verse: A new commandment I give to you that you love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (Jn. 13:34a-35) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Fri. 28/10/2016

Regular Attendance of Fellowship

Heb. 10:19-25

For believers to develop good and healthy relationship among themselves, they must be determined to attend all church services regularly where they will have opportunity to fellowship together, study the word of God together, interact together, sing spiritual songs together, encourage one another, stirring up love and good works in one another (verse 24). This will assist believers to grow to maturity so that nobody will be able to deceive them and carry them away from the faith. From observation, those who do not attend fellowship regularly are usually problem makers in the church. You must choose not to be among this group.

Point of Emphasis: Don’t forsake fellowship with other believers.

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to always attend Church services regularly, punctually and consistently.

LESSON 9 30/10/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS WITHIN THE CHURCH

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 61, 80

Devotional Reading: Ps. 133:1-3

Topic For Adults: Be A Change Agent

Topic For Youths: Be Appreciative

Topic For Intermediates: Be A Good Follower Of Christ

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 8:25-27; Heb. 10:25; Eph. 4:13; Jn. 13:34-35

Memory Verse: A new commandment I give to you that you love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (Jn. 13:34a-35) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 29/10/2016

Assist One Another

Gal. 6:1-10

In a good and healthy family, if one of the members is suffering, all other members will pool their resources together to assist the person. This must also be seen in God’s family. if any member is overtaken in a fault, those who are strong spiritually should not make jest of him or her, rather they must find a way of restoring the person to the faith. They must do it with humility knowing that he that thinks he stands should take heed, lest he falls (1 Cor. 10:12). Also, if it is in the area of physical need, we must do good to all people, but we must give priority to our fellow brethren who are members of God’s family with us. Let us try out best to assist one another in all good things.



Point of Emphasis: Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ (v. 2)

Prayer Point: Lord, help me not to close my eyes to the needs of fellow believers.

LESSON 9 30/10/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIPS WITHIN THE CHURCH

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 61, 80

Devotional Reading: Ps. 133:1-3

Topic For Adults: Be A Change Agent

Topic For Youths: Be Appreciative

Topic For Intermediates: Be A Good Follower Of Christ

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 8:25-27; Heb. 10:25; Eph. 4:13; Jn. 13:34-35

Memory Verse: A new commandment I give to you that you love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another (Jn. 13:34a-35) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sun. 30/10/2016

Love others Without Hypocrisy

Rom. 12:9-21

The key ingredient in interpersonal relationships is love – God’s love (agape). This kind of love is a self-sacrificial love a love that cares for the well-being of others. However, only few believers, especially “Old-times”, are expressing this kind of love in the Church. Majority of believers today are expressing hypocritical love, love for what I can gain from you, rub my back, I rub your back kind of love. What kind of love do you have for the brethren? Check your heart and answer sincerely. God expects us to love unconditionally, sacrificially, be ready to share out of the resources not enough for our own needs, in honour preferring others, given to hospitality, etc.



Point of Emphasis: Let brotherly love continues

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to love other believers with God’s kind of love.



BACKGROUND

Those that have been called out from the world, from sin and from the Devil unto Christ are called Christians. Understanding that they came from different walks of life and different socio-cultural and economic backgrounds necessitates the need to examine the kind of relationships that should exist among Christians, whether in the same denomination or in the general body of Christ.



NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: SPIRITUAL RELATIONSHIPS (ROM. 8:25-27; HEB. 10:25; EPH. 4:13)

There are lots of issues under the spiritual relationships that must exist among Christians, but few will be discussed. The first thing that Christians must understand is their position in God. After the fall, all men became God’s enemies and were short of God’s glory (Rom. 3:23). God made a way of reconciliation through Jesus that whosoever (irrespective of race, language, social and educational status) believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life (Jn. 3:16). As many, therefore, that accept the gospel and believe in Jesus and make Him their personal Lord and Saviour are then giventhe power to become sons and daughters of God (Jn. 1:12). By virtue of taking these steps, those involved have become God’s children through adoption and invariably they have become joint-heirs with Jesus (Rom. 8:25-27). At this stage, all Christians are members of God’s family on earth. They must see themselves as brothers and sisters of the same Father. This relationship is supposed to be stronger than the relationship that should exist among biological siblings because the precious blood of Jesus with which believers have been redeemed is better then the biological blood (1 Pet. 1:18-19)

The second level of spiritual relationship is in the area of regular and consistent fellowship (Heb. 10:25). This is necessary for members of God’s family to interact, share the word of God together which is able to build them to spiritual maturity; teaching and admonishing in paslms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your heart to the Lord (Co. 4:16). Through this fellowship, believers will get to know each other better and will comfort one another in whatever challenges anyone is passing through (2 Cor. 1:4)

As we interact and teach ourselves the word of God, the expectation of God is that we grow to maturity and come to the unity of faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ (Eph. 4:13). We have seen the light of Christ and are expected to bring others to Christ through preaching the word of God, teaching the word of God and we ourselves living the word of God.

PART 2: LOVE ONE ANOTHER (JN. 13:34-35)

In the biological family, naturally members love one another. Through this love, they defend one another, provide for the need of one another and do things in common. Even if there is dispute among them, irrespective of the nature of the dispute, they find a way of settling it amicably and restored the relationship. In Christendom, Jesus expects genuine and unconditional love that is deeper than that of the biological family among Christians.

When He was rounding off His ministry, He called His disciples together and told them that He was giving them a new commandment and which centered on agape love for one another. He told them plainly that love for one another would be their identity card as Christian among the unbelievers. It is a pity that many Christians have lost their identity card (love) and are now filled with hatred, suspicion, backbiting about other Christians. These must stop among Christians. We must go back to old time religion, where believers live together in unity, love and harmony, caring for one another. Let us overlook our differences and demonstrate genuine love with one another.



PART 3: SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS (GAL. 6:2, 10; ROM. 12:15; 1 COR. 12:26; MK. 10:19)

As human beings, Christian have emotions. We are not angels, neither are we immuned against the societal vices and challenges. This is the reason why we must interact with one another. We must visit one another. Through visitation, we will be able to know what a believer is passing through, pray with him or her, share God’s word with him or her to encourage him or her and do whatever is in our capacity to assist the person. The Bible says we should bear one another’s burden (Gal. 6:2)

As Christians, we must identify with other Christians in their moments of joys and sorrows. We should rejoice with those that are rejoicing and weep with those who weep (Rom. 12:15). We must understand that we are members of the same body and if one part of the body is honoured, all the body share in the honour and if one part is in pain, all other parts of the body suffer the pain (1 Cor. 12:26). When a fellow Christian is having ceremony, others must rally round him or her and ensure success of the ceremony. There must not be partiality or favouritism along ethnic or tribal line in the category of those who will attend.

In addition, Christians must not defraud one another (Mk. 10:19; 1 Cor. 6:8; 1 Thess. 4:6). It is an aberation for a fellow Christian to send you on an errand and you are looking for how you will cheat him or her by inflating the price. Also, we must be people of integrity by paying back whatever we borrow from one another. Do not say he is my brother, he cannot drag me to court if I do not pay him back. This is a wrong mentality. If you have not given it to him, please find a way of returning what you borrow.



CONCLUSION

God is expecting godly and healthy relationship among Christians. If we are able to live up to God’s expectation, we will discover that with just a little preaching, sinners; will be ready to give their lives to Christ and come to the church because they know that they will be showered with love and be secured among the brethren.



QUESTIONS

When and how did man become God’s enemy?

How did Christian become joint-heirs with Jesus?


Mention some elements of Christians’ spiritual relationship.
Why should Christian love one another?

Enumerate specific actions Christian must do for themselves under social relationship.

LESSON 10 6/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITHIN THE COMMUNITY



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 37, 38

Devotional Reading: Matthew 5:13-16

Topic For Adults: Be Perfect As Your Heavenly Father

Topic For Youths: Let Others See Jesus In You

Topic For Intermediates: Love Your Neighbour

Scripture Lesson: Lk. 10:25-37; 1 Pet. 2:9-12; Matt. 10:16-26



Memory Verse: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16) NKJV



DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Mon. 31/10/2016

Don’t Put Up Self-Righteousness

Lk. 18:9-14

On many occasions Christian put up a holier-than-thou attitude toward unbelievers. We usually forget that our lives were dirtier and stinking more than the lives of some unbelievers before we were saved by the grace and mercy of God. Instead of seeing unbelievers as people who need that grace, we tend to see them as enemies and people we shouldn’t relate with. It is self-righteousness for a Christian to be comparing his or her life with others just like the Pharisees in our passage. The Bible says those comparing themselves with others are not wise (2 Cor. 10:12). Remember also that our righteousness is like a filthy rag (Isa. 64:6). Therefore, look on the unbelievers with compassion not with condemnation.



Point of Emphasis: Humble yourself before God so that you will be exalted.

Prayer Point: Help me Lord to see unbelievers the way God sees them as people needing help for salvation.

LESSON 10 6/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITHIN THE COMMUNITY

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 37, 38

Devotional Reading: Matthew 5:13-16

Topic For Adults: Be Perfect As Your Heavenly Father

Topic For Youths: Let Others See Jesus In You

Topic For Intermediates: Love Your Neighbour

Scripture Lesson: Lk. 10:25-37; 1 Pet. 2:9-12; Matt. 10:16-26

Memory Verse: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING
Tue. 1/11/2016

Be Salt And Light In Your Community
Matt. 5:13-16

Salt is an important ingredient with many functions. It preserves and brings out the best flavour of food. So, believers should be the salt of the earth and affect others positively. Believers are also called light of the world. With Jesus’ light in them, they cannot stumble in the darkness of this world. They are clearly showing what Christ is to the world. They are not to hide their light in their environment, rather, others should know that they are indeed children of light (verse 15). The issues of secret disciples does not arise here. I am a Christian in the heart, but I don’t want people to know, that person has not seen the light. Your light must shine before men that they will see your good works and glorify God through you (verse 16)

Point of Emphasis: Do not hide your light in Christ from others.

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to influence others positively for Christ in my community.

LESSON 10 6/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITHIN THE COMMUNITY



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 37, 38

Devotional Reading: Matthew 5:13-16

Topic For Adults: Be Perfect As Your Heavenly Father

Topic For Youths: Let Others See Jesus In You

Topic For Intermediates: Love Your Neighbour

Scripture Lesson: Lk. 10:25-37; 1 Pet. 2:9-12; Matt. 10:16-26



Memory Verse: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16) NKJV



DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Wed. 2/11/2016

Be A Good Neighbour

Lk. 10:25-37

When a group of people are brought together either by virtue of living in the same geographical location or by traveling together, or by meeting in a place, the essence of God bringing them together is to be their brother’s keeper and to help themselves. However, the degrading economic situation of the world is biting hard on people and is making them to abandon this ideal. Nowadays, neighbours hardly know themselves and living a lone ranger life. As Christians, God is expecting us to be good neigbours anywhere we find ourselves. We should always be ready to assist others within the confines of the laws of the land.



Point of Emphasis: Be a good “Samaritan” to someone today.

Prayer Point: Lord, do not allow the world situation to blind my eyes to my responsibilities to my neighbours.

LESSON 10 6/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITHIN THE COMMUNITY



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 37, 38

Devotional Reading: Matthew 5:13-16

Topic For Adults: Be Perfect As Your Heavenly Father

Topic For Youths: Let Others See Jesus In You

Topic For Intermediates: Love Your Neighbour

Scripture Lesson: Lk. 10:25-37; 1 Pet. 2:9-12; Matt. 10:16-26

Memory Verse: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thur. 3/11/2016

Repay No One Evil For Evil

Rom. 12:14-21

As believers live in the same community with unbelievers, it is not impossible to see some of them (unbelievers) who are heady, stubborn, always looking for trouble. At times, they will do some things intentionally to make the believer to get angry and start fighting with them. At such moments, believers should be sensitive to know that the devil is at work and should do everything possible not to bring themselves low by exchanging unpleasant word with the unbelievers. Do not pay them back in their own coin. If they do any evil against you, do not retaliate, leave vengeance to God to avenge you. If they are cursing you, choose to bless them in return. With these God will be fighting for you and you are at the same time ministering Christ to them.



Point of Emphasis: Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Prayer Point: Help me Lord not to avenge myself in any case but to live everything for You.

Good morning fam

LESSON 10 6/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITHIN THE COMMUNITY



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 37, 38

Devotional Reading: Matthew 5:13-16

Topic For Adults: Be Perfect As Your Heavenly Father

Topic For Youths: Let Others See Jesus In You

Topic For Intermediates: Love Your Neighbour

Scripture Lesson: Lk. 10:25-37; 1 Pet. 2:9-12; Matt. 10:16-26

Memory Verse: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Fri. 4/11/2016

Follow Peace With All Men

Heb. 12:12-17

In our relationship with others, Christians must bear this fundamental truth in mind that one of the qualifications to see God at the end of our life journey is the ability and grace to follow peace with all men. This means believers are to have peaceful relations as much as possible with their unbelieving neighbours and associates. They should not be the cause of dissension. Unbelievers have no hope of eternal life with God, hence they do not have anything to lose if they are found fighting with people, keeping malice, harbouring hatred toward another person, etc. But believers who have the hope of heaven are the ones that will do everything possible not to allow others to rob them of eternal life.



Point of Emphasis: As much as you can, live peaceably with all men.

Prayer Point: Lord, give me grace not to have any problem with anybody in life.

LESSON 10 6/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITHIN THE COMMUNITY



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 37, 38

Devotional Reading: Matthew 5:13-16

Topic For Adults: Be Perfect As Your Heavenly Father

Topic For Youths: Let Others See Jesus In You

Topic For Intermediates: Love Your Neighbour

Scripture Lesson: Lk. 10:25-37; 1 Pet. 2:9-12; Matt. 10:16-26

Memory Verse: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 5/11/2016

You Are The Epistle Of Christ

2 Cor. 3:1-7

As apostle Paul has declared, believers are the epistle of Christ known and read by all men (v. 2). The unbelievers that we are living with may not go to church or read the Bible, but they hear the gospel message through means such as radio, television, tracts, house-to-house evangelism, etc, and as such know little of what God is expecting from His children. Though they cannot do those things, yet they believe that anyone who calls himself a child of God must do them. Hence, once they see a supposedly child of God doing contrary to those standards, they quickly interject “And you call yourself a Christian”. This means unbelievers are watching you, so don’t drag the name of Christ in the mud in your community.

Point of Emphasis: You are being watched and read by all, so align with Christ.

Prayer Point: Help me Lord not to bring dishonour to the name of Jesus through my actions, reactions and inactions.

LESSON 10 6/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITHIN THE COMMUNITY



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 37, 38

Devotional Reading: Matthew 5:13-16

Topic For Adults: Be Perfect As Your Heavenly Father

Topic For Youths: Let Others See Jesus In You

Topic For Intermediates: Love Your Neighbour

Scripture Lesson: Lk. 10:25-37; 1 Pet. 2:9-12; Matt. 10:16-26

Memory Verse: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matt. 5:16) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sun. 6/11/2016

Do All Things Possible To Win Some

1 Cor. 9:13-23

When believers are living in the same community with unbelievers, the focus or concern of such believers should not be on the magnificent buildings, fleet of cars, wealth and opulence of such unbelievers. The concern must really be how do we minister Christ to them. Therefore, all means of interaction and socialising with them to achieve this purpose must be sought. Like Paul, there may be times when we will identify with them in their challenges, always pray with them. Attend their ceremonies when invited, giving helping hand when needed, etc. But all in all, the purpose is to win them to Christ, and you will succeed in this task in Jesus’ name.



Point of Emphasis: Become all things to all people to win some to Christ.

Prayer Point: Lord, give me wisdom to know what to do per time to bring sinners to Christ.



BACKGROUND

Christians are not island; they are not living in convent or in a separate community that comprise of only Christians. In the house they are living, their neighbourhood, schools, place of work, market place, etc, they meet and interact with unbelievers. What should be Christians’ relationship with the unbelievers in various communities and location? This is the fulcrum of this week’s lesson.



NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: SEE THEM AS YOUR NEIGHBOUR (LK. 10:25-37)

The habit of some Christians is to hate unbelievers. They don’t want to do anything with them and for them. The reason might be because they have witnessed to those unbelievers and they refused to repent. They too have forgotten that it was not only a single gospel message that brought them to Christ, that some people laboured over them before they were saved.

First and foremost, Christians should see unbelievers not as their enemies, but their neighbours. They are God’s creatures, created in the image of God. Those who now become Christians were once like them (sinners), but who have now received the grace of salvation. Just like the lawyer in the passage asked “who is your neighbour”? A neighbour is somebody who lives next door or close to somebody else. Generally, a neighbour is a fellow human. The express command of God is to love your neighbour as you love yourself (Lev. 19:18; Matt. 19:19; Mk. 12:3).

Therefore, Christians should love unbelievers, see them as their neighbours, but hate the sins in their lives and never allow them to draw them back into sin. They must remember that it is because of those unbelievers that God has not taken them away to heaven after their salvation. They must be able to draw the line of demarcation in their relationship with unbelievers based on the instructions from the word of God.

Christians, like the Samaritan in the passage, must create a good atmosphere between them and their neighbours, so as to be able to witness Christ to them when the time comes. Assuming later on the man attacked by the robbers after recovery got wind of those who abandoned him and the man who assisted him, and they all came to witness Christ to him, who do you think he would listen to? Obviously he would listen to the man who assisted him without knowing him from anywhere. Christians should go and do likewise.



PART 2: WIN THEM TO CHRIST BY YOUR HONOURABLE CONDUCT (1 PET. 2:9-12)

As a chosen generation and God’s peculiar people who have obtained mercy and have been translated from the power of darkness, sin, Satan and flesh unto the light of Christ, we have a mandate from heaven, which is to show forth and proclaim the praises of Jesus and the gospel that saved us to unbelievers (v. 9)

This proclamation can be done through (i) proper ascription of praise to God in public, family, and social worship, (ii) endeavouring to make known His excellence to all those who are ignorant of Him; and (iii) living such a life that shall constantly proclaim His praise. The consistent life of a devoted Christian is a constant setting forth of the praise of God, showing to all that the God who has made him such is worthy to be loved.

Christians should know that the most effective ways to win unbelievers with whom we are living together is through our conducts. These conducts must be based on the Bible and on the awareness that believers are strangers, sojouners and pilgrims in this world (verse 11). This world is not their own, they are just passing through it. Therefore, they must abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul.

Believers should have honourable conducts among the Gentiles (v. 12). Christians must know that two sets of people are watching them – the heavenly beings and unbelievers. Your conduct speaks volume of who you really are. If you call yourself a Christian, and your unbelieving neigbours see and know about your numerous girlfriends or boyfriends, they know you to be a fighter in the neighbourhood, nobody can use any of your property without you cursing them, etc. these are not honourable conducts that can win unbelievers to Christ. Check your life and your relationship with unbelievers, can it bring others to Christ or send them away from Christ?



PART 3: BE WISE (MATT. 10:16-26)

One of the things Christians should bear in mind is that the world does not love them. This sour relationship between believers and the world is reflected in Jesus’ prayer in John 17 for these reasons, it doesn’t matter the love showered on the people of the world, they will still turn around to be unappreciative and at times try to harm the believers.

The Bible says “… for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light” (Lk. 16:. At times, a Christian may be trying to be good to unbelievers with the aim of bringing them to Christ, the unbelievers in their own worldly wisdom, may be having ulterior motives of scheming how to bring such Christian into disrepute and make him fall back into sin. For such believer, the advice of Jesus must be seriously adhered to. You have been sent as sheep in the midst of wolves, therefore, be wise as serpents and harmless a doves (v. 16). Serpents have always been an emblem of wisdom and cunningness (Gen. 3:1). Probably Jesus directed His followers here to imitate the serpent in its caution in avoiding danger. No animal equals them in the rapidity and skill which they evince in escaping danger. So Christians need caution and wisdom in the midst of a world that will seek their lives. He directs them also to be harmless, not to provoke danger, not to do injury, etc. Doves are and always have been a striking emblem of innocence. In essence, believers, while doing all things possible to win unbelievers to Christ, must be wise and cautious so that their acts are not misinterpreted for wrong motive by the unbelievers.





CONCLUSION

Christians should be light and salt to the world. They must show forth the light they have received through salvation to the unbelievers. They must love unbelievers but hate their sin. They must do all things possible, through their honourable conducts and cautious relationship to win unbelievers to Christ.





QUESTIONS

What is the attitude of some Christians towards the unbelievers?

Who is a neighbour? Why are unbelievers believers’ neighbours?

Mention some of the ways through which believers can show forth Christ’s praises.

Identify some honourble conducts believers must display in their relationship with unbelievers.

What symbols do serpents and doves represent in believers lives?

LESSON 11 13/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOVERNMENT

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 33, 35

Devotional Reading: Rom. 13:1-7

Topic For Adults: Your Duty To The Government

Topic For Youths: Don’t Resist Authorities

Topic For Intermediates: Respect The Law

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 13:1-7; Mk. 12:16-17; 1 Tim. 2:1-4; 1 Pet. 2:13-14



Memory Verse: Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authorities except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God (Rom. 13:1) NKJV.



DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Mon. 7/11/2016

When Civil Disobedience Is Allowed

Dan. 3:1-30

Christians are to take a stand when the laws interfere with rights of consciences; when they command the worship of idols, or any moral wrong, then it is their duty to refuse submission. It is implied that the state has a God-given power albeit capable of abuse over its subjects, hence if a ruler forbids what God requires or requires what God forbids, Christians cannot submit, and some form of civil disobedience becomes inescapable (Acts 4:18-31; 5:17-29)



Point of Emphasis: Be subject with care.

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to be able to know when the Government is trying to draw me away from you.

LESSON 11 13/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOVERNMENT



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 33, 35

Devotional Reading: Rom. 13:1-7

Topic For Adults: Your Duty To The Government

Topic For Youths: Don’t Resist Authorities

Topic For Intermediates: Respect The Law

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 13:1-7; Mk. 12:16-17; 1 Tim. 2:1-4; 1 Pet. 2:13-14

Memory Verse: Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authorities except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God (Rom. 13:1) NKJV.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Tue. 8/11/2016

God Rules In The Affairs Of Men

Dan. 4:17, 33-37

A fool says in his heart that there is no God (Ps. 14:1). The case of Nebuchadnezar typified that God rules in the affairs of men (v. 17). He became abazed and was given a beast’s heart. He lost his heart, mind or reasoning powers because he needed to know that the Lord is all-powerful and can place who He wants on the throne. King Nebuchadnezar experienced humiliation because he failed to recognise God as the source of his success. As a believer, you must not allow yourself to be degraded before you recognise God as the source of your success. Look into your life, place it on a scale and weigh if what you are going through is as a result of your inability to recognise God as the one that makes you to succeed.

Point of Emphasis: The living should know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men (v. 17)

Prayer Point: God, help me to always see you as the power behind my success.

LESSON 11 13/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOVERNMENT



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 33, 35

Devotional Reading: Rom. 13:1-7

Topic For Adults: Your Duty To The Government

Topic For Youths: Don’t Resist Authorities

Topic For Intermediates: Respect The Law

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 13:1-7; Mk. 12:16-17; 1 Tim. 2:1-4; 1 Pet. 2:13-14

Memory Verse: Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authorities except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God (Rom. 13:1) NKJV.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thurs. 10/11/2016

Pray For Your Jerusalem

Ps. 122:1-9

Christians should look and hope continually and expectantly for the good of their nations. They should intimately commune with God for their country. It is Christian’s duty to pray for the peace and transquility of their nations. We must not speak ill about our beloved country; since we can serve and worship God better under a peaceful atmosphere. As God’s ambassador on Earth, you should make it your duty to interceed for your country so that it can be well with her.



Point of Emphasis: Pray for the peace of your Country.

Prayer Point: I Pray that Christ will reign in my country.

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LESSON 11 13/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOVERNMENT



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 33, 35

Devotional Reading: Rom. 13:1-7

Topic For Adults: Your Duty To The Government

Topic For Youths: Don’t Resist Authorities

Topic For Intermediates: Respect The Law

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 13:1-7; Mk. 12:16-17; 1 Tim. 2:1-4; 1 Pet. 2:13-14

Memory Verse: Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authorities except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God (Rom. 13:1) NKJV.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Fri. 11/11/2016

Render Therefore To All Their Dues

Rom. 13:7-11

This is an extensive command. Be rigidly just; withhold neither from the king nor his ministers, nor his officers of justice and revenue, nor from even the lowest of the community, what the laws of God and your country require you to pay. Tribute to whom tribute is due. This word probably means such taxes as were levied on persons and estates. Custom to whom custom is due. This word probably means such duties as were laid upon goods, merchandise, etc, on imports and exports; what we commonly call custom.



Point of Emphasis: Render to all their dues as expected of a child of God.

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to show respect to people in authority in my church and my Nation.

LESSON 11 13/11/2016

CHRISTIAN RELATIONSHIP WITH THE GOVERNMENT



Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 33, 35

Devotional Reading: Rom. 13:1-7

Topic For Adults: Your Duty To The Government

Topic For Youths: Don’t Resist Authorities

Topic For Intermediates: Respect The Law

Scripture Lesson: Rom. 13:1-7; Mk. 12:16-17; 1 Tim. 2:1-4; 1 Pet. 2:13-14

Memory Verse: Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authorities except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God (Rom. 13:1) NKJV.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 12/11/2016

Obey Your Rulers

Rom. 13:1-7

God ordained the state as an institution to pilot the affairs of the citizens. God commands Christians to obey the rulers (v. 1). The governments are put in place because we need certain restraints to prevent disharmony in the society. Paul describes ‘government’ as people put in place to execute its proper function to the smooth running of the state to ensure peace and progress. But when its directives run contrary to the word of God, the latter should be followed. Verse 2, says, whoever refuses to obey the ordinances, rules and regulations of his or her leaders is doing it at the detriment of his or her life. Christians must be law abiding. Therefore, don’t do anything that will bring reproach to God’s name.





Point of Emphasis: Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers (v. 1a)

Prayer Point: The grace to be obedient to higher authorities, give to me Oh Lord in the name of Jesus.