DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thur. 15/12/2016

Jesus Interpretes The Law

Matt. 5:17-26

Jesus does not have the intention of abolishing the Old Testament revelation but to see it fulfilled in the life of His followers. The laws that believers must keep includes the ethical and moral principles in God’s word. These must be viewed as moral codes for those who have been saved. Our obligation must be carried out in a relationship of children to their father (Gal. 4:6). Jesus demands for higher righteousness than that of the Pharisees. This you must have in mind to achieve by His grace since you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.



Point of Emphasis: One jot or one little of God’s word shall in no wise pass without fulfilment.

Prayer Point: Grant to me O Lord grace and power to obey Your law to the letter

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Fri. 16/12/2016

The Righteousness Of The Kingdom

Rom. 10:1-4

Jesus Christ is the King of the kingdom of God. Paul prayed about his heart-desire which was for all Israel to be saved. He argued that though they have zeal for God, but they were ignorant of the righteousness of God. Like the Israelites, there are some that are going about establishing their own righteousness. They have refused to accept God’s way. Jesus Christ is the righteousness of God and the acceptable Way to get into God’s kingdom. Don’t be like the Israelites who though zealous, did not accept the righteousness of God. Getting saved does not involve lot of complicated rules, instructions and requirements, only accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour.



Point of Emphasis: Jesus is the righteousness of God.

Prayer Point: Deliver those who are ignorant of God’s righteousness and help me not to be a victim.

LESSON 3 18/12/2016



THE CONSTITUTION OF THE KINGDOM (BASED ON THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT)

Suggested Hymns: 155, 158

Devotional Reading: Matt. 5:17-20

Topic For Adults: Be Kingdom Compliant

Topic For Youths: You Are A Peculiar People

Topic For Intermediates: Jesus Meant Well

Scripture Lesson: Matt. 5:1-20; 4:48; 11:28-29

Memory Verse: “Do not think that I come to destroy the Law and the Prophets, I did not come to destroy but to fulfil” (Matt. 5:17) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sun. 18/12/2016

Treatment Of Your Enemies And Neighbour

Matt. 5:43-48

There was a time when you were the enemy of God and some people. You were not strangled to death but God tolerated you until you became a new creature. Jesus quoted from the Mosaic Law “Ye have heard that it hath been said, thou shall love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy’ but Jesus changed the law and enjoined us to love our enemies, bless them irrespective of what they might have done to us. This higher law may be difficult for those who are disobedient to God’s directive but you must obey. Loving your enemies makes you different from the unbelievers. It shows you a genuine child of God – read verse 45 meditatively.

Point of Emphasis: Love your enemies and pray for them.

Prayer Point: Help me Lord to obey your commandment to love my enemies.

BACKGROUND

Believers in Christ are people of dual citizenship. They are citizens of their country on Earth and citizens of Heaven. It is expected that they should be law-abiding. Hence there is the need to know the constitution of the new kingdom. They must commit to heart and practise the norms and regulations of both countries. This week’s lesson centres on the constitution of the kingdom of God.

NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: THE BEATTITUDES (MATT. 5:1-12)

This Bible passage is usually called the beatitudes or blessed sayings because they begin with “blessed is...” which means ‘happy is’. This outline may not be regarded as the best in modern days since they have been devalued by people. However, the idea is not based on blissful state of worldly circumstances but on divine order.

It is also called the beatitudes: which means the beautiful attitudes that are expected of the people of the kingdom. These beatitudes introduce Jesus’ sermon on the mount (Matt. 5:3-12). There are eight beatitudes which express the ideal heart of the kingdom citizens.

‘poor in spirit’ means an awareness of spiritual bankruptcy apart from Christ (v. 3)

To ‘mourn’ is to be grieved and broken over sin (v. 4)

The ‘meek’ are like Jesus Christ who exhibited gentleness and self-control (v. 5)

‘Hunger and thirst’ describe the state of those who desire God’s righteousness (v 5, 6)

The ‘merciful’ are the people who are forgiving and compassionate

‘Pure in heart’ has to do with internal cleansing needed for entering God’s presence (v.

The ‘peacemakers’ mean those who invite people to be reconciled to God and to one another (v. 9)

“Persecuted for righteousness” shows that the world would oppose the kingdom citizens’ (v. 10-12)

A believer who wishes to receive the blessings attached to the beatitudes, must be ready to possess these attitudes.

PART 2: THE ETHICS (MATT. 5:17-20, 43-48)

The contents of the ethics is not in isolation from the doctrine and teaching of the Bible. It defines what is right, good, and ethical. It shows how a Christian should live.

The expression ‘the law and the prophets’ is used to connote the law which consist the legal codes, moral and ethical principles of the Old Testament together with the message of the prophets.

Verse 19, shows that the position of believers in the kingdom of heaven will be determined by their attitude toward God’s commandments – if they obey and teach them. Believers’ degree of faithfulness will determine their degree of glory in heaven.

Jesus introduced a higher law about the following

Believer’s righteousness should exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees (v. 20)

A child of God should not be angry with his brother without a cause because this leads to hell fire. Reconciliation is a prerequisite for true worship and a sacrifice acceptable to God (vv. 21-25)

Jesus says that adultery include illicit sexual pleasure contemplated. Therefore, Christians should abstain from taking pleasure in scenes of immorality shown in films, videos, Television, internet etc. Christian women and men must not dress in seductive manner.
Christians should know that God’s plan and standard for marriage is one man and one woman, joined together in a marriage dissolvable only by death, not divorce (vv. 31-32)

Children of the kingdom should operate on the principles of truthfulness. No swearing vv 33-37
Jesus introduced a higher law of ‘no retaliation’ or the ‘second mile philosophy’. Jesus mentioned five ways to apply this principle. “Turn to him the other cheek’, ‘let him have thy cloak also’, ‘go with him the second mile’, ‘give to him that asketh and turn not away from one who would borrow’ (vv. 38-42)

Children of the kingdom should love their enemies. To love one’s friend is natural but loving one’s enemies is supernatural. Those who love their enemies show that they are the children of their father which is in Heaven – He does that which is good for men by sending rain on the just and on the unjust.
We are to be wholly committed to the will of God. Only those who allow God to love through them can love as God’s loves. We are to be perfect in our love for God and man (verse 48)

God has recommended a higher supernatural code of ethics for His children while the people in the world observe natural laws. Let’s endeavour to live by the supernatural so that we can truly be the citizens of the kingdom.

PART 3: THE APPLICATION (MATT. 5:13-16, 11:28-29)

Jesus employed two metaphoric statements to designate the true identity of the kingdom people on earth. He called the believers the salt and the light of the world (verses 13-14). Christians are likened to salt which is valuable to give flavour and to preserve from corruption; Believers in Christ must be godly examples in the world and must resist the moral decay and corruption that are common in the society.

It is the responsibility of believers to persevere and seek the kingdom of God diligently in all ways, longing for God’s presence and power both in their own lives and within the Christian community (Matt. 5:10). It also requires that they should seek the kingdom with diligent faith, spiritual warfare which has to do with the will to resist Satan, sin and the corrupt society.

A life of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit is an essential evidence that one is genuinely experiencing God’s kingdom.

Jesus’ gracious invitation in Matthew 11:28-29 to all who labour and are heavy laden with the troubles of life and the sins of their own should be taken seriously in order to receive rest and be free from heavy burden and become like Him (Matt. 11:28-29)

CONCLUSION

The blessed in the context of today’s teaching depicts a life gratitude a life filled with thanksgiving and joy. Though the blessed life is not problem-free, it is different because it possesses the resources to handle them. Only those that are truly committed to God will rejoice and be exceedingly glad because he or she has gotten opportunity to know the will of God and be committed to it.

QUESTIONS

Why are children of God regarded as people having dual citizenship?

Explain the reason why Matt. 5:12 is designated as ‘blessed sayings’.

What does ethic in the context of this lesson mean?

Name at least 3 areas where Jesus instituted higher law.

How can believers attain the prescribed ethics by Jesus?

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Mon. 19/12/2016

Daniel Speaks Of The Coming Kingdom

Dan. 2:30-44

Daniel interpreted the image which Nebuchadnezzar saw in his dream as follows: (i) The image head which was a fine gold as the kingdom of Neo-Babylonian Empire (605-530 BC) established by Nebuchadnezzar (ii) The silver chest represented Medo-Persian empire established by Cyrus (530 BC) (iii) The third kingdom symbolised by bronze belly and thighs represented the Greek empire formed by Alexander the great (330 BC) (iv) The fourth kingdom symbolised by partly iron and clay was the Roman empire which probably began in 67BC. (v) The fifth one is the everlasting kingdom which shall never be destroyed. This revelation should encourage you to put your interest in Christ’s kingdom that will never be destroyed. Nebuchadnezzar’s dream showed that the world order with its philosophy and values must be completely destroyed to give way to Christ’s kingdom to be fully fulfilled.



Point of Emphasis: Earthly kingdoms are temporary.

Prayer Point: I will live forever with Jesus in His kingdom.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Tue. 20/12/2016

Prophecy Of The King Of The Kingdom

Isa. 9:6-7

Isaiah spoke that the birth of the Messiah – King of kings will be at a definite time as God-men at a particular place in history. He went further to say that as King, the government shall be upon His shoulder, he also gave us five names that would characterise His function as King or deliverer – (i) Wonderful – He will be supernaturally wonderful; showing His character by miracles and deeds (ii) Counselor – He would display perfect wisdom and have words of eternal life. (iii) Mighty God – all the fullness of the Deity would exist in bodily form (iv) Everlasting Father – He will act as compassionate Father towards His people (v) Prince of peace – His reign would bring peace for mankind with God through deliverance, forgiveness of sin and freedom from eternal death. Verse 7 firmly states that there shall be no end to His government and peace. Therefore, don’t allow the mundane things of this world to exclude you from the rulership of this King.







Point of Emphasis: Of the increase of his government and peace, there shall be no end,

Prayer Point: Lord Jesus, continue to reign forever in my life. Do not allow Satan to have influence over my life.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Wed. 21/12/2016

Divine Conception Of The King

Isa. 7:10-14

The application of this prophecy to the birth of Jesus Christ was given in verse 14 of our daily reading this morning. The original prophecy was sent to Ahaz who rejected the counsel of prophet Isaiah to trust in God for deliverance. The fulfilment of the divine conception was re-echoed in the New Testament (Matt. 1:18-25). The miraculous conception of virgin Mary came as a result of the ultimate fulfilment of the prophecy by a miracle of the Holy Spirit and not through the act of a man. It is unfortunate that as Ahaz rejected the prophecy of divine deliverance, some people still refuted the divine conception of Jesus on the basis of their limited intuition and understanding. Is anything difficult for God to do?



Point of Emphasis: Don’t allow unbelief to prevent you from accepting the Biblical account of divine conception of Jesus Christ.

Prayer Point: I will not reject divine truth based on my limited understanding in the name of Jesus.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thurs. 22/12/2016

Jesus: The Fulfilment Of God’s Promise

Matt. 1:18-23

Jesus is the Greek from of the Hebrew word Yeshua (Joshua) meaning “the LORD is salvation”. Both Old and New Testament ascribe virginity to the mother of Jesus. The importance of the virgin birth cannot be underscored. For the promise of God for salvation to mankind to be fulfilled; A redeemer who would qualify to pay for our salvation and bring salvation must be in one person, fully human, sinless and fully divine. All these three requirements were fulfilled in Jesus. (i) He was born of a woman therefore he is fully human (ii) He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and this makes Him to be unique (iii) Jesus is divine because God is His Father. Jesus is, therefore, revealed to us as one divine person with two natures – divine and sinless human. Without mincing word, he is the fulfilment of God’s promise.



Point of Emphasis: Jesus save His people from their sins.

Prayer Point: Thank God for the fulfilment of your promise in the Lord Christ.

LESSON 4 25/12/2016

THE KING OF THE KINGDOM

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 133, 143

Devotional Reading: Isaiah 11:1-9

Topic For Adults: Behold The King Of The Kingdom Is Born

Topic For Youths: The King’s Birth Is Good News

Topic For Intermediates: The Good News Of Jesus’ Birth

Scripture Lesson: Isa. 9:1-7; Matt. 1:18-25; 9:35-38; 10:1, 5-8

Memory Verse: “For unto us a child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end (Isa. 9:6-7a) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sun. 25/12/2016

Pre-Requisite To The King’s Kingdom

2 Cor. 7:7-10

God’s forgiveness and admittance into His kingdom is for those who come to God in sincere repentance. Repentance is a free decision on the part of sinners, made possible by the enabling grace given to them as they hear the word of God and believe the gospel. Paul Apostle speaks in 2 Cor. 7:10 about two types of sorrow that may happen when someone hears the gospel; these are godly sorrow which leads to repentance and sorrow of the world which leads to death. The basic pre-requisite for admittance into God’s kingdom is a godly sorrow that works repentance which brings salvation. Your Church regular attendance in the church is very vital but what is more important is; the repentance of your sins and becoming a member of the universal church of God?

Point of Emphasis: Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation.

Prayer Point: Help me to make a clean break with every form of ungodly compromise and resist the sinful desires in the name of Jesus.



BACKGROUND

The book of Isaiah and some others in the Old Testament fortells the birth of Jesus Christ. Isaiah in particular prophesised that the Messiah would be born in a unique and marvellous way; and that He would show His trait by His deeds and miracles. He says further that His rule would bring peace with God for humankind through deliverance from sin and death. Matthew traced His genealogy as the one ‘divine’ sent to fulfil God’s redemption plan for mankind.

This week’s lesson shed light on how Jesus Christ fulfilled the Old Testament promises of a perfect king who reigns over His people and the universe.

NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: PROPHECY OF THE BIRTH OF THE KING (ISA. 9:1-7; MATT. 1:18-25)

Isaiah prophesied of a coming deliverer through a virgin who would one day lead God’s people out of damnation and bring them to joy, peace, righteousness and justice. He affirmed that the promised King and Messiah which was expected in the Old Testament who would be a of a virgin’s birth (Isa. 7:13-14).

Also, the book of Daniel contains a vision of one to whom was given dominion, glory and a kingdom. His kingdom is everlasting and will not pass away (Dan. 7:13-14)

Isaiah gave us a glimpse of several important truth of the coming king. He would minister in Galilee (verse 1) and this was fulfilled in Matt. 4:13-14. (2) He would bring salvation and hope (verse 2). This is evidenced in Matt. 4:15-16 (3) He would enlarge the kingdom of God by bringing in the Gentiles into the household of faith (verse 3), (Acts 15:13-18). He would bring in peace by delivering the people from the yoke of oppression (sin) and crushing their enemy (verse 4-5). The Messiah would come from the nation of Israel and would be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and the Prince of Peace (verse 6) and would rule on God’s people for ever (verse 7).

PART 2: FULFILMENT OF THE BIRTH OF THE KING (MATT. 1:18-23)

Matthew’s account of the birth of Jesus matched the prophetic description in the Old Testament (Matt. 1:22-23).

The Good News of Jesus birth brought spiritual life to the spiritually dead, hope for the hopeless, peace to the troubled world and salvation to mankind.

Matthew made the story fascinating by establishing that Jesus was a legal descendant of David, tracing the genealogy of Joseph to the house of David, through Joseph did not contribute anything biological to the birth. Mary was conceived by the Holy Spirit but Jesus was still formally registered as Joseph’s Son and legal Son of David (Matt. 1:1)

The name Jesus means, Jehovah is salvation’. The Hebrew translation is “Joshua” meaning ‘Yahweh saves or ‘salvation is from Yahweh’.

Jesus had to be born of a virgin in order to be qualified to pay for our sins and give us salvation. He must be fully human, sinless and fully divine. (Heb. 7:25-26). The virgin’s birth fulfils all these three requirements. The only way Jesus could be fully human was to be born of a woman while the only way to be sinless was to be conceived of the Holy Spirit. In view of this, His conception was not natural but supernatural therefore. He has God as His Father. He is a divine person with a dual natures – divine and sinless human. He qualified as ‘that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God (Lk. 1:35)

PART 3: PROCLAIMING THE KINGDOM (MATT. 9:35-38, 10:1, 5-

Jesus demonstrated the potent of the kingdom’s gospel (Matt. 9:35). He went to the cities and villages teaching and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing all kinds of sickness and diseases among the people. He also commissioned the twelve disciples for the same purpose. He gave them power over the unclean spirit.

The demonstration of the power of God is a manifestation of the power of God’s kingdom on the Earth. The disciples proclaimed a balanced gospel to the people because they knew the mindset of Jesus. They carried out their duty with concerns of how sinners should repent from their sins and become the citizen of the kingdom. He announced and called the people for definite decision. They convinced them of the need to turn a new leaf. Jesus wanted His followers to realise that there is a wide open field in which everyone can plant and cultivate wherever we live and work. We must equally pray for more labourer in the kingdom (Matt. 9:37-38).

CONCLUSION

Jesus fulfilled the qualities of the king of the kingdom. He laid the foundation and gave authority to advance the kingdom. We can show appreciation to His Kingship heaving been part of the kingdom by inviting others to His rulership.

QUESTIONS

How does Matthew’s description of the birth of the Messiah match the prophecy in Isaiah 7:4?

How was Jesus’ birth unique?

How important is Jesus’ virgin birth?

Why is Jesus conception and birth not ordinary?

How can Christian proclaim a balanced gospel like Jesus and His disciples?

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Mon. 26/12/2016

The Necessity Of The Second Birth

Jn. 3:1-7

The necessity of the second birth is that it opens the door of the kingdom to as many who will experience the second birth. A man of God preached on “You must be born-again”, he said there is no substitute for the new birth. You may be a member of a church but church membership is not new birth except a man be born-again he cannot see the kingdom of God. His message touched an Archdeacon after several years that he had never experienced the joy of salvation Christians spoke of. Archdeacon responded to the call of salvation. What about you? Being religious can’t save you. Jesus is the Saviour of the world.



Point of Emphasis: Your service to God is meaningless without the salvation of your soul.

Prayer Point: Lord, open my eyes to see my state of life and give me grace to make necessary correction.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Tue. 27/12/2016

Repentance, The Key Factor

Lk. 13:1-5

The need for repentance is clearly stated in the passage. Jesus laid emphasis on, “unless you repent” you too will perish. Jesus was informed about how Pilate murdered some Galileans and responded by asking a question “Do you think that they were sinners than all others”? But unless you repent you too will perish. The word perish here is not actually referring to physical death because both repentant and unrepentant soul will continue to die till Jesus come. Perishing is the eternal punishment sinners fall into after death if they haven’t repented. It doesn’t matter your position in the church, you can enjoy the grace now by confessing your sin and forsake your old ways.

Point of Emphasis: Except you repent, you too will perish.

Prayer Point: Lord, save me to the end.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Wed. 28/12/2016

Take Up Your Cross Daily

Matt. 16:24-28

Jesus’ words “come after me” applied to the initial surrender of the new birth when a person comes to Christ for salvation and the old life is exchanged to a new life of righteousness. The word “come after me” reiterated the call to the life on daily obedient to Christ. To take up one’s cross is to be willing to pay any price for righteousness sake; it is the willingness to endure shame, embarrassment, reproach, rejection and persecution for His sake. Believers must be able to defend their faith and stand for Christ irrespective of what comes their way.



Point of Emphasis: Follow Jesus no matter what comes your way.

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to overcome all trials for righteousness sake.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thur. 29/12/2016

Living The Word In The Kingdom

Jam. 1:19-25

Is it possible to live the word in an ungodly world? Yes, it is possible. If it is not, the scripture wouldn’t have instructed us. We live in the world yet we are not of the world. It is a pity nowadays that some Christians are now living the world instead of living the word in the world. The disciples were first called Christian in Antioch when people saw the life of Christ in them. God has instructed us to live for him at the cost of denying our own desires. Those who desire to live for God must seek in His word and prayer. As we draw nearer to God and come to know him more, he will reveal more to us.



Point of Emphasis: Live according to His word.

Prayer Point: Father, help me to live the life of the word.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Fri. 30/12/2016

The Content Of The Kingdom

Matt. 6:33; Rom. 14:17-18

Daily hustle of life in what to become, gain, achievement makes anxiety of life burdensome. All the worries of life cannot add single moment or day to our lives. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, we should cast all our burden or worries upon him and focus on Him alone. Our daily activities of today’s world can shift our mind and focus away from God’s word so we need to be watchful as the day of the Lord is drawing near. Let’s us seek first God’s kingdom faithfully in all we put in, no matter how hard. We should also not neglect the fellowship of the brethren we should be living right with him, we should be studying the word of God and pray daily. He will supply our daily need.



Point of Emphasis: Choose to seek him first at all times.

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to take you as my first priority.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 31/12/2016

Pathway To The Kingdom

Matt. 7:13-14

There is an entrance to every house built so also is the kingdom of God. There are two ways mentioned in the New Testament: the Narrow and Broadway. The narrow way is the way that leads to eternal life that is devoid of sin, stain or wrinkle, but the broad way is the way that looks attractive, enjoyable but leads to destruction. To gain access to the sure way i.e. the narrow way, Jesus Christ is the channel that leads to kingdom. No wonder Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth and the life no one comes to the Father except by me”. You cannot get to the kingdom without Jesus.



Point of Emphasis: Know Jesus today.

Prayer Point: Father, help me to know you and keep me in the right way to the kingdom.

LESSON 5 1/1/2017

THE KINGDOM OF GOD: ITS BEGINNING

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 129, 133

Devotional Reading: Exo. 15:16-18

Topic For Adults: Have Deeper Understanding Of The Kingdom Of God

Topic For Youths: The Kingdom Of God Is Not Eating And Drinking

Topic For Intermediates: Are You A Kingdom Child?

Scripture Lesson: Dan. 4:3; Ps. 103:19; 83:19; Lk. 17:20-21; Dan. 7:13-14; Lk. 17:22

Memory Verse: The kingdom of God is not eating and drinking but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Rom. 14:17) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sun. 1/1/2017

The Kingdom Of God In You

Lk. 17:20-23

Jesus Christ gave answer to the question asked by the Pharisee who asked for when the kingdom of God would come. He answered them that the kingdom can’t be detected by visible signs where it can be said here or there but starts within you. This means having experienced new birth you are called a child of God, the kingdom of God is established in you. This makes you feel the joy of salvation (Holy Spirit) on daily basis. The kingdom of God first reigns within us before we can be part of the larger kingdom.



Point of Emphasis: God’s kingdom starts within you and that makes you part of the larger kingdom.

Prayer Point: Let your kingdom reign in me, Oh Lord.



BACKGROUND

There may be some people who do not have the knowledge of what the kingdom of God is all about. There are some who merely talk about the kingdom but do not understand what it entails. Some view that the kingdom is something that is going to happen at an uncertain time in the future. Such ignorance must not be allowed to continue among us. In this lesson, we will have indepth knowledge about the kingdom.



NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: WHAT IS THE KINGDOM OF GOD? (DAN. 4:3; PS. 103:19; 83:18; 9:16)

The kingdom of God is defined as the rule and authority of God in the heart of a man. It is viewed as everlasting and universal, the rule of the sovereign God over all creatures and things.

Earthly kingdoms are inaugurated, carried and brought to an end by human force. They are also governed by human authority and power are executed through them, but the kingdom of God is ushered in and maintained by the omnipotent God. The kingdom of God oversees and rules over all earthly kingdoms because they will fade off in the cause of time. The kingdom of God is established by the King of the universe who takes charge over all and is guided by the Holy Spirit.

We need to know and affirm the fact that the kingdom of God belongs to the Almighty God who cannot be seen, unsit, dethrone, and His authority cannot be hijacked, He gives power to whoever he pleases. He rules and reigns in heaven and earth and moreso this kingdom is everlasting, it has no end. He is the Omnipotent, Omniscient and Omnipresent God.



PART 2: THE SPIRITUALITY OF THE KINGDOM (LK. 17:20-21)

The kingdom of God does not come with physical observation of rituals or in a dramatic way such that one can wish to see. The kingdom of God cannot be seen with our physical eyes but comes in a silent and quiet way. The kingdom of an earthly monarch is only in the domain where he or she lives but God rules in the heart and lives in the heart of his own people all over the world.

The Pharisees were anxious (either out of sincerity or pretence) to know when the kingdom of God would appear. So they came to Jesus and asked when the kingdom of God would come. They were obviously looking for the physical appearance of the kingdom. But Jesus corrected this error and told them that the kingdom of God would not come by mere observation but He said “the kingdom of God is within you”.

Man’s heart feels joy in the Holy Ghost as soon as the heart turns to God (point of salvation) because he is justified by the name of the Lord and the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:11). Acceptance of the gospel of salvation changes heart from ordinary to spiritual and immediately the kingdom of God is established. (Mk. 1:15). It changes immoral, sinful and rebellious sinner to a saint even to a servant of God.

At the point of repentance, you are born of the spirit and the kingdom is within you i.e. starts reigning in your heart. This cannot be seen physically but peace and joy will be felt from within: this is the beginning of God’s kingdom. Christ is the embodiment of the kingdom of God, he is setting the kingdom among us to be to reigning in those he is touching. We should always present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God… (Rom. 12:1) as soon as the kingdom reigns in us.



PART 3: THE PHYSICAL KINGDOM (DAN. 7:13,14; LK. 17:22)

Having got the understanding of the spirituality of the kingdom of God (Internal), it is also expedient to know the external (physical) of the kingdom of God. Prophet Daniel saw this quite long ago in the vision before the Lord Jesus came to the world (Dan. 7:13-14) that the son of man is coming with the clouds of heaven. Unto Him given dominion and glory and a kingdom. Nations shall serve him and His kingdom shall not be destroyed. Jesus, while on earth, affirmed this in Matthew 25:31-32 to corroborate the passage of Prophet Daniel.

Jesus Christ is referred to as the Son of man who is coming someday to set up the kingdom of God on earth (physical kingdom). It is an everlasting kingdom which cannot be overthrown or taken away by force. The spiritual kingdom will lead us to be part of the physical kingdom. Those that are qualified, sinless and found blameless will have access to reigning with Christ on earth. We need to be watchful and earnestly prepare for this kingdom because those who fail to prepare will prepare to fail.



CONCLUSION

The internal and external kingdom is real. As a member of the kingdom, we have divine agenda and purpose. John the Baptist preached and prepared the people for the imminent coming of the Messiah at His first advent. After Jesus, he laid the foundation of the kingdom and commanded His immediate disciples to carry on the task till He returned. With the disciples’ commitment and effort they extended the task for the next generation which is ours. It is now our turn to carry on the word with all seriousness needed to prepare the world for the coming of the kingdom.



QUESTIONS

Compare the earthly kingdom with the kingdom of God.

What are the things that we need to affirm and know about the kingdom of God according to this lesson.

Mention the way through which the kingdom of God comes.

What does a person who has received the kingdom of God experience?

Explain the aspect of the physical kingdom of God as revealed to Daniel.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Mon. 2/1/2017

Motive Of Coming To Hear God’s Word

Jer. 17:10

Everyone comes with different reasons to church. To some, it is a tradition to stay away from home on Sundays, hence they have to be in the church; while some are always glad like David when he went into the presence of the Lord. The motive of coming to where God’s word is preached has an important role on the efficacy of the word in the person’s life. Pharisees and Scribes joined the crowd in hearing Jesus’ words and teachings but their intension was to get his word to use against Him. Such words cannot bless them. What is your own motive for coming to hear the word of God?



Point of Emphasis: Develop a good mind-set towards the ministers of God when delivering God’s word.

Prayer Point: Father, give me a heart of flesh to always receive your word.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Tue. 3/1/2017

Privileges Of Disciples

Deut. 29:29; Jam. 4:8

Disciples are the followers of Jesus who always went out with Him in his earthly ministry. They were resolute about following the Lord Jesus and showing consistency and commitment in their walk with God. This set of people enjoy the privilege of accessing the secret things of the Lord through the Holy Spirit. They enjoy divine interaction in their fellowship with God. The Holy Spirit decodes the coded mysteries of God’s word. When we come near God, He is always there to come closer to us too. This is the position of genuine children of God.



Point of Emphasis: Following Jesus gives access to so many benefits

Prayer Point: Lord, help me to walk closer to you daily.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Wed. 4/1/2017

Why Did Jesus Speak In Parable?

Matt. 13:10-13

We do not like to disclose in public certain things about our lives and ourselves especially those things that pertain to our secret. We absolutely select confidants and trusted friends whom we share such things with. Jesus Christ adopted the use of parable in His teachings to encode the mysteries of the kingdom. By encoding, those who are not part of the kingdom will have no access to its meaning and those who come closer from the multitude, showing willingness and hunger for the truth, will have access to the unwrapped truth. This is why the gospel is foolishness to the unsaved who don’t want to be saved.

Point of Emphasis: You do not know it all, allow the Holy Spirit to unwrap the secret of His word to you.

Prayer Point: Lord, give me quick understanding to know and understand Your word.go

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thur. 5/1/2017

Seeds By The Wayside

Matt. 13:4-19

The seed represents the word of God which has no central position because of where it fell. The seed that fell by the wayside is the word of God without full and proper understanding. The word of God has no effect and it cannot be practised because of inadequate understanding. We should all know this that the word of God read or heard must be well understood and interpreted so that it can have good impact in our lives (Jos. 1:8] . The devil and anxiety of this world will be unable to take such words away from you.



Point of Emphasis: Get full and proper understanding of His word.

Prayer Point: Lord, let Your word have good effect in my life.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Fri. 6/1/2017

Stony Heart

Matt. 13:5-6, 20-21

The seeds that fell on stony places have no depth for survival. This seed here sprung but withered because of the high temperature of the sun for lack of deep root. The heart in this place receives God’s word with joy in short time because of lack of root to hold the word, the word was unable to pierce the stony (hard) heart. You should allow the word of God to pierce through your heart so when temptation or persecution arises you will be able to stand firm.



Point of Emphasis: Allow God’s word to be deep rooted in you.

Prayer Point: Lord, allow Your word to be established in me.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 7/1/2017

Seeds Among Thorns

Matt. 13:7,22

There was no space for the seed to grow and germinate because of the existence of the thorns, which choke the life of the seed. The heart that receives God’s word among thorns is said to be heart that is beclouded by ungodliness, worldliness, human philosophies, etc. Believers should take away all these and empty their hearts before receiving the word of God in order to have good place in their heart to receive the word. Stony heart benefits no person.



Point of Emphasis: Take away all distractions as soon as the word of God is comes to you.

Prayer Point: O Lord, I refuse to be weighed down or be distracted in any form when hearing Your word.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Fri. 13/1/2017

The Committed Takes Hold Of The Kingdom

Matt. 11:7-15

It is the responsibility of believers to diligently seek God’s kingdom manifestations, presence and power. In Matthew 11:12, Jesus reveals to us the nature of believers who take hold of the kingdom of God. He tells us that the kingdom of Heaven is taken hold of only by forceful people who have made up their minds to break away from sin. No matter what happens, they give what it takes to get hold of the kingdom. From Christ’s point of view, the kingdom of God is not for those who are church goers who cannot pray fervently or those who compromise with the world nor for those who have little spiritual hunger. What is your spiritual tempo? Are you fit for the kingdom?

Point of Emphasis: Only the powerful take hold of the kingdom of God.

Prayer Point: Give me grace and power to get hold of Your kingdom.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 14/1/2017

The Kingdom Is For People With Passion

Dan. 3:9-18

The three young Hebrews were not frightened by Nebuchadnezzar’s threat nor by the jealous insinuations of the Chaldeans. They had passion to please God. They had hope and faith that were fixed on Him. They refused to worship the golden image at their own risk. They displayed an expression of unconditional faith, complete trust and total loyalty to God. You must possess faith, trusts and obedience to God regardless of the consequences. These attributes are required of you to be among the people with passion for God.



Point of Emphasis: Passion for God makes believers to display unconditional faith and trust in God.

Prayer Point: I will not betray my total trust in God in Jesus’ name.

LESSON 7 15/1/2017

THE PARABLES OF GROWTH

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 92, 94

Devotional Reading: Acts 4:1-4

Topic For Adults: Sow The Seed With Simplicity

Topic For Youths: The Invisible Transforming Power

Topic For Intermediates: Knowledge Of Mysteries Of God’s Kingdom

Scripture Lesson: Matt. 13:31-33; Acts 1:4-8

Memory Verse: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field which indeed is the least of all the seeds, but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree” (Matt. 13:31b:32a) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sun. 15/1/2017

They Are Spiritually Discerned

1 Cor. 2:10-16

The concept of the kingdom of God, its growth and all that it entails are spiritual things. They are best understood spiritually. In Jesus’ attempt to bring the concept to the level of His audience, he employed parables – which are earthly stories with heavenly meanings. This was supposed to bridge the gap between the people’s knowledge and the spiritual concepts of God’s kingdom. However, for one to adequately grasp the intended meaning and purpose of the kingdom, and to actually fit into it, one has to grow in the spirit. The spirit of man helps man to understand the carnal or earthly things. In the same vein, it is only by the spirit of God in you that you can understand the mind of God and the kingdom concepts, which are spiritual.

Point of Emphasis: The natural man does not receive the things of the spirit of God… because they are not spiritually discerned.

Prayer Point: I refuse to be carnal, fill me with Your Holy Spirit and His fullness, O Lord.

BACKGROUND

Jesus was the kind of leader who spoke the word of God with great conviction and authority in such a way that those who desired to know the truth could discern the meaning. He didn’t speak necessarily what people wanted to hear but what they needed to hear. As it was in His days so it is today, He is communicating to us through this lesson something which we need to know about the kingdom of God.

NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: THE PARABLE OF MUSTARD SEED (MATT. 13:31-32)

The mustard seed was so small. The Jews had said that it was little like a drop of blood. The mustard bush or tree known in Palestine is not the mustard known in the Western world. The one in the Western world grows in valent lots, so also on farms for cultivation. It is flimsy and short. The mustard seed of Jesus’ country grew high and could get to about 12 feet in height, birds could perch and build net on it. The proverbial usage of mustard seed about the kingdom of God depicts that it is has a little beginning but grows into a big tree which serves as a shelter for birds.

PART 2: THE PARABLE OF THE LEAVEN (MATT. 13:33)

The use of leaven in this parable may be rendered as yeast in a piece of dough in an advanced stage of fermentation. In the process of baking bread, bakers mixe leaven or yeast in the new dough to make it rise. The effect of the yeast makes the flour/dough to puff up.

Though the New Testament used the leaven in some passages in the sense of the permeation of evil for an insidual way as in Matt. 16:6-12; 1 Cor. 5:6-8 and Gal. 5:7-9 but the usage of leaven in this parable pictures the rapid growth of God’s kingdom in the world. The parable is placed right after the parable of the mustard seed.

PART 3: THE INVISIBLE POWER OF THE KINGDOM (MATT. 13:31-33)

When Jesus spoke of the mustard seed, everyone knew what He was talking about. The point Jesus made was that the kingdom of Heaven begins in a small way but that it grows into something big and visible. He used the parable to illustrate the quiet and invisible power of the kingdom at work. This process goes on inside the heart.

It addressed the power of the Gospel to transform the lives of those who gave their lives to Jesus. It could also be said that whenever the gospel gets to any place, and they embrace it, the level of living is raised to new standard. This is evident in the changes in the quality of life experienced by the individuals.

It is a clear truth that the kingdom of God influences people, communities, and countries. Though its starts may be little but gradually it metamorphosizes and makes visible positive impact. Stephen Neil, the great missionary statesman posited that ‘the kingdom of God is manned by really great people, the transforming power of their work is far greater than what secular workers achieved”. Once the mustard gets into the soil, it grows and becomes formidable. The seed of the kingdom is like this, the moment a community or person gets in contact with the gospel; it grows in goodness, turns the community right around and causes a total transformation.

Jesus’ usage of parable teaches us the fundamental way of communicating a vision. It simplifies the message, knowing the people and their needs.

PART 4: SOW THE KINGDOM SEED (ACTS 1:4-

It is amazing how a few hundred Christians in the first century saturated the then known world with the gospel despite the absence of modern electronic communication gadgets. They were few with little resources, yet they could make a huge success. We are many today with so much resources, but we are achieving very little.

Christians should not think that we are being productive as long as we have blaring musical instruments, computers and can play stupendous music. We should know that Christian faith which makes one qualified for God’s kingdom thrives and grows best on personal relationships.

Jesus’ plan to reach the world with the Good News of the kingdom of God, forgiveness and admittance to His kingdom made Him to choose the first disciples. They did the work with utmost good faith boosted with the power of Holy Spirit. We also need the power to advance the kingdom in our generation.

CONCLUSION

The contemporary believers can achieve the same success when we are willing to be taught and willing to share the truth we have known with others. The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of God has been given to us (Matt. 13:11). Let us endeavour to sow the seed in the sinners so that the kingdom can be enlarged through us. The illustration of the fermented dough is displeasing but it is used to produce something good. As the yeast permeates the dough and spreads from particle to particle as tiny living organism, fungus type microscopic plants and propagate themselves so the gospel spreads through society and influence the people even those that initially opposed it.

QUESTIONS

Explain the parable of the mustard seed.

Explain the parable of the leaven.

What are the basic truths the two parables connote about God’s kingdom?

How were the few Christians able to saturate the world with the gospel in the first century?

How can we do the same in our generation today?

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Mon. 16/1/2017

The Kingdom Of God Is A Precious Treasure

Phil. 3:8-11

Jesus said “I am the way the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (Jn. 14:6) It is certain that the way to the Father and His kingdom is Jesus Christ. Paul’s profit of the hidden treasure is knowing Christ. He counted all things but loss for the Excellency of knowing Christ. He suffered the loss of things valuable to him because of what is more precious i.e. winning Christ. He viewed his righteousness-being forgiven, justified and accepted by God as a gift received through faith in Jesus Christ. A Yoruba adage says “if a child sees honey, he or she will throw away cake”. The priceless quality of heaven made Paul to pursue eternity with vigour. The indwelling power or righteousness in the life of believers is what makes us eligible for God’s kingdom. In order for you to get the precious treasure of Heaven, you must do away with things that are competing with Jesus in your life. Note that the ground for our salvation and hope of righteousness is the death and blood of Jesus that was shed on calvary. The blood of Jesus is a priceless and precious treasure that gives access to God’s everlasting kingdom.



Point of Emphasis: Believer’s possession of eternal kingdom is a precious treasure that nothing can compete with.

Prayer Point: Help me O Lord to count everything as dung for the Excellency of having Christ Jesus in my life.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Tue. 17/1/2017

Seekers Of God’s Kingdom Will Prosper

Isa. 55:1-13

An essential requirement for seekers of God’s kingdom is that they must repent of their sins and draw near to God in faith. Furthermore, the vital conditions for receiving the fullness of His Spirit is that they should continue to hunger and thirst for God’s righteousness and power of His kingdom. Believers who abide in the word of God and continues to live in order to please His Creator will surely prosper. Also, you will enjoy the promises in verses 12-13 and others contains in the Scripture. If you have not been seeking the Lord whole-heartedly decide to do so today and you will begin to witness unprecedented breakthrough in your life.



Point of Emphasis: As you seek the kingdom of God, you shall go out in joy… verse 12

Prayer Point: Help me Oh Lord to prosper as I seek your kingdom in the name of Jesus.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Wed. 18/1/2017

Heed Christ’s Counsel

Rev. 3:15-20

Christ’s words in verse 15 describe the spiritual condition of the church in Laodecia. Perhaps you are lukewarm and have compromised with the world or may be you profess to be a Christian but your way of life doesn’t portray that you know Him. As Christ warned the Laodecia church about their spiritual wretchedness, so He is warning you today to turn a new leaf. This counsel is coming to you today because God loves you and doesn’t want you to perish but to live with Him in His kingdom. He is knocking at the door of your heart, open, and He will come in (v. 20) Don’t differ your reconciliation with your God till tomorrow because delay may be dangerous.



Point of Emphasis: Christ is requesting for your intimate fellowship.

Prayer Point: I will not refuse to heed Christ’s counsel, I restore my intimate fellowship with Him today in Jesus’ name.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Thur. 19/1/2017

Keep God’s Commandment With You

Prov. 2:1-12

Believers can only live prudently by keeping the word of God in our hearts. Doing this also will make us to be victorious over sin (Ps. 119:11). We must allow the study of the word of God to be followed by prayer because study alone can make one a scholar but study accompanied with prayer through the power of the Holy Spirit will transform us spiritually (verse 3). It is only when we have God’s wisdom that our inner motives, desires and thoughts will produce godly life and power.



Point of Emphasis: Make God’s commands and ways pleasant to your soul.

Prayer Point: Help me Lord to always keep your commandment so that I will not become perverse.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Fri. 20/1/2017

Life Of Holy Worship And Devotion To God

Heb. 12:1-2

The love of God should prompt us to abstain from things that give temporary pleasure and everlasting pain. The race that is set before us in this world must be run by awareness that our greatest danger is to yield to sin, therefore, we must run with perseverance and endurance to live a life of Holy worship and devotion to God. We must look unto Jesus, our source of strength, love, grace, mercy and help (v. 2). Because of the joy set before you like Jesus, you must endure and live a holy life to the end of your race. Don’t yield to that temptation but resist the urge to do evil so that you will not be disqualified from the race to heaven.



Point of Emphasis: Lay aside every sin that easily besets.

Prayer Point: By Your divine help and grace, sin will not disqualify me from completing my Christian race successfully.

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sat. 21/1/2017

Seek The Kingdom Of God With All You have

Matt. 13:44-46

There are two fundamental truths that we can get from the parables of hidden treasures (i) the kingdom of God is a priceless treasure incomparable to nothing else (ii) the kingdom can be attained by giving up everything that could make a believer to be excluded from becoming a candidate of eternal kingdom. With these two truths in mind, you must transfer your whole heart from other interest and place it on Christ Jesus alone. There are two important action steps expedient for each person to take according to these parables. Everyone has to discover the treasure and then, sell all you have to possess it.





Point of Emphasis: The kingdom of God must be desired above all.

Prayer Point: Give me grace Lord to give up everything that would prevent me from being part of God’s kingdom.

LESSON 8 22/1/2017

THE PARABLE OF THE HIDDEN TREASURES

Suggested Hymns: G.H.B. 75, 80

Devotional Reading: 1 Cor. 2:6-16

Topic For Adults: Sell All To Get Godly Pearl

Topic For Youths: Don’t Miss Your Unique Opportunity

Topic For Intermediates: The Kingdom Of God Is Better Than All

Scripture Lesson: Matt. 13:44-46

Memory Verse: Again, the kingdom of Heaven is like unto treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid, and for joy over it, he goes and sells all that he has and buys the field (Matt. 13:44) NKJV

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Sun. 22/1/2017

Seek The Kingdom First

Matt. 6:31-34

Jesus knows that some people will become anxious about what they need in life because of lack of faith. He affirms that God has promised to provide for His children all their needs. He proceeded to tell us the vital thing which God expects from us. In verse 33, He charged us to make diligent effort to seek the kingdom of God and its righteousness i.e, we must seek earnestly to have the rule and power of God demonstrated in our lives than other things of life will be made available to us. You must make effort to obey Christ’s command so that you can possess His righteousness, then God will provide you with all necessities of life. There is no need for you to be anxious for anything if you seek the kingdom first, He will surely provide for you.



Point of Emphasis: Seek ye first the kingdom of God and its righteousness.

Prayer Point: As I seek first your kingdom, good things of life for my comfort will not elude me in Jesus’ name.



BACKGROUND

Almost everything a man desires requires a task of keeping eye on the goal and making sacrifice to achieve it. There is a need of keeping firm our ultimate aim of our membership of God’s eternal kingdom by working sacrificially and give it all it takes to retain it.

The Lord Jesus uses a parable of the hidden treasures to draw our attention to the needful sacrifice we must make for the sake of the kingdom. Sinners must do everything needful to accept the will of God for their lives.



NOTES ON THE TEXT

PART 1: ILLUSTRATION OF HOW TO FIND THE KINGDOM (MATT. 13:44-46)

Jesus used a common practice in His time (verse 44) to draw the people’s attention and understanding to know how to find the kingdom of God. It was common in Jesus’ time for people to hide precious materials in the ground. In the time of war, these things are hidden in other to prevent them from falling into the hand of the enemy. Sometimes, the owner may die and not return to retrieve the goods. The item may not be discovered until when a fortunate person comes in contact with it. The Jewish law favoured the person that found the treasure as the owner, especially, when the person bought the fields.

Again, in verse 45, Jesus made use of example of a merchandise who found a godly pearls and wanted to make it his own, sold all he has in order to make it his own.



PART 2: COST OF FINDING THE KINGDOM (MATT. 13:44-46)

It is imperative to make deductions from the parable Jesus made in order to have a clear understanding of what Jesus was telling His followers about the kingdom. Firstly, the man who found the treasures went to sell all that he had in order to make it his own. This is telling us that the person who comes in contact with the kingdom of God and wants to make it his or her own must give up everything to accept the will of God for his or her life. Also, the merchandise seeking godly pearls was going about his work when he found the goodly pear of a great price. There was nothing compared to the goodly pearl that was matter to Him. This made him to sell all he had that he could get his utmost desire. There is nothing that can be compared to the kingdom of God to true believers.

The parable focuses on the same point as in the buried treasure. The latter was searching while the former came upon it and found it unexpectedly. It is certain that the man knew the value hence he sold all to obtain the ownership.



PART 3: VALUE OF THE KINGDOM (MATT. 13:44-46)

Jesus knows the value of His kingdom to mankind. However, He doesn’t want us to do something He has not demonstrated. He put our interest in His heart, in view of this, he left His deity and paid the supreme sacrifice on the cross to give us grace to have access to the kingdom (Phil. 2:5-11). What are the things that we should give up to find and inherit the kingdom? We must give up all the mundane things which give temporary gain but result in long term pain. We must equally show attitude of gratitude on what the giver of the kingdom offers. As there was nothing comparable to the godly pearls, nothing should matter to believers more than the kingdom. Thus, we must hold our citizenship of the kingdom jealousy and invite others into it. “Seek ye first, the kingdom of God every other things will be added to you” (Matt. 6:33) The kingdom is not only exciting when discovered but it is precious. A man who finds it obtains a godly heritage unquantifiable. This goes for any genuine Christians.



CONCLUSION

The parable of the hidden treasure illustrates the kingdom of God which is a priceless treasure that should be desired above all things. One should acquire the kingdom by selling all and giving up everything that would prevent our being part of it. Selling all means that we must transfer our whole heart from other interest to the one supreme interest – Christ Jesus. Strive to be Roman 12:1 compatible. “I beseech you therefore brethren by the mercies of God that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service”.



QUESTIONS

How can you get the best of your desired goal?

In your own understanding, how do you consider the action of the merchandise in this parable?

Give a precise explanation of what Jesus was telling His disciple in this parable.

How can a believer show gratitude to what the kingdom of the giver offers?

How should we hold our citizenship of the kingdom of God?

DAILY DEVOTIONAL READING

Tue. 24/1/2017
You Have More Than Enough
Matt. 25:15

To one, he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away (Matt. 25:14). Have you ever wondered what a talent is worth in today’s currency context? It is hard to know for sure, yet whatever its exact value, in the New Testament a talent indicates a large sum of money, maybe even as much as a million dollars in today’s currency. We are tempted to feel sorry for the servant who received only one talent, but in reality he received as much as a million dollars from the master and buried it in his backyard. He was given more than enough to meet the master’s expectations. In the same way, everybody in the church today is given more than enough talents to make meaningful contribution to the development and expansion of the kingdom of God. Just as the master expected his servants to do more than passively preserve what has been entrusted to them, so God expects us to generate a return by using our talents towards productive ends. The servants were given enough to produce more – it is the same with the gifts God has given us. The Apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 2:10: For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Point of Emphasis: In the same way, everybody in the church today is given more than enough talents to make meaningful contributions to the development and expansion of the kingdom of God.

Prayer Point: Lord Jesus, help me to be focused in putting my talents to use for the expansion of your kingdom.