RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL

LESSON THIRTY-ONE

SUNDAY, 2ND APRIL 2017

TOPIC: LESSONS FROM THE STUMP

MEMORY VERSE:

‘’For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease." - Job 14:7
BIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 13:6-9

INTRODUCTION:

A stump is the base of a tree left in the ground when other parts are gone. It is similar to the remnant of something cut, broken or worn down. Just like a tree, certain factors can turn a man to 'a stump'. There is virtually nothing good about the stump aside the fact that it is just occupying the ground. Anyone that has become like a stump will just be existing on earth without making meaningful impacts. It is dangerous to be like a stump. However, the mercy of God can revive a stump.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. Dangers of becoming 'a stump'
2. There is hope for 'a stump'
DANGERS OF BECOMING 'A STUMP'
One should completely avoid becoming 'a stump' because of its dangers and consequences. As a stump is fruitless and barren so is anyone that refuses to fulfil the purpose of his calling or election (Luke 13:6; John 15:16). Like the stump, many remain spiritually malnourished even in the midst of nutrient (i.e. the word of God) probably due to lack of faith (Hebrews 4:2; Psalm 68:6c). A stump encumbers the ground unnecessarily so is anyone that refuses to produce fruit in the kingdom of God. Anyone that is like a stump is useless and may be rooted from the ground (Matthew 21:19; John 15:2). A man becomes a vessel unto dishonour just as a stump is dishonoured in the field (2Timothy 2:20-21). A man may also receive blessings from God, like the stump among other plants on the farm, yet may not manifest the goodness of God (Hebrews 5:12; Colossians 2:6-7).
THERE IS HOPE FOR 'A STUMP'
As long as the stump remains in the earth, God's mercy is available in the midst of judgement (Habakkuk 3:2). According to 2Peter 3:9, God is rich in patience, perseverance and endurance. He does not want anyone to perish otherwise the stump could have been taken from the roots (Luke 13:7-9; Ezekiel 33:11). This act of mercy is an indication that God has not finished with the individual who exhibits the traits of a stump hoping there would be a change (2Peter 3:9). The expectation of the Almighty God is that everyone, like the stump, will sprout again having contacted the Spirit of God afresh (Job 14:7-8 ).
CONCLUSION:
A flourishing tree can become a stump, therefore, be careful (1Corinthians 10:12). If you have become like a stump, submit yourself to God, humble yourself, repent and ask for mercy today (Jonah 3:9-10; Genesis 8:21).
QUESTIONS
1. Mention the dangers of becoming 'a stump'
2. Discuss how hope can be restored to anyone that has become like 'a stump'