We are a church receiving all souls to the feet of our Lord Jesus Christ. Bringing back lost sheep into the fold of Christ, as instructed by our Lord Jesus Christ according to the account of the Apostle Mark (Mark 16:15). Your salvation is most paramount and most valid to us as a body of Christ.
[9]After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. [10]Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. [11]Give us this day our daily bread. [12]And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. [13]And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. [14]For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: [15]But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Matthew 6:9-15
Forgiveness is not just a Christian duty; it is a virtue that reflects the very nature of God. In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus emphasized the connection between God’s forgiveness and our willingness to forgive others. “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” This shows that forgiveness is both received and given—it flows from God to us and through us to others.
As Christians, we often fall short and sin, but God, in His mercy, forgives us again and again. If we truly understand and appreciate the forgiveness we’ve received, it should inspire us to forgive those who offend us. Unforgiveness blocks our fellowship with God and hinders our prayers.
To be Christlike is to forgive. Holding on to grudges only hardens the heart and opens the door to bitterness. But when we forgive, we show love, grace, and maturity.
Key Takeaways:
Forgiveness is a sign of true Christian character.
We must forgive if we want to be forgiven (Matt. 6:15).
God’s mercy towards us should be our model for mercy towards others.
Forgiveness brings peace, healing, and freedom to the soul.
Let us forgive, not because others always deserve it, but because we are forgiven by God.
Father, please let my knowledge bring you honour in Jesus name.
MEMORY VERSE:
[31]Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 10:31
LESSON INTRODUCTION
Technology has existed since the Bible days the Genesis 11:3,5 and 6. However what appears new to people is a the advancement and how it expand opportunity for humans. One of the most latest innovations in technology in recent times the Artificial Intelligence (AI). There are very views as the weather Christians should use AI or not. Some believers tag it as an end tool of the devil and the antichrist; how does food that it is a result of being created in God’s likeness and creative mind (Genesis is 1:26-27). Through this study will bridge the information gap on AI and how it can be purposely embraced in Christendom.
LESSON AIM
To teach the significance of Artificial Intelligence to Christendom.
LESSON OBJECTIVE
Know the diverse views of believers on Artificial Intelligence.
Understand the concept of Artificial Intelligence.
Know the benefits of using Artificial Intelligence.
Avoid the pitfall of Artificial Intelligence.
TEXT REVIEW:
[1]And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. [2]And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. [3]And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. [4]But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.
Daniel 12:1-4
Many believers often refer to the technology of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as the end time the bible referred to, but is that true?
Just like the bible has alerted us all about the rapture; that first the dead in Christ will be first caught up with him in the clouds and those still alive will follow thereafter, and afterwards those remaining on the earth will perish in everlasting anguish and sorrow, hence, many believers sees the AI technology as the tool with which the devil will lure up people to himself in condemnation. The technology AI is an advancement in time bringing to the reach of many a wealth of knowledge; either negative or positive, but using the technology is a choice for every believer. One can choose to use it the negatively or otherwise (positive), the AI technology only becomes a destructive tool only when you let it or use it as one.
The technology – Artificial Intelligence, becoming a destructive tool depends on your choice use, hence, when being used positively becomes good and resourcesful, on the other hand, when used negatively becomes a tool for condemnation and agony. The AI technology is solely invented to bring information and knowledge to a vast majority which are unable to access it.
LESSON OUTLINE
OUTLINE 1: AI EXPLAINED
What is Artificial Intelligence?
Artificial Intelligence refers to the imitation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence.
Other things to note about AI;
AI can learn and make decisions from available options just like humans.
Like cars airplane and social media platforms are meant to improve life and for foster easy reach to distant people, AI is a technology created by scientists and engineers whom God has given creative ability to improve lives (Exodus 31:2-4).
AI can become the controller and caretaker of Man. This can degenerate into humanity worshiping the works of their hands (idolatry) (Deuteronomy 5:8-9).
OUTLINE 2: BENEFITS AND CAUTIONS
What are the benefits of using Artificial Intelligence (AI).
artificial intelligence several benefits for Christians;
It can quickly age assess to a wealth of scriptures and other Christian text when needed (John 5:39).
It can break down the language barrier in sharing the gospel by translating text and teachings to a broader global audience.
It can be used to build online communities where Christians can pray fellowship and offer brotherly support (Hebrew 10:24-25).
It can make online worship as real as physical gatherings. It come automatically give support by responding to come on spiritual questions and guardians first (Peter 3:5).
It can be used to develop personalized trainings to execute Kingdom projects. AI can be used to advance God’s Kingdom if aligned with Christian values and principles.
Cautions to be a exercise in the use of AI.
There are several reasons why Christians should be cautious of using the technology Artificial Intelligence – AI, so as not to become a destructive tool, causing everlasting anguish and agony. Christian should watch out for areas of caution(1 Corinthians 10:23; Ephesians 5:15);
There are risks and privacy issues in using AI which will not be abused (1 Corinthians 7:31).
We must understand our limits that we are God’s creation (Genesis 1:27), and we cannot out do his creative power (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Christians should be wary of some scientist who are determined to make a new religion out of AI (Exodus 23:2a; Leviticus 26:1).
AI should not be used in a way that conflicts with Christian beliefs (Romans 14:21-22).
In providing support for one another, Christian should ensure that humans relationships are not replaced by technology (Hebrew 10:25).
AI should not replace the place of waiting upon the Lord for fresh words or inspiration (2 Timothy 2:15; Acts 20:32).
Christians should beware lest they devote their entire life to AI or other technological innovations and forget God (Deuteronomy 6:12).
Technological addictions should be avoided so as not to kill mental and spiritual growth (1 Corinthians 6:12).
CONCLUSION
Artificial Intelligence is one of the technological tools borne from the creative ability God gave to man. Christians should consciously use it to the glory of God.
The technological advancement of Artificial Intelligence – AI, is neither a good nor a bad innovation, but it solely depends on the purpose of the use of the individual. Overtime, Bible apps has been created where believers can access the Bible through their smart, for urgent or immediate scriptures, when the Bible is not in reach, hence, many tend not to take a Bible with themselves even while going to church, because they have the Bible app in their smartphone.
It is inexpedient for a believers to go to church with a smartphone rather than a Bible as many believers do. Many believers today have replaced the word of God (the Bible) with technological advancement, thereby making it a tool for condemnation, anguish and agony.
Lord Jesus, let me always know that You are with me.
MEMORY VERSE
“Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness”.
Isaiah 41:10
LESSON INTRODUCTION:
Loneliness has been recognized as a significant social and public health issue. Loneliness according to the The Old Testament means one who is forsaken, wretched, or desolate. Loneliness is the feeling of being disconnected from people, even in a crowd. Prolonged loneliness can lead to feelings of sadness, despair, and emptiness. This can affect us spiritually, emotionally, and physically. It is therefore necessary for us to explore the issues of loneliness and seek guidance to overcome it.
LESSON AIM:
To know the intricacy of loneliness.
LESSON OBJECTIVE
To understand what loneliness means.
To know how to get out of loneliness.
TEXT REVIEW
[2]Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time. [3]And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there. [4]But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers. [9]And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the LORD came to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah? [10]And he said, I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.
1 Kings 19:2-4,9-10
This explains the story of how Elijah ran for his life after he was threatened by Jezebel. He became frustrated and lonely out of the fear of being killed by Jezebel, and for that course he fled for his life. Elijah was sore afraid that he had to leave his home and shelter to leave in the wild, and he also wishing he dies , because he was lonely. Hence, loneliness can attract negative thoughts that even when it seems possible and positive we don’t see it, because we’re lonely at the moment. Elijah was a fiercely strong prophet of God; both in might and in the spirit, but because he was lonely and afraid of what Jezebel might do to him, he never realized what he carried as a prophet of the Most High God, hence, he went into hiding just to save his life, his servants and everyone close to him, when he could become victorious over Jezebel, even with the words of his mouth.
LESSON OUTLINE
LESSON OUTLINE 1:
UNDERSTAND LONELINESS
Loneliness creeps into people’s lives (regardless of age, gender, or background) changing their perception about life and the people around them. Chronic loneliness has been linked to increased stress, depression, anxiety, and a higher risk of certain physical health problems. This rampant phenomenon becomes fatal when it leads to the death of the victim. Emotional and social disconnections play a significant role in luring people to loneliness. Hence, one can be successful yet lonely.
Examples of those who showed signs of loneliness in the Bible:
Elijah (1 Kings 19:10)
David (Psalm 25:16)
Paul (2 Timothy 4:16).
One of the strategies Satan and his agents have successfully used against people is to give them reasons to believe everybody hates them. Elijah said, “…I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.”
Some people fall into loneliness and depression because they spend their time hunting for enemies thereby, finding it difficult to trust anyone, even their spouse: they suspect people around them (Ecclesiastes 7:21-22). Being alone without positively engaging one’s time can cause the flesh or the devil to occupy us. Secret sins thrive in lonely moments (Psalm 19:12).
Other reasons people become lonely are being too introverted.
LESSON OUTLINE 2:
GETTING OUT OF LONELINESS
Anyone feeling lonely has to be intentional about getting out. Some ways to getting out of loneliness include the following:
Find reasons to be alive and happy (Nehemiah 8:10).
Stop seeing yourself as a failure, you can do all things (Philippians 4:13).
Stop feeling like the whole world is against you, everybody has their problems (Galatians 6:5).
Learn to forgive yourself for past errors, you are not the worst person on earth (Isaiah 1:18).
Stop feeling abandoned by God, He will never leave you (Deuteronomy 31:8; Isaiah 49:15-17).
Hold on to your faith: with God, all things are possible (Luke 1:37).
Do not stay away from good friends and family (Psalm 133:1; Proverbs 18:24).
Watch your mind gate: do not allow evil thoughts to play on your mind (Proverbs 4:23).
Be filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:22).
Excessive usage of social media is also associated with feelings of loneliness and social isolation, hence, relate more with people physically.
If you or someone you know is lonely, reaching out to friends, and family, or seeking professional support can make a big difference. Also, remember that as a Christian, the cure for any kind of loneliness is the comforting fellowship of Christ.
PRAYER:
Lord Almighty, I receive Your joy into my heart in Jesus’ name. I declare the joy of the Lord is my strength.
In the fold of Christ, there are several offices; Apostles, Pastors, Prophets/Prophetess, Choir, etc.
Ephesians 4:11
[11]And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
Ephesians 4:11
As ministers of the gospel, we ought to show good example to the followers of the gospel in punctuality, steadfastness, prayer level, attitude, faith, etc. As ministers of the gospel, we ought to hold steadfastly to the work of God, try to upgrade our prayer level and a higher level of the word of God.
Many times we forget the work of God for our businesses and personal activities and hence, our level of the word of God is shallow, our faiths are wavering, our understanding of God’s word weak, because we have no foundational root of God’s word.
Acts 6:1-7
[1]And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. [2]Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. [3]Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. [4]But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. [5]And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: [6]Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. [7]And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
Acts 6:1:7
The work of God are diverse, but only few are active workers in the house of God and are now weak in the work of God causing staggering and low effort or force to the work of God.
As leaders and workers of the ministry, let’s learn to work effectively and efficiently to make the work of God grow and outstanding.
In all our endeavors as children of God, we ought to exercise faith in God, even as the year proceeds, believers should have full trust and faith in God.
As believers in Christ, we should have faith in God, for whatsoever we ask of him in faith, that he will grant, but only when we ask in faith. Whenever his people or believers ask anything of God’s hand and do not doubt in our hearts, he will make that happen even as we have requested.
TEXT (Mark 11:22-23)
[22]And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. [23]For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.
Mark 11:22-23
When we have faith in God as believers, whatsoever we declare will surely come to pass, when we have faith attached. One could easily doubt moving a mountain just with spoken words, but the bible tells us that when we have faith, nothing is ever impossible. Only one thing can contradict our prayers or request to God Almighty, which is DOUBT. When we prayer in doubt or without faith, nothing we ask and request of god can ever come to us, because we our prayers are not backed up with faith, but with fear and doubt.
The mountain refered to in the scripture is not any physical mountain we see around, but it refers to problems, issues, distresses and hard times mounted in our hearts overtime, caused by overthinking and life challenges. The mountains refered to in this context are our life challenges and difficult times; to students, their mountain could be an examination, and when that student take it to the feet of God, and do not doubt in the heart, then shall that student be surprised with the awesome work of God after the examination. The paramount thing is to ask God in faith and not in fear or a heart full of doubts (Ephesians 2:8-10).
Hebrews 11:1-3
[1]Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. [2]For by it the elders obtained a good report. [3]Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
Hebrews 11:1-3
When we have faith, we can declare things which are yet to come, profess things that be not as though they were. Even when it seems impossible, with our faith put into action they can come to pass. With faith, we can tread places which are dreadful, being a true believer has to o with complete fait in the word of God; for as much as we were not present during creation of the earth, we all believed that God created the whole earth with the words of his mouth and that is the first step of having faith; believing in the scripture (Hebrews 10:22-23). God is a God who does that which he have said; others may fail, men may go back on their word and change in the course of time, but the living God never changes, he never lies, and he never go back on his word. When God says a thing concerning you, or made you a promise, be rest assured that he will do just that which he has said and even more, we just have to keep an unwavering faith on him. Sometimes, the blessings of God may take longer than expected, but for a reason, according to the bible there is a time for everything under the sun (Ecclesiastes 3:1), because God hasn’t done that which you desire, requested or asked of him doesn’t mean he wouldn’t, it’s just not the right time for that prayer to be answered for the ways of God are different from that of men.
Psalms 119:30
[30] I have chosen to be obedient; I have paid attention to your judgments.
Psalms 119:30 (GNB)
Having faith in God isn’t just a word in the bible, it is a command, always let us (believers) hold steadfastly unto the word of God, let us adhere to his commands that he may fulfill that which our heart desires (2 Corinthians 5:7), as believers, we should live by faith; faith in God, and not by what our eyes sees, not by proves, not by the worldly evidence, not like a Thomas, but by faith. Through our faith in Christ Jesus we can create things that are not in existence through our faith and the declaration of God’s word, through our faith,we can heal the sick, raise the dead, etc (Philippians 4:13).
Mark 10:27 – Nothing on earth, above the earth or underneath the earth is above the supremacy of God, he controls the entire universe and hence, nothing is impossible with him, when men think it’s over, when men’s hope is lost and gone he does the impossible.
Lord Jesus, fill me with the power of the Holy Spirit.
MEMORY VERSE
[8]But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
Acts 1:8
INTRODUCTION
The Holy Spirit is the third person in the Trinity (The Godhead) and he works in dynamic ways. The primary guidance that all believers in Christ, whether past or present, have is the Holy Spirit. He is the driving force behind the Christian Life.
TEXT
[1]Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. [2]And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; [3]Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. [4]And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. [5]And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. [6]Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. [7]And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.
Acts 3:1-7
LESSON AIM
To teach the church how to make full use of the power of the Holy Spirit.
LESSON OBJECTIVES
Describe the relationship between the Holy Spirit and believers.
Understand how to work with the Holy Spirit
LESSON OUTLINE
LESSON OUTLINE 1:-
Believers And The Holy Spirit
When the Holy Spirit demonstrates his power through believers, many people would believe in Jesus Christ (Acts 2:2-6, 37, 41).
Everyone who believes in Jesus can have the power of the Holy Spirit in them (Acts 11:15; John 1:12).
the Holy Spirit after descending on the disciples of Jesus on the day of Pentecost, aided their evangelistic work (Acts 2:37-41).
Therefore the Holy Spirit empowers believers today to become true witnesses of the gospel at all times and in any place (Acts 1:8), and to do diverse miracles (Acts 3:1-7; 9:39-41; Hebrews 2:4).
To be effective as God’s children, the Holy Spirit releases his power in form of spiritual gifts to help them (1 Peter 4:10; 1 Corinthians 12:11).
He also guide and shows them how to live in the way God wants (John 16:13).
Through the power of the holy spirit, believers are sanctified and made to be Christ-like (1 Corinthians 6:11).
They are strengthened in their weaknesses and limitations (Roman 8:26; Ephesians 3:16; Judges 14:6).
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to establish God’s will (Numbers 27:18; 1 Samuel 16:13).
He makes the believer’s body his temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
The Holy Spirit seals us till the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:30).
LESSON OUTLINE 2:-
Walking In The Spirits
For believers to walk in the spirit:
They must allow God’s Holy Spirit to guide them (Romans 8:14).
Believers who walk in the spirit, are aided to know, obey and declare God’s will (1 Corinthians 2:14-16).
To walk in the Spirit is to demonstrate the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
Walking in the Holy Spirit also means being sincere in acknowledging and confessing our sins and fault and asking for God’s forgiveness (1 John 1:7-10; James 5:16a).
It is the eagerness to be restored to a better relationship with God after a fall (1 John 2:1-2).
CONCLUSION
The power of the Holy Spirit is still very much active till date and you can experience it (Acts 2:39).
As men sometimes we tend to lean on our own strength, trust in our own knowledge and depend on our own understand. Doctors lean on their own knowledge, and past experiences, scientists depend solely on what they’ve learn and also past experiences, but today, God tells you not to lean on your own power, not in men, nor in wealth and firm, nor in your knowledge and understanding, but in God.
TEXT
[5] Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. [6]In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. [7] Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. [8] It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. [9] Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: [10] So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
By:- Primate Dr. Moses Ogbodogbo (JP++) – G. O. and Spiritual Head – NTGC Globally.
NTGC Global
After you’ve spent thirty one days of the month of January coming to the house of God, to seek his face and pray, and as well brought your thanksgiving to the feet of God and now God has made a pronouncement into your life and he say;
Ecclesiastes 9:7-9
[7]Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now accepteth thy works. [8]Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment. [9]Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.
