Fire Bible Study

TOPIC: RESCUE FROM THE HARVEST OF EVIL SEEDS

TEXT: “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth,that shall he also reap.” GAL 6:7

Every act is a seed. Negative acts bring negative harvests, while positive acts generate positive harvests. What you sow is what you reap. “Even as I have seen ,they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same”. Job 4:8

“….neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done. While the earth remaineth, seed time and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.”Gen 8:21-22. God was saying, I have dealt with everybody collectively, I destroyed all living, but no more from now on ,each one will get whatever he deserves. “Give them according to theirdeeds,and according to the wickedness of their endeavours:give them after the work of their hands; render to them their desert.” Ps 28:4.”But let everyman prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden.” Gal 6:4-5. In other words every one will prove himself,every one will bear his own burden. Gal 6:8-10. What you sow is what you reap, so make good use of any opportunity, because that will determine what you will find tomorrow. The ways of every man is before the eyes of the Lord to reward every one according to the fruit of his doings. Jere 32:19.,Pro24:12. Ezk 14:14. Many are stagnated today and many destinies have been destroyed because of the evil seed they have sown in time past, either with their tongues or their actions.Eccl 10:8.

SCRIPTURAL REALITIES : PETER openly rebuked Jesus.Mark8:31-32. He must have done this in his ignorance, never the less ,in his own time too Paul rebuked Peter openly for his hypocritical attitude.Gal2:11-12. What you sow is what you reap. Every act is a seed that earns you a harvest of either blessing or curse.

DAVID sent Uriah to the war front to be killed, and took his wife Bathsheba . 2Sam 11:1-27. Quiet, often many are quick at condemning others, but you will discover that in condemning others you have been condemning yourself.2Sam12:1-8.There will always be a reward for what you do.2Sam12:10-14. What sword is in your house?, How often has your actions brought shame to the name of the Lord?. There is always a harvest time. Rape was found in the house of David.2Sam13:14.Murder was a constant threat in the house of David.2Sam13:26-30,2Sam18:14-15,1Kings2:23-25.His household rebelled against him 2Sam15:13-14.His wives were given to another in public view.2Sam16:20-23.Evil advisers helped to destroy his household.2Sam13:4-5,2Sam20-21.What you sow is what you reap.

SAUL(Paul the Apostle), before his conversion put many Christians through a lot of suffering. Acts 8:1&3,Acts 9:1-2,so after his conversion ,his first calling was to suffering. Acts 9:10-16.Every act is a seed.it was a harvest time for Paul.

JACOB supplanted Esau, his elder brother, tricking him out of his birth right.Gen27:5-10.Before,they were born God had already chosen Jacob as the family leader.Gen25:23,So Jacob didn’t need to cheat to see it come to pass. It was his mother that organized the cheating, and he accepted it.She resorted to doing something wrong to try to bring about what God had already said would happen. For Rebekah, the end justified the means. No matter how good we think our goals are ,we should not attempt to achieve them by doing what is wrong. Would God approve of the methods you are using to accomplish your goals? Although Jacob got the blessing he wanted.Gen 27:27-29 but deceiving his father cost him dearly. He never saw his mother again, his brother wanted to kill him.Gen27:41,his family became torn by strife, he was exiled from his family for years.Gen27:42-45.he in turn was supplanted for 14 years.Gen31:41 and for six years suffered in the hands of Laban who changed his wages ten times.Gen31:7. Harvest of evil. What you sow is what you reap. Many people are under self-imposed curses, things they have brought upon themselves. Jacob suffered so much, he had to run away from Laban’s house, that’s why when he met the angel he said, “I will not let thee go ,except thou bless me”.Gen31:26.Because he had been under a curse all these years. The angel changed his name from Jacob to Israel to deliver him from the curse.

No matter how miserable guilt makes you feel or how terribly you have sinned, you can pour out your heart to God and seek His forgiveness as David did.

A father’s mistakes are often reflected in the lives of his children. In Absalom David saw a bitter replay and amplification of many of his own past sins. David’s sins took him away from God ,but repentance brought him back 2Sam12:13.During this incident David wrote Ps51 and to express the joy he felt after he was forgiven, he wrote Ps32. In contrast Absalom sinned and kept sinning. Absalom wasn’t able to say “I am wrong, I need forgiveness. “Can you identify with Absalom “Do you find your self on the fast track towards self-destruction?. What you do to your neighbor, what you do to your boss/leader, what you do to your subordinate, what you do to your spouse matters to God. There is a reward for everything you do Eccl 10:7-9.Rev22:12.

However the time of ignorance ,God has waved, but He commands every man everywhere to repent.Acts17:30.

Now go to God in prayer: “Lord every evil seed I have sowed into any man’s life at any time in the past, oh blood of Jesus rescue me from the bondage of that seed, rescue me from the harvest of evil, let no evil return upon me, for I did not know it was a seed, help me Lord in the name of Jesus.”

CONCLUSION: One by one we shall appear before the judgement seat of God.2Cor5:10,Rom14:10.Let us be careful therefore what we sow. either with our tongues or by our actions. Pro24:26-28. Always Remember the golden rule.Matt7:12.

Ask the Lord now: “Lord help me to sow good seeds all the days of my life in the name of Jesus”.

                        FIRE BIBLE STUDIES

LESSON 1         

TOPIC: Why is the birth of Jesus Christ through a VIRGIN important to our Christian faith?

TEXT: Matt1:18-25  

Jesus the son of God had to come as a human being. John1:14. Both fully human and fully divine.

As man He fully understands our experiences and struggles. Heb4:15-16, Heb2:18. We can tell Jesus all our thoughts, feelings, and needs because He has been where we are now as human and He has the ability to help.1Pe5:7.

As God, He has the power and Authority to deliver us from SIN. Col2:13-15. That is the reason Jesus had to come. Matt1:21, Luke1:31, Luke2:11&34. Those who believe will rise, those who do not believe will fall. John3:16-21.

So, Because He had to come as human, He had to be born of a woman and had to be free from the sinful nature passed onto all human beings by Adam,

Therefore, the woman had to a virgin. (A person who has never had sexual intercourse) who has never known any man. Luke1:34.

A virgin is considered spiritually pure, undefiled Rev14:4

So, Jesus, the son of God had to come through a clean, pure, and undefiled vessel to stand free of human sin before taking away the sin of the world. John1:29.

Jesus was born without any trace of human sin. He is the lamb that takes away the sin of the world. John1:29. He knew no sin 2Cor 5:21.

His birth through a virgin is important because it is a kingdom of purity.1Tim5:2,1Tim4:12 ,2Tim2:21.He was free of any human sin.

FOCUS: (1) Purity 2Tim2:21(2) Righteousness and Holiness 1Thess4:7,1Thess3:13, Eph4:24, Heb12:14.

CONCLUSION: We are called to be Holy in the way we live our lives and in all our conversations in life and to show ourselves Holy just as our God is Holy. 1Peter1:15-16. Always Remember that you are called to be Holy.1Tim4:7

Ask the Lord now: “Lord help me to live a Holy life in the name of Jesus”.

LESSON 2          

TOPIC:  HANDLING  UNEXPECTED SITUATION.

TEXT: Matt1:18-25  

VS18 before they came together, she was pregnant with the child of the Holy Ghost. How would you feel? VS19 Joseph was faced with a difficult choice after discovering that Mary was pregnant. To marry her could be humiliating to him. As a just man, he did not want to make the matter public, he wanted to deal with it privately.

Making it public will bring scandal and tradition into it. Deut24:1. He had the option of sending her away quietly or have her stoned according to tradition. He chose not to conform to tradition. Rom12:2.

Verse 20.  He thought on these things. Pro21:5. He did not act hastily. He did not take the course which the law would have permitted him to do. Though it was lawful but he would         not bring himself under the law. 1Cor6:12. Because it does not edify .1 Cor10:23. he was not hasty, violent, or unjust. Pro29:20. It was a matter deeply affecting his happiness, his character, and the reputation and character of his chosen companion.

God will guide the thoughtful and the anxious. Pro3:5-6. when we have looked patiently at a perplexed subject or situation, and know not what to do, then God, as in the case of Joseph, will intervene to lead us, and direct our way, Ps 25:9.

God will direct the steps of the righteous. Ps37:23.   God often shows us that there are more options available than we think. You may seem to be doing the right thing like Joseph who was doing the right thing by breaking the engagement, only God’s GUIDANCE helped him to make the best decision. Pro21:2, Pro16:2. God gave him a third option – MARRY HER VS20. When our decision affects the lives of others, we must always seek God’s guidance. Jeremiah acknowledged this important fact. Jere10:23.

QUALITIES in the life of Joseph. – (1) RighteousnessVS19, Pro14:34. (2) Discretion and sensitivity VS19.despite his knowledge of the issue, he did not make it public. Pro17:9.he  bear each other’s burden, Gal 6:1-2, Rom15:1-3 (3). Responsiveness to God.VS24. He did as he was told. Gen22:1-3 (4) Self-discipline. VS25.He controlled and restrained himself. Temperance Gal 5:22. Gen39:9.

FOCUS: (1) Depend on God. Pro3:6. When you put your dependence upon Him and seek his direction, you shall not be left to perplexity or error.  Pro 16:3; Ps 37:5; Jere 9:23-24.

(2) Let God decide everything. Eph3:20, Rom16:25, Jude1:24.

CONCLUSION: We are encouraged to hope for anything from God, for with God all things are possible. Mark9:23. Always Remember to bear one another’s burden and always allow God to guide you. Gal6:1-2, Ps25:9.

Ask the Lord now: “Lord guide and direct my ways and help me to bear the burdens of the weak around me in the name of Jesus”.

LESSON 3

TOPIC: THE WORD OF GOD IS SURE

TEXT: MATT 2:1-23

The birth of Jesus Christ and the place of His birth was foretold by the prophets. Micah5:2, Isaiah9:6-7. The word that was spoken and written eventually came to pass. Matt2:1-6, John7:42. The word of God can not lie.  This shows that the coming of Christ and all his ways were appointed by God from all eternity. The word of God is faithful, true, and tested without mixture of false hood. Ps12:6, Pro30:5

When God speaks, His word must surely come to pass, but the enemy will also try to attack it. Matt2:7-8. Herod did not want to worship Christ, he was lying and deceiving them to believe him. Rom16:17-18, Eph4:14, Gen3:1-4.it was a trick to reveal the whereabout of the new born King. We must not be ignorant of the devices of the enemy. 2Cor2:11. His plan was to kill Jesus whom he perceived to be a future threat to his position. Matt2:13. He was furious when he discovered that the wise men did not report back to him. He sent soldiers to kill all the boys in and around Bethlehem who were two years old and under. Matt2:16. The enemy will do anything to destroy the plan of God for your life. John10:10. But God will not let him. Isaiah14:24.

When God speaks, He watches over His word to fulfil it. Isaiah55:11, Isaiah34:16, Matt5:18. HOW?

1. By divine direction. He gives you direction on how to escape the trap of the enemy. After finding Jesus and worshipping Him, the wise men were warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod. Matt2:12. Finding Jesus may mean that your life must take a different direction. Are you willing to be led a different way? They met Christ and changed their way. 1Cor5:17.2Cor6:14.

Joseph was also told in a dream to take the child and the mother and escape to Egypt.Matt2:13. Taking Jesus to Egypt was a way of protecting and keeping Him safe. Ps41:2. Egypt was a hiding place. Ps 27:5. It was also to fulfil the word of God by the Prophets.Hos11: 1, Matt2:15. God will always protect and keep you safe till the fulfilment of His word in your life, if we obey Him and follow His directions.

After the death of Herod, Joseph was again told in a dream to return to Israel with the child and the mother for those who are after the child’s life are dead. Matt2:20. He returned to the land of Israel and followed the leading of God to the city of Nazareth in fulfillment of the word of God.Matt2:21-23. Divine guidance comes only to prepared hearts and Joseph remained receptive to God’s guidance.

FOCUS: (1) No one can prevent God’s plan from being carried out. Isaiah14:24&27, Ps33:9-11. Herod tried it and paid with his life. Matt2:19, Ps63:9, Luke19:27.

(2) Responsiveness and obedience to God’s word. Ability to adjust to God’s demand. Matt2:13-14, Luke5:27-28. Are you willing to respond to the urgent call and instructions of the Lord?

CONCLUSION: Do not be afraid to give Christ the throne of your life. Do not be like Herod who was afraid that Jesus will take his Throne. Jesus wanted to give Herod eternal life We must understand the reason for Christ coming.  Some are afraid that Christ wants to take things away from them, may be their time or money? No, He wants to give you real freedom, peace, and joy. John14:27. Always remember that obedience to divine direction is key to the fulfilment of God’s word. Isaiah 1:19, Isaiah48:17-18.The word of God is sure.2Peter1:19

Ask the Lord now: “Lord help me to be responsive to God’s leading as I continually yield my life to Christ and obey His directions in the name of Jesus”.

LESSON 4

TOPIC: REPENTANCE

TEXT: MATT 3:1-10

Repentance is an absolute necessity for salvation. Salvation depends on repentance. Matt3:2.  

In other words, turn from your sins and turn to God, because the kingdom of heaven is at hand. The theme of John’s message was ‘Turn from your sins.’ A relationship with God begins with repentance. Preparing the way for Jesus in your life. This is the central message of John. There is no forgiveness of sin without repentance. Matt3:6. Repentance is more than just a change of mind but a change of behaviour with a deep remorse for doing wrong. Luke3:3,10-14. Luke15:18&21. Turning from sin toward God and turning from sin requires change of behavior.

We need to repent, make a turn from the kind of self-centeredness that leads to wrong actions such as lying, cheating, stealing, gossiping, taking revenge, abusing, and indulging in sexual immorality. A person who turns from sin, would stop rebelling, and begins following GOD’S way of living as prescribed in His word. 2Cor5:17. Turn to God, live in His ways and turn off the old ways by putting on the new man. Eph4:24-32.

John the Baptist preached repentance. Matt3:2. He also warned about hell fire for refusing to repent. Matt3:7-10. Jesus at the start of His Ministry preached repentance. Matt4:17. He warned people that unless they repented, they would perish. Luke13:3&5. The disciples preached that men should repent. Mark 6:12. After His resurrection, Jesus told the twelve disciples to take the message of repentance to the whole world because it is the key that opens the door to forgiveness. Luke24:46-47. Repentance and Remission – repentance for forgiveness. The Apostles in the early Church preached repentance. Acts2:38, Acts3: 19, They also preached the need to do things appropriate to repentance. Acts26:19-20.

So, the first step to turning to God is to admit your sin. Luke15:18&21 -22, Acts2:37- 38.  In other words, sins will not be wiped away without repentance. Acts3:19. God is now declaring that all men everywhere should repent and those who have not repented will be unprepared for the appointed day of judgment.  Acts17:30-31.

FOCUS: (1) Acknowledge the need for repentance. There must be a conviction of the heart with a feeling of remorse for doing wrong. Acts2:37. Luke15:17-19. Acknowledge and confess your wrong. Ps32:5, Ps51:3-7, Jere14:20.

(2) Understand Repentance opens the door to forgiveness. The Key that opens the door to forgiveness is repentance. Luke24:46-47,1john1: 9,2Chro7:14. Do not cover your wrong. Pro28:13. If any say, I have sinned; repent and forsake his sins his life shall see the light. Job33:27-28.

(3)  Show the Fruits of repentance. Matt3:8. What fruits have you in the life of sin but death? Rom6:21-23. Repentance requires Change of behaviour. Acts26:19-20, Luke3:10-14,1Kings21:27-29.

CONCLUSION: Turning from sin require change of behaviour. Have you turned from sin in your life? Can others see the difference it makes in you? A changed life with new and different behaviour makes your repentance real and visible.2Cor5:17, Eph4:24. Always remember that God’s grace offers you temporary opportunity to repent, not an opportunity to continue sinning. Rom6:1-2. it is damnation to believe that one can be saved without repentance.

Ask the Lord now: “Lord help me to acknowledge my wrong and to turn from it, so that I can live the new life in Christ Jesus in the name of Jesus”.

LESSON 5

TOPIC: WATER BAPTISM

TEXT: Matt3:11-17

To be baptized with water unto repentance, presupposes   that you have repented and turned to God and you have decided to live according to His ways. Water Baptism is an out-word sign of commitment to Christ and accompanied by an inward change of attitude leading to a changed life, which is the work of the Holy Spirit. Matt3:11. Mark1: 8. Everyone will one day be baptized, either now by the Holy Spirit or later by the fire of God’s judgement. Unrepentant people will be judged by fire and those who repent and believe will be saved and used by God. Matt3:11-12.

John was preaching that the baptism of Jesus would be much greater than his, but was surprised when Jesus came forward to be baptised by him. Jesus told him, we must do everything right in fulfilment of the word of God.Matt3:13-15. We all have a role to play towards the fulfilment of God’s word. Are you willing to play your roll?  It was a test of John’s integrity, but he passed the test by publicly baptizing Jesus and even declared that Jesus must become greater and greater and he will become less and less. John3:30. Can we like John put our ego and profitable work aside in order to point others to Jesus? Are we willing to lose some of our status so that everyone will benefit? How are you playing your role? At the water baptism of Jesus, the trinity were present and active. Prayer at baptism opens the heaven. God the son was baptized, God the Holy Spirit descends, God the father speaks. Luke3:21-22, Matt3:16-17, This is the mystery of God.Matt28:19,1John5:7, Acts8:16.

THREE TYPES OF BAPTISM Mark16:15-16

1. Baptism into the body of Christ. When a person is born again, he is automatically baptized into the body of Christ. He becomes a member of Christ’s body, the church.1Cor12:13, Rom6:3, Eph1:22-23, Col1:18&24.
2. Baptism in the Holy Spirit. It is an experience after salvation, and this baptism can and should be received by every believer. Acts2:1-4, Acts8:14 -17.
3. Baptism in water. It is a baptism of repentance. Acts19:4-5.A sign of identifying with Christ in death, burial and resurrection.Rom6:3-4. Every believer should be baptized in water as soon as possible after he repents and believes in the Lord Jesus. it should be the first act of obedience of the new believer. Acts2:37-41, Acts8:12-13&36-39, Acts9:17-18.

He who receives not this baptism has neither right nor title to the kingdom of God; nor can he with any propriety be termed a Christian, because that which essentially distinguished the Christian is that you must be born again and be born of water and of the Spirit. John3:3&5.

FOCUS: Understand the underlying meaning of water baptism.

• Represents that our sins are washed away. So, we stand clean before Acts22:16. Therefore, we must have our life conformed to the precepts of God.
• Identification with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. Once we have been born again and placed into the body of Christ, God considers us to be in Christ from that point on. Because Jesus was our substitute. God attributes all that Jesus did to our accounts. So, In Christ we have died, buried, and have been raised from the dead to live as new persons. Rom 6:3-5, Col2:12.

CONCLUSION: Every new believer should be baptized in water as soon as possible after he believes. Acts10:44-48, Acts16:31-33, Acts18:8, Acts19:1-5. Always remember, Water Baptism is an out-word sign of commitment to Christ with an inward change of attitude leading to a changed life for the kingdom.

Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to maintain my commitment to Christ, walking in the newness of life in the name of Jesus”

LESSON 6

TOPIC: TEMPTATION

TEXT: Matt4:1-11

Satan’s temptations are real, and he is always trying to get us to live his way or our way rather than God’s way. Temptation is defined as “pressure applied to one’s thinking with the aim to create wrong emotions which will eventually lead to wrong actions.” Satan applies pressure to your thought to create wrong emotions that will eventually lead you to take wrong actions.    

AREAS OF TEMPTATION: The devil’s temptation focused on three crucial areas.

1. PHYSICAL NEEDS AND DESIRES. Matt4:3 Jesus was tempted in the wilderness where He was hungry and weak after fasting. The devil, often tempts us when we are vulnerable. Satan often takes advantage of our circumstances to tempt us. The poor, and hungry, and naked, he often tempts to pressure them to complain, and be dishonest pretending to supply their necessities. Reject pressure, have faith in God for your needs. Matt6:30-34, Phil4:19.
2. EMOTIONAL NEEDS.Matt4:6. Satan used scripture to try to convince Jesus to sin. He often attempts to fill us with pride, and make us to begin to form ideas and questions, would God really protect? He endeavours to urge us to do something which may bring us low, and lead us to sin. He dares you with misapplied scripture. Ps91:11-12. Sometimes friends will present attractive and convincing reasons why you should try something you know is wrong. They may even find bible verses that seem to support their viewpoint. Be careful. 1Cor15:33. Ps1:1-2.
3. POSSESSIONS AND POWER. Matt4:8. Satan was trying to distort Jesus’ perspective by making Him focus on worldly power and not on God’s plans. Satan offered Jesus the whole world if He would only kneel and worship him. Matt4:9. He often attempts to offer us the world by enticing us with materialism, power, and fame. The desire for quick power and easy solution will aways be exploited by Satan. Do not be carried away. 1John2:15-16, Pro28:21—23.

FOCUS: Overcoming temptation.

1. Depend on God.Matt4:4. Focus on God’s purpose. Heb12:2. Jesus was in the wilderness to fast and to prove His sonship to God and not to eat. Satan wanted Him to prove His sonship to him. Matt4:3. Jesus was more focused on the purpose of God. Matt4:4. Luke4:4. Not by bread alone, simply means focus on God’s purpose. Life is not only about physical needs and desires but about living according to the purpose of God. Wilderness is a place where God proves you to know what is in your heart. Deut8:2-3. God can sustain our lives without food if he chooses. We shall live if God wills it, bread, or no bread; Matt 6:25-27. God can support our lives independent of our body Matt 10:28-30.
2. Do not test God. Matt4:7. Focus on God’s plan. God wants us to live by faith not by magic. To expose yourself to any danger that is naturally destructive, with the hope that God will protect and defend you from the consequences of your careless conduct, is to tempt God. Do not jeopardise yourself without the command of God. Do not try to manipulate God’s word by asking for signs, focus on God’s plans and His commandments. Duet 6:16-17.
3. No compromise with evil. Matt4:10. Focus on God’s person. You must worship the Lord your God, serve only Him.Deut6:13, Jos24:14,1Sam7:3.  By serving God, Jesus obtained all the earthly authority which the devil offered him, and in addition to heavenly authority. Matt 28:18. So much better are the rewards of God than Satan’s.

CONCLUSION.  The weapon which our Saviour made use of to repel the temptation, and to vanquish the tempter is the word of God, it is written. Learn, that the scripture, or the written word of God, is the only sure weapon with which to vanquish Satan, and to beat back all his fiery temptation. Eph6:17. Satan himself dose not have what it takes to oppose scripture: Not only did Jesus know the scripture, He also obeyed it. Satan, had memorized the scripture but failed to obey it, so he has no right to oppose the scripture. Always remember, God knows how to deliver the Godly out of temptation. 2Peter2:9. When you are tempted, turn to Him for strength.

Ask the Lord now: “Lord, save me now and lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from evil in the name of Jesus.” Matt6:13.

               LESSON 7

TOPIC: RESISTING TEMPTATION

TEXT: Matt4:1-10

Temptations are real. Eve was tempted in the garden of Eden.Gen3:1-7.  Jesus was tempted in the wilderness. Matt4:1-10.  Satan, constantly tempts and fights against those who follow and obey God. Your true obedience is not known, if you have never had an opportunity to disobey. Temptation is a possible opportunity to disobedience. Resisting temptation is the Strength of your obedience to withstand the pressure of temptation. God led the children of Israel into the wilderness to humble and test them. God wanted to see if His people would really obey Him. Deut8:2. We too, will be tested, but your obedience can only be strong if it can withstand pressure. Joseph withstood and resisted the pressure of the temptation of Potiphar’s wife. Gen39:8-9.

DANGER OF FALLING INTO TEMPTATION:

1. A Sin which leads to suffering. Gen3:16-19.to destruction.1Cor10:9. and to death.Pro.8:36, Ezk18:4 &20.
2. God’s purpose hindered. If Jesus had given in to Satan’s temptation, His mission on earth would have been lost. So, every time you consider giving in to temptation, remember that Satan is trying to block God’s purpose for your life or for someone else’s life. Ps78:41.

LESSONS FROM THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS:

1. Jesus was human. Luke4:2, John1:14, Isaiah9:6. we too, are human and will be tempted.
2. Jesus was tempted in the wilderness. where He was tired, alone, hungry. Matt 4:1-2. Satan often takes advantage of our circumstances and wants to tempt us.
3. It gave Jesus the opportunity to reaffirm God’s plan for His Ministry.Matt4:4 God’s purpose is more important than food or anything else.
4. It gives us an example to follow when we are tempted. 1Peter2:21, 1John2:6, Heb6:12.
5. Demonstration of His sinlessness Heb4:15,1Peter2:22. You can be tempted, but do not sin.
6. Demonstration of consistent power of resistance. Matt4:4,7,10. James4:7
7. Demonstration of Satan’s persistence. Matt4:3,6,9. Gen39:7-12. Temptation is persistent.

IMPORTANT THINGS ABOUT TEMPTATION

1. It is not a sin. To be tempted even to the greatest abominations, if you resist, it is not sin, for Christ was tempted to worship the DEVIL. Matt4:9. We sin when we give in and disobey.
2. No man is exempted from temptation. No matter how holy, for God manifested to the flesh, was tempted by the devil. John1:14, Matt4:7,1Cor10:12
3. There is no temptation that cannot be resisted. No matter the circumstances, God has promised to bruise even Satan under our feet. Rom16:20. when God permits a temptation or trial to come, He will give grace to bear or overcome it. 1Cor10:13.
4. Do not be afraid of temptation. The fear of being tempted may become a most dangerous snare. Job3:25.
5. It is part of the refining process. 1Peter1:7. It prepares us and helps us grow into the kind of person God wants. It advances our spiritual growth. James1:2-4.

FOCUS: How to resist temptation.

1. Watch and pray. Be alert and pray so that temptation will not over power you. Matt26:41, watching, means being aware of the possibilities of temptation.,1Thess5:17. You become spiritually equipped to fight temptation when you stay in prayer. Luke18:1
2. Study/ Meditate on the word. 2Tim2:15, Jos1:8, Know the word and obey it. James1:22, Ps119:11.
3. Be vigilant. Be alert and ready, take firm stand against him and be strong in your faith.1Peter5:8-9.
4. Live and Walk in the spirit Gal5:16-17&25. Avoid lust. Do not crave the things that the world James1:14-15,Ps78:18 ,1Tim6:9,1john 2:15-16.Beware of lust of the eyes. 2Peter3:17, Gen3:6.

 CONCLUSION: Resisting temptation depends on how strong your obedience can withstand pressure. We will all face temptation, but we should not give in to temptation. Always remember that Jesus has gone through it and He is able to help us when we are tempted. Heb2:18.

Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to continually yield myself to you and strengthen me to continually   resist the devil. James4:7.

 

               LESSON 8

TOPIC:  STEP INTO YOUR PURPOSE

TEXT: Matt4:12-25

Every one created by God and sent into the world has a purpose. Gen1:26-28. Man was created as God’s representative to have dominion and be fruitful on the earth. Ps8:6. Purpose is the end for which something is done, is made or exists. The reason for existing. Jesus came to seek and to save the lost. Luke19:10. To proclaim the truth. John18:37, To destroy the power of the devil. Heb2:14- 15,1John3:8. To experience humanity so that He could sympathise with us. Heb2:16-18, Heb4:15. John came to prepare the way of the Lord.Matt3:3. To prepare God’s people ready for the Lord.Luke1:17.

As soon as the purpose and Ministry of John ended, by his arrest and imprisonment, Jesus immediately stepped into His own Purpose and Ministry. Matt4:12-16. The end of John’s Purpose and Ministry did not stop Him. Jesus stepped into His own purpose and Ministry with the same message like John. Matt3:2, Matt4:17. The message is the same today as when Jesus and John preached it. “Turn from your sin. “Everyone born of God has a purpose. The same message Jesus committed to us at the end of His ministry. John20:21, Matt28:19-20. Have you stepped into your purpose? To teach others the ways of God as ambassadors for Christ.Matt28:19-20, 2Cor5:20-21. To bear fruit. John15:16&8. To be a praise and honour to God. Rev4:11,1Peter2:9, Ps69:30 -31.

LESSONS FROM HOW JESUS STEPPED INTO HIS PURPOSE.

1. The arrest and imprisonment of John did not stop Jesus. Matt4:12. Let nothing stop you. Luke9:59-60.
2. Jesus was focused on the purpose. Matt4:17. To seek and to save the lost. Luke19:10 Kingdom advancement was His passion. Matt6:33.
3. Jesus went anywhere He could find people including the sea side. Matt4:18., Luke14:23.
4. Jesus Helped others to find God.Matt4:18-19&21. He was calling them from their productive trade to be productive spiritually. They had jobs but they believed that following Jesus will change their lives. Elisha was a wealthy farmer before Elijah found him.1Kings19:19. May you help others to find God, and may you be able to find God even with your job.
5. Jesus discipled others. Matt4:19&21, Matt9:9. You need others for the tasks associated with the purpose. You cannot do it alone. Matt10:1, Matt14:19. You need co- labourers. Matt9:38.
6. Prompt response to service. Matt4:20&22. There was no hesitation but immediate service with promptness.1kings19:20, Mark1:18, Luke19:6. After the conversion of Paul, he started preaching immediately. Acts9:20.
7. Family ties did not prevent them from serving God.Matt4:22. Luke14:26. They proved themselves as worthy disciples. Matt10:37, also worthy of reward. Mark10:29-30
8. Their Job did not prevent them serving God. Mtt4:18&21. The Conditions for a true disciple include; Self-denial. matt16:24, Leaving al Luke14:33, Luke5:27-28, steadfastness john8:31.

Elisha was a wealthy farmer before he followed Elijah.1Kings19:19. May nothing hinder you.

9. A focused Purpose brings fame. Matt4:23- Teaching shows His concern for understanding, Preaching shows His concern for commitment and Healing shows His concern for wholeness.
10. Impact attracts more followers. Matt4:25, Mark3:8, Acts13-44.

FOCUS: How to step into your purpose.

1. Arise and take responsibility. Matt4:12&23. Went about all Galilee focused on purpose.
2. Stay focused on the purpose. Matt4:23, Matt6:33. Preaching the gospel of the kingdom, repentance. Luke13:2-3,2kings17:13.
3. Be impactful. Matt4:23-24. Jesus was teaching, preaching, and bearing the burden of others. Matt8:17. Let your life and purpose touch lives. 1Thess2:8, Luke3:11.

CONCLUSION: Everyone born of God has a purpose. Let nothing stop you from taking steps to fulfil your divine purpose. Always remember to stay focused on purpose. Matt6:33.

Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to take the right steps towards fulfilling my divine purpose.  

LESSON 9

                 TOPIC:  DIVINE BLESSINGS (THE BEATITUDES)

                TEXT: Matt5:1-12

Christ began his sermon on the Mount with blessings, for he came into the world to bless us. Acts 3:26, He began by describing the traits He was looking for in His followers. Those who lived out this trait, He called blessed. “Divine Blessings or the Beatitudes is the blessings given by Jesus to those with certain character.” The word “blessed” means more than “happiness“. Happiness comes from earthly things; blessedness comes from God to those with certain character.

CHARACTERS OF BLESSED PEOPLE:

1. Poor in Spirit.Matt5:3. Luke6:20. To be poor in spirit is to have a humble opinion of ourselves. Isaiah57:15. To be sensible that we are sinners, and have no righteousness of our own. Phil3:9. To be willing to be saved only by the rich grace and mercy of God; to be willing to be where God places us, to bear what he lays on us, to go where he bids us, to be willing to be in his hands. Ps 51:17; Pro 16:19.
2. Mourn. Matt5:4. Isaiah61:1-2. To lament the iniquity that separated us from the fountain of blessedness. Jere5:25, 2Cor7:10. 2Sam 12:13; Matt 26:75.
3. Matt5:5.  Matt11:29. Those who are of a quiet, gentle spirit Gal5:23,1Peter3:4. The meek are those who quietly submit to God; who can bear insult; are silent, or return a soft answer.1Peter3:15. who, in their patience, keep possession of their own souls.
4. Hunger and thirst after righteousness. Matt5:6, Isaiah55:1. Those who feel strong desire for righteousness before God.Ps42:1, Ps63:1-2. Ardently desire to be and do right because it is right.
5. Blessed are the merciful. Matt5:7. Ps41:1. The tender-hearted, those who are so affected by the sufferings of others, as to be disposed to alleviate them. Matt 10:42. those who feel for the sufferings of others, and are disposed to relieve them.
6. Blessed are the pure in heart. Matt5:8, Ps15:2, 1John3:2-3. The pure in heart are those who are free from evil desires and purposes. Their heart is sanctified and their life is like divine life which excludes all uncleanness. They love God with all their hearts.
7. Blessed are the peacemakers. Matt5:9. Gal5:22. Those who strive to prevent contention, and strife, and war. Who use their influence to reconcile opposing parties, and to prevent lawsuits, and hostilities, in families and neighbourhoods. 1Cor6:5-7, Eph 4:1.
8. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: Matt5:10,2Cor4:17. To vex, or oppress one, because they are righteous, or are the friends of God. Those who suffer because of their loyalty to the kingdom of heaven are blessed by being bound more closely to that kingdom for which they suffer.
9. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Matt5:11, Luke6:22. This involves all outward acts of violence —all that hand can do, all calumny, slander, all that the tongue can affect. Ps31:13.

HOW TO DEVELOP THIS CHARACTER.

1. Humble yourself before God. Yield to His authority and will. Commit your life to Him and to His control and be willing to follow Him.1Peter5:6-9
2. Let there be sorrow and deep grief for your sins. Do not be afraid to express deep heartfelt sorrow for what you have done. Bow down before God.James4:9-10 Godly sorrow leads to repentance and forgiveness, but worldly sorrow leads to death .2cor7:10. Example of worldly sorrow Matt27:3-5.
3. Accept and love other Christians despite their faults, when you see faults, be patient and gentle. Should anyone’s action annoy you, do not find fault or dwell on the persons weakness. Pray for the person and or spend time together and learn to like them. Build unity. Eph4:2-3
4. Consider your values. To know Christ, should be our goal. Do not place anything above your relationship with Christ. Be careful of your priorities, do not let them stand in the way of your relationship with Christ. Trust in the righteousness of God and not in your own righteousness. Phil3:7-11,2Cor5:21, John16:5-11.
5. Follow God’s example. John3:16. Our love for others should be of the same kind. A love that goes beyond affection to self-sacrificing service. Eph5:1-2.
6. Without honesty, a relationship with God is impossible. Ps24:3-4. God greatly values honesty. As children of God, we are reflections of God and this should motivate us to keep pure and straight forward. 1John3:1-3.
7. A right relationship with God leads to right relationships with fellow believers. As we become more like Christ, we become more empowered to pursue peace with everyone. Heb12:10-11&14.
8. God is the only one you need to please. Do not be surprised when people misunderstand, criticize, and even try to hurt you, what you believe and how you live. Do not give up.2Tim3:12.

FOCUS: Ways to understand the Characters of blessed people.

1. it is a standard code of conduct for all believers. John15:14, Jos1:8
2. They describe what we should be like as Christ followers. Heb2:17, John14:23
3. Each character trait tells us how to be blessed. John13:17
4. It does not promise laughter or pleasure, John15:20.
5. CONCLUSION: If you want to live for God, you must be ready to say and do what seems strange to the world. You must be ready to give when others take, to love when others hate, to help when others abuse, by giving your own rights in order to serve others. Always, remember, you will one day receive everything God has in store for you. Luke6:22-23.

 Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to develop the required traits for divine blessings.  

LESSON 10

TOPIC: LESSONS FROM THE BEATITUDES

TEXT: MATT 5:1-12

1. Develop the attitude of Humility. James4:7-10
2. Sorrow should make us look for the heart and hand of God and so find the comfort latent in the grief. James4:7-10, Ps51:1-19.
3. He who is of a meek or gentle spirit, is ever ready to associate with the meanest of those who fear God, feeling himself superior to none. Rom12:16. Eph4:2.
4. Hunger and thirst for justice. Our desires of spiritual blessings must be earnest, trusting not in our own righteousness, but in the righteousness of Christ, which is of God by faith to all them that believe. Ro 3:22. Phil3:9.
5. We must not only bear our own afflictions patiently, but we must do all we can to help those who are in misery. We must have compassion on the souls of others, and help them; pity those who are in sin, and seek to snatch them as brands out of the burning.  Matt 25:34-40. God requires us to exercise the compassion towards others which we need to have exercised towards us. Eph5:1-2.
6. The heart must be purified by faith, and kept for God. Ps15:2. Create in me such a clean heart, O God Ps51:10. None but the pure can see God.
7. The peace-makers are happy. Heb12:14. They love, and desire, and delight in peace; and study to be quiet. They keep the peace that it be not broken, and recover it when it is broken. Ps 34:14 Long and most deadly quarrels might be prevented by a little kind interference in the beginning. Rom12:14-21.
8. Great opposition for doing right. We are to consider this as a blessing. It is all evidence that we are the children of God, and that he will defend us. All that live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution, 2Ti 3:12. Yet there is nothing in our sufferings that can merit of God; but God will provide that those who lose for him, though life itself, shall not lose by him in the end. Luke9:24.
9.  For my sake. Because you are attached to me; because you are Christians.Matt5:11. Revile you. Reproach you; call you by evil and contemptuous names; ridicule you because you are Christians. All manner of evil–falsely. It is not blessed to have evil spoken of us if we deserve it; but if we deserve it not, then we should not consider it as a calamity. We should take it patiently, and show how much the Christian, under the consciousness of innocence, can bear, 1Pe 3:13-18. Because you are attached to God, because you are Christians. We are not to seek such things. We are not to do things to offend others; to treat them harshly or unkindly.

THE BEAUTY OF PERSECUTION

1. It takes our eyes off earthly rewards. Luke6:22
2. It takes away superficial belief.2cor4:17 `1Peter4:12-13
3. It strengthens the faith of those who endure2cor2:12
4. Our attitudes through persecution serves as example to others who follow.2Tim3:12

FOCUS: Rewards

2. Because theirs will be the kingdom of heaven Matt5:3
3. Mourning goes before comfort. comfort shall follow mourning. Godly sorrow for our own and others’ sins shall end in everlasting joy and comfort. Matt5:4, 2Cor1:4-7, John 16:20.
4. Meekness promotes wealth, abundance, comfort, safety, even inherits the earth. Ps37:11, Ps 22:26; Ps25:9.
5. He will not forsake the work of his own hands they shall be filled. PS 34:19; Isaiah 65:13. John4:14. And receive what they desire, and be satisfied. Ps 17:15, Luke6: 21.
6. Whatever mercy a man shows to another, God will take care to show the same to him. 2Sam 22:26-27, Ps 18:25-26. The forgiving is forgiven Matt 6:14-15.
7. The pure in heart are happy; for they shall see God. Holiness is key. Heb12:14.
8. God is the Author of peace.1Cor14:33. Those who resemble God, who manifest a spirit like his, all those who endeavour to promote peace are like him, are worthy to be called his children.1Peter3:9.
9. For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.1Peter3:13-14 They shall be brought to heaven for righteousness’s sake
10. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. Matt5:12,1Peter4:13-14, Luke6:22-23

CONCLUSION. Kingdom people seek different blessings, always remember to let your attitudes reflect the humility and self-sacrifice of Jesus. 

 Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to develop the required traits for divine blessings.  

 

LESSON 11

TOPIC:  THE SALT OF THE EARTH

TEXT: MATT 5:13

There are three parts to Matt 5:13.

1.WHAT A CHRISTIAN SHOLD BE:  Ye are the salt of the earth:  Our Lord Jesus Christ shows here what the preachers of the Gospel, and what all who profess to follow him, should be; the salt of the earth. We are designed to preserve the world from rot and destruction. Christians are the salt of the earth. The value of a seasoning is the flavour or taste. The value of a Christian is his impact or influence. Matt28:18-20, Acts11:19-26

2. WHAT MIGHT HAPPEN TO A CHRISTIAN: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? Ps11:3., Mark9:50. Luke9:62. If a seasoning has no flavour or taste, it has no value. If a Christian makes no effort to affect the world around them, they are of little value to God. Heb 10:38, To lose your taste signifies deterioration. Isaiah1:22, Lam4:1. To lose your taste signifies backsliding. Hos11:7, Matt24:12, Gal1:6. If we are too much like the world, we are worthless. Christians should not blend in with everyone else.2cor6:14. Rom12:2. Instead, we should affect others positively, just as salt or seasoning brings out the best flavour or taste in food.
3. THE CONSEQUENCE: it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. It is a dangerous thing to lose your taste Heb 6:4-6; 2Pe 2:20-21. If you lose your taste, you become worthless and a cast away. John15:6. Matt 8:12; Matt 22:13.

QUALITIES OF SALT: Salt renders food pleasant and palatable, and preserves from rot or decay. Salt was required in all the sacrifices in the old covenant to preserve it. Lev 2:13. So, Christians, by their lives and instructions, are to keep the world from entire moral corruption. By bringing down, by their prayers, the blessing of God, and by their influence and example, 2Cor1:4,2Cor3:2. Christians are designed to save the world from universal vice and crime. Salt is a preservative, so are Prophets, Servants of God, and Christians, they are preservatives. Hos12:13,2Sam3:18.

SALT AND THE GOSPEL: The tenet of the gospel is like salt. What salt is to food is what the gospel is to life. John6:63, Pro4:20-22.  it is penetrating, quick, and powerful Heb 4:12; it reaches the heart Acts 2:37. It is cleansing, and preserves from decay. John17:17. It manifests the savour of the knowledge of Christ 2Co 2:14. An everlasting covenant is called a covenant of salt Num 18:19; and the gospel is an everlasting gospel. John5:24.

FOCUS (1) DO NOT LOOSE YOUR TASTE: Christians, and especially ministers, are the salt of the earth. A wise man said; Without salt human life cannot be sustained. Christians are themselves to be seasoned with the gospel, with the salt of grace; thoughts and affections, words, and actions, all seasoned with grace, Col 4:6. Have salt in yourselves, else you cannot diffuse it among others, Mark 9:50.  Christians must not only be good but do good. Gal6:10. (2) IT IS DANGEROUS TO LOSE YOUR TASTE:  To be trodden underfoot. Matt5:13.

it is really an ill omen to have the salt fall from us. If you, who should season others, are yourselves of bad taste, of questionable character, void of spiritual life, and vigour; if a Christian be so, especially if a minister be so, his condition is very sad; Because;

(1.) He is irrecoverable:  Wherewith shall it be salted? Salt is a remedy for unsavoury meat, but there is no remedy for unsavoury salt. Christianity will give a man a relish; but if a man can take up and continue the profession of it, and yet remain flat and foolish, and graceless and insipid, no other doctrine, no other means, can be applied, to make him savoury. If Christianity do not do it, nothing will.: Heb 6:4-6.

(2.) He is unprofitable: It is thenceforth good for nothing; what use can it be put to, in which it will not do more hurt than good? As a man without reason, so is a Christian without grace. A wicked man is the worst of creatures; a wicked Christian is the worst of men; and a wicked minister is the worst of Christians. Mark 8:36.

(3.) He is doomed to ruin and rejection; He shall be cast out– -expelled from communion of the faithful, to which he is a blot and a burden; and he shall be trodden under foot of men. Eph5:11,2Thess3:6.1Cor5:2.

CONCLUSION: The preacher, or Christian, who has lost the life of Christ, and the witness of His Spirit, out of his soul, may be likened to this salt.  He may have the sparks and glittering particles of true wisdom, but without its unction or comfort.  Matt7:15, Matt10:16. Only that which is connected with the rock, And the soul that is in union with Christ Jesus by the Holy Spirit, can preserve its savour, and be instrumental of good to others., Col 4:6. Have salt in yourselves, else you cannot diffuse it among others, Mr 9:50. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to remain salted, so that I will  not be a castaway in the name of Jesus. 1Cor9:27   

LESSON 12

TOPIC:  THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

TEXT: MATT 5:14-16

This topic can be broken down into seven parts

1. Ye are the light of the world.: WHAT A CHRISTIAN SHOULD BE Matt5:14a. A Christian is the light of the world by virtue of the Spirit of Christ dwelling in them Ps36:9,and the same mind being in them which was in Christ Jesus. Phil2:5. We shine with the light of Jesus upon the world. Matt4:16, John8:12, John9:5. A Christian should shine as light to the world. Phil2:15. Christian light shines continuously and progressively. Pro 4:18.
2. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.: A CHRITIAN LIFE IS AN EXALTED LIFE. A Christian cannot be hidden. Matt5:14b. You cannot hide a city that is sitting on top of a mountain. At night its light can be seen from miles.  If we live for Christ, we will glow like lights, showing others what Christ is like. Acts4:13. We are the instruments and the means of diffusing the light of life throughout the world. Acts1:8.
3. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel.: A CHRITIAN LIFE MUST BE PROPERLY POSITIONED.Matt5:15a. When men light a candle, they do not conceal the light, but place it where it may be of use. A Christian must be properly positioned to show himself visible. the very design of God in giving you this light is that it might shine. Mark 4:21. Only those who have bad designs hide a candle under a bushel; that, in the dead of the night, when all are asleep, they might rise up, and have light at hand to help them to effect their wicked purposes.
4. but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.: A CHRITIAN LIFE IS FOR THE BENEFIT OF OTHERS: Matt5:15b.  Jesus is showing us here that the very reason why we were enlightened is, that others might also see the light, and be benefited by it. Luke 8:16; Luke11:33. A Christian show himself when he sheds light on a surrounding wicked world.
5. Let your light so shine before men: A CHRISTIAN MUST WALK IN THE LIGHT AND BY THE LIGHT:  Matt5:16a. it is not sufficient to have light-we must walk in the light, and by the light. let your holy life, your pure conversation, and your faithful instruction, be everywhere seen and known, Always, in all societies, in all business, at home and abroad, in prosperity and adversity. 1Peter2:12. 1Thess 2:12;1John 1:5-7.,1Thess5:5, Eph5:8.
6. that they may see your good works: A CHRISTIAN MUST SHOW THAT HE IS REALMatt5:16b. let it be seen that you are real Christians by what you do. Our whole conduct should be a perpetual comment on the doctrine we have received, and a constant example of its power and truth. Acts 9:36; Eph 2:10; 1Tim 2:10;1Tim 5:10; 1Tim6:18, Titus 2:7; Titus3:4,7,8,14; Heb10:24.
7. and glorify your Father which is in heaven.: A TRUE CHRISTIAN SHOULD ACT TO GLORIFY GOD: Matt5:16c. It is not right to do a thing merely to be seen by others, for this is pride but we are to do it that, being seen, God may be honoured. Glorify your Father. Praise, or honour God, or be led to worship him. Seeing in your lives the excellency of the power and purity of the gospel, others may become Christians also, and give praise and glory to God for his mercy to a lost world. John 15:8; 1Cor 14:25,1Peter 2:12; 1Peter3:1,16.

 FOCUS: HOW DO CHRISTIANS HIDE THEIR LIGHT? (1.) By being quiet when we should speak. John12:35 (2) By going along with the crowd.2Cor6:14,1John2:15-16. (3). By denying the light.2Tim3:5 (4). By letting sin dim our light.1John3:8, (5) By not explaining our light to others. John4:29. (6.) By ignoring the needs of others. Matt25:35-36.

LESSONS FROM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

(1.) that if the light in you exists, it cannot be concealed.

(2.) That where it is not manifest in your life, it does not exist.

(3.) That Christians, who live like other men, is evidence that they have never been renewed.

(4.) That to attempt to conceal or hide our Christian knowledge or experience is to betray our trust, and injure the cause of mercy, and render our lives useless. And,

(5.) that good actions will be seen, and will lead men to honour God.

CONCLUSION: Be a beacon of truth, do not shut your light off from the rest of the world. If we have no other way of doing good–if we are poor, and unlearned and unknown–yet we may do good by our lives. No sincere and humble Christian lives in vain. The feeblest light at midnight is of use. So, arise and let your light shine. Isaiah60:1. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to shine for the world to see and glorify your name in the name of Jesus.  

 

LESSON 13

TOPIC:  CHRIST AND THE LAW

TEXT: MATT 5:17-18

God’s laws are given to help people love God with all their hearts and minds. This is the original purpose, and that is what Jesus came to fulfil. He did not come to destroy it, but to accomplish what was intended in them. To complete the design; to fill up what was predicted, Col 1:25. He came to tell us about a new way to understand God’s laws which is Grace and truth John1:17.

WHAT IS THE LAW? It is the word of God. Deut17:19. It is the instruction to obey. Jos1:8, Jos23:6. It is the five books of Moses, called the law.  Luke 24:44. John1:17. If Jesus did not cone to abolish the law, does that mean all the Old Testament laws still apply to us today? The process may be different, yet the purpose remains the same. Mark12:30-31. Rom8:4.

There are three categories of law in the Old Testament.

1.THE CEREMONIAL LAW: This relates specifically to Israel’s worship of God. God placed emphasis on sacrifice. Lev1,2,3. God designed sacrifice to seek forgiveness and restore a relationship. He instructed people to kill animals as sacrifices for sin. The animal symbolically took the sinner’s place and paid the penalty for sin and the animal’s death represents one life given so that another life could be saved. A person who had sinned will bring an animal with no defect to the priest, and lays his hand on the head of the animal to symbolize the person’s complete identification with the animal as his substitute. The animal is killed and the priest sprinkled the blood. He symbolically transferred his sins to the animal and thus his sins were taken away. But in the New Testament Christ’s death became the last sacrifice needed. He took our punishment once and for all. Isaiah53:4-5.  Animal sacrifice is no longer required. While we are no longer bound by ceremonial law, the principles behind them still apply-, that is, to worship and love a holy God.John4:21-24. Rom12:2. Jere31:33

2. THE CIVIL LAW: This applies to daily living in Israel.Deut24:1-22. The law was to make people think twice before devoicing, it does not support devoice. Newly married couples were to remain together in their first year, to avoid excessive burden on the new marriage and to give it chance to mature and be strengthened. The poor was to be treated with justice. It is the law that should guide the daily living of the people. Because Morden society and culture are so radically different from that time and setting, all these guidelines are no more specifically followed. But the principles and purposes behind the laws are still very relevant and should guide our conduct. Jesus demonstrated these principles. Matt19:9, Matt5:42 -48, Mark12:33.
3. THE MORAL LAW: This is a direct command of God such as the ten commandments, and it requires strict obedience. Ex20:1-17. The moral law reveals the nature and will of God, and it still applies today. Jesus obeyed the moral law completely. Matt3:15. Faith in Christ dose not wipe out the Old Testament. When we understand the way of salvation through faith, we understand why Abrahm was chosen, why the Law was given and why God worked patiently with Israel for centuries. So only when we have faith do, we truly fulfil the law. Rom3:31. Christ accomplished the whole purpose of the law by fulfilling the purpose and goal of the law as he perfectly exemplified God’s desires on earth. Matt5:17. He is also the termination of the law because in comparison to Christ, the law is powerless to save. Rom10:4. The law was to lead us until Christ came. The law teaches us the need for salvation. God’s grace gives us that salvation. The Old Testament still applies today, in it God reveals His nature, His will for humanity, His moral laws, and His guidelines for living. But we cannot be saved by keeping that law, we must trust in Christ.Gal3:24-27.

LESSONS

1. No more animal sacrifices.
2. Jesus is the true and final sacrifice
3. Certain laws in the Old Testament are still relevant today. because it is still the word of God, though times and cultures may have changed, yet the purpose and goal remain the same.

CONCLUSION: Matt5:18. Till all be fulfilled. Or, accomplished.  Though all earth and hell should join together to hinder the accomplishment of the great designs of the Highest, yet it shall all be in vain-even the sense of a single letter shall not be lost.  The words of God, which point out his designs, are as unchangeable as his nature itself.  Every sinner, who perseveres in his iniquity, shall surely be punished with separation from God and the glory of his power; and every soul that turns to God, through Christ, shall as surely be saved, as that Jesus himself hath died. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to live the life of faith in Christ and let the word of God be fulfilled in my life   in the name of Jesus.  

LESSON 14

TOPIC:  THE PATH WAY TO TRUE GREATNESS

TEXT: MATT 5:19-20

Obeying God’s word is better than explaining them.1Sam15:22. it is much easier to study the word of God and tell others to obey them than to put them into practice. Matt23:2-4, Rom2:21-24. HOW ARE YOU DOING AT OBEYING GOD YOURSELF?

 For better understanding, this topic shall be divided into three:

1. BREAK AND TEACH OTHERS=Least in the kingdom. “Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, Matt5: 19a, Matt5:18. Christ teaches that in His kingdom, those who Shall break, violate, or disobey the least of His commandments and those who teach that any word of God might be violated with impunity, James2:10, Matt23:23. shall be called least; “he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven”. Matt5:19c, Matt3:2. In other words, he that breaks the least of these commandments shall not be regarded as a proper Christian teacher. People often pick and choose what to obey and what not to obey by their traditions. Matt 23:23; Matt15:1-6. Jesus says, that in His kingdom all this vain division and tradition should cease. He that attempted it should be the least of all.
2. DO AND TEACH OTHERS=Great in the kingdom: “but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Matt5:19d., James1:22. In other words, He that shall do and teaches that all the word of God is binding, and that all of it should be obeyed, without attempting to specify what is most important, shall be a worthy Christian and teacher worthy of his office, who teach the truth, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Matt 7:21; Luke 6:46; Luke11:28.
3. EXCEEDING RIGHTEOUSNESS=Kingdom of Heaven 1John3:7 “For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matt5:20. Jesus means, that unless we have more real holiness in our character, conduct and lives than the scribes, we cannot be saved. The righteousness of the pharisees was external, and was not real holiness. Their righteousness consisted of outward observance of the ceremonial and traditional law. They offered sacrifices, fasted often, prayed much, were very meticulous about ablutions and tithes and the ceremonies of religion, but neglected justice, truth, purity, holiness of heart, and did not strive to be pure in their motives before God. Matt 23:1-9,23-28. But, the righteousness of true Christians is seated in the heart, and is therefore genuine.  1John3:7-10, Mark7:2-23. The righteousness that Jesus required in his kingdom was purity, chastity, honesty, temperance, the fear of God, and the love of man. This righteousness is pure, eternal, teaching the motives, and making the life holy. Phil3:9.

LESSONS:

1. That all the WORD of God is binding on Christians. James 2:10
2. That all the commands of God should be preached, in their proper place, by Christian ministers. Matt28:19-20.
3. That they who pretend that there are any laws of God so small that they need not obey them, are unworthy of his kingdom. Luke9:62.
4. That true Christians has respect to all the commandments of God, and keeps them, Ps 119:6.
5. That those who honour the word of God shall be called great. 1Sam 2:30
6. That the kingdom of heaven is the glorious prize or reward set before a true Christian. Matt5:19.
7. That the means required to obtain this prize, and laying hold of this reward; is that we must be holy and righteous persons: Matt5:10.
8. That the special qualification for that righteousness, which will entitle us to heaven and salvation is a righteousness which exceeds the righteousness of the Scribes and Pharisees.Mathh5:20.
9. That Service is the true path way to greatness in the kingdom of heaven. matt23:11.
10. That holiness of heart, and righteousness of life, which God’s word requires of us, is absolutely and indispensably necessary to salvation. Heb12:14.
11. That the quality of our goodness should be greater than that of the Pharisees, they look pious, but they are far from the kingdom of heaven. Matt5:20.
12. That God judges our heart as well as our deeds, for it is in the heart that our real allegiance lies.1Sam16:7, Matt15:8.
13. That We must be more concerned about our attitudes that people do not see as much as our actions that are seen by all. Matt5:16
14. That obedience Come from what God does in us, not what we can do by ourselves. Phil4:13.
15. That we should be God cantered, not self -cantered. Matt6:33.
16. That our obedience should be based on reverence for God, not approval from people. Mark7:9.
17. That we should Go beyond keeping the word of God to living by the principles of behind the word. James2:10. James1:22.
18. That Disobeying God and Teaching others to disobey brings you low. Matt5:19.

CONCLUSION: You are not a great Christian, because you know Christ, you are a great Christian, because you practise the word of God.James1:22.  YOU are not a great Christian, because you go to church, you are a great Christian because you truly serve God with your heart. Deut11:13, Matt 22:37, Jos22:5,1Sam12:24, Eph6:6, Matt15:8. You are not a just Christian because you hear the word of God, you are a Justified Christian because you do the word of God.Rom2:13.   The weakness of so many like the pharisees is that they are satisfied to obey outwardly the word of God without allowing God to change their hearts or attitudes. Rom 9:31, Rom10:3. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, by the Spirit of your word, change my heart and attitude, let me obey your word from my heart   in the name of Jesus.  

LESSON 15

TOPIC:  DEAL WITH ANGER

TEXT: MATT 5:21-26

Jesus teaches us to avoid the sin of anger which we regularly commit. Many people often try to avoid extreme sins, but regularly commit the sin of anger. Anger itself is not a sin. Eph4:26. But we must make dealing with anger a priority Otherwise, bitterness or the desire for vengeance can grow, leading to more sinful thoughts and actions. Gen4:6-8.

WHAT IS ANGER? A strong feeling of displeasure, hostility or antagonism towards someone or something, usually combined with an urge to harm, often stemming from perceived provocation, hurt, or threat. (English dictionary)

Anger can be a good thing.it can give you, a way to express negative feelings Eph4:26, God expressed anger Ex 4:14, Num11:10, Ps7:11, or it can motivate you to find solutions to problems. Mrk3:5, John2:13-17, Matt21:12. But excessive anger can cause problems. Uncontrolled anger quickly leads to doing wrong. This is the anger that Jesus teaches us to avoid, the anger that leads to sin and separates us from God. It is not meant to be lived in, but to be dealt with. Num20:8-13.

“Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment.” Matt5:21. God cares about actions, but He cares most about the heart. The reason for the command not to kill is given in Gen9:6. if being made in the image of God makes it wrong to murder, it also makes it wrong to call a person “worthless.” Matt5:22.

“But I say unto you,” Matt5:22a in other words, God intends mankind to focus their obedience to these commands, because obedience to the commandment against murder begins with eliminating anger for one’s brother.

 “That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment”: Matt5:22b. This is improper attitude. To be un-righteously angry with another person makes one subject to God’s judgement. Can you honestly claim you have never been angry towards someone else? Or that every unhappy thought was perfectly justified?

“And whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the Council.” Matt5:22c. Jesus acknowledges that someone who insults another risks judgement from other men, meaning that someone who is angry enough to insult another must answer not just to God but to authority.

“But whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire”. Matt5:22d. Being angry enough to insult another makes a person liable to hell fire. Attitudes of hatred do not just lead to acts of violence Gen4:6-7, they are sins in themselves. So, we should reject anger, insults, and name-calling for the same reason we reject murder. Eph4:31. Every person is made in the image of God.Gen9:6.

“Therefore, if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against three.” Matt5:23. Jesus is saying, when one realises that one has offended some other person, when a true believer realises, they have done something to make another person angry, they ought to act quickly to make things right. Matt5:9.

“Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.” Matt5:24. Jesus stressed the importance of seeking to resolve conflicts., that even spiritual actions should be set aside until reconciliation can be made between two people in angry conflict. Do not wait, leave what you are doing, make things right as soon as possible, then come back and finish what you are doing. Our hearts are not right with God if they are not right with each other.1John4:20.

“Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.” Matt5:25. If you have truly wronged another person, you are in danger of judgement, so the proper response is to make things right quickly, have a right spirit, a good relationship with people to avoid judgement and prison.

“Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.” Matt5:26. Someone thrown into prison may never get out until they have paid for their wrong doing, so make things right with everyone as quickly as possible.

LESSONS

1. We are commanded not to kill. taking the life of another, with malice, or with intention to murder. Killing is a terrible sin. Ex20:13.
2. Anger is a great sin, because it violates God’s command to love.1Jojn3:14.
3. We shall be in danger and shall be held guilty, and be punished. Num35:31.
4. Anger is not the same thing as murder, but excessive anger is a sin and murder is a sin that we must put away. Col3:8.
5. Anger may lead to murder. Gen4:5-8,1John3:15.
6. Self-control is good, but Jesus wants us to practice thought control, because we will be held accountable for our attitudes. Matt5:22.
7. Our attitudes towards others reflect our relationship with God.1John4:20.
8. The responsibility to reconcile rests on the person who realises they have given another person cause to be angry. Matt5:23-24.
9. Broken relationships can hinder our relationship with God.1John4:20
10. We should resolve problems as soon as possible before anger causes more trouble. Pro25:8-10
11. We are hypocrites if we claim to love God while we hate others.1John4:20.
12. Our attitudes towards others reflect our relationship with God.1John4:20.
13. Get things right with our brothers and sisters before we stand before God.Matt5:24.

WHAT YOU NEED IN ORDER TO DEAL WITH ANGER

1. PATIENCE: Ecc7:9, Ecc5:2, James1:19-20 Pro 14:17; Pro16:32
2. THE WORD OF GOD PS119:11.
3. HELP OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, John14:26, Gal5:22, Rom8:26-27
4. PRAYER AND FASTING.Luke18:1,1Thess5:17, Matt17:21

CONCLUSION: Anger can be a helpful emotion, but it must be handled carefully and quickly to avoid sin. We are not to live in anger, we are to deal with anger. Eph4:31. It is not enough to avoid killing, we must avoid anger and hatred.1John3:15. It is not enough to offer regular gifts, we must have right relationships with God and others.1John4:21. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, deliver me from the spirit of anger and make my heart right towards other people   in the name of Jesus.  

 

LESSON 16

TOPIC:  AVOID LUST

TEXT: MATT 5:27-30

This teaching is meant to explain the reality of sin, and to highlight the need for grace and faith in salvation and not good works.

“Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery”. Matt5:27. This is the seventh commandment. Ex20:14, Deut5:18. In the old restatement it is wrong for a person to have sex with someone other than his or her spouse. Ex20:17. Pro6:25-29. You are taken for an adulterer before God, whoever you are, that covets or desires another man’s wife. Deut5:21. For example, King Daivid 2sam11:2- 5 &27,2Sam12:9-12. Potipher’s wife. Gen39:7-12. But in the New Testament it goes beyond the act. The thought of it is as sinful as the act. Jesus said that the desire to have sex with someone other than your spouse is mental adultery and it is a sin.

“But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” Matt5:28. In his heart, means that the laws of God extend to the thoughts; and men may violate them in their hearts without manifesting their feelings in outward conduct. You may think in your heart and not act, but the fact that you did not act does not mean you have not sinned. Pro6:25,2Peter2:14, James1:14-15. The heart is the source of your actions, and it is the factory where evil desires are conceived. Luke6:45. What we think in our hearts leads to what we do. Pro4:23. Therefore, examine your life for anything that causes you to sin, and take every necessary action to remove it.

“And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell” Matt5:29. We should blind ourselves by taking care not to look with evil eyes. Job31:1. we should discipline ourselves by absolutely refusing to go to forbidden resorts. Col 3:5. It is better to experience the pain of getting rid of a bad habit than to allow the sin of it to bring judgement and condemnation to you. Matt 18:8-9.

“And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.” Matt5:30. Our Lord Jesus, here emphasizes the seriousness and sincerity with which we should seek a sinless life by letting the terrors of hell constrain us, and the joys of heaven encourage us to seek righteousness. The right eye and hand and foot were regarded as the most precious Ex 29:20, Mark 9:45 but it is better to lose the dearest thing in life than to lose one’s self. Matt16:26. It is better to be deprived of all earthly advantage than to be cast into hell.

 LESSONS: Acting out sinful desires is harmful in several ways

1. Lust is absolutely a sin, even if it never results in physical action. Matt5:28.
2. It makes people to give excuse for sin rather than to stop sinning. Rom6:1
3. It destroys marriages and relationship. To be faithful to your spouse with your body, but not your mind is to break the trust so vital to a strong marriage and relationship. Rom12:9
4. It can be a deliberate rebellion against God’s word. Luke16:15.
5. It always hurts someone else in addition to the sinner. Pro6:25-29.
6. Sinful actions are dangerous and sinful desires are damaging to obedience.
7. Wrong desires if unchecked will result in wrong actions and will turn people away from God.Luke21:34.
8. The eye, the right hand is the instrument of outward action.1John2:16
9. The heart is the instrument of the inward action. PS66:18, Luke6:45.
10. What you think in your hearts leads to what we do with our bodies.
11. God intent is for people to control what happens in their hearts and minds well before the opportunity for physical action. James4:8.
12. True righteousness is not merely about what a person does but includes what they think and feel. James3:14.

HOW TO AVOID LUST:

1. DISCIPLINE YOUR BODY. Rom 8:13; 1Cor 9:27; Col 3:5.
2. DISCIPLINE YOUR EYES. Job31:1. Ps 119:37; Pro 4:25; Pro 23:31-33; 1John 2:16
3. WALK IN THE SPIRIT.Gal5:16
4. PUT ON JESUS CHRIST. Rom13:14, Eph3:17.
5. DO THE WILL OF GOD. 1John2:16-17.
6. AVOID ALL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MIGHT MOVE YOU TO EVIL, NO MATTER WHAT IT COSTS YOU. 1Thess5:22.
7. DEPEND ON GOD FOR GRACE.Eph2:8-9, Phil4:13.

CONCLUSION: Examine your life for any thing that causes you to sin, and take every necessary action to remove it. It is not enough to avoid adultery; we must keep our hearts from lusting and be faithful. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, let Christ be formed in me and help me to a overcome the spirit of lust in the name of Jesus.  Gal4:19.

LESSON 17

TOPIC:  AVOID DIVORCE

TEXT: MATT 5:31-32

God did not intend divorce in marriage, God intends marriage to be a life time commitment. Gen2:24. In other words, these two shall be one flesh, shall be considered as one body, having no separate or independent rights, privileges, cares, concerns, each being equally interested in all things that concern the marriage. Meaning that these two shall be for the production of one flesh; from their union, a posterity shall spring, as exactly resembling themselves as they do each other. God hates putting away. Mal2:16.

Our Lord Jesus Christ emphasized this mind of God. Mark 10:6-9. Apostle Paul also stated the mind of God. Eph 5:31. This is the original plan of God concerning marriage, permanent marriage was God’s intention.

“It hath been said, whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement.” Matt5:31. Jesus referred to the Law of Moses in other to emphasize that divorce is not an option. Deut24:1-4. Because of the sinful human nature divorce was inevitable, and so Moses made a law to help the victims, that a man could no longer just throw his wife out, he had to write a formal letter of dismissal. Jesus maintained that it was not so from the beginning, that Moses gave this law only because of the people’s hard hearts. Matt19:3-8. God designed marriage to be indissoluble, but man put it asunder against the plan of God, because of the hardness of man’s heart. And so, He warned that any one that divorces his wife except for fornication exposes her to commit adultery.

”But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery “ Matt5:32. In other words divorce is not permissible except for unfaithfulness, a sexually immoral life style and this is dangerous. 1Cor6:9-10. Our Lord, Jesus went further to say that anyone who marries the divorced woman is committing adultery.  Matt 19:9, Luke 16:18.

CONSEQUENCES OF DIVORCE

1. It is hurtful and destructive.
2. It leads to sin. Matt5:32, Matt 19:9, Luke 16:18.

FOCUS: FORGIVENESS.Eph4:32, Matt5:7. Jesus said that divorce is not permissible except for fornication. Matt5:32. This does not mean that divorce should automatically occur when a spouse commits adultery. When a spouse commits adultery and confesses and repents of the act, we should make every effort to forgive, reconcile and restore relationship. James5:16. Matt18:15-17 &21-22. We are always to look for reasons to restore the marriage relationship rather than for excuse to leave it. When two married people are genuinely born again and both are following Christ, divorce will not be an option. However, when adultery becomes a life style, then that would be a matter of serious concern. 1Cor6:9-10.

LESSONS:

1. Marriage is sacred and binding, we should avoid divorce.1Cor7:10. Do not consider divorce as an option when entering marriage. Heb13:4.
2. When one party to the divorce is dead remarriage is permitted. Rom 7:2-3.
3. When you divorce, remain unmarried or try reconciliation 1Cor 7:11. Do not use divorce as a means of solving problem or a way out of a bad relationship.
4. It may be a permanent and final act for the couple. Once divorced and remarried to others, they could never be remarried to each other. Deut24:2-4
5. People must think twice before divorcing. Deut24:4, Matt5:32

CONCLUSION: Divorce is as hurtful and destructive today as in the days of Jesus and Moses. God intends marriage to be a life time commitment. Mark10:6-9. It is not enough to be legally married; we must also live our marriage commitments. We should always look for reasons to restore it rather than to leave it. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, give me the grace to obey your word and to live according to your word for my life in the name of Jesus.

LESSON 18

TOPIC:  LET YOUR WORD BE YOUR BOND

TEXT: MATT 5:33-37

Our Lord Jesus is here emphasising the importance of telling the truth. Christians must understand the importance of telling the truth, rather than using the name of God as a token to seal a promise. Ex20:7. We should avoid making vows and the practice of adding some qualifier to our words to declare honesty, such as “cross my heart “or “I promise. “The bible condemns making vows or taking oaths by giving your word when you know you will not keep or by swearing falsely in God’s name. Jesus is reminding us that in the old covenant it is commanded that we should not swear.

“Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:” Matt5:33.

“Thou shalt not forswear thyself”, In other words, do not swear falsely in God’s name. Lev 19:12, Deut.  5:11. Do not misuse the name of Lord less you become guilty.

“but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:” Secondly do not say what you cannot do, but you must keep your word. You must do what you say. Deutt23:23, Num 30:1-2.

“But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne”:  Matt5:34.

“Swear not at all:” Jesus Christ does not forbid judicial oaths. For example, God sometimes swears by himself Gen 22:16-17. Jesus himself made a prophetic vow or declaration before the Sanhedrin Matt 26:63-64. The Apostle Paul made a vow before the Corinthians 2Cor 1:23. Jesus forbids us from all profanity and idle vows, such as were common among the Jews, and still so defile the mouths of men. Jesus is talking about idle word Matt12:36, James3:2.  Swear not at all in the manner which is the common and profane ways customary with the world.

THINGS NOT TO SWEAR BY

1. By Heaven: for it is God’s throne. To swear by that means swearing by Him sitting thereon. Matt 23:22. James 5:12.
2. Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: Matt5:35 Swearing by that is really swearing by what belongs to God and by inanimate objects; who has no power to take vengeance. we have no right to pledge, or swear by, what belongs to God; and, a footstool is that on which the feet rest when sitting. The term is applied to the earth, to indicate how lowly and humble an object it is when compared with God.
3. neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.Matt5:35. That is, city of God; called the great King because he was the King of the Israelites, and Jerusalem was the capital of the nation, and the place where he was peculiarly honoured as King. Matt 2:1. Ps 48:2.
4. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. Matt5:36. To swear by the head is the same as to swear by the life; or to say, I will forfeit my life if what I say is not true. God is the Author of the life, and to swear by that, is the same as to swear by Him. God commands us not to do it. You have no control or right over your own life. You cannot even change one single hair. God has all that control; and it is therefore improper and profane to pledge what is God’s gift and God’s property; and it is the same as swearing by God Himself.

Therefore, think before you vow, let your word be true.it should be either yes or no according to our Lord Jesus.

“But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. Matt5:37. In other word, let your word be your bond without further explanations. Whatever you affirm, affirm it alone, and whatever you deny, deny it alone without any more words. Anything, more than that becomes doubtful and devilish.

LESSONS

1. Keeping vows and promises is important, because it builds trust and makes committed human relationships possible
2. Using the name of the Lord in vain attracts punishment from God Deut5:11
3. To Swear by heaven or earth brings you into condemnation. James5:12
4. Let your yes be your yes and your no your no. James5:12
5. It is better not to vow or make a promise, than to vow and not fulfil it. Ecc5:5-6
6. To vow and not fulfil it destroys the works of your hand, so think and be sure before you vow. Ecc5:6.

CONCLUSION: Are you known as a person of your word? Truthfulness seems so rear that we feel we must end our statements with “I promise.” If we tell the truth all the time, we will have less pressure to back up our words with an    oath or promise. It is not enough to keep your vows; we must also avoid casual and irresponsible commitments to God.col4:6.  Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to keep my word and make me a trust worthy person in the name of Jesus.

LESSON 19

TOPIC:  AVOID REVENGE

TEXT: MATT 5:38-42

God is a God of mercy. Jesus referred to the law in the old covenant which was not a guide for personal revenge, but was given to limit vengeance.

 “Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth” Matt5:38: Ex21:23-25, Lev24:19-20, Deut 19:21.

When we are wronged, often our first reaction is to get even. Instead, Jesus said we should do good to those who wrong us.

 “But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also” Matt5: 39. In other words, our desire should not be to keep score, but to love and to forgive. Do not revenge evil. Pro 20:22; Pro24:29; Isaiah 50:6; Lam 3:30; Luke 6:29; Rom 12:17&19; 1Cor 6:7; 1Thess 5:15; 1Peter 3:9. This is not natural, it is supernatural. Only God can give us the strength to love as He does.

 “And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also.” Matt5:40. Be ready to give up even that which by law cannot be taken. Luke 6:29; 1Cor 6:7

 “And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.” Matt5:41.

We are here exhorted to patience and forgiveness: Matt 27:32; Mark 15:21. Luke 23:26

First, when we receive in our persons all sorts of insults and affronts, Matt 5:39.

Secondly, when we are spoiled of our goods, Mt 5:40.

Thirdly, when our bodies are forced to undergo all kinds of toils, vexations, and torments, Matt 5:41.  Mark 15:21.

The way to improve the injustice of man to our own advantage, is to exercise under its meekness, gentleness, and long-suffering, without which disposition of mind, no man can either be happy here or hereafter; for he that avenges himself must lose the mind of Christ, and thus suffer an injury ten thousand times greater than he can ever receive from man.  Revenge, at such an expense, is costly indeed.

“Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.” Matt5:42. Deut 15:8 &10; Luke 6:30, &35.

This is the general rule. It is better to give sometimes to an undeserving person, than to turn away one really in need. It is good to be in the habit of giving. At the same time, the rule must be interpreted to be consistent with our duty to our families.

LESSON

1. Matt5:41 when we receive in our persons all sorts of insults and affronts Janes1:4
2. Luke17:3-4
3. Give Pro3:27, Luke6:38
4. Do not take the law into your hands. Rom12:19,1Thess5:15.
5. Vengeance belongs to God Deut32:35, Isaiah63:4,
6. God revenges Nahum1:2-3 Ps94:1, Heb10:30

CONCLUSION: It is not enough to seek justice for ourselves, we must also show mercy and love to others. By telling us not to retaliate, Jesus keeps us from taking the law into our hands. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me and give me the grace not to take vengeance against those who offend me in the name of Jesus.

 

LESSON 20

TOPIC:  LOVE YOUR ENEMIES

TEXT: MATT 5:43-48

The command to love our neighbour was a law of God, Lev 19:18. That we must, therefore, hate our enemy, was the interpretation of the Jews. “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy”. Matt5:43. They thought that if you loved one, you must, of course, hate the other. They thought that they should love only those who love in return as meaning that they should hate their enemies. Ps139:19-22. They were total strangers to that great, law of Love, which requires us to love both. Lev19:18. A neighbour is literally one that lives near to us; then, one that is near to us by acts of kindness and friendship. Luke 10:29-37. But God is love 1John4:8 and so commends His love to us Rom5:8. And Christ does not wish any one to perish 2Peter3:9.

” But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;” Matt5:44

 Love your enemies:  This is the most humbling piece of morality ever given to man.  Has it appeared unreasonable and absurd to some?  It has.  And why?  Because it is natural to man to avenge himself, and plague those who plague him; and he will ever find abundant excuse for his conduct, especially in the repeated evils he receives from others; for men are naturally hostile to each other.  This is therefore one of the most reasonable precepts in the universe. But who can obey it?  None but he who has the mind of Christ.  Phil2:5. If you love your enemies and treat them well, you will truly show that Jesus is Lord of your life. This is possible for those who give themselves fully to God, because only God can deliver people from natural selfishness. We must trust the Holy Spirit to help us show love to those for whom we may not feel love. This is that kingdom of heaven which Christ came to establish upon earth. Matt3:2.

Bless them that curse you: give them good words for their bad words. Rom 12:20; 1Cor 4:12-14; 1Peter 2:23, 1Peter 3:9.

Do good to them that hate you: Give your enemy every proof that you love him.  We must not love in tongue, but indeed and in truth. Luke 6:27&35.

Pray for them which despitefully use you:  Luke23:34; Acts 7:60.

Those who are making continual war with you, and constantly harassing and falsely accusing you Pray for them-This is another humbling instruction. In other words, I cannot change that wicked man’s heart; and while it is unchanged, he will continue to harass me, since God alone can change it: then I must implore Him to do that which will at once secure the poor man’s salvation, and contribute so much to my own peace.

 And persecute you: Those who press hard on and pursue you with hatred and malice accompanied with repeated acts of enmity, pray for them. Rom 12:14.

“That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” Matt5:45   We are God’s children when we have the spirit of our Father. We are not if we have the spirit of the world.1John3:9-11. Our Father above sends blessing, the rain, and the sunshine, on the just and the unjust. Job 25:3. He loves all, and even sent his son to die for a wicked world because he loved. John 3:16

 “For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?” Matt5:46. He who loves only his friends, does nothing for God’s sake.  He who loves for the sake of pleasure or interest, pays himself.  God has no enemy which he hates but sin; we should have no other. Luke 6:32.

 “And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?” Matt5:47. You have not done anything extraordinary if you greet only those close to you.? You just acted like the unbelievers.

 “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. Matt5:48, Gen 17:1; Lev 11:44; Lev19:2; Luke 6:36; Eph 5:1; Col 1:28; James 1:4; 1Peter 1:15-16 God himself is the grand law, sole giver, and only pattern of the perfection which he recommends to his children. To be perfect you shall be filled with the spirit of that God whose name is Mercy, and whose nature is love.  He calls himself LOVE, to teach us that in this consists that perfection, He has made it our duty and privilege to attain this perfection.

FOCUS: 1. LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR. To inherit Eternal life, love your neighbour as yourself. Luke10:25-28.

2.PERFECTION. That the best evidence we can have of our divine sonship, is our conformity to the divine nature, especially in those excellent properties of goodness and forgiveness.

LESSONS

1. A man may be our enemy in three different ways. First, in his heart, by hatred. Secondly, in his words by cursing or using terrible words against us. Thirdly, in his actions, by continually harassing and abusing us.
2. The way to behave to those who hate us is to show love.
3. The Way to behave to cursing or evil words is to meet with good words and blessings.
4. The Way to behave to the repeated injurious acts of people is to meet them with continual prayer to God for their salvation.
5. We overcome evil with good by praying for our enemies
6. To inherit Eternal life, love your neighbour as yourself. Luke10:25-28
7. You are miserable when you hate. Pro16:7
8. You are known to be the children of your Father which is in heaven, by your likeness to him, and imitation of Him in loving your enemies.
9. That the best evidence we can have of our divine sonship, is our conformity to the divine nature, especially in those excellent properties of goodness and forgiveness.
10. That God does good to them that are continually doing evil unto him.

CONCLUSION: We can be perfect if our behaviour is appropriate for our maturity level which the perfect Christ calls us to excel, to rise above mediocrity and to mature in every area and become like Him. Those who strive to become perfect will one day be perfect, even as Christ is perfect.1john3:2-3.  Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to love my enemies and help me to be perfect as you are in the name of Jesus.

LESSON 21

TOPIC:  GIVING TO THE NEEDY

TEXT: MATT 6: 1-4

In the foregoing verses our Lord Jesus Christ is talking about the nature of inward holiness.  In other words, He is talking about purity of intention and motives, that without these none of our outward actions are holy. Simply, this verse is talking about the right intention and manner of giving alms, Mt 6:1-4.

“Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.” Matt6:1. Our Lord Jesus is saying we must be careful not to do your good deeds publicly to be admired, because you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. Matt 16:6; Mark 8:15; Ps 112:9.

“Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward”. Matt6:2. When you give a gift to someone in need do not shout about it, like the hypocrites do. When you do so, surely you have received all the reward you would ever get. Rom 12:8.

 Hypocrites in this regard, are people who do good acts for appearances only, not for compassion. John 7:18; Pro 20:6.

“But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth” Matt6:3. Our Lord Jesus is saying that our motives for giving to God and to others must be pure, because it is easy to give with mixed motives, to do something for someone if it will benefit us in return. So, believers should avoid all scheming and give for the pleasure of giving and as a response to God’s love. Matt 8:4; Matt 9:30; Mark 1:44; John 7:4.

“That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.” Matt6:4. In other words, to be sure our motives are not selfish, we should do our good deeds quietly or in secret, with no thought of reward. Give your gifts in secret and your Father who, knows all secrets, will reward you. Luke14:14.

FOCUS: MOTIVES. We should check our motives in giving. WHY DO YOU GIVE? Do you give with the intent for a benefit in return? Or you give in response to God’s love and compassion for others? Our giving should not be self-cantered but God cantered. Our giving should not be done to make us look good but to make God look good and glorified. Matt25:34-40.  It is the right and good motives that God rewards and not the act. Matt6:4

LESSONS:

1. No reward for hypocrites. People who do good acts for appearances only, not for compassion. Matt6:2.
2. Do not blow your trumpets for the good done to another.
3. Your actions may be good but when your motives are hollow there is no reward
4. God will reward those who are sincere in their faith

CONCLUSION: The reward God promises is not material and it is never given to those who seek it. Luke14:14. Doing something only for ourselves is not a loving sacrifice. With your next good deeds, ask yourself, Would I still give if no one would ever know I did it? Matt6:4 Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to give in response to God’s love and compassion and not for selfish reasons in the name of Jesus.

LESSON 22

TOPIC:  PRAYER

TEXT: MATT 6: 5-15

Our Lord Jesus Christ is here teaching us about the right intention and manner of praying. Our business in prayer lies with God; we are not to concern ourselves how men like our performances as the Hypocrites would do, we should avoid ambition and vain babbling in prayer.

“And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” Matt6:5

Prayer is the most secret intercourse of the soul with God, it is the conversation of one heart with another. We must shut the door against distraction.

“But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly” Matt6:5. Prayer requires retirement, at least of the heart; for this may be termed the closet in the house of God, which house, the body of every real Christian is. 1Cor 3:16. Closet means, we ought to retire even in public prayer, and amid company.2Kings 4:33. Matt 14:23.

“But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.” Matt6:7. Long prayers are not condemned, but repeating the same words over and over like a magic incantation is vain, and needless, it does not guarantee that God will hear your prayer. It is not wrong to come to God many times with the same requests. Jesus encourages persistent prayer, Luke18:1. We can never pray too much if our prayers are honest and sincere, but He condemns the shallow repetition of words that are not offered with a sincere heart.1Kings 18:26&29; Ecc 5:2.

“Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.” Matt6:8. Prayer is not designed to inform God, but to humble our heart in faith to our Father in heaven, and to put ourselves in such communion with him as to make us fit to receive. God does not need elaborate explanations.  Moreover, prayer is a matter of asking and receiving, Luke 12:30; John 16:23-27.

 “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name” Matt6:9. This is often called the Lord’s prayer. it is a plan for a more extended devotion given by Jesus and the way we are to pray to him, so as not to pray in vain. Luke11:2.

Our Father: This prayer is designed for the children of God.  And hence we are taught to say, not MY Father, but OUR Father.   the word Father, at the beginning of this prayer is the foundation of all our prayers, it expresses that tender and respectful love which we should feel for God, such as that which children feel for their fathers. That strong confidence in God’s love to us, such as fathers have for their children.  So, all our petitions should be in in strict reference to the Father.

  Which art in heaven:   This expresses 5 things about Our Father:

1. His OMNIPRESENCE. 1Kings 8:27
2. His MAJESTY and DOMINION over his creatures.2Chro 20:6.
3. His POWER and MIGHT. 2Chro 20:6, Ps 115:3.
4. His OMNISCIENCE. Ps 11:4.    Ps 33:13-15.
5. His infinite PURITY and HOLINESS.  Deut 26:15, Isaiah 57:15.

  Hallowed. Praise and commitment to honour God’s Holy name, and exalt him above, earth and all things. Why?

We hallow God’s name, First, with our lips, when all our conversation is holy, and we speak of those things which are good to minister grace to the hearers.

 Secondly, in our thoughts, when we suppress every rising evil, and have our tempers regulated by his grace and Spirit.

 Thirdly, in our lives, when we begin, continue, and end our works to his glory

 Fourthly, in our families, when we endeavour to bring up our children in the discipline and admonition of the Lord; instructing also our servants in the way of righteousness.

 Fifthly, in a particular calling or business, when we separate falsehood, deception, and lying, commonly practised, from it; buying and selling as in the sight of the holy and just God.

Thy name.  That is, GOD himself, with all the attributes of his Divine nature-His power, wisdom, justice, mercy.

“Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” Matt6:10

Thy kingdom come: The word kingdom here means God’s spiritual reign. Matt 3:2. It is the expression of a desire that God may reign everywhere; that his laws may be obeyed; and especially that the gospel of Christ may be advanced everywhere, till the world shall be filled with his glory.

Thy will be done. The will of God is, that men should obey his law, and be holy. His will, refers to his law, and to what would be acceptable to him; that is, righteousness. To pray, that his will be done on earth as in heaven, is to pray that his law, his revealed will, be obeyed and loved. His law is perfectly obeyed in heaven, and his true children must ardently desire and pray that it may also be done on the earth.

 “Give us this day our daily bread” Matt6:11. This refers to everything necessary to sustain life, Matt 4:4; Deut. 8:3. When we pray this way, we are acknowledging that God is our sustainer and provider. Pro. 30:8.

“And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” Matt6:12. This means that God should mete out to us what we measure to others. In other words, do unto me what I do unto others. Matt 18:21.

“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.” Matt6:13. This means that God should keep us from being tempted, or if tempted, deliver us from the temptation, and from all evil and let His kingdom reign in Power and glory for ever. so be it.1Chro 29:11; Matt 26:41; Luke 22:40,46; John 17:15; 1Cor 10:13; 2Peter 2:9; Rev 3:10

“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:” Matt6:14. He who shows mercy to men receives mercy from God. It is easy to ask God for forgiveness but difficult to grant it to others. Mark 11:25-26; Eph 4:32; Col 3:13.

“But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses”. Matt6:15. If we refuse to forgive others, God will also refuse to forgive us. WHY? Because when we do not forgive others, we are denying our common ground as sinners in need of God’s forgiveness. Therefore, whenever we ask God to forgive us, we should ask, have I forgiven the people who have wronged me? Matt 18:35; James 2:13.

FOCUS: THINGS TO AVOID IN PRAYER:

1. Be not as the hypocrites. Mt 6:5.  
2.   Enter thy closet. Mt 6:6.
3. MUCH SPEAKING, or MEANINGLESS REPETITION, Be not like the heathens. Mt 6:7.

LESSONS:

1. The essence of prayer is not public style but private communication with God.
2. There is a place for public prayer, but to pray only where others will notice you indicates that your audience is not God.
3. Before you start to pray make sure you mean what you say. Have faith.
4. Long prayers are not condemned, but vain, needless, and superstitious ones.
5. Prayer is not to inform God; God knows what you need. Matt6:8
6. The Lord’s prayer was made in a peculiar manner for the children of God. And hence we are taught to say, not MY Father, but OUR Father.
7. The object of the first three statements in the Lord’s prayer is that God’s name should be glorified, and His kingdom established; and by being placed first, we learn that His glory and kingdom are of more consequence than our wants, and that these should be first in our hearts and petitions before the throne of grace.
8. We must trust God daily to provide what He knows we need.

CONCLUSION:  For the prayer thought by Jesus to profit our souls, we must follow the divinely instructed manner, so we can be influenced by the spirit of true devotion. We must remember that an unforgiving temper, if continued, will shut a man out of heaven, and shut him up in hell. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to pray right, and give me the grace to forgive anyone who offends me in the name of Jesus.

 

LESSON 23

TOPIC:  FASTING

TEXT: MATT 6: 16-18

 The word fast literally signifies to abstain from food and drink for a certain period to spend time in prayer. It is devoting of the whole man, Spirit, soul, and body, to a solemn and extraordinary attendance upon God, in a particular time set apart for that purpose. After the teaching of the Lord’s prayer our Lord, Jesus thought about fasting.

“Moreover, when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward”. Mattt6:16. As you abstain from food and drink to spend time in prayer do not do it for people to take notice of you or else you have your reward already. Isaiah 58:5.

“But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;” Matt6:17.

Take the right way in fasting; to anoint the head and wash the face: Ruth3:3; Dan10:3.

“That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.” Matt6:18. Go about your normal daily routine when you fast instead of making a show of it.

LESSONS:

1. It gives us time to pray.
2. It teaches self-discipline.
3. It reminds us that we can live with a lot less.
4. It helps us to appreciate God’s gifts.
5. Jesus was not condemning fasting but hypocrisy-fasting to gain public approval.
6. Jesus commended acts of self-sacrifice done quietly and sincerely.

CONCLUSION: Jesus cautions us to beware of an abuse in fasting. We are to adopt spiritual desire for the right reasons, not from a selfish desire for praise. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to engage in fasting according to divine command in the name of Jesus.

 

LESSON 24

TOPIC:  MONEY

TEXT: MATT 6: 19-24

Our Lord Jesus Christ teaches us not to spend our lives only labouring for things of the earth, but that we should be heavenly minded also.   

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:” Matt6:19. Treasures are; those things which men love most, and which they regard as their chief good.  Jesus did not forbid, the laying up of treasures, but laying them up on the earth; that is, the piling up of worldly wealth for worldly purposes, because all earth treasure will finally perish and may be stolen. Pro 23:4; 1Tim 6:17; Heb 13:5; James 5:1.

Money is no sin. Ecc10:19, Ecc7:12. But the love and improper use of money brings evil.1Tim6:10. Ecc5:12-14.

“But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal” Matt6:20. That is, have provision made for your eternal happiness. Do not exhaust your strength, and spend your days, in providing for the life here, but let your focus be to be prepared for eternity where nothing corrupts, nothing terminates, no enemies steal or destroy. To have treasure in heaven is to possess evidence that the purity and joy of heaven will be ours. It is to be heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ to an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away.  Matt 19:21; Luke 12:33-34; Luke18:22; 1Tim 6:19; 1Peter 1:4.

“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” Matt6: 21. If God be the treasure of our souls, our hearts, i.e., our affections and desires will be placed on things above.  An earthly minded man proves that his treasure is below; a heavenly minded man shows that his treasure is above. Luke 12:34; 2Cor 4:18. “The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.” Matt6:22. A pure eye is the one that is fixed and focused on God. God wants us to see the world from His point of view. When the eye is directed singly and steadily towards an object, not looking two ways but looking right at its object with a clear purpose to serve God in everything the whole character will be consistent and bright. Pro 4:25-27, Luke 11:34&36.

“But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!” Matt6:23. If the eye of thy soul is beclouded, so that earthly treasurers appear to it better than heavenly treasures, “how great is that darkness!” Our self-serving desires, interests and goals easily blocks our vision. Luke 11:36, Eph4:18.

“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Matt6:24. Jesus says we should have only one master. We live in a materialistic society where many people serve money, they spend all their lives collecting and storing it, only to die and leave it behind. Ecc6:2. Their desire for money and what it can buy far outweighs their commitment to God and spiritual matters. Whatever you store up, you will spend much of your time and energy thinking about. Do not fall into the materialistic trap. 1Tim6:10. Can you honestly say that God and not money, is your master? One test is to ask yourself which one occupies more of your thoughts, time, and efforts. Luke 16:13; Gal 1:10; 1Tim 6:17; James 4:4; 1John 2:15.

LESSONS

1.Because the heart, or affections of man, will of course be fixed on his treasure, it is important to regulate the heart, so that the treasure, or object of attachment, should be right- eternal life.

2.Getting, possessing, and enjoying, of earthly treasure, is permitted, it is also an instrument of doing much good. Luke3:11.

3.Excessive pursuit, confidence, and trust in worldly wealth as our main treasure is prohibited and forbidden.

4.We are commanded to lay up for ourselves treasure in heaven.

5.We should treasure up those habits of grace which will bring us to an inheritance in glory.

6.We should be fruitful in good works, laying up in store for ourselves a good foundation against the time to come, that we may lay hold of eternal life.

CONCLUSION: All earthly treasures are of a perishing and uncertain nature, that they are subject to moth and rust, to robbery and theft; Heavenly treasures are subject to no such accidents and casualties as earthly treasures are, but are durable and lasting. The perishing nature of earthly things ought to be improved by us by letting loose our affections towards them. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to fix and focus my eyes on God and only on the things that are needful in the name of Jesus.

 

LESSON 25

TOPIC:  WORRY NOT

TEXT: MATT 6: 25-34

Prudent care is never forbidden by our Lord Jesus Christ, but only that anxious distracting anxiety, which, divides the mind, into different ways and renders it utterly incapable of attending to important concern that is forbidden. To be anxiously careful concerning the means of subsistence is to lose all satisfaction and comfort in the things which God gives, and this makes you mere unbeliever.

“Therefore, I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” Matt6:25. Because of the negative effects of worry, Jesus tells us not to worry about those needs that God promises to supply.

Ps 55:22; Luke 12:22-23; Php 4:6; 1Peter 5:7

“Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?” Matt6:26. If our great Creator have made us capable of knowing, loving, and enjoying himself eternally, what may we not expect from him, after so great a gift?  If our Father feeds the fowls of the air that cannot labour, our lives are of more importance than theirs, God will therefore provide for you. Job 38:41; Ps 147:9; Luke 12:24

“Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?” Matt6:27. Human anxiety is unprofitable. unless God grants it.  What can our uneasiness do but render us still more unworthy of the Divine care?  The passage from lack of trust to backsliding is very short and easy; and murmuring against God is not far. By all our cares, we can add nothing either to the length or comfort of our lives. We should depend fully upon God for the preservation of his gifts and for the gifts themselves. Matt 5:36; Luke 12:25-26.

“And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin.” Matt6:28. why are you anxiously careful about raiment? If God nourishes the herbs and flowers of the field who do not labour, your heavenly Father could augment your substance, and preserve your being, to His glory and for our own advantage. do not depend on your anxious concern, lay it earnestly to heart, and let your confidence be unshaken in the God of infinite abundance and love. Matt 10:10; Luke 3:11; Luke 22:35,36, Luke 12:2.

“And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these”. Matt6:29. The magnificence of Solomon and of his court is uncommon unto this day. yet he was surpassed by the common lily of the field. Song 3:6-11.

 “Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” Matt6:30. If God guards the grass from the injuries of the weather. God will certainly protect you from danger. Mark 4:40, Ps92:7.

“Therefore, take no thought, saying, what shall we eat? or, what shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?” Matt6:31. Let us not be so ungrateful to him, nor so injurious to ourselves, as to harass and oppress our minds with that burden of anxiety, which He has so graciously taken off.  Ps 37:3; Ps55:22; 1Peter 5:7

“For after all these things do the Gentiles seek: for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things” Matt6:32. In other words, worldliness, anxiety, and distrust, might be in the unbeliever, who have no knowledge of a heavenly Father, but we have a heavenly Father, and He knows that we “need all these things.” Luke 12:30; Eph 4:17.

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matt6:33. Make the kingdom of God your primary concern, put God first in your life, fill your thoughts with His desires take His character as your pattern of life, serve, and obey Him in everything.1Kings 3:13; Ps 37:25; Mark 10:30; Luke 12:31;

1Tim 4:8.

“Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” Matt6:34. Here our Saviour re-in forces his exhortation from anxiety and care for worldly things, assuring us, that every day will bring with it a sufficient burden of trouble, and therefore we ought not to torment ourselves, by antedating our own sorrows, and foretelling what may or may not come to pass. John16:33.

REASONS NOT TO WORRY:

1. The same God who created life in you can be trusted with the details of your life. Matt6:25
2. Worrying about the future hampers your efforts for today. Matt6:26
3. Worrying is more harmful than helpful. Matt6:27
4. God does not ignore those who depend on Him.Matt6:28-30
5. Worrying shows a lack of faith in and understanding of God.Matt6:31-32.
6. Worrying keeps us from real challenges God wants us to pursue. Matt6:33
7. Living one day at a time keeps us from being consumed with worry. Matt6:34.

 LESSONS:

1. Worry damages your health.
2. Worry disrupts your productivity.
3. Worry negatively affects the way you treat others.
4. Worry reduces your ability to trust in God.
5. Worry immobilizes, but concern moves you to action.
6. Christians must here on earth set themselves to seek heaven or the kingdom of God.
7. God’s kingdom cannot be sought without God’s righteousness: holiness is the only way to happiness.
8. The kingdom of God, must be sought in the first place, as our main care and principal endeavour.
9. When Heaven is secured by us, all earthly things will be super added by God, as he sees needful and convenient for us.

 CONCLUSION: it is a painful sinful and unprofitable evil, to worry  ourselves with distrustful and distracting fears of what may come upon us: every day has its own duty and difficulty; though sufferings must be expected and prepared for, yet we must not torment ourselves to-day with fears of what may be tomorrow; but every day cast our burden of care upon God who daily careth for us.1Peter5:7, Ps55:22. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to trust and not to  worry  in the name of Jesus.

LESSON 26

TOPIC:  JUDGE NOT

TEXT: MATT 7:1-6

Our Lord Jesus warns us against rash judgment and uncharitable condemnation, and that holy things must not be profaned.  When we find fault with one another, we must beware, we do not do it without cause, or to seem holier than others or because of hatred of others.

“Judge not, that ye be not judged.” Matt7:1. These exhortations are talking about rash, harsh, and uncharitable judgments, thinking evil, and speaking of it where no evil seems.  This is one of the most important exhortations in the whole excellent sermon of Jesus Christ.  By nature, man endeavours to elevate himself above disposition, that evil thoughts, rash judgments, precipitate decisions, and all other unjust procedures against our neighbour, flow. Luke 6:37; Rom 2:1; Rom14:3-4,1Cor 4:3,5; James 4:11-12

 “For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” Matt7:2. In other words, expect to be treated as you treat others. He who is harsh on others will naturally attract their harshness against himself.   Luke 6:37-38, Mark 4:24.  The attacks and criticisms   which we have suffered are probably the just reward of those which we have done to others.

 “And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?” Mark7:3. Jesus is saying, why do we open our eyes to any fault of our brother, while we ourself are guilty of a much greater fault? Luke 6:41-42. Many people readily overlook their own wickedness, but are very quick and good in spying out the failings of other people.  John 8:7-9.

 “Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye?” Matt7:4 In other words, a man is utterly unfit to show the way of life to others who himself is walking in the way of death.

“Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.” Matt7:5 The man who finds fault with another, while he is more guilty in the fault, is a hypocrite. Christ teaches us that the proper way of forming an opinion of others, and reproving and correcting them.is by first amending our own faults, or casting the beam out of our eye, that way, we can consistently advance to correct the faults of others and there will be no hypocrisy in our conduct. We shall also see clearly to do it because the thing that obscured our sight, will be removed; and we shall more clearly see the small object that obscures the sight of our brother. Gal 6:1. “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.” Matt7:6. That is, talk not of perfection, the deep things of God to those whom you know to be wallowing in sin, and continually returning like the dog to their easily predominant sins of rash judgment, barking at and tearing the characters of others by evil speaking, back biting, and slandering; nor to him who, like the swine, is frequently returning to wallow in the mud of sensual gratifications and impurities. Matt 10:14; Matt15:26, Pro 9:7-8; Pro23:9; Acts 13:45-46. But our Lord Jesus does not also forbid us from correcting, as occasion arises.

LESSONS:

1. A rash and condemning judgement of others, renders a person liable to the righteous judgment of God.
2. You shall be judged by the same rule which you apply to others.
3. Those who are most critical of the smaller faults of others, are usually most notoriously guilty of far greater faults themselves.
4. Those who want others to look upon their faults with a compassionate eye, must not look upon the faults of others with a judgmental eye.
5. There is no better way to teach us love in judging others, as to exercise harshness in judging ourselves.
6. Many people are very zealous to convert others, but they themselves are unconverted. Before you try to change others, first change yourself.
7. Christ will not have his word offered to some sinners, lest they should abuse it, and abuse those that bring it: When sinners turn swine, and we are in danger of being attacked by them, Christ himself gives us a permission to cease correcting them. Matt 10:14.

CONCLUSION: The best way to judge the imperfections of others is to be free from greater ones ourselves. This makes our judgement candid and consistent and enables us to see things as they are, and to make proper allowances for frailty and imperfection. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, give me the grace to be able to deal with the faults in my life so that I can stop finding faults in others in the name of Jesus.

 LESSON 27

TOPIC:  ASKING, SEEKING, KNOCKING

TEXT: MATT 7:7-11.

 Prayer is a sure refuge in all miseries and it is the key that opens both the heart and hand of God, yet not every person nor every prayer shall find acceptance with God. The person praying must be a doer of God’s will, and the manner of our prayer must be in faith, and with fervency, and genuine perseverance. Matt 21:22; Mark 11:24, James4:3.

 “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:” Matt7:7.  Luke 11:9-10; John 14:13; John15:7; John16:23-24; 1John 3:22;1John 5:14-15.

Ask; It means let your requests be made known unto God.1Thess5:18, James1:5-6.

 Seek; Means Continue to ask of God the blessings which you need. Luke18:1.

 Knock; Means persevere at the door of his mercy and grace, with sincerity and seriousness.

 “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” Matt7:8. All who rightly ask, receive either what they ask or something better in its place. Pro 8:17; Jere 29:12-13.

 “Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?” Matt7:9. We are exhorted to come unto God, with the persuasion that he is a most gracious and compassionate Parent, who possesses all heavenly and earthly good, and knows what is necessary for each of his creatures, and is infinitely ready to release that which they need most, especially, if He have it?   Luke11:11-13.

“Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?” Matt7:10.

God knows what is good for us and He will not withhold it from us. Pro3:27. God only grants what is good for us. Sometimes God know we are praying for “snakes” and He does not give us what we ask even though we persist in our prayers.

 “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?” Matt7:11 Good gifts; are things which are needed and truly beneficial. The readiness of a kind, affectionate parent to give necessary food to a famishing child, is but a reflection of the readiness of God to give all needed good to those who rightly ask Him Gen 6:5; Gen 8:21. Eph 2:4-5, Luke11:13

LESSONS

1. There is a precept and a promise; the precept, or duty commanded, is importunity and constancy in prayer.
2. we must ask, seek, and knock to receive the promise.
3. Man is a poor, indigent, creature, full of wants, but unable to supply them.
4. God is an all-sufficient God, able to supply the wants of His creatures, if they call upon him, and cry unto him.
5. If we do not presently receive what we ask, we must continue to seek and knock; though prayer be not always answered in our time, yet it shall never fail of an answer in God’s time.
6. The natural propensity which we find in our hearts to hear the desires and to supply the wants of our own children, ought to raise in us a confident expectation, that Almighty God will hear our prayers, and supply our wants, when we call upon him.
7. if a father will give when a child asks, much more will God.  God loves giving and to give good gifts is his delight.

CONCLUSION: God is not selfish, begrudging, or stingy and we do not have to beg as we come with our requests. He is a loving father who understands, cares and comforts. If humans can be kind imagine how kind God, the creator of kindness can be. Ask the Lord now: “Lord, help me to ask, seek and knock according to your precept so that I can receive your promise for my life in the name of Jesus.

LESSON 28

TOPIC:  THE GOLDEN RULE

TEXT: MATT 7:12

 Our Lord Jesus here presses upon us that righteousness towards men is an essential part of true Christianity, and that true Christianity is an essential part of universal righteousness.

“Therefore, all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” Matt7:12. This command has been usually called the Saviour’s golden rule, because of its great value. All that you expect of others in similar circumstances, do to them. Act not from selfishness or injustice, but put yourself in the place of the other, and ask what you would expect of him then. This would make you impartial, and candid, and just. It would destroy avarice, envy, treachery, unkindness, slander, theft, adultery, and murder.  This is the law of balance.  Christ came to teach us, not only what we are to know and believe, but what we are to do; what we are to do, not only toward God, but toward men; not only towards our fellow believers, but towards men in general. The golden rule of equity is, to do to others as we would they should do to us. We must not do to others the evil they have done us, nor the evil which they would do to us, if it were in their power; nor may we do that which we think, if it were done to us, we could bear contentedly, but what we desire should be done to us. Lev 19:18; Matt 22:40; Luke 6:31; Rom 13:8-10; Gal 5:14; 1Tim 1:5.

 LESSONS:

1. Whatever is hateful to you, do not do to another.
2. We must do that to our neighbour which we ourselves acknowledge to be fit and reasonable.
3. we must bear the same affection to our neighbour that we would have borne to ourselves, so we must do the same good.
4. We must make righteousness our rule, and be ruled by it, Matt 7:12.
5. We must be honest in our conversation, if not, God will not hear our prayers, Isaiah 1:15-17; Isaiah 58:6&9; Zec 7:9&13. We cannot expect to receive good things from God, if we do not do right things.
6. We must not only be devout, but honest, else our devotion is but hypocrisy
7. We must do that to our neighbour which we ourselves acknowledge to be fit and reasonable.
8. We must put other people upon the level we put ourselves.  CONCLUSION: We must apply the great rule of righteousness and equity in all our dealings.  it is a short rule, a full rule, and a clear rule; both the light of nature and the law of Christ bind it upon us., to love God above ourselves, and to love our neighbours as ourselves. Matt22:37-39. Ask the Lord now: Lord, help me to treat others the same way I treat myself in the name of Jesus.

LESSON 29

TOPIC: THE WAY TO HEAVEN

TEXT: MATT 7:13-14

Believing in Jesus is the only way to Heaven because He alone died for our sins and made us right before God. Living His way may not be popular, but it is true and right. Thank God there is one way. John14:6.

“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat.” Matt7:13

 Christ here compares the way to life to an entrance through a gate. The way to Heaven is strait, meaning narrow, difficult to be entered. It is not the great highway that men tread, few go there. The way to death, on the other hand, is broad. Multitudes are in it. It is the great highway in which men go. They fall into it easily, and without effort, and go without thought. If they wish to leave that, and go by a narrow gate to the city, it would require effort and thought. So, says Christ, diligence is needed to enter into life.  Luke 13:24.

“Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” Matt7:14. In other words, the whole course is as difficult as the first step. The reason that men do not find it is not because it is hard to find, but because they prefer to walk in the broad way. Broad is the road that leads to death, and thousands walk together there; But wisdom shows a narrower path to the traveller. Matt 16:24-25.

LESSONS:

3. Every man is a traveller in a certain way.
4. There are but two ways in which the race of mankind can travel; the one strait and narrow, that leads to life and salvation; the other broad and wide, which leads to hell and destruction.
5. Because of the difficulties in the way to salvation, and the easiness of the way to hell and destruction, hence so few walk in the one, and so many in the other.
6. Christians having the strait way to heaven revealed to them, in and by the word of God, should choose rather to go in that way alone to life, than to run with the multitude in the broad way which leads down to the chambers of death and hell.

CONCLUSION: That the use of the word gate indicates our first entrance into a Christian way of life, and its being strait indicates the difficulty that attends a Christian at first; that evil habits must be put off, old companions in sin must be parted with. Ask the Lord now: Lord, help me to strive to enter through the narrow gate of life no matter the difficulty in the name of Jesus.

LESSON 30

TOPIC: FRUITS IN PEOPLE’S LIVES

TEXT: MATT 7:15-20

False teachers are as just common today as they were in the days of Jesus. Jesus says beware of those whose words sound religious but who are motivated by money, fame or power. You can tell who they are because in their teaching they minimize Christ and glorify themselves.

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.” Matt7:15 Deut 13:3, Acts 20:29-30, Rom 16:17-18 Eph 5:6, Col 2:8; 2Ti 3:5; 1Jo 4:1.

A caution given, Beware of false prophets.  There were two sorts of deceivers which our Saviour gave his disciples a special warning of; namely

False Christs and False prophets:

False Christs were such as pretended to be the true Messiahs; Matt 24:4-5,11,24; Mark 13:22.

False prophets were such as pretended to own Christianity, but drew people away from the simplicity of the gospel. Jere 23:16; Micah 3:5, 2Peter 2:1-3.

The ground of this caution: They come in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves; that is, they make fair pretences to strictness in religion, and to greater measures and degrees of mortification and self-denial than others. Mark12:38-40.

 “Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?” Matt7:16. Jesus teaches us the proper test of true character. Men do not judge of a tree by its leaves, or bark, or flowers, but by the fruit which it bears. The flowers may be handsome and fragrant; the foliage thick and green; but these are merely ornamental. It is the fruit that is of chief service to man; because man forms his opinion of the nature and value of the tree by their fruit. You may profess to be a fair and good Christian; but your conduct is the fruit in the eye of the world. A true Christiaan is known by his conduct.

Matt 7:20; Matt12:33; Luke 6:43-44.

“Do men gather grapes of thorns or figs of thistles? “Good fruit cannot be expected on such evil stocks. Every tree bears its own fruit. Luke6:44.

 “Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.” Matt7:17. So every good tree, means that the thorn can only produce thorns, not grapes; and the thistle, not figs, but prickles; so, an unregenerate heart will produce fruits of immorality.  As we perfectly know that a good tree will not produce bad fruit, and the bad tree will not, cannot produce good fruit, so we know that the profession of godliness, while the life is ungodly, is imposture, hypocrisy, and deceit.  A man cannot be a saint and a sinner at the same time.  Let us remember, that as the good tree means a good heart, and the good fruit, a holy life, and that every heart is naturally vicious; so there is none but God who can pluck up the vicious tree, create a good heart, plant, cultivate, water, and make it continually fruitful in righteousness and true holiness. Luke6:43,45, Jere 11:19; Matt 12:33.

 “A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.” Matt7:18. The Lord points to the uniform law of nature. Every tree bears after its kind. As is the tree, so is the fruit. The same principle holds good in the moral world. A good man will show forth good deeds, while a bad man will bear fruit according to his nature. Gal5:17,1John3:9-10.

 “Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.” Matt7:19. What a terrible sentence is this against Christless pastors, and Christless hearers or believers!  Every tree that produces not good fruit, is to be now cut down; the act of excision is now taking place: the curse of the Lord is even now on the head and the heart of every false teacher, and impenitent hearer. How dreadful then is the condition of that teacher who hath brought no sinners to God! Matt 3:10; Luke 3:9; John 15:2&6.

 “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” Matt7:20.

The truth is often repeated, because our eternal interests depend so much upon it. Not to have good fruit is to have evil: there can be no innocent sterility in the invisible tree of the heart.  He that brings forth no fruit, and he that brings forth bad fruit, are both only fit for the fire. Matt7:16, Acts5:38.

LESSONS:

1. The rule laid down by Christ, whereby we are to judge of false teachers; is that by their fruits ye shall know them.
2. That such who go about to seduce others, usually pretend to extraordinary measures of sanctity themselves.
3. That saints should be judged by their lives more than by their looks.
4. That saints should be judged by their actions more than by their expressions.
5. That the best course we can take to judge teachers pretending to be sent of God, is to examine the design and tendency of their doctrines, and the course and tenor of their conversation.
6. That good teacher, like good trees, will bring forth the good fruits of truth and holiness; but evil men and seducers, like corrupt trees, will bring forth error and wickedness in their life and doctrine.

CONCLUSION: We should evaluate teachers’ words by examining their lives. Just as trees are consistent in the kind of fruit they produce, good teachers consistently exhibit good behavior and high moral character as they seek to live out the truths of scripture. This should be the same for all believers. Ask the Lord now: Lord, create a good heart in me, cultivate, water, and make it continually fruitful in righteousness and true holiness in the name of Jesus.

LESSON 31

TOPIC: BUILDING A SOLID FOUNDATION IN CHRIST

TEXT: MATT 7:21-29

To   bear the name of a Christian and to profession of Christianity, without the practice of it, is a very insufficient ground to build our hopes of heaven and salvation upon.  A profession of faith and purposes of obedience, without actual obedience to the commands of God, will avail no person to salvation.

Not everyone who talks about heaven belongs to God’s kingdom. Jesus is more concerned about Our walk than our talk. He wants us to do right, not just say the right words. “Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.” Matt7:21. Your house which represents your life will withstand the storms of life only if you do what is right instead of talking about it. Luke6:46-49.

Not everyone that saith, Jesus says that many people, on the ground of that profession, will claim admittance into his kingdom. Many will plead that they had done miracles, and preached or prophesied much, and will demand an entrance into heaven. But shall not enter because the power of working miracles had no necessary connexion with doing the will of God. Matt 25:11-12, Luke 13:25. Acts 19:13; Rom 2:13. James1:22. “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?” Matt7:22. On judgement day only relationship with Christ, our acceptance of Him as saviour and our obedience to Him will matter, Faith in Christ is what will count at the judgement. Gifts and religious things will not be rewarded with eternal life, otherwise, God may as well, if He chooses, give the power of raising the dead to a wicked man, as the skill of healing to a wicked physician. A miracle is a display of his own power through the medium of another. An act of healing the sick is also a display of his power through the agency of another. In neither of these cases is there any necessary connexion with moral character. So, of preaching, or prophesying. God may use the agency of a man of talents, though not righteous, to carry forward his purposes. Saving power on the mind is the work of God; and he may convey it by any agency which he may choose. Accordingly, many may be found in the day of judgment who may have been endowed with powers of prophecy, or miracle, as Balaam, or the magicians of Egypt; in the same way as many men of distinguished talents may be found yet destitute of morals, and shut out of his kingdom.  Mark 9:38; Luke 9:49; 1Cor 13:1-3.  Paul says, that though he spoke with the tongue of angels, and had the gift of prophecy, and could remove mountains, and had not charity or love, all would be of no avail.1Cor13:1.” And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” Matt7:23. Multitude at the great day shall be really disowned by Christ, as none of his servants, many that have cast out devils now, shall be cast out to devils then; such as have done wonderful works, shall then perish for evil workers. Ps 5:5; Ps6:8; Matt 25:12,41; Luke 13:25,27; 2Ti 2:19.Depart from me. What a terrible word!  What a dreadful separation!  Depart from ME! from the very Jesus whom you have proclaimed in union with whom alone eternal life is to be found. For, united to Christ, all is heaven; separated from him, all is hell.” Therefore, whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:” Matt7:24, Luke 6:47. To build on solid rock means to be a hearing responding disciple, not a phony, superficial one. Practicing obedience becomes the solid foundation to weather the storms of life. James1:22-27.

The wise builder is not the frequent hearer, but the faithful doer of the word, or the obedient Christian; the house is heaven, and the hope of eternal life; the rock is Christ; the building upon the sand, is rested in the rare performance of outward duties: the rains, the winds, and the floods, are all kinds of afflicting evils, sufferings, and persecutions, that may befall us. “And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.” Matt7:25The hopes of those who believe in Christ as the Lord their righteousness, and do his will, can never be disappointed. The house founded upon the rock could not be undermined and destroyed, but would stand firm. So, says the Lord, shall it be with those who hear and obey. “They shall stand in the judgment” Ps 1:5.” And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:” Matt7:26.  it is not the man who hears or believes these sayings of Christ, whose building shall stand, when the earth and its works are burnt up; but the man who DOES them. Hearing sermons is a dangerous business if one does not put them into practice.” And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” Matt7:27. Those hopes which are not founded on Jesus Christ, but upon human merit, or on the mercy of God without faith in Christ and obedience to him, will perish at the giving up of the ghost. Pro 11:7,1Cor3:13. Great was the fall. Heb10:26-27.” And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:” Matt7:28. The manner of our Lord’s teaching, was with authority and with success in his teaching: The people were astonished at his doctrine; affected with admiration, believing him to be an extraordinary prophet. Matt 13:54; Mark 1:22; 6:2; Luke4:32.” For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” Matt7:29, John 7:46Jesus spoke with a new authority, His own. He didn’t have to quote any one because he was the original Word.John1; 1.

CONCLUSION: Judgement day is the final day of reckoning when God will settle all accounts, judging sin and rewarding faith. To build on solid rock means to be a hearing responding disciple, practicing obedience which is the solid foundation to weather the storms of life. James1:22. Ask the Lord now: Lord, help me to be a hearer and a doer of your word in the name of Jesus.

LESSON 32

TOPIC: JESUS HEALS A LEPER

TEXT: MATT 8:1-4

The ability of God to do what is necessary to be done, and his willingness to make his creatures happy, should be deeply considered by all those who approach him in prayer.

“When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him.” Matt8:1. That mountain on which he had delivered the preceding inimitable sermon. Great multitudes followed him.  Having been deeply impressed with the glorious doctrines which they had just heard.

 “And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.” Matt8:2. There came a leper. No disease with which the human family has been afflicted, that has been more dreadful than that which is often mentioned in the Bible as the leprosy. Leprosy, like AIDS today was a terrifying decease because there was no known cure, and was deemed incurable by any human means. Leprosy was a dreadful and hopeless disease. It begins as a skin disease, defies medical skill, and is a kind of living death. Among the Jews, GOD alone was applied to for its removal; and the cure was ever attributed to His sovereign power.

The leper, by the law of Moses, was regarded unclean, was separated from the people, was regarded as death, and the disease was a type of sin.  Lev 13:1-12; 2Kings 5:27; Num5:2. So every sinner must come and must feel that Jesus can save him. He must also feel that he has no claim on him; that it depends on his sovereign will; and must cast himself at his feet with the feelings of the leper, Worshipping Him and Bowed down before him, to show him respect.  Matt 2:2. John4:24

 If thou wilt. This was an exhibition of great faith, and also an acknowledgment of his dependence on the will of Jesus, in order to be healed .it is like saying “I can but perish if I go; I am resolved to try: For if I stay away, I know I shall for ever die.”  Happily, no one ever came to Jesus with this feeling who was not received, and pardoned. We must learn to express our faith in God. Heb11:6.

Thou canst Make me clean; is an expression of faith in His almighty power, dependence on the ability of God.Eph3:20. Heb4:14-16. Whenever Christ wills, our difficulties will be removed; and implicit confidence in him is a good preparation to receive his Favor.1John5:14, Phil1:6 Make me clean. Heal me. Jere17:14The leprosy was regarded as an unclean and disgusting disease. To be healed, therefore, was expressed by being cleansed from it. Mark 1:40; Luke 5:12.

“And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.” Matt8:3 To touch a leper was forbidden, and was regarded as making him who did it ceremonially impure, Lev 13:3, 2Kings 5:11. But at the touch of Jesus the source of the defilement fled, and the leper was clean. At the touch of Jesus all impurity flees. And Jesus–touched him. Mark 1:41. The act of putting forth his hand and touching him, therefore, expressed the intention of Jesus to cure him, and was a pledge that he was, in fact, already cured., I will; be thou clean.  Gen 1:3; Ps 33:9. The leper got Our Lord Jesus Christ to speak into His life. Ps107:20. We must be open and ready to attract the word of God into our situation.

” And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them. Matt8:4. He must not tell anyone till he has showed himself to the priest-who was appointed to inquire into the case of leprosy.  Lev 14:3 It was his duty to hasten to him immediately; not to delay by talking about it, but as the first thing to obey the laws of God, and make proper acknowledgments to him by an offering. Luke5:14. Lev 14:19-22.

A testimony unto them. Not to the priest, but to the people. Show thyself to the priest, and get his testimony to the reality of the cure, as a proof to the people that the healing is genuine. It was necessary that he should have that testimony before he could be received to the congregation, or allowed to mingle with the people. Having this, he would be, of course, restored to the privileges of social and religious life, and the proof of the miracle, to the people, would be put beyond a doubt. Testimony is a confirmation of the reality of the power of God.

LESSONS

1. Christ in healing the leprous with the touch of his hand, shows that he abhors no sinners that come unto him, be they ever so unclean.
2. Leprosy may be considered as a fit example of the corruption of man by sin; and the cure is the redemption of the soul by Christ.
3. A sinner, truly repentant, seeks God with a respectful faith; approaches Him in the spirit of adoration; humbles himself under his mighty hand, acknowledging the greatness of his fall, and the vileness of his sin; his prayer, like that of the leper, should be humble, plain, and full of confidence in that God who can do all things, will heal, and redeem him.
4. We must put our dependence upon his will and mercy, from which all good must be derived.
5. It is peculiar to God that He need only will what he intends to perform.  His power is His will.
6. The ability of God to do what is necessary to be done, and his willingness to make his creatures happy, should be deeply considered by all those who approach him in prayer.
7. We must learn to get God to speak into our life and situation.

  CONCLUSION: Christ in healing the leprous with the touch of his hand, shows that he abhors no sinners that come unto him, be they ever so unclean. Ask the Lord now: Lord, touch me with your hand of power and let the source of any disease in my life flee from my life in the name of Jesus.