THE WORD OF TRUTH RESOURCE CENTRE
A COMPILATION OF
TEACHING OUTLINES
(For Ministers, Chaplains, Church Leaders, Bible Study Groups & Discipleship Classes)
For more copies or enquiries, contact: Word of Truth Church, Yan-Trailer, Behind Cocacola Depot,
Bauchi Ring Road, Jos. P.O.Box 188 GPO, Jos, Plateau State. e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tel. +2348035892801. www.collegeofchaplains.com
Chaplain E. Akinsanmi
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TOPIC: THE MAKE-UP AND THE OPERATION OF THE HUMAN MIND
FOUNDATION SCRIPTURES: Matt. 15:19-20, 11; Rom. 7:15; I Thess. 5:23; Heb. 4:12-13;
Isa. 55:11; Prov. 4:23; Isa. 55:8-9; I Cor. 2:16; Matt. 12:34-36.
INTRODUCTION:
The desire of any man (i.e. any normal man) is to act right all the time. The only exception to this is the consistent battles (voices) he faces on the inside of him acting as distractions in disguise. This is however the way the mind is made; i.e. to accommodate all issues of life and utilizing them as the need arise. The mind contains the decision making centre of the human life.
OUTLINES
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The mind is basically the store of all in-coming information in the human make-up – Matt. 15:19; 12:34-36.
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The amount of attention we give to any information received determines the extent of change or reformation we experience – Prov. 4:20-23; Phil. 4:8.
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The 5 – physical senses are the doorways into the human mind (soul) and the mind is the doorways to the human spirit (spirit)
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If sin or iniquity is to be involved, the war of thought is directed to both parties involved at the same time in the form of suggestions – II Cor. 2:11 II Cor. 10:3-5.
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The mind is the middle man between the human spirit and the body (flesh), whether regenerated or unregenerated; thus, the new creation can at his own will think evil word than an unbeliever, because the mind is not yet recreated, but is to be renewed on daily basis by the word of God. Rom. 12:1-3; Prov. 4:23; Jer. 17:9; Matt. 15:19.
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Man’s decision to be either spiritual or carnal is located right inside the human mind where the decision making centre is. – Rom. 7:15; Prov. 23:7.
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If thoughts linger for too in the human mind, it has a grip over the entire man and thus graduates into a strong hold in that life. – II Cor. 10:5.
NOTE: Every bird has the legal right given to them by nature to fly across your head as a man, but has no right to make her nest on your head except you permit it to do so. So are thoughts which we contact.
Our entire life is controlled by the kind of thought we allow to linger on in our mind on a daily basis. Exchange the dirty thoughts for God’s own. Phil. 4:8; Jer. 29:11; Eph. 4:22-24; Col. 3:16.
TOPIC: REBUILDING THE BROKEN WALLS OF EFFECTUAL PRAYER
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: II Cor. 7:14; Luke. 18:1; Jam. 5:13-16; Jn. 16:23-24; Ezek. 22:30;
Dan. 10:7-16.
INTRODUCTION:
It is a common sight these days to see believers gathered to discuss, rather than to pray about certain situations that affects an individual Christian, a local assembly or even the country they live in.
No wonder we experience little or no intervention of heaven in our lives, nor the consistent free flow of the Holy Spirit in our churches today. Nowadays, prayer is a mere head knowledge rather than an actual participation with God’s awesomeness contacted through a meaningful dialogue on our knells.
OUTLINE
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Prayer is a spiritual business preposition which has strong legal implications in the spirit realm – Jn. 16:23-24; Job. 22:28; Matt. 18:18-19.
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Prayer is taking God’s word back to Him or making claims from God the father – Jn. 15:7; I Jn. 5:14.
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Prayer is the creative WEAPON available for the saint to make war against the forces of darkness – Dan. 10:7-13; Eph. 6:10-18.
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Consistency in prayer enhances the free flow divine information and helps your spiritual sensitivity i.e. living in the realm of the supernatural. Psa. 25:14; I Cor. 2:9-2.
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Inconsistency defeats purpose for and in prayer, thus; it’s much rewarding to have a short time of prayer but consistent, rather than the so-called long but erratic method of prayer, such method doesn’t yield lasting results. Lk. 18:1; Rev. 3:15-16.
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Satan’s slighted idea of your tomorrow gives him the opportunity to create concerns and unnecessary worries in your today, thereby painting the picture of tomorrow’s uncertainty in your mind – II Cor. 2:11; Eph. 4:27.
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God’s abundant grace and mercy are revealed and received in prayers, thus; our future is baked in the oven (fire) of effectual prayer.
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The spiritual leader hears and faces more of Satan’s attacks than the average Christian due to the sensitivity of his position spiritually. I Pet. 5:7-8; Jer. 3:1; Matt. 26:31.
NOTE: Prayer is an act to be learned if maximum result is to be achieved from the exercise. It’s not just praying, but praying with evidences to show for it. Until you start seeing every situation of training and not as suffering, you are yet to begin your journey to a successful life.
TOPIC: GOD’S SEARCH FOR MIDDLE MEN
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Ezek. 22:30; Isa. 62:1-12; 59:1-16; Psa. 82:6; Jn. 14:6;
II Cor. 5:19-20; I Tim. 2:5; Heb. 91-27
INTRODUCTION:
Taking a closer look at the present day 20th century church of the Lord Jesus, it’s growth, method of operation as related to God’s expectation. Alongside with this recent break-way and establishing of new churches in almost every available space on our streets which has not been able to curb the rate of crime increase, moral decadence, confusion, rebellion, breakdown of law and order, advertised unrighteousness even in the church today is a serious matter to be considered if the church is to fulfill it’s purpose of character moulding and a place of genuine experience with God through His words.
If the church is to change from her present state of carnality, materialism, and a resemblance of show business outfits where we have allowed the entrenchment of demonic spirits unawares, Godly men and women of right spirits have to RESPOND to the CRY OF THE SPIRIT from God’s throne in prayers to re-direct the church to the path of the word. (Jude. 3; Mal. 3:6).
OUTLINES
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God’s original ideal of His man was a god, created in His own class with full rights to fellowship with Him on grounds of equality. (Psa. 82:6; 8:5; Gen. 3:8; 1:26)
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Man’s deliberate co-operation or agreement with Satan (the out-law) against his creator dragged him out of fellowship with God which always ended up in much sorrow, agony and regrets with lots of set backs. (Gen. 3:1-6; 6:1-8; Eccl. 7:11; Jer. 17:9; Rom. 6:16; Eph. 4:27; I Pet. 5:8).
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The price for sin (no matter the magnitude) is death i.e. eternal separation from God, thus; a mediator was needed to bridge the gap, a go-between, else God’s finest and most brilliant craft (man) would be destroyed by His adversary (Satan). Ezek. 22:30; Isa. 59:1-16; II Pet. 3:9; II Cor. 5:19; I Tim 2:1-5; II Cor. 7:14.
EXAMPLES OF GOD’S MIDDLE MEN
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Abraham – On behalf of the land of Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 18:20-33).
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Moses – On behalf children of Israel (Exod. 20:18-22; Num. 12:1-15; Exod. 32:15-32)
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Jesus – On behalf of the whole world (Lk. 23:34 I Tim. 2:5; I Jn. 2:1-2; Jn. 14:6)
NOTE: Although God sees all of the evils in the land, He needs human bridge to reconnect man back to Him because He is still willing to be involved in the general affairs of humanity. He is looking for men and women that would come on the front-line to dethrone the territorial spirits in their communities, cities and the world at large and enthrone the kingdom of righteousness. These journey starts from your KNEELS.
TOPIC: THAT PRAYER THAT GETS RESULTS
FOUDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Eph. 6:18; I Jn. 5:14; Acts. 16:19-28; Acts. 13:1-3; II Chron. 5:13-14.
INTRODUCTION:
The kind of prayer that gets answer is the kind that is prayed according to the stated foundational rules or the laws that governs the different kinds of prayer from the word of God – I Jn. 5:14.
No matter how we sound, act or dress during prayer, non of those things can make God to compromise His stand upon His principles if not adhered to by any believer.
Sometimes, when thins don’t go right, people think; “I must have been out of Go’s will, or that I must have committed a grievous sin against the Lord” that He brought this trouble upon me. – Hosea 4:6.
In our midnight hour, when we don’t seem to understand why things have happened, even when we have tried our very best, our response should be: LORD; I JUST KNOW THAT YOU ARE THERE FOR ME”… And you are MINDFUL of your covenants (Psa. 111:5).
OUTLINES
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With the right perspective, you can give thanks to God for every TEST you are facing or going through and when it’s over because you have the privilege of proving the FAITHFULLNESS of God in that situation. (Rom. 8:37-39; II Cor. 12:9-10; Phil. 1:3,9; I Thess. 5:18; I Cor. 10:13).
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We miss a lot of what God has for us because we don’t take time out to get into an attitude of WORSHIP and minister unto the Lord, rather, we treat every of our prayer time or fellowship time as petition (request) time… i.e. the give me, give me attitude and never giving back to God. Heb. 13:15; Acts. 13:1-3; 16:25-28; II Chron. 20:22.
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The major reason the enemy puts pressure on you is to test your JOY LEVEL, and your MATURITY IN GOD”S LOVE. He has a standard of reaction for every believer which he expects to be al all times… Your contrary reaction puts you above his tricks. e.g. Paul and Silas – Acts. 16:25; Rom. 5:5; II Cor. 11:16-33; Phil. 1:8-25.
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When the eyes of your understanding – your spirit – are enlightened, you can make more spiritual progress in a few days or weeks than you can in 5 years of studying the Bible and preaching. However, this doesn’t knock out studying. Being specific in prayers is very important if God’s attention is our goal e.g. Paul’s prayer for the church at Ephesus – Eph. 1:1:17-23; 3:14-21;
This prayer is good for yourself and thrusts you into the realm of visions and revelations which helps your spiritual growth as you begin to see the need to help others, putting yourself last Jam. 5:16; II Cor. 1:10-11; 9:14; II Thess. 1:11.
NOTE: The reason why a lot pass though the church and loss as if they never knew the way there is because they never allowed the church pass through them in terms of settling for the basic foundations of getting their prayers answered.
TOPIC: INFLUENCING SITUATIONS AROUND US
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: II Cor. 4:4; Gal. 4:19; Col. 4:12; Isa. 66:8; Eph. 6:18; Dan. 10:7-13.
INTRODUCTION:
Every situation or circumstances in this life is directly influenced from the spirit world and the desired changes are enforced by Spiritual forces either of darkness (demons) or of light (angels) depending upon the tenacity of the one behind the change.
However, satanic messengers are placed on round-the-clock situations, to keep him in constant FEAR (bondage).
These agents have studied the individual for years so much that they can almost predict his actions even without saying anything; up to one’s favourite colors.
OUTLINES
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The atmosphere we create around us determines the kind of spirits that hang around us and our immediate surroundings. (Eph. 4:27; I Cor. 15:33; Gal. 6:7; Job; Eph. 6:12).
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HABITS, whether good or bad are formed with… TIME… which forms a grip or stronghold over one’s life; such that one can almost not do without it. (Heb. 5:13-14; I Tim. 4:7-8; 1:19).
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TYPES OF PRAYERS
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Intercessory Prayer – Rom. 8:26; Dan. 10:7-13; Ezek. 22:30.
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Prayer of Faith – (Petition prayer) – Mk. 11:23-24; Rom. 14:23.
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Prayer of Agreement – Matt. 18:19; Amos. 3:3; Gen. 11:6.
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United or Congregational Prayer – Acts. 4:23-25.
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Prayer of Praise, Worship and Thanksgiving – I Thess. 5:18; Psa. 103; 104; 150.
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Prayer of Dedication or Committal – Lk. 22:42-43.
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The job of the intercessor exposes him/her to the RISKS and ATTACKS of spiritual agents of darkness (demons). Satan bombards him in order to make him abandon his duty-post; so to allow him (satan) have a grip over the person or area. I PET. 5:8-9; Isa. 62:6-7.
NOTE: The devil doesn’t rest from work a second, neither do his agents; It will therefore be suicidal for any intercessor to RETIRE from KNEELING if situations around us must improve. SO FIGHT ON!!!
TOPIC: RECRUITMENT AND TRAINING OF KINGDOM STAND-BY ARMY
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Eph. 6:10-18; II Cor. 10:3-5; 4:4; Mk. 3:25; I Tim. 6:12; Isa. 62:1-7;
Ezek. 28; Dan. 10:7-13; Isa. 59:15-16.
INTTRODUCTION:
Ignoring the reality of INVISIBE POWERS behind VISIBLE ASPECTS of daily life can have serious and even devastating effects upon the lives and properties in a community or nation at large.
Quite a lot can happen when demonic forces are let alone to run and control the societal norms where children of God lives, if power is not ceased.
There is the need to STRATEGICALLY UNMASK these satanic DECEIPTIONS that have been blocking the emergence of God’s glory; because things are not as they appear to be in the physical.
The enemy operates through an ORGANIZED DEMONIC NETWORK, very subtle in nature (II Cor. 2:11; I Pet. 5:8-9; II Cor. 11:14).
DEFINITIONS
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Stronghold :- A fortified place built by satan (i.e. either a system, an institution or a
Literal structure) to exalt himself against the knowledge and plans of God.
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Intercessor :- Concerned individual who takes the place of another to plead his/her case,
not regarding the risks likely involved; until freedom is granted the
captive.
OUTLINES
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The Church is God’s power plant (last card) in the nations to destroy the works of the evil one (satan). Matt. 16:18; Mk. 16:15-17; Lk. 10:19; Jn. 14:12; 17:22; I Jn. 3:8.
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Satan attacks our families, churches with vengeance so frequently today because the church is fast loosing the PRAYER TRADITION to ACTIVITIES that appeal to the human reasonings. II Chron. 7:14; Isa. 59:16; Lk. 18:1; Phil. 4:6-7.
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God raises the army of intercessors to co-operate with Him, just when changes that may open a community or nation for the gospel is about to take place.
The intercessor is God’s PEACE-KEEPING FORCE in any troubled territory. Isa. 62:6-7, Ezek. 22:30; 9:4-6; Gen. 18:19-32; Acts. 12:5-17.
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After the finished work of Jesus, satan has no authority to oppress the citizens of the kingdom, except when given a place (illegal right) Thus; if satan has a legal right to rule through the sins (consent) of a people within a community first identifying the cause of the problem. Jam. 4:7; I Jn. 1:9; Heb. 2:14; Col. 2:15
NOTE: GOD DOES NOT NECESSARILY NEED EVERY BELIEVER TO BEGIN WORK, OF BEING IN THE FRONTLINE, BUT YOU CAN BE AMONG THE FEW WHO WILL SPARK THE FREE AND OTHERS WILL FOLLOW. BENEFITS ABOUND (Ezek. 9:4-6).
TOPIC: IDENTIFTING AND WALKING IN OUR COVENANT RIGHTS
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Gen. 12:1-4; 17:1-7; 8:9-16; Psa. 111:5; 89:34; Jer. 33:19-21;
Num. 23:19-23; Heb. 8:6; Gal. 3:16-18.
INTRODUCTION:
Covenant is one way that for sure puts a man under a serious and binding obligation. This is because it comes with certainty that whatsoever is involved would be carried out or face the consequences of breaking the covenant terms.
God the father had to put Himself under a covenant obligation (by choice), to get man to learn to walk in his true status; operate on equal level as Himself. At the same time, God was making man see Him (God) as one who keeps to His words; thus, swore by His very throne to have man come into an agreement with Him. It’s all the demonstration of His loving kindness for the crown of His creation (man). Heb. 6:16-19; Gen. 17:1-7.
DEFINITIONMS:- Covenant is a contractual agreement between two or more persons to accomplish certain tasks or render certain services for one another with certain terms attached to it. It is always for mutual benefits of both parties. Exchange is a MUST in any covenant agreement if it must be binding.
TYPES OF COVENANT:- (i) OLD COVENANT OR ABRAHAMIC COVENANT (O.T)
(ii) NEW COVENANT OR JESUS’ COVENANT (N.T)
TERMS OF COVENANT:- (i) Incision/Circumcision – Flow of Blood – Gen. 17:1-7;
Exod. 12:13; Heb. 9:22; 10:19.
(ii) Change of Names – a form of exchange of identity and
Status Gen. 17:4-5; Gal. 4:6; Gen. 13:1-2.
(iii) Location change – being at a right/reachable position.m Gen. 12:1-4.
OUTLINES
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Everything God had done and would do for the new creation and the general man has always been based upon His covenant. (Jer. 1:12; Isa. 55:11; Num. 23:19; Heb. 1:3).
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Covenant knows no boundary; it operates with a sense of OBLIGATION because of the initial commitment involved by parties. (II Cor. 1:20; Jer. 1:12; 33:19-21; Gen. 17:1-7).
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The lives of both parties are at stake in a covenant as BLOOD was involved caused by the required circumcision; i.e the contract was their lives. Lev. 17:14; Heb. 9:22; 10:19; 6:16-19; Psa. 111:5.
NOTES:- The understanding of the reality of our covenant with the Almighty God through the substitutionary sacrifice of Jesus Christ gives us the confidence to reach out and claim rights and privileges; thereby attracting to us covenant blessings on the earth. (Job. 36:11; Deut. 28:1-14).
TOPIC: DEVELOPING SPIRITUAL SENSITIVITY
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Rom. 8:14, 16; Gal. 5:16; Psa. 25:14; II Kgs. 5:9-14, 20-26;
Hos. 4:6; Isa. 8:18; Psa. 42:7; Jn. 10:4-5; 12:37b; Gal. 4:6; Gen. 1:26.
INTRODUTION:
Man was created in God’s very class (spirit), He is expected to basically manifest the supernatural in the natural realm through the forces of divinity residing him. He is to display God’s glory in the flesh, thus bringing glory to his creator.
Satan has however over the ages deceived man to believe and see the supernatural realm as being evil and an experience not to be desired; since the enemy knows the value of knowledge, he blindfolds the average Christian to the reality of the spirit realm and our participational rights.
This explains why miracles, signs and wonder are so strange to the believer and thus craves to experience one and would give anything to get one no matter who and where it is being advertised thus running into wrong places and never knowing how to make miracles happen in his own individual life. It is our right to walk the supernatural in the natural as God’s kinds on planet earth. (Jn. 14:12).
OUTLINES
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The most sensitive among all of God’s creatures is Man when it comes to receiving signals from the spirit realm i.e either a saint or sinner. Prov. 20:27; I Cor. 2:9-12; Rom. 16, 14; Psa. 42:7. God made it so to enhance free communication with His godman on earth (representative).
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The design of man is such that only his spirit/heart is the custodian of God’s the free flow of information between the creator and the created. Prov. 4:20-22; Jn. 6:63; Col. 3:16; Psa. 199:11, 105, 130.
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Extra-ordinary happenings on earth are only possible by and through men/women of deeper or higher spiritual prowess; and would consequently excise strange powers over the meatheaded, flesh-ruled, ordinary dwellers of the earth either a sinner or saint with shallow spiritual alert or sensitivity. Rom. 5:17; I Pet. 2:9; I Cor. 2:10; Psa. 42:7.
NOTE: - Nothing of value is over obtained without cost; and the key to any success in Christianity or ministry is to discern the way in which God is moving and move along the same direction with Him.
YOU ALSO CAN BECOME VERY SENSITIVITY TO THE WAYS AND THE VOICE OF THE ALMIGHTY GOD AS YOU DETRMINE TO CONTACT HIS PRENSENCE THROUGH HIS LIVING WORD.
TOPIC: THE INDWELLING AND GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Acts. 1:8; 2:1-4, 37-39; 19:1-6; I Cor. 3:16; 12:5-12; 14:1-40.
INTRODUCTION:
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FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT:- These are spiritual forces injected into our spirit at the instance of
new birth. They are basically CHARACTER developers, because good character is the foundation for lasting spirituality that will affect lives. Gal. 5:22-23.
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MINISTRY GIFTS:- These are human vessels specially called of God to equip the body
of Christ, mature and prepare them for Christ’s coming. Every believer is not called to these offices (5-fold). These are: Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor, and Teacher. Eph. 4:11-14.
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GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT:- These are supernatural revelations and manifestations of God
by the HOLY SPIRIT through human vessels (believers) as the Spirit wills. They are basically for POWER. I Cor. 12:5-11. They are advertisers of God’s glory on the earth.
OUTLINES
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IS SPEAKING IN TONGUES REAL AND IS IT FOR EVERY BELIEVER? Acts. 2:1-4, 37-39
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Manifestation in the early disciples as a sign to satan and sinners – Acts. 2:1-4; 2:17; 10:44; 15:8-9; 19:1-6.
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Jesus declared it as mark of identity of the believer – Mk. 16:17; Lk. 11:9-13.
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It is the language of the spirit that could be used as devotional gift when we are sort of words – Rom. 8:26; I Cor. 14:14-15.
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BENEFITS OF SPEAKING IN OTHER TONGUES:- I Cor. 14:1-2
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For personal edification in the spirit – I Cor. 14:2; Jude. 20
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To lift off spiritual burdens in intercession – Ro. 8:26; I Cor. 14:2.
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Guidance and clarifications when uncertain about issue – Rom. 8:14; Jn. 16:13; I Jn. 2:20, 27.
N.B:- The Satanists (believers in Satan) also speak in tongues, (II Cor. 11:14; Jam. 2:19); but it’s the counterfeit of the original. We need the discerning of spirit to know them.
THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT – I Cor. 12:5-12
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REVELATION GIFTS:- i. Word of Knowledge – (past and present) v.8
ii. Word of Wisdom – (reveals the future) v.8
III. Discerning of spirits – (an inside knowing) v.10
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VOCAL/INSIRATIONAL GIFTS:- i. Divers kinds of tongues – v.10
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Interpretation of tongues – v.10
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Prophecy – (speaking forth for God) v.10; I Cor. 14:2.
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POWER GIFTS:- i. Faith (special faith) v.9
ii. Healing – v.9
iii. Working of Miracles – v.10
FOOT NOTES: - THESE GIFTS ARE FOR THE COMFORT AND EDIFYING OF THE BODY OF CHRIST AND A SIGN TO THE NBELIEVERS AND THE DEVIL AS THE GLORY OF GOD IS BEING DISPLAYED BY THE BELIEVERS.
TOPIC: THE OPERATION OF THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT (03)
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: I Cor. 12:1-11; 14-1-25; I Jn. 4-1-3; 2:20, 27; Eph. 5:18; Jude. 20.
INTRODUCTION:
The Godhead consists of three distinct personalities (I Jn. 5:7; Gen. 1:26), but are ONE (i.e agreement); they however distinguish themselves through the unique features they possess when they manifest themselves in the natural through the works (nature) of their hands. e.g Man, as he yields to the spirit man.
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REVELATIONAL GIFTS (THAT REVEAL THINGS)
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Word of knowledge: - It is the supernatural revelation by the Holy Spirit of God about certain facts in God’s mind concerning people, place or certain thing or situation.
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It has to do with a particular part or fragment of information.
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Reveals the past and present.
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Not usually as full as the gift of knowledge acquirable in academic institution.
How the Word of Knowledge manifests:-
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Can manifest through Tongues and Interpretation – Acts. 2:5-12
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Through inward revelation by the Spirit – Acts. 5:1-10; Jn. 4:16-19; II Kg. 5:20-26.
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Through Visions and Dreams – Acts. 9:10-11, 17 and by Angelic message. (Acts. 27:23-24).
Examples of Word of Knowledge in the Old Testament
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To expose hypocrisy of Gehazi (hidden agenda) – II Kg. 5:20-26.
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To warn the king of Israel about impending danger and enemy’s strategy (II Kg. 6:8-12).
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To encourage discourage servant of God – I kg. 12:1-7.
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To help in the recovery of lost property – I Sam. 9:1-7, 17-20.
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Word of Wisdom: - It is the supernatural revelation by the Spirit concerning the divine purpose in the mind of God and His will. It reveals the future (things to come).
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Needed more I prophetic ministry as it deals more with predictions.
How the Word of Wisdom manifests:-
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Could come through audible voice (in the heart)
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Through the vocal gift of prophecy; Visions and dreams; Tongues and Interpretations.
FOUNTIONS OF THE WORD OF WISDOM: - i. To set people apart for ministry work (Act. 13:3).
ii. Ensures protection and deliverance in times of calamity. Act. 27:20-26; 11:27-30; I Kg. 20:10-13. The word of wisdom could be conditional. E.g Jonah 1:1-3; 2:10; 3:1-3.
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Discerning of spirits: - It is the supernatural ability that gives insight into the spirit world concerning good and bad events or occurrences/situations. It is limited to the spirit realm (source) Jn. 16:13.
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It is not always negative i.e fault finding in people, place or things.
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Helps us tom know the source of supernatural manifestations. Acts. 16:17-18.
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It is basically spiritual.
POINT TO NOTES:- That these gifts manifests through any believer is not necessarily a sign of spiritual maturity, even babes in Christ could be used by the Holy Spirit (e.g I Cor. 1:7; 3:1-3) that is why we need the fruits of the spirit developing our character on daily basis (Gal. 5:22).
TOPIC: THE OPERATION OF THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT – 04
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: I Cor. 12:1-11; 14:1-25; Mk. 16:17; Jn. 11:1-14, 34-35.
INTRODUCTION:
The gifts of the Holy Spirit are given for the common benefit of the entire body of Christ and to act as advertisers of the glory of the Almighty God to the unbelievers, through spirit-filled believers. Miracles, signs and wonders are not supposed to be a rare or once in a while occurrence, especially to the one walking in the spirit and the word.
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INSPIRATIONAL/VOCAL GIFTS (THAT SAYS SOMETHING)
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Divers kinds of tongues:- This is a supernatural utterance by the Holy Ghost in a language never learned by the speaker, nor necessarily always understood by the hearers. Mk. 16:17; I Cor. 12:10; Acts. 2:4.
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It manifests only when a person is filled with the Holy Ghost – Acts. 2:4.
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Speaking in tongues and interpretations are distinct in this dispensation.
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Jesus operated in all of the gifts of the Spirit except speaking in tongues.
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Could be used both as a devotional gift and medium of giving spiritual message.
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Interpretation of tongues:- This is a supernatural showing forth by the power of the Holy Spirit, the meaning of an unknown utterance that was spoken I an unknown language (tongue) to the literal language understood by the hearers. I Cor. 14:13-15, 27-28, 40.
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Used to render interpretation which is intelligible to the hearers (I Cor. 14:5)?
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Interpretation of tongues is different from translation of tongues as the message in tongues could take a longer time while interpretation is given in just a few seconds or minutes, as the Spirit wills or puts It in the heart of the interpreter. Must not be at the interpreter’s own decision to prolong it.
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Prophecy:- This is a supernatural utterance in known tongue. It has to do with foretelling in the O.T and forth-telling in the N.T (God’s mouth piece).
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Gift of prophecy is different from the office of the prophet (Acts. 21:7-9, 10-12).
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Requires more faith to operate in than (e and d) above, as a he hears and speaks.
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Used to arrest people’s attention; and the most important in this group. (Act. 21:10-12).
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POWER GIFTS (THAT DO SOMETHING)
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Faith (Special faith):- This kind of faith is given to the believer by the Spirit so that he could receive capital (major) miracles – I Cor. 12:8-9. It is different from the general saving faith (Eph. 2:8; Rom. 10:9-10) and the “measure of faith” in Rom. 12:3 and Matt. 9:29. It is used in the process of raising the dead, blind etc.
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Working of Miracles: - This is a supernatural gift of miracle by the Spirit to the believer, so he can work or do or demonstrate miracles beyond the natural/sense realm. It’s the divine intervention of God in the ordinary cause of nature. You don’t necessarily have to do anything consciously as it were to do work it.
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You don’t just switch it “on” and “off” at will. e.g. Exod. 14:14-22; Jn. 6:5-12.
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A constantly filled believer stands a better chance of being used in this area.
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Gifts of Healing: - This is gift that accompanies in the spirit in the mentioned above to complete what had wrought in the spirit in the physical. If any ailment is involved, a thorough healing is done so it doesn’t re-occur thereafter.
NOTE:- The three of these gifts all work together, else whatever was the cause of the e.g death, if (i) is not in operation, very likely the fellow would die of the same sickness or disease the second time again.
TOPIC: ESTABLISHING AN INTIMACY WITH THE PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Acts. 1:8; 2:1-4, 37-39; Lk. 24:49; 11:10-13; I Cor. 3:16; Jn. 16:7-13; I Jn. 2:20; Eph. 5:18-20.
INTRODUCTION:
A personal, intimate (close), and eternal relationship have always been the very heart-beat of God for His man with Him, and He demonstrated this in His frequent visits to the Garden of Eden to fellowship with Adam; (Gen. 3:8). God would give anything to keep the relationship He had with the very best of His handwork (man), the crown of creation. This is not because He was lonely in heaven, because there are countless angels serving Him. But none of these pleasant creatures were made in His class; so He had to create man in His own exact duplicate in kind. (Gen. 1:26; Psa. 8; 82:6).
When that filled, God had to release His most treasured asset in the person of Jesus, a part of Himself to mend the bridge of intimacy with man once again (Rom. 5:8; Jn. 3:16). It cost God His own very BLOOD to re-establish fresh closeness with man, Jesus therefore on leaving the earth had to promise sending the third person in the Godhead (Holy Spirit) to live inside of the new creation to ensure a continuous rich and intimate closeness with God, Jn. 16:7-13. It’s therefore important the new creation learn the ways of the Holy Spirit.
OUTLINES
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WHO IS THE HOLY SPIRIT?
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The third person n the Godhead. I Jn. 5:7; Gen. 1:26; Matt. 3:16-17.
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The power of God. Acts. 1:8; Gen. 1:2; Lk. 24:49.
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He is God and general overseer of this age and the church of Christ. Acts. 5:4; Jn. 16:7-13; 14:26.
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HOW COULD ONE RELATE TO THE HOLY SPIRIT?
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Meditate upon God’s words day and night. Osh. 1:8; Col. 3:16; II Tim. 3:16.
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Ministering to the Lord in Praise, Worship and Thanksgiving consistently.
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Singing unto the Lord in the Spirit/Tongues as an act of worship. I Cor. 14:14-14-15; Jude. 20.
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Cultivating a listening habit in the moment of silence. I Kg. 19:11-18; Mk. 1:35; Jn. 10:4-5; 18:37.
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CAN WE RELY UPON THE HOLYSPIRIT TO CONTACT GOD IN PRAYERS?
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The Holy Spirit has being with God from the beginning. Gen. 1:2, 26: I Jn. 5:7
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He knows the mind/will of the Father God. I Cor. 2:10-12; Rom. 8:26.
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He presently represents the interest of the Godhead on the earth. Jn. 16:7-13; 14:26.
NOTE: THE RATE OF SWEATING OVER CERTAIN ISSUES OF LIFE IS DUE TO THE DISTANCE WE KEEP FROM PERSON OF THE HOLY SPIRIT; IT’S TIME WE GET KNOWS HIM BETTER. HE IS AN ACTUAL PERSON, NOT WIND OR DOVE; HE CAN FELT, GRIEVED BECAUSE HE HAS EMOTIONS. HE IS HERE TO DO WHAT JESUS WOULD HAVE BEEN DOING FOR YOU IF HE WERE HERE IN PERSON.
TOPIC: MEN SURVIVE ONLY BY SECRETS
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Psa. 25: 14; I Cor. 2:9-12; Deut. 6:6-9; 29:29; Josh. 1:8; Dan. 2:19, 22; Matt. 13:11.
INTRODUCTION:
If what is good already must continually stand out and last in this life, it will require continuous labour; because of the dynamic nature of the world we live in. When men win or succeed in life, there’s a secret behind it; when a company or an organization makes a name, a secret is obviously behind it, God is and would always remain the most powerful in the universe because He has the key to the secret of life.
The secret must remain secret if they must maintain their positions of success. It’s only men with God’s kind of heart (bold and principled) that have access to this secret. (Gen. 1:11, 24; Heb. 1:3; Psa. 82:6). Labour is the secret of a lasting rest in life.
OUTLINES
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Life by it’s satanic design doesn’t and would not just freely give to anyman what he ‘deserves’, it’s only what he “demands” from life that he gets. (Matt. 11:12; II Cor. 10:3-5; Matt. 7:7-8; Prov. 22:29). That’s what gives meaning to life.
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A ma’s “gift” is and would always remain his “connection” in this life, if properly harnessed and advertised/displayed in the right place and to the right people. There’s an in-built strength to survive any weather in every person if located and committed to. (Pro. 18:16; 17:8; 12:11; 14:23; 22:29).
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Much strength is lost through much uncontrollable talkings, and a man’s true strength is tested by his aboility to keep secrets. (Prov. 21:23; 13:3; 17:27; 25:28; Jam. 3:2-10; Judges. 16:5-7, 16, 20; 14:17). Consult your heart before talking. (Pro. 10:19).
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Untimely or premature exposure of great dreams/ideas attracts stronger resistance in form of thoughts shooting out it like arrows from the hearts of men against the idea/dream; attempting to deny it expression on the earth. (Psa. 91:3-7; Gen. 37:1-27; Jer. 17:9-10; Neh. 1:11; 2:1-12, 17-22; 6:1-9; Matt. 15:19). Always conclude first your plans with God in the closet before seeking for human opinion.
EXAMPLES OF MEN WHO COULD NOT HANDLE SECRETS:-
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Adam and Eve – Gen. 3:1-6; 2:17.
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Joseph – Gen. 37:1-11, 27-28.
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Samson – Judg. 16:5-7, 16-20; 14:17.
These men lost their defense from the moment they reveal the secret of their strength, which the enemy had always wanted to know to reduce them to nothing.
THOSE THAT SURVIVED BY KEEPING SECRETS:-
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Nehemiah – Neh. 1:11; 2:1-12, 17-22; 16:1-9.
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God and Mary – Lk. 1:26-38; I Cor. 2:7-9; Gen. 3:15.
BEAR THIS MIND: - The battle for survival in life has for long shifted from the physically strong to those operating in the divine wisdom which is an inner strength that makes them always winning where others loose. (Eccl. 9:18,11; 7:19; Rom. 9:16; Psa. 127:1; Jam. 1:5; Prov. 3:13).
The most dreaded me in our generation today are men of secret dwellings. Psa. 91:1; Col. 3:3; Jn. 15:7; I Jn. 4:4; 5:4).
TOPIC: - THE PRICE FOR POWER
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Matt. 17:14-17; 6:16-18; II Chron. 20:1-30; Esth. 4; 5; 6; 7; Jer. 6:16; Heb. 6:12; Acts. 13:1-5; Jude. 3.
INTRODUCTION:
Power is costly, power is dynamic, but is not for just anybody on the mediocrity lane of life. Power is worked/labored/toiled for legitimately if it has to last in the hand of the individual. A wish alone does not put power any man’s hand; if so, every lazy person will ride on horses and have fellowmen serving him.
Lots of sacrifices, self-denials, with a lot of discipline would have to be a part of anyone who would come close to corridors of power and those qualities have to remain in place if he has to last; (Prov. 12:24; 22:29; Eph. 6:10-18). This is simply because the position of power is an enviable height that everyone wants to be if life is that easy. So, any single carelessness on your part gives room (cheap) for a setback and eventual fall. However, the spirit influences, controls and empowers the physical authorities that be (e.g Ezek. 28; Heb. 11:3); we thus need to know the true source and price tom pay for the power sustain and reign in this life (Rom. 5:17).
OUTLINES
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The growth or promotion of anything and its decline is a supernatural process. Heb. 11:3; II Cor. 4:18; Psa. 91:1-16).
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The church (as individual and collectively) is existing within a spiritually hostile environment, so it’s (your) growth is keenly contested and inhibited by satanic forces; which is the reason why great ideas don’t always yield great results. Eph. 6:12; Gal. 1:4; Isa. 54:17; 1 Pet. 5:8; Num. 23:23; II Cor. 2:11.
EXAMPLE OF MEN THAT PAID PRICE FOR POWER
When Christians begin to combine prayer with FASTING, powerful spiritual forces seem to be harnessed and released on our behalf against every unseen war that we fight daily. Fasting places us in a situation that allows the Holy Spirit to have easier access to us.
If fasting is rightly practiced, it brings (a) Both soul and body into submission to the Holy Spirit. (b) Barriers are broken down (c) Communion is opened up.
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Moses – 40 days twice – (Deut. 9:9, 18).
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Joshua fasted after the defeat at Ai – (Josh. 7:6).
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Ezra obtained safe passage – (Ezra. 8:21-23).
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Jehoshaphat won a large battle without engaging in physical fight – (2 Chron. 20:1-30).
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Esther was used after a fast to deliver God’s people from destruction (Esth. 4:16).
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Pagan Nineveh was spared while Samaria was destroy – (Jonah. 3:5-9).
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The Lord Jesus Christ fasted as spiritual preparation – Lk.; and He says we also should pay the spiritual price for exploits in our lives (Matt. 6:17-18; Mk. 2:18-20).
NOTE: - Jesus did not say “if” but “when” ye fast… No matter some people’s views about fasting, there is no easy road to anything good, a price MUST be paid; even the pathway to heaven is said to be narrow and to hell is broad i.e easy to tread.
We must note that fasting does not change God, His plans, His purposes or steadfastness, but does change us. A church only grows in strength and efficiency as her prayer life increases. Fasting definitely will an edge to (a Peron’s) intercession and power to … petition.
Your physical health is also enhanced as you partake of this spiritual exercise.
TOPIC: DEPOSITING AND WITHDRAWING FROM YOUR HEAVENLY ACCOUNT
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Matt. 6:19-21; Isa. 48:17; Hag. 2:8; I Tim. 6:17, 10; Gen. 8:22; Prov. 11:23-24; Lk. 6:38; Mal. 3:8-13.
INTRODUCTION:
Hardwork is not necessarily the sole determining factor for a successful life; it’s the total expression of the favour of God operative upon a man’s life. (Prov. 16:7, 9 Psa. 5:12; Prov. 3:4).
The earthly baking system is a typical illustration of the heavenly financial security system available to the “earthly-heavenly citizens to cater for their well-being while they last on the planet earth. (II Cor. 5:20; I Pet. 2:11; Phil. 3:18-20).
The basic differences are:- The interest rate differs from that of the world; the worldly bank depends on the customer’s deposit to survive; in running other people’s business and make profits, while the bank of heaven (having God as the Managing Director); only requires us (depositors) to live by giving.
TWO BASIC REASONS WHY WE DEPOSIT
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For financial security.
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To meet a projected (future) need.
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To cater for the present needs and the unexpected expenses.
OUTLINES
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The heavenly bank is the safest and most reliable because it’s un-accessible to evil and swindlers; it’s inflation-free and it operates beyond the inflation zone (earth) buffeted regularly by economic instability. (Matt. 6:19; Lk. 12:32-33).
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When deposits are made and is needed by the depositors’ this bank makes it readily available because the owner of the bank (God) is never enticed by depositors huge investments; being the epitome of wealth and would never need human support to feed or clothe Himself, and He owns ALLTHINGS and would have no need to steal from you to survive. (Matt. 6:20; 7:7; Mk. 11:24; Psa. 24:1; 50:10-11; Hag. 2:8; Deut. 8: 18).
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In actuality, what God considers and uses as yardstick to reward our givings/deposits is the heart (motive) condition because the physical currency is useless/worthless in the planet of heaven. It has to be converted into a spiritually acceptable currency through the words of our mouth (through worship and confession).
Merely dropping of offerings does no good to the giver nor is God Himself except it properly done. (II Cor. 9:7-9; Gal. 6:7; I Sam. 16:7; 2:3; Deut. 26).
METHODS OF DEPOSITING
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Offerings i.e. free will (Lk. 6:38; II Cor. 9:7)
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Tithing i.e. 10% of your earnings (income) – Mal. 3:8-12; Prov. 3:9.
NOTE: - Having the knowledge of the banking system and not participating in the process does not guarantee the right of withdrawal from any bank; and the bank of heaven is no exception.
YOU GIVE NOTHING, YOU GET NOTHING is the principle of any banking system, if they will thrive. Gal. 6:7; Jn. 13:17; Job. 36:11).
TOPIC: STABBED IN THE MIDST OF ACTIVITIES
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Hos. 4:6; Eccl. 9:18; I Pet. 5:8; Judg. 14:1-17; Judg. 16:4-21; Acts. 12:21-24.
INTRODUCTION:
Life in itself is incomplete, boring and unexciting without continual activities. Different people take part in various activities of their choices (interests); be it social, academic, political or spiritual activities. These all contribute to the dynamic nature of life.
People generally will change when they change their activities; and all of these activities mostly involve human interractions.
However, the activity syndrome has overtaken most people to the extent that, they have lost the sense of caution and pre-caution as they involve themselves.
People do change; they are not always whom they presented or told us they were initially. Thus; we need a large heart, deeper eyes and high sensitivity to decode the true heart (motive) of people we are involved with; because, it’s very possible you could be stabbed in the midst of what looks like the happening thing or place; if out of divine timing.
OUTLINES
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A man that is not divinely connected could just be going to a place for something of great importance to him, spending much time, money, energy for weeks and even months and never getting it despite the delays and broken promises simply because he’s out of divine timing. Eccl. 3:1, 14, 11; Prov. 16:9, 7: Ruth. 1:1.
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The yardstick for judging whether or not a man is doing fine/well is not necessarily the amount of material acquisition (additions); but it’s if he/she is within the context of God’s will for his/her life. This however has nothing to do with present size, as long as he is right in the center of God’s will; contentment and thanksgiving will lead him to the perfect position. (Jn. 15:7; Psa. 32:8; Prov. 15:16); Eccl. 3:11.
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Life is in stages and men are in sizes; thus, it makes no sense comparing yourself or achievement with that of another, men are created to take turns in life; no matter the struggling and smartness, if not backed up with divine timing fulfillment, will end up with sweat that has nothing to show for it; there’s no force that can stop a dream whose manifestation has come as far as you hold on to the confession of your faith. (Heb. 10:23, 35, 36; Hab. 2:1-4; Isa. 54:17; Phil. 1:6).
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In any association, your actions and your words are the 2 basic factors that make people undermine or despise you in life. (I Tim. 4:12; Prov. 24:26; 25:11).
It’s important that you avoid always any SEL-IMPOSED PRESSURE upon yourself in the process of trying to help people. This is because men already have solutions to their problems, they only want to have your own opinion if it will make any different; so you need wisdom and high sensitivity to see through them when they talk. Prov. 3:27, 30:11; 14; 15:22-23; 24:3, 5-6.
TOPIC: OVERCOMING BAD HABITS
FOUNDATINOAL SCRIPTURES: II Cor. 7:1; Heb. 12:1-2; 5:14; Rom. 12:1-2; Matt. 15:19; Matt. 5:27-28; 12:34-6; I Tim.1:19.
INTRODUCTION:
The human mind could be a great tormentor or an invaluable asset if properly harnessed to the advantage of any human being either a saint or a sinner (unregenerated). Habits are parts of the human make-up that either make or destroy, lifts or depresses a person, whether a saint or an unbeliever, as long as he possesses a mind; it’s a by-product of the operation of the mind.
Habits are formed with no time, but require lots of discipline to break, if the person would enjoy a lasting freedom. In most cases, bad habits are practiced in secret places where no one sees us; even our closest friends don’t get to know nor suspect we could be involved in such dirty habits because of the front we put before them on the outside. We keep it to ourselves because of the shame and disgrace it could cause us. On the inside we are dying, but we keep acting as if all is well on the outside until we could no longer handle this killer called “bad habits”.
OUTLINES
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Every man (saint or sinner) has the ability to form any habit i.e good or bad one which he chooses to, depend upon what kind of information and association he regularly exposes his mind to at any point in time.
Prov.23:7; Matt. 12:34-36; Phil. 4:8; Rom. 6:16; Jam. 1:20-25.
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The new birth experience does not guarantee an automatic freedom from forming any bad habit as the human mind was not saved then, and still has the capability of thinking even thoughts if allowed after salvation; Thus, the need to constantly RENEW the mind to God’s ways of thinking. Phil. 4:8; Jer. 29:11; Eph. 4:22-24; Gal. 5:16, 19-21, 25; Rom. 12:1-2.
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It takes making a conscious effort with a strong determination to hate the particular bad habit with a passion through meditation and denouncing the grip or demonic hold of it over your life; making steady efforts not to yield to the urge to repeat the same practice even under the strongest feeling of the emotions as you confess your freedom from it’s hold over your mind. (II Cor. 10:3-5; I Thess. 4:2-7; II Tim. 2:22; Heb. 10:2; Phil. 4:13.
TOPIC: THE POWER OF INFLUENCE
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Prov. 13:20; 27:17; II Thess. 3:6-15; I Cor. 15:33; Heb. 6:12.
INTRODUCTION:
To a very extent influence whether positive or negative had been responsible both for some of the great exploits and setbacks that most men have experienced in their lives and carriers.
Man by his make-up is and could be easily influenced by fellow men and to also influence others in the course of constant interactions.
The beautiful thing about the make-up of man is that he has an inbuilt mechanism called the power of choice where he exercises his will; he is different from a Robert that could only function by another person’s way of reasoning and be easily manipulated. Whatever position a man may be occupying today is a by-product of his past decisions; i.e consciously or unconsciously. Life is guided by decisions and it’s mere excuse blaming anyone for your failure in this life.
THE BASIC VEHICLES OF INFLUENCE
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OBSERVATION: - The things we see with our physical eyes makes a very strong and lasting impart upon the human mind (memory bank) that could linger on for as long as the particular picture remains in the imagination compartment of the mind. (Phil. 4:8; Rom. 12:1-2).
This is the reason why with time, we find ourselves consciously or unconsciously thinking, taking and eventually acting like the very picture (image) we saw some very long time ago; it was stored in the memory of the mind through the eyeballs, which had registered on our mind and would be re-called when it’s needed for good or bad; which depends on the choice of the person who had mental image.
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TEACHINGS: - Mk. 4:23-24; Prov. 19:27(L.B) – Information is another powerful tool that quickly influences the human life negatively or positively; Information is strong enough to affect the character of a man and determine one’s attitudes toward others and life generally. Rom. 10: 17; II Tim. 3:1-7). Whatever we listen to more often gradually influences our way of reasoning and general out-look to life.
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ASSOCIATION: - Prov. 13:20; II Kg. 2; Amos. 3:3 – Any man product of his environment and association. Character easily rubs off on him as he companies with people of various character. Nevertheless; if we are weak in our minds, having no minds of our own, other people would find it easy to dictate the pace of our movement in life through the tool of manipulation. Thus; we begin to live out another person through us, we never get to manifest our true created to be able to make man from the beginning was created to be able to make choices as he could reason before making decisions (Gen. 2:17, 9; 3:1-6); (Rom. 6:16); as such one does not have to force himself to keep any association or company that doesn’t encourage your association with God for a closer and richer walk with your creator and owner of life. Most people today are enduring associations they keep because they a re afraid of loneliness and ridicule from friends and are not at all comfortable within themselves. (Eccl. 4:9-12; Prov. 27:17; 25:17; II Thess. 3:6).
TOPIC: - PERSONAL EVALUATION – A MUST FOR EVERY CHRISTIAN
FOUDATIONAL SCRIPTURE: - II Cor. 2:11; 13:5; Hag. 1:1-7; Job. 8:7; Eccl. 7:8; 3:11, 14; I Pet. 5:8; Rev. 12:12c; Matt. 25:14-30; Gal. 6:4, 7.
INTRODUCTION: -
The enemy programs the end of every year to be so busy, pregnant with needs, hence saddles men with loads of concerns that would engage them for the good part of the year such that they would hardly have time too consciously evaluate their progress and make solid plans for the coming year knowing their past performances.
This is the reason why most people enter the New Year repeating the wrongs of the previous year because they have no grips of where they stopped and what area they covered before now.
Ironically, most Christians throng into various denominations. Prayer houses on the 31st of every December to pray the magic prayer that would automatically change things for them during the year. They pray with great fervency and with determination to sail through that year with success; but with all of the proclamations of the man of God concerning the coming year, majority of these miracle hungry, ever learning believers only manage to survive through the biting hardships of the year. Some are therefore forced to compromise their faith for what they couldn’t get for themselves by and through the working of the word of God by themselves.
Whatever knowledge a man claims to have or possess that does not effect any change in his life not yet his possession (Jn. 8:32, 36); (Prov. 24:3-5). To think at all of explaining your failures around any human being (i.e either by or through their utterances or actions) or around any situations is mere stupidity and a sign of never willing to make a mark in life. (Prov. 12:11).
OUTLINES
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Personal evaluation reveals one’s strength in any particular area/aspect of his life and thus helps to plan for a more productive future.
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It greatly reduces the rate of sweet/struggles as one doesn’t go on wasting the God-given resources, energy, finances and most importantly TIME (the nature’s equal assets to every person on the earth).
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Most people that are hardworking and are not getting the best out of it are so quick to claim the influence of demonic activities over their lives; whereas, lack of visible results could be as a result of their personal evaluation of one’s past performances. (I Cor. 11:31).
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Until a man consciously disciplines himself to evaluate his performances on a regular basis e.g monthly, weekly, or quarterly and assess the level or degree of progress made so far, then he would clearly see the areas he needs to improve upon, friends and places he must of a necessity cut off, if he must move forward positively in the year.
NOTE: - MEN THAT WAIT FOR OTHERS TO EVALUATE THEM WOULD TOIL FOR LONGER PERIOD IN ACHIEVING PERSONAL EXCELLENCES AMND INDEPENDENCE.
TOPIC: HOW RELIABLE IS GOD’S FAITHFULNESS?
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: - Num. 23:19; Isa. 55:11 Jer. 1:12; 33:20-21; Psa. 89:34; 111:5; 119:89; II Cor. 1:20; Phil. 1:6; II Pet. 1:3-4; Psa. 138:2.
INTRODUCTION: -
It’s almost becoming very hard to have any confidence in the word of God (whether written or spoken); this is as a result of the constant broken promises by men to one another and people are almost used to the negative expectations as a way of life i.e living a life of “if it works, fine; and if not, no big deal”. Confidence is lost in the words of men due to lack of integrity; having no sense of commitment to one’s words. Most men tend to have forgotten that “A MAN’S WORD REPRESENTS HIM” (Jn. 1:1, 14).
God’s faithfulness is unmatchable and unquestionable everytime; He is committed to being faithful, no matter how hard it may seem (Psa. 138:2; 15:4). He speaks with the sense of responsibility (Jer. 1:12; Isa. 55:11).
Hypertension, suicides, soured relationships have been the end results of broken promises today as most people don’t know how to skillfully handle disappointments. Instead of staying wounded and bitter over the unfaithful nature of man, the believer should hook his total trust and expectations upon God’s word that would meet your needs and not gainsay tomorrow by meditations and constant confessions of the living word (rom. 10:8; Isa. 40: 31).
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE FAITHFUL? This means you are under a very strong obligation to perform your undertaking (either words, vows or promise), even when you have inconvenience your own self (Psa. 15:4; Jam. 5:12; Matt. 5:37), or even hazard your very life.
EVIDENCES OF GOD’S FAITHFULNESS TO HIS WORDS
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The destruction of Noah world with flood – Gen. 6:12-18; 7:12, 21.
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The blessing of Abraham with a seed – Gen. 12:1-4; 13:1-2; 17:1-11; 21:1-8; Exod. 23:25-26; Gal. 3:13-14, 27-28.
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The coming of the Messiah (Jesus the Christ) – Gen. 3:15; Isa. 9:6; Matt. 1:21; Lk. 1:26-45; Jn. 1:14; Matt. 2:10-11.
WHY WE CAN STILL TRUST IN GOD’S FAITHFULNESS
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His nature doesn’t change and so His character – Jam. 1:17; Mal. 3:6; Heb. 13:8.
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He makes no promises based on any physical (temporary) expectations and has no complex – II Cor. 4:18; Psa. 119:89).
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Nobody (angelic or human) can biased His mind concerning your case, as long as you are consistently walking in His words. – I Jn. 5:14; Jn. 15:7; Rom. 8:31.
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His promises are reliable, dependable, and trustworthy as Himself and are worth betting your life upon because they are failure – proof as they (words) need no any human support to work – Isa. 55:11; II pet. 1:3-4; Jer. 1:12; Matt. 24:55.
NOTE: - Banking upon human promises is a great risk as there are so many unforeseen circumstances ahead, which may change the direction of the man thus the tempo of music (funny reaction on meeting yourselves). – Psa. 146:2; 108:12; Prov. 3:3. Until you get your desired miracle, keep trusting in God’s favour.
TOPIC: - CREATING AN EXPECTATION FOR THE COMING YEAR
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: - Prov. 23:18; Lk. 14:28-30; Prov. 29:18; Eph. 3:20; Psa. 62:5; Hab. 2:2-3; Jer. 29:11; Mk. 9:23; Josh. 1:8-9; Prov. 11:14; Gen. 11:1-6; Gen. 13:14-15; Rom. 4:17.
INTRODUCTION:
Expectation is a function of your imagination. Only man of expectation makes preparations. Hardly does idleness have a grip over men of purpose, as their minds are constantly processing the issues of this life for their benefits.
From the beginning of creation, God already included in man’s system; the ability to make life what it should be for his convenience, so he gave man a sound mind (ii Tim. 1:7) to help him visualize and project into the near and distant future through imagination and pronounce it into being. (Gen. 13:14; Rom. 4:17).
The final outcome at the end of every year shows the difference between those who walked (planned) into that year and those who just woke up and found themselves in the new year, expecting things to automatically fall in place as they stumble (being blanking their minds) through the year. God designed life in such a way that somebody has to program it or it lays fallow, thus; life it’s controlled by set of rules. (Phil. 2:12; Gal. 6:7).
OUTLINES
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Men pleasers deprive their minds of its natural functions as they would always be lazy to engage their minds in an (a) Active (b) Productive and (c) Resourceful/Creative functioning. (Prov. 8:12b).
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Planning around Promises is the reason when a disappointment occurs; the promised person suffers a great se-back that may ground him for the rest of that year. (Prov. 13:12; 15:16-17; Psa. 39:7; 146:3; Num. 23:19; II Cor. 1:20; Isa. 55:11; Prov. 22:29; 17:8; 18:16).
STEPS TO TRANSFORM EXPECTATION INTO REALITY
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Expectation must be within the confines of the will of God; and not beyond the level of your faith, if maturity is your aim in the faith. I Jn. 5:14-15; Matt. 9:29; Eccl. 9:18; Heb. 11:6; Rom. 14:23.
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Prayerfully select (independently) your association (i.e. influence), not minding the oppositions and loneliness it would cause, it’s for a period of time. (Prov. 13:20; I Cor. 15:33; Acts. 15:37-39; Mk. 11:23-24).
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With a pen, write down your expectations for the year and discipline yourself to constantly cross-check your compliance rate at regular intervals. This will help to assess your success rate in that year. Hab. 2:2-3; Gal. 6:7, 4.
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In the face of delays and doubts, remain steadfast, holding firm to the confession of your convictions (expectations); giving thanks to God for having seeing you through the situations with the results of your possession. (Heb. 10:23, 35-36; 4:2; I Thess. 5:18; Rom. 4:17).
NOTE: - LIFE IS THE GIFT OF GOD, BUT LIVING IS THE CHOICE OF AN INDIVIDUAL.
TOPIC: WALKING IN DIVINE PROTECTION
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Zech. 2:8c; Psa. 34:7; 91:1-6; 121:3; 127:1; 108:12; 89:34; Isa. 43:2; II Kg. 6:8-18; Jn. 15:7; Rom. 8:31; Acts. 17: 28; I Jn. 5:14.
INTRODUCTION:
The present prevailing circumstances of this life have pushed so many individuals into false security; seeking hooked for protections in wrong things and places. So many have been in the processes hooked to methods, types, and strange mysteries; rather than walking consistently in the PRINCIPLE of God’s word that remains and abides forever (Psa. 138:2; II Pet. 1:19; Matt. 24:35; Num. 23:19).
The enemy through human his human agents introduces the cheap but very porous means of protection for man; what initially looked like protection at the end becomes a trap because the victim becomes enslaved either to the man or the methods, living daily with the fear of the unknown as everything is regarded as mysteries; leaving him with no understanding of God’s ways (I Cor. 2:10; Prov. 20:27; Jn. 14:26); Jn. 16:13; and Prov. 29:25.
God gave you life to live, but there are times it’s harder to live than to die; and one cannot be totally isolated from the events and circumstances of life. There’s nowhere in the entire Bible where we are assured that life will be easy, but we do have the assurance of God’s presence. (Heb. 13: 5b; Jn. 16:33; Job. 14:1; Mk. 10:29-30; II Tim. 3:10-12). The mention of victory is because there’s battle to fight (II Cor. 2:14; I Tim. 6:12).
OUTLINES
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The need for protection wouldn’t have been an issue of importance in this life today, if not for the existence of the opposing forces who are duty-bound to make every achiever become a non-entity (beggar), using physical situations such as; lack, wants, and poverty to humble the one time men of substance and bringing them to their kneels; forcing them into making a fresh list a scale of preference at their peak, as they are unable to meet up with the demands of the times. (Lk. 12:21; I Tim. 6:9-10, 17; Lk. 14:28-30; Prov. 10:22; Eph. 6:12; Psa. 73:2-3, 17-19).
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The level of commitment affects the quality of protection enjoyed in any organization. (I Sam. 2:30). Inconsistency and sin (especially deliberate, habitual sins) weakens the hedge of God’s protection around the believer. (Eph. 4:27; I Jn. 2:1-2; 3:9; Jam. 4:7; Psa. 91:1; Rom. 6:1. e.g. Gen. 3:1-6, 22-24 and Job. 1:5, 10-22).
Any man that finds himself in wealth wouldn’t see the need for adequate protection (security) as the one who walked (attained) wealth. (Prov. 13:11).
NOTE: - NEEDS CANHUMBLE ANY PERSON REGARDLESS OF HIS STATUS IN LIFE AND REDUCE HIM TO JUST AN ORDINARY MAN, IF ONE DOES NOT CONSTANTLY INVOLVE GOD’S UNCHANGING HAND HIS AFFAIRS.(Prov. 22:7b; Phil. 4:19).
TOPIC: GAINNING SPEED THROUGH VISION
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Prov. 29:18; Hab. 2:1-3; Gen. 13:14-15; Gen. 15:5-6; Isa. 48:17.
INTRODUCTION:
Most people are today have become victims of the crisis of this life; and quite a number of them are just wadding through life not being able to identify and state in just a sentence the purpose for their living; hence; they get so easily distracted and some even change their directions whenever they come in contact with men who are definitive and purposeful in the pursuit of their own visions.
When one’s vision is understood, it helps the individual to look more confident in the very face of discouragements and the scoring of men; some situations that seem difficult to overcome. Because vision gives an on-the-spot knowledge (heart knowing with imaginations) of the things we are yet to possess, it helps us despise the present predicaments as our future is been show to us, knowing what exactly tomorrow holds for us e.g Joseph sold into the land of Egypt (Gen. 37:4-11; 26; 39:7-23; 41:39-44).
Closely hooked to vision is perseverance, as vision has to do with knowing the future from today, even when it’s not yet physically handled, (Hab. 2:3); thus, any man that truly has a vision must possess the ingredient of patience, unwavering and unruffled by people and the circumstances of life, knowing that God’s promises are and will surely be fulfilled and every vision has a “time-tag” attached to it (num. 23:19; Heb. 10:23, 35-36; II Cor. 2:20).
OULINES
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Vision enhance the speed of performance as every energy would be totally channeled/directed towards the fulfillment of the revealed purpose or project without giving room for any profitless venture including some human beings that don’t unlock our creativity (Prov. 13:20; I Cor. 15:33) e.g. Abraham’s waiting for God’s promise (Gen. 15:1-6; Rom. 4:13-24); and the battle of envy of the philistines against Isaac (Gen. 26:1, 12-22).
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Vision could remain in the realm of abstract and a mere or fantasy, if an active walk is not involved (II Cor. 5:7; Heb. 10:38). Vision is the propeller that guarantees the possibility of any motion i.e. a (useful work) in life. It has to be a vision that is practically workable through the application of God’s words (Prov. 12:11-14; 22:29).
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Words actually paints picture in the human mind. It’s not enough to only talk the vision, there’s the need to work and live in the now as though it’s already here, even with much excitement when people consider it an impossible dream and mock you. It’s best to hang in there since it was you that new the details of the vision (Phil. 4:4; 1:6; Heb. 10:23, 35; Rom. 10:10; II Cor.4:13; Eph. 6:13-14).
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Much stress is usually involved to see a vision fulfilled in the life a person with loose mouth, because in the process of much talking’s is mistaken for openness; he sells out his destiny into hands of wicked thought (man) – Prov. 10:19; Jam. 3:6; Jer. 17:9; Matt. 15:19. Satan takes advantage of our disobedience using it as exhibit to keep you bound. Thus, whenever you are at the peak of excitement, let self-control be your watch-word (Gal. 5:23; Jam. 4:7) e.g. Samson’s case – Judg. 16:10-17.
NOTE: - As men watch your consistency, they are forced to accept you as a FORCE.
TOPIC: KNOWING AND FOLLOWING GOD’S PLAN FOR YOUR LIFE
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Rom. 8: 16, 14; Prov. 19:21; 16:9; Jer. 29:11; Isa. 40:31; Heb. 12:2; II Cor. 2:14; II Tim. 2:15; 3:16; Col. 3:16; Jn. 13:17; 5:39.
INTRODUCTION: Millions of people today would have wished they knew what exactly was the plan/will of God for their lives before making the decisions that have led them into so much mess; leaving them with a line up of regrets. God in His eternal plan has a fulfilling future for every of His children; if only ewe will not have been the victims, but the victors over life’s situations. (Jer. 29:11; II Cor. 2:14).
Men who preferred to hear from and plan around humans on the long run suffers; this is because no matter how fantastic any human plan for another might be, it’s still within a limited zone (earth). Any man who would desire to go farther with God and enjoy the benefits of the walk with GOD MUST be farther from men. He must withdraw deliberately from the seemingly compulsory associations, discussion, sharing which in the actual spiritual sense are not the ingredients for good, sensitive Christian living.
We won’t be able to understand God’s plan for our lives with our human reasoning; and sometimes as we listen to His instructions thru’ His word or His Holy Spirit, God’s plan will seem utterly ridiculous to our minds; what His plans looks like, sounds like or feel like is irrelevant, yours is to the end. The only way that God’s plan could fail is when we don’t completely execute it the way He told us to while giving us the instructions. (Isa. 48:17).
EXAMPLES OF GOD’S PLAN RECEIVED AND EXECUTED
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Josh. 5:13-14; 6:2-5 – If Joshua had gotten disgruntled and impatient and had tried to hasten God’s plan by doing his own way, Israel would have lost the battle in Jericho.
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Judg. 6:1-5; 7:2-7 – Once God reveals His plans to (e.g Gideon),; your feeling of inadequacy to carry it out, people’s opinion about you and your abilities don’t matter but whether or not God told you to do it. Determine who is in charge of your life: the people or God?
THE 3 BASIC STEPS TO TAKE IN FOLLOWING GOD’S PLAN FOR/IN YOUR LIFE
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Find out God’s plan by studying the Word and Listening for the leading of the Holy Spirit in your own reborn human spirit – Rom. 8:16, 14; II Tim. 2:15; 3:16; Prov. 20:27.
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Wait patiently on God’s timing, He does not regulate or get his time with the clock or wrist watch of humans, as he only knows what’s best and when is the right time. Eccl. 3:11, 14; Isa. 40:31; Heb 10:35-36; I Jn. 5:14.
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Be bent on seeing it done completely in God’s own way, by staying focused on the plan/will; shunning every form of human (thru’ utterances and actions) and situational distractions of life. Heb. 12:12; Phil. 1:6; Jer. 1:12; Phil.2:12; Heb. 10:23.
NOTE: - BE SURE YOU DON’T GET AHEAD OF GOD IN THE DRIVE TO ACCOMPLISH HIS LANS FOR YOUR LIFE; DON’T JUMP AT EVERY OEN DOOR IN THE NATURAL. THIS GENERATION IS FULL OF HASTE, LEARN TO WAIT ON THE LORD AND GET HIS CORRECT LEADING, TO AVOID TH SHAME THAT COMES AT THE END.
TOPIC: THE PERSONALITY THAT COMMANDS FAVOUR
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Gen. 39:1-6; 14; Neh.1:5-11; 2:4-8; Est. 2:1-18; 5:1-8; Prov. 16:9, 7 18:16; 7; II Cor. 5:20; Rom. 8:31; Exod. 3:19-22; 23:23.
INTRODUCTION:
To be favoured stretches far beyond just being given money as some may have been made to believe. There’s a personality that actually command divine favour towards an individual which simply is the reason why everyone would not be favoured. There’s an AROMA that pulls favour towards a man; and this is to be understood and apply one’s self to.
There are so many today have to pay through their nose to get the smallest goodness from other people; they literally have to sweat before people would offered any assistance to them, while to some folks it’s as if they have had someone gone ahead of them to soften the minds of people concerning their situations; Yes! There’s a place for hard work, but there’s also a place for resting in God’s divine intervention (HEB. 4:9. Psa. 46:10; Phil. 4:6-7); there’s a place for tests, but a place for testimonies also abounds; and in the midst of trials are triumphs (II Cor. 2:14; I Cor. 10:13; Lk. 4:1-4), no trials is meant to be for the entire life of a man as clearly seen from the scriptures.
Thus, every believer should understand there’s a posture to take to draw favour to himself despite the hospitalities in our world today. You would need to constantly release your faith in God’s word as you get involved with people that constantly release your faith in God’s word as you get involve with people that you will merit/deserve their favour as you manifest divinity in human form.(Rom. 8 31; Heb. 4:2; Exod. 3:19-22; 23:20-23).
To constantly enjoy favour on earth is to develop a very close report with heaven; and situations will be turning around for you on every side as you obey add nothing to the pattern given in the WORD; sons of men would be under obligation to do you good, your presence would seem like a spell on humanity. (Prov. 21:1; Psa. 24:1; Jn. 15:7; Mk. 9:23; Isa. 26:3). Heaven is never late.
OUTLINES
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The new birth does not automatically guarantee an imposing personality that commands favour from men towards the believer; He would need to develop the spirit of boldness to enjoy the provisions the Father-God had already provided and have equal access as Jesus had while on the earth. Matt. 18:18; Jn. 17:1-5, 14-24; Prov. 28:1; 30:30; Gal. 5:22-23.
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The most important thing here is that the believer remain hooked to the very foundation of his faith (e.g Joseph) and constantly affirm in the face of any situation or individual (Heb. 10:23, 35-36); the very vision he saw originally from God’s word (about himself), assuring himself that every other additions will fade away and disappoint men, except the word-based practices. (Heb. 2:3-4; Matt. 24:35).
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Being found always (firm, composed, addicted) about the Father’s business that makes Him (God) command Hs angels (our servants) to organize strange favours (blessings) on our behalf, even when we don’t seem to as it were consciously do anything about it. (I Cor. 15:58; Matt. 28:19-20; Psa. 34:7; I Sam. 2:30; Eph. 3:20; Jn. 15:7).
NOTE: - FAVOUR IS ORGANIZED BY HEAVEN; MEN WOULD BE IN CONSTANT TOURCH WITH HEAVEN TO PARTAKE OF HEAVENLY ARRANGED FAVOURS ON EARTH.
TOPIC: MAXIMIZING PROFIT THRU’ SOUND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Prov. 14:23; 24:27-34; 22:29; 12:11; Eccl. 9:10; 3:1, 11; Gal. 6:7; Psa. 1:1-3; Hos. 4:6; Prov. 13:20.
INTRODUCTION:
If the true purpose for engaging in any business venture by most believers today is ‘Profit’, their management strategies would reveal it by the results they will be getting. It’s rather unfortunate most folks in the church believers that God would because they are His children rain abundance upon them without good brain to manage what He has provided for them. The world has an unstable system an unpredictable economy; and hence expects each of His children tom know for themselves how to beat Satan to the game as long as they last upon the face of the earth, giving no room to the god (systematic ruler) of this world, that is the devil (II Cor. 4:4; I Jn. 5:19).
Good management of the available resource (human, material and financial) being able to blend these factors together for one’s desire goal within a defined time period is what distinguishes a man from his colleagues and thus makes his own star to outshine the other stars around. (Prov. 22:29). No matter how close you may be to God, sensitive to His Spirit and embalmed with the anointing of heaven, even when it’s so clear that it was God that gave you the business idea, if you neglect the place of sound management, you are very sure to fail in that particular area of your life regardless of your claims; afterall, diligence is the medicine for lasting progress in life – it’s a general principle (Eccl. 9:10).
The year will only yield whatever we have in the previous year sown into it, no matter the proclamation of any man of God (Gal. 6:7). It’s therefore foolish for any Christian to come on the 31st of December to begin to sow or plant seed/words and expecting to reap a bountiful new year; that night is supposed to be a night of watering the already sown seed/words/expectations by the confessions (II Cor. 4:13; Heb. 10:23, 36), of your mouth thanksgiving.
OUTLINES
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Order should be the first thing any person who wants to make profit in whatever venture should invest in i.e. doing things, putting things rightly all the time, this would eliminate the problem of hap-hazardless. This emanates from having the sense of commitment to your vision. (Prov. 16:9; Lk. 14:28-30).
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God gave every human being the free gift (resources) of TIME and expects us to trade with it and profit from withal, some traded theirs for friendship while some wisely distribute theirs for maximum benefit in their area/field of endeavour (Eccl. 3:1; Prov. 14:23; 13:20; 24:32-34).
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The bible never encourages idleness and unevenly distribution of the God-given treasure (time) in all areas of our lives as Christians. We are rather admonished to spend most of our time building our business (sources of income) even before getting shelter (Prov. 24:27-34) as that would produce and sustain comfortable living on the earth for us.
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Most Christians are not really encouraged to pursue good management strategies today because of the cheap and porous walls of seemingly prosperity gotten through methods rather than the pathway of diligence. Any person should know that opportunities are given and not picked on the street as some have been taught today. Every grace you need to manage effectively God’s resources at your disposal is right within you. (Prov. 13:11; 19:27; 20:18).
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TOPIC: STAND FOR NOTHING AND FALL FOR ANYTHING
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Josh. 24:14-15; Dan. 3:4-30; 6:5-26; I Sam. 17:4, 22-40; Lk. 4:18-19; Psa. 89:34; Jn. 9:4.
INTRODUCTION:
Most men who have been one thing or the other in this life are today by the present trying circumstances being put to test in the area of integrity; to find out weather or not they succeeded by principles or not. So many have been made to eat their words and forced to compromise their stand in the face of pressures of life. A man’s present is a product of his past, consciously or unconsciously.
The world is searching for men who have enough guts, courage to stand for something they are convinced is the truth and right way of living (principles); such men don’t easily fall just “anything”, no matter the pressure on and around them. THEY ARE LEADERSHI MATERIALS, ANYTIME, ANYDAY; even the mediocre know they are men of purpose, except for their unserious and insincere notions and comments.
Everyone needs to have a stand concerning all aspects of his life e.g. friendships, relationships (marriage) and fiancés and stick religiously to it, not minding other people’s opinions about the basis for your convictions. It’s very easy to fall just for anything if you don’t have a particular stand.
THE 4 REASONS YOU MUST HAVE AND LIVE BY PRINCIPLES
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Principles enhance decision making – Jam. 1:8; Hosea. 10:2; Eccl. 9:10.
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It saves time, money and conserves energy – Eccl. 3:1; 12:1; Jn. 9:4.
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Clearly spells out the scope or extent of one’s involvement in other people’s affairs (limits setter) – Eccl. 10:10; Prov. 26:17; 25:17.
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Principled men are threats to their colleagues and a puzzle to their enemies – Jn. 3:8; Mk. 4:41; 6: 1-3; Prov. 12:24.
EXAMPLE OF PURPOSEFUL HEROES OF FAITH
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Joshua declared his stand at the verge of indecision – Josh. 24:14-15.
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The 3 Hebrew children in a strange land fearlessly voiced out their unfeigned loyalty to and for God before ungodly authority – Dan. 3:4-30.
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David strengthened his confidence in God’s ability to deliver those conscious of their covenant with Him as the Almighty God the times of trouble and looming shame – I Sam. 17:22-40; Psa. 89:34; Jer. 33:19-21.
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Daniel made a costly choice; to rather die than to compromise his stand for integrity – Dan. 6:5-26; Phil. 1:21.
NOTE: - As long as you won’t settle for a principled lifestyle, you will be the rolling stone that gathers no mud (achievements); Men would always occupy, engage your own time and energy with their activities – Jam. 1:5-8.
LET THE COMING YEAR BE A YEAR YOU HAVE A STAND TO MAINTINA, SO YOU DON’T WASTE. CUT OFF THE NECESSARY EXCESSES NOW!!
TOPIC: WAITING ON THE LORD
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Psa. 63:1-11; Isa. 40:31; Psa. 52:9; 59:9; Matt. 26:26-41.
INTRODUCTION:
In all of life’s activities and spheres is a period resting, relaxing and going inwards, then surging forth in life from the inner potent energy. A place of rest is not only in eternity thereafter. It can be in the quietness of our being.
When the stillness of mortality meets with immortality and energy is released forth, e.g. hot food in a fully air-conditioned room – vapour is released adequately.
To wait on the Lord is to go back and retrace our being to the creator God. Not for bounties or goodies, but for the energy that will be released into us for living.
WHAT IT MEANS TO WAIT IN THE LORD: - Psa. 123:1-4; 130:5-6.
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To wait on the Lord is to diligently and calmly seek God’s face (Isa. 40:31), to get His attention.
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To look and wait upon God as a waiter or maid on her master/mistress.
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To see Him release His glory upon you, this is the strength for living.
5 BASIC STEPS TO WAIT ON THE LORD
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Set your mind and entire system to wait on the Lord – (Prov. 23:7a).
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Meditate on Scriptures that talks waiting on the Lord – (Jn. 5:39).
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Set out time to worship Him (just for who He is), in the beauty of His Holiness – (Exod. 15:11; Psa. 96:9).
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Relax and disallow every distraction as to give and get God’s attention – (I Thess. 4:11-12; Psa. 46:10; 4:4).
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Be very confident that your waiting will produce desired results and have a writing/note pad by your side to write down instructions given. (I Jn. 5:14; Hab. 2:2-4; Isa. 40:31).
NOTE: - As water is too scorched and thirsty soul, so should waiting on the Lord be to the Christian heart.
CHRISTIANS SHOULD CULTIVATE THE HABIT OF “PAINFULLY” WAITNG ON THE LORD, THAN “SHAMFULLY” RETURNING FROM THE HANDS OF MEN, NURSING THE WOUNDS OF DISAPOINTMENTS WITH BITTERNESS.
TOPIC: CONSISTENCY – THE SECRET OF DISTINCTION
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Rom. 10:17; I Cor. 15:58; Eph. 6:13c-14a; Acts. 20:24; Heb. 10:23, 35-36; Jn. 8:31; Phil. 3:13-14; Mal. 3:6; Heb. 13:8; Gen. 37:5-27; 41:9-14.
INTRODUCTION:
Consistency distinguishes and stabilizes a man’s authority and enthrones him in the very presence of his adversaries, thereby making him an undisputable success in his particular field and a champion, to reckon with. Consistency is that one ingredient that most people lack after having begun any venture be it spiritual or secular. The tempo they started with starts dropping almost un-noticed, they become hap-hazard, disorganized and giving little or no attention to order (i.e. accurate arrangement of things) in their lives and endeavours.
Inconsistency, no matter how insignificant is the very beginning of a fall (bankruptcy; folding up) in any area of life. When you are full of desires, but lack the zeal/drive to pursue them i.e. armed with information (access to supplies), but embalmed with reluctance to transform them into invaluable wealth.
An inconsistent husband will loose the confidence ad eventual support of a loyal and loving wife;
An inconsistent boss will loose the respect of his employee and be considered as being irresponsible, whose words men would take with a pinch of salt.
An inconsistent minister of the gospel would have to be full of excuses (schemes, tricks) to keep his position. Inconsistent men purchase the present to forgo the future, thus they ache and pain at the end, after all the glamour and pageantry (e.g Samson – Judg. 16).
OUTLINES
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Consistent men have more reasons to quit than ordinary men; thus the oppositions give them the inner assurance to pursue their dream with more diligent; thereby allowing their imagination to control their energy/inner drive – II Cor. 4:8-17; Rom. 8:35-39; Gal. 6:9.
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Holding unto the past failure and listening to wrong information (i.e scripturally unprofitable conversation, presentation irrespective), is one surest way slow you down in life; thus, threatening your consistency. Isa. 43:18-19, 25; Phil. 3:13-14; I Cor. 15:33.
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A consistent man dresses (packages) himself for where he is going and not for where he is coming from; ever pregnant with expectation. Gen. 37:5-27; 39:1-6; 40:1-23; 41:9-14; Prov. 23:18.
NOTE: - THE PURPOSE OF INSTRUCTION IS LINK YOU TO SUPPLIES WHICH IS ONLY FOUND IN THE PLACE OF OBEDIENCE THAT IS CONSISTENT, IT IOS THEN THAT THE DISTINCTION MANIFESTS – (Isa. 1:19).
TOPIC: - LOVE – THE UNIFYING FORCE
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Amos. 3:3; Eccl. 4:9-12; I Cor. 13:1-8; I Jn. 4:7-18; 3:14-24; 5:18-19; Jn. 13:34-35; Eph. 2:10-16; 4:26-27; Acts. 2:43-47; 4:32-35; Psa. 133:1-2.
INTRODUCTION:
There’s a mystery to love, because it’s the vey essence of God Himself; the ingredients of love are supernatural, it will on it’s own find it’s way into any heart; leaving the fellow with no option but respond to it’s divine stimulations, i.e the divine (agape) love of God. It’s constituents are so powerful that no natural force on earth could resist it’s touch. The full obedience to the law of divine love determines the release of our desired miracles from the very throne of God; as partial obedience will result in giving the enemy (Satan) a foot-hold in our life, thereby keeping us in suspense and open to his maneuvers (I Jn. 2: 9-11; Eph. 4: 27; II Cor. 2:11).
Ability to love even the unlovable is the practical demonstration of the truth indwelling us because it will obviously hurt your human pride (flesh).
Bruises, deep cuts and humiliation are some of the unpleasant friends that one must be ready to entertain, if you must tread the love lane in this physical word of in-perfection, which only the heart love could heal.
Hatred is the breeding ground for suspection and all evil works; it’s a natural de-hydrating agent that turns a man into a walking corpse as he suffers from emotion tortures. It limits the free flow of the spirit of in-terraction (fellowship); and it reduces anyone to a mediocre. It blocks the access way to a man’s heart.
OUTLINES
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Love as weakly as it seems and looks is the strongest defense any man could ever have and doesn’t place a magnifying on the weaknesses of others; but rather seeks for ways to correct it in the spirit of meekness and understanding – I Cor. 13:8; Gal. 6:1; I Pet. 4:8; Matt. 7:1-6; Prov. 17:9; 10:12.
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The “jump” in a man’s heart on seeing someone you had a mis-understanding with is a warning signal indicating the need for a positive adjustment; pain tells us something isn’t functioning properly in our system. Forgiveness is evidenced by the feelings we have on remembering or seeing the fellow that hurt us in times past. Fresh feeling of hurt as if it’s just done is a sign of ‘unforgiveness’ and need be dealt with. I Jn. 4:7-8, 12, 18; Matt. 6:12, 14-15. Unforgiveness keeps you in fear.
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Love doesn’t always avoid first, but goes the extra mile of confronting the person (s) involved, else it results in unconscious malice and enmity which are the properties of the devil and a snare to your faith. Matt. 18:15-17. Gal. 6:1; I Jn. 2:9, 11; Matt. 5:24-26; Deut. 19:15.
NOTE: - LOVE IS NOT AN OPTION AS A BELIEVER, IT’S A COMMANDMENT FROM GOD; AND EVERY OTHER CHRISTIAN PRACTICES REVOLVES AROUND IT. (Jn. 13:34-35; Jam. 2: 10; I Jn. 5:3).
Be wise enough not to allow anyone’s behavior block your access road to your constant supply as God doesn’t walk outside His commandments (Jn. 15:7; I Jn. 5:14). A step outside love is a trap.
TOPIC: - TAKING GIANT STRIDES WITH GOD
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Prov. 28:1; 12:24; Dan. 10:32-33a; Phil. 1:28a; 2:9-11; Matt. 11:11-12; II Kg. 18:1-39; II Tim. 1:7; I Tim. 6:12; Isa. 8:12; Jer. 12:5-6; Deut. 2:24; Psa. 138:8.
INTRODUCTION:
Any of God’s children who desire to be distinguished through a deeper and mysterious walk with the Almighty God in the coming year must of a necessity develop a heart of taking giant steps/strides with God through His unfailing word; without giving heed to the trouble that usually come along with victories. Giant strides (obvious achievements in the midst of risks) are not for the fearful at heart; nor for men that rely solely on logics and their manipulative skills in the natural. It’s for men of total dependence upon God’s invisible intervention in life’s ordinary situations (miracle). These are men that would dare to dare; covenant risk takers; who would offer their lives on the simple lines of God’s words e.g. Lk. 5:1-5; Matt. 14:28-29. They possess the lion’s heart (Prov. 30:30).
Even God the father expects His man to live a life always willing and ready to accept challenges; because acceptance of challenges is the sure way to up-liftmen in any sphere of life. To shy away from challenge is to settle for a life of consistent harassments.(I Tim. 6:12; Deut. 2:24; Jer. 12:5-6). God never encourage His handwork (man) to be chicken-hearted (easily confused and giving up in the face of temporary hardships).
It’s only easy to take giant strides in any year, it we have our legs inside of God’s shoes (Eph. 6:10-18) and be determined to undermine oppositions.
CONDITIONS TO QUALIFY ANY MAN FOR GOD’S KIND OF TRIDES
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Must be in fellowship with God always through His Words – Psa. 91:1-2; Col. 3:16-17; Jn. 15:7.
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Must have a close walk (interaction) with the Holy Spirit, spending time to pray in the spirit/tongues most of the time – Jude. 20; Rom. 8:26; Acts. 2:1-4, 37-38, Eph. 5:18.
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Must be conscious of his blood covenant relationship with the Lord. Constantly for his daily defense – Rev. 12:11; Heb. 10:19.
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Deliberately avoid situational and human (thru’ actions and utterances) distractions.
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Must be a thanks-giver and a regular praiser – Eph. 5:19-20; Psa. 150:1-end.
NOTE: - EVERY GIANT STRIDE OR STEP (VICTORY) WILL ATTRACT PROPORTIONAL OPPOSITION, BUT MAINTAIN YOUR LINK TO GOD AS YOUR ANCHOR (FAITH) – I Jn. 5:4; Rom. 8:37.
TOPIC: WHAT WILL BE YOUR EXCUSE BEFORE GOD ON THE LAST DAY?
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Heb. 10:31; 12:29; 9:27; 2:3; Mk. 8:34-36; Jn. 12:24-26; 9:4-5; Lk. 14:16-27; Rom. 1:16; 10:13-15; II Cor. 4:1-5; 1:18-23; II Tim. 4:2; I Cor. 3:12-15.
INTRODUCTION:
To be for-warned is to be for-armed, goes the old good saying. The availability of information in any sphere of life gives no room for any excuses; as long as the informed is mentally sound/alert, not even an actual distraction from other human beings nor situations around him counts. e.g. Adam – Gen. 2:17, 15; 3:1-6, 22-24; Eph. 4:27.
Man by his make-up (Free-moral agent with the power to make choice at will) is expected to resist any external influences that is capable of straining the relationship between him and his creator, because he has the in-built ability to do so (Jam. 4:7); Psa. 8:1-9.
There’s a price for disobedience (sin) both in the Old and New testaments; though Christ had already paid for our sins in this new dispensation, but anytime we walk against the word of God deliberately, we open the door to the wicked one and his activities in our lives (I Pet. 5:8-9), expect the sin of omission i.e. sins unknowingly committed which the blood of Jesus takes care of on our behalf (I Jn. 2:1-3; 1:9; 3:8-9).
God’s mercy is available to man ONLY as long as he’s alive, but once he’s dead, he has to face God’s judgment (Heb. 9:27) because there’s no repentance in the grave.
Thus, whatever correction anyone has to make is ONLY possible while still living. God’s forgiveness is ONLY for the LIVING; the dead faces DIVINE CHARGES on the other side. The unbeliever as well as the believer would face the books to account for their deeds here in the earth as i.e. the white throne judgment and the Judgment seat of Christ – (Rev. 20:12-15; I Cor. 3:12-15).
God’s promise mansions won’t just be given simply because one is born-again, there’s a place for works and doing the work of winning the lost to the Lord; these are the building bricks for those blessed assurance in the kingdom of heaven (Jn. 14:1-2; Eph. 2:8-9; II Tim. 2:19-22).
BASIC REASONS WHY MEN REJECT THE GOSPEL TODAY
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The spiritual blindness of their minds by Satan – II Cor. 4:4; I Jn. 5:19, 17.
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Men are being condemned instead of being reconciled (II Cor. 5:19; Tit. 3:5.
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Un-intelligent communication of the gospel (good news) makes the message unappetizing to the hearer (sinner); thus he becomes uninterested in the message – II Tim. 2:15; Col. 3:16; e.g. Acts. 26:1-28,31,32.
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Double life-style of the believer paints the wrong picture of the message – II Cor. 6:14-17; 8:21; I Pet. 2:11-25.
REQUIREMENTS FOR EFFECTIVENESS IN THE KINGDOM
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Fire burning in the heart – Rev. 3:15-16; Rom. 12:11; Jam. 5:16; Acts. 18:25.
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Compassion – Matt. 9: 35-38; Rom. 5:5.
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Sense of urgency – Rev. 3:11; 12:12c; I Pet. 5:8.
NOTE: - WASH YOUR GARMENT, GETTIMNG READING TO MEET HIM THAT SITS ON THE THRONE, BUT THEN AS THE RIGHTEOUS JUDGE.
TOPIC: PURPOSE PRODUCES PROMINENCE
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Prov. 29:18; 22:29; II Tim. 2:3; Heb. 11:4-40; 35, 23, 36; I Jn. 2:14; Psa. 96:6; Eccl. 12:1; Heb. 6:12; I Cor. 10:1-12; Jer. 6:16; Prov. 20:29.
INTRODUCTION:
There’s a big problem plaguing the young men and ladies of today; and the elderly ones are not helping the situation at all, the young stars only seem to be interested in the present position of prominence of the elders, having little or no knowledge of the various stages they (elders) have passed through over the years. The reason for this misconception today is simply because the elders would only emphasize their present and making mention or not at all making any references to where they were and coming from; which is actually the foundation of their present height (achievements), Deut. 6:1-9.
Most people today on the top only stress on the finished product and hoarding as it were the raw materials used to achieve the product that shot them now to prominence, which is a very great evil; t will only lead the younger generation to building sky-scrappers on shaky foundations; a sure collapse of the next generation. The leaders that practice such do so simply because of insecurity. There’s enough space for all even at the top (Rom. 10:12).
The hard truth is: If some top shots (spiritual or secular) have their selfish ways, they would arrange to pay any amount of money to death just to keep them reigning over others forever; they have forgotten that LIFE IS IN STAGES: MEN ARE IN SIZES: and MEN TAKE TURNS IN LIFE. No natural man in this flesh was created to live in this present world forever, afterall; this our world would pass away someday to give way for a much better one (Rev. 21:1; II Pet. 3:10-11; Matt. 24:35). Every generation is supposed to set the stage for the coming generation, so the world would remain a better place for all. This generation of young men and ladies MUST fight the spirit of GREED.
A man of purpose fears no price; never short of newer ideas because they are ever brain-storming (Gen. 26:17-22); are they ever conscious of the fact that the baton ought to be handed over to another, so they make sure they run so well to give a push/lift to the up-coming champions.
Most men had their names and achievements forgotten few years after they leave stars, thus building upon shallow foundations that would at the end not be able to carry the huge load of accomplishments they made; under the spirit of haste and competition (II Kg. 19:30b; Eccl. 8:3; 7:8; 3:14; 918; Jam. 1:5-8).
EXAMPLES OF MEN OF PURPOSE
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Isaac in the midst of ridicule and harsh treatments kept opening new grounds, searching for that would shoot him to prominence. (Gen. 26:12-30).
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Joseph’s purpose preserved him; producing hope and eventually placed on his finger (a nobody before then) the king’s ring – Gen. 41:39-46; when he was just 30 years of age.
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Jesus fully aware of the sufferings He was to go through still gave Himself to be drilled by His creatures, just because He had s mental picture of the end result – I Cor. 2:8; Heb. 12:1-3; 1:5-10).
Men of purpose always end up bringing unending joy to the lives of folks around them. e.g. Joseph – Gen. 47:11-12, who invested his youthful strength for a peaceful and lasting memory.
NOTE: RECOGNIZE AND ACCEPT YOUR INNER STRENGTH AND INVEST YOUR STRENGTH INTO IT.
TOPIC: - PROVOKING OTHERS UNTO GOOD WORKS
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Matt. 5:14-16; Heb. 10:24; I Tim. 4:12; II Cor. 3:1-3; Tit. 2:7-8; II Cor. 8:21; Acts. 17:11; Gal. 6:1-2; I pet. 5:1-3; II Tim. 2:15.
INTRODUCTION:
There’s no aspect of God’s word that is of little relevance to our spiritual well being (II Tim. 3:16); as new creatures; no matter how unpopular, insignificant, not embraced by the multitudes, the truth still stands that multitudes don’t make a ministry, but TRUTH does (Jn. 8:32; 13:17; Jam. 1:22-25). The responses of men generally differ from one person to the other when information is passed unto them at any point in time. The rate of assimilation is not the same, hence differences in individual reactions. The therefore explains the incompleteness of man and the supportive role we ought to play in each other’s lives as believers still in the flesh.
The best in certain people would never manifest until they come in contact with certain people who would help them to unlock their creativity by way of association and sound teachings (Prov. 13:20; I Cor. 15:33). The believer is expected to know he has some deposits of God’s special grace in him/her to put meaning/colour into the lives of others; contribution to make others complete and blossom; and there are several ways to do this.
Heaven was so smart not to make man in the flesh independent of other human beings; man is the completeness of another man, man would ever require the services of fellow man. There are rough edges that a man not see for himself to correct it for himself; he would need the eyes of another man to straighten those rough edges of his life, through constructive criticisms (Gal. 6:1-2).
The Christian can be a source of inspiration to another Christian; this could happen in so many areas and so many ways such as: in the consistent study of God’s word; fervency in prayers and living a balanced Christian life worthy of emulation (I Tim. 4:12). A life that would continually pose a challenge to others must be consistent; and a product of personal inner researches that distinguishes his personality from that of others in any gathering (II Tim. 2:15).
WAYS BY WHICH WE CAN BE A CHALLENGE TO ONE ANOTHER
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Living out without hypocrisy the practical sides of the lessons learnt from the word in all areas e.g. love others unconditionally (I Jn. 4:7-8; I Cor. 13:1-8); Living a quiet life and of few words (I Thess. 4:11; Prov. 10:19); being not unequally yoked with unbelievers (II Cor. 6:14-17; Psa.1:1-3); and being personally committed to the winning of souls unto God (Matt. 28:19-20; Prov. 11:30).
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Helping brethren to utilize their time wisely by engaging them in activities and questions that would task their minds from past studies from the fellowship meetings; displaying your knowledge of the subject (Acts. 17:11; II Tim. 2:15; Col. 3:16-17).
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Be always ready to serve others with genuine humility (Gal. 5:13; Eph. 6:7-8).
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Show your strong displeasure whenever gossips, slander is presented before you deliberation or for your personal opinion, as your lips are meant to glorify God and build the weaker part of the body of Christ.
NOTE: - THE TREE YOU DON’T TEND, YOU ARE NOT QAULIFIED TO EAT OF ITS FRUITS.
TOPIC: - WHY DOES SERVING GOD BECOME BURDENSOME?
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Job. 13:15; Rom. 8:36-39; Psa. 30:5; II Tim. 2:3; Mk. 10:29-31; Jn. 16:33; Dan. 3:14-19; 6:12-23.
INTORDUCTION:
A man feels he’s wasting, amounting to nothing in this world in any area, as long as he’s still not “dead” to “self”. God never uses anyone who is not truly and totally dead to his own feelings (voice of the flesh); the opinions of the people about him; and every satanic prangs. Such a man is a toy in the enemy’s (Satan) hand as he will find it very easy to manipulate him due to his being alive to the crying of the flesh (needs around him).
God finds it extremely difficult to entrust His presence. His accenting and His glory into the hands of anyone of His children who is still alive; He trusts more in “dead” people among His living children (Jn.12:24-25).
To a man who is serving God as it were with his whole life and walking in His statutes, and yet not getting all of his daily needs met on a regular basis, that particular period of his life could be regarded as a boring time and could begin to reduce his commitment towards the Lord’s services if he has no understanding of who God is, and the place of “Patience” in God’s plan for everyman (Job. 13:15; Isa. 40:31; Heb. 10:36; Rom. 8:35-37; Hab. 2:3).
Today, most Christiana are excited, on fire, only when they are in the midst of other burning Christians; it’s very difficult to set themselves on Holy Spirit Fire when they are alone in their closets to stir up the joy of the Lord; This is because they have lost the inner fire on revival that helps to ignite the sparks for continual excitement in the Lord, so they tend to be moody in their spiritual lives.
There’s wrong conception today that “serving God should only be when one is convenient”. He will not stop being God whether we serve Him or not. The physical needs of most believers today have become the determinants of their excitement level in the Lord, and their relationships with other Christians around them (II Cor. 5:7; Phil. 4:4; I Thess. 5:15-18). True spirituality is an unqualified committal to serve God with the same zeal and fervency in whatever condition a man may be, knowing that God is not a forgetful God, He’s ever mindful of His covenant with the “upright” in heart and in “deeds” (Psa. 111:5; 84:11; 89:34) and would display the righteous before all men so that He would get the glory through His blessings upon that life.
Men have responded to temporary needs that caused pressures on every side and have plunged into huge debts that caused major set-backs for them as they neglect the place of “calmness: in the midst of confusion and made hasty decisions, some have sold out their most treasured belongings for that reason.
HOW TO MAINTAIN TRUE SPIRITUAL EXCITEMENT
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Develop a very personal knowledge of God through regular fellowshipping with Him in His Words – Dan. 11:32-33; Jn. 15:7; Col. 3:16; Josh. 1:18.
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Locate and address the weak areas of your Christian life as they and as entry prints for the enemy (Satan) – Eph. 4:27; Heb. 12:1-2; II Cor. 7:1; Gal. 6:4.
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Prayer prolongs “revival”, it’s the secret of inner strength. So map out a personal, workable round-the-clock prayer strategy of keeping yourself in constant touch with heaven, it prevents spiritual dryness. (Eph. 6:18; Jude. V. 20; Rom. 8:26; Lk. 18:1).
NOTE: - WHENEVER SPIRITUAL THINGS BECOME BORING, YOU NEED A FRESH TOUCH (REVIVAL).
TOPIC: - HEAVEN’S STANDARD FOR THE CHRISTIAN
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Lev. 20:7; Isa. 55:8-10; Matt. 6:19-21; Jn. 14:1-3; I Cor. 15:50-58; Phil. 2:12; Col. 3:16-17; I Thess. 4:13-18; I Jn. 3:1-3; Rev. 22:9-12; 21:1
INTRODUCTION:
So many who claim to have accepted Christ as their “personal Lord and Saviour” today seem not to realize and keep in their memories the fact that Christianity is a race that terminates in heaven and it’s personal and as such requires personal commitment to make it a worthwhile involvement as long as one lasts on the earth. It doesn’t just end here after one dies. There’s life after death; rest after the earthly worries/concerns; eternal peace and joy for all those who have faithfully ran the race, observing all the stipulated rules of the game (Christianity), i.e. Reward – I Cor. 9:23-27. Putting every sentiment aside, the Christian race is a very personal one.
The so-called Christian civilization has over the years eroded the dread men used to have whenever the thought of missing heaven crossed their minds, it has replaced it with the ‘age of grace mentality/syndrome’ that seem to as it were have licensed men to live a conscience dead lifestyle, even in the church which has made many folks to error from the right path. It has encouraged the mere fantasy of material addition as a sign of God’s hands being upon a life, and a sign of closeness to God.
So much noise is being made about becoming ‘somebody’ in this life, building an acceptable personality before men, creating the consciousness of earthly investments in the believer, passers-by talking and acting like those without a hope and a home country (I Jn. 2:15-16; Jam. 4:4; I Cor. 6:14-15).
However, in our reflective moments, shocks are sent into our inner man when we see the emptiness and folly of this worldly activities we engage in, which is a sign of eternity indwelling the average man; see (I Pet. 2:11-12; I Thess. 4:18; II Tim. 3:1-7); and yet we yield to our human weaknesses often.
GOD’S REQUIRED STANDARD TO QUALIFY FOR HIS KINGDOM
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Continually pursue and live the life of Holiness (being more like God). Lev. 20:7; Heb. 3:1; I Jn. 3:1-3; II Cor. 7:1; Heb. 12:1; Psa. 15:1-5; Eph. 5:1.
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Live the Sanctified (separated) Life – I Thess. 4:1-12; 5:23; Eph. 4:21-32.
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Maintain a standard for living – Jam. 1:5-8 i.e. integrity.
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Maintain a stand for God by shunning Worldliness (living according to the standard of this world) – I Jn. 2:15; Prov. 1:10; Jam. 4:4; II Cor. 6:14; Lk. 12:16-31, and be ‘Faithful’ – Num. 12:6-8; Lk. 19:10-26; I Cor. 4:2.
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Be watchful in Prayers and Reaching out to the Lost with a sense of urgency (Mk. 13:32-37; 16:15-20; Matt. 28:18-20).
NOTE: - A MAN’S FOCUS AFFECTS HIS CARRIAGE, LANGUAGE AND BEHAVIOUR, BE WATCHFUL AS THE EXPECTED GUEST HAD WARNED (MK. 13:37).
TOPIC: - A MAN POSITION AFFECTS HIS VISION
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Gen. 13:14-15; 12:1-4; II kg. 2:1-12; Jer. 1:9-12; Matt. 14:24-30; II Cor. 5:7; Heb. 10:38.
INTRODUCTION:
The way one positions himself, to a large extent determines the kind of treatments he would get, both in spiritual and physical things generally, this also affects the extent (how far) he would see into the future (greater heights). There must be a correct positioning in life, in other to cheaply contact the certain blessings and ease of life.
With a vibrant vision burning in one’s heart, good and sharp eyes to see, if you are in the wrong place (position), you will only be going round and round in a circle, thinking that movement (progress) is being made; whereas, it’s mere repetition of same things over and over again, i.e. stagnation. Hearing from God is a matter of Choices and Sacrifices; there must be the timely and correct positioning as God works with time and heart condition; (Psa. 51: 6, 17). A man with a right heart needs to always be in the right place in other to be able to see further and know the right step to take.
Certain conditions, circumstances and people could be the reasons for retardation and eventual standstill in the wheel of progress in life and frequent free flow of information from the Father-God and even our own normal human thinking processes; e.g. Abram – Gen. 12:1-4; II Cor. 6:17; and the children of Israel while in Egypt – Exod. 7:16; 9:1, 13.
The people had to change their position (physical) before they could have the correct view of the promised land of Canaan. God showed them Canaan amidst the rough trails of the wilderness with the scourging of the sun in the desert; but after that wilderness experience lies ahead the glorious milk and honey ( II Tim. 2:3-7; I Cor. 10:1, 6). Many couldn’t see Canaan because of the present, temporary sufferings they had to go through just to toughen them against the coming tests of life, they lost hope, murmured and many of their elders, deacons never entered Canaan.
THOSE WHO CHANGE THEIR DETINIES BY RE-POSITIONING THEMSELVES
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Elisha had the choice to stay back or retreat from Bethel, back home to rehearse the past exploits of his master Elijah – II Kg. 2:12.
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The 4 leprous men (II Kg. 7:1-10) changed, rebelled against their former condition (position) and life turned around for them, while the king’s main man refused to accept change and lost his life – (II kg. 7:2, 17).
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The blind Bartemaeus initiated his miracle by changing his position and got Jesus’ attention – Mk. 10:46-52.
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The woman with issue of blood got her healing because she changed her position which affected her view, never allowing people to discourage her; she was fully convinced her healing had come and ceased the opportunity there and then, despite the opinions and reactions of the teaming crowd towards her (Lk. 8:43-48).
NOTE: - BEING AT THE RIGHT PLACE IS THE DOOR THT OPENS OTHER DOORS IN LIFE. (Jn. 15:7; Psa. 91:1.).
TOPIC: - MONEY – SATAN’S MOST DREADED “PHYSICAL” COMMODITY
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Psa. 115:16; 24:1; 104:24b; Hag. 2:6-9; Zech. 1:17; Deut. 8:18; I Tim. 6:17, 10; Eccl. 10:19; 7:12; Job. 36:11; Mk. 10:17-30; Matt. 6:24c; Prov. 19:4; 10:22.
INTRODUCTION:
Several facts are clear in the Bible; God wants you to have abundant finances to accomplish His will and plans in your life. God also wants you to provide for your family and their needs (I Tim. 5:8). The master key to financial blessing is the TITHE and OFFERINGS that are seeded into His Work for a desired harvest (Mal. 3:10, 11). Satan is a master of blinding us to the truth. He is a robber, A depriver, A thief, and A distorter of facts (Jn. 10:10). He fears a prosperous and financially successful kingdom minded believer or minister of the gospel. The way he dealt with Job is a clear prove of his hatred of financial abundance (Job. 1:7- ).
You will not be able to accomplish God’s will in your life without sufficient finances; neither would your biggest ideas/dreams succeed without MONEY (Eccl. 10: 19; 7:12). Money in your hand as a believer is big threat to the devil. It’s explosive! IF SATAN CAN STEAL YOUR FINANCES, HE CAN PARALYZE YOUR DREMS for life (I Pet. 5:8). Money is a tool for accomplishments. It’s much easier to be absent-minded where there’s not enough financial abundance and even regarded ad being ‘unserious’, ‘un-organized’ and an ‘imbecile’ by others.
Religious has over the years deceived the average Christian mind that it is not possible to be “rich” and still serve God in holiness, because ‘as they claim, money is the root of all evil’. These are all false assertions and are baseless in the scriptures. It is rather the “LOVE” OF MONEY that is the root of all evil (I Tim. 6:10, 17; Lk. 12:21-31 and I Tim. 6>18). To a large extent, the possession of financial abundance reduces the rate at which one yields to some temptations (evils), because money could be used to provide a good and very comfortable environment that enhances “PRODUCTIVE THINKING” (Prov. 23:7a; Phil. 4:8; Matt. 12:34; 15:11, 19; Rom. 12:1-2). Satan takes advantage of idle folks.
If truly money is the root of all evils, don’t you think Satan would by tomorrow morning fill your backyard with lots of money, as one pursuing a life of holiness and daily sanctification? (I Pet. 5:8). If money isn’t a threat to him, why does he keenly contest it’s abundance in the hands of a “kingdom-minded believer? Why didn’t he double Job’s earnings? (Job. 1:9-11; Jn. 10:10). Why does he prefer the unbeliever (ungodly) to be in control of it on earth, as to dictate the pace of progress and increase his followership? That’s why he introduces them to several other ways they can be rich such as 419, stealing, occultism, and cheating etc without considering the possible consequences later.
The major reason Satan fears money in the believer’s hand is that the spread of the gospel would de-populate his kingdom and affect his dominion (Zech. 1:17; Deut. 8:18). Secondly, money is the commonest physical commodity any man on earth can relate to and a powerful tool of influence (Prov. 19:4, 6-7). So he who has it dictates the pace and his words as answers to problems (Eccl. 10:19). God promised to wrap up this age with the rain of abundance (Hag. 2:3-9; Jam. 5:1-3). We thus need to see money as a “weapon” to humiliate Satan and get continually involved in Productive ventures that yields profit to keep money (threat) always within our reach to keep advancing God’s work on the earth and not for selfish ambitions (Jam. 4:1-3; Lk. 12:21-31; I Tim. 6:18; Prov. 13:12; Eccl. 9:10; Prov. 14:23).
This will stop the present liars, deceivers that want to dictate the pace of gospel advancement, by influencing the “TASTE” of God’s servants in the church in other just to dance to their music. Men like ISAAC; JOSEPH; and JOB posed a great threat to Satan with abundance (Gen. 26:12-16; 47:15-20, 27; Job. 1:8-11; 22:21-29; 36:11).
TOPIC: - UNDERSTANDING THE WALK IN THE SPIRIT
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Gal. 5:16-22, 25; Rom. 8:1-6, 14; 12:1-2; Phil. 4:8; II Cor. 4:16, 18.
INTRODUCTION:
Every sincere and serious-minded child of God would all things being equal desire to grow into maturity in the faith, possibly live a mistake-free life on the earth. Living a life near perfection is possible here only when the believer walks consistently in the ‘Spirit” as heaven is lived on earth. God’s desire for His children is that they live and walk in the ‘Spirit’ i.e. (conduct themselves like Him on the earth). This will help them become more yielded/sensitive to the person of the Holy Spirit. It will be much easier for them to differentiate between God’s voice and that of Satan. It’s never a part of God’s plan for any of His children to remain a baby for the rest of his/her Christian walk (I Pet. 2:2; II Pet. 3:18).
This is the reason why He (God) injected straight into our reborn ‘Spirit’ at new birth the forces of them recreated human Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23) to be developed to help our maturity in the faith. There’s a time when confessing “I Jn. 1:9” seem not to be effective anymore on our behalf as believers; this is strong-hold in our lives, refusing to grow out of the spiritual baby stage, (Heb. 12:1; II Cor. 7:1; 10:3-6; I Tim. 1:18-19).
It’s much easier to walk in the ‘Spirit’ when the word of God is actually indwelling in our hearts (Col. 3:16). Consequently, that individual’s faith would be on the increase (Rom. 10:17; II Pet. 3:18) with results to show. Serving God this way becomes an actual “walk”; a side by side strolling with the master as though physically present, enjoying the bliss of glory on earth (II Cor. 3:18; Matt. 17:1-4).
Walking in the ‘Spirit’ is peace. It’s a gradual experience that would require great determination and actual exercise of your “will”; seeing yourself as being ‘Obligated’ to live every word of God you heard (Jam. 1:22-25). These walk causes your faith without struggle enters into the Spirit realm and come out with your desires (Eph. 1:3; Heb. 11:1). It brings you to the awareness that you can absolutely control your body and its passions as a saint (I Cor. 9:27), by the renewing of your mind (Rom. 12:1-2; Phil. 4:8).
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WHAT WALKING IN THE SPIRIT MEANS? Conducting one’s self in the “forces” of the recreated human “Spirit” injected into the heart at new birth which need be developed in other to walk in their realities. They with time “mould” the Christian character, as he lives form inside-out (Gal. 5:22-23; Rom. 8:4-6, 13).
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WHO IS EXPECTED TO WALK IN THE SPIRIT? God expects the new creation to live and breathe through his reborn Spirit, not from the dictates of the flesh, merely responding to the voice of his flesh (senses) – Matt. 15:11; 12:34; II Cor. 4:16; I Pet. 3:3-4).
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BASIC CLARIFICATIONS ON: - “Spirit”, and “Soul” from scripture.
The capitalized represents the person of the Holy Spirit while “Spirit” is for the human spirit (saved and unsaved). The word “soul” in the O.T was used to represent the entire human being whereas the N.T spells out the 3 basic components of the human make-up (spirit, soul and body). The spirit is the innermost man; soul is inner man and the body is the outward man (I Thess. 5:23; Heb. 4:12-13; II Cor. 4:16; Gen. 2:7; Ezek. 18:4; Matt. 10:28). Thus, understanding the content of any scriptural passage is very important before drawing conclusion.
TOPIC: - HOW TO GET THE BEST OF CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Amos. 3:3; Psa. 133:1; Prov. 27:17; Eccl. 4:9, 12; Heb. 10:25; I Jn. 1:7; Phil. 1:1-5; I Cor. 1:9; II Cor. 6:14-17; Eph. 5:8-11.
INTRODUCTION: -
In any setting that involves human participation, be it in spiritual or secular concern, it’s of utmost importance that the main ‘Objective’ be spelt out and orchestrated into their hearings at the very onset. Time has proved that WHERE AND WHEN PURPOSE IS NOT DEFINED, ABUSE IS INEVITABLE. One must have a stand, the reason for getting involved in any association or Christian assembly or any partnership must strictly be cut of a deep, personal heart conviction after a thorough consideration of certain factors which would at the long run affect one’s destiny such as: - the terms, required sacrifices, personal commitments (financial, moral even physical energy), the profits and the losses involved in running any association.
The smart one would even dare to know about the asset sharing methods in the case of eventual dissolution when it involves secular business deals. However, it’s rather unfortunate that so many people after having been engrafted into the universal family of God and become born-again, they just as it were take things for granted. They do not take time to decide and on their own after several days of examining the constitution (Bible) and the life-styles of those ahead in the race (Matt. 7:16, 20), whether they are living or not according to the word of God recorded for our daily lives. This explains the reason why so many folks play the church harlotry syndrome, by moving from one church to the other simply because they never from the onset had a set standard, a basic understanding of the true essence of a Christian fellowship, that’s why it’s easy for offences to move them in search of a greener pasture, they lack the understanding of mending and correcting, rather, they settle for fresh work at every junction in their lives. This is Satan’s corny way of reducing men to nothing on a long run.
SINCE MEN ARE IMPERFECT, MEN SHOULD SETTLE THEIR DIFFERENCES AND MOVE ON IN LIFE RATHER THAN SCETTERING EXISTING STRUCTURE (Gen. 11:6). THERE’S POWER IN ONENESS (Matt. 18:18-19); (Rom. 8:35-37, 39; Gal. 6:1-2).
IF YOU MUST BENEFIT FROM CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
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Must know that fellowship entails disagreeing to agree on certain issue due to human differences (Amos. 3:3; Phil. 1:27; 2:2).
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Must be determined only to see God as your major reason and focus in any gathering you decide to belong; and as such, neither human utterances nor action would affect your vertical fellowship with God, and you will still walk in peace with all men, regardless of their attitudes. (I Jn. 1:3, 7; Heb. 10:25; Prov. 27:17; Heb. 12:14).
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Must be always prepared to get the very best of any fellowship as it’s intended by God to strengthen and cause spiritual growth and physical blessings in the believer’s life by being willing to make intercessions on behalf of other brethren and giving room for growth (Eph. 6:18; Jam. 4:1-4; Gal. 6:1; Rom. 8:35-39; II Cor. 2:11; Eph. 4:27).
NOTE: - IT TAKES A LOT OF MATURITY AND SACRIFICES TO MAINTIAN A FELLOWSHIP AS THRER ARE DIFFERENT IN UNDERSTANDING.
TOPIC: - KNOWING AND PERFORMING YOUR CHRISTIAN DUTIES IN YOUR LOCAL CHURCH
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Jn. 13:17; 15:16; I Cor. 12:13-26; 3:9; Eph. 2:10; Matt. 25:31-40; I Thess. 3:1-5; 2:8-12 (Amp); Jam. 1:27; Eccl. 4:9; Gal. 4:19; I Pet. 2:2; Eph. 4:11-14.
INTRODUCTION:
Any organization that consists of human beings must of a necessity have a solid structure that would adequately cater for the well being of her members as to ensure greater efficiency and continuity that would eventually lead to an increase within the organization; the church is no exception.
Any organization that neglects the care system would on the long run be exposed to various problems ranging from bickering, schisms, victimizations, bitterness, silent sufferings, blame shiftings, suspicions, murmurings, clicks, rumours and reduction in patronage (gradual withdrawal) by customers/members.
However, a sound and enviable organizational structure is a product of the combined efforts of every member putting in his/her quota at the right time, not waiting for any push or pat on the back, knowing that he/she owes a responsibility to the organization, as one who profess membership.
The Lord Jesus on leaving this world stressed the need for Christians to be united as a body (Jn. 17:14-22; Matt. 18:18-19); in other to be able to defeat Satan’s purpose both as an individual and collectively as a body. The local church is where spiritual food (Word) is readily made available for the growth of the believer as to be able courageously faced and wins the battles of this life.
The testimonies of other people could serve as “inspiration” to others going through similar situations at any point in time and encourage them to have ‘Hope’ in them. This can only happen when we make ourselves friendly to others when they are in their trying periods. Any local assembly would blossom when member is committed to finding out why a brother or sister wasn’t present in the last meeting out of a genuine love of God and true concern for spiritual establishment, without waiting for the pastor’s nomination to be the follow-up team as a leader.
Christians do also go through periods of loneliness, dejection, times of pains and disappointments, a timely visit at this time would go a long way encouraging the fellow and help him stand to fulfill God’s purpose for his life. It’s not enough introducing someone to Jesus, personal commitment must be made to seeing them also committed and established in Christ (Gal. 4:19). Its part of our Christian duty to visit any member not in the last service before the next one, the pastor alone does not make a church; he’s to provide spiritual food to enable members minister one to another in the body (Eph. 4:11).
THE CHRISTIAN DUTIES AVAILABLE IN THE CHURCH
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MINISTRY GIFTS: - (5-fold) – Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, Teachers, Ministering to the body as to in turn minister to one another and the world (Eph. 4:11-14). It’s a special call.
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HELPS MINISTRY: - (I Cor. 12:28-30; Rom. 12:4-13) –
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Technical/Maintenance: - Handles the equipment.
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Ushering: - Ensures Order and Beauty in services and come before all and leaves after all have gone.
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Music: - Opens up the saints to receive from God.
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Ministerial Attendants: - Helps the pastor to meet his basic daily needs and run some errands to allow him concentrate more on spiritual issue for the church’s benefit – Acts. 6:1-7; Exod. 18:17-23; I Cor. 9:11.
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Intercessors: - Bridge gap before men and God (Ezek. 22:30).
TOPIC: - THE PRE-REQUISITE FOR SPIRITUAL MATURITY
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: I Pet. 2:2; II Pet. 3:18; Rom. 12:1-2; Heb. 4:12-13; Col. 3:16; Phil. 4:8; Matt. 12:34-37; Jer. 29:11; Isa. 55:8; I Cor. 2:16c; II Tim. 2:15.
INTRODUCTION: -
There are several Christians today in the church who have crash-landed, made ship-wreck of their faith as it were; they have suddenly grown cold in their faith, they no longer pursue the faith life with the same zeal and vigour they used to when they first believed. They can no longer measure up to the standard they have set for themselves before others (I Tim. 4:1-6). The major reason for this fall and noticeable lukewarnness is simply that they initially did not begin from the “simple” or “elementary” stage of the faith life, rather due to the kind of information they were exposed to by way of association began from the “complex” or “advanced” level of Christianity which they are unable to maintain on the long run (I Pet. 2:2; Rom. 10:17).
So many Christian do go on like this for a very long time before realizing their shallowness (having no root in themselves – Col. 2:6-9) of which some would have been brought down before realizing and that is simply how many great ministers of God perished, forgotten in the making, their generation never tasting of the grace of God upon their lives.
Every child under normal circumstances is expected to grow physically with good (nutritional) food, given in the right proportions. So also is his spiritual muscle (faith) – II Cor. 5:7; Heb. 10:38.
Spiritual maturity helps us to skillfully handle every of Satan’s tricks with ease, walk in understanding with fellow general men and enhances our comprehension of the ways of God (Gal. 5:16); (II Cor. 2:11; 8:21; Heb. 12:14). The average man (saint or sinner) lives from inside out (Prov. 23:7), the speech and actions of men are by-products of their inner thoughts i.e his thought pattern, consciously or unconsciously, either in the long or short run, except when he is an imbecile (one who cannot use his senses).
Man is a product of his environment and the kind of information he’s constantly exposed to at any point in time; he would therefore of a necessity empty his mind of the previous thoughts (controlling factors) and exchange them for God’s own pattern of thoughts (Jer. 29: 11; Phil. 4:8) thus getting his human mind renewed to a new way of living (Rom. 12:1-2). Mind reprogramming is a must and a pre-requisite for any meaningful and lasting spiritual maturity.
WHY MUST THE MIND BE RENEWED?
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The human mind didn’t get saved (born-again) at new birth – Jn. 3:3-6.
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The human mind is the container of thoughts (good or bad) which controls man’s entire life – Prov. 23:7; Matt. 15:11, 19; e.g Matt. 5:27-28.
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For a new direction in life and an easier walk with God – Psa. 32:8; I Cor. 2:16c; Jn. 15:7.
HOW DOES A CHRISTIAN GET HIS MIND RENEWED AFTER THE NEW BIRTH?
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Meditation upon God’s Word and mindful of his association, teachings, and particularly his observations (what he feeds his eyes with) Josh. 1:8; I Cor. 15:33; Prov. 1:10; Mk. 4:24.
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Consciously discourage any friendship or association that discourages personal studying of God’s word and participating in the fellowship of the brethren – Rom. 16:17-18; I Thess. 3:13-15; Heb. 10:25; II Tim. 2:16.
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Make daily confessions and pray constantly in the spirit/tongues – Jude. 14:15.
TOPIC: - THE HUMAN MIND AS AGENT OF TRANSFORMATION
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Rom. 12:1-2; Prov. 19:15b; Jam. 1:8; Prov. 23:7; Phil. 4:8; I Cor. 2:16c; Heb. 4:12-13; II Tim. 1:7; II Cor. 10:3-5.
INTRODUCTION: -
The basis of any behaviuor, character traits or attitudes (i.e. change in genera) is hinged on “information” received by the individual through any of the 5 physical senses which forms the basis for reaction afterwards. Information therefore is the basis instrument of change in any human being. Ironically, men are paid just for what they know, but for what men do with what they know (Jn. 13:17; 8:32).
The human mind was designed by God both to retain and rotate information that gets into it; it’s such a powerful machine with high magnetic ability. It could benefit or destroy/bankrupt it’s owner (man) it not properly harnessed (e.g. Gen. 2:19-20; Psa. 8) and (I Cor. 2:16c). The human mind only processes the information made available to it through the 5 physical senses, it has no information of it’s own. Information is one sure weapon of speedy transformation, most especially if passed on regular basis (Rom. 10: 17a; Mk. 4:24a).
The human mind is designed to be centre of all his activities, be it spiritual or carnal; good or bad; because the mind is the seat of decisions, whatever the nature.
If the human mind is not affected, no meaningful transformation would take place. God new birth did not destroy the human memory to necessarily make man new creature, otherwise, the new creature should not be able to think any evil thought after salvation. The new creature is the spirit man that got regenerated, entirely new heart (Ezek. 36:26; II Cor. 5:17), but the mind/soul of man was not saved or regenerated as the spirit; so God requires the new believer to constantly replace the old information in his mind that have been responsible for his old actions, behaviours and attitudes with His own thought (Jer. 29:11; Phil. 4:8), because “A MAN’S THOUGHTS CONTROLS HIM” consciously or unconsciously (Prov. 23:7; Matt. 15:19, 11).
IMPORTANT SCRIPTURAL FACTS A MATURING CHRISTIAN MUST NOT
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The human mind consists of: - (i) Emotion (ii) Intellect (iii) will. The presence of the will indicates that man has the ability to make choices of his own; and should be ready to be accountable for his actions all things being equal (Deut. 30: 19; e.g. Gen. 1:26; 2:9, 17).
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The natural mind could be transformed into a sound mind by constant exposure to sound spiritual and scripturally balanced information, (Prov. 4:20-23; Phil. 4:8; II Tim. 1:7).
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If the born again believer allows evil/wrong thoughts to linger in his mind for more then necessary, he’s on his way to being transformed back into what he used to be (Eph. 4:21-24; II Cor. 10:3-5; Isa. 43:18-19, 25). Thus, the maturing Christian MUST constantly hold fast to his confessions of faith (Heb. 10:38), deliberately shunning whatever paints the picture of evil before him and replacing them with the picture of whom he has become in Christ Jesus i.e. a NEW CREATURE – II Cor. 5:17.
NOTE: - WHEN INFORMATION CHANGES, TRANSFORMATION IS MUST.
TOPIC: - IDENTIFYING AND HANDLING THREATS IN LIFE
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Lk. 21:15; Rom. Prov. 29:25; 12:14; I Sam. 17:4-11; I Kg. 19:1-7; Num. 13:25-33; Isa. 8:12; Jer. 12:5; Prov. 28:1; Eph. 6:10-18.
INTRODUCTION: -
Part of what contributes to maturity in the spirit walk and generally in life is the ability to identify and deal precisely with all forms of threats that may be issued either directly or indirectly by the enemy of our faith (progress); through the divine connection we have with the supreme authority that reigns over all (God) – Psa. 103:19; Rom. 8:17; Lm. 10:19.
The Christian should always be conscious of the fact that he is engaged in a 24 hour battle everyday, with the invisible forces of darkness, who would do anything to bring him down from the spiritual height he’s attained through some other men who have yielded themselves to be used by these forces against their fellow human beings (II Cor. 10:3-5; Eph. 6:12-14; I Pet. 5:8-9). Spiritual maturity is not attained just in one day nor even in few months; it takes time. Whether in the spirit realm of light or darkness, men give quite some commitment and sacrifices to attain certain spiritual level or height that grants them access to the head/boss of the spirit realm they belong to.
The higher a man goes in the spirit realm, the more secrets are revealed to him as he draws closer to the corridors of power and how men in that class operate to get their ways through in any sphere of life (Psa. 42:7; 197:24; 95:4). Although the realm is quite a deep one, but the believer is a legal and qualified candidate of the events of that realm which is and would remain a mystery to the unregenerated (dead spirit beings); To these set of people that live and walk in this realm, no amount of any threat would move them since they are seated in the highest place of authority in the universe (Eph. 2:6; Psa. 2:4; 91:1). It’s now a matter of knowing and walking in these privileges.
Threats have the ability to drive fear and shiver down your spine; cause you to loose confidence in yourself and destroy yourself esteem for life, to the extent that mere shadows will often raise your blood pressure, which is gradual treading of the path to death (High blood pressure). Both in the offices and schools, homes and market places, the believer must be ready to face threats eyeball to eyeball, claiming his authority in Christ.
THE BASIC TOOLS OF THREATS
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Appearance – This involves facial expressions, donations and physical body carriage e.g. (I Sam. 17:4-8), all for intimidation purpose.
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Words – These are carriers of either faith or fear, which enters into the human mind through the sense of hearing, thus painting the picture before the hearer – Rom. 10:17; I Jn. 4:18b; Prov. 18:21 and would be continually hunted by the effects of those words.
HOW TO HANDLE THREATS
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Be very certain that your life is anchored solely on God’s eternally settled, unshaken words, which you’ve personally contacted (II Cor. 1:20; Dan. 11:32-33; Psa. 91:1-2).
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Cultivate and develop godly boldness through prayers and consistent confessions of God’s promises (words) – Prov. 28:1; 30:30; Rom. 10:10; II Tim. 1:7; Acts. 4:23-31; e.g. I Sam. 17:45-47 (David’s confidence in God’s word).
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Let your spirit give countenance to your face in the face of threat as your reaction would either sell you out or pose you as a threat. Prov. 23:7; Col. 3:16-17; Prov. 30:30; Isa. 8:12; Num. 23:23.
TOPIC: - LIVING THE SANCTIFIED LIFE
FOUNDATONAL SCRIPTURES: Hos. 4:6; I Thess. 5:23; 4:1-12; I Cor. 6:9-11; 1:30; II Thess. 2:13; II Cor. 4:17-18.
INTRODUCTION: -
Over the years, the word “sanctification had always sounded like one big, dreadful experience that would probably take the whole years to attain in life. Most especially, the way some Christian sects have presented it to others and to the world at large has made the experience a seemingly an unattainable on due to the “do’s and don’ts” attached to being a balanced Christian in the world by men, based upon human senses. (Col. 2:19-23; Acts. 15:1-33). This experience is not supposed to be a threat to Christians, but an experience to long to have and keep having in our daily Christian lives (II Cor. 7:1; Heb. 12:1).
This teaching is intended to get the average Christian informed and also educated on the actual meaning, scope, tense and the various stages of sanctification, thereby making the sanctified life easy for the believer. Though the redemptive work of Christ was done thoroughly and once, to set us apart unto God; the vital side of our redemption requires our continuous separated lifestyles (sanctification) in this sinful world we live in as saints.
From the scriptures, there’s nothing as “Complete or Total” sanctification at new birth, only the human spirit experiences instantaneous sanctification at the instance of new birth (I Cor. 1:30; 6:9-11). Our daily conducts need be subjected to God’s words in order to daily be more like God in our deeds through a progressive sanctification process (I Thess. 4:1-12).
Anyone who hungers after righteousness and experience more of God in the flesh would not be comfortable practicing the “social Christianity” in anyway.
SANCTIFICATION FROM THE ROOT WORD (Greek)
“Hagiasmos” – Means to separate; to set apart (any object).
Definition: - Sanctification means to be set apart from a carnal or worldly use unto a sacred or godly usage; which could be living or non-living objects.
Balance: - Sin is not necessarily involve in sanctification process e.g. God in (Isa. 5:16; Jn. 17:19). However, if the vessel involved is contaminated/polluted, it would need be purges before the process of sanctification (II Tim. 2:19-21); (Heb. 12:1).
THE 3 TENSES AND STAGES OF SANCTIFICATION
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Are sanctified – i.e. Instantaneous Sanctification – I Cor. 1:30; 6:9-11.
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Being Sanctified – i.e. Progressive Sanctification – I Thess. 4:1=12.
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Would be Sanctified – i.e. Future/Permanent Sanctification (our hope) – I Jn. 3”1-3.
The complete sanctification of our spirit, soul and bodies would take place at the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ (I Thess. 4:16-18). It remains our hope, and it’s in the future. We however progressively walk in daily sanctification before the Total/Complete one takes place including our mortal bodies (I Jn. 3:1-3; I Thess. 5:23). The basic knowledge of this subject shows the average believer can live the sanctified life upon this earth, showing God’s true nature to the world.
NOTE: - SANCTIFICATION IS NOT SEGREGATION!!!
TOPIC: - MEN WITH DIVINE MENTALITY
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Eph. 3:20; Phil. 4:19; Prov. 4:1-13; 22:7; Deut. 15:6; II Cor. 2:14, 11; II Cor. 4:8-11; Psa. 34:2; Rom. 8:35-37; Jam. 3:15-18.
NITRODUCTION: -
The cross-breed between humanity and divinity is usually a super and fantastic breed. This is because of the touch of heaven in and upon an earthen vessel. From the beginning, the very moment a mortal man allows the divine genes to mix or interact with the natural genes, the resultant outcome is usually a marvel to fellow mortal (human) beings.
The ideas emanating from such individual would always sound and look very different; and unique compared to all other existing ideas. The man with divine mentality doesn’t do things most of the time like an ordinary mortal man. There will always be that very touch of difference which makes him/her stand out among others around him.
Where others loose or fail, he succeeds and creates waves around him that eposes him yet to other available opportunities. Where others depends solely upon their monthly or weekly wages/salaries to as it were make ends meet and eventually shine before men, the man with divine mentality trusts and heavily lean or rely on divine favour which knows no bounds and not limited to just one source (II Cor. 9:8-9; Prov. 21:1).
The moment any man develops a wrong mentality about certain issues of life, that automatically becomes the major remote control of his life; except if corrected.
Exposure is one sure way men’s mentality gradually and easily gets affected either negatively or positively. Wrong mentality affects everything about man, to the point that he begins to by himself close certain doors of opportunities against himself. He drives favour far from his domains.
People who are non – relational have limited resources at their disposal.
WHAT DIVINE MENTALITY MEANS
To have or posses divine mentality means character; habits of thought; possessing and expressing abilities and powers of the mind. It simply has to do with viewing and doing things the very way God would do it if He were to be in your position right here on earth.
KINDS OF MENTALITIES
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Poverty Mentality – Prov. 11:23-24; 3:27.
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Low – class or low self esteem – Num. 13:26-33; Deut. 1:28-30.
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Scheming/Manipulative and Struggling Mentality – Zech. 4:6; I Sam. 2:9c; Prov. 28:26; Psa. 20:7-8.
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Divine or God kind of Mentality – Eph. 5:1; Phil. 4:13; Mk. 9:23.
LESSON OBJECTIVE: - For the average believer to cultivate and develop the mentality of a God amidst men using the seemingly insignificant things of life to rise to the top in life.
TOPIC: - THE REASONS WHY YOU MUST NOT LIE
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Eccl. 8:11; I Cor. 10:11; Prov. 12:19; 6:16-19; 10:18-19; Rev. 21:8; Jn. 8:44; Eph. 4:15, 25; Col. 3:9-10; Psa. 101:7; Jn. 8. 32; Jam. 5:12c.
INTRODUCTION: -
The enemy of our faith gets surprised and shocked whenever he finds any believer lying; this is because he knows so well that the truth indwells the new creation (I Jn. 3:19), the moment he accepts Christ as his Lord and Saviour (Jn. 8:32).
Justice never stops haunting people who prevents judgment through lying and bearing false witness; the in-built natural censor (conscience) keeps him restless, even when he pretends that everything is well on the outside; but right inside is the cankerworm that is gradually eating him up simply because he’s trying to make “bad look and sound good” which is contrary to his nature.
For one reason or the other some men engage in lying; either temporarily or regularly (out of a seared conscience). The fact remains, “men that lie must be involved also in much talking’s (Prov. 10:19). All aimed at convincing his hearers/victims. He must be able to keep track of every word spoken in the past to avoid embarrassments. Anyone who cannot discern a liar and listens to him ends up being the very victim of his lies; and for any person to stick around with a liar is to stake his integrity on the long run (I Cor. 15:33). A liar undoubtedly lives in two worlds and has a dual personality (Jam. 1:8).
Lie gives false hope/expectations and separates people once exposed (Prov. 13:12). The new creation that engages in any kind of humanly classified lies is only opening him/herself to Satan’s attacks, and reducing the effectiveness of his commanding spiritual power (Eph. 4:27; I Tim. 4:1-2; Jn. 14:30). The heaven’s stated penalty for lying is not any different from that of adultery, murder, stealing or fornication (Rev. 21:8; Prov. 6:16-19; Psa. 101:7).
SOME BASIC REASONS WHY PEOPLE LIE
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To give a false opinion of themselves either (spiritually, socially or even materially) before men – Jer. 14:14-40; 23:25-26; Acts. 5:1-10.
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Fear of men is sometimes responsible for people lying (Prov. 10:27; 29:25; Lk. 12:4-5).
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To temporarily escape shame-like and embarrassing situations.
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Some consider lying as smartness due to the applaud men give to them then.
EXAMPLE OF LYING TONGUES JUDGED
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Gehazi – II Kg. 5:22-27.
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Hananiah – Jer. 28:2, 11, 15-17.
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Ananias and Sapphira – Acts. 5:1-10
OTHERS MAY, BUT YOU CANNOT AFFORD THE LUXURY OF LYING BECAUSE: -
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Lie doesn’t have a long life span – Prov. 12:19.
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You will have to keep lying to maintain what you lied to get.
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A liar is merely existing and not living as he restlessly contends the truth in his heart; this is the reason he finds it difficult trusting anyone.
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The host of heaven gives no support to any liar (Psa. 15:1-5).
NOTE: - REMEMBER WHENEVER TEMPTED THAT THE JOY OF A LIAR IS BUT FOR A MOMENT.
TOPIC: - BUILDING A STRONG RESISTANCE AGAINST THE OPPOSITION
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: II Cor. 2:11; Jam. 4:7; Gal. 5:16; I Jn. 5:18b; I Pet. 5:8-9; Eph. 6:11-18; I Cor. 15:33; Jude. 20; Eccl. 7:19-21; Psa. 91:1; I Cor. 10:13.
INTRODUCTION: -
As far as the word “resistance” is concerned, some amount of force is needed. This force is not in all cases physical; more especially when it comes to invisible matters which though are not seen by men, but are there as plagues. Where resistance is weak, invasion is inevitable.
Quite a number of Christian have died un-noticed and so many are merely existing, waiting for when the opposition would eventually end their lives due to the constant bombardments from the enemy that is responsible for their present state of weakness.
Today in the world of medical science, AIDS is successfully claiming the lives of untold millions of people because of it’s method of operation within the human body. The virus works directly on the resistances level within the blood system such that when any disease attacks the victim, little or no force is there to fight back; the resistance has been weakened over the years. Except with divine intervention, the killer disease would claim that life. The devil’s strategy is no different from this describe above, when it comes to the weakening and eventual termination of the lives of the believers who are not “prevention conscious”, those that take things merely for granted. What most people fail to realize in life and in the spirit is that; the very moment a man indicates he’s taking sides, the opposition mounts up a strong resistance against him, considering him now an enemy, taking nothing for granted.
Our level of exposure should attract equal or proportional back-up or covering (security), else we may not last on the scene as expected. Any cell (battery) that’s been in use must of a necessity be regularly topped or re-charged, this is to keep the car moving; that prevention alone is build up resistance needed against the expected shame and ridicule from the opposition. The child of God should know so well that the closest neighbor of light is darkness. It’s always around on a ‘stand-by’ duty to overthrow light, doing everything possible to eliminate light. So light has to increase its intensity.
AREAS TO PROTECT FROM THE OPPOSITION
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Your mind (Prov. 4:20-23; Phil. 4:8). It’s the information processor machine.
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Your Home front (family). They are the closest possible tool of influence.
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Your Association and Ministry – Acts. 20:28; Prov. 1:10; 13:20.
HOW TO ERECT THE WALL OF RESISTANCE AGAINST THE OPPOSITION
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Let only God’s Word mean and be everything to you regardless of human opinions – Rom. 8:31; Jer. 1:12; Psa. 138:2.
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Protect and surround yourself only with those that appreciate and encourage your efforts – I Cor. 15:33; Lk. 6:26-28; II Tim. 3:3c-5.
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Give a “press black-out” to those waiting to her form you, about you and your camp, breaking newer grounds everyday; utilizing every available resources and opportunities fully to your advantage – Eccl. 5:2; I Pet. 2:12-15; Prov. 26:20,17.
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Daily confess and see yourself as a “force that cannot be stopped because of the divine election and qualities in you – Prov. 30:30; Rom. 8:28-31.
NOTE: - THOSE WHOSE RESISTANCE IS WEAK END UP BEING DOMINATED.
TOPIC: - FAILURE ONLY COMES FROM WITHIN THE MAN
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: I Cor. 10:13; Prov. 4:23; 23:7a; Mk. 9:23b; Phil. 4:13, 8; Gen. 11:1-6; 1:26; Num. 13:25-33; Heb. 10:38; II Cor. 5:7; Psa. 8:1-6; Josh. 1:8-9.
INTRODUCTION: -
Through the easiest thing most people do whenever they fail in any area of their lives is to try to explain their failures around a person or situation closest to them. Thus, they attempt giving various “reasons” which are all aimed at “justifying” their excuses/failures.
Originally, man was made of the hardest, most rugged material such that no matter how hard any situation might become, by his divine fabrication, he should be able to surmount the problem, all things being equal; i.e. if he taps into his inner potentials, moreso as he’s created in the very same class with God (Gen. 1:26; Psa. 82:6; I Cor. 10:13; Phil. 4:14).
The human skin (physical) was formed in such a way that it could withstand, adjust to any kind of weather, whether harsh or cool; his mind to absorb any kind of shocks, receive, retain and interpret all information; and his spirit man (heart) for direct communication/link with his creator and mater.
In essence, man is a complete entity, endowed with supernatural abilities; a combination of god and man (Psa. 82:6); an express manifestation of divinity in humanity (Cor. 1:27; Gal. 2:20-21; I Pet. 2:9).
With all of these qualities and attributes in man, failure should not be the order of his life on the planet earth, if he would walk in his privileges in Christ Jesus, giving room for divine wisdom in every situation he faces (Prov. 4:7).
WHEN DOES FAILURE GET CONCIEVED IN MAN?
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Failure is conceived first in the mind form of thoughts which eventually graduates into imagination (forming imaginary scenes), if not dealt with now becomes a stronghold in that life, thus controlling his entire existence. II Cor. 10:3-5; Num. 13:25-33.
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Echoes of “impossibility thinking fills” the mind of anyone who chooses to fail because of the already conceived “mental pictures” in his mind even when he hasn’t made any meaningful attempt. Prov. 23:7a; Phil. 4:8.
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The size of projects easily intimidates such people at first sight as they quickly remember the ist of past failures. Phil. 4:13; Mk. 9:23; II Cor. 5:7.
HOW TO CONTROL OUR FAILURE RATES IN LIFE
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Influence your thought life by making a diligent meditation upon God’s words on a daily consistent basis; discovering your rights and privileges in Christ (Josh. 1:8; Col. 3:16; Psa. 1:1-3; Jn. 15:3, 7).
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Daily make bold declarations of your faith in success, thereby creating the mental pictures in your inner man which influences your expectations. (Rom. 10:10, 17; I Cor. 13:8; Deut. 28:1-13; II Cor. 4:13; Rom. 4:17).
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Live a Holy and Praise-filled and Thanksgiving life, regardless of the situation you are going through, refusing to give Satan any recognition in the situation through your words or actions (Eph. 4:27; I Pet. 5:8-9; I Thess. 5:18; Psa. 149:1-9).
NOTE: - SUCCESS WIPES OUT EASILY THE PAINS OF THE PAST, SO YOU MUST DOUBLE YOUR SUCCESS RATE, BY REMAINING GUMMED TO GOD’S WORDS ONLY (Rom. 8:31).
TOPIC: - TRUSTING IN THE ALL – MIGHTINESS OF GOD
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Gen. 17:1-2; Psa. 37:3-7; 24:1; 23:1-6; 50:10; II Cor. 9:8; Phil. 4:18-19; Num. 23:19; Eph. 3:16-20; Psa. 84:11; II Pet. 1:3-4, 19.
INTRODUCTION: -
Despite the various positions we might be occupying in life, we all still have one need or the other facing us. This points to the fact that no mortal man is in himself ‘all-sufficient’ regardless his closeness to God (II Cor. 3:5; I Tim. 6:6).
The Omni-qualities of God makes Him the most high God, the possessor of the universe (Omni-potent), science and Omni-present); who has all things under His control (Isa. 40:12-15) such that even the very breathe of the man being the crown/reason for creation (Psa. 8:6) answers to His call whenever He demands for it (Eccl. 12:7); (Matt. 10:28), without necessarily having to consult with any mortal being, He can do whatever He wants with us, as clay in the porter’s hands (Isa. 64:8; 29:16; Psa. 100:3; 95:7). He respects only His “faith” in us.
From the points above and the present prevailing circumstances around us, the believer need to “totally” trust and walk consistently in the all-sufficient grace of the Almighty God in a world full of limitations and disappointments as ours (Psa. 37:3-7, 37).
Basically, every human being is a direct product of God’s mercies; and as such show mercy readily and willingly to others in whatever need. However, there’s a much higher realm God wants His children to walk in right here on earth, i.e. the level/realm where we completely entrust everything about our finances, health, protection and our daily needs into His able hands, taking Him for and by His words (Phil. 4:6-7; I Pet. 5:7; Jer. 1:12; Psa. 138:2).
When God sees the confidence we express towards and in His words here on earth, He mobilize heavenly hosts on our behalf; the size of need, its location irrespective, as long as total obedience is spotted in the believer (Jn. 15:7).
WHAT IT TAKES/COSTS TO TRUST IN GOD’S SUFFICIENCY?
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Trust is by-product of a very prolong and proven fellowship/communion i.e. through interactions between persons. It’s not an overnight thing. (Jn. 8:31); note the word “indeed” and “abide” in (Jn. 15:7).
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Spending quality time meditating upon God’s past faithfulness to the men who trusting in Him e.g. (Gen. 21:1-8) in times past; knowing His nature and characteristics helps us to develop a strong, unshaken trust that could move God on our behalf also (Mal. 3:6; Num. 23:19; II Cor. 1:20; Heb. 6:12; Eph. 3:20).
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The in-experienced (youth) easily trusts, while the experienced (adult) tests or proves – I Thess. 5:21; I Jn. 4:1.
BASIC REASONS WE MUST TRUST IN GOD’S ALL-SUFFICIENCY
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His own source never dries – Psa. 24:1; 50:10; Hag. 2:8; Eph. 3:20; I Tim. 6:17c.
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He’s never biased – Rom. 10:12b; Psa. 84:11; 112:1-4; Jn. 15:7; Gal. 2:6.
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Man, no matter how long will always get to or reach his limit (Psa. 108:12; Psa. 118:8-9; Prov. 25:17b).
NOTE: - WHEN WE WALK WITH THE LORD, IN THE LIGHT OF IS WORD; WHAT A GLORY (BEAUTY) HE SHEDS ON OUR WAY.
TOPIC: - THE LAWS OF PROSPERITY
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Zech. 1:17; Hag. 2:6-8; I Tim. 6:17; II Cor. 8:9; 9:8; Eph. 1:3; Phil. 4:19; Isa. 1:19; Job. 22:21-29; 36:11; Deut. 28:1-3; Lk. 19:17; Matt. 6:19-33; Prov. 10:22; Eccl. 10:19; 7:12.
INTRODUCTION: -
God, the Almighty and the possessor of the universe, the one who cannot lie nor deny His words, regardless the circumstance (s) has promised there will be a shaking in the world which will terminate in a great “Revival” that will precede the coming of His son, the Lord Jesus Christ. He was however quick to add that this shall be a combination of His “Word and Wealth” in the hands of His faithful, obedient and patient saints in the church (Hag. 2:6-8; Num. 23:19; Eccl. 10:19; Lk. 19:17).
Without any controversy, its only the man with the “keys” that has the express access into the house without any sweat, just pushing the key into the keyhole and turning it to the right direction (responsibility). No amount of sentiments can open the door without the right key in use (I Jn. 5:14; Heb. 11:6).
So also with the last days wealth, its only “Faith and Obedience” to the laws (words) of God that would guarantee the lasting participation of any of God’s children (Isa. 1:19; Job. 36:11). There was no time in God’s eternal plans for His man to live by “luck” or by any kind of sudden wealth they can’t or won’t be able to explain its source; which is today popularly embrace as “BREAKTHROUGH”, especially among the circle of those in dare need of “short-cut to Prosperity” Christians (I Pet. 3:15).
God, the owner and giver of this wealth only advocates the lifestyle of faith (i.e. walking the word) – Heb. 5:13-14; 10:38; Prov. 28:20b; 13:11, 18, 21. The reason is, this kind of sudden wealth (called breakthrough) hardly allows the owner to have the maintenance knowledge of the wealth, as he’s ignorant of the source whenever the period of tests and trials arrive (I Pet. 1:7; Jam. 1:1-3). This explains why most of such wealth does not last, as he’s left with the choice of living a false life or painfully going back to the basic laws.
BIBLE DEFINITION OF THE TERM “PROSPERITY”
The world view prosperity from the stand point of money, acquisition of material things, political power, military might and popularity, but from God’s view point; Prosperity is the “ability” to use the power of God (Rom. 1:16; Lk. 4:18) to meet “all” the needs of mankind; be it spiritual, physical, social, and mental e.t.c. The ability here refers to God’s word which is “Truth” as a weapon (Jn. 8:32).
Prosperity is thus a by-product of walking in the word of God (Josh. 1:8; Psa. 1:1-3).
3 – FOLD PROSPERITY (III Jn. V. 2)
(1). Spiritual
(2). Mental
(3). Physical (Health & Wealth) prosperity.
Nothing is as spiritual as money; and there’s no way you can be spiritually productive as you ought to, without material productivity because they go hand in hand.
We need spiritual prosperity so that Satan won’t hinder the returns from our giving’s and tithing’s.
Giving is an opportunity to get God’s best (Lk. 6:38).
WHENEVER WE STAND ON GOD’S WORD (PROMISE), WE HAVE THE ASSURANCE OF HIS PRESENMCE IN THAT SITUATION – (Jer. 1:12).
PURPOSE AND SOURCE OF LASTING WEALTH
Wealth and riches belong to God and He gives it to men, so they would establish His kingdom on the earth; To improve or better their lives and others around them; and to limit the activities of God’s enemy (Satan) in the lives of people on earth. See: Deut. 8:18, 1-17; Psa. 35:27; Prov. 10:22; I Tim. 6:17; Eccl. 5:19; Zech. 1:17; Gal. 6:10; Eph. 4:28; Eccl. 10:19; and 7:12.
THE ULTIMATE END OF THE SINNER’S WEALTH
The sinner or the wicked’s wealth of today are just being heaped up mainly for the saints, to facilitate the end time revival which God has promised. See: Jam. 5:1-7; Eccl. 2:26b; Isa. 61:6; Prov. 28:8; 13:22b; Job. 27:16-17).
God would however not entrust His wealth into the hands of unfaithful, stingy, and selfish (self-centered) and non-kingdom minded believer (Matt. 6:33).
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You must be convinced that it’s the will of God for you to proper and be productive – (III Jn. 2; II Cor. 8:9; Psa. 35:27c; Rom. 2:11).
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Meditate constantly upon God’s words concerning prosperity and walk in them, confessing their reality in your life – (Josh. 1:8-9; Psa. 1:1-3; Deut. 28:1-13).
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Realise that all you own belongs to God and that He gave to you, that you are only a custodian of it – (I Cor. 6:19-20; Psa. 24:1; II Cor. 5:14; I Tim. 6:17).
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Realise God will never ask you to give anything that He doesn’t intend giving back more than what you gave, in order for you to have more to give – (Lk. 6:38; Acts. 20:35; Eph. 3:20; II Cor. 9:8).
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Make a quality (no retreat) decision to consistently tithe (a tenth of you earnings) – (Mal. 3:8-12; Prov. 3:9; Heb. 7:8).
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Your Tithing and Giving’s must be sandwiched in faith, love and in righteousness, allowing God to guide your giving – (Rom. 8:14; Lk. 6:30-34; Prov. 19:17).
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Make a quality (no retreat) decision to walk in love always – (I Jn. 2:8-11; 4:7-8; me Cor. 13:1-8; Gal. 5:6).
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Be quick to repent and forgive, else you loose your returns – (Eph. 4:26-27; Mk. 11:23-26). Unforgiveness is wickedness and an act unfairness to your very self.
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Don’t expect to receive your returns before giving, whenever the opportunity to give again – (Eccl. 11:1; Prov. 11:23-24; Gal. 6:6-10).
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Firmly hold fast to the confession of your faith that you have received “all” of your returns in Jesus name – (Dan. 10:12-13; Heb. 10:23, 35-36).
NOTE: - THE WORD IS THE ONLY EVIDENCE TO YOUR FAITH THAT YOUR DESIRES ARE ALREADY MET, REGARDLESS OF YOUR HUMAN FEELINGS (II Pet. 1:19; II Cor. 5:7).
TOPIC: - IF MEN WERE GOD
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Psa. 24:1; Eccl. 7:29; I Chron. 29:11-12; Gen. 11:1-6; Jer. 17:9; 9:22-24; Eccl. 8:5-9; Psa. 124:1-6; 57:2-6; Prov. 26:27; I Tim. 6:6; Eccl. 12”14.
INTRODUCTION: -
God is the most powerful, who has all things be it the plant kingdom, the aquatic worlds and the animals in general; more importantly, He has under His control the crown of His every creation called man with all of his intelligence. He (God) alone is above all authorities and powers, He’s the judge that no one can judge, He is above any form of limitations whether spiritual or physical. Above all, He knows the end from the very beginning, including the innermost thoughts and intents of the hearts of the sons of men. He’s an awesome being.
Lucifer, an archangelic being under God’s authority once made the attempt to unseat God from His throne and be in control of all the creation of God; which led to His fall and eternal condemnation (Isa. 14:12-15). He hungered for power and wished he was God. Today he (Satan) has passed into men certain evil influences that is causing similar effects in the lives of men. When closely observed, certain reactions and utterances of men towards fellow men when in some form of difficulties or the other is a pointer to the fact that the enthronement of the mortal being as God would likely be a sure detriment to other human beings; especially when not in resonance with them.
There’re certain benefits which men would be deprived of if men were God because of his naturally selfish mind, man is also very myopic in nature, as such, and he plans his life around what he could see in the now. Man takes undue advantage of situation and people to his own benefits, the only exception here is the one that is truly regenerated and who is in constant touch with heaven, having dealt with the cankerworm of carnality in his flesh.
POSSIBLE REASONS WHY MEN WISHED THEY WERE GOD
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To break or cut across the barrier of any physical limitations.]
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To have “all things” within his reach, including the element of Time; in order to have its monopoly thus controlling the entire system.
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To satisfy his personal, selfish desires not be answerable to any.
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To escape the intimidations, harassments and human manipulations which abound today almost everywhere, even in the church of Jesus Christ.
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It could be a desire born out of genuine drive/passion to render useful to the needy and less privileged people. They frown at oppressions.
WHY GOD WOULD FOREVER BE AND REMAIN GOD?
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He is/was the beginning and creator of all things in existence (Gen. 1:1-28).
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Man is a created being with limited powers (Gen. 1:26; Psa. 115:16; 103:19).
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God is Omni-potent and Longsuffering; having the capacity to accommodate the most possible human excessive tendencies (Gen. 18:20-33; Jonah. 3:1-10).
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God has the capacity to truly forgive and forget totally, making no reference whatsoever nor using your past wrongs against you anytime in life. (Isa. 43:18-19, 25; Psa. 89:34; 111:5).
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God can never deny His words (Isa. 55:11; Jer. 1:12), that’s His integrity.
NOTE: - It’s thus an over-ambition for a mortal man to at all try equating himself with God’s awesomeness as He’s no match to anyone. God’s steadfastness never ceases and His love never comes to man end, ever true to all of His promises.
TOPIC: - BECOMING A FAITH MAN – HOW?
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Heb. 10:38-39; II Cor. 5:7; Rom. 12:3; 14:23; 10:9-10, 17; 4:17; Heb. 11:1-40.
INTRODUCTION: -
It takes faith to walk (partake) in all of the Spiritual realities which God has wrought for us in Christ Jesus (Heb. 11:6). This teaching is not intended to teach how to have (possess) faith, but how to develop the already deposited faith which is in the believer (Rom. 12:3). God’s word is and will always remain the only genuine and lasting “like” to God, even in prayers; moreso, the Holy Spirit doesn’t lead the believer outside of God’s words.
Meditation builds our capacity for faith. God’s words links the new creation with the supernatural; and to exclude faith from whatever you do in life is to deliberately settle for a future of struggles and over-dependence upon man which usually would have its limits (rom. 14:23; II Cor. 5:7). The more of God’s word indwelling us determines the abounding grace towards us (II Pet. 3:18; I Pet. 2:2); (Acts. 20:32).
Faith is not an emergency exit out of difficulty, neither is it what is developed just as a problem appears, its developed way ahead of time to enable it to have hardened enough to handle any form of mountain (problems) “when” they come your way as you go in life (I Pet. 1:7; Mk. 11:23-24).
Faith, though a spiritual force is like the physical muscle; if not regularly exercised through lifting of various weight sizes (level/stages), would on the long run become or converted into fats under human skin, thus causing fatigue, and general weakness. So is faith not regularly exercised (I Tim. 6:12; Jam. 2:26; I Pet. 1:7). Faith always has good reports (Heb. 11:39-40; II Cor. 2:14) because it doesn’t give up, even in the presence of what seem like the impossible, maintaining a firm stand (conviction) upon God’s unfailing words (Eph. 6:13-14).
OUTLINES
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Living the faith life is building a strongwall against the enemy in all areas of our lives through constant confession of God’s Words (I Jn. 5:18-19).
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Faith is strengthened in the presence of God’s Words e.g. (Josh. 6:2-5; I Jn. 5:14) “I have given into thine hand Jericho and... “.
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The faith becomes most exciting when battles are fought and won as there will be trophies/results/testimonies to show for previous victories (II Tim. 4:6-8; Gal. 5:6).
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The faith man painfully receives the lessons first before the tests and finally laughs at the end when receiving the prize (Heb. 12:1-4).
THE 2 WAYS YOU COULD RELEASE YOUR FAITH
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Through your Words – Rom. 10:8-10; II Cor. 4:13.
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Through your Actions (Deeds) – Jam. 2:26; Eph. 4:27.
Faith is speedily released through words and not through thinking and being mute (Rom. 10:8; Rev. 12:11).
NOTE: - PATIENCE IS WHAT KEEPS THE DOOR OPEN WHILE FAITH WORKS ITS WAY THROUGH IN ANY SITUATION THE BELIEVER FINDS HIMSELF IN LIFE (Heb. 10:36).
TOPIC: - IDENTIFYING AND AVOIDING POSSIBLE EXCESSES CALLED “FAITH”
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Heb. 10:38-39; 11:1, 23, 35-36; II Cor. 5:7; Rom. 4:17; 14:23; Jam. 1:2025; Mk. 11:23-24; Rom. 12:9; I Thess. 5:18; I Tim. 1:19.
INTORDUCTION:-
The faith life could be so exciting; most especially when flanked about with positive results, such that if one is not watchful, might get into certain excesses that would eventually make a ship-wreck of one’s faith on the long run.
For the believer who has his mind made up to walk and be distinguished only by the Word alone, he needs a proper understanding of the basic fundamental rudiments of faith not just as a subject, but as a way of life of the believer. From the scriptures, faith life is the only and surest guarantee of a peaceful, well co-ordinate and a balanced lifestyle that would certainly ensure a very prolonged and lasting living on the earth (Rom. 1:17c); Isa. 28:16; Heb. 4:9.
To some people in life, building a house, buying a car is the main thing; little do they think about the maintenance of the acquired property, to keep them on the pedestal they are on, (Lk. 14:28-30; Eccl. 7:8) already by the virtue of their possessions. So many today have been pulled down by their foolish and unreasonable so-called faith projections (I Tim. 1:19; Matt. 9:29).
Though our faith is our spiritual messenger that goes on errand for us in the spiritual market (realm), there’s the need to be a “knower” of the laws of faith. One must also be fully aware of the constant tests genuine faith faces from the opposition (I Pet. 1:7; Jam. 1:1-3) which in turn strengthens our faith.
Whenever a believer neglects any warning of the Spirit, he falls a victim to the enemy. (I Pet. 5:8-9; II Cor. 2:11). Thus, every believer should be quick to repent before the Lord once realizes his mistake (s) right on the spot (I Jn. 1:9).
POSSIBLE EXCESSES COMMON WITH PEOPLE OF THE FAITH MOVEMENT
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Presumption: - This is an act of supposing.
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Assumption: - Something that is taken as a fact or as true without proof; or the act of
beginning to use or perform; or of pretending to have or be.
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Pre-suppose: - To take to be true without trying to find out.
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Foolishness: - Acting like an idiot, ill-advised, irrational, stupid, and brainless.
SOME BASIC FOUNDAMENTAL FACTS ABOUT THE FAITH LIFE
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Faith is taking sides with God’s Words against the presented facts of the 5 – physical senses e.g. sickness, poverty, lack and wants (Num. 23:19).
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Whatever is born of God “Overcomes” the world indicates a “fight” is involved (I Jn. 5:4; I Tim. 6:12).
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Until your faith is tried/tested/examined, you don’t confidently claim ownership of it (I Pet. 1:7; Jam. 1:1-3; I Cor. 10:13; Eph. 6:13-14).
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To go for things (desires) beyond your present level of faith is to stretch your faith, which may attract bruises, except a divine intervention (I Tim. 1:19; Matt. 9:29; I Jn. 5:14).
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In the faith business, the mouth and heart are the key players; (Rom. 10:8-10) Satan dreads a faith man that believes in his confessions (Rom. 4:17).
NOTE: - ONLY THE WORD OF GOD ACTED UPON THAT PROFITS THE BELIEVER.
TOPIC: - CULTIVATING THE FAITH ORIENTATION
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Rom. 1:17c; Heb. 10:38-39; II Cor. 5:7; Psa. 1:1-3; I Cor. 15:33; Prov. 13:20; Heb. 20; 6:12; Gal. 5:16; II Tim. 2:15; Rom. 3:3-4a.
INTRODUCTION:-
The legal procedure of God’s system is living by faith. The moment your spirit man is living and operating by faith, the soul (mind) and the body will definitely be dragged alongside, because then they would have no other choice but to follow (Rom. 8:14-25). It’s only faith that can move the hands of God and not our sentiments because “Christianity is purely a legal document” handed down to the new creation who is willing to consistently walk with God and partaking of the available benefits *Heb. 11:6). Thus, faith gives us the boldness to approach God’s presence at whatever time of the day, in whatever situation, with all confidence (Heb. 4:16).
However, there’s the need to change our “orientation” as we’ve been born into a new spiritual order (God’s kingdom); as to benefit maximally form the provisions available in the kingdom, such as: healing, protection, preservation, favour, prosperity and all that Christ obtained on behalf of the new creation in His redemptive work. A man’s orientation to a very large extent affects his daily lifestyle (Eph. 1:3).
It’s very important that the believer renews his mind after the salvation experience, because that is the seat of his thought pattern which forms the basis for and of his lifestyle (Prov. 23:7a); (Matt. 15:19, 11). Thus the key to a right thinking, right believer and right confession is a renewed mind (i.e. information replacement process) – Phil. 4:8. Only a daily exposure one mind to the new information forms God’s words could this be made possible (Rom. 12:1-2; Jn. 5:39; II Tim. 2:15; 3:16; Jam. 1:22-25).
SPIRITUAL ORIENTATION BASICALLY INVOLVES: -
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Meditation: (Josh. 1:1-9; Psa. 1:1-3): - It helps to expand the capacity to receive and build strong faith in God’s words and its capabilities. It means fixing one’s mind on the word and also saying it to yourself i.e. “pondering and mortaring at the same time” under your breath (The mouth movement is an integral part of meditation; else it’s a mere thinking exercise).
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Confession: (Rom. 10:10b; II Cor. 4:13; Rom. 4:17: - This means to acknowledge or to own to or to acknowledge faith in, to make confession of one’s fault(s).
FIVE-FOLD CONFESSION OF FAITH
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What God Christ had wrought for us in the great redemptive plan – Col. 1:13-14?
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What God thru’ the Word, and the Holy Spirit wrought in us in the new birth and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit – II Cor. 5:17; I Cor. 3:16.
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What we are to God the father in Christ Jesus I Pet. 2:9; 5:7; Zech. 2:8.
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What Jesus is testifying for us NOW at God’s right hand where He lives forever interceding for us (saints) – Heb. 7:25; 3:1-3; 8:6.
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What God can do thru ’us and what His word can do thru’ our lips – II Cor. 5:19-20; Jn. 5:7; Phil. 4:13; Isa. 40:31.
HOW LONG DOES THE FAITH – FIGHT LAST? I Tim. 6:12; Eph. 6:12-18; Heb. 10:33, 35; Dan. 10:7-14.
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Faith – Acts/is the Pathfinder (Mk. 11:23-24).
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Wisdom – Gives direction (Eccl. 10:10; Psa. 112:5).
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Patience – Keeps the door open until faith finishes it’s loading and transfer operation (Heb. 10:36). I Jn. 5:14.
The faith fight only ends in a particular area ONLY when you are declared “THE WINNER”!!!
It’s not a lifestyle you pick just on the street, you work your way and walk in it by yourself.
NOTE: -EAGLES DON’T FLOCK – YOU HAVE TO FIND THEM ONE AT A TIME.
TOPIC: - AFTER JESUS’ VICTORY, WHY STILL THE NEED TO FIGHT?
FOUNFDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Col. 1:12-14; 2:13-15; Heb. 2:9, 14; Jn. 14:12-14; II Cor. 4:4; Eph. 6:12-14; I JN. 5:19; Gal. 1:4; Jn. 16:33; I Pet. 5:8-9; (e.g. Gen. 1:28-31; 2:15, 17).
INTRODUCTION: -
In the eternal redemption plan of God, He never intended sending the Lord Jesus Christ just to give His life only for a sect of people called the “Christians”; as the word Christian came after His death and resurrection (Acts. 11:26c); which was as a result of the much resemblance the disciples showed with that of Jesus’ personal identity or traits (Acts. 10:38).
God generally gave Jesus Christ as a sacrifice for the eternal redemption of the whole of human race, (Jn. 3:16; 1:12). Thus, believing, accepting and walking in the footsteps of Jesus becomes a Christian, an automatic heir of God and a joint/equal heir with Jesus Christ (Rom. 8:17); and a qualified partaker of God’s inheritance (II Pet. 1:3-4).
Israel was the only country/people called God’s people, until He made His intention known of saving the entire humanity from the captivity of the devil (Isa. 9:6-7). This was confirmed by Jesus (Lk. 4:18; I Jn. 5:19). When He had fulfilled all the claims of justice against humanity, He said: “It is finished” (Jn. 10:30), i.e. the Abraham covenant was over giving way for a New covenant (Heb. 8:6); (II Cor. 3:6-12).
Jesus also declared “All power in heaven and on earth is given to me” (Matt. 28:18); and “Behold, I give you (the believer ones) power/authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions… (Lk. 10:19; Mk. 16:15-20).
Jesus’ face to face combat with the devil in hell left Satan with no more power, as Jesus tripped him (Satan) of all of his powers (Heb. 2:15), and the only power Satan operates with now is the power of “Deception” (Rev. 20:3). If he can deceive you, he will whip you (II Cor. 2:11; Eph. 4:27).
Among other things obtained for us is divine health, by the stripes He received on His body (Matt. 8:17; I Pet. 2:24). Jesus Christ was made the head over all principalities and powers just for the benefit of His body (the church). The churches (the believing ones) are only to “enforce” Satan’s defeat on him continually using Jesus’ very words (Lk. 4”1-4; Rev. 12:11).
THE CHRISTIAN STILL FACES OPPOSITIONS BECAUSE:
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God gave this world on a “Lease Basis” to Adam which he handed over legally to Satan in the garden; and its not yet over (Gen. 1:28-31; 2:15, 17; II Cor. 4:4; I Jn. 5:19; Rom. 8:19-23; Eph. 6:12-14; Rev. 12:10).
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Our redemption is 2-fold: -
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Legal side (Beside the eyes of God – Gal. 1:4; Eph. 2:8-9; Rev. 13:8.
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Vital side (Man’s responsibility – Rom. 10:9-10; Phil. 2:2; I Tim. 6:12; Heb. 10:23.
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The “Tempter” (Satan) is walking the earth looking for careless believers to drown (I Thess. 3:5; I Pet. 5:8; 1:7; Jam. 1:1-3).
PROVIDED WEAPONS TO FIGHT THE ENEMY: - Eph. 6:10-18; Jn. 14:13-14.
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The Word of God – Rev. 12:11; Matt. 4:1-11; Rom. 10:8.
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The Name of Jesus.
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The Blood of Jesus.
NOTE: - WHAT YOU RESIST GROWS WEAKER, WHAT’S SUBMITTED TO GROW STRONGER.
TOPIC: - IS THERE A PLACE FOR “SUFFERING” IN THE FAITH LIFE?
FOUNDATION SCRIPTURES: II Tim. 2:3-4; 1:7; 4:1-7; 3:10-14; Rom. 5:1-5; 8:35-37, 28-29; I Pet. 1:7; Jam. 1:1-3; Heb. 12:1-4; 4:15-16; I Cor. 10:13; Jn. 16:33.
INTRODUCTION: -
The word “suffering” in many Christian circles today is considered an old time Christian slogan, an unbelief, a mere religious terminology for the uncivilized; some even consider it a “curse”. They completely see it as a negative word that shouldn’t be mentioned at all.
Yet, quite a good number of Christians are passing thru’ one form of difficulty, hard times which they find extremely difficult to explain why they are happening and more importantly, how to come out of them all.
Hardly do we find anyone enter into a bookstore; and pick up the book that reads “LEARNING TO SUFFER THRU’” or “HOW TO ENDURE PAINS OF LIFE”. Due to the present day mis-conception already sold to the average Christian from the pulpit, which has led the believer into building a life of falsehood based on little or no understanding of the working of God in the life of an individual.
The pulpit today is breeding and turning out a bunch of “Fat” but “immature”, “Milk-sucking” and miracle-crazy” Christians; and right in the very face of the red-eyed, ever aggressive, and no-nonsense enemy of our faith (Satan). [Heb. 5:13; I Pet. 5:8-9; Eph. 6:10-12].
Miracle is a direct by-product of walking in God’s Word; it gives glory to God and freedom to the captive or victim. However, we must sound enough to know that all miracles (II Cor. 11:14); (Jam. 2:19). Miracles doesn’t feed our faith, neither does the anointing. Only God’s word received feeds our spirit-man, as to be strong enough to maintain our miracles and win in other battle of life which is a “must” for any impact-making Christian. [Heb. 4:12-13; Luke. 4:1-4].
OUTLINES
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Faith never denies the existence of natural problems, but doesn’t look, concentrate on them, because they‘re temporary i.e. subject to change. [II Cor. 4:18; 5:7; Rom. 4:17].
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“Endurance” is a more painful form of waiting than “Patience” because it entails a lot of forbearance, pains and disregards; but for sure convinced of a positive change ahead while trusting in the efficacy of God’s word. [Heb. 5:7-10; II Cor. 11:17-33; Gen. 39:20; 40:14, 39:40; 41:14].
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The “suffering” here has to do strictly with the great ‘sacrifices’ we go thru’ in the cause of or standing on God’s word to create a testimony for the Lord on the earth. [I Pet. 2:21-22].
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Suffering is a natural “conditioner” and a form of stabilizing agent as it reveals one’s strength and elastic limit (forbearance) limit. [Isa. 48:10; I Pet. 2:21-22; Jam. 1:1-8].
NOTE: - THERE’S NO PURITY WITHOUT FIRE!!! [I Cor. 10:13].
TOPIC: - THE ENEMIES OF A VICTORIOUS LIVING
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Jam. 4:7; II Cor. 2:14; Gal. 6:7; I Pet. 5:7-9; I Tim. 6:12; Matt. 11:12.
INTRODUCTION: -
Daily the believer faces so many challenges; and he’s as well faced with decisions each time there’s victory in view. A man’s ability to identify his enemies is the first step to freedom. In actual sense, man don’t really decide their future, they decide their habits which then in turn decide their future.
If God cushioned every blow (adversity) the Christian received, he would never learn to grow; as his shock-absorbers would remain weak. Pain in any life is often a bridged (link), it’s not a barricade to success as some considers it.
An enemy is someone who has given himself to making sure that everything that concerns you is brought to nothing, a total halt, grounding you for life. But the plain truth here is that none is actually as far from a miracle as it first appears to him, except for the presence of some enemies that paint the picture of “inaccessibility” to one’s miracle in one’s mind; causing great depressions as to discourage one’s faith to receive.
FOUR MAJOR HINDERANCES TO A VICTORIOUS CHRISTIAN LIVING
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WORRY: - Phil. 4:6-7; I Pet. 5:7. Worry results when one is overly concerned about any issue. It’s a child of fear and doesn’t leave the victim without torment that could as well reduce his life-span on earth. A worried man is a certified dead person who is only awaiting burial. See. I Jn. 4:18.
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FEAR: - II Tim. 1:7; I Jn. 4:18; Prov. 19:23-25; Isa. 8:12. Fear is the strongest among all of Satan’s forces/tools of controlling humanity and holding him hostage. Whenever fear is present, Satan easily gets his victim act or talk according to his dictates, due to the influence of the spell of fear. Fear is a spiritual force that has an immediate physical manifestation on the victim. Whenever and whatever can terrify you can claim your goods and deprive you of your rights. (Phil. 1:28).
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DWELLING IN THE PAST: - Isa. 43:18-9, 25; Phil. 3:13-14. So many people have poisoned their present & future with the pains of their pasts, as they allow their past mistakes to determine their self-worth, instead of their willingness to recognize they made mistake in the past. Yesterday’ failures can become the catalyst for tomorrow’s success, since tomorrow contains more joy than any yesterday can recall (flesh page).
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ENVIRONMENT: - Prov. 13:20; II Cor. 15:33; II Thess. 3:6, 14. Life changes only when your daily priorities do. Satan’s favourite entry point into your life is “usually” through those closest to you. Whoever (no matter the relationship) cannot increase you will eventually decrease you. The environments we find ourselves have a very strong influence on our perspective of life and personal character; it could be one’s greatest enemy where the correct values are lacking. Thus, any environment or person(s) that don’t respect your time will obviously disregard your wisdom.
NOTE: - WHAT YOU FAIL TO DESTROY…. WILL EVENTUALLY DESTROY YOU (Eph. 4:27).
TOPIC: - DISCOVERING LIFE EVEN AT THE POINT OF DEATH
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURE: Psa. 30:5; I Cor. 10:13; Psa. 34:19; II Tim. 1:7; Prov. 10:27; 29:25; II Pet. 2:9; Job. 3:25; I Pet. 5:7, 9; Phil. 4:6-7; I Jn. 4:18.
INTRODUCTION:-
To the believer that has a vision, the year is running just too fat as he has so many dreams in blue-prints; but to the visionless, procrastinating and busy-body child of God, the year is moving so slow, wishing that everything should just come to an abrupt end, to justify his weakness and mediocrity. There’re quite some believers who have spent the half of this year minding the business of other people, monitoring their successes & failure; yet doing nothing tangible concerning their own dreams and aspirations for the year. (Songs of Solomon 1:6; II Thess. 3:6). Unawares, the year again has halved itself.
FEAR AS THE CLOSEST ALLY TO MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS
Everything that has meaning in life is frightening. Fear perhaps is our oldest and deadliest enemy. It causes illness, kills and causes depression; it stifles creativity. It prevents love, disrupts families, and causes addiction to alcohol, drugs, work, hobbies and food. Fear of life and other people could result in abnormal withdrawal, leading to mental illness. Extreme fear of the future prompts suicide.
Fear has a purpose; and whether dormant or active, it’s an emotion we all live with almost everytime as we assume newer responsibilities in life. Insecurity results as a result of fear of the unknown; and as such we begin to apply all human wisdom and methods to protect ourselves and our jobs, families, ministries etc. (Jam. 3:15-17; Psa. 127:1; Rom. 9:16; Zech. 4:6).
There’s no way or it’s absolutely impossible to live in this natural, mortal planet called earth without fear. Nevertheless, it’s possible to live beyond our fears. Even those of us who have faith and who trust in God are going to find ourselves sometimes in scary situations. The more reason we would need to learn to appropriate for our personal lives the reassurance of those words the Lord repeats so very often in the Gospels: “Don’t be afraid; Fear not”.
Fear is powerful & elemental, often irrational. It’s often expressed by anger and hostility. If we let things terrify us, life will not be worth living. Fear is universal. It’s an emotion all have experienced; from the rural man in the judge to the urban/city dweller in sophisticated environment.
Fear is a risky adventure, and mistakes are unavoidable. Right in the midst of fear, faith, and faith can grow using fear as a soil. There’s fear based on truth, on lies, on mis-information, on gossip or on old injunctions from dysfunctional parents. It can either be internal or external.
WHAT DIFFERENCE CAN ANOTHER SIX MONTHS MAKE TO THE BELIEVER? (Isa. 1:19; Eccl. 8:12)
It doesn’t take a decade to transform anyone’s destiny if it is willing to apply himself to the principles of a successful life, putting aside every sentiment; knowing that no one is going to do his thinking for him, regardless of the closeness. With strong determination to work hard, trusting God for increase; and a Disciplined lifestyle, including spending; being Diligent in his area of endeavour, despising not the days of little profits; submitting himself to the laws of tithing and giving regularly, these acts would open new doors of favour unto him supernaturally in places where other pay for every service they get.
NOTE: - OBEDIENCE IS BETTER THAN SACRIFCE!!!
TOPIC: - UNDERSTANDING OF THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Hos. 4:6; Isa. 55:11; II Cor. 1:20; II Tim. 3:1-9; I Tim. 4:1-7; Micah. 4:1-3; Mal. 4:1-3; Amos. 8:11; Joel. 2:1-21; Psa. 101:6-8; Rev. 3:10-13.
INTRODUCTION: -
Whenever certain events are taking place in life, those without the basic and fundamental knowledge, without an in-depth understanding of that particular happening, the reason why its happening and the final outcome the phenomenon would probably be disturbed, worried and if not checked early enough might have a devastating effect upon such one.
To a great extent in our world today, many believers are presently no longer where they used to be when they first believed in terms of their commitments and zeal for the things of the Lord, and his works; especially in the area of reaching out to the very lost. What is uttermost in most believer’s minds today is how to get wealth and be very comfortable, which is a part of the package that comes with obeying the great commission. (Matt. 6:33; Mk. 10:29-31).
They have allowed the hard times we live in presently to influence them and re-mould them into other persons, playing the dirty and deadly game of the world, compromising their faith for material possessions which they know would not leave here with them on their return to their maker and judge of the world (Job. 1:20-21; I Cor. 3:12-15). Just for gains, some have offered themselves to be used by the enemy, forgetting that the friendship of this world is enmity with the Lord maker.
The enemy occupies our minds today with our needs and also shows to us what he calls open doors, so we could enter therein and be entrapped, living under his directions and at his mercy. That explains why some believers work round the clock, not knowing that the favour of God only is what guarantees lasting increase in anyone’s life. This is an age in which good is seen as bad and bad is considered good, where fuel i.e. petrol is considered more important than the human blood due to its scarcity, and their willingness to give their lives to get it by all means and at all cost; all as a result of the negligence of the conscience. (Psa. 30:5; Rom. 8:28; I Cor. 10:13).
WHAT ARE WE TO UNDERSATND ABOUT THE TIMES?
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The present happenings are not new and they are the fulfillments of God’s words spoken ahead of time (Isa. 55:11; Num. 23:19).
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God prepares people through difficult times for a future of greatness e.g. Joseph (Gen. 39:20; 41:39-57; Isa. 48:11).
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Every physical matter (possessions) is subject to corruption (destruction) with time. (Matt. 24:35; II Pet. 3:10).
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Men could serve God just for personal gains, and as such wouldn’t mind doing just anything to achieve their selfish aims.
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The wealth of the wicked/oppressor are only a while and soon forgotten once he’s dead or in deep poverty (Psa. 10:7; Eccl. 9:5).
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God would always leave the space for him to e recognized and acknowledged as God by solely claiming his glory whenever any mortal seem to contend for it (Isa. 48:11c).
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The rescue operation of the saints out of this world is very close; as God wants to resettle his children in the new heaven and the earth after the fall of Adam. (Rev. 21:1; I Thess. 4:16-18; Matt. 24:44).
NOTE: BE WISE NOW, AND LABOUR MORE FOR YOUR PLACE OF FINAL REST AS A BELEIVER (Matt. 6:19).
TOPIC: - OF WHAT RELEVANCE IS WORKS IN GOD’S GRACE?
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Isa. 64:6; Eph. 2:8-9; Tit. 3:5; Matt. 6:19; Jn. 14:1-3; Gal. 6:7; II Tim. 2:19-21; I Cor. 3:12-15; Heb. 6:10; 13:2; Prov. 19:17; Psa. 41:1-2; Matt. 25:35-36; Gal. 6:10.
INTRODUCTION: -
So much have been preached on the pulpits about heaven over the years and the entry qualification (new birth), the message of God’s grace have so much been heralded in the ears of the average believer that he almost knows close to nothing whether there be any place for works at all in getting the rewards promised by the Lord Jesus Christ before His departure. This unfortunately has left the Christian in a state of careless, earthly mindedness, merely out to accumulate this world’s goods. Heaven is a geographical planet and there are responsibilities there, more than going home to sing hallelujah amen on streets of gold.
THE SERMON:
The scriptures never kick against “GOD WORKS” as Christians on earth. It however only spells out the priority line (Gal. 6:10). God Himself instituted the new law of sowing and reaping, and with so much promises of harvest in the bible, for anyone to partake of the goodies, strict compliance is a must.
To partake of the bliss of glory promised, every believer is expected to work out his salvation and he responsibility minded. (Jn. 14:1-3; Phil. 1:12). God’s blessings are based on conditions (Deut. 28:1 – the word “if”). Grace opens your eyes to God’s available provisions; but you walk in that grace by showing good works on the earth, as means of transferring home your acquired assets while on this pilgrimage (Matt. 6:19; II Tim. 2:19-21).
God keeps records of our existence (works) here on earth also as believers (Rom. 14:12; Rev. 20:12). Hence, it’s pointless for one not to observe the whole duty required of the new creation by God, because salvation affects our spirit-man, purely a spiritual’ phenomenon, while heaven’s rewards are brewed right here on earth (I Tim. 6:18, 17; II Cor. 5:17; Jn. 3:5-6).
As Christians, it becomes paramount that we learn to do good unto those around us and also to those who would come in contact with us, and the greatest good we can do to them is that of preaching Jesus’ love to them, not just providing them with the material things of this life which have just but a temporary value (Mk. 8:36).
There’s a place for being responsible in Gold’s kingdom to earn crowns and stars in heaven; Ask yourself this question: If God Himself were to appear before me, or pack in newly as a neighbor, having one difficulty or the, other would I recognize Him as God (the rewarded and owner of my soul) and meet His needs? (Heb. 13:2; Matt. 25:35-46).
WAYS BY WHICH WE CAN INVEST FOR HEAVENLY ASSETS
Since there are already laid down principles and conditions for being rewarded on arrival in heaven’s shores, as strangers or passers-by on this earth, regardless of how much possessions we have here, it’s certain we must go back home day; either by death or rapture (transport agents). The Christian should thus make wise investment through these avenues while he still has the opportunities to do so: -
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Giving into God’s work on earth – Matt. 6:33; Haggai. 1:1-11; Mk. 10:29-30.
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Giving to God’s servants/prophets – I Cor. 9:10-14; Matt. 10:41, 10, 42; I Tim. 5:17; I Kg. 17:8-15.
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Giving and providing essential services to the needy – Prov. 19:17; Lk. 6:38; Psa. 41:1-2; Prov. 3:27.
NOTE: - GOD’S GRACE GIVES US ENTRANCE INTO THE NEW LIFE, BUT WORKS PREPARES OUR FINAL ABODE. I Cor. 3:12-15.
TOPIC: - WEAKENING THE STRENGHT OF RUMOURS
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Prov. 26:20; 18:8; 17:9; Nehemiah. 1-6; I Pet. 4:8; Prov. 26:17.
INTRODUCTION: -
The enemy control an area or community by seeding/planting certain thoughts in the people’s minds, knowing fully well the operation of the human is 100% rooted I his thought pattern, which determines his actions (Prov. 23:7a; Matt. 12:34).
Crisis in any life begins the very moment he’s confronted with certain truths he cannot defend. It’s important to understand that the very thought pattern that created any problem can obviously not be the same thought pattern that would solve it. There is no way in this life that one would go on with God without Him purifying one’s inner motives. Until when something actually goes wrong, then one’s true motive is revealed.
We must understand that its not all who come to join themselves with our work that are there to add to it, but rather to study the system as to have the information to peddle about our personal weaknesses and short-comings, which calls for a sound discerning heart on our part, else we become the testing ground for all.
DICTIONARY DEFINITIONS: - Rumour is an information spread by being “talked about”, but not certainly true.
SERMON OUTLINES
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Rumour involves Words and the hearing system of man.
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It is the easiest way to stop anyone with a genuine motive and vision.
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The basic reason men spread rumours is because of “complex”.
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Satan fights unity with the tool of rumour (in a family, church or nation).
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Rumour is intended to break your focus and paint a negative picture of others.
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Insecurity and fear of failures births “scheming”.
THE OUTCOME OF RUMOURS
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Breeds fear, suspection and distrust.
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Discouragement and frustrations.
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Broken fellowship and relationships.
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Divorce in marriage and victimization.
HOW TO RESPOND TO RUMOURS (Mk. 4:24; Neh. 4:3-9; 2:19-20; 6:1-9)
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Confront the secret fears of your past with truthfulness – Jam. 4:7.
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Never repeat a rumour, nor attempt defending yourself.
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Discourage anyone around you form giving you any information about the opposition, as what you don’t hear can’t affect you.
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Spend more time in intercessions, especially in times of doubt & fear.
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Confess and believe you are delivered from the strivings of the people (Psa. 18:43; II Thess. 3:2-3).
NOTE: - ANY RUMOUR THAT’S MEANT FOR YOU WILL SURE GET TO YOU, BUT YOUR TIME OF QUIETNESS IS THE TIME WHEN GOD’S CHARACTER IS BEING FORMED IN YOU.
TOPIC: - THE IMPORTANCE OF FAITH
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES:- Heb. 16; 10:38; Rom. 10:17; 14:23; II Cor. 5:7; I Jn. 5:4; I Tim. 1:1-4.
INTRODUCTION:-
Faith is a spiritual force, not a force of the soul or intellect. God’s word is the word of faith; the law of God is the law of faith. Thus, we need to be spiritually learned about the subject of faith as it’s impossible to please God without it. If pleasing God is our reason for living, we need more than just the knowledge but the thorough understanding of the principles of faith as a way of life.
REASONS FOR PREACHING FAITH
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It is impossible to please God without faith – Heb. 11:6; 10:38; Rom. 14:23.
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God created this world by faith and also recreated it (that of Christ) by faith. Heb. 111:3-40; Rev. 13:8. Every existing evil today are opposition or trail of God’s faith, but He is not moved by what sees, i.e. God Himself lives and walks by faith – Heb. 1:3. He created this earth the ages to come by “faith filled words”.
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The early (first) apostles taught and preached faith – II Pet. 1:3; II Cor. 5:7; They were called in those days: “They Way”, “The Faith” and “Christians”. Paul spent much time teaching faith to the Colossian church Col. 1:23; 2:7; 2:7; I Tim. 1:3-7.
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The New creation lives ad walks by faith – Rom. 1:17; Heb. 10:38; II Cor. 1:24.
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The whole Armour of God is faith armour – Eph. 6:10-18; II Cor. 2:11. The faith armour makes you who you are. They are worn only by faith because those are God’s fighting tools. The shield of faith quenches all the fiery darts of the enemy.
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Faith is the world overcoming force, without faith the new creation is undressed (naked) and stands to be cheated spiritually – I Jn. 5:4. The basis of faith is God’s word.
NOTE: - EVERY BELIEVER HAS THE RIGHT TO PARTAKE OF THE DIVINE NATURE OF THE FATHER-GOD, THROUGH THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE WORD OF FAITH II Pet. 1:3-4.
TOPIC: - 7 STEPS TO THE HIGHEST KIND OF FAITH
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES:- II Cor. 1:17-24; Psa. 15:4; Jam. 5:12; Rom. 10:10, 17.
INTRODUCTION: - A man’s life on the outside depends on what he is on the inside. The devil is smart enough not to attack your faith in the area you once defeated him. He tries another of your life where he suspects there is a struggle or weakness. To depend on the faith of another person is to settle for a future of shame and disaster. I Pet. 1:7; II Cor. 1:24; Mk.4:15; Jam. 1:2-3; I Thess. 3:5.
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TO KNOW THE INTEGRITY (REALITY) OF GOD’S WORD – Num. 23:19; Psa. 15:4; Jer. 1:12; Integrity means: honesty, probity, uprightness, wholeness. God is inseparable from his word i.e. He cannot deny his word – Isa. 55:11; Psa. 89:34; II Pet. 1:19.
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KNOWING THE REALITY OF OUR REDEMPTION – Col. 1:12-14; Redemption is a package. Salvation (SOTERIA) is for the total man. Our body has been redeemed from sickness and death but still subject to corruption – I Jn. 3:1-3. The blood of Jesus did not satisfy Satan, our testimony must be involved. Rev. 12:11; II Cor. 8:21.
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KNOWING THE REALITY OF THE NEW CREATION – II Cor. 5:14-17; Eph. 2:8-10; 4:24.
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Legal side of our redemption – in the eyes of justice (God). Rom. 8:29, 15.
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Vital side of our redemption – Man’s conscious decision to be saved.
God actually gave birth to our spirit in the region of darkness (darkness).
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THE REALITY OF THE INDWELLING PRESENCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT – Jn. 16:7-13; I Cor. 3:16;
Result in prayers reveals the level of power at work within us. Any saint ignorant of this is open to saint’s constant intimidations, harassments and condemnation – Rom. 8:1; Jn. 14:26; Rom. 8:26.
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THE REALITY OF OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS (right standing) IN CHRIST – II Cor. 5:21; Tit. 3:5; God word reveals his righteousness, it carries faith. Righteousness produces boldness before demons and confidence to approach the father. Heb. 4:16; Acts. 1:38; Prov. 28:1.
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THE REALITY OF OUR FELOWSHIP (KOINONIA) WITH GOD THE FATHER – Gen. 2:8; 1:26; Faith is crippled in the atmosphere of broken fellowship. The word of God is the place of appointment with God and should be regular. Psa. 91:1; Jn. 15:7; Fellowship is a calling. I Cor. 1:9; I Jn. 2:1-2; 1:9.
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THE AUTHORITY IN THE USE OF THE NAME OF JESUS – Jn. 14:13-14; 16:23-24; Phil. 2:9-12; To ask literally means to “Demand” Matt. 7:7 which is a strong form of request. A man’s position determines his authority. The name of Jesus on the lips of faith invokes to the scene the person of Jesus. It’s the believer’s power of attorney and thus has the legal right to the use of it.
I Jn. 5:14-15.
NOTE: - YOUR FAITH CANNOT RISE BEYOND THE LEVEL OR MEASURE OF GOD’S WORD THAT IS INDWELLING YOUR SPIRIT MAN. Col. 3:16.
TOPIC: - IF GOD MUST MOVE ON YOUR BEHALF
FOUNDATIONAL SCRIPTURES: Zech. 2:8; Deut. 28:1; Isa. 1:19; I Jn. 5:3; Jam. 2:10; I Sam. 2:30; Jn. 13:17; 15:7;
Gal. 6:7.
INTRODUCTION: -
The fact that one is created in the very image of God and in His own likeness is not and doesn’t automatically guarantee He (God) would and must act on your behalf for your defense or for the supplies of your needs, if the basic laws of God (conditions) are not satisfied; because He only reserves His ‘mercy rights’ and it’s only by His choice, not always either (Rom. 9:15-16). If we however obey the laws (words) of God, which is the engine that controls the arm of His clock, we can always tell His own time and be assured He will always be there whenever we need Him, no matter the situation.
Today as ever, nothing just jumps into existence, “action triggers the same opposite reaction” in every sphere of human existence, and only mediocre neglect the reality of this fact and in any case hasn’t change the fact. Life is full of lessons which never end, no matter the level of achievement.
It thus become very necessary for anyone who wants a meaningful living to learn the basic guiding principles of this life; the consequences for breaking any of these was; and the operational methods to avoid blaming any person for your failure incase you disregard any of these laws (Gal. 6:7). Anyone who does not know the right way to talk, act towards people would always fall victims of negative reactions from others; it’s not a mystery, but a natural response to natural laws which was set in motion by the victim.
The knowledge of these laws is what makes any reasonable person to have the constant mind set to do things the right way, as much as it lies within his strength, regardless of his disposition (moreso, with the knowledge of the consequences for every action). For one to know the right thing to do and yet neglect it is a deliberate decision to mix some sourness with sweetness in your future, since the lessons we refuse to learn today (compulsory electives) automatically remains a carry-over for us if we must graduate/succeed in life. No waver is allowed. Be always ready to contribute to life instead of just consuming what others have put into it; a singular action of your today could open an unexpected door to your long-awaited favour and up you go (e.g. Abel – Gen. 4:4, 6-7 and Joseph. – Gen. 40:6-23; 41:39-46).
3 BASIC CONDICTIONS TO MEET FOR GOD TO MOVE ON YOUR BEHALF
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You must seek God’s face early and regularly through the meditation upon His word; fervent in prayers, and fasting often – Dan. 9:3-4; Prov. 8:17; Lam. 3:25; Psa. 25:14; 84:7; 73:37; Amos. 5:4; Eph. 3:20.
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Endeavour to always obey the law of right perspectives, regardless of how you feel; knowing that the stipulated laws of life would either in the long or short run take their cause – Jam. 4:17; Jn. 13:17; III Jn. II Thess. 5:15, 21.
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Be about God’s business (i.e. gospel/good news messenger), skillfully and intelligently communicating the gospel that makes meaning even to the senses, thus; creating hunger and thirst in the hearers (Rom. 1:16; Lk. 4:18-19; Mk. 16:15-20; II Cor. 5:19-20; II Pet. 3:9).
NOTE: - THERE’S A POSTURE A MAN TAKES THAT TRIGGERS HEAVEN’S POSITIVE REACTION