CHURCH REIMAGINED CHURCH REIMAGINED

TEACHER'S COPY
Copyright©2021
National Department of Christian Education, Lagos.
ISBN: 978-978-48361-8-0
CURRICULUM PLANNER/DEVELOPER:
REGINA M. KEHINDE
CURRICULUM APPROVED BY:
KAFILAT O. AYANBANJO
CONTRIBUTORS

Osibanjo Matthew Luke Egbonuba

Ayanbanjo Kafilat Regina M. Kehinde
Tope Oni Razak Akinwale
Funsho Omowo Jet Bankole
Johnson Rogho Comfort Osibanjo
Ezekiel Omoleye Jones Itombra-Okoro
Jumoke Odofin Daniel Akinpelu
Lawrence Ademola Alabi Wale Sonubi
Uchenna Azuka-Obieke Maureen Okerentie
Jide Ogunsakin

PROOF READERS
'Lara Adediji
'Biodun Ogunkanmi
Razak Akinwale
GENERAL EDITOR/REVIEWER
Jones Itombra-Okoro
All scripture references are taken from the Authorized King James Version (KJV),
otherwise stated
Published by:
NATIONAL DIRECTORATE OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
The Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria,
38, Akinwunmi Street, Alagomeji, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
E-mail: n4sqxtianedu@[Link]
Tel.: 08023050125; 0803 488 0927

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 CHURCH REIMAGINED CHURCH REIMAGINED

PREPARING A SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON PREPARING A LESSON NOTE

1. Pray fervently and start lesson preparation early in the week, so that your reading A. General Instruction related to your objectives should be asked,
and experiences during the week may be incorporated in your teaching. The first page of the lesson note, at the mostly questions that can be answered
beginning of the session should have the spontaneously.
2. Have a central aim in your lesson.
following pieces of information: 14. Assignment:
3. Read the background scripture passages from several versions for clarification. 1. Name of the Teacher 15. Summary/Conclusion:
4. Develop a clear outline for the class to follow. Choose from your Teacher's Manual 2. Subject
the points you plan to emphasize. 3. Class
5. Arrange time for: prayer, review, bible reading, discussion, pupil's book, memory Ideally, a note of lesson should
work, application and closing. But remember, be flexible! be for one subject and for a single
class.
6. Remember the needs of individuals in your class (discover these through visitations
B. Specific Information
to their homes and phone calls). Keep in mind that you are teaching persons and not
1. Week:
just a lesson. Know the age level characteristics of the group you are teaching. 2. Date:
7. Develop lesson notes for each topic, add illustrations, outlines and other teaching 3. Class:
aids regularly as you continue to teach. 4. Subject:
8. Know the work required in the pupil's workbook. Determine how to use it in class 5. Topic:
review, workbook and discussion. 6. Reference Materials:
7. Instructional Materials (More than
9. Plan an interesting approach to capture students' attention. This may be a question chalkboard/whiteboard):
to stimulate their thoughts, a problem to solve, a true – to- life story to illustrate the 8. Entry Behaviour/Previous
lesson, or a visual aid to motivate interest in the lesson. knowledge
10. Plan a variety of methods: visual, object lesson, drama, stories, sword drills, 9. Specific Objectives: At the end of
questions and answers, discussions, writings, buzz groups, or problem solving. the lesson, students should be able
11. Plan thoroughly for class participation. to:
a. ________________________
12. Develop study questions to cause the pupils to search the Bible for personal b. ________________________
investigations. Ask them: who, what, when, where, why? (For example: Ask, “What c. ________________________
does the Bible say?” Or “What does it mean?” etc.)
10. Content – Highlights/Summary of
13. Allow pupils to ask questions. If you don't know the answer, admit it, and tell your what you want to present.
students that you will find the answer during the week and revert, or assign the 11. Presentation (With steps)
question to the class for further study. a. Step 1 – Introduction
14. Prepare the room before the class period which includes: arranging chairs, visual aid b. Step 2
equipment, decorations, and objects. c. Step 3 – (etc.).
15. Pray for wisdom in preparation, clarity in presentation, and sincerity in application. 12. Life application of lesson
13. Evaluation – specific questions

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 CHURCH REIMAGINED CHURCH REIMAGINED

POWER FOR YOUR TEACHING GENERAL OVERSEER'S FOREWORD

Teaching or service done in the energy of the flesh is of little value. The Holy Spirit's “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing
power is needed because: the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
1. He is the engine oil or lubricant that enhances smoothness and effectiveness in The word of God, the Bible is the standard for Christian living. If we are to please God
your teaching. in our service in His vineyard and succeed in our journey to heaven, we must give it
2. The Holy Spirit enlightens, enables, guards and guides us as we prepare and devoted attention.
teach.
3. The Holy Spirit's power is needed so that the word of God may be made We live in a changing world where commitment to God's word is waning and as
Christians, we must be careful not to fall into the trap of being influenced negatively
effective in students' lives. regarding the word of God.
4. The Holy Spirit power is essential for any proper reception of the truth (2
Corinthians 2:12-15). There is no time more compelling than now when we should take the reading, studying
5. His power is needed because without Him, we can do nothing. and meditation on the scripture serious especially as we see End-time events unfolding
around us. Our relevance in the kingdom of God and readiness for the coming of Christ
6. The Holy Spirit's power will remove people's spiritual blindness and should not be compromised. We must continue to make ourselves available as vessels of
regeneration will take place. honour through which God will fulfil His agenda for the world.
It is no gainsaying therefore, that both the teacher and the learner have great need of
the breath of the Holy Spirit. In order for us not to be caught in the web of worldliness (1 John 2:15-17), we must
renew our commitment to knowing God through His word. The Sunday School is one
veritable avenue which God has provided for us through which we can grow spiritually
as we walk with God and serve in His vineyard. It is a heritage we cherish as a church and
which we should uphold.

This edition of the Sunday School Manual has been prepared under the influence of the
Holy Spirit to enrich our lives. As teachers and students, it is my prayer that this enriched
material will add value to your life as you use it devotedly in Jesus name.

I indeed appreciate everyone who has been part of its production. May God Almighty
renew His grace upon your life and bless your service in His vineyard in Jesus name.

Rev. Sam Aboyeji

General Overseer,
The Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria.

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 CHURCH REIMAGINED CHURCH REIMAGINED

PREFACE GENERAL INTRODUCTION

We bless the name of the Lord for another opportunity to have our Sunday School Manual and Church Reimagined: Rooted in Scripture, Responsive to a Changing World!
gather together again for our lessons. The challenging situation of the previous year has made us Goodbye to 2020, a year of many turbulence and challenges. But Praise God who
stronger, better equipped and resolute to serve God come what may. brought us out of it gallantly and jealously too.
The global pandemic caused by “COVID 19” that led to lockdown has given us a new insight to Congratulations to all of us and welcome to the brand new 2021. Our theme as stated
reimagine the church. It was a period of great challenge and trial of faith. Our commitment, zeal above is the most relevant to us as a movement and as a people that God is relying upon
and spirituality were brought to question. Job said, “But He knows the way that I take; When He to respond to our world. Doing this task requires our total commitment to submission
has tested me, I shall come forth as gold. My foot has held fast to His steps; I have kept His way to God and doing excellently in all our endeavours. Our excellence cannot be required at
and not turned aside. I have not departed from the commandment of His lips; I have treasured
the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.” (Job 23:10-12). any other times than now.
In thinking about biblical motives for the pursuit of excellence, we are brought face-to-
Affliction should make us stronger. The Bible says, “If you faint in the day of adversity, Your
strength is small.” (Prov. 24:10). The NIV says, “If you falter in times of trouble, how small is face with the issue of the chief purpose for the Christian life. In 1 Corinthians 10:31,
your strength!” How firm is your faith? Our faith gives us victory to overcome the world (1 John Paul reminds us that whatever we do (in keeping with our purpose) is to glorify God.
5:4-5). This naturally includes pursuing excellence for our God in our faith. Our movement
began the issue of “Re-imagine” as a focus to respond to our decaying world for over 6
The theme for this year is, “Church Reimagined – Rooted in Scripture, Responsive to a years now. As a movement, we are noted for sound doctrine and to continue this school
Changing World”. The church is marching on in glory, honour and power and cannot be
stopped. The Master, Jesus Christ, said, “… I will build my church, and the gates of Hades shall of actions, we must be made relevant continuously; hence, the focus and our Theme
not prevail against it.” (Matt 16:18). We need to examine ourselves if we are still in faith. being pursued. This manual is a part of all that would make us achieve the focus and
purpose of our existence. Remember the caption at Angelus Temple that reads
The topics in this manual have been carefully and systematically arranged to help us gain “DEDICATED UNTO THE CAUSE OF INTERDENOMINATIONAL AND
spiritual momentum in our spiritual ladder and Christian journey. The core values of Christian WORLDWIDE EVANGELISM” We cannot do less as imagined and scripted by our
race are addressed to meet the demand for this challenging and continuously changing world.
Most of our curious questions, needs, demands will be met by the changing power of the word Founder, Sister Aimee.
of God.
To the Teacher again, please let's study and be diligent to present yourself adequately to
As children of God, we are called to impact our world and positively influence our community. the tasks ahead of us in this new and challenging decade by making ourselves relevant
That is why the Master calls us the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Our Christianity and ready for the Master's use.
could only be meaningful if we could reflect the glory of God around us – shining as light.
To the students, make all efforts to make yourself available for these specially selected
I wish to implore us to take the lessons in this manual seriously. I counsel the teachers to make and crafted topics. I know you can make it happen as we yield together to the lead of the
adequate preparations and impact life into the students. I call on the students to also do their
home work and practice the principles of Christ they are taught. Holy Spirit in this end-time. Let's strive to make all people around us hear and respond
to the Gospel of Jesus Christ in our custody. Happy New Year of soaring higher in the
As we gather in our various Sunday School Classes, may the Lord be with us, open the eyes of service of the King!
our understanding, grant us wisdom, knowledge and understanding to be the doers of the word.
God bless you.
Rev. Mrs. Regina M. Kehinde, (DDiv.)
Shalom! National Minister for Sunday School Curriculum,
Rev. (Mrs.) K. O. Ayanbanjo
Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria.
National Director of Christian Education,

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 CHURCH REIMAGINED CHURCH REIMAGINED

TABLE OF CONTENTS
LESSON TOPICS DATES LESSON TOPICS DATES cont'd.
th
One The Sovereign God 3rd January Twenty Six Responding To God's Call 27 June
th
Two Be Hopeful An Overview Of The Book Of Ruth 10th January Twenty Seven The Glory of Christ's Kingdom 4 July
Twenty Eight Judgment And Hope 11th July
Three Have Faith in God 17th January
Twenty Nine God's Appointed Prophet 18th July
Four Be Wise 24th January
th
Thirty Restored (Teens Week) 25 July
Five The Divine Purposes 31st January st
Six Alive In Christ 7th February Thirty-One Promises of A New Covenant 1 August
th
Seven The Mystery Of The Church 14th February Thirty Two God's response to unfaithfulness 8 August
Eight Fulfilling God's Purpose 21st February Thirty Three Gratitude For Deliverance 15th August
Nine Be Strong In The Lord 28th February Thirty Four Surprising Generosity 22nd August
Ten SUN SCH REVIEW AND RALLY 7th March Thirty Five Intelligent Decision Or Chance? 29th August
th
Eleven A Receptive Heart 14th March Thirty Six Living A Sanctified Life 5 September
th
Twelve A Contrite Heart 21st March Thirty Seven Holiness Is Christ's like Living 12 September
Thirteen Welcoming the Lord of lords (Palm Sunday) 28th March Thirty Eight Why The Holy Spirit Came 19th September
Fourteen Experiencing the Resurrection 4th April Thirty Nine National Sunday school Promotion Day 26th September
rd
Fifteen Faith In Desperate Situations 11th April Forty Be Holy 3 October
th
Sixteen People Christ Commended 18th April Forty One Obedience to God's Commands 10 October
Seventeen Diligence th
25 April Forty Two The Ten Commandments (Part 1) 17th October
Eighteen Marriage: A Sacred and Purposeful Institution 2nd May Forty Three The Ten Commandments (Part 2) 24th October
st
Nineteen God-Centred Mother (Mother's Day)
th
9 May Forty Four The Greatest Commandments. 31 October
th
Twenty Managing in-laws and Extended Family Forty Five Sent by The Holy Spirit 7 November
interference 16th May Forty Six The Church Becomes More Inclusive. 14th November
Twenty One Winning and succeeding as a single Forty Seven National Convention Service 21st November
rd
Parent 23 May FortyEight Moving into New Territory
th
28 November
st
Twenty Two Nurturing 21 century children for God Forty Nine Responding to The Gospel
th
5 December
th
(Children's Day) 30 May
Fifty Testifying about Jesus 12th December
th
Twenty Three Sexual Purity Or Immorality? 6 June Fifty One Glad Tidings 19th December
th
Twenty Four Encouraging Godly Leaders 13 June
th
Fifty Two The Birth of the Saviour 26th December
Twenty Five God's Pattern of Fatherhood(Father's Day) 20 June

ix x
 1st
1st
1st

4th
4th
5th
4th

3rd
3rd
3rd

2nd
2nd
2nd

Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday
Sunday

Be Wise

Alive in Christ

A Contrite Heart

xi
A Receptive Heart
Have Faith in God
The Sovereign God

The Divine Purposes

MARCH
Be Strong in The Lord
JANUARY
CHURCH REIMAGINED

FEBRUARY

Fulfilling God's Purpose

The Mystery of The Church
Be Hopeful (Ruth As Case Study)

Welcoming the Lord of lords (Palm Sunday)

SUNDAY SCHOOL REVIEW AND RALLY
THIS QUARTER IN THE WORD

1ST QUARTER DAILY DEVOTIONAL NOTE

LESSON ONE
THE SOVEREIGN GOD
LESSON FOUR
Mon. God Exalted Psalm 21:13, 99:5; Isa. 12:4, 33:5 BE WISE
Tue. God's Majesty I Chron. 29:11; Job 37:22; Isa. 2:10; Micah5:9
Wed. God Our Strength Exo. 15:2; II Sam. 22:33; Psalm 28:8, 89:21 Mon. Radiant Lives Psalm 34:5, Eccl. 8:1; Dan. 12:3; John 5:35
Thur. God's Power I Chron. 29:12; II Chron. 25:8; Job 26:12; Tue. Face Shinning Exo. 34:30; Eccl. 8:1, Matt. 17:2; II Cor. 3:7
Fri. God's Wisdom Psalm 104:24; Pro. 3:19; Dan. 2:20; Wed. Citizen Duties Ezra 7:26; Eccl. 8:2; Matt. 17:27; Titus 3:1
Sat. Sovereignty of God Deut. 4:39; Dan. 4:35; Matt. 6:13; Thur. Discernment I Kings 3:9; I Cor. 2:14; Heb. 5:14
Sun. God's Greatness Deut. 3:24; Psalm 77:13; Isa. 12:6 Fri. Obedience Exo. 19:5; Eccl. 8:5; James 1:25; Rev. 22:14
Sat. No Escape Eccl. 8:8; Prov. 11:21; I Thess. 5:3; Heb. 2:3
Sun. Sobering Certainties Eccl. 8:8, 12:14; Matt. 25:31 -33
LESSON TWO
BE HOPEFUL (RUTH AS CASE STUDY)
LESSON FIVE
Mon. Jehovah Chosen Ruth 1:16; I Kings 18:39; II Kings 5:17; THE DIVINE PURPOSES
Tue. Wise Choice Ruth 1:16; Josh. 24:15; I kings 3:9.
Wed. Divine Constancy Deut.4:31; Ruth 1:16; Isa. 54:10; Heb. 13:5 Mon. Praising God Eph. 1:3; Heb. 13:15; I Pet. 2:9
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Thur. Obeisance Ruth 2:10; Luke 8:41 Tue. Living in Holiness Lev. 11:45; II Cor. 7:1; I Pet. 1:16
Fri. Self-Denial Ruth 1:11; Matt. 10:28; Luke 18:29. Wed. Living in Oneness Jn. 17:21-23; I Cor. 10:17
Sat. Industry Ruth 2:2, 17; Prov. 31:27; I Cor. 4:12 Thur. Spiritual Knowledge Jer. 9:24; Jn. 8:31-32, 17:3
CHURCH REIMAGINED

Sun. Glorifying God Ruth 4:14; Matt. 5:16; Rom. 15:6 Fri. Spiritual Blessings Prov. 10:22; Amos 9:13; Mal. 3:10;
Sat. Spiritual Heritage Ps. 119:111; Acts 26:18; II Cor. 1:22;
Sun. Fullness of Christ Eph. 1:22-23, 4:13; Col. 1:19
LESSON THREE
HAVE FAITH IN GOD
LESSON SIX
Mon. Christ Divine Mark 3:11; Luke 4:41; Acts 19:15 TOPIC: ALIVE IN CHRIST
Tue. Jesus of Nazareth Mark 1:24, 14:67; Luke 24:19; Acts 2:22
Wed. Christ Sinless Isa. 53:9; John 8:46; Heb. 4:15; I Pet. 1:19 Mon. Spiritually Related to Christ Rom. 8:16-17; Eph. 3:15; Heb. 2:11.
Thur. Christ's Authority Matt. 7:29, 28:18; Mark 1:22, 27 Tue. Having Fellowship with Christ Lk. 24:15, 32; I Cor. 1:9; I Jn. 1:3.
Fri. Christ's Teaching Matt. 7:28; Mark 1:22, 4:2; John 7:16. Wed. Stand Fast in Faith Rom. 5:1-2, 10:17; I Cor. 16:13.
Sat. Success John 6:28; Eph. 6:16; Heb. 11:6; I John 3:23 Thur. Doing Good Works Eph. 2:10; I Thess. 1:3; I Tim. 6:18.
Sun. Victory at Last Gen. 22:8; Josh.14:12; II Chron. 20:12. Fri. Believers' Walk Rom. 8:1; II Cor. 5:7; Eph. 5:2.
Sat. Preaching Christ Mk. 3:1, 16:20; Acts 28:31.
Sun. Spirit Indwelling Rom. 8:9; Ezek. 36:27; Eph. 2:22.
 1ST QUARTER DAILY DEVOTIONAL NOTE
LESSON SEVEN LESSON ELEVEN
THE MYSTERY OF THE CHURCH A RECEPTIVE HEART

Mon. Foreordained Plan Gen. 3:15; Rom. 8:29; Eph. 3:10-11. Mon. Renewed Heart Deut. 5:29; Jer. 24:7; Ezek. 11:19.
Tue. Christ the Lord I Cor. 8:6; Eph. 1:22; Col. 1:18 Tue. Listening Ears Prov. 8:34, 15:31; Lk. 8:15
Wed. Christ Indwelling Jn. 17:23; Gal. 2:20; Eph. 3:17-19; Wed. Teachableness Ezra 8:21; Lk. 11:1; Acts 8:31, 9:6.
Thur. By the Holy Spirit Acts 2:1-4, 14, 42, 47; I Cor. 2:13; Thur. Self-Denial Mark 10:21, 28; Lk. 18:29-30; Ph. 3:8
Fri. God's Wisdom Ps. 104:24; Prov. 3:19; I Cor. 1:24; Fri. Simplicity of Heart Ps. 119:130; Mk. 10:14, 11:25.
Sat. Stewardship of the Gospel I Cor. 9:17; Gal. 2:7; Col. 1:25. Sat. Generosity Prov. 31:20; Matt. 6:1; Mk. 10:21.
Sun. Spiritual Love Gal. 5:6; Eph. 3:17-19; Col. 3:14. Sun. Focussed Mind Ps. 27:4; Mk. 10:21; Lk. 10:42.

LESSON EIGHT LESSON TWELVE

FULFILLING GOD'S PURPOSE A CONTRITE HEART

Mon. Godly Fear Josh. 24:14; Ps. 25:12; Eph. 5:21. Mon. Receives God's Mercy Ps. 103:11, 17; Joel 2:13; Micah 7:18.
Tue. Spiritual Fullness Acts 13:52; Eph. 3:19, 5:18; Col. 1:9 Tue. Humility Mk. 5:22; Lk. 7:37-38; Rev. 1:17
Wed. Understand God's WillI Chron.22:12; Matt. 26:42; Jn. 7:17. Wed. Christ Honoured Lk. 7:45, 19:35; Rev. 5:13

xiii
Thur. Dead to Sin Rom. 6:2, 11; Gal. 2:20, 5:24-25. Thur. Humble Service Matt. 10:42; Acts 20:18 -19
Fri. Resist the Devil Eph. 4:26-27, 6:11; I Pet. 5:8-9 Fri. Love for Christ Jn. 14:23; Acts21:13; Eph. 6:24.
Sat. Serve God Wholeheartedly Deut.10:12; Eph. 6:6-7; Heb. 12:28. Sat. Peace Within Rom. 8:6; Eph. 2:14; Ph. 4:7.
CHURCH REIMAGINED

Sun. God's Reward Matt.25:23; Eph. 6:8; Col. 3:24 Sun. God's Grace Ps. 84:11; Acts 11:23; I Cor. 15:10.

LESSON NINE LESSON THIRTEEN (PALM SUNDAY)

BE STRONG IN THE LORD WELCOMING THE LORD OF LORDS

Mon. God Our Strength Ex. 15:2; II Sam. 22:33-35; Eph. 6:10 Mon. Divine Ownership I Chron. 29:14; Psalm 24:1; Haggai 2:8.
Tue. Put on God's Armour Rom. 13:12; Eph. 6:11; I Thess. 5:8 Tue. Voice of Prophets Matt. 21:4; Luke 1:70; Acts 3:21.
Wed. Spiritual Boldness Acts 4:13, 31; Eph. 3:12, 6:19. Wed. Christ's Meekness Matt. 11:29, 21:5, 26:52; I Pet. 2:23
Thur. Prayerfulness Matt.26:41; Eph. 6:18-19; Ph. 4:6. Thur. Obedience to Christ Matt. 21:6, 26:19; John 2:7, 11:29
Fri. Steadfastness I Cor. 15:58; Eph. 6:13-14; I Pet. 5:9. Fri. Christ and Children Psalm 8:2; Matt. 21:16; Mark 9:37,
Sat. Power of Word Jer.5:14; Rom. 1:16; Eph. 6:17. Sat. Praise II Chron. 20:22; Matt. 21:9, 16
Sun. Resist Temptation Prov. 1:10; Rom. 6:13; Eph. 6:13. Sun. Religious Reforms Neh. 13:9; Matt.21:12; John 2:15

LESSON TEN
SUNDAY SCHOOL REVIEW AND RALLY
Central Truth:

Lesson Outline:
to give strength unto all.

Lesson Introduction:
Lesson 1

[Link] is Sovereign in Power.

I. God is Sovereign in Person.
II. God is Sovereign in Position.
THE SOVEREIGN GOD

Memory Verse: 1Chronicles 29:12

possesses absolute power and authority.
1Chronicles 29:11-12, Job 12:13-14, Isaiah 45:1-6.

speaks volumes on the sovereignty of

world and His continual dealings with

(Romans 1:20). All God's acts in the
God also, not just His existence,
proofs on the subject to convince any
willing human being. The creation
42:). There are sufficient Scriptural
unquestionable, (Matthew 6:13b, Job
sovereign! His sovereignty is rationally
God of the Scriptures is eternally
might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and
reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and
Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou
Jehovah our God
3rd January

1
CHURCH REIMAGINED

no authority!

(Isaiah 45:1-6).
Lesson Commentary
authority. Notwithstanding, the God of

Being and the only true God, (John

17:3). He is separate and special from
subject to nothing and nobody!
absolutely in control of every happening

The personality of God is made clear

extent He chooses to willingly reveal
who have made the fatal choice to reject

all his creation, (Deuteronomy 4:35).

(Isaiah 45:1-6). We know God to the
There is none like our God who is
I. God is Sovereign in Person
in the universe and He is accountable to
blessing to serve the God who is
authority in heaven and on earth. “And
victims of his delusion among mankind

unto you.” (Exodus 3:14). It is a great

children of Israel, I AM hath sent me
and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the
God said to Moses, I Am THAT I AM:
the Almighty and rebel against His
God! Unfortunately, there are many
increase the population of hell, not that
of deceiving humanity in order to
Satan's attacks on God is for the purpose
he faces the final Divine judgment.

Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is the supreme

he is fighting to defeat the all-powerful
beginning and will continue to do so until
attacking the authority of God from the
cannot dispute that Satan has been
absolute authority, (Romans 1:20). We
mankind confirm that He possesses

Himself to us. The Lord is Supreme

 CHURCH REIMAGINED CHURCH REIMAGINED

in the Scriptures as He is revealed as truly is by the Spirit. Nobody can Unquestionably, the God of Israel, revered, worshipped and trusted in every
the One who sees, thinks, talks, feels, trust the God he or she does not who is equally our God, possesses situation. He believed God's word's
relates, gives instructions and makes know intimately! Believers who invincible (unconquerable and declaration: “I am the Lord, and there
decisions. God, who is Spirit (John know that their God is sovereign irresistible) power. There is no power is none else, there is no God beside
4:24) is also a personal being or has cannot take Him for granted in any in heaven or on earth that can be me…” (Isaiah 45:5a). It makes a great
personality. From the creation of the way, instead, they treat Him compared with God's power. Power difference when a believer knows and
heaven and the earth, God has always reverently with their confidence belongs to God (Psalm 62:11). Let holds God by His Spirit-revealed worth.
revealed Himself as a personal God. solidly put in Him. Believers must the believers, who may still be in What will make us afraid if we truly
In Genesis chapter one from verse learn to curry and cherish good doubt that the Lord is well able to believe that our God is Sovereign? A
three, we read: “Then God said,” relationship with God who alone is meet their needs, begin 2021 with full youth like David summoned up courage
to confront a giant and warlord like
“And God saw,” “And God divided”, the indomitable and ultimate hero persuasion that He is truly the
Goliath because he believed that his God
“God called” “Thus God made”, (Psalm 96:10). The Lord occupies the omnipotent God. Allow these Divine
is supreme (1Samuel 17:45-47). It was
“Then God blessed.” His personality highest position that exists in heaven declarations to convince us: “Is any
that same belief that prevented him from
assures us that He is the living and and on earth, visible and invisible thing too hard for the Lord? At the taking revenge when King Saul
intelligent God (Exodus 3:14, (Psalms 103). The Lord changes time appointed I will return to thee, persistently hunted his life. The sovereign
Deuteronomy 5:26, Jeremiah 10:10). times and seasons; removes kings and according to the time of life, and God is the eternal Creator of all things;
It would have been difficult, if not raises up kings (Daniel 2:21, Psalms Sarah shall have a son,” (Genesis He is the sole Owner of Things that be,
impossible, to relate with God who 75:6-8). King Nebuchadnezzar 18:14). “Behold, I am the Lord, the whether tangible or otherwise and the
lacks personality. It is important to acknowledged Him as the God of God of all flesh: is there anything too Supreme Controller of all. He has no
emphasize that we are serving the gods and the Lord of kings, (Daniel hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27). beginning; no end and no limits! Having
God who has personality because it 2:47); the highest king of his time Unusual faith in the God of the sovereign God as our Lord must
will encourage and motivate us to be also proclaimed that the God of unlimited, unmatchable and absolute make us masters of situations and
faithful to Him. The Lord thinks but Israel has “an everlasting power is what we all need in order to circumstances because He holds the
His thoughts are higher than our dominion…His kingdom is from experience uncommon ultimate power. He is able to do
thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). He loves us generation to generation” (Daniel breakthroughs in this 2021. exceedingly abundantly above all that we
with eternal and unconditional love, 4:34). As the Seraphim worship the Undoubtedly, God's power is ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). Trust Him
(Rom 5:6-8, 8:35-39). God speaks to sovereign Lord, so we ought to do incomparable in all ramifications. absolutely!
us; we speak to Him, He answers us every day of our lives (Isaiah 6:1-3). There is no power that can either
because He is a person. The Lord is The Lord is the everlasting King all deliver out of His hand or is able to Discussions / Questions:
sovereign in person, (Jeremiah 10:3- the kings of the nations are under His reverse His works (Isaiah 43:13, Job 1. What do you understand by “the
10). dominion (Read 1Timothy 1:17, 12:14-15). God is sovereign in power. sovereign God?”
6:15-16). 2. Discuss how strong belief in
II. God is Sovereign in Position Conclusion and Life Application: God's sovereignty can impact
(1Chronicles 29:11-12, Psalms III. God is Sovereign in Power (Job King David was among the Bible our lives positively!
103:19, 2Chronicles 20:6). 12:13-15, 1Timothy 1:17, 6:115-16). characters who stood out in their 3. What should be our proper
It is easier for us to put our trust The God who created the heavens relationship with God and whose strong attitude and response to the
firmly in God when we know who He and earth by His power is able to do faith in God was unbeatable. For him, sovereign God?
all things, except evil! God is the Sovereign who is worthy to be

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10th January family challenges might have taught him Naomi's husband, Elimelech and Naomi saw a ray of hope, she heard
Lesson 2 that life is made up of many events, each their sons died, leaving her alone with that God had visited her people and
of which has its own “Season” and her daughters-in-law. They lost all! decided to go back to Bethlehem of
BE HOPEFUL “purpose” in the ultimate scheme of Their lives were shattered and Judah after her tragic experience in
(AN OVERVIEW OF THE BOOK OF RUTH) God's plan. scattered. One of the daughters-in Moab (1:16-17). Behind every
Ruth 1 - 4 law, Ruth, returns to Bethlehem with hardship, we must look for some
The experience of Elimelech and Naomi Naomi, as a widow, to start a new life. critical things to take out of it as
in the book of Ruth cannot be The recent outbreak of the global lessons. Upon her return to
disconnected from the above statement. pandemic pose a great challenge to Bethlehem, God began to direct their
In the same vein, our individual and the entire world, as it has drastically paths which eventually led to
corporate unpleasant encounter some affected all spheres of human restoration of hope and their
few months ago in Nigeria and globally, is endeavours either politically, subsequent breakthrough.
indescribable. God's ways are always economically, socially or religiously;
pleasant and His paths peace, when they just like the experience of Naomi and In salvaging the situation, three
Central Truth: The life of Ruth are not isolated from the plans of our life, Ruth. Unless someone intervenes to things were outstanding as shown in
illustrates God's Sovereign care for but considered as parts of the whole. We help these two desperate widows, the content below:
individuals who are faithful, in spite of cannot pronounce on any part of God's they could only expect a life of
national/religious apostacy. dealing with us until the entire plan has poverty and loneliness. God A. New Start
been allowed to work itself out. eventually showed up and intervened She was prepared to start afresh
Memory Verse: Psalms 31:24 to help in an unimaginable way. What Ruth was ready to glean. She
Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your In times like we had just experienced, is your present situation? Is there a nobly volunteered to go into the
heart, all ye that hope in the LORD. majority often loose hope and resign to way out? Is your situation complex or fields to collect what she could
“fate”, feeling abandoned, rejected and complicated and seems all hope is (chapter 2). She aligned herself
Lesson Outline hopeless. In relation to hope. Someone gone? We have a friend in Jesus who with her mother-in-law's
I. The Hopeless Situation. says: we can call upon for solution. He is instructions. Ruth possess a right
II. The Hope Salvaged. “You can live for 40 days without food the answer the whole world needs attitude by believing God to
[Link] Hope Sustained. You can live for 8 days without water today. favour her as she was prepared to
You can live for 4 minutes without air, work. The Old Testament
Lesson Introduction but only a few seconds without hope” II. The Hope Salvaged provides for the poor by
In life, there are seasons and situations! (Ruth 1:6-3:18). requiring famers to leave sheaves
No wonder, the preacher, in Ecclesiastes Lesson Commentary Life sometimes appear rough and behind for the needy people
3:1-8, says “to everything there is a I. The Hopeless Situation tough. Things happen to us that we (Leviticus 19:9; 23:22).
season, a time for every purpose under (Ruth 1:1- 5) least expected. What do you do when
the heaven… a time to break down … a The opening of the book presents a life seems boring and bitter? Ruth completely obeyed her
time to weep … a time to mourn … a family that was forced to flee from Remember what Robert Schuller says (Naomi) instruction which later
time to lose … a time to tear … a time of their home in Bethlehem because of “Tough Times Never Last, But paid off. She diligently subjected
war, and a time of peace”. In certain famine. During their stay in Moab; Tough People Do” herself to the authority of
ways, Solomon's personal experience and

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Naomi. God desires our integrity (vv. 10-13). Boaz served able to turn our darkest night into the
obedience than sacrifice (1 as the family's Kinsman brightest day of our lives. Be hopeful!
Samuel 15:22). Her earlier Redeemer as Ruth gained favour The storm will soon be over!
dedication to God and to be his wife. This typifies the
obedience to her mother in-law's mission of Jesus Christ to Discussion Questions
instructions were rewarded by redeem the entire human souls 1. Who is the real central character in
God as she experienced kindness from the power of sin and death. this story?
from all and sundry. Christ became human redeemer 2. How is God's plan worked out in the
and a propitiation for our sins. events recorded?
B. New Step:
She took a step - Ruth worked in [Link] Hope Sustained (Ruth 4:1-
the field of Boaz that day. God 17).
was at work behind the The hopeless situation that led to the
seemingly insignificant events in death of three people out of the
a way the character could never family of six is now ending with the
have anticipated. As we take heed glorious marriage of Ruth to Boaz.
to the leading of the Lord, He is We must not lose hope and faith,
also ready to guide our steps in even in unpleasant situations,
the right direction (Psalms 37:23; knowing fully well that God's
119:113, Proverbs 16:9). As Ruth thoughts and plans for His children
moved in the right direction, are of good, and not of evil. This was
Boaz was favourably disposed to accomplished through the lives of
h e r. H e m a d e a v a i l a b l e these ordinar y, but faithful
p r o v i s i o n s, s e c u r i t y a n d individuals. A committed life is
ultimately, a turning point for her always honoured and becomes
life. She returned home with important to God. The hope of the
unexpected bounty (vs 18-23). righteous shall be gladness …
God was constantly behind the (Proverbs 10:28) “happy is he that
events in the lives of Naomi and hath the God of Jacob for his help,
Ruth. whose hope is in the Lord his God”
(Psalm 146:5).
C. New Status:
In chapter 3, a striking event took Conclusion and Life Application
place, that is, Ruth's action and God is Sovereign. He has supreme
Boaz's historic decision. Boaz authority and power over every creation.
behaved nobly and decisively He has eternity at His disposal as well as
with a sense of honesty and time. We only need to trust Him who is

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