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Sunday 30 September 2018

Sunday School Student Manual: Lesson 5 || The New Birth

RCCG Sunday School Student Manual
Date: 30 September 2018
Topic: The New Birth
Memory Verse: “Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” – John 3:3
Bible Text: John 3:1-13

1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:

2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.

3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?

5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.

9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?

10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?

11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.

12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?

13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.

INTRODUCTION:

Simply put, the new birth is the creation of a new life in a man by the Holy Spirit. The new birth, also referred to as being born again, is to be born of God with His seed (Christ – The Word) dwelling in man (John 3:3,5; 1John 3:9; 1 Peter 1:23). Everyone born of a woman is born unclean (Psalm 51:5). Therefore, to become clean as well as enlist as a member of the family of God, a new birth becomes necessary.


LESSON OUTLINES
1. Reasons for a new birth
2. Steps to a new birth

REASONS FOR A NEW BIRTH
We are all born sinners (Psalm 51:5; Romans 3:23). The heart of an unregenerated man is deceitful and desperately wicked (Jeremiah 17:9), and cannot be tamed by home training or secular education (Jeremiah 13:23). To live a godly life and have fellowship with God here on earth (Psalm 4:3; Galatians 2:20) and to make it to Heaven, the dwelling place of the Holy God, a new birth is inevitable (John 3:3-5; Hebrews 12:14; 1 Peter 1:15-16).

STEPS TO A NEW BIRTH
To experience a new birth we must hear the word of God (Romans 10:9-10), acknowledge that we are sinners, helpless and hopeless without the mercy of God (Romans 6:23; 1 Thessalonians 5:9). Believe the word of God (1 Peter 1:25) and that God came in the flesh, in the person of Jesus Christ, to save all mankind from their sins (Titus 2:11; John 1:14; Acts 4:12; John 3:16-18). Confess your sins (Romans 10:9-10, 1 John 1:9) and genuinely repent (Acts 2:38; 3:19). Accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour (John 1:12). Ask Him to come in and dwell in your heart (Revelations 3:20). You will surely become a new creature (2 Corinthians 5:17). These are the crucial steps to being born again. Furthermore, we are saved by grace (Ephesians 2:4-9), the new birth requires that we make up our minds to live a new life in the love and fear of God (Philippians 2:12; Proverbs 28:18; Matthew 24:13).

CONCLUSION
The new birth is a necessary for all. Without the new birth experience, it is impossible to live godly in this world let alone reign with Christ in Heaven eternally.

QUESTIONS
1. Why must we experience the new birth?
2. Outline the steps to a new birth.


RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL  HYMN

1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day, Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee.

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

Sunday 23 September 2018

RCCG Sunday School: Lesson 4 || Jesus: The Only Way

RCCG Sunday School Student Manual
Date: 23 September 2018 
Topic: Jesus: The Only Way
Memory Verse: “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” – John 14:6
Bible Text: John 3:1-21
1 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:

2 The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.

3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb, and be born?

5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

8 The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.

9 Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?

10 Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?

11 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.

12 If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?

13 And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.

14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up:

15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.

21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

Also Read: Open Heavens 23 September 2018 – An Accuser of the Brethren?

Introduction: Many people are lost and aimlessly wandering in the wilderness of life. Unfortunately they may not realize their state of helplessness and hopelessness because the devil has blindfolded them. (John 12:14;2 Corinthians 4:4). Thank God! There is a way out for you.

OUTLINES: SIGNS THAT YOU NEED HELP.
JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY OUT

SIGNS THAT YOU NEED HELP:
1. Insatiable hunger: Are you hungry? Not physically hungry, but do you have a hunger for something more in life? Is there something deep inside of you that never seems to be satisfied? If so, that hunger is for God and Jesus is the answer! (Isa 55:1-2; john 6:35)
2. Confusion: Are you confused? Can you never seem to find a path or purpose in life? Does it seems like someone has turn off the light and you cannot find the switch? If so, Jesus is the way out. (John 8 :12; 9:5)
3. Closed doors: Do you ever feel like you are lock out of life? Have you ever tried so many doors, only to find that what is behind them is empty and meaningless? Are you looking for an entrance into fulfilling life? If so, Jesus is the door (John 10:7,9; Isa 22:22).
4. Disappointment: Do other people always let you down? Have your relationship been shallow and empty? Does it seem like everyone is trying to take advantage of you? If so, Jesus is the way! (John 10:11,14).
5. Hopelessness: Do you wonder what happens after this life? Are you tired of living your life for things that rot and rust? Do you sometimes doubt whether life had any meaning? Do you want to live after you die? If so, Jesus is the way out (John 11:25-26; 14:1-2,18).

JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY OUT:
The reason you feel hungry, the reason you seem to be lost in darkness, the reason you cannot find meaning in life, is that you are separated from God. The Bible tells us that we have all sinned, and are, therefore, separated from God (Ecclesiastes 7:20, Roman’s 3:23). We were created to have a relationship with God. Because of our sins, we are separated from the relationship. Even worse, our sin will cause us to be separated from God for all of eternity in life and next (Roman’s 6:23; Isaiah 59:1-2; John 3:36).

Jesus took our sins upon Himself (Isa 53:4-5; 2 Corinthians 5:21) and died in our place (Roman’s 5:8), taking the punishment that we deserve. Three days later, Jesus rose from the dead, proving His victory over sin and death (Roman’s 6:4-5). Jesus died so that we could live (John 15:13). If we place our faith in Jesus, trusting His death as the payment for our sins, all of our sins are forgiven and washed away. We will then have our spiritual hunger satisfied (Matthew 5:6). The lights will be turn on (1 John 1:5-7). We will have access to fulfilling life (Jeremiah 29:11). We will know our true best friend and good shepherd (John 10:14). We will know that we will have life after we die- a resurrected life in Heaven for eternity with Jesus (John 3:16)

CONCLUSION:
The hunger that you feel is a spiritual hunger, and can only be satisfied by Jesus. He is the life, in this world and the next. Jesus is the only way to God for our salvation!

QUESTIONS
1. Mention four sign that indicates the need for help.
2. What makes Jesus the only way to salvation?

For further reading: 2 Corinthians 4:4, Romans 2:23, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Romans 5:8

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day, Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee.

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

Sunday 16 September 2018

RCCG Sunday School Student Manual Lesson 3 || Ingratitude

RCCG Sunday School Student Manual Lesson 3
Topic: Ingratitude
Date: 16 September, 2018
Memory Verse: “And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?” – Luke 17:17 
Bible Text: Luke 17:11-19 
11 And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.
12 And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:
13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.
14 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,
16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.
17 And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?
18 There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.
19 And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.
INTRODUCTION:
Ingratitude negates the will of God (1 Thessalonians 5:18). It is a sign of backsliding. Though people are ungrateful for various reasons, we must not be ingrates because of its attendant dangers (Romans 1:21-22).
LESSON OUTLINES
1. Reasons for ingratitude
2. Dangers of ingratitude
REASONS FOR INGRATITUDE
The primary reason for ingratitude is sin which is as a result of spiritual blindness (Isaiah 29:16; Romans 1:21-22,28). Other reasons include:
1. Failure to take account of what God has done (Psalm 103:1-3).
2. Ignorance, foolishness and slowness of heart (Luke 17:17; 24:25; Deuteronomy 32:6).
3. Spiritual immaturity and insensitivity (Luke 24:13-16, Psalm 106:7).
4. Keeping of bad company (1 Corinthians 15:33).
5. Pride, as in the case of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:22-25,30-31).
DANGERS OF INGRATITUDE
Anyone with an attitude of ingratitude stands the risk of losing his/her blessings, salvation and ultimately Heaven (2 Samuel 6:20-23, Luke 12:16-21). Ingratitude may be regarded as an act of wickedness. Anyone who is ungrateful to God is attracting a curse to himself (Proverbs 3:33) or limiting his/her blessings. Ingratitude is blocking the greater blessings of many believers today (Luke 17:17-19). Inability to access the presence of God (Psalm 100:3-4) and turning into an enemy of God (Romans 1:21, 28, Numbers 14:2-4, 11-12) are other dangers of ingratitude.
CONCLUSION
Repent and return to God with a heart of thanksgiving. Make thanksgiving a lifestyle.
QUESTIONS
1. Why are people ungrateful?
2. What are the dangers of ingratitude?
SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.
2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day, Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.
3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.
4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee.
5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.
6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

Sunday 9 September 2018

Sunday School Manual || Lesson 2: Thanksgiving: When and How?

RCCG Sunday School STUDENT Manual
Date: 9 September 2018
Topic: Thanksgiving: When and How?
Memory Verse: “I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” – Psalm 34:1
Bible Text: Luke 17:11-19
11 And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.

12 And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:

13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.

14 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.

15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

17 And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?

18 There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.

19 And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.

INTRODUCTION:

In the world we live, many believe that most things they get are their rights. They believe in their sweat, smartness and intellect, hence, they see no reason they should give thanks to anyone,not even the Almighty (Zechariah 4:6). For believers, this is not only wrong but wicked and dangerous act. For instance, in Luke 17:17-19, only one of the lepers returned to give thanks to the Lord. He was heal and also made whole while the remaining nine were only heal but not make whole.

LESSON OUTLINES
1. WHEN SHOULD WE OFFER THANKSGIVING?
2. HOW TO OFFER ACCEPTABLE THANKSGIVING

1. WHEN SHOULD WE OFFER THANKSGIVING?
The Biblical order is that we should give thanks to God at all times and in all circumstances Psalm34:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:18. Specifically, we are also admonished to be thankful at certain time or seasons.
These include ;
1. When it is well with us. Psalm 103:1-2, 136:1-4
2. When we are in adverse situations e. g. Sickness or affliction. 2 Corinthians 11:26-30, 12:9, job 1 :20-22
3. When disappointed, abandoned or rejected. Psalm 42:5, 10-11, job 19:25
4. When we are going through trials. Psalm 59:16-17, Daniel 3:17-18, Act 16:25-31
5. When being persecuted or tempted. Daniel 6:10, James 1:2-4
6. When experiencing delay Psalm 13:1-6.
Thanksgiving is God delicacy and gets Heaven’s accelerated response.

HOW TO OFFER ACCEPTABLE THANKSGIVING
Thanksgiving should be the first fruit of our lips(Hebrew 13:15). It should come out of a pure, broken and contrite heart Psalm 51:16-17. Thanksgiving should not be offer grudgingly or of necessity but willingly and cheerfully. Exodus 35:5, 2 Corinthians 9:7. We can offer thanks to God with joyful noise Psalm 47:1, musical instruments and dancing Psalm 150:3-6 etc. Offering of quality substance like our time, materials, property and money are other acceptable means of thanksgiving Proverb 3:9-10. Your thanksgiving should be a sacrifice with sweet savour unto God Genesis 4:4, Psalm 107:22.

CONCLUSION:
According to Romans 1:21,only people of vain imaginations and foolish or darkened heart will not be thankful (Psalm 50:14)

QUESTIONS:
1. When should Christians give thanks to God?
2. How should we thank Him?

For further reading: 1 Peter 2:9, Psalm 35:28, Deuteronomy 8:10, Roman’s 1:21, Psalm 47:1
SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day, Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee.

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

Saturday 8 September 2018

Pastor E A Adeboye Sermon Excerpts || Silencing Mockers

September 2018 Holy Ghost Service, September 7, 2018
Ministering: Pastor E.A Adeboye
Theme: Stronger than your Enemies 8
Topic: Silencing Mockers

Let's lift our hands to the most high God to begin to bless His holy name, praise the most high God, praise Him for what he did to you from January to this month of July, give Him all glory, honor, give Him all adoration. Let us thank him for all that He did during the past convention. Let us praise Him for journey mercies for all who came from near and far. Thank God for January, February, March, April, bless His name for May, June and August. Thank Him for September.

We give you all the glory, we give you honour!
Almighty God, we give you all the glory! Thank You for a very wonderful convention! Thank You for Your support and all manners of testimonies! Tonight in Your own special way, silence all our mockers in Jesus' name.
Happy new RCCG year!!!!

Prayer for September born. Thank You for the children born in this month, in their lives, let their miracles, testimonies, promotions and blessings be in triples.

Next Month, we are having the youth convention. It is going to be a glorious time indeed. It is of course meant for the youths: that is those younger than I. Theme is Indomitable!
Text: 1 Samuel 2:1-10 
Mockers always end badly. Those who love to mock God or the things of God always end badly. Luke17:26-27
The reason your mockers are in trouble is because of your association with God 1 John 4:4
When Noah was preparing the ark that was to save the people then, he was being laughed at. Those mockers couldn't understand what a flood was, Proverbs 17:5 whenever someone is mocking you such is reproaching God. Those who are mocking your barrenness and fruitlessness are mocking God the commander of wombs Genesis 1:28, Luke 17:28-30 When Lot warned the people of his time too, he was being laughed at: of course, they got burnt by Sulfur Exodus 12:21-29: Those who laughed at the instruction God gave then were visited by death. Numbers 21:5-9 The Children of Israel murmured against God and mocked His provision: they got their dose of punishments. John 3:14-18 Jesus referred to the story of the bronze snake in the wilderness, only those who looked up were saved Jesus isn't saying we should look on any man, he is saying "Look on to me." We must run away from sin and come to Jesus. Don't believe them who tell you that you'll do well in sin.
A born again child of God is an entirely new creature with all things being new for them. There is no born again Fornicator or adulteress or adulterer. Any one born of God has the seed of God in him: therefore, no lying, no cheating, and no sin. Don't tell me you are born again and you still keep all those boyfriends and girlfriends. Brother, sister, there is no salvation without genuine repentance. Cry to god tonight that His blood will wash you free and make you a partaker of His name. Call on God to save your soul. Tell Him to forgive all your sins. Savior, thank You for theses one.
You promised that you'll in no wise cast out those who come to you: please write their name in the book of life. Answer them by fire when they call on you in Jesus' name. Fruitfulness is a command from God and in the mighty name of Jesus your womb will obey the voice of God. Genesis 30:22-23 God remembered Rachael and opened her womb. Tonight God will remember you. He has the keys of David and when He shuts no man can open, when He opens no man can shut. Revelations 3:7 Jesus undeniably has the power to open and to close.

Prayer Point: Father, anything blocking my way to fruitfulness please send down your fire tonight
and burn it up in the mighty name of Jesus.

John 9:1-7 Even if something is wrong with you biologically God can recreate to correct such, Mark 7:37 learn how to refute negative reports no matter how factual with God's word which is the only truth, John 9:1-7 God can recreate even when something is incorrect Acts 3:1-8, John 5:2-9 when God wants to silence your mockers, it is always in an instant!
Even with the report that your womb cannot carry children, lay your hands on your womb and say "My Creator doesn't make mistakes, He created me very well." In the name that is above every other name, when you come next year, it will be with your baby in Jesus' name.

Prayer Point: Father, whatever is imperfect in my system please correct or replace in the mighty name of Jesus.

There might be forces holding you in bondage like curses, spiritual husband or wife, evil in-laws, etc. Psalm 24:7-10 all these are however mocking God, and God will arise. If there are evil forces trying to hinder you from being fruitful, the Lord of hosts will deal with them in Jesus' name. Philippians 2:9-11
Daniel 3:13-30 Nebuchadnezzar mocked God in Daniels Life and God showed him
Every force of darkness surrounding you will be put to flight tonight in the mighty name of Jesus.
Word of wisdom: Doctors have told you your womb can’t carry a baby, God is replacing your womb right now. Some case are deemed hopeless. Jeremiah 22:37 Nothing and no one is too old for God to revive and renew, Genesis 9:9-14.

Your enemies will receive a visit from the angel of God tonight in the name of Jesus. Ezekiel 37:1-10 God can bring dry bones back to life, even if your case had defied the faith of a man of God, put your trust in God for with Him nothing shall be impossible.

Prayer Point: Father, you’re my hope of glory, all those who say my own is too late and there’s no hope for me please surprise them and show them you’re my hope of glory

Word of knowledge: The source of your problem is envy, the Lord says you should relax He’ll take care of the situation. Any attempt to kill you will backfire.

Prayer Point: Father, those who said I won't reach the top, those who say there is no space for me, who said I can’t be great, silence them all in Jesus' name.

Those who mock your fruitless efforts, they’re mocking the great enabler. Please don’t doubt God. No matter how hopeless the situation may seem don’t doubt God. When God speaks, it is done
Philippians 4:13 Isaiah 40:31 In the name of Jesus, you'll never fail again. Psalms 24:1 Haggai 2:8 God will surprise all those who say you cannot succeed.
Word of Knowledge: You'll come out of the fire without a scar. Thank You Father. Say "devil has lost the battle over me.




Sunday 2 September 2018

September 2018 HGS: Stronger Than Your Enemies 8 || Silencing Mockers


RCCG Sunday School Student Manual: Lesson 1 || Thanksgiving: Reasons and Benefits

RCCG Sunday School Students Manual
Date: 2 September 2018
Lesson 1
Topic: Thanksgiving: Reasons and Benefits

Memory Verse: “O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” – Psalm 136:1 

Bible Text: Psalm 100:1-5

1 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

Sunday school Hymn

1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day, Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee.

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

INTRODUCTION:

It is the will of God for Christians to be thankful to Him (1Thessalonians 5:18). It is the master key to gaining entrance into His gate (Psalm 100:4). When thanksgiving is complemented with praise, you have access into God’s master bedroom (Courts). The primary reason God created us in His image is for fellowship, dominion and to show forth His praise (Isaiah 43:21; 1Peter 2:9).

LESSON OUTLINES
1. Why give thanks?
2. Some benefits of thanksgiving.

WHY GIVE THANKS?
Thanksgiving is the will of God for every believer at all times, under all conditions and in all circumstances (1Thessalonians 5:18). Our requests should start and end with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6) because it is a proven weapon of warfare (2Chronicles 20:20-27). As new creations in Christ, we must thank God for the salvation of our souls (Psalm 103: 3-4). We are to also give thanks to God for His provisions (Genesis 1:26-30); His enduring mercy (Psalm 130:7-8; 136:1-26); His miracles and deliverance (Exodus 14; 2Kings 5:1-14); For His restoration of life and hope (Ezekiel 37:1-7); For His Almightiness (Genesis 17:1); For His holiness and faithfulness (1Samuel 2:2; Numbers 23:19,23; Hebrews 6:18); His perfect love (1John 4:8). The list of what to thank God for is actually inexhaustible.

SOME BENEFITS OF THANKSGIVING
If you will cultivate the habit of showing gratitude to God, you will compel overflowing blessings from God. These blessings may include:
1. Answered prayers (John 11:41-44).
2. Multiplication of provisions (Mark 8:6-8).
3. Deliverance from bondage (Acts 16:25-26).
4. Divine peace and joy (Philippians 4:6-7).
5. Divine presence (Psalm 22:3; 95:2).
6. Complete restoration and wholeness (Luke 17:16-19).
7. Victory without a fight 2 Chronicles 20:21-23.

CONCLUSION
Ingratitude is the result of vain imaginations and a darkened heart. Sometimes your thanksgiving is senseless to the ordinary person but it is more profitable to be thankful than to grumble or complain Romans 1:21.

QUESTIONS
1. Why do you have to give thanks to God?
2. Mention 5 benefits of thanksgiving.