Sun, 05 Apr 2020 19:12:04 -0700WeeblyMon, 18 Feb 2013 22:42:07 GMThttps://www.faithalive-ministries.org/teaching-blog/-recession-proof-your-faithin January 2008 Britain entered a recession for the first time since 1991. Analyst believed the downturn would continue until the end of 2009, and will be more painful than the 1990s recession. Unemployment, interest rates, those seeking benefits have all been shocking indicators of the lingering recession, but what has all this news meant for Christians? cent BBC and World news still are unclear if Britain has seen the last of the recession and can finally fully recover though it has been 4 years of drought now.

It is very clear from the Bible’s point of view that the “rain falls on the just and the unjust” meaning we are not recession proof just because we are followers of Christ, as many of you reading may be feeling a heavy burden of financial stress. I am writing to encourage you that the bible also says in Psalm 37:25 “I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.” Therefore, as we are in the world, we have by accepting Christ, removed ourselves from being of the world, and through this written message I would encourage us to recession proof our Faith through the renewing of our prayer lives. Cor. 10:13 (KJV)

“No temptation has overtaken you but what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way of escape so that you can stand up under it.”

For some this scripture gives the illusion that if we are facing hard times or struggles that God is not working on our behalf. Some things happen because we’re here on earth, our own flesh, the sin of our Fathers, including the first sin of Adam and Eve… which means that life is going to be hard. Look at Jesus' life! Non-stop suffering and humility…and we are to be like Christ? Why are we complaining about our burden? It is much lighter than Jesus’ was. And in the midst of our struggles He promised to send us comfort and guidance and a way of escape.

2 Corinthians 1:4-9

 “Who comforted us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort where with we ourselves are comforted of God.5. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abound in us by Christ. 6. And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer : or whether we be comforted , it is for your consolation and salvation.7. And our hope of you is steadfast, knowing , that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.8. For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, in so much that we despaired even of life. 9. But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raised the dead.”

 




]]>Wed, 16 Nov 2011 21:29:59 GMThttps://www.faithalive-ministries.org/teaching-blog/the-second-coming-of-jesus-christTOPIC: THE SECOND COMING OF JESUS CHRIST TEXT: Mathew 25: 31-46

MEMORY VERSE:  Acts 1:11b ‘this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.’{KJV}


INTRODUCTION

In the messiac prophecy, there are two phases:  suffering messiah and crown king messiah. At the first coming of Christ Jesus was fulfilling the prophecy of the suffering messiah Isaiah 53: 1 – 10, Psalm 222: 1 – 7, 19 – 22, to save men from sin. But at the second coming, He is coming as the Lord of all. (Mathew 16: 22, 25: 31 – 32, Jude 14 – 15). There are two stages of the returning of Christ, the first stage of His return is called the rapture: which the dead in Christ and the living saints shall be caught up to meet Him in the air (1 Thessalonians 4: 13 – 18). The second stage is call the second coming, this is when He will come to this earth aslord on mount olives, the place from whence He ascended (Zechariah 14: 4) the second coming of Christ is after the great tribulation, the judgement of believers for works (The judgement seat of Christ), and the royal banquet (The marriage supper of the lamb)

LESSONS: DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE FIRST COMING AND THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST.

1.                  He came as a Lamb of God but He is coming as a lion of the tribe of
                    Judah. (John 11: 29, 36, Revelation 5: 5

2.                  He came as a man but He is coming as the Lord of glory. (John 1:
                     14, 1 Timothy 3: 16, Act 1: 10 – 11

3.                  He came as a suffering messiah but He is coming as the glorified 
                     messiah (Isaiah 53: 4 – 7, Daniel 7: 13 – 14, Mathew 25: 31 – 32)

4.                  He was tempted by the devil at His first come but He shall judge the
                     devil at His second coming (Mathew 4: 3, Mathew 25: 31, 41,
                     Revelation 19: 20 – 21)

5.                  He was despised by men at His first coming but men shall tremble at
                     His second coming (Isaiah 53: 3, Revelation 1: 7)

6.                  He was killed at His first coming but He is coming as an eternal God
                     (Act 3: 6 – 11, Mathew 25: 21, Isaiah 9: 6)

7.                  His coming brought salvation but He will be back to Judge the world.
                     (John 3: 16, Mathew 25: 31 – 46)

8.                  He was judged at His first coming but He is coming back as the
                     emperor of the universe to judge the world (Isaiah 53: 7 – 8,
                     Mathew 27: 11 – 25, Revelation 20: 6, 1 Corinthians 15: 25,
                     Revelation 11: 15, Zechariah 14: 9)

9.                  He was brought before kings at His first coming but He is coming
                     back as the king of kings and the lord of Lords. (Revelation 19. 17, 1
                     Timothy 6: 15, Luke 23: 1 – 12)

LESSON 2: THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE RAPTURE AND THE   SECOND COMING OF CHRIST

• At the rapture Jesus will be in the air but at the second coming he will come to the earth (1 Thessalonians 4. 13 – 18, Zechariah 14: 3 – 4)
• At the rapture he is coming for the Church but at the second coming he is coming for the Jews (1 Corinthians 15: 51 – 53, Mathew 4: 13 – 18, Jesus 5: 5 – 7)
• At the rapture only the saints shall see Him but at the second coming all eye shall see Him (1 Thessalonians 4: 13 – 18, Revelation 1: 7)
• At the rapture the dead saints shall arise but at the second coming the tribulation saints shall rise  (1 Thessalonians 4: 1 – 16, Revelation 20: 3 – 5)
• The rapture precede the great tribulation on earth but the second coming precede the battle of Armageddon (2 Thessalonians 2:2 – 3, Revelation 19: 17 – 21)
• After the rapture the devil will still be on earth but after the second coming the devil will be bound for 1000 years (Revelation 13: 4 – 5, Revelation 16: 11 – 16, Revelation 19. 20 – 21, Revelation 21: 1 – 2).
• The rapture ushers in the royal banquet and the judgement seat of Christ (reward of believers but the second coming will usher in the kingdom of God on earth (the millennium reign of Christ) Revelation 19: 7 – 10, 2 Corinthians 5: 10, Romans 14: 10, 1 Corinthians 3: 11 – 15, Revelation 20: 1 – 4)
• The rapture shall be in twinkling of an eye but the second coming will be his returning in the cloud (1 Corinthians 15: 50 – 53, Luke 21: 27, revelation 1: 7)
• The rapture is the hope of the church but the second coming is as a result of the cry of the remnants of Israel (1 Corinthians 4: 13 – 18, Joel 2: 12 – 20)
• At the rapture, the dead in Christ shall come with Christ but at the second coming the resurrected saints shall come with Him (1 Thessalonians 4: 14, Jude 15)

 

LESSON 3: CHRIST AT HIS SECOND COMING (JESUS THE COMING KING

1. He shall raise the tribulation saints (revelation 20: 5, Revelation 6: 9 – 11, Mathew 25: 31 – 46)
2. He shall judge nations that supports the anti – Christ against Israel (Revelation 19: 17 – 19)
3. He shall deliver Israel from the hand of the anti – Christ  (Revelation 19: 17 – 19, 21)
4. He shall judge the anti – Christ and false prophets (revelation 19: 20)
5. He shall establish the kingdom of God on earth Revelation 11: 15
6. He is coming as the king of kings and the Lord of Lords (Revelation 19: 16)
7. He shall come to the earth and kings shall tremble (Revelation 1: 7)

CONCLUSION The second coming of Christ is not for the Church but rather for the Israelites that disbelieved the messiah at His first coming. The Church of Christ should be encouraged at His second coming. Prepare to meet your God.

 

TOPIC: THE BATTLE AT ARMAGEDDON AND THE JUDGEMENT OF NATION

TEXT: Rev 19:11-21

MV: Rev 19: 15 “And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smith the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron”

INTRODUCTION Christ appearance at the 2nd coming will be at the verge of annihilating the nation of Israel by the anti-Christ,, this move will lead to a national repentance in Israel (Zechariahs 12: 11 – 14, Zechariah 13: 1, Joel 2: 12 –17). ‘O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate: and verily I say unto you, Ye shall not see me, until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord’ {Luke 13: 34 – 35}. At the proclamation ‘blessed is he that come in the name of the Lord,’ Christ shall appear for the deliverance of Israel from thehands of the anti – Christ. The anti – Christ with his soldiers will make war with Christ at the valley of Megiddo, that is the battle that is called the Armageddon war.

LESSON 1:  REASONS FOR THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON 1.                  For the deliverance of Israel (Joel 3. 9 – 16, Zechariahs 12: 7 – 9)

2.                  For the judgement of the anti – Christ and false prophets
                     (revelation 19: 17 – 21)

3.                  For the national repentance of Israel (Joel 2: 12 – 17, Zechariahs
                     14: 10 – 14)

4.                  For the ushering of the millennium reign (Revelation 20: 1 – 6)

5.                  For judgement of nation (Mathew 25: 3 – 46)

6.                  To put an end to Satan’s government (Daniel 2 – 4: 4 – 5, Daniel 7:
                    16 – 27)

CONCLUSION Nations will be judged on how they treated Israel during this trouble, Goats are nations that team up with the anti – Christ and Sheep are those that will help Israel. Christ will defeat the anti – Christ at the battle of Armageddon, and he with the false prophet will be cast into the lake of fire alive. Victory belongs to Christ.

 

TOPIC: SPIRITUAL RESURRECTION

TEXT: JOHN 5: 24 – 30

MEMORY VERSE: JOHN 5: 25 Verily, verily, I say unto you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the son of God and they that hear shall live

 

INTRODUCTION

Resurrection means coming alive, awakening, rising from the dead. There are (2) resurrection: Spiritual and physical resurrection. The spiritual resurrection is as a result of spiritual death  (Ephesians 2: 1, 6 – 8). We were all dead in sin, has been made alive together with Christ at born again experience. When people without Christ turns to the Lord Jesus Christ and turns away from dead works, such a one is said to be spiritually alive.

LESSON: SPIRITUAL RESURRECTION
 1.              Adamic sin (Genesis 3: 1 – 2, 
                  Romans 5: 12 – 14, Romans 3: 23, Psalm 51: 5)

2.                 Spiritual death (Ephesians 2. 1, 6, 1Timothy 5: 6, Romans 6: 23, 
                    Romans 3: 23, Colossians 2: 13)

3.                 Separated and condemned by God (Colossians 1: 20, Ephesians 2:
                    11 – 15, Romans: 3: 23, Romans 6:  23)

4.                 Made alive (resurrected) in Christ (Ephesians 2: 1, 5, 5 – 9, John 5:
                    25, John 10: 10, Colossians 2: 13)

5.                  We have eternal life (John 3: 14 – 16, 10: 28, John 17: 2 – 3, John
                     10: 10, 1John 5: 11 – 13)

CONCLUSION Through the first Adam death came into the world and through the last Adam righteousness and peace reigns (Romans 5: 17). Spiritual resurrection takes place when men are born again, the life of God comes in and we are brought back to life from spiritual death.

STUDY: RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD

TOPIC: MATERIAL RESURRECTION:

TEXT: John 5: 24 – 30, Daniel 12: 2

MEMORY VERSE: Daniel 12: 2 and of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall wake, some to everlasting life and some everlasting contempt.

 

 

INTRODUCTION

Having looked at spiritual resurrection, we shall be studying material (physical) resurrection. There are (2) kinds of material resurrection; the righteous to ‘life’ during the millennium reign and the wicked to damnation after the millennium reign of Christ (Daniel 12: 3, John 5: 28 – 29, Revelation 20: 4 – 6, 11 – 15). The resurrection of the righteous shall be from Adam to the millennium reign; it covers.

·         Christ reign and the old testament saint resurrection (Mathew 27: 50 – 53
           Ephesians 4: 8 – 10, Hebrew 2: 14 – 15)

·         The rapture saints (1Corinthians 15: 51 – 54; 1 Thess 4:13-18)

·         The tribulation saints (revelation 6: 10 – 11, revelation 7: 9 – 15)

·         The two witness (Revelation 11: 3 – 7, 12)

The resurrection of the righteous is called the first resurrection (Revelation 20: 3 – 5); this resurrection is in stages, the last stage of it shall be before the millennium reign. Also the resurrection of the wicked (sinners) shall be from Adam to the end of the millennium battle of Gog and Magog (Revelation 20: 7 – 9). These will rise with immortal bodies to the lake of fire, a place of everlasting torment.

LESSON 1: QUALIFICATION FOR THE FIRST RESURRECTION

1. Born again (John 3: 3, 5 – 6)
2. Walking in the spirit (Romans 8: 6, Galatians 5: 19 – 20)
3. Living a holy life (Hebrew 12: 14, Mathew 5: 18)
4. Faithfully (Mathew 25: 11 – 30)
5. Walking in love (1John 3: 14 – 15, 1John 4: 20 21)
6. Enduring to the end (Romans 10: 13, Ephesians 6: 11 – 13)

CONCLUSION There were people that rose from the death in the bible and even in our days, these ones will still die again. This resurrection is called temporary resurrection. But in the permanent resurrection both the righteous and the wicked shall die no more: the righteous will be in the New Jerusalem while the wicked in the lake of fire (Revelation 21: 9 – 23, 22: 1 – 5, 20: 11 – 15). Therefore, the first resurrection is the ultimate; we cannot afford to miss it. Hence let us lay aside every sin and weight, which easily beset us (Hebrew 12: 1)

TOPIC: SATAN BOUND AT THE MILLENNIUM REIGN OF CHRIST

TEXT: REV 20:1-6; 1SA 14:12-16

MV: Luke 10:18 ‘I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven’ {KJV}

INTRODUCTION

At the end of the great tribulation, Christ will deliver Israel from the hand of the anti-Christ. He will cast the false prophet and the anti-Christ into the lake of fire. As a preparation for the kingdom of God on earth, Satan will be bound by an angel and cast into the bottomless pit. The 1000 years reign of Christ on earth will be temptation free, no sin because the righteousness of God shall be revealed through the Son of righteousness and the tempter is bound.

LESSON: SATAN IN ABYESS

1.                          He has lost his authority {Rev 12:7-12;Lk 10:18-20;Rom 
                             16:20}

2.                          He was imprisoned for 1000 years {Rev 20:1-3;Jud 6;2 pet 
                             2:4}.

3.                          The world shall experience peace {Isa 65:19-25}

4.                          The brethren shall no longer be accused {Rev 12:10}

5.                          The world shall not experience evil for 1000 years {Isa 65:19-
                             25}

6.                          Jesus shall reign and rule with the saints {Rev 11:15; 5:10}

7.                          The earth shall enjoy the righteous reign of Christ {Rev
                             12:10;Joel 3:17-20; Zech 14:9-21

CONCLUSION

For 1000 years, Satan shall be absent from the earth; the world will experience peace, love, equity and the righteousness of God. It shall be an ‘edenic’ experience, because God’s righteousness shall overtake the inhabitance of the earth. The kingdom of God shall be visible on earth with Christ as the king of the kingdom.

 

TOPIC: KINGDOM OF GOD ON EARTH (THE MILLENNIUM REIGN OF CHRIST)

TEXT: REV 20: 1 – 6, DANIEL 2: 44 – 45

MV: Matt 3: 2 And saying, repent ye: for the kingdom in heaven is at hand:

 

INTRODUCTION

The 1000 years reign on earth where in the visible kingdom of God with Christ as the kingdom of the kingdom. The immortalise saints the resurrected with Christ at the rapture become co – king and co – Lord, which Christ is the king of kings and the Lord of Lord revelation 19: 11 – 16. In millennium era, Satan shall be bound in the abyss, and the earth shall experience total peace and righteousness in which restoration of the earth shall takes place. Christ shall reign and his righteousness shall cover the earth as water covers the sea. Also the tribulation saints shall resurrect to be part of the millennium reign (Revelation 2: 3 – 4).

LESSONS: 1000 YEARS REIGN OF CHRIST ON EARTH

1. Satan and all his cohorts shall not be part of it  (Revelation 20: 1 - 3, Isaiah 345: 9)
2. Christ shall be the king of the kingdom (Revelation 11: 15, Daniel 2: 444 – 45, Daniel 7: 22- 27)
3. The reign shall be for a 1000 years and not eternity (Revelation 2: 1 – 6)
4. All the resurrected saints from Adam to the tribulation saints shall be part of the reign (1 Thessalonians 4: 13 – 18, Revelation 20: 4 – 6)
5. The reign shall be marked with peace and righteousness (Isaiah 9: 6 – 7, Isaiah 65: 25)
6. The saints shall reign with Christ (Revelation 20: 6)
7. Children shall die at the age of 100 years (Isaiah 65: 20)
8. There will not be sin in the kingdom (Revelation 20: 1 – 3, 1 Corinthian 6: 9 – 12)
9. All men shall worship Christ (Romans 14: 11)
10. Jerusalem shall be the headquarter of Christ kingdom (Zechariahs 14: 16 – 17)

CONCLUSION For 1000 years mankind will experience righteousness reign. Were equity truth and justices prevail. (Psalm 96: 10, 98: 10). It shall be an endemic experience where the presence of God shall cover the earth again (Psalm 116. 15, all nation of the earth shall bow to Christ and shall worship him (Romans 14: 11. behold the kingdom of God is at hand (Mark 1: 15, John 3: 5, 1Corinthians 6: 9 – 10, Luke 17: 21, Revelation 14: 6).

 

TOPIC: THE RELEASE AND INFLUENCE OF SATAN ON THE EARTH AFTER THE MILLENNIUM REIGN OF CHRIST

TEXT: Rev 20:1-10

MV: 2 Peter 2:9 ‘The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished’ {KJV}

INTRODUCTION

Morality is not Christianity. During the reign of Christ on the earth, God’s righteousness prevailed on the earth. The natural men were morally sound because Satan was not presence to tempt them. The inward depravity was expose at the release of Satan after the millennium reign.  They were influence by Satan after his release to make war with Christ and all the saints in Jerusalem the holy city. This battle is called the battle of ‘Gog and Magog’

LESSON 1: THE BATTLE OF GOG AND MAGOG.

·                       Morality is not an evident of salvation {Isa 64:6,Rom 5:1-2}

·                      The hearts of the inhabitance of the earth were not regenerated
                       {Rev 20:7-9, 14:9-11,20}

·                      Satan’s influence was felt again at his release {Rev 20:7-9}

·                      God’s divine judgment was release on the people {Rev 20:8-9, 
                       6:12-17, 9:12}

·                     Satan was cast into the lake of fire {Rev 20:10, Matt 25:41}

·                      Men cannot resist Satan by their power {Rev 20:6-9, 2Cor4: 4,Eph
                       2:2, 1Jn 5:19}

·                      The release of Satan is for a short time {Rev 20:7-8}

·                      The saints are with Christ {Rev 20: 9; 1 Thess 4:17}

CONCLUSION

The people changing quickly to follow Satan shows a man without Christ is always under the influence of Satan no matter the moral standard. All the morality of a man is like a flit rage before God. The battle of Gog and Magog shows the heart of man is desperately wicked and deceitful {Jer 17:9}. God rained fire from heaven to consume the people with Satan and their captain at the ‘gate’ of the holy city {Jerusalem}; that is the battle of Gog and Magog. Then Satan was cast into the lake of fire.

 

TOPIC: THE GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT

TEXT: REVELATION 20: 11 – 20

MV: ACTS 12: 31b Because He has appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he had ordained.

 

INTRODUCTION

The great white throne judgement is an event that takes place after the one thousand years.  Reign of Christ on the earth. It is the judgement of the sinner since the beginning of the earth to the end of the millennium period. And will also include those workers who died during the millennium (Rev 20: 4 – 6) who will be judge by God through Christ Jesus the righteous judge and sentenced to everlasting punishment in hell (Mathew 10: 28, Joshua 5: 28 – 29). The throne really indicate absolute righteous and justice of the judgment of God (Psalm 45: 4 – 7, Psalm 16: 10 –13) all the dead in Christ from the beginning of the earth; all the raptured saints and the tribulation saints will not be judge in the great white judgement, they are part of the first resurrection and will reign with Christ (Revelation 20: 6)

LESSON 1 THOSE THAT WILL ESCAPE THE WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT

1. Those that are born again or are in Christ (John 3: 18)
2. Those that are holy and righteous (Hebrew 12: 14)
3. Those that are watchful (Mathew 24: 42 – 52)

LESSON 2 THE PURPOSE OF THE GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGEMENT

1. To give every one a fair trial before his eternal judgement
2. To judge the secrets of men (Romans 2: 16)
3. To judge all the works through action and sins of men (1 Timothy 5: 24, 1 Peter 1: 17, Romans 2: 5 – 6, Mathew 12: 36)
4. To march out degrees of punishment according to deeds (Mathew 7: 2, Mathew 10: 15, Luke 10: 14)

CONCLUSION In the great white throne judgement whoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire (Revelation 22: 11 – 12) Jesus said let him who is unjust continue to be unjust, let him who is filthy be filthy, and he that is just or righteous let him be righteous, and he that is holy be holy, behold I come quickly and my reward is with me to give to everyone according to his work. Be warned!

TOPIC: THE JUDGMENT OF THE ANTICHRIST, SATAN, AND HIS ANGELS

TEXT: Isa 14:12-14: Rev 19:17-20

MV: John 12:30-31’ Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out’.{NIB}

INTRODUCTION

The angels that left their angelic estate are imprisoned in a place called ‘tartarus’- hell {Jude 6; 2 Pet 2:4}; that is a temporary judgment for some angelic beings. The anti-Christ, all the falling angels and Satan’s final destination is the lake of fire {Matt 25:41;Rev 19:20; 20:10}. Therefore, whosoever is deceived by the devil, the anti-Christ and demons to live in sin shall be cast into the lake of fire {Rev 21:8}.

LESSON 1: GOD’S JUDGMENT ON SATAN AND HIS ANGELS

·              They were cast out of heaven {Lk 10:18; Isa 14:12-14;}

·               Man was given dominion over them {Gen1: 26-28;Mk 16:17; Ps 8:4-8;
                Rom 16:20; Lk 10:19}

·               Jesus ascertained the judgment {Jn 16:11; 12:31}

·               Jesus defeated them at his resurrection {Col 2:14-15;Heb 2:14 15;Rev
                 1:18}

·                Believers are to affirm God’s judgment on Satan and his angels {Lk
                10:19; Mk 16:17; Matt 28:18; Rom 16:20}

·                Those that left the angelic estate are presently in prison {Jude 6; 2Pet
                  2:4}

·                 The anti-Christ, Satan and his angels will be cast into the lake of fire
                  {Rev 19:20; Matt 25:41; Rev 20:10}




CONCLUSION

Satan and his angels were judged when they rebel in heaven {Isa 14:12:16; Eze 28:13-19; Rev 12:7-9; Matt 25:41}; they lost their place in God’s divine program. Satan distorted God’s plan for man, which led to Christ coming. At the coming of Christ, He judged sin, and Satan; and restored man back into God’s divine purpose  {1 Jn 4:9;Act 10:38; Col 2:15;Jn 1:12}. Finally, the anti-Christ, Satan and all his angels will be cast into the lake of fire for eternity {Rev 19:20; 20:10;Matt 25:41}.

 

TOPIC: LAKE OF FIRE

TEXT: Rev 20. 1 – 10; 21: 8, 2 THESS 1: 9

MEMORY VERSE: Revelation 20: 15 and whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

INTRODUCTION Lake of fire is the final destination of sinners, which is a place of everlasting torment prepared by God for Satan and his followers such as those who refused to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and personal Saviour (Revelation 20: 10, 2Thessalonains 1: 8 – 9). Therefore lake of fire is the second death, after the various events on earth and the white throne judgement, death and hell will be cast into the lake fire: that does not quench (Revelation 20: 14), but the believers that are saved shall reign with Christ in eternal glory forever

LESSON 1: PURPOSE OF LAKE OF FIRE
 1.         A sentence of Satan and his followers (Revelation 20: 10)

2.          Designated reward for the beast (antichrist) and false prophets
             (Revelation 19: 20, Revelation 14: 10)

3.          Punishment to the sinners (Ezekiel 18: 4, 20, John 8: 24, Mark 16: 16)

4.          Destination for the fearful and unbelieving believers (Revelation 20: 8,   
              Mark 8: 35, 2Timothy 2: 12b)

5.           Reward for evil workers and wickedness (Luke 13: 3)

LESSON 2: DESCRIPTION OF LAKE OF FIRE

1. It is a place of fire burning with brimstone (Revelation 19 – 20)
2. Gloomy and dark (2Peter 2: 4)
3. There would be everlasting punishment (Mathew 25: 46))
4.  Not comfortable for life (1Thessalonians 1: 9)
5. A place of crying and pain (Mathew 22: 13, 25, 30)
6. The fire is unquenchable (Mark 9: 43)
7. Full of anguish and trouble (Romans 2: 9)
8. The fire does not reduce and the smoke ascend forever (Revelation 14: 11, Isaiah 34: 10)

CONCLUSION Lake of fire is not an ideal place for one to be. For this reason or motive, let us serve God with all our heart while we are still on earth. As we work out our salvation with fear and trembling, remain faithful till the end, the lake of fire is far from us (Philippians 2: 12, Hebrew 10: 31, believers don’t live carelessly

TOPIC: NEW HEAVEN AND A NEW EARTH

TEXT. REVELATION 21: 1 – 10

MEMORY VERSE: 2 Peter 3: 13”Nevertheless we according to His promise, look for new Heaven and a new earth, wherein dwells righteousness

 

INTRODUCTION

If there is anything we have to say about this new heaven and a new earth, “there is a need for us to know something about the existing heaven and earth. As far as this existing heaven is concern” it is a place where the just are made perfect (Hebrew 12: 23) it is where the throne of God is (Isaiah 66: 1), it is also a place where the word of light was spoken into existence. While the earth on the other hand is a place where the work of God is made manifest, the earth was the extension of an invisible heaven to a visible scene, which has to be comfortable to the body of every living thing. One of the purposes of God’s creation was to make a visible heaven called the earth where man can be able to rule as king (Genesis 1: 26 – 28). Dominion in that vs. means royal authority sovereign power or kingdom. Though Adam lost it to Satan, But Jesus through his death and resurrection now bought us back to the kingdom (Revelation 1: 6, Revelation 5: 9 – 10)

Now that we have know little about the existing heaven and earth, little we have to say about the new heaven and new earth base on the book of revelation.

LESSONS: WHY WAS THERE THE NEED FOR A NEW HEAVEN AND NEW EARTH

1. It was because Satan and his agents already defiled the existing earth. (Revelation 21: 1 –5, Revelation 17: 1 – 5, revelation 18: 2 – 3)
2. God is keeping the Devil ignorant of the new kingdom (1 Corinthians2: 6 – 8)
3. A new home for the believers (Revelation 21: 3 – 6)
4. God want to bring man back to Edenic experience (Revelation 2: 7, Revelation 22: 2)
5. God specially built it for the believers (John 14. 2 – 3)
6. An inheritance for the righteous
7. A place free of the devil, evil and temptation (Revelation 22: 3)
8. A place of restoration and of worship of God (Revelation 21: 3 - 7
9. The new Jerusalem (Revelation 21: 2)

CONCLUSION

Walk in the light of God so that your name will be counted among those in the lamb’s book of life {Revelation 21: 23 – 26; Revelation 21: 10).

NOTE: The existing Heaven and Earth will melt with fervent heat and all things in it will be burned up and God will bring into existence a new Heaven and new earth. (2 Peter 3: 7 – 15)

TOPIC: THE NEW JERUSALEM

TEXT: REVELATION 21: 2 27, ISAIAH 65: 18, HEBREW 12: 22, GALATIANS 4: 26, REVELATION 12: 2

MEMORY VERSE: Revelation 21: 2 And I john saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

INTRODUCTION The new Jerusalem is the holy city built by God in heaven which one day would come down from heaven prepared as bride adorned for her husband to earth (Revelation 21: 3, Hebrew 12: 22 – 23a); but after the white throne judgement (Revelation 20: 11 – 15); the headquarter of God eternal kingdom “the heavenly Jerusalem” will descend to the new earth (new earth and new heaven); there we will reign eternally on new earth and there will be eternal headquarter. Let us see the following lessons about the New Jerusalem.

LESSON 1: DESCRIPTION OF THE NEW JERUSALEM

1. The builder is God (Hebrew 11: 10, 13, 16)
2. Already existing in heaven (Galatians 4: 26, Philippians 3: 20)
3. It will descend from heaven (Revelation 21: 2, 9 – 11, Isaiah 52: 1 – 2)
4. It will be on the new earth  (Revelation 21: 2, 9)
5. In the new Jerusalem peace and joy will restored to the earth {paradise on earth} (Revelation 21: 1 – 23)
6. There will be fellowship between God the father, Son and the redeemed saints in new Jerusalem (Revelation 21: 3 – 6)

CONCLUSION As we look forward to the New Jerusalem that the builder is God, therefore let us seek for it with all our heart, there we shall be unto Him son and He unto us Father. Unrighteousness will not inherit the kingdom of God, because there in eternal kingdom we shall enjoy the fullness of life (Revelation 21: 3)

]]>Sun, 31 Oct 2010 21:22:27 GMThttps://www.faithalive-ministries.org/teaching-blog/the-cost-of-discipleship TEXT: LUKE 9: 57 – 62

MEMORY VERSE: MATHEW 10: 39 He that finds his life shall loose it: he that lose his life for my namesake shall find it.


INTRODUCTION
Discipleship is not a doctrine, but a Christ – centre life, following after righteousness, dependence and obedience from a spiritual child to a spiritual matured adult with genuine brotherly love: respecting each other, hasten to be and desiring to be always good, and also being prepared to suffer persecutions, never lazy in service to the lord Jesus but enthusiastically rejoicing in trial and prayerfully helping with needs of the saints, blessing persecutors, being humble and meek, not revengeful, but living peacefully and doing Godly works.

THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP

1. Self – denial (Philippians 3: 7 – 9, Luke 9: 57 – 62)
2. Self – sacrifice (Romans 12: 1 – 6, Galatians 2: 20, 1 Timothy 4: 6 – 7, Acts 4: 35, Romans 6: 16 – 18, Matthew 10: 37 – 38)
3. Absolute commitment to God and His kingdom (Matthew 6: 33, Luke 9: 62, 2 Timothy 2: 4)
4. Self – possession (Act 4: 35, 1 Samuel 24: 24)
5. Suffering for Christ (John 16: 33, 2 Timothy 4: 6 – 7, 1 peter 4: 17)

 

CONCLUSION
Disciple is to proclaim the kingdom of God and always as first priority, loyalty to Jesus, the saviour of Mankind. For a follower of Christ there is no half-heartedness, with God there are no rivals, no divided loyalties, there cannot be ignorant of the right way of living and being a witness of Christ.  



]]>Sun, 31 Oct 2010 21:17:02 GMThttps://www.faithalive-ministries.org/teaching-blog/disciples-qualities
TEXT: ROMANS 12: 9 – 21
MEMORY VERSE: MATHEW 5: 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good work, and glorify your father which is in heaven.

INTRODUCTION

A disciple is a student, trained, instructed, obedient, and ever willing to serve the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as share what has been taught with others. In general it refers to all followers of Christ who are called Christians, not only in believe but also in lifestyle. He is shaping our characters to be like Christ and taking his life as an example to emulate. The significance of answering Christ call to be disciple is willingness to serve, obey and live for Him.

 

CHARACTERISTICS OF A DISCIPLE

• Born Again (John 3: 3 – 5, John 1: 12)
• Freedom from the world (John 17: 14 – 16, John 4: 4, Romans 12: 1)
• Self crucifixion (Romans 6: 1 – 20, Galatians 2: 20)
• Righteous living (1 John 3: 7, John 15: 10 – 14)
• Manifesting the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5: 22 – 23)
• Suffering for other (1 Peter 2: 21 – 23, 1 Peter 3: 18, 1 Peter 4: 1, Philippians 3: 10)
• Enduring temptation (James 1v12-14, 2 Tim.4v5)
• Living toward perfection (Philippians 3: 12 – 14, Hebrew 12: 14)
• Manifesting the fullness of God (John 3:  24, John 7: 32 – 39, John 14: 12, Ephesians 3: 19)

CONCLUSION
As Disciples of Christ, believers do not have to be passive, Jesus expects His disciples to be fruitful and do good works (godly works). They are to walk in Christ footstep: having self control, self-denial and showing forth the fruit of the spirit in their character and services.

]]>Sun, 31 Oct 2010 21:04:33 GMThttps://www.faithalive-ministries.org/teaching-blog/discipleship-and-the-great-commission TEXT: Matthew 28: 18 – 20, Mark 16: 15 – 20

MEMORY VERSE: JOHN 20: 21 then said Jesus to them again, peace be unto you: as my father has sent me, even so send I you.


INTRODUCTION
The idea of Jesus calling his disciples to Himself for a special purpose is evidenced in the initial call. He summoned His disciples saying, come follow me, and I will make you fishers of men (Matthew 4: 19, Mark 1: 17). This initial comment about reaching men was reasserted as a command when the resurrected Lord stood before his disciples  (Matthew 28: 18 – 20)

 THE MANDATE OF A DISCIPLE

Preaching.

•  Repentance from dead works (Luke 24: 47 48, Act 2: 19, Romans 13: 12)
  
•  Salvation and forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ (Act 10: 42 – 43, Act 2: 38)
  
• Consistency in the faith (Hebrew 3: 12 – 14, 1 Timothy 4: 16, 1 John 2: 23 – 25)
  
• Soul Winning: (Mark 16v15-17, Matt 28v19-20, Act 1v8)
  

Teaching.

• The Lordship of Jesus Christ (Colossians 1: 16, Ephesians 3: 9 12, Hebrew 1: 2 – 3, John 1: 3 – 5)
• Redemption and forgiveness of sins through the name of Jesus (Acts 26: 18, Colossians 1: 11 14, Romans 6: 7, 12, 14, 18)
• The coming of Christ for the saints (Acts 1: 11, 1Corinthians15: 51 – 58)
• The environment of the Holy Spirit: The promise of the Lord (John 14: 16 – 18, John 15: 16, John 16: 7 – 14)
• Standing all trials and temptation for the sake of the kingdom of God (James 1: 12, James 5: 10 – 11, 1Pet 1: 6 – 7, 1Pet 4: 12 – 15)
• Total obedience to the word of God
• Righteousness and holiness God uncompromising demand (1 Timothy 6: 11 – 14, 1 John 2: 28 – 29, Romans 6: 19 – 22, Acts 3: 2
•  To make disciples of other people (Matthew 28: 19)

Baptise.

• Immerse in water (Colossians 2: 12 – 13, Romans 6: 1 – 8)
• Baptise in the name the father, son and of the holy spirit (Matthew 28: 19)
• Baptise on the name of Jesus (By the authority on Jesus name) Acts 8: 12 – 17, Acts 10: 44 – 48, Acts 2: 38)
• Only repented and converted souls (Act 2: 38)
• It is to fulfil all righteousness (Matthew 3: 15)
• It is for clear conscience (Romans 6: 3 – 10, Galatians 3: 26 – 29, Galatians 4: 7, 1Peter 3: 21)

CONCLUSION 
Disciples need to be positioned and unshakeable in Christ, in total submissions to Him, unwavering and maintaining an attitude of repentance, with a willingness to be continually taught of Gods word, they are to spread the word of God and tell of the birth, death, resurrection, ascension, glorification and the coming of Jesus the Christ.

 

 

]]>Mon, 20 Sep 2010 11:26:30 GMThttps://www.faithalive-ministries.org/teaching-blog/duties-of-discipleship TEXT: MATHEW 10: 24 – 35

MEMORY VERSE: Ecclesiastics 12: 13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: fear God; and keep His commandment: for this is the whole duty of a man.

Discipleship is a call to see with, know and enjoy the master. In this sense, the call to biblical discipleship entails, knowing the Lord; following Him all the way and enjoying His ever-abiding presence.

Jesus call to discipleship involves a radical commitment to Him, forsaking all. it is a call to Christ likeness: living for Him without reservations.

DUTIES OF A DISCIPLESHIP

1.     Ready to learn from the master (2 Corinthians 2: 15) (Ephesians 5: 1, 1 Corinthians 11: 1)

2.     Trusting and obeying the master (Jeremiah 17: 7) (Proverb 1: 8, proverb 2: 1 – 2)

3.     Commitment to the master: financial and material (1 Corinthians 8: 7 – 14, Proverb 24: 6)

4.     Seeking wisdom and counsel from the master (Proverb 19: 21, Proverb 20: 18)

5.     Putting the master’s words above personal opinion and the opinion of others (Joshua 1: 8, 2 Corinthians 1: 20) (John 14: 15, 21)

CONCLUSION
Discipleship involves defined teachings marked by union, abiding in Jesus teachings and His life. It is putting what Jesus taught into practice and not just knowledge of His instructions. This should be seen in a personal relationship with God, other Christians and the world. Disciples abide in Christ and glorify God. They are to be active in the world, not influenced by it and be distinct from it (2 Corinthians 6: 14 – 18)

]]>Mon, 21 Jun 2010 18:32:49 GMThttps://www.faithalive-ministries.org/teaching-blog/the-calling-into-discipleship TEXT: MARK 10: 28 – 31, LUKE 9. 23 – 24, LUKE 14: 25 – 35

MEMORY VERSE: JOHN 15: 16, You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit, should remain: that whatsoever you shall ask of the father in my name, he may give it to you.

Introduction
Disciple is from a Greek word (MATHETES), which refers generally to any student, pupil, apprentice or adherent as opposed to a teacher. In the ancient world, however, it is most often associated with people who were devoted followers of a great religious leader or teacher of philosophy. Jesus has summoned us to his side, but not simply to put us to work. His calling is to know him (Mathew 4: 19), to have intimate fellowship with Him (1 Corinthians 1: 9) and to enjoy Him. This is primary and is necessary. If the disciple were to have lost interest in Him as a person and friend, they would never have continued to walk with Him, Jesus' call to discipleship is a call to Christlikeness which includes (3) related facts:

1.     Grace of discipleship (Luke 9: 23 – 24, Luke 14: 25 – 35, Mark 10: 42 – 45)

• New birth (John 3: 3 – 6, 1 Peter 1)
•  Indwelling of the spirit (Romans 8: 19)
• Infilling of the Holy Spirit (John 14: 26, John 15: 6, John 16: 8 – 14)
• His abiding presence (John 15: 1 – 11)

2.     The demand on discipleship (Luke 9: 23 – 24, Luke 25 – 35, Mark 10: 42 –45)

• Following without reservation (Luke 9: 23 – 24)
• Renouncing the world and all its pleasures (1 John 2: 15 – 17)
• Forsaking all worldly acquittals (James 4: 4, 11 Corinthians 6: 14 – 18)
• Making God and his kingdom the priority (Mathew 6: 33)

3.     The promise for discipleship (Mark 10: 28 – 31, Philippians 4: 19)

•  A hundred fold to all that was lost (Mark 10: 21 – 29, 3 John 3: 2, Philippians 4: 19)
• Gain God's large family (Mark 10: 30, Romans 12: 3 –4, Ephesians 2: 19)
• Eternal life (Mark 10: 31, John 3: 16 – 36)

CONCLUSION
Jesus' call to discipleship is an all-or-nothing summons, reaching into every area of our lives. It involves giving him pre-eminence over the closest of our human relationship and over the one we have for our lives. He has also made his grace available for this demand. And attached to this call are numerous promises. Therefore, come out and be separated (2Corinthians 6: 14 – 18)

]]>Mon, 21 Jun 2010 18:18:14 GMThttps://www.faithalive-ministries.org/teaching-blog/first-post