THE BIBLE AS THE WORD OF GOD

PROF. BEN ONYEUKWU (REV.)

NCE (English); Dip (Computer Studies); ND/HD (Journalism); Dip, BA (Theology) MA, PhD.

Call: +2348037346939 E-mail: professorbenonyeukwu@yahoo.com

THE BIBLE AS THE WORD OF GOD
Presented by Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

                                   Devotional Text: Ezek. 3:1-3; 2 Tim. 2:15

INTRODUCTION:

The Bible is the WORD of GOD (1 Thess. 2:13), and the WORD of GOD is the Word of Life (Phil. 2:16), which the Apostle Peter also refers to as the WORD of Eternal Life, (John 6:68). In His own assertion, JESUS says, the WORD of GOD is Life and Spirit designed to build up the lives of those who receive it (vs. 63), and this, concretises the importance of the WORD. Furthermore, the WORD of GOD is a cleansing agent (John 15:3) capable of purifying someone who pays attention to it (Psalm 119:9), as well as equips those who study it for the work of the ministry (2 Tim. 2:15).

GENERAL REMARKS

(i)              The WORD of GOD is quick and powerful, (Heb. 4:12)

(ii)            The WORD of GOD has been with GOD from the beginning, (John 1:1-2)

(iii)           The WORD of GOD is GOD, personified in CHRIST JESUS, (vs. 1-2)

(iv)           The WORD of GOD is the means of all creation, (v. 3-4)

THE WORD OF GOD IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

The WORD of the LORD to prophet Ezekiel, ... “eat this scroll, then, go and speak to the house of Israel (Ezek. 3:1) portrays the biblical truth that GOD wants HIS people to equip themselves with HIS WORD before engaging in ministration. According o Adams Clarke, the cited portion of the Scripture simply means, “receive MY WORD, and let it enter your soul, digest it, as well as let it be your (Spiritual) nourishment. Let it equally serve as meat and drink to your soul –to enable you do the will of your Father who is in heaven. “This, the prophet responded to, as he says, “so I opened my mouth and HE gave me the scroll to eat” (vs. 2), which implies that, it is the prerogative of the LORD to feed or give HIS people the word(s) or message(s) they are to minster to others. Again, the LORD said to Ezekiel, “son of man, eat this scroll which I am giving to you and fill your stomach with it”... so I ate it” ... (vs. 3); which therefore, becomes a biblical yardstick that: 

(i)                    A religious message is not the WORD of GOD when it is not initiated or given by the LORD, as such a message or word amounts to misinformation, resulting from falsehood, (Ezek. 3:1-3)

(ii)                  It is the duty of the receiver of the word or message of the LORD to assimilate or digest it for appropriate purposes, (vs. 3)

(iii)                 Also, in Christian Faith today we should learn to study and meditate on GOD’s WORD, as we have in the Bible, for the nourishment of our souls, as well as for preaching purposes,(vs. 1; 2 Tim. 2:15)

THE WORD OF GOD IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

The WORD of GOD in the New testament is linked to that of the Old testament, since most of the New Testament prophets, apostles, Evangelists, pastors or teachers quoted the Old Testament Scriptures in their ministerial acts, (see 1 Cor. 9:8-9). And, even our LORD and GREAT SAVIOUR, JESUS CHRIST quoted the Law, Prophets and Psalms in HIS preaching (Luke 24:44-45), which shows that there is no difference between the Old Testament Scriptures and that of the New Testament. This makes the concept in some religious quarters that certain divisions of the Bible are more scriptural than others a baseless one, since the WORD of GOD is the same forever, (Psalms 119:89). Also, note that no other book of religion apart from the Bible is, or should be regarded as the WORD of GOD, as none of these books has the seal of the Holy Spirit, which is the unique mark of the Bible, (2 Tim. 3:16). Having cited the above, now establish the biblical fact that GOD’s WORD in the New Testament Scripture carries the same power and efficacy as that of the Old Testament. To this end, this lesson cites that as the WORD of GOD is cited as:

(i)              The means of creation in the Old Testament (Gen. 1:1-2), so it is in the New Testament, (John 1:3-4)

(ii)             The means of Divine Healing in the Old Testament (Psalm 107:20), so it is in the New Testament, (Matt. 8:5-13)

(iii)           GOD’s means of keeping away from sin in the Old Testament (Psalm 119:11) so it is in the New Testament, (John 17:17), etc.

THE WORD OF GOD AND THE PREACHING OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST

The Gospel of JESUS CHRIST is GOD’s platform for the propagation of HIS WORD. And, if the Gospel must produce GOD’s results, it must be centred on the undiluted preaching of the WORD, and not human tales or quotes from great writers/philosophers of the world, since the LORD only confirms HIS WORD (nor ideology) with signs and wonders following, (Mark 16:20). In other words, GOD’s fingerprint can only be impressed in the Gospel when it is purely Word –based. This, therefore implies that as the WORD of GOD is the WORD of Life (Phil. 2:16), the Gospel of CHRIST should be the Gospel of Life, giving life to the spirit, soul and body of the individuals who receive it, and where it is not so, it becomes questionable if the real gospel had been presented. In this connection, this lesson asserts that the Gospel of CHRIST should:

(i)        Present the WORD of GOD and not fiction, (2 Tim. 4:2)

(ii)      Stir in recipients word-based faith and not human ideology, (Rom. 10:17)

(iii)     Come with practical demonstration of the POWER of GOD and not enticing words, (1 Cor.2: 4-5)

In conclusion, this lesson has, indeed re-enacted the biblical truth that GOD’s WORD is the same in both the Old and New Testament Scriptures and carries no less power in any of the testaments. Also, in the preaching of the Gospel of CHRIST, the lesson strictly advocates the need to make it a word-based gospel, against the baseless presentation of tales informed by human ideology or philosophy, which carries no efficacy or power, and so, holds out the need to “Preach the Word, in season and out of season, (2 Tim. 4:2), JESUS IS LORD!

THE BIBLE AND GIFT OF REVELATION

PROF. BEN ONYEUKWU (REV.)

NCE (English); Dip (Computer Studies); ND/HD (Journalism); Dip, BA (Theology) MA, PhD.

Call: +2348037346939 E-mail: professorbenonyeukwu@yahoo.com

THE BIBLE AND GIFT OF REVELATION
Presented by Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

Devotional Text: Gal. 1:11-12; Eph. 1:15-17

INTRODUCTION:

The spirit of JESUS CHRIST is the spirit of Revelation, and so, HE remains the Principal source of GOD’s Revelation. In this connection, the believer in whose life the spirit of CHRIST dwells also carries the gift of Revelation with him. The Gift of Revelation is the gift of sight which enables the believer to see unfolding events as determined by the LORD Himself. This implies that the gift is not operated by whims and caprices of the believer who possess it, but by the LORD, and, therefore indicates that the timing and places of the use of the gift remains the prerogative of the LORD, and in most cases without the/any knowledge of the gifted person.

GENERAL REMARKS

(1)       The Gift of Revelation gives the believer the sight and ability to receive and preach the real Gospel from JESUS CHRIST, (Gal. 1:11-12)

(2)       The Gift of Revelation equally gives the believer the clarity of the gospel and the readiness to respond to those

 who need explanation, (2:1-2)

(3)       The Gift of Revelation is also referred to as the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation that enables the believer know

 the LORD better, (Eph. 1:17)

(4)       The Gift of Revelation is a means  to ascertain God’s mystery and the administration of His grace, (3:2-3)

THE GIFT OF REVELATION AND THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST

The Gift of Revelation guarantees the principal knowledge of the Gospel from JESUS CHRIST. To this end, the Apostle Paul says ... “the gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it: rather I received it by revelation from JESUS CHRIST, (Gal. 1:11-12). Yet, Paul’s revelation is not a play down on the biblical direction which instructs the believer or the Gospel Minister to study to show himself to GOD as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15), but shows that the real gospel comes by the directive of JESUS CHRIST and not by human ideology. This, therefore, implies that:

(i)                    Ideological gospel is not the Gospel of JESUS CHRIST, but man-made, (Gal. 1:11-12)

(ii)                  The real gospel is inspired and directed by the SPIRIT of JESUS CHRIST, (vs. 11-12)

(iii)                 The gospel from the Revelation of JESUS CHRIST does not contradict the Old or New Testament scriptures, since that of the Apostle Paul does not contradict any, (vs. 11-12)

THE GIFT OF REVELATION AS THE SPIRIT OF WISDOM AND REVELATION

The Spirit of Revelation of JESUS CHRIST is also the Spirit of wisdom (Eph. 1:17). So, one with the gift has equally the gift of wisdom which enables one manage the properties of the gift revelation. In other words, the gift of revelation is guided by the wisdom of the HOLY SPIRIT, and so, there is no room for recklessness in reception and application of the products of the gift. And, since the wisdom from above is pure, there is, as well, no place for falsehood and evil practice in the use of the Gift of Revelation, (see James 3:13-17). This implies that those who claim they have the Gift of Revelation, but are known for false revelations, borne out of deceit are indeed, not recipients of the BLESSED GIFT of the LORD. Therefore, those with the actual Gift of Revelation are:

(i)              Not people of selfish ambition who boast and deny the truth, (vs. 16)

(ii)            Guided by the Spirit if wisdom for sincerity of purpose, (vs. 17)

(iii)           Conscious of the scriptural truth that the gift comes with the Spirit of wisdom, with

 the objective of not deceiving the people, but making them know the LORD better, (Eph. 1:17)

THE GIFT OF REVELATION AND THE MYSTERY OF GOD

The Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (Third Edition) defines mystery as “something strange or not known which has not yet been explained or understood”. In line with this, the Apostle Paul recalls the administration of grace given to him, that is, the mystery made known to him by revelation to enable his audience understand or have insight into the mystery of CHRIST, (Eph. 3:2-4). And, without mincing words, the writing of Paul readily show certain insights into the PERSON and WORKS of JESUS CHRIST which were not made known to other apostles. For example, it is the Apostle Paul that gives the clearest understanding of the LORDSHIP of CHRIST, as well as portrays Him as GOD’s point of absolute authority, (Phil. 2:1-11). This, by implication means that the Gift of Revelation:

(i)                    Genuinely reveals the truth about CHRIST and not the religious leader or preacher, (Eph. 3:2-4)

(ii)                  Gives insight into ways GOD could be genuinely worshipped, (Eph. 1:17)

(iii)                 Is GOD’s means for the correction of wrong notions about CHRIST, and in turn portrays Him as the only point for salvation, (Acts 4:12) and intermediary, (2 Tim. 2:5).

In conclusion, please recall that this lesson already shows that the Gift of Revelation is GOD’s channel to real Gospel from JESUS CHRIST (Gal. 1:11-12), as well as gives clarity that helps explain it, (2:1-2). The lesson equally gives insight that the Gift of Revelation makes for the better knowledge of the LORD (Eph. 1:17) and serves as a means to ascertain the mystery of JESUS CHRIST, (Eph. 3:2-3). By this, therefore, it becomes evident that though the Gift of Revelation could, as well be instrumental in revealing other things, good or bad, its major purpose is to reveal CHRIST. BEWARE OF FALSE REVELATION!

THE BIBLE AND REDEMPTION

PROF. BEN ONYEUKWU (REV.)

NCE (English); Dip (Computer Studies); ND/HD (Journalism); Dip, BA (Theology) MA, PhD.

Call: +2348037346939 E-mail: professorbenonyeukwu@yahoo.com

THE BIBLE AND REDEMPTION
Presented by Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu

Devotional Text: Col. 1:12-16

INTRODUCTION:

The BBC English Dictionary defines the word, “redemption”, as freedom from the consequences of sin and evil which Christians believe was made possible by the death of CHRIST”. This definition agrees with the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Colossian church in which he gives thanks to our GREAT GOD and FATHER, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light, having rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the SON HE loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins (3:12-14). Therefore, “since you call on a FATHER who judges each man’s work impartially, live your lives as strangers in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious BLOOD of CHRIST, a LAMB without blemish or defect” (1 Peter 1:17-19)

GENERAL REMARKS

(1)       The Redemption of CHRIST sets free from the slavery of the basic principles of this world, and gives the full rights of sons,(Gal. 4:1-6)

(2)       JESUS CHRIST, our GREAT GOD and SAVIOUR ... “gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good”, (Titus 2:14)

(3)       The Redemption of CHRIST is the basis for justification of mankind, since all have sinned and fall short of the glory

 of GOD,(Rom. 3:21-24)

(4)       The Redemption of CHRIST is equally the basis for our adoption and forgiveness of sin, through His BLOOD,(Eph. 1:3-7)

THE REDEEMER AND HIS LOVE FOR MANKIND

In HIS WORD, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13), the LORD shows HIS redemptive love for humankind, which could only be demonstrated by giving HIS LIFE for our sins, (Eph. 1:3-7). The redemption of JESUS CHRIST is the SUPREME PRICE of love and notably the only DIVINE ACT that brought humanity back to GOD since “the punishment that brought us peace was upon HIM and by HIS WOUNDS we are healed”, ( Isa. 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24). We all, likes sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way.” And the LORD has laid on HIM the iniquity of us all, (vs. 6; vs. 25). No controversy, it is the LOVE of GOD that prompted the act of redemptive....”not that we loved HIM, but that HE loved us and sent HIS SON, as an atoning sacrifice for our sins, (1 John 4:10). And, the Holy Scripture further confirms this, when it says that, “GOD demonstrates HIS OWN LOVE for us in this; while we were still sinners, CHRIST died for us”, (Rom. 5:8). This, then, shows that the redemption of JESUS CHRIST:

(i)                    Is GOD’s Supreme Price of love for humanity, (John 15:13; Rom.5:8)

(ii)                  Demonstrates GOD’s LOVE for those who have no love for HIM (1 John 4:10; Rom. 5:8)

(iii)                 Shows the readiness of the LORD to save humanity, who made themselves enemies of GOD through sin, (vs. 8-11)

THE REDEEMER AND THE FORGIVENESS OF THE SINS OF MANKIND

The forgiveness of sins is made possible, and can only be obtained by seekers of forgiveness from the LORD through the redemption of JESUS CHRIST. To this end, the Holy Scripture says ... “He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the Kingdom of the SON HE Loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins, (Col. 3:13-14). This reaffirms the truth that forgiveness of sins can only be accessed through JESUS CHRIST, the BLESSED REDEEMER, who is the SON of the LIVING GOD, and makes it absolutely wrong to look elsewhere for the aforementioned. However, that JESUS CHRIST secured the forgiveness of our sins though His redemptive Work does not mean everybody automatically receives the forgiveness of their sins, but simply means that one who desires the forgiveness of one’s sins is now given the opportunity to be granted pardon, as those who becomes negligent will never be forgiven. And, note equally that the prayer of JESUS CHRIST on the Cross, which says, “FATHER forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke. 23:34) does not mean all is forgiven, but means all is given the chance for the forgiveness of their sins. In line with the forgoing, therefore, this lesson opines that:

(i)                    The only REDEEMER who redeems mankind from the sins is JESUS CHRIST, (Col. 3:13)

(ii)                  It is only by HIS redemptive work that forgiveness of sins could be obtained, (vs. 14)

(iii)                 The REDEEMER does not only forgives  sins, but first rescues of the dominion of darkness, (vs. 13-14)

THE REDEEMER AND THE MAKING OF THE HEIRS OF THE KINGDOM

The Scripture, “you are all sons of GOD through faith in CHRIST JESUS, for all of you who were baptised into CHRIST have clothed yourselves with CHRIST. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female for you are all one in CHRIST JESUS. If you belong to CHRIST, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise”(Gal. 3:26-29) shows that the redemption of JESUS CHRIST makes the believers heirs of the promise of the Kingdom of Heaven. However, when we were outside CHRIST, we were like slaves, (Gal. 4:1-3). “But when the time had finally come, GOD sent HIS SON, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons”, (vs. 4-5). Yet, this is not automatic, but for those who would believe and give their lives to our LORD and BLESSES REDEEMER, JESUS CHRIST, whom GOD now sends the SPIRIT of HIS SON into their hearts, the SPIRIT who calls out ABBA, FATHER, (vs. 6). In continuation, GOD’s WORD says to this category of believers ... “You are no longer slaves, but sons, and since you are sons, GOD has made you also heirs, (vs. 7). This confirms that:

(i)                    The redemption of JESUS CHRIST makes those who believe in HIM heirs of the promise of HIS KINGDOM, (Gal. 3:29; 4:4-7)

(ii)                  GOD offers this promise through Abraham, to those who are Abraham’s seeds, who believe in CHRIST, (3:26-29)

(iii)                 The promise is not automatically given to everybody but only to those who believe in CHRIST, (vs. 26-29)

In conclusion, please, reflect that this lesson depicts the REDEEMER’s LOVE, FORGIVENESS and PROMISE to mankind, which only those who believe in HIM can access. REPENT AND BELIEVE THE GOSPEL!

THE BIBLE AND RESURRECTION

PROF. BEN ONYEUKWU (REV.)

NCE (English); Dip (Computer Studies); ND/HD (Journalism); Dip, BA (Theology) MA, PhD.

Call: +2348037346939 E-mail: professorbenonyeukwu@yahoo.com

THE BIBLE AND RESURRECTION 

Devotional Text: Matt.28:1-10;Dan. 12:2

INTRODUCTION:

The foundation of every resurrection is the Resurrection of our LORD and BLESSED SAVIOUR, JESUS CHRIST, who HIMSELF, is the Resurrection and Life, (John 11:25). Other resurrections which are specified in the Holy Scripture include; the Resurrection of Life, for the saints, (Dan. 12:2) and the Resurrection of shame and contempt, for the sinners, (vs. 2), which shows that there will be the rising of all the dead at the Last Judgement. Resurrection, according to the New Webster’s Dictionary of the English Language, international Edition, is “the act of rising again after death” or bringing back into use”. By this, it becomes obvious that GOD will definitely bring people back to life, as well as put them to use again, though sinners will resurrect onto damnation.

GENERAL REMARKS

(1)      JESUS CHRIST our LORD and BLESSED SAVIOUR is the Resurrection and Life, (John 11:25)

(2)      The Resurrection of JESUS CHRIST is the ground for all resurrections, (Matt. 28:1-10)

(3)      There is the resurrection of life, for the righteous, (Dan. 12:2)

(4)      There is also the resurrection of shame and contempt, for the unrighteous, (vs. 2)

THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST

The expression of the angel of the LORD, as cited in the scriptural text of this lesson, which says ... “do not be afraid, for I know that you seek JESUS who was crucified. He is not here, for He is risen, as He said” ... (Matt. 28:5-6) authenticates the resurrection story of our LORD and SAVIOUR, JESUS CHRIST, who is blessed forever. Of all the founders of religious groups in history, none carries the message of empty tomb, except JESUS CHRIST, the SON of the LIVING GOD, who is the founder of Christianity. The founders of Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and every other founder  of religion who lived and died are still in their graves, but JESUS CHRIST, the conquering SAVIOUR, died and resurrected, as He said (vs. 6). Biblically speaking, HE destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, *(2 Tim. 1:10). By this, therefore, this lesion asserts that the Gospel of the Resurrection of JESUS CHRIST gives:

(i)                    Life and not death (vs. 10)

(ii)                  The assurance of immortality after death, (vs. 10)

(iii)                 Concrete evidence that JESUS CHRIST is the Resurrection and life, (John 11:25)

THE RESURRECTION OF LIFE

The Resurrection of JESUS CHRIST marks Him out as the first fruit of resurrection (1 Cor. 15:20), as well as consolidates His claims as the Resurrection and Life, (John 11:25). Notice, also, that He says ... “the hour is coming in which all who are in the grave will hear His voice, and come forth –those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of condemnation” (John 5:26-29). And, this solemn biblical truth, our brother and prophet Daniel foretells, as he says, ... of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and eeverlasting contempt”, (Dan. 12:2). Now, to those who do not believe in resurrection, the Apostle Paul says ... “if CHRIST is preached that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But, if there is no resurrection of the dead, then CHRIST is not risen. And, if CHRIST is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty”... “For if CHRIST is not risen, your faith is futile; ... and those who have fallen asleep (or died) in CHRIST have perished”, (1 Cor. 15:12-18). This shows that:

(i)                    The resurrection to everlasting life hinges on faith in CHRIST and His resurrection, ( vs. 12-18)

(ii)                  Those who died without such faith will resurrect to shame, contempt and condemnation, (Dan. 12:2; John 5:28-29)

(iii)                 “if only in this life we have hope in CHRIST, we are of all men the most pitiable”, (1 Cor. 15:19)

THE RESURRECTION OF SHAME AND CONTEMPT

In the words of Prophet Daniel, some of those who sleep (or are buried) in the dust of the earth ....shall awake to shame and everlasting contempt (Dan. 12:2) , as JESUS remarks that at His resurrection command, those who have done evil will resurrect to condemnation, (John 5:28-29). But, how does one escape if one neglects so great a salvation which at the first began to be spoken by the LORD, and was confirmed to us by those who heard Him, (Heb. 2:3). It is biblicaally obvious that the main reason for the death and resurrection of JESUS CHRIST our SAVIOUR is to save humankind from everlasting condemnation (John 12:47), as “he who does not believes in Him is  condemned already” ... (John 3:18). This simply shows that, there is no other escape route. And, to believe that GOD would not punish evil doers in hell is to yield to the deception of Satan. For, the wicked shall be turned into hell and the nations that forget GOD”, (Psalm 9:17). Therefore, this lesson is a Gospel Appeal that calls on everyone to choose:

(i)                    What makes for resurrection to life, instead of what leads to resurrection of shame and contempt, (Dan. 12:2)

(ii)                  Doing good, instead of doing evil which leads to condemnation (John 5:28-29)

(iii)                 Not being condemned, but to be saved, (John 3:17-19)

In conclusion, please reflect that this lesion vividly shows that there are two types of resurrection for humankind, the first is the resurrection to everlasting life, and the second is to shame and everlasting contempt, (Dan. 12:2), and that one’s faith in CHRIST or otherwise determines the fate of one at the Last day, (John 3:17-18; 5:28-29). THE CHOICE IS NOW YOURS!

THE BIBLE AND PERSECUTION

PROF. BEN ONYEUKWU (REV.)

NCE (English); Dip (Computer Studies); ND/HD (Journalism); Dip, BA (Theology) MA, PhD.

Call: +2348037346939 E-mail: professorbenonyeukwu@yahoo.com

THE BIBLE AND PERSECUTION

Devotional Text: 2 Tim. 3:10-15

INTRODUCTION:

By way if definition, persecution is any ill or inhuman treatment to a person or group, especially because of their political or religious beliefs. According to the BBC English Dictionary, “if someone persecutes you, they treat you cruelly and unfairly over a long period of time”. In the words of the Apostle Paul, godliness attracts persecution from the world of sin and unrighteousness, this he says... “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in CHRIST JESUS will be persecuted” (2 Tim. 3:12). In this connection, our BLESSED LORD confers the beatitude of blessing on those who suffer persecution, when HE said, “blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven”, (Matt. 5:10)

GENERAL REMARKS

(1)       Persecution is a must for those who desire to live godly life in CHRIST JESUS, (2 Tim. 3:12)

(2)       Persecution helps spread the Good News about our LORD and BLESSED SAVIOUR, JESUS CHRIST,

 for the purpose of winning souls for HIM, (Acts 11:19-21)

(3)       Persecution is part of the hundredfold blessing which the LORD promises in HIS WORD, (Mark. 10:28-30)

(4)       Persecution can bring about the expulsion of the Gospel Minister(s) out of a community or region, (Acts 13:49-51)

PERSECUTION AND THE PERSECUTOR

The Holy Scripture which says, “bless those who persecute you, bless, and do not curse” (Rom. 12:14) clearly gives the stance of the LORD, for the believer, on those who persecute them, as it rules out any form of imprecatory prayer or insulting outbursts against the persecutor. Rather, it says the cruel activities of the persecutor should stir joy and not malice in the life of the believer, in keeping with the WORDS of our LORD and BLESSED SAVIOUR, JESUS CHRIST, which says, blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of ME. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven” ... (Matt. 5:11-12). The aforestated shows that persecution is a blessing in disguise, and the believer should not think otherwise, since there must be the trial of our faith, which offers GOD’s crown of life to those who would emerge victorious, (James 1:12). Based on what is said above, this lesson biblically states that the believer should:

(i)                    Pray for, as well as bless those who persecute them, instead of cursing them, (Rom. 12:14)

(ii)                  Rejoice and be glad when those who persecute them hurl insults at them, instead of becoming sorrowful, (Matt. 5:11-12)

(iii)                 Understand that those persecuting them are blindly blessing them, and making their reward great in heaven, and so, require mercy and not curse, (vs. 11-12)

PERSECUTION AND THE PERSECUTED

The persecuted are those who are at the receiving end of persecution. They are those who the persecutor pierces his sword of cruelty and unfairness into their lives, bringing bitterness and anguish to their spirits, souls and bodies, just because of godliness. To this end, the Apostle Peter says, “If you are insulted because of the NAME of CHRIST, you are blessed, for the SPIRIT of glory and of GOD rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise GOD that you bear the name, (1 Peter 4:14-16). Therefore, the believer should make up his mind to face the fact of persecution, since GOD’s WORD says that ... “everyone who want to live a godly life in CHRIST JESUS will be persecuted”, (1 Tim 3:12), and so, as a good soldier of JESUS CHRIST, he should be prepared to endure every hardship which comes as a result of persecution, (2 Tim. 2:3). By this, also, this lesson states that the believer should:

(i)                    Endure persecution and not to quit the faith because of it, since the LORD will always rescue those who

 are persecuted, (2 Tim. 3:10-11)

(ii)                   Know that no persecution is capable of separating the true believer from the love of CHRIST, (Rom. 8:35-39)

(iii)                 Understand that one who quit the faith because of persecution demonstrates the fact that one is not a true believer, (vs. 35-39)

PERSECUTION AND THE HUNDREDFOLD BLESSING

The statement of JESUS CHRIST our LORD and BLESSED SAVIOUR, which renders that, “no one who has left home or brother or sister or mother or father or children or fields for my sake and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times, as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields- and with them persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life” (Matt. 10:28-30) indicates that persecution could be a means to an end, in terms of how GOD blesses HIS people. This implies that a persecution which pulls believers out of certain homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields, could be GOD’s hidden instrument to take them to places of HIS Work and better fortunes. For testimonies abound which show that most Christians in positions of affluence in today’s’ world, were products of acute persecutions that forcefully ejected them out of their humble homes and possessions to their present places of prominence, and proves that the WORD of the LORD is sure and certain. In this connection, therefore, the believer is encouraged to:

(i)                    See beyond the pains of persecution, since GOD’s WORD says it comes with a hundredfold blessing, (vs. 28-30)

(ii)                  Come to terms with the biblical truth that when persecution results in members of one’s household rejecting and ejecting one, the LORD definitely provides replacement at the new destination, (vs. 28-30)

(iii)                 Be steadfast in his faith, irrespective of the cruelty of persecution, since ... “in all things GOD works for the good of those who love HIM” ...(Rom. 8:28)

In conclusion, please recall that “blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven” ... (Matt. 5:11-12). LET THIS BE YOUR POINT OF FOCUS!