SOD 2 LESSONS

 

LESSON 1

THE FAMILY

KEY VERSE

“God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” (Genesis 1:28)

I. GOD’S PLAN FOR THE FAMILY

Marriage is an extension of God’s own nature as expressed in Genesis 1:27. The fullness of God’s happiness, peace, abundance and greatness was bestowed upon the human race through the first couple that He created. Had they kept the principles that God established, they would not have needed to go through so many difficulties such as pain, sickness, misery, sadness, suffering, etc. Even though God had carefully prepared the place where this couple would inhabit (with their descendants), and even though God had thought of every last detail necessary for their eternal happiness, there was one area where God chose not to intervene, the human will which He had placed in each person.

This would be the inheritance that He had entrusted to them, to administer as they saw fit. But the happiness of the couple depended on their obedience to the Word of God. Even if the couple was not educated in other subjects that would affect their marriage such as finance, educating their children, etc., with just their simple obedience to God, He would guide them into having the best home possible. The reason is because “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” 

It is important to understand that God’s intention to redeem marriages and families is to restore them to His original plan. A part of that plan is that our understanding needs to adjust to the divine purpose of living effectively within the relationships that God has ordained for our homes.

A.  God established a foundation (Matthew 7:24-27)

Every couple goes into marriage with the illusion of building the best home in the world, but in order to do that they must work on laying the foundation. The foundation of a home does not depend on your profession, the size of your bank account or the family you came from. The Lord said, “The foundation of a home is hearing, keeping and doing”. This combination of the three elements is as strong as when you put bricks, sand and cement together to lay a foundation. When someone builds a tall tower, a deep hole must be dug into the ground, in accordance to the size of the planned construction; then a good strong foundation must be laid. A home must be built with the knowledge that the foundation will add the support of the family’s needs.

B.  God created marriage (Genesis 2:18)

Marriage was not man’s idea; it was a divine idea. God created man with the capacity to feel attraction for the opposite sex; man towards woman and woman towards man. God gave Adam a perfect helpmate, someone that would partner with him; a woman who would be his helper and support. Together they would make a team. In His infinite wisdom, God chose two completely different people and brought them together in a covenant of faithful and permanent love. When this happens, a miracle takes place. These two individuals join together in a mysterious way to become one. The purpose of this union is to bring forth a new generation for God. (Malachi 2:15)

C.  God united them in marriage (Genesis 1:28)

The fullness of the blessing comes, not when people are single, but when they married. God blessed the couple and both were given the same degree of responsibility. If the couple abides in full harmony, these three blessings abide with them:

Fruitfulness

The fruit determines the type. The first couple’s life was innocent and pure therefore the fruit should have been the fruit of sanctification.

Multiplication

What is seen in the natural realm is true also in the spiritual. Children in a marriage are the result of teamwork. In the same way, abundant fruit is seen in ministry when both work together as a team. The end result is multiplication.

 3. Lordship

A life of holiness should lead to multiplication when this happens authority comes. A couple united in harmony being led by the Word of God, is as powerful as a well organized army. The secret is to always work as a team. When Eve wanted to be independent she opened the door to the tempter. But had she first consulted with her husband, things would have been very different.

D.  God set guidelines (Genesis 2:15-25)

Vs.15 Man should provide for his home and protect his family.

He is like the guardian angel over his house. The strategy of the adversary is to attack him with vices of negative or unclean thoughts, evil desires and sinful conduct. If the enemy is able to influence man’s will and keep him enslaved to sin, it becomes easier for him to attack the rest of his family (Mark 3:27).

Vs.16-17 Man should be obedient.

God allows mankind to go through certain trials that will ensure Him of their true, heartfelt love. 

Vs.18 Fellowship.

The woman is the perfect complement to man’s life and has the ability to fulfill all his expectations.

Vs.19 Man determines his family’s destiny.

He decides the outcome or destiny of his children. Fathers can make their children either the happiest people alive or the most miserable because his words have authority over his family.

Vs.21-23 From the two He made one.

The miracle of marriage has its roots from the creation of mankind for the woman was created from the same nature or substance of the man. When a couple is able to understand their roots and their destiny, they will be able to work as a team and take advantage of all the things available in order to be truly happy.

Vs.24 Protection of intimacy.

Every couple needs to protect their intimacy. The best way to mature is to have the challenge of having to “make it” on their own.

Vs.25 Transparency.

With sincerity and integrity, a couple can reach the highest pinnacles of family harmony.

II. THE IMPORTANCE OF A FAMILY

A.  Marital Stability (Luke 14:27-30)

Allow me to paraphrase this text: Anyone then, wanting to build this great tower called marriage, must first see if they are able to go to the very end.  May it not be that the person (be it the husband or the wife) gets married full of enthusiasm but after a few years abandons the spouse, ending in separation. This person may become a laughing stock befuddled by such mockery as, “Yeah, he stared out so excited. But now look, he’s left his wife and his children!”

In order to build a marriage you must start out visualizing how you two are going to be happy forever. You need to know from the start that you will have the strength to persevere together and reproduce for several generations. Within divine guidelines, marriage is one of the greatest blessings, especially when you understand that the blessing of God is enriching and does not bring sadness to our lives. In other words, God will keep you from ending up in separation.

B.  Offspring (Psalm 127:3-5)

What good is it to build a home and have no family to live in it after you are gone? Napoleon, despite all his efforts, was not able to create a dynasty. Thousands of wealthy people would give half of everything they own, just to hear the cry of a newborn babe in their family. 

Children are the inheritance that God will give us. When a man dies without children, his home is still not built.

A warrior is happy to see his arrows fly where he himself is not able to go. Good children are like arrows headed for the targets that their parents point them toward. What marvels can a man accomplish, if he has affectionate children who fulfill the wishes of their father and pay heed to his counsel!

C.  A blessed family (Psalm 128:3)

Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine within your house and your children like olive plants around your table. The vine is a type of happiness and fruitfulness. These are the two abilities the Lord has given wives. Children are like olive plants. The olive tree represents the anointing of God, which is what strengthens families to conquer all. The meaning behind the anointing with oil is that God will fight for us.

D.  Conjugal love (Ephesians 5:28)

The standard that God set for each man is very high: love your wife with the same love that Christ loved the church and gave Himself as a sacrifice for. This was all for the redemption of the church. Marital love must be fed daily with words, attitudes and nice details. You must fight to protect the members of your family from any emotional wounds. There must be a firm commitment by both spouses to never allow the flame of romantic love to die down or burn out.

E.  The woman’s leadership (Titus 2:4)

Paul emphasized working with homogeneous groups. In the scripture he encourages women to develop in ministry and to be trained so that they can teach other women. The best way to do this is in groups made strictly of women where the issues discussed can be specifically designed for that group. The two foundational issues far women’s groups are love toward your spouse and love toward your children.

III. TAKING RESPONSIBILITY

A. The use of proper discipline (Proverbs 13:24, 22:15)

There are three steps in the use of proper discipline in the family:

1. To edify

In the same way we establish limits for the proper growth of a tree so that it does not grow twisted, so must a father do with his children. He recognizes that his children must be corrected from an early age and to set limits, in order to help in their growth. This is true in any type of discipline.

2. To encourage

Discipline should be focused on encouraging the children to become better day by day. A negative attitude or the use of negative speech can bring emotional destruction and kill their drive to overcome. It is important for parents to encourage and bless their children daily. Each word spoken over them can be as powerful as a prophecy.

3. To comfort

Children need to know they are not alone in their struggles but that they can count on the help and support of their parents, to whom they can run to in any situation and find refuge. Our children’s worth is not determined by what they do but by who they are.

B. The importance of good instruction          (Proverbs 22:15)

In general, children have the tendency to believe that they know best. But it is the parent’s duty to guide them down the path of truth, with love and by their example. The world may offer many alternatives but there is only one way to the Father; Jesus. If we can help them enter into an intimate relationship with God, as parents, we have fulfilled a large part of our responsibility. We should also seek to invest time in their lives as they grow up. Parents should look for bridges of communication to cultivate their relationship with their children.

C.  Providing for your family (1 Timothy 5:8)

A human’s life develops in cycles. During the first cycle, the parents are the ones working and providing for all the needs in the home. In the second cycle, the children are the ones with the strength of providing for their families. This is the time within the cycle when they should honor their parents with the necessary provision, to avoid being classified by God as “Worse than an unbeliever.”

Whoever carries the responsibility of providing for their home should do so with an attitude of faith and a generous heart. In doing so, the inherent blessing in the relationship will not be lost through any negative comments.

D.  Moral values (Colossians 3:21; Ephesians 6:4)

We should have balance when we discipline our children. It should not be too drastic, but the other extreme of excessive permissiveness should also be avoided. Both extremes are dangerous because it could damage or spoil the children as was the case with the sons of Eli. He never disciplined them and this brought about early death. (1 Samuel 3:11-14)

E.  The virtuous woman (Proverbs 31:10)

The virtuous woman builds her house. She is the center of the home. She is able to discover the talents and gifting of her children, discerns good business decisions for her husband, knows where to raise her children and has the ability to bring prosperity to her home.

F.  The ideal marriage (Mark 10:6-9)

We can say that the divorce rate within Christianity is minimal, thanks to those covenant vows that the man and the woman spoke as they joined their lives in marriage before God. Since the Lord is a covenant God, He is keenly aware of those lives coming together under His blessing. He watches over those who are truly trying to fulfill His commandments.

There are many reasons for divorcing: infidelity, lack of love or communication, false expectations, etc. But those who have the blessing of God will have the strength to overcome any obstacle.

G.  God’s unconditional love (Psalm 27:10)

In general, humans have many spiritual voids that stem mainly from childhood and were caused from a variety of reasons or circumstances: For some, parental neglect, due to abandonment, is a factor. For others, indifferences and stress in parenting became the reason. Even though the parents may have forgotten their primary responsibility of protecting their children, God does not forget. He comes in and takes over the responsibility abdicated by the parents. For that reason, God is always waiting with open arms to comfort each one of His children.

CONCLUSION

The origin of the family goes back to the origin of mankind and is part of God’s plan for all humanity. That is why God’s plan is to restore the family with the purpose to rebuild that which the enemy tried to destroy.

APPLICATION

During this week, take time to thank God for the family He gave you. Seek to reach out with loving arms to each family member living at home. Make lists of each one of their qualities and thank God for their lives.

LESSON 2

FAMILY MEMBERS AND THEIR PROPER ROLES (Part 1)

KEY VERSE

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. ‘Honor your father and mother’ which is the first commandment with a promise ‘that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.’ Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:1-4)

I.  THE FATHER

The heart of God is that of a father’s. His very nature says that He is first and foremost a father. In our Father’s heart there is love, sweetness, understanding, mercy and provision. No one has greater love as the Father does. He loved the world so much that He gave His son, Jesus Christ, for our redemption. If an earthly father gives only the best to his children, how much more will our heavenly father do so with each one of you? In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus set a high standard for each of His disciples: “Be ye perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48).We will become outstanding leaders when we first become excellent fathers.

Paul said, “For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name” (Ephesians 3:14-15). God is the solid foundation of the family. The word “family” originates from the root word “paternity”. 

God wants to restore true paternity in the family through the men by having them take back their authority as fathers, who build relationships with their children which establishes their family’s destiny.

A father who is led by God shows character qualities different from those learned in the world.

A.  A merciful Father (Luke 15:20)

It is exciting to see how Jesus revealed the Father’s heart to us through the use of parables. For example, in the parable of the prodigal son, the father is anxiously waiting to forgive his son when he returns, in spite of his rebelliousness. He had always been waiting for his return and when he saw him arriving from afar, he ran out to meet him and embraced his son with a blessing. That was one of my first experiences as a new Christian. I sensed that my Father’s arms were opened, extended to me, wherein I could take my refuge. I did not hesitate to place myself right there. This brought so much security and emotional stability to my life that I never wanted that moment to end. Anyone wanting to love another person must first receive love from the Father.

B.  Father of multitudes (Genesis 17:5-6)

“Abram” means exalted father, but his new name “Abraham” means father of multitudes. God was pleased by the faith of this great man and knew that he would raise his children in the fear of God. It pleased Him to multiply his descendents for a thousand generations.

C. A Father who blesses his children (Genesis 27:27-29)

The blessing is the path that the father prepares for his children. Every word proceeding from his lips activates the spiritual realm causing things to move in order to fulfill the words he spoke over his children. I highly recommend that fathers speak daily blessings over their children. They should pray for their divine protection, spiritual peace, financial provision, family harmony and the anointing for multiplication.

D.  An exemplary Father (1 King 9:4-5)

David was known as a man after God’s own heart. One of the best descriptions of his life is found in Psalm 15.

Vs.1 He was committed to the House of God

Vs.2 He led a life of permanent integrity

Vs.3 He never spoke evil about anyone nor accepted gossip about others

Vs.4 He kept his word and never took it back

Vs.5 He was transparent concerning his finances

E.  A substitute Father (Esther 2:11)

When Esther became an orphan, Mordecai, her uncle, took on the role of her father. He cared for her and trained her up as his own daughter. Even though the emotional void in Esther’s life may have been great, he was able to fill it in such a way that she eventually became a woman in her own right knowing how to trust in God. She grew in her faith and later won the support of her own people. God was able to use all of this to make her a queen in the midst of a pagan nation. This later worked to save the lives of all the Jews living in that country.

II. THE MOTHER

God blessed me with the best mother in the world. Even though she had twelve children, she was careful to watch over each one of them. When my father died thirty eight years ago, people wondered how she would raise and educate her children. She would later experience the truth of God’s word where it said, “God is a husband to the widows and a father to the orphans.” How she was able to do it, I don’t know, but God knows. Everything she touched was multiplied and there was always abundance. This proved that God never withheld his provision to us. I can say that my mother was a woman who lived only for her children.

I rejoiced greatly when at the age of eighty one, she started her first home cell group meeting with sixteen people in attendance. Everyone there was about as young as she was! Seeing her actively involved in ministry has brought great satisfaction to me. I have never seen her as happy as she is now serving God. I have memories of love, affection, self denial, patience, dedication, and above all, of a woman who always trusted in God.

A.  Virtuous Woman (Proverbs 31:10-31)

The author of (Proverbs presents us with all the benefits that accompany the virtuous woman.

Vs.10 She is a gift from God to her husband. Her worth is far above jewels.

Vs.11 Her husband trusts her and she has the anointing to attract prosperity.

Vs.12 She is always a blessing to her husband.

Vs.13 She is a hard worker.

Vs.14 She is resourceful.

Vs.15 She looks out for her family’s well being.

Vs.16 She works in order to leave an inheritance for her children.

Vs.17 She is strong and courageous.

Vs.18 She is financially discerning and has a sensitive spirit to divine revelations received in dreams.

Vs.19 She knows how to do her job.

Vs.20 She has mercy on the needy. 

Vs.21 She guards her household. 

Vs.22 She is elegant.

Vs.23 She encourages her husband in ministry. 

Vs.24 She’s entrepreneurial.

Vs.25 She prepares for the future events.

Vs.26 She always has a word of wisdom and she knows how to practice mercy.

Vs.27 She can carry her own weight without being a burden to anyone.

Vs.28 She has her family’s respect and admiration. 

Vs.29 She is extraordinary and excels above everyone else.

Vs.30 She is not deceived by outward beauty but puts confidence in God only.

Vs.31 Her work speaks more than her words.

LESSON 3

FAMILY MEMBERS AND THEIR PROPER ROLES (Part 2)

III. WHAT ARE YOU SOWING INTO YOUR FAMILY? (Galatians 6:7-9)

The home is like fertile soil where the words spoken in the past have grown, bringing all their consequences with them, into the present. What we plant today will bring its fruit tomorrow.

Today, society is faced with the deterioration of the family’s nucleus. It is one of the greatest crises of humanity. Many things like TV, radio, magazines and the like, have had the type of influence that has cut a line of corrosion right down the middle of the human family. Because of this, protection must remain at an all time high and even more so for couples who become involved in ministry. When this is done, it will leave a positive effect on everyone, especially the children as they too develop the desire to follow the parent’s example. As a couple, we need to sow good things into the lives of our children (as the world is ever before them which sows seeds of evil and despair).

A.  Motivate them to become positive individuals

Positive is my word of choice when I describe a life of faith that is not easily churned by circumstances. To me a positive person is someone that has learned to speak the Word of God only. The opposite of positive is negative.

Parents, I admonish you to teach your children to be positive. Meet with them and teach them the message of truth so that they may learn to see all things with eyes of faith.

B.  Teach them integrity

Children are formed and trained from a very young age. When Paul wrote Titus 2:7, he affirmed, “In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness...” (NIV) For instance, teach them to be considerate of the emotions of others; they should never play with someone’s feelings. Teach them that betrayal towards his or her friends is showing lack of integrity also. The primary example comes from the family itself because you are to be examples for your children.

C.  Help them in the spiritual area

Just as we must feed our physical body, our spiritual being must be nourished also. Spiritual nourishment comes from the study of God’s Word and our ongoing life of prayer. Each one of my daughters has developed the habit of having time of intimacy with God daily. They also journalize all the teachings they receive through His Word. Their commitment with the Lord is to first feed their spiritual life and then feed their physical bodies. I recommend that you meet with your family daily, for at least fifteen minutes, and share something from the scripture. This habit will bring strong unity in the family.

D.  Motivate them to have a surmounting spirit

A crisis plaguing our society today is the fact that we are overly saturated with information that has diminished the human spirit. Conquest has been replaced with a spirit of conformity and mere subsistence. We don’t want that for our children, so let’s motivate them to influence that sphere of society, in which they are involved with, the example of their Christian living. This world is in a desperate search for stability within the family, not another electrical appliance or a faster vehicle. We know that people will only find what they need through Jesus Christ. So let’s encourage our children to be ambassadors of Christ at work or in school.

E.  Help them have a balanced self-image

Parents should help each one of their children with their self-esteem, keeping in mind their own struggles with self-acceptance at one time or another:

Speak words of blessing to them each day 

Honor them for their accomplishments

Do not embarrass them when things don’t go as planned

Help them to see adversity as small steps toward making them better people

Help them to see that they are God’s special treasures

Help each one of your children to have a proper self-image

F.  Help them follow the rules

Help them to have discipline and maintain rules. Teach them to keep a schedule for everything including their personal lives, their studies, personal commitments (that they need to keep) fulfilling their ministry, and one for their daily relationship with God.

G.  Teach them how to relate to others

Have you noticed that many young people don’t greet others? Teach them to be courteous toward other people, their friends, cousins and anyone outside of their norm. Teach them to speak and express themselves properly, not using street vernacular. Teach them also to dress properly. And as for their self-education, teach them to be good readers, especially of books dealing with faith and success.

IV. RESPONSIBILITIES THE PARENTS MUST SHARE

Communication with your children

Another societal problem facing us today is that technology has brought virtual friends into our households, putting distance between family members. This means that parents and children must make an effort to re-build bridges of communication, bringing more closeness, as they lay aside the things that serve as obstacles to better communication.

Set time aside each day: Children don’t ask for much, just to know that they matter. If you start with at least fifteen minutes, this would be great progress.

Dialogue with them: Avoid raising your voice, blaming, making fun, or complaining, etc. Let everything you speak be positive, conveying faith and motivation for them.

Create a good atmosphere for communication: If someone is offended and no one has asked for forgiveness, it can make the atmosphere very tense. It is imperative to have all past wounds healed and all resentment put aside.

Have recreational activities that involve all the children keeping in mind their individual age differences.

Keep them involved in important family decisions.

Treat them like you treat your own friends.

Make them feel like they are the most important people in your life.

V. THE CHILDREN’S ROLE

A person’s success depends upon how they treat their own parents; if they despise, hurt or curse them, their days will be shortened. If they bless and honor them, their days will be prolonged.

A.  Honor your parents (Ephesians 6:1-3)

Honoring your parents is a divine command that brings a double promise with it:

It will go well with you in all that you do.

Your life will be prolonged.

Be obedient to them (Ephesians 6:1)

Listen to their counsel and teaching (Proverbs 1:8) 

Bring joy to their lives (Proverbs 10:1)

Care for them when they are old (Proverb 23:22)

Declare over them in the form of blessing, that their understanding will be clear and their lives will shine. (Proverbs 20:20)

CONCLUSION

There must be an understanding that God’s purpose is to establish priestly families and that each family member is to make the effort to evoke the presence of God in their homes so that God’s Spirit can keep our families in harmony.

STUDENTS’ ASSIGNMENT

Make a table or chart specifying roles for each family member with the purpose of identifying wrong attitudes and praying that God would change your family. This is an important project for the teacher to effectively identify the specific problems in the families of the students.

APPLICATION

During the week you are going to pray for each one of your family members and you are going to bless them, taking authority so that each one may fulfill their proper roles in the family.

LESSON 4

STRENGTHENING COMMUNICATION IN THE FAMILY

KEY VERSE

“For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your word you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:37)

I. DEFINITION

Communicate: Give or exchange ideas, feelings, information or such things in writing, speaking or by way of signs, symbols, etc. This process can be described as verbal or non-verbal communication. At any rate, it is a means of sharing information with another person where one person comes to understand what the other person expresses. Parts of communication include speaking, listening and understanding.

A.  Moving towards better communication

Even though we are living in the age of communication, the number one problem in most homes is lack of excellent communication. There is nothing more tragic than experiencing the deterioration of your relationship with your spouse and not being able salvage it. The bible has within it the answer that we need to recover our lost values and have excellent communication. It is readily available to all of us.

Watch out for confusion. Solomon said, wisdom will build your home. There is an urgent need for good communication within the heart of the family. Without it, it is impossible to build a good home. The tower of Babel was left unfinished and deserted because no one was able to understand his fellow man. I can imagine the moment: the architect has an idea, he expresses it, but his words are in a language that no one around understands. The engineer presumes to have understood the idea but when he expresses his thoughts; all the rest of the workers became discouraged and abandon their work.

B.  Actions

James 2:14-17. Faith without works is dead. 

Matthew 21:28-31. Obedience is what pleases God. 

2 Corinthians 11:23, 27. The seal of Paul’s apostleship was earned through hard work.

2 Timothy 2:4-6. Paul used three examples: the soldier, the athlete and a hard working farmer. What gives honor to them is how they perform their jobs.

In a conversation, actions represent 37% of what is said.

C.  Attitudes

Numbers 13:31-33. Because of their unbelieving attitude, ten of the twelve spies gave bad reports and a whole generation was lost and died in the wilderness.

Numbers  13:30. Caleb and Joshua had a different spirit and therefore a different attitude for which God rewarded them. They were permitted to enter the promised  land.

Out of anger, Moses beat the rock that God commanded him to speak to. Because of this outburst of anger (angry attitude), he was not able to enter Canaan.

D.  The power of words

The worst insults are generally made in moments of anger or desperation. We know that the mouth speaks from the abundance of the heart (Luke 6:45). Our words either dignify us or put us to shame. 

Sometimes men forget that women are fragile vessels and the easiest way to destroy them is through offensive, demeaning words, words that prompt humiliation or violence. Nevertheless, Jesus taught us the correct way to treat our wives: (Ephesians 5:25 says, “Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church.”

The relationship between Christ and the church became a great example of what a proper relationship should be.

Jesus always expressed words of love and hope towards each one of His disciples.

He spoke words of protection: “Fear not little flock, because it has pleased your father in heaven to give you the kingdom.”

What the Bible says about our words:

Your words determine the type of person you are, good or bad (Matthew 12:35).

Avoid trivial conversations that bear no fruit (Matthew 12:36). 

Your words will either save you or condemn you (Matthew 12:37). 

Your words should be motivating and joyous (Colossians 4:6). 

Avoid offending with your words. In a conversation, these may be only 6% of your words but they can and will become unforgettable (James 3:2).

These passages speak much about words. First, they speak of having wisdom to address each person according to the circumstance at hand, and secondly they explain that we become perfect when we don’t hurt others with our words.

II. WHAT CAN GOOD COMMUNICATION BUILD?

Those who have learned to relate well with people have also been able to penetrate society in an effective way.  Those types of people that are influential, affect the behavior of many.

It is imperative that the communicator be concise, clear, precise, and anointed.

A.  Clear

The communicator should understand that the very method of his message is in direct competition with television, movies and other means of graphic, entertaining presentations. Therefore he must present his message with all the clarity that is possible! This is the reason Jesus spoke in parables, making his message so clear that the authors of the four gospels wrote their interpretation exactly alike.

B.  Concise

It is not the quantity but the effectiveness of words that can transform lives. Jesus spoke a few words because He only wanted to speak what was necessary. Every word coming from His lips was full of power to the extent that He was able to influence even the weather with the power of His words.

Peter began preaching in Cornelius’ house and had spoken far only a minute and a half when the Holy Spirit interrupted him and fell upon those who were listening. They were all filled with His presence. Peter understood that the message he had preached was what they needed, for the purpose of God to be fulfilled (Acts 10:33).

Sadly, many good messages are ruined because preachers don’t finish on time. It is better for people to wish you had spoken more instead of less.

C.  Precise

Avoid getting off the subject and take advantage of every second God gives you to share with others. It may be the only opportunity that you have. Discernment will give you an effective word that will supply the needs of those listening. Solomon said that it was good to speak the right words at the correct time. Paul advised Timothy to know how to handle well the Word of God as a soldier handling his weapons.

D.  Anointed

The anointing comes as a result of our intimacy with God. It is our duty to bring down the presence of God wherever we go because the eyes of God are upon the righteous of the earth and His ears are attentive to their cries. Every believer has the full backing of the angelic host. Jesus told His disciples that He cast out demons by the Spirit of God. He worked in harmony with the Father and everything He did was to bring the Kingdom of God to the people so that they may receive life.

III. MOVING TOWARDS GOOD COMMUNICATION

Speak at the right time. How good a word spoken at the right time is. Proverbs 15:23. There is a time for every event under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

Speak, don’t shout. A gentle answer turns away wrath. But a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable, but the mouth of fools spouts folly (Proverbs 15:1-2). He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city (Proverbs 16:32).

It is difficult to come to an agreement when both persons are out of control, shouting and exchanging offensive words. That does not portray good character.

Think before you speak and don’t speak before you think. The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things ((Proverbs 15:28). If couples would put this rule into practice, many misunderstandings could be avoided in marriage.

Unleash life through your words. The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit ((Proverbs 15:4).

In a great majority of homes, negative talk has been allowed to dominate the atmosphere. More time is spent on accentuating flaws rather than the focusing of the positive attributes of one another. This creates tremendous emotional wounds.

Speak with knowledge, wisdom, kindness and respect. The lips of the wise spread knowledge; but the hearts of fools do not ((Proverbs 15:7). It is important to speak edifying words within a marriage. Words that encourage and motivate. Always exalt your partner’s qualities and treat them the same as you want to be treated.

Speak with understanding. The wise in heart will be called prudent, and sweetness of speech increases learning. The heart of the wise instructs his mouth and adds grace to his lips ((Proverbs 16:21, 23). The words spoken to your spouse should be words of support and comfort. They should always be able to depend on you far that. So, be a blessing, not a burden.

Let your words be sweet and healing. Pleasant words are honeycomb to the soul and healing to the bones ((Proverbs 16:24). 

Your words can make your spouse’s life more joyful or embittered. They can either bring healing or sickness, motivation or discouragement. You can decide what type of home you want to have.

CONCLUSION

In order to have a good level of communication, we should be concise, clear, precise and anointed. We need to understand that everything we share must be to edify, motivate and support. Good communication is a weapon we can use to reduce conflicts and improve our family’s relationships.

STUDENTS’ ASSIGNMENT

Practice a more effective method of communication to improve your family’s relationship. Do something new with regards to communicating to your family members. Ex: Write a letter, spend a longer time in the dining table talking to them, inviting your family out for snack & talk, start using po & opo, etc.

Make a report on your experience.

APPLICATION

Review the words that you use to address your loved ones; change how you address those whom you do not have good communication with.

LESSON 5

INNER HEALING

What is “Inner Healing”

Man has a BODY, SOUL AND SPIRIT (1 Thessalonians 5:23)

What is the reason why the soul gets sick?

When people are in negative or bad situations, their feelings get hurt and the soul becomes wounded. Therefore, if the feelings get hurt, the soul becomes wounded. 

Past experiences, which brings back painful memories, makes a person easily get angry in present situations. A believer that is wounded inside and is not healed will not be able to fully serve the Lord. 

Four situations that needs inner healing

1st case – A woman that cannot worship God

2nd case –A brother that was a gay/homosexual before

3rd case –A lesbian that was sexually abused by her father

4th case –A woman: Her mother wanted to abort her when she was still in the womb

The way to Divine healing

If the person is an unbeliever, guide the person to the acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. This would make a person accept the Love of God in his/her heart. (Romans 5:5)

Allow the person to remember the incident which caused his/her inner wound. If the person cannot remember, pray in the Spirit/to the Holy Spirit because this will help the person remember the incident.

If the person is hurt, Jesus wants to heal and encourage that person. The love of Christ (John 15:9) will encourage and heal. If sin was committed, Jesus will definitely forgive and cleanse that person

Let the person/patient release forgiveness to anyone who has hurt him/her. The person has to speak forgiveness because it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. (Romans 10:10)

If there are other situations which caused emotional wounds, follow the steps above in order to achieve inner healing.

Signs that a person is healed inwardly

When a person can worship and thank God without any emotional hurts, this shows that the inner wounds caused by past experiences have been healed. 

LESSON 6

SPIRITUAL WARFARE

We fight spiritual battles: spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12)

Every believer is included in the spiritual warfare. (2 Corinthians 10:4)

Our enemy is Satan and the evil spirits (Ephesians 6:12)

The origin of Satan (Isaiah 14:12-14, Ezekiel 28:14-15)

Satan means ‘adversary’

Satan was named Lucifer before (Isaiah 14:12)

He was made by God wonderfully (Ezekiel 28:15)

Inside his heart, Lucifer decided to sin (Isaiah 14:13)

The rebellion of Lucifer is according to Isaiah 14:13-14

The Lord gave the angels and human the freedom to choose because God is love.

The Lord did not create Satan or evil but this started when Lucifer rebelled against the Lord along with 1/3 of the angels. (Revelation 12:4)

The unseen enemy –we should not be ignorant of his schemes (2 Corinthians 2:11) 

One of his schemes is to hide himself and he uses instruments in attacking the believers of Christ.

There are spiritual battles/strongholds in every place. Do not let your guard down.

The enemy has been defeated through the cross. (Colossians 2:14-15)

Jesus disarmed the authorities of their powers.

Jesus expose this to everyone

Jesus has already won over them.

The victory of Jesus over the adversary have been given to all Christians (1 Corinthians 15:57)

Every believer becomes victorious and is seated with Christ in the heavenly realm (Ephesians 2:4-6)

Every believer is alive with Christ

Every believer is raised up with Christ

Every believer is seated with Christ in the heavenly realm

Because we are victorious with Jesus, he commanded us to drive out demons. (Mark 16:17)

A believer does not have to pray for victory, instead, enforce the victory Jesus gave to every believer.

Why did Jesus still allow the enemy to disturb us? (Judges 3:1-2)

 God teaches us warfare in order for us to become victorious.

If there is no enemy that needs to be defeated, we would not be victorious. However, if we overcome, we would reign with Christ Jesus (Revelation 20:4)

The weapon used for battles

The Lord gave us weapons for our battles which are very powerful. (2 Corinthians 10:4)

Let us demolish the demonic territories using our heavenly weapons.

The following are the weapons we have to use:

Prayer

Petition

Fasting

Praise and Worship

Word of God

Name of Jesus

Blood of Jesus

The Word of God

The sword of the spirit is the word of God and this is one of weapons every believer should use. (Ephesians 6:17)

Jesus talks about the double-edged sword coming out of His mouth which strikes down nations (Revelation 1:16, 19:15)

The word of God is sharper than any double-edged sword. (Hebrews 4:12)

Jesus used the word of God as a weapon (Matthew 4:1-11)

Actual situations where the word of God was used as a weapon.

A brother who is a doctor and is afraid of riding airplanes (2 Timothy 1:7)

A sister that experiences stomach ache (James 4:17)

The name of Jesus (John 14:12-14, 16:23-24)

Jesus gave believers the right to use His name. (Mark 16:17-18, John 14:12-14, 16:23-24)

Peter used the name of Jesus (Acts 3:3-6, 9:34) as well as Paul (Acts 16:18)

The reason why we can use the name of Jesus (Philemon 5:11), we can ask for anything in the name of Jesus if we:

Humble ourselves before God and

Become obedient to his commands

Actual situations where the name of Jesus was used.

Giving of bible to distant places

When walking through a forest with a lot of leech or blood sucking insects

The blood of Jesus

The importance of the blood of Christ (Hebrews 9:11-12)

The blood of Jesus was offered to God for everyone. This was done once and will never be repeated

This shows that the shedding of the blood of Jesus which served as an offering is complete and does not have to be repeated

The shedding of the blood of Jesus was done once and this is for everyone.

This shows that the benefits given by the blood of Christ is for everyone.

The blood of Jesus was shed for the eternal redemption of everyone. ‘

The benefits given by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross

The following are the benefits given because of the sacrifice Jesus did on the      cross

Forgiveness of sins (1 John 1:7-9)

Everlasting life (1 John 5:11-13)

Boldly enter His presence (Hebrew 10:9-20)

The blood of Jesus is: the new and alive way through the Father

Healing from sickness (1 Peter 2:24) 

The blood of Jesus also gives healing from sickness

Protection (Exodus 12:23, John 1:29)

Weapon (Revelation 12:11, Matthew 18:18)

Ability to do his will (Hebrew 13:20-21)

LESSON 7

DELIVERANCE

Jesus’ ministry and His disciples

Jesus: preached about freedom from bondages

Disciples: He chooses 12 to be united with Him, for them to have power to heal the sick and deliver the demonized. Mark 3:14-15)

Works of the Devil

Oppression – the devils attacks the mind and darts deception to the mind.

Solution: Renewing of Mind (Rom 12:2, Fil 2:5)

Depression – the devils attacks the heart and mind until the victim will be convinced that wicked things are good (e.g. Juan 13:2)

Solution: Repentance and go back to the Lord (Mal 3:7-18)

Possession- the devil will lead the whole life of the victim (e.g Juan 13:27)

The devil could enter to the heart through the victim

Lust

Selfishness

Fear

Sickness or disaster

Example: Mark 9:14-29

Practical steps to deliver the possessed person 

Create a team for deliverance 

3-4 members 

Believers that are filled with Holy Spirit

The team leader must have experience conducting deliverance 

Fasting Mark 9:29)

At this time the Lord will reveal the spirit and his wicked works

Meditating the Word of God because it will be your power 

Our right in Christ (Col 2:9-10, Epeso 1:19-23, 2:4-6)

The power was in the believer (Luke 10:19, 1 John 4:4, 1 John 3:8, Mark 16:17-18)

Weapons for warfare

-Praise and Worship (Psalm 149:6-9, Psalm 8:2)

-Word of God (Heb 4:12)

-The Name of Jesus (Mark 16:17, Phil 2:8-11)

-Blood of Jesus (Revelation 12:11)

Bind the strong man. (Mat 12:29, Mat 18:18)

What to do before coming to the victim

Pray for blood covering to yourself and the group and also to the property and family of the victim. 

Unbelievers should not be allowed in the deliverance room. 

For the victim – in conscious and normal behavior

-Preach the Good news (Roma 1:15)

- Receive let him/her receive Jesus and ask him/her to release forgiveness.

-Command him/her to leave the demon

For the victim – in unconscious manner and abnormal behavior

-bind the victim through prayer to restore her well being and consciousness

-Follow the procedure for the victim in a normal behavior

-rebuke the demons

DIRECTION: BE ON GUARD AND BE ACTIVE always on the works of the devil. It would be easy if you already know the devil to cast out, so don’t stop rebuking the demon. Surrender your life to God. Rebuke the devil and he will flee from you.James 4:7

After deliverance

Teach the victim about his/her situation in the Lord 

Teach him/her to pray, worship and read the bible 

Teach him/her how to cast out demons (weapons of warfare)

Guide him/her towards the infilling of the Holy Spirit 

Teach him/her on Inner Healing

LESSON 8

DIVINE HEALING

Healing is the will of God.

Jesus Christ died on the cross to take away our sins and sickness. (Isaiah 53:4-5, 1 Peter 2:24)

Jesus Christ came to destroy all the works of the enemies. (1 John 3:8)

Satan tempted humans to sin.

Death came because of sin. (Romans 5:12)

Sickness leads us to death.

It is the works of the enemy to bring or cause sickness to a person. (Luke 13:10-16, Job 10:38, John 10:10)

Jesus Christ heals people in the past and now He will also do the same thing because He is the same yesterday, today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8, He never changes)

Jesus heals people because He was anointed by the power of the Holy Spirit which is also evident in the church who do the same miracles. (Job 10:38)

Paul also did miracles which includes healing the sick by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:18-19, 1 Corinthians 2:4-5)

The Holy Spirit anoints people in these last days to heal the sick and to make signs, wonders, and miracles. (Job 1:8, Romans 8:11, 1 Corinthians 2:4-5)

Jesus Christ commands His disciples to lay their hands to the sick by the power of His name.

What is included in Divine Healing?

Healing of the Spirit

It is because of sin which causes the spirit of a person to experience sickness. The only way of this is repentance.

Steps towards Healing of the Spirit:

If he/she is a believer, preach the good news.

If he/she is unbeliever, lead him/her to repentance.

Ask him/her to forgive those who have sin against him/her.

Repentance also needs reconciliation or returning those stolen things

Healing of the Body

Ways to experience Healing of the body: 

FAITH- is channel that God will heal.

This faith represents 3 ways for healing:

A patient must have faith. (Mark 5:25-34)

If a patient was with someone they too must also have faith.

Faith to the one who pray. (John 4:46-53)

Let the patient participate in the healing. Ask wants he wants Jesus to do to Him. Like Bartemius. (Mark 10:51)

Lay your hands to the sick. (Mark 16:17-18) 

NOTE: when laying of hands, do not touch the private part of the person both man and woman.

 Ask the guidance of the Holy Spirit in order to know the sickness through the gift of wisdom, know different kinds of spirits through gift of knowledge, because the Holy Spirit will direct you what to pray for healing. (Romans 8:26)

While praying, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit towards the patient. After that, ask the patient if he/she still needs to be prayed again. (Mark 8:23-25)

Healing to those who are demon-possessed.

It is about to those who are controlled by demons or evil spirit. To be discuss in the topic of deliverance. 

Healing of Soul

It is about those who are sick emotionally because of their past experiences. To be discuss in the topic of Inner Healing.

Healing to those who are dying or already dead.

Jesus Christ raises the dead as well as Paul and Peter. We believe that raising the dead is part of the Divine Healing.

There are many indications that we see when Jesus Christ raised the dead.  (Mark 5:22-24, 34-42)

Jesus Christ encourage the father of the patient to have faith. (v 35-36)

Jesus commanded the people to go outside to those who has no faith. (v 37-40) 

Jesus prayer is a command. V 41, Luke 7:12-15, John 11:38-44)

After healing the patient, what to do to experience total healing?

Avoid to commit sin. (John 5:14)

A person must avoid any forms of temptations for him/her not to commit sins. (2 Timothy 2:22)

Should always thank God for his/her healing.

Rebuke the enemy if there is/are indications that the sickness might come. Remember that you are already healed. Worship the Lord by singing to Him a songs of praise.

Obey the Lord by obeying His words and pray also to the sick. (Mark 16:15, 17-18)

Why some people has not experience healing?

Reasons why they never get healed:

Have not repented from sin. (Psalm 5:16)

Ignorant. (Hosea 4:6)

Wrong character and unforgiving. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Proverbs 17:22, Matthew 6:15, Proverbs 18:21)

Abuse of the body. 

Healing as a group. A group must consist of 3-5 persons who will pray to the sick. 

A group increases the presence of God. (Matthew 18:19-20)

A group avoids self-pride.

A group protects the one who pray.

A group can do great things. 

A group teaches the patient to trust only to God not to the one who pray.

How to encourage the surrounding for healing

We see that many people who were healed are only those who have strong faith in God. 

The encouragement for the healing, needs the following:

Preach the good news in order for the patient’s to have in God and to the one who pray.

Teach the person to worship the Lord to increase the anointing of God. 

Lesson 9

VICTORIOUS CHURCH UNDER PERSECUTION

The church is the fruit of Jesus Christ (John 12:20-24, Eph 5:25, Gen 1:11)

Jesus revealed the power and love of God 

The church needs to reveal that Jesus is seen through :

Through the Love of God (Gal 5:22-23)

Through the Power of God (1 Cor 12:8-10)

Four Task of the Church (WIFE) 

Worship  (John 4:23)

Instruct the Word (John 15:16, Mat 28:19-20)

Fellowship (Heb 10:24-25, Sal 68:6, John 1:3)

Evangelism (Mat 28:19, Mk 16:15, Lk 224:47, John 15:16, Acts 1:8)

Persecution will surely come to the church 

Jesus talk about this John 15:20

The disciples also talks about this Acts 14:22, 2 Tim 3:12

Reasons why God allow testing and persecutions 

To test the faith (1 Pet 1:6-7, Isa 48:10)

To remove of pride (2 Cor 12:7-10)

To learn to be considerate (Heb 5:8, 12:5-6)

To share with His holiness (Heb 12:10-11)

To increase in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ and His resurrection power Phil 3:10

To spread the good news Phil 1:12, Acts 8:1-4, 8

To purify the church Eph 5:27

Ways of the enemy to persecute the church 

Take the leaders, imprisoned or kill 

Cast out and destroy though confusion

Make the children rebel against the parents

Take or separate the children from their parents

Steal the privileges and rights of the Christian as citizens of the nation

Take away the possessions or properties of the believers

Make believers look like crazy and put them in a Mental Hospital

Is it necessary for a Christian to obey the Government?

Obey the government (Rom 13:1-2, Titus 3:1-2, 1 Pet 2:13-15)

Don’t obey (Acts 4:18-20, 5:26-29)

The ways of Jesus (Mat 22:17-21)

A believer obey government rules like: paying taxes, following traffic rules and crimes, even peace and order

The believer obeys God.

Victory over persecution

Know that you have victory in Christ Jesus 1 Cor 15:57, 2 Cor 3:14)

Acknowledge that you have been put ot death on the Cross of Christ (Gal  2:20, 6:14; Rom 6:11)

Go back to the cross everyday (Mk 8:34, 2 Cor 4:7-10)

Rejoice in persecution (Luke 6:22-23)

Anticipate and love the coming of Jesus Christ (John 14:1-3, 1 Tim 6:14)

Lesson 10

CHRISTIAN FAMILY

The Lord created the family (Genesis 2:18; Ephesians 2:19)

The duties and responsibilities in every member of the family

Husband

The head of the family (Matthew 20:25-30; Ephesians 5:24-28)

The teacher of the children

Wife

Helper of the husband (Proverbs 31:10-31)

Under husband’s authority (Ephesians 5:22)

Children

Gift from God (Psalm 127:3)

An arrow in a warrior’s hand

The Family

Overcoming Persecutions

Founded on the rock

Dedication and submission

Do the four works in the church W.I.F.E

Prayerful life

Lesson 11

THE VISION OF JESUS

His vision is to finish the work (Matthew 24:14) and end will come. The church was called to preached the good news (Mark 16:15)

The meaning of “nation” (Genesis 10:5)

Own language

Own clan or culture

Own land or national identity

The meaning of “witness”

The witness must give proofs that Jesus is alive (Acts 1:3)

The witness must be full of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5)

The witness must understand the mission (Acts 1:8; 8:1-4)

The witness is doing the four works of the church (W.I.F.E)

The witness church

*How can a witness church be established?

Lesson 12

DISCIPLESHIP

Mark16:15, Matthew 28:19

Ways of Discipleship – John 13:3-7

a. Serve and guide - John 13:15

b. Serving one another - John 13:14

c. Application - Luke 10:1-11

d. Reporting - Luke 10:17

e. Rebuking – Luke 10:20

What should be done?

a. Observant

b. Learner

c. Doer

d. you become a prosperous disciple

The command of making disciples

a. A command to all believers.

b. Jesus teaches us to obey His command

How to make disciples

a. We must first become a Disciples of Christ.

b. We must teach through following an example of Christ and the principles of His Word – 

1 Tim. 4:12

Set as an example

In words and in action

In love

In Faith

In Purity

c. Make them act according to what they learned.

            d. Let us watch over them, encourage, rebuke, command our disciples.

What it takes to become Jesus disciples

a. Make Jesus as the first priority in our life. - Luke 14:26

b. We are nothing a part from Him. - Luke 14:27, Matthew 16:24

Evidences of being a disciples of Christ.

a. Remain in His Word – John 8:31-32, John 15:7

b. Love one another – John 13:34-35

c. Bear much fruit – John 15:8