BODY LIFE DISCIPLESHIP GUIDELINE

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 Copyright © 2023 by Joshua Ishaya Mamza

ISBN: 978-978-59975-6-7

All right reserved

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval

system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (for example,
electronic, magnetic tape, photocopying, or otherwise) without the prior
written permission of the author

First publican: 2023

Published and cover design by Birit Media plus Jos Plateau
state. Tel:+2348036388415
Formatted and inside photos arranged by Emmaprint Mubi
Adamawa state Nigeria. Jamesemma5277@gmai.com Tel:
+2348032038887
Printed by:

Edited by Rev. Ass. Prof. Dauda Gava

ISBN: 978-978-59975-6-7

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 Dedication

This book is dedicated to the pioneer group in EYN LCC Masil, DCC
Uba for their efforts to make sure this practical guideline works and
to KTS students’ graduating from 2023 to 2024.

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 Foreword

I have learned a lot from the Bible because of this manual, and I am
very glad with this group in particular. May the good God continue to
help Pastor Joshua Mamza in coordinating this group.

Wafiya Iliya

What I admire about this class is the abundance of love in this group.
There is discipline and respect. I witness caring in this group. There
is zeal for prayers and Bible study. We practice forgiveness. These are
the things I have learned in this group.

I have learned a lot of things in this group that I am not only proud
of today but also enjoy God's hand upon me. I have learned to
encourage myself through the characters we have learned about in
the scripture. I also encourage other women who are going through
similar situations.

My knowledge about being a Christian has increased. I have learned

about house-to-house evangelism and visiting both believers and
unbelievers. I have learned the attitude of helping with kind acts or
cash, as well as offering advice.

Rebecca Yakubu

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 Acknowledgments

Firstly, to our divine Creator who not only grants the commencement
of this journey but also bestows blessings upon it by bringing the
right individuals into its path.

I would like to acknowledge and render my gratitude to Reverend

Peter K. Maiva for his irreplaceable mentorship, as well as his
willingness to allow his congregation members to be the pioneers of
this movement. His unwavering support and prayers have been
instrumental.

I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation and

acknowledgment to Reverend and Mrs. Joel S. Billi. You have been
both a mentor and a father figure to me. Your unconditional love and
prayers have consistently contributed to my success, even during
times when my words may have seemed ridiculous.

I pray for God's blessings upon my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Saratu
Ishaya, and extend those blessings to all my siblings. To all my
friends, I cherish and love you dearly. I must also express my utmost
gratitude to the remarkable members of EYN Masil; your support has
been unparalleled.

Furthermore, Pastor Emmanuel Gundiri and Pastor Kaita, your

unweaving efforts, times, prayers has greatly contributed to the
success of this work. May God bless you in your pursuits of godly
academy.

Again, want to recognize all my colleagues in the discipleship group.

You are true heroes, and together we have accomplished our goal.
Hurray, we made it!

Lastly, and the most important of all, a special recognition goes to my

editor Rev. Associate Proff. Dauda A. Gava. YOU ARE THE BEST. May
God bless you as groom and impact young Theologians coming up.

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 TABLE OF CONTENT
DEDICATION ------------------------------------------------------------------------ II
FOREWORD ------------------------------------------------------------------------ IV
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ------------------------------------------------------------ V
TABLE OF CONTENT ------------------------------------------------------------- VI
THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT ----------------------------------------------- 1
INTRODUCTION -------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
DISCIPLESHIP MEANING AND WHO IS A DISCIPLE. ----------------------- 10
JESUS’ MODEL OF DISCIPLESHIP -------------------------------------------- 13
IMPORTANCE OF DISCIPLESHIP ---------------------------------------------- 16
SECTION IQUALITIES OF DISCIPLE. --------------------------------------------- 18
QUALITIES OF DISCIPLE. ------------------------------------------------------- 19
PRAYER/INTERCESSOR -------------------------------------------------------- 20
THANKSGIVING ------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
HUNGER FOR MULTIPLICATION ---------------------------------------------- 28
INTEGRITY ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30
HONESTY -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 34
GOOD STEWARDS --------------------------------------------------------------- 35
AMILY ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 40
FAITH ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 43
COMPASSION --------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
LOVE ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 48
SECTION II: LIFE-STYLE THAT DESTROY RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52
THINGS THAT DESTROY OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD --------------- 53
MODELS OF DISCIPLESHIP MAKING ----------------------------------------- 66
Indication and sign that your disciple is growing ---------------------------- 69
SECTION III: BIBLICAL CHARACTERS IN PATRIARCH AND JUDGES 70

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(FROM ADAM TO JUDGES) ----------------------------------------------------- 70
ADAM ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 71
NOAH GENESIS 6-10 ------------------------------------------------------------ 75
ABRAHAM ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 79
ESAU ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 81
JACOB ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 83
JOSEPH ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 85
MOSES ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 88
JOSHUA---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 93
SAMUEL --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 96
OTHNIEL --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 98
EHUD ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 100
DEBORAH ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 102
GIDEON --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 104
JUDGES 6-9 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 104
ABIMELECH ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 105
JEPHTHAH ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 106
SAMSON -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 109
SECTION IV: KINGS ------------------------------------------------------------------- 112
KINGS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 113
KING SAUL ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 121
ISHBOSHETH -------------------------------------------------------------------- 125
DAVID ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 127
KING SOLOMON ----------------------------------------------------------------- 132
JEROBOAM KING OF ISRAEL ------------------------------------------------- 135
REHOBOAM KING OF JUDAH------------------------------------------------- 139
NADAB KING OF ISRAEL ------------------------------------------------------- 141
KING ELAH ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 144
KING ZIMRI ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 146

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KING OMRI ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 148
KING AHAB ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 150
KING JORAM --------------------------------------------------------------------- 154
KING JEHU ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 156
KING JEHOAHAZ ---------------------------------------------------------------- 158
KING JOASH --------------------------------------------------------------------- 160
KING JEROBOAM II ------------------------------------------------------------- 162
KING ZECHARIAH --------------------------------------------------------------- 164
KING SHALLUM------------------------------------------------------------------ 166
KING MENAHEM ---------------------------------------------------------------- 168
2 Kings 15:13 -------------------------------------------------------------------- 168
KING PEKAHIAH ----------------------------------------------------------------- 170
KING PEKAH --------------------------------------------------------------------- 172
KING HOSHEA ------------------------------------------------------------------- 174
ABIJAH KING OF JUDAH ------------------------------------------------------ 177
BAASHA KING OF ISRAEL ----------------------------------------------------- 180
KING HEROD STRENGTHS ---------------------------------------------------- 182
CONCLUSION -------------------------------------------------------------------- 185
SECTION V: PROPHETS ------------------------------------------------------------- 187
CHRONOLOGICAL LIST OF PROPHETS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT ----- 189
PROPHETS OF JUDAH --------------------------------------------------------- 189
PROPHETS OF THE CAPTIVITY ----------------------------------------------- 189
PROPHETS OF THE RETURN TO JERUSALEM ----------------------------- 190
JEREMIAH ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 191
PROPHET JONAH --------------------------------------------------------------- 196
PROPHET JOEL ------------------------------------------------------------------ 198
PROPHET AMOS ----------------------------------------------------------------- 200
PROPHET HOSEA --------------------------------------------------------------- 203
PROPHET ISAIAH ---------------------------------------------------------------- 205

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PROPHET MICAH ---------------------------------------------------------------- 207
PROPHET NAHUM --------------------------------------------------------------- 209
PROPHET ZEPHANIAH --------------------------------------------------------- 211
PROPHET HABAKKUK ---------------------------------------------------------- 213
PROPHET DANIEL --------------------------------------------------------------- 215
PROPHET OBADIAH ------------------------------------------------------------ 219
PROPHET EZEKIEL ------------------------------------------------------------- 221
PROPHET HAGGAI -------------------------------------------------------------- 223
PROPHET ZECHARIAH --------------------------------------------------------- 225
PROPHET MALACHI------------------------------------------------------------- 227
SECTION VI: JESUS TO TIMOTHY----------------------------------------------- 230
JESUS CHRIST ------------------------------------------------------------------ 231
PETER ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 236
ANDREW -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 239
JAMES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 242
JOHN ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 244
PHILIP ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 247
NATHANAEL ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 249
MATTHEW ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 251
THOMAS -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 253
JAMES SON OF ALPHEUS THE LESS---------------------------------------- 254
SIMON THE ZEALOT ------------------------------------------------------------ 256
JUDAS, SON OF JAMES-------------------------------------------------------- 258
JUDAS ISCARIOT ---------------------------------------------------------------- 260
ANANIAS AND SAPPHIRAH ---------------------------------------------------- 262
PAUL THE APOSTLE ------------------------------------------------------------ 264
TIMOTHY-------------------------------------------------------------------------- 267
REFERENCES -------------------------------------------------------------------- 269

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 THE GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Gift Definition General Specific

Reference examples

Helper Those gifted 1 Cor. 12:28 Paul Ac. 20:35

for a variety of
helpful deeds Lydia Ac.
16:14-14

Gaius 3 Jn 5-8

Administrator Those gifted to 1 Cor. 12:7; Eph. Peter Ac. 6:3-

guide the 4:11-12 4;11:1-18
various
activates of 1 Ti. 3:1-17,24 Paul Ac. 20:17-
the Church 35; 1 Cor.
11:23-24; 14;
16:1-9

Encourager Those gifted to Rom. 12:8; 1 Cor. Barnabas. Ac.

motivate other 14:3; 1 Th. 5:11, 11:23-24 14:22
Christians to a 14-22; Heb. 10:
deeper faith 24-25 Paul Ac 14:22;
and dedication 16:40;20:1
to Christ, a Rom. 8:26-
fuller 39;12:1-2;
manifestation 2Cor. 6:14-7:1;
of the fruits of Gal. 5:16-26
the Holy
Spirit, and a Judas and
more complete Silas. Ac.
separation 15:32;16:40
from the
Timothy 1Th
world.
3:2; 2Ti. 4:2

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 Titus Ti. 2:6,13

Peter 1Pe. 5:1-2

John 1Jn 2:15-

17; 3:1-3

Giver Those gifted to Ac 2:44-45; 4:34- Barnabas: Ac 4::

give freely of 35; 11 :29-30;
their Christians in
resources to lCo 16:1-4; 2Co8-9; Macedonia:
the need of
God’s people Eph 4:28; Ro 15:26-27 2Co
8:1-5
1Ti 6:17-19;

Heb 13:16;
1Jn3:16-18

Christians in Ad
Ro 15:26-27 2Co
9:2

Comforter Those gifted to Ro 12:8; 2Co l :3- 7 Paul: 2Co 1 :4

give comfort Hebrew Christia
by acts of Heb 10:34
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 mercy to Various Christia,
people in Col 4:10-11
distress Dorcas: Ac 9:36

Message of An utterance Ac 6:3; 1 Co 12:8; Stephen: Ac 6: l C

wisdom from the Holy 13:2,9,12 James: Ac 15: 13
Spirit applying
God’s words of
wisdom to a
specific
situation.

Message of An utterance Ac 10:47-48; .13:2; Peter: Ac 5:9- 10

Knowledge from the Holy 15:7-11; lCo 12:8;
Spirit 13:2,9, 12; 14:25
revealing
knowledge
about people,
circumstances
or Biblical
truth

Apostle Specific Those Ac4:33-37; 12 apostles: Mt

specifically 10:2; Mk 3:14;
commissioned 5: 12, 18-42; 6:6; Lk 6:13; Ac 1:15-
by the 8:14,18; 9:27; 11:1; 26; Rev21:l4 ·
resurrected Lord
to 15:1-6,22-23; 16:4; Paul: Ro 1 :1; 11
1 Co 9:5; 12:28-29; :13; l Co 1:l; Gal
establish the Gal 1 :17;.Eph 1:1; in 2:7
church and the 2:20; .4:ll;Jude 17
original message Peter: 1 Pe 1:1;
of the gospel 2Pe 1 :1

Prophecy A special Lk 12:12; Ac Elizabeth: Lk

temporary 2:17-18 1:40-45; Mary:
ability to bring Lk 1:46-55
word, ;Zachariah: Lk

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 warning, 1:67-79; Peter:
exhortation or 1Cor 12:10;13:9; Ac 2:14-40;
revelation 14:1-33; Eph 4:8-12;
from God 4:11; 1Thes 5:20-
under the 21 Twelve men
impulse of the from Ephesus:
Holy Spirit 1Pet 1:20-21; Ac 21:9;
1Jn 4:1-3
Agabus: Ac
21:10-11

Prophet Those who Ro 12:6; lCo 12:10; Peter:Ac2:14-40;

spoke under the' 14:1-33; Eph 4:11; 3:12-26; 4:8-12;
inspiration of lTh 5:20-21; 1Ti 10:34-44
the Holy Spirit, 1:18; 1 Pe 4:11; lJn
bringing a 4:1-3 Paul: Ac 13:1,16-
message from 41 Barnabas: Ac
God to the 13:1 Simeon: Ac
church, and 13:1 Lucius: Ac
whose main 13:1 Manaen: Ac
motivation and 13:1 Agabus: Ac
concern were 11 :27-28;
"With the
spiritual life and 21:10
purity of the
Judas and Silas:
church
Ac 15:32 John:
Rev 1 :1,3; 10:8-
11; 11:18

Evangelist Those gifted by Eph. 4:11 Philip: Ac 8:5-

God to proclaim 8.26-40; 21:8
the gospel to the
unsaved Paul: Ac 26:16-18

Pastor Elder or Those chosen Ro 12:7; Eph 4:11- Paul: Ac 15:35;

Overseer and gifted to 12; Col 3:16; l Ti 20:20; 28:31; Ro
oversee the 3:2; 5:17; 2Ti 2:2, 12:19-21; 13:8-
church and care 24
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 for its spiritual 10; 1Co4:17; Hi
needs 1:5;4:16; 2Ti 1:11

Barnabas: Ac
15:35 Apollos: Ac
18:25-28
Timothy: 1 Co
4:17;

1Ti 1:3-5;4:11-
13; 6:2; 2Ti 4:2

Titus: Tit 2:1-3,9-

10

Teacher Those gifted to Ro 12:7; Eph 4:11- Paul: Ac 15:35;

clarify and 12; Col 3:16; lTi 20:20; 28:31; Ro
explain God's 3:2; 5:17; 2Ti 12:19-21; 13:8-
Word in or· der 2:2,24 10; 1Co4:17; Hi
to build up the 1:5;4:16; 2Ti 1:11
church
Barnabas: Ac
15:35 Apollos: Ac
18:25-28
Timothy: 1 Co
4:17;

1Ti 1:3-5;4:11-
13; 6:2; 2Ti 4:2

Titus: Tit 2:1-3,9-

10

Deacon Those chosen Ac 6: 1-6; Ro 12:7; Seven deacons:

and gifted to Php 1:1; 1Ti 3:8-13; Ac 6:5 Phoebe:
render practical 1 Pe 4:11 Ro 16:1-2
assistance to
members of the
church
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Faith Supernatural Mt 21:21-22; Mk A centurion. Mt
faith imparted 9:23-24;11:22- 8:5-10.
by the Holy 24; Lk 17:6; Ac
Spirit, 3:1-8; 6:5-8; Sick woman:
enabling a 1Cor. 12:9;13:2; Mt 9:20-22.
Christian to Jas 5:14-15
believe God for Two blind men:
the Mt 9:27-29
miraculous
Canaanite
woman:

Mt. 15:22-28

A sinful
woman:

Lk. 9:36-50

A leper: Lk
17:11-19

Healing Restoring Mt. 4:23-24 Jesus: see

someone to ;8:16; chart on the
physical 9:35;10:1,8; Mk miracles of
health by 1:32- Jesus. P. 1654
divinely 34;6:13;16:18; Lk
supernatural 4:40-41;9:1-2; Apostles: see
means Jn. 6:2;14:12; Ac chart on The
4:30;5:15-16; miracles of the
19:11-12; 1Cor apostles. P.
12:9,28,30 1655

Miraculous Divine Mt. 4:23-24 Jesus: see

powers supernatural ;8:16; 10:1,8; chart on the
power to alter 13:54; Mk 1:32-

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 the course of 33,39;3:15;16:13; miracles of
nature 16:17 Lk 4:40- Jesus. P. 1654
including 41;9:1; 10:17
driving out Apostles: see
demons Jn 7:3; 10:25,32; chart on The
14:11; 15:24; Ac miracles of the
2:22,43; 4:30; apostles. P.
5:15-16; 6:8; 8:6- 1655
7; 14:3; 15:12;
19:11-12; Rom
15:19; 1Cor
12:10,29; 2Cor
12:12; Gal 3:5

Distinguishing Special ability 1Cor 12:10;14:29 Peter: Ac 8:18-

between to judge 24;
Spirits whether
prophecies Paul: Ac 13:8-
and 12; 16:16-18
utterances are
from the Holy
Spirit

Speaking in Expressing 1Cor Disciples: Ac

tongues oneself at the 12:10,28,30; 2:4-11;
level of one’s 13:1; 14:1-40
spirit under Cornelius and
the direct his family: Ac
influence of 10:44-45;
the Holy Spirit 11:17;
in a language
he or she has Ephesian
not learned believers: Ac
and does not 19:2-7;
know
Paul: 1Cor
14:6,15,18

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Interpretation Special 1Cor 12:10,30;
of tongues abilities to 14:5,13,26-28
interpret what
is spoken in
tongues

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 INTRODUCTION

“The greatest injustice the Church can ever do to the world is to

refuse to tell the world God’s plan of Salvation”2 which is through
Jesus. This is a call Calls upon the universal Church to embark on
Christ-centred and biblically-grounded models of discipleship,
thereby fortifying the Christian faith in the face of a challenging
world.

Many individuals mistakenly believe that they are incapable of

fulfilling the role of a disciple-maker. However, the call to
discipleship is placed upon the shoulders of every Christian, as
commanded in Matthew 28:19 "Go and make disciples." Jesus
himself modeled this way of life, as seen in how he trained and sent
out 72, 12, and even chose women such as Mary, Magdalene, and
Martha to be part of his disciples.

Discipleship is about imparting the gospel of transformation and

the theology of work as a means of sustaining individuals' lives.3
This is accomplished through reciprocal investment and coaching
in their lives, as one both teaches and learns, equips themselves
and others. The goal for every leader is to become a disciple-maker,
and this manual offers exercises aimed at keeping both the disciple
and the disciple-maker engaged during their meetings. This is
achieved through the adoption of a biblical character study, using
scriptural characters to be studied solely for their spiritual aspect,
without any theological debates. The focus is on a lay level
understanding.

2
Ben Buba, Church growth and development,Jos ECWA Theological Seminary, Sermon: 2018
3
Bauta D. Motty, 2013
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 DISCIPLESHIP MEANING AND WHO IS A DISCIPLE.

And he saith unto them, follow me, and I will make you fishers of
men Matthew 4:19

When we delve into the concept of discipleship, we uncover a

fascinating journey of learning and devotion. The term "discipleship"
finds its origins in the ancient Greek word “μαθητής” "mathétés,"
which translates to "pupil" or "student." Within the context of the
New Testament, this word is frequently employed to depict a
deliberate choice made by individuals to follow a teacher or a
collective group.

In essence, during ancient times, a disciple was akin to an

apprentice. They willingly embraced the role of a student,
immersing themselves in the teachings of their chosen mentor. They

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not only learned the trade or skills being imparted but also dwelled
with the teacher's family, forging a deep bond. Furthermore, they
even participated in religious ceremonies and worship services
alongside their teacher.

In the context of Christianity, a disciple refers to someone who has

placed their faith in Jesus Christ4 Such an individual not only
follows Jesus but also wholeheartedly aligns themselves with fellow
believers on a daily basis. For them, Jesus Christ is the epitome of
sufficiency, meeting every need and providing answers to all aspects
of life as revealed in the Bible.

This kind of disciple is not one who adopts a divided allegiance or

blends different beliefs. They prioritize their commitment to Jesus
above all else, as exemplified in passages such as Luke 14:25-27,
Matthew 16:24, John 13:34-35, and John 15:8. Their identity is
deeply intertwined with their faith and their dedication to living out
the teachings of Christ in every facet of their existence.5

Discipline encompasses fostering a

nurturing relationship that facilitates the
spiritual growth of others in their journey True discipleship
with Christ. On the other hand, extends beyond
discipleship is an intentional lifelong amassing biblical
knowledge; it
process that involves both learning and revolves around
putting into practice the teachings of embracing a
God's Word. It entails walking in the contagious lifestyle
footsteps of one's master, as the master that impacts others.

serves as the guide to knowing Christ the

pointer and the follower of Christ.

A disciple is not merely a follower, but also

a worshiper, servant, and witness. This transformative journey of
discipleship requires lifelong obedience to Christ, resulting in a

4
Bauta D. Motty, Ph.D, Leadership of Church and Mission, Yakson Printing press. Jos
5
Ibid
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profound shift in values and behaviour. As a result, disciples engage
in ministry within their homes, churches, and the broader world.6

True discipleship extends beyond amassing biblical knowledge; it

revolves around embracing a contagious lifestyle that impacts
others. It's about allowing your life to influence and inspire those
around you. Discipleship involves embodying and replicating the
passionate pursuit of Jesus Christ's lifestyle and mission. It's a call
to both be a dedicated disciple of Christ and to guide and mentor
others to become disciples themselves.

Discipleship reflects the manifestation of the Lord Jesus in an

individual's life. It encompasses the process of sanctification and
ongoing spiritual transformation, culminating in the ultimate
reward of the crown of life awaiting believers in heaven.

Being a disciple entails living a life that draws others to Christ a life
that serves as a beacon pointing others towards Him. It mirrors the
Apostle Paul's exhortation, "Follow my example as I follow the
example of Christ" 1 Corinthians 11:1. The relationship between a
master and disciple reflects this same dynamic the discipler guiding
and the disciple following.

In essence, discipleship encompasses a life that is infectious,

attracting others to Christ, while also actively leading and guiding
others to follow the path of discipleship. It's a transmissible way of
life that embodies the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ.

6
Dennis McCallum & Jessica Lowery, Organic Disciple-making: Mentoring Others into Spiritual
Maturity and Leadership. Texas, New Paradigm: 2006. p.4
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 JESUS’ MODEL OF DISCIPLESHIP

By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so

you will be My disciples. John 15:8

JESUS

A
disciple

Making disciples Teaching them how to

make disciples

In a discipleship chart, a disciple must point others to Christ as they also follow
Him. Multiplication must be their agenda, or their work will be defeated.
Therefore, they make disciples and encourage their disciples to make disciples as

Calling: In an exquisite manner, Jesus summoned and selected His

disciples, imparting to them both the price and purpose of following
Him. As the dawn broke, He beckoned His disciples to Him,
handpicking twelve individuals whom He also named apostles Luke
6:13. Recognizing the profound impact of investing in a few, with
the expectation that they would continue to multiply, Jesus wisely
chose twelve. It is a common inclination for many to aspire to
disciple vast multitudes or attempt to shepherd thousands at once.
However, to truly maximize effectiveness, it is crucial to carefully
select and invest quality time in a select few, ensuring they are
thoroughly equipped. Once this task is accomplished, a different
group can be chosen, and the cycle can continue until the call to
glory beckons.

His Teaching: If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and
mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and
his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:26. “In the same
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way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be
my disciple” NIV Luke 14:33

He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me:

and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.
And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy
of me. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life
for my sake shall find it. Matthew 10:37-39 In these verses, Jesus
emphasizes the love for things that may hinder people from serving
him whole-heartedly. It is not possible to follow Christ with love for
materialism directly opposite of our modern-day prosperity
teachers.

His commission to his disciples Therefore, go and make disciples

of all nations baptizing them in the name of the father and of the son
and of the Holy Spirit NIV Matthew 28:19. The foremost duty
bestowed upon every Christian is to fulfill the command of "Making
disciples of all nations" It is crucial to grasp that each Christian
bears the responsibility to respond to this divine call. The disciples
of Jesus set a commendable example by eagerly accepting and
faithfully obeying this summons without hesitation. And they went
forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and
confirming the word with sighs following. Amen Mark 16:20 John
8:31 “…If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed”
It is incumbent upon disciples to faithfully uphold the teachings of
Jesus throughout their daily lives and in all spheres of their
activities. This obligation extends beyond the confines of the church
or religious affairs; it encompasses every facet of life. In 1
Thessalonians 4:1, the apostle beseeches and exhorts the brethren
to walk in a manner that pleases God, emphasizing the need to
continually abound in this pursuit. Additionally, they are reminded
to be submissive to authorities, obedient to governing powers, and
ready to engage in acts of benevolence Titus 3:1. Further guidance
can be found in 2 Peter 3:1. Ultimately, as disciples, our pursuit of
Christ and obedience to His Word in every aspect of our lives yields
abundant fruit, bringing glory to our Heavenly Father, as affirmed
in John 15:8. Unlike the modern day church leaders who make

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people depend on them instead of Christ and turn churches into
waiting room instead of mission body.

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 IMPORTANCE OF DISCIPLESHIP

Then Peter began to say into him, lo, we have left all, and have
followed thee. And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you,
There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sister, or father,
or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s,
But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and
brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands with
persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life Mark 10: 28-30

The benefits of discipleship are plentiful and far-reaching. It is

essential to recognize that every good work we do in the name of
Christ is not only done for others but also for Christ Himself, and
He promises to reward our efforts accordingly: "...For with the same
measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again" Luke
6:38.

Outlined below are a few of the numerous benefits that arise from
being a disciple:

• Fulfils the great commission outlined in Matthew 28:18-20.

• Enables Christians to recognize that God is interested in

every aspect of human life, including business, work,
farming, travel, and all other pursuits, inspiring them to live
holy lives beyond Sunday and the church setting.

• Serves as a firm foundation for new Christians, enabling them

to stand strong like Mount Zion, unshakable in their faith
Psalms 127:1; Matt. 7:24-27. Resist and endured every form
of persecution Matt. 13; Mark 4:1-20; Luke 8: 4-15. Without
a solid discipleship a Christian easily give up in persecution
and church scattered. A wise pastor embraces’ discipleship
more than any program in his church.

• Aids in spiritual growth and deepens clients' understanding

of biblical truths.

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• Cultivates an understanding of intimate relationship
principles with God.

• Facilitates the development of meaningful relationships

between Christians.

• Many individuals suffer inwardly due to a lack of trustworthy

individuals with whom they can share their challenges.
Discipleship fosters trust between church leaders and
members, creating an environment where challenges can be
openly shared and prayed for together.

• Nurtures humility.

• Unites believers with one another, recognizing that the body

of Christ is not meant to exist solely for Sunday gatherings
but for a shared journey Acts 2:44-47.

• Willingness to be held accountable by others allows for

mutual prayer and encouragement, as emphasized in
Galatians 6:2 and 1 Thessalonians 5:11. Pursuing
relationships within the body of Christ is vital, as depicted in
Ephesians 5:30.

• Equips individuals for faithfulness.

• Fostering health and growth of church.

17 | P a g e
 SECTION I

QUALITIES OF A DISCIPLE

18 | P a g e
 QUALITIES OF A DISCIPLE

Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and
envies, and all evil speaking, As newborn babes, desire the sincere
milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby… 1 Peter 2:1-3.

A disciple is characterized by unwavering good character, never

compromising integrity for the sake of materialism or fear. Instead,
a disciple boldly proclaims and invites others to imitate their
example, as they themselves imitate Christ. The purpose is to set a
positive example for those who are weaker in faith to follow. The
fruits of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness,
goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23),
should surround a disciple. As a disciple, let those around you
acknowledge that these fruits of the Spirit are visible in your life.
Being a light means living a life of holiness, maintaining
transparency and integrity. The following scriptures can also help.
(Proverbs 31:26; Psalms 34:13; Psalms 141:3;Titus 3:1-
2;Proverbs18:20-21;Proverbs17:27-28;Proverbs12:6-7;Proverbs
12:18-19; Proverbs 15:1-2; Psalm 119:171-173; Proverbs 6:16-19;
Proverbs 18:1-8 James 1:19-26; Psalm 52:2-9; James 3:1-12;
Proverbs 26:17-28; 1 Peter 3:10; Ephesian 4:29; Proverbs 10:19;
Prove 15:4, 28; Proverbs 21:23; Prov. 26:20)

The following qualities exemplify a disciple of Jesus Christ:

19 | P a g e
 PRAYER/INTERCESSOR

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and
watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all
saints; Eph. 6:18.
Commencing with prayer is a
vital practice. As we often
affirm, "Prayer is the key"
Jesus Himself initiated and
concluded His actions with
prayer. A disciple-maker is
one who maintains an
unceasing life of prayer.
Prayer is an integral part of a
disciple's life. It is a common
misconception among
Christians to categorize
prayer as a spiritual gift. However, prayer is not a spiritual gift;
rather, it is a way of life for every believer. No one has a greater
ability or gift in prayer than others (check the gift of the Spirit in
preliminary pages) every Christian should take prayer seriously.

Consequently, questions arise regarding how to start, who to start

with, the procedures involved, and the requirements. By submitting
our will to God, we gain clarity on what to say, how to say it, and
how to navigate various situations. Understanding the true meaning
of prayer as "communication" can be helpful. Consider the example
of a child and their parents. For a child, constant communication
with their parents is essential. Even if the child has no specific
request, they can provide a report of their experiences, whether good
or bad. Similarly, we should have that level of accountability and
openness with God. If you have nothing to ask for, it doesn't mean
you have nothing to share with your Heavenly Father. A good child
will sit close to their father and listen, even when they have no
requests. Therefore, if you have nothing to say to God, you can come
to Him in thanksgiving, confession or solitude and listen to what He
has to say.

20 | P a g e
A disciple who leads others to Jesus Christ understands the
importance of prayer and follows the example of their leader, Jesus.
Throughout the New Testament, we see Jesus praying or
interceding for people in different passages Hebrews 5:7; 7:25; Luke
3:21; 9:18; 11:1; 22:32; Matthew 14:23; 26:36, 39, 42, 44; 14:19;
19:13; 26:53; Mark 1:35; 14:32, 35, 39; John 14:16; 11:22; 17:1-
25; 16:26 Luke 6:12. A disciple who follows in the footsteps of Christ
cannot be someone who indulges in excessive sleep and pleasures.
Instead, they prioritize creating time for prayer even amidst their
busy schedules. Prayer should become a habitual and lifestyle
practice for a disciple. Luke 5:16 emphasizes, "But Jesus often
withdrew to lonely places and prayed." This was Jesus' habit, and
thus anyone claiming to be a disciple of Christ must also frequently
withdraw to a quiet place for prayer.

People often ask, "How can I pray for up to an hour? Is that even
possible?" Yes, it is indeed possible. By the
time you finish mentioning your family
members, your disciples, your church, your
A person who country, Christians worldwide, and your
claims to be a personal requests, an hour will have passed
disciple, aiming without you realizing it.
to lead others to
Christ, yet Prayer is an essential component of
neglects prayer, discipleship. Without prayer, all our efforts are
is merely a in vain. It is comparable to the roots of a tree.
noise maker While we may assess a tree based on its leaves,
flowers, fruits, and branches, we often overlook
the significance of its roots. Similarly, prayer is
often overlooked.

Through prayer, God reveals to us what to do in complex situations.

However, when we distance ourselves from the Father, prayer
becomes a difficult thing to do. A child who maintains constant
communication with their father understands his mind, while a
child lacking a strong connection remains unaware of their father's
intentions. Likewise, a disciple with a strong connection to God
discerns the Father's will in every situation. A person who claims to

21 | P a g e
 be a disciple, aiming to lead others to Christ, yet neglects prayer, is
merely a noise maker. It is vital to acknowledge that no situation
surpasses God. Thus, we are called to "pray without ceasing" 1
Thessalonians 5:17. This is an invitation to act through prayer
instead of complaining or grumbling.

When Daniel learned that all men were required to worship the idol,
he immediately fell to his knees. In Daniel 6:10, it is written, "When
Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his
house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward
Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed
and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously." Paul
also urged the Ephesians to pray at all times with all types of
prayers and supplications Ephesians 6:18. This verse emphasizes
two important aspects:

I. Pray at all times. Whether in the office, while driving, while

working, while sleeping, while singing, or during any other
activity. This demonstrates that a disciple has no time for envy,
lies, gossip, murder, or planning evil against others. Though it
may sound challenging for a carnal person. However, for a
person in the Spirit, it becomes easier. This is because their mind
is filled with the things of God, and their thoughts, imagination,
singing, and conversations revolve around godly matters.

Luke 18:1 state, "And he told them…that they ought always to pray
and not lose heart" A disciple never compromises their standards
but perseveres in prayer. Luke 21:36 instructs us to "stay awake at
all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these
things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of
Man" Romans 12:12 urges us to be "constant in prayer." Prayer is
the foundation, the beginning, the essence, and the culmination of
discipleship.

22 | P a g e
II. Pray for all the saints, not just oneself. A disciple is not selfish
but intercedes for fellow believers
worldwide. Romans 8:34 states, "It is
Christ who died, yes, who is raised, “I exhort therefore,
who is at the right hand of God, who that, first of all,
indeed intercedes for us." Christ has supplications,
interceded and continues to intercede prayers,
on our behalf. Therefore, as disciples, intercessions, and
we should also engage in intercessory giving of thanks, be
prayer for others. In essence, a devoted
made for all men;
disciple, as a genuine follower of
Christ, engages in intercession
primarily for others. Isaiah 53:12
reveals, "...For he bore the sins of many and made intercession
for the transgressors.” Isaiah the prophet to whom God revealed
what Jesus was coming to do, teaches us that a disciple who
intends to follow Christ while making his/her life as example for
others to imitate, should also lead a life of an intercession.

Stages involve in developing a prayer life

❖ time for prayer. There will never be a perfect moment for it;
you need to intentionally create that time. It may take a while
for those around you to become accustomed to it. So, be
patient if people initially don't recognize the significance of
your time with God. With time, they will come to understand
its value and show respect for it.

❖ Find someone you can be accountable to, such as your

spouse, close friend, pastor, or someone you trust and
respect.

❖ Utilize a formal prayer book and create a prayer list to guide

your prayers.

❖ Set aside a specific time for prayer, commonly known as quiet

times, where you can focus and engage in prayer.

23 | P a g e
 ❖ Create a timetable or schedule to help you stay accountable
and consistent in your prayer routine.

❖ Cultivate a passion,
This kind of people love, and interest in prayer
by actively seeking ways to
envision God as deepen your connection with
magician who grant God.
every request in his own
❖ Pray and ask God to
capacity whether is a
help you remain committed to
request to kill someone your prayer life.
or to give them
prosperity at the ❖ Make a firm
commitment to prayer.
owner’s risk. Initially, you may face
challenges as your body and
the influence of the devil may
attempt to hinder your dedication.7 However, remember the
words of James 4:7, "Submit yourselves therefore to God.
Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" By resisting the
devil, he will ultimately retreat from your life.

7
W. A. Tozer, The pursuits of God
24 | P a g e
 THANKSGIVING

Thanksgiving, praise, intercession, petition, and confession are

woven into the fabric of their existence, recognizing God's unceasing
grace upon us. Most Christians are ungrateful because they expect
God to answer their every singly prayer with “yes” and when God
give them “wait” or “Protective No” as an answer, they become
offended and give up their faith. Others even turn to be persecutors
of those in faith. This kind of people envision God as magician who
grant every request in his own capacity whether is a request to kill
someone or to give them prosperity at the owner’s risk. But since
God not only knows today, and forever, he only grants request that
will only help us even if we don’t see it that way. Others envision
God as television as they hold the remote control just press the
button and change channel, increase volume, skip or anything in
their mind. Similarly, whatever request they made, on calling the
name of Jesus, they just want to accept immediate yes as an
answer. Whenever God delayed or answer with no then they have
no room to praise God. Because of these, their eyes are blinded by
the rest of God’s favour, grace and mercy they benefit from on daily
bases.

I recall a significant event from several years ago when I found

myself in a state of helplessness. In 2014, due to the Boko Haram
insurgency, I became a displaced person in Kano.
Amidst my deprivation of sufficient
Most Christians are food, adequate shelter, and proper
ungrateful because they clothing, I questioned why God seemed
expect God to answer unkind to me. My heart was filled with
their every singly numerous "why" inquiries: "Why me, O
prayer with “yes” and God? What have I done to deserve such
when God give them treatment? Why, O gracious God, would
“wait” or “Protective You allow this to happen?" In the midst
No” as an answer, they of these questions, a gentle voice spoke
become offended and to me, asking, "How many times do you
give up their faith. breathe in a minute?" Without
hesitation, I reached out to a brother of
mine, a medical nurse, and posed the same question. His
25 | P a g e
response revealed that an average person breathes in and out
approximately 18 times per minute.8 When I multiplied this number
by the hours, days, and a year, it amounted to 9,460,800 breaths.
The gentle voice then asked me again, "What if you had to pay one
Naira for each breath you take? Could you afford to spend 9.4
million Naira every year just to breathe and survive?" Tears welled
up in my eyes, and I fell to my knees, pleading for forgiveness.

This memory serves as a constant reminder of God's faithfulness,

even when I failed to perceive it. Often, we mistakenly believe that
God is not answering our prayers. However, the truth is that God
always responds whether it be an immediate "yes," a "wait," or a
protective "no." Many of us fail to realize that we sometimes ask for
things that can harm or destroy us. I vividly remember an instance
in 2017 when I was residing in
an apartment with neighbours
who had a deep love for loud Others envision God as television
music. The constant noise as they hold the remote control
greatly troubled me, as I longed just press the button and change
for a serene environment. channel, increase volume, skip or
Consequently, my prayers anything in their mind. Similarly,
centred on a single request: whatever request they made, on
"Lord, please cause the calling the name of Jesus, they
electricity to go off so my ears just want to accept immediate
can find some rest" I persisted in yes as an answer. Whenever God
this prayer for a considerable delayed or answer with no then
period, until one day, the they have no room to praise God.
power outage became a
reality. Initially, I felt joyous,
but soon I realized that I had no means to charge my phone and
laptop charging required payment, I couldn't cook relying on an
electric cooker, and I couldn't do laundry due to the inability to
pump water. Throughout the entire week, I had to bear the financial
burden of these inconveniences. I found myself questioning God
once again, exclaiming, "But why now, O God?" The pinnacle of
frustration arrived on a Sunday when I planned to attend church.

8
Jasini Ishaya a Registered Nurse in Gombe Teaching Hospital
26 | P a g e
As I rummaged through my clothes, all I found were dirty and
wrinkled garments in need of washing. Eventually, I discovered one
outfit that was clean, but it required ironing. I was at least relieved
that ironing was a simple task. However, in the midst of my
jubilation, I suddenly remembered that I had been without
electricity for a week. Doubt entered my mind: "Does God even want
me to go to church?" It was then that the gentle voice spoke to me
once more, "Have you forgotten what you have been praying for? I
thought you didn't need the electricity anymore?" Once again, tears
welled up in my eyes. It taught me a valuable lesson that we often
ask for things we don't truly need or that could even bring harm to
us.

However, we often become angry at God, thinking that He doesn't

care or love us. Some even go as far as questioning His love, mercy,
kindness, or even His existence, without realizing that His love is
demonstrated by not granting our requests that could harm us. As
stated in Matthew 7:11, "If ye then, being evil, know how to give
good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father
which is in heaven give good things However, we often become angry at
to them that ask him?" God always God, thinking that He doesn't care or
provides us with our needs and love us. Some even go as far as
good things, regardless of what we questioning His love, mercy, kindness,
ask for. Therefore, as a disciple- or even His existence, without
maker, it is important to cultivate a realizing that His love is demonstrated
by not granting our requests that could
spirit of gratitude and teach others
harm us.
to be grateful. The Lord is
abundantly good, even if His
blessings are not immediately visible.

27 | P a g e
 HUNGER FOR MULTIPLICATION

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye

will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that
ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. John 15:7-8

And
First Then

Christ In Tell
Christ Christ

Disciple-making: A disciple is committed to making disciples and

encourages those they disciple to embody the same qualities,
fostering a multiplying effect.

A disciple understand that every soul is a potential disciple and

every place presents an opportunity to disciple others. Instead of
waiting for the perfect moment, disciples seize every chance to
proclaim Christ, making it the wisest and most fruitful approach.

Sadly, many Christians shy away from discipleship due to fear,

laziness, or an attachment to material possessions. Some resemble
the reluctant Jonah and Moses, always seeking to escape their
28 | P a g e
responsibility, while others lack a genuine
understanding of Christ, much like the misguided
seven sons of Sceva. A disciple
is a person
A disciple is characterized by their zeal for Christ who is
and their burning desire to see others follow Him.
making use
A disciple-maker acts as a conduit, with Christ
of every
flowing in and pouring out abundantly. Let your
opportunity
light shine before others through your good deeds,
ultimately glorifying your Heavenly Father to preach.
Matthew 5:14b, 16. If Christians collectively
radiate as lights and embody the salt of the
earth, the gospel will effortlessly permeate the world. Additionally,
a person transformed by Christ becomes a magnetic force, inspiring
others to yearn for a similar transformation. Unfortunately, many
Christians have lost their impact and significance, causing the
world to disregard the faith they profess. Instead of influencing
culture positively, some
churches mimic worldly
practices that even non-
believers reject. Consequently,
if the Church fails to offer
anything meaningful to the
world, it cannot expect respect
in return.

A disciple's primary task is to

lead a godly life that radiates
Christ's light, and this alone
has the potential to multiply the
kingdom of God. Inherent
within a disciple is a burning
desire to raise more disciples
Acts 8:4-6, 12-13.

29 | P a g e
 INTEGRITY

“God forbid that I should justify you: till I die I will not
remove mine integrity from me.” Job 27:5

Integrity according to British English dictionary is “The quality or

condition of being complete; pure” Having this in mind, we can
elaborate on Integrity to include: living a transparent life,
characterized by blamelessness, godliness, holiness, faithfulness,
peace, Christ-likeness, and righteousness, stands in stark contrast
to hypocrisy.

It means being true to your word and embodying the qualities you
profess. Integrity holds tremendous value for both individuals and
organizations. As a disciple of Christ seeking to disciple others, it is
a crucial aspect of Christian life. It is impossible to live a life that
30 | P a g e
radiates Christ's contagious love without earning the trust of those
around us. No one can place their trust in someone lacking
integrity, not even a thief or a fool. Some may deceive others by
pretending to have integrity, but such facades cannot be sustained
indefinitely. As the Bible warns us, “For nothing is secrete, that
shall not be made manifest;

neither anything hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.
Luke 8:17

Let's examine the significance of integrity and its biblical

perspective.

➢ Integrity involves treating people fairly and honestly. Leviticus

19:35-36; Deuteronomy 25:15; Proverbs 16:11-13.

The golden rule applies here without exception: "Therefore, all

things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do even so
to them: for this is the law and the prophets" Matthew 7:12. If
everyone on earth knew and followed this principle, the world would
be a better place. When you desire respect, extend respect to others.
When you need love, show love to others. When
you seek help, be willing to help others.
Embracing this simple yet profound truth One thing with
would eliminate many problems and foster sin is the fact
harmony. 9 that it starts
with one block
➢ Integrity also means honoring your word. just like a
building but
God, in His nature, cannot lie or go back on His
promises, as expressed in Numbers 23:19: increases all
"God is not a man, that He should lie; neither the time until it
the son of man, that He should repent: hath He gets taller than
said, and shall He not do it? or hath He spoken, the builder
and shall He not make it good?" In contrast, we
see the example of Pharaoh, who repeatedly

9
For more about intergrity, read Bauta D. Motty, Ph.D, Leadership of Church and
Mission, Yakson Printing press. Jos.
31 | P a g e
promised to release the Israelites during the plagues but reneged on
his word once the affliction ceased. However, with God, it is
different. James describes Him as the Father of lights, in whom
there is no variation or shadow of turning James 1:17. As disciples,
followers of Christ, we must learn to be steadfast in our
commitments and true to our word, emulating God's unwavering
faithfulness.10

➢ Integrity surpasses worldly riches and materialism.

"Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is

perverse in his ways, though he be rich" Proverbs 28:6. Choosing a
good reputation is more valuable than amassing great wealth, as "a
good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor
rather than silver and gold" Proverbs 22:1. It is a misconception that
integrity can be obtained solely through money or power; in truth,
integrity cannot be bought. Many people shy away from associating
with the morally corrupt rich due to their questionable conduct.
Aspire to possess inner and outward goodness of character rather
than solely desiring wealth.

➢ Maintaining integrity is challenging but losing it is easy.

It is one thing to read and talk about individuals

like Job and Joseph, but living their lives is not a Do not
simple task. An African proverb wisely states, assume
"Do not assume climbing a thorn tree is easy climbing a
simply because you saw a monkey doing thorn tree is
it."11 Can you imagine the anguish of easy simply
losing ten children in one day? Job because you
experienced this tragedy and yet did not saw a monkey
curse God. Building integrity requires patience doing it
and time. It may take years to develop, but it can
be shattered in a mere moment Job 2:3, 2:9. Job
declared, "Till I die, I will not deny my integrity"

10
Ishaya Mamza, Practical Discipleship.
11
African proverb pamphlet
32 | P a g e
Job 27:5. Integrity stands in opposition to the world, making it
challenging to uphold.

➢ Integrity will be rewarded.

"I know that you are pleased with me, for my enemy does not
triumph over me. Because of my integrity you uphold me and set
me in your presence forever" Psalm 41:11-12. Although it may seem
arduous, integrity brings forth great promise and rewards. It even
pays back twofold 1 Kings 9:4-5, Nehemiah 7:2. Consider Joseph's
life, where integrity initially led him to prison, only for that same
integrity to elevate him to the position of second in command over
all Egypt. Reflect on Job, who lost everything, including his health,
yet gained more than he had before.

➢ Integrity glorifies God and edifies believers.

➢ Integrity protects one's personality.
➢ Integrity fosters growth and promotes trust.
➢ Integrity motivates and
encourages.
➢ Integrity facilitates
Consider Joseph's life, where
higher standards.
integrity initially led him to
prison, only for that same
Things that can never integrity to elevate him to the
provide integrity: position of second in command
over all Egypt
a. Money cannot buy
integrity.
b. Beauty cannot provide
integrity.
c. Education cannot guarantee integrity.
d. Position alone cannot establish integrity.
e. Clothing does not determine integrity.
f. Material wealth does not equate to integrity.

33 | P a g e
 HONESTY

“simply let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; anything beyond
this comes from the evil one.” Matthew 5:37

Honesty is a fundamental quality of a true disciple and closely tied

to integrity. In
Zechariah 8:16-17,
God emphasizes the
importance of
speaking truthfully,
judging with truth
and justice,
avoiding evil
intentions, and
rejecting perjury.

Lying is detestable
to the Lord, as
stated in Proverbs
12:22 and Proverbs
6:16-20. God hates
false witness and deception. Exodus 20:16 also instructs against
bearing false witness.

Truth brings freedom, as highlighted in John 8:32. It is crucial to

demonstrate honesty not only before God but also in the sight of
others, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 8:21. Living a truthful life
leads to long life and good days, as noted in 1 Peter 3:10-12 and
Proverbs 11:3. Lying is associated with evil, as conveyed in Matthew
5:37 and Colossians 3:9. The Word of God is true and trustworthy
Psalm 33:4. When you are honest, people will appreciate and love
you. Proverbs 16:13 highlights that righteous lips are a delight to
others, including kings.

34 | P a g e
 GOOD STEWARDS

Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and

stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required in
stewards, that a man be found faithful 1 Cor. 4:1-2

The mandate of
stewardship was
initially bestowed
upon humankind
as stated in
Genesis 1:30
elucidates the
extent of God
entrusting
mankind with
dominion over all
creation. A disciple
must embrace the
role of a good
steward in this
vast universe,
which
encompasses God,
people, and the
diverse creations of God such as water, land, plants, life, air, and
abundant resources beneath the surface. It is our responsibility to
nurture and protect these gifts. Our Christian calling and
discipleship involve unique responsibilities as stewards in God's
world. Amy L. Sherman, in her insightful book "Kingdom Calling:
Vocational Stewardship for the Common Good," affirms that our
kingdom callings extend to various realms such as schools,
hospitals, businesses, art studios, homeless shelters, AIDS clinics,
and battered women's homes. Kingdom callings manifest in our
roles as neighbors, friends, spouses, parents, employees, students,
community volunteers, mentors, coaches, and yes, even church
workers. In essence, kingdom callings permeate all aspects of life

35 | P a g e
because that's where life unfolds.12 Peter F. Drucker aptly
remarked, "There is no such thing as a 'resource' until man finds a
use for something in nature and then endows it with economic
value. Until then, every plant is a weed and every mineral just
another rock."13 This highlights the importance of recognizing the
value of the world around us and caring for it diligently.

Biblical foundation of Stewardship

Stewardship finds its biblical foundation in the Old Testament. We

are called to see ourselves as stewards of God's creation. The Bible
abounds with examples of stewardship for the common good. The
account of creation reminds us that "God placed the man in the
Garden of Eden to tend and watch over it" Genesis 2:15. Adam was
entrusted with the task of naming the animals Genesis 2:19-20.
Following the fall of man, another responsibility was given, to earn
a living from the land Genesis 3:17c. Joseph's wise planning averted
famine for Egypt and its surrounding regions Genesis 41ff, and
Potiphar entrusted his entire household to Joseph's care due to his
faithful stewardship.

Humanity is called to exercise dominion Psalm 8:6-8; 115:16, ruling

over God's creation for His glory Revelation 4:11 while
simultaneously enjoying and utilizing it 1 Timothy 6:17. Therefore,
as we derive pleasure from these gifts, we must also diligently care
for them.

New Testament views of Stewardship

➢ The parables of Talents Matthew 25:14-30 is one among the

examples Jesus gave.
➢ Wealth creation in Luke 12:17
➢ Household manager 1Timothy 5:8
➢ Caring for widows and orphans James 1:26-17

12
Amy L. Sherman Kingdom Calling: Vocational Stewardship for the Common Good, Intervarsity
Christian Fellowship. USA. Pp. 11-12
13
Peter F. Drucker, Innovation and Entrepreneurship practice and principles, Happer, New York,
1985 P. 30
36 | P a g e
 ➢ Compassion James 2:15-17

Below is a table by Amy that summarize all about steward.

Peace with God Zeph. Peace with self

3:14-20; 1 Cor. 13:12
Health/wholeness
Intimacy with God
Comfort

Peace with others Peace with creation

Unity/Love. Economic flourishing

Golden rule. Sustainability 14

If everyone can live in peace with themselves, God, others, and

creation, happiness will prevail, and all of creation will rejoice. This
benefits everyone since these elements are designed for our well-
being.15

Peace with self: Many individuals underestimate the importance of

taking care of themselves. This reckless behavior can have
detrimental effects on their health, leading to substantial medical
expenses. It is crucial to find balance in our daily self-care routines.
Dr. Amy emphasizes that "spiritually, emotionally, and physically,
we are intricately connected as human beings."16 In other words,
cleanliness is akin to godliness.

Peace with God: Our God is not only the embodiment of beauty but
also the source of all beauty and creativity, as stated by Amy in her
book. Recognizing and appreciating God's aesthetic gifts allows us
to cultivate peace within ourselves.17

14
Amy L. Sherman, Vocation stewardship for the common good Kingdom calling, Inter Varsity
Press, Downers Grove: 2011, P. 34
15
Ibid p. 42
16
Ibid P. 37
17
Ibid. p.3
37 | P a g e
Cultivating Peace with Others: As a Disciple, we are tasked to care
for the people around us. There is profound truth in the saying,
"United we stand, divided we fall" Without understanding this,
bitterness and grievances will persist among individuals. Hostility
only begets further conflict. It is our responsibility to teach others
the importance of love and harmony. As Amy affirms, "In the
ultimate kingdom, we will experience deeper, more fulfilling
connections with fellow human beings."18 Living in peace with one
another is the key, as stated in Isaiah 25:6-9.

Peace with Creation: Many of us are guilty of neglecting our duty

to care for the environment, erroneously believing it is not our
responsibility. However, believers can showcase the beauty of God's
kingdom by actively engaging in endeavors such as sustainable
agriculture, poverty alleviation, microenterprise, and finding
innovative ways to provide shelter and clean water
for all. In Africa, during the wide spread and
prolonged dropout in South of the Sahara,
Africa, “People in this region try to plan Be good with
against hunger…”19 Advocating for the God
rule of law ensures that just, free
enterprise can flourish.
Be good
A disciple must embody good Be good with with your
work
stewardship for various reasons. body
One of them is recognizing that "the
primary objective of development is
to create opportunities for those who are
less fortunate to reach their full potential."20 Being a good steward
brings forth a multitude of benefits.

❖ We live longer: with less dieses.

❖ We become happier

18
Ibid. p. 39
19
David W. Brokensha and Peter D. Little, Anthropology of Development and change in East
Africa, Westview press Boulder and London: Colorado, 1988 p. 99
20
Lee A. Taris, power and responsibility multinational managers and developing country
concerns, University of Notre Dame press, Indiana, 1997 p.3
38 | P a g e
❖ We become healthier
❖ We embrace true beauty

39 | P a g e
 AMILY

And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And
wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed
to your spirit, and let
none deal
treacherously against
the wife of his youth.
Malachi 2:15

Merriam-Webster
Dictionary defines a
family as “The basic
unit in society
traditionally consisting
of father, mother
rearing their children.”

"If it seems evil to you to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you
will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served that were on
the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose
land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD"
Joshua 24:15. There is another aspect of Joshua, son of Nun, that
is rarely discussed. Many are familiar with this verse, but few know
the circumstances that led Joshua to make such a declaration. Here
is what it entails: Joshua
trusted his wife very well,
God
unlike Jacob and his wife
Rachel who had stolen her
father's idols, yet Jacob was Father

unaware Genesis 31:32.

However, Joshua trusted his mother
wife to the extent that he can
make a statement on her
behalf "But as for me and my
house, we will serve the Lord." Children

The fact that he spoke on

behalf of his family, including
40 | P a g e
his wife, is remarkable. His wife consistently demonstrated her
obedience, and his children followed suit. Now the question arises:
How many Christian can make a similar statement about their
wives or children? Perhaps only a few. I have encountered pastor's
wives who say, "God only called my husband, not me." However, for
Joshua and his wife, it was different. God called him to lead, and
He also called his wife to provide support in whatever way possible.

Consider his children as well. Joshua spoke on their behalf too.

Many Christians, even leaders today, struggle with their children
because worldly influences have captured their hearts. I have heard
some pastor's children say, "It is my father who is a pastor, not me,
so I will do as I please." This is not the case with Joshua's children;
they will follow whatever their father chooses.

• The family of a disciple is supposed to be a place:

Where the Bible is taught and followed, father plays his role without
motivation or pressure, mother is called blessed, godly characters
and virtues are reflecting daily on the children, peace keeps her
permanent habitation even when trouble arises, strangers love to
stay, where church is born, first love is ever crystal and deeply
imprinted on the heart of the couple, God showcases His model to
the world, home where fight, conflict, misunderstanding and
quarrel do not sleep over.21

• A disciple is the husband of one wife, and his wife and children
trust him and miss him when he is away. He not only focuses on
spirituality but also devotes time to other matters with his family.

• It is crucial for a disciple to watch his life and play the role that
Christ would play. "The head of every man is Christ" 1 Corinthians
11:3b. Once the leader acknowledges that Christ is his head, he
must lead by example, which is a significant part of creating a godly
family. Additionally, a disciple should earn the trust of his family
members, making corrections easier. However, if they notice a flaw

21
http://www.africaglow.org/allen.olatunde.com retrieve date 16 June, 2019
41 | P a g e
in him and he fails to accept responsibility for making corrections,
he will lose the trust of his wife and children, allowing the devil to
easily penetrate their home.

• A disciple should treat their spouse with love and/or respect 1

Peter 3:7b, NIV.

• A disciple should raise his children in the way of the Lord by being
an example in character, godliness, purity, and obedience
Ephesians 6:4.

• A disciple should provide for his home regularly and not shift
responsibility onto his wife 1 Timothy 5:8.

• A disciple should keep vows and uphold the covenant of marriage

with his wife, despite her lapses and inconsistency Malachi 2:14-
15.

• A disciple should be satisfied with his wife both day and night,
without comparing her to others Proverbs 5:15-19.

• A disciple should strive to be above reproach, faithful to his wife,

self-controlled, able to teach, and capable of managing his family 1
Timothy 3:1-7.

The wife's responsibilities include:

• To submit to her husband in all things 1 Peter 3:1.

• To build her home Proverbs 14:1.

• To pray for her husband and children Philippians 4:6.

42 | P a g e
 FAITH

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to

God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that
diligently seek him. Hebrew 11:6

In the words of A.W. Tozer “…The prevailing belief suggests that as

long as we believe fervently enough, everything will work out.”22 He
further claims that “Faith involves believing in what is true. It
consists of two components: being convinced of the truth and
having certainty about the reality, possessing evidence of unseen
things, believing, hoping, embracing, and seizing the truth.23 The
Bible defines faith as "the substance of things hoped for, the
evidence of things not seen" Heb. 11:1. This definition clarifies why
some struggle to have faith in God. They demand human reasoning
and tangible evidence before they can believe. Yet, God surpasses
the limitations of human comprehension. Some even desire to
conduct experiments on Him, but the entire Earth merely serves as
His footstool. How then can they possibly create a laboratory large
enough to contain Him? Others seek to locate His dwelling place as
proof of His existence, yet a single star “UY Scuti” is so vast that it
would take an airplane traveling at 220 kilometers per hour 1200
years to orbit it. To be precise, UY Scuti, is the biggest star
discovered suffer in the universe and it has an estimated radius of
1.188 billion kilometers while our dear earth has only 6,371 and sun
is estimated to be 1.4 million kilometers and the moon is about
3,474km24 again, comparing the Sun which is bigger than moon
and earth with UY Scuti, about 5 billion Suns could fit inside UY
Scuti this means the Sun radius is 1,700 times smaller25 It
becomes evident that these demands lack rationality. Nonetheless,
we should pray for those individuals. A disciple must consistently
embody faith, refusing to confine God within predefined boundaries

22
A.W. Tozer
23
Ibid
24
The Sun and the Moon-Universe Today https://www.universetoday.com/17109 (retrieved day
23rd June, 2023 at 4PM)
25
What is the largest star in the universe https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/(retrieved day
23rd June, 2023 at 4PM)
43 | P a g e
or impose conditions before we embrace on trust his plans and
direction. Instead, we should allow God to be God, and continuously
pray, "God, let Your will be done in this situation," or "God, what do
You want me to do in this situation?" while trusting and believing
that "all things work together for good for those who trust Him." The
term "all" encompasses both the good and the bad, even the
unpleasant experiences.

Faith is what strengthens us. It is a state of being fully convinced

about our hopes. When we confine God within a box, we restrict
ourselves to concerns and human analysis, which are ultimately
futile and limited.

Some Few steps on

how to have faith

“Contrary to popular
teaching, faith is not
mental delusion,
presumption or self-
deception, but a work
of the Holy Spirit and
the Word of God.”26

1. Things you spend

time hearing Faith comes by hearing the message, and the
message is heard through the word of Christ. Rom 10:17
emphasizes the importance of actively listening to God in all
directions, being attentive to His voice and guidance. Be aware
of the false prophets of this age, be mindful of circular music and
listening to things that does not glorify God.
2. The Power of Scripture: The purpose of reading the Scriptures
is to strengthen our belief that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of
God. In believing, we receive the promise of eternal life through
His name John 20:31. Revelation 1:3 and Joshua 1:8-9
emphasize the significance of consistent reading and studying of

26
Ibid
44 | P a g e
 God's Word, immersing oneself in its teachings and wisdom. Acts
17:11 highlight the value of diligent study, examining and
exploring the Scriptures to gain a deeper understanding of God's
truth.
3. Memorizing: Psalms 119:9-11 encourages the memorization of
Scripture, internalizing God's Word in the heart, and using it as
a guide for righteous living.
4. Meditating: Psalms 1:2-3 emphasizes the practice of meditation,
reflecting deeply on God's Word, allowing it to permeate the mind
and shape one's thoughts and actions.

45 | P a g e
 COMPASSION

But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on

them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep
having no shepherd. Matthew 9:36

Talking about Jesus' compassion goes beyond what can be

contained by pen and paper. Love and compassion are integral to
the entire life of Jesus. In fact, it is difficult to speak of Jesus
without acknowledging His love and compassion. Everything He did
can be categorized under the umbrella of love and compassion.
Compassion is vivid in:

• His coming Mark 10:45; Matthew 20:28; John 3:16

• His teaching Luke 10:29-37; Matthew 18:22-35

• His life and ministry Matthew 9:36, 14:14

46 | P a g e
Although Christ possessed human nature, His purpose on earth
was not to pursue a career but to save humankind. He did not own
any house or business.27

For further reference, please see the following scriptural verses:

Mark 1:41; 9:41; Luke 10:25-37; 19:4; John 7:17-18; Romans 2:4;
12:1; Ephesians 4:23; 1 Thessalonians 5:14; James 1:5-8; 1 Peter
3:8 Since compassion is evident in the lifestyle of Jesus, we can
conclude that a disciple without compassion is merely making
noise. Compassion is not solely about sympathy or kindness; it
encompasses love. When you love people, you desire for them to
avoid eternal damnation. Not praying for God to kill your enemies
but leading and strive to help them receive a crown of life.
"Therefore, be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful" Luke
6:36.

27
Jackson, Wayne. "The Compassion of Christ." ChristianCourier.com. Access date: September
11, 2019. https://www.christiancourier.com/articles/947-compassion-of-christ-the
47 | P a g e
 LOVE

Love is the defining factor that encompasses everything. In the

past, many Christians viewed people from other
faiths as significant adversaries. While it is
not wrong to have enemies, it is The whole scripture
fundamentally wrong not to love, pray and is summed up in
bless them. The entirety of scripture can be
this one-word
summarized in one word: LOVE.
LOVE.
We witness love in various instances:

• After Adam and Eve fell, love was shown in the

garden Genesis 3:21.

• Prior to the flood, God instructed Noah to warn the people and
provided refuge through the Ark for those who repented
Genesis 6:14.

• God called Abraham to be a blessing to the nations Genesis

12:3.

• God's love is evident in the life of the Israelites Exodus 3:7-10,

Deuteronomy 7:8, as He fulfilled His oath to their forefathers by
delivering them from slavery in Egypt.

48 | P a g e
• God's love is displayed through the laws
given to reach Him Exodus 20.

• God's love extends to the Gentile every human

nations Jonah 4:11. action is
influenced and
• Christ's coming is an expression of
love John 3:16.
characterized
by the
• Christ lived a life filled with love reflection of
Luke 23:34. what resides
within the
• He teaches love, urging His followers
to love their enemies and do good to heart.
those who hate them Luke 6:27.

• Christ did not even spare His own life

because of love John 3:16.

While it is easy to say and teach love and forgiveness, they are
challenging to put into practice. Allow me to share my personal
experience, pausing here.

After being overrun by Boko Haram militants, I experienced

displacement for a two-year period filled with hardships and
numerous challenges. Upon returning to the northeast, specifically
Uba, I witnessed the arrest of a suspected Boko Haram member by
the police. As the crowd grew restless, impatient for the
investigation's outcome, they began shouting, "Kill him! Kill him!!
Kill him!!!" Caught up in the fervor, I found myself joining them,
shouting those same words. However, amidst the chaos, a gentle
voice within me questioned my actions: "Kill him? As a Christian,
aren't we called to forgive, love our enemies, pray for those who
persecute us, and turn the other cheek? What kind of Christian am
I, shouting 'kill him'?"

I began reflecting on the trials I endured during my time of

displacement, contemplating the teachings found in the chapters of
Matthew 5-7 and Luke 6:27-38. Tears welled up in my eyes as I
49 | P a g e
realized the disconnect between what I had read, taught, and what
I was currently practicing. The true pain of forgiveness and loving
my enemies became evident. It was then that I discovered how
loving one's enemies is not just difficult, but seemingly impossible
for humanity without the presence of Christ.

Christian love is truly

And now these three exceptional. If we only love
those who love us, what credit
remain: faith, hope is that to us? Even sinners love
and love. But the those who love them.
greatest of these is Christianity stands alone in its
love 1Cor. 13:13 teachings on loving one's
enemies. As disciples, we must
live lives that clearly demonstrate
the love of Christ within us—a love that
stems from the depths of our hearts. When you
genuinely love someone, there is no need for
explanation; it is self-evident. Similarly, if you pretend to love
someone, your actions will inevitably reveal the truth. No matter
how hard you try to conceal it, every human action is influenced
and characterized by the reflection of what resides within the heart.

➢ The greatest commandment is love Matt. 22: 38.

➢ Apostle Paul wrote to Corinthians that:

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not
love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though
I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all
knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove
mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all
my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned,
but have not love, it profits me nothing. 1 Cor. 13:1-3 Love suffers
long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is
not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not
provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in
the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things,
endures all things. Love never fails. And now these three remain,

50 | P a g e
Faith, Hope and Love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians
13:1-8a, NIV.

Allow me to share a testimony from a young Muslim man about his

next-door neighbor, a pastor. He said to me, "My neighbor is truly a
man of God. If all Christians were like him, Christianity would
undoubtedly be a religion to embrace." Intrigued, I inquired further,
asking him to elaborate. His response resonated deeply within me:
"He loves people" Love holds tremendous power in our interactions
with others. I can't fathom how one could genuinely relate to others
without love.

As disciples, we are called to practice love, just as Jesus taught his

followers.

51 | P a g e
 SECTION II

LIFE-STYLE THAT DESTROY RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

52 | P a g e
THINGS THAT DESTROY OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD

Bad company

"Do not be deceived: 'Evil company corrupts good habits'" 1

Corinthians 15:33. The Bible warns against associating with bad
company in many places Psalms 1; 2 Corinthians 6:14. Various
factors can destroy integrity. The works of the flesh, such as
adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery,
hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish
ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness,
revelries, and similar actions are destructive to integrity. Those who
practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God Galatians
5:19-21. Proverbs 16:19 states, "Better to be lowly in spirit along
with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud."

Money

"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some
have strayed from the faith in their greediness and pierced
themselves through with many sorrows" 1 Timothy 6:10. The love
of worldly possessions can swiftly erode integrity,
particularly among those seeking shortcuts to
wealth. Remember, shortcuts to riches often cut shortcuts
short one's life. to riches
Sexual immorality. often cut
short
“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a one's life.
man commits are outside his body, but he who
sins sexually sins against his own body.” NIV 1
Cor. 6:18

This word is also translated as "whoredom,"

"fornication," and "idolatry." It signifies the surrendering of sexual
purity and is primarily used to refer to premarital sexual relations.
From this Greek word, we derive the English word "pornography,"
which stems from the concept of "selling off." Sexual immorality
involves the "selling off" of sexual purity and encompasses any form
53 | P a g e
of sexual expression outside the boundaries of a biblically defined
marriage relationship. A disciple needs to recognize that their body
is a "temple of the Holy Spirit" 1 Cor. 6:17-20. Some religious groups
disregard the importance of purity and engage in perverse and
immoral sexual activities. In fact, in some religions, such actions
are considered heroic. However, when a Christian disciple uses their
physical body temple for immoral purposes, they desecrate the
temple of God and are unworthy of being a disciple 1 Cor. 6:9-11.

Maintaining a strong intimacy with God becomes impossible when

our bodies temples and souls are given over to any form of impurity
Rom. 1:24; Gal. 5:19; Eph. 4:19; Matt. 5:8; Psalms 24:3-4. Sexuality
is God's design, and He alone defines its parameters. The Bible
clearly states that sex was created to be enjoyed between one man
and one woman in a covenant marriage until death separates them
Matthew 19:6. Any expression of sexuality outside these parameters
constitutes an abuse of God's gift.28

Adultery, premarital sex, homosexuality, pornography, and

lesbianism are all outside of God's design, making them sinful. The
story of Samson serves as an example. He went to Gaza, met a
harlot, and engaged in sexual immorality. As a result, he lost his
strength and ultimately suffered great consequences Judges 16:1,
20-21. Sexual immorality is destructive. A disciple must emulate
Joseph, who fled from such temptations see also fornication and
sexual sin in Genesis 39 and Psalms 119:9-11; 1 Corinthians 6:18.

Power

A person driven by a lust for power may resort to any means

necessary to obtain it, including lying, murder, and theft. Beware of
engaging in unethical practices to gain power. Exercise wisdom and
caution 29

28
https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/1-Corinthians-6-18
29
For more on integrity, please refer to Bauta D. Motty, Ph.D.
54 | P a g e
Pride

Pride leads one

to believe they
are the sole
capable
individual. Pride
is the opposite of
humility and
entails a deep
sense of self-
satisfaction. It is
characterized by
arrogance,
boastfulness,
insolence, stiff-
nakedness, haughtiness, conceit, or self-importance. Pride in
oneself is detrimental because it leads to the belief
that one does not need God's strength, relying
solely on personal accomplishments. Pride fails to Pride
show respect or value to others, viewing them as
insignificant or useless. It is the root of sin Psalms should not
10:4 and should not be part of a disciple's life since be part of a
it contradicts the life of Christ. Seeking God is the disciple’
antithesis of pride Psalms 10:4. The Bible instructs life since it
us to clothe ourselves with humility 1 Peter 5:5. At
times, we all struggle with pride in life because it's contradicts
easy to solely focus on our achievements and the life of
accomplishments. Sometimes, the Devil Christ.
manipulates pride to blind us from recognizing
the numerous potentials and opportunities that

55 | P a g e
await us. If we could simply let go of our pride and embrace humility
in accordance with God's plan, we would reap great benefits.

Pride prevents a person from learning, valuing others, and

recognizing the efforts of others.

On the other hand, the

Bible strongly warns us
that God detests the sin
of pride and will
discipline those who are
proud Proverbs 6:16-17;
16:5. If we desire to
learn, we must refrain
from considering
ourselves wise and
instead embrace
humility, being open to
learning from both God
and others. The
following verses from
scripture shed light on
the disastrous nature of pride:

• The end result of pride is destruction. Proverb 16:18 states that

pride precedes destruction and a haughty spirit leads to a fall. Isaiah
2:12; 23:9; Proverbs 11:2; 16:5

• Fools are in a better position than the proud. Proverbs 26:12

asserts, "Do you see a person wise in their own eyes? There is more
hope for a fool than for them." Proverbs 27:2; 29:23; Psalm 10:4,
Romans 12:16, 1 Corinthians 13:4, and Daniel 5:20; Galatians 6:1-
3.

• When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the

lowly is wisdom, Proverbs 11:2

• Pride is a trap Psalms 59:12

56 | P a g e
• Strife is also as a result of pride.
• Makes you think you know everything while you don't,
• Pride is an abomination to God and is punishable. Prov16:5.
• If you want to destroy your organization, just introduce pride into
it that’s all.

Solutions to pride include associating with people from all walks of

life, humbling ourselves to be exalted by God, valuing others, and
cultivating a teachable spirit. Pride poses various problems, such
as being a trap Psalms 59:12, causing strife, fostering a false sense
of knowledge, being an abomination to God, and carrying severe
consequences Prov 16:5. Introducing pride into an organization can
lead to its destruction

a) The solution is to humbles ourselves so as to be exalted by

God Himself.
b) We should also value other people.
c) Have a teachable spirit and always be open to learning.
d) Pray and ask God to help us30

Lies

Lies involve making untrue statements with the intent to deceive or

create a false impression. Liars often justify their actions by
claiming it is ethical to lie in order to save a life. “To make an untrue
statement with intent to deceive. Or to create a false or misleading
impression”31 A lie is a fabricated, fabulist, fibbed, prevaricator, or
idea that has no facts. Lies can be in written words, signs, or
spoken words. In a text message, we can lie and deceive, in our
sign communication and in words we make an utterance. Liars
generally often justify themselves with:

❖ Protection
❖ Defense,
❖ Prevention against dangers or

30
www.churchleadership.org/apps/articles/default.asp?articleid=48719
31
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lie Retrieved date 16 September,
2019
57 | P a g e
 ❖ To save.

For these reasons, the liars have tried to simplify or justify

themselves with white lies and have said it’s ethical to lie just to
save life. I don’t know if the power of saving that life is in their
hands or God. Rev. 21:8c “…All liars their place will be in the fiery
lake of burning sulfur…” All means all. All liars whether black or
white or yellow or green or purple “ALL” A disciple should watch
out.

We see how enticing lies can be from the Devil with Adam and Eve
at the Garden “You will not certainly die” was the words of the
Serpent to Eve. He presented her with what seems like the truth but
was the counterfeit of the Truth, they would have lived forever but
that is not the way it is now. A lie is anything that is not the truth.
For the fact that it looks or sound like the truth does not make it to
be truth. Paul in wrote that; for Satan himself masquerades as a
servant of righteousness. 2 Cor. 11:13-14 We see how the Devil
always put an effort to deceive many by parading himself as light. It
doesn’t matter who said it, as long as is not the truth, then it is a
lie.

❖ Lie killed Ananias and his wife. They lied to the Holy Spirit
and was struck death immediately. Acts 5:3.
❖ Liars must be punished. Proverbs 13:5 says “No one who
practices deceit will dwell in my house,” says the Lord, and
in Proverbs 12:22 The Lord detest lying lips, but he delights
in men who are truthful.
❖ When a person has become a disciple, he has taken off the
old self with its practices Col 3:9. Lying is of the old nature,
not for a regenerated believer.
❖ As new creature 2 Cor. 5:17, Christians are called to live a
holy life by obeying the truth, to have sincere love for one
another; and to get rid of deceit 1 Peter 1:13-25; 2:1.
❖ No one trusts liars on anything even if what they are saying
is the truth.
❖ Lies also tarnish one’s image and affects integrity
negatively.

58 | P a g e
 ❖ Lies is one of the things God detests and he commands us
not to do it. Lev 19:11.
❖ It also prevents one from being in God's presence Rev. 21:8;
Psalm 5:6.
❖ A Lie prevent greater things coming your way. Joining
hands with deceit is also lies. We must control ourselves
tongues from lies

The following are also aspect or branches of lies:

i. Misrepresentation
ii. Omission
iii. Fabrication
iv. Exaggeration
v. False recognition
vi. Fibs or little lies,
vii. Falsifying Date of Birth
viii. WAEC Results
ix. Plagiarism
x. Exams malpractice etc

Disciples are not to lie but to speak the truth no matter what, so as
to be free. To love life and to see good days, we must not lie 1 Peter
3:10.

Greed

Greed is an egotistical and unnecessary desire for more of

something Power, access, wealth or money than is needed and not
deserved. Greed is selfishness, wanting all just for yourself. A
greedy person is never grateful to God for what he/she is having.

Things to know about greed

a. Greed comes when we always expect and willing to

accept “yes” from God as answer to our prayers.
b. Greed is being thoughtless of others and being selfish.
c. Greed can lead to bad ways of owning possessions
d. Living successfully does not necessarily mean greed.
59 | P a g e
 e. Unhealthy competition resulted into greed
f. Comparing others with yourself
g. Greedy people bring ruin to their house.
h. Greed causes people to wander from the faith.
i. Greedy people stir up conflict.
j. Lack of value in who we are and what we have instead
basing our value only in things.
k. Greedy people will not inherit God's kingdom Eph. 5:5

To avoid greed, we should:

i. Be contented.
ii. Use your resources wisely to bless humanity.
iii. Focus on the good things God is doing in your
life.
iv. Allow God's love to fill your hearts.
v. Contentment is the solution to greed.
vi. Be a generous giver.
vii. Be faithful in little things. Don’t take small thing
for granted

Fear

The Lord is my light and my salvation whom shall, I fear? The

Lord is the stronghold of my life of whom shall I be afraid? Ps
27:1

Fear is a sensation of danger ahead and trying to avoid it.

When Adam and Eve sinned, then fear was first encountered, the
realization that “they were naked” Gen 3:7. Sin is the root cause of
fear in a man. Sin exposes man to the state of helplessness, worry,
insecurity, and most importantly emptiness. Man begins to do
things his own way; defining his purpose of existence; and think he
is responsible for protecting himself or family from danger. Man,
outside the protection of God is exposed to evil. It is important to
note that the fear we are talking about here is not the same as what
it means “to fear the Lord” To fear the Lord is to “revere,” “to be in
awe” “to obey,” “to worship” the Lord. The fear we are talking about
60 | P a g e
here is a spirit. The spirit that threatens people physically and
emotionally. It makes people feel insecure, the lesson to derive from
this as a disciple, is that God did not give us the spirit of fear 2 Tim
1:7. The Spirit you receive the day you gave your life to Christ. The
day you encounter Christ Does not make you slaves, so that you live
in fear again Rom 8:15.

Where there is love, there is no fear, Jesus loves us and has

given us his peace to remain within our hearts in whatever kind of
situation John 14:27.

Sometimes our fear comes when we receive a threat from those who
can kill the body, but the Scripture says, “Do not be afraid of those
who kill the body” Mt 10:28. Fear makes a man to give false report,
to exaggerate, to tell a lie Num. 13:31-33. We must get rid of fear in
our lives and put our trust in God alone. You cannot trust God and
still live in fear. Faith and fear do not walk together. God is not
happy with those who live in fear.

There was nothing like fear in the life of Jesus, there is no fear as
well in the life of a person who truly had an encounter with the Lord.
Fear is a spirit and that spirit is not from God, if we have the Spirit
of God in us, we are expected to have no element of fear. Rather, we
are to have the spirit of boldness like the disciples when the Holy
Spirit came upon them. Fear is attached to our emotions and tells
us what may not really exist.

Fear thwarts us from enjoying:

a) God's goodness.
b) Takes away faith and stops us from taking steps into doing
His will.
c) Fear is the greatest weapon the devil uses to cripple many
believers.
d) God’s presence and help.
e) Takes away our confidence.

Fear comes as a result of the following:

61 | P a g e
 f) Doubt
g) Unbelief in God.
h) Fear comes from the devil.
i) Disobedience to God.
j) Worry Mt 6:34; 94:19.

How to overcome fear:

a) Lord says “Do not fear,” Isaiah 43:1,

b) Have complete trust in God as a disciple
c) Living in faith daily.
d) Live a transparent life.
e) Be clean in all your ways.
f) “Be strong and be courageous…” Joshua 1:6a
g) Fear not men but God who has the power life and death.
h) Do what God expects of you.
i) When we look at God's love it casts out fear from us. 1Jon
4:18.
j) Put your trust fully on God and not on our human
understanding.
k) We must always be conscious of God's presence with us.
Josh1:9.
l) We must also seek God daily Psalms 34:4.
m) When your heart is fearful, “Be strong, do not fear, your God
will come” Isa 35:4.
n) Seek the Lord. What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. In
God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not
fear what flesh can do unto me. Psalm 56:3-4

Anger

Anger can be categorized into two types: right anger and wrong
anger. Right anger is expressed out of love, aiming to guide the
person you love towards doing what is right. However, right anger
should not be prolonged, and it is meant for correction and
discipline. Anger is an attribute of God Ps. 2:4, Deut. 32:41, Rom.
1:18 and is also seen in the life of Jesus e.g., Mk. 3:5. God's anger
is just and directed towards those who violate His perfect and

62 | P a g e
righteous laws. However, it is important to note that God's anger is
always under control. He is slow to anger and quick to forgive. There
is no instance where God's anger has caused Him to refuse
forgiveness.

On the other hand, we are referring to wrong anger. As disciples, we

should not harbour wrong anger. Below are the negative effects of
wrong anger.

❖ It takes away self-control.

❖ Loss of respect from others.
❖ Excessive irritability.
❖ Impatience or restlessness.
❖ Pessimism,
❖ Hypercritical,
❖ Struggle with jealousy/envy,
❖ Dealing with feelings of abandonment and rejection,
❖ Feelings of indifference
❖ Unloving attitude is a hateful attitude
❖ Rash, unkind words Matt. 12:36-37, Eph. 4:29,
❖ Insomnia or even frequent disturbing dreams,
❖ Muscular tension,
❖ Exhaustion.
❖ Sinful anger damns people Gal. 5:19-21
❖ Sinful anger breaks fellowship with God Ps. 66:18
❖ Sinful anger damages relationships Gen. 4:5-8
❖ Sinful anger escalates into further sin Prov. 29:22; Ps. 37:8

The following reference can help you Job 5:6-7; 14:1; Proverbs
14:29; 15:18; 16:32; 27:12; 28:1-3; 29:11; 22; Ecclesiastes 7:9;
Matthew 6:34; 18:15-17; 21:12-13; John 2:13-16; Romans 1:18;
6:11; 1 Corinthians 10:13; Galatians 6:1-2; Ephesians 1:7; 4:25-27;
Colossians 2:13-14; James 1: 1-3, 19-21; 1 Peter 5:8-9.

Some few steps to control anger.

a. Pray.
b. Reading the scripture as a habit.

63 | P a g e
 c. Understand people.
d. Put yourself in their shoes.
e. Forgive immediately whatever it is.
f. Never keep thinking on it.

Contempt

But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do

gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be
gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient" 2 Timothy 2:22-24.
Contempt is defined as "the act of despising, the state of mind of
one who despises or disdains, or lack of respect or reverence for
something, acting with contempt for public safety."32 The guiding
principle known as the "Respect rule" encompasses three key
aspects: self-respect, respect for others, and the acquisition of
respect. It involves recognizing the positive qualities in others and
being mindful of the company one keeps. It is crucial to surround
oneself with individuals whom one admires and respects.

Lolly Daskal provides an acronym for the word 'RESPECT' that

aligns with this study and carries significant meaning. The acronym
"RESPECT" encapsulates the essence of honoring others, valuing
oneself, and consequently gaining esteem. Here is her insight on the
topic.

Remember basic kindness.

Encourage others.
Stand firm in your convictions.
Play fair and smart.
Extend a helping hand.
Cause no harm.
Think before you speak.33

"Being a person who is contemptuous towards others is being

judgmental. This extreme foolishness results in throwing a
boomerang of condemnation that comes back to hit you harder than

32
Advanced learned dictionary
33
https://www.inc.com/lolly-daskal/99-simple-ways-to-gain-the-respect-of-others.html
64 | P a g e
you threw it. God judges according to truth, while we often judge
based on personal agendas, greed, and misunderstanding. Do you
value others in the same way you value yourself? Is the scale
balanced?"

For further reading, consider the following scriptures: Psalm 94:4;

18:25-26; 62:12; Proverbs 27:15; 29:9; Matthew 7:1-5; John 5:24;
16:33; Romans 2:1-16; 1 Corinthians 3:18; 4:17; 2 Timothy 2:22-
26; 2 Peter 2:10.

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 MODELS OF DISCIPLESHIP MAKING

1. Life on life discipleship

Jesus preached to the crowd but He discipled only a few at a time

through personal “Life on life” investment. He was so excellent at
relational teaching.

a. Jesus’ model: With the 12 disciples Matt. 10:2-4

b. Paul’s model: 2 Timothy 2:3-4; 2Tim 4:7-8. 1Cor.9:7
2. Body life discipleship

To examine things that puts us in a spiritual declining and then spend

time together. But in this, unlike life on life that you are always together
or most at times together. This is from a distance Weekly or few days a
week

a. Mary, Martha and Magdalene Luke 8:1-2; Matt. 28:1

b. Zacchaeus the tax collector Luke 19
c. Nikodemus John 3

Do character study together or Book study

How to start

Start with yourself

The task of following Jesus as a disciple becomes effortless once a

person has a secure understanding of their salvation, has had a
genuine encounter with Jesus, and has established a personal
relationship with God. To strengthen this relationship, two elements
are crucial: “Get Alone, and get together”

1. Get Alone.

This is a process to help the disciple maker to get more strength as he

disciple others. Process of getting alone include

a. Silence/solitude Psalms 46:10; Psalm 62:5

66 | P a g e
 b. Prayer 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; Philippians 4:6-7; Philippians 4:6-
7 recording always in your mind, thoughts and every moment in your
meditation
c. Fasting Acts 13:2; Daniel 10:3; Esther 4:16; Joel 2:12; Psalms 69:10
d. Giving 2 Corinthians 9:7; 1 Chronicles 29:14;
e. Simplicity Matt. 7:12; 2 Corinthians 1:12; Matthew 8:20; 2 Timothy
4:13; Matthew 18:2 ;2 Corinthians 11:3
f. Personal study of God’s word Joshua 1:8; 2 Timothy 2:15; Luke
1:37; Psalm 119:96-98; Psalm 119:47-48; John 5:39-40; Psalm 119:11-
12; Psalm 37:3; Proverbs 30:5-6; Matthew 5:6; Romans 15:4; Luke 1:37
2. Get together Iron sharpens iron Proverbs 27:17
a. Bible study with other believers
b. Service
c. Worship
d. Study bible with family
e. Evangelism
f. Confession
g. Submission
h. Corporate prayer
i. Celebration
Having a GENUINE ENCOUNTER with Christ is a crucial aspect in
the process of personal growth as a disciple. Just as Paul's encounter
with Jesus on the road to Damascus provided him with a strong
foundation in his discipleship journey. Your encounter with Christ will
also give you a personal testimony that you can share with others. The
Lord continued to appear to Paul and encouraged him throughout his
journey, as recorded in the book of Acts. It's important to realize that
your testimony serves as a unique defense in your discipleship
journey.
Another important aspect of discipleship is dying to the flesh and
practicing a life of surrender. This is exemplified in the teachings of
Paul in the books of Acts and Corinthians. If we have died with Christ,
we have no reason to be intimidated by death. This allows us to
approach our discipleship journey as "dead men", free from fear.
Knowing your disciples is also a crucial step in the discipleship
process. Classifying people into categories can make the task of
disciple-making easier. Here are some suggestions for categorizing
potential disciples:
67 | P a g e
 1. Seeker/search. These are people who ask questions about
everything.
a. Why you?
b. What do you have different they don’t have?
c. Why God?
d. Who is God?
e. Where is he?
f. Why does he allow evil?
g. How powerful is God?
h. Why am I suffering? And many others. They want reasons as
to why such things happen. They want proof
2. New Believers/know. This are newly converted Christians you need
to help them grow in Christ.
3. Love/Grow disciples. This are people whom baptism seems to be
their final destination. They thought after receiving Christ all they ever
need to do is to be baptized and that is all.
4. Work/disciple maker. These are those who fully understood their
calling as believers and they work daily to disciple others.
5. Servant/Scarifies. These are people who have no other business but
the gospel. Day and night all they ever have belongs to Christ, themselves
as well.

After you put them into categories, you can start as follows:

A. Help them to know that God’s plan for salvation is for everyone no
matter how sinful a person is.
B. Just like babies are messy, new believers are same therefore beware
of
i. Addiction
ii. Careless talk
iii. Lies
iv. Pretense and many others
C. Take the initiative to feed them with the word of God
D. Give them life-on-life discipleship if possible
E. Send them bible verses every day and comment always
F. Help them realize that their sins could be cleansed
G. Help them know they have security by being confidential

68 | P a g e
 How to have effective, interesting and lively discussions with
your disciple

1. Give them opportunity to make comments

2. Listen to them
3. Make them feel valuable to you and to God
4. Make them feel relevant. People need to feel relevant and valued to
perform well.

Help them by developing a simple, joyful, and easy way of Studying

God’s words.

Indication and sign that your disciple is growing

In this process, your disciple will be asking questions such as

a. I want to pray.
b. I can’t pray please I need help.
c. How do I pray?
d. I want to commit my life.
e. I am ready to turn my life to Jesus as my Lord and Savior.
f. Why can’t I fast?

When your disciple started asking you questions as the ones above,
know that you are doing a good job and you are about to be successful.

69 | P a g e
 SECTION III

BIBLICAL CHARACTERS IN PATRIARCH AND JUDGES

(FROM ADAM TO JUDGES)

70 | P a g e
 Adam

Gen. 1-4

When I hear the name Adam, the first thing that comes to my
mind is the Biblical account of the creation of humanity and the
first man on Earth. According to the Bible, Adam was created by
God and placed in the Garden of Eden, where he was able to
communicate and receive instructions directly from God. The
relationship between Adam and God was a special one,
characterized by wonder and close fellowship. Although the exact
length of their time together is not specified, we know that it was
a happy and harmonious period. Unfortunately, sin entered the
world through Adam's disobedience, causing a rift in his
relationship with God and leading to devastating consequences for
all of humanity. Despite this, Adam remains a significant figure in
the Bible, representing the start of humanity's journey and serving
as a reminder of the importance of following God's will.

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear
the name Adam? Gen. 1-3

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What kind of words did the devil use to the woman that easily
caught her attention Gen. 3:1,4-5

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Why do you think Adam failed? Gen. 3:6

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After the woman ate the fruits and gave to her husband, their
eyes were open Gen. 3:7 what does their eyes opening means to
you?

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After they ate the fruits of the tree, behold God’s voice became a
terrifying voice to them until they hid, why was that? Gen. 3: 8-10

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72 | P a g e
 “And the man said, the woman whom thou gavest to be with me,
she gave me of the tree and I did eat. … And the woman said, The
serpent beguiled me, and I did eat” Gen. 3:12-13b

It seems like everyone was blaming the other party, what do you
think would have happened with merciful God if all of them simply
just accepted their fault and asked for forgiveness? 1 John 1:8-9;
Isaiah 1:18

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What are the good and the bad things you can think about Adam?

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What about Eve? What are the good and the bad things you can
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73 | P a g e
 Gen. 2:17 “But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you
shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”
However, the Devil said “… ye shall not surely die” Gen. 3:4b It
seems clear that they still lived for a while before they died after
they ate, did God lie to them or what those this verse means

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--------------2 Peter 3:8

What was the intention of the Devil Gen. 3:1;4 John 10:10

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The major purpose of the devil is to make man disobey God what
did you learn from their story?

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 Noah Genesis 6-10

"Noah was a man of integrity and lived a blameless life among

his contemporaries. He enjoyed a close relationship with God,
displaying qualities of peace and patience. It is remArkable to
consider how he single-handedly constructed the Ark, as the Bible
does not mention any assistance from his children. Despite facing
opposition, Noah remained obedient to God's command, as
demonstrated in Genesis 6:22. For a deeper understanding, it is
beneficial to read the passage from verses 9 to 22."

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What is the measurement of the Ark Noah built?

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---------Gen. 6:15-16

The water had flooded the earth for how long?

……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………. Gen. 7:24

What do you learn about planning in this story?

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75 | P a g e
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After the flood, “Then God told Noah to come out of the Ark you
and your wife and your sons and their wives… so they can multiply
on the earth and be fruitful and increase in number upon it.” Gen.
8:15-17; 9:7. Why do you think God is so concerned with the
fruitfulness that he repeated it three times to Noah?

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After Noah offered sacrifice to God, the Lord promised never to
curse the ground because of man. Gen. 8:20-22. How many
promises do you think God will make for us when we offer him our
hearts?

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God has established his covenant with Noah and his children
never to destroy the world with flood. Gen. 9:11-16 using Rainbow
to remember his covenant. In your own imagination, would you
76 | P a g e
compare the atrocities of people of Noah’s days and people of this
generation?

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If yes, what do you think God needs to do with us?

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What lesson can you learn from Noah’s life?

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How will you apply them in your life in this generation?

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 If possible, could people around be saved like that of Noah
because of you?

78 | P a g e
 Abraham

"Terah was the father of three sons: Abram, Nahor, and Haran.
Haran fathered Lot before passing away while his father Terah was
still alive. Terah, along with his son Abram, grandson Lot, and
daughter-in-law Sarai, embArked on a journey from Ur of the
Chaldeans to Canaan. However, they ended up settling in Haran.
As written in Genesis 11:27-32. Later on, in Genesis 17:5, Abram's
name was changed to Abraham, signifying that he would become
the father of many nations.

How did God call Abraham and what was his response? Gen. 12

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Who are some other characters in the Bible that obeyed God as
Abraham? Hebrews 11ff

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Describe in your own understanding why Abraham is known as
the father of faith based on the following scriptures. Gen. 21:5;
22ff; Hebrew 11:8-12

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What would you call the act of Abraham’s willingess to sacrifice
the very one and only promised child, the 100 years waited child,
the beloved son, the son that is to inherit his all in all?

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80 | P a g e
 Esau

Esau was in line to inherit the blessings from his father Isaac,
but that didn't come to pass because he traded his birthright for a
bowl of stew. This is recorded in Genesis 27ff-28:9. Would you say
that someone who is dedicated and committed would give up their
rights for something as temporary as food, money, clothing, a
house, or anything else?

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What are the things that make Christians nowadays to sell their
right?

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 6. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 Jacob

Genesis 27-35; 46:49

Jacob, a hero from the Bible, has a vision that has stayed with
people through the ages - Angels ascending and descending from
heaven to earth. He married sisters and their maidservants, and is
widely recognized in the Bible for his intelligence and his deceptive
actions, particularly towards his twin brother Esau and his uncle
Laban. Despite this, after being defeated by God in a wrestling
match, Jacob was blessed by God and given a new name Israel.

What are the five things you like about Jacob?

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What are all the things you don’t like about Jacob?

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Why do you think Jacob cheated his brother and Laban? Gen. 27;
30:25-43

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After Jacob’s name was changed to Israel His genuine encounter
with God, his life completely was transformed, mention the old bad
characters in Jacob’s life that was replaced with the good ones?
Genesis 32:22-32

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How do you connect Jacob’s repentance to his brother with today’s
pride that hinder repentance? Gen. 33:3-10---------------------------
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 Joseph

The dreamer, visionary, prisoner, slave, dream interpreter, and

prime minister - what a diverse resume. He had to be versatile to
hold such a demanding position, and it seems that God was
preparing him for it by training him in these various experiences.

What do you know about Joseph? Gen. 37-47; 50----------------------

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-------------------------------------- Joseph was sold for 20 shekels of
silver Gen. 37:28, so also Jesus 30 pieces of coins both by their
close ones. Matthew 26:14-16. What are the differences between
trusting in God and trusting in men?

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What do you imagine Joseph seeing God’s plans for him yet found
himself as a slave-house boy then in prison will take God in those
times?

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Genesis 39:2-6; 39:20-23; 41:41-45. Shows How God was with

Joseph all this while and in every circumstance, he gains more
favor. Discuss the reasons why a person with God’s blessings must
have so many adversaries.

85 | P a g e
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Are there moments in your life you felt God has failed you? Discuss

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Do you think Joseph will value low-class people Poor people in his
life when he became the prime minister without going through
tough times?

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Discuss your answer above.

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Why do you think Joseph hold unto his dreams and God’s
promises firm even though it doesn’t look the way he expected?
Gen.39:8-20a; 40:23

86 | P a g e
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How would you apply Joseph’s wise plan of savings in your today’s
life Business

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 Moses

Exodus, numbers, and Deuteronomy

Moses, as described in Numbers 12:1-13, was renowned for his

exceptional meekness. He embodied qualities such as patience,
perseverance, and unconditional love, which are rare traits among
humanity. Despite his reputation for being the most patient person
in the Bible, he was unable to enter the promised land due to a
moment of impatience.

How much of patience is God requiring in believers today?

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How can impatience lead many to fail?

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Are there any instances in your life that you feel your patience
is exhausted that you acted impatiently?

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Did your action after reacting impatiently yielded positive result

that you are proud of today?

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What are other instances that you reacted patiently? Give

examples

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How hard was it to be patient?

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What was the end result?

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Moses has many similarities with Jesus.

89 | P a g e
 a. Their birth. Ex. 1:16; Matthew 2:16

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b. Ex. 32:11-14. Moses Interceded on behalf of the Israelites on

the mountain

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c. Hebrew 7:25; Romans 8:34. Jesus always intercedes for

believers all the times

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d. Moses brought the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt Exodus

12

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While Jesus out of the bondage of sin John 3:16

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90 | P a g e
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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e Moses built a serpent in the wilderness when Israelites

looked at it they were saved from the snake bite Numb.21:9,
while Jesus died on the Cross when you look at Jesus on the
Cross you will be saved. Isaiah 45:22; Zechariah 12:10; John
3:14

Moses spent forty days and Nights on the mountain talking with
God Ex. 34:28, while Jesus fasted Forty days and nights. Matt.
4:2

what are other similarities you can think of

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Moses taught Joshua son of Nun everything before his death so

that immediately after his death the work of God will not suffer.
Joshua 1:1-8 Do you think you do that with your Children, wife or
even God’s work in your Church?

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How does Moses react to people’s accusation of him? Maryam

and Aron Numbers 12:2
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92 | P a g e
 Joshua

After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to
Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: “Moses my servant is dead. Now
then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River
into the land I am about to give to them to the Israelites. I will give
you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. Your
territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great
river, the Euphrates all the Hittite country to the Mediterranean Sea
in the west. No one will be able to stand against you all the days of
your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never
leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and courageous, because
you will lead these people to inherit the land, I swore to their
ancestors to give them.

“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law
my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the
left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of
the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that
you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be
prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong
and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for
the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go” Joshua 1:1-9.

The Lord gave Joshua son of Nun three commands in a single

chapter, indicating the great significance of his role in leading the
Israelites to the Promised land. Joshua's life was marked by
numerous battles and he also served as a judge in distributing the
land among the tribes of Israelites. In this investigation, we will
closely examine Joshua's strengths and weaknesses, his triumphs
and setbacks, and explore how we can apply these lessons to our
own lives in the 21st century.

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear
the name Joshua in the Bible and why?

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93 | P a g e
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Why do you think God asked Joshua three times to be

courageous? Joshua 1:6,7,9

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How is the stiff-necked of the Israelites be compared to our own

generation today?

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“As for me and my house we will serve the Lord” Joshua 24:15.
Think of this simple phrase, can your spouses/parents boldly
speak on your behalf like this?

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If yes, why?---------------------------------------------------------------
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If no, why?----------------------------------------------------------------
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94 | P a g e
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Now that you know, are you willing to make amendments? Let
your discipler know

95 | P a g e
 Samuel

The Prophet Samuel, who was raised by Eli the priest of God,
holds a crucial place in the spiritual history of Israel. He acts as a
bridge between Moses and the prophets Elijah and Elisha, and his
story can be found in 1 Samuel 1 to 25. Many people are familiar
with his story, especially the references from 1 Samuel 1-3, which
are frequently cited in youth-focused gatherings. As we delve into
his role in the anointing of the first two kings of Israel, Saul and
David, we come to appreciate the immense impact he had on the
nation. The exact age of Samuel at the time of Eli, Hophni, and
Phinehas' death in Chapter 4 is not specified. However, his
significance can be seen in 1 Samuel 7:3, where he called for Israel
to repent..

How impressed are you with Hannah Samuel’s mother in 1

Samuel 1:10-11?

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Hannah did not retaliate to her adversary instead, hold God with
his promises until he gave her a child. 1 Samuel 1:1-20 why do
you think many Christians today don’t come to God with their
problem rather find their ways on their own?

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How does Hannah’s devotion to the Lord 1 Sam. 1&2 help

influence her son Samuel to be a man of respect, dedication and
obedience to God?

96 | P a g e
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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1 Samuel 2:12-36 shows how wicked the sons of Eli were. Yet
Samuel grew among them and was not badly influence by their
character. Why do you think so?

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What are other lessons you can learn from Samuel’s life?

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97 | P a g e
 Othniel

Judges 3:7-11

Discuss the following strength and weakness of Othniel

Strengths

Relied on the spirit of the Lord. Jud. 3:10

What are the possible reasons Israelites had peace for 40 years
under Othniel’s reign?

Jud.3:11b

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His strength was appropriately used to save his people. What do

you have specifically in this dispensation that you are using to
serve people with like Othniel?

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Othniel protected the Israelites for as long as he lived. In what

aspect of life do people around you feel protected by your presence?

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98 | P a g e
How devastating do you think of an excellent ruler who doesn’t
lead people to Christ? -----------------------------------------------------
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99 | P a g e
 EHUD

Read Judges 3:12-31 and underline the verses you could relate
to the following.

1. Used his God given wisdom

……………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………...
.
2. He used his uniqueness and what he has

……………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
3. Took risk in faith and was a courageous man
……………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………

What are other lessons you learn from Ehud?

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SHAMGAR SON OF ANATH

By slaying 600 Philistines, Judges 3:31 records that he also saved

Israel. He may have the shortest tenure among the judges, but he
made a significant impact. He surpasses the man with one talent
or mina in Luke 19:20-29 who did nothing. In your opinion, what
is the smallest action you can take to bring glory to God, and what
is the most significant?

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100 | P a g e
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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What lesson can we drive from Shamgar’s short story?

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101 | P a g e
 DEBORAH

Judges 4-5

The book of Judges 4:9 highlights the remArkable bravery and

strength of a woman. Can you name a few contemporary women
who embody the same spirit of fighting the good fight, as described
in Ephesians 6:10-20? Additionally, what do you consider to be
the nature of our battles in modern times?

Take special note of v12

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List all the armors in Ephesians 6:14-20 and their uses and how
you intend to use them today.

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Deborah has been a very good encourager 4:5. How do you settle
matters in your community today?

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102 | P a g e
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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In Chapter 5 of the book of Judges, there is a song of praise and

gratitude to God from Deborah and Barak after their victory was
granted by the Lord. Do you make a habit of giving back the credit
to God for your victories and successes, or do you tend to view
them as solely the result of your own efforts, wisdom, and
knowledge? Luke 17:11-19 ten Lepers

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Mention instances that after your success, you felt it’s your
strength and never care to give God the glory.

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For 40 years the land had peace because of her act. Judges
5:31c. Think of ways to make sacrifices for the benefits and peace
of others?

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103 | P a g e
 GIDEON

Judges 6-9

Gideon like many other successful people, he had so many

adversaries yet he never gave up. Judges 8:4, 6. We can see clearly
the quality of a great soldier in his story. What do you think
motivated them to keep going?

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What could motivate Christians of this generation to persevere and

endure with zeal and willingess to preach Christ amidst enemies
just like Gideon and his men?

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Judges 8:22-27 Gideon declined the proposal to be crowned

king and prohibited his sons from accepting it as well. However,
he crafted an ephod with gold, obtained from his followers, which
resulted in the people of Israel worshiping it and caused trouble
for Gideon and his family. Have you ever acted similarly, where
you wanted to do something for the Lord without seeking His
guidance, like Gideon, and the outcome led others astray? Jud.
8:27

104 | P a g e
 ABIMELECH

A wise Politian who became a shrewd leader Judges 9:1-7

9:5 Murdered his own 70 brothers.

9:24-25 Based on these verses, how terrible do you see God’s

punishment on trying to take anything that does not belong to you
by all means?

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Why do you think he killed all his brothers?

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Do people in this present dispensation act the same way?

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Mention as many possible reasons you think people can murder

even their close ones today.

105 | P a g e
 JEPHTHAH

Judges 10:6-18; 11-12

Jephthah, a native of Gilead, was a formidable warrior. His

father was Gilead, but his mother was a woman of ill repute.
Although Gilead had other sons with his wife, they cast Jephthah
out when they reached adulthood. They declared, "You will not
receive any share of our family inheritance because you are the
offspring of another woman." According to societal norms, the
children of prostitutes often bore the stigma of their parents'
actions, even though they had no agency in their conception.

Can you list some instances that a child suffered the shame and
disgrace of his parents?

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How does that affect the child negatively and positively?

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“Sometime later, when the Ammonites made war on Israel, the

elders of Gilead went to get Jephthah… come they said, be our
commander so we can fight the Ammonites Judg. 11:4-6. The
people who drove Jephthah away believed he was of no value to
them due to his background as the son of a prostitute. However,
when the need arose, they returned to him for assistance.

106 | P a g e
Are there instances that people drove you away but came back to
you again? ------------------------------------------------------------------
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How did you react to them?

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What do you think of Jephthah’s vow in chapter 11:30-31?

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Most at times we make promises out of emotions and at the end

we discovered it’s almost impossible. Have you ever fallen into
that?

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State examples

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107 | P a g e
 Judges 11:36-38 Shows that Jephthah had to fulfil his vow to
the Lord even though it’s painful. How do you do with your
promises when you realize that you shouldn’t have done it?

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what other things you can learn from his life?

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108 | P a g e
 SAMSON

Judges 13-16

When the name “Samson” is mentioned, what is the first thing

that comes to your mind?

Read the instruction given to Samson’s parents in chapter 13:1-

5. Why do you think his parents were given those instructions?

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What do you think would have happened if Samson had listened

to his parents in 14:1-3?

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Thinking about the incident in 14:6-9. What mostly comes to

your mind?

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Chapter 16 present Samson and Delilah. So many at times we

met people thinking they are the right people for us, our

109 | P a g e
opportunities or careers. Like Samson and Delilah, how many
destiny terminators have you met in your life?

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What was the end result?

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Do you consult God before giving chances to people/opportunities

around you today or you think you don’t need God since they came
to you in the way you expected?

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How did Matthew 7:15 describe such people and what are the
requisite stages to safeguard Christians against such people?

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110 | P a g e
Judges 16:6-21 Samson lied to Delilah three times v6-7;10-11;
&12-13 yet she persisted until she succeeded v14-17. How was
Delilah’s act explained 1 Peter 5:8?

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By now, what did you notice about the Devil?

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Samson was sorry for his mistake in 16:28. Are there any amount
of sin that God cannot forgive?

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Do you feel like you have too much sin that God will not forgive
you?

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111 | P a g e
SECTION IV

KINGS

112 | P a g e
 KINGS

Having analyzed the Judges of Israel and analyzed their strengths

and shortcomings, we will now move on to examine the lives,
histories, strengths, weaknesses, devotions, and commitments of
the Kings, as recorded chronologically in scripture. It is anticipated
that anyone following this guide will understand that its focus is
purely spiritual. May your encounter with the Lord meet your
expectations. The table below lists the Kings, their reign length,
and some noteworthy events in their lives.

The table below presents the kings and the manner of their
death with some remarkable events in their lives. However,
this is mixed with both the United Kingdom of Israel and
divided.

S Name Leng Manner of death Notable

/ th events
N

Killed in battle with

40 the Philistines, Anointed under
1 Saul
years succeeded by protest.
Ishbosheth

Killed by conspirators, Declared king,

2
2 Ishbosheth and succeeded by but never
years
David anointed.

Brought
40 Death, succeeded by the Ark of the
3 David
years Solomon Covenant to Jer
usalem

113 | P a g e
 Death, succeeded
by Rehoboam who
40 ruled Judah; Built the
4 Solomon
years Jeroboam became first Temple
king of Israel during
Rehoboam's reign.

Took power in a
civil war that
split the United
22 Death, succeeded by
5 Jeroboam I Kingdom.
years Nadab
Judah kept the
Davidic
dynasty.

Killed by Baasha son

2
6 Nadab of Abijah, who
years
succeeded him

24 Death, succeeded by
7 Baasha
years Elah

2 Killed by Zimri, who

8 Elah
years succeeded him

Committed suicide in
his own palace; brief
civil war broke out
7
9 Zimri between the houses of
days
Tibni and Omri, where
Tibni died and Omri
became king

114 | P a g e
 Established
12 Death, succeeded by
10 Omri Samaria as the
years his son Ahab
capital of Israel.

Killed in battle,
22
11 Ahab succeeded by his son
years
Ahaziah

Fatal injury,
2
12 Ahaziah succeeded by his son
years
Joram

12 Killed by Jehu, who The last of the

13 Joram
years succeeded him "house of Omri"

Kills both the

28 Death, succeeded by king of Israel
14 Jehu
years Jehoahaz and the king of
Judah

17 Death, succeeded by
15 Jehoahaz
years Jehoash

Death, succeeded by
16
16 Jehoash Jeroboam, son of
years
Jehoash

41 Death, succeeded by The last of the

17 Jeroboam II
years Zachariah "house of Jehu

6 Killed by Shallum son

18 Zachariah mont of Jabesh, who
hs succeeded him

115 | P a g e
 1 Killed by Menahem
19 Shallum mont son of Gadi, who
h succeeded him

10 Death, succeeded by
20 Menahem
years Pekahiah

Killed by Pekah son of

2
21 Pekahiah Remaliah, who
years
succeeded him

Killed by Hoshea son

20
22 Pekah of Elah, who
years
succeeded him

9 Captured and taken to

23 Hoshea
years Assyria

116 | P a g e
 The table below gives more of chronological order of the
kings in Jerusalem and Judah

Kings that reign in Israel same time with the kings of Judah

S/N Length Length

1 Jeroboam I 22 Rehoboam 17

1 Kings 12:25- 1 Kings 12:1-24;

14:20 14:21-31

2 chron. 10:1-
12:16

2 Nadab 2 Abijah 3

1 kings 15:25-31 1 Kings 15:1-8,

2 chron. 13:1-14:1

3 Baasha 24 Asa 41

1 Kings 15:32-16:7 1 kings 15:9-24,

2 chron. 14:2-
16:14

4 Elah 2 Jehoshaphat 25

1 Kings 16:8-14 1 kings 22:41-50

2 chron. 17:1-23:3

5 Zimri 7 days Jehoram 8

1Kings 16:15-22 2 kings 8:16-34

117 | P a g e
 2 chron. 21:4-20

6 Omri 12 Ahaziah 1

1 Kings 16:23-28 2 kings 8:24-29

2 chron. 22:1-9

7 Ahab 22 Athaliah 2 kings 7

11:1-21
1 KINGS 16:29-22:40
2 chron. 22:10-
23:31

8 Ahaziah 2 Joash 40

2 kings 1:1-18 2 kings 12:1-21

2 chron 24:1-27

9 Joram 12 Amaziah 29

2 kings 3:1-8:15 2 kings 14:1-22

2 chron. 25:1-28

10 Jehu 28 Azariah Uzziah 52

2 kings 9:30-10:36 2 kings 15:1-7

2 chron. 26:1-23

11 Jehoahaz 17 Jothan 16

2 kings 13:1-9 2 kings 15:32-38

2 chron. 27:1-8

118 | P a g e
12 Jehoash 16 Ahaz 16

2 kings 13:10-25 2 kings 16:1-8

2 chron. 28:1-27

13 Jeroboam II 41 Hezekiah 29

2 kings 14:23-29 2 kings 18:1-20:21

2 chron. 29:1-
32:33

14 Zachariah and 6 Manasseh 55

months
2 kings 15:8-15 2 kings 21:1-18

2 chron. 33:-20

shallum 39

15 Menahem 10 Amon 2

2 kings 15:16-22 2 kings 21:19-26

2 chron. 33:12-25

16 Pekahiah 2 Josiah 31

2 kings 15:23-26 2 kings 22:1-23:30

2 chron.
34:1=35:27

17 Pekah 20 Jehoahaz 3
months
2 kings 15:27-31 2 kings 23:31-33

2 chron. 36:1-4

119 | P a g e
18 Hoshea 9 Jehoiakim 11

2 kings 17:1-6 2 kings 23:36-24:7

2 chron. 36:5-8

19 Fall of Israel Jehoiachim 3

months
2 kings 24:8-17

2 chron. 36:9-10

20 Zedekiah 11

2 kings 24:18-
25:21

2 chron. 36:11-21

21 Fall of Jerusalem

2 kings 25:8-17

2 chron. 36:15-19

120 | P a g e
 KING SAUL

The first king of Israel. During the times of Judges, the Israelites had
God as their King but they rejected it simply because they want to be
like the other nations. 1 Samuel 8:4-9

God arranged for Samuel to meet the future first king of Israel. The man,
named Saul, came from the tribe of Benjamin and was known for his tall
and commanding presence. When some of Kish's donkeys went missing,
he sent Saul and a servant to find them. After searching for three days
in the land of Zuph, they were close to giving up when the servant
suggested they visit a local seer, who may be able to help them find their
way.

Let us begin this part with a question about the global phenomenon.

In the world of confusion such as today those uncountable false prophets

and men of God everywhere. How do you ascertain between the true men
of God and the ones whom their account is their concern? Matt. 7:16
Good in doing good and good in doing evil. Confused identity

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Discuss how people today can be good in doing what is good in the
Church yet good in doing what is evil outside the Church

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121 | P a g e
Do you have a discerning spirit? 1Cor 12:10; 14:29; Peter: Ac 8:18-24;
Acts 13:8-12; 16:16-18

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1 Samuel 9:3-4 Saul and his servant searched for the missing donkey
three days. Can you work this hard to restore what you are missing
between you and God?

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If not, why?

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9:5 shows that Saul gave up but v. 6 presents how the servant became
an encourager and good adviser. What kinds of people have you
surrounded yourself with? How do they influence you? and what kind of
advice do you get from them?

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King Saul was courageous in battle. He was a generous king, early in his
reign he was admired and respected by the People, 1 Samuel 9:1-29.
Why do you think people respect person?

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He became impatient and offered sacrifices to God at Gilgal instead of

waiting for Prophet Samuel, 1 Samuel 13:1 – 14. What are the instances
that you couldn’t wait on God?

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He assumed priestly duties by offering sacrifices. God commanded him

to destroy their enemies but he disobeyed God’s command and failed to
carry out the law 1 Sam 15:1 – 23 and everything thinking he could spare
good animals for sacrifices what are the instances you think you could
help God

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Whenever the spirit of God left Saul and was replaced by an evil spirit,
Saul becomes like a madman. 1 Sam 16:14. What do you think your life
is without God’s Spirit?

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He was jealous of David for his success as a warrior 1 Sam 18:7 – 8, 19:1
– 22 How is jealousy a big hindrance to spreading the gospel

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123 | P a g e
Saul committed the sin of necromancy when he consulted a medium
after the death of Samuel. 1 Samuel 28:3 – 25. What percentage of
Christians today that consult diviners, babalawors, and witch doctors
for their problems instead of God?

124 | P a g e
 ISHBOSHETH

Ishbosheth, also spelled Isboseth, also called Ishbaal, or Eshbaal,

flourished 11th century BC, in the Old Testament II Samuel 2:8–4:12,
forth son of King Saul and the last representative of his family to
be king over Israel the northern kingdom, as opposed to the southern
kingdom of Judah. Do you remember the reason why this is so?

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Ishbosheth, is a silent figure in the Biblical history of royalty. Despite

being proclaimed as king after the death of Saul, he was never anointed
and ruled for only two years before being assassinated by conspirators.
Can you explain how he was assassinated?

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Despite being a king, Ishbosheth is not widely talked about because he

had a short reign. How many years did he reign 2 Samuel 2:8-9?

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When Abner responded to Ish-Bosheth about his father’s concubine he

became afraid 2 Samuel 3:11 even though he was right how could
desiring for position/power make person silent over what is bad?

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125 | P a g e
When Abner slept with his father’s concubine Ish-Bosheth 2 Samuel 3:7
response to Abner makes Abner to take off his helping hands over the
house of Saul to David. Would you keep quiet to enjoy power or talk to
lose if it is you?

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126 | P a g e
 DAVID

1Samuel 16- 2 Samuel ff

David is known as a man after God’s own heart. “After removing Saul,
he made David their king. God testified concerning him: 'I have found
David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I
want him to do” Acts 13:22. There is no doubt, David’s history is amazing
how God protected him from his countless enemies.

Why do you think God called David “a man after his own heart”? Based
on the following scriptures Acts 13:22

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Depending on God Psalms 23; 31:15

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Humble Psalm 62:9

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Reverential Psalm 18:3

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127 | P a g e
 Respectful Psalm 119:6,15; 40:4

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Faith/Trusting Psalm 27:1; prov. 3:5-6

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Loving Psalm 18:1

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Devoted Psalm 119:38

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Recognition/Adoration Psalm 9:1; 30:1

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Faithful Psalm 23:6; 40:10; 1 Sam. 24:6

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Obedient Psalm 119:34

128 | P a g e
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Repentant Psalm 25:11;51; 2 Sam.12:13

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David always consult God before doing anything. Why do you think
David does that? 1Chro. 14:10

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David hard so many different enemies, yet God allowed him to leave
long. Do you think leaving lengthy life on this earth depends on one’s
effort and wisdom? Discuss

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Even though his enemies planned to kill him daily yet they never
succeeded, David on the other hand, had so many opportunities to
terminate their lives yet, he always reject retaliation 1 Samuel 24:1-15;
26:5-10; Does David’s attitudes seem weak to you? What will you do
when you are in his shoes?

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2 Samuel 11:2-4 David was on the top of his roof and he saw
Bathsheba and he lusted after her, as a result, David became an
129 | P a g e
adulterer, liar, murderer and polygamous. Discuss how the following led
David into all the sins mentioned above.

a. Pride
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b. Second look
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c. Cover up instead of repentance 2 Sam. 11:6-27
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d. Polygamous 1 Sam. 25:36-44; 2 Sam. 11
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How do you regain your integrity back after fall?

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What are the end results of David’s cover up? 2 Sam. 11:27b 12:1-19

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1. Calamity, 2. Take your wives and give to someone close to you, 3. Your
house will rebel against you

How will you relate David’s incidence with Matthew 5:27-30?

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What happened after David sincerely repented? 12:13-17

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Discuss how David’s sinful life influenced his son Solomon and the
rest of his genealogy negatively

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131 | P a g e
 KING SOLOMON

The first thing that comes to mind mostly is wisdom. He composed some
3,000 proverbs and wrote 1,005 songs. 1 King 4:23

King Solomon was both the wisest and the most foolish man who ever
lived. Despite being gifted with unparalleled wisdom from God, he failed
to follow God's commandments and squandered his gifts. Despite this,
he is well-known for his building projects, especially the construction of
the temple in Jerusalem. Solomon was the second son of King David and
Bathsheba, and his name means "peaceable." He was also referred to as
Jedidiah, meaning "beloved of the Lord," and was loved by God even as
a baby. However, his path to the throne was not an easy one. A
conspiracy led by his half-brother Adonijah attempted to seize the
kingship, but Solomon ultimately triumphed by killing Adonijah and
Joab, David's general.34

What is the first think you can recall when the name King Solomon is
mentioned?

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Solomon asked for wisdom and knowledge as his choice 2 Chr. 1:7. What
will yours be?

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132 | P a g e
He prepared to build the temple for the sake of the name of God to be
glorified 2 Chr. 2:1-18. What is the one thing you want to do to be
remembered for today?

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He brought the Ark into the house of the Lord and he bless the people
during prayer for dedication of the temple to God chapter 5 and 6.

Queen Sheba’s testimonies can easily make one have pride Then she
said to the king: “It was a true report which I heard in my own land about
your words and your wisdom. However, I did not believe their words until
I came and saw with my own eyes; and indeed the half of the greatness
of your wisdom was not told me. You exceed the fame of which I heard 2
Chronicles 9:5-6 how can you escape the temptation of pride in your
times of achievements?

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King Solomon's many accomplishments and popularity also led him to

marry many wives who were not faithful to God. This caused his heart
to turn away from the Lord and led him down a path of sin. This
ultimately resulted in destructive circumstances that ruined his life. 1
Kings 11 and 12. What lesson do you learn from this situation

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133 | P a g e
Solomon did evil before the Lord 1 Kings 1:6. He married from people
God commanded them not to Moabite, Ammonites etc.1 Kings 1:2. How
can marrying an ungodly partner affect your Christianity and jeopardize
the future of your children?

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King Solomon’s many wives have been terrible for him 1 Kings 11.
Discuss the negative effects of polygamy to a Christian home

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Despite a free ticket to make a choice, wisdom was the decision king
Solomon had made not money or fame or other things, 1 Kings 3 But
every other things was added unto him, how do you relate this with
Matthew 6:33

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134 | P a g e
 JEROBOAM KING OF ISRAEL

Jeroboam I was the inaugural monarch 931-910 B.C. of the

northern kingdom of Israel, which existed as a separate entity from
the kingdom of Judah. His successful revolt against Rehoboam
resulted in the division of the Hebrew nation into the two kingdoms
of Israel and Judah.

Discuss the advantages and opportunities of Jeroboam, being the

king of Judah 1 Kgs. 11:26-28

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How did Jeroboam learn he would be king of Israel? 1 Kgs. 11:29-

39

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How did Jeroboam rise to power against Rehoboam? 1 Kgs. 12:1-19

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How did Jeroboam try to secure his throne?

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135 | P a g e
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What was the outcome of his effort? 1 Kgs. 12:25-33; 13:33-34;

14:16?

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-------------------------------- Who would destroy the calf-worship of
Bethel?

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-------------------------------- When did this occur? 1 Kgs. 13:1-5; cf.
2 Kgs. 23:15-16

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What mercy did God show Jeroboam?

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Did it change Jeroboam? If yes how, if no why 1 Kgs. 13:4-8,33

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136 | P a g e
Why was the man of God killed by the lion? 1 Kgs. 13:11-32

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Describe the incident surrounding the death of Jeroboam's son in 1

Kings 14: ff

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Not every opportunity gives success, some are even trap discuss

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It’s another thing to know God's word and one thing to obey it true
or false

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Stubbornness and selfishness leads to destruction how true?

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137 | P a g e
God will be honored by His people, or in their sin they will be
destroyed. How so?

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Jeroboam is the only person who the Bible says did more evil than
every person who lived before him why? 1 Kings 14:9

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During Jeroboam's reign of twenty-two years, he failed to leave a

positive legacy or accomplish anything worthwhile. Instead, as soon
as he was crowned king, he created two golden calves and placed
them on altars in Bethel and Dan. He encouraged the people to offer
sacrifices to these idols. See 1 Kings 12.28

138 | P a g e
 REHOBOAM KING OF JUDAH

2 Chronicles 12:1-16.

Rehoboam was the king of Judah for 17 years, from 931 to 913 BC.
He was the son of King Solomon, who had turned away from God.
God told Solomon that the kingdom would be torn from him, but
that for the sake of David, it would happen after Solomon's death
and during Rehoboam's reign 1 Kings 11:9-13. When Rehoboam
became king, a rebellion led to the ten northern tribes being ruled
by Jeroboam, while Rehoboam was left with the tribe of Judah and
Benjamin.

Jeroboam, who was once a servant of Solomon responsible for

forced labor 1 Kings 11:28, was told by a prophet that he would be
the king of Israel 1 Kings 11:26-40. After fleeing to Egypt, Jeroboam
returned when Rehoboam was to be installed as king in Shechem.
The people sent Jeroboam to speak to the new king, requesting that
he ease the heavy burden of labor and taxes that had been imposed
by Solomon 1 Kings 12:1-4; 2 Chronicles 10:3-4.

Rehoboam reigned in 925 B.C. 1 Kings 14:25-26. When Rehoboam

established his throne, it has become great and stood strong
enough. Rehoboam turned his back to God he abandoned the law
which was given to him by God.

Discuss how the Israelites turned back from God because of the evil
ways of their leader 2 Chronicles 12:1.

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Discuss how loving God will help you not to follow a corrupt leader.
John 14:21.

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139 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Rehoboam turned back to God, discuss how he also led his people
back to God II Chro. 1:1.

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What do you think about his later life? 12:2-6

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What are the possible reasons that led to this turnaround in his
life? 6 to 8.

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How do these verses explain God’s relationship with people? 12:5;

15:2?

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140 | P a g e
 NADAB KING OF ISRAEL

1 Kings 14:20; 15:25

King Nadab was one failure in a long list of men who tried to rule
God's people without God.

Nadab, the son of King Jeroboam I of Israel, was destined for

greatness as his father had been chosen by God to lead the nation.
However, Jeroboam turned away from the Lord and caused Israel to
fall into greater wickedness. As a result, God pronounced judgment
on the house of Jeroboam instead of blessings. Upon his father's
death, Nadab became king of Israel while Asa was ruling in Judah.
Despite his short two-year reign, Nadab continued in the sinful
ways of his father, leading Israel further away from righteousness.

How did Nadab become the king of Israel?

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What was the contribution of king Nadab in northern kingdom

Israel?

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Nadab took his place on Israel’s throne while Asa reigned as king in
Judah. Nadab only reigned for two years, but he followed in the
footsteps of his wicked father Jeroboam and led Israel deeper into
worshiping worthless idols. 1 king 15:26. What are the ways that
can help escape bad influence from ungodly parents?

141 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Are there situations in your life when you think you don’t need God
because your strength and wisdom you think will save and solve
your problems for you?

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What are the external gods that you prioritize over the living God,
just like Nadab?

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Nadab followed in his father’s footsteps; do you believe it is always

right to follow in the footsteps of your predecessors? If yes, why, if
no why

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What lesson have you learned from the life of King Nadab?

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142 | P a g e
Nadab saw how his father sought for help from false gods, and none
of them could help save his life, why do you think Nadab still
followed in the same pattern? Answer this in the light of putting our
trust in arms of flesh.

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143 | P a g e
 KING ELAH

Elah was the fourth king of the northern kingdom of Israel. He

reigned only from 886 to 885 BC. King Elah was doomed from the
very beginning of his reign, before he took the throne the Lord had
sent word through the prophet Jehu against Elah’s father, King
Baasha, promising to destroy Baasha’s family for his sin of leading
the people into idolatry. For one reason or another, one of Elah’s
own military officials, Zimri, decided to assassinate King Elah. Zimri
took his chance while Elah was getting drunk with Arza, the palace
administrator, in Azra’s own home. Zimri burst in and killed Elah
in his dissipated state, subsequently becoming the next king. Elah
refused to ignore warning that was by God to his household
concerning end of kingship in their home, because of that he lasted
for only two years.

Have you been ignoring the voice of prophecy and warning over your
life and family? Has God not called you into ministry but you
decided to go because of ministerial benefits? What experiential
lesson have you driven from this?

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Elah was assassinated by Zimri while he was drunk? This is to say

Elah was carried away by something, what sin have you allowed to
carry you away to a point that the devil attacked your spirit without
your conscience alive?

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144 | P a g e
No one was available to save Elah from Zimri in his drunken state.
The devil can lead you to sin and abandon you; what step are you
willing to take to shun the devil and embrace God?

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145 | P a g e
 KING ZIMRI

Zimri, whose story is more widely documented, became the fifth

king of the northern kingdom of Israel, with Asa ruling over Judah
at the same time. Zimri took the throne with a false sense of
invincibility, which was soon shattered after only seven days in
power. Driven by fear, he took his own life before he could be
assassinated by the next king. While Zimri reveled in his newfound
power, ruling from the city of Tisrah, news of his treachery reached
the soldiers of Israel's army. Enraged by his actions, they chose a
new commander, Omri, and marched against Zimri. Upon hearing
of their approach, Zimri locked himself inside the palace citadel and
set it ablaze, leading to his untimely death. Zimri's traitorous ways
resulted in his demise, serving as a cautionary tale of the
consequences of greed and ambition

We learn from King Zimri that God will not honor our attempts to
promote our own greatness. Or would God ever bless selfish plans?

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In contrast to Zimri’s demand for the throne was David’s patient

waiting on the Lord. How patient are you on God’s time?

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David had been anointed as Israel’s next king but refused to lift his
hand against the reigning King Saul 1 Samuel 26:9. Can you wait
on God to take away corrupt leaders before instituting in power or
you’d take matters into your own hands?

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146 | P a g e
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David refused to take the throne until God handed it to him; Zimri
usurped the throne in a mad grab for power. When you wait on the
Lord, he’ll surely exalt you at his appointed season. How long have
you waited on the Lord, and what was the result of your waiting?

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147 | P a g e
 KING OMRI

1 Kings 16:211 Kings 16:22 1 Kings 16:25–26,

King Omri was the sixth ruler of the northern kingdom of Israel and
took the throne amidst turmoil and division among the people.
While half of the citizens of Israel supported him, the other half
favored Tibni as their king. However, Omri's supporters proved
stronger, resulting in Tibni's death and Omri's ascension to the
throne. Despite serving as king for twelve years 885–874 BC, Omri
committed the same sins as Jeroboam, the previous king, and even
exceeded his evil deeds. According to the Bible, Omri's actions were
seen as evil in the eyes of the Lord and he led Israel astray with his
idol worship, resulting in the anger of the God of Israel.

Those who do not learn history are bound to repeat it. Omri in his
case knew the history of passed kings and he deliberately chose to
repeat it. Do you deliberately choose to sin against God?

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The passed sin of Israel Kings enticed Omri; as a Christian, what

entices you?

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Like Omri, do you repeat sins that you see people doing, saying that
I am not the only one?

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When your predecessors sinned against God and God punished

them with death or any disaster, what should be your action?
148 | P a g e
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Who was Tibni?

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What was the relationship between Omri and Tibni?

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Did Omri kill Tibni or he died by natural causes?

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Asa was also a King during the reign of Omri, were they in good
terms or in conflict?

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149 | P a g e
 KING AHAB

1 Kings 20-21:2-3.

King Ahab disregarded the Lord's explicit instruction to eliminate

Ben-Hadad, the king of Aram. God had arranged for Ahab to lead
Israel to victory, but instead Ahab formed a pact with the king he
was commanded to destroy 1 Kings 20. In response, the Lord
declared to Ahab, "Your life will be taken in exchange for his life and
your people for his people." Ahab also coveted a vineyard belonging
to a man named Naboth. Despite offering to purchase the vineyard,
Naboth declined due to the laws prohibiting him from selling it 1
Kings 21:2-3. As Ahab sulked in anger in his palace, his wife
conspired and carried out Naboth's murder, allowing Ahab to claim
the vineyard.

Elijah approached Ahab with a message from the Lord, informing

him that his dynasty would be cut off. Elijah prophesied that in the
same place where dogs licked up Naboth's blood, they would also
lick Ahab's blood 1 Kings 21:19. Upon hearing this, Ahab expressed
his remorse by tearing his clothes, donning sackcloth, and fasting.
In response to Ahab's penitence, God, in his mercy, delayed the
destruction of Ahab's dynasty until after his death.

1 Kings 21:19. Upon hearing this, Ahab tore his clothes, put on
sackcloth and fasted. In response to Ahab’s repentance, God
mercifully postponed the destruction of Ahab’s dynasty until after
Ahab was dead. What do you think about this kind of repentance?

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Ahab’s primordial sin was disobedience to God’s command; have

you been disobedient to God? Discuss

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150 | P a g e
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Aside from disobedience, Ahab was greedy and coveted Naboth’s

property, how have you been keeping God’s commandment in
Exodus 20: concerning neighbors?

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Bad company corrupts good manners. Jezebel corrupted Ahab

drastically; describe how bad companies have influenced your
decision in life

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A good lesson to learn from Ahab is swift repentance. Do you wallow

in your sin or you show instantaneous remorse?

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Choosing a good partner is necessary; we have Ahab and Jezebel’s

relationship as example to avoid. What does the Bible say about
finding wife?

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151 | P a g e
Who was Ben-Hadad and what was his relationship with Israel?

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Ahaziah of Israel was the king of Israel from 853 to 852 BC. He was
the son of the notorious Ahab and Jezebel, who were known as some
of the most wicked rulers in Israel's history. Despite ruling for only
two years, Ahaziah followed in the footsteps of his parents and was
just as evil, angering the Lord through his worship of Baal, which
perpetuated the people's idolatry and sin 1 Kings 22:53.

During his reign, Ahaziah was badly injured after falling from a
window. Instead of seeking the Lord's guidance, he sought the
advice of Baal-Zebub on whether he would recover from his injuries
2 Kings 1:2. In response, the Lord sent His prophet, Elijah, to
confront the messengers and deliver a message to King Ahaziah: he
would not recover and would die in his bed. Elijah repeated the
Lord's message of judgment to Ahaziah, and shortly after, the king
died.

As Ahaziah had no sons, he was succeeded by his brother Joram,

who was also a sinful ruler but not as evil as his predecessors,
including his brother Ahaziah.

Ahaziah had already been raised by his parents in an evil way; do

you discard this assertion? Whether yes or no, why?

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Why do you think Ahaziah’s worship of Baal influenced the people

of Israel?

152 | P a g e
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Ahaziah shifted his priority to the worship of Baal rather than

worship to Yahweh. Has your mind been shifted to other things
rather than God? State with circumstances

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Even when Isaiah fell into trouble, he sought for help from Baal-
Zebub rather than Yahweh. Who do you turn to when you face
challenges and why?

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How do you react when God sends warning against your sinful act?

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Do you hArken to God’s warning through an oracle?

153 | P a g e
 KING JORAM

Joram, Ahab's son, became the corrupt king of Israel and faced a
rebellion by Moab, leading to a war 2 Kings 3:4-5. Joram sought
help from Jehoshaphat and the king of Edom 2 Kings 3:8. They ran
out of water on their way to Moab, but Elisha filled a dry stream
with water for the troops and promised Moab's defeat. They won the
battle, but Joram continued in his evil ways, leading to his demise
by Jehu's hand, 2 Kings 3:8 who had been charged by God to
destroy the house of Ahab. Jehu confronted and killed Joram with
an arrow between the shoulders.

Why do you think Joram followed the manner of Kingship as his

father and brother?

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Why do you think Moab rebelled against Joram?

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Who was Jehoshaphat?

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Why did Elijah listen to Jehoshaphat and not Joram?

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154 | P a g e
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Joram was a cruel king and a sinner against God, why do you think
God helped them?

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Joram still disregarded God after being helped by Him. How can you
relate this act with the 9 lepers in Luke 17:12-19?

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Joram ended the worship of Baal in Israel, but still clung to some
sinful acts. As a Christian, concisely state some of these cases in a
daily Christian life

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Joram disregarded God and his action led to his early demise. How
consequential do you think disobedience can be? Analyze it in the
light of passed Israelite kings

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155 | P a g e
 KING JEHU

God chose Jehu to bring judgment upon Ahab's family and to clean
up the mess he had made. Jehu obeyed God's command to wipe out
the household of Ahab and also destroyed the worship of Baal in
Israel, killing all the priests and destroying the temple. God blessed
Jehu for his obedience and granted him a dynasty that lasted for
four generations 2 Kings 10:30. However, Jehu did not follow God's
law with all his heart and continued to practice the idolatrous
worship of King Jeroboam. 2 Kings 10:29

Do you think it’s possible to serve God and yet have no relationship
with God?

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Have you in the past or present met men who are anointed by God
and still do not serve him?

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How do you justify this quote, ‘busy but guilty’ in conjunction to

Jehu’s action?

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156 | P a g e
Was God aware of Jehu’s sins but yet decided to use him in
executing His plans? Discuss

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How do you relate Jehu’s storyline with Matthew 7:22-23?

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Jehu's story teaches us that while God may bless and grant success
to those who seek to obey Him, He may also withdraw His blessings
from those who choose to live in sin. Although Jehu was initially
blessed by God for his obedience, he ultimately failed to turn away
from the sins of Jeroboam and suffered the consequences of his
disobedience. Therefore, we should strive to follow God's commands
wholeheartedly and turn away from sin to continue to receive His
blessings.. Have you ever been or are you like Jehu? Discuss

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We cannot serve God while continuing to hold on to false gods.

Where does your allegiance lie?

157 | P a g e
 KING JEHOAHAZ

Jehoahaz son of Jehu, king of Israel 814-798 BC. Jehoahaz reigned

for seventeen years over Israel. He did evil in the eyes of the LORD
by following the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat, which he had caused
Israel to commit 2 Kings 13:2. Because Jehoahaz worshipped idols
and caused Israel to continue in the idolatry of Jeroboam, God
began to reduce the size of Israel, allowing Hazael and Ben-Hadad
of Aram to overpower them. After experiencing Aramean oppression
for a period of time, Jehoahaz finally relented and sought the
LORD’s favor. God graciously raised up a deliverer, who freed the
Israelites from Aram, so that they were able to live in their own
homes again.

Why do you think subsequent Kings of Israel keep referring

themselves back to the sins of Jeroboam?

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The sin of Jehoahaz affected the people of Israel which resulted into
slavery. Give analogy of other historical occurrences

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The sin of Jehoahaz affected the entire nation of Israel. People

around you probably look up to you, when you sin, they can follow
in your footstep and attract the wrath of God. What should be the
action of a leader in reoccurring temptation?

158 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Jehoahaz sought the face of God when he tasted the wrath of God.
How does suffering shape one into doing good?

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Which repentance would you suggest, repentance based on

suffering or remorse? Discuss your option

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God allowed Hazael and Ben-Hadad to conquer Israel. Do you think

God at some points in your life delivers you into the hand of Satan?

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159 | P a g e
 KING JOASH

King Joash of Judah was saved from being killed by his

grandmother Athaliah, who had taken the throne, and was hidden
in the temple for 7 years by Jehoiada. When Joash was anointed
king at the age of 7, Athaliah was captured and put to death, and a
covenant was made between the Lord, king, and people. Joash did
what was right in the eyes of the Lord during Jehoiada's lifetime,
but after Jehoiada's death, he listened to wicked advisers and
revived Baal worship. When warned by God, he did not listen and
ordered the stoning of Zechariah. He was later assassinated by his
officials.

How does eye service affect our relationship to God?

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Joash shows an example of man-service rather than God’s service.

As a Christian, who do you represent in your daily life?

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Do you hArken to God’s warning when He sends people to you?

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160 | P a g e
Have you ever witnessed anyone that kills someone because they
tell him the truth about someone?

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What should be your reaction as a Christian, when corrected by a

person considered to be inferior to you, do you react as Joash or
otherwise?

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How would you connect the reaction of Joash to Zechariah with the
story of Jesus speaking to the Pharisees and they attempted to
stone him in John 8:54ff?

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161 | P a g e
 KING JEROBOAM II

During his 41-year reign in Samaria, Jeroboam II, son of Joash,

committed evil by not abandoning the sins of his predecessor,
Jeroboam. However, he did rebuild Israel's coastline from Hamath
to the Sea of the Arabah, as prophesied by Jonah, son of Amittai,
from Gath-Hepher. Despite Israel's bitter misery, the LORD did not
erase their name from under heaven but delivered them through
Jeroboam.

Jeroboam II did not let go of all the forbidden sins. How can you
compare his action with your Christian life?

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Some Christians abstain from so-called big sins, and hold on to little
ones, how can you relate this to David’s constant mistake and
repentance?

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What would be your action if you keep finding yourself repeating

the same sin over and over again?

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162 | P a g e
How would you advice a person that keeps indulging in little sins?

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Irrespective of Jeroboam II sins, God still used him to rescue Israel.

Is it okay to keep sinning just because God’s grace abounds?

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163 | P a g e
 KING ZECHARIAH

2 Kings 15:10.

King Zechariah, son of Jeroboam II, was an evil ruler who reigned
for only six months in Israel in 753 BC. His reign ended when he
was assassinated by Shallum son of Jabesh in front of the people.
Shallum succeeded him as king, but his rule was even shorter and
he was also assassinated a month later. It is possible that Zechariah
was such a poor king that his assassination was not opposed.
Moreover, Zechariah was the last king in the dynasty of King Jehu.

God gives some people opportunities, but they fail to utilize it just
like King Zechariah, little is known about him. What shall you be
remembered for?

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Zechariah according to history was a poor king, that was what

makes it easier for him to get regicide by Shallum. Have you been
lazy and lackadaisical in your God-given? Discuss

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If you are in Shallum’s position, what would you have done with
such an opportunity to take out your superior at workplace?

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164 | P a g e
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Zechariah knew God’s wrath that befell his forefathers, but, he still
erred against Yahweh, in what ways have you ignored previous
lessons?

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Zechariah had no good relationship with the people of Israel, that

was why no one reacted after he was killed in public; can you
contextualize this act to yourself and your relationship with people
in church and society? Discuss

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What precaution are you going to take, to avoid ending like

Zechariah?

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165 | P a g e
 KING SHALLUM

Shallum was a king of Israel for one brief month in 752 BC. He rose
to the throne wickedly, and he filled his one month on the throne
with wickedness. As Jesus said, “All who draw the sword will die by
the sword” Matthew 26:52, and Shallum’s fate came quickly. After
one month as king, Shallum was also assassinated. A man named
Menahem killed Shallum and ruled Israel for the next ten years.

Shallum abused his opportunity in less than a month, why do you

think he acted that way?

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Was Shallum ever the choice of the people, or no one could stand
up to him when he killed Zechariah?

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Do you think Shallum’s death was a punishment for killing

Zechariah?

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166 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Zechariah was God’s anointed, but, Shallum killed him. How would
you reconcile this act with Psalms 105:15?

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167 | P a g e
 KING MENAHEM

2 Kings 15:13

After assassinating his predecessor Shallum, Menahem seized the

throne of Israel. Shallum had previously conspired against and
assassinated King Zechariah in Samaria, but Menahem refused to
recognize his rule. As a former captain in Zechariah's army,
Menahem marched to Samaria and took the throne for himself.

Menahem's reign was marked by cruelty and brutality. When the

city of Tiphsah refused to open its gates for him, he attacked and
slaughtered the entire population, including pregnant women whom
he cut open. These actions were both sinful and led Israel into
further sin.

Despite his wrongdoing, Menahem ruled until his death and was
eventually succeeded by his son Pekahiah

Menahem marched and killed Shallum, not because he wanted to,

but because of self-aggrandizement. What is the motif behind your
actions that could have communal effective?

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As a leader in your local setting, how patient are you if your subject
disobeys you?

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168 | P a g e
Menahem was cruel and brutal just because the people of Tiphsah
refused to open their city gates for him. Is that a justifying reason
to butcher them? Give reasons for your answer

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169 | P a g e
 KING PEKAHIAH

Pekahiah, who followed in the footsteps of his father Menahem, was

an idolatrous ruler who led his people into sinning against God by
worshipping idols. He continued to perpetrate the sins of Jeroboam
during his two-year reign. Eventually, Pekahiah was assassinated
in the royal citadel in Samaria by one of his top military officers,
Pekah ben Remaliah, with the assistance of fifty men from Gilead.
Pekah then took over as the new king.

Why do you think Pekahiah went straight into idolatry?

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Was Menahem ever a good model to Pekahiah?

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In few words, do a cross referencing of the character of Pekahiah to

another character in the New Testament.

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170 | P a g e
There’s what history calls ‘sins of Jeroboam’, why do you think
many Israeli kings refer back to those forbidden sins?

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How does the story of Pekahiah affect you as a Christian today?

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Pekahiah was betrayed by his commander. Have you ever betrayed

anyone or ever been betrayed by someone? If yes discuss why and
how.

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Do you see Pekah betraying Pekahiah as a consequence for

Pekahiah’s sins? Gives reasons for your response

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171 | P a g e
 KING PEKAH

2 kings 15:25-17:7-23

Pekah, an evil king, rose to power in the kingdom of Israel by killing

his predecessor, Pekahiah, whom he served as a chief officer, and
seizing the throne 2 Kings 15:25. He ruled for 20 years until he was
assassinated by Hoshea son of Elah. Toward the end of his reign,
Pekah formed an alliance with the king of Syria and attacked the
southern kingdom of Judah, laying siege to Jerusalem. This event
mArked the beginning of the downfall of the kingdom of Israel, as it
was a divine punishment for the sins and idolatry of the kings and
their people 2 Kings 17:7–23.

How do you justify Pekah’s action of assassinating Pekahiah to

other kings who do same? Is Pekah a Hero for killing a man that led
people into sin or not?

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Why did Hoshea assassinate Pekah?

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Hoshea killed Pekah and Israel fell into captivity under him, would
you say that Pekah was a strong king and had God on his side that
was why he was able to keep Israel intact?
172 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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How faithful are you to your leaders, especially when they trust you
with their lives?

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Pekah was such an evil King, what characters do you see as evil
around and within you that you see is necessary to eject?

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Do you think Pekah had the choice to be better but he deliberately

refused to be better? Analyze this in the light of today’s leaders.

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173 | P a g e
 KING HOSHEA

Hoshea, the son of Elah, seized the throne of the northern kingdom
of Israel in 732 BC by assassinating King Pekah, son of Remaliah.
Hoshea ruled for 9 years and was considered a wicked king,
although not as evil as his predecessors 2 Kings 17:2. Hoshea was
the final ruler of Israel before its collapse at the hands of the
Assyrians.

Upon ascending to the throne, Hoshea became a vassal to

Shalmaneser, the king of Assyria, and was required to pay a hefty
tribute 2 Kings 17:3. However, Hoshea eventually rebelled against
Assyria in a bid for independence and sought help from Egypt,
which proved unsuccessful. When Shalmaneser discovered
Hoshea's treachery, he imprisoned him verse 4 and sent his army
to invade Israel.

The Assyrian army besieged the capital city of Samaria for three
years and ultimately captured it. The Bible indicates that the
downfall of Israel and the subsequent exile of its people were a result
of God's judgment for their sins. Despite all that the Lord had done
for them, the Israelites had abandoned God and worshiped false
gods, erecting high places and burning incense to idols. As
punishment for their transgressions, the Lord permitted the
Israelites to be taken into captivity and exiled for 70 years, as He
had forewarned.

However, in His mercy, God vowed to preserve His people and bring
them back to the land that He had promised them.

Hoshea was a wicked king. But not as wicked as the others, why
and how?

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174 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Is there any advantage in lesser evil?

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Israel kings through God’s permission were supposed to be in

absolute control of the kingdom, but Hoshea was answerable to
Shalmaneser. Do you see this as a punishment from God or just a
coincidence?

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Hoshea in an attempt for freedom sought for help from Egypt and
failed. How do you ever turned to men for help instead of God?

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If you were in the shoes of Hoshea, who would you have turned to
for help?

175 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Israelites resulting into captivity was prophesied by Jeremiah; why

is it that the fulfillment of the prophecy fell on Hoshea, and not any
other past kings?

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Why do you think Israelites went into captivity, because of the sin
of their kings or their sins?

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------------

When you fall into sin that attracts God’s punishment, what should
be your swift reaction?

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176 | P a g e
 ABIJAH KING OF JUDAH

King Abijah, also known as King Abiah or King Abijam, was the son
of King Rehoboam and the father of King Asa. He ruled over Judah
for a brief three-year period 913-911 BC before his death. Abijah
was a wicked king, following in the sinful footsteps of his father: “He
committed all the sins his father had done before him; his heart was
not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his
forefather had been” 1 Kings 15:3.

Despite his unrighteousness, King Abijah attempted to reclaim the

northern ten tribes of Israel as part of his kingdom. What do you
think led him to this thought?

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As a result, there was constant warfare between Abijah and

Jeroboam throughout Abijah's reign verse 6. Discuss more
consequences of greed in our leaders of both political and spiritual

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Even though for a short time, king Abijah obeyed God he was
faithful to God, he put trust in God 13:9-10. What was the result of
his faithfulness?

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177 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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He knows that God will fight for them 13:4-20. Discuss his faith and
trust in God

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God lifted him up when he returned from the battle because he was
able to defeat his enemies 13:12-19 can you think of a moment you
trust in God and he saved you from shame?

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How hard is it to trust and wait on God

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I will burn up the house of Jeroboam as one burns dung, until it is

all gone. Dogs will eat those belonging to Jeroboam who died in the
city, and the birds will feed on those who die in the country. The
LORD has spoken!’” 1 Kings 14:7–11. Who made this statement and
to who?
178 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Was king Abijah faithful to God 1 Kings 15:3.

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After the death of Abijah Israel and Judah were in peace for how
long? 2 Chronicles 14:1

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He reigns 915-918 B.C. and served for Three years after he died in
the house of his father 14:1; 2 Chr. 13:1-23. Why do you think he
did not leave long?

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179 | P a g e
 BAASHA KING OF ISRAEL

Baasha was a notorious king who rose to power through acts of

violence and deception. He achieved a triple success in his quest for
power: he assassinated King Nadab, usurped the throne, and held
onto his position for the rest of his life. Baasha took the throne in
the city of Tirzah in 909 BC and ruled over the northern kingdom of
Israel for 24 years until his death in 886 BC, becoming the third
king to do so.

Baasha was not of royal lineage, and his rise to power was marked
by a history of conspiracy and scheming. Despite his illegitimate
path to the throne, Baasha managed to maintain his hold on power
for over two decades. 1 Kings 15:27–34, 1 Kings 16:1–7

King Baasha's reign began during the third year of King Asa's rule
over Judah. Throughout their respective reigns, there was constant
warfare between King Asa of Judah and King Baasha of Israel. The
Bible records this ongoing conflict, stating, "And there was war
between Asa and Baasha king of Israel all their days" 1 Kings 15:16.
This indicates that the two kings were engaged in a prolonged and
bitter struggle for power and dominance over their respective
kingdoms. 1 Kings 15:32 ”. What do you think is the reason?

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Why did king Baasha murder all Nadab's relatives, whom he

considered rivals to the throne,

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180 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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Why did king Baasha wipe out Jeroboam’s line?

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181 | P a g e
 KING HEROD STRENGTHS

When Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad 23:8.

Generous, master builders, sensitive to the religious feelings of the

Jews, rebuilt the temple and provided Israel with stability. Luke 10.
He wanted to see Jesus He had heard of Jesus He just wanted to
see Jesus do a miracle Luke 28:8.

When Herod had the good news concerning the baby, Jesus, he
decides to kill the all firstborn in Bethlehem Matt. 2:16-18 why do
you think are his reasons?

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The Bible depicts Herod as a monster who tried to kill baby Jesus
and, when he couldn't find him, he killed every infant in Bethlehem.
Can you think of some evil people today who will do evil as his?

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He ordered James the son of Zebedee to be killed with sword and

imprisoned Peter Acts 12:1-23. Do you know of any king who is
such wicked and persecuted the Church as his?

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182 | P a g e
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He jailed John the Baptist because he opposed his marriage to

Herodias his brother Philip’s wife. Later he caught the Head of John
the Baptist MArk 6:17; Luke 3:19-20. Why do you think is wise to
think twice before making any promise?

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Why didn’t Jesus save John like that of Lazarus? John 11:38-44

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Herod paid a huge of money to his armies so that they should be

able to silence the good news of Christ Jesus Matt. 2. Why do you
think he seconded to the Pharisees?

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When Herod heard what happened through Jesus, he was terror-

stricken, and said, It is John, whom I beheaded whom is risen from
the dead therefore mighty works do show forth themselves in him

183 | P a g e
MArk 6:16; Matthew 14:2 what do you think is the difference
between Heron, Pharoah, Nebuchadnezzar, Ahasuerus and Darius?

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184 | P a g e
 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, throughout history, God chose kings to represent

Him on earth, but unfortunately, many of these kings displayed evil
acts that were considered sins before the Lord. It was unfortunate
that they lived in arrogance, committing sins such as child sacrifice
and worship of idols. The kings who acted diplomatically against the
Lord lost God's favor, and their reigns were mArked by a reduction
in blessings. The evil acts of the kings were a reminder that
repentance should be sought immediately instead of later. Leaders
without good character are a disappointment to society. However,
there were some kings who did what was right in the eyes of God,
such as Jehoshaphat, the fourth king of Judah. He became one of
the most successful rulers because he followed the commands of
God. He led Judah in a series of religious reforms and abolished the
idol worship that had consumed the land. Jehoshaphat's success
as a leader reminds us that leaders who follow God's commands are
successful. In the Bible, the Valley of Jehoshaphat is mentioned in
Joel 3:2 and Joel 3:12, and he was generally considered a good
sovereign of the Kingdom of Judah and the son and successor of
King Asa. You can read about Jehoshaphat's reign in 1 Kings 15:24;
22:41-51; and 2 Chronicles 17:1-21:1.

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How did king Jehoshaphat fortify his kingdom against Israel 2

Chronicles 17:1-2.

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-

185 | P a g e
Did he set himself to cleanse the land of idolatry 1 Kings22:43?

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What are the important things that King did in 2 Chronicles 17:7-
9.

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What is the great mistake in the entire reign of king Jehoshaphat 1

Kings 22:1-3.

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What promoted Jehoshaphat to be the leader over the people of

Israel?

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186 | P a g e
SECTION V

PROPHETS

187 | P a g e
Having finished our study of the Judges and Kings in the Old
Testament, we will now turn our attention to the Prophets. The
prophets were men and women who were chosen by God to speak
to the people on His behalf. They were called to deliver messages of
warning, correction, and hope to the Israelites. The prophets played
an essential role in shaping the religious and political landscape of
Israel, and their lives and teachings have much to teach us today.

Through the study of the Prophets, we will learn about their

experiences, teachings, and prophecies. We will gain insights into
their relationship with God, their role in the community, and their
impact on the nation. We will also learn how their messages of
repentance, righteousness, and restoration are still relevant to us
today. The Prophets represent a diverse group of people with
different backgrounds, experiences, and messages. Some of the
most well-known prophets include Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and
Daniel. Each of these prophets had a unique message for the people
of Israel, and their teachings continue to inspire and challenge
believers today.

By examining the lives and teachings of the Prophets, we can gain

a deeper understanding of God's character, His love for His people,
and His desire for us to live in obedience to His commands. We can
also learn from their examples of faith, courage, and perseverance
in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the study of the Prophets is an essential part of our

journey to understand and apply the teachings of the Old Testament
to our lives today. Through their lives and teachings, we can grow
in our relationship with God and be inspired to live lives that honor
Him.

The Table below shows the years they lived and Kings they prophecy
during their reign.

188 | P a g e
CHRONOLOGICAL LIST OF PROPHETS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

The
Prophet The Dates Bible History Kings and Events

Jehoash, Jeroboam II
Jonah 810-790 BC 2 Kings 13-14 Amaziah

Joel 790-760 BC 2 Kings 11-15 Uzziah

Amos 780-760 BC 2 Kings 14-15 Jeroboam II Uzziah
Jeroboam II to Hoshea
Hosea 785-725 BC 2 Kings 15-18
Uzziah Jotham, Ahaz
Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz,
Isaiah 750-695 BC 2 Kings 15-20
Hezekiah
Jotham, Ahaz,
Micah 745-725 BC 2 Kings 15
Hezekiah
PROPHETS OF JUDAH

Manasseh, Amon,
Nahum 660-630 BC 2 Kings 15-18
Josiah
Zephaniah 630-620 BC Isaiah 10 Josiah
Habakkuk 620-610 BC 2 Kings 23 Josiah, Jehoahaz
Josiah to Zedekiah.
Jeremiah 628-588 BC 2 Kings 22-25
The Captivity
PROPHETS OF THE CAPTIVITY

The Captivity Reign of

Nebuchadnezzar to
Daniel 606-534 BC 2 Kings 23-25
Cyrus

189 | P a g e
 After Jerusalem's
Destruction Reign of
Obadiah 587 BC 2 Kings 25
Nebuchadnezzar

to the Jews Before

and During the
Ezekiel 596-574 BC 2 Kings 24 Captivity
Reign of
Nebuchadnezzar
PROPHETS OF THE RETURN TO JERUSALEM

Rebuilding the Temple

in Jerusalem Reign of
Haggai 520-518 BC Ezra 5-6
Darius I

Rebuilding and
Dedication of the
Zechariah 520-510 BC Ezra 5-6
Temple
Reign of Darius I
Second Reformation
Malachi 420-397 BC Nehemiah 13 by Nehemiah
Reign of Artaxerxes I

190 | P a g e
 JEREMIAH

Jeremiah was the last prophet God sent to Judah, the southern
kingdom of Judah and Benjamin. He wept as the people refused to
heed his message Known as the weeping prophet. Although he
suffered greatly for preaching a convicting message, he persevered.
His experience shows that believers may face rejection, depression,
and discouragement in their journey with the Lord. Despite this, we
must continue to proclaim the truth and warn others of impending
judgment.

I knew you before I formed you in the womb Jer. 1:5a. Do you think
God knows you like that of Jeremiah?

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Before you were born, I set you apart: does that mean God set apart
only the prophets or everybody in a unique way?

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Jeremiah 8:4-chapter 9ff shows God warning the Israelites about

their loathsome ways of life, yet they rejected the warning. Discuss
the punishment seen in these chapters and detestable ways of life
that caused God to turn his eyes from his people Jer. 9:9ff

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191 | P a g e
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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What Judgement do you think awaits our generation Rev.3:10?

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“The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will punish all who
are circumcised only in the flesh.” Jer. 9:25. What kind of
circumcision does God require Roman 2:25-29; Gal. 6:15? ----------
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How is that concept of circumcision “In the flesh” be the same as

baptism today?

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People plot to kill Jeremiah because of his preaching and prophesies

Jer. 11:18-23 yet Jeremiah never gave up. How can his fearless
heart help with the gospel in this age? 2 Timothy 4:3-4

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192 | P a g e
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“You are always on their lips but far from their hearts” Jeremiah
12:2b what percentage of these kind of people hypocrites are in our
churches today?

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How can you compare those people with 2 Timothy 3:1-12

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Think of how their hypocritical ways hindered the gospel from

spreading?

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What about you: Are you really converted?

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--------------------------------If you die today, will you see God?

193 | P a g e
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Who in the Bible best reflect your life?

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What is salvation to you?

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What is baptism to you? John 3:1-9

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What do you think about God’s school for people he equips for a
designated assignment looks like?

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Easy and straight? Discuss

194 | P a g e
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Hard? Discuss

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What is the motivation during hard times in life?

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What we learn from the life of Jeremiah is the comfort of knowing
that, just like every believer, even great prophets of God can
experience rejection, depression, and discouragement in their walk
with the Lord. Do you believe that this is a normal part of growing
spiritually? Discuss practically

195 | P a g e
 PROPHET JONAH

Jonah 1-4

Jonah was a flawed prophet who rebelled against God's call to warn
the Ninevites about their wickedness. He was swallowed by a whale
as punishment but eventually prayed and was spat out onto the
seashore. His story reminds us that no one is beyond God's reach
and that disobedience leads to consequences. Jonah's story can
comfort those who struggle with obedience and those who have a
high temper, and it serves as an object lesson for those who oppress
spiritually immature people. We should strive to help those in
dArkness, as the Ninevites were, and learn from Jonah's
experiences.

How well have you been responding to God’s instruction?

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How have you been like Jonah, or have you acted in the will of God?
Discuss

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You as a person with advantage, how do you treat others who are
at a disadvantage?

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One intriguing thing about Jonah is, when he was in trouble, he

was conscious that only God could help him. Do you try to proffer
solutions to yourself before remembering only God can help you, or
do you run back to God instantly? Discuss

197 | P a g e
 PROPHET JOEL

The Book of Joel contains two major events, the invasion of locusts
and the outpouring of the Spirit. The locust invasion is followed by
a severe famine, which prompts Joel to send words of warning to
Judah to repent and seek God's forgiveness. If they do so, there will
be renewed material and spiritual blessings for the nation. However,
the Day of the Lord is coming, a day of God's wrath and judgment,
in which all nations will receive His judgment. In chapter 1, the Day
of the Lord is experienced historically by the plague of locusts upon
the land. Chapter 2:1-17 is a transitional chapter in which Joel
renews a call to repentance. Chapters 2:18-3:21 describe the Day
of the Lord in eschatological terms and answer the call to
repentance with prophecies of physical restoration, spiritual
restoration, and national restoration. Peter quotes the initial
fulfillment of this at Pentecost in Acts 2.

Without repentance, judgment will be harsh, thorough, and certain.

Our trust should not be in our possessions but in the Lord our God.
What should be your reaction when God seems to tarry?

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God at times may use nature, sorrow, or other common occurrences

to draw us closer to Him. But in His mercy and grace, He has
provided the definitive plan for our salvation; Jesus Christ, crucified
for our sins and exchanging our sin for His perfect righteousness.
What about does who are not Christians and do not know Jesus
Christ; from what would their comfort be, and what is your action
point as a Christian?

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There is no time to lose. God’s judgment will come swiftly, as a thief

in the night 1 Thessalonians 5:2, and we must be ready. Today is
the day of salvation 2 Corinthians 6:2. “Seek the LORD while he
may be found; call on him while he is near. What is the place of a
Christian in evangelism in this context?

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Describe the day of Lord from your knowledge of Joel’s time --------
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To draw a conclusion to this, I would say let the wicked forsake his
way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the LORD, and
he will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon
Isaiah 55:6-7. Only by appropriating God’s salvation can we escape
His wrath on the Day of the Lord.

199 | P a g e
 PROPHET AMOS

Amos, a shepherd and farmer from the Judean village of Tekoa,

prophesied during the reigns of Jeroboam II in Israel and Uzziah in
Judah Amos 1:1. While he did prophesy against Israel’s neighbors
Amos 1-2, his main message was directed towards Israel. However,
this message was not well-received, as Amos fearlessly denounced
sin and God’s righteous judgment. Throughout the book of Amos,
many sentences begin with a phrase similar to this: “This is what
the Lord says: ‘For three sins of Israel, even for four, I will not
relent’” Amos 2:6.

Although not much is known about Amos' private life or his death,
an apocryphal work called The Lives of the Prophets suggests that
he was killed by Amaziah, the priest of Bethel. In Amos 7, Amaziah
accused Amos of plotting against the king of Israel, and advised him
to prophesy in Judah instead. Despite this, Amos obeyed God's
command to continue prophesying in Israel, even delivering a
personal message of tragedy for Amaziah Amos 7:17.

God's message to Israel in Amos 5:4 is applicable to all humanity:

"Seek me and live." Although God was angered by the sins of His
own people and prepared to punish the neighboring pagan nations,
His deepest desire was for them to turn from their sins and repent.
This same desire applies to us today Matthew 3:2; 2 Peter 3:9;
Revelation 2:5, 21. When we repent, God offers forgiveness and
cleansing through His Son, Jesus Christ 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 John
1:9.

What do you think God meant by ‘for three sins of Israel and for
four’?

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Do you think prophet Amos did exactly what God wanted?

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In the light of your above response, where would you classify your
reaction to God’s daily commands?

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Amaziah killed Amos for prophesying against him. What would you
say about this, did God abandon Amos or was it part of divine
orchestration?

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Amos acted in God’s command and was not afraid of speaking

against Amaziah, how have you acted against corrupt governments,
especially when gives you a message of indictment against them?

201 | P a g e
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 PROPHET HOSEA

Hosea's prophetic messages revolved around Israel's disloyalty to

God, which he depicted symbolically by marrying a prostitute, as
instructed by the Lord Hosea 1:2. The aim was to showcase how
Israel's unfaithfulness to Yahweh was akin to prostitution. The
prophet continued to use the metaphor of adultery throughout his
ministry, challenging Israel's idolatry and apostasy, presenting
God's accusations against the people, and predicting judgment.
Hosea's unflinching portrayal of Israel as an unfaithful spouse
highlights the depth of God's pain over their betrayal and his
unwavering love for his people.

God so loved Israel, but how can a child who is given an abundance
of love, mercy, and grace treat a Father with so much disrespect?
Analyze Christians in Nigeria in the light of Israelites

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Do you think Hosea marrying of a harlot was literal? Discuss your

response

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Why was it necessary for God to ask Hosea to marry a prostitute?

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How can you rate the obedience of Hosea by marrying a harlot?

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How often has God been commanding you to do things that are
contrary to what you want, and how often have you complied?

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To avoid rejecting God like the Israelites, we must remember all that
He has done for us and learn to respect our Creator. Hosea
exemplifies God's loving commitment, and even when we sin, God
will forgive us if we have a repentant heart 1 John 1:9. God desires
intimate fellowship with us, despite our repeated rejection, and His
enduring faithfulness is revealed through this metaphor.
Ultimately, God's goal is for us to live a fulfilling life mArked by
dedication and devotion.

204 | P a g e
 PROPHET ISAIAH

Isaiah, whose name means "Yahweh is salvation," wrote the

eponymous book in the Old Testament and is best known for his
prophesies about the coming Messiah, which were made hundreds
of years before Jesus was born Isaiah 7:14; 9:1-7. Not much is
known about Isaiah as a person, except that he was the son of
Amoz, married, and had sons of his own Isaiah 1:1; 7:3; 8:3. During
his ministry, Judah was a sinful and unjust nation, but Isaiah
believed they were chosen by God and would be vindicated. With
support from Micah and King Hezekiah, their enemies were
defeated, and Judah experienced a revival 2 Kings 19:32-36. Isaiah
is often referred to as Judah's evangelist for his efforts to turn the
people back to God. His life was full of highs and lows, with
faithfulness to God being rewarded with amazing miracles, and
obedience to God leading to difficult challenges, like spending three
years stripped naked and barefoot Isaiah 20:2-4. Isaiah's writings
reveal his unwavering faithfulness and humility before God, and he
was respected by King Hezekiah's court and his peers. As one of the
people who walked closely with God, Isaiah's work has inspired
some of the world's greatest art, music, and poetry.

It appears that Isaiah was a very private man. When we meet some
of today’s renowned speakers face to face, we may be disappointed
to find they appear somewhat different from what they show us to
be. What is your lifestyle as a Christian or a minister, are you
transparent or hypocritical?

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Isaiah is known to have an unswerving faithfulness and humility to

God; examine your life before God in the light of prophet Isaiah

205 | P a g e
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Isaiah’s ministry is all about pointing people to God, not to himself.

How do you go about your ministry?

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In these last days, we need to make every word we speak count for
the kingdom. And from Isaiah’s lifestyle we learn that, when God
accomplishes a part of His plan through us, we must ensure that
all the glory goes to Him. Do you at all in your ministry give total
glory to God, or do you sometimes give yourself a little credit?

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In addition, it appears Isaiah’s ministry was characterized by

closeness with other godly men, like Micah and King Hezekiah.
Going it alone can often leave us vulnerable, but when we are united
by God’s Holy Spirit to other members of the body of Christ through
fellowship and prayer, our ministry is more effective by virtue of the
protection others provide. Do you agree or not? Give reasons for
your position

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 PROPHET MICAH

The Israelites had forsaken Yahweh, chasing after idols and

incorporating elements of pagan worship into their own. They
refused to obey the Lord, and without a king, every person did as
they pleased, leading to chaos. Micah's spiritual stance reflects the
attitude of the people at that time. He received a word from the Lord
about the future of Samaria and Jerusalem Micah 1:1. Micah's
message contains both hope and doom, proclaiming God's
lovingkindness towards those who repent and turn to Him Micah
7:18–19. Micah also reminds the people of what the Lord requires
of them: to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God Micah
6:8. Amidst stern warnings to Judah, Micah offers hope that God
will show compassion and relent on the judgment promised, should
they turn from their evil ways. The book ends with the assurance
that God will have compassion on them and cast their sins into the
depths of the sea Micah 7:19.

The prophet Micah reminds us that, despite God’s zero tolerance

toward our sin, He is also ready and waiting to forgive and restore
those who repent. How do you see this come to pass in Nigeria and
the church?

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How often do you communicate God’s exact mind to his people and
how do you go about it?

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207 | P a g e
How did Micah’s words of comfort with the condition of repentance
confirm 2 Corinthians 5:21.

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208 | P a g e
 PROPHET NAHUM

Nahum's book is not a call to repentance for the people of Nineveh,

as God had already sent Jonah 150 years prior with a warning of
what would happen if they continued in their wicked ways.
Although the people had repented at that time, they had since
returned to their sinful practices, even worse than before. Therefore,
God sent Nahum to warn them once again of the impending
judgment and destruction of their city. Despite Jonah's previous
message and Nahum's warning, the people of Nineveh did not turn
from their ways and were subsequently conquered by Babylon
Nahum 3:1-4. God's patience and slow anger are evident as He gives
every nation the opportunity to repent and turn to Him as their
Lord.

God is patient and slow to anger. He gives every country time to

repent of sin and follow Him as Lord.

1. How patient are you with people when they err against you?
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But God is not mocked. Any time a country turns away from Him
and rejects righteousness, evil results, and He steps in with
judgment. Do you think Nigeria is currently facing God’s wrath,
looking at the economic meltdown and other calamities?

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Evil result was true for Assyria, and it will be true for any nation
today. As Christians it is our duty to stand up for biblical principles
and proclaim Christ, for it is only in repentance and the life-
changing message of the gospel that any country can find hope. How
can you reconcile the categories of people of good morals with zero
spirituality and those who are spiritual? Do you see both parties as
hopes for a better nation, or just the Spiritual ones? Discuss

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210 | P a g e
 PROPHET ZEPHANIAH

Zephaniah boldly declared God's judgment upon the whole earth,

Judah, surrounding nations, Jerusalem, and all nations. He also
proclaimed blessings from the Lord upon faithful remnants of His
people, especially in Judah. The book of Zephaniah commences
with the phrase "The word of the Lord" and concludes with "says the
Lord," revealing his conviction that he was delivering God's
message. Despite the people's belief in multiple gods and the
perceived invincibility of the Assyrian army, Zephaniah was
unafraid to speak the truth. While God is merciful and
compassionate, ignoring His warnings leads to judgment.
Throughout the Scriptures, the prophets referred to the "Day of the
Lord," a time of divine judgment. The fall of Jerusalem and other
events were viewed as precursors to this ultimate day of reckoning.

Are you as bold as Zephaniah to preach to those who are perishing?

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His book begins with ‘The word of the Lord’ and ends with ‘says the
Lord.’ He knew that neither the many gods the people worshiped
nor even the might of the Assyrian army could save them. Even
when you have the capacity, do you give God the audacity?

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God is gracious and compassionate, but when all His warnings are
ignored, judgment is to be expected. Discuss how you have ignored
his warnings, and how you got back on track

211 | P a g e
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God’s day of judgment is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures.

The prophets called it the ‘Day of the Lord.’ They referred to various
events such as the fall of Jerusalem as manifestations of God’s Day,
each of which pointed toward the ultimate Day of the Lord.
Whatever we do, we should always be conscious of the day of the
Lord.

212 | P a g e
 PROPHET HABAKKUK

Habakkuk, the prophet who authored the biblical book bearing his
name, expressed deep concern over the widespread injustice and
violence in his surroundings. Some suggest that Habakkuk was the
son of the Shunammite woman, whom the prophet Elijah raised
from the dead. In Habakkuk's search for answers, he questioned
why God allowed such evil to exist and pleaded for justice. He asked
God, "Why do you make me look at injustice? Why do you tolerate
wrongdoing? Destruction and violence are before me; there is strife,
and conflict abounds" Habakkuk 1:3.

Habakkuk's questioning of God reflected his close relationship with

the Lord, and his faith in Him remained strong despite his doubts.
In response to Habakkuk's inquiries, God reassured him that the
Babylonians would face judgment for their wrongdoing in due time
Habakkuk 2:8, 16. Habakkuk accepted God's response and
demonstrated unwavering faith. Despite the challenges and
hardships, he endured, Habakkuk declared, "I will rejoice in the
LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior" Habakkuk 3:18.

Like Habakkuk, we can ask God about events happening in our

lives, and like Habakkuk, we can conclude that “the Sovereign
LORD is my strength”. How practical do you see this in Nigerian
churches today?

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Habakkuk was not afraid to ask the Lord questions, which shows
that the prophet had a strong relationship with Him. How strong is
your relationship with God? Discuss

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God answered Habakkuk’s questions, because Habakkuk was

faithful and righteous. Discuss your life and character in the light
of Habakkuk’s life

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Habakkuk accepts God’s answers and shows himself to be man of

great faith. Measure the level of your faith in God’s judgments and
discuss

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Despite the fear, suffering, and trouble the prophet faced,

Habakkuk proclaims, I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in
God my Savior. Why do people grumble in trials instead of rejoicing
like Habakkuk?

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214 | P a g e
 PROPHET DANIEL

During their training, Daniel and his companions stood out as the
wisest among all the trainees, and upon completion, they were
recruited into the service of King Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel's first
display of faithfulness to God occurred when he and his three
friends refused the luxurious food and wine from the king's table,
considering it to be impure, and instead chose to eat a vegetarian
diet. As they thrived on this diet, they were allowed to continue with
it. Through their education, the four men from Judah gained
extensive knowledge of Babylonian affairs, and Daniel was blessed
with the ability to understand all types of dreams and visions by
God Daniel 1:17. Why do you think so?

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Nebuchadnezzar was perplexed by a dream that he could not

decipher, and Daniel sought God in prayer. Through God's
revelation, Daniel was able to interpret the king's dream and was
summoned to the king to share its meaning. How do you connect
this with Jeremiah 33:3?

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Daniel quickly attributed his skill in interpreting dreams to the one

true God Daniel 2:28. What do you think the prophets in this
generation will do?

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Later, Nebuchadnezzar had another dream, and once again, Daniel

was able to decipher it. The king recognized that Daniel possessed
the spirit of his holy God Daniel 4:9. Are the things you do leads
people to acknowledgment of God’s sovereignty?

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The book of Daniel documents the prophetic dreams and visions

that God bestowed upon him. Daniel's commitment to honesty and
loyalty towards his rulers was coupled with his exceptional
integrity, which earned him the admiration and affection of the
powerful people he served. Despite his unwavering devotion to God,
Daniel never allowed it to compromise his loyalty towards his
masters. Instead, it was a source of inspiration for the unbelievers
around him. When interpreting dreams, he promptly gave credit to
God for his abilities Daniel 2:28.

Like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, we should always stand for

what we know is right. God is greater than any punishment that
could come upon us. Whether God chooses to deliver us or not, He
is always worthy of our trust. God knows what is best, and He
honors those who trust and obey Him.

As Christians, we are called to obey rulers and authorities that God

has put in place, treating them with respect and compassion;
however, as we see from Daniel’s example, obeying God’s law must
always take precedence over obeying men Romans 13:1–7; Acts
5:29. To what percentage should we keep obeying?

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As a result of his devotion, Daniel found favor with man and with
God Daniel 9:20-23. How would your devotion open more doors to
you?

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Daniel’s strength lay in his devotion to prayer. Do you pray all the
time or alone with you are in Christ?

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How often do you give regards to prayer and word of God?

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Do you see yourself like Daniel and would be able to withstand the
tests of time?

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What lesson have you learned from the life of Daniel and his 3
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218 | P a g e
 PROPHET OBADIAH

The name Obadiah was a common one in ancient Israel and Judah,
meaning "the Lord's servant" or "worshipper of Yahweh." Although
his book contains only twenty-one verses and is the shortest in the
Old Testament, it reveals that Obadiah probably lived during the
difficult and bitter period following the Babylonian capture and
destruction of Jerusalem. His prophecies primarily address God's
judgment against the Edomites, a hostile neighbor of Israel, for their
role in the destruction of Jerusalem. Obadiah's message
emphasizes that God will not forget His people, even during their
captivity, and will achieve His purpose through and beyond the
terrible circumstances they experience.

Interestingly, some of Obadiah's words are strikingly similar to a

few verses found in Jeremiah 49, leading some scholars to speculate
that Jeremiah may have quoted or rephrased parts of Obadiah's
prophecy when composing his own oracle against Edom.

Do we always rejoice when God sends doom on our enemies?

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The Bible commands that we pray for our enemies and bless those
who persecute us. Looking at the concurrent security issues in
Nigeria and religious crises, how would you advice Christians to
respond to persecution?

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219 | P a g e
Obadiah prophesized exactly what God asked him to prophesy
against Edom, today, do we pray against our enemies in accordance
to God’s commands, or do we pray because we feel it is necessary
for our enemies to die? Discuss your view

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It is best that we listen to God clearly whenever He gives instruction

concerning how we respond to our friends and enemies. Obadiah
was only but discharging the duties that God placed in his hands.
Some Christians when given opportunities such as Obadiah’s, they
turn out to be vindictive and pray prayers of retribution instead of
the original intentions of God. Like Obadiah, we must learn to act
exactly as God plans.

220 | P a g e
 PROPHET EZEKIEL

The story of Ezekiel teaches us several moral lessons. Firstly, it

shows us the power of faith and devotion to God's word. Despite
being uprooted from his homeland and facing years of despair and
hopelessness, Ezekiel remained committed to his faith and eagerly
devoted himself to God's word. This allowed him to become a
powerful messenger of God's message to his people, even in the face
of great adversity.

Secondly, the story of Ezekiel demonstrates the importance of being

open to new experiences and perspectives. When Ezekiel was taken
to Babylon, he discovered that God was not confined to the narrow
strictures of his native land. This realization allowed him to see that
God was a universal God who commanded and controlled persons
and nations, and it expanded his understanding of God's power and
presence in the world.

Finally, the story of Ezekiel highlights the power of using creative

and unconventional methods to convey important messages.
Ezekiel used art, symbolic actions, and unusual conduct to capture
the attention of his people and drive home the importance of God's
message. This serves as a reminder that sometimes the most
effective way to communicate a message is to think outside the box
and use innovative approaches that will resonate with the intended
audience

The Book of Ezekiel calls us to join in a fresh and living encounter

with the God of Abraham, Moses and the prophets. What must we
overcome to answer this call?

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221 | P a g e
Ezekiel challenged us to experience a life-changing vision of God’s
power, knowledge, eternal presence, and holiness; to let God direct
us. Do our prophets these days lead us to depend on them or God
like Ezekiel?

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--------God imparted to Ezekiel His Word for the people and Ezekiel
became eagerly devoted to God’s Word. How do you take the word
and message that God gave to you for his people?

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222 | P a g e
 PROPHET HAGGAI

Haggai's message to the people of God was to challenge their

priorities and urge them to revere and glorify God by building the
Temple despite opposition. He encouraged them not to be
discouraged by the Temple's less lavish decoration compared to
Solomon's, but to turn away from their unclean ways and trust in
God's sovereignty. The Book of Haggai serves as a reminder of the
challenges faced by the people of God during this time, their
courageous trust in God, and God's provision for their needs. The
question remains whether the people of God will reconsider their
priorities, take courage, and act on the basis of God's promises.

God warned the people to heed His words and offered promises
through Haggai to motivate them to follow Him. However, due to
their failure to prioritize God and put Him first in their lives, Judah
was sent into Babylonian exile. In response to Daniel's prayer and
in fulfillment of God's promises, God directed Cyrus, the Persian
king, to allow the Jews in exile to return to Jerusalem.

The Book of Haggai draws attention to common problems most

people face even today. What are some of the challenges that the
church faces today?

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Haggai asks us to examine our priorities to see if we are more

interested in our own pleasures than doing the work of God.
Examine yourself and clearly state your findings

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Haggai also urges us to reject a defeatist attitude when we run into

opposition or discouraging circumstances. Have you ever fall into
situations that seemed unbearable?

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Haggai again admonishes that we confess our failures and seek to

live pure lives before God. What does it take for a man to come to
repentance?

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We also learn that it is necessary to act courageously for God

because we have the assurance that He is with us always and is in
full control of our circumstances and to rest secure in God’s hands
knowing that He will abundantly bless us as we faithfully serve Him.

224 | P a g e
 PROPHET ZECHARIAH

Zechariah emphasized that God has utilized His prophets to teach,

warn, and correct His people, but unfortunately, they refused to
listen, resulting in God's punishment. The book also highlights how
prophecy could be corrupted during this period, leading to a time
between the Testaments when no lasting prophetic voice spoke to
God's people.

The Book of Zechariah teaches that salvation is available to all. The

final chapter portrays people from all over the world coming to
worship God, who desires that everyone follow Him. However, this
does not mean that all people will be saved because it is God's
nature to save, as universalism suggests. Rather, the book teaches
that God welcomes and accepts those who worship Him, regardless
of their national or political affiliations.

Furthermore, Zechariah preached that God is sovereign over this

world, despite any appearances to the contrary. His visions of the
future demonstrate that God sees all that will happen, and His
intervention in the world indicates that ultimately, He will bring
human events to the end He chooses. While He does not eliminate
individual freedom to follow God or rebel, He holds people
responsible for the choices they make.

God expects sincere worship and moral living of us today. How

would you describe your sincerity in worship to God today?

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Zechariah’s example of breaking through national prejudice

reminds us to reach out into all areas of our society. Is the Bible
here suggesting Christians’ involvement in the State? Gives reasons
for your view

225 | P a g e
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The Book of Zechariah teaches that salvation may be obtained by

all. Who do you think are saddled with the responsibility of
preaching salvation to all people?

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We must offer God's invitation of salvation to all, regardless of their

nationality, language, race, or culture. Salvation is solely obtainable
through Jesus Christ's shed blood on the cross, as He died in our
place to atone for our sins. However, rejecting this sacrifice means
there is no other way to reconcile with God.

Are we, as a church and individuals, evangelizing according to God's

expectations? If not, how can we improve our evangelism efforts?

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The relationship of Zechariah’s prophecy to us today is for us to

know and note that there is no other name under heaven by which
men are saved Acts 4:12. There is no time to lose; today is the day
of salvation 2 Corinthians 6:2.

226 | P a g e
 PROPHET MALACHI

The Book of Malachi contains an oracle from the Lord through

Malachi to the Israelites, calling them to turn back to God. As the
final book of the Old Testament, it emphasizes God's justice and
promises of restoration through the coming Messiah.

Malachi specifically addressed the Israelites who had gone astray,

including the priests who were not taking their sacrifices to God
seriously, offering blemished animals instead of those without
defect. The people of Judah were mistreating their spouses and
neglecting their tithing responsibilities. Despite their sins and
turning away from God, Malachi reminds them of God's love for
them and promises of a coming Messenger.

The men of Judah were dealing with the wives of their youth
treacherously and wondering why God would not accept their
sacrifices. Can you think of a place where God commanded them
not to marry ungodly people?

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Also, people were not tithing as they should have been Leviticus
27:30, 32. What do you think of the people who do not tithe and
offering yet they expect God to bless them?

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But in spite of the people’s sin and turning away from God, Malachi
reiterates God’s love for His people Malachi 1:1-5 and His promises
of a coming Messenger Malachi 2:17-3:5.
227 | P a g e
God is not pleased when we do not obey His commands. Give
examples of such commands

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He will repay those who disregard Him. How does one disregard
God? Give biblical and practical examples

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As for God hating divorce 2:16, God takes the covenant of marriage
seriously and He does not want it broken. We are to stay true to the
spouse of our youth for a lifetime. Reconcile this with Moses’ decree
that men can divorce their wives if it is the case of adultery

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Malachi 3:10 asks us to bring tithes into the storehouse of God, and
thereby put God to test and see; how can Malachi 3:10 be reconciles
with Deut. 6:16, where it says ‘you shall not put your Lord God to
test’?

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228 | P a g e
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Malachi prophesied in accordance to the commands of God. Has the

church been faithful to God’s commands, when it comes to tithing
and preaching the gospel?

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God sees our hearts, so He knows what our intentions are; nothing
can be hidden from Him. He will return and He will be the judge.
But if we return to Him, He will return to us Malachi 3:6.

229 | P a g e
 SECTION VI

JESUS TO TIMOTHY

230 | P a g e
 JESUS CHRIST

John 1:1-4, 9-14; 14:1-14 Speaks volume about Jesus, What do you
learn about these verses?

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How do you see yourself fit into Jesus’ lifestyles?

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231 | P a g e
What lessons can you learn from the blind man who was healed by
Jesus? John 9:1–7,

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Think of the moment you were greatly offended and compare your
reaction with Jesus to those that crucified Him Luke 23:34.

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Jesus was extremely humbly what about our leaders today do you
see this humility in them? Philippians 2:5ff Matthew 19:13–14

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Jesus had equal right with God but he took the form of a
bondservant, how is your lifestyle with your contemporaries?

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Is Jesus the king over your life today?

232 | P a g e
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1 Peter 2:21. Are you suffering for Christ deliberately, or compelled

to?

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233 | P a g e
Jesus check list compare with yourself Jesus is said to have all the fruits of the spirit which one do you lack and
what is your plan to work on it them

Jesus Love Joy Peace Forbearance Kindness Goodness Faithfulness Gentleness Self-control

Gal. 5: 22-
23

You

It is said that Jesus is equip with the spiritual armor what about you? Eph 6:10-20 How do you intend to fight your
battle?

234 | P a g e
Jesus Belt of Breastplate of Fitted Feet for Shield of Helmet of Sword of Prayer v. 18
Righteousness the gospel of Faith Salvation the Spirit
truth peace
V. 14 v. 14 v. 16 v. 17 v. 17
V. 15

You

235 | P a g e
 PETER

Peter also known as Simon Peter, or Cephas Rock, was a natural

leader, and an obvious spokesperson for the twelve. Peter is well
known for denying Christ three times after Christ was arrested.
After his own arrest many years later he requested to be crucified
with his head down. He didn’t believe he was worthy to be crucified
in the same manner as his Lord. He did a very good job at
evangelism.

Peter responded to clarion call instantly. When Jesus calls, we need

to answer immediately. How long did it take you to respond to God’s
calling?

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God wants to develop a close relationship with us. How does God
develop relationship with people?

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God plays no favoritism. It is worth noting when Jesus called Peter,

He was in a place that we least expected. Do you play nepotism in
the office that God gave you?

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236 | P a g e
We need to be diligent in our work. Peter was diligent in his.
Examine your work for God today, how do you go about it?

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Peter declares that Jesus Christ is the Son of the Living God, do you
have the boldness to tell unbelievers about Jesus?

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The foundation of the church is Jesus Christ. Discuss your

understanding on this assertion

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We must live by faith and not by sight. Perhaps the most well-known
story of Peter is when he tried to walk on water to be with Jesus.
Discuss peter’s action to your difficult and testing moments

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Our repentance should come with action. Peter repented the second
he denied Jesus. How do you respond to call for repentance?
237 | P a g e
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238 | P a g e
 ANDREW

He was not a dominant person next to his outspoken brother. He

was a passionate preacher and shared the gospel boldly and was a
significant contributor to the early church. Andrew died a martyr’s
death. He faced crucifixion with boldness and courage. He said,
“Oh, cross most welcome and longed for! With a willing mind,
joyfully and desirously, I come to you, being a scholar of Him which
did hang on you, because I have always been your lover and yearn
to embrace you.”

Humility is needed to answer the call of God Matthew 4:18-20. Do

you put your qualifications before Christ?

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Do not delay your conversion. Relate this to any biblical figure that
wasted time and was too late for them, and apply it to your setting.

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Constantly seek God in your life. How often do you communicate

with God, and how do you do it?

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239 | P a g e
Andrew was a passionate preacher and shared the gospel boldly and
was a significant contributor to the early church. Examine yourself
and outline your contributions to the body of Christ.

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Salvation is not just for you but for the Gentiles as well. Are you a
carrier of the gospel, how impactful have you been for the Kingdom?

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Serve God in whatever position you are in. is service to God based
on office, or anyone is mandated to serve him, and to what extent?

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Other lessons to learn from Andrew are:

We must be watchful of the signs of the age. Agree/Strongly agree?

State your reasons

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240 | P a g e
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Actively look for ways to serve. Agree/Strongly agree?

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The little that you have, God can make great. Agree/Strongly agree?
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We are to follow God more than men. Agree/Strongly agree?

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241 | P a g e
 JAMES

James is the elder brother of John. He is a rather quiet part of the

team of disciples in that we don’t read much about him in Scripture.
As part of Jesus’ “inner three” he was permitted to be present along
with Peter and John when Jesus raised Jairus’ daughter from the
dead Mark 5:37, he witnessed Jesus’ transfiguration on the Mount
of Olives Matthew 17:1, and he was in the Garden of Gethsemane
with Jesus. Mark 14:33 James was the first disciple to be martyred
he was beheaded and the only disciple to have their martyrdom
recorded in Scripture Acts 12:1-3

We must be ready to forsake anything or everything for God. What

should a Christian forsake in order to serve God well?

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Misplaced zeal can be fatally dangerous. Have you ever experienced

such? If yes discuss, if not, how can one prevent themselves?

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We must seek a close relationship with God and Christ. How can a
baby Christian go about this?

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242 | P a g e
Greatness is found in serving. How true is this assertion? Use
Philippians 2 to respond to this

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243 | P a g e
 JOHN

John known as the “disciple Jesus loved,” was also a part of the
inner three. John 3:23 He wrote a large portion of the New
Testament; The book of John, 1, 2, and 3, and the book of
Revelation. He wrote more about love than any other New Testament
author. His close proximity to Jesus taught him much about love.

He was exiled to the island of Patmos under Domitian, but after his
death, John was allowed to return to Ephesus where he governed
churches in Asia until his death at about A.D. 100.

God calls the humble. What is the basis for your calling?

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Zeal must be tempered with love and wisdom. John understood love
because Christ loved him dearly. How do you relate with your
subjects and superiors?

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Seek to serve rather than be served. Examine yourself in this

phrase.

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244 | P a g e
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Seek to develop a close relationship with God MArk 5:37. Discuss

how one can develop his relationship with God, and set example
with yourself.

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We must be always ready when Christ gives us new tasks. How

ready does one need to be? Give illustration

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Difficulties are a normal part of the Christian life. Why and how?

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We must have godly love. What is godly love? And what is the
similarities between godly and agape love?

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245 | P a g e
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246 | P a g e
 PHILIP

What do we know about Philip? Almost nothing. Although a Jew, we

only know him by his Greek name, Philip. A heart for evangelism,
he was anxious to tell Nathanael the One foretold by Moses and the
prophets had been found. John 1:45 They were close companions
and possibly studied the Old Testament together. Philip was stoned
and crucified in Hierapolis, Phrygia.

Answer God’s calling. Philip through faith answered Christ’s call to

him. How can one know he’s being called?

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God can use the bad for the good. True or false? State reasons for
your option

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God can use you to achieve his purpose. True or false? State reasons
for your response

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247 | P a g e
God will test our faith? True or false? State reasons for your view

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We must seek a close relationship with God. How and when to start?

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248 | P a g e
 NATHANAEL

Nathanael also known as Bartholomew, came from Cana in

Galilee. John 21:2 He expressed some local prejudice about
Nazareth. John 1:46 Jesus recognized how sincerely his love for
God was from the beginning when He said, “Behold, an Israelite
indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” John 1:47 Nathanael may have
preached in India and translated the book of Matthew into their
language. He was beaten, crucified, and beheaded.

We must be dedicated to Jesus Christ. How well have you been

dedicated? State a little advises for others

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God can help us change. What kind of change? And can’t ‘change’
be deliberate?

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Greatness is found in serving. How has Nathanael, and how do you

serve?

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249 | P a g e
Jesus recognized how sincerely his love for God was from the
beginning. What has God recognized about you?

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Nathanael believed in Jesus from first instance. What have you

learned from such gesture of faith?

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250 | P a g e
 MATTHEW

Matthew was a tax collector who was later called by Jesus. Matthew
brought the gospel to Ethiopia and Egypt. Hircanus the king had
him killed with a spear.

Forsaking all for God’s calling. Is it easy to forsake every life

essential for God? Discuss this in the light of the young rich man

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Calling the sinners to repentance. Matthew was called out if his sin.
Do you see sinners as redemptive like Jesus saw them or like Jonah
who preferred them destroyed? Discuss

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The great feast of Matthew attracted a lot of people, including the

tax collectors and sinners. We read in Matthew 9:10. What action
point have you done that attracted sinners to God?

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251 | P a g e
Note: Despite the lack of knowledge surrounding him, we have
information from his perspective to see and better understand
Jesus. Matthew himself shows an undeniable truth that Jesus can
take us in our corrupt sinful nature and make us better. All we have
to do is be like Matthew, take up our cross, and follow Jesus.

252 | P a g e
 THOMAS

Usually nicknamed “Doubting Thomas,” His devotion to Christ is

further displayed when Jesus told the disciples that He was going
to go away and prepare a place for them. “And you know the way
where I am going. Thomas said to Him, Lord, we do not know where
You are going, how do we know the way?” John 14:4-5 Thomas
didn’t want to be left behind. And then Thomas’ love for Jesus and
his desire to see and touch before he believed and then his
declaration, “My Lord and My God!” John 20:28

We must be loyal to God unto death. Most people don’t know it but
Thomas was a loyal disciple of Christ who is willing to die for him.
Are you willing to die for Jesus today even at gunpoint?

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We must be willing to be taught. Thomas said… Lord, we do not

know where You are going, and how can we know the way?” Christ’s
responded, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to
the Father except through Me. What lesson do you see in this?

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You must believe and don’t doubt. Are there occasions that a
Christian need to doubt and question some befalling actions on
them? Give example if any or not

253 | P a g e
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A moment of weakness should not define us. Thomas was weak for
a moment, but got up his feet and became stronger. What about you
today? Discuss

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Note: The life of the Apostle Thomas is just filled with a lot of
lessons. He is truly a doubter who became a man of faith. Once he
felt the wounds of Christ, all doubts and reservation of the Apostle
Thomas quickly vanished. Learn from Thomas today.

JAMES SON OF ALPHEUS THE LESS

He is the son of Alpheus Luke 6:15. His mother’s name is Mary

Mark 15:40 and he has a brother named Joseph Matthew
27:56. Except for a few details about his family, there is nothing
more mentioned about him in Scripture. Maybe this is why he is
referred to as James the Less in Mark 15:40. What is important to
remember is, although James was somewhat in the background, he
was chosen by Jesus to be one of the twelve disciples. He was
trained and used by Christ in a powerful way to further the Kingdom
of God. He was a valuable team member

254 | P a g e
The Value of Youth to God’s Cause. Youth is more responsive to
God’s Word. Are you a youth, how did your respond to God’s calling
and assignment?

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The Blessing of a Christian Home. From these facts we learn a most

obvious lesson; a Christian home produces child whom Christ can
use. James’ family is a perfect example. As a father how do you train
your children? As a child how do you learn from your parent?

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The Power of Christian Reconciliation. Before Matthew and James

were reconciled with each other they were first reconciled with God.
Do you keep malice with fellow brethren also blame God for your
misfortunes? discuss

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255 | P a g e
 SIMON THE ZEALOT

Simon was probably a political activist in his younger years. Why

would Jesus choose someone with this background? Simon had
believed the truth and embraced Christ as his Lord. The fiery
enthusiasm he once had for Israel was now expressed in his
devotion to Christ.”

He followed Jesus till death and beyond. What is your commitment

for Jesus today?

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Jesus noticed his zeal and had to enrolled him to the disciple list.
Does heaven recognize you? Are you busy but guilty?

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Simon transferred his zeal for the law to zeal in serving Christ.
Discuss your action after conversion

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What lesson have you further seen from Simon the Zealot?
256 | P a g e
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257 | P a g e
 JUDAS, SON OF JAMES

The eleventh name on the list of disciples is Judas. Also known as

Jude, Thaddeus, and Lebbaeus, Judas lived in obscurity as one of
the Twelve.

Judas made a commitment to Jesus, and there’s no reason to think

he was anything but sincere in his faith. How committed and
sincere are you to following Jesus?

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Judas walked with Jesus for three years. He saw the greatest life
ever lived up close and personal. You can’t have a better model of
faith than Jesus. Agree or disagree? Give reasons for your position

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Christ noticed Judas and saw him fit discipleship and ministry.
Have you prepared yourself for discipleship and ministry of Jesus
Christ? Discuss

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258 | P a g e
Personally, what do you know about Judas Thaddeus and what
lesson have you driven from his life?

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259 | P a g e
 JUDAS ISCARIOT

Judas Iscariot was one of Christ’s disciples. There is a danger to

think of Judas Iscariot and point finger at him as the one that
betrayed his Lord and Master. Just like other disciples, Judas
started well but later fall into sin. Judas held a significant
ministerial office too. Being in charge of the ‘church’ money wasn’t
a minor task. You don’t make a stranger your treasurer; such roles
are reserved for people of trust

Judas placed money over his call as a disciple. How does one
misplace priority? Give examples in our church today.

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Judas was washed but not cleansed. What do you understand by

this phrase?

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You can’t serve God and Mammon. What are the typical mammon’s
that you know we have today in the church and society?

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260 | P a g e
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There is a Room for Repentance. Do you think if Judas had

repented, he would have been forgiven? Give reasons for your view

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Don’t give Satan a foothold. What is your understanding of foothold,

and what are some typical examples of footholds that you know?

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Our Sorrow should lead us to repentance. Judas was bitter of his

action, and went ahead to hang himself; what would’ve been your
action if you were in his shoes?

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261 | P a g e
 ANANIAS AND SAPPHIRAH

The story of Ananias and Sapphirah in Acts 5 lets us know that

despite the explosion of growth in the early church, they had
moments of weakness, even gross sin. I believe that the deaths of
Ananias and Sapphirah serve as a warning to the Church today,
and that God has a lot to teach us, if we are willing to hear. In the
church, there are two kinds of people, and it’s nearly impossible to
distinguish them from the outside. On the outside, Ananias and
Sapphirah look just like another church member named Barnabas
introduced in Acts 4. Barnabas had just sold his property and
brought the money to the apostles, and to the casual observer,
Ananias and Sapphirah were doing the same thing. But deep in
their heart lingered a love of money and a desire for people’s praise.
So they conspired together to present a portion of their money while
passing it off as the entire amount. This is an opposite attitude of
Barnabas, but looks very similar.

We cannot hide from God. Does instant judgment make God look
wicked or just?

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The closer we are to grace, the greater the offense of sin. How would
you explain this?

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262 | P a g e
Fear is a part of worship. These dramatic deaths caused a great deal
of fear Acts 5:5, 11. But we may be shocked to see that even in light
of this, “more and more people believed in the Lord” Acts 5:14. What
other way do you see to be effective in bringing people close to God?

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Sin is a deadly serious matter to God. We sin but God overlooks

them. Why did God then execute instant judgment on Ananias and
Sapphirah?

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263 | P a g e
 PAUL THE APOSTLE

Paul is an Apostle of Christ that was converted on his way to

Damascus after an encounter with Jesus. Paul used to be a
persecutor of believers, but later changed to a fisher of men for
Christ. Paul is believed to have worked the work of evangelism more
than all the disciples of Jesus Christ. He wrote more books of the
New Testament than any other writer. He is believed to be the
greatest Apostle of all time.

He didn’t live to please man. Galatians 1:10. Who do you live to

please?

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He was humble. 1st Corinthians 9:27 Despite his many missionary

trips and letters to various churches, Paul did not think of himself
as immune to sin. Have you ever heard anyone said ‘I am too
spiritual to sin? And have you ever thought same? Discuss

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He was selfless Romans 9:3. I’m becoming convinced that humility

and selflessness go hand in hand. Paul cared so much about his
Jewish brothers and was willing to give up his own salvation if it
meant they could have the opportunity to be saved. What sacrifice
have you made or willing to make for your family and other
believers?

264 | P a g e
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He was focused on God’s calling in his life. Philippians 1:20-22. Paul

lived for the propagation of the Gospel. He ate, slept, and breathed
evangelism. Mention few distractions an evangelist can encounter,
and state if you have been distracted by any or all

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He lived with eternity in mind. Philippians 3:14. Do you just live to

enjoy this world or having heaven in your consciousness?

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Paul set a good example to believers, even under pressure. When

opposition comes, be patient and set a good example. What do you
think can stop you from possessing these qualities?

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Always seek God in good and trouble times. And at midnight Paul
and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners
heard them” Acts 16:25. Have you ever been in such situation? If
yes, what was your reaction?

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Note: Always be prepared to tell the truth about God to everyone

and stand blameless and with a clear conscience, just like the
Apostle Paul.

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 TIMOTHY

Timothy was born of a Jewish mother who had become a Christian

believer, and a Greek father. The Apostle Paul met him during his
second missionary journey and he became Paul’s companion and
missionary partner. Throughout his communications with Timothy
and other congregations, Paul’s relationship with Timothy is
consistently described as one of a father and son or two brothers
and one that elicits Paul's gratitude. Paul's primary reference to
Timothy from a family perspective is in the father–son sense.

First emphasis recorded in Timothy is ‘Godliness with contentment

is great gain’. This is one of timothy’s quality as a young man. How
many youths do you see in church that are contented and patiently
waiting on the Lord?

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Timothy was humble. Timothy was truly a humble young man.

There are younger people who disrespect elders. Today, there are
very young pastors that emerge from the church and are serving
under senior pastors, strike a balance between them and provide
an essential principle on how young pastors should behave under
superior pastors.

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Timothy was a willing learner. Paul is teaching Timothy on both
personal and ministerial matters. How do you react when your
superior tries to teach you something you already know?

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Timothy was committed. Paul in his letters seems to castigate a

people who seem to have left the true teachings of Christ, but when
it comes to writing to Timothy, he is simply counseling, polishing an
already committed man of God 2Timothy4:1-9. Do your actions
stimulate applaud from your superiors? As a superior do you
applaud your young men when they do something aright? Discuss

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By Joshua Ishaya Mamza

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 REFERENCES

Adamu, Theresa PhD. Christian Relations with people of other

Faiths. Plateau. National Library of Nigeria: 2017.

Buba, Ben. Church growth and development. Jos ECWA Theological

Seminary, Sermon: 2018.

Motty, D. Bauta Ph.D. Leadership of Church and Mission. Yakson

Printing press. Jos: 2014.

Brokensha, David W. and Peter D. Little, Anthropology of

Development and change in East Africa. Westview press
Boulder and London: Colorado. 1988.

Drucker, Peter F. Innovation and Entrepreneurship practice and

principles. Happer: New York, 1985.

Lee A. Taris, power and responsibility multinational managers and

developing country concerns. University of Notre Dame press:
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Long, A. A.; Sedley, D. N, The Hellenistic Philosophers: Translations

of the Principal Sources with Philosophical Commentary.
Cambridge, Cambridge University Press: 1987.

McCallum, Dennis & Jessica Lowery, Organic Disciple-making:

Mentoring Others into Spiritual Maturity and Leadership.
Texas: New Paradigm. 2006.

Sherman, Amy L. Kingdom Calling: Vocational Stewardship for the

Common Good, Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. USA.

Internet Sources

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