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THE CHURCH OF GOD

SABBATH

SCHOOL

LESSONS

April, May, June

2nd QUARTER - 2019

“THE GOLAN HEIGHTS – Part 1”Lesson 1 ! For week ending April 6, 2019

In I Thessalonians 5:4, the Apostle Paul tells us that the events that will transpire in the Last Days will notovertake us because we are not of the night. In other words, God’s people will be watching and praying and wewill know what is happening–because we know what God’s Word says and we will be watching world events andidentifying their relevancy with regard to Last Days’ Prophecy. Something historical just took place concerning theGolan Heights. How does it relate to Last Days’ Prophecy? Let’s take a look.

KEY TEXT: “You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness” (IThessalonians 5:5).

1. One of the next events to take place on the world stage is the First Battle of Gog and Magog. Thisbattle is prophesied of in Ezekiel 38,39 and will take place in the northern mountains of Israel.

» In Ezekiel 38, God prophecies about a battle that will take place in the Last Days. According to Ezekiel38:1-6, what nations will come against Israel?

» Please note that these are not “all the nations” as described in Zechariah 14:1,2. The battle in Zechariah14 is Armageddon and will take place right before the 7th Trump return of Jesus Christ to the Mount ofOlives (Zechariah 14:3,4). Discuss some of the other differences between the 2 Last Days’ wars.

» According to Ezekiel 38:7-12, why is Israel attacked in the Last Days?» Discuss the prosperity that abounds in Israel as compared to some of its Muslim/Arab neighbors.» The “Arab Spring” was a series of anti-government protests, uprisings, and armed rebellions that spread

across the Middle East in late 2010. It began in response to extreme poverty and government oppression.

2. The Golan Heights is located in Northern Israel along its border with Syria and Lebanon.

» Israel seized the Golan Heights from Syria in the closing stages of the1967 Six-Day War. Most of the Syrian Arab inhabitants fled the area duringthe conflict. An armistice line was established and the region came underIsraeli military control.

» The Golan Heights is the area referred to in the Battle of Gog and Magogin Ezekiel 38,39 as the mountains in Israel (Ezekiel 38:8).

» Israel will be attacked from the north by an Arab/Muslim Confederacy aftera false peace treaty fails (Obadiah verse 7). Psalm 83:1-4 further describesthe enemies planned assault on Israel.

3. President Donald Trump’s recognition of the Golan Heights as belonging to Israel (March 25, 2019).

» From an article entitled, “NETANYAHU AT HIS SIDE, TRUMP PROCLAIMS GOLAN HEIGHTSBELONGS TO ISRAEL”: “US President Donald Trump declared Monday that the Golan Heights belongsto Israel–handing another major diplomatic victory to the premier ahead of elections. Netanyahu sparedno praise as he watched Trump sign the Golan proclamation at the White House, likening him to PresidentHarry S Truman, who recognized Israel, and even to Cyrus the Great, the Persian king who freed the Jewsof Babylon. "Your decision to recognize Israel's sovereignty on the Golan Heights is so historic," Netanyahutold Trump. The Jewish state captured the territory from Syria during the Six-Day War of 1967. "Yourrecognition is a twofold act of historic justice. Israel won the Golan Heights in a just war of self-defense,and the Jewish people's roots in the Golan go back thousands of years," he said.Trump– who in 2017 took the even more momentous step of recognizing disputed Jerusalem as Israel'scapital– called the Golan declaration "a long time in the making."

» Regardless of what we may think of President Trump’s style or presidency, God is using him to set theworld stage for His Last Days’ prophecies (Daniel 4:25b; 2:20,21).

» The Golan Heights is a much-disputed subject with regards to Israel’s Arab/Muslim neighbors. The effectof President Trump’s proclamation is yet to be seen.

» Our job as “watchman” is not to predict the future (Ezekiel 3:17). Our job is to “identify” world events andacknowledge their relevancy with regards to God’s Last Days’ program.

» Next week we will discuss the purpose of the First Battle of Gog and Magog. Don’t miss it!!!

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“THE GOLAN HEIGHTS – Part 2"Lesson 2 ! For week ending April 13, 2019

Last week we acknowledged that President Donald Trump’s official recognition that the Golan Heightsbelongs to Israel was a historic event that was 52 years in the making (since the Six-Day War of 1967).Today’s lesson will continue to examine the role that this proclamation will have on God’s Last Days’Prophecy timeline. God is on the move–and we’re witnessing it happen!

KEY TEXT: “Thus I will magnify Myself and sanctify Myself, and I will be known in the eyes ofmany nations. Then they shall know that I am the Lord” (Ezekiel 38:23).

1. The First Battle of Gog and Magog occurs when a group of Arab/Muslim nations attack Israelfrom the north. The attack will take place in the mountains of Israel and will involve a limitednumber of nations (Ezekiel 38:8).» It must be stated again that the Church identifies 2 battles that will take place in the Last Days

prior to the return of Jesus Christ at the 7th Trump. » The First Battle of Gog and Magog is separate and precedes the Battle of Armageddon which

takes place just prior to Jesus’ return.» According to Ezekiel 38:14-17, who instigates this battle?» Suffice it to say that many people in our modern society think that God–and the concept of God–is

an antiquated notion facilitated by feeble minds.» God draws these nations into a battle with Israel for a specific purpose. According to Ezekiel

38:23, why does He do it?

2. In the Old Testament, God used King Nebuchadnezzar–a Babylonian King–to fulfill Hisprophecies and referred to him as His servant (Jeremiah 43:10).» It’s exciting to acknowledge that God can use whomever He desires to accomplish His will.» While many–including most Israelis–think that God has forsaken Israel, the Battle of Gog and

Magog will focus the world once again on the nation of Israel.» According to Ezekiel 38:18-22, how does God defeat the confederacy that comes against Israel?» Please note that in verse 21, God prophecies that the Muslims will turn against each other,

“...Every man’s sword will be against his brother.”» Discuss the fact that we have already seen this happening on a very large stage with the civil war

in Syria. The Syrian War has raged for 8 years now killing an estimated 500,000 Muslims andcreating over 5 million refugees who have fled to neighboring nations. We are witnessing Muslimskilling Muslims–just like God prophesied will happen again in this upcoming battle.

3. While many have confused the Battle of Gog and Magog with Armageddon, they are not thesame war.» In Armageddon, the war makes it into the cities (Zechariah 14:2). In Gog and Magog, it takes place

in the mountains (Ezekiel 38:1-6).» In Gog and Magog, the armies attack Israel to steal their wealth (Ezekiel 38:12,13). In Armageddon,

all nations attack Jerusalem to destroy Jerusalem and God plunders them (Zechariah 14:12; 14:1,14).» In Gog and Magog, God uses an earthquake, Muslims killing Muslims, and fire raining down from

heaven to destroy Israel’s enemies. In Armageddon, the enemies are destroyed by the brightness ofJesus Christ’s 7th Trump return (II Thessalonians 2:8).

» In Gog and Magog, it takes 7 years to bury the dead and to burn their weapons (Ezekiel 39:9,12). InArmageddon, the dead do not need buried because they are “dissolved” according to Zechariah 14:12.

» God is on the move–and we’ve got a front row seat! Hang on!

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“THANKFUL FOR PASSOVER – Part 1"Lesson 3 ! For week ending April 20, 2019

Each year we have the privilege of commemorating Passover–the Imperial Day of the Lord thatchanged everything. As Gentiles, we did not have the right to approach unto God–we were outcasts andaliens from the commonwealth of Israel. However, God had a plan to bring both the Jews and Gentilestogether as one. It seemed like a radical plan–and some refuse to accept it to this very day. Let’s takea look at the price that was paid so that you and I could have access to Yahweh–the King of theUniverse!

KEY TEXT: “There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all onein Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28 NLT).

1. When Jesus gave His life as the once-and-for-all sacrifice on the Cross of Calvary, everythingchanged.» First, the Jewish people–who were God’s chosen people for nearly 2,000 years–had to accept the

fact that a change had taken place.» What was the status of non-Jewish people in the Old Testament (Ephesians 2:11,12)?» Under the Law, the Jews were not permitted to interact or intermarry with non-Jews, in fact, what

did God tell the Jews to do? Read Jeremiah 51:45.» God’s desire to have a people with whom He could establish a covenant and relationship with

(Exodus 19:5,6), also demanded that they keep themselves separate from the unholy activitiesof pagan nations.

» Even today, God requires that same commitment from His people to be separate from thewickedness of this world (Revelation 18:4; II Corinthians 6:11-18).

2. When Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary some 2,000 years ago, the Bible makes it clear thatHe came to the Nation of Israel first.» According to Matthew 15:21-28, how did Jesus characterize “the house of Israel”?» The condition of the Israelites weighed heavily on the heart of Jesus. When Jesus approached

Jerusalem just prior to Passover, how did He respond when He saw the city (Luke 19:41-44)?» Jesus concluded by saying in verse 44, “...you did not know the time of your visitation.”» Because the Jewish people were expecting the Messiah to come as a King–who would deliver

them from the Roman Empire–they did not recognize the Messiah when He came as a servantto a wounded and broken people.

» According to Isaiah 61:1-3, for what purpose did Jesus come?

3. The Jewish Nation as a whole rejected Jesus Christ as their Messiah. It’s important to notethat not all Jews rejected Jesus–an election was saved (Romans 11:7; Revelation 7:4). » Paul describes the rejection in Romans 10:14-21.» One of the reasons that Israel did not recognize their Messiah was because they had become dependent

on their works–their own righteousness (Romans 10:3,4).» God refers to our fleshly works and subsequent righteousness as “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6).» The Bible tells us emphatically that the purpose of the Law was to bring us Christ (Galatians 3:19-25).» Simply put, the Law showed us that we could not meet the righteous requirements of the Law without the

help of a Savior–and His name is Jesus Christ, Yahshua, the Savior of the world!» Read Romans 8:3,4. Jesus rescued us from our dilemma by what He did on the Cross of Calvary

(Colossians 2:13,14).» Next week we will discover the access that we now have because of the sacrifice of Jesus.

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“THANKFUL FOR PASSOVER – Part 2"Lesson 4 ! For week ending April 27, 2019

Last week we discussed how that the Gentile people were alienated from the Gospel and how thatthe Jewish Nation as a whole rejected Jesus Christ as their Messiah. Today we will show how that JesusChrist radically changed the future of all mankind–Jews and Gentiles–by His selfless act at Calvary.Jesus paid the ultimate price so that you and I can be free. With that in mind, how should we serve ourSavior today?

KEY TEXT: “Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens withthe saints and members of the household of God” (Ephesians 2:19).

1. It has always been God’s plan for all of mankind to have access to His salvation plan. Confirmthis truth from II Peter 3:9.» Did you know that Jesus went to hell? According to I Peter 3:18-20, Jesus preached to the lost

souls who had no access to salvation in the Old Testament dispensation. » That’s how much our God cares about the souls of mankind!» In order to understand God’s Word and purpose, we must realize that He has a grand plan–a

master plan–and that He always abides by His plan.» While it true that Jesus came to the House of Israel first, it has always been His plan to include

the Gentiles as well.» Paul referred to this part of God’s plan as a mystery. Read Ephesians 3:1-7. It’s important to note

that Gentiles are not an afterthought. » Remember that God promised to bless Abraham’s other son, Ishmael (a type of the Gentiles), as

recorded in Genesis 17:18-27. It’s interesting to note that Ishmael was circumcised before Isaacwas even born.

» Discuss the concept of the first shall be last, and the last shall be first (Matthew 20:16).

2. While we Gentiles may have had to wait for our access to salvation, the truth is that we havecome to God under a better covenant.» Read Hebrews 7:22-28. Discuss how this new covenant is better.» One of the things that is most definitely better is that under this new covenant, we can now have

a clear conscience.» Read Hebrews 9:11-15. » It has always been God’s desire to write His law in our hearts (Hebrews 8:7-13).

3. When Jesus sacrificed His life on the Cross of Calvary on the day of Passover, Abib 14, AD 31,everything changed for all of mankind–Jews and Gentiles alike!» Read Ephesians 2:14-18. At Passover, Jesus abolished the wall of separation between the Jews

and the Gentiles through His selfless act on the Cross–thank you, Lord!» What did He do for us? Read Ephesians 2:4-10.» In Jesus’ final moments of agony upon the Cross of Calvary, as He bore the sins of all mankind

in His body, He cried out to God, “...why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46).» When He finally yielded up His Spirit, something miraculous happened in the Temple.» Read Matthew 27:50-53.» The veil of the Temple, which separated a Holy God from an unholy people, was torn in two. » By His selfless act, Jesus united Jew and Gentile, and gave us all access to enter boldly into the

Throne of God to obtain mercy and help in the time of need (Hebrews 4:14-16).

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“BLASPHEMING THE HOLY SPIRIT – Part 1”Lesson 5 ! For week ending May 4, 2019

According to the words of Jesus found in Mark 3:28,29, there is one sin that we have dubbed, “TheUnpardonable Sin.” Jesus tells us, “but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never hasforgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation.” There is much speculation as to what “blasphemingthe Holy Spirit” is–ranging from denying the existence of the Holy Spirit, to making fun of thedemonstrations of the Holy Spirit. So, the question becomes: “How does a person blaspheme the HolySpirit?”

KEY TEXT: “Assuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whateverblasphemies they may utter; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never hasforgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation” (Mark 3:28,29).

1. We must acknowledge that Jesus created two categories of sin in this passage. First, He saysthat all sins–including blasphemies–will be forgiven mankind. Second, He says that one sin–blaspheming the Holy Spirit–is not forgivable.» So, what does the word blaspheme mean?» blaspheme >verb 1 to speak irreverently about God or sacred things, 2 to vilify, to defame, revile.» We must establish up front that many, many people have blasphemed God and the things of God in our

society today–especially when we acknowledge the many curse words that involve God’s Name that areused in today’s vernacular.

» We must also establish that speaking irreverently about the Holy Spirit–is not an unpardonable offense.Many people have done this in ignorance and have later repented and been saved.

» What does God’s Word say about things done in ignorance (Leviticus 4:27,28)?

2. The Church of God believes that the only way to blaspheme the Holy Spirit is by taking theMark of the Beast.» Since Jesus did not give us a clear definition in Mark 3:28,29, we must rightly divide the Holy Scriptures

to determine what He meant.» People often take Scriptures out of context and have subsequently created unscriptural doctrines. » So, what is the criteria to “rightly divide” the Word of God?» First, according to II Timothy 2:15, a person must STUDY God’s Word.» Discuss the responsibility of God’s ministry to diligently study God’s Word. » This was part of the discussion found in Acts 6:1-4. What is the job of the 12 Apostles of God’s Church?

3. Second, God’s Word tells us emphatically that every truth must be established by 2 or 3witnesses.» Even Jesus subjected Himself to this principle when He spoke about Himself in Luke 24:44.» What 3 witnesses did Jesus use to identify Himself?» When we examine and study the entirety of Holy Scripture we find another sin that is listed as

unforgivable–with no chance of forgiveness or redemption: taking the Mark of the Beast.» The Mark of the Beast is a Satanic governmental system that emerges in the Last 7 Years and

is promoted by the Antichrist.» According to Revelation 13:15-18, what number is associated with the Mark of the Beast?» The Mark of the Beast system is designed to make mankind dependent upon Satan for their

existence. If you take the mark, they “guarantee” that you will survive.» According to Ephesians 1:3-14, who is the “guarantee” of our existence and inheritance?» Next week’s lesson will focus on Satan’s plan to get us to sell our birthright.

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Last week we established the fact that the only way to blaspheme the Holy Spirit is to take the Markof the Beast in the Last Days. The Mark of the Beast system is Satan’s plan to make you sell yourbirthright so that you can continue to survive. We have an example of this program in the story of Jacoband Esau. Let’s take a look at Satan’s ultimate plan of deception for this world.

KEY TEXT: “...Yet Jacob I have loved; But Esau I have hated, and laid waste his mountains andhis heritage for the jackals of the wilderness” (Malachi 1:2,3 partial quote).

1. The Church of God believes in Divine Law which states, “That which has been is what will be,that which is done is what will be done, and there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes1:9). Is there an example in the Old Testament about an unforgivable sin?» We find such an account in the story of Jacob and Esau found in Genesis. They were twin boys that were

born to Isaac and Rebekah and according to Genesis 25:21-23, what did these twin boys represent?» Esau was born first and thus was the patriarchal recipient/heir of the blessings and inheritance of all that

Jacob represented and owned. Read Genesis 25:29-34. Discuss what transpired between Esau andJacob. According to verse 34, how did God view what happened?

» The Church of God acknowledges that Jacob represented the nation of Israel (Genesis 27:39) and thatEsau represented a pagan nation that later became the Islamic Nation (Malachi 1:2,3).

» Father Isaac only had one blessing to give–which he gave to Jacob. Read Genesis 27:38-41. What didFather Isaac say about how Esau would live (verse 40)?

2. Esau sold his birthright because he was hungry. The scripture said that he had “despised”his birthright which caused God to hate him and the nation he represented according to thekey text.» Satan’s plan from the very beginning has been to steal the worship that belongs to God. He

deceived one-third of the angels in heaven (Revelation 12:4a) and he wants to deceive all ofmankind as well.

» Satan wants to become your source–and he wants you to worship him as well. Read Revelation13:11-14.

» At the beginning of the Last 7 Years–at the conclusion of the 1st Battle of Gog and Magog–theAntichrist will rise up to stand up on the world stage and he will deceive many with his messageof peace and prosperity (Daniel 8:25).

» He will look like a lamb–because he is an imitation of Jesus Christ the true Lamb of God.However, in the middle of the Last 7 Years, he will begin to speak like a dragon and his truemessage of world dominion and submission will appear (Revelation 13:11) which will result in a one-world government that will demand to be worshiped (Revelation 13:7,8,15).

3. Even Satan’s Mark of the Beast program is an imitation of the “sealing” program of God.» According to Revelation 14:1-5, what does the Bride body of God have upon their forehead?» According to Ephesians 1:13,14, how is a child of God sealed?» When a person takes the Mark of the Beast, they are ultimately rejecting the seal of God in their

life and they are also denying the power of the Holy Spirit to lead and guide them.» Finally, they are placing their trust in Satan’s program for their future and rejecting the power of

God–through His Holy Spirit–to sustain their lives.» Next week we will discuss the final reason why taking the Mark of the Beast is the unforgivable

sin that Jesus referred to as blaspheming the Holy Spirit.

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In this final installment of this series defining why the Church believes that the unpardonable sin ofblaspheming the Holy Spirit is the taking of the Mark of the Beast, we will explain that a dispensationalchange will occur in the Last Days that will prevent those that take the mark from being forgiven.

KEY TEXT: “For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He [Holy Spirit*] who nowrestrains will do so until He [Holy Spirit*] is taken out of the way” (II Thessalonians 2:7 *added bylesson author).

1. When Jesus came some 2,000 years ago, He brought about a dispensational change fromLAW to GRACE. Three-and-one-half years prior to His 7th Trump return, there will be anotherdispensational change from GRACE to WRATH.» Before Jesus ascended back to Heaven after His death and resurrection, He made a promise to His

believers. What did He promise to them? Read Acts 2:4-8.» The job of the Holy Spirit is to lead and guide mankind into all truth (John 16:13) and to be a guarantee

of the inheritance promised to believers (Ephesians 1:13,14).» It is also by the Holy Spirit that mankind is drawn to God (John 6:44). » The Holy Spirit is the motive force of the Godhead. Yahweh the Father wills it, Yahshua the Word speaks

it, and Ruach HaKodesh the Holy Spirit does it (read example in Genesis 1:1-3).» According to Genesis 6:3, it is the Holy Spirit that strives with–or compels–mankind.

2. When the Antichrist commits the Abomination of Desolation in the middle of the last 3½ years,that will usher in the Wrath Dispensation of God. According to Revelation 11:3,6, how longdoes it take to pour out God’s wrath upon the world?» What did Jesus say to do when that abomination takes place? Read Matthew 24:15-21.» There’s something else that takes place in the heavenlies just prior to the wrath of God being

poured out.» According to Revelation 8:1, what does God demand in heaven? The period of “half an hour” is

a span of 3½ years (according to Revelation 17:12 the Last 7 Years is equal to “one hour,” so, halfan hour is 3½ years).

» Not only does God demand silence in heaven, He also enters His Temple and no one is allowedto enter therein (Revelation 15:8).

» Since no one is able to enter the Temple/Throne Room to have their sins forgiven, there is noremission of sins during the Wrath Dispensation (the last 3½ years). This is in fulfillment ofRevelation 22:11 which was prophesied of in Genesis 6:3.

3. According to the key text, the Holy Spirit is removed (“taken out of the way”) from His role inthe earth as the One who strives–or compels–mankind to be saved.» Yahweh God the Father is the One who forgives us of our sins in His Throne Room in heaven.

» Jesus is the High Priest who is the mediator when Satan accuses us to God (Revelation 12:10).

» Since there is silence in heaven, Satan is not accusing mankind, Jesus is not mediating formankind, thus mankind’s sins are not being forgiven.

» Therefore, if you take the Mark of the Beast during that time, there is no hope of redemptionbecause the Temple/Throne Room in Heaven is closed until the wrath of God is finished pouringout upon the earth (Revelation 15:8b).

» What will ultimately happen to those who take the Mark of the Beast (Revelation 14:9-11)?

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“IF MY PEOPLE” – II CHRONICLES 7:14 SERIES

Lesson 8 ! For Week ending May 25, 2019

As we contemplate the condition of the world in which we live today, a question comes to mind:“Where did things go wrong?” It seems there is trouble on every hand. Sinful behaviors that were oncea shame to even mention are now being practiced openly. It would be easy to place the blame on thosein the world; however, it would be more beneficial to look at the Church’s responsibility to be God’sinstrument of healing for the nations. In this series we will examine the Church’s role in bringing revivalto the land.

KEY TEXT: “If My people, which are called by My name, shall humble themselves, and pray, andseek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive theirsin, and will heal their land” (II Chronicles 7:14).

1. In order to better understand our key text, we need to examine the context in which it waswritten.

» context >noun 1 the circumstances that form the setting for an event, statement, or idea. 2 theparts that immediately precede and follow a word or passage and clarify its meaning.

» II Chronicles 7:14 is the answer to the prayer prayed by King Solomon at the dedication of theTemple which he had built for the Lord.

» In this prayer, Solomon’s petition is that the Temple be a place to which the people could turnback to God when they had wandered away from God and were experiencing the bitter resultsof sin.

» Confirm this as you read part of Solomon’s prayer in II Chronicles 6:36-40.

2. Solomon’s prayer brings to light a sad reality: Man has a tendency to wander away from God. It is for this reason that we need a Savior. » Discuss the sinful nature of man and the hope that we have only through Jesus Christ as you read

Isaiah 53:6. » ISAIAH 53:6, “All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way;

And the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.”

3. God’s answer to Solomon’s prayer is directed toward those which are called by the Name ofthe Lord. » It is evident here that the healing of their land would only come about when God’s people turned

their own hearts back to the Lord. » The same is still true. The revival we need to see in the land today must start within the Church.

Read and discuss I Peter 4:17.» I PETER 4:17, “For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins

with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God?”

4. If is one of the must pivotal words in the Bible. The word if infers that there is a stipulation,a requirement that is demanded as part of an agreement. » God says, “If you do this, then I will do that.” » In other words, the blessing of God will only come through the obedience of God’s people.

» Consider the blessings that God promised upon His people if they would obey His commands asyou read Deuteronomy 28:1-14.

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“HUMBLE BEFORE GOD” – II CHRONICLES 7:14 SERIES

Lesson 9 ! For week ending June 1, 2019

As we continue our study this week, we want to examine the first stipulation that God placed on Hispeople in order for them to see healing in their land. God must be approached by His people withhumility. Through humility of heart we are able to admit our shortcomings and seek for the Lordsguidance and favor. God gives grace to the humble.


1. Pride and arrogance can be a great hindrance to experiencing the blessings of the Lord.

» pride >noun 1 a feeling of deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from achievements, qualities,or possessions. 2 consciousness of one's own dignity. 3 the quality of having an excessively highopinion of oneself. >verb (pride oneself on/upon) be especially proud of (a quality or skill).

» If we think we know it all, we will not have an ear to hear what God is saying to us, much less aheart to respond to His guidance.

» Consider the following passages of scripture:(1) PROVERBS 12:15, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But he who heeds counsel is

wise.”(2) PROVERBS 6:2, “You are snared by the words of your mouth; You are taken by the words

of your mouth.”(3) PROVERBS 21:2, “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, But the Lord weighs the

hearts.”

2. Biblical humility is having or showing a modest or low estimate of one’s own importance(Romans 12:3). » Through humility we subdue our pride and submit in self-denying loyalty to God and His will.

» This is the first step in returning to God’s favor. Read Psalms 111:10 and Isaiah 55:7.

3. In our quest to acquire God’s blessings and favor in our lives, churches, and nations, comingto God with humility is the key to opening the door.

» humility >noun a humble (modest or low estimate) view of one's own importance.» James 4:6b states, “God resisteth the proud but giveth grace unto the humble”. » Examine this further as you study the story found in LUKE 18:9-14, “Also He spoke this parable to some

who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: 10 “Two men went up to thetemple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus withhimself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as thistax collector. 12 I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ 13 And the tax collector, standingafar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful tome a sinner!’ 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyonewho exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”

4. The church must walk humbly before God, knowing that it is only through His presence andgrace in our lives that we can walk in victory and experience His goodness. » Conclude by reading James 4:7-10, “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, youdouble-minded. 9 Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.”

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“THE GIVING OF POWER”Lesson 10 ! For week ending June 8, 2019

Because of the great work which God did in sending the baptism of the Holy Spirit on the Day ofPentecost following the ascension of Christ, Pentecost has symbolized the giving of power to thebeliever. As we commemorate this ancient festival of Judaism with worship and praise to God, we canseek a replenishing of the joyful power of the Holy Spirit of God in our lives.

KEY TEXT: "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come...they were all filled with the HolyGhost, and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance" (Acts 2:1,4).

1. Why did God use the Feast of Pentecost as the time for giving the promised Comforter, theHoly Spirit, to the disciples? » Traditionally the Jewish People celebrate Pentecost as the time of the giving of the Law (Torah)

at Mount Sinai.» Discuss the parallel between the giving of the Law of Moses and the Law of the Holy Spirit that

came at Pentecost. » What were the similarities and differences in these Laws (Romans 8:2; 7:6; II Corinthians 3:6)?

2. What was the primary purpose for which the Holy Spirit was given at Pentecost (Acts 1:8;John 16:13)? » Discuss the importance of being an effective Christian witness.

3. In what way did the “cloven tongues like fire” give a material manifestation of the Holy Spirit(Acts 2:2,3)? » How did this relate to the prophecy of Luke 3:16?» LUKE 3:16, “John answered, saying to all, “I indeed baptize you with water; but One mightier than

I is coming, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose. He will baptize you with the Holy Spiritand fire.”

4. Discuss the effect of the disciples' being in one accord in one place and the effect that sucha unified relationship can have on us in our celebration of Pentecost today. » Why is it so necessary to have the unity of the Spirit, not a spirit of unity (Matthew 18:20)?» MATTHEW 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the

midst of them.”

5. On the Day of Pentecost, the Early Church received power as 120 believers where filled withthe Holy Spirit and spoke with tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance (Acts 1:14,15).

» What lesson can we learn from the experience of these believers that will allow the Holy Spirit thefreedom to operate in our lives in the same way (Acts 2:6-12)?

6. Discuss ways in which we should observe the Feast of Pentecost in this day. » We should look forward to Pentecost with great expectation!

» Consider the enthusiasm that Paul had to be in Jerusalem for the Pentecost celebration of theEarly Church (Acts 20:16).

» ACTS 20:16, “For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spendtime in Asia; for he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.”

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“SEEKING THE FACE OF GOD” – II CHRONICLES 7:14 SERIES


Prayer is our direct line to God. If we are no longer living a victorious Christian life, then somewherealong the way we have let our daily communication with our Heavenly Father slip by the wayside. Godwants His people to enter into a level of prayer in which we are not only petitioning God for things we feelwe need, but we are seeking to know the Lord in a more intimate way. God wants to speak to us face-to-face.


1. Prayer is a necessary discipline to maintain a devout Christian life. » We are told in I Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray without ceasing.” » Through daily prayer, we can repent and receive forgiveness, commune with God, lift up our

needs, intercede on behalf of others, and make spiritual warfare. » Discuss the essential need for prayer–which is simply communication with God.

2. Much of prayer is spent seeking the hand of God or focusing on what He can give to us. » When we seek the face of God, we take prayer to another level. » It is about a personal relationship with our Father in heaven. » The kind of revival that we need to see in our land is going to require God’s people to get to know

Him on an more intimate level. » Consider the following Scriptures: Psalms 27:7-9 and Daniel 11:32.

3. Moses had such a relationship with the Lord. He was used in a mighty way to lead God’speople out of the bondage of Egypt and through the wilderness. » It was Moses’ close relationship with the Lord that sustained him and empowered him to lead the

Children of Israel through a barren land.» Read and discuss the following passages: Exodus 33:11 and Numbers 12:6-8.» EXODUS 33:11, “So the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. And

he would return to the camp, but his servant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, did not departfrom the tabernacle.”

» NUMBERS 12:6-8, “Then He said, “Hear now My words: If there is a prophet among you, I, the Lord,make Myself known to him in a vision; I speak to him in a dream. 7 Not so with My servant Moses; He isfaithful in all My house. 8 I speak with him face to face, Even plainly, and not in dark sayings; And he seesthe form of the Lord. Why then were you not afraid To speak against My servant Moses?”

4. God’s instruction to King Solomon for the people of Israel when they found themselves introuble because of their sins, was that they should seek His face. » Jesus came to restore us to a right relationship with God. » Consider the fact that Jesus is the express image of the Father as you study the following

passages: II Corinthians 4:6; Hebrews 1:1-3; and John 1:18.» It is through Jesus Christ alone that we are able to receive forgiveness and healing (II Corinthians

5:17,18; Colossians 1:12-15).

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“TURNING FROM WICKED WAYS” – II CHRONICLES 7:14 SERIES


The condition that this world is in today is a result of sin. When we disobey God, we remove His handof blessing from our lives. The only way to come back into God’s good graces is through repentance. Wemust turn away from our sins with a godly sorrow. Once we have confessed our sins and asked forforgiveness, the Lord forgives and restores us.


1. The thing that God is looking for from us is true repentance. » This is more than just a mere apology because we feel bad at the moment for sinning against the

Lord or because we got caught sinning.» apology >noun 1 a regretful acknowledgment of an offense or failure.» There must be a true godly sorrow that compels us to turn away from our sin. » Consider this as you read II Corinthians 7:9,10 and Acts 26:18.

2. The parable of the Prodical Son demonstrates to us what happens when a person that hasbeen living in sin comes to their senses and returns to the Lord in repentance. » Read this story found in Luke 15:11-24. » Discuss the change of attitude that was required in order for the son to return home to his father. » How did the father receive him? » We often view God as a hard, old man who is just waiting to punish us for our sins. If this was the

case, He could have punished us long ago–because we have all sinned! » The truth is that He is a loving Father, who is just waiting to love us unconditionally and celebrate

our return to Him–just like the father in the parable of the Prodical Son.

3. Let’s be reminded that the message to “turn from their wicked ways” was spoken to God’speople. » It is for this reason that Psalms 139:23,24, is such an important passage. » PSALM 139:23,24, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; 24

And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.”» If we have sinned, we tie the hands of God and He cannot bless us (Isaiah 59:1,2). » As believers, we should allow the Holy Spirit to search our hearts daily. » Discuss the difference between CONVICTION (which comes from the Holy Spirit and is positive)

and CONDEMNATION (which comes from Satan and is negative).» If we have sinned, we need to repent! Read I John 1:7-10; 2:1,2.

4. When we repent of our sins, we open up the hand of God to be able to bless us. » The Lord told Solomon, “Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attend to the prayer that

is made in this place” (II Chronicles 7:15). » Our Heavenly Father desires to bless us in every way. » Consider the promise found in Psalms 84:10-12, “For a day in Your courts is better than a

thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God Than dwell in the tents ofwickedness. 11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord will give grace and glory; No goodthing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly. 12 O Lord of hosts, Blessed is the man whotrusts in You!”

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"A GODLY MARRIAGE" Lesson 13 ! For week ending June 29, 2019

Because God instituted the covenant of marriage, it is important to Him that we keep that covenant.But today, more than ever, marriages are under attack by Satan, because he knows that strong familiesmean strong churches and a strong nation! The breakdown of the family unit is a disease that isspreading through our society, and we as God's children must work to stop it!

KEY TEXT: "Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; andthe wife see that she reverence her husband" (Ephesians 5:33).

1. The institution of marriage was ordained of God in Genesis 2:20-24 between the first createdman and woman. » By what authority does the man and woman become "one flesh"? » A favorite scripture that is read at weddings is Mark 10:6-9. » What does the word asunder mean?» The Church of God believes that marriage is an institution of God between a man and a woman

and does not recognize or condone same sex marriages or any other variation or deviation of thissacred institution.

» While God instituted the sacred union of marriage and the family, He also knows the pain ofseparation and divorce (Jeremiah 3:8), and He has had to deal with a dysfunctionalfamily–including the very first family ever created! Discuss the restoration ministry of Jesus to healthe brokenness that results because of the sinful nature of mankind (Isaiah 61:1-3).

2. The Word of God is the manual by which we must live. » In Ephesians 5:22-28, we receive instruction on the relationship between a husband and a wife. » submit >verb (submitted, submitting) 1 accept or yield to a superior force or stronger person.

2 subject to a particular process, treatment, or condition.» A godly husband shows his wife how to submit to him–by the way that he submits to Christ. » Discuss how the husbands are instructed to treat their wives as Christ treats the Church.

3. Wives are given an example to follow in Proverbs 31:10-31. » Remember that this is meant to be an inspiration to women, not an unreachable goal.

4. It is a certainty that God intended for the husband to be the head of the household, much likethe Anointed Leader is the head of the Church. » Is it not then possible, especially viewing the example of the virtuous woman of Proverbs, that He

intended the wife to act like the ministry to her family? Read I Peter 3:4-7. » Discuss how the two, being heirs together, can make an effective ministry to their family.

» According to Psalms 127:3, what does God refer to children as?

5. In order to have a successful and strong marriage, we must first seek to do what pleases God. » Discuss this in light of I John 3:22,23, “And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we

keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. 23 And this is Hiscommandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love oneanother, as He gave us commandment.”

» Read I Corinthians 13. Discuss the do’s and don’ts of God’s AGAPE LOVE.» AGAPE LOVE is a sacrificial love that voluntarily suffers inconvenience, discomfort, and even

death for the benefit of another without expecting anything in return.

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