Understanding The Times

Transcription

1 Understanding The Times Matt 24: The signs of the end times as predicted in the Bible began immediately after the resurrection of Jesus with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and has continued since then in increasing dimensions. The rate and scale of current happenings are clear indications of our closeness to the very end of this age. Knowledge has increased tremendously in virtually every field of life leading to awesome inventions and innovations. Although the world is experiencing lawlessness and wickedness with damning consequences, the Church is enjoying an overwhelming increase in revelation knowledge with abundant blessings. The Church is an extension of God's heavenly kingdom on earth. As Christians, though not of the world, we are Christ's representatives in the world. Therefore, it is vital to perfectly interpret things, recognise our roles and live up to our responsibilities (1Chron 12:32). Today's discussion focuses on how the Holy Spirit helps us to understand and do what we need to in times like these. Discussion What is your understanding of the unfolding realities of our times (terrorism, wickedness, corruption, perversions, etc) and what are you doing about it? Much as we cannot stop or control what must be, what we should do is dependent on where we are per time and on our abilities to hear God. Helped by the Holy Spirit, we can get direction and be positioned for service in the following ways: a) Receive a God-inspired vision and run with it (Joel 2:28-29) b) Develop the Spirit-filled character ( Gal 5:22-23, 1Cor 9:24-27) c) Exercise your capacity to solve problems in extra-ordinary ways (1Cor 12:7-10) d) Avoid sin and compromise. Be steadfast ( Romans 13:12-13) e) Get deeper in the Word and prayerfully receive more grace (Col 3:16) All over the world, unprecedented incidents keep happening but they are not altogether surprising to the spiritual person. If we understand the times like the children of Issachar, we will know what the Church ought to do per time. The world needs your service now. You have been carefully crafted by God to serve your generation positively. The deepening darkness in the world becomes your opportunity to shine your light brighter. To fulfil this divine purpose in times like these, you must listen to continually hear from God. You will succeed in Jesus name (Amen).

2 CHILDREN HOME FELLOWSHIP OUTLINES 6-11 King Lion Proverbs 30:30 Introduction: We know the lion as the king of the jungle but what makes it the king? Today we will learn some of the things the lion does which makes it the respected king of the jungle and how we can learn from it. Kiddies Talk Back Characteristics of the lion: Strength and Boldness: The lion is big and with its strength it takes care of its home. Remember God has given us the spirit of boldness and a sound mind to take care of everything he has placed around us. The Roar of a lion sends fear into the hearts of animals around. When we pray we send fear into the camp of the devil. 3. Unity: With confidence the lion takes charge of its group, keeping them together. We must learn as children to stick together with our siblings. Together we stand divided we fall. Memory Verse: 2Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. Puzzle: Boldness, Confidence, Power, Domain, Unity, Leader.

3 Seek Divine Direction Matt 24: 25, Prov 3:5-6 Life is full of ups and downs that gradually draw Christians away from God. In a time like this, we hear of violence, wars and all manner of evil occurrences which has given room for fear in the heart of many people. As children of God, it is important for us to understand the times and seek God for divine direction and do whatever He tells us to do. Our focus today will be on how seeking direction from God saves us from trouble. Read I Sam 9:3-20 and discuss how divine direction helped Saul to find the missing donkeys? Knowing what to do and how to do it is very important in times like these, Isaiah 30: Seeking divine direction will.. a) Keep us a step ahead of our peers. b) Keep us from negative influences. (Psa 1:1-3) c) Help us to stay focused (Hab 2:2) d) Remove fear and keep us at peace. (John 14: 1) Conclusion: Having an understanding of this season and following God's direction keeps us safe from troubles and enables us to do the right thing at the right time. You will succeed in Jesus name. (Amen)

4 21st - 25th July, 2014 In Times Like These Part 2 Matthew 24:32-39; Rom. 8:19 Many businesses have come under increased pressure as the world continues to experience crises resulting from political and religious conflict, security challenges and economic instability. Understandably there is confusion and palpable fear in many sectors and a desperate need for leaders to provide direction and lead transformation at local and regional levels. This is why those of us who are Christians and operate by the guidance of the Holy Spirit need to arise and shine God's light into the world (Isa. 60: 1 3) by understanding the times and proffering the requisite solutions to the problems confronting our various businesses. This will be the focus of our discussion in this outline. In the midst of the current challenges facing our world and especially the business environment, such as terrorism, downsizing, bankruptcy, etc, God expects us to have an understanding of the times and know what to do. What role do you think revelation plays in times like these? As Christian business practitioners, rather than react to every happening in times like these, we should seek the help of the Holy Spirit for capacity to take advantage of these hard times positively. Below are some of the benefits of relying on the Holy Spirit for revelation to unravel the seemingly daunting questions that face us as business practitioners: He gives us capacity for leadership through vision; vision is very critical for a leader. It has been said that taking vision away from a leader is like taking the heart from a man. (Matt. 5:14, Acts 2:16 17, 1 Cor. 2: 9 11) He helps us to build character which produces integrity, love, generosity, self-control, etc (Gal. 5:22-23, Eph. 5: 8 10) He gives us capacity to solve problems at an extraordinary level (Job. 32:8, Dan. 5: 1112, Dan. 2: 26 30) He gives us unusual wisdom and competence (Jn. 14: 26, Exo. 31: 1 5) When we operate by the revelation of the Holy Spirit we may be criticized and persecuted by those who do not understand us as the Holy Spirit might give instructions that run against the norm and what has been. However, it is at such times that we need to stand firm on God's word and operate in love knowing that God's word would prevail. The end time is our finest opportunity to minister the power of salvation and lead others to Christ. Therefore, let your light shine. You will succeed in Jesus' name, amen.

5 CHILDREN HOME FELLOWSHIP OUTLINES LITTLE STARS 1-5