Ayo Oluwa Baptist church

06/10/2024

16/06/2024

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

29/01/2023

NBC DISCIPLE'S LIFESTYLE
Theme of the Month: THE DISCIPLE AND SERVICE
TOPIC: REWARD FOR SERVICE.
WEEK 5: SUNDAY, 29TH JANUARY, 2023.
HYMN: ‘When Jesus Comes to Reward His Servants' - BH 119 (1956 Edition)
SCRIPTURE: Luke 19:11-27.
TEACHING METHOD(S):
Discussion.
PRIMARY LEARNING OUTCOME AND INDICATORS:
Disciples will know the reward for service and indicate this knowledge by:
i. Mentioning the prerequisites for service reward.
ii. Explaining the rewards for services.
iii. Deciding to be faithful in service.
ICE BREAKING PERIOD:
Have you ever been rewarded for a service you rendered? Share your experience.
Facilitator's Opening Remarks:
There are rewards for service. While people may not be able to pay for the services rendered, whether in the house of God or for humanity, believers can be assured of God's rewards whenever they serve faithfully. In service, believers must guide against comparism but focus on specific areas where God has called each individual to serve. Disciples should not be distracted from serving God and humanity faithfully. We should use our God-given talents, gifts, and abilities for God's glory.
EDUCATION/INTERACTION PERIOD
A. PREREQUISITES FOR SERVICE REWARD
a. Faithfulness: Jesus used the parable of the Ten Pound in Luke 19:11-27 to teach about faithfulness in service. Faithfulness is an attribute of being trustworthy and reliable. It is when an individual displays a sense of responsibility or devotion to a duty. For a believer to be faithful, he must understand that every service is a trust for which he would give account.
b. Diligence: Jesus's reply to the man who wanted to follow Him in Luke 9:62 buttresses the fact that any disciple who would be rewarded for service must be diligent. A diligent person is one who shows persistent and hardworking efforts in rendering service. Believers should continue to render service to God and humanity. They should not allow discouragement to make them stop serving in whatever opportunity that comes their way.
c. Humility: Humility is another perquisite for service. Jesus Christ set the ultimate example of service and sacrifices when He humbled Himself before God and submitted to death on our behalf. Paul also wrote the Philippian believers to consider other people's interests first in whatever they do as this is a show of humility and love (Philippians 2:3-8). Believers must be humble by counting others more important than themselves.
d. Love: In Paul's letter to the Galatians, he declared that having received freedom from the law, believers are to live a life characterised by love in service to others (Galatians 5:13-14).

B. REWARDS FOR SERVICE
a. Serving allows us to discover and develop our spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12).
b. Serving others brings joy and peace that comes from obedience to God's word (1 Peter 4:10-11).
c. When believers serve God and others, they become like Jesus.* Our focus is shifted from self to others through service. We begin to see others as Jesus sees them, and we see Jesus in others too (Matthew 25:40).
d. Serving others brings us reward not only on earth but also in eternity. It also increases our faith in God. As we work for Him, God increases our faith by revealing new potential in our lives (Ephesians 3:20).
e. Faithful service allows us to experience God's presence in new ways.
f. Serving does more good for believers' souls. Service to God is good for the mind and body. Tapping into our gifts and passions helps us to build self-confidence, energy, and strength for greater task.
g. When we serve God and others, it helps us bond with each other. This was part of God's plan for how the church should be (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Sharing Time: What other rewards awaits a disciple who serves?

C. DECIDING TO BE FAITHFUL IN SERVICES
It is expected of a steward to be faithful in all things (1 Corinthians 4:2). Christ's disciples are stewards and, as such, ought to be accurate in the discharge of their duties wherever they find themselves. The charge to be faithful is a commandment from God to all disciples of Christ. To be faithful means "to trust in God. This is where believers' integrity comes into play. We are the light of the world and so, we must live transparent lives worthy of emulation. We must be transparent in all our dealings in the course of rendering service everywhere we find ourselves.
Sharing Time: The rewards of service to God far outweighs its consequences. Discuss?
Facilitator’s Closing Remarks:
Believers are servants of Jesus Christ because He is our Master. We owe Him our life, our will, our trust, and the service of our lives. Therefore, we must live our lives in service to Him and humanity. Whatsoever we do has its rewards, whether good or bad. While some rewards are of eternal value, some are temporal. In whatever capacity we may find ourselves, let us serve to bring glory to God.
Prayer:
Pray that God will help you to be faithful in service to Him.
Post Group Activity:
Write a letter of appreciation to church workers who are working diligently in their service to God.

ROADMAP FOR DISCIPLES
The idea of "being ready" seems to surface from time to time. While some people take the concept of readiness very seriously, others seem to be less concerned. The Bible tells us to learn from the ants that store up food during summer in preparation for the winter when it may be impossible to go out and get food. Hence, believers in Christ Jesus should be prepared for God's service. Satisfactory service calls for having pure motives. The ability to tap into service opportunities attracts rewards on the condition that service is rendered diligently and faithfully.
[ NBC SUNDAY SCHOOL OUTLINE
DATE:
SUNDAY, 29TH JANUARY, 2023.
TOPIC: GOD PROMISES TO BE PRESENT.
Devotional Reading: Exodus 33:12-2.
Background Scripture: Joel 1:1-4; 2:18-31.
Lesson Scripture: Joel 2:21-32.
GOLDEN TEXT: “Then you will know that I am in Israel, that I am the LORD your God, and that there is no other; never again will my people be shamed.”-Joel 2:27.
OBJECTIVES:
By the end of the lesson, class members should be able to:
● Discuss God's promise of restoration and His power to accomplish it;
● Mention what God promised to do to His people, according to the passage;
● Resolve in their hearts to take God by His words, notwithstanding their circumstances.

INTRODUCTION:
Many events have left us totally | perplexed as a nation, in recent times. In 2020 precisely, the entire globe was ravaged by the deadly Coronavirus (COVID 19) that claimed scores of lives, both the old and young. The Endsars protest, by Nigerian youths, that lasted for many days was dreadful-many people died while properties of both individuals and cooperate organisations, worth millions of naira were looted. How about Fulani herdsmen's constant attack on innocent citizens in their homes and on their way to their farmland, kidnapping and the high cost of living that has left many Nigerians to starve without hope of survival? Some people have concluded that the devastating condition of Nigeria is as a result of God's judgment on Nigerians. These challenges are so overwhelming that many Nigerians, Christians inclusive, still do not believe that anything good can come out of our dear nation. Our perception about what the future holds for our nation is pessimistic, just like Nathaniel was pessimistic when he exclaimed, "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?' .... 'Come and see,' said Philip." (John 1:46) Nevertheless, God can rewrite the story of our nation, if we repent and turn to Him in righteousness and holiness.
The book of Joel was written by Prophet Joel, a contemporary of Jonah and Elisha. It was written purposely to warn Judah of God's impending judgment because of her sins, and to urge the people to return to God. The dominant themes in the book are the day of the Lord, repentance, the Lord in their midst, and the promise of the future outpouring of the Spirit. At a time in the history of the people of Judah, they became prosperous and complacent that they became self-centred and worshipped idols. Consequently, economic devastation occasioned by the plague of locust, which was a consequence of their sin destroyed both wine and grains in the land (1:10, 12). Prophet Joel warned the people against God's judgment as well as called the inhabitants to lament over their sins and repent. Specifically, today's lesson focuses on God's promise to be present with His people and to restore everything they have lost.

THE LESSON EXPLAINED.

A. GOD'S PROMISE OF RESTORATION: Joel 2:21-27
The prayers of the nation of Judah and Jerusalem have been heard, following their repentance. Consequently, God promised to make the land fertile, to show His people mercy and remove the locusts that devoured the land from the North (vv. 18-20). The land and the wild animals were admonished not to be afraid. The people were told to be glad and rejoice in the Lord their God because of His promise of restoration which include:
● Productivity of the land that was once devastated. v. 22
● Abundant showers like before, in place of drought.
● The threshing floors will be filled with grain, wine and oil.
● Restoration of what the locusts have eaten.
● Provision of food to their satisfaction and praise of God.
Of course, these promises were based on their genuine repentance. It should be noted that Prophet Joel's message of hope and encouragement, in verse 21, is in contrast with his message of judgment in verse 1. It shows the two natures of God, which are kindness and sternness (Romans 11:22). Sin brings judgment but forgiveness brings rejoicing and restoration, like the promise to the nation of Israel. Even though Israel had suffered years of devastation and loss, God said to them, "I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten -...." (v. 25) Similarly, God made promises of restoration to the nation of Israel through other prophets (Isaiah 42:14-16; Hosea 9:11-15; Zephaniah 3:11-20). The gravity of the devastation of a nation does not indicate that God is not concern, it implies that no matter the level of devastation of any nation, if the people repent and turn from their wicked ways, God will hear and restore them. They will grow in prosperity and abundance, and God's Name will be glorified.
DISCUSSION TIME:
1. Discuss God's fearful judgment as a consequence of sin, and forgiveness and restoration as benefits of repentance.
2. Discuss the implication of verse 25 and relate it to Nigeria, as a nation.

B. A PROMISE OF THE SPIRIT: Joel 2:28-32
God's promise of restoration to the nation of Israel is all-encompassing. He said in verses 28-29, "And afterwards, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days." In other words, when the promise of restoration has been fulfilled, a new and more rewarding age will be ushered in. Nevertheless, the outpouring of the Spirit would come when people have repented of their sins, and that the outpouring would be part of His prophesied restoration. Apostle Peter, on the day of Pentecost made reference to this declaration when he said, "No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel." (Acts 2:16) However, God's promise of the Spirit was not without a warning about the day of the Lord (God's judgment), when He will change the course of the universe. He said, "The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD." (v. 31) Interestingly, God promised deliverance from punishment for those who call on His Name.
Noteworthy in the passage is the promise of an outpouring of God's Spirit on all (sons, daughters, old men and young men). The promise was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost, after the resurrection of Jesus, when the apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit and they began to speak in different languages (Acts 2:1-4). All believers in Christ, irrespective of age, gender, status, tribe, language or clan, need the Holy Spirit to work in and through their lives. By virtue of this offer, salvation is accessible to all - both the Jews and the Gentiles (Romans 10:13). Every Christian needs the power of the Holy Spirit to accomplish ministry goals, family stability, and spiritual growth. Without the gift of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, the flesh will dominate and one will not be able to please God, despite the position one occupies in the church or ones' activities.
DISCUSSION TIME:
1. Discuss the significance of the outpouring of the Spirit to believers' victorious living.
2. Identify some fallacies and heresies associated with the manifestation of the Spirit today, and how they can be corrected.

Fellowship and Ministry Building Activity:
● Let at least two or three class members recall a time of scarcity and plenty. They should compare and contrast, and list the lessons they learned from the experience.

Take Home: State at least three main lessons you are taking home based on today's lesson.
Commitment: Based on today's lesson, make a commitment to take God at His words because His promises never fail.
REVIEW FOR THE MONTH OF JANUARY:
Thank God for taking us through the month of January in which we learnt about His different promises to His people. I know that you have been blessed. But the question is:
What new insights did you get about God and His promise to hear and forgive our sins when we truly repent?
● What did the lesson of God's promise to restore and protect His people teach you about God's concern for those who trust in Him?
● How did the Holy Spirit help you to practice true fasting, since the beginning of the year?
● Which of the lessons interested you the most, and what have you resolved to do?

22/01/2023

*BIBA OLORUN PADE LOJOOJUMO (NBC)*

*SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2022*

*AYO NINU GBIGBORAN SIOLORUN*

*YBH 277: Gba t' A B' Oluwa Rin*

*Bibeli Kika: Isaiah 58:1-14*
1 “Kígbe rẹ̀ ṣókè, má ṣe fà ṣẹ́yìn. Gbé ohùn rẹ ṣókè bí i ti fèrè. Jẹ́ kí ó di mímọ̀ fún áwọn ènìyàn mi, ọ̀tẹ̀ wọn àti fún ilé Jákọ́bù ẹ̀ṣẹ̀ wọn.

2 Nítorí ọjọ́ dé ọjọ́ ni wọ́n ń wá mi kiri; wọ́n ṣe bí ẹni ní ìtara láti mọ ọ̀nà mi, àfi bí ẹni pé wọ́n jẹ́ orílẹ̀ èdè kan tí ń ṣe ohun tí ó tọ̀nà tí òun kò sì tí ì kọ àṣẹ Ọlọ́run rẹ̀. Wọ́n ń béèrè lọ́wọ́ mi fún ìpinnu nìkan wọ́n sì ṣe bí ẹni ń tara fún Ọlọ́run láti súnmọ́ ọ̀dọ̀ wọn.

3 ‘Èéṣe tí àwa fi ń gbààwẹ̀,’ ni wọ́n wí, ‘tí ìwọ kò sì tí ì rí? Èéṣe tí àwa fi rẹra wa sílẹ̀, tí ìwọ kò sì tí ì ṣe àkíyèsí?’ “Ṣíbẹ̀ ṣíbẹ̀ ní ọjọ́ ààwẹ̀ yín, ẹ̀yin ń ṣe bí ó ti wù yín ẹ sì ń pọ́n àwọn òṣìṣẹ́ yín gbogbo lójú.

4 Ààwẹ̀ yín sì parí nínú ìjà àti asọ̀, àti lílu ọmọnìkejì ẹni pẹ̀lú ẹṣẹ́ ìkà. Ẹ̀yin kò le è gbààwẹ̀ bí ẹ ti ń ṣe lónìí kí ẹ sì retí kí a gbọ́ ohùn un yín ní ibi gíga.

5 Ǹjẹ́ èyí ha ni irú ààwẹ̀ tí mo yàn bí, ọjọ́ kanṣoṣo fún ènìyàn láti rẹ ara rẹ̀ sílẹ̀? Í haá ṣe kí ènìyàn tẹ orí i rẹ̀ ba bí i koríko láṣán ni bí àti ṣíṣùn nínú aṣọ ọ̀fọ̀ àti eérú? Ṣé ohun tí ẹ̀ ń pè ní ààwẹ̀ nìyí, ọjọ́ ìtẹ́wọ́gbà fún OLÚWA?

6 “Ǹjẹ́ irú ààwẹ̀ tí mo ti yàn kọ́ ni èyí: láti já gbogbo ẹ̀wọ̀n àìsòdodo àti láti tú gbogbo okùn àjàgà, láti tú gbogbo àwọn ti à ń ni lára sílẹ̀ àti láti fọ́ gbogbo àjàgà?

7 Kì í ha á ṣe láti pín oúnjẹ yín fún àwọn tí ebi ń pa àti láti pèsè ibùgbé fún àwọn òtòsì tí ń rìn káàkiri nígbà tí ẹ bá rí ẹni tí ó wà níhòòhò, láti daṣọ bò ó, àti láti má ṣe lé àwọn ẹ̀jẹ̀ àti ẹran yín sẹ́yìn?

8 Nígbà náà ni ìmọ́lẹ̀ rẹ yóò tàn jáde bí òwúrọ̀ àti ìmúláradá rẹ yóò farahàn kíákíá; nígbà náà ni òdodo rẹ yóò sì lọ níwájúù rẹ, ògo OLÚWA yóò sì jẹ́ ààbò lẹ́yìn rẹ.

9 Nígbà yìí ni ẹ̀yin yóò pè, tí OLÚWA yóò sì dáhùn; ẹ̀yin yóò kígbe fún ìrànlọ́wọ́, òun yóò sì wí pé: Èmi nìyí. “Bí ẹ̀yin bá mú àjàgà aninilára kúrò, pẹ̀lú ìka àléébù nínà àti ọ̀rọ̀ ìṣáátá,

10 àti bí ẹ̀yin bá ná ara yín bí owó nítorí àwọn tí ebi ń pa tí ẹ sì tẹ́ ìfẹ́ àwọn tí à ń ni lára lọ́rùn, nígbà náà ni ìmọ́lẹ̀ yín yóò ràn nínú òkùnkùn, àti òru yín yóò dàbí ọ̀ṣán-gangan.

11 OLÚWA yóò máa tọ́ ọ yín nígbà gbogbo; òun yóò tẹ́ gbogbo àìní ìn yín lọ́rùn ní ilẹ̀ tí òòrùn ń tan ìmọ́lẹ̀ yóò sì fún egungun rẹ lókun. Ìwọ yóò sì dàbí ọgbà tí a bomirin dáadáa, àti bí orísun tí omi rẹ̀ kì í tán.

12 Àwọn ènìyàn rẹ yóò tún ahoro ìṣẹ̀ǹbáyé kọ́ wọn yóò sì gbé ìpìlẹ̀ àtijọ́-tijọ́ ró a ó sì pè ọ́ ní alátúnṣe ògiri tí ó ti wó àti olùmúbọ̀sípò àwọn òpópónà tí ènìyàn gbé inú un rẹ̀.

13 “Bí ìwọ bá pa ẹṣẹ̀ rẹ mọ́ kúrò nínú bíba ọjọ́-ìsinmi jẹ́, àti síse bí ó ti wù ọ́ ni ọjọ́ mímọ́ mi, bí ìwọ bá pe ọjọ-ìsinmi ní ohun dídùn àti ọjọ́ mímọ́ OLÚWA ní ohun ọ̀wọ̀ àti bí ìwọ bá bu ọlá fún un láti máa bá ọ̀nà tìrẹ lọ àti láti má ṣe bí ó ti wù ọ́ tàbí kí o máa ṣọ̀rọ̀ òòrayè,

14 nígbà náà ni ìwọ yóò ní ayọ̀ nínú OLÚWA rẹ, èmi yóò sì jẹ́ kí ìwọ kí ó máa gun ibi gíga ilẹ̀ ayé, àti láti máa jàdídùn ìní ti Jákọ́bù baba rẹ.” Ẹnu OLÚWA ni ó ti sọ̀rọ̀.

*Ese lati Ranti:* Bi iwo ba fà okan re jade fun eni ti ebi n pa, ti o si tę okan ti an pon loju lorùn, nigba náà ni imole re yóò si lå ninu okunkun, ati okunkun re bi osan gangan. Isaiah 58:10

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A .W Tozer ti so ri nigba kan pe, "Nje o ti rii bi adura lori isoji ti po to ni Lakoko yii ti o si je pe, iwonba isoji ni a le ri tokasi? Mo gbagbo pe, wahala ti o wa nibẹ ni pe, a n gbiyanju lati fi adura gbigba dipo gbigboran, ko si le ṣe e se. 39

Wolii Isaiah mu okan Olorun to awọn eniyan Isreli lọ - pe, ikopa ninu esin laisi igboran ko le e meso wa. Iyalenu ni o je fun awon eniyan naa pe, Olorun ko ṣe akiyesi aawe won.

Olorun so pe Oun ko ni kobiara aawe won nitori wọn ti kọ lati fetisi ase OunWon fi ohun ti o yẹ ki won se sile laise, won si n wa ọna lati fa oju Olorun mora pelu esin șise.

O te Olorun lorun lati fi ounje fun awon ebi n pa, lati wo awon alaisan san, lati jowo awon ti a n pon loju, O si ki eyi je ohun ti yoo je awon naa logun.

Esin sise ti ko ba fi igboran si Olorun se ko ni ri oju Olorun. Olorun n fẹ ki o ni ayo, kii şe ninu kikopa ninu esin șise nikan bikose ninu gbigboran si I tayo eyi.

O dabi pe ko si anfaani kan ti awujọ wa n je latari bi awon ile ijosin ti n po sii ti awon ipade to nii șe nipa esin si n peleke sii.

Nje o ya o lenu pe, idi wo ni o fi ri bee? Eyi ri bee nitori pe, Olorun feran igboran dipo ębo riru. Fi ara rẹ jin lati maa gbọran si Olorun lonii, ayo re yoo si kun tayo.

*Woye:* Igboran san ju ebo riru.

*Ronu:* Nje o n ri ayo ninu gbigboran si Olorun lenu?

*Fi Si Ise:* Lati ni ayo, yan lati gboran si Olorun lenu.

*Gbadura:* Baba, ran mi lowo lati gboran si O nigba gbogbo.

*Gbadura:* A dupe fun ifarahan iwalaaye Rę. A gbadura fun gbogbo awon Obinrin Ijo Onitębomi pe o mu ohun gbogbo ti yoo dena ki agbara Rę rin laarin won bi won ti n bere Osę Iriju Egbę Obinrin Oniyinrere lonii.

*Gbadura fun awon Eni-Owo wonyi, idile ati awon omo ijo Olorun:*
Olaniyi O. T., Ogbomoso; Agboola Akinola, Ibadan; John Mathew, Potiskum; Micheal K.O., Osun; Adebayo T. Taiwo, Agbonle; Yahaya Bauna, Plateau; Ipadeola I.A., Iseyin; Ali. H. S., Nasarawa; Ajayi Joshua, Kwara; Eruotor O.G., Abraka; Okediran O. Paul, Abuja; Adams Olusegun R., Oyo; Ajayi Joseph O., Eko; Oluokun Z.A., Eruwa.

*KBJL: Eksodu 21-23*

*DAILY ENCOUNTER WITH GOD (NBC)*

*SUNDAY, JANUARY 22, 2023*

*JOY IN OBEYING GOD*

*BH 260: When We Walk with the Lord*

*Text: Isaiah 58:1-14*
58:1 "Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet. Declare to my people their rebellion and to the descendants of Jacob their sins.

58:2 For day after day they seek me out; they seem eager to know my ways, as if they were a nation that does what is right and has not forsaken the commands of its God. They ask me for just decisions and seem eager for God to come near them.

58:3 ’Why have we fasted,’ they say, ’and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?’ "Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers.

58:4 Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high.

58:5 Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for people to humble themselves? Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed and for lying in sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the LORD?

58:6 "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?

58:7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter — when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

58:8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.

58:9 Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. "If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk,

58:10 and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.

58:11 The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

58:12 Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.

58:13 "If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the LORD’s holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words,

58:14 then you will find your joy in the LORD, and I will cause you to ride in triumph on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob." For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.

*Memory verse:* And if you spend yourselves on behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday. Isaiah 58:10, NIV

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A.W. Tozer once said, "Have you noticed how much praying for revival has been going on of late - and how little revival has resulted? I believe the problem is that we have been trying to substitute praying for obeying, and it simply will not work."

Prophet Isaiah conveys God's mind to the Israelites that religious activities without obedience will not work. The people wondered why God did not notice their fast. God told them that He would not pay attention to their fast because they have refused to pay attention to His commands.

They left what should be done undone and were busy seeking to attract God with religiosity. God is pleased with feeding the hungry, healing the sick, and releasing the oppressed, and He wanted that to be priority to them as well. -

Religious practices devoid of obedience will not get God's attention. God wants you to derive joy not just in observing religious activities but much more in obeying Him. Our society does not seem to benefit so much from proliferation of churches and explosion of religious meetings.

Have you ever wondered why? It is because God desires obedience rather than sacrifice. Commit to obeying God to the details today and your joy will know no bounds.

*Perceive:* Obedience is better than sacrifice.

*Ponder:* Do you derive joy in obeying God?

*Practise:* To have joy, choose to obey God.

*Pray:* Father, help me to obey You at all times.

*Prayer:* Thank You for Your manifest presence. We pray for all Baptist women that You will remove from them everything that will hinder Your power from flowing through them as the WMU Focus Week begins today.

*Pray for these ordained ministers and members of their churches:*
Olaniyi O. T., Ogbomoso; Agboola Akinola, Ibadan; John Mathew, Potiskum; Micheal K.O., Osun; Adebayo T. Taiwo, Agbonle; Yahaya Bauna, Plateau; Ipadeola I.A., Iseyin; Ali. H. S., Nasarawa; Ajayi Joshua, Kwara; Eruotor O.G., Abraka; Okediran O. Paul, Abuja; Adams Olusegun R., Oyo; Ajayi Joseph O., Lagos; Oluokun Z.A., Eruwa.

*RBT: Exodus 21-23*

15/01/2023

NBC SUNDAY SCHOOL OUTLINE
DATE: SUNDAY, 15TH JANUARY, 2023.
TOPIC: GOD PROMISES TO GUIDE OUR WAYS.
Devotional Reading: Psalm 119:81-96.
Background Scripture: Isaiah 48:1-22.
Lesson Scripture: Isaiah 48:3-8a, 17.
GOLDEN TEXT: “This is what the LORD says-your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: 'I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.”-Isaiah 48:17.
OBJECTIVES:
By the end of the lesson, class members should be able to:
● Enumerate Israel's sins and the consequences they suffered;
● Explain God's strong dislike for stubbornness and idolatry;
● Commit themselves to God's guidance and enjoy the blessings of doing so.

INTRODUCTION: There is an African proverb that says, "He who asks for guidance and direction will never miss his way." For instance, driving to an unfamiliar area in metropolitan cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and some other big cities can sometimes be burdensome, especially for visitors. Interestingly, technology has made some things very easy. Travellers can always be guided with the use of modern technology of Google map to get to their destinations safely. This digital device, when switched on will continually guide the user with voice note on the direction to take, without contravening any traffic rule that will result in severe penalty. This device has been used over time by many people, and in all the instances, it has not misled anyone. What is required is to simply follow its guidance until one gets to one's destination. However, as good as this device may seem, it can be deficient as a result of poor network, insufficient data, insensitivity of the user or inability to recognise the road network, as shown on the map. Prophet Isaiah, therefore, made it clear from the passage that it is only God who teaches what is best for His people and directs them in the way they should go.
Chapter 48 of the book of Isaiah concludes the first part of "the Book of the Consolation of Israel." The consequences they suffered for their rebellious lifestyle was life in exile, for a period of seventy years. However, God gave a renewed hope of His promise to guide their ways while they were still in Babylon. God, through Prophet Isaiah, wanted His chosen people to know that all they had suffered had been predicted, and that He had plans to lead them out of Babylon. God is aware of what laid ahead; He predicted future events concerning Israel and they were all fulfilled. The focus of today's lesson is God's promise to guide His people in all their ways. The promise is also applicable to contemporary Christians. As our ultimate guide, we should humble ourselves and accept His wisdom, as He leads us through the right path.

THE LESSON EXPLAINED

A. GOD'S PREDICTION OF ISRAEL: Isaiah 48:3-5.
The story of Israel is characterised by rebellion, unbelief, disobedience and idolatry, despite God's warning and the fact that they have been called by the name of the Lord (v. 1). God told them He predicted what He intended to do a long time ago. According to verse 4, because God is Omnipresent, He had foreknowledge of their stubbornness, which is described as rigid as iron and unyielding as bronze. God revealed these things to them before they came to pass, so that they would not give credit to their gods by saying, "My images brought them about; my wooden image and metal god ordained them." (v. 5b) Idols and images, as used in the passage depict things that are made from wood and metal. Certainly, God wanted to prove to them that it was He, and not their idols, that was responsible for the turn of events.
The people of Israel were very stubborn; they deliberately rebelled against the Lord, and preferred to make gods for themselves, which they worshipped, despite God's constant warning against idolatry. God was displeased with their sinful and idolatrous lifestyle. He used the metaphoric expression "neck of iron" to describe their unwillingness to submit to His lordship, despite His marvellous works in their midst since they left Egypt. In the same vein, the phrase "brazen forehead" depicts a person with a closed mind, who had persisted in sinfulness. As His chosen people, God expected Israel to be a model to other nations in obedience, righteousness and trust but regrettably, they were influenced by other nations and became like them. Unlike humankind who is limited by space, God's nature as the Omnipresent God (ever present) makes Him to know and predict future events before they take place, like the case of the Israelites. The reason for the prediction was to prevent the people from claiming that their god ordained them (v. 5). God sees and knows our future, even things we do not know about ourselves. The glory that is due Him should not be ascribed to people or other gods because He abhors disobedience, stubbornness and idolatry.
DISCUSSION TIME:
1. Discuss the possible reasons for humankind's stubborn attitude toward God and the consequences.
2. Explain the areas Christians often demonstrate stubbornness. thereby displease God today.

B. TRANSGRESSORS FROM THE WOMB: Isaiah 48:6-8, 17.
The fact has been established that God had predicted what the future holds for His people (Israel) and how everything happened, as He had foretold (v. 3). In verse 6, the people were admonished to admit the fulfilment of the prophecy with a promise to reveal new things, unknown things. Therefore, they cannot claim to have known about them. He said to them in verse 8, "You have neither heard nor understood; from of old your ears have not been open. Well do I know how treacherous you are; you were called a rebel from birth." Because the people had been rebellious from birth, they were called a rebel. And if God had revealed the new things, probably Israel's release from captivity in Babylon and the coming Servant (Isaiah 42:9) to His people, they would have claimed that they had foreknowledge of them. More so, they have not been trustworthy, having witnessed all of God's great power and miracles. Prophet Isaiah, however, confirmed another promise in verse 17; he said that their Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel, is their Lord and God who teaches what is best for them and directs them in the way they should go.
The summary of the lesson is that our individual acts of sin merely prove that each of us is a transgressor from the womb. It means that human rebellion and sin are innate. Nevertheless, it should be noted that God's promise to Israel was to continue to teach them and guide their ways, in fulfilment of His covenant relationship with their forefathers, even though they had made mistakes in time past. The message in verse 8 is an indication that the people were still obstinate and rebellious against God from the time they were born. This message is that even when we choose to go our own way, doing things the way we want without any recourse to God, His promise of constant guide cannot be cancelled. Therefore, believers in Christ should endeavour to forsake their sinful ways and embrace God's promise to constantly teach us what is best and direct our paths.
DISCUSSION TIME:
1. Discuss ways the church can help this rebellious world to hear what God is saying today.
2. How can Christians overcome the innate desire to be rebellious against God?
Commitment:
● Based on today's lesson, make a commitment to constantly obey God, as He directs our paths, from time to time.
Fellowship and Ministry Building Activities:
● Let a volunteer share a personal testimony of how he/she recently enjoyed the benefits of divine guidance.
Take Home: Write down three lessons you are taking home from today's lesson.

ILE EKO OJO ISIMI (NBC)*

*Ose keta, January 15, 2023*

*OLORUN N ȘE ILERI LATI TO IPA ONA WA*

*Bibeli Kika fun Ibere Eko: Orin Dafidi 119:81-96*

*Bibeli Kika fun Ipalęmo Eko: Isaiah 48:1-22*

*Bibeli Kika fun Eko: Isaiah 48:3-8a, 17*

*ESE LATI RANTI* Báyii ni Oluwa wi, Olurapada re, Eni-Mimo Isreli: Emi ni Oluwa Olorun re, ti o ko o fun èrè, eni tí o to o ni ona ti iwo iba maa lo. Isaiah 48:17

*Awon Ete Eko:* Ni opin eko, o yẹ ki awon omo kilaasi le e:

I. Menuba awon ese ti awon omo Isreli da ati atubotan won.

II. Salaye ikorira ti Olorun ni fun aigboran ati iborisa.

III. Fi ara won jin fun idari Olorun, ki won si gbadun awon ibukun ti o romo sise bee.

*ORO ISAAJU*
Owe kan wa ni Afirika ti o wi pe, "Eni ba beere ona ni kii şina" Gege bii apeere, bi eniyan ba n wa oko ni oju ona ti ko mo ni awon ilu nla bii Eko, Abuja, Port Harcourt, ati awon ilu nla miiran ti won le fe mu wahala lowo paapaa julo fun awon alejo. Ohun ti o dun moni ninu ni pe, imo ijinle nipa ise ero ti mu ki nnkan rorun. Nigba gbogbo ni o rọrun lati dari awon arinrin-ajo nipa șișe amulo maapu Gogu ti i șe ohun elo imo ero lati de ebute won layọ ati ni alaafia. Bi won ba ti și ohun elo digita igbalode yii, yoo maa dari eni ti n lo o, yoo maa soro, yoo si maa dari re si ibi ti o ba yẹ lati rin si, ko ni ru ofin irinna kankan ti o le mu ijiya yoowu wa. Opolopo eniyan ni o ti lo ohun elo yii ni aimoye igba, ko si enikeni dari ni akoko ti won fi lo o. Ohun ti o pe fun ni lati dari rẹ t**i ti eni naa yoo fi de ebute re. Sugbon o, bi o ti dabii pe ohun elo yii dara to, o ṣe e se ki kudekudie die waye latari aidarato oju ojo, aito data, aikiyesara tabi ailoye eni ti on lo o nipa aimo bi oju ona ti ja ara won bi maapu naa șe fi han.

Nitori naa, wolii Isaiah jẹ ki o di mimo yekeyeke lati inu abala kika yii pe, Olorun nikan ni O le koni ni nnkan ti o dara julo fun awon eniyan Rẹ, ti o si n dari won ni ọna ti o yẹ ki won to.

Ori 48 iwe Isaiah n pari abala akoko ti "Iwe Itunu Isreli." Won jiya atubotan igbe-aye isote ninu aginju fun aadorin odun. Sugbon, Olorun fun won ni ireti otun ti ileri Rẹ lati dari ipa ona wọn nigba ti wọn si wa ni Babiloni. Nipaṣe wolii Isaiah, Olorun fe ki awon eniyan Rẹ ti o yan mo pe asotele ti wa lori gbogbo ijiya ti won ti la koja, ati pe O ni eto lati dari won jade kuro ni ile Babiloni. Olorun mo ohun ti o wa niwaju; o so asotele isele ojo iwaju lori awon omo Isreli, o si wa si imuse. Afojusun ekọ ti oni ni ileri Olorun lati dari awọn eniyan Rẹ ni gbogbo ona won. Ileri yii tun nii șe pelu awa onigbagbo ode oni. Gęgę bii olutoni wa ti o ga julo, a ni lati re ara wa silę ki a si gba ogbon Rę bi O ti n dari wa nipa ona ti o to.

*ALAYE LORI EKO*

*A. Asotele Olorun lori Isręli Isaiah 48:3-5*
Itan Isreli kun fun isote, aigbagbo, aigboran ati iborișa, pelu bi Olorun ti kilo fun won to ati otiito pe, a fi oruko Oluwa pe won (ese 1). Olorun so fun won pe Oun ti so asotele nnkan ti Oun fe se lati akoko ti o pe. Gege bi ese ikerin ti so, nitori pe Olorun wa nibi gbogbo, O ni oye aigboran wọn ṣaaju, eyi ni sapejuwe gege bii olori-kunkun ti orùn re je iṣan irin, iwaju re si je ide. Olorun șafihan awọn nnkan wonyi fun won ki o to di pe won wa si imuse, ki won ma baa fi ogo fun awon orișa won nipa siso pe, "orisa mi ni o șe won, ati ere mi gbigbe, ati ere mi dida ni o ti pa won ni ase." (ese 5b). Won se amulo orișa ati ere nibi lati ṣafihan awon nnkan ti won mu jade lati ara igi ati irin. Dajudaju, Olorun fẹ lati fi da won loju pe Oun ni, kii ṣe awon oriṣa won ni o mu ki nnkan yipada.

Awon eniyan Isreli ya alaigboran, won mo-on-mo sote lodi si Oluwa, won si yan lati gbe oriṣa kale fun ara won lati sin pelu bi Olorun ti se kilo fun won to lati lodi si iboriṣa. Inu Olorun ko dun si igbe-aye ese ati iborisa ti won n gbe. Ose amulo awon oro kan lati fi ṣe apejuwe, "olori lile ti orun re je isan" lati fi se apejuwe aife okan won lati jo ara won si ije-olorun Re bi O tile je pe O ṣe ise iyanu laarin won lati igba ti won ti kuro ni Egipti. Bakan naa, gbolohun n ni, "iwaju re je ide" se afihan eni ti ọkan rẹ di, ti on tesiwaju ninu ese. Gege bii awon eniyan ti o yan, Olorun reti ki Isręli je apeere fun awon orile-ede yooku ni igboran, is**odo, ati ni otiito sugbon o şeni laanu, awon orile-ede miiran ni ipa lori won, won si dabii won. Won ko dabii eniyan ti aaye won ni gbedeke, abuda Olorun gege bii Eni ti o wa nibi gbogbo nigba gbogbo mu ki O mo ki O si le so tele nipa isele ojo iwaju ki won to waye, gege bii oro awon omo Israeli. Idi ti asotele yii fi waye ni lati le da awon eniyan naa lowoko ki won ma baa so pe oriṣa won ni o ṣe won (ese 5). Olorun ri, O si mọ ojo iwaju wa, koda awon nnkan ti a ko mọ nipa ara wa. Ogo ti o to si I ko gbodo di gbigbe fun awon eniyan tabi awon oriṣa miiran nitori O korira aigbọran, orikun-kun ati iborisa.

*AKOKO IJIRORO*
1. Jiroro lori awon idi ti o fi se e se ki awon eniyan ni iwa orikun-kun si Olorun, ati awon atubotan re.

2. Se alaye awon agbon ti awa Kristiani fi maa n şafihan orikunkun, nipa bee, ti o mu Olorun binu Ionii.

*B. Awon Elese lati Inu Wa Isaiah 48:6-8, 17*
Otiito ti fidi re mule pe Olorun ti sotele lori ohun ti ojo iwaju ni fun awon eniyan Re (Isreli) ati bi ohun gbogbo ti se sele, gege bi O ti so tele (ese 3). Niese 6, a ro awon eniyan naa lati gba imuse asotele naa pelu ileri lati ṣafihan awon nnkan tuntun, awon nnkan ti a ko mọ. Nitori naa, won ko le so pe awon ti mo nipa won. O so fun won ni ese 8, "Lóòto, iwo kò gbo; lóòto, iwo kò mọ; lóòto lati igba naa eti re kò și: nitori ti emi mo pe, iwọ o hùwa arekerekè, gidigidi ni a si pè o ni olurekoja lati inu wá." Nitori awon eniyan naa ti je olote lati inu wa, won pe won ni olote. Bi Olorun ba si ti ṣe afihan awọn nnkan tuntun, boya, idande awon omo Isreli kuro ni igbekun Babiloni ati iranse ti On bo s**o awon eniyan Re (Isaiah 42:9), boya won iba ti so pe awon ni oye ṣaaju nipa won. Nigba ti o je pe won ko tii je eni ti o ṣe e fi okan tan, leyin ti won ti ni iriri gbogbo agbara ati awon ise iyanu Olorun. Sugbon, wolii Isaiah fi idi ileri miiran ni ese 17 mule; o so wi pe Olurapada, Eni Mimo Isreli kanṣoṣo je Oluwa ati Olorun wọn Ẹni ti o n kọ won ni nnkan ti o dara julo, ti o si n dari won ni ona ti o ye ki won lo.

Ni kukuru eko yii n so pe, ese ti enikookan da fi idi re mule pe enikookan wa je elese lati inu wa. Ohun ti o tumo si ni pe isote ati ese eniyan je abimo. Sibẹsibẹ, a ni lati mọ pe, ileri Olorun fun Isreli je eyi ti won yoo fi tesiwaju lati maa ko won ati lati dari ona won lati le mu majemu ibaṣepo pelu awon babanla won se, bi o tile je pe won ti se aşişe seyin. Ise ti ese n je ṣe afihan re pe awon eniyan naa si je olorikun-kun, won si sote lodi si Olorun lati akoko ti won ti bi won. Ise ti eyi n je ni pe, koda nigba ti a ba yan lati ṣe ohun ti o wu wa, ti a si n ṣe nnkan ni ọna ti a fẹ lai fi orisun iranlowo ti Olorun şe, ileri idari Re nigba gbogbo ko șe e mu kuro. Nitori naa, onigbagbo ninu Kristi ni lati ṣe akitiyan lati gbagbe ona ese won, ki won gba ileri Olorun lati maa ko wa ni ohun ti o dara julo nigba gbogbo ati lati dari ipa ona wa.

*AKOKO IJIRORO*
1. Jiroro lori awọn ọna ti Ijo Olorun fi le ran aye ti o kun fun işotę yii lowo lati le gbo nnkan ti Olorun n so lonii.

2. Bawo ni awa Kristiani şe le bori ifę okan lati sotę lodi si Olorun?

*Mimu Ibakegbępo ati Ise-Iranse Dagba:* Je ki enikan ti o fe se alabaapin eri re tinutinu lori bi o ti jęgbadun awon anfaani itoni at'oke wa laipe yii.

*Ise Amurele:* Daruko, o kere tan eko meta gboogi ti o ri dimu, ni ibamu pẹlu ẹkọ ti oni.

*Ifarajin:* Gege bii ẹkọ ti oni, ṣe ifarajin lati maa gboran si Olorun nigba gbogbo bi O ti n dari ipa-ona wa lati igba de igba.

NBC DISCIPLE'S LIFESTYLE
Theme of the Month:
THE DISCIPLE AND SERVICE
TOPIC: MOTIVES FOR SERVICE.
WEEK 3: SUNDAY, 15TH JANUARY, 2023.
HYMN: To the Work, To the work' - BH 435 (1956 Edition) SCRIPTURE: Colossians 3:17; Proverbs 21:2.
TEACHING METHOD(S): Discussion.
PRIMARY LEARNING OUTCOME AND INDICATORS:*
Disciples will understand the motives for service and indicate this knowledge by:
i. Defining the word 'motive'.
ii. Identifying different motives for service.
iii. Deciding to render services to God with a pure motive.
ICE BREAKING PERIOD:
Having a passion for saving lives right from childhood, John chose to become a medical doctor. Thus, he sees his profession as more of service to God and humanity than business. This was against his wife's view that the profession is lucrative and that he can make money at the expense of peoples' lives. How will you change the perception of the wife to align with the motive of her husband?
Facilitator's Opening Remarks:
Why do Christians serve God? Why should Christians serve God? Many have probably never tried to answer the above questions because when they do, they will be guided as to where, when and how to serve. The Bible explains that the human heart is desperately evil (Jeremiah 17:9) and as such, we should not be deceived when people serve with the wrong motive. Therefore, our lesson today will enlighten us on the different motives for service and encourage us to imbibe right attitude towards service.
EDUCATION/INTERACTION PERIOD
A. UNDERSTANDING THE WORD 'MOTIVE'
Motive is the reason for doing something or behaving in a specific way or manner (Encarta Dictionary). It is also the goal or object of a person's action. While it is necessary for Christ's disciples to understand the motive behind serving God, it is also necessary to decide to have a right motive towards service. It is not the amount of what we do or how it appears to others that matters, rather, it is with the motive with which it is done that determines whether such service is acceptable to God. Motive lies behind all that people do, good or bad, and serving the Lord is no exception. Motives of people's actions are often difficult to discern. But the Bible enjoins Christians to serve with the right motive.
B. IDENTIFYING DIFFERENT MOTIVES FOR SERVICE
Christians often expresses their desire to serve through their motives. Motives can be expressed in two different forms. It could either be proper or improper motive.
1. Proper Motives:
a. Love: Love for God and others should be the first motive for service. A Christian service that is motivated by love produces great results. Love for God is often demonstrated through obedience. Love also expresses itself in a desire to glorify, please, and know God. Love for God would also inspire love for others. If you love Jesus, you will want to do the things that pleases Him (John 14:15).
b. Desire to Serve God above Other Things: Considering how God served humanity through Jesus Christ, our response to God's benevolence should be to serve Him. Our desire to serve God will translate to serving Him and others.
c. Desire to Learn from Him: During Jesus' earthly ministry, about 5000 people followed Him. Some of the people left Jesus at one time or the other. One of those who remained with Christ was Peter because he knew that only Jesus could teach him truths about life (John 6:66-68). The desire to learn and know God will inspire us towards serving Him rightly. It will enable us understand God's ways and His expectations as we journey with Him.
d. Becoming like Christ: Every true disciple of Christ should desire to imitate Christ. Christ sets example for us by serving His disciples. This is one of the evidence of becoming a true disciple of Christ. We become His faithful disciples when we obey His teaching, thereby conforming to His image (Luke 6:46-49; 22:27).
e. Eternal Significance: God's original purpose is to reign with Him here on earth an eternally. We can be motivated to fulfil our longing for eternal reward beyond this temporary life. More than being applauded by people, we should long for our eternal reward.
2. Improper Motives:
a. Material Gain: For some, the motive for serving can be monetary or material gain. Many people think that certain benefits should follow service. Financial or material gain must never be our priority for service. Doing God's will should be our primary pursuit as His disciples (Matthew 6:19-33).
b. Fame: Some people serve to gain popularity. Many Christians promote the account of success to notable achievements whereas such attitude negates the teaching of Jesus Christ. Thus, service to God that is hinged on popularity or fame is not a good motive for service.
c. Men-pleasing: Some Christians believe that as long as people are pleased by their acts of service, God is also pleased. This is rampant among Christians who are naturally peer-dependent and crave for the approval of others. Tragically, the pursuit of pleasing people allows others to define our service. By doing so, we are not serving God or seeking to please Him. We are merely giving people the opportunity to make and mold us into their own image.
d. Position: The quest for position of authority is an unpleasant desire for recognition, plaguing many believers today. Leadership in itself is not bad but when service is not taken as responsibility but an avenue to occupy position, such motive is not acceptable to God (1 Timothy 3:1). Besides, every believer has been called by God to lead through service (servanthood) in one way or the other. Knowing this truth makes the work of God to progress. But when a place of service is sought after just for title, it becomes a snare. Today, the quest for position is responsible for a lot of setbacks and strife within the church of God.
e. Recognition: Some Christians serve for the purpose of being recognised and applauded by people. Such people are easily angered when they are not recognised and celebrated. Any believer who seeks man's applause consciously or unconsciously is trying to share in the glory that belongs to God. God frowns at such because He will never share His glory with any man. We need to be mindful of such act and desist from actions that could provoke God's wrath upon our lives.
Sharing Time: Read 1 Timothy 6:10 and explain how it can affect a Christian's service to God.
Facilitator’s Closing Remarks:
While it is true that there are proper and improper motives why people serve God, believers should choose to serve God with a proper motive. They should motivate others by serving God along with them. It is healthy to constantly evaluate our motives for serving God so that we might serve Him better. Our motivation and involvement in service everywhere we find ourselves should be out of obedience and to glorify God.
Prayer:
Father, helps us to serve You with the right motive.
Post Group Activity:
Share what motivates you to serve in the church with your friends this week.