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First Watch - The New Commission, Phoenix, AZ (2026)

05/02/2026

LESSON 5 - UNEQUALLY YOKED

Acts 17:11 - 11 Now, the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)
Hebrews 5:11-14 - 11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
1 Peter 3:15, 16 - 15But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
Proverbs 27:17 - 17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. (KJV)
Matthew 28:19, 20 - 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

LESSON 5 - UNEQUALLY YOKED

Background / Lesson Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 6:1 – 18

Key / Focus Scripture(s) – 2 Corinthians 6:17 – 19 “14 Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? 15 What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? 16 What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.” (NIV)

Guided Discussion – Questions
How are your relationships with Christian friends different from your relationships with non-Christian friends?

Pointed / Direct Questions
1. Paul considered himself to be a “worker” with God in not only spreading the message of Christ to non-believers but also in helping believers to live the way that God wanted them to live. In this regard, how could believers “receive the grace of God in vain” (see verse 1)?
2. Paul quotes Isaish 49:8. What does Paul say about the “day of salvation” (see verses 2)?
3. Paul shows that the way he has lived his life testifies to his sincerity in bringing the gospel to the Corinthians. What are some of the positive traits that Paul lists that reveals what it means to be a true minister of the gospel (see verses 3–10)?
4. What are some of the struggles that Paul lists that reveals what a true minister of the gospel will be forced to endure at times?
5. Paul passionately exclaimed to the believers in Corinth that he had opened his heart and his life to them. What did he request in return (see verses 11–13)?
6. Paul desires for the believers to reciprocate his affections, but he knows there are barriers that stand in the way. What does he imply these barriers were? What is Paul calling to the believers’ attention through the four questions he asks (see verses 14–15)?
7. Paul now comes to the heart of the matter as to why believers should not enter into compromising relationships with non-believers. What do you think it means to be a “temple of the living God” (see verse 16)?
8. According to Paul’s quotation from Isaiah 52:11, what did God say His people had to do as a result of His dwelling with them? What did He promise in return (see verses 17–18)?
REVIEWING THE STORY
9. What was the apostle Paul able to confidently say about his ministry (see 2 Corinthians 6:3)?
10. What did Paul say that he was able to do even though he was poor (see 2 Corinthians 6:10)?
11. What was it that restricted the Corinthian Christians from embracing Paul (2 Corinthians 6:12)?
12. How did Paul want the Corinthian believers to think of themselves (2 Corinthians 6:16)?

APPLYING THE MESSAGE
13. What is the difference between the way other people see you and the way God sees you?
14. How would you know if you were unequally yoked with an unbeliever?

REFLECTING ON THE MEANING
15. What are some ways you can make sure you are maintianing spiritually healthy relationships with unbelievers?

FIRST WATCH - JOIN US ON ZOOM Saturdays at 8:00 am
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04/18/2026

First Watch delayed until next week... due to the LOVEFEST Marriage Conference

04/04/2026

LESSON 4 - THE GOSPEL OF RECONCILIATION

Acts 17:11 - 11 Now, the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)
Hebrews 5:11-14 - 11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
1 Peter 3:15, 16 - 15But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
Proverbs 27:17 - 17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. (KJV)
Matthew 28:19, 20 - 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

LESSON 4 - THE GOSPEL OF RECONCILIATION

Background / Lesson Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 5:1 – 21

Key / Focus Scripture(s) – 2 Corinthians 5:17 – 19 “17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.” (NKJV)

Guided Discussion – Questions
What is the longest you have ever been estranged from a loved one?
Pointed / Direct Questions
1. Paul has just noted that even in the midst of affliction, perplexity, persecution—and in the face of death—believers are able to hold on to the hope they have received through Christ. To what hope can we cling if our “earthly house” (our body ) is destroyed (see verse 1)?
2. How does keeping our focus on eternity help us to navigate the trials of this world? How does this require walking by faith and not by sight (see verses 4 – 7)
3. Paul follows up his discussion on the hope we have received with some practical takeaways on how these truths should affect our lives. How does Paul say we should conduct ourselves? What should we remember as we consider our actions (see verses 9–10?)
4. When Paul says we should know the “terror of the Lord,” he is saying we should hold Him in reverential awe as the future judge of the world. How should this truth compel us to tell others about the gospel (see verse 11)?
5. Paul again returned to the defense of his ministry when he was with the Corinthians. In what does he want the believers to “boast” (see verse 12)?
6. What does Paul say motivated all his actions? How does he say that we should live in light of knowing the truth that Jesus died for our sins (see verses 13 – 15)?
7. Paul had learned to not judge people in terms of “the flesh” or outward appearances but on the spiritual condition of their hearts. What does Paul say about a person who has received Christ? What changes have taken place in that person’s life (see verses 16–17)?
8. Paul states that it was God who reached out to sinful humankind and made the initial steps toward restoration. What task has He given to us in this respect? In what ways are we to be “ambassadors for Christ” (see verses 18–21)?

REVIEWING THE STORY
9. What reason does Paul give as to why Christians “groan” in this present world (see 2 Corinthians 5:2)
10. What will happen when we appear before the judgement seat of Christ (see 2 Corinthians 5:10)?
11. Whom does Paul say was able to impress the Corinthians Christians (2 Corinthians 5:12)?
12. What is true of anyone who is in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)?

APPLYING THE MESSAGE
13. How would you explain to an unbeliever what happens when you stop living for yourself and start living for Christ?
14. How can you prevent yourself from becoming overly impressed by people who “boast in appearance and not in heart” (2 Corinthians 5:12)?

REFLECTING ON THE MEANING
15. What is the most challenging aspect of being an ambassador for Christ?

FIRST WATCH - JOIN US ON ZOOM Saturdays at 8:00 am
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Meeting ID: 875 0445 9707
Passcode: 277798

03/07/2026

LESSON 3 - TREASURE IN EARTHEN VESSELS

Acts 17:11 - 11 Now, the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)
Hebrews 5:11-14 - 11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
1 Peter 3:15, 16 - 15But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
Proverbs 27:17 - 17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. (KJV)
Matthew 28:19, 20 - 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

LESSON 3 - TREASURE IN EARTHEN VESSELS
Background / Lesson Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 4:1 – 18

Key / Focus Scripture(s) – 2 Corinthians 4:7 – 10 “7But we have this precious treasure [the good news about salvation] in [unworthy] earthen vessels [of human frailty], so that the grandeur and surpassing greatness of the power will be [shown to be] from God [His sufficiency] and not from ourselves. 8 We are pressured in every way [hedged in], but not crushed; perplexed [unsure of finding a way out], but not driven to despair; 9 hunted down and persecuted, but not deserted [to stand alone]; struck down, but never destroyed; 10 always carrying around in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the [resurrection] life of Jesus also may be shown in our body.” (AMP)

Guided Discussion – Questions
What is a failure in your life that you have worked hard to overcome?

Pointed / Direct Questions
1. The apostle Paul has just discussed the benefits of the new covenant and what it means for believers in Christ. He now returns to discussing his role as a minister of that new covenant. Why does Paul say that he has no reason to lose heart in spite of the trials he faced? What does Paul state that he has renounced (see verses 1–2)?
2. Some had claimed that Paul’s gospel was obscure and that his methods were under-handed. How does Paul respond to these charges? What does he say is really happening if people are not able to see the truth of the gospel he proclaims (see verses 3–6)?
3. Why does Paul say that God entrusted the “treasure” of the gospel to an “earthen vessel” like himself (see verse 7)?
4. What paradoxes of the Christian life does Paul highlight in verses 8 – 9? What was Paul willing to endure so the message of salvation could reach the lost (see verses 11 – 12)?
5. Paul quotes the psalmist who wrote, “I believe, therefore I spoke, I am greatly afflicted” (Psalm 116:10). Why couldn’t Paul remain silent about Christ (see 2 Corinthians 4:13–14)?
6. How does Paul conclude his aurgument that he was sincere in his ministry to the Corinthians? What had he endured for their sake (see verse 15)?
7. The trials that Paul had endured took their toll on his physical health. But why did he refuse to lose heart even in the face of this fact (see verse 16)?
8. How did the apostle Paul consider his trials in this world? How did his perspective enable him to continue his ministry to reveal the “unseen” truths of the gospel (see verses 17–18)?
REVIEWING THE STORY
9. What title did Paul use to refer to Satan (see 2 Corinthians 4:4)?
10. How did Paul describe the impact of the difficulties he faced (see 2 Corinthians 4:8 – 9)?
11. What does Paul say empowers us to speak the message of Christ (see 2 Corinthians 4:13 – 14)?
12. What is the essential difference between the things that are seen and the things that are not seen (see 2 Corinthians 4:18)?
APPLYING THE MESSAGE
13. What are some ways that you “hard-pressed” on every side? What encourangement can you take from Paul’s outlook on the trials we all endure in life?
14. What are some ways that you keep your focus on the promises of eternity with Christ? How does this help you to endure the momentary afflictions in this life?
REFLECTING ON THE MEANING / JOURNALING YOUR RESPONSE
15. When you think of your most recent failure, where are you on the list of the five things to do?

FIRST WATCH - JOIN US ON ZOOM Saturdays at 8:00 am
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02/07/2026

LESSON 2 - IDENTIFIED WITH CHRIST

Acts 17:11 - 11 Now, the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)
Hebrews 5:11-14 - 11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
1 Peter 3:15, 16 - 15But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
Proverbs 27:17 - 17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. (KJV)
Matthew 28:19, 20 - 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

LESSON 2 - IDENTIFIED WITH CHRIST

Background / Lesson Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 2:1 – 3:18

Key / Focus Scripture(s) – 2 Corinthians 3:12 – 18 “12 Therefore, since we have such hope, we use great boldness of speech— 13 unlike Moses, who put a veil over his face so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the end of what was passing away. 14 But their minds were blinded. For until this day the same veil remains unlifted in the reading of the Old Testament, because the veil is taken away in Christ. 15 But even to this day, when Moses is read, a veil lies on their heart. 16 Nevertheless when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” (NKJV)

Guided Discussion – Questions
What are some triumphs that you have personally experienced in your walk with God?

Pointed / Direct Questions
1. Paul had determined that given the current situation, a visit to Corinth would have only led to further sorrow for himself and the congregation. So, he instead wrote a “severe” (or “sorrowful”) letter to them in place of that visit. What was Paul’s emotional state when he wrote this letter? What was his purpose in writing it (see verses 1–4)?
2. Paul was anguished about the accusations leveled against him, but he was not willing to retaliate against those who had caused him this grief. What does Paul say the church should do regarding the man who had wronged him? What does Paul state as his reason for forgiving the man—and urging the church to do likewise (see verses 5–11)?
3. What further reason does Paul provide for choosing not to visit Corinth (see verses 3:12 – 13)?
4. The memories of Paul’s reunion with Titus in Macedonia prompts him to begin a “great digression” about the apostolic ministry. How does Paul describe his work as a minister of the gospel? How is he different from other itinerant speakers (see verses 14–17)?
5. Paul poses two questions to the believers in Corinth . . . each with an expected answer of “no.” What do these questions reveal about the charges that had been levelled against Paul? What does Paul say was the “proof ” of his ministry among them (see verses 1–3)?
6. In what did Paul say that he placed his trust? What did the apostle add to emphasize that he was not taking credit for the transformation in the believers’ lives (see verses 4–5)?
7. Paul’s mention of his work as a minister “of the new covenant” causes him to reflect on the differences between the old and new covenants. How does Paul refer to the old covenant? How does he describe the blessings of the new covenant (see verses 7–11)?
8. Paul notes that Moses placed a veil over his face after he met with God so the Israelites would not be dazzled by the radiance of the Lord that remained on him (see Exodus 34:33–35). How does Paul use this imagery to point out the differences between those who are still under the burden of the law and those who are in Christ (see 2 Corinthians 3:12–18)?
9. What did Paul want to communicate to the Corinthians in his letter (see 2 Corinthians 2:4)
10. How did God direct the Apostle Paul’s ministry in the city of Troas (see 2 Corinthians 2:12)?
11. Why did Paul describe the Corinthian believers as “an epistle of Christ” (see 2 Corinthians 3:1-3)?
12. What are Christ’s followers able to do because of the hope of the new covenant (see 2 Corinthians 3:12)?

APPLYING THE MESSAGE
13. Why is it so important to forgive those who have sought to do wrong against you?
14. In what ways has God given you boldness to spread the message of Jesus Christ?

REFLECTING ON THE MEANING
15. What are some doors that God has opened and closed in your life?

FIRST WATCH - JOIN US ON ZOOM Saturdays at 8:00 am
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Meeting ID: 875 0445 9707
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01/06/2026

LESSON 1 - A QUESTION OF SINCERITY

Acts 17:11 - 11 Now, the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)
Hebrews 5:11-14 - 11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
1 Peter 3:15, 16 - 15But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
Proverbs 27:17 - 17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. (KJV)
Matthew 28:19, 20 - 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

LESSON 1 - A QUESTION OF SINCERITY

Background / Lesson Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 1:1 –24

Key / Focus Scripture(s) – 2 Corinthians 1:3 – 4 “3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 who comforted us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” (AKJV)

Guided Discussion – Questions
How can you tell if someone is being sincere in their actions towards you?

Pointed / Direct Questions
1. Paul opens by referring to himself as an apostle of Jesus Christ – an important point for him to make given that many in the church were questioning his authority. What praise does Paul then give to God? What does Paul say God is able to do for us (see verse 1 – 4)?
2. Paul and his coworkers had endured many trials for the sake of the gospel. How does Paul say that these afflictions had actually benefitted the believers (see verses 6 – 7)
3. Paul’s passing mention of the “affliction” that he and his fellows workers had endured indicates that the Corinthians believers already had knowledge of the event. What effect does Paul say that this episode had on himself and his companions (see verses 8 – 9)?
4. What hope did Paul place in God in spite of this trial? What does he ask the Corinthians believers to do for him and his companions (see verses 10 – 11)?
5. Paul experience in Asia forced him to abandon any notion of self-reliance and trust completely in God for deliverance. How does Paul now describe his “boasting”? How was his ministry different from that of other who had come to Corinth (see verses 12)?
6. By this time, the believers in Corinth had received the letter we call 1 Corinthians and another “severe letter” letter from Paul (which is not known to us today.) What did Paul say about his intentions in writing these letters? What did he ask the believers to remember about his conduct (see verses 13 – 14)?
7. Paul’s critics had not only charged that he had acted in an insincere manner toward the Corinthians but also that he had deliberately altered his plans to visit them out of spite. How does Paul respond to these allegations (see verses 15–21)?
8. What additional reasons does Paul give for not coming to Corinth (see verses 23 – 24)?
9. How did Paul identify himself in order to remind the Corinthian believers of his authority (see 2 Corinthians 1:1)?
10. How did Paul respond to the death sentence hanging over his head in Asia (see 2 Corinthians 1:9)?
11. In what did Paul say that he boasted (see 2 Corinthians 1:12)?
12. What comment did Paul make to remind the Corinthian believers of his credentials as an apostle (see 2 Corinthians 1:21 – 22)?

APPYING THE MESSAGE
13. How would you respond to someone who accused you of being insincere or hypocritical in your Christian faith?
14. What would you say or do if you discovered that one of your closer Christian friends was being insincere or hypocritical in his or her faith?

REFLECTING ON THE MEANING
15. What are some areas in your life where you need to be more sincere?

FIRST WATCH - JOIN US ON ZOOM Saturdays at 8:00 am
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Meeting ID: 875 0445 9707
Passcode: 277798

01/06/2026

Happy New Year! Welcome to 2026 and by the Grace of God another year of seeking God through His Word. First Watch will kick-off on this Saturday January 10 at 0800 Arizona time; we hope to see you on line with us... Be Blessed

01/04/2026

The Eight Prayer Watches in the Bible
FIRST WATCH (6 PM TO 9 PM)
Focus: Reflection and Thanksgiving. This watch begins at sundown, marking the start of a new day in the biblical sense (Genesis 1:5). It’s a time for self-reflection, repentance, developing your relationship with God and thanking Him for the blessings of the day.
 Key Theme: (BIBLE STUDY) MEDITATING ON GOD’S WORD and committing the evening to Him.
 Scripture: “And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day” (Genesis 1:5). Use this time to ask for peace over your household and dedicate the coming hours to God.

Second Watch (9 PM to 12 Midnight)
Focus: Protection and Deliverance
During this watch, believers pray against spiritual attacks and seek protection for themselves and their families. The time is often associated with overcoming challenges, as demonstrated in the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt (Exodus 12:29-31).
 Key Theme: Prayers for protection from harm and spiritual guidance.
 Scripture: “At midnight, the LORD struck down all the firstborn in Egypt” (Exodus 12:29). This is a time for watching and remaining spiritually alert, just as Jesus urged His disciples (Mark 14:38).

Third Watch (12 Midnight to 3 AM)
Focus: Spiritual Warfare and Breakthroughs
Often called the “witching hour,” this watch is critical for engaging in spiritual warfare. It’s a time to break strongholds and intercede for others. Paul and Silas exemplified the power of prayer and worship during this time in Acts 16:25-26.
 Key Theme: Warfare prayer for breakthroughs and overcoming spiritual battles.
 Scripture: “Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them” (Acts 16:25). Believers use this time to stand against darkness and proclaim freedom in Christ.

FOURTH WATCH (3 AM TO 6 AM)
Focus: Seeking God’s Presence
THIS WATCH IS ASSOCIATED WITH DIVINE REVELATIONS AND INTERVENTIONS. Jesus often prayed during this time, seeking quiet communion with the Father (Mark 1:35).
 Key Theme: Praying for guidance, revelations, and renewed strength.
 Scripture: “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed” (Mark 1:35). THIS IS A POWERFUL TIME FOR PERSONAL TRANSFORMATION AND HEARING GOD’S VOICE.

Fifth Watch (6 AM to 9 AM)
Focus: Declaring God’s Blessings
This watch marks the start of the day, making it an ideal time to declare blessings and commit the day to God. It reflects the psalmist’s dedication to morning prayer in Psalm 5:3.
 Key Theme: Speak life and blessings over your plans and seek God’s favor.
 Scripture: “In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly” (Psalm 5:3). Offer prayers for productivity, clarity, and favour in your endeavors.

Sixth Watch (9 AM to 12 Noon)
Focus: Rejoicing and Empowerment
This time represents the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, as seen on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:15-17). It’s a time to celebrate God’s promises and ask for spiritual empowerment.
 Key Theme: Pray for empowerment, purpose, and fulfilment of promises.
 Scripture: “This is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: ‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people’” (Acts 2:16-17). Believers use this time to ask for a fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit.

Seventh Watch (12 Noon to 3 PM)
Focus: Crying Out for Mercy
This is the seventh watch in eight watches prayer. This watch is associated with the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It’s a time to reflect on His sacrifice and intercede for mercy and grace over personal and global issues.
 Key Theme: Repentance, intercession, and seeking God’s mercy.
 Scripture: “It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon” (Luke 23:44). Offer prayers for forgiveness, both for yourself and others.

Eighth Watch (3 PM to 6 PM)
Focus: Preparation and Release
The final watch symbolizes closure and preparation for new opportunities. Jesus’ death at this hour signifies the completion of a divine purpose (Matthew 27:46).
 Key Theme: Reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice and prepare for fresh beginnings.
 Scripture: “About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?’” (Matthew 27:46). It’s a time to commit plans to God and seek His guidance for the next season.

12/06/2025

LESSON 12 - MEANING OF THE RESURRECTION

Intent Scriptures
Acts 17:11 - 11 Now, the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)
Hebrews 5:11-14 - 11 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. 12 In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! 13 Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
1 Peter 3:15, 16 - 15But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
Proverbs 27:17 - 17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. (KJV)
Matthew 28:19, 20 - 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

LESSON 12 - MEANING OF THE RESURRECTION

Background / Lesson Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 15:1-16:24

Key / Focus Scripture(s) – 1 Corinthians 15:20 – 22 “20 But the fact is that the Messiah has been raised from the dead, the first-fruits of those who have died. 21 For since death came through a man, also the resurrection of the dead has come through a man. 22 For just as in connection with Adam all die, so in connection with the Messiah all will be made alive.” [Complete Jewish Bible (CJB)]

Guided Discussion – Questions
What does Jesus’ resurrection mean to you?

Pointed / Direct Questions
1. Many scholars believe verse 15:3 – 8 represent an early “creed” that circulated in the church just a few years after Jesus’ resurrection. What four points does Paul make that are foundational to Christianity (see verses 15:3 – 5)? Why do you think Paul mentions the people who saw Jesus after His resurrection – including himself (see verses 15:5 – 11)?
2. What are the implications if there is no resurrection of the dead? What would that mean in terms of our faith and our ability to be forgiven of sins (see verses 15:14 – 19)?
3. Paul understood that his teaching about the physical resurrection would prompt some to ask, “How are the dead raised up? And with what body do they come? (see verse 15:35). What does Paul say about the differences between our current physical bodies and our future spiritual bodies at the resurrection (see verses 15:42 – 45)?
4. Paul concludes his discussion on the resurrection of believers by revealing the “mystery” of how the resurrection will occur. What does Paul say will happen to those who are alive at the time of Jesus’ second coming (see verses :15:52 – 54)?
5. Paul’s final topic concerns a matter that was close to his heart—the collection of funds for the poor and needy in Jerusalem (most likely due to a severe famine in the region). What orders did Paul give to the Galatian and Corinthians Christians (see verse 16:1 – 4)?
6. What were Paul’s plans for visiting the believers in Corinth in the near future? For what reason was he planning on tarrying in Ephesus (see verses 16:5 – 9)?
7. Paul closes with some general exhortations—including an instruction to “watch” for the Lord’s return. Why would Paul have wanted the believers to remember this? What example did the household of Stephanas set that he wanted them to follow (see verses 16:13–16)?
8. Paul dictated his letters but typically ended with a few personal words written in his own hand (see verse 21). Who did Paul write was accursed? What blessing did Paul give to those who remained true to Christ (see verses 16:22–23)?
9. What are the three parts of the gospel that Paul preached to the Corinthians (see 1 Corinthians 15:3 – 4)?
10. What contrasts did Paul draw between our natural body and our spiritual body (see 1 Corinthians 15:42 – 43)?
11. What warning did Paul give the Corinthians concerning Timothy (see 1 Corinthians 16:10 – 11)?
12. What final exhortations did Paul give to the Corinthian believers (see 1 Corinthians 16:13–14)?
APPLYING THE MESSAGE
13. Why is the death and resurrection of Jesus so critical to you?
14. How can you live more boldly, knowing that death has been defeated?
REFLECTING ON THE MEANING – JOURNALING YOUR RESPONSE
15. Where have you been most strengthened in your faith as you have read this letter?

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