Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

Date:   Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Series: The Prayers of the Righteous

Reference Scripture:  II Chronicles 7:14

 

Today’s Discussion:    “Four Steps to A Godly Solution – Step One: Humility”

The lesson aim is to explore the process for achieving god-ordained solutions.  More importantly, all believers must learn to live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. (Reference: Matthew 4:3-4) 

King Solomon is the main character in this particular chapter of II Chronicles.  King Solomon is the son of David and the presiding king over God’s people, Israel.  Solomon was chosen by God to succeed David as king.  More importantly, Solomon was chosen by God to build a permanent edifice for the presence of God to inhabit on earth. 

Apparently, God is responding to Solomon’s prayer for God’s WILL to be done according to the promise given to David.   In HIS response God ordains four steps that will ultimately change the outcome of earthly situations through heavenly intervention. 

2 Chron 7:14 – “If my people, which are called by my name, shall   humble themselves,”

God doesn’t leave room for speculation as to whom HE is referring as “my people”.  David writes in Psalms 24, “the earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world and they that dwell therein”.  This statement of truth proclaims that everything and everybody is subject to God.  However, David does not suggest that everybody has or is willing to submit to God.  The determining factor that validates this godly proclamation is God’s reference to “called by my name”.  Now, we can conclude that God’s people are those that can be linked to the Abrahamic covenant and the nation of Israel. (Reference: Romans 4:16-17)  According to I Peter 2:9, those have chosen to be crucified with Christ are also called by his name. [called - qara (kaw-raw) – to call out to; to address by name]

God identifies humility as the first step toward transformation. [Humble kana` (kaw-nah') - to bend the knee; hence, to humiliate, vanquish:]  We must consider the order of these steps as god breathed.  Thus, humility is very important to the other steps being achieved.  The act of humility before the Lord can touch God’s heart and cause God to turn HIS wrath away from you. (Reference: I Kings 21:27-29)  Humility unleashes the power of forgiveness.  Humility softens the heart and tames the tongue of the righteous.  Humility tenders our hearts and causes us to be patient in trials and tribulation.  Humility is the door Christ used to become our greatest example on submission to the WILL of God. (Reference: Philippians 2:6-8)  God responds to those that are willing to “humble themselves”. (Reference: Isaiah 57:15; 66:2)  The Apostle Peter charges all believers to submit to the will and ways of God as a path to a better day and brighter tomorrow. (Reference: I Peter 5:5-6)

On the contrary, anyone that refuses to “humble themselves” can develop a “hardened heart”.  A hardened heart causes a person to walk in disobedience to God’s will, turn away from God, or contend with God as HIS enemy.

In conclusion, God is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance”. (Reference II Peter 3:9b)  Humility opens the way for us to access God’s divine power to touch, heal and deliver. Humility is a “great paradox in Christianity that it makes humility the avenue to glory."

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson
Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

Date:   Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Series: Watch and Prayer
Reference Scripture:  Daniel 6:10-13
Focus Verses: Daniel 6:10
 

Today’s Discussion:    “Working from a Clear Conscience”

 

The lesson aim is to encourage believers to stay focused on the mission.  More importantly, all believers must never allow the enemy to plant fear in our hearts to hinder the works of God. (Reference: II Timothy 1:7-10) 

 

As we review this situation we recognize that Daniel’s freedom to pray has been violated. Interestingly, there are some similarities we can see as we work to defend and protect the religious freedoms we enjoy today.  This desperate attempt to destroy Daniel resembles present day initiatives seeking legislative approval to dismantle the church.  Like Daniel the church is under attack.  Christ warned us that we would suffer persecution for “his name sake”. 

 

What was Daniel thinking?  (It appears that Daniel had received a copy of the decree.  That being said Daniel shows no sign of fear, frustration or being overly concerned about the content or consequences of the decree. Daniel could have made other arrangements to pray without violating the decree and save his job.  However, Daniel chose not to compromise his faith or abandon his beliefs to accommodate the king’s law. 

(Reference: Romans 12:2; I Corinthians 15:58; I Peter 5:8-9) Daniel’s enemies had gone beyond getting him fired from his job.  These men wanted Daniel dead.  These men and their evil works validate Peter’s warning to the church. Satan is always searching for a vessel to use against us.  And there’s always somebody out there willing to be used by Satan to destroy us and our work. (Reference: Mark 14:10-11; Luke 22:3-6)

How important is prayer in our lives? (The text does not reveal the words of Daniel’s prayer at this point or any time prior to this incident.  However, we can conclude that Daniel was trained to pray specifically and precisely about pressing matters. (Reference: I Kings 8:28-30,38-39,46-51) Daniel prayed continually which lines up with the instructions for the New Testament church. (Reference: Luke 18:1; I Thess. 4:17)

 

Dan 6:10 – “Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.”

 

Verse 11 – “Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God.”

 

How do we deal with matters that challenge our faith or force us to compromise our spiritual beliefs? (Daniel’s encounter with the enemy from within has become the norm in the workplace, home, community and even the church.  Just as God delivered Joseph, David, Peter, Paul and many others “called according to his purpose”, God will rescue us from our enemies.)

 

In conclusion God will always reveal and expose the enemy’s plot against HIS people.  Prayer keeps the line of communication open to heaven.  Remember, “the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much”.

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

Date:   Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Series: Watch and Prayer

Reference Scripture:  I Peter 4:1-7

Focus Verses: I Peter 4:7

Today’s Discussion:    “This Means War”

 

The lesson aim is to warn the church of a silent enemy on the loose.  More importantly, we must sound the alarms to alert all those that have managed to stay clear of worldly behavior to be on the lookout for a sneak attack. (Reference: John 10:10) 

 

Spiritual warfare is a reality that most believers don’t understand.  The Apostle Paul tries to warn the church on how the devil has infiltrated the church; carnal vs. spiritul (Reference: Romans 7:14)  In addition Peter also tries to warn the church of the impending warfare that will arise as we get closer to the “end time”.  Peter reminds the church that Christ is our commanding officer.  And all those that have enlisted in the “army of the Lord” must be willing to follow the commands of our supreme leader if we hope to be victorious over our greatest enemy, ourselves.  Subsequently, Peter’s concerns should remind the church of other scriptural references that were written to expose the enemy’s plot.

 

As we review the text the main theme of this chapter is “being good stewards of God’s grace”.  We must protect that that God has placed in our care. 

 

Verses 1-3 - “Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; 2 That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.3 For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries:” – Peter polarizes the church to make a clear distinction between living in the flesh and in the spirit. Peter brings to light the struggles we face as God transform us from the old man into the new man.

 

Verse 4 – “Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you” - Peter tells of the hardship of trying to maintain friendships with people that are still living und the devil’s grip.  Sometimes it’s hard to let go of family and friends that are bringing you down.  Depending on who’s in your circle of influence, some of our closest friends/family members are our greatest enemies.

 

Verse 5 – “Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.” - Peter asks a very important question of the church.  Those of us that have received grace are now stewards of that grace.  We are also responsible for everything that’s connected to God’s manifold blessings which includes the truth (the gospel of Jesus Christ). (Reference: II Timothy 4:1-5; Romans 12:1-2)

 

Verse 6 – “For, for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.” – Peter points directly to the purpose of the church. 

 

Verse 7- “But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.” – Peter shifts the focus from our lives on earth to our eternal reward.  Peter presents a spiritual declaration of independence to empower the saints to maintain an attitude of expectancy that helps provide balance in our lives.”

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

Date:   Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Series: The Power of Prayer

Reference Scripture:  Joshua 7:1-12

Focus Verses: Joshua 7:12     

Today’s Discussion:    “Triple Jeopardy”

 

The lesson aim is to warn the chosen vessels of God of the danger of taking of the accursed things.  More importantly, there are spiritual implications for our actions that can and will determine our fate and eternal resting place. (Reference: Romans 14:10-13) 

 

Joshua has been selected by God as the defense attorney for a high profile trial against the children of Israel and God is the prosecutor. (Reference: Duet. 31:23; Joshua 1:1) Interestingly, we have an opportunity to see an OT encounter where God extends grace and mercy to the entire nation of Israel.  According to the text, God is imparting divine instructions to Joshua on how to deal/resolve the issue at hand.  Subsequently, God‘s instructions are very specific and concise. (Reference: II Samuel 22:17-20; Psalms 46:1) Joshua, whose name means Jehovah saves, must carry out the command from God if he hopes to fulfill his divine purpose.  (Reference: Joshua 1:8)  Under the current circumstances, Joshua is experiencing a temporary setback that could render him and the nation helpless and hopeless for the reminder of their lives. 

 

Conversely, the ultimatum that God issues to Joshua shouldn’t be viewed or described as a threat. 

 

Points to Consider: Heavenly decisions with earthly consequences (Ref: Math 6:10)

 

Josh 7:12

“Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because they were accursed: neither will I be with you any more, (except) ye destroy the accursed from among you. (KJV)

 

Josh 7:12

“That is why the Israelites are running from their enemies in defeat. For now Israel itself has been set apart for destruction. I will not remain with you any longer (unless) you destroy the things among you that were set apart for destruction.” (NLT)

 

Josh 7:12

“The People of Israel can no longer look their enemies in the eye — they themselves are plunder. I can't continue with you (if you don't) rid yourselves of the cursed things.” (MSG)

 

Destroy - OT:8045

(shaw-mad'); a primitive root; to desolate: (to deprive of inhabitants; depopulate)

 

 

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

Date:   Wednesday, August 5, 2015

Series: The Power of Prayer

Reference Scripture:  Joshua 7:6-9

Focus Verses: Joshua 7:5       

Today’s Discussion:    “Heart Condition”

The lesson aim is to uncover the root causes of a broken heart.  More importantly, the spiritual condition of a person’s heart contributes to his/her choice of actions and behaviors. (Reference: Matthew 102:34; Hebrews 4:12) 

Joshua represents the modern day church.  God has anointed and appointed him to lead HIS people into a place of promise.  Similarly, we have been chosen to lead God’s people into a right relationship with HIS son, Jesus Christ. (Reference: Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18-19) Joshua’s heart has been broken as result of the defeat at Ai.  The defeat is not a result of military incompetence, but is manifested because of disobedience.  Our actions will either help or hurt us.  Subsequently, the works of our hands depend on the condition of our hearts.  A broken heart awakens any negative spirit/feelings that are hiding in our hearts from past or present encounters.  As a result of this encounter Joshua’s focus was distracted because he experiences disappointment.  In addition Joshua’s faith is diluted because he becomes discouraged by the unexpected defeat at Ai.

 

What are the symptoms of a broken heart?

 

 

 

What is the impact of a broken heart?

 

• Your connection to God is disrupted/disconnected

 

• Your connection to people is disunited

 

• Your faith and confidence in God’s ability and will is dispirited.

The believer has to learn to trust God through every situation.  The Apostle Paul’s message to the church at Philippi is a great example of how we should live in this day and time.  (Reference: Philippians 4:11

 

 

Don't Be Afraid

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

Date:   Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Series: Transformation – 50 Days of Expectation

Scripture Reference:  The Gospel of Matthew

Focus Verse:  Matthew 14:27

Today’s Discussion:    “Don’t Be Afraid”

There are a number of folks that present themselves as being strong in the Lord.  Unfortunately, their strength is contingent upon what’s going on in their lives at that moment.  Apropos the strength to which the Apostle Paul is referring is not subject to our situation or circumstance. (Reference: Ephesians 6:10)

The lesson aim is to encourage the believer to lean on the everlasting arms of Jesus.  More importantly, believers are expected to walk as the Apostle Paul encouraged young Timothy to walk: “in power, love, and a sound mind”. (Reference: II Timothy 1:7)

There are three accounts recorded of the disciples’ experience with this mysterious spirit moving across the face of the water. (Reference: Mark 6:50, John 6:19-20) Surprisingly, the disciples are not certain that the ghostly figure they see moving is Jesus. 

The text denotes the urgency for Jesus to respond to their concern.

Matthew 14:27

• “But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid”.  KJV
• “But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage. I am here!"  NLT
• “But Jesus was quick to comfort them. "Courage, it's me. Don't be afraid." MSG

[QUESTION: How can anyone that’s been with Jesus not know who HE is?]

What's on Your Mind?

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

 

Date:   Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Series: Transformation – 50 Days of Expectation

Scripture Reference:  The Gospel of Matthew

Focus Verse:  Matthew 6:25-34

Today’s Discussion:    “What’s on Your Mind?”

There are a number of approaches to extract one’s view on a particular subject matter.  All of which encourage all those involved to carefully process what’s being presented.  As we consider the topics of discussion that are atop the various media sources, we can see the mass confusion arising from the mixed thoughts plaguing the world.

For those within academic realm the process is known as “logical reasoning”.  However, if I were looking at a situation or discussing an issue of concern from a biblical perspective, I would strongly consider “what would Jesus do or say” about the matter.  

The lesson aim is to evaluate and assess the mindset of believers.  Believers are encouraged in the Word to be careful how we present ourselves to God and each other. In addition, we should be fully aware and able to discern the daily struggle between flesh and spirit which affects how we live our lives. (Reference: Romans 12:1-2)

The Apostle Matthew records Jesus’ appeal to HIS followers to consider three major factors by which we as believers should live: giving, prayer (forgiving), fasting. (Reference: Matthew 6:1-18) In addition the Lord instructs us to focus our minds on the righteousness of God and not the things of the world. (Reference: Matthew 6:19-21)

It is quite obvious that many of us put more energy into what we wear; what we eat; where we live; or how much money we have or need to make it.  All of these are essential to the natural man.  The Apostle Paul suggests to the church to consider adopting the Christ way of thinking. (Reference: Phil. 2:5-8)  We can conclude that the opposite of high-mindedness is humility.  Humility is a spiritual characteristic that should guide our thinking.  (Reference: I Peter 5:5-6)  However, Jesus wants each of us to redirect our attention away from the flesh and consider a new way of thinking.

(Read verses 31-38)

31 What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. 32 People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. 33 Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. 34 "Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.” (MSG)

Point to Ponder:  How much time do you spend meditating on the word of God?