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? 

Internal Affairs

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

Date:   Wednesday, April 8, 2015

Series: Great Expectations

Scripture Reference:  Matthew 3:1-12

Focus Verse: Matthew 3:1-3

Today’s Discussion:    “Internal Affairs”

The lesson aim is to validate the process that God uses to bring HIS plan to fruition.  More importantly, the earthly ministry of Christ was preceded by the courageous work of John the Baptist.  God used John’s ministry to release a new dispensation for living a life pleasing unto God. (References: Romans 12:1)

The next few weeks will be critical to our understanding of living in the will of God.  Before the church can evangelize the lost, we must address the internal concerns that have caused many to question the authenticity of the “kingdom of Heaven”. (Reference: Matthew 6:10)

Interestingly, Matthew’s account of John’s ministry lays the foundation for a heavenly guided succession plan. The ministry of John the Baptist is the 2^nd crowning jewel in God’s master plan for spiritual reformation upon the earth.  Parenthetically, God released the blue prints for this New Testament work to the Prophet Isaiah regarding the work and path of John the Baptist. (Reference: Isaiah 40:1-8)  Subsequently, John’s method and message would serve as the precursor to the impeccable work of the Lord Jesus on the cross. 

Matt 3:1-3

In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,

• Preaching -

2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

• Repent –

• Kingdom of Heaven -

3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

 

• Prepare –

• Way –

• Paths -

 

The Voice of the Lord

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson
Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

Date:   Wednesday, March 24, 2015

Series: Transformation – 40 Days of Consecration
Scripture Reference:  I Samuel 15:19-23
Focus Verse: I Samuel 15:22

Today’s Discussion:    “The Voice of the Lord”

 

The lesson aim is to warn saints of the negative impact disobedience has on our lives. More importantly, we must refer to the word of God for examples to prove that disobedience destroys lives.  The future of the church hinges on the willingness of the believer to “obey the voice of the Lord”.   Our relationship with God grows stronger as we wrestle to walk in total surrender to HIM.  However, we cannot fulfill our God-given purpose if we are not willing to walk in obedience to the voice of the Lord.

(Reference: II Timothy 4:7-8a) 

According to the text, Saul had been anointed and appointed the first king over God’s people.  He had been given authority and power by God to rule over his people.  However, Saul is a perfect example of what it means to fall out of God’s will.  We all make mistakes. (Proverbs 24:16) On the contrary, Saul was guilty of disobedience.  In fact King Saul was rejected (to spurn; to disappear) by God because of his disobedience. (Reference: I Samuel 15:26)  Disobedience is a silent killer.  Saul allowed the people and their disregard for theological leadership to influence his decisions.  Consequently, when you ascend to a certain level of leadership and/or relationship with God, there is a greater level of expectation required of you. 

 

The church is a benefactor of God’s grace and mercy.  And we know God is the God of another chance.  But, how long should you be allowed to disobey God before HE confronts you?  (Reference: Romans 6:1-2) According to Samuel, Saul had multiple opportunities to prove himself to worthy of the kingship before God.  (Reference: I Samuel 15:13-15) Unfortunately, for Saul, God requires total obedience.  Saul tries to pass the blame for his errors on to the people.  We’ve got to stop playing the blame game.  All of us have to be accountable for our own actions.  Many pray to God "not my will but thy will be done".  If nothing else, let Christ be an example for walking in the will of God.  (Philippians 2:5-8)  Jesus was obedient unto death.  The act of obedience helps us stay in the will of God. (Matthew 26:39) 

 

Of course we have other examples of disobedient servants that were given earthly assignments to perform, but choose not to “hearken to the voice of the LORD:

• Moses (Numbers 20:8-12)
• Lot (Genesis 19:19-23)
• Jonah (Jonah 1:1-2)

 

What can we do to reconnect ourselves to God’s will? REPENT

 

How do we identify the barriers in our lives that prevent us from becoming totally committed to God’s will? “PRAY WITHOUT CEASING”

 

Who are the people in our lives that have become a negative influence and how should I deal with them going forward? “FROM SUCH TURN AWAY”

 

What do I really want from my relationship with God? “YE SHALL HAVE ETERNAL LIFE”

“Clearing up the Confusion and Confirming the Truth”

Church of the Living God

Bible Study Lesson

Presenter: Overseer Ennis F. Tait

Date:   Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Series: Transformation – 40 Days of Consecration

Scripture Reference:  Romans 10:1-21

Focus Verses: Romans 10:1-4

Today’s Discussion:    “Clearing up the Confusion and Confirming the Truth”

The lesson aim is to clarify the truth about salvation.  More importantly, we will learn the facts about how “those that believe” receive the gift of salvation.  Paul further explains that there’s nothing else required of an individual to be saved other than confession of the mouth and belief in the heart. (Reference: Romans 10:9-10)  Many Christians believe the Holy Bible is the authority that governs spiritual issues and religious matters involving believers and non-believers.  However, Christianity is not a religion.  Subsequently, by secular definition Christianity is a monotheistic religion based on faith in God and Jesus Christ. 

The theme of Romans 10 is “Israel rejects salvation through faith”.  Conversely, Paul’s opening statement in this 10^th chapter sets the tone for his message of truth to the gentiles that “salvation is free” to all who believe.  Paul leads this missionary effort with two critical factors: his “heart’s desire and prayer to God”.  Both are essential to soul winning. Paul expresses his desire for Israel to be saved.  Paul says he is praying to God for Israel that they be saved.  The key to Paul’s intercessory prayer is Israel’s salvation is his heart’s desire. (Reference: Psalms 37:4; James 5:16)

Paul’s message to this church concludes that each believer is expected to accept and apply God’s word (the Gospel of Jesus Christ) to their lives. (Reference: Romans 12:1-2) Paul confronts the Jews about their self-righteous behavior and attempt to use religion to exclude others from the church (ekklesia).  Paul’s letter to this spiritually detached congregation reveals that the Jews became their own worst enemy and fell short of “the glory of God” because of unbelief and social-economic injustice. 

Paul teaches that salvation is not connected to any group, class, or congregation.    Paul’s presentation raises a very important question. Can a person know God and not be saved?

(Review verses 1-4)

• “Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.  2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.  4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.”

Zeal - properly, heat, i.e. (figuratively) "zeal" (in a favorable sense, ardor; in an unfavorable one, jealousy, as of a husband [figuratively, of God], or an enemy, malice):

Knowledge - recognition, i.e. (by implication) full discernment, acknowledgement:

Righteousness - equity (of character or act); specially (Christian) justification