He has the grace to break new grounds and pioneer new churches; he grounds the church in truth and establishes godly ord
CONTENTS
Chapter
page
1. Edification by Works…………………………………………………………………2 2. Edification by Works II………………………………………………………………3 3. Edification by Our Words……………………………………………………………5 4. Edification by Our Love……………………………………………………………...6 5. Edification by Our Lifestyle………………………………………………………….8 6. Edification Through The Word……………………………………………………..10 7. Edification Through The Word II…………………………………………………..12 8. Edification Through Prayer………………………………………………………….15 9. Edification Through Spiritual Gifts I……………………………………………….17 10. Edification Through Spiritual Gifts II……………………………………………...19 11. Edification Through Spiritual Gifts III……………………………..………………21 12. Edification Through Spiritual Gifts IV……………………………………………..24 13. Edification Through The Five Fold Ministry……………………………………....2
CHAPTER ONE EDIFICATION BY WORKS To edify comes from the Greek word „
which means literally, „to build‟. Therefore, edifying
someone in Christ means to allow God to use you to build up someone in one respect or the other. The opposite is allowing the Devil to use you to pull down or bring down someone. It is always easier to destroy than to build. FOCAL PASSAGE: 1 CORINTHIANS 14:26 MEMORY VERSE: How is it then, brethren? When ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying- 1Corinthians 14:26
The scriptures teach us several means and avenues by which edification is achieved. These avenues will form the basis for this whole study material. Let us now identify these avenues by which edification is achieved from scripture. AVENUES BY WHICH THE CHURCH IS EDIFIED For each set of scriptures given, carry out the following discussion exercise: i.
Highlight the avenue of edification
ii.
Give a Biblical account where this avenue is used as a means of edification
iii.
Give practical life examples by which that avenues achieves edification
1. AVENUE 1: Acts 20:32 2. AVENUE 2 : Jude 20 3. AVENUE 3: 1 Corinthians 12:1-12 4. AVENUE 4: Romans 14:14-21, taking note of verse 19 5. AVENUE 5: Ephesians 4:29 6. AVENUE 6: 1Corinthians 8:1 CONCLUSION: Having found out the Biblical and practical ways of edifying one another, blessed are we if we do them (Luke 11:28). 2
CHAPTER TWO EDIFICATION BY WORKS II Throughout scripture, the term ‘works’, or better still ‘good works’ is commonly seen. Practically speaking, „Good works‟ constitute all the things we do for God that are pleasing, honorable and upright in His sight. Good works that are done towards others can go a long way to be used by God in blessing and edifying (building) others up. Today‟s study takes a scriptural look at the subject of works. FOCAL PASSAGE: Ephesians 2:8-10 CENTRAL TRUTH: We are not saved by our works, but we are saved to do good works. MEMEORY VERSE: For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast- Ephesians 2:8-9 GOODWORKS AND OUR SALVATION
Read Ephesians 2:8-9 and Titus 3:4-7. What do these passages teach us concerning good works with respect to our salvation?
GOODWORKS AND OUR CHRISTIAN WALK
What then is the place of good works in the Christian life? Let us learn more on this subject as we follow these discussion questions:
a) What is one of the ultimate reasons for which God saved us? Ephesians 2:10, Titus 2:13-14. b) Does our good works count for anything : I. II.
Before we are saved. Isaiah 64:6 After we are saved? Titus 2:13-14;3:8
c) Explain the term „zealous of good works‟ as used in Titus 2:14 d) Who are we to do good works towards? Galatians 6:9-10 e) What should the Christian do when he becomes weary in doing good? – Galatians 6:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:13
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IMPORTANCE OF GOOD WORKS
We have come to understand that once we are saved, God expects us to be engaged in good works. There is a great importance attached by God to doing good works throughout scripture. Let us learn more on this subject as we follow these discussion questions:
1. What does our good works do to God? Matthew 5:16, Hebrews 13:16, 1Peter 2:11-12 2. What does our good works do to unbelievers in relation to the gospel? 1 Peter 2:12; 3:1-2 3. How is our Christ likeness shown by good works? Luke 6:46, Acts 10:38 4. What impact do our good works have on those who criticize our faith? 1Peter 2:15 5. What benefit will our good works have before God, when we stand before Him in judgment? Matthew 25: 34-40 6. What is the role of good works in showing the purity and un defilement of our faith to the world? James1:27 7. What is the role of good works in being blessed by God? Acts 20:35 8. What role does good works play in demonstrating the „living‟ nature of our faith? James 2:14-17.
PRACTICAL EXAMPLES OF GOOD WORKS
Good works could be spiritual or physical in nature. It could be channeled through material or emotional means. In every way, God expects us to do good works. Let us look at some examples of good works we can involve in, as we list them out from the passages below:
1. 1Peter 2:9-10 2. Philemon 1:7, 1 Corinthians 16: 15-18 3. Galatians 6:1-2, James 5:19-20 4. James 1:27 5. Hebrews 13:2, Romans 12:13, 1 Timothy 5:9-10 6. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 7. Matthew 25: 31-40.
CONCLUSION: Having heard and studied about good works, let us bring glory to God and fulfill the purpose of our salvation, by being „full of good works‟ like was said of Dorcas in Acts 9:36. 4
CHAPTER THREE EDIFICATION BY OUR WORDS Words are powerful. They communicate the inner virtues that have been stored up inside a person: “.... for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh” - Matthew 12:34. Words that are received can either corrupt you or edify you. As Christians, we are told in the scriptures to watch our words well, that they may proceed unto edification and minister grace to our hearers. FOCAL PASSAGE: Ephesians 4:29 MEMORY VERSE: Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. Ephesians 4:29 What does scripture mean when it speaks of „corrupt communication‟? There are several categories of this identified in scripture. For each of the passages below, let us identify the category of „corrupt communication‟ and talk about practical ways in which we can deal with it, so that we do not fall prey to it: i.
1 Corinthians 10:10, Numbers 14:2
ii.
Leviticus 19:16, Proverbs 18:8
iii.
Proverbs 10:19, Proverbs 29:11
iv.
Matthew 12:36
v.
Proverbs 29:5, Psalm 12:3
vi.
Proverbs 29:20, Proverbs 18:13
vii.
Proverbs 12:22, John 8:44 What then should be the content of our speech, if it is to edify and minister grace to our hearers?
i.
Colossians 4:6
ii.
Ephesians 5:4
iii.
Titus 2:8a
iv.
Job 34:35 CONCLUSION: After learning all these, let us pray that God will heal our tongue and give you a wholesome tongue: “A whole some tongue is a tree of life……..” Proverbs 15:4. May our speech be seasoned with salt, and may the words of our mouth and the meditations of our heart be acceptable to God (Psalm 19:14) 5
CHAPTER FOUR EDIFICATION BY OUR LOVE Many people are contentious and argue about many things concerning the Christian faith. However, our good works of love will silence even the worst critic, because there is undeniable proof of our Christ likeness when the love of God is demonstrated practically to the world: For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men – 1 Peter2:15. Let us go on to study how we can walk in practical love towards one another.
FOCAL PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 8:1, 1 John 4:7-8, John 13:34-35 MEMORY VERSE: Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity (LOVE) edifieth - 1 Corinthians 8:1.
Let us learn a few things concerning how God expects His children to conduct their affairs in love, as we follow these discussion questions: a) The commandment to love is actually a „law‟ according to John 13:34-35. What does it mean, and what are the implications? James 2:8, Romans 13:10, Galatians 5:14 b) How does our practical walk in love prove that we know God? 1 John 4:7-8. c) According to the law of love, wrongdoing starts from when you think or harbor an evil, not when the act actually takes place. How do these scriptures explain this? Matthew 5:22, 28; 1John 3:15. d) According to the law of love, how does our „not living at peace‟ with others affect our ministrations and relationship with God? Matthew 5:23-24; 1 Corinthians 13:1; 1 Peter 3:7. e) According to the law of love, how are we to show good neighbourliness? Luke 10:30-36. f) According to the law of love, how are we to correct wrongdoers? Galatians 6:1-2. g) According to the law of love, how are we to relate with „sinners‟ and enemies? Matthew 7:1-3, Matthew 5:44. h) According to the law of love, how are we to handle issues on revenge and vengeance? Matthew 5: 38-39, Romans 12:19. i) According to the law of love, what is one of the greatest witnesses that we have eternal life? 1 John 3:14. 6
CONCLUSION
The instruction to love is a command (John 13:34). Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love – 1 John 4:7-8. The proof of authentic Christianity that truly impacts the world is not in our show of charisma, but in our practical walk of love towards others.
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CHAPTER FIVE EDIFICATION BY OUR LIFESTYLE An old song taught in the children Sunday school goes like this: Do you know oh Christian that you‟re a sermon in shoes? Jesus counts upon you to spread the gospel news, so teach it, and preach it, and walk it and talk it; you‟re a sermon in shoes. Apart from the times when we are intentionally prepared to preach, our day to day lifestyle that is observed by all around us, greatly ministers and imparts those around you unto edification. This study focuses on edifying others through our lifestyle.
FOCAL PASSAGE: Romans 14:13-21
CENTRAL TRUTH: The life of a Christian may be the only Bible that really impacts the world. Let us develop even our „closet‟ lives so we may edify others. MEMORY VERSE: Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another - Romans 14:19
In verse 13 of Romans chapter 14, Pal writes to the church: Let us not therefore judge one another anymore: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. All that we do as children of God, how we talk, think, relate with others and go about our day-today activities should cummulate into showing forth Christ, not in being an offense to another and drawing him away from the Christian faith. Let us answer the following questions as we learn to live the kind of life that edifies other people: a) According to Romans 14:13, we are not to put „stumbling blocks‟ in our brother‟s way. Give practical examples of some of these „stumbling blocks‟ that can cause another to fall. b) The apostle Paul uses the illustration of food to explain how not to put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in a brother‟s way by giving up personal liberties in Christ(Romans 14:14-16, 20-21). Give practical life situations where this principle can be applied, using other examples aside food. c) Explain the term „Let not then your good be evil spoken of‟ as used in Romans 14:16. d) Ultimately, if our lives would edify others: i.
What are we to follow after? Romans 14:19. 8
ii.
Compare what Paul wrote in Romans 14:19 and Romans 12:7-21. Discuss practical life situations in which we can practice this.
iii.
Are there any limits to how far we can practice this?
e) How do the fruit of the Spirit help us to live our lives as we are being instructed to do?
CONCLUSION
God would have all his children live not unto themselves, but unto him who died and gave Himself for us (2 Cor.5:15). We are to live to please God at all times, both in public and private. We are to keep a consciousness that others are watching us and our lives either positively ar negatively impact others. Let us do all things unto edifying.
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CHAPTER SIX EDIFICATION THROUGH THE WORD The Word of God has the ability to build us up (edify us) into the fullness of the measure of the stature of Christ (Acts 20:32). The Word of God has immense benefit for anyone who abides by it: it provides wisdom for living (2Timothy 3:15), it offers hope for life (Romans 15:4), it provides admonition concerning various life matters (1 Corinthians 10:11) and much more. Today, we will focus on how the Word of God builds us up through its various applications, as outlined in 2 Timothy 3:16. FOCAL PASSAGE: 2 Timothy 3: 14-17 CENTRAL TRUTH: In any way you apply the Word of God, it works towards building you up in Christ. MEMORY VERSE: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2 Timothy 3: 16
PROFITABLE FOR DOCTRINE Doctrine refers to a set of accepted beliefs held by a group that define the parameters of their belief system. Let us discover more on doctrine, as we follow these discussion questions (King James Version recommended): 1. Name at least 4 types of doctrines recorded in scripture: a) Job 11:4 b) Proverbs 4:2, 1 Timothy 4:6 c) Jeremiah 10:8 d) 1 Timothy 1:10 2. What warnings do the scriptures give us concerning doctrine from Ephesians 4:14 and 1Timothy 4:16? 3. Explain the term „labour in doctrine‟ as used in 1Timothy 5:17. 4. What advice does the scripture in Titus 2:7-8 give us concerning doctrine? 5. What is the ultimate benefit of following good doctrine according to 1Timothy 4:16? PROFITABLE FOR REPROOF AND CORRECTION 10
To reproof is to scold or rebuke someone for a wrong done. The scriptures are also for the purpose of correction and reproof, which is meant to restore us to the right path with God, so we do not miss out on God‟s best for us. Let us answer the discussion questions below to learn more on this subject: 1. Read 2 Timothy 4: 2-4. Explain the relationship between reproof/correction and: a) Sound doctrine b) „Itchy‟ ear doctrines/fables 2. How should reproof/correction by God‟s word be done, according to Ephesians 4:15 and Galatians 6:1? 3. What immense benefit does applying ourselves to correction by the Word have for us according to James 5:19-20 and Hebrews 12:5-10? PROFITABLE FOR INSTRUCTION/TRAINING IN RIGHTEOUSNESS The Word trains and instructs us in the ways of righteousness by showing us God‟s requirements of us and outlining what He desires from us to make progress in Him. The Word teaches us how to „walk in the path of righteousness for His names‟ sake‟. Let us answer the discussion questions below to learn more on this subject: 1. What does the knowledge of God by the Word do for us according to 2 Peter 1:3? 2. According to Hebrews 5:12-14: a) Explain the phrase „Word of righteousness‟? b) What is the relationship between our Christian growth and the Word of righteousness? CONCLUSION When all these profitable applications of the Word of God are fully working in our lives, the two fold results of growing into maturity (complete, perfect -2 Tim.3:17) and becoming prepared for service to God (prepared unto every good work - 2 Tim.3:17), will not pass us by.
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CHAPTER SEVEN EDIFICATION THROUGH THE WORD II The Bible teaches us that it is not always that the Word of God we receive becomes beneficial to us and bears fruit in us. For edification to take place, the Word that we receive should become fruitful in us. There are a number of reasons why benefit may not be derived from the Word of God, and this lesson focuses on these reasons. FOCAL PASSAGE: Matthew 15:1-9; Joshua 1:8; Hebrews 4:2; Luke 8:15 CENTRAL TRUTH: For edification to be accomplished through the word, hindrances such as unbelief and unreceptive faith, traditions of men, unfertile and unprepared hearts and a lack of continued meditation have to be dealt with. MEMORY VERSE: For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. Hebrews 4:2
THE HINDRANCE OF TRADITIONS Read the passage in Matthew 15:1-9. Jesus said the word of God was made of none effect by the traditions of men and elders that they observed and were now teaching as part of God‟s Word. Traditions are simply set of teachings that have been handed down. Modern forms of „traditions‟ include: i.
The claim of some oral teachings of Jesus and the apostles that are observed by some people as part of scripture
ii.
The teachings of various church leaders (such as the Pope) considered to be inspired with later revelations from God, with teachings like Penance, purgatory etc.
iii.
Common sayings that have been mistakenly taken to be in scripture e.g. “ God helps those who help themselves”
Can you add any more to the list? Let us now follow these discussion questions on „traditions‟: a) What was Paul‟s warning to the Colossians concerning „traditions‟? Colossians2:8 b) Why should we not follow these „traditions‟? 1 Peter 1:18
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c) How did Jesus treat these traditions of Jews which was not scriptural? Mark 2:23-28; Mark 7:15. d) List the dangers of holding on to „traditions‟: i.
In relation to worship. Matthew 15:7-9
ii.
In relation to the Word of God. Matthew 15:6
e) Is sprinkling of water for baptism a tradition of men? Can you list other present day examples? THE HINDRANCE OF UNFERTILE AND UNPREPARED HEARTS According to the parable of the sower in Luke chapter 8, only one out of four hearts profited from the Word of God. What reasons disqualified the other three hearts from being fruitful and benefitting from the Word: a) What are the „wayside‟ hearts? Luke 8:12 b) What are the „rocky‟ hearts? Luke 8:13 c) What are the „thorny‟ hearts? Luke 8:14 d) What are the „fertile soil‟ hearts? Luke 8:15 Discuss how the first three hearts (wayside, rocky and thorny) PRACTICALLY prevent us from benefitting from God‟s word. THE HINDRANCE OF UNBELIEF AND UNRECEPTIVE FAITH According to Hebrews 4:2, the Word will also not benefit us if not mixed with faith. What kind of faith are we talking about? This is what we will call receptive faith in this study. That is faith that receives with meekness, the Word of God (James 1:21). What shows when someone does not have this kind of faith to receive the Word? Let us learn from answering these questions: a) Explain the phrase „dull of hearing‟ as used in Matthew 13:15 and Hebrews 5:11 in relation to receptive faith. b) Explain the phrase „heart waxed gross‟ as used in Matthew 13:15 in relation to receptive faith. c) Read the account in Mark 6:1-6. Jesus could do no mighty work there. His word and commands did not work, what was the main reason according to verse 6a?
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THE HINDRANCE OF NOT MEDITATING According to Joshua 1:8, the Word of God will produce the fruit of prosperity and success based on two things: Meditation and being doers of the Word. a) What does it mean to meditate? b) What benefit will accrue to those who meditate on God‟s word? James 1:25 c) How can we „hide‟ the Word in our hearts, like David asked us to do in Psalm 119:11? CONCLUSION Devoid of any of these hindrances, the Word of God will always deliver. It will accomplish the work of edification in us and fulfill what God sent it to do (Isaiah 55:11). Let deal with these hindrances in our lives and see the abundant fruit of the Word in our lives.
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CHAPTER EIGHT EDIFICATION THROUGH PRAYER Prayer has been defined as a communication with God. The use of the word communication tells us that it is a two-way process. We minister to God and He ministers to us. When God ministers back to us, it forms the basis of empowerments which ultimately brings edification to us. Exactly how does this edification through prayer happen? This will be the focus for this study. FOCAL PASSAGE: Jude 20. CENTRAL TRUTH: When prayer is done in the right way, we receive answers, we are empowered and edified. MEMORY VERSE: But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost. Jude 1:20 PRAYING RIGHT TO RECEIVE ANSWERS The scriptures teach us that we sometimes pray amiss (James 4:3) or we do not pay aright (Romans 8:26). This teaches us that there is a wrong way of praying and there is a right way to pray. Let us learn more about how to pray right as we answer these discussion questions: a) Who do we address prayer to? Matthew 6:9 ; John 16:23 b) How are we to use the name of Jesus? John 16:24 c) Whose prayer will God hear according to: i. Luke 18:10-14 ii. Psalm 34:15 iii. Psalm 145:18-19 iv. 1 John 3:22 d) What role does our relationship with the following play in receiving answers to prayer? i. Our spouses. 1 Pt.3:7-12 ii. Those we have offended or who offend us. Matthew 5:23-25 iii. The weak and poor. Prov.21:13, Isaiah 1:15-17 e) How does faith affect our prayer? Mark 11:23-24, James 1:6-8 f) How do the following virtues affect our prayer? i. Holiness. Proverbs 15:8 ii. The fear of the Lord. Psalm 145:19 iii. Obedience. 1 John 3:22 iv. Abiding in Christ. John 15:7 TONGUES SPEAKING AND EDIFICATION Read 1 Corinthians 14:1-6 and follow the discussion questions below: a) According to verse 4 and 5, when does praying in tongues become edifying? 15
b) According to verse 5, when does speaking in tongues become equal in benefit to the church as prophecy? c) What are the three fold purposes of tongues speaking with interpretation, when it becomes equal with prophecy? Verse 3. HOW EDIFICATION AND EMPOWERMENT TAKES PLACE BY PRAYER By the „rub off‟ effect in association. Spending time in communion with God in His presence on the altar of prayer leaves a „rub off‟ of His power on you. Moses descended after spending time with God on Mount Sinai and the glory of God was rubbed off on him, so that the Israelites could not behold his face (Exodus 34:29-30). Explain this phenomenon in your own understanding, using: i. ii.
Proverbs 13:20 Jesus after the Mount of transfiguration experience. Matthew 17:1-8; 14-21 (note the disciples had tried earlier times, but could not cast out the demon).
CONCLUSION The altar of prayer holds great benefit for every child of God. The power of God is greatly demonstrated in us and through us as we set ourselves to prayer - there we are empowered, there we are edified, there we tap strength and grace from above to live an impactful life.
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CHAPTER NINE EDIFICATION THROUGH SPIRITUAL GIFTS I Spiritual gifts (Greek - charismata) are special endowments given by the Holy Spirit. They are spiritual abilities given by God‟s grace to an individual for the purpose of edifying and building up the church. The scriptures teach us that every child of God has been graced with at least a gift (1Peter 4:10, Ephesians 4:7). Our focus for this study will be on the guidelines and principles that govern the functioning of spiritual gifts. FOCAL PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 12:1-7; 11-27. CENTRAL TRUTH: Each one has a spiritual gift. We have to use these gifts according to scriptural guidelines for maximum benefit and edification of the church. MEMORY VERSE: As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1Peter 4:10.
FUNCTIONAL SOURCE Read 1 Corinthians 12: 4-5, 11. a) Who is the source of all spiritual gifts? b) How is the particular gift(s) anyone will have determined? Verse 11 c) What is the role of discernment in determining the source of a spiritual gift? FUNCTIONAL DIVERSITY Read 1 Corinthians 12: 4-6. a) Note the involvement of the trinity in spiritual gifting. Name the member of the trinity involved as: i.
The source/supplier
ii.
The administrator
iii.
The operator
b) What is the advantage of having diversity of spiritual gifts in the body of Christ? Verse 19. FUNCTIONAL UNITY 17
Read 1 Corinthians 12: 12-13. a) Does functional unity conflict with functional diversity? Explain. b) How can the functional unity be upheld in the body of Christ? FUNCTIONAL INTERDEPENDENCE Read 1 Corinthians 12: 21-25. a) What happens when: i.
One person decides not to use his gifts?
ii.
One person decides he has it all and does not need another?
iii.
What happens when greater emphasis and importance is put on one gift over another in the church?
FUNCTIONAL NECESSITY Read 1 Corinthians 12:25-26. a) What are the overall effects of: i.
Under valuing your gift
ii.
Over valuing your gift
iii.
Not using your gifts at all
CONCLUSION The scripture teaches us that God is building His church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18), thus, the schemes of hell are not to blame if the church lags behind. The tools for building the church are in the hands of every child of God, you and I. Reaching the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ (Ephesians 4:13), requires that everyone of us does his part with the gift God entrusted us with.
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CHAPTER TEN EDIFICATION BY SPIRITUAL GIFTS II Spiritual gifts can also be viewed as tools that God has given us with which to accomplish the particular ministry He entrusted to us. The 9 ministry gifts in 1 Corinthians 12 can be categorized into three: the vocal/inspirational gifts, the power gifts and the revelational gifts. This study focuses on the vocal/inspirational gifts. FOCAL PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 12:8-10; 1Corinthians 14:2-6.
CENTRAL TRUTH: The vocal/inspirational gifts of Tongues, Interpretation of tongues and Prophecy brings edification. MEMORY VERSE: But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. 1Corinthians 14:3
THE GIFT OF TONGUES Read 1 Corinthians 14:2-6, 21-28. There are about three kinds of this gift found in scripture: 1. Speaking in a known language – Acts 2:4-6, 1 Cor.14:21-22. 2. Mysteries in the Spirit (Prayer language) – 1 Cor.14:2 3. For public use. Must be interpreted – 1 Cor.14:26-28
Each of these kinds have its particular purpose and benefit. Let us follow these discussion questions to learn more about this gift: a) What is the purpose of the first kind of tongues, where you speak in a known human language previously not learnt or known? 1 Cor.14:21-22. b) What is the purpose of the second kind of tongues, where you utter mysteries in the Spirit as a prayer language? 1 Cor.14:2 c) What is the purpose of the third kind of tongues: i.
Where inspiration is given to speak mysteries meant for a public audience? 1 Corinthians 14:26-28 19
ii.
How can this kind be made fit for public edification and benefit? 1 Corinthians 14:26-28
iii.
When does this kind become equal to prophecy?
iv.
When there is this kind of tongues comes to you with no interpretation, what are the two things that may be done? 1 Corinthians 14: 13,26-28
d) In congregational prayer, most of us speak in tongues. What are the things to note when this gift is being used in public? 1 Corinthians 14: 23-28. e) List the benefits that tongues speaking holds for the believer. THE GIFT OF INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES This gift is equal to prophecy. It is the supernatural ability to understand and interpret tongues that have been spoken to provide edification to the church and an individual. Only those with the gift of speaking in tongues can operate in this gift. a) If it is equal to prophecy, then what are the benefits? 1 Corinthians 14: 3. b) When a prophecy comes in an unknown tongue, how are we to activate the gift of interpretation of tongues? 1 Corinthians 14: 13. THE GIFT OF PROPHECY Read 1 Corinthians 14:3, 20-25, 29-33 and follow these discussion questions. a) What is the threefold purpose of the gift of prophecy? 1 Corinthians 14:3 b) What does it mean to judge prophecy? How can it be done? 1 Corinthians 14:29 c) According to the passage in 1 Corinthians 14:22-25, what is the effect of prophecy on: i.
Believers
ii.
Unbelievers
d) In a congregational setting, how should the gift of prophecy be exercised, especially when two or three people have received a word and want to speak within the same period? 1 Corinthians 14:30-33. CONCLUSIONThe vocal/inspirational gifts are wonderful tools of edification that God has given to His body, therefore we are told: “Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues” - 1 Corinthians 14:39.
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CHAPTER ELEVEN EDIFICATION BY SPIRITUAL GIFTS III In our previous study, we studied about the vocal/inspirational gifts and what the scriptures teach about them. In this study, we will focus on the power gifts: Faith, Gifts of Healing and The working of Miracles.
FOCAL PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 12:8-10.
CENTRAL TRUTH: The power gifts of Faith, Gifts of Healing and The working of Miracles brings edification. MEMORY VERSE: And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover - Mark 16:17-18
THE GIFT OF FAITH
This is a special God given ability to believe for the impossible. It comes for the miraculous and goes hand in hand with healings and miracles. It is not the same as the faith imparted at salvation (The measure of faith – Romans 12:3) or the one that comes by hearing (Romans 10:17). It comes for a reason and stays for a season – for the miraculous! This gift doesn‟t grow; it operates when the anointing is strong! a) Read Acts 6:5, 8. Stephen was described as being „full of faith‟. Can you trace moments in his life account where he displayed extraordinary faith? b) Read Acts 11:24, a scripture concerning Stephen. What do we learn about the real purpose of the gift of faith for the miraculous? c) Hebrews 11 speaks of different heroes of faith. Pick one of these personalities and discuss how they applied extraordinary faith to achieve great results.
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GIFTS OF HEALING Notice it was stated in the plural – gift(s). It is a part of the great commission (Mark 16:18). Let us answer the following discussion questions to learn and discover more about this gift:
a) Sometimes, this gift produces an immediate effect of healing, sometimes, it is gradual. Distinguish these effects from the scriptures below: i.
Matthew8:3
ii.
Mark 8:22-25
b) The gift of healing can be commanded/operated through/by the anointing oil, the presence/power of God manifested, the spoken Word and through the laying on of hands. Distinguish these modes as illustrated in the scriptures below: i.
Matthew 8:8
ii.
Luke 5:17
iii.
James 5:14
iv.
Mark 16:18
THE WORKING OF MIRACLES
It is the creative and awesome power of God displayed. The performance of something which is against the law of nature (Acts 4:16). Let us learn more about this gift by following these discussion questions:
a) After healing the lame man at the beautiful gate in Acts 3, the overflow effect was seen in Acts 4:4, where 5,000 men got saved. Compared to the 3,000 that got saved after the gift of tongues was released at Pentecost, what does it tell you about the power of this gift in drawing souls to God? b) What do we learn about certain unbelievers and their salvation with regard to the gift of working miracles? John 4:48, Acts 2:22. c) Who is qualified to operate in this gift? Mark 16:17 d) What is another purpose of the gift of working of miracles according to Hebrews 2:4? e) In these last days, the scriptures warn us about lying signs and wonders that will be sent to deceive us. What do we learn in connection to this from these scriptures: i.
2 Thessalonians 2:8-12
ii.
Matthew 24:22-25 22
CONCLUSION
The power gifts are wonderful tools of edification that God has given to His body and also for the benefit of even the unbelieving, that they may be saved. Let us earnestly desire the power gifts also for these are the days of His power – Mark 16:17-18.
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CHAPTER TWELVE EDIFICATION BY SPIRITUAL GIFTS IV In our previous study, we studies about the vocal/inspirational and the power gifts and what the scriptures teach about them. In this study, we will focus on the revelational gifts: Word of wisdom, Word of knowledge and the discerning of spirits.
FOCAL PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 12:8-10.
CENTRAL TRUTH: The revelational gifts of Word of wisdom, Word of knowledge and the discerning of spirits Faith brings edification. MEMORY VERSE: Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world - 1John 4:1
WORD OF WISDOM
This refers to the supernatural application of knowledge. It knows how to apply the Word rightly in certain situations; therefore, you need to know the Word for the operation of this gift. Let us follow these discussion questions to learn more: a) Identify the operation of the gift in the following instances: i.
By Jesus at His temptation. Matthew 4:1-11
ii.
By Jesus questioned about taxes. Matthew 22:15-22
iii.
By Paul before the council that tried him. Acts 23:6-10
b) Apart from having a solid word base, what will activate or stir up this gift in the believer? Ephesians 1:15-17. WORD OF KNOWLEDGE
This is the supernatural ability given by the Holy Spirit that causes you to know particular information concerning a particular situation. Let us follow these discussion questions to learn more: a) Identify the operation of the gift in the following instances: 24
i.
The incidence between Peter and Ananias. Acts 5:3
ii.
The inner witness. Romans 8:16
b) Discuss the term „similitudes‟ as used in Hosea 12:10. What are they? DISCERNING OF SPIRITS
It is the supernatural ability given by the Holy Spirit to detect or perceive the source of a supernatural manifestation whether it is from GOD, MAN OR THE DEVIL. Let us follow these discussion questions to learn more: a) Identify the source (God, man or the devil) of the manifestations that occurred in the following accounts: i.
Acts 8:18-23
ii.
Acts 10:30-35
iii.
Acts 16:16-19
b) How is this gift beneficial to the church in receiving and testing prophecies and manifestations? CONCLUSION The revelational gifts are great tools of edification that God has given to His body for its benefit, Let us earnestly desire these also, that the body of Christ may be guarded from evil infiltrations and divine direction might be received from God.
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CHAPTER THIRTEEN EDIFICATION THROUGH THE ‘FIVE FOLD MINISTRY’
Every healthy church demonstrates these five purposes - Worship, ministry (serving God with our gifts), evangelism, discipleship (molding people into becoming more like Christ) and fellowship. 1. Churches grow warmer through fellowship. 2. Churches grow deeper through discipleship. 3. Churches grow stronger through worship. 4. Churches grow broader through ministry. 5. Churches grow larger through evangelism.
God has also placed certain important foundational ministries in the church for the purpose of perfecting the saints, equipping God‟s people for the work of the ministry and for the edification of the body of Christ. These are the fivefold ministry. This study focuses particularly on this ministry. FOCAL PASSAGE: Ephesians 4: 7-16.
CENTRAL TRUTH: The fivefold ministry of the Pastor, Teacher, Evangelist, Prophet and Apostle are important foundational means of edification in the church. MEMORY VERSE: And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers - Ephesians 4:11 Let us answer the following discussion questions as we learn more about the „fivefold‟ ministry. a) According to Ephesians 4:12, what are the 3 fold purposes of the „fivefold‟ ministry? b) Jesus was said to have operated „fully‟ in all departments of the „fivefold‟ ministry. Match these scriptures concerning Jesus to an office of the „fivefold‟ ministry: i.
Hebrews 3:1
ii.
Luke 24:19
iii.
Matthew 9:35 26
iv.
1 Peter 5:2-4
v.
John 3:2
c) According to Ephesians 2:19-20, which of the offices of the „fivefold‟ ministry did God build the early church on as a foundation? d) An APOSTLE means „sent one‟. He has the grace to break new grounds and pioneer new churches; he grounds the church in truth and establishes godly order in the church. He preserves the unity in the body and stands as the „Father‟ figure in the church. He also has a break through type ministry of miracles. i.
Name some popular early church apostles you know.
ii.
According to the following scriptures, what were some of the marks/signs of an apostle? 2 Corinthians 12:12, Titus 1:5, 1 Corinthians 3:10, 1 Corinthians 9:2.
e) A PROPHET is one who guides the church according to the will of God as he is "moved by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter 1:21) in prophetic utterance. The prophetic could be predictive, corrective or directive. Prophets usually operate in the gift of prophecy plus at least 2 of the three revelational gifts. i.
Name some popular early church apostles you know.
ii.
Read Acts 13:1-3, was the prophetic instruction there predictive, corrective or directive?
iii.
Is everyone who prophecies qualified to be called a prophet?
iv.
What warning are we given concerning prophets in the last days? 1 John 4:1
v.
How are we to test/judge prophecies? Deuteronomy 18:22, Acts 11:28, 1 Corinthians14:29, 2 Corinthians 13:1, 2 Peter 1:19-21
f) An EVANGELIST is one who extends the frontiers of God's Kingdom by preaching the gospel. They are typically not content staying at one place, but love to move from place to place, sharing the gospel. i.
Name one popular early church evangelist.
ii.
Why would a typical evangelist not be a good pastor?
g) The Greek word for PASTOR poimen means "one to tends sheep or cares for flocks”. They follow the example of Christ, the Chief shepherd (1 Peter 5:1-4). i.
Name one popular early church evangelist.
ii.
Read John 10:1-16. Identify about 4 aspects of a shepherd‟s ministry.
h) A TEACHER brings instruction to the Body, making it simple and easily assimilated. i.
Name one popular early church evangelist.
ii.
Read Ezra 7:10. What should be the constant habit of teachers of the Word? 27
CONCLUSION The work of the „fivefold‟ ministry is to continue „Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ‟ - Ephesians 4:13. Let us avail ourselves unto these ministries, that we may be edified thereby
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