THE SHOOT OF JESSE

Reverend G. S. Adeyemo

Your stump will rise up and become a fruitful tree. Ezekiel 34: 29. Our nation Nigeria will be great again.

   “A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.  The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the LORD, The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord—and he will delight in the fear of the Lord. He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes, or decide by what he hears with his ears; but with righteousness he will judge the needy, with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked. Righteousness will be his belt and faithfulness the sash around his waist.” Isaiah 11: 1-5 

Introduction

David was the youngest of the sons of Jesse who against all imaginations became the anointed king of Israel. 1 Samuel 16:6-13. The big family tree of Jesse started to blossom significantly from the days of Ruth the wife of Boaz till the days of Jeconiah. The Bible records in Matthew 1:5 6 “Salmon was the father of Boaz. Rahab was Boaz’s mother. Boaz was the father of Obed. Ruth was Obed’s mother. Obed was the father of Jesse. And Jesse was the father of King David.”

 This tree of Jesse was so decimated as to be left with just a stump. For over 600 years before Christ, no descendants of David could mount the throne. This negated the covenant of God for David. Prophet Jeremiah declared “The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land.” Jeremiah 23: 5 

A Root of Hope: Charles L. Allen says that “When you say a situation or a person is hopeless, you are slamming the door in the face of God.” The spiritual dryness of the Israelites led to the hopeless situation which was compounded by the external aggression. They were carried into captivity and were deprived of their liberty. Ezekiel described this experience as very dry bones. Ezekiel 37: 11 “Then he said to me: “Son of man, these bones are the people of Israel. They say, ‘Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone; we are cut off.’”

Are you cut off by friends, relations or colleagues? Here is a message of hope for you. “Even a tree has more hope! If it is cut down, it will sprout again and grow new branches.” Job 14: 7; Isaiah 11: 1. No matter how devastated is your situation, you will rise again.

A Shoot from the Root  

The one who was to come according to the prophecy of Isaiah is referred to as shoot and root. That line of kings, David and Solomon and so on, continued physical line of descendants continued, but they were no longer reigning as kings. 

What was left for you seems just like a dead stump, the breath of life will come into your stump. You need not to understand how could another king come from that dead stump? The Lord has spoken, “There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.” Your stump will rise up and become a fruitful tree. Ezekiel 34: 29. Our nation Nigeria will be great again.

Royalty, authority, and beauty attached to the highest office in Israel were stripped off the Davidic lineage; however, the Lord in His infinite mercy promised a restoration.  The Bible says, “And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest on him, Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. And his delight shall be in the fear of the LORD.” Wisdom and righteousness will rest on him in abundance. His rule and his reign will be just and faithful. This Davidic king will always do the right thing. Upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD” Isaiah 11: 1-3  

This king will come fully equipped, anointed with the Spirit of God in fullest measure: “And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might...”

Not Over Yet. Jesus’ death paid the price for our sins and defeated all our enemies, including death. Christ’s death opened the way to life, and after three days in the tomb, he rose and was full of life. His cross of became our tree of life.

Whatever the enemies thought will disgrace you will turnaround to raise you up in glory in Jesus name. All you need to do is to hope in God, trust His Word and persevere in prayer and you will never remain the same again in Jesus name.

Moving Forward

 The longer you hold on to the past, the farther the future of your dream. The past and the future are separated by the present.

Start looking forward to whatever you desire. The desire you deserve comes at the moment you are ready to let go the past disappointments. The Lord said to Samuel, “How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.” 1 Samuel 16:1

Looking forward, moving forward; You will reach your goal in Jesus name.

GO FOR GOALS

Reverend G. S. Adeyemo 

Determine and pay the price of attaining Jesus’ standard of reaching your goal. Determination through the power of the Holy Spirit makes a believer stronger and better till he reaches the perfection Jesus set for us.

“12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

INTRODUCTION

The Super Eagles began their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations campaign on a shaky note with a lone goal victory over Burundi.  Considering how crucial the next game was to qualifying for the next round, the Nigerian Coach knowing the passion of Nigerians charged the team to “Go for goals” in their next matches. 

Christians must do everything needed to go for their God-given goals in the journey of life.   Everyone here on earth has one set target or the other.  The ultimate goal is attaining the full stature of Christ Jesus. To reach this goal, you need to observe the following principles: 

1. Desire to Know More: Paul did not consider himself as one who had attained complete spiritual maturity in Jesus Christ. He desires to know more. Prov. 15:14, 18:15; 2 Pet. 3:18; Eccl. 7:12; Prov. 4:5; 2 Pet. 1: 5

2. Develop Your Spirit-man: This is an area many of us battles with several things in our life. It is so frustrating to know what is right and still not be able to manage to do it.  Romans 7:18; Prov. 25:27-28; 1 Tim. 3:2-3; Titus 2:11-12

 3. Determine to Reach the Goal:  Determination is the strength that carries you through the path of success in the midst of obstacles. “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 3: 13b-14

George Lorimer says "You've got to get up every morning with determination if you're going to go to bed with satisfaction."  Determination is the ability to make difficult decisions and accomplish God's goals based on the truths of God's word. 

 When you are determined to succeed, you develop and progress, even if the result is not what was expected. Our determination needs to be governed by righteous desire, commitment, and dedication to God's principles. Be determined to succeed.  Determination is the strength Romans 15:4; Ruth 1:16-18; Phil. 3:12-14; Daniel 1:8 that carries you through the path of success in the midst of obstacles.  With determination, you remain focused on your goals and are resilient under problems, obstacles, distractions, oppositions, persecutions with conviction.  This is a resolve to reaching or achieving your heart desire no matter what may be the price. 

Looking at Paul’s statements in the passage, he said, “But one thing I do: Forgetting the past and straining toward what is ahead...” v 13b. Forgetting means to neglect, to put behind, not to consider as necessary for the sake of where you are going or what you are aiming at getting. If you don't forget the offense of that man or woman against you, you cannot achieve your desired goal. Many prayers are not answered because you are holding on to the past. You are depreciating because you are tied to the past. I challenge you to forget that past so you can move forward. No one holds on to the past and ever progress in life. Isaiah 43: 18. Living in the past is a devil’s weapon of tying down destiny. 

Fixing your mind means you strain, stretch, strive, squeeze your worldly comfort and freedom so you can get there. Determine and pay the price of attaining Jesus’ standard of reaching your goal. Determination through the power of the Holy Spirit makes a believer stronger and better till he reaches the perfection Jesus set for us.

Conclusion: Trials may come, temptations may surround you but the Lord will give you all it takes to reach your goals in Jesus name

I pray that the Lord will hold you and lead you through your hurdles till you get to the level God set before you in Jesus name

THE ALL-SUFFICIENT SAVIOUR

 Christ is all-sufficient for every believer who truly trust in Him and ready to serve Him faithfully. When the Gospel is sincerely preached, Jesus Christ glorify Himself in the life of the preacher and the hearers.

 Revd G. S. Adeyemo

An Introduction to the Epistle of Paul to the Colossians

Theme Text: Colossians 2: 9, 10
Author: The author introduces himself as Paul the Apostle of Jesus Christ. Apostle, is a compound Greek word "apo" and "stello," meaning "from" and "to send," In other words, a messenger with a specific assignment or task.  He is conferred with the authority of the one who send him rather than the use of this word as a title with unquestionable control over other believers. The author of the Book of Hebrews uses this term in Hebrews 3: 1 and 2 “Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house.” This passage is in reference to the function of Jesus Christ as God’s special Messenger. Titus is referred to as messenger in 1 Corinthians 8: 23 “As for Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker among you; as for our brethren, they are messengers of the churches, a glory to Christ”  Some other references in the New Testament are Matt 10:2 Mark 3:14; Luke 6:13; Acts 1:2; Philippians 2: 25.
Apostle Paul referring to himself as an Apostle is a way of introducing his humble assignment as a messenger instead of lording himself on the people of God in Colosse. “Paul sought to develop personal connections with the people he hoped to teach and serve, rather than just going around from city to city asserting his apostolic authority.” - Chuck Swindoll.
Today, many leaders are disconnected from their followers because of overblown ego. Position of authority is an opportunity to serve the less privileged instead of exploiting them. If you will succeed in that position where God has put you, be ready to serve others. Jesus said, “Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:” Matthew 20: 25-27; Mark 10: 42- 44
Audience: -The message from Apostle Paul was sent to the saints and faithful brethren in Colosse. Colosse was a small village where those believers in Christ gathered to worship. Paul’s decision to identify with this small congregation was borne out of the love he has for the souls that he was sent to save and his desire to obey the voice of God who sent him.
Purpose: -Bible scholars believe that by the first century A.D. Colosse was diminished to a second-rate market town, which had been surpassed long before in power and importance by the neighbouring towns of Laodicea and Hierapolis. Epaphras had been converted and had carried the gospel to Colosse Col. 1:7-8; Acts 19:10. The young growing church became a target for the false teachers. Members were given strange teachings that were already taking them away from the truth. Typical among them was Gnosticism. They claimed to have special knowledge.
They felt that they were the people with superior understanding and deeper mysteries about God than the apostles. They taught people that except you accept their own wisdom or belong to their sect, you are inferior.  These teachers discredited God’s direct creation acts. Another aspect of their false teachings is asceticism and unrestrained licentiousness. Therefore Epaphras needed the intervention of Paul in combating those false teachings by the false teachers. Paul therefore exalts Christ as the very image of God Col. 1:15, the Creator Col. 1:16, the pre-existent sustainer of all things Col. 1:17, the head of the Church Col. 1:18, the first to be resurrected Col. 1:18, the fullness of deity in bodily form Col. 1:19; 2:9 and the reconciler Col. 1:20-22 Thus Christ is completely adequate. We "have been given fullness of life in Christ" Col. 2:10.
Lessons for today 
1. Paul is mindful of the mandate he has as delegated by the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. Colossian Christians caught the attention of Paul out of his love for the kingdom business rather than personal comfort.
3. Christ is all-sufficient for very believer who truly trust in Him and ready to serve Him faithfully. When the Gospel is sincerely preached, Jesus Christ glorify Himself in the life of the preacher and the hearers.

POWER TO PREVAIL

 You carry the capacity to conquer all forces that are manipulating your destiny.   
  
I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. Luke 10: 19

 Reverend G. S. Adeyemo

The undeniable fact in this world is that everyone is born to a battle field. The moment we are born into this world, here is always the struggle to survive. However, Jesus tells all His disciples the truth about the capacity given to believers to conquer those battles of life. He says, “I have given you authority…” This authority indwells the believer even before the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
The word authority is a demonstrative power given to override a possibility from others. It is the capacity to interrupt the liberty of a force against our territory. With the authority conferred in a policeman, soldier or someone in the helms of affairs, other people's movement, actions, freedom  can be trampled upon except there is a superior authority to hold back such an officer. Our Lord Jesus Christ holds all authority in heaven and on earth. The Psalmist says, “You make him  to rule over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet,” Psalm 8: 6.;Matthew 28: 18; Ephesians 1: 21; Matthew 11: 27; 2 Peter 3: 22; John 3: 35   
A serpent is known for all kinds of deceit, disruption, destruction and wickedness. The good news is that we have been given authority to trample on the serpents and scorpions. In addition to that, Jesus has given us the authority to overcome all the power of the enemy. Whatever constitutes the power of the enemy has no effect on you. He says, “Nothing will harm you” Halleluyah!
Beloved, do not accept defeat. You carry the capacity to conquer all forces that are manipulating your destiny. It is your right to trample on them and their powers. Believe the Word; trust in the efficacy of the name of Jesus Christ. The Lord says, No weapon form against you shall prosper. Isaiah 54: 17

Conclusion
You can enjoy this eternal blessing if you will surrender your life to Christ as your Lord and Saviour. Be ready to yield to His words and pray fervently. Ask Him to fill you with His Spirit. Receive by faith and you will never remain the same in Jesus name.

THE LIVING FAITH

You live this new life in Christ, it is expected that you are not to struggle to live but to trust in the perfect and finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary.

 Reverend G. S. Adeyemo

This message was preached at Christ Baptist Church, Alimosho Lagos during the 2020 Youth Sunday of the Nigerian Baptist Convention.
INTRODUCTION

A believer in Christ is given the power to live eternal and abundant life here on earth and beyond. This is a life that is both progressive and productive. No matter what may be the trials and temptations encountered as you live this new life in Christ, it is expected that you are not to struggle to live but to trust in the perfect and finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary.  The Bible says, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3: 36 in other words, every child of God has the capacity to live a life devoid of corruption and death. The topic the Lord is leading us to share together today is 'The Living Faith'. The text is taken from the book of Hebrews chapter 10: verses 35 through 39.

EXPLANATION

Let us first consider the key word here which is faith. It is the Greek word 'pistis' meaning persuasion, or moral conviction. It is a profession of one's faith confidence and persuasion on the truthfulness of the power in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.  

Our faith will be tested and tried, but the truth remains that we can prevail and fulfill divine purpose for our life if we live by the faith in Jesus.

Prosperity Christianity is one side of the end time challenges, 'BOKO HARAM' and religious persecution is another side for the reason for which many young people are giving up on their faith in Christ. 

In the midst of all of these, there is a calling on us to have a Living Faith in Christ, a faith that speaks.  The faith of Enoch is till speaking, can you grow your faith in Christ to speak even after you are no more?

If your faith will be a living faith and a faith that speaks all through many generations you need to: 

1. Accept the sacrifice of Jesus as absolute (10:20- 23): There are all kinds of teachings today on salvation. It does not matter what people and religion say, Christ is the only High Priest through whom the sacrifice for our salvation was made and sealed. In John 14:6 

2. Live daily in the Purpose of God (Hebrews10:7, 36; 11:5,8): It is not just enough to know the purpose of God for your life, you must give all it takes to achieve it.

3. Understand the timing of God (Hebrews 10:37): If your faith will be a living faith that speaks you need to understand the timing of God for your life. 

CONCLUSION

Our God is a God of time and season. Enoch did not missed that great opportunity of walking with God, Joseph did not say, I am a little boy, he stood for righteousness and holy living and Esther got to the throne just at the appointed time.

RAISING UP A DISCIPLINED CHILD

 Whatever you don't want your children to do, you must avoid.

 Reverend G. S.Adeyemo

Text: ‐"Discipline your son while there is hope, And do not desire his death." "Children are a gift from the LORD ; they are a reward from him. Children born to a young man are like sharp arrows in a warrior's hands. How happy is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates." Proverbs 19: 18; Psalm 17: 3‐5

Someone once said, “It is not what you do for your children, but what you have taught them to do for themselves, that will make them successful human beings”  Raising disciplined child could be a difficult effort especially for parents who assume that a child should know what is right from what is wrong. To raise a disciplined child is not only to set limits for children expecting them to obey without complaints. This is not saying we should leave our children to self discipline. This is because discipline is the foundation of happiness and the uttermost requirement for success. Child discipline is mostly external. No child has a grip  control of his or her impulse; therefore, they need parents that understand what it takes to raise a disciplined child. Let us consider few things that will help us raise a disciplined child.
1.Parents must be calm in inculcating discipline in their children. It takes patience and wisdom to handle children when it comes to discipline. Sometimes they tend to stretch our patience to the limit by repeating the errors we warned against. The Bible says, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.”(Eph. 6: 4 NLT)
2.Parent must exemplify discipline they want   their children to imbibe. Children learn by imitations especially from their parents. Whatever you don't want your children to do, you must avoid.  Many kings in the Bible were ruined  because they followed the examples of their father. The Bible says, “Only give heed to yourself and keep your soul diligently, so that you do not forget the things which your eyes have seen and they do not depart from your heart all the days of your life; but make them known to your sons and your grandsons.” Deut 4: 9; Joel 1: 3; Hebrews 12:7
3. Parent must reflect Christ‐like character that can point their children to God. Children are a gift from the LORD ; they are a reward from him. If the children must be raised in godly and disciplined way, the parent must always take them to Christ in prayer as well point God to them through their character. Parents must grow in the knowledge of Christ and the word of God. Then they will not be put to shame when  they are confronted their accusers at the city gates in Jesus name

HELPING ONE ANOTHER (2)

 We belong to one another and must need one another from time to time... In helping one another, there is safety, progress, fulfillment, accelerated success and abundant blessings.

 Reverend G. S. Adeyemo

8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 1 Peter: 8-10

Introduction

In our last or previous message titled Helping One another, we discovered that helping one another is God’s desire; also, helping one another is a necessity. 

Today we will observe how to help one another. 

How to Help One Another

The passage for consideration begins with the issue of love. It reads, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins” 1 Peter 4: 8. the help that must be acceptable before God must be rooted in deep, warm, fervent and sacrificial love for one another. It is the kind of love that is targeting at making others fulfill the purpose of God. This help never considers the weakness or strength of such person that needs help. In other words, helping one another should not be based on the qualifications of the one who needs our help. It is a help that goes beyond party affiliation, ethnicity extraction or social status. 

1 Peter 1:22; also in Luke 22:44; Acts 12:5; Acts 26:7

Help One Another to Stand: In Galatians 6: 2, 3 the Bible says, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves” Put yourself in that situation you see your brother going through. When you hear of the fall of a brother or a leader, you must not be quick to add more salt to the injury. Think of what to do to lift his spirit from the valley of life to the mountain of victory and abundant life. James 5: 19, 20 say, “My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.” 

Help One Another to Survive:  verse 9 of 1 Peter 4 reads “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling” Open your doors for the support of your brothers. Help them to survive hardship, affliction, and persecution. Provide for the needs of those hungry. At a time like the one we are going through, everyone is vulnerable in one way or the other. Children of God must pull resources together to meet the needs of one another. Do not steal our common wealth. The wealth you are accumulating for the future is the killer of someone’s husband, child, and wife and bread winner. In Isaiah 58:7; 1 Tim.5: 10; Lev 19: 34; Matth. 25: 42-46 God wants us to help one another to survive. 

Conclusion

“It is necessary to help others, not only in our prayers, but in our daily lives. If we find we cannot help others, the least we can do is to desist from harming them.” Jesus Christ our Saviour exemplified helping one another even when he knew that the one he was helping would be the one to deny him. Help others and others will help you stand and survive now and always. Remain blessed in Jesus name.

HELPING ONE ANOTHER

Your success lies in how you help others reach their goals. Do not help others ruin their goals.

 Reverend G. S. Adeyemo

8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 1Peter: 8-10

Introduction

The Lord is recharging His Church. He is repositioning her for the glorious appearing of our Lord. He is looking for willing and humble hearts to serve Him. Those are the faithful stewards who will give all it takes to conquer the world for Christ not through bullet or ballots but through sacrificial love.  Such people will not constitute themselves as power structure in the household of faith but give themselves to serving others.  Those are the next generations of great and successful children of God. 

God’s Expectation: Every believer must rise to the   help of others. You need the help of someone in your life to reach your goal or to fulfill divine plans for your life. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. James 1:27; Hebrews 13:16; John 3:17 

Helping One Another Is A Necessity: For any relationship or society to thrive economically, the people must be ready to help one another.  God’s declaration that, "It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a help meet for him." is very significant (Genesis 2:18)   In other words, you need someone's help. Others need you to be there for them. Collin Willis says, “Everyday we have the opportunity to give life or take life, simply by our willingness to lend a hand and shoulder the burdens of another. “ The Holy Spirit through Apostle Paul says, “Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” Your success lies in how you help others reach their goals. Do not help others ruin their goals. 

Many are so quick to point out faults in others. God gives you the ability to discover those faults, failures, inadequacies or shortcomings so that you can be responsible for their lifting up. If you fail to help that person to succeed, you will be held accountable for his or her blood. 

How can we help One Another? The Church is meant to help one another and the dying world. How?  We will continue from their next week. As you go today, look for someone to help and you will be helped to be great in Jesus name. 

A MOTHER WITH AN EAGLE EYE

A virtuous and decent wife who loves her child not at the expense of her husband is the joy of every husband

Reverend G. S. Adeyemo 

Text Proverbs 31:27, Hebrew 11:23
A virtuous and decent wife who loves her child not at the expense of her husband is the joy of every husband. She makes her home a paradise on earth where every member of the family finds peace and model. The eagle is known for many unique features like its strength, discipline, child tutoring and diligence. This is what the Book of Job refers to in its 39th chapter from verse 27-29 saying, “Does the eagle soar at your command and build its nest on high? It dwells on a cliff and stays there at night; a rocky crag is its stronghold. From there it looks for food; its eyes detect it from afar.” 
The eagle eye according to Wikipedia is among the strongest in the animal kingdom, with eyesight estimated at 4 to 8 times stronger than that of the average human This is a vivid description of a virtuous woman. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
(1) A Christian mother is to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and well disciplined seeing things   before/more than every members of the family. Let me say like Michael Bassey Johnson “The future is as blank as a plane sheet if you don't have an eagle's eye, that's why you should climb to a vantage point to get a good perspective view at your future.”
(2) A Mother with an eagle eye is like Moses’ Mother that preserved her child Ex. 21.9. She is caring and closer to the child, watches over the child in prayer and fasting. Such a woman will not just devout her whole attention to watches movies that do not add value to life but search the scripture and what will promote Christian lifestyle in the family
  (3) A Mother with eagle’s eye is available to teach and discipline the children when and where necessary. The Bible says in Proverbs 29:17 Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.”
Finally celebrate Mothers who have been physically, emotionally, intellectually, spiritually and sensitive to their homes, husbands and children. It is my prayer that you will all live long in good health to enjoy the fruits of your labour in Jesus name

THY KING COMETH TO THEE

 

 Rev'd  G. S. Adeyemo

 share whatever opportunity God gives you with the less privileged, and the poor. God is asking you to give Him through them

Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.  Matthew 21: 1-17

 Introduction

To God be the glory in the highest. Our God works in mysterious ways which no man can hinder. He created this day to be unique and hallowed. It is unique not because you are locked down in your house because of the deadly Coronavirus pandemic that is plaguing the world today. It is unique because of the accomplishment of our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary about 2000 years ago. 

This Sunday is referred to as Palm Sunday or the triumphal Sunday. It is to commemorate the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem and the Temple before the crucifixion.  There were great events that took place during that week preceding the crucifixion of Jesus as recorded in the passage of the Bible under consideration. our focus will be on two.

Observations

First is the manifestation of Jesus’ authority over possessions vs 1-11. He sent his disciples to a village next to Bethphage to bring a colt for Him to ride. His authority was unquestionable. He has authority over all property. If you think you have any possession and you are puffed up, I urge you in the name of Jesus Christ to humble yourself. The owner of the colt willingly released to the disciples for the use of our Lord Jesus Christ. While He enters the city, people were throwing down clothes, leaves, fronds and tree branches in His honour.

Do you know, what you possess belong to the Supreme Owner?  –God. He has the final say over your position, possession and life. Now that we are faced with serious pandemic which results in lockdown and hardship for many families, I urge you to share whatever opportunity God gives you with the less privileged, and the poor. God is asking you to give Him through them.  “He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.” Proverbs 19:17 Good News Translation puts it this way, “When you give to the poor, it is like lending to the LORD, and the LORD will pay you back.” Whatever you give to the poor is sent to God through them and God is going to reward you.

Second, Jesus showed His Divinity in the Temple vs12-13. Jesus’ showed forth His authority over worship and power to restore sanity to the gathering of the people of God.  “Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves.” v12 Those who exploit worshipers and commercialized the forgiveness of sinners and the worship of God were driven out of the Temple by Jesus Christ. I feel in my spirit that those of us who pay attention to population and income in our places of worship should learn lesson from this period of lockdown that we are compelled to preach to empty pews.  Jesus says, “Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” John 4: 23, 24. our worship should transcend the physical accomplishments. let our goal be to making the kingdoms of this world become the kingdom of our LORD. Give Jesus Christ to the world and the world will be at peace. 

Conclusion

Jesus came in human form to share in our suffering but through His divinity conquered and ready to rule your life if you allow Him. He wants you to humble yourself as you offer your possession, position and privileges to honour God the original owner of whatever you have. The Lord wants you to recognize Him as your sole object of worship. Do not put yoursslef or anything in His place. Stop drawing attention to yourself. Let others see Jesus in you and through you. As you give your life and all to Him you will be blessed in Jesus name.  

IN TIME LIKE THIS, FEAR NOT

 Rev'd G. S. Adeyemo

Your condition is never a death sentence. The Lord who is able to turn dry bones to living and mighty army will turn around your situation

 "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Isaiah 41:10

Introduction

The Almighty God in His word says "Fear not..." He knows every device of the devil before these great charge. Fear is a terrific weapon in the hands of Satan and his agents to deflate joy, faith, hope and victory. Whoever conquers his fear has captured the strongest weapon of his adversaries.
What Is Fear?
You may want to know what fear is. An online Biblical dictionary(Webster's American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828.) defines "Fear as an uneasiness of mind, upon the thought of future evil likely to befall us. Fear is the passion of our nature which excites us to provide for our security, on the approach of evil.
In King James, fear is mentioned 501 times. In the American Standard Version of the Bible it is mentioned 487 times. And in the Reverse Version of the Bible fear is mentioned 483 times. However the word is used in various ways. For example, the fear of the Lord which is the beginning of wisdom refers to reverence, awe, honour etc of God. This is good for man in order to worship God Almighty.
Fear which is in Greek phobea is an unusual emotional feeling of danger, threat, unsecure which moves us to seek protections.
Dangers or Threats include, war, terrorism, cultism, diseases like Ebola, Lasa, Sars, COVID-19 which we are all facing today. Some of these may not even bring death but the fear of them can be so terrible. Whatever you are seeing, hearing or feeling that are scary, the Lord says "Fear not".  Fear not is used 63 times by God in the KJV of the Bible.
Fear is the opposite of faith. You must not entertain fear in your heart. Your situation is not to destroy or kill you. No matter what may be the symptom or medical reports, the Lord will will reverse the ones that negates your well-being in Jesus name.
Your condition is never a death sentence. The Lord who is able to turn dry bones to living and  mighty army will turn around your situation. If it's caused by sin, fear not, Jesus Christ she'd his blood for the remission of that sin. He will blot out all iniquities and deliver you from power desth.
How to overcome fear in time like this
Know and trust in the PROMISES of God. Isaiah 55: 10-12; Psalm 119:89
You must believe in the PRESENCE of God with you. Psalm 23:4, 5; Matthew. 28:18-20; Isaiah. 43:2-4
You need to depend on the unfailing POWER of God inside of you. 2Timothy. 1:7; Ephesians. 3:16; Romans. 8: 15
Finally, accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour. Romans 10:9-13
Fear not; you shall not die but shall live in Jesus name.

NO SHORTCUT!

Those who use shortcut to reach their destination most times cut short in wrong direction and never reach desired end.

 “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.” 2 Timothy 2: 19

Introduction
We are in an age where everyone is looking for the shortest and easiest way to success.  No wonder many falls into the trap of false prophets, fraudsters and at the end bite their fingers in the flame of regrets. Andy Crouch says, “Grace is not a shortcut around our effort; it is the divine blessing on efforts that are undertaken in dependence and trust on God.” Those who use shortcut to reach their destination most times cut short in wrong direction and never reach desired end. 
God’s Solid Foundation 
Two words that is very crucial in the passage
1. Foundation: - The Bible talks so much about foundation. Psalm 11:3; 1 Corinthian 3: 11; everything in life has a foundation. But God’s foundation is what to focus on here. Isaiah 28:16; Luke 6:48; I will set your stones in antimony, and lay your foundations with sapphires. Isaiah 54:11.
The foundation of God (Grk) themelios is a substructure put down as standard for us. The believer’s and church life is built on righteousness. There is nothing like modern Christianity. Sin remains sin and righteousness remains righteousness in the eyes of God. No shortcut to heaven, no shortcut to success, no shortcut to enjoying God’s favour but to base our life standard on His instructions.
2. Seal: - Is a mark protecting from appropriation. A seal is a stamp, signet, mark or identity. The mark of those who stand on the solid foundation of God without looking for a shortcut is abstinence from iniquity. The Bible says ...”let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”  It is time to divorce from wrong doings rather than looking for convenient way of getting to heaven. In other word, the most convenient way to relate and enjoy God is to depart from iniquity. 2 Timothy 2:22; 1 Corinthian 10: 14; 1Timothy 6:11-12
Check the foundation of your faith and return to God’s standard and you will be built to the stature of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God Our Present Help

 Rev'd G. S. Adeyemo

God is the only perfect, pure and permanent Cover and Sufficiency. Therefore, you must Know Him by coming to Him in total submission.

Text: Psalm 46: 1-3
Introduction
Keywords in the text: -Refuge, Help
Definitions:
Refuge: State of being safe, sheltered from danger, pursuit, or difficulty. A refuge is a safe haven and a place of rest in time of storm.
A refuge provides hope for the hopeless and happiness to the hurting.
A refuge sometimes is a fortress, strongholds or high place. Isa. 28:17; Psl. 6:8; Jer. 17:17; Psl 14:6; Isa 4:6; Job 24:8
Help: “If you help someone, you make it easier for them to do something, for example by doing part of the work for them or by giving them advice or money.” -Collins Dictionary. God is in the driver seat of your life and every undertaking. His involvement brings possibility where strength, knowledge and efforts fail you.
Observations
When God becomes your Refuge and Help, you enjoy his:
1. Trustworthiness
2. Sufficiency
3. Power
Application
 God is the only perfect, pure and permanent Cover and Sufficiency. Therefore, you must
Know Him by coming to Him in total submission. Make him your refuge.
Trust Him with all your heart for every need and in all situations. He will never disappoint you
Serve Him diligently, faithfully and He will reward you in Jesus name