Scripture Reference:

John 17:18 – ” _As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.”_

Reflection area:

As Jesus was sent by the Father, we are also sent by Jesus. This verse reminds us that our purpose is tied to our identity as followers of Christ. We are not just recipients of God’s love, but also messengers of His message to a world in need.

Prayer:

‘Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus into the world to save us. As He was sent, we are also sent to share Your love and message with others. Give us the courage and wisdom to fulfill this mission, and may we represent You well in the world. May Your Spirit guide and empower us to be Your hands and feet, bringing hope and light to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.’

Actionable Step:

_Today, ask God to reveal someone in your life who needs to hear about His_ _love. Pray for opportunities to share your faith and for the right words to say. May you be a reflection of Jesus’ love and light to those around you. 🙏_

Benediction:

May God’s peace and guidance be with you today. Amen!

VIA:

Michael Ekperikpe (MSN)

READ AND REAP BIBLE ENTERPRISES

P/S:

-Any issues to commit to God in prayer?

-Any seemingly difficult Scripture(s)?

Feel free to share with me. Remember, ‘Iron sharpens iron’. (Prov. 27:17)

Scripture Reference:

John 6:67-70

Key Points:

– Jesus’ Question: Jesus asked His disciples, “You don’t want to leave too, do you?” (John 6:67), highlighting the importance of choosing to follow Him.

– Peter’s Confession: Peter’s response, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You (alone) have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68-69), demonstrates his recognition of Jesus as the Messiah and the source of eternal life.

– Commitment to Follow: This passage emphasizes the importance of committing to follow Jesus, even when it’s challenging or unpopular.

Reflection areas:

– Have you ever felt like leaving or abandoning your faith? How did you respond?

– What are some things that make it difficult for you to follow Jesus, and how can you overcome them?

– How can we, like Peter, recognize Jesus as the source of eternal life and prioritize our relationship with Him?

Application areas:

– Let’s prioritize our relationship with Jesus, seeking to deepen our understanding of His words and will for our lives.

– May we be encouraged by Peter’s confession and commit to following Jesus, even when it’s challenging.

– By recognizing Jesus as the source of eternal life, may we live with hope, confidence, and purpose.

Benediction:

May we be empowered to follow Jesus with courage and conviction, recognizing Him as the source of eternal life and the One Who gives our lives meaning and purpose. 🙏

VIA:

Michael Ekperikpe (MSN)

READ AND REAP BIBLE ENTERPRISE

P/S:

-Any issues to commit to God in prayer?

-Any seemingly difficult Scripture(s)?

Feel free to share with me. Remember, ‘Iron sharpens iron’. (Prov. 27:17)

Scriptural Reference:

Eph. 1:3

Key Points:

– Spiritual Blessings: We are blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Eph. 1:3).

– God’s Goodness: This verse highlights God’s goodness and generosity towards us, emphasizing the richness of our inheritance in Christ.

– Heavenly Perspective: It encourages us to look at life from a heavenly perspective, recognizing the spiritual blessings we have in Christ.

Reflection areas:

– How can we cultivate a deeper understanding of the spiritual blessings we have in Christ?

– In what ways can we live a life that reflects our identity as blessed children of God?

– What does this verse reveal about God’s character and His love for us?

Application: 

– Let’s prioritize gratitude and praise for the spiritual blessings we’ve received in Christ.

– May we live a life that honours God, reflecting our identity as His beloved children.

– By recognizing our spiritual blessings, may we be empowered to live with hope, joy, and confidence in God’s goodness.

Benediction:

May we be filled with gratitude for the spiritual blessings we’ve received in Christ, and may our lives reflect our identity as beloved children of God, bringing glory to His name. Amen!

VIA:

Michael Ekperikpe (MSN)

READ AND REAP BIBLE ENTERPRISES

P/S:

-Any issues to commit to God in prayer?

-Any seemingly difficult Scripture(s)?

Feel free to share with me. Remember, ‘Iron sharpens iron’. (Prov. 27:17)

TEXT: John 18:19-21

MEMORY VERSE: 2Cor. 4:7

‘ _But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, to show that the transcendent power belongs to God and not to us.’_

INTRODUCTION:

God depended on Jesus to make Him known, even as Jesus has depended on us to make both Him and His Father known. How will this our uncompromising obligation be strategized for effectiveness? What will we do with Jesus as there is no neutral ground? It is either we say, ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to Him. Of course, to be neutral is tantamount to refusal.

OBJECTIVE: At the end of this brief lesson, the audience, by God’s grace, should be able to adopt strategies favourable to the revelation of Jesus as the Saviour of all creation as well as to every individual and group.

PRESENTATION:

STRATEGY ONE: To Learn Jesus

(a) ‘Ask those who have heard me, what I said to them; they know what I said’ (Jn. 18:21b) were the words of Jesus to the high priest.

i. By the statement Jesus made above, He has shown what He expects of us, His followers, not to let the bulk stop with us.

(b) To learn Jesus involves discipleship without which one is left in an “occultism of ignorance” where he becomes his own judge (cf. Jn. 8:31-32).

(c) It is upon the believers’ shoulders to encourage others who will, in turn, encourage others to learn and exercise.

(cf. 2Tim. 2:2; 1Pet. 3:15).

STRATEGY TWO: To Teach Jesus (cf. Acts 2:42)

(a) We are to teach the plan and execution of God’s salvation in Christ (cf. Acts 4:11-12; 1Pet. 1:10-12; Gal. 4:1-5).

(b) We are to prayerfully teach the stories and parables about God’s kingdom as Jesus does midwife its establishment on earth. (cf. Matt. 13:1-52; Col. 1:12; Eph.5:5).

(c) We are to teach the examples of Christ’s suffering and those of His early believers as models for encouragement. (cf. 1Cor. 11:1; Phil. 3:17; 1Pet. 2:21-23; 4:1-2)

i. What is the Christian Faith without a change of life? Therein is the only way to know who a true preacher of Christ is.

(Eph. 4:20,21).

STRATEGY THREE: To Live Jesus (cf. Heb.12:1-2)

(a) Emphasis here is on good fruit-bearing lifestyle. (cf. Jn. 13:17; 15:5,8)

i. It will not be good fruits if the bearer is the only consumer and/or beneficiary. (1Jn. 3:17-19; Matt. 5:16).

ii. Such fruits must bring reprieve to the neighbourhood before God can be glorified as He rewards. (cf. Matt. 5:13-15).

CONCLUSION:

Jesus never preached to convert any unbeliever at the period between His resurrection and ascension – forty days to be specific. That, really, is a doubtless handing over to His believers to continue from there. Even elect angels (spirits) are not permitted to be preachers of Christ. If their services are needed, they have to communicate their God-given message to target persons who will share with fellow persons afterwards. (cf. Rev. 19:9,10; 22:8,9)

Make yourself available too for this rewarding and divine assignment.

EVALUATION:

1. In what way(s) are human beings significant in God’s salvation in Christ?

2. Mention the three strategies you have just learned about revealing Jesus.

3. How could the life of the early Christians teach Jesus?

4. Between you and your neighbour, who will the Christian life seek to bless first?

5. When a believer or group of believers claims to know everything, what will they always be doing and want to

do with others?

PRAYER: Thank God for His Word and pray for grace to ably represent our invisible, yet always present, Father here on earth through bearing the good fruit of His Spirit always.

VIA:

Michael Ekperikpe (MSN)

READ AND REAP BIBLE ENTERPRISES

P/S:

-Any issues to commit to God in prayer?

-Any seemingly difficult Scripture(s)?

Feel free to share with me. Remember, ‘Iron sharpens iron’. (Prov. 27:17)

Text : Acts 1:6-8

Memory Verse : John 1:12 – KJV.

INTRODUCTION:

How does any government get started and what is the difference from anarchy looking at the time before any government is inaugurated or installed? What will a given government get from its subjects as evidence of its acceptance? Those questions are begging for answers as we enter the body of this discourse. Try to read through because we are READ AND REAP.

OBJECTIVE:

What we intend to see will include (i) That power is the foundation upon which any government is built. (ii) That positive change is evidence of divine power presence and (iii) That acceptance of any government or power by the citizenry is shown in obedience.

PRESENTATION:

STEP 1: GOVERNMENT STARTS WITH THE GIFT OF POWER

a) The Father’s gift of all power to Jesus qualifies Him as King over all He made. (cf. Matt. 28:18,19; John 5:16-23; Col. 1:15-19; Acts 17:30,31)

b) God’s gift of power to us qualifies us as cabinet members with Christ. (cf. Eph. 1:18-22; 2:6; 3:16-19; Luke 10:19)

STEP 11: POSITIVE CHANGE AS EVIDENCE OF DIVINE POWER PRESENCE (Our lead text)

a) The word for power is ‘dunamis’ which refers to ability to effect changes that benefit the neighborhood. (cf. Matt. 5:13-16)

i. With this power, we change the bitter taste of our world – cf. Acts 1:7,8.

ii. This power from God’s Spirit also enables us to repent or have a change of heart and life to be fit for the government or Kingdom of Christ – cf. Eph. 5:5; Matt. 3:2; Ex. 19:6.

STEP 111 : OBEDIENCE AS EVIDENCE OF ENDORSEMENT OF ANY GOVERNMENT

a) If we accept and/or love the government of Christ, we serve and/or obey Him – cf. Luke 6:46; John 21:15-18.

b) Accepting His government, we join Him to do the very things He did while in the body – He went about doing good. (See Acts 10:38; John 17:18; 1Cor.3:9)

CONCLUSION:

God knew we would not be able to achieve anything except by the power of His Spirit and, therefore, to save cost and wastages, has demanded through Christ that we get empowerment by His Spirit before attempting anything concerning Him. “The flesh (visible dependence) does (and will) not profit us anything”, Jesus warns. (See John 6:63 and Acts 1:4-8)

EVALUATION

1.What is the difference between changes effective by God’s Spirit and that effective by evil spirit

2. Why was Jesus declared by God an overall King to rule over all God owns

3. By what means does God communicate to us the power by which we become His children?

4. What kind of seed did Jesus plant in His believers that always makes them want to be like Him all their lifetime on earth?

VIA:

Michael Ekperikpe (MSN)

READ AND REAP BIBLE ENTERPRISES

P/S:

-Any issues to commit to God in prayer?

-Any seemingly difficult Scripture(s)?

Feel free to share with me. Remember, ‘Iron sharpens iron’. (Prov. 27:17)

Scripture Reference:

1 Cor. 15:58

Reflection Areas:

– Transforming Lives: Read and Reap Bible Enterprises primarily aims to curb societal vices among children, teens, and youths through Bible-based mental engineering. By supporting this initiative, we can help transform lives and communities.

– Earthly Benefits: Engaging with God’s word can provide numerous earthly benefits, including wisdom, guidance, and peace – cf. Psalm 107:20, and as stated in ‘2 Pet. 3:18’, _But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ._

– Eternal Benefits: Investing in spiritual growth and development has eternal implications, shaping our character and destiny. By prioritizing Bible-based mental engineering, we can help individuals develop a strong foundation for life and eternity.

Areas to Support:

– Prayer: Pray for the success of Read and Reap Bible Enterprises, that God will guide and bless their efforts.

– Attendance: Attend Bible contests and other events organized by Read and Reap Bible Enterprises to show your support and encouragement.

– Finances: Consider donating to support the initiatives of Read and Reap Bible Enterprises, enabling them to continue their vital work.

Scriptural Authority:

– _For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart_ .- Heb. 4:12

 Benediction: 

May today’s Daily Lift Up inspire you to support Read and Reap Bible Enterprises, knowing that your involvement can have a lasting impact on lives and eternity. 🙏♥️

VIA:

Michael Ekperikpe (MSN)

READ AND REAP BIBLE ENTERPRISES

P/S:

-Any issues to commit to God in prayer?

-Any seemingly difficult Scripture(s)?

Feel free to share with me. Remember, ‘Iron sharpens iron’. (Prov. 27:17)

Scripture Reference: 

Dan. 6:1-28

Reflection areas:

– God’s Sovereignty: Reflect on God’s sovereignty over all creation, as seen in Daniel 6. Trust that He is in control, even in uncertain times.

– Power of Prayer: Remember Daniel’s commitment to prayer, despite the decree against it. Prioritize your relationship with God through prayer.

– Deliverance and Rescue: Recall God’s deliverance of Daniel from the lions’ den. Trust that God can rescue you from any situation.

Let’s Pray:

– Pray for trust in God’s sovereignty, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

– Ask God to strengthen your commitment to prayer and deepen your relationship with Him.

– Thank God for His power and authority over all creation.

Inspirational Resources:

– Read ‘Daniel 6’ and reflect on God’s sovereignty and power.

– Listen to worship songs that emphasize God’s power and authority.

– Share with others how God has worked in your life, inspiring trust and faith.

 Benediction:

May this Daily Lift Up inspire you to trust in God’s sovereignty and power! 🙏

VIA:

Michael Ekperikpe (MSN)

READ AND REAP BIBLE ENTERPRISES

P/S:

-Any issues to commit to God in prayer?

-Any seemingly difficult Scripture(s)?

Feel free to share with me. Remember, ‘Iron sharpens iron’. (Prov. 27:17)

Scripture Reference: 

Prov. 25:21

Reflection Points:

– Showing Kindness: When we show kindness to our enemies, it can be a powerful way to demonstrate God’s love and potentially bring about positive change in their lives.

– Heaping Coals of Fire: This phrase is often interpreted as the overwhelming force of kindness, which can melt the heart of our adversaries and lead to remorse and reconciliation.

– Reward from the Lord: By doing good to those who may harm us, we trust that God will reward us for our actions.

Today’s Daily Lift Up Ideas towards arresting the enemy:

– Pray For Your Enemies: Take a moment to pray for those who may be causing you harm or stress, asking God to bless and guide them.

– Small Acts Of Kindness: Perform small acts of kindness for someone you may not get along with, like offering a smile or a helping hand.

– Reflect On God’s Love: Reflect on how God’s love and kindness transformed you and can transform other lives, and consider how you can demonstrate this love to those around you.

Inspirational Resources:

– Check out the READ AND REAP BIBLE ENTERPRISES’ website for more inspiring devotionals and reflections.

– Explore devotionals like “Lift Others Up: 3 Days of Encouragement” on YouVersion for more guidance on spreading kindness.

 Benediction:

 As in the spirit of ‘Prov. 25:21’ there’s the transformative power of kindness, even towards those who may oppose us. May God’s enabling grace inspire us to demonstrate that by showing love and compassion, we not only reflect God’s character but also open doors for reconciliation and blessings. May we strive to embody this principle in our daily lives, trusting that God will reward our actions. May we be instruments of love and peace, shining a light in a world that often needs it. 🙏

VIA:

Michael Ekperikpe (MSN)

READ AND REAP BIBLE ENTERPRISES

P/S:

-Any issues to commit to God in prayer?

-Any seemingly difficult Scripture(s)?

Feel free to share with me. Remember, ‘Iron sharpens iron’. (Prov. 27:17)

Scripture Reference: 

Rom. 12:1

As we reflect on ‘Rom. 12:1’, we’re reminded that our bodies are to be presented as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God. This is our reasonable service, a call to worship that resonates deeply with our spiritual journey.

key Reflection Points:

– Presenting Our Bodies: We are to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, set apart for God’s purposes. This involves surrendering our entire being to Him, allowing His will to guide our actions.

– Holy and Acceptable: Our lives should reflect the holiness and character of God, making us acceptable in His sight. This requires a conscious effort to live according to His standards.

– Reasonable Service: Our worship is not just about rituals or practices but about living a life that honours God. This includes our thoughts, words, and actions.

Let’s Pray:

– Morning:

    – Father, give me the grace to present my body as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to You, in Jesus’ name.

    – Lord, help me to understand and live out my reasonable service to You, aligning my life with Your will.

– Evening:

    – I receive the grace for righteous living and godly conduct, reflecting Your holiness in my life, in Jesus’ name.

    – Father, let my life be a testament to Your power and love, as I strive to become more like Christ.

Reflection area:

As we strive to live as living sacrifices, let’s remember to:-

– Crucify the Flesh: Mortify the flesh and make self die to think, speak, and act like Christ.

– Walk in Newness of Life: After becoming born again, walk in the newness of life, ensuring old things pass away.

– Manifest the Fruit of the Spirit: Deliberately pray for the nine fruits of the Spirit to manifest in our lives.

– Endure Persecution: True followers of Christ have His character and lifestyle, and we must be willing to endure persecution for His sake.

 Benediction: 

May our lives be a reflection of Christ’s love and character, and may we find joy in serving Him with our whole being. Amen!

VIA:

Michael Ekperikpe (MSN)

READ AND REAP BIBLE ENTERPRISES

P/S:

-Any issues to commit to God in prayer?

-Any seemingly difficult Scripture(s)?

Feel free to share with me. Remember, ‘Iron sharpens iron’. (Prov. 27:17)