SOL 1 Seminar - Family [Teacher's Guide]

School of Leaders Level 1 Seminar: Family

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Family Seminar Level 1 Teacher’s Guide

CESAR CASTELLANOS D. © 2003 Published by G12 Editores [email protected]

All Rights reserved. The total or partial reproduction of this book is forbidden under any of its forms, neither graphic, electronic or audiovisual, without previous written authorization from publishers.

All Rights Reserved © Copyright 2003

Made in Colombia

Printed in Colombia

School of Leaders Level 1 Seminar: Family

Contents

Forward I.

The Family

II.

The Family Member and Their Proper Roles

III.

Protecting Self-esteem

IV.

Seven Steps to a Successful Courtship

V.

Strengthening Communication in the Family

VI.

The Blessing of God upon the Family

VII.

The Leader and the Family

VIII.

Abundant Life

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Forward

The material you now hold in your hands was birth out of our own experience within the church through the leaders that we developed over the years, in ministry. Even though we knew from the day our church opened in 1983, that we would be a cell church and would have an immense effect on our city, it was not until sometime in 1990 that the Lord removed the veil to expose to us, the vision of the government of twelve. In the wake of this revelation, the church experienced a growth explosion that has superseded all records on church growth with no waning in sight. Along with the excitement of growth, as pastors we were challenged to develop these new believers that the Lord entrusted to us. During this time God gave me a Rhema word for our ministry: "I will give you the ability to quickly train people." This was a word we truly needed because up until then it was taking at least two years to train a cell leader. The demand was great and the process was just too long. But after that word, the heavens opened up and a special anointing was released upon each person that was helping us in the ministry. Now, the entire congregation, from the least to the greatest, reeled with motivation; they wanted to be a part of the vision. The mind of the people, even ours, was powerfully impressed with the vision of growth, but the necessary components were not in place for the most advantageous operating system. A formula has been developed and implemented as a result of the word the Lord gave, thanks to the team of pastors and leaders that Jesus gave us. How would we actually train faster? What tools would be used? The best possible method was being created for our use according to the results we saw as we went along. We then decided to put them into motion as a part of our vision. For many years prior, we did not want to be away from the church because we felt that our vision was still being established. Neither did we want to teach about church growth until we had a congregation to back it up. Now that God has allowed us to become one of the largest churches in the world, with an average of 25,000 leadership school students, we can only thank God for His mercy to our country and for having lifted up our church as the leader of that great spiritual awakening which has been able to influence the nations of the earth. It is our prayer that this material blesses your life, your church and your ministry. May each one of you fulfill God's purpose in your lives.

In the love of Christ, Cesar and Claudia Castellanos

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Lesson 1: The Family

Teaching Objectives The student will learn God's plan for the family and its importance in the life of every human being.

Development of the Subject 1. The student will be able to explain the BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONAL REFERENCES of the origin of family. 2. The student will be able to explain the importance of the family.

Biblical Foundation Reference Genesis 1:27

Corresponding Biblical Foundation Genesis 2:19 Genesis 1:15-25 Mark 3:27 Luke 14:27-30 Psalm 127:3-5 Psalm 128:3 Ephesians 5:28 Titus 2:4 Proverbs 13:24 Proverbs 22:15 1 Timothy 5:8 Colossians 3:21 Ephesians 6:4 Proverbs 31 Mark 10:6-9 Psalm 27:10 Matthew 7:27

Key Text Genesis 1:28 God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground."

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Development of the Subject I.

God's Plan for the Family Marriage is an extension of God's own nature as expressed in Genesis 1:27. The fullness of God's happiness, peace, abundance and greatness was bestowed upon the human race through the first couple that He created. Had they kept the principles that God established, they would not have needed to go through so many difficulties such as pain, sickness, misery, sadness, suffering, etc. Even though God had carefully prepared the place where this couple would inhabit (with their descendants), and even though God had thought of every last detail necessary for their eternal happiness, there was one area where God chose not to intervene the human will which He had placed in each person. This would be the inheritance that He had entrusted to them, to administer as they saw fit, but the happiness of the couple depended on their obedience to the Word of God. Even if the couple was not educated in other subjects, that would affect their marriage, such as, finance, educating their children, etc., with just their simple obedience to God, He would guide them into having the best home possible. The reason is because "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom." It is important to understand that God's intention to redeem marriages and families is to restore them to His original plan. A part of that plan is that our understanding needs to adjust to the divine purpose of living effectively within the relationships that God has ordained for our homes. A. God Established a Foundation - Matthew 7:24-27 Every couple goes into marriage with the illusion of building the best home in the world, but in order to do that they must work on laying the foundation. The foundation of a home does not depend on your profession, the size of your bank account or the family you came from. The Lord said, "The foundation of a home is hearing, keeping and doing". This combination of the three elements is as strong as when you put bricks, sand and cement together to lay a foundation. When someone builds a tall tower, a deep hole must be dug into the ground, in accordance to the size of the planned construction; then a good strong foundation must be laid. A home must be built with the knowledge that the foundation will add the support of the family's needs. B. God Created Marriage - Genesis 2:18 Marriage was not man's idea; it was a divine idea. God created man with the capacity to feel attraction for the opposite sex; man towards woman and woman towards man. God gave Adam a perfect helpmate, someone that would partner with him; a woman who would be his helper and support. Together they would make a team. In His infinite wisdom, God chose two completely different people and brought them together in a covenant of faithful and permanent love. When this happens, a miracle takes place. These two individuals join together in a mysterious way to become one. The purpose of this union is to bring forth a new generation for God. Malachi 2:15 C. God United Them in Marriage - Genesis 1:28 The fullness of the blessing comes, not when people are single, but when they married. God blessed the couple and both were given the same degree of responsibility. If the couple abides in full harmony, these three blessings abide with them: 1. Fruitfulness The fruit determines the type. The first couple's life was innocent and pure therefore the fruit should have been the fruit of sanctification. 2. Multiplication

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What is seen in the natural realm is true also in the spiritual. Children in a marriage are the result of teamwork. In the same way, abundant fruit is seen in ministry when both work together as a team. The end result is multiplication. 3. Lordship A life of holiness should lead to multiplication when this happens authority comes. A couple united in harmony, being led by the Word of God, is as powerful as a well organized army. The secret is to always work as a team. When Eve wanted to be independent she opened the door to the tempter. But had she first consulted with her husband, things would have been very different. D. God Set Guidelines - Genesis 2:15-25 •

v. 15

- Man should provide for his home and protect his family.

He is like the guardian angel over his house. The strategy of the adversary is to attack him with vices of negative or unclean thoughts, evil desires and sinful conduct. If the enemy is able to influence man's will and keep him enslaved to sin, it becomes easier for him to attack the rest of his family (Mark 3:27). •

vs. 16-17 - Man should be obedient. God allows mankind to go through certain trials that will ensure Him of their true, heartfelt love.

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v. 18

- Fellowship.

The woman is the perfect complement to man's life and has the ability to fulfill all his expectations. •

v. 19

- Man determines his family's destiny.

He decides the outcome or destiny of his children. Fathers can make their children either the happiest people alive or the most miserable because his words have authority over his family. •

v. 21-23 - From the two He made one. The miracle of marriage has its roots from the creation of mankind for the woman was created from the same nature or substance of the man. When a couple is able to understand their roots and their destiny, they will be able to work as a team and take advantage of all the things available in order to be truly happy.

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v. 24 - Protection of intimacy Every couple needs to protect their intimacy. The best way to mature is to have the challenge of having to “make it” on their own.

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v. 25 - Transparency. With sincerity and integrity, a couple can reach the highest pinnacles of family harmony.

II. The Importance of a Family A. Marital Stability - Luke 14:27-30 Allow me to paraphrase this text: Anyone then, wanting to build this great tower called marriage, must first see if they are able to go to the very end. May it not be that the person (be it the husband or the wife) gets married full of enthusiasm but after a few years abandons the spouse, ending in separation. This person may become a laughing stock befuddled by such mockery as, "Yeah, he stared out so excited. But now look, he's left his wife and his children!"

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In order to build a marriage you must start out visualizing how you two are going to be happy forever. You need to know from the start that you will have the strength to persevere together and reproduce for several generations. Within divine guidelines, marriage is one of the greatest blessings, especially when you understand that the blessing of God is enriching and does not bring sadness to our lives. In other words, God will keep you from ending up in separation. B. Offspring - Psalm 127:3-5 What good is it to build a home and have no family to live in it after you are gone? Napoleon, despite all his efforts, was not able to create a dynasty. Thousands of wealthy people would give half of everything they own, just to hear the cry of a newborn babe in their family. Children are the inheritance that God will give us. When a man dies without children, his home is still not built. A warrior is happy as he sees his arrows fly where he himself is not able to go. Good children are like arrows headed for the targets that their parents point them toward. What marvels can a man accomplish, if he has affectionate children who fulfill the wishes of their father and pay heed to his counsel! C. A Blessed Family - Psalm 128:3 Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine within your house and your children like olive plants around your table. The vine is a type of happiness and fruitfulness. These are the two abilities the Lord has given wives. Children are like olive plants. The olive tree represents the anointing of God, which is what strengthens families to conquer all. The meaning behind the anointing with oil is that God will fight for us. D. Conjugal Love - Ephesians 5:28 The standard that God set for each man is very high: love your wife with the same love that Christ loved the church and gave Himself as a sacrifice for. This was all for the redemption of the church. Marital love must be fed daily with words, attitudes and nice details. You must fight to protect the members of your family from any emotional wounds. There must be a firm commitment by both spouses to never allow the flame of romantic love to die down or burn out. E. The Woman’s Leadership - Titus 2:4 Paul emphasized working with homogeneous groups. In the scripture he encourages women to develop in ministry and to be trained so that they can teach other women. The best way to do this is in groups made strictly of women where the issues discussed can be specifically designed for that group. The two foundational issues far women's groups are love toward your spouse and love toward your children.

III. Taking Responsibility A. The Use of Proper Discipline - Proverbs 13:24, 22:15 There are three steps in the use of proper discipline in the family: 1. To edify In the same way we establish limits for the proper growth of a tree so that it does not grow twisted, so must a father do with his children. He recognizes that his children must be corrected from an early age and to set limits, in order to help in their growth. This is true in any type of discipline. 2. To encourage

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Discipline should be focused on encouraging the children to become better day by day. A negative attitude or the use of negative speech can bring emotional destruction and kill their drive to overcome. It is important for parents to encourage and bless their children daily. Each word spoken over them can be as powerful as a prophecy. 3. To comfort Children need to know they are not alone in their struggles but that they can count on the help and support of their parents, to whom they can run to in any situation and find refuge. Our children's worth is not determined by what they do but by who they are. B. The Importance of Good Instruction - Proverbs 22:15 In general, children have the tendency to believe that they know best. But it is the parent's duty to guide them down the path of truth, with love and by their example. The world may offer many alternatives but there is only one way to the Father; Jesus. If we can help them enter into an intimate relationship with God, as parents, we have fulfilled a large part of our responsibility. We should also seek to invest time in their lives as they grow up. Parents should look for bridges of communication to cultivate their relationship with their children. C. Providing for Your Family - 1 Timothy 5:8 A human's life develops in cycles. During the first cycle, the parents are the ones working and providing for all the needs in the home. In the second cycle, the children are the ones with the strength of providing for their families. This is the time within the cycle when they should honor their parents with the necessary provision, to avoid being classified by God as "Worse than an unbeliever. Whoever carries the responsibility of providing for their home should do so with an attitude of faith and a generous heart. In doing so, the inherent blessing in the relationship will not be lost through any negative comments. D. Moral Values - Colossians 3:21; Ephesians 6:4 We should have balance when we discipline our children. It should not be too drastic, but the other extreme of excessive permissiveness should also be avoided. Both extremes are dangerous because it could damage or spoil the children as was the case with the sons of Eli. He never disciplined them and this brought about early death. 1 Samuel 3:11-14 E. The Virtuous Woman - Proverbs 31:10 The virtuous woman builds her house. She is the center of the home. She is able to discover the talents and gifting of her children, discerns good business decisions for her husband, knows where to raise her children and has the ability to bring prosperity to her home. F. The Ideal Marriage - Mark 10:6-9 We can say that the divorce rate within Christianity is minimal, thanks to those covenant vows that the man and the woman spoke as they joined their lives in marriage before God. Since the Lord is a covenant God, He is keenly aware of those lives coming together under His blessing. He watches over those who are truly trying to fulfill His commandments. There are many reasons for divorcing: infidelity, lack of love or communication, false expectations, etc. But those who have the blessing of God will have the strength to overcome any obstacle. G. God’s Unconditional Love - Psalm 27:10 In general, humans have many spiritual voids that stem mainly from childhood and were caused from a variety of reasons or circumstances: For some, parental neglect, due to abandonment, is a factor. For others, indifferences and stress in parenting became the reason. Even though the parents may have forgotten their primary responsibility of protecting their children, God does not forget. He comes in and takes over the responsibility abdicated by the parents. For that reason, God is always waiting with open arms to comfort each one of His children.

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Conclusion The origin of the family goes back to the origin of mankind and is part of God's plan for all humanity. That is why God's plan is to restore the family with the purpose to rebuild that which the enemy tried to destroy.

Evaluation It is important that your students understand the origin of the family and the importance of their own families. This lesson can be evaluated by having the students analyze their own families (See students' assignment).

Recommended Methodology For this lesson, it is important to clearly explain the issues discussed. Open discussion with question and answer format, relevant to the subject, is recommended.

Student’s Assignment The students should do reports about their own families evaluating their family's current condition and any possible.

Application During this week, take time to thank God for the family He gave you. Seek to reach out with loving arms to each family member living at home. Make lists of each one of their qualities and thank God for their lives.

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Questions for Further Study 1. What is the main purpose of the family? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 2. When God established the foundation of marriage, what were the three steps given by God for us to practice? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 3. How did God establish the first couple according to Genesis 2:18? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 4. What were the blessings God gave them when He united them? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 5. What were the guidelines that God gave the first couple according to Genesis 2:15-25? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 6. Why is marital stability important in a marriage? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 7. Define offspring and explain why it is so important to the family. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 8. What is the blessing of God for the family? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 9. What does Ephesians 5:18 tell us about marital love? __________________________________________________________________________________________________

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__________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 10. Explain Titus 2:4 in reference to a woman. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 11. The responsibilities within marriage are: a. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________ b. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________ c. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________ d. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________ e. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________

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Lesson 2: Family Members and Their Proper Roles

Teaching Objective For the student to understand what the duties are, for each of the individual family members.

Student Objectives 1. The student will explain what the father's role is. 2. The student will explain what the mother's role is. 3. The student will explain what the children's role is.

Biblical Foundation Reference Ephesians 6:1-3

Corresponding Biblical Foundation Luke 15:20 Genesis 17:5-6 Genesis 27:27 1 Kings 9:4-5 Esther 2:11 Proverbs 31:10-31 Galatians 6:7-9 Titus 2:7 Proverbs 1:8 Proverbs 23:22 Proverbs 20:20

Key Text Ephesians 6:1-4 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise— "that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

Development of the Subject I.

The Father The heart of God is that of a father's. His very nature says that He is first and foremost a father. In our Father's heart there is love, sweetness, understanding, mercy and provision. No one has

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greater love as the Father does. He loved the world so much that He gave His son, Jesus Christ, for our redemption. If an earthly father gives only the best to his children, how much more will our heavenly father do so with each one of you? In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus set a high standard for each of His disciples: "Be ye perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect" (Matthew 5:48). We will become outstanding leaders when we first become excellent fathers. Paul said, "For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name" (Ephesians 3:14-15). God is the solid foundation of the family. The word "family" originates from the root word "paternity " God wants to restore true paternity in the family through the men, by having them take back their authority as fathers, who build relationships with their children which establishes their family's destiny. A father who is led by God shows character qualities different from those learned in the world. A. Merciful Father - Luke 15:20 It is exciting to see how Jesus revealed the Father's heart to us through the use of parables. For example, in the parable of the prodigal son, the father is anxiously waiting to forgive his son when he returns, in spite of his rebelliousness. He had always been waiting for his return and when he saw him arriving from afar, he ran out to meet him and embraced his son with a blessing. That was one of my first experiences as a new Christian. I sensed that my Father's arms were opened, extended to me, wherein I could take my refuge. I did not hesitate to place myself right there. This brought so much security and emotional stability to my life that I never wanted that moment to end. Anyone wanting to love another person must first receive love from the Father. B. Father of Multitudes - Genesis 17:5-6 "Abram" means exalted father, but his new name "Abraham" means father of multitudes. God was pleased by the faith of this great man and knew that he would raise his children in the fear of God. It pleased Him to multiply his descendents for a thousand generations. C. A Father Who Blesses His Children - Genesis 27:27-29 The blessing is the path that the father prepares for his children. Every word proceeding from his lips activates the spiritual realm causing things to move in order to fulfill the words he spoke over his children. I highly recommend that fathers speak daily blessings over their children. They should pray for their divine protection, spiritual peace, financial provision, family harmony and the anointing for multiplication. D. An Exemplary Father - 1 King 9:4-5 David was known as a man after God's own heart. One of the best descriptions of his life is found in Psalm 15. •

v.1 He was committed to the House of God

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v.2 He led a life of permanent integrity

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v.3 He never spoke evil about anyone nor accepted gossip about others

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v.4 He kept his word and never took it back

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v.5 He was transparent concerning his finances

E. A Substitute Father - Esther 2:11 When Esther became an orphan, Mordecai, her uncle, took on the role of her father. He cared for her and trained her up as his own daughter. Even though the emotional void in Esther's life may have been great, he was able to fill it in such a way that she eventually became a woman in her own right knowing how to trust in God. She grew in her faith and later won the support

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of her own people. God was able to use all of this to make her a queen in the midst of a pagan nation. This later worked to save the lives of all the Jews living in that country.

II.

The Mother God blessed me with the best mother in the world. Even though she had twelve children, she was careful to watch over each one of them. When my father died thirty eight years ago, people wondered how she would raise and educate her children. She would later experience the truth of God's word where it said, "God is a husband to the widows and a father to the orphans." How she was able to do it, I don't know, but God knows. Everything she touched was multiplied and there was always abundance. This proved that God never withheld his provision to us. I can say that my mother was a woman who lived only for her children. I rejoiced greatly when at the age of eighty one, she started her first home cell group meeting with sixteen people in attendance. Everyone there was about as young as she was! Seeing her actively involved in ministry has brought great satisfaction to me. I have never seen her as happy as she is now serving God. I have memories of love, affection, self denial, patience, dedication, and above all, of a woman who always trusted in God. A. Virtuous Woman - Proverbs 31:10-31 The author of proverbs presents us with all the benefits that accompany the virtuous woman. •

v.10

She is a gift from God to her husband. Her worth is far above jewels.

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v.11

Her husband trusts her and she has the anointing to attract prosperity.

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v.12

She is always a blessing to her husband. vs.13 She is a hard worker.

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v.13

She is a hard worker.

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v.14

She is resourceful.

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v.15

She looks out for her family's well being.

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v.16

She works in order to leave an inheritance for her children.

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v.17

She is strong and courageous.

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v.18 She is financially discerning and has a sensitive spirit to divine revelations received in dreams.

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v.19

She knows how to do her job.

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v.20

She has mercy on the needy.

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v.21

She guards her household.

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v.22 She is elegant.

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v.23 She encourages her husband in ministry.

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v.24

She's entrepreneurial.

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v.25

She prepares for the future events.

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v.26 She always has a word of wisdom and she knows how to practice mercy.

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v.27

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v.28 She has her family's respect and admiration. vs.29 She is extraordinary and excels above everyone else.

She can carry her own weight without being a burden to anyone.

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III.

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v.30 She is not deceived by outward beauty but puts confidence in God only.

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v.31

Her work speaks more than her words.

What are you sowing into your family? A. Galatians 6:7-9 The home is like fertile soil where the words spoken in the past have grown, bringing all their consequences with them, into the present. What we plant today will bring its fruit tomorrow. Today, society is faced with the deterioration of the family's nucleus. It is one of the greatest crises of humanity. Many things like TV, radio, magazines and the like, have had the type of influence that has cut a line of corrosion right down the middle of the human family. Because of this, protection must remain at an all time high and even more so for couples who become involved in ministry. When this is done, it will leave a positive effect on everyone, especially the children as they too develop the desire to follow the parent's example. As a couple, we need to sow good things into the lives of our children (as the world is ever before them which sow seeds of evil and despair). B. Motivate them to become positive individuals Positive is my word of choice when I describe a life of faith that is not easily churned by circumstances. To me a positive person is someone that has learned to speak the Word of God only. The opposite of positive is negative. Parents, I admonish you to teach your children to be positive. Meet with them and teach them the message of truth so that they may learn to see all things with eyes of faith. C. Teach them integrity Children are formed and trained from a very young age. When Paul wrote Titus 2:7, he affirmed, "In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness..." (NIV) For instance, teach them to be considerate of the emotions of others; they should never play with someone's feelings. Teach them that betrayal towards his or her friends is showing lack of integrity also. The primary example comes from the family itself because you are to be examples for your children. D. Help them in the spiritual area Just as we must feed our physical body, our spiritual being must be nourished also. Spiritual nourishment comes from the study of God's Word and our ongoing life of prayer. Each one of my daughters has developed the habit of having time of intimacy with God daily. They also journalize all the teachings they receive through His Word. Their commitment with the Lord is to first feed their spiritual life and then feed their physical bodies. I recommend that you meet with your family daily, for at least fifteen minutes, and share something from the scripture. This habit will bring strong unity in the family. E. Motivate them to have a surmounting spirit A crisis plaguing our society today is the fact that we are overly saturated with information that has diminished the human spirit. Conquest has been replaced with a spirit of conformity and mere subsistence. We don't want that for our children, so let's motivate them to influence that sphere of society, in which they are involved with, the example of their Christian living. This world is in a desperate search for stability within the family, not another electrical appliance or a faster vehicle. We know that people will only find what they need through Jesus Christ. So let's encourage our children to be ambassadors of Christ at work or in school. F. Help them have a balanced self image Parents should help each one of their children with their self-esteem, keeping in mind their own struggles with self-acceptance at one time or another:

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•

Speak words of blessing to them each day - Honor them for their accomplishments

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Do not embarrass them when things don't go as planned

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Help them to see adversity as small steps toward making those better people

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Help them to see that they are God's special treasures

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Help each one of your children to have a proper self-image

G. Help them follow the rules Help them to have discipline and maintain rules. Teach them to keep a schedule for everything including their personal lives, their studies, personal commitments (that they need to keep) fulfilling their ministry, and one for their daily relationship with God. H. Teach them how to relate to others Have you noticed that many young people don't greet others? Teach them to be courteous toward other people, their friends, cousins and anyone outside of their norm. Teach them to speak and express themselves properly, not using street vernacular. Teach them also to dress properly. And as for their self-education, teach them to be good readers, especially of books dealing with faith and success.

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IV.

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Responsibilities the Parents Must Share A. Communication with your children Another societal problem facing us today is that technology has brought virtual friends into our households, putting distance between family members. This means that parents and children must make an effort to re-build bridges of communication, bringing more closeness, as they lay aside the things that serve as obstacles to better communication. Set time aside each day: Children don't ask for much, just to know that they matter. If you start with at least fifteen minutes, this would be great progress. Dialogue with them: Avoid raising your voice, blaming, making fun, or complaining, etc. Let everything you speak be positive, conveying faith and motivation for them. Create a good atmosphere for communication: If someone is offended and no one has asked for forgiveness, it can make the atmosphere very tense. It is imperative to have all past wounds healed and all resentment put aside. Have recreational activities that involve all the children keeping in mind their individual age differences.

V.

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Keep them involved in important family decisions.

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Treat them like you treat your own friends.

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Make them feel like they are the most important people in your life.

The Children's Role

A person's success depends upon how they treat their own parents; if they despise, hurt or curse them, their days will be shortened. If they bless and honor them, their days will be prolonged. A. Honor your parents - Ephesians 6:1-3 Honoring your parents is a divine command that brings a double promise with it: 1. It will go well with you in all that you do. 2. Your life will be prolonged. B. Be obedient to them - Ephesians 6:1 C. Listen to their counsel and teaching - Proverbs 1:8 D. Bring joy to their lives - Proverbs 10:1 E. Care for them when they are old - Proverb 23:22 F. Declare over them in the form of blessing, that their understanding will be clear and their lives will shine - Proverbs 20:20,

Conclusion There must be an understanding that God's purpose is to establish priestly families and that each family member is to make the effort to evoke the presence of God in their homes so that God's Spirit can keep our families in harmony.

Evaluation

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The class can be tested in the form of a quiz or section test. But the important thing to look for is a change of attitude from the students with regards to their own families (this is something that only they can accomplish). While preparing the lesson, pray to God that He will produce a change in the lives of each one of your students.

Recommended methodology A question and answer session is important while paying particular attention to questions reflecting on the attitudes of the students.

Students’ Assignment Make a table or chart specifying roles for each family member with the purpose of identifying wrong attitudes and praying that God would change your family. This is an important project for the teacher to effectively identify the specific problems in the families of the students.

Application During the week you are going to pray for each one of your family members and you are going to bless them, taking authority so that each one may fulfill their proper roles in the family.

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Questionnaire for Further Study 1. What should be the heart of a Father? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 2. Fill in the following chart: Characteristics of Fathers

Bible Reference

Explanation

a. _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ b. _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ c. _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ d. _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ e. _____________________________ _____________________________ _____________________________ 3. What should the heart of a mother be? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 4. What are the characteristics of a virtuous woman according to Proverbs 31? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 5. What is the seed I need to sow into my family? a. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________ b. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________ c. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________ d. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________ e. _______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________ f.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________

6. What responsibilities do parents share? __________________________________________________________________________________________________

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__________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 7.

How should children honor their parents? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _

8. For meditation: a. Before knowing Jesus, how was your relationship with your father, mother and brothers and sisters, how has it changed? b. If your relationship with any of the members of your family is not right, ask God to give you an attitude of forgiveness in your heart that you may be able to restore that relationship.

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Lesson 3: Protecting Self-esteem

Teaching Objectives To bring about a change of attitude in the students as they identify the types of emotional problems affecting them.

Student Objectives 1. To identify the emotional problems in the students’ life caused by the family. 2. To determine the steps necessary to change those conditions.

Biblical Foundational Reference Isaiah 53:4-5

Corresponding Biblical Foundation 1 Corinthians 2:9 Galatians 3:13 Matthew 23:9 Matthew 11:28 Lamentations 5:7 Luke 15:17 -19 2 Samuel 9:6-8 2 Samuel 4:4 Luke 15:20-25 1 Samuel 15: 17,24 John 10:10 John 14:6 Joel 2:25 Isaiah 54:4-17 Exodus 20:5 1 John 4:18 2 Corinthians 2:14

Key Verse Psalm 147:3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

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Purpose The Lord made a great exchange on the cross of Calvary: He took all of our evil and gave us all of His good. What would you think if you saw a man bring in and old, beat up car to a dealership, asking to trade it in; and the manager replies, "No problem, just give me your old car and I will give you a brand new one." Let's say that you are that person and he gives you a new Mercedes Benz and says that you don't owe him anything but to sign on the dotted line making the car yours! In a similar way, this is what Jesus did on the cross. He took our life of sin, completely destroyed by evil, where no matter what medicine we took, nothing was able to solve our emotional, spiritual and physical ailments (Isaiah 1:6). We knew we needed a complete transformation. That's when we decided to come to Jesus saying, "Lord, here's my life, I want to trade it in." Jesus replied, "No problem, bring your life with the good and the bad, and do away with it at the cross." If you can understand the power of the cross, your life will never be the same. Jesus redeemed us from the curse, destroying it (the curse) completely on the cross of Calvary. In Deuteronomy 28:15-68, you will find 53 verses that speak of the effects of the curse that come upon those who do not obey the voice of God, who do not keep and do His commandments. On the other hand Paul taught that our redemption had been complete (Galatians 3:13).

Development of the Subject I.

Overcoming Emotional Problems First, define what the emotions are because that will make it easier to identify any problems. Then minister to them. Sadly, those who say that they love us, have caused the deepest wounds. Children are an extension of their parent's characters. Their lives affect them in a positive or in a negative way. Jeremiah the prophet said it this way, "Our fathers sinned and are no more, and we bear their punishment" (Lamentations 5:7). But God opened a new way through Jesus Christ so that through Him the curse will be taken away and the blessing restored to our lives, families and ministries. A. Self-esteem - 2 Samuel 9:6-8 Mephibosheth was the grandson of King Saul. Naturally, along with this came all the privileges afforded to the high society families in Israel. But adversity touched all the members of the king's family. Within just one day, he lost his father and grandfather. When his nanny received the bad news, in her panic she hurried to run away, but ended up dropping little fiveyear-old Mephibosheth leaving him crippled as a result. (2 Samuel 4: 4). Because of all the adversity that he went through in his childhood, he let many negative thoughts enter into his mind set and a herded his personality. When the king offered to restore to him, all the privileges and rights of a prince, it was difficult for him to understand. He considered himself an undesirable person. He was accustomed to people rejecting him and running away from him. That is why he used the example of a dead dog, when describing himself, because was a perfect example of repulsion. David is a type of Christ and Mephibosheth represents the afflicted person. The words of the king represent the offer Jesus makes to each one of us: He encouraged him to not be afraid. "Do not fear" (2 Samuel 9:7). Mephibosheth had inherited not only his grandfather's fear but also his inferiority complex (1 Samuel 15:17,24). Fear is more than just a feeling, it is a demonic spirit whose sole purpose is to kill, steal and destroy (John 10:10). It was written in God's law that God visits the iniquity of the fathers on the children, to the third and the fourth generations of those who hate Him [Exodus 20:5). John said, "Perfect love casts out all fear" [1 John 4:181. If the son makes you free, you are free indeed (John 8:36).

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He offers His grace, "For I will surely show kindness to you..." (2 Sam 9:7). Grace is the unmerited favor of God toward each of us. It is not a reward for something good that we may have done. Grace brings dignity and brings elevation into people's lives; it also brings the family unit to life and causes God's blessings to become manifest in each one (Romans 5:8, John 3:16). If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31). He restores material blessings: "I will restore to you all the land,.." (2 Samuel 9:7). In other words, God will restore to you everything the enemy took, because of your faith. In just one day, this man's whole life changed. He went from a life of scarcity and poverty to a life of abundance. When the favor of God reaches our lives, He restores us and pours out rich blessings upon our lives. Like the prophecy of Joel 2:25-26, "Then I will make up to you for the years that the swarming locust has eaten, the creeping locust, the stripping locust and the gnawing locust, my great army which I sent among you. You will have plenty to eat and be satisfied and praise the name of the LORD your God, who has dealt wondrously with you; then my people, will never be put to shame." (NASU). Paul said, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him"(1 Corinthians 2:2-10) "You shall eat at my table" (2 Samuel 9:7). Not having anything to be ashamed of and being able to share all of your desires with Him is one of the greatest privileges anyone could have. This is what God has made available to any one of us who believes. All those who were invited to eat at the king's table had to sit with him each morning so that the king would see their faces. If someone was not present, it was due to some illness or tragic circumstance. What is "the table?" It is when we enter into the intimacy of prayer with Him. At His table we hear the voice of God speaking, full of promises that are within our reach, they are ours now and we accept them by saying "amen," Paul said, "But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ" (2 Corinthians 2:14). B. The child always turns to the Father - Luke 15:17-19 In this story, the son represents how separated our lives are from the Father God. We misuse our spiritual blessings continually and each day that we remain apart from Him, our state worsens. The steps the son eventually walked out, exemplifies how we need to seek spiritual restoration: •

He came to his senses: He stopped in his tracks and reconsidered the foolishness he was committing.

•

He made a decision: He had the courage to seek a second chance.

•

He had a repentant heart: He didn't even seek the privileges he once had but wanted to be received, at least, as a servant.

C. The father restores the son - Luke 15:20-24 •

v.21

•

v.22 He restores all of the son's rights and privileges.

•

v.23 He performed an act of redemption the fattened calf is a type of Christ,

•

v.24 The son goes from death to life, from a life of perdition to a fruitful one.

The father accepts his son's confession.

D. The restoration of the woman - Isaiah 54:1-17 God is as much a loving Father as He is an understanding husband. Before giving the woman words of comfort, in the first two verses He offers some suggestions: •

v.1

•

v.2 Project yourself because you will grow in accordance to your faith.

Shout for joy, because you will overcome barrenness.

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•

v.3 Promise: You will be enlarged greatly and conquer nations. God, as a loving father, brings the past to light to give us a better future.

•

v.4 Fear brings confusion, outrage brings shame. God will heal your memories from the afflictions of your youth.

•

v.5 Restoring your intimacy with God.

•

v.6 Abandonment brings sadness, separation brings pain.

•

v.7 God will repay the time of affliction with great compassion.

•

v.8 You will not know an angry God, but a deeply loving God that assures your eternal future.

•

v.12 He will fill your house with precious things and raise up a wall of protection around your family.

•

v.13

•

v.14 God will keep you from oppression and fear. vs.17 No weapon that is formed against you will prosper.

•

v.17

Your children will be taught of the Lord and there will be peace in your home.

No weapon that is formed against you will prosper.

E. Ministering to the students The people in your class have probably never wanted to open up their hearts before God for fear of past memories. It could also be because they don't want their friends to know of the difficulties they may have gone through, or because they have never had the opportunity to remember or confront their past. At this time, you both have the authority and responsibility to minister to them. The following steps will help you to effectively minister to and guide each one of the students in the class.

1. Prepare a proper atmosphere far ministry: There should be an atmosphere of prayer and spiritual reverence where the presence of God can come.

2. Minister God's fatherhood: Jesus said, "No one comes to the Father but through me" (John 14:6)."Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven" (Matt.23:9). "In their entire affliction He was afflicted, and the angel of His presence saved them" (Isaiah 63:9).God is ready to restore His paternity towards each one of His children. He wants to grant them what their own fathers have denied them and heal every wound caused by a soiled past.

3. Identify any emotional wound or trauma: The deepest wounds in a human being are the ones in their emotions. They may not be in the fore-memory but in the subconscious. Only the Holy Spirit can bring the necessary revelation for effective ministry, but effort must be made to make this happen. No doubt, confrontation will arise too. Do not avoid it!

4. Tell the student to: a. Always maintain an attitude of forgiveness: Under stand that it is not a feeling, but a decision. Normally, we would do anything to see people pay for the harm they caused us. But these are just feelings of revenge that can hinder the development of our personality. Everyone that harbors resentment is not in his proper mind and will not be able to be him self until he decides to forgive whole-heartedly. b. Take all burdens to the cross: Imagine the cross as a giant magnet and all of your emotional baggage as small needles that get drawn to and completely absorbed by the cross as you draw near. That's what Jesus does with each one of our wounds. c. All of our problems can only be solved through the cross of Christ. Meditate on Jesus as He hangs on the cross until you understand His death as your own death. When this

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happens, you will be able to say like Paul, "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20). d. Take whatever time is needed to bring each wound or trauma to the cross. e. Express your feelings openly. Trauma is a mixture of frustrating feelings where many questions arise. Where was my father when this happened to me? Who is to blame for what happened to me? Will someone have to pay for it? Etc.? If you felt anger or bitterness or hatred toward someone, now you have to express it. Or, if you blame yourself for it and say you will never forgive yourself for it, this is the time to do so, regardless. f.

Find a substitute: When Jesus saw the void that He was leaving in His mother's heart, He called John to take His place. This shows that substitution is just as powerful as forgiving the actual person.

g. Take each and every one of the arguments Gad is revealing and cancel them out on the cross of Calvary. h. Stand in your parent's place and confess their sins: Do it as if you had committed them yourself. This is essential to void generational curses. i.

Confess the Word: Every argument that you cancel should be backed by the Word of God. Jesus did this when He defeated the adversary.

j.

Speak a prayer of faith: Consecrate your life, from the moment you were conceived, by asking God to make that intimate moment of your conception holy. Bless your entire gestation period also. Confess that, when you were born, God's hands received you and that's why your life is secure in Him.

Note: The leader needs to know that the student is only getting started in the class and should continue at home. In most cases, the healing continues and takes even more time. Each one should learn how to continue their self-deliverance, in the name of Jesus, so that each day they get more revelations about bondages from the past that they need deliverance from. F.

Taking every burden to the Lord Now that we are Christians, we should freely speak with God about removing all those things that hurt and affect us. His word bids us to "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). God will always be ready to listen when we express our burdens. Talk to the Lord about the things in your heart so that you will receive His promise: I will give you rest.

Conclusion Make sure all students were ministered to because the strength of your leadership depends on how healed their lives are.

Evaluation The students' own testimonies will be your best evaluation of success. No one can give what he or she has not received. Before someone can be used in the area of restoration, first they must have gone through it themselves.

Recommended Methodology Be clear and concise in order to take advantage of as much time as possible to minister to the group.

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Students’ Assignment With paper and pencil, write down all the wounds you need to OVERCOME. In an act of faith, take them to the cross, and then destroy the sheet of paper as a symbol that all those arguments have been cancelled

Application From now on, the student knows what to do to heal his wounds. So, from this moment forward, each time they are wounded, they will forgive and take it to the cross.

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Questionnaire f or Further Study 1. What are emotions? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 2. What is the cause of our emotional problems? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 3. What is self-esteem? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 4. What does Jesus do when our self-esteem is not right? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 5. When we make mistakes, we need to acknowledge them. What was the attitude of the son in Luke 15:17-19? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 6. How did the father restore his son in Luke 15:2-32? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 7. How does God restore the woman according to Isaiah 54? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 8. What must I do to receive restoration for all areas of my life? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _

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Lesson 4: Seven Steps to a Successful Courtship

Teaching Objectives The student should have an understanding that the value of courtship lies in the fact that it takes its direction from God Himself. This way the lives within the relationship are protected and set on the path to fulfilling His purpose.

Student Objectives 1. Identify God's purpose for their emotional state. 2. Explain and discuss reasons why a single person should abstain from sexual intercourse until marriage. 3. Explain why they (the students) are God's masterpiece.

Biblical Foundational Reference Mark 10:9 Proverbs 19:14

Corresponding Biblical Foundation Psalm 119:105 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 1 John 4:1 Ecclesiastes 3:1 1 Corinthians 2:9 1 Corinthians 6:19 1 Corinthians 6:18 Romans 12:1 John 12:24 Proverbs 13:20 Romans 8:14

Purpose In today's society, courtship is based on physical attraction. Nowadays, entering into an emotional relationship is pretty easy, but due to lack of maturity, young people are exposing themselves to being hurt emotionally. In order to understand the proper relationship between a male and female, it is important to understand its inception. When Jesus answered a question about marriage, He said, "But from the beginning of creation, God made them male and female" (Mark 10:6). In order to speak about relationships or marriage, we need to start at the beginning the book of Genesis.

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We don't actually know how long after the creation of man God decided that it was not good for him to be alone and gave him a partner, a helper. The interesting question is who thought of giving him a partner first? Man or God? If we look closely, we can see, it was not Adam's initiative, but God's. God made man for woman and woman for man and it is through this relationship that procreation begins.

Development of the Subject It is a blessing when a person finds their partner. Solomon said, "House and wealth are an inheritance from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD." Proverbs 19:14 It is extremely important to marry in the will of God. This is the inheritance that God gives to those who trust in Him. Our emotional life is like a treasure that God has given to each person and should be guarded like a precious gem. We should be aware that there are many deceivers roaming throughout the world seeking unwary victims to take advantage of. Paul identified them as, "weak women weighed down with sins, led on by various impulses, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." 2 Timothy 3:6-7 All of this can be avoided if we: •

Are obedient to God's word (Psalm 119:105).

•

Refuse to be unequally yoked (2 Corinthians 6:14-15).

•

Test the spirits (1 John 4:1).

•

Know how to wait for God's timing (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

I.

Believe in God’s purpose for your life When it comes to you, God’s child, His thoughts are only good. None are bad at all. Unfortunately, within society, humans are faced with wanting all the divine benefits without taking God into account. This is why relationships go awry. In making decision for God, He will open your spiritual eyes to see the blessing God has already prepared for you. “Things which eye has not seen and ear not heard…God has prepared for those who love him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9). Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He will do it. Psalm 37:5

II. Commit your body completely to God You are the temple of God. “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;” (1 Corinthians 6:19) We need to understand that God gave us the privilege of being spiritual persons with physical bodies. When we decide to consecrate our bodies to the Spirit of God, He will keep us from making many mistakes. •

Remember your creator in the days of your youth (Ecclesiastes 12:1).

•

Do you not know your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit? (1 Corinthians 6:19).

•

If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him; for God's temple is sacred, and you are that temple (1 Corinthians 3:16-17).

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•

He that commits fornication sins against his own body (1 Corinthians 6:18).

•

Therefore I urge you, brethren...to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God (Romans 12:1).

III. Be prepared for death and resurrection Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit (John 12:24). When meeting with people of the opposite sex, we should be keenly aware of the strong feelings that may arise. It is at this point that things often begin to go wrong because the focus is on the beauty of the person and not on God's will. The first question that should come to mind is "what is the will of God for this relationship?" My advice is this: Take the time to pray and fast about this matter in your prayer time. If it is found that this person has been sent from the enemy to entrap you, renounce the person immediately. However, if God is for the relationship, pray that He affirms it.

IV. Cultivate good friendships Surround yourself with wise people. (Proverbs 13:20) What I have found to be true is that people make commitments within the circles of their society, the environment in which they make their home life. For example, if you spend a lot of time with non-Christians you are setting a trap for your soul in that, after awhile, you too will begin to act out of the same emotions that they act out of. Daniel is a good example. He had three friends: •

Hananiah – God is merciful.

•

Mishael – Who is like God.

•

Azariah – the Lord is my help.

These three friends of Daniel were his support when the king was thinking about killing all the wise men of Babylon. We should choose our friends carefully without the influence of others, When I was just a new Christian, I purposed in my heart that a person who was not a friend of God’s, could not be a friend of mine.

V.

Recognize your worth You are God’s Masterpiece. (Ephesians 2:10) Envision an imaginary line. Label it self-esteem. If you are even 5°lo below this line, you have low self-esteem. If are 5°/o above the line, you have high self-esteem. Neither of the two is good because they can interfere with decisions you make in life. A person with low self-esteem will try to identify with someone of equal or lesser self-esteem. A person with high self-esteem will try to sustain an image that they don't truly possess and because of this they can miss many opportunities in life. When they accept themselves for who they are, they won't allow anyone to judge them in any capacity: Not by their appearance, their weight nor their education. They walk with sureness that there is no one else on the earth like them. They have no doubt that among all of creation they are a work of art the God is most proud of.

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VI. Be prepared to wait God has His time. (Ecclesiastes 3:1) "Then I passed by you and saw you, and behold, you were at the time for love" (Ezekiel 16: 8). Romantic love has its proper time. There is a time for a person to get emotionally involved with someone of the opposite sex, nonetheless, it is important that every young person understands the normalcy of this stage and not attempt to hurry it or postpone it for too long. Never allow anxiety or eagerness to have its way because it can lead you to make regretful decisions.

VII.

Sensitive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit

Be led by the Spirit of God. (Romans 8:14) God in heaven has set up an appointment for you to meet the person who will be your spouse for life. If the Spirit of God leads you it will be easy, you will not miss that appointment. Even though the Lord already has the partner that you need, you still need to enter into a covenant of holiness with the Lord and declare, "Lord, I don't want to get emotionally involved with any unbeliever. I will not allow any secret or hidden relationships. However, I will do everything with decency and with order. I will abstain from any sexual intercourse until the day I get married".

Conclusion The first step that every believer must take in life is that of seeking God's perfect will. Why? Because God knows what's BEST AND His will is good, acceptable and perfect. You must decide to follow these seven principles in order to have a successful courtship. For those who are fathers of families even now, teach your children this truth.

Application Discuss each of the points learned in class and make them a part of your personal life and family. Tell the students that if they have failed to follow any of these steps they can repent, ask the Lord for forgiveness and start a new.

Evaluation The class will be evaluated during a workshop.

Recommended Methodology Break off into seven work groups. Discuss each one of the principles and later make a presentation to the whole class.

Student’s Assignment Make a chart comparing these seven principles, established by the Lord, and your personal life.

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Questionnaire for Further Study 1. According to Mark 10:9, what is God's purpose for your life emotionally? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 2. List four ways to avoid getting involved in relationships that are not God's will. Add the corresponding scriptural reference: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 3. Examine your own life and find biblical support concerning the following issues: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 4. What expectations do you have for your spouse? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 5. Are they the same as the Lord's? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 6. Who do you spend most of your time with? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 7. Who are you in Christ? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 8. What kind of attitudes show respect for your body? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _

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Lesson 5: Strengthening Communication in the Family

Teaching Objectives a. The student should understand what communication means and the importance of being a good communicator. b. To help our students become excellent communicators; first towards God, then in their family and later with their disciples.

Student Objectives 1. Define what communication means. 2. Explain the elements of communication. 3. Identify what destroys communication.

Biblical Foundational Reference Luke 6:45

Corresponding Biblical Foundation Ephesians 5:25 Matthew 12:35-38 Colossians 4:6 James 3:2 James 2:14-17 Matthew 22:28-31 2 Corinthians 11:23,27 2 Timothy 2:4-6 Numbers 13:31-33 Acts 10:34 Proverbs 15 Ecclesiastes 3:1 Proverbs 16

Key Verse Matthew 12:37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned."

Purpose

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One year we were about to begin our annual convention in Bogotá. The opening day I found myself being upset with my wife. A situation cropped up between us and caused us to become at odds with one another. Our point of views went in completely opposite directions. Even though we discussed this sensitive issue, we could not come to an amiable resolution. With that, I chose the easy way out. I chose to ignore her, not taking her into account on any level. The meeting began as usual with me greeting the people. Right after a guest saxophonist completed his repertoire, I introduced my wife so that she could address her portion of the meeting. To my embarrassment, the first words out of her mouth were, 'dear friends, today my husband and I had an argument'. The unexpected shock of those words almost knocked me over! She continued `but while the music was playing, God gave me the prophetic interpretation. He said, My daughter, I permitted what you went through today with your husband. In the same way you were hurt by his indifference, it is the same insensitivity that my own children show me by allowing days, weeks and even months to go by without any type of communication with the Holy Spirit. I want to restore that relationship starting today', After my wife shared that word, a tremendous breaking came upon the audience of eighteen thousand and in the midst of tears, they asked God for forgiveness for their indifference toward Him. They even yielded to a time of restoration between the family members. That entire opening day ended up being filled with a supernatural move of God. It led me to understand that the basis for excellent communication starts with cultivating a close relationship with the Spirit of God.

Development of the Subject I.

Definition Communicate: Give or exchange ideas, feelings, information or such things in writing, speaking or by way of signs, symbols, etc. This process can be described as verbal or non verbal communication. At any rate, it is a means of sharing information with another person where one person comes to understand what the other person expresses. Parts of communication include speaking, listening and understanding. A. Moving towards better communication Even though we are living in the age of communication, the number one problem in most homes is lack of excellent communication. There is nothing more tragic than experiencing the deterioration of your relationship with your spouse and not being able salvage it. The bible has within it the answer that we need to recover our lost values and have excellent communication. It is readily available to all of us. Watch out for confusion. Solomon said, wisdom will build your home. There is an urgent need for good communication within the heart of the family. Without it, it is impossible to build a good home. The tower of Babel was left unfinished and deserted because no one was able to understand his fellow man. I can imagine the moment: the architect has an idea, he expresses it, but his words are in a language that no one around understands. The engineer presumes to have understood the idea but when he expresses his thoughts; all the rest of the workers became discouraged and abandon their work. B. Actions James 2:14-17. Faith without works is dead. Matthew 21:28-31. Obedience is what pleases God. 2 Corinthians 11:23,27. The seal of Paul's apostleship was earned through hard work. 2 Timothy 2:4-6. Paul used three examples: the soldier, the athlete and a hard working farmer. What gives honor to them is how they perform their jobs. In a conversation, actions represent 37% of what is said.

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C.

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Attitudes Numbers 13:31-33. Because of their unbelieving attitude, ten of the twelve spies gave bad reports and a whole generation was lost and died in the wilderness. Numbers 13:30. Caleb and Joshua had a different spirit and therefore a different attitude for which God rewarded them. They were permitted to enter the Promised Land. Out of anger, Moses beat the rock that God commanded him to speak to. Because of this outburst of anger (angry attitude), he was not able to enter Canaan.

D. The power of words The worst insults are generally made in moments of anger or desperation. We know that the mouth speaks from the abundance of the heart (Luke 6:45). Our words either dignify us or put us to shame. Sometimes men forget that women are fragile vessels and the easiest way to destroy them is through offensive, demeaning words, words that prompt humiliation or violence. Nevertheless, Jesus taught us the correct way to treat our wives: Ephesians 5:25 says, "Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church." The relationship between Christ and the church be-came a great example of what a proper relationship should be. Jesus always expressed words of love and hope towards each one of His disciples. He spoke words of protection: "Fear not little flock, because it has pleased your father in heaven to give you the kingdom." Your words determine the type of person you are, good or bad (Matthew 12:35). Avoid trivial conversations that bear no fruit (Matthew 12:36). Your words will either save you or condemn you (Matthew 12:37). Your words should be motivating and joyous (Colossians 4:6). Avoid offending with your words. In a conversation, these may be only 6% of your words but they can and will become unforgettable (James 3:2). These two passages speak much about words. First, they speak of having wisdom to address each person according to the circumstance at hand, and secondly they explain that we become perfect when we don't hurt others with our words.

II. What can good communication build? Those who have learned to relate well with people have also been able to penetrate society in an effective way. Those type of people that are influential, affect the behavior of many. It is imperative that the communicator be concise, clear, precise, and anointed. The communicator should understand that the very method of his message is in direct competition with television, movies and other means of graphic, entertaining presentations. Therefore he must present his message with all the clarity that is possible! This is the reason Jesus spoke in parables, making his message so clear that the authors of the four gospels wrote their interpretation exactly alike. A. Concise It is not the quantity but the effectiveness of words that can transform lives. Jesus spoke a few words because He only wanted to speak what was necessary. Every word coming from His lips was full of power to the extent that He was able to influence even the weather with the power of His words. Peter began preaching in Cornelius' house and had spoken far only a minute and a half when the Holy Spirit interrupted him and fell upon those who were listening. They were all filled with His presence. Peter understood that the message he had preached was what they needed, for the purpose of God to be fulfilled [Acts 10:33).

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Sadly, many good messages are ruined because preachers don't finish on time. It is better for people to wish you had spoken more instead of less. B. Precise Avoid getting off the subject and take advantage of every second God gives you to share with others. It may be the only opportunity that you have. Discernment will give you an effective word that will supply the needs of those listening. Solomon said that it was good to speak the right words at the correct time. Paul advised Timothy to know how to handle well the Word of God, as a soldier handling his weapons. C. Anointed The anointing comes as a result of our intimacy with God. It is our duty to bring down the presence of God wherever we go because the eyes of God are upon the righteous of the earth and His ears are attentive to their cries. Every believer has the full backing of the angelic host. Jesus told His disciples that He cast out demons by the Spirit of God. He worked in harmony with the Father and everything He did was to bring the Kingdom of God to the people so that they may receive life.

III. Moving Towards Good Communication Speak at the right time. How good a word spoken at the right time is. Proverbs 15:23. There is a time for every event under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1 Speak, don't shout. A gentle answer turns away wrath. But a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable, but the mouth of fools spouts folly (Proverbs 15:1-2). He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city (Proverbs 16:32). It is difficult to come to an agreement when bath persons are out of control, shouting and exchanging offensive words. That does not portray good character. Think before you speak and don't speak before you think. The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things (Proverbs 15:28). If couples would put this rule into practice, many misunderstandings could be avoided in marriage. Unleash life through your words. The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit (Proverbs 15:4). In a great majority of homes, negative talk has been allowed to dominate the atmosphere. More time is spent on accentuating flaws rather than the focusing of the positive attributes of one another. This creates tremendous emotional wounds. Speak with knowledge, wisdom, kindness and respect. The lips of the wise spread knowledge; but the hearts of fools do not (Proverbs 15:7). It is important to speak edifying words within a marriage. Words that encourage and motivate. Always exalt your partner's qualities and treat them the same as you want to be treated. Speak with understanding and wisdom. The wise in heart will be called prudent, and sweetness of speech increases learning. The heart of the wise instructs his mouth and adds grace to his lips (Proverbs 16:21, 23). The words spoken to your spouse should be words of support and comfort. They should always be able to depend on you far that. So, be a blessing, not a burden.

Evaluation We understand that it would be impossible to have an excellent marital relationship if communication with our spouse is poor. Communication is a great blessing and foundation that we should be working on to enrich our marriage with.

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1. Do you look into your spouse's eyes when they speak to you? 2. How do you behave when your spouse is speaking to you? a. Do you stop what you are doing? b. Do you make them feel important? c. Do you use pleasant or unpleasant speech? 3. Does it bother you to be interrupted? 4. Do you encourage your spouse to share feelings and intimate things with you? 5. How do you react when your spouse asks simple questions? 6. How do you feel when a problem at home is shared? 7. Do you feel you are wasting time when you speak to your spouse? 8. How often do you speak to your spouse throughout the day? 9. Do you allow negative talk in your home? 10. How important is the Word of God in your home?

Conclusion In order to have a good level of communication, we should be concise, clear, precise and anointed. We need to understand that everything we share must be to edify, motivate and support. Good communication is a weapon we can use to reduce conflicts and improve our family's relationships.

How To Minister Lead the students in prayer, and tell them: •

Identify everything that has affected your development as a communicator.

•

Restore your intimacy with the Holy Spirit.

•

Decide to mend any differences with your spouse or other family members.

•

Visualize your family and self, as the best communicators of eternal truth.

•

Improve your vocabulary.

•

Become your best at public relations.

Evaluation At the beginning of this session, have the student write down on a sheet of paper, what the communication level in their home is. Let them re-evaluate it and at the end of the lesson, compare it to what they have learned.

Students’ Assignment Let the student have a workshop in their own home by practicing a more effective method of communication to improve their family's relationship.

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Application Review the words that you use to address your loved ones; change how you address those whom you do not have good communication with.

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Questionnaire for Further Study 1.

Define communication: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _

2. What are the elements of communication? a. _______________________________________________________________________________ b. _______________________________________________________________________________ c. _______________________________________________________________________________ 3. How can we have good communication? a. _______________________________________________________________________________ b. _______________________________________________________________________________ c. _______________________________________________________________________________ 4. What things can hurt good communication? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 5. What should I keep in mind when communicating? a. _______________________________________________________________________________ b. _______________________________________________________________________________ c. _______________________________________________________________________________ d. _______________________________________________________________________________ 6. What guidelines should I follow to be a good communicator? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 7. Perform a “mirror test” to evaluate how you transmit a message. Confirm the clarity of your spoken words to them by asking them to recite back to you what was spoken. Did they actually hear what you intended to say? Did you communicate it precisely and did they receive it that way? A mirror will give back to you exactly what you put before it.

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Lesson 6: The Blessing of God upon the Family

Teaching Objectives For the student to understand the blessings of marriage kept for those who are faithful to God.

Student Objectives 1. Explain what blessings are and their characteristics. 2. Speak about the differences between a blessing and a curse.

Biblical Foundational Reference Genesis 1:28

Corresponding Biblical Foundation Genesis 1:26-30 Deuteronomy 28:1 Proverbs 10:22 1 Corinthians 2:9 Galatians 3:13 2 Corinthians 8:9 Ephesians 2:8-9

Key Verse 3 John 2 Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.

Development of the Subject I.

Getting to Know the Blessings Introduce the subject by giving a biblical definition of love; so that later you may explain the different aspects of love as applied in marriage. A. Marriage is a blessing God's purpose for marriage was to bring happiness to the family. At first, Adam was alone. After Eve was created, the blessing of God came upon the couple. God loved that first couple as much as a father would love an only child. He gave them everything they needed to enjoy His blessings. Adam and Eve were: •

The image of God, (Genesis 1: 26) God's character was precisely reproduced in both of them.

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•

In divine harmony, (v.27) God is triune; Father, Son and Holy Spirit and the three are one and never disagree. In the same way, God created marriage for the couple to live in perfect harmony.

•

They were placed by God as kings over all creation (v. 28).

•

They were taught the principle of seedtime and harvest (v.29).

•

They were given provision (v.30)

3 John 2. The triple blessing. "Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers." Proverbs 10:22. The full blessing. "It is the blessing of the LORD that makes rich, and He adds no sorrow to it.” I have been able to share with thousands of people around the world and from what I can tell, everyone wants a better life, even those who think that spirituality should have nothing to do with material things. We need to learn that God gave us all things in abundance for us and for our enjoyment. B.

God is the Father of abundance - 1 Corinthians 2:9 God's blessings are always beyond what our minds can perceive. The things that eye has not seen, nor has ear heard, are the things that God has stored in His secret place and they will only be manifested to those who by faith, get to see them, touch them and confess them as if they already were their own. God is not poor and He is not selfish, therefore, He always gives in abundance. He never considered giving mankind just a small portion of the earth along with a few animals. He was very generous and gave man the whole earth so that both he and his children could live in it and enjoy it forever. If man had not been so selfish and stingy of heart, I am sure every human being could live like a king. But because of sin, man lost all of his privileges.

C. The purpose of God is to Bless you - Deuteronomy 28:1-14 The blessing of God is tied to obeying His Word. •

v2. Every type of blessing will be upon you.

•

v3. You'll be blessed wherever you go.

•

v4. Blessings will be upon your children, your neighborhood and your work.

•

v5. Blessings will be upon your family basket.

•

v6. All your activities will be blessed.

•

v7. You will always find a way out of all your problems.

•

v8. You will be blessed in all you do.

•

v9. You will be called into ministry.

•

v10.

God will exalt you and give you honor.

•

v11.

Wherever you live, you will prosper.

•

v12 You will be a great businessman able to help others.

•

v13.

You will be lifted up to places of honor and authority.

D. Jesus redeemed us from the curse of ruin - Deuteronomy 28:16-68

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The existence of blessings Are real as curses are. In the book of Deuteronomy, chapter 28, Moses wrote a whole chapter about the blessing and the curse. We have some excerpts on that chapter. Verse 15 says that not obeying the Word of God exposes the person to many types of curses. These are four times more numerous than the blessings.

II.

•

v16.

It will find you wherever you go.

•

v17.

It will affect the families' basic provision and supplies.

•

v18. It affects your children, contaminates the place you live in and stops production in your business.

•

v19.

Brings instability to your life.

•

v20.

Affects your health, emotions and everything you work to do.

•

v21.

Death will surround you and your family.

•

v22.

Every type of sickness will attack you.

•

v23.

Heaven will not listen, the earth will not respond to you.

•

v24.

Because of you the whole territory will be dry and arid.

•

v25.

You will not be able to stand up for yourself and will flee all the time.

•

v28.

Mental crisis, lack of vision and spiritual confusion will be the norm.

•

v29.

You will be far from prosperity but near to oppression.

•

v30.

You will lose your wife and belongings in an instant.

•

v32.

Your children will be trapped in vices and you will not be able to help them.

•

v33.

Others will enjoy what you have worked for.

•

v37.

No one will want to imitate you.

•

v38-43. You will not see the fruit of your ministry.

•

v44.

You will live enslaved to debts.

•

v47.

You will be affected by ungratefulness.

•

v48.

You will live in absolute poverty.

•

v62.

Your ministry will decrease until it disappears.

•

v65.

Evil will find you no matter what country you're in.

•

v66.

Uncertainty, fear and insecurity will be permanent in your life.

•

v67.

You will be very inconsistent and unreliable.

•

v68. You will go back to the world thinking that it will end your problems, but you will find that no one cares about you there.

The Cross: our place of victory - Galatians 3:13 If we could travel back for a moment to Calvary and see Jesus hanging on the cross, we could better understand that the curse, which was upon us due to sin, came upon the body of Jesus. He was suffering extreme hunger when He arrived at the cross because He had not eaten for over 24 hours. He felt thirst and shouted "I am thirsty!" He experienced nakedness and died completely

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nude without a single piece of clothing. Artists have tried to be kind to His image by covering His private parts, but we should not be deceived by this depiction. Jesus died completely naked. He exhibited His shame because He was taking our place to make us completely free of any and all curses. "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich." 2 Corinthians 8:9. If Jesus died for my poverty and misery, I don't need to suffer any of this again because it would mean I was doubting what He did for me on the cross. If I thought that renouncing material things would help me win God's heart then my salvation has a price. Because I am trying to earn my salvation by works. If I did so, then it will be the same as living under the law and not under grace. "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith; and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast". Ephesians 2:8-9 Galatians 3:14. We inherit the blessings of Abraham. v 29. Being a Christian gives me the legal right to partake of all the blessings given to Abraham.

Conclusion The easiest way to go, is to run from Go and the surest way is to walk with God. He set before us the curses and the blessings. Success and prosperity, depends exclusively on us. Let us be wise and choose to walk by the sure way: submitted by the Word of God

Evaluation Using a quiz, evaluate the blessings claimed for marriage. Also, verify that they (the students) know how to distinguish between a blessing and a curse.

Recommended Methodology Question and answer sessions help in getting the students involved, sharing what they have learned gives the teacher the opportunity to give explanations to clear up any doubts. Students should identify the type of oppression they are under at this time. Explain how they can have the full blessing of God upon their lives.

Students’ Assignment Students should review the lesson at home and take time to cancel any of the curses they may have identified in their lives, and claim the blessings.

Application Declare daily, the blessings of Deuteronomy 28:1-14 and appropriate them and confess them for yourself and your household.

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Questionnaire for Further Study 1. Find the definition of the words blessing and curse in a dictionary. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 2. Complete: What were Adam and Eve to God? The image _____________________ in divine _____________________ placed by God as _____________________ over creation. Taught the principle of _____________________ and _____________________ given _____________________. 3. God gives a triple blessing according to 3 John 2 and Proverbs 10:22. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 4. Explain why God is the father of abundance according to 1 Corinthians 2:9. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 5. Write the blessings for your life found in Deuteronomy 28:1-14. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 6. Review the curses found in Deuteronomy 28:15-68. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 7. The cross is our place of victory. Why? Why are we heirs of the blessings of Abraham? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _

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Lesson 7: The Leader and His Family

Teaching Objectives For each one of the students to understand that the home is the foundation for a successful ministry. He who is faithful in the least will also be in the greater. God puts His trust in those who know how to give their families the right priority.

Student Objectives 1. Let the student share a testimony of what God has done with them as a family 2. Give at least three reasons why having a family that is in harmony and well balanced can help your ministry.

Biblical Foundational Reference 1 Timothy 3:1-7

Corresponding Biblical Foundation Acts 26:18 Psalm 127:1 Colossians 2:14 Deuteronomy 27:15 Lamentations 5:7 Genesis 27:13 Genesis 27:46 Isaiah 61:4 Genesis 31:32 Genesis 35:16-21

Key Verse "Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus". 1 Timothy 3:8-13

Purpose For the student to have full certainty that God desires consecrated families and that the chief purpose of the church is to restore families in order to save the nation.

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Development of the Subject I.

The Leader's Home - 1 Timothy 3:1-7 The apostle Paul gives important requirements that should be evident in the life of any leader: A. Above reproach: He is blameless B. Husband of one wife: He has a consistent marriage C. Temperate: He knows how to keep things in balance as a husband, father, and leader, as a disciple, as a businessman or as an employee. D. Self-controlled: He knows when to speak and when to keep quiet, has the ability to overcome all difficulties. E. Respectable: He has good taste, creates an atmosphere of excellence. F.

Able to teach: A good disciple makes a good teacher, he loves what he does.

G. Not addicted to wine: He knows how to control his desires, practices self control. H. Quarrelsome: He does not impose his doctrine by force, lets the Holy Spirit do its work. I.

Not greedy for money: He is not seduced by the glitter of gold, knows how to wait on God.

J.

Kind: He has the gift of serving and makes an effort for others to feel more important.

K. Gentle: He always stays calm and never temperamental. L. Not covetous: He loves God with his entire mind, with all his soul, and with all his strength and because of this he does not make room in his heart for the god of money. M. Manages his household well: He knows and applies biblical principles therefore his whole family is involved in ministry. N. Not a recent convert: He does not get ahead of the training process, knows how to work under the direction of his leader. O. Must have a good reputation: His actions speak more than his words.

II.

Allowing Jesus to Build Your Home - Psalm 127:1 "Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain". The family crisis has arisen because we have forgotten certain simple but important elements within the family nucleus. Not knowing how to educate the children, not honoring our spouse, living with resentment and fighting against having to forgive; selfishness, pride, and the vanity of life are things that have affected many families. But the worst thing of all is that they have taken God out of the home and have wanted to raise a family in their own strength. All efforts made without God are in vain because parents can lead their children to salvation or to damnation, into success or failure, prosperity or misery, blessing or disgrace. The only thing that is sure and is always guaranteed is that parents have the responsibility of raising their children in the fear of God.

III. Canceling Out Arguments - Colossians 2:14 Many of the conflicts experienced in the family have their roots in the parents' homes: A. Due to sins inherited from the parents: Our fathers sinned, and are no more; and we bear their punishment. Lamentations 5:7

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B. Because of idolatry - Deuteronomy 27:15 C. Because of words parents spoke over their children. What you say shall be done unto you. - Mark 11:23b D. For taking the blame of another. Rebecca accepted the curse of her child. Your curse be on me, my son... E. Because of negative talk. Rebecca said to Isaac, "I am tired of living... what good will my life be to me?" Genesis 27:46 Because of words spoken by your spouse. The one with whom you find your gods shall not live Genesis 31:32. Jacob did not realize it, but he put a curse upon his wife whom he loved very much. And because of this she died giving birth to his son Benjamin. - Genesis 35:16-21. All of these words become arguments against us, in the spiritual realm and they become legal ground for the enemy to lay hold of and to use against us. In the redeeming work of Jesus Christ, all this arguments were canceled and the demonic powers that operated through those things were disarmed and publicly exhibited on the cross of Calvary. For you to experience full deliverance, you need to identify the argument against you. In order for you to experience true repentance for this, confess your sins to God, renounce the curse that entered in through that sin, and in an act of faith, visualize the curse as removed from upon your life and your family's life. You may also ask God in prayer to give you the opposite of that which you were delivered from.

IV. Grace That Restores - Isaiah 61:4 One of the most important aspects of Jesus' ministry was the ministry of restoration. Brought restoration to wedding ceremonies. His presence at the wedding feast of Cana of Galilee, was a teaching to the world that couples should unite their lives in the right way: in holy matrimony. A. Restored the health of those who were sick. B. Restored the vision of those who had none. C. Restored mental health to those who hallucinated. D. Restored the dignity of those that were cast out by society. E. Brought light to those in darkness. F.

Brought life where there was death.

G. Taught the language of love. H. Opened the door of hope for those drowning in confusion.

V.

Jesus Commissioned Us to Continue What He Began - Acts 26:18

"...to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me."

Conclusion Someone being trained for ministry, should ask God to use them in a special way for restoring their own family, and the homes of their relatives and disciples. And may their lives and leadership be a fountain of inspiration for many.

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Application Be sure there are no arguments left standing against your family. Keep your prayer life sensitive to divine direction, where God can show you the needs in your family in order to pray for them effectively.

Evaluation Make a list of what may be considered an argument against you and study the scripture that could be used to cancel it out.

Recommended Methodology The lecture method would be best for presenting this lesson.

Students’ Assignment Make a list of family members who are not believers. Identify what arguments may exist against them so that you can cancel them out by faith and declare salvation for your family.

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Questionnaire for Further Study 1. According to the Bible, what was God's purpose for creating the family? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 2. What are the main requirements for any leader according to 1 Timothy 3: 1-7? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 3. How can I let God build my home according to Psalm 127? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 4. Where do the conflicts suffered in the family come from? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 5. According to Isaiah 61:4, how can I restore the family? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 6. God commissioned us to: (explain according to Acts 26:18). __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _

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Lesson 8: Abundant Life

Teaching Objectives For the student to understand how to live according to God’s plan for his life.

Student Objectives 1. Define what Abundant Life means. 2. Explain how to attain the Abundant life. 3. Explain how to live the Abundant Life.

Biblical Foundational Reference 3 John 2

Corresponding Biblical Foundation Ephesians 2:1 Acts 16:31 Genesis 17:1 Genesis 14:22-23 Matthew 25:20-24 John 10:19 Romans 12:2

Key Verse Ephesians 3:20 "Now to him who is able to do immeasurable more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us."

Purpose The abundant life comes from the internal to the external, from the spiritual to the material, from the invisible to the visible. Jesus taught that it was useless for a man to gain the world and lose his soul that no ransom was enough to pay for his soul. He was telling us that no material success, no matter how great, can be equal to the spiritual riches that only God can give. The abundant life is a combination of spiritual, moral and material values. It is not God's desire for us to benefit from spiritual blessings, on the other hand live a life of material scarcity. On the contrary, the work of redemption restored everything man had lost due to sin. Paul said that Jesus, although He was rich, became poor so that through His poverty, we would be made rich. (2 Corinthians 8: 9). The abundant life is for you to enjoy good health. And by His wounds you were healed, f1 Peter 2:24). The abundant life is enjoying the gift of salvation given exclusively through Jesus. (Ephesians 2:1) And you were dead in your trespasses and sins. But we can also say that the abundant life is seeing

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our family saved. Paul told the Philippians jailer: "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household" (Acts 16:31).

Development of the Subject Abundant: from the Greek term, PERISSEIA: abound, fullness, an over abundant measure, something above and beyond the ordinary

I.

How do we attain it? A. Absolute dependence on God - Abraham knew God as “El Shaddai”, meaning the God that supplies or meets all our needs. This Hebrew word means: El = All powerful. Shad = Breast ( a mother’s breast). In the same way a mother nurtures her child, God nurtures us through His strength. God told Gideon, "Go in this your strength and deliver Israel" Judges 6:14. God had nurtured Gideon and now his strength was the very strength of God. Abraham, a man of determination - Genesis 14:22-23 a. Abraham made a covenant of dependence on God, to believe that God was his only source of provision. b. Abraham new those riches came from the hand of God, that's why he became one of the most powerful men of his time. His dependence on God was absolute.

II.

Putting priorities in order - Matthew 6:33 God wants us to have complete dependence on Him because there is blessing in it. When we desire to have our spiritual lives enriched by Him we become enable to be blessed by material means also.

III.

Free from covetousness - Psalm 62:10 Covetousness means an excessive desire for riches. God wants us to have prosperity, but when covetousness already exists, it is impossible for God to bless. Covetousness is a form of idolatry,

IV.

Being faithful stewards If we are faithful in administering the resources God has entrusted us with; God will add greater responsibilities. The purpose of talents are: •

To be used wisely

•

To be multiplied

•

To be used to glorify God

We should understand that God always rewards those who are successful with what they have been entrusted upon. But He also shames those who are afraid and negligent. For this reason, God will also take away what little they had received in order to give it to those who have been successful.

V.

Receiving the abundant life - John 10:10

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The opposite of the abundant life is theft, death and destruction. This is what sin did to each one of us. It deceived us, seduced us and then took everything away from us. Finally, it took us down the path of destruction and death. Because of being in this condition, we were ignorant to the fact that the wonderful life found in Jesus, was possible for us too.

VI.

Renew the mind - Romans 12:2 Man is the sum of his thoughts. That's why we need to open our mind to the revelation of the Spirit because it can lead us to new conquests. The renewed mind does not permit thoughts of poverty, scarcity, ruin, frustration, failure, etc. The thoughts of the diligent surely lean towards abundance.

Conclusion We can only conquer our abundant life through the cross. It was there that Jesus canceled every curse and argument that was against us. Therefore we need to walk with a renewed mind.

Evaluation Within a test you will be able to evaluate the proposed STUDENT OBJECTIVES.

Recommended Methodology Explain the content of the lesson using practical techniques on how to memorize bible verses. Index cards may be used.

Students’ Assignment The student should completely memorize the BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONAL REFERENCE of this lesson.

Application Read a book about the renewing of the mind. Read all the words that speak of abundance and claim them for your own life.

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Questionnaire for Further Study 1. Define the word abundance. __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 2.

How do you reach the abundant life according to Genesis?: a. Genesis 17:1 __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ b. Genesis 14:22-23 __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _

3. How should I prioritize things to have the abundant life according to Matthew 6:33? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 4. What is covetousness and how can I be free from it according to Psalm 62:10? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 5. Who are the stewards and what are their functions according to Matthew 25? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _

6. How can I receive from that abundant life according to John 10:10? __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ _ 7. I should renew my mind, Explain according to Romans 12:2.

School of Leaders Level 1 Seminar: Family

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