• Message: “Excellence Series Marriage and Dating” from Big Brother

  5 KEY LESSONS FROM MARCH 2021 RELATIONSHIP/DATING/ MARRIAGE EVENT 1. Nobody can make you complete; not even your husband or your wife can. At best, they can complement you. Only God can make you complete. 2. Forget what you see in the movies. Marriage doesn't make people happier! If you're unhappy and dissatisfied with life before marriage, the same will very likely continue in marriage. So, learn to be happy and blessed as a single and you'll be a potential great spouse. 3. Marriage will not cure your lust and sexual addictions. The only cure is Self Control, a vital fruit of the Spirit. 4. God gave us guidelines on sexual purity to save us from troubles and make our lives more peaceful. He's not out to spoil our fun but doesn't want fun to destroy us. 5. If he or she is asking for “it” outside of marriage, it's a clear signal from God that he or she is not “the person”. So, run before you burn.    

• Message: “Songs of Solomon” from Pastor Joe

  Study of Songs of Solomon ( Song of Songs) Lesson Objective: To review the book of Songs of Solomon as it explains our love relationships and serves as an introduction to  the upcoming lesson on Excellence and as it relates to dating and marriage. Scripture:  Entire book of Songs of Solomon with emphasis on the following verse: 8: 10;  Proverbs 18: 22; Introduction Authorship attributed to Solomon ( 1:1) One of the books of poetry – Hebrew name Solomon’s Songs of Songs One of Five scrolls read during major Jewish festivals and always read during Passover Similarity to Proverbs 5:15-20; 6:24-29;7:6-23 - Wisdom Several Different Interpretations Maiden and Solomon Maiden, Solomon and a Shepard God and Israel Christ and the church ( Ephesians 5: 25) Discusses the love each has for the other Principle characters Solomon Maiden- Shulamite Maiden court (friends) Chapter 1 Begins with maiden professing love for the King Proverbs 1: 2-3 King professes love for the maiden 1: 9-11 Chapter 2 Chastity 2:7 Speaks of singular love 2: 16 Chapter 3 She longing for him 3: 1-4 Again chastity 3: 5 Chapter 4 He continues to profess his love for her 4: 1-4 She responds to him 4: 16 Purity 4:12 (She) Chapter 5 She continues to profess her love for him Friends ask why does she love him so much? verse 9 Also should ask question -  Why me? She continually shares her love of him 5: 10-13 Chapter 6 and 7 They continue to shower each other with sweet poetry 6: 4-6 (He) 7: 1-4 ( He) 7: 9-10 (She) Chapter 8 The need again for chastity 8: 4; (She) 8: 8-9 (Friends) Her response – 8: 10 Her love cannot be purchased- 8: 11-12; So What Proverbs 18: 22 The meaning of true love between a man and a women Importance of choosing the proper mate Understanding what can prevent such a happy marriage    

• Message: “Holy Spirit Part 3” from Pastor Joe

  Holy Spirit Part 3 Lesson Objective: To continue the discussion on the Spirit and to address specific questions that have been raised relative to the gift of speaking in tongues and interpretation and related questions. Scripture:  1 Corinthians 14; 1 Corinthians 12: 7-11; Review The Holy Spirit was given to selected individuals for specific task in the Old Testament and was present throughout the Old Testament Exs: Genesis 1: 1-2 ; Joshua Deut. 34:9; David Psalms 104: 30, Nehemiah 9:20 The Holy Spirit is reflected in numerous verses in the New Testament Exs: Christ baptism                 Matthew 3: 16-17 Purposes of the Holy Spirit Provide power to the Apostles Luke 24:49 Helper John 14: 6; John 16:13; John 14: 26 The Holy Spirit is much more then Spiritual gifts but the power and knowledge that allows us to use the gifts that we are given. Gives us the tools to carry out the Great Commission. Caution 1 Corinthians 12: 1-2. One interpretation of this text is that he warned not to take the special gifts and worship the gift. 1 Corinthians 12: 31. Seek greater gift ( the gift that serves the Church and not the individual Question: Sir, we take the Pentecost day as the day the Lord sent the comforter to the apostles. From that time they started speaking in tongues and spread the Gospel with strong boldness. Now, I ask myself: Before Pentecost even in the old testament time, there was no Holy Spirit in people? How the Holy Spirit used to manifest in people before the Pentecost. Answer: The fact that Old Testament does not record speaking in tongues does not mean that the Holy Spirit did not manifest in people. The Holy Spirit was manifested in the power demonstrated by Moses, Joshua, David, Elijah and Elisha to name a few. Everyone has been instilled with the Holy Spirit but all do not have the gift of speaking in tongues therefore to sugggest that the presence of the Holy Spirit is reserved only for those who speak in tongues is not biblically supported. Question: Can someone speak in tongues and not have the Holy Spirit? Answer: If one defines speaking in tongues as only a spiritual gift then the aswer is no but if one defines speaking in tongues as speaking in an unknown language then the answer is yes. If it purely is unknown language then we never know what spirit is being spoken which again underlines the importance of interpretation. Question: How does the gift of speaking in tongues compare to the other gifts? Answer: All gifts come from the same spirit. Paul seems to place emphasizes on prophesy which is used to evangelize and spread the gospel. 1 Corinthians 14: 1 Question: Should we encourage or be encouraged to seek the gift of speaking in tongues.? Answer: Since all gifts come through the Holy Spirit and is given as the Holy Spirit desires then we should be encouraged to identify our gifts and use those gifts appropriately. No one gift should be encouraged unless the Church family is in need of a special gift. Again gifts are primarily to serve others and not to serve ourselves. 1 Corinthians 14: 12 1 Corinthians 12: 31. Question : Why does God place the Holy Spirit in each believer: Answer: The indwelling Spirit not only comforts, leads and inspires each Child of God, but also desires to work through him/her to accomplish His will.  

• Message: “Holy Spirit Part 2” from Pastor Joe

  Holy Spirit in the New Testament John the Baptist led by the Holy Spirit Luke 1:41-45 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Christ recognizes the importance of the Holy Spirit Matthew 12: 31 John 15: 26-27 John 16: 7-14 Christ spoke of the power of the Holy Spirit Acts 1:8 Day of Pentecost .Acts 2:3-4 And there appeared to them tongues as of fire distributing themselves, and they rested on each one of them. When do we receive the Holy Spirit? Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:13 Romans 8:9 Ephesians 1: 13-14 What happens when you receive the Holy Spirit? Spirit of discernment  1 John 4:1 Protector Ephesians 6: 10-18 Spiritual gifts Difference between Filled with the Holy Spirit and Instilled Everyone is instilled with Holy Spirit Romans 5:5 One time event Can be filled for a specific purpose Acts 4:8 Continued process as needed Spiritual Gifts 1 Corinthians 12: 1-18 These are gifts through the Holy Spirit Everyone has a gift All gifts are important and should be used accordingly Gifts that are controversial Speaking in tongues and interpretation Definition Glossolalist believe in speaking an unknown heavenly language. Cessationists believe that it did exist in the early Church for the purpose of spreading the gospel but ceased with the apostles. While others believe that it is foreign languages Purpose of speaking in tongues 1 Corinthians 14: 2 Edify God and needs interpretation The fallicy is not speaking in tongues but the belief that one does not have the Holy Spirit if they do not speak in tongues that causes much of the controversy It is not to make someone superior over another 1 Corinthians 14: 5 It is not to be taught to prove that someone is holy Gift of prophesy The word prophet comes from the “Middle English: from Old French prophete, via Latin from Greek prophētēs ‘spokesman,’ from pro ‘before’ + phētēs ‘speaker’ (from phēnai ‘speak’).”(4). This word is in keeping with the Biblical use of the word of those who speak on behalf of God, both men and women The problem is that many call themselves prophets and attempt to foretell the future while prophesy is defined as speaking for God (directions from God to man) which is why God told Samuel that they were not rejecting Samuel but rejecting God when they demanded a king.   Summary   Holy Spirit is in both Old and New Testament 2. It is part of the Trinity In the Old Testament given to specific individuals for specific purpose In New Testament given to all Everyone can be filled with the Holy Spirit for a particular purpose       Symbols of the Holy Spirit The dove: Matthew 3:16–17; John 1:32, Matthew 10:16; Psalm 68:13. A seal: Ephesians 1:13–14; 2 Corinthians 1:22, Ephesians 4:30. Oil: 1 Samuel 16:1,13; Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18; Acts 10:38;1 John 2:20. Fire: Matthew 3:11; Acts 2:3–4; Exodus 3:2; Isaiah 4:4; Luke 3:16–17; 1 Thessalonians 5:19. Wind or Breath: Ezekiel 37:9-10; John 3:8; John 20:22; Acts 2:2. Water: Ezekiel 36:25–27; John 3:5; John 4:14; John 7:37–38; Isaiah 12:3; Isaiah 44:3. Rain: Joel 2:23; Hosea 6:3; Genesis 27:28; Isaiah 18:4. Wine: Acts 2:15–17; Ephesians 5:18 Clothing or Mantle: Luke 24:49,2 Kings 2:9-14 ;                  

• Message: “Holy Spirit Part 1 Old Testament” from Pastor Joe

  Holy Spirit- Who and Why Lesson Objective:  To study the Holy Spirit and to determine the importance of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Scripture:  Genesis 1: 1-2 John 16: 13-14; Introduction Many people think that the Holy Spirit is tied directly to the Day of Pentecost and talking in tongues. I would suggest that this is more than a lesson on the Day of Pentacost and it is not a lesson on speaking in tongues.  This is a lesson on The Holy Spirit as a part of the Trinity and a vehicle for Christians to upbuild the kingdom both personally and collectively.  It is important to note that we find the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament and New Testament. The major difference is that in the Old Testament the Holy Spirit was not given to all but only to a select few to accomplish the mission of God. In the New Testament , the Holy Spirit resides in all believers. Who is the Holy Spirit Person John 16: 13-14; Proverbs 3:6; Acts 16:6 Trinity Gen 1:2; Matthew 28: 19-20; 1 Corinthians 2:11 All knowing 1 Corinthians 2: 10-11 Empowers Spiritual gifts Perfect Guide Luke 12:12; John 14:26 Holy Spirit in the Old Testament Saul receives the Holy Spirit 1 Samuel 10:6 Then the Spirit of the Lord will come upon you mightily, and you shall prophesy with them and be changed into another man Isaiah speaking the words of God Isaiah 61:1 The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, Because the Lord has anointed me To bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to captives And freedom to prisoners; Holy Spirit present during the journey from Egypt Nehemiah 9:20 Isaiah 63:11-14 David understands the power of the Spirit of God Psalm 104: 30 Joel talks about the day of Pentacost  Joel 2:28   Laying of hands and the Holy Spirit Moses and Joshua Deuteronomy 34:9 Other examples for further study:   Holy Spirit in the New Testament John the Baptist led by the Holy Spirit   Luke 1:41-45 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. Christ recognizes the importance of the Holy Spirit Matthew 12: 31 John 15: 26-27 John 16: 7-14 Christ spoke of the power of the Holy Spirit Acts 1:8 Day of Pentecost .Acts 2:3-4 And there appeared to them tongues as of fire distributing themselves, and they rested on each one of them. When do we receive the Holy Spirit? Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:13 Romans 8:9 Ephesians 1: 13-14 What happens when you receive the Holy Spirit? Spirit of discernment Protector Spiritual gifts Difference between Filled with the Holy Spirit and Instilled Spiritual Gifts 1 Corinthians 12: 1-18 These are gifts through the Holy Spirit Everyone has a gift All gifts are important and should be used accordingly Gifts that are controversial Speaking in tongues and interpretation Definition Glossolalist believe in speaking an unknown heavenly language. Cessationists believe that it did exist in the early Church for the purpose of spreading the gospel but ceased with the apostles. While others believe that it is foreign languages Purpose of speaking in tongues 1 Corinthians 14: 2 Edify God and needs interpretation The fallicy is not speaking in tongues but the belief that one does not have the Holy Spirit if they do not speak in tongues that causes much of the controversy It is not to make someone superior over another 1 Corinthians 14: 5 It is not to be taught to prove that someone is holy Gift of prophesy The word prophet comes from the “Middle English: from Old French prophete, via Latin from Greek prophētēs ‘spokesman,’ from pro ‘before’ + phētēs ‘speaker’ (from phēnai ‘speak’).”(4). This word is in keeping with the Biblical use of the word of those who speak on behalf of God, both men and women The problem is that many call themselves prophets and attempt to foretell the future while prophesy is defined as speaking for God (directions from God to man) which is why God told Samuel that they were not rejecting Samuel but rejecting God when they demanded a king.       Symbols of the Holy Spirit The dove: Matthew 3:16–17; John 1:32, Matthew 10:16; Psalm 68:13. A seal: Ephesians 1:13–14; 2 Corinthians 1:22, Ephesians 4:30. Oil: 1 Samuel 16:1,13; Isaiah 61:1; Luke 4:18; Acts 10:38;1 John 2:20. Fire: Matthew 3:11; Acts 2:3–4; Exodus 3:2; Isaiah 4:4; Luke 3:16–17; 1 Thessalonians 5:19. Wind or Breath: Ezekiel 37:9-10; John 3:8; John 20:22; Acts 2:2. Water: Ezekiel 36:25–27; John 3:5; John 4:14; John 7:37–38; Isaiah 12:3; Isaiah 44:3. Rain: Joel 2:23; Hosea 6:3; Genesis 27:28; Isaiah 18:4. Wine: Acts 2:15–17; Ephesians 5:18 Clothing or Mantle: Luke 24:49,2 Kings 2:9-14 ;                  

• Message: “Fasting- What- When- Why” from Pastor Joe

  Fasting-  What and When and Why Lesson  Objective: To review Fasting and how we as Christians should implement that in our spiritual life. Scriptures:  Ezra 8:21-23; Joel 2:12 Definition Definition – Dictionary abstain from all or some kinds of food or drink, especially as a religious observance. Definition- Biblical Abstinence from food and/or drink as an element of private or public religious devotion History First time mentioned in the Bible- Exodus 34: 28 Moses was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights without eating bread or drinking water. And he wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant—the Ten Commandments. B.     Practiced by Christ  Matthew 4:2 After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. Examples in the Bible Corporate Fasting Esther is an example of corporate prayer  for intercession  Esther 4:16 First example of corporate intercessory fasting in the Bible Practiced by Jews today as Festival of Purim Festival of Purim established- Esther 9:31 Fast proclaimed by the Prophets/Apostles Fast for Humility- Ezra 8: 21-23 Fasting as commanded by God – Joel 2:12 Seeking The Holy Spirit’s Guidance- Acts 13:3 Fast for Repentance The city of Ninevah repented after hearing Jonah Jonah 3: 5-9 Private Fasting Daniel 10: 3 Exodus 34:28 Nehemiah 1:4 2 Samuel 12: 15-16 How to and how not to fast Luke 18: 11-12 Fast For Intimacy With God, Not Praise From Man “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 1so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Effects of Fasting Fasting changes us not God Through fasting God enables us to see ourselves in our true state of Sinfulness and the more intimate you are with the lord, the more willing you are to let go of self. Matthew 16 : 24 Fasting does not move GOD In other words, God is not the one with the problem, we are! GOD is always the same no matter the situation. And he can do all things. Fasting and prayer can also help to break addictions and spiritual bondages. Addictions can be any habits that steals your time . Frequently asked questions: Should couples fast together? 1 Corinthians 7:5 How many days should someone fast. Does fasting include prayer Is fasting good or bad for your health Is fasting required for all Christians Matthew 6: 16-18 Matthew 9 Matthew 4:2 -  

• Message: “Faith” from Minister Blessing

  FAITH Hebrews 11:1-2 Amplified Bible 11 Now faith is the assurance (title deed, confirmation) of things hoped for (divinely guaranteed), and the evidence of things not seen [the conviction of their reality—faith comprehends as fact what cannot be experienced by the physical senses].   (Proverbs 3:5) Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding   Matthew 4:4: ....Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.   1 Kings 17:1-24   Romans 10:11 Amplified Bible 11 ....... “Whoever believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will not be disappointed [in his expectations].”  

• Message: “Leadership Responsibilities and Failures” from Pastor Joe

  Leadership Responsibilities and Failures Lesson Objective:  To continue the discussion on leadership and the results when leaders falter. Scripture:  Isaiah 56: 9-12; Galatians 6: 1-2 Responsibilities of Leaders A Shepard and Watchmen Isaiah 56:9-12 All ye beasts of the field, come to devour, yea, all ye beasts in the forest. 10 His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. 11 Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter. 12 Come ye, say they, I will fetch wine, and we will fill ourselves with strong drink; and to morrow shall be as this day, and much more abundant. Provide warning from danger- verse 10 Provide safety – verse 11 Look after the best interest of others-verse 12   Encourages   Barnabas  Acts 4: 36-37 2nd Timothy 1: 3-7   Examples for followers and others: Matthew 5:16 1 Timothy 4:12 Philippians 3:17   What happens when we falter? Have a heart of true repentance- Psalms 51 (1-3) Psalm 32:5 Not blame others but accept responsibility- 1 Samuel 15:24 How should others react when leaders falter Galatians 6: 1-2 Matthew 18: 15-17 Example of John Mark and how Paul and Barnabus split because of the disagreement and how both Paul and John Mark learned from this experience.                 Acts 15: 36-41 Col 4: 10  1 Peter 5:13 2 Timothy 4:11   Conclusion Don’t be in any rush to become a teacher, my friends. Teaching is highly responsible work. Teachers are held to the strictest standards. And none of us is perfectly qualified. We get it wrong nearly every time we open our mouths. If you could find someone whose speech was perfectly true, you’d have a perfect person, in perfect control of life James 3:1 MSG version My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment. NKJV

• Message: “Presentation on Excellence II” from Freda N. Yoachael

    Attributes of a Good Leader Lesson Objective: To understand the need for successful leaders to be servant leaders and to understand the characteristics of a Servant Leader Main Scriptures:  Matthew 20:28;  Acts 13:22; Proverbs 23:7; James 2: 17-18; Introduction Definition of Servant Leader One who influences others not by power One whose desire is to make others better Christ is the greatest example Matthew 20:28 Came to serve Lead Like Christ – Ken Blanchard The book teaches about the necessity of being a Servant Leader The attributes are the 4 Hs Head Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. “Eat and drink!” he says to you, But his heart is not with you Hands James 2: 17-18  Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without [a]your works, and I will show you my faith by [b]my works. Habit 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing 1 THESSALONIANS 5:16- Rejoice always Heart Acts 13:22 And when He had removed him, He raised up for them David as king, to whom also He gave testimony and said, ‘I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.’ Head How do you think as a Christian Leader – Philippians 4:8 Romans 12:2 1 Corinthians 3:18 Hands What do you do? Ephesians 2: 18-20 Work cannot get one into heaven How does someone see your faith and commitment Titus 3:14 James 2: 14-20 Matthew 5:16 Works witness for God Heart God looks at the Heart 1 Samuel 16:7 Psalms 51:10 create clean heart Matthew 15: 18-20 What comes out of our heart is really us Psalm 26:2 Romans 10:10 first belief and then confession Habits The dictionary defines habit as a settled or regular tendency or practice, especially one that is hard to give up Inorder to make long term changes in our life we must form habits that allows the change to become a part of our everyday life . Replacing the undesirable habits with those that are more consistent with the intended changes. It is suggested that if one can do a particular action for 21 days that it will become a habit. Learning to rejoice always will cause the most hardened person to begin to appreciate their many blessings. Forming a habit of praying will result in a closer walk with God Conclusion The four attributes : Head Heart Hand Habit They are great but one thing may get in the way EGO Edging God Out.

• Message: “Attributes of a Good Leader” from Pastor Joe

    Attributes of a Good Leader Lesson Objective: To understand the need for successful leaders to be servant leaders and to understand the characteristics of a Servant Leader Main Scriptures:  Matthew 20:28;  Acts 13:22; Proverbs 23:7; James 2: 17-18; Introduction Definition of Servant Leader One who influences others not by power One whose desire is to make others better Christ is the greatest example Matthew 20:28 Came to serve Lead Like Christ – Ken Blanchard The book teaches about the necessity of being a Servant Leader The attributes are the 4 Hs Head Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. “Eat and drink!” he says to you, But his heart is not with you Hands James 2: 17-18  Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without [a]your works, and I will show you my faith by [b]my works. Habit 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing 1 THESSALONIANS 5:16- Rejoice always Heart Acts 13:22 And when He had removed him, He raised up for them David as king, to whom also He gave testimony and said, ‘I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.’ Head How do you think as a Christian Leader – Philippians 4:8 Romans 12:2 1 Corinthians 3:18 Hands What do you do? Ephesians 2: 18-20 Work cannot get one into heaven How does someone see your faith and commitment Titus 3:14 James 2: 14-20 Matthew 5:16 Works witness for God Heart God looks at the Heart 1 Samuel 16:7 Psalms 51:10 create clean heart Matthew 15: 18-20 What comes out of our heart is really us Psalm 26:2 Romans 10:10 first belief and then confession Habits The dictionary defines habit as a settled or regular tendency or practice, especially one that is hard to give up Inorder to make long term changes in our life we must form habits that allows the change to become a part of our everyday life . Replacing the undesirable habits with those that are more consistent with the intended changes. It is suggested that if one can do a particular action for 21 days that it will become a habit. Learning to rejoice always will cause the most hardened person to begin to appreciate their many blessings. Forming a habit of praying will result in a closer walk with God Conclusion The four attributes : Head Heart Hand Habit They are great but one thing may get in the way EGO Edging God Out.