Anglican Bible study - STUDY 39, SEPTEMBER 25, 2022
STUDY 39
Anglican Bible study - STUDY 39, SEPTEMBER 25, 2022,15TH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY SEPTEMBER 25 2022
THEME: THE LORD GOD AND THE REIGN OF PEACE
SUB THEME: Mandate of the Church for a noble and godly rule (6)
TOPIC: Civic responsibility
TEXT: Matt. 17:24-27
AIMS:
i. to study the concept of Civic responsibilities in line with Christian behaviors and
ii. to expose the negative effects of civic irresponsibility on the Christian faith.
INTRODUCTION
As God’s people, we are foreigners on earth because our loyalty is always to our real King (Jesus). However, in as much as we are still in this world, we have some roles to play in nation building as citizens or residents of any nation we find ourselves. Our Lord Jesus Christ has left for us the legacy of civil responsibilities both by action and speech. He paid his tax and also admonished with wisdom for others to pay. Apostle Peter further expounded on these by admonishing us never to suffer as law breakers.
STUDY GUIDE
1. How can you explain the concept of civil responsibilities in line with our texts today? Ref: Mark 12:13-17.
2. As Christians, what lessons can we draw from Matt. 17:24-27; Rom. 13:1–7; 1Peter 4:15?
3. Mention and discuss some of the ways Christians are to co-operate with government and their effects on the wellbeing of society and nation building. Rom. 13:7-10 and 1Peter 4:14-17
4. What are the effects of such behaviors as: traffic offences, examination malpractices, electoral malpractices, falsification of personal data records, rape, cultism, and giving and taking of bribes on any Christian and on the Christendom? Have you been engaged in any of these? Now that you know what the scriptures teach, what will you do?
CONCLUSION
As Christians we should not be caught breaking, circumventing the laws of the land or aiding and abetting others to do or pretend we do not know what they are doing. Remember that, as Ambassadors of Christ, we are salt and light of the world. Performing our civic duties will not only radiate these virtues but also contribute to the positive growth of the society.
FOOD FOR THOUHT: Christians who will live in a delicate glass house should learn never to throw stones.
MEMORY VERSE: 1Pet 4:15 “But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters”.