Sunday School Enlightenment

Love, Mercy & The Sabbath Lesson Text: Luke 6:1-11 Acts of love and mercy are a part of the Sabbath. Thought to Remember: Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath Lessons Learned: If Jesus remains the Lord of the Sabbath, how do we honor the Sabbath as believers? For example, honor occurs when we demonstrate kindness, mercy, and justice as priorities over men's traditions. Yet, conflicts arise when men prioritize strict Sabbath laws or church customs over kindness, mercy, and justice. In such cases, I must learn to navigate the tension between church customs and the higher calling of love and mercy. I must do this in a way that aligns with Jesus' teachings and examples. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Sabbath rest in Jesus. We praise you for being a God of love and mercy. We ask that You empower us to show love and mercy to those who need it. Give us wisdom to discern when and how we should act. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

The Messiah Arrives Lesson Text: Luke 2:1-17 The Messiah is born. Thought to Remember: Every promise of God seems problematic. Lessons learned: Often, we hear this common saying. What God has for me is for me. Yet, when we face difficulties, we question the validity of the promise. We forget that God has a plan for us and is always in control. We become discouraged and doubt our faith when things don't go according to our plans. We need to trust the timing of Divine Intervention, like the birth of Jesus, which occurred according to prophecy in Bethlehem instead of Nazareth. Therefore, I must learn endurance to witness God's extraordinary things. Trusting in God's plan is essential in receiving His blessings based on His timing. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, we thank You for bringing Your Word to pass. You brought Your Word to pass in sending Your Son, Jesus. We know that You can bring Your Word to pass in our lives. Therefore, we ask that You allow Your way in our lives as we obey the leading of every aspect of our lives. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen. Follow the COGIC Legacy Version Follow me on Sound Cloud https://soundcloud.com/mickeywbaker You can access my blog. https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/

A Blessing for Ishmael and Isaac Lesson Text: Genesis 21:13-14, 17-21; 26:2-5, 12-13 God promised to make a great nation of Ishmael even though his mother was an Egyptian. Thought to Remember: God creates great nations of His choosing. Lessons learned: There can be no doubt that God loved Ishmael as much as he loved Isaac because God promised each of them to become a great nation. However, each of them found themselves in a distressful situation in our lesson today. Distress often blinds us, and we cannot see or remember God's promises. Everything appears dark when we are troubled. It is important to remember that God's promises are everlasting, and no matter what our circumstances. God will provide for us. Isaac and Ishmael receive God's promises, and they were able to endure the distress they faced. Likewise, I must receive God's promises and remain faithful in my Kingdom walk. “God don't make no junk…He made us just how we are, and He likes us that way.” My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for choosing us. You chose us before the foundation of the world to be Your children and receive Your promises. We praise You because You have chosen us even when we were sinners and Your enemies. Therefore, help us to walk obedience to Your Word. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

The Blessing Passes to Jacob Lesson Text: Genesis 28: 1a, 10-22 We can rely on God to never leave us or forsake us. Thought to Remember: God gives assurances about keeping His promises. Lessons learned: What appears as loneliness can become a perfect setting for something divine to happen in our lives. After his dream, Jacob vowed by stating, If God will be with me. His concerns about his immediate needs in distress give in to bargaining with God instead of relying on God. I, too, have bargained with God because of my shortsighted vision. Yet, I must remember God still does exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, because You promised to be with us, keep us, and provide for all our needs, I am completely Yours. So help me to yield to the Holy Spirit leading in my daily life. Help me to become steadfast and unmoveable toward Your direction as You give me the heart to listen. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

eginning of the Tabernacle Lesson Text: Exodus 40:16-30, 34,38 God is the same as when He created His Tabernacle after the Israelites left Egypt. Thought to Remember: God wants to abide in and with us like Yesteryears when He established the moveable Tabernacle. Lessons learned: The Tabernacle was a moveable tent of meeting that God commanded Moses to build. God wanted to dwell among his people, the Israelites. He wanted to fellowship with them and communicate with them. The Tabernacle and its courtyard were constructed according to a pattern set by God, not by Moses. I think the same rationale exists today because God has established us as His Tabernacle through the Holy Spirit that dwells within us. Because of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus our Savior, God set up His permanent residence within us, allowing us to experience His presence and fellowship with Him in a more intimate way than ever before. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your presence. We thank You that You are a God near and far away. Father, we ask that You make Your presence known to us, especially when we are unsure. Give us supernatural guidance, and let us know that You are with us. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Beginning of Freedom Lesson Text: Exodus 14:21-30 God is the same when He delivers Israel from the Egyptian army. Thought to Remember: God is willing to use Moses like individuals even today. Lessons learned: The deliverance of Israel from the Egyptian Army demonstrates the act of saving. Even though this deliverance represented a physical liberation, it was a foreshadowing of the ultimate salvation provided by Jesus. I realize that God still desires to bring glory to Himself with the miracle of salvation by using believers just like Moses. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You that we do not have to lose hope. We thank You that we can come before Your throne and You can empower us to change our community. We ask that You would fill us with your Holy Ghost and make us YOUR willing vessels to deliver those in our communities who are in bondage to Satan. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Beginning of the Passover Lesson Text: Exodus 12:1-14 People who are living under oppression hunger for freedom. Thought to Remember: The blood creates doers instead of hearers. Lessons learned: God regarded Israel as His firstborn, His favored people. If Egypt refused to release God's firstborn, then God required the firstborn of Egypt as a penalty and judgment. Further, they realize that an intellectual agreement with what God said about the blood was not enough; they had to do what God said must be done with the blood. Likewise, I must grasp the concept of doing instead of telling. What a memorial in knowing and believing the blood of Jesus enables my redemption back to God. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for delivering us. We thank You for sending Jesus to liberate us through His blood and set us free from the chains of the devil. We ask that You help us walk in this freedom and never return to being in bondage. Also, help us aid others to gain this freedom we have in Christ. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Preparation for Deliverance Lesson Text: Exodus 3:7-17 God is always present with us. Thought to Remember: Your age is irrelevant to God. Lessons learned: The first 80 years of Moses' life were a crucial preparation period for the monumental task of liberating the Israelites. Through his experiences as an Egyptian prince, a Midianite shepherd, and now a chosen servant of God, Moses has developed the qualities necessary to lead his people to freedom. Moses' experiences gave him a unique understanding of his people, an understanding of their struggles, and a unique set of skills that no one else had. His age was not a barrier but rather an asset in that he was uniquely suited to lead the Israelites out of slavery. Therefore, I must realize the irrelevance of age when God gives tasks to perform on His behalf. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we praise You because You created the challenges we face in life. We praise You because if You created the challenges, You can help us overcome the challenges. Yet, we ask for faith and courage when we are placed in challenging situations. Help us not to shrink back in fear but to walk in courage and obedience, knowing that you are separate but connected. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Meaningless Worship Lesson Text: Isaiah 29:9-16A God's expectation consists of heartfelt worship. Thought to Remember: Worship God from the Heart Lessons learned: Isaiah wanted the Israelites to develop a relationship with God from the heart instead of performing rituals. Even today, we cannot see the forest for the trees. In other words, we become so tethered to worship performance we need to remember worship's purpose. Our worship becomes hollow when we lack a relationship with God, even though we attend church faithfully. Therefore, I must ensure that my heart is at the same level as my devotion. To achieve this level of intimacy with God, I must combine my traditional worship with a genuine intention to dedicate myself to Him. My Prayer: My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for enabling us to reconnect with You through Your Son, Jesus. We know how You value our relationship, and we want to nurture this relationship and remember the purpose of worship. Please allow the aiding of the Holy Spirit to increase our relationship. With thankfulness, we pray in Jesus' name, Amen. Follow the COGIC Legacy Version Follow me on Sound Cloud https://soundcloud.com/mickeywbaker You can access my blog. https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/

Give Thanks Lesson Text: Isaiah 12:1-6 #SundaySchool #COGIC #TheProphetAndPraise Praise the Lord and declare His name. Thought to Remember: The removal of sin enables one to hear what God is saying. Lessons learned: This lesson reminds me of God's goodness even in a world of chaos and pain. If Isaiah realizes God's goodness and sings His praises during his day, I should recognize the same today. Because of God's unconditional love that fills us the same today as it did for Isaiah, I must Give Thanks and remember that God's goodness is a blessing that goes beyond what I can see or imagine. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for all You have done to make a way and to remain in fellowship with You. Be pleased with our worship and receive our praise and thanksgiving as an offering of our gratitude. We look forward to joining the heavenly host in ascribing to You with all power, glory, and honor; in Jesus' name, I pray, Amen. Follow the COGIC Legacy Version Follow me on Sound Cloud https://soundcloud.com/mickeywbaker You can access my blog. https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/

Holy, Holy, Holy Lesson Text: Isaiah 6:1-8 #SundaySchool #COGIC #TheProphetAndPraise God is worthy of praise and worship. Thought to Remember: The removal of sin enables one to hear what God is saying. Lessons learned: Spirit-led worship marks true believers. Through the Spirit, we worship God by bringing all our creative faculties under Christ's rule. The Spirit enables us to offer God our worship in a way that pleases Him and brings our lives into greater conformity with His will. Like Isaiah, who experienced the burning coal to purge his sin, he realized that God was more interested in purging sin than punishing sin. So, Isaiah committed himself to God's mission for his life. Considering this lesson, I must not simply worship God on Sunday but commit myself to a life of holiness that reflects the attitude of Send me God. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we honor You, for You alone are worthy of our worship and adoration. We live in a world where there is a lack of reverence for Your directions and guidance. Forgive us for times when we compromised by agreeing with the culture, the world's system. So use us as change agents to bring glory to this world. Allow us to bear witness that Your Word is true. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.

The Holy Spirit Comes Lesson Text: Act 2:1-13 In today's lesson, we will learn that Jesus promised the Holy Spirit, and He appeared after the Power of Agreement. Thought to Remember: The Power of Agreement Lessons learned: The power of agreement is more promising than one can realize. After Jesus' ascension, He promised another comforter would enter the believers' lives. So, His disciples agreed to return to the upper room with a single mindset of waiting on this promise. Only when a group of 150 agreed with one accord did the Holy Spirit arrive as promised. Thus, I ask myself how many promises have failed to materialize because I failed to agree with my fellow believers. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, what an awesome plan that You allowed to unfold. Your Son died for our sins, and You allowed the Holy Spirit to come to dwell among us to comfort and sustain us in the absence of Your Son, Jesus. Thank You for strategically placing us as the Holy Spirit guides us in the right service for Your Kingdom. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen. Follow the COGIC Legacy Version Follow me on Sound Cloud https://soundcloud.com/mickeywbaker You can access my blog. https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/

Proclaiming Christ Lesson Text: Philippians 1:15-26 Paul rejoices in proclaiming the Gospel even when he is in prison. Thought to Remember: The Gospel is above human pettiness. Lessons learned: Paul recognized that his release from prison was uncertain. Despite his circumstances, Paul never lost faith in God. There was no bitterness or anger on his part since such emotions are irrelevant to spreading the gospel. I, too, must realize the insignificance of my feelings or how others feel about me when doing Kingdom work. I cannot allow the pettiness and vindictiveness of humans to interfere with the power of the Gospel. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, help us to find our joy in Jesus Christ. Please help us to look forward to our arrival in heaven while we share the Goods News with others on earth. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen. Follow the COGIC Legacy Version Follow me on Sound Cloud https://soundcloud.com/mickeywbaker You can access my blog. https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/

Live in the Light Lesson Text: John 1:1-5; Ephesians 5:1-2,6-14 Believers must embrace the slogan - children of the light. Click here to read the blog for this lesson entitled An Unexpected Discovery - https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/blo... Thought to Remember: Walk in the Light Lessons learned: Jesus is the light of the World; therefore, believers must reflect Him the same way as the moon reflects the sun. We cannot become crescent-moon believers (half-believers) but full-moon believers. So, I must remember that I cannot reflect Jesus' light unless I am in the light. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for sending Your Son to earth as the greatest gift we could ever receive. Please help us to live our lives following our Savior. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

The Apostle Paul lays the foundation for Christ and His Church. Thought to Remember: Knowledge leads to perfection Lessons learned: Neither our minds nor our bodies can prepare us for the unity that will exist in the afterlife. In the meantime, we need to grow while realizing that the foundation of our journey is the knowledge of Christ and the unity of our faith. The unity of the faith will occur when we see Jesus as He truly is, and we know as we are known. Then and only then, when we are in a position of complete knowledge, will we be able to achieve perfection. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we praise and thank You for laying the foundation and making us equal with all believers. Help us to exercise the spirit of oneness among fellow believers in such a way as to bring praises to Your holy name. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

Paul Ministers in Malta Lesson Text: Acts 28:1:10 On his journey to Rome, Paul encounters a shipwreck, but he continues ministering to others. Thought to Remember: Ministers to those in need. Lessons learned: Even though they are now shipwrecked, Paul and Luke remain focused on the mission by serving others. In the same way, as a believer, I must exercise the ability to serve others, especially when I am undergoing a shipwrecked period in my life. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, give us the heart of things that break Your heart. By assisting others, we pray to reflect your goodness collectively and individually. Reveal to us opportunities to serve and minister in our communities and worldwide. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

Paul Sails for Rome Lesson Text: Acts 27:1-2, 33-44 Paul's journey to Rome to exercise his appeal to Emperor is met with a stormy and life-threatening decision. Thought to Remember: God calms life's storms Lessons learned: Although the storm blocked Paul's journey to Rome, God protected him. In other words, even though you are in a storm, you are not out of God's will. Sometimes, the storm is precisely where God wants you so He can intervene and provide an opportunity for you to accomplish His purpose. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, allow us to always trust You, even during the storms of life. Enable us to rely more on You even when the unforeseen occurs while realizing that You are always in control. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen. Follow the COGIC Legacy Version in God's What is Faith? https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/what-faith Follow me on Sound Cloud https://soundcloud.com/mickeywbaker You can access my blog. https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/

Paul Before King Agrippa Lesson Text: Acts 26:19-32 Paul shares the story of his conversion with King Agrippa while imprisoned. Thought to Remember: You gotta stand up for what you believe Lessons learned: In response to Paul's appeal to the Roman Emperor, God permitted him to share his testimony before King Agrippa, Festus, and Queen Bernice. My responsibility as a believer is to become aware of unique opportunities to share my testimony with nonbelievers while recognizing that God's plan is constantly unfolding. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, allow us to display our faith in Your Son, Jesus Christ. Allow us to draw others to You so they will glorify you. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen. Follow the COGIC Legacy Version in God's What is Faith? https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/what-faith Follow me on Sound Cloud https://soundcloud.com/mickeywbaker You can access my blog. https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/

Philp and the Ethiopian Eunuch Lesson Text: Acts 8:26-39 The Holy Spirit leads Philip on a journey to save one individual without knowing why. Thought to Remember: The Gospel message is universal. Lessons learned: As Philip completed his work in Samaria, the Spirit ordered him to leave for Gaza without explaining why. My question today is, how does one know when to move in a different direction? When clarity is lacking, this lesson illustrates the uniqueness of faith. I must become in sync with the leading of the Holy Spirit in my life without knowing the why. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, help us to be more responsive to Your promptings. Help us to have the heart to pray for the lost and to seek out those who are looking for You. I pray for anyone who comes into the door of our church. I pray for them to receive Your truth and to accept the invitation to discipleship. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen. Follow the COGIC Legacy Version in God's What is Faith? https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/what-faith Follow me on Sound Cloud https://soundcloud.com/mickeywbaker You can access my blog. https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/

Simon Wants to Buy Power Lesson Text: Acts 8:9-21 Simon the Sorcerer is the subject of this week's lesson. He uses the occult arts to elevate himself to the position of greatness. However, he quickly becomes aware of his sinful behavior when he encounters the men of God. Thought to Remember: One cannot buy or sell the Holy Spirit Lessons learned: Simon the Sorcerer was about himself. When Simon witnessed the apostles laying their hands on people as they received the Holy Spirit, it seemed like some very powerful religious magic. His lack of knowledge and his focus only on himself create the gall of bitterness. Taking this example to heart, I must refrain from self-interest arrogance, particularly in the ministry, and focus on what is in the best interest of the Kingdom. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, forgive us for times when we have selfish motives in doing things in Your Kingdom. You desire truth in our inward parts and that we do nothing out of ambition or conceit. Purify our hearts, help us to follow Your plan for our lives, and glorify You on Earth. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

Stephens's Martyrdom Lesson Text: Acts 6:8-7:2A #SundaySchool #COGIC #WhoUnderstandsFaith This week's lesson continues with Stephen's defense when he is before the Sanhedrin council. Because of his outspokenness, the council becomes enraged, and things quickly turn for the worst. Thought to Remember: One must either submit or resist Jesus Lessons learned: Stephens received a glimpse of heaven before he died. I believe that this is one of the glorious privileges that God grants faithful believers as they transition from earth to heaven. As I witnessed my father's transition, I noticed the expression of peace on his face at that moment. Likewise, I, too, want to glimpse into heaven and see my Lord standing, ready to deliver the words Well Done, my faithful servant. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for all the examples of true believers like Stephen. Gives us the power that we need to live for You and witness to others. Allow us to fulfill Your intention on Earth because we desire to see Jesus standing by the Father as approval of our life. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

Faith Inspires Gratitude Lesson Text: Hebrews 12:18-29 The focus of this week's lesson is the holiness of God and the grace of God that has opened the door to salvation through Jesus Christ. Thought to Remember: Our faith in God inspires our gratitude Lessons learned: As a result of this lesson, I challenge myself to become more thankful for God's grace even during difficulties that shake this world. Since grace is only available to the believer, I must serve God with love. I must never abandon this love, especially my first love for Christ. Like romantic love between a man and a woman, my first love for Christ involves passion, too. Therefore, I must continue a passionate pursuit of relevance and admonition of God all because of grace. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You that we have access to You through the blood of Jesus. Help us to live for You in great reverence. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

Faith Requires Mutual Love Lesson Text: Hebrews 13:1-3 I Corinthians 13 The focus of this week's lesson is the importance of love as the character of believers. Love is the key component of faith. Love becomes a practical and necessary part of the daily lives of believers. Thought to Remember: We must have an attitude of love Lessons learned: As a result of this lesson, I challenge myself to stop thinking like a child. A child is only aware of the present moment - the here and now. A mature believer, however, can view the world from a spiritual perspective. For instance, because of the blood of Jesus, God sees us dressed in the righteousness of Christ. In the same manner, I should see the world around me as an extension of God's love. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we are grateful for the gift of your son, Jesus, which has demonstrated your love for us. Please help us to demonstrate the same kind of love to those around us. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

Stephens's Arrest and Speech Lesson Text: Acts 6:8-7:2A This week's lesson focuses on the courage to speak, as demonstrated by Stephen. He faces opposition and reflects the power and wisdom of the Spirit to speak the truth of Jesus the Messiah. Thought to Remember: Holy Spirit will aid you when you take a stand Lessons learned: The lesson reminds me of the Bigger Picture from a heavenly perspective. Stephen provided a heavenly perspective with his earthly work. Why? After being appointed a deacon to serve the Libertine (Freedmen) Synagogue widows, Stephen exercises faith with great power and miracles. Yet, his conviction came to fruition when nonbelieving Jews debated him in the Libertine Synagogue; there, he demonstrated power and wisdom under the leading of the Holy Spirit. The same is true when I face opposition in doing the will of God, and I must take a stand for what is right. My Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for the Holy Spirit who gives us the power we need to live for You and witness to others about You. Allow Your will in heaven to become practical here on Earth by using us to perform it. In Jesus' Name, I pray, Amen.

The Wedding at Cana Lesson Text: John 2:1-11 Marriage in the Bible consisted of feasts of joyous celebrations with much wine that could go on for days. Culturally, running out of wine brought shame and embracement to the bridegroom family. Yet, Mary intervenes with a request from her son, Jesus. His intervention created a different joyous event and avoided a disaster. Thought to remember: God saves the best for last! Lesson Learned: The significance of Jesus' first miracle rests in the results. He transforms what seems disaster into a joyous and praiseworthy event. So, likewise, when I obey His words, the results will transform my life. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, Your love, Your awesomeness, and Your miracles are true blessings to us. Thank You for Your miracles and help us not take them for granted, but share Your love and mercy with others. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen. Follow the COGIC Legacy Version in God's Creative Word from this website: https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/god-creative-word Follow me on Sound Cloud https://soundcloud.com/mickeywbaker You can access my blog. https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/

The Word Became Flesh Lesson Text: John 1:1-14 Jesus was more than a personification of God's revelation, but He was indeed God's perfect revelation of Himself in the flesh. Because He was both divine and human, His light illuminated our path toward God. Thought to remember: Jesus is God, the I AM. He existed before the creation. Lesson Learned: When Jesus walked the earth, many lacked the faith to believe that he was both divine and human. Likewise, many today lack faith. So, I must refrain from becoming like Philip when he asked Jesus to show him the Father. Jesus' reply is still valid today – he that hath seen me hath seen the Father. (John 14:9) My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, keep us in Your care, and remind us of the birth, life, death, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. We bless You, and we praise You. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Wisdom's Part in Creation Lesson Text: Proverbs 8:22-35 This lesson opens with a personification of Wisdom as a woman. Proverbs 8 is Lady Wisdom calling out for people to listen to her message. Lady Wisdom tells us that she was with God initially and was instrumental in the universe's design. Thought to remember: Wisdom is a life-giving source. Lesson Learned: Wisdom is necessary as I walk toward the direction of Christ. Wisdom wants me to listen and follow her advice, leading me into a blessed life and eternal life forever. I, too, realize that the Word of God contains Wisdom. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, I realize that God's Wisdom is precious and wonderful to have and to keep. Therefore, show us how to use Wisdom in our personal and collective lives. Help us see Jesus as true Wisdom for us to have each day. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Lesson on Angels including Heavenly Angels and Fallen Angels. What do the Scriptures say about angels?

God Preserves a Remnant (Lesson Text: Genesis 45:3-15) Joseph demonstrates true forgiveness in this lesson while allowing God's providence to unfold in his life. Joseph acknowledges that God is always in control even when others have no knowledge of His divine plan. Remember, faithfulness brings us favor. Thought to remember: God will always preserve His people. Lesson Learned: Like Joseph, I must exercise forgiveness even when I cannot grasp the divine purpose for my current situation, but His Word reminds me that God has a divine plan for my life. Therefore, I must continue to trust because afterward, I will become like pure gold when He finishes. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, You are a gracious and forgiving God, full of mercy and compassion. So we thank You for the good times in our lives. Help us to forgive our brothers and sisters. Allow us to render assistance in time of need like Joseph did for his family. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen!

Joseph Finds Favor (Lesson Text: Genesis 41:37-52) Joseph did not run after fame. He did not bride his way to the top or manipulate his circumstances. Joseph relied on God. Even when he experiences a major setback, he continues to wait on God. Thought to remember: God always works through men performing His tasks on Earth. Lesson Learned: Joseph became an agent of revelation in a pagan culture. First, he was his father's favor, then he became a slave and was sentenced to prison. Finally, he was raised from his lowest point to the highest office next to Pharaoh. I, too, can become an agent of revelation despite my present situation if I trust God. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, we trust that You will reward us in Your time and in Your way. Help us to do our very best in every responsibility we are given. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen!

A Blessing for All Nations Lesson Text: Genesis 12:1-9 This lesson explores the origin of God's promise to Abraham. Through Abraham, God will call a people for His witness. The promise of a great name and a great nation leads Abraham to commit to God through obedience. Thought to remember: We must commit to obeying God's Word. Lesson Learned: Abraham gathered together his family and obeyed God's direction to leave. Obedience remains a prevalent action for all believers today. Therefore, I must examine my allegiance in following God's directions by asking, “am I committed to doing what God requires me to do, or am I doing what I want to do? My Prayer: My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, help us be sensitive to Your leading in our lives. Please help us to listen and then obey. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen!

A Promise to Abraham Lesson Text: Genesis 15:1-6; 12-18 This lesson revisits God's promise to Abraham more fully. Remember through Abraham, and God will call a people for His witness. This reminder of God's promise enabled Abraham to believe God, and God counted it to him as righteousness. Thought to remember: We must know that God keeps His promises. Lesson Learned: Abraham renewed his faith when God reminded him of the same promise by gazing at the stars. Today, I have His Word to study and renew my faith when I, too, begin to doubt about His promises. Remember God created humans in His image to participate in His Kingdom by bring forth both physical and spiritual children. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, we thank You that You always keep Your promises, even though we may have to go through some hard times. Help us to wait patiently, in faith by trusting You as Adonai. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen!

The Lord Provides Lesson Text: Genesis 22:1-2; 6-14 This lesson emphasizes the faith and obedience of Abraham. Although, God promised to give Abraham: 1) a land, 2) a great name, 3) a great nation, and 4) a blessing that would spread to the whole world. Yet, faith and obedience work together. Abraham's faith in God exercises his obedience to God's Word, as demonstrated in his willingness to sacrifice his promised child, Isaac. Thought to remember: God will provide when we obey. Lesson Learned: Abraham's relationship with God leads to faith and obedience to His Word. Like a child who must have faith in his parents with obedience toward their guidance to achieve maturity. It is no difference in God's Kingdom because obedience is the evidence of faith. Remember, faith without works is dead. (James 2:26) My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, we thank You for the tests. However, don't allow our tests to lead us toward the temptation of the Evil One. Enable us to remember that our test empowers us to become fully mature for our Kingdom. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen!

According to the Promise Lesson Text: Luke 1:46-55 Mary, the mother of Jesus, sings a praise song richly detailed with references to God's promises. She mentions the glory, goodness, power, and faithfulness of the Almighty God. Finally, Mary describes how God punishes the proud and powerful rich while alleviating the poor's suffering. Thought to remember: God will always fulfill His promises. Lesson Learned: God stands on His promises; therefore, our faith in God is an endowment through our Savior, Jesus. Because of our faith, we are joint-heir through Christ. Our belief liberates us from human limitations while allowing God to dominate and power over negative influences and experiences in this life. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, we thank You for fulfilling Your most significant promise, and that is sending Jesus Christ, our Savior. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen!

Praying as God's People (Lesson Text: Matthew 5:43-48) Jesus continues the Sermon on the Mount by engaging His audience with an enlightenment about prayer. This lesson provides the correct process when you are praying. Thought to remember: Jesus taught that it is more important to develop our inner relationship with God through Prayer. Lesson Learned: I learned how not to pray. I must not allow my prayers to generate into performance because meaningless words do not transform into meaningful prayers. My goal is neither to impress or inform others but to create an intimate encounter between the Creator and creation. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that I serve an all-powerful heavenly God. Forgive me of my sins and give me the tools I need to walk with You daily. Help me to remember that you can and will provide all of my needs. Your many names equip me with the knowledge I need to follow after You. I know now that You are full of grace, feel my hurt, come to my aid, provide, and give me peace. Help me to remember these truths when the road gets hard. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen! Follow the Teaching and Learning COGIC Legacy Series from this website: https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/teaching-learning

Marriage of the Lamb (Lesson Text: Revelation 19:1-8) We have weddings to create memories for those who attend as well as the participants. Similarly, the wedding ceremony in heaven culminates the believers' rescue from the power of sin which set off an Alleluia scene. Therefore, this lesson encourages us to get ready. Thought to remember: Look for hallelujah moments in your life. Lesson Learned: I must grasp the events of my life through the nature of God's actions – He creates, He rules, and He redeems. My life has a purpose, and I must fulfill that purpose by remembering - Revelation 19:7, Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. Am I prepared for this ceremony to concur? My Prayer: Praise to You, God most high! Glory to You, Lord of Heaven and Earth! Thanks be to You and Your gracious gift of Jesus, Your Son, and our Savior. May our hearts give praise to the King of kings and Lord of lords. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen! https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/ https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/see-you-sunday-school

Forgiving as God's People Lesson Text: Matthew 5:17-26 The Sermon on the Mount created a setting for Jesus to emphasize the danger of unforgiveness. As followers, we must remember to avoid the temptation of unresolved conflicts, which can poison the lives of many. Thought to remember: As people of God, living in harmony with others is important. Lesson Learned: I must remember the power of forgiveness will promote connection at two different levels: 1) my connection with God (heavenly) and 2) my connection with others (earthy). In addition, the joy of forgiveness promotes inner peace, while the peace of forgiveness creates joy leading to the true cycle of living in harmony. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, help us to become what You desire. Guide our tongues and our minds to be on one accord with You. Thank You for caring for us and forgiving us as we reconcile ourselves to one another. Let us stay focused on You and in Your Word. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen! Follow the Teaching and Learning COGIC Legacy Series from this website: https://www.beyondtheotherside.me/teaching-learning

Living as God's People Lesson Text: Matthew 5:1-12 Matthew the 5th chapter begins Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount. This setting provides the essence of Jesus' teaching. He unfolds the secret of connecting with God as noted in Matthew 5:48, "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." Thought to remember: God's reign on earth is already a blessing. Lesson Learned: I must remember when suffering for Christ will ultimately allow me to experience the same comfort He experienced after the Cross. Remember, they stoned Stephen, calling upon God and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. (Acts 7:59) because Stephen saw Jesus standing on the right hand of God. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, thank You for Your many blessings. Thank You for being our God! May the Holy Spirit fill our hearts and guard our minds against worldly distractions that try to steal our blessings. My Lord, it is your way that we seek, so guide and direct us in all things. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen!

Praise God for His Presence Lesson Text: Psalm 84:1-12 In Psalm 84, we witnessed the passion for the presence of God. As you study this lesson, ask yourself if your journey in life is leading toward God or away from God. Thought to remember: Remember the Lord's presence and be blessed! Lesson Learned: The psalmist is very passionate about his presence in the Lord's house. So I ask myself this question - how seriously do I take the truth that God's presence is always with me? If I am serious about this question, then I must realize that location is nonessential instead that my heart must become passionate about spending time with God. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, thank you for the presence of the Holy Spirit! We realize the need for humbleness because You promised to dwell with those who turn to you with simple faith. We thank you for your presence with your people when we gather in worship. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Tradition and Love Lesson Text: Song of Solomon 4:8-5:1 God created man and woman in a perfect world established in the garden of Eden. Here we sense the blessings of God as bestowed upon marriage. Therefore, the Song of Solomon paints this love picture of two characters in love as they consummate their marriage union. Thought to remember: God ordained committed relationships Lesson Learned: One of the most important lessons to take away from the Song of Solomon is that God offers an extraordinary blessing to ordinary men and women who commit themselves to a godly marriage. For instance, a repeated theme in the Song of Solomon is a warning against stirring up or awakening love until the right time (2:7,3:5,8:4). In other words, if I awaken love for another, I must continue to love because true love surpasses everything, true love is satisfying, true love is faithful, and true will last forever. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, help us honor You as we honor our commitment to marriage and singleness. Help us demonstrate the same love You have for us as the one you gave us in marriage. Help us who are single to savor the same commitment in the future. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen!

Lesson Text: Proverbs 15:21-33 Our third lesson in the Teaching and Learning series focuses on Teaching Values by explaining the need for counseling when making decisions. This lesson presents three key topics that we must consider to live heavenly while on earth: 1) Right Actions 2) Right Response and 3) Speak Well, and 4) Think Right Thought to remember: One who hears criticism acquires understanding. Lesson Learned: Failure to seek advice is a sign of pride, but seeking advice from many counselors can avert disaster. Therefore, I must value the opinions of others with experience before deciding because unwise decisions will lead you down a journey of disparities and inconsistencies in your life. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, help us exercise wisdom in our decision-making and seek wise counsel in the process. In Jesus' name. Amen!

Lesson Text: Proverbs 3:1-12 Our first lesson in our Teaching and Learning series is Righteousness and Wisdom from the book of Proverbs. In the first ten chapters of Proverbs, you will note that King Solomon advises his son about God's precepts, promises, and provisions. Thought to remember: Make Decisions based on God's principles instead of your best interest. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, help us to be obedient as sons and daughters who desire to please You and to help our children honor You as well. In Jesus' name. Amen!

Lesson Text: Proverbs 4:10-15, 20-27 Our second lesson in the Teaching and Learning series focuses on the next generation by explaining the key ingredients for long life. This lesson presents two paths that one can take and ends with how to live godly in an ungodly world. Thought to remember: The Way of Wisdom is synonymous with the Path of Righteousness. Lesson Learned: When we have nothing left but God, we will soon discover that we will have more than enough. This statement serves as the key to wisdom while reminding me that my journey in life is futile without the instruction, as noted in Proverbs the 4th chapter. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, help us keep our eyes, ears, hearts, and feet focused on following Your path, In Jesus' name. Amen!

Praise with Music Lesson Text: Exodus 15:11-21 Our first lesson in our God Celebrating series is Praise with Music. Even the Psalmist challenged us to “sing unto the Lord a new song' for he hath done marvelous things.” So, after this lesson, I ask you what song will you sing. Thought to remember: God always wins! Lesson Learned: Like the song that Moses, Miriam, and the people sang, my songs should come from specific situations: • Of deliverance; • Of healing; • Of crossing from death into life. So I remind myself what the reason for singing today is. My Prayer: Dearest Almighty God, as we face trials this week, we commit ourselves to remember that in You, we have victory. In Jesus' victorious name, we thank You. Amen.

Righteousness and Wisdom Lesson Text: Proverbs 3:1-12 Our first lesson in our Teaching and Learning series is Righteousness and Wisdom from the book of Proverbs. In the first ten chapters of Proverbs, you will note that King Solomon advises his son about God's precepts, promises, and provisions. Thought to remember: Make Decisions based on God's principles instead of your best interest. My Prayer: Dearest Heavenly Father, help us to be obedient as sons and daughters who desire to please You and to help our children honor You as well. In Jesus' name. Amen!

Hope Eternal is Lesson 13 of the Sunday School Summer Quarter 2021. Lesson Text: 2 Corinthians 4:16-5:10 Remember, believers are not "blind" to the world's evils, but we can overcome dark influences. So this lesson uncovers the final secret in our Faith Series that believers exercise as overcomers. Thought to remember: Base hope in faith, not sight! Lesson Learned: Life is very challenging, but I must see the possibilities beyond the present. From this lesson, I grasped three concepts: 1) Never fear death 2) Enjoy the peace and comfort of the Holy Spirit. 3) Walk by faith, not by sight.

A Conquering Faith Lesson Text: I John 4:2-3, 13-17; 5:4-5 We can have victory and overcome the world only through faith in Jesus our Savior, the Son of God. God enabled this plan even though created beings in His image reject Him over and over again. Remember, His plan centers on the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of His beloved Son, Jesus. Thought to remember: The only way to overcome the world is through faith in Jesus. Lesson Learned: I can only overcome the world through the faith that Jesus is my Savior and who is the Son of God. This faith allows the Holy Spirit to empower me to become an overcomer. This action alone results in the demonstration of LOVE.

A Persevering Faith (lesson 11) Sunday School Summer Quarter 2021 Lesson Text: Hebrews 10:23-36 Faith is effective when we depend on God and rest in the death, burial, and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus. Yet, the writer of Hebrews urged believers to recognize the superiority of our faith while living in obedience to God daily. Remember, our reward rests in the afterlife.

Lesson 10 of the Sunday School Summer Quarter entitled the Meaning of Faith. Lesson Text: Hebrews 11:1-8,13-16 The writer of Hebrews stresses the superiority of faith over the Law including the prophets, angels, Moses, Joshua, Aaron, and Judaic rituals. Mainly, faith demonstrates the reality of divine creation by the spoken Word of God. In other words, we see what comes from what we do not see when we exercise faith. For such to happen, we as believers must believe 1) that God exists and 2) that God rewards those who seek Him.

Lesson 9 of the Sunday School Summer Quarter 2021 entitled Salvation for All.

Lesson 8 of the Sunday School Summer Quarter 2021 entitled Peace of God