SEXUAL PERVERSION – II WHAT IS THE BIBLICAL VIEW
KEY VERSE: Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterer nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders. I CORNTHIANS 6:9
SCRIPTURE LESSON: ROMANS 1:18-27; I CORINTHIANS 6:9-11;
I TIMOTHY 1:8-11
ROMAN 1:18 The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the god lessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness,
19 since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them.
20 for since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.
22 Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools
23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animal and reptiles.
24 therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another.
25 They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator – who is forever praised. Amen.
26 Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones.
27 In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion.
1 CONRINTHIANS 6:9 Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders
10 nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.
11 And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
1 TIMOTHY 1:8 We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.
9 We also know that law is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious; for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers.
10 for adulterers and perverts, for slave traders and liars and perjurers – and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine
11 that conforms to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me.
INTRODUCTION
Homosexuality is a sexual sin which was regarded as a moral problem for people in Europe and America. Many Western writers thought it was not a problem for Africa. But in recent times Christians, Muslims, and secular authorities are getting worried by the way homosexual practices are spreading underground among the youth and adults (who may even be married).
African culture regards homosexuality as a taboo, something inconceivable, but the era of globalization, with exchange among cultures in making homosexuality attractive. In Ghana homosexuality which seems to have been present mainly in educational and prison institutions is now spreading into public and private lives of the young and old. Some do it for money and others for pleasure. It is an issue that could seriously undermine marriage and family life in Ghana. This study explores ways in which homosexual activities are happening in the country.
EXPOSITION
What does the law in Ghana says about homosexuality?
The law in Ghana regards homosexual intercourse as unnatural carnal knowledge, and therefore illegal. This is the reason why the government disallowed the international conference of homosexuals that was planned to take place in Ghana in 2007.
In traditional Ghanaian societies homosexual activity is a taboo. In some societies the practice was inconceivable, so there were no words for it. Prof. K.A. Busia’s doctoral research work among the Asante in 1951 which discusses various sexual prohibitions does not show the existence of homosexuality in the society then.
The Practice of Homosexuality in Ghana
Lesbianism in Schools: The practice of homosexuality in Ghana occurs in various forms. Public knowledge of the female form of homosexuality, lesbianism, limited it to the practice of supi in the boarding system of high schools. This is the system whereby in boarding schools some girls take other girls in the school as sexual partners and engage in sexual activities in ‘tents’ – student beds covered by bed sheets.
In most cases the senior girls take advantage of the innocent fresh students to satisfy their sexual lusts. There are stories of junior students who are bullied into the lesbian relationship by some seniors.
Some lesbian relationships involve female tutors and female students. In a particular female church institution a student got involved in a lesbian relationship with foreign woman on the staff who was supposed to be a Christian. The affair lasted for a very long time, even after the student had graduated. When the foreigner left the country at the end for her term of service, the Ghanaian lady became emotionally devastated. She could hardly cope with the absence of her lesbian partner. Eventually she developed mental problems which could not be treated.
Sodomy: Until recent times the male form, sodomy, was prevalent among prison in-mates. Compared to the supi among girls, the incidence of sodomy in boys’ schools has been far less.
Thus until recently, homosexuality in Ghana was associated with institutional life in prisons and schools. Today the story is different. Homosexuality has spread outside the institutions to hotels, guest houses, student hostels and private homes. Although the practice is outlawed, the youth and adults (male and female) are involved in it for carnal pleasure and money. Some sex prostitution and partnerships are now gaining root underground.
Sex Tourism: An important factor for the growth of homosexual activity in Ghana is sex tourism. Some tourists visit the country for sexual adventures which include homosexual practices. Young people have been lured to become same sex prostitutes because of the attractive cash payments involved. An incident involving some local boys and some European tourists was reported in the newspapers. The tourist had taken photographs of the homosexual encounters with the boys. When the tourists left the country they sent the boys some printed copies of the photographs. Unfortunately, for the boys, the custom officers at the parcel section of the Post Office inspected the contents of the photo parcel. So when one of the boys went to collect the parcel of photographs, he was arrested and handed over to the police. Countless numbers of such homosexual activities to on in hotels, guest houses hostels and private homes in the country.
Homosexual marriages are still unknown in Ghana, because of the law. But in the name of human rights, the international gay movement would join hands with their local counterparts underground to lobby for recognition. So far South Africa is perhaps the only country in Africa that now permits same sex marriages.
There is the need to distinguish between homosexual inclination or inversion (for which people may not be responsible), and homosexual acts (for which they are responsible).
The word in our lives
The Call to Christian Love: The negative attitude of personal hatred and fear towards homosexuals is termed homophobia. It is a mixture of irrational fear, hostility and even revulsion towards homosexual. It overlooks the fact that many homosexuals are probably not responsible for their condition (though they are for their conduct). Richard Lovelace calls for ‘a double repentance’, that gay people should renounce (inside and outside the church) their homosexual lifestyle, and the ‘straight’ ones (non-gays) should renounce homophobia.
At the heart of the homosexual condition is a deep loneliness, the natural human hunger for mutual love, search for identity and a longing for completeness. If homosexual people cannot find these things in the local ‘church family’ they cannot be persuaded to stop the homosexual lifestyle.
In the Western world where homosexuality is commonly practiced, two men or women cannot walk down the street hand in hand without attracting the embarrassing suspicion or ridicule that they are ‘queer’ –homosexual partners. The fact that some people are homosexuals does not mean that very close same-sex friendships are to be discouraged. Healthy same sex friendships like those in the Bible between Ruth and Naomi, David and Jonathan and Paul and Timothy can be courage. There is no hint that any of these was homosexual in the physical sense, yet they were very affectionate, especially in the case of David and Jonathan (I Sa 18:1-4; 20:41, 2 Sa 1:26). However, such relationships should not be allowed to degenerate into homosexuality.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. a. What factors promote supi or lesbianism among girls in high schools and universities?
b. Consider the similar practice among boys
2. Consider the effects of such practices on the future marriage of those who get involved.
3. How can the supi practice and the parallel practice among boys be effectively controlled?
4. What role can the church play in checking the spread of homosexuality?
5. What measures can be adopted to control sex tourism in Ghana?
6. What practical measures should the church put in place to win homosexuals for Christ?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
Share the insights of this lesson with as many people as possible. Share their responses with your bible class/group.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday Genesis 2:18-25 Divine basis of male-female marriage
Tuesday I Corinthians 6:9-11 Homosexuals can be forgiven
Wednesday I Timothy 1:8-11 Sexual perverts are rebels, law
breakers, & ungodly.
Thursday Jude 3-7 The sin and doom of godless people.
Friday Luke 10:1-12 God’s wrath against ungodliness and
moral decadence
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Thursday, May 21, 2009
09WK21- SEXUAL PERVERSION -1. WHAT IS THE BIBLICAL VIEW?
Week 21
SEXUAL PERVERSION – I WHAT IS THE BIBLICAL VIEW?
KEY VERSE: Then the LORD rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah – from the LORD out of the heavens GENESIS 19:24
SCRIPTURE LESSON: GENESIS 19:1-25
1 The two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city. When he saw them, he got up to meet them and bowed down with his face to the ground.
2 “My lords,” he said,” please turn aside to your servant’s house. You can wash your feet and spend the night and then go on your way early in the morning.” “No,” they answered, “we will spend the night in the square.”
3 But he insisted so strongly that they did go with him and entered his house. He prepared a meal for them, baking bread without yeast, and they ate.
4 Before they had gone to bed, all the men from every part of the city of Sodom – both young and old – surrounded the house.
5 They called to Lot, “Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us so that we can have sex with them.”
6 Lot went outside to meet them and shut the door behind him
7 and said, “No, my friends. Don’t do this wicked thing
8 Look, I have two daughters who have never slept with a man. Let me bring them out to you, and you can do what you like with them. But don’t do anything to these men, for they have come under the protection of my roof.”
9 “Get out of our way,” they replied. And they said, “This fellow came here as an alien, and now he wants to play the judge! We’ll treat you worse than them.” They kept bringing pressure on Lot and moved forward to break down the door.
10 But the men inside reached out and pulled Lot back into the house and shut the door.
11 Then they struck the men who were at the door of the house, young and old, with blindness so that they could not find the door.
12 The two men said to Lot, “Do you have anyone else here – sons-in-law, sons or daughters, or anyone else in the city who belongs to you? Get them out of here,
13 because we are going to destroy this place. The outcry of the LORD against its people is so great that he has sent us to destroy it.”
14 So Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, who were pledged to marry his daughters. He said, “Hurry and get out of this place, because the LORD is about to destroy the city!” But his sons-in-law thought he was joking.
15 With the coming of dawn, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Hurry! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here or you will be swept away when the city is punished.”
16 When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the LORD was merciful to them.
17 As soon as they had brought them out, one of them said, “Flee for your lives! Don’t look back, and don’t stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!”
18 But Lot said to them, “No, my lords, please!
19 Your servant has found favor in your eyes, and you have shown great kindness to me in sparing my life. But I cant flee to the mountains, this disaster will overtake me, and I’II die.
20 Look, here is a town near enough to run to, and it is small. Let me flee to it -- it is very small, isn’t it? Then my life will be spared.”
21 He said to him, “Very well, I will grant this request too; I will not overthrow the town you speak of.
22 But flee there quickly, because I cannot do anything until you reach it. “(That is why the town was called Zoar.)
23 By the time Lot reached Zoar, the sun had risen over the land.
24Then the LORD rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah---from the LORD out of the heavens.
25 Thus he overthrew those cities and the entire plain, including all those living in the cities--- and also the vegetation in the land.
INTRODUCTION
Homosexuality is one of the major ethical issues facing Christians today. It is one of the major factors for division in the church in the Western world. There are homosexuals in the church who are seeking approvals for same-sex marriages and sexual lifestyles, in spite of what the Bible teaches about homosexuality. Some people in the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement argue that a heterosexual marriage and a homosexual partnership are ‘two equally valid alternatives’, being equally ‘tender, mature and faithful’. In May 1989, Denmark became the first country to legalize homosexual marriages. A year before that, Bishop John S. Spong of Newark, New Jersey, urged the Episcopal Church ‘to bless and affirm the love that binds two persons of the same gender into relationship mutual commitment’.
The late Derrick Sherwin Bailey was the first Christian theologian to re-evaluate the traditional understanding of the Biblical prohibitions in his famous book: Homosexuality and the Western Christian Tradition (1995). This work has generated a lot of controversy among Western Christians concerning sexual morality. The expositions that follow are intended to explain the traditional Christian thinking about homosexuality in spite of what scientists and psychologists say.
EXPOSITION
Science and Homosexual Behaviour
Homosexuality is a term with two meanings. It may be applied to people who are sexually attracted to members of their own sex or to same-sex genital acts. It comprises both men and women. Lesbianism is the word normally used to distinguish female homosexuality.
The difference between personal orientation and behaviour is to be noted. Studies show that some people with a homosexual orientation may never put their desires into practice; while others whose attraction is primarily heterosexual engage in homosexual acts occasionally.
There is no consensus about the causation of same-sex desires. Some trace the orientation to genetic or biochemical sources (not as yet discovered). Others point to psychological factors. An American Psychologist, Elizabeth Moberly argues that a homosexual condition in adulthood may arise from an “unresolved relational deficit with the parent of the same sex during childhood”. One point on which many of such experts agree is that “a homosexual orientation is discovered, not chosen”.
Nature and Creation: Is homosexual behaviour natural?
According to Kinsey’s survey, the homosexual behaviour of some people is natural. However, many Christian theologians, from Thomas Aquinas to Karl Barth, have questioned that idea and direct Christians to relate their understanding of nature to the doctrine of creation. To ask whether homosexuality is natural is to ask whether God made it. The answer to that is simply: no! Karl Barth refers to the Bible’s account of creation and points to how the male and female complement each other as people created in the image and likeness of God. Homosexual union effectively denies the ‘otherness’ of the one flesh relationship which the creator initiated between man and woman.
Thomas Aquinas stresses the procreative end of heterosexual intercourse. To be natural, he argues, an act must serve the ends which are natural to it. Homosexual intercourse is by definition non-procreative in intention and act. It is therefore immoral, because it cannot lead to full, secure family life.
What the Church Fathers and Reformers Say
The early church condemned the homosexual life-style as contrary to the spirit of the Gospel. Such practices were denounced mainly on the grounds that “they are in themselves unnatural.” Tertullian wrote: “all other frenzies of the lusts which exceed the laws of nature are impious towards both human bodies and sexes. We banish, not only from the threshold but also from all shelter of the Church, for they are not sins so much as monstrosities.”
John Chrysostom denounced homosexual practices as unnatural. In his commentary on Romans 1:26-27, he observed that “the delights of sodomy are an unpardonable insult to nature. .. Such immoralities are doubly destructive: (1) they jeopardize the race by deflecting the sexual organs from their primary procreative purpose; (2) they sow disharmony and strife between man and woman, who are no longer impelled by their physical desires to live together peaceably”.
With reference to Genesis 19, St Augustine wrote of ‘‘‘those shameful acts against nature, such as were committed in Sodom, ought everywhere and always to be detested and punished. If all nations were to do such things, they would {equally} be held guilty of the same crime by the law of God which has not so made men that they should use another in this way..
The medieval church was pastorally sensitive to the problems of those involved in homosexual practices; however it remained uncompromisingly opposed to the practices themselves. Since homosexual acts could not lead to procreation, they moved beyond the limits form sexual behaviour. Thomas Aquinas considered them sins against nature, the most serious genus of sins of lust, less grievous than bestiality.
The major Reformers maintained the same resistance to homosexual practices as the early Christians. Luther considered the presence and toleration of homosexual activity among the clergy as one of the worst symptoms of decay in the church, a product of human failure to know and honour the true God.
Homosexuality in the Bible
The Bible says nothing about the homosexual orientation, but it does condemn homosexual behaviour forthrightly. Sodom suffered God’s judgment for threatened homosexual rape (Ge 19:1-25; cf. jdg 19:11 – 20:48.) In the Old Testament (OT) the Holiness Code of Leviticus labeled male homosexuals as ‘detestable’ and prescribed the death penalty for convicted offenders (Lev. 18:22; 20:13; cf. I Ki. 14:24; 15:12:46). In the New Testament (NT) Paul condemns homosexual practice (including lesbianism) as unnatural, incompatible with lifestyle of God’s kingdom and an affront to God’s law and gospel (Ro. 1:18-27; 1 Co. 6:9-11; 1 Ti 1:8-11).
The two texts in Leviticus (Lev. 18:22; 20:13) are part of the Holiness Code which is the heart of the book. It challenges the people of God to follow his laws and not to copy the practices either of Egypt (where they used to live) or of Canaan (to which he was bringing them). These practices included forbidden sexual practices of various kinds. This is the context for the prohibition:
Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman; that is detestable (18;22)
If a man lies with a man as one lies with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable. They must be put to death; their blood will be on their own heads (20:13).
These prohibitions are not mere religious taboos as some scholars have regarded them. They are connected with the prohibition in Deuteronomy 23:17: No Israelite man or woman is to become a temple prostitute. The fertility cult of the Canaanites included temple prostitution which promoted homosexuality. The evil Kings of Israel and Judah were constantly introducing them into the religion of Israel, and the righteous kings were constantly abolishing them. Although some homosexual scholars in the Western church today try to explain away these prohibitions, the plain and natural interpretation of the above verses is that they forbid homosexual act of every kind. The death penalty prescribed for the Israelites shows extreme seriousness with which homosexual practices were viewed.
In the New Testament, Paul’s teaching in Romans 1:18-27 describes the idolatrous pagans in the Greco-Roman world of his day. They had a certain knowledge of God through the created universe (verses 19-20) and their own moral sense (verse 32), yet they ignored the truth in order to practice wickedness. Instead of giving to God the honour due him, they rather turned to idols, confusing the Creator with the creatures. In judgment God gave them over to their depraved mind and decadent practices (verses 24, 26, 28), including unnatural sex – men inflamed with lust for one another. … Men committed indecent acts with other men. . The passage is a definite condemnation of homosexual behaviour.
Other Pauline Texts
In I Corinthians 6:9-10 and I Timothy 1:9-10 Paul provides us with two ugly lists of sins which are incompatible firstly, with the Kingdom of God and secondly with either the law or the gospel. Taken together, St. Paul’s writings condemn homosexual behaviour as a vice of the Gentiles in Romans, as a bar to the Kingdom in Corinthians, and as an offence to be repudiated by the moral law in I Timothy. All the 10 categories listed in I Corinthians 6:9-10 denote people who have offended by their actions.
Why Homosexual Marriage is not Biblical
The prohibitions against homosexual practices in Scripture make sense only in the light of its positive teaching in Genesis 1 and 2 about human sexuality and heterosexual marriage. Since members of the lesbian and Gay Christian Movement in the Western world deliberately draw a parallel between heterosexual marriages and homosexual partnerships, it is necessary to take a second look at marriage in the Bible.
Genesis 2 particularly affirms the complimentarity of the sexes, which constitutes the basis for heterosexual marriage. In Genesis 2:18 the human need for companionship is expressed: ‘It is not good for a man to be alone.’ Genesis 2 again reveals the divine provision to meet this human need. A special work of divine creation took place. God created the woman out of the man and brought her to him in a kind of divine marriage ceremony. In appreciation of God’s gift to him, Adam composed the first love poem in history:
This is now bone of my bones
And flesh of my flesh;
She shall be called ‘Woman’
For she was taken out of man.
The concluding comment is Genesis 2:24: “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother, and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.”
The image of woman, taken from man’s flesh and becoming one flesh again with him in sexual union and marriage, is meaningless when applied to homosexual relationships.
Marriage in the Teaching of Jesus
It is important to note that in Matthew 19:4-6 Jesus himself endorsed the Old Testament definition of marriage. In doing so he emphasized the heterosexual nature of marriage with words from Genesis 1:27 (that the Creator made them male and female). The three truths about marriage affirmed by Jesus are as follows:
Heterosexual gender (male and female) is a divine creation;
Heterosexual marriage is a divine institution; and
Heterosexual fidelity is a divine intention
A homosexual affair is a breach of all these three divine purposes for marriage. An important facet of theology expressed by the ban on homosexual acts by the OT law is the ‘one flesh’ pattern of heterosexual marriage in Genesis. That is the reason why Paul bracketed homosexual behaviour with adultery in his updated application of the Ten Commandments in I Timothy. He follows the same pattern in Romans, where the ban on homosexual acts is based on the doctrine of creation.
THE LOVE FACTOR
People who support situation ethics use love to justify homosexual acts. To them, God’s purpose for humans is that we should realize our humanity as lovers. Since homosexuals contribute to the realization of love among humans they should be encouraged. The faulty nature of this position is seen in its foundational premise. God’s purpose for human fulfillment is not only that we love each other, but also that we love God. Any teaching that puts the two facets of God ‘s purpose against each other cannot be of him. God cannot in one breath forbid homosexual behaviour and in the next permit it because it promotes human love.
THE WORD IN OUR LIVES
Many of us in these Bible studies may say homosexuality is not our problem but we must realize that sexually we are all sinners. First, we are all human beings or persons made in the image and likeness of God, yet fallen. Secondly, we are all sexual beings. Our sexuality is basic to our humanness. When God made mankind he made us male and female. So the talk about sex relates to the centre of our personality. The subject therefore demands an unusual degree of sensitivity. Thirdly, we are all sinners. In God’s view we are all sexual sinners – sexual deviants. John Stott admits: “I doubt if there is anyone who has not had a lustful thought that deviated from God’s perfect ideal of sexuality. With exception of Jesus, nobody has been sexually sinless. Therefore we must not come to the study of homosexuality with an attitude of moral superiority. Homosexuals also are human beings who need to be loved – back to Christ.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. What makes homosexual behaviour unnatural?
2. Why should acceptable marriage be heterosexual?
3. Why is the ordination of practicing homosexuals as priests a danger to the church?
4. Discuss ways in which a homosexual may be helped to become ‘straight change his/her sexual behaviour.
5. How will you tackle personal evangelism to a homosexual in an effective way?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
This week, spend each day praying for homosexuals. Befriend any if you can, and share faith in Christ with him/her.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday Genesis 18:16-33 Homosexuals may be saved
Tuesday Genesis 19:1-25 Sodom and Gomorrah destroyed
Because of sexual perversion
Wednesday Leviticus 18:22; 20:13 Law against homosexuality
Thursday Genesis 2:18-25 God institutes heterosexual
Marriages
Friday Judges 19:16-26 Sexual perversion in Gibeah
Saturday I Kings 14:21-24 Male shrine prostitution in Israel
SEXUAL PERVERSION – I WHAT IS THE BIBLICAL VIEW?
KEY VERSE: Then the LORD rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah – from the LORD out of the heavens GENESIS 19:24
SCRIPTURE LESSON: GENESIS 19:1-25
1 The two angels arrived at Sodom in the evening, and Lot was sitting in the gateway of the city. When he saw them, he got up to meet them and bowed down with his face to the ground.
2 “My lords,” he said,” please turn aside to your servant’s house. You can wash your feet and spend the night and then go on your way early in the morning.” “No,” they answered, “we will spend the night in the square.”
3 But he insisted so strongly that they did go with him and entered his house. He prepared a meal for them, baking bread without yeast, and they ate.
4 Before they had gone to bed, all the men from every part of the city of Sodom – both young and old – surrounded the house.
5 They called to Lot, “Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us so that we can have sex with them.”
6 Lot went outside to meet them and shut the door behind him
7 and said, “No, my friends. Don’t do this wicked thing
8 Look, I have two daughters who have never slept with a man. Let me bring them out to you, and you can do what you like with them. But don’t do anything to these men, for they have come under the protection of my roof.”
9 “Get out of our way,” they replied. And they said, “This fellow came here as an alien, and now he wants to play the judge! We’ll treat you worse than them.” They kept bringing pressure on Lot and moved forward to break down the door.
10 But the men inside reached out and pulled Lot back into the house and shut the door.
11 Then they struck the men who were at the door of the house, young and old, with blindness so that they could not find the door.
12 The two men said to Lot, “Do you have anyone else here – sons-in-law, sons or daughters, or anyone else in the city who belongs to you? Get them out of here,
13 because we are going to destroy this place. The outcry of the LORD against its people is so great that he has sent us to destroy it.”
14 So Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, who were pledged to marry his daughters. He said, “Hurry and get out of this place, because the LORD is about to destroy the city!” But his sons-in-law thought he was joking.
15 With the coming of dawn, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Hurry! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here or you will be swept away when the city is punished.”
16 When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the LORD was merciful to them.
17 As soon as they had brought them out, one of them said, “Flee for your lives! Don’t look back, and don’t stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!”
18 But Lot said to them, “No, my lords, please!
19 Your servant has found favor in your eyes, and you have shown great kindness to me in sparing my life. But I cant flee to the mountains, this disaster will overtake me, and I’II die.
20 Look, here is a town near enough to run to, and it is small. Let me flee to it -- it is very small, isn’t it? Then my life will be spared.”
21 He said to him, “Very well, I will grant this request too; I will not overthrow the town you speak of.
22 But flee there quickly, because I cannot do anything until you reach it. “(That is why the town was called Zoar.)
23 By the time Lot reached Zoar, the sun had risen over the land.
24Then the LORD rained down burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah---from the LORD out of the heavens.
25 Thus he overthrew those cities and the entire plain, including all those living in the cities--- and also the vegetation in the land.
INTRODUCTION
Homosexuality is one of the major ethical issues facing Christians today. It is one of the major factors for division in the church in the Western world. There are homosexuals in the church who are seeking approvals for same-sex marriages and sexual lifestyles, in spite of what the Bible teaches about homosexuality. Some people in the Lesbian and Gay Christian Movement argue that a heterosexual marriage and a homosexual partnership are ‘two equally valid alternatives’, being equally ‘tender, mature and faithful’. In May 1989, Denmark became the first country to legalize homosexual marriages. A year before that, Bishop John S. Spong of Newark, New Jersey, urged the Episcopal Church ‘to bless and affirm the love that binds two persons of the same gender into relationship mutual commitment’.
The late Derrick Sherwin Bailey was the first Christian theologian to re-evaluate the traditional understanding of the Biblical prohibitions in his famous book: Homosexuality and the Western Christian Tradition (1995). This work has generated a lot of controversy among Western Christians concerning sexual morality. The expositions that follow are intended to explain the traditional Christian thinking about homosexuality in spite of what scientists and psychologists say.
EXPOSITION
Science and Homosexual Behaviour
Homosexuality is a term with two meanings. It may be applied to people who are sexually attracted to members of their own sex or to same-sex genital acts. It comprises both men and women. Lesbianism is the word normally used to distinguish female homosexuality.
The difference between personal orientation and behaviour is to be noted. Studies show that some people with a homosexual orientation may never put their desires into practice; while others whose attraction is primarily heterosexual engage in homosexual acts occasionally.
There is no consensus about the causation of same-sex desires. Some trace the orientation to genetic or biochemical sources (not as yet discovered). Others point to psychological factors. An American Psychologist, Elizabeth Moberly argues that a homosexual condition in adulthood may arise from an “unresolved relational deficit with the parent of the same sex during childhood”. One point on which many of such experts agree is that “a homosexual orientation is discovered, not chosen”.
Nature and Creation: Is homosexual behaviour natural?
According to Kinsey’s survey, the homosexual behaviour of some people is natural. However, many Christian theologians, from Thomas Aquinas to Karl Barth, have questioned that idea and direct Christians to relate their understanding of nature to the doctrine of creation. To ask whether homosexuality is natural is to ask whether God made it. The answer to that is simply: no! Karl Barth refers to the Bible’s account of creation and points to how the male and female complement each other as people created in the image and likeness of God. Homosexual union effectively denies the ‘otherness’ of the one flesh relationship which the creator initiated between man and woman.
Thomas Aquinas stresses the procreative end of heterosexual intercourse. To be natural, he argues, an act must serve the ends which are natural to it. Homosexual intercourse is by definition non-procreative in intention and act. It is therefore immoral, because it cannot lead to full, secure family life.
What the Church Fathers and Reformers Say
The early church condemned the homosexual life-style as contrary to the spirit of the Gospel. Such practices were denounced mainly on the grounds that “they are in themselves unnatural.” Tertullian wrote: “all other frenzies of the lusts which exceed the laws of nature are impious towards both human bodies and sexes. We banish, not only from the threshold but also from all shelter of the Church, for they are not sins so much as monstrosities.”
John Chrysostom denounced homosexual practices as unnatural. In his commentary on Romans 1:26-27, he observed that “the delights of sodomy are an unpardonable insult to nature. .. Such immoralities are doubly destructive: (1) they jeopardize the race by deflecting the sexual organs from their primary procreative purpose; (2) they sow disharmony and strife between man and woman, who are no longer impelled by their physical desires to live together peaceably”.
With reference to Genesis 19, St Augustine wrote of ‘‘‘those shameful acts against nature, such as were committed in Sodom, ought everywhere and always to be detested and punished. If all nations were to do such things, they would {equally} be held guilty of the same crime by the law of God which has not so made men that they should use another in this way..
The medieval church was pastorally sensitive to the problems of those involved in homosexual practices; however it remained uncompromisingly opposed to the practices themselves. Since homosexual acts could not lead to procreation, they moved beyond the limits form sexual behaviour. Thomas Aquinas considered them sins against nature, the most serious genus of sins of lust, less grievous than bestiality.
The major Reformers maintained the same resistance to homosexual practices as the early Christians. Luther considered the presence and toleration of homosexual activity among the clergy as one of the worst symptoms of decay in the church, a product of human failure to know and honour the true God.
Homosexuality in the Bible
The Bible says nothing about the homosexual orientation, but it does condemn homosexual behaviour forthrightly. Sodom suffered God’s judgment for threatened homosexual rape (Ge 19:1-25; cf. jdg 19:11 – 20:48.) In the Old Testament (OT) the Holiness Code of Leviticus labeled male homosexuals as ‘detestable’ and prescribed the death penalty for convicted offenders (Lev. 18:22; 20:13; cf. I Ki. 14:24; 15:12:46). In the New Testament (NT) Paul condemns homosexual practice (including lesbianism) as unnatural, incompatible with lifestyle of God’s kingdom and an affront to God’s law and gospel (Ro. 1:18-27; 1 Co. 6:9-11; 1 Ti 1:8-11).
The two texts in Leviticus (Lev. 18:22; 20:13) are part of the Holiness Code which is the heart of the book. It challenges the people of God to follow his laws and not to copy the practices either of Egypt (where they used to live) or of Canaan (to which he was bringing them). These practices included forbidden sexual practices of various kinds. This is the context for the prohibition:
Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman; that is detestable (18;22)
If a man lies with a man as one lies with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable. They must be put to death; their blood will be on their own heads (20:13).
These prohibitions are not mere religious taboos as some scholars have regarded them. They are connected with the prohibition in Deuteronomy 23:17: No Israelite man or woman is to become a temple prostitute. The fertility cult of the Canaanites included temple prostitution which promoted homosexuality. The evil Kings of Israel and Judah were constantly introducing them into the religion of Israel, and the righteous kings were constantly abolishing them. Although some homosexual scholars in the Western church today try to explain away these prohibitions, the plain and natural interpretation of the above verses is that they forbid homosexual act of every kind. The death penalty prescribed for the Israelites shows extreme seriousness with which homosexual practices were viewed.
In the New Testament, Paul’s teaching in Romans 1:18-27 describes the idolatrous pagans in the Greco-Roman world of his day. They had a certain knowledge of God through the created universe (verses 19-20) and their own moral sense (verse 32), yet they ignored the truth in order to practice wickedness. Instead of giving to God the honour due him, they rather turned to idols, confusing the Creator with the creatures. In judgment God gave them over to their depraved mind and decadent practices (verses 24, 26, 28), including unnatural sex – men inflamed with lust for one another. … Men committed indecent acts with other men. . The passage is a definite condemnation of homosexual behaviour.
Other Pauline Texts
In I Corinthians 6:9-10 and I Timothy 1:9-10 Paul provides us with two ugly lists of sins which are incompatible firstly, with the Kingdom of God and secondly with either the law or the gospel. Taken together, St. Paul’s writings condemn homosexual behaviour as a vice of the Gentiles in Romans, as a bar to the Kingdom in Corinthians, and as an offence to be repudiated by the moral law in I Timothy. All the 10 categories listed in I Corinthians 6:9-10 denote people who have offended by their actions.
Why Homosexual Marriage is not Biblical
The prohibitions against homosexual practices in Scripture make sense only in the light of its positive teaching in Genesis 1 and 2 about human sexuality and heterosexual marriage. Since members of the lesbian and Gay Christian Movement in the Western world deliberately draw a parallel between heterosexual marriages and homosexual partnerships, it is necessary to take a second look at marriage in the Bible.
Genesis 2 particularly affirms the complimentarity of the sexes, which constitutes the basis for heterosexual marriage. In Genesis 2:18 the human need for companionship is expressed: ‘It is not good for a man to be alone.’ Genesis 2 again reveals the divine provision to meet this human need. A special work of divine creation took place. God created the woman out of the man and brought her to him in a kind of divine marriage ceremony. In appreciation of God’s gift to him, Adam composed the first love poem in history:
This is now bone of my bones
And flesh of my flesh;
She shall be called ‘Woman’
For she was taken out of man.
The concluding comment is Genesis 2:24: “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother, and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.”
The image of woman, taken from man’s flesh and becoming one flesh again with him in sexual union and marriage, is meaningless when applied to homosexual relationships.
Marriage in the Teaching of Jesus
It is important to note that in Matthew 19:4-6 Jesus himself endorsed the Old Testament definition of marriage. In doing so he emphasized the heterosexual nature of marriage with words from Genesis 1:27 (that the Creator made them male and female). The three truths about marriage affirmed by Jesus are as follows:
Heterosexual gender (male and female) is a divine creation;
Heterosexual marriage is a divine institution; and
Heterosexual fidelity is a divine intention
A homosexual affair is a breach of all these three divine purposes for marriage. An important facet of theology expressed by the ban on homosexual acts by the OT law is the ‘one flesh’ pattern of heterosexual marriage in Genesis. That is the reason why Paul bracketed homosexual behaviour with adultery in his updated application of the Ten Commandments in I Timothy. He follows the same pattern in Romans, where the ban on homosexual acts is based on the doctrine of creation.
THE LOVE FACTOR
People who support situation ethics use love to justify homosexual acts. To them, God’s purpose for humans is that we should realize our humanity as lovers. Since homosexuals contribute to the realization of love among humans they should be encouraged. The faulty nature of this position is seen in its foundational premise. God’s purpose for human fulfillment is not only that we love each other, but also that we love God. Any teaching that puts the two facets of God ‘s purpose against each other cannot be of him. God cannot in one breath forbid homosexual behaviour and in the next permit it because it promotes human love.
THE WORD IN OUR LIVES
Many of us in these Bible studies may say homosexuality is not our problem but we must realize that sexually we are all sinners. First, we are all human beings or persons made in the image and likeness of God, yet fallen. Secondly, we are all sexual beings. Our sexuality is basic to our humanness. When God made mankind he made us male and female. So the talk about sex relates to the centre of our personality. The subject therefore demands an unusual degree of sensitivity. Thirdly, we are all sinners. In God’s view we are all sexual sinners – sexual deviants. John Stott admits: “I doubt if there is anyone who has not had a lustful thought that deviated from God’s perfect ideal of sexuality. With exception of Jesus, nobody has been sexually sinless. Therefore we must not come to the study of homosexuality with an attitude of moral superiority. Homosexuals also are human beings who need to be loved – back to Christ.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. What makes homosexual behaviour unnatural?
2. Why should acceptable marriage be heterosexual?
3. Why is the ordination of practicing homosexuals as priests a danger to the church?
4. Discuss ways in which a homosexual may be helped to become ‘straight change his/her sexual behaviour.
5. How will you tackle personal evangelism to a homosexual in an effective way?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
This week, spend each day praying for homosexuals. Befriend any if you can, and share faith in Christ with him/her.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday Genesis 18:16-33 Homosexuals may be saved
Tuesday Genesis 19:1-25 Sodom and Gomorrah destroyed
Because of sexual perversion
Wednesday Leviticus 18:22; 20:13 Law against homosexuality
Thursday Genesis 2:18-25 God institutes heterosexual
Marriages
Friday Judges 19:16-26 Sexual perversion in Gibeah
Saturday I Kings 14:21-24 Male shrine prostitution in Israel
Friday, May 15, 2009
09WK20 -FACING CHALLENGES IN MARRIAGE
Week 20
FACING CHALLENGES IN MARRIAGE
KEY VERSE: For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. GENESIS 2:24
SCRIPTURE LESSON: GENESIS 2:24, I CORINTHIANS 7:2-6.
For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.
I CORINTHIANS 7:2-6; 28-35
2 But since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband.
3 The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.
4 The wife’s body does not belong to her alone but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband’s body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife.
5 Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
6 I say this as a concession, not as a command.
I Corinthians 7:28 But if you do marry you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned; but those who marry would face many troubles in this life, and I want to spare you this.
29. What I mean, brothers is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none;
30. those who mourn, as if they did not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep;
31. those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.
32. I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord’s affairs – how he can please the Lord.
33. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world how can he please his wife-
34. and his interest are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord’s affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world – how she can please her husband.
35. I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord.
INTRODUCTION
Last week we learnt that divorce has become rampart these days and that Christians are not exempted. Divorce is often the end result of a series of problems that a couple may have failed to deal with successfully in their relationship. Every marriage faces some challenges and successful marriage results only when a couple learns to meet these challenges. This week, we take a look at some common challenges which, if not well handled can lead to divorce. The list however is not exhaustive, and every couple needs to identify their particular challenge (s) and find ways of solving them.
EXPOSITION
The Challenges of Marriage
1. Financial strain. One does not have to rich to have a successful marriage but when there is lack of money to take care of the basic needs of the family, it puts a strain on the relationship. “If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” (I Ti. 5:8). Some couples have plunged into this problem just after the weeding, because they failed to do proper financial planning on the short and long term basis before the wedding. This can only be overcome by combining proper planning, hard work and leading a lifestyle which suits one’s pocket instead of following what others do. We must also learn from the beginning to be faithful to God in these matters and trust him “to give us the ability to create wealth” (Dt. 8:18).
2. Childlessness. Childlessness in cultures such as ours poses a big challenge because for such cultures, childbearing is the principal reason for marriage. In most cases the woman is falsely accused as being barren, and relatives especially from the man’s family demand that the wife bears for them an offspring. The results of childlessness for the couple are depression, disappointment, anxiety, shock, anger, and such emotional reactions as feeling of sexual inadequacy and failure. Since the reasons for childlessness, among others, may be infertility, miscarriage or loss of child shortly after birth it is necessary for the couple to seek solution through medical guidance and from appropriate marriage counselors. The Bible is full of reports of those who have waited on the Lord for many years before overcoming this challenge. What is important is for the couple to show solidarity with each other, remembering their marriage vows to be faithful to and supportive of each other till death. After seeking for the available medical assistance, it is important to trust God and leave everything to his sovereign will. Note that the godly offspring that God desires that a Christian couple should raise (Mail 2:15) does not involve biological children alone.
3. Sexual Unfulfillment. This is another challenge that strains marital relationship. This happens when one of the partners feels not sufficiently catered for sexually. Among the many reasons that may give rise to this situation are the following:
1 The accusing partner may have a high sexual libido (desire) for which the other cannot satisfy.
2 The accused partner may have too low a sexual libido (desire) that cannot satisfy the accusing partner.
3 Misinformation about sex
4 Harmful cultural values and attitudes
5 The impact of pornography
6 Busy lifestyles, stress and boredom
7 Illness and other physical defects
8 Psychological blocks such as:
Ø Conflict between husband and wife
Ø Personal problems that may be career, extended family issues, etc insecurity
Ø Sexual fears
Ø Differences in sexual preferences g
Ø Guilt
Ø Sexual dysfunction which, in the case of the man, may include premature ejaculation, inability to get orgasm, primary impotence (i.e never been able to have sex). In the case of women, it might be due to orgasmic dysfunction and painful intercourse leading to disinterest in sex.
Sexual unfulfilment in marriage also leads to:
9 Lowered self-esteem
10 Involvement with alternative sexual activities including masturbation, pornography, fantasy novels, or extramarital affairs on the part of the unfulfilled partner. The relations continue to decorate till it may lead to separation or divorce. Couples therefore need seek solutions to the basic causes of unfulfilment with competent professionals.
4. Keeping the Romance Alive: Most couples neglect romance after marriage. It should be noted that relationships are nurtured and nourished by romance leading to wedlock. Failure to keep the romance alive is compared to failing to nourish the child after birth. It will automatically lead to ‘Kwashorkor.
Keeping the romance alive demands that the couple have time for each other. Romance become difficult as the marriage ages especially if the couples in their choice for partners were blinded by infatuation and sexual attraction rather than true and sincere love.
Since sexual unfulfilment is one of the hindrances to keeping the romance alive, the write-up on it (above) is relevant to it. The key to keeping the romance alive is continuing with those practices that attracted one to the other during the premarital relationship. In order to keep the romance alive, couples need to take to those hobbies and pastimes that they enjoy. They need to have time off their busy schedule and explore for themselves things that excite them. By inspiring the most romantic book in the world to be written, which become part of the Bible- The Songs of Solomon – God teaches us that we need to keep the romance alive in our marriages.
5. My Children versus my Spouse: Sharing your time and attention for your spouse and children can be a challenge that may disrupt marital harmony in a relationship especially after the first child is born into the family. This arises when more attention is given to the child (ren) at the expense of the spouse. The strain this brings to a couples relationship becomes intense and more destructive when spouses begin to take sides with the children in dealing with their children as happened in the story of Isaac and Rebecca concerning Jacob and Esau. The couple must note that the union before the altar was between the husband and wife excluding the children. The children would in future be united to their own partners. They must not therefore allow that challenge to disrupt their union.
The challenge is very intense especially when a spouse or the couple already have children from a previous relationship and calls for greater care, as it can easily result in a divorce.
6. Transparency in Times of Prosperity: Interestingly, sometimes difficult times help couples to be more committed to one another. For some couples prosperity exposes them to the temptation of seeking to act independently without the consent of the other. When each partner begins to seek their own interest it puts a strain on the relationship and can result in an unhappy marriage and subsequently in a divorce.
7. My Spouse Versus my Career: Partners who are more committed to their careers than to the spouses are sure to reap dissentment. Couples should consciously fight the temptation of being married more to their career/ work than to their spouses. Sometimes this challenge arises out of career progression.
8. Travel Abroad – Long Absence of One Partner: This is a new development that has arisen because many married partners have had to travel abroad in the hope of seeking improvement in their lives. Some have done so even when there was no possibility of reuniting with their spouses in the foreign land sine they have had no proper immigration papers. Many marriages have suffered from this, since the long absence imposes unnecessary pressures on the couple. They include sexual pressures, coping with the pressure of being a single parent, financial pressures, loneliness, etc. Christian couples should consider seriously how such long separation can affect their relationship before embarking on it. It is not always that travel abroad can bring about improvement in our lives. Elimelech and his family traveled from Bethlehem to Moab, but Naomi returned alone calling herself Marah – Bitter (Ru 1). Let us sincerely seek the council of God in these matters
9. ‘The Little Foxes’: “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom” (Song of Songs 2:15). That is how Solomon describes the issues that disturb the peace of a marriage. Under this theme may be considered the issues that may appear minor to the outsider, but have the potential of disturbing a marriage to the point of divorce. They include how you handle the differences in your temperaments, dealings with in-laws, communication, and many similar issues. The important thing is to realize that these “foxes” will always be around, especially as the newly-wed couple gets to know each other. It is important that we do not allow the “foxes to frustrate us and take away our peace.
10. Demonic Influences: We must not lose sight of the fact that one of the areas where Satanic attack is most intense is in marriages. Paul warns that, “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Eph. 6:10-18). Christians must be aware that their marriages are under constant attack by the Enemy. Therefore, if we loose our guard, and are not vigilant and alert we stand the chance of destroying our marriages under the slightest provocation.
The greatest weapon of every Christian couple therefore is in how they share their spiritual lives together. As they seek the will of God for their lives through the study of his word and pray together, they build a strong fortress against the Enemy.
THE WORD IN OUR LIVES
The Purpose of Marriages
The reasons for the choosing of a partner should be formed by the purpose of marriage, that is, companionship (Ge. 2:18-24). Marriage should not be entered into for any other reasons such as having children, money, enhancing status in society, satisfying sexual drive, pleasing parents and friends, being independent from parents, having an opportunity to travel abroad, etc.
Proverbs 19:14 says that, “Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.” If we learn to accept our spouses as given us by the Lord and that God does not make mistakes, then we would be prepared to move on whatever the challenges are. Proverbs 18:22 also says; “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favour from the Lord.” Are you married? Then stay blessed!!!
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Discuss the challenges of marriage outlined in today’s study, pointing out in each case the Christian response.
2. What is God’s purpose for marriage?
3. How difficult or easy is it to marry according to God’s purpose and why?
4. Do Christians embrace marriage God’s way? Why or why not?
5. “Marriage is Heaven for some but hell for others” Discuss
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
1. Are you married? What is the greatest challenge that can possibly threaten your marriage
2. If you are not married, how are you preparing yourself for these challenges when you marry?
3. Is it possible to overcome the challenges in marriage without submitting yourself to God’s principles for it?
Think through the questions above, and take decisions in prayer that will enhance your marriage.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday Matthew 19:1-12 Not everyone can accept this teaching
Tuesday Genesis 16:1-4 Hagar finds her own solution to
Barrenness
Wednesday Genesis 16:4-11 Abraham shows weak matrimonial
Leadership
Thursday Titus 2:4-5 Responsibilities in Marriage
Friday Ephesians 5:21-23 Submission and love are the same
Saturday Malachi 2:13-16 Made one to raise a godly offspring
FACING CHALLENGES IN MARRIAGE
KEY VERSE: For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. GENESIS 2:24
SCRIPTURE LESSON: GENESIS 2:24, I CORINTHIANS 7:2-6.
For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.
I CORINTHIANS 7:2-6; 28-35
2 But since there is so much immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband.
3 The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.
4 The wife’s body does not belong to her alone but also to her husband. In the same way, the husband’s body does not belong to him alone but also to his wife.
5 Do not deprive each other except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
6 I say this as a concession, not as a command.
I Corinthians 7:28 But if you do marry you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned; but those who marry would face many troubles in this life, and I want to spare you this.
29. What I mean, brothers is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none;
30. those who mourn, as if they did not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep;
31. those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.
32. I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord’s affairs – how he can please the Lord.
33. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world how can he please his wife-
34. and his interest are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord’s affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world – how she can please her husband.
35. I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord.
INTRODUCTION
Last week we learnt that divorce has become rampart these days and that Christians are not exempted. Divorce is often the end result of a series of problems that a couple may have failed to deal with successfully in their relationship. Every marriage faces some challenges and successful marriage results only when a couple learns to meet these challenges. This week, we take a look at some common challenges which, if not well handled can lead to divorce. The list however is not exhaustive, and every couple needs to identify their particular challenge (s) and find ways of solving them.
EXPOSITION
The Challenges of Marriage
1. Financial strain. One does not have to rich to have a successful marriage but when there is lack of money to take care of the basic needs of the family, it puts a strain on the relationship. “If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” (I Ti. 5:8). Some couples have plunged into this problem just after the weeding, because they failed to do proper financial planning on the short and long term basis before the wedding. This can only be overcome by combining proper planning, hard work and leading a lifestyle which suits one’s pocket instead of following what others do. We must also learn from the beginning to be faithful to God in these matters and trust him “to give us the ability to create wealth” (Dt. 8:18).
2. Childlessness. Childlessness in cultures such as ours poses a big challenge because for such cultures, childbearing is the principal reason for marriage. In most cases the woman is falsely accused as being barren, and relatives especially from the man’s family demand that the wife bears for them an offspring. The results of childlessness for the couple are depression, disappointment, anxiety, shock, anger, and such emotional reactions as feeling of sexual inadequacy and failure. Since the reasons for childlessness, among others, may be infertility, miscarriage or loss of child shortly after birth it is necessary for the couple to seek solution through medical guidance and from appropriate marriage counselors. The Bible is full of reports of those who have waited on the Lord for many years before overcoming this challenge. What is important is for the couple to show solidarity with each other, remembering their marriage vows to be faithful to and supportive of each other till death. After seeking for the available medical assistance, it is important to trust God and leave everything to his sovereign will. Note that the godly offspring that God desires that a Christian couple should raise (Mail 2:15) does not involve biological children alone.
3. Sexual Unfulfillment. This is another challenge that strains marital relationship. This happens when one of the partners feels not sufficiently catered for sexually. Among the many reasons that may give rise to this situation are the following:
1 The accusing partner may have a high sexual libido (desire) for which the other cannot satisfy.
2 The accused partner may have too low a sexual libido (desire) that cannot satisfy the accusing partner.
3 Misinformation about sex
4 Harmful cultural values and attitudes
5 The impact of pornography
6 Busy lifestyles, stress and boredom
7 Illness and other physical defects
8 Psychological blocks such as:
Ø Conflict between husband and wife
Ø Personal problems that may be career, extended family issues, etc insecurity
Ø Sexual fears
Ø Differences in sexual preferences g
Ø Guilt
Ø Sexual dysfunction which, in the case of the man, may include premature ejaculation, inability to get orgasm, primary impotence (i.e never been able to have sex). In the case of women, it might be due to orgasmic dysfunction and painful intercourse leading to disinterest in sex.
Sexual unfulfilment in marriage also leads to:
9 Lowered self-esteem
10 Involvement with alternative sexual activities including masturbation, pornography, fantasy novels, or extramarital affairs on the part of the unfulfilled partner. The relations continue to decorate till it may lead to separation or divorce. Couples therefore need seek solutions to the basic causes of unfulfilment with competent professionals.
4. Keeping the Romance Alive: Most couples neglect romance after marriage. It should be noted that relationships are nurtured and nourished by romance leading to wedlock. Failure to keep the romance alive is compared to failing to nourish the child after birth. It will automatically lead to ‘Kwashorkor.
Keeping the romance alive demands that the couple have time for each other. Romance become difficult as the marriage ages especially if the couples in their choice for partners were blinded by infatuation and sexual attraction rather than true and sincere love.
Since sexual unfulfilment is one of the hindrances to keeping the romance alive, the write-up on it (above) is relevant to it. The key to keeping the romance alive is continuing with those practices that attracted one to the other during the premarital relationship. In order to keep the romance alive, couples need to take to those hobbies and pastimes that they enjoy. They need to have time off their busy schedule and explore for themselves things that excite them. By inspiring the most romantic book in the world to be written, which become part of the Bible- The Songs of Solomon – God teaches us that we need to keep the romance alive in our marriages.
5. My Children versus my Spouse: Sharing your time and attention for your spouse and children can be a challenge that may disrupt marital harmony in a relationship especially after the first child is born into the family. This arises when more attention is given to the child (ren) at the expense of the spouse. The strain this brings to a couples relationship becomes intense and more destructive when spouses begin to take sides with the children in dealing with their children as happened in the story of Isaac and Rebecca concerning Jacob and Esau. The couple must note that the union before the altar was between the husband and wife excluding the children. The children would in future be united to their own partners. They must not therefore allow that challenge to disrupt their union.
The challenge is very intense especially when a spouse or the couple already have children from a previous relationship and calls for greater care, as it can easily result in a divorce.
6. Transparency in Times of Prosperity: Interestingly, sometimes difficult times help couples to be more committed to one another. For some couples prosperity exposes them to the temptation of seeking to act independently without the consent of the other. When each partner begins to seek their own interest it puts a strain on the relationship and can result in an unhappy marriage and subsequently in a divorce.
7. My Spouse Versus my Career: Partners who are more committed to their careers than to the spouses are sure to reap dissentment. Couples should consciously fight the temptation of being married more to their career/ work than to their spouses. Sometimes this challenge arises out of career progression.
8. Travel Abroad – Long Absence of One Partner: This is a new development that has arisen because many married partners have had to travel abroad in the hope of seeking improvement in their lives. Some have done so even when there was no possibility of reuniting with their spouses in the foreign land sine they have had no proper immigration papers. Many marriages have suffered from this, since the long absence imposes unnecessary pressures on the couple. They include sexual pressures, coping with the pressure of being a single parent, financial pressures, loneliness, etc. Christian couples should consider seriously how such long separation can affect their relationship before embarking on it. It is not always that travel abroad can bring about improvement in our lives. Elimelech and his family traveled from Bethlehem to Moab, but Naomi returned alone calling herself Marah – Bitter (Ru 1). Let us sincerely seek the council of God in these matters
9. ‘The Little Foxes’: “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom” (Song of Songs 2:15). That is how Solomon describes the issues that disturb the peace of a marriage. Under this theme may be considered the issues that may appear minor to the outsider, but have the potential of disturbing a marriage to the point of divorce. They include how you handle the differences in your temperaments, dealings with in-laws, communication, and many similar issues. The important thing is to realize that these “foxes” will always be around, especially as the newly-wed couple gets to know each other. It is important that we do not allow the “foxes to frustrate us and take away our peace.
10. Demonic Influences: We must not lose sight of the fact that one of the areas where Satanic attack is most intense is in marriages. Paul warns that, “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Eph. 6:10-18). Christians must be aware that their marriages are under constant attack by the Enemy. Therefore, if we loose our guard, and are not vigilant and alert we stand the chance of destroying our marriages under the slightest provocation.
The greatest weapon of every Christian couple therefore is in how they share their spiritual lives together. As they seek the will of God for their lives through the study of his word and pray together, they build a strong fortress against the Enemy.
THE WORD IN OUR LIVES
The Purpose of Marriages
The reasons for the choosing of a partner should be formed by the purpose of marriage, that is, companionship (Ge. 2:18-24). Marriage should not be entered into for any other reasons such as having children, money, enhancing status in society, satisfying sexual drive, pleasing parents and friends, being independent from parents, having an opportunity to travel abroad, etc.
Proverbs 19:14 says that, “Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.” If we learn to accept our spouses as given us by the Lord and that God does not make mistakes, then we would be prepared to move on whatever the challenges are. Proverbs 18:22 also says; “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favour from the Lord.” Are you married? Then stay blessed!!!
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Discuss the challenges of marriage outlined in today’s study, pointing out in each case the Christian response.
2. What is God’s purpose for marriage?
3. How difficult or easy is it to marry according to God’s purpose and why?
4. Do Christians embrace marriage God’s way? Why or why not?
5. “Marriage is Heaven for some but hell for others” Discuss
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
1. Are you married? What is the greatest challenge that can possibly threaten your marriage
2. If you are not married, how are you preparing yourself for these challenges when you marry?
3. Is it possible to overcome the challenges in marriage without submitting yourself to God’s principles for it?
Think through the questions above, and take decisions in prayer that will enhance your marriage.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday Matthew 19:1-12 Not everyone can accept this teaching
Tuesday Genesis 16:1-4 Hagar finds her own solution to
Barrenness
Wednesday Genesis 16:4-11 Abraham shows weak matrimonial
Leadership
Thursday Titus 2:4-5 Responsibilities in Marriage
Friday Ephesians 5:21-23 Submission and love are the same
Saturday Malachi 2:13-16 Made one to raise a godly offspring
Monday, May 11, 2009
09WK19-DIVORCE AND REMARRIAGE
DIVORCE AND REMARRIAGE
KEY VERSE: So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate. “MATTHEW 19:6
SCRIPTURE LESSON: MATTHEW 19:3-12
3 Some Pharisees came to him to test him. They asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any and every reason?
4 “Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator “made them male and female,’
5 and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be untied to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’?
6 So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.”
7 “Why then,” they asked, “did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?”
8 Jesus replied, “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning.
9 I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery.”
10 The disciples said to him, “If this is the situation between a husband and wife, it is better not to marry.”
11 Jesus replied, “Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given.
12 For some are eunuchs because they were born that way; others were made that way by men; and others have renounced marriage because of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.”
INTRODUCTION
Divorce is on the increase everywhere. In countries where statistics are well kept such as in the United Kingdom, Rev Dr. John Stott reports in his book, “issues facing Christians Today”, that in1987 there were 398,000 marriages (35% of which we remarriages) and 165,000 divorces in the UK. This meant that a marriage took place very 80 seconds and a divorce every 190. he reports that the total number of divorced people in the country at that time was two million and it can be more than that now. He further reports that the British divorce rate which had increased by 600% during the last 25 years was the highest in the European Community. He concludes, “In the UK one in every three marriages breaks up; in the USA it is more than one in every two”
The statistics in Ghana cannot give us these details, but take a close look at the situation in your little village or community and find out whether you will find 10% of couples that have lived together without any divorce or remarriage until death parted them. The problem is real and the church is not exempted. This week we take a look at what the Bible teaches on the issue and how we can be light to the world in this crucial area.
EXPOSITION
Old Testament Teaching
There are two passages in the Mosaic Law which deal with the issue of divorce and remarriage
In Deut, 22:13-30, various laws on marriage violations are given. They essentially deal with whether a woman enters marriage as a virgin or not. It the virginity of a woman who enters a marriage cannot be proved, she is not only divorced, she is stoned to death.
In Deut, 24:1-4, there are regulations on divorce which again favour husbands. It states; “If a man marries a woman who becomes displeasing to him because he finds something indecent about her and he writes her a certificate of divorce…. This gives the man the right to decide whether a marriage shall continue or break. The regulation however is against divorcing a woman and remarrying her after she has been married to another man.
In Malachi 24:1-4, the Lord complained about the way the husbands were treating their wives. He warned them; “So guard yourself in your spirit and do not break faith with the wife of your youth.” There was apparent misuse of the concession given by Moses to the men, so the Lord through this prophet, made one of the clearest statements about his position on the issue of divorce, “I hate divorce”, says the Lord. From the beginning, the Bible presents marriage as a permanent, intimate union between a husband and wife and the statement in Malachi affirms that position.
JESUS TEACHINGS
When Jesus was asked his position on divorce and remarriage, he went back to the beginning and God’s purpose in instituting marriage. God’s purpose is for the two to become one and so he declared, “What God has joined together, let man not Jesus also commented on the Mosaic Law by saying that Moses gave that Law to regulate a chaotic situation that had developed at the time. It was a concession that he gave, to regulate the situation and that God. Original purpose for a lifelong union still stood.
Jesus further taught that divorce could be granted on the basis of unfaithfulness. He stated; “I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery” (See Mt. 5;31-32; 19:1-12).
Paul’s Teachings
We need to know that unlike the Hebrew world of the Old Testament which Moses addressed where only a husband could grant divorce, in the Roman world which Paul addressed, either spouse could ask for divorce. The Church in Corinth had opinion (To the rest I say this – I not the Lord’). He states that the exceptional situation break the marriage because of he believer’s faith in Christ. Paul’s basis for this concession is that; “God has called us to live in peace (freedom)” (I Co 7:15)
The Position of the Methodist Church Ghana
The Church’s position if found in Standing Order (SO) 743 of the Constitution under the title, Divorce, Dissolution of Marriage and Remarriage S.O. 743.
1) No Member of the Church shall dissolve his or her marriage without first consulting his/her Minister, who shall make every effort to reconcile the parties and shall, if need be, seek the assistance of the Leader’s Meeting.
2) If one partner fails in fulfilling the obligations of marriage, it is the duty of the other, as a Christian, to be active in seeking reconciliation so long as any possibility of it remains.
3) Where all efforts to effect reconciliation fails the Leader’s Meeting shall be informed of this.
4) When one party has already formed a union with a third person and is judged to be beyond hope of restoration to the lawful partner, the latter may be permitted to dissolve the marriage by the appropriate process under the ordinance or Customary Law, and shall then be free to re-marry in due course. This permission to divorce and re-marry shall be subjected to confirmation by the Bishop of the Diocese, who shall act in consultation with the Circuit Superintendent concerned and a small committee (including a lawyer) appointed by synod.
5) Any Member who dissolves his/her marriage against the advice of the
Minister and the Leader’s. or who is the guilty party in divorce proceedings or who contravenes S.O 742 93) (1), shall be subject to the discipline of the Leader’s Meeting.
(Quoted from the Constitution and Standing Orders of the Methodist Church
Ghana, 2000 Revised Edition)
The “Peace” or “Freedom” Principle
The “God has called us to live in peace or freedom” principle established by Paul as basis for divorce in “mixed-faith” marriages may be extended to other cases after all efforts have been made to save a marriage. This appears to be the spirit of the SO 743 in the Methodist Constitution
The Africa Bible Commentary (2006 Edition) feature article on the issue may help in applying this principle. The relevant section is quoted below:
“One of the most important questions in marriage counseling is identifying the special cases to which the freedom of I Cor. 7:15 applies. It is all too easy to open the door to divorce wider and wider and to forget that Jesus himself limited it to cases of adultery and that God wants every couple to keep their marriage vows for life. However, we should not ignore the statement that ‘God has called us to live in peace’. Peace is achieved when both partners keep their parts of the vows but there are cases where husbands actively torture their wives-either by physical beatings or through financial neglect and absence. When such behaviour proves resistant to counseling, and especially when the wife’s life is threatened, she is entitled to claim to be a special case. A wife too, may be the sinning partner, particularly when she leaves home and chooses to live in the city in a way that denies that she is accountable to her husband in any way. In such cases, and after vigorous attempt to help the erring one to correct his or her ways, the pastor and the church must stand with the hurting party in seeking a way forward. By recognizing these as special cases, the church alls for such options as separation, divorce and remarriage.”
Effects of Divorce
For most people, divorce brings pain and turmoil, and affects people in many ways including the following:
1 Behavioural effects that include declining work productivity and difficulties in completing routine tasks.
2 Social effects, including changing relationships with family, friends, work colleagues and fellow church members.
3 Physical effects, including increased illness and declining health.
4 Spiritual effects, in which some people draw closer to Christ but others drift away.
5 Harmful effects on the children even when the divorcing couple tries to make the separation smooth for the children, and even adult offspring.
Coping with divorce or assistance to the divorced
The effects of divorce on the couple have been compared to what happens when one attempts to separate two sheets of paper which have been glued together. However carefully and skillfully this is done, the two sheets never get separated without each sheet being torn and damaged at several points. That is why Christians and the church must give prayerful support to those going through divorce and to the already divorced as well as the children and others who may be caught up in the tension. While the church must seek all available means to help couples to be faithful to the end, the rules against divorce cannot be handled “mechanically”. They must be applied with concern, understanding, prayer support, and in ways that will lighten the hurt, disappointment and the burden of persons finding themselves in this situation.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. What are some of the common cases of divorce in Ghana? Are these different from what causes Christians in Ghana to break up their marriages?
2. a. Do you consider the Church’s position on Divorce and Remarriage as adequate to solve these problems?
(b) To what extent do church members avail themselves of this arrangement?
© How prepared are Church members to subject themselves to the church’s discipline on these matters?
3. What do you consider to be the most serious effect of divorce and how can this effect be mitigated or lessened by the Church and fellow Christians?
4. What can the Church do to help those going through divorce or those already divorced?
5. Summarize the Bible’s teaching on Divorce and Remarriage. What is your understanding of the “Peace or Freedom Principle”?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
1. Are you married and does your marriage have the foundation that will help it withstand the storms and threats of divorce?
2. Are you divorced? How are you coping with your situation? Is there a possibility of reconciliation? How can you be helped?
3. Have you remarried after divorce? What Lessons have you learnt and how are you ensuring that you don’t run into that problem again?
4. Does your congregation have a post-marital counseling unit? How can the committee or your pastor help you situation is, don’t give up, trust Jesus for answer to your problems as you seek counsel. You may want to share some of your answers with your bible (study) class.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday Malachi 15b-16 God hates divorce
Tuesday Matthew 5:31-32 Jesus’ teaching on divorce
Wednesday I Corinthians 7:12-15 When divorce is permissible
Thursday Romans 7:2-3 When a married woman can remarry.
Friday John 4:17-18, 39-42 A multiple divorcee repents
Saturday I Corinthians 6:9-11 Adulterers and other sinners can be
Forgiven
KEY VERSE: So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate. “MATTHEW 19:6
SCRIPTURE LESSON: MATTHEW 19:3-12
3 Some Pharisees came to him to test him. They asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any and every reason?
4 “Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator “made them male and female,’
5 and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be untied to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’?
6 So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.”
7 “Why then,” they asked, “did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?”
8 Jesus replied, “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning.
9 I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery.”
10 The disciples said to him, “If this is the situation between a husband and wife, it is better not to marry.”
11 Jesus replied, “Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given.
12 For some are eunuchs because they were born that way; others were made that way by men; and others have renounced marriage because of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.”
INTRODUCTION
Divorce is on the increase everywhere. In countries where statistics are well kept such as in the United Kingdom, Rev Dr. John Stott reports in his book, “issues facing Christians Today”, that in1987 there were 398,000 marriages (35% of which we remarriages) and 165,000 divorces in the UK. This meant that a marriage took place very 80 seconds and a divorce every 190. he reports that the total number of divorced people in the country at that time was two million and it can be more than that now. He further reports that the British divorce rate which had increased by 600% during the last 25 years was the highest in the European Community. He concludes, “In the UK one in every three marriages breaks up; in the USA it is more than one in every two”
The statistics in Ghana cannot give us these details, but take a close look at the situation in your little village or community and find out whether you will find 10% of couples that have lived together without any divorce or remarriage until death parted them. The problem is real and the church is not exempted. This week we take a look at what the Bible teaches on the issue and how we can be light to the world in this crucial area.
EXPOSITION
Old Testament Teaching
There are two passages in the Mosaic Law which deal with the issue of divorce and remarriage
In Deut, 22:13-30, various laws on marriage violations are given. They essentially deal with whether a woman enters marriage as a virgin or not. It the virginity of a woman who enters a marriage cannot be proved, she is not only divorced, she is stoned to death.
In Deut, 24:1-4, there are regulations on divorce which again favour husbands. It states; “If a man marries a woman who becomes displeasing to him because he finds something indecent about her and he writes her a certificate of divorce…. This gives the man the right to decide whether a marriage shall continue or break. The regulation however is against divorcing a woman and remarrying her after she has been married to another man.
In Malachi 24:1-4, the Lord complained about the way the husbands were treating their wives. He warned them; “So guard yourself in your spirit and do not break faith with the wife of your youth.” There was apparent misuse of the concession given by Moses to the men, so the Lord through this prophet, made one of the clearest statements about his position on the issue of divorce, “I hate divorce”, says the Lord. From the beginning, the Bible presents marriage as a permanent, intimate union between a husband and wife and the statement in Malachi affirms that position.
JESUS TEACHINGS
When Jesus was asked his position on divorce and remarriage, he went back to the beginning and God’s purpose in instituting marriage. God’s purpose is for the two to become one and so he declared, “What God has joined together, let man not Jesus also commented on the Mosaic Law by saying that Moses gave that Law to regulate a chaotic situation that had developed at the time. It was a concession that he gave, to regulate the situation and that God. Original purpose for a lifelong union still stood.
Jesus further taught that divorce could be granted on the basis of unfaithfulness. He stated; “I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery” (See Mt. 5;31-32; 19:1-12).
Paul’s Teachings
We need to know that unlike the Hebrew world of the Old Testament which Moses addressed where only a husband could grant divorce, in the Roman world which Paul addressed, either spouse could ask for divorce. The Church in Corinth had opinion (To the rest I say this – I not the Lord’). He states that the exceptional situation break the marriage because of he believer’s faith in Christ. Paul’s basis for this concession is that; “God has called us to live in peace (freedom)” (I Co 7:15)
The Position of the Methodist Church Ghana
The Church’s position if found in Standing Order (SO) 743 of the Constitution under the title, Divorce, Dissolution of Marriage and Remarriage S.O. 743.
1) No Member of the Church shall dissolve his or her marriage without first consulting his/her Minister, who shall make every effort to reconcile the parties and shall, if need be, seek the assistance of the Leader’s Meeting.
2) If one partner fails in fulfilling the obligations of marriage, it is the duty of the other, as a Christian, to be active in seeking reconciliation so long as any possibility of it remains.
3) Where all efforts to effect reconciliation fails the Leader’s Meeting shall be informed of this.
4) When one party has already formed a union with a third person and is judged to be beyond hope of restoration to the lawful partner, the latter may be permitted to dissolve the marriage by the appropriate process under the ordinance or Customary Law, and shall then be free to re-marry in due course. This permission to divorce and re-marry shall be subjected to confirmation by the Bishop of the Diocese, who shall act in consultation with the Circuit Superintendent concerned and a small committee (including a lawyer) appointed by synod.
5) Any Member who dissolves his/her marriage against the advice of the
Minister and the Leader’s. or who is the guilty party in divorce proceedings or who contravenes S.O 742 93) (1), shall be subject to the discipline of the Leader’s Meeting.
(Quoted from the Constitution and Standing Orders of the Methodist Church
Ghana, 2000 Revised Edition)
The “Peace” or “Freedom” Principle
The “God has called us to live in peace or freedom” principle established by Paul as basis for divorce in “mixed-faith” marriages may be extended to other cases after all efforts have been made to save a marriage. This appears to be the spirit of the SO 743 in the Methodist Constitution
The Africa Bible Commentary (2006 Edition) feature article on the issue may help in applying this principle. The relevant section is quoted below:
“One of the most important questions in marriage counseling is identifying the special cases to which the freedom of I Cor. 7:15 applies. It is all too easy to open the door to divorce wider and wider and to forget that Jesus himself limited it to cases of adultery and that God wants every couple to keep their marriage vows for life. However, we should not ignore the statement that ‘God has called us to live in peace’. Peace is achieved when both partners keep their parts of the vows but there are cases where husbands actively torture their wives-either by physical beatings or through financial neglect and absence. When such behaviour proves resistant to counseling, and especially when the wife’s life is threatened, she is entitled to claim to be a special case. A wife too, may be the sinning partner, particularly when she leaves home and chooses to live in the city in a way that denies that she is accountable to her husband in any way. In such cases, and after vigorous attempt to help the erring one to correct his or her ways, the pastor and the church must stand with the hurting party in seeking a way forward. By recognizing these as special cases, the church alls for such options as separation, divorce and remarriage.”
Effects of Divorce
For most people, divorce brings pain and turmoil, and affects people in many ways including the following:
1 Behavioural effects that include declining work productivity and difficulties in completing routine tasks.
2 Social effects, including changing relationships with family, friends, work colleagues and fellow church members.
3 Physical effects, including increased illness and declining health.
4 Spiritual effects, in which some people draw closer to Christ but others drift away.
5 Harmful effects on the children even when the divorcing couple tries to make the separation smooth for the children, and even adult offspring.
Coping with divorce or assistance to the divorced
The effects of divorce on the couple have been compared to what happens when one attempts to separate two sheets of paper which have been glued together. However carefully and skillfully this is done, the two sheets never get separated without each sheet being torn and damaged at several points. That is why Christians and the church must give prayerful support to those going through divorce and to the already divorced as well as the children and others who may be caught up in the tension. While the church must seek all available means to help couples to be faithful to the end, the rules against divorce cannot be handled “mechanically”. They must be applied with concern, understanding, prayer support, and in ways that will lighten the hurt, disappointment and the burden of persons finding themselves in this situation.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. What are some of the common cases of divorce in Ghana? Are these different from what causes Christians in Ghana to break up their marriages?
2. a. Do you consider the Church’s position on Divorce and Remarriage as adequate to solve these problems?
(b) To what extent do church members avail themselves of this arrangement?
© How prepared are Church members to subject themselves to the church’s discipline on these matters?
3. What do you consider to be the most serious effect of divorce and how can this effect be mitigated or lessened by the Church and fellow Christians?
4. What can the Church do to help those going through divorce or those already divorced?
5. Summarize the Bible’s teaching on Divorce and Remarriage. What is your understanding of the “Peace or Freedom Principle”?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
1. Are you married and does your marriage have the foundation that will help it withstand the storms and threats of divorce?
2. Are you divorced? How are you coping with your situation? Is there a possibility of reconciliation? How can you be helped?
3. Have you remarried after divorce? What Lessons have you learnt and how are you ensuring that you don’t run into that problem again?
4. Does your congregation have a post-marital counseling unit? How can the committee or your pastor help you situation is, don’t give up, trust Jesus for answer to your problems as you seek counsel. You may want to share some of your answers with your bible (study) class.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday Malachi 15b-16 God hates divorce
Tuesday Matthew 5:31-32 Jesus’ teaching on divorce
Wednesday I Corinthians 7:12-15 When divorce is permissible
Thursday Romans 7:2-3 When a married woman can remarry.
Friday John 4:17-18, 39-42 A multiple divorcee repents
Saturday I Corinthians 6:9-11 Adulterers and other sinners can be
Forgiven
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
09WK18- RUTH -CHOOSING A HUSBAND
RUTH – CHOOSING A HUSBAND
KEY VERSE: 10 “The LORD bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. RUTH 3:10-11
SCRIPTURE LESSON: RUTH 3
3:1 One day Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, “My daughter, should I not try to find a home for you, where you will be well provided for?
2 Is not Boaz, with whose servant girls you have been, a kinsman of ours? Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor.
3 Wash and perfume yourself, and put on your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking.
4 When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.”
5“I will do whatever you say,” Ruth answered.
6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do.
7 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down
8 In the middle of the night something startled the man, and he turned and discovered a woman lying at his feet.
9 “Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the comer of your garment over me, since you are a kinsman-redeemer.”
10 “The LORD bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier. You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor.
11 And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All my fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character.
12 Although it is true that I am near of kin, there is kinsman-redeemer nearer than I.
13 Stay here for the night, and in the morning if he wants to redeem, good; let him redeem. But if he is not willing, as surely as the LORD lives I will do it. Lie here until morning.”
14 So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized; and he said, “Don’t let it be known that a woman came to the threshing floor. “
15 He also said, “Bring me the shaw1 you are wearing and hold it out. “When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and put it on her. Then he went back to town.
16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, “How did it go, my daughter?”
Then she told her everything Boaz had done for her
17 and added, “He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, ‘Don’t go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.”
18 Then Naomi said, “Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.”
For The Teacher…
BACKGROUND
In Jewish society the law required a man to marry the childless widow of his dead brother. The first son born of that union would bear his late brother’s name and inherit his property (Dt. 25:5-10; Lev. 25:23-28). It was called the law of the “Levirate” marriage, from the Hebrew word for “brother.” If no brother was available, a more distant relative could be asked to fulfill this duty. But the widow would have to let him know that he was acceptable to be her “goel,” as they called it, her kinsman-redeemer and provider. It was in this situation that Ruth found herself as she encountered Boaz.)
IN DEPTH
RUTH 3:1 Naomi is concerned about the security of Ruth. Earlier in 1:9, She had raised a similar concern by asking God to provide her daughters-in-law the “rest” of marriage. Now she was determined to seek this rest for Ruth.
Naomi sought “security” (which in the Hebrew literally means “rest” --- (cf. Ge. 8:9; Ps 116:7; Lam. 1:3)) for Ruth by obtaining a Hebrew husband for her. In granting her success, God was answering her earlier prayer (1: 9) with much more than she had hoped.
VERSE 2 Kinsman is a word central to the narrative and message of this book. The concept is related to the cultural obligation of a family member whose kinfolk have suffered loss. It involved the capacity of one relative who may be qualified to “redeem” another relative from slave status or recoup property once owned but now lost by reason of indebtedness. The expression “Kinsman-redeemer” is often used for “relative,” seeking in English to convey the combination of a human relationship with a divinely appointed role of a recovered. See Lev. 25:25, 47-55. Winnowing refers to the practice of extracting grain from its surrounding husk. The grain was poured on the threshing floor and animals walked over them thus causing the outer husk to break. The mix was scooped up on flat, tray-like baskets. It was then winnowed, or thrown into the air at a location where a constant breeze would catch the lightweight husk (chaff) and blow it away, leaving the grain to fall back upon the tray. It was then poured into containers for storing. All this took place in the spring.
The threshing floor This was a cleared area where grain was winnowed – crushed or torn to separate the chaff, straw, and grains.
VERSE 3-8 Naomi’s direction and Ruth’s ensuring action may appear to be seductive and inconsistent with the spiritual dignity of the book. On the contrary, however, Boaz’s word’s, “You are a woman of noble character” (3:11), clearly shows that he believed her to be highly moral.
Uncover his feet At Naomi’s suggestion; Ruth was approaching Boaz with some boldness. But her purpose was to become engaged. Her answer (3:9) shows that she was not thinking of becoming pregnant outside wedlock. The obvious purpose was that the chill of the night would naturally awaken Boaz in time and thus discover her at his feet.
Lie down Ruth lies patiently at Boaz’s feet until he wakes (3:8-9); nothing unbecoming happens between them during the night (3:11).
VERSE 9 spread the corner of your garment over me This is a metaphor suggesting Ruth’s need for protection just as young birds would run under the wings their mothers to escape birds of prey. The culture of the ancient Middle Eastern world involved the practice of the casting of a garment over one being claimed for marriage (see Exe. 16:8), a tradition to which Ruth clearly belongs. Also a Jewish husband covers his bride with the end of his prayer shawl as a symbolic gesture that she is under his protection. Ruth’s humble request to Boaz is for his protection as a “close relative”. This is the most affectionate point of the story, and the most liable to misunderstanding. It does not imply anything inappropriate.
VERSES 10-11 Boaz understood that Ruth’s initiative in making marriage proposal was in keeping with the law and praise her for not seeking younger men to marry.
A levirate marriage would provide her deceased husband with an heir (Dt. 25:5-10). In the ancient Middle East, not having an heir was considered a tragedy for the family. The particular kindness that Boaz spoke of was Ruth’s loyal love toward Naomi in choosing to remain with her even though she faced poverty.
A woman of noble character This is the feminine equivalent of the Hebrews phrase translated a man of standing in 2:1. Ruth had risen from being a Moabite and servant to becoming attractive to Boaz as a possible marriage partner. The high praise of Boaz shows that Ruth, as a godly woman had not compromised herself.
VERSE 12 The suspense in the narrative increases when Boaz announces that there is a kinsmen-redeemer nearer than he. The nearest relative would have the opportunity to carry out responsibility first.
Kinsmen-redeemer The Hebrew word refers to a relative who acted as a protector or guarantor of the family rights. He could be called upon to perform a number of duties: (1) to provide an heir for a deceased brother by marrying that brother’s wife and producing a child with her; (2) to buy back a family member who had been sold into slavery due to poverty; (3) to avenge a relative who had been murdered by killing the murderer; and (4) to buy back property that the family had sold. Scripture calls God the Redeemer or the “kinsman-redeemer” of Israel (Is. 60:16), and Jesus the Redeemer of all believers (1 Pe. 1:18,19).
VERSE 13 Boaz wanted to take immediate responsibility for Ruth and Naomi, so he asked her to stay” with him so she would not be exposed to any danger by returning to her home in the middle of the night.
The statement as the LORD lives reinforces the resolve of Boaz to take acceptance of her.
VERSE 14 Ruth left at early dawn, in order to avoid anyone who might recognize her.
Don’t let it be known This precaution was to avoid the possibility of anyone getting the wrong idea about Ruth’s actions that night, just as they could be misunderstood today.
VERSE 15 The large measure (possibly 40 to 45 kgs., not unbearable for field workers) was not only an expression of Boaz’s will to provide abundantly for her future (3:17) but also it provided an apparent reason for Ruth’s presence. People would conclude she came to secure a supply of grain to carry home prior to the heat of the day. Boaz probably helped raise the barley to Ruth’s head in order for Ruth to carry it home to Naomi.
VERSES 18 Naomi was confident that Boaz would see the matter through to its conclusion the same day. Boaz had repeatedly demonstrated that he was an honest and kindhearted man by his continuing provision for the two women.
For The Student…
THE WORD IN OUR LIVERS
It is important to understand that there is nothing immoral in this episode. This procedure was the custom of the day, and the record emphasizes the purity of it. In the secluded darkness of the threshing room, Boaz could have gratified carnal desires and no one but Ruth would have known it. He did not offer to violate her chastity, though he had all the opportunity at his disposal.
He was a godly, moral, self-disciplined, self-controlled man, and he kept his hands off. Scripture says that Ruth slept at his feet until morning (Ru 3:14) Furthermore, Ruth had the reputation of being a woman of excellence (Ru 3:11). She had sexual drives like any other normal woman, but she learned to claim God’s grace and strength to hold those drives in check until marriage. Boaz and Ruth both knew that God’s greatest blessing in marriage would require purity before marriage. Carelessness in this area would bring guilt, loss of self-respect, and suspicion. And it could leaves scars on their souls that would make their adjustment to each other in marriage most difficult.
The story implies the Boaz is much older than Ruth (cf 3:10). We do not know whether he was a bachelor or a widower, but we do know that he was a man of God. From this story we learn that one prerequisite for a successful marriage is that the man be a man of God. One reason why so many marriages are failing is because the husbands have not prepared themselves spiritually for their task. Some people could not think about anything but sex during their courtship days.
In our society, premarital sex seems perfectly acceptable. Many young people have experienced it before graduating from School, and very often couples who are engaged to be married indulge in sex with the excuse that they love each other and that they are going to get married anyway. But the point is, they only love to gratify their own bodily desires. If they loved each other, they would not subject each other to the hazards of disobeying God, noting he punishes all who ignore his standards (1 Th. 4:3-6).
It is not that God is a mean old judge who just wants to keep us from having fun. He simply knows that premarital purity will be best for us and for our marriages. Our society is paying the price for promiscuity by confusion in many marriages and innumerable broken homes with all the emotional trauma they bring. God’s way is always the best!
Boaz and Ruth did it God’s way. We are not surprised to see, finally, their successful marriage. Not much is actually said about their relationship with each other after the wedding, but from what we have already we may assume that their marriage was richly blessed of God. They became great-grand parents of King David and consequently the ancestors of the Lord Jesus Christ on the human side.
TEST YOURSELF
1. Why did Naomi advise Ruth to do what she did? (verses 1-4).
2. How did Ruth respond to Naomi’s advice? (verse 5).
3. Fill in the blacks: “I am your ………………….. Ruth,” She said. “Spread the ……………………… of your garment over me, since you are a …..” (Verse 9)
4. Quote Ruth 3:10.
5. “All my fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character.” Who is being spoken of here? (verse 11).
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. (a) Ruth did not wait for Boaz to tell her what to do but, as Naomi had directed, she took the initiative and directly asked for marriage because practical is Ruth’s example in our Ghanaian society, where men normally propose marriage to women?
(b) What are some of the ways a woman can appropriately propose marriage to a man?
2. Read verse 10 again. (a) Discuss the challenges that younger women married to older men may face and vice versa.
(b) Discuss the situation in Africa where some parents marry off their under age daughters to older rich men as second, third, or even fourth wives.
3. Discuss the practice of Levirate / Inheritance marriage in Africa in the light of the HIV/AIDS menace. Is it to be encouraged in the light of modernity?
4. What are some of the qualities to look for in a good spouse?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
Pray specially for young women who are preparing to marry. Focus on any one or two you know.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday I Corinthian 7:36-40 He must belong to the Lord
Tuesday I Timothy 5:9-15 Encourage young widows to marry
Wednesday Genesis 24:1-9 God will send his angel before you
Thursday Genesis 24:10-27 Seek God’s guidance
Friday Genesis 24:50-61 Don’t delay marriage when the
Indications care clear.
Saturday Hebrews 13:4 Purity and integrity in marriage
KEY VERSE: 10 “The LORD bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor. RUTH 3:10-11
SCRIPTURE LESSON: RUTH 3
3:1 One day Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, “My daughter, should I not try to find a home for you, where you will be well provided for?
2 Is not Boaz, with whose servant girls you have been, a kinsman of ours? Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor.
3 Wash and perfume yourself, and put on your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking.
4 When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.”
5“I will do whatever you say,” Ruth answered.
6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do.
7 When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down
8 In the middle of the night something startled the man, and he turned and discovered a woman lying at his feet.
9 “Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the comer of your garment over me, since you are a kinsman-redeemer.”
10 “The LORD bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier. You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor.
11 And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All my fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character.
12 Although it is true that I am near of kin, there is kinsman-redeemer nearer than I.
13 Stay here for the night, and in the morning if he wants to redeem, good; let him redeem. But if he is not willing, as surely as the LORD lives I will do it. Lie here until morning.”
14 So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized; and he said, “Don’t let it be known that a woman came to the threshing floor. “
15 He also said, “Bring me the shaw1 you are wearing and hold it out. “When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and put it on her. Then he went back to town.
16 When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, “How did it go, my daughter?”
Then she told her everything Boaz had done for her
17 and added, “He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, ‘Don’t go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.”
18 Then Naomi said, “Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.”
For The Teacher…
BACKGROUND
In Jewish society the law required a man to marry the childless widow of his dead brother. The first son born of that union would bear his late brother’s name and inherit his property (Dt. 25:5-10; Lev. 25:23-28). It was called the law of the “Levirate” marriage, from the Hebrew word for “brother.” If no brother was available, a more distant relative could be asked to fulfill this duty. But the widow would have to let him know that he was acceptable to be her “goel,” as they called it, her kinsman-redeemer and provider. It was in this situation that Ruth found herself as she encountered Boaz.)
IN DEPTH
RUTH 3:1 Naomi is concerned about the security of Ruth. Earlier in 1:9, She had raised a similar concern by asking God to provide her daughters-in-law the “rest” of marriage. Now she was determined to seek this rest for Ruth.
Naomi sought “security” (which in the Hebrew literally means “rest” --- (cf. Ge. 8:9; Ps 116:7; Lam. 1:3)) for Ruth by obtaining a Hebrew husband for her. In granting her success, God was answering her earlier prayer (1: 9) with much more than she had hoped.
VERSE 2 Kinsman is a word central to the narrative and message of this book. The concept is related to the cultural obligation of a family member whose kinfolk have suffered loss. It involved the capacity of one relative who may be qualified to “redeem” another relative from slave status or recoup property once owned but now lost by reason of indebtedness. The expression “Kinsman-redeemer” is often used for “relative,” seeking in English to convey the combination of a human relationship with a divinely appointed role of a recovered. See Lev. 25:25, 47-55. Winnowing refers to the practice of extracting grain from its surrounding husk. The grain was poured on the threshing floor and animals walked over them thus causing the outer husk to break. The mix was scooped up on flat, tray-like baskets. It was then winnowed, or thrown into the air at a location where a constant breeze would catch the lightweight husk (chaff) and blow it away, leaving the grain to fall back upon the tray. It was then poured into containers for storing. All this took place in the spring.
The threshing floor This was a cleared area where grain was winnowed – crushed or torn to separate the chaff, straw, and grains.
VERSE 3-8 Naomi’s direction and Ruth’s ensuring action may appear to be seductive and inconsistent with the spiritual dignity of the book. On the contrary, however, Boaz’s word’s, “You are a woman of noble character” (3:11), clearly shows that he believed her to be highly moral.
Uncover his feet At Naomi’s suggestion; Ruth was approaching Boaz with some boldness. But her purpose was to become engaged. Her answer (3:9) shows that she was not thinking of becoming pregnant outside wedlock. The obvious purpose was that the chill of the night would naturally awaken Boaz in time and thus discover her at his feet.
Lie down Ruth lies patiently at Boaz’s feet until he wakes (3:8-9); nothing unbecoming happens between them during the night (3:11).
VERSE 9 spread the corner of your garment over me This is a metaphor suggesting Ruth’s need for protection just as young birds would run under the wings their mothers to escape birds of prey. The culture of the ancient Middle Eastern world involved the practice of the casting of a garment over one being claimed for marriage (see Exe. 16:8), a tradition to which Ruth clearly belongs. Also a Jewish husband covers his bride with the end of his prayer shawl as a symbolic gesture that she is under his protection. Ruth’s humble request to Boaz is for his protection as a “close relative”. This is the most affectionate point of the story, and the most liable to misunderstanding. It does not imply anything inappropriate.
VERSES 10-11 Boaz understood that Ruth’s initiative in making marriage proposal was in keeping with the law and praise her for not seeking younger men to marry.
A levirate marriage would provide her deceased husband with an heir (Dt. 25:5-10). In the ancient Middle East, not having an heir was considered a tragedy for the family. The particular kindness that Boaz spoke of was Ruth’s loyal love toward Naomi in choosing to remain with her even though she faced poverty.
A woman of noble character This is the feminine equivalent of the Hebrews phrase translated a man of standing in 2:1. Ruth had risen from being a Moabite and servant to becoming attractive to Boaz as a possible marriage partner. The high praise of Boaz shows that Ruth, as a godly woman had not compromised herself.
VERSE 12 The suspense in the narrative increases when Boaz announces that there is a kinsmen-redeemer nearer than he. The nearest relative would have the opportunity to carry out responsibility first.
Kinsmen-redeemer The Hebrew word refers to a relative who acted as a protector or guarantor of the family rights. He could be called upon to perform a number of duties: (1) to provide an heir for a deceased brother by marrying that brother’s wife and producing a child with her; (2) to buy back a family member who had been sold into slavery due to poverty; (3) to avenge a relative who had been murdered by killing the murderer; and (4) to buy back property that the family had sold. Scripture calls God the Redeemer or the “kinsman-redeemer” of Israel (Is. 60:16), and Jesus the Redeemer of all believers (1 Pe. 1:18,19).
VERSE 13 Boaz wanted to take immediate responsibility for Ruth and Naomi, so he asked her to stay” with him so she would not be exposed to any danger by returning to her home in the middle of the night.
The statement as the LORD lives reinforces the resolve of Boaz to take acceptance of her.
VERSE 14 Ruth left at early dawn, in order to avoid anyone who might recognize her.
Don’t let it be known This precaution was to avoid the possibility of anyone getting the wrong idea about Ruth’s actions that night, just as they could be misunderstood today.
VERSE 15 The large measure (possibly 40 to 45 kgs., not unbearable for field workers) was not only an expression of Boaz’s will to provide abundantly for her future (3:17) but also it provided an apparent reason for Ruth’s presence. People would conclude she came to secure a supply of grain to carry home prior to the heat of the day. Boaz probably helped raise the barley to Ruth’s head in order for Ruth to carry it home to Naomi.
VERSES 18 Naomi was confident that Boaz would see the matter through to its conclusion the same day. Boaz had repeatedly demonstrated that he was an honest and kindhearted man by his continuing provision for the two women.
For The Student…
THE WORD IN OUR LIVERS
It is important to understand that there is nothing immoral in this episode. This procedure was the custom of the day, and the record emphasizes the purity of it. In the secluded darkness of the threshing room, Boaz could have gratified carnal desires and no one but Ruth would have known it. He did not offer to violate her chastity, though he had all the opportunity at his disposal.
He was a godly, moral, self-disciplined, self-controlled man, and he kept his hands off. Scripture says that Ruth slept at his feet until morning (Ru 3:14) Furthermore, Ruth had the reputation of being a woman of excellence (Ru 3:11). She had sexual drives like any other normal woman, but she learned to claim God’s grace and strength to hold those drives in check until marriage. Boaz and Ruth both knew that God’s greatest blessing in marriage would require purity before marriage. Carelessness in this area would bring guilt, loss of self-respect, and suspicion. And it could leaves scars on their souls that would make their adjustment to each other in marriage most difficult.
The story implies the Boaz is much older than Ruth (cf 3:10). We do not know whether he was a bachelor or a widower, but we do know that he was a man of God. From this story we learn that one prerequisite for a successful marriage is that the man be a man of God. One reason why so many marriages are failing is because the husbands have not prepared themselves spiritually for their task. Some people could not think about anything but sex during their courtship days.
In our society, premarital sex seems perfectly acceptable. Many young people have experienced it before graduating from School, and very often couples who are engaged to be married indulge in sex with the excuse that they love each other and that they are going to get married anyway. But the point is, they only love to gratify their own bodily desires. If they loved each other, they would not subject each other to the hazards of disobeying God, noting he punishes all who ignore his standards (1 Th. 4:3-6).
It is not that God is a mean old judge who just wants to keep us from having fun. He simply knows that premarital purity will be best for us and for our marriages. Our society is paying the price for promiscuity by confusion in many marriages and innumerable broken homes with all the emotional trauma they bring. God’s way is always the best!
Boaz and Ruth did it God’s way. We are not surprised to see, finally, their successful marriage. Not much is actually said about their relationship with each other after the wedding, but from what we have already we may assume that their marriage was richly blessed of God. They became great-grand parents of King David and consequently the ancestors of the Lord Jesus Christ on the human side.
TEST YOURSELF
1. Why did Naomi advise Ruth to do what she did? (verses 1-4).
2. How did Ruth respond to Naomi’s advice? (verse 5).
3. Fill in the blacks: “I am your ………………….. Ruth,” She said. “Spread the ……………………… of your garment over me, since you are a …..” (Verse 9)
4. Quote Ruth 3:10.
5. “All my fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character.” Who is being spoken of here? (verse 11).
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. (a) Ruth did not wait for Boaz to tell her what to do but, as Naomi had directed, she took the initiative and directly asked for marriage because practical is Ruth’s example in our Ghanaian society, where men normally propose marriage to women?
(b) What are some of the ways a woman can appropriately propose marriage to a man?
2. Read verse 10 again. (a) Discuss the challenges that younger women married to older men may face and vice versa.
(b) Discuss the situation in Africa where some parents marry off their under age daughters to older rich men as second, third, or even fourth wives.
3. Discuss the practice of Levirate / Inheritance marriage in Africa in the light of the HIV/AIDS menace. Is it to be encouraged in the light of modernity?
4. What are some of the qualities to look for in a good spouse?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
Pray specially for young women who are preparing to marry. Focus on any one or two you know.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday I Corinthian 7:36-40 He must belong to the Lord
Tuesday I Timothy 5:9-15 Encourage young widows to marry
Wednesday Genesis 24:1-9 God will send his angel before you
Thursday Genesis 24:10-27 Seek God’s guidance
Friday Genesis 24:50-61 Don’t delay marriage when the
Indications care clear.
Saturday Hebrews 13:4 Purity and integrity in marriage
FAMILY LIFE
FAMILY LIFE
Two major issues discussed under this theme are
Marriage and sexual perversion.
We begin the studies with the last portion of the character study on Ruth. This shows how a young woman moved towards marriage without any immoral activities.
We continue with Divorce and remarriage, which are family life issues that have always confronted humanity.
The teachings of Moses, Jesus, Paul ad the position of the Methodist Church have been reviewed.
A couple must be prepared to face the challenges that come up in their marriage if they are to avoid divorce. These challenges have been highlighted.
Homosexuality and lesbianism also are form of sexual perversion, which have been with humanity since creation.
The Biblical position on the issue and the extent to which homosexuality is practiced in Ghana as well as the legal position are highlighted.
Two major issues discussed under this theme are
Marriage and sexual perversion.
We begin the studies with the last portion of the character study on Ruth. This shows how a young woman moved towards marriage without any immoral activities.
We continue with Divorce and remarriage, which are family life issues that have always confronted humanity.
The teachings of Moses, Jesus, Paul ad the position of the Methodist Church have been reviewed.
A couple must be prepared to face the challenges that come up in their marriage if they are to avoid divorce. These challenges have been highlighted.
Homosexuality and lesbianism also are form of sexual perversion, which have been with humanity since creation.
The Biblical position on the issue and the extent to which homosexuality is practiced in Ghana as well as the legal position are highlighted.
09WK17 -CHURCH FESTIVALS- WHAT IS TRINITY SUNDAY?
CHURCH FESTIVALS- WHAT IS TRINITY SUNDAY?
KEY VERSE: Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19
SCRIPTURE LESSSON: 2 CORINTHIANS 13:14
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
THE FESTIVAL
The first Sunday after Pentecost is Trinity Sunday. This feast is different from all others on the Christian calendar because it does not celebrate a historical event from the life of Christ or the Apostles. Instead, it celebrates the theological doctrine, or religious truth, of the Trinity: that the one God is three persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Trinity Sunday lasts only one day, which is symbolic of the unity of the Trinity.
THE DOCTRINE OF THE TRINITY
The Trinity is best described in the Nicene Creed. Essentially the Trinity is the belief that God is one in essence, but distinct in person. Therefore we believe that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are somehow distinct from one another (not divided though), yet completely united in will and essence. The Son is said o be eternally begotten of the Father, while the Holy Spirit is said to proceed from the Father and the Son.
The doctrine of the Trinity has been one of the most bitterly contested of all the Christian doctrines in the Christians Church. It has also been the Christian doctrine least understood and misrepresented by the people from other faiths. The doctrine has always been easily expressed in symbols than in words.
In their search for symbols of the Christians have been inspired by nature as well as by their own designs. The Greek word ‘trinity’ was first used in the third century by Tertullian, one of the early Church’s greatest theologians. He gave the example of a tree to illustrate the mystery that God is three persons. Tertullian suggested that, while a tree is al one substance, God the Father can be compared to its root, the Son to its branches, and the Spirit to its fruit. This image of a tree was meant to show how God is not divided but extended into three persons. One of the best-known natural symbols of the Trinity comes from Ireland. It is the shamrock. Like the three-leafed clover, the shamrock is a family of wild plants, which is easily identified by its three leaves extending from a single stem. For centuries, ordinary people have found that this simple plant illustrates the Trinity more clearly than the many lofty words of theologians.
People have also used geometry and architecture to represent the mystery of the Trinity. A common symbol of the Trinity is a triangle, sometimes with a single eye in the middle of it and surrounded by gold rays. The lines of the triangle illustrate the equal relation of the three persons of the Trinity while the eye symbolizes omniscience and the rays represent divinity.
BIBLICAL BASIS OF THE DOCTRINE OF TRINITY
The Trinity, although the word does not appear in Scripture, is taught in Matthew 28:18-20, 20 Corinthians 13:14 and many other Biblical passages. It is appropriate that this mystery is celebrated the first Sunday after Pentecost when the outpouring of the Holy Spirit first occurred because faith comes through the work of the Holy Spirit.
On Trinity Sunday the Christian Church ponders with joy and thanksgiving what the Father, Son and Holy Spirit have done to accomplish the salvation of sinful humanity. We remember how Christians should respond to the love God has shown us, praising him and giving him glory. We remember the Father as our Creator, the Son as our Savior and the Holy Spirit as our Comforter. Scriptural readings for the Trinity Sunday ceremony may include Psalm 8, beginning and ending with, “O Lord, or Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth, “2 Corinthians 13:11-13 appealing to believers to aim for perfection and live in peace, and ending with the prayer that the grace of Christ Jesus, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all. The readings may include also the commission Jesus left for believers in Matthew 28:16-20 (The Great Commission).
The fact that Trinity Sunday is not tied to a specific historical event is refreshing. This is a day when we don’t have to remember any particular stories or rituals. Instead, it is a day when we can simply put all our energies into celebrating God. Like the birthday of a friend or relation, Trinity Sunday is a day which is dedicated to rejoicing, purely and simply, in a person’s very being. But on this day, that person is God. As we rejoice, we praise the diversity of God’s person as we have come to know it – as Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
The Trinity, three persons in one God, is the basic mystery of our faith far beyond human understanding. Trinity Sunday is to explain, to the best of human ability, the clues written in scripture to guide us to a fuller understanding of who God is.
The Father is God from the beginning (Jn 1:1); Jesus revealed himself as equal to the Father in John 10:30, “I and the Father are one.” Together they sent the Holy Spirit (Jn 14:26). The Trinitarian nature of God is actually reflected in every celebration of the liturgical year, at Christmas, for example, we remember the Holy Spirit’s work in Jesus conception (LK 1:35). At Easter, we celebrate the fact that God raised Jesus from the dead (Ac 4:10). At Pentecost, we read New Testament texts that assert that the Father and the Son send the Spirit to us (Jn14:16;15:26).
INSTITUTION OF THE FESTIVAL
The Church has been celebrating the Trinity in its life and worship since the earliest days of the Church, as evidenced by the Trinitarian baptismal formula. The earliest know liturgies include many references to the persons of the Trinity, including prayers that end with Trinitarian doxologies. However, there was no general feast of the Trinity in the early Church. Over time, dioceses and churches began celebrating feasts of the Trinity locally, perhaps in response to Arianism (after Arius of Alexandria; died 335). Arianism is the false idea that Jesus was just a man, not God at all. Those who believe this agree that Jesus was a great moral teacher, and that God blessed him, but they deny that Jesus was God.
Initially local churches celebrated the feast either on the first Sunday after Pentecost, or the first Sunday before Adyent. Celebrating the feast after Pentecost symbolized that the Church celebrates the Trinity as tech final celebration of the Church Year, after Christ’s resurrection, ascension, and the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Pope John XXII established the feast day for universal observance in the Western Church in Ad 1334 on the present date. In addition to the yearly observance of Trinity Sunday, the Church’s weekly, daily, and hourly worship is strongly Trintarian in nature.
ISSUES TO BE HIGHLIGHTED DURING THE PERIOD
Trinity Sunday is about praising God in the highest, an uninhibited glorying in the absolute greatness of God. so far during the Christian Year, we have celebrated God as he has drawn near to us in the events of Christ’s life on earth. On this day we praise the majesty and eternity of God who is the God of heaven as well as the God who acts within it. It is a day to offer praise as far as the very limits of our minds and imagination can take us.
The colour of the day is White or God and the duration is one Sunday.
PROGRAMMES THAT CAN BE DRAWN TO CELEBRATE THIS FESTIVAL
Since the feast of the Trinity is celebrated on only one day (Sunday), the day could be set aside for
1 Sermons
2 Teaching Services
HOW TO MAKE THE CELEBRATION OF TRINITY SUNDAY MORE RELEVANT TODAY
To make the observance of Trinity Sunday more relevant today themes on the almanac need to be made more practical and down-to-earth to enable Church members to reflect on the following and be assisted to make them practical in their lives.
1. The God who has revealed himself to us is a loving communion of Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
2. The church: a loving communion of persons who are sons and daughters of the Father through baptism.
3. The family: husbands, wives, mothers, fathers, children – a loving communion of persons.
4. Our friends, our acquaintances, our neighborhoods, our towns, our cities, our country, our world –they all supposed to be a loving communion of persons in God.
5. Unity in diversity
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. a. Read Acts 5:3-4; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18. How do these passages show that the Holy Spirit of God?
c. Read John 14:5-9; 10:30. How do these passages show that Jesus is God?
d. Read Deuteronomy 6:4. What do you learn about God from this passage? The relate to God. Will you agree with the designation that God is Trinity?
2. How does the Trinity enable you understand the nature of the God we worship
3. Christians are invited now into being part of that loving communion that is the inner life of God, and not just after we die and go to heaven. Discuss.
4. In what ways can you local church celebrate the feast of the Trinity in a more practical way?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
This week, meditate on the truth that God is Trinity and spend some time in adoration of God in consequence.
DAILY BIBLE READING
Monday Psalm 2:1-12 You are my Son
Tuesday Genesis 2:26-27 The Creative activity of the Trinity
Wednesday John 14:8-17 The Father and the Son are one
Thursday Proverbs 8:22-31 I was the Craftsman at his side
Friday 1 John 5:7-11 The testimony of three
Saturday Matthew 28:16-20 Three in one
Trinity Sunday this year falls on the 7th June 2009.
Use the lessons of this study to ensure a fruitful celebration.
KEY VERSE: Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19
SCRIPTURE LESSSON: 2 CORINTHIANS 13:14
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
THE FESTIVAL
The first Sunday after Pentecost is Trinity Sunday. This feast is different from all others on the Christian calendar because it does not celebrate a historical event from the life of Christ or the Apostles. Instead, it celebrates the theological doctrine, or religious truth, of the Trinity: that the one God is three persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Trinity Sunday lasts only one day, which is symbolic of the unity of the Trinity.
THE DOCTRINE OF THE TRINITY
The Trinity is best described in the Nicene Creed. Essentially the Trinity is the belief that God is one in essence, but distinct in person. Therefore we believe that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are somehow distinct from one another (not divided though), yet completely united in will and essence. The Son is said o be eternally begotten of the Father, while the Holy Spirit is said to proceed from the Father and the Son.
The doctrine of the Trinity has been one of the most bitterly contested of all the Christian doctrines in the Christians Church. It has also been the Christian doctrine least understood and misrepresented by the people from other faiths. The doctrine has always been easily expressed in symbols than in words.
In their search for symbols of the Christians have been inspired by nature as well as by their own designs. The Greek word ‘trinity’ was first used in the third century by Tertullian, one of the early Church’s greatest theologians. He gave the example of a tree to illustrate the mystery that God is three persons. Tertullian suggested that, while a tree is al one substance, God the Father can be compared to its root, the Son to its branches, and the Spirit to its fruit. This image of a tree was meant to show how God is not divided but extended into three persons. One of the best-known natural symbols of the Trinity comes from Ireland. It is the shamrock. Like the three-leafed clover, the shamrock is a family of wild plants, which is easily identified by its three leaves extending from a single stem. For centuries, ordinary people have found that this simple plant illustrates the Trinity more clearly than the many lofty words of theologians.
People have also used geometry and architecture to represent the mystery of the Trinity. A common symbol of the Trinity is a triangle, sometimes with a single eye in the middle of it and surrounded by gold rays. The lines of the triangle illustrate the equal relation of the three persons of the Trinity while the eye symbolizes omniscience and the rays represent divinity.
BIBLICAL BASIS OF THE DOCTRINE OF TRINITY
The Trinity, although the word does not appear in Scripture, is taught in Matthew 28:18-20, 20 Corinthians 13:14 and many other Biblical passages. It is appropriate that this mystery is celebrated the first Sunday after Pentecost when the outpouring of the Holy Spirit first occurred because faith comes through the work of the Holy Spirit.
On Trinity Sunday the Christian Church ponders with joy and thanksgiving what the Father, Son and Holy Spirit have done to accomplish the salvation of sinful humanity. We remember how Christians should respond to the love God has shown us, praising him and giving him glory. We remember the Father as our Creator, the Son as our Savior and the Holy Spirit as our Comforter. Scriptural readings for the Trinity Sunday ceremony may include Psalm 8, beginning and ending with, “O Lord, or Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth, “2 Corinthians 13:11-13 appealing to believers to aim for perfection and live in peace, and ending with the prayer that the grace of Christ Jesus, the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all. The readings may include also the commission Jesus left for believers in Matthew 28:16-20 (The Great Commission).
The fact that Trinity Sunday is not tied to a specific historical event is refreshing. This is a day when we don’t have to remember any particular stories or rituals. Instead, it is a day when we can simply put all our energies into celebrating God. Like the birthday of a friend or relation, Trinity Sunday is a day which is dedicated to rejoicing, purely and simply, in a person’s very being. But on this day, that person is God. As we rejoice, we praise the diversity of God’s person as we have come to know it – as Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
The Trinity, three persons in one God, is the basic mystery of our faith far beyond human understanding. Trinity Sunday is to explain, to the best of human ability, the clues written in scripture to guide us to a fuller understanding of who God is.
The Father is God from the beginning (Jn 1:1); Jesus revealed himself as equal to the Father in John 10:30, “I and the Father are one.” Together they sent the Holy Spirit (Jn 14:26). The Trinitarian nature of God is actually reflected in every celebration of the liturgical year, at Christmas, for example, we remember the Holy Spirit’s work in Jesus conception (LK 1:35). At Easter, we celebrate the fact that God raised Jesus from the dead (Ac 4:10). At Pentecost, we read New Testament texts that assert that the Father and the Son send the Spirit to us (Jn14:16;15:26).
INSTITUTION OF THE FESTIVAL
The Church has been celebrating the Trinity in its life and worship since the earliest days of the Church, as evidenced by the Trinitarian baptismal formula. The earliest know liturgies include many references to the persons of the Trinity, including prayers that end with Trinitarian doxologies. However, there was no general feast of the Trinity in the early Church. Over time, dioceses and churches began celebrating feasts of the Trinity locally, perhaps in response to Arianism (after Arius of Alexandria; died 335). Arianism is the false idea that Jesus was just a man, not God at all. Those who believe this agree that Jesus was a great moral teacher, and that God blessed him, but they deny that Jesus was God.
Initially local churches celebrated the feast either on the first Sunday after Pentecost, or the first Sunday before Adyent. Celebrating the feast after Pentecost symbolized that the Church celebrates the Trinity as tech final celebration of the Church Year, after Christ’s resurrection, ascension, and the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Pope John XXII established the feast day for universal observance in the Western Church in Ad 1334 on the present date. In addition to the yearly observance of Trinity Sunday, the Church’s weekly, daily, and hourly worship is strongly Trintarian in nature.
ISSUES TO BE HIGHLIGHTED DURING THE PERIOD
Trinity Sunday is about praising God in the highest, an uninhibited glorying in the absolute greatness of God. so far during the Christian Year, we have celebrated God as he has drawn near to us in the events of Christ’s life on earth. On this day we praise the majesty and eternity of God who is the God of heaven as well as the God who acts within it. It is a day to offer praise as far as the very limits of our minds and imagination can take us.
The colour of the day is White or God and the duration is one Sunday.
PROGRAMMES THAT CAN BE DRAWN TO CELEBRATE THIS FESTIVAL
Since the feast of the Trinity is celebrated on only one day (Sunday), the day could be set aside for
1 Sermons
2 Teaching Services
HOW TO MAKE THE CELEBRATION OF TRINITY SUNDAY MORE RELEVANT TODAY
To make the observance of Trinity Sunday more relevant today themes on the almanac need to be made more practical and down-to-earth to enable Church members to reflect on the following and be assisted to make them practical in their lives.
1. The God who has revealed himself to us is a loving communion of Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
2. The church: a loving communion of persons who are sons and daughters of the Father through baptism.
3. The family: husbands, wives, mothers, fathers, children – a loving communion of persons.
4. Our friends, our acquaintances, our neighborhoods, our towns, our cities, our country, our world –they all supposed to be a loving communion of persons in God.
5. Unity in diversity
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. a. Read Acts 5:3-4; 2 Corinthians 3:17-18. How do these passages show that the Holy Spirit of God?
c. Read John 14:5-9; 10:30. How do these passages show that Jesus is God?
d. Read Deuteronomy 6:4. What do you learn about God from this passage? The relate to God. Will you agree with the designation that God is Trinity?
2. How does the Trinity enable you understand the nature of the God we worship
3. Christians are invited now into being part of that loving communion that is the inner life of God, and not just after we die and go to heaven. Discuss.
4. In what ways can you local church celebrate the feast of the Trinity in a more practical way?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
This week, meditate on the truth that God is Trinity and spend some time in adoration of God in consequence.
DAILY BIBLE READING
Monday Psalm 2:1-12 You are my Son
Tuesday Genesis 2:26-27 The Creative activity of the Trinity
Wednesday John 14:8-17 The Father and the Son are one
Thursday Proverbs 8:22-31 I was the Craftsman at his side
Friday 1 John 5:7-11 The testimony of three
Saturday Matthew 28:16-20 Three in one
Trinity Sunday this year falls on the 7th June 2009.
Use the lessons of this study to ensure a fruitful celebration.
Monday, April 6, 2009
09WK16-CHURCH FESTIVALS, WHAT IS PENTECOST SUNDAY
CHURCH FESTIVALS WHAT IS PENTECOST SUNDAY
KEY VERSE: All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. ACTS 2:4
Scripture lesson: ACTS 2:1-13, 40-41
1. When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.
2. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.
3. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them
4. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
5. Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven.
6. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language.
7. Utterly amazed, they asked:” Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans?
8. Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language?
9. Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia,
10. Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome
11. (both Jews and converts to Judaism Cretans and Arabs – we hear them declaring the wonder of God in our own tongues!”
12. Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”
13. Some, however, made fun of them and said, “they have had too much wine.
ACTS 2:40 With many other words he warned them and he pleaded with them; “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.”
14. Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
INTRODUCTION
Pentecost Sunday is an important date in the Church calendar. It falls on the tenth day after Ascension Thursday and fifty days following Easter Sunday in most Christian tradition. It occurs as early as May 10 and as late as June 13, depending on when Easter in fixed.
Pentecost Sunday commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other disciples of Jesus (Act2) and thereby empowering them for mission.
This week we shall study the meaning, significance and relevance of Pentecost to the Church of today.
EXPOSITION
Biblical Background
The word “Pentecost” means “fiftieth day”. Historically and symbolically Pentecost is related to the Jewish harvest festival of “Shavout” (the Feast of Weeks). This agricultural festival was celebrated to give thanks for the first fruits of the early spring harvest (Lev 23:15-22). In Exodus 23:14-17, instructions on the celebration of three annual festivals are given. The first is, the Feast of Unleavened Bread which is a reminder of the Exodus from Egypt and the Passover. The second is referred to as follows, “Celebrate the Feast of Harvest with the first fruits of the crops you sow in your field.” This is the feast of Pentecost. The third is the feast of Ingathering which marks the end of the harvest season. The further instruction was that, “Three times a year (i.e, during the three festivals) all the men are to appear before the Sovereign Lord.”
By New Testament times, Pentecost had gradually lost its association with agriculture and the Torah and had become associated with the celebration of God’s creation of his people and their religious history.
Theological Background
1. The Resurrection of Christ: The Apostle Paul describes the resurrection of Jesus as follows; “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (I Cor. 15:20). Therefore, it can be said that the Feast of Firstfruits or Pentecost looked forward to the resurrection of Christ.
2. The Birth of the New Testament Church: Pentecost was indeed the fulfillment of the prophecy of Joel about what the Lord will do in the Last days. “I will pour out my Spirit on all people…” (Joel 2:28-32). It was also a fulfillment of the promise of Jesus to the disciples just before his ascension – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Ac 1:8). Pentecost had to take place, before the Church could take off.
The Holy Spirit as the Firstfruit of Our Inheritance: Pentecost does not only remind us of the pouring of the Holy Spirit, but it also reminds us, in the words of the Apostle Paul that, “we ourselves who have the firstfruits of the Spirit… wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.. “(Ro. 8:23-27).
Pentecost therefore represents God’s gracious enabling power to his people so the would lives in dynamic ways, the witness of being his people. Pentecost points to the reversal of the event of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11 where God disorganized the people with different languages. In Acts, he united them with the languages of many people and gave birth to the universal church.
INSTITUTION OF THE FESTIVAL
Pentecost Sunday is also called Whit Sunday or Whitsunday possibly in reference to the white robes worn by catechumens and others who are baptized on that day. An alternative derivation is from the word “wit” or “wisdom” which implies that it was the day the Apostles were filled with wisdom from God by the Holy Spirit.
The sanctuary colour of Pentecost Sunday is red, the colour of the Church. The red symbolizes the Fire of Pentecost as well as that of the Apostles and other disciples of Jesus who were gathered in the Upper Room for the empowerment from God to preach the gospel to other nations.
CELEBRATING THE DAY
Pentecost Sunday should be a day of reflection by the individual Christian and the church as a whole.
1 The Individual Christian: This is a day for the individual Christian to reflect on the meaning of the day as discussed above. Pentecost Sunday is the day to celebrate hope because Christ our firstfruit is risen and his indwelling Holy Spirit is a guarantee of our inheritance in him. It is also a time to reflect on the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in our lives for living and for ministry. Then, we need to examine the working of the gifts of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
2 Celebration by the Church: This is a day to celebrate the birthday of the New Testament Church knowing that God is at work among His people, through His Holy Spirit. It is a celebration of newness of creation, of revival of purpose, mission and calling as God’s people. It is a recognition of God’s Spirit-filled people doing God’s on-going work in the world.
There is the need to use this sacred day to call the people to renewal through the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Pentecost Sunday should provide the opportunity for instruction and reflection on spiritual renewal, nurture and growth in the Church Jesus told his disciples, “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit is come upon you and you shall be my witnesses… “ (Acts 1:8) this therefore is a day for serious reflection on whether the church is experiencing and demonstrating the power of the Holy Spirit in all his manifestations and in its mission or that it has become a group of “Powerless” individuals meeting for “worship.” Since the sanctuary colour of Pentecost Sunday is red, symbolizing the Fire of Pentecost, it should remind the church of the power we need for mission. The prayer on this occasion should be; “Come Holy Spirit, empower your church.”
The week must be observed as a serious week for evangelism, doing house to house visitations – not just to share the Good News but also to pray for the sick and help the poor and needy in society. There is the need to focus on the Church’s mission to the world. It must be a real celebration of the birthday of the Church and the Church will do well to organize programmes that will strengthen its “Koinonia” (fellowship). A Pentecost vigil will also be of help to the Church by reminding us of the Pentecost Fire which must keep on burning.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Discuss the importance of the Holy Spirit in the Church’s ministry.
2. What does the event of Acts 2 mean to us believers of today?
3. With the impressive work done by the Apostles, for example, Peter after the descent of the Holy Spirit in mind, what must be our attitude toward evangelism today?
4. What does it mean to be empowered by the Holy Spirit?
5. Suggest ways of making Pentecost Sunday more relevant to believers of today. Discuss each one of them.
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
This week, make it a duty to share your personal experience of Jesus with at least one unbeliever. Lead them to Christ with this demonstrable testimony, share the outcome with the class.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday Isaiah 44:1-8 Recreation of God’s people
Tuesday Genesis 11:1-9 Restoration of Community and unity of purpose.
Wednesday Psalm 104:24-34 Newness and renewal.
Thursday John 14:8-17 God empowers people for mission
Friday John 20:19-23 Jesus breathes His Holy Spirit upon us.
Saturday I Corinthians 12:3-13 Gifts of the Holy Spirit enable God’s
People to work in the world.
Pentecost Sunday this year falls on31st May 2009.
Apply the lessons of this week’s study to ensure a fruitful celebration.
KEY VERSE: All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. ACTS 2:4
Scripture lesson: ACTS 2:1-13, 40-41
1. When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.
2. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.
3. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them
4. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
5. Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven.
6. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language.
7. Utterly amazed, they asked:” Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans?
8. Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language?
9. Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia,
10. Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome
11. (both Jews and converts to Judaism Cretans and Arabs – we hear them declaring the wonder of God in our own tongues!”
12. Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?”
13. Some, however, made fun of them and said, “they have had too much wine.
ACTS 2:40 With many other words he warned them and he pleaded with them; “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.”
14. Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.
INTRODUCTION
Pentecost Sunday is an important date in the Church calendar. It falls on the tenth day after Ascension Thursday and fifty days following Easter Sunday in most Christian tradition. It occurs as early as May 10 and as late as June 13, depending on when Easter in fixed.
Pentecost Sunday commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other disciples of Jesus (Act2) and thereby empowering them for mission.
This week we shall study the meaning, significance and relevance of Pentecost to the Church of today.
EXPOSITION
Biblical Background
The word “Pentecost” means “fiftieth day”. Historically and symbolically Pentecost is related to the Jewish harvest festival of “Shavout” (the Feast of Weeks). This agricultural festival was celebrated to give thanks for the first fruits of the early spring harvest (Lev 23:15-22). In Exodus 23:14-17, instructions on the celebration of three annual festivals are given. The first is, the Feast of Unleavened Bread which is a reminder of the Exodus from Egypt and the Passover. The second is referred to as follows, “Celebrate the Feast of Harvest with the first fruits of the crops you sow in your field.” This is the feast of Pentecost. The third is the feast of Ingathering which marks the end of the harvest season. The further instruction was that, “Three times a year (i.e, during the three festivals) all the men are to appear before the Sovereign Lord.”
By New Testament times, Pentecost had gradually lost its association with agriculture and the Torah and had become associated with the celebration of God’s creation of his people and their religious history.
Theological Background
1. The Resurrection of Christ: The Apostle Paul describes the resurrection of Jesus as follows; “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (I Cor. 15:20). Therefore, it can be said that the Feast of Firstfruits or Pentecost looked forward to the resurrection of Christ.
2. The Birth of the New Testament Church: Pentecost was indeed the fulfillment of the prophecy of Joel about what the Lord will do in the Last days. “I will pour out my Spirit on all people…” (Joel 2:28-32). It was also a fulfillment of the promise of Jesus to the disciples just before his ascension – “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Ac 1:8). Pentecost had to take place, before the Church could take off.
The Holy Spirit as the Firstfruit of Our Inheritance: Pentecost does not only remind us of the pouring of the Holy Spirit, but it also reminds us, in the words of the Apostle Paul that, “we ourselves who have the firstfruits of the Spirit… wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.. “(Ro. 8:23-27).
Pentecost therefore represents God’s gracious enabling power to his people so the would lives in dynamic ways, the witness of being his people. Pentecost points to the reversal of the event of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11 where God disorganized the people with different languages. In Acts, he united them with the languages of many people and gave birth to the universal church.
INSTITUTION OF THE FESTIVAL
Pentecost Sunday is also called Whit Sunday or Whitsunday possibly in reference to the white robes worn by catechumens and others who are baptized on that day. An alternative derivation is from the word “wit” or “wisdom” which implies that it was the day the Apostles were filled with wisdom from God by the Holy Spirit.
The sanctuary colour of Pentecost Sunday is red, the colour of the Church. The red symbolizes the Fire of Pentecost as well as that of the Apostles and other disciples of Jesus who were gathered in the Upper Room for the empowerment from God to preach the gospel to other nations.
CELEBRATING THE DAY
Pentecost Sunday should be a day of reflection by the individual Christian and the church as a whole.
1 The Individual Christian: This is a day for the individual Christian to reflect on the meaning of the day as discussed above. Pentecost Sunday is the day to celebrate hope because Christ our firstfruit is risen and his indwelling Holy Spirit is a guarantee of our inheritance in him. It is also a time to reflect on the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in our lives for living and for ministry. Then, we need to examine the working of the gifts of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
2 Celebration by the Church: This is a day to celebrate the birthday of the New Testament Church knowing that God is at work among His people, through His Holy Spirit. It is a celebration of newness of creation, of revival of purpose, mission and calling as God’s people. It is a recognition of God’s Spirit-filled people doing God’s on-going work in the world.
There is the need to use this sacred day to call the people to renewal through the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Pentecost Sunday should provide the opportunity for instruction and reflection on spiritual renewal, nurture and growth in the Church Jesus told his disciples, “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit is come upon you and you shall be my witnesses… “ (Acts 1:8) this therefore is a day for serious reflection on whether the church is experiencing and demonstrating the power of the Holy Spirit in all his manifestations and in its mission or that it has become a group of “Powerless” individuals meeting for “worship.” Since the sanctuary colour of Pentecost Sunday is red, symbolizing the Fire of Pentecost, it should remind the church of the power we need for mission. The prayer on this occasion should be; “Come Holy Spirit, empower your church.”
The week must be observed as a serious week for evangelism, doing house to house visitations – not just to share the Good News but also to pray for the sick and help the poor and needy in society. There is the need to focus on the Church’s mission to the world. It must be a real celebration of the birthday of the Church and the Church will do well to organize programmes that will strengthen its “Koinonia” (fellowship). A Pentecost vigil will also be of help to the Church by reminding us of the Pentecost Fire which must keep on burning.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Discuss the importance of the Holy Spirit in the Church’s ministry.
2. What does the event of Acts 2 mean to us believers of today?
3. With the impressive work done by the Apostles, for example, Peter after the descent of the Holy Spirit in mind, what must be our attitude toward evangelism today?
4. What does it mean to be empowered by the Holy Spirit?
5. Suggest ways of making Pentecost Sunday more relevant to believers of today. Discuss each one of them.
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
This week, make it a duty to share your personal experience of Jesus with at least one unbeliever. Lead them to Christ with this demonstrable testimony, share the outcome with the class.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Monday Isaiah 44:1-8 Recreation of God’s people
Tuesday Genesis 11:1-9 Restoration of Community and unity of purpose.
Wednesday Psalm 104:24-34 Newness and renewal.
Thursday John 14:8-17 God empowers people for mission
Friday John 20:19-23 Jesus breathes His Holy Spirit upon us.
Saturday I Corinthians 12:3-13 Gifts of the Holy Spirit enable God’s
People to work in the world.
Pentecost Sunday this year falls on31st May 2009.
Apply the lessons of this week’s study to ensure a fruitful celebration.
09WK15- UNDERSTANDING CANTICLES
UNDERSTANDING CANTICLES
KEY VERSE: Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord EPHESLIANS 5:19
SCRIPTURE LESSON: EPHESIANS 5:18-20
18 do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the spirit.
19 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord.
20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
INTRODUCTION
The above passage in Ephesians exhorts us to “speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs” This immediately tells you that the church’s worship is enriched by variety of music. We need to recognize the importance of singing or church music in worship as it deepens our participation in worship. St Augustine explains that whoever sings prays twice.
Methodism, as part of its music tradition, has inherited and kept canticles as part of its worship services. This tradition is noticeably dying out gradually. In this lesson, we shall attempt to explain the meaning of canticles and its usage, and explore why canticles are not more popularly sang today and offer suggestions as to how the singing of canticles can be revived.
EXPOSITION
1. What is the meaning of Canticles?
A canticle is strictly a hymn taken directly from the Bible but this does not always include the Psalms which form another category of songs used in worship. The term however is often expanded to include ancient non-Biblical hymns such as the Te Deum and certain psalms used liturgically.
2. The Usage of Canticles
Christians inherited their usage of the Psalms as canticles from the Jewish tradition of singing the Psalms. The Psalms became the service book of Christian worship for the Early Church. From the ‘Book of Common Prayer,’ we gather that the Church of England (the Anglican Church) makes extensive use of canticles and this was inherited by the Methodists. The following are the popular canticles that have been sung by the Church over the years.
i. Venite (Psalm 95)
The title is a Latin word derived from the first verse and theme of the Psalm, inviting us to come and join in the praise of the Lord. The first part of the psalm extols the greatness of God in creation and his providence. The second part of the psalm deals with the mighty acts of salvation of our God which He demonstrated by delivering Israel from Egypt.
ii. Te Deum (Non-Biblical)
The title is a Latin statement which is derived from the theme of the canticle saying, “We Praise Thee O Lord.” It is a canticle of praise like the Venite. The canticle praises God as Father and Holy spirit in the first part, God as Son in the second part and brings before him the corporate prayers of his people in the third.
iii. Benedictus (Luke 1:68-79)
The title is a Latin word, which means blessings. A related English word is “benediction.” It is a prophecy given by John the Baptist’s father, Zechariah when his son was born. The song speaks of the coming of the Messiah to save his people and also about what his son was going to do as a forerunner of the Messiah. The singing of this song should remind us of God’s faithfulness to his people and to us. It should remind us of the mercy of God to his people and to Zechariah after his long wait for a child.
iv. Jubilate Deo (Psalm 100)
The title of this psalm is a statement in Latin meaning that the Psalm is for, “Rejoicing in the Lord.” The word “Jubilation” is derived from the Latin “Jubilation” and “Deo” is the Latin word for God. The Psalm invites us to: “Shout for joy to the Lord, Serve the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” It goes on to say; “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”
This is a great psalm of praise and rejoicing, which should be part of our praise during our worship services.
At Evening Prayer or Vespers the following are used:
7 The Magnificent (Luke 1:46-55)
8 Cantata Dimino (Psalm 98)
9 Nunc Dimmittis (Luke 2:29-32)
10 Dues Misereatur (Psalm 67)
The titles are all in Latin, reflecting their increased use when the dominant language in Christian churches was Latin. We have given this wide usage to explain the importance that is attached to the canticles in Christian worship.
3. The Message of the Canticles
a close study of the Canticles shows that the principal message is to extol the great and mighty work of God (e.g. the Benedictus – Luke 1:68-74). Also in the canticles great Christian truths are affirmed as in Psalm 8 (Canticle 18 in the Methodist Hymn Book (MHB). Personal confessions can also be derived in the canticles Psalm 51 (Canticle 35 in the MHB). The Canticles are also messages of affirmation of our relationship with God – Psalm 118 – (Canticle 56 of the MHB).
For posterity, the Methodist Church has chosen and preserved 78 canticles for usage in worship. Each of these may have their distinct message worth studying in detail. What we have given above is only representative. What is generally true through out all the canticles is that they are mostly man’s response to the saving acts of God, expressed in poetry. They can be used for personal devotion as well as for corporate worship.
4. How to choose and use the Canticles
As we have noted each canticle has a particular message. We need to be sure about the occasion or the particular Christian festival before choosing the canticles. For example Psalm 95 (Canticle 1 of the MHB) has always been sang as a praise song at the beginning of services; so also canticle 2. However we have a problem with a few others. Some help may be in place.
The Benedict (Canticle 3 of MHB), and Cantemus Cuncti (Canticle 4 of the MHB) may be sang during Annual Harvests. The Benedictus (Canticle 7 of the MHB) are to be used during Christmas festivities. A look at Canticle 27 of the MHB shows that it can be used during Intercessory prayers; and together with Canticle 56 for spiritual warfare prayers where we need to affirm God’s power to deliver. Canticle 72 is a perfect one for the Passion Week or Esther. The beauty of Canticles 70 and 71 makes them suitable for mission services as we prepare to engage the world for Jesus. Throughout the Christian year, and no matter the personal and corporate seasons of the community of faith, there can be a canticle for use. A wise search and meditation will bring out the most suitable.
What has happen to canticles and how can we redeem them?
Despite their value as aids in Christian worship, contemporary Christians (Methodists included), have ceased to make much use of the Canticles. From our research there are two basic reasons:
i. There is lack of teaching on the canticles and their value for worship.
ii. Current musical taste has shifted to the more ‘ less stressful ‘ singing of the popular ‘ one –liner ‘ choruses.
Most people we talked to also had problems with the language (diction) especially in the English and to some extent in the local language (usually Ga and Akan) because translators themselves were so literal in their translation that their phrases did not conform to the natural way of speaking.
If we are to redeem the canticles for usage, there are areas we need to address. Some new hymnals are beginning to address the language problem by providing modern English usage as alternatives. Again as music taste and style changes, these hymnals have responded by giving ways in which the canticles can be sang responsively. This can be exploited since we have a tradition of our lyrics ebibidwom as examples.
Noticing that the canticles are mostly psalms, there is an emerging tradition to have the psalms read in monologue or dialogue by the congregation in response to the Bible lesson. New contemporary tunes can be set to the canticles that are popularly known and sang. This will attract the young generation.
6. Conclusion
Canticles are an important aid to Christian worship. In their words, human express their deepest devotion to God and we can learn a lot from this as individuals and as a corporate body of Christ. With a conscious effort and dedication to musical renewal, we can redeem the canticles for more greater and purposeful use.
DISCUSSION QUESTION
a. Explain the word ‘ Canticle ‘ in your own words.
b. What value do the canticles have for Christians?
c. How useful are the following canticles to the Christians:
a. Exodus 15:1-19
b. Luke 1:68-79 (MHB Canticle 5)
c. Psalm 98 (MHB Canticle 8)
d. Read Psalm 23 (Canticle 25 of MHB), If you were:
(a). a driver (b). a farmer (c). a student, how would you re-word this psalm?
5a. Why do you think the canticles are dying out in our services?
e. Suggest ways in which we can redeem the canticles and sing them meaningful?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
This week meditate on the jubilate Deo (Canticle of the MHB). What lessons do you gather from this canticle? Come to your group prepared to share your thoughts.
DAILY BIBLE READING
Monday Psalm 95 Venite
Tuesday Luke 1:68-79 Benedictus
Wednesday Psalm 100 Jubilant Deo
Thursday Luke 1:46-55 Magnificat
Friday Psalm 67 Dus Misereatur
Saturday Luke 2:29-32 Nunc Dimittis
Jesus is risen!
Find a Canticle which you can sing all week, in addition to the
Jubilate Deo, to commemorate the wonderful fact of Christ’s
Resurrection.
KEY VERSE: Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord EPHESLIANS 5:19
SCRIPTURE LESSON: EPHESIANS 5:18-20
18 do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the spirit.
19 Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord.
20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
INTRODUCTION
The above passage in Ephesians exhorts us to “speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs” This immediately tells you that the church’s worship is enriched by variety of music. We need to recognize the importance of singing or church music in worship as it deepens our participation in worship. St Augustine explains that whoever sings prays twice.
Methodism, as part of its music tradition, has inherited and kept canticles as part of its worship services. This tradition is noticeably dying out gradually. In this lesson, we shall attempt to explain the meaning of canticles and its usage, and explore why canticles are not more popularly sang today and offer suggestions as to how the singing of canticles can be revived.
EXPOSITION
1. What is the meaning of Canticles?
A canticle is strictly a hymn taken directly from the Bible but this does not always include the Psalms which form another category of songs used in worship. The term however is often expanded to include ancient non-Biblical hymns such as the Te Deum and certain psalms used liturgically.
2. The Usage of Canticles
Christians inherited their usage of the Psalms as canticles from the Jewish tradition of singing the Psalms. The Psalms became the service book of Christian worship for the Early Church. From the ‘Book of Common Prayer,’ we gather that the Church of England (the Anglican Church) makes extensive use of canticles and this was inherited by the Methodists. The following are the popular canticles that have been sung by the Church over the years.
i. Venite (Psalm 95)
The title is a Latin word derived from the first verse and theme of the Psalm, inviting us to come and join in the praise of the Lord. The first part of the psalm extols the greatness of God in creation and his providence. The second part of the psalm deals with the mighty acts of salvation of our God which He demonstrated by delivering Israel from Egypt.
ii. Te Deum (Non-Biblical)
The title is a Latin statement which is derived from the theme of the canticle saying, “We Praise Thee O Lord.” It is a canticle of praise like the Venite. The canticle praises God as Father and Holy spirit in the first part, God as Son in the second part and brings before him the corporate prayers of his people in the third.
iii. Benedictus (Luke 1:68-79)
The title is a Latin word, which means blessings. A related English word is “benediction.” It is a prophecy given by John the Baptist’s father, Zechariah when his son was born. The song speaks of the coming of the Messiah to save his people and also about what his son was going to do as a forerunner of the Messiah. The singing of this song should remind us of God’s faithfulness to his people and to us. It should remind us of the mercy of God to his people and to Zechariah after his long wait for a child.
iv. Jubilate Deo (Psalm 100)
The title of this psalm is a statement in Latin meaning that the Psalm is for, “Rejoicing in the Lord.” The word “Jubilation” is derived from the Latin “Jubilation” and “Deo” is the Latin word for God. The Psalm invites us to: “Shout for joy to the Lord, Serve the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” It goes on to say; “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”
This is a great psalm of praise and rejoicing, which should be part of our praise during our worship services.
At Evening Prayer or Vespers the following are used:
7 The Magnificent (Luke 1:46-55)
8 Cantata Dimino (Psalm 98)
9 Nunc Dimmittis (Luke 2:29-32)
10 Dues Misereatur (Psalm 67)
The titles are all in Latin, reflecting their increased use when the dominant language in Christian churches was Latin. We have given this wide usage to explain the importance that is attached to the canticles in Christian worship.
3. The Message of the Canticles
a close study of the Canticles shows that the principal message is to extol the great and mighty work of God (e.g. the Benedictus – Luke 1:68-74). Also in the canticles great Christian truths are affirmed as in Psalm 8 (Canticle 18 in the Methodist Hymn Book (MHB). Personal confessions can also be derived in the canticles Psalm 51 (Canticle 35 in the MHB). The Canticles are also messages of affirmation of our relationship with God – Psalm 118 – (Canticle 56 of the MHB).
For posterity, the Methodist Church has chosen and preserved 78 canticles for usage in worship. Each of these may have their distinct message worth studying in detail. What we have given above is only representative. What is generally true through out all the canticles is that they are mostly man’s response to the saving acts of God, expressed in poetry. They can be used for personal devotion as well as for corporate worship.
4. How to choose and use the Canticles
As we have noted each canticle has a particular message. We need to be sure about the occasion or the particular Christian festival before choosing the canticles. For example Psalm 95 (Canticle 1 of the MHB) has always been sang as a praise song at the beginning of services; so also canticle 2. However we have a problem with a few others. Some help may be in place.
The Benedict (Canticle 3 of MHB), and Cantemus Cuncti (Canticle 4 of the MHB) may be sang during Annual Harvests. The Benedictus (Canticle 7 of the MHB) are to be used during Christmas festivities. A look at Canticle 27 of the MHB shows that it can be used during Intercessory prayers; and together with Canticle 56 for spiritual warfare prayers where we need to affirm God’s power to deliver. Canticle 72 is a perfect one for the Passion Week or Esther. The beauty of Canticles 70 and 71 makes them suitable for mission services as we prepare to engage the world for Jesus. Throughout the Christian year, and no matter the personal and corporate seasons of the community of faith, there can be a canticle for use. A wise search and meditation will bring out the most suitable.
What has happen to canticles and how can we redeem them?
Despite their value as aids in Christian worship, contemporary Christians (Methodists included), have ceased to make much use of the Canticles. From our research there are two basic reasons:
i. There is lack of teaching on the canticles and their value for worship.
ii. Current musical taste has shifted to the more ‘ less stressful ‘ singing of the popular ‘ one –liner ‘ choruses.
Most people we talked to also had problems with the language (diction) especially in the English and to some extent in the local language (usually Ga and Akan) because translators themselves were so literal in their translation that their phrases did not conform to the natural way of speaking.
If we are to redeem the canticles for usage, there are areas we need to address. Some new hymnals are beginning to address the language problem by providing modern English usage as alternatives. Again as music taste and style changes, these hymnals have responded by giving ways in which the canticles can be sang responsively. This can be exploited since we have a tradition of our lyrics ebibidwom as examples.
Noticing that the canticles are mostly psalms, there is an emerging tradition to have the psalms read in monologue or dialogue by the congregation in response to the Bible lesson. New contemporary tunes can be set to the canticles that are popularly known and sang. This will attract the young generation.
6. Conclusion
Canticles are an important aid to Christian worship. In their words, human express their deepest devotion to God and we can learn a lot from this as individuals and as a corporate body of Christ. With a conscious effort and dedication to musical renewal, we can redeem the canticles for more greater and purposeful use.
DISCUSSION QUESTION
a. Explain the word ‘ Canticle ‘ in your own words.
b. What value do the canticles have for Christians?
c. How useful are the following canticles to the Christians:
a. Exodus 15:1-19
b. Luke 1:68-79 (MHB Canticle 5)
c. Psalm 98 (MHB Canticle 8)
d. Read Psalm 23 (Canticle 25 of MHB), If you were:
(a). a driver (b). a farmer (c). a student, how would you re-word this psalm?
5a. Why do you think the canticles are dying out in our services?
e. Suggest ways in which we can redeem the canticles and sing them meaningful?
BIBLE LESSON APPLICATION
This week meditate on the jubilate Deo (Canticle of the MHB). What lessons do you gather from this canticle? Come to your group prepared to share your thoughts.
DAILY BIBLE READING
Monday Psalm 95 Venite
Tuesday Luke 1:68-79 Benedictus
Wednesday Psalm 100 Jubilant Deo
Thursday Luke 1:46-55 Magnificat
Friday Psalm 67 Dus Misereatur
Saturday Luke 2:29-32 Nunc Dimittis
Jesus is risen!
Find a Canticle which you can sing all week, in addition to the
Jubilate Deo, to commemorate the wonderful fact of Christ’s
Resurrection.
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