Bishop Prof. Julius O. Soyinka

Fulfilling the Macedonian Call Study Text: Acts16:9-10 Introduction: - Every generation has its own “Macedonia call.” Paul’s missionary journey teaches us that God’s direction is not always about our convenience, but about His kingdom assignment. -  The Macedonian call represents the cry of people longing for the gospel, divine redirection, and the urgency of obedience. - Today, God is still calling us: through souls in darkness, through unreached communities, through divine visions, and through opportunities that demand sacrifice. - We shall be discussing the topic under four subheadings: 1.  The Cry of Macedonia: A Desperate Demand 2.  The Call of Macedonia: A Divine Direction 3.  The Cost of Macedonia: A Demanding Decision 4.  The Consequences of Macedonia: A Deserving Discovery  1. The Cry of Macedonia: A Desperate Demand - It was a desperate and urgent plea for Help. Paul saw a man of Macedonia pleading: “Come over… and help us.” - Macedonia represents...

The Horse is Prepared for Battle, But Safety is the Lord's. Study Text: Proverbs 21:31 Introduction: This verse encapsulates the essence of our lives as believers.  While we must prepare ourselves and do our part, it is ultimately God who fights our battles and grants us victory. We shall be discussing the topic under three subheadings: 1.  The Horse: An Emblem of Strength and Preparation  2.  The Lord: The Ultimate Source of Strength and Power  3.  The Battle: The Secret of Everlasting Victory and Safety  1.  The Horse: An Emblem of Strength and Preparation  The horse is an emblem of strength, readiness, and preparation.  In biblical times, horses were essential for battle; they represented one's ability to confront challenges head-on.  Similarly, we are called to prepare ourselves for the challenges we encounter in life. This preparation can take many forms:  1. Spiritual Preparation:  Daily prayer, studying Scripture, a...

Jesus: The Epitome of Humility, Love and Service  Study Text: John 13:1-17 Introduction: This is a profound moment in the life of Jesus, that reveals not only His character but also His expectations for us as His followers. We witness Jesus washing the feet of His disciples. This is a powerful act of humility, service, and love.  We shall be discussing the topic under three subheadings: 1.  The Significance of Servanthood 2.  The Symbol of Sanctification  3.  The Standard for Service   1. The Significance of Servanthood:  In Jesus time, washing feet was a task reserved for the lowest servant. This act showcases radical humility.   Knowing He is Lord and Teacher, He chooses to demonstrate what true leadership looks like through service.  He rises from the table, removes His outer garments, and takes a towel and basin. This was not just a physical act but a profound spiritual lesson. We are called to serve others, even when it is...

Steadfastness in Doing Good Works  Study Text: Galatians 6:9 - 10 Introduction: For everyone who has devoted himself to doing good to others, there will always come a temptation to grow weary and want to give up.  Whether it is in a relationship, a serving position, or just being generally kind in dealing with people, circumstances will become difficult and temptation to quit or stop the good deeds will spring up in our hearts. So how can followers of Christ be prepared to be steadfast in doing good even when situation doesn’t seem to be working?  Paul encourages the believers in the Church of Galatia with this – “let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. There is a difference between being tired and being wearied. Tiredness is being physically fatigued due to working hard and are not wasting time.  But weariness is a feeling of despair and a desire to quit.  While there is little we can do to prevent tiredness, e...

Divine Speed for Distinctive Success  Study Text: Genesis 24:12 - 14 Introduction:  Divine speed implies  God granting believers supernatural acceleration to fulfill their destinies and overcome obstacles.  It is a gift from God, enabling individuals to achieve remarkable feats and surpass natural limitations in a short period.  When  God's hand is upon a person, it  releases power, favour, and resources for accelerated progress in certain or all areas of life. We shall be discussing the topic under three subheadings: 1.  The Description of Divine Speed 2.  The Directions of Divine Speed  3.  The Definite Examples of Divine Speed 1.  The Description of Divine Speed: Divine speed is not merely about physical speed or efficiency, but rather a divine empowerment that allows believers to accomplish tasks and reach goals at an accelerated pace, often exceeding natural human capacity.  It involves overcoming barriers and limitat...

The Presence of the Lord: The Source of Courage and Strength  Study Text: Deuteronomy 20:1-4 Introduction: This scriptural portion is a powerful passage that speaks to facing fears and trusting in God's presence during times of conflict.  The central message is that even when facing a larger and stronger enemy, God's people should not be afraid because He is with them, fighting for them and giving them victory.  This passage emphasizes the importance of courage, faith, and recognizing God's power in the midst of battle.  It encourages the Israelites not to be afraid, reminding them that God is with them and has brought them out of Egypt. There are three specific words of encouragement given to them that we will be discussing in the study: 1.  Overcoming Fear and Distress  2.  Overcoming Weakness and Discouragement  3.  Overcoming Worries and Distability  1.  Overcoming Fear and Distress   God is not just a distant deity, b...