LESSON 30 YEAR OF RELEASE
Text: Deuteronomy 15:1-23
Another word for release is freedom, which is a state of being let go of all forms of slavery. In the days of old in Israel, when a poor person borrowed from the rich and was unable to pay his or her debts, he or she would become a slave to the creditor. But God gave Moses a commandment that in every seventh year, creditors should do well to release the slaves who had faithfully served them for six years. 2 Kings 4:1-7, tells us the story of a widow who would have lost her children as slaves to their creditor if not for the prayer of the man of God, Elisha.
God cares for all His children, either the rich or the poor. No wonder He instituted the year of release: to bless the rich for their obedience to this command and grant liberty from slavery to the poor.
In our time, the command of ‘release’ is an everyday affair, no more every seventh year. Matthew 18:21-27 tells us the need to forgive as many times as people offend us. Even the king in this passage forgave the servant his debt. He never enslaved him. Jesus is the King in this passage who has offered Himself for us; so that we don’t remain enslaved to Satan.
Today is another opportunity for you to be released from the bondage of sin. Do not waste this privilege as tomorrow may be too late. Take the following steps to experience your release
R-Realise your sinful state
E-Express your need for God’s forgiveness
L-Lay on Christ all your yokes of sin
E- Experience the true freedom that Christ provides through His blood by asking Him for forgiveness and cleansing of your heart.
A-Abstain from all appearances of evil.
S- Separate yourself from friends and things that can enslave you.
E- Extend release to people who offend you.
1. COVENANT BLESSINGS FOR CHEERFUL GIVERS: Deuteronomy 15:1-11
The Bible is full of covenant promises for those who will give to meet the needs of the poor. God commanded the children of Israel to give to the poor and needy with the mind of not expecting a pay back in return. It is more blessed to give than to receive. There will always be poor people around us. Examples are orphans, children with single parents, physically challenged children, children from poor homes, foreigners who are displaced for one reason or the other, and so on. Make up your mind to reach out to children who are in need by giving out your previously used textbooks, clothings, school bags, shoes, etc. that you no longer need. Seek the consent of your parents and godly teachers to help you in reaching out to needy children around you. Remember, givers never lack and the secret to a life of abundance is cheerful giving (Luke 6:38).
- COMPLETE SURRENDER TO A CARING MASTER: Deuteronomy 15:12-18; Exodus 21:1-6.
In the year of release, slaves regain their freedom and are sent away with abundant provisions. This helps them to However, some slaves will declare their life- start their new life independently. long loyalty to their masters. They have enjoyed the care, fellowship and love of their master and they prefer to serve him forever. Such slaves are to be thrust with an awl through their ears to show that they as friends of Jesus; He is our Lord and belong to their master forever. Master and we should be so determined to serve Him till the end. Whatever may come our way, we must prefer to stay with the Lord. Matthew 11:30 says, “for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light”.
- COMMITMENT AND CONSECRATION TO OUR LOVING GOD: Deuteronomy 15:19-23
We have a loving and wonderful Creator who reserves the best for His children. Matthew 7:9 says, “Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?” Psalm 84:11 also testifies of His love. “For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.” If God so care for us this way, He deserves nothing but our best. You must willingly give Him the best of your time by:
(i) regularly observing your quiet time;
(ii) attending church services at the right time;
(iii) allocating time for evangelism, visitation and fellowship. You must give Him the best of your talent by:
(i) Using your voice to sing in the choir and playing musical instruments.
(ii) Helping the less brilliant students with their studies.
(iii) Supporting the poor and the needy. Also, you must give Him the best of your treasures by paying your tithes and offering. Don’t bring torn and tattered notes as offering. The blessings of God await those who will give their best to Him.
QUESTIONS:
- What is the meaning of the year of release?
- What does the year of release mean today?
- How can a sinful child be released from satanic bondage?
- How should a friend of Jesus show his commitment to God?
MEMORY VERSE: “At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release” (Deuteronomy 15:1).
LESSON: God wants all His children to live a holy life and keep away from all sins in order to be free from bondage.
THOUGHT: I will remain with Jesus so that I can continue to enjoy my freedom.
ACTIVITY: Match the following with the BREAD acronym that show some of the blessings friends of Jesus will enjoy because of their freedom from sin.
Eternal life, Rest, Answer to prayers, Bountiful supply and Deliverance
B-
R-
E-
A-
D-
CONGREGATIONAL SONG: GHS 23-NO OTHER PLEA
CHORUSES:
(1) I am delivered, praise the Lord
(2) Jesus sets me free, why should I be bound
(3) Jesus is the sweetest name.
HOMEWORK: Children should preach and share the testimonies of their salvation with at least one person.
BIBLE WORD SEARCH
Find the meanings of these words. You I can use your dictionary.
- Release
- Slavery
- Privilege
- Consent
- Abundance.
