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Q4. (Hosea 1-3) Why does Yahweh tell his prophet to marry a girl of ill repute? What does the story of Hosea and Gomer teach us? How does the story illustrate God's relationship with Israel? What does it teach about grace? God told Hosea the prophet to marry Gomer, a girl of ill repute and a prostitute to demonstrate loving grace he had for Israel despite their prostitution and rebellion towards Him. Hosea was made to love his prostituting wife to show us that God still loves us by grace despite our unfaithfulness.

Q3. (Exodus 34:7) What sins will Yahweh forgive those who repent? How might the sin of rebellion find its way into a believer's life? Why doesn't God forgive those who refuse to repent and surrender to him? Yahweh will forgive every confessed sin. He will however not forgive those who refuse to repent of their rebellious lives.

Q2. (Exodus 34:6) What do we learn about Yahweh's character in his self-revelation to Moses on Mount Sinai? What does this have to do with grace? We learn about Yahweh's character that He is the Lord God who is compassionate, graciously forgives sin and is slow to anger. His compassion made him to bear with Moses and his generation as well as our generation. All these are available to us unmerited but by his grace alone.

Q1. (1 Peter 5:10) How does grace (Greek charis) differ from earning wages? From earning favor by being good? What is a helpful working definition of Biblical grace? In what way does grace characterize "the God of all grace"? Grace is unmerited while earning wages is receiving that which you have worked for and deserve it. Earning favour by being good is not grace. Biblical grace can be seen in God loving us while we were still sinners when he showed us his love by sending his dear son Jesus Christ to die to redeem us from the penalty of sin- death.

1. What does repentance consist of? What synonyms can we use to describe repentance to our generation? (Luke 24:47) Repentance consist of making a u- turn, from heading to the wrong direction and heading to the right direct. From sinful lifestyle and heading towards righteous, living for and in Christ. 2. Is forgiveness of sins possible without repentance? Is repentance possible without the forgiveness of sins accompanying it? (Luke 24:47) Repentance is necessary for forgiveness of sin. 3. What does it mean to preach or do some action "in his name"? (Luke 24:47) To preach or do some action in the name of Jesus is to believe in him and use his power to achieve the desired results of the action. 4. Why was the shift of focus from the Jews to the Gentiles so significant? The shift from the Jews to the Gentiles was significant because it in line with God ultimate plan for salvation to be extended from Jews – Jerusalem, to the uttermost part of the world. 5. What steps should we be taking in our communities to see that the gospel is carried to every people group in our midst? (For example, Korean, Hmong, Vietnamese, Puerto Rican, Muslim, Chinese.) What steps should we be taking to carry the Gospel to every language of every people-group on earth? How can we facilitate this work? By evangelism starting from our individual Jerusalem then unto those uttermost parts of the worlds nearer us.

1. Why were the disciples so terrified when Jesus suddenly was standing among them? How did they explain this phenomenon? (Luke 24:36-37) The disciples were so terrified when Jesus suddenly appeared before them because they thought they saw a ghost 2. What point was Jesus trying to make by showing the disciples his hands and feet? (Luke 24:39a, 40) Jesus showed the disciples his hands and his pierced sides to prove to the disciples that he was real and risen Jesus with the physical evidence of the crucifixion as evidence. 3. What point was Jesus trying to make by asking them to handle his flesh and bones? (Luke 24:39b) See part of my answer in question 2 please. 4. What point was Jesus trying to make by eating in their presence? (Luke 24:41-43) Jesus still wanted to prove to them that he was not a ghost and that all what had happened to him was according to the scriptures that had foretold that he would suffer, die but rise again. All these have come to pass as they see him life in front of them. 5. What things do we learn about the nature of the resurrection from Jesus' appearance to his disciples on this occasion? The resurrected Lord still had his human attributes thus he could eat and be seen and touched. He also exhibited divine attributes such as appearing and disappearing. 6. What basics about the Messiah did he teach them on that occasion from Moses, from the Prophets, and from the Psalms? (Luke 24:44-46) He taught among others that the Messiah would have to suffer, died but would rise bodily again.

1. How would you describe the spiritual and emotional temperature of Cleopas and his fellow disciple before Jesus teaches them? (Luke 24:13-24) Spiritually, they were dull and could not remember that Jesus had told them that he must suffer, die and rose to his glory. And because they could not remember this fact, they were emotionally worried and disturbed that their master was dead and could not be traced in the tomb. 2. Why don't they seem to believe the women's report of Jesus' resurrection? (Luke 24:22-24) They could not believe the women’s report of Jesus resurrection because of forgetfulness and lack of faith as I said above. 3. Why does Jesus rebuke them? Is his rebuke fair or warranted? Why or why not? (Luke 24:25-26) He rebuked them for forgetfulness and lack of faith. 4. Extra credit: Examine Isaiah 52:13 - 53:12. How could you relate the Suffering Servant (52:13; 53:11) to the Messiah? How could the Jewish rabbis miss this? Jesus is the fulfillment of the suffering servant prophesied in the book of Isaiah. 5. Extra credit: In 52:13 - 53:12 what is the meaning and significance of the Servant's death? What in the passage indicates his resurrection to life? Jesus the servant died and rose that we may have life eternal. 6. Why do some Christians seem to be proud of their unbelief? How should we deal with the doubts we have? Ignore them? I can’t understand why anyone would be proud of his unbelief. 7. In what sense is Jesus revealed to us today in "the breaking of bread"? (Luke 24:31, 35) As we partake in the Holy Communion today, we are reminded of Jesus’ death and resurrection for the remission of our sin.

Christmas Day. (John 1:1-14) According to John 1:1-2, when did Jesus first appear on the scene? He was there right in the beginning of creation and was Creator. How divine is he? Jesus is fully divine. He is God. What is the theological term describing Jesus becoming a human being? (verse 14). I think the word is incarnation. In what way does he bring us grace and favor from God? We were sinners destined for condemnation but He became man and took sin and nailed them on the cross as our sacrificial lamb thereby reconciling us to God. This was by grace as we did not deserve it. In what way does he demand that we acknowledge his truth? He is the Truth and wants us to know him as such and believe in him being the truth that sets us free from sin and death.

1. What do we learn about Joseph of Arimathea? What kind of character does he possess? We told that “"Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from the Judean town of Arimathea and he was waiting for the kingdom of God." (Luke 23:50-51)” Furthermore, though he love Jesus and was a secret disciple, he came out openly to identify with him and was bold enough to ask for his body for burial. 2. Why has Joseph been a secret disciple, do you think? Why does he come forward now when identifying with Jesus can only hurt his standing with his peers? Joseph was a secret disciple probably he waited for the right time to come before he comes out. And the right time was now when what could be described as the worst had happened, the Lord has been crucified. He believed in him and the certainty of his resurrection. So he no longer cared about what could be done to him by his colleagues for coming out to identify with Jesus. 3. What do the Gospels tell us about the tomb and Jesus' burial? Why are these details important? The tomb was new and never been used. It also confirms prophesy of being buried in a rich man’s grave. Furthermore, the tomb was well guarded by soldiers, his lifeless body was washed and buried. These and many more facts are meant to authenticate that Jesus really died, resurrected and thus all false allegations such as stealing his corps by his disciple would not stand. 4. Why is the timing important? Why the mention of the Sabbath? 5. What do we know about these women who followed Jesus? Why do they follow the body to the tomb? The women were friends of Jesus and the disciples as per: "The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means." (Luke 8:1-3)

Q26. (Luke 2:39-52) Why do you think Luke feels it is important to tell a story from Jesus' boyhood. Luke felt that it was important to tell Jesus boyhood’s story to the whole word that we may know and learn lessons as parents and as children. As parents, there is the need to keep an eye on our young children to ensure we know where they are at all times. As for children, they need to learn at the feet of their spiritual teachers and ask appropriate questions to enhance their knowledge of God the Father. Furthermore, he wanted children to learn from boy Jesus, obedience to their parents as young Jesus did. What do we learn about Jesus from this? I have already answer this above, he had the thirst to know more about God and thus committed himself all day in temple listening and asking questions that would enhance his knowledge. Furthermore, he was obedient to his parents. Why is taking time to grow and prepare so important? So that one would properly nurtured and ready to live right and be able to teach well. Why are we so tempted to short-circuit it by our impatience? I think laziness is one of the reasons.

Q25. (Daniel 7:13-14) What does the Ancient of Days grant to the Son of Man? Jesus Christ is granted the authority and power of being the King of the unshakable Kingdom having authority, dominion and power over all creation. Why do you think Jesus used the title of "Son of Man" even though most didn't understand its importance? Jesus used the title, “Son of Man” because, though being Son of God, he came into the world born of a woman in human form hence the name Son of man. What does Jesus' authority mean to you and your life? Jesus is my King and Lord hence, I have a duty to submit to his Kingship over my life.

Q24. (Matthew 2:13-23) What can we learn from Joseph's action? Joseph is obedient, quick to respond to instruction and committed to family’s welfare. What should we have to know about the outcome before we say yes to God? If we really know that God is the one talking to us, we do not have to know the outcome before we obey. How can a good God allow infants to be slaughtered in Bethlehem? I really wonder!! But we cannot question a God who can give and take life. Do you believe God honors them as martyrs for the Messiah? I believe he does.

Q23. (Matthew 2:7-12) Does gift-giving on this occasion involve love or mere custom? I am very sure many if not most of the gift giving are mere custom and not motivated by love. How were the Magi's gifts fitting for the Christ Child? They were expensive and aromatic items usually used in the temple worship and as gifts to very important personalities like kings. Baby Jesus is the king of kings and thus well deserves such gifts. What gifts can you offer Jesus that mean something? What gifts demonstrate your love? The right gift to offer to Jesus is the gift of my whole heart and life.

Q22. (Matthew 2:1-6) In what ways is the kingship of Jesus a threat to our self-determination? What are our choices in light of his Kingdom? We always want to be independent where we take all the decisions and thus try to resist being controlled. But for me, I pray that Holy Spirit will help to be fully submissive to the King Jesus.

Q21. (Luke 2:36-38) Why is it hard for us to value the time we spend in meditation and prayer? We are crowded by so much around us – our work, idling and chatting with friends and engaging on the social media etc. but have no time for mediation and prayer. I personally need to have more listening to God through his written Word and covet to be able to hear him talk audibly directly to me. Which of the times of our day do you think the Lord values most? I believe the Lord values our early hours of the day when there is less noise and activities. Jesus used to choose the early hours of the day to go out where and when there was no distraction in order to meet with Father. How does listening to the Lord propel Anna's ministry? Anna listened thus she could hear God tell her about baby Jesus being in the temple at the precise time and place. Help me to listen and hear you clearly frequently Lord.

Q20. (Luke 2:25-35) Why does God send Simeon to the temple on this day? Simeon was sent to the temple at that very time to testify about the boy Jesus not being an ordinary child but special child who would bring salvation to the Jews and Gentiles. Particularly, he was to reaffirm to Mary and Joseph the messages delivered to them by the Angel prior to his conception. Why do you think this incident is recorded in Luke's Gospel? I believe that this incidence is recorded to provide further credence to the genuineness of Jesus as the Messiah and prophesized. How was Simeon's prophecy over the Child fulfilled? Jesus grew and became precisely what Simeon prophesized- causing the rising and falling of many in Israel, was spoken against by Jewish leaders and caused Mary’s heart to be pierced.

Q19. (Malachi 3:1-4). Why is the suddenness of Christ's coming so fearful? The suddenness of Christ coming will so fearful especially to those who are living lives doing what the they want to do and the way they want to do it. The will not want change. How were these verses fulfilled in Jesus' day. In Jesus day, leaders and chief scribes were not prepared for Jesus coming and resisted his teaching because they preferred to continue life as usual. Thus the plotted to kill him. How will they be fulfilled at his coming? Many people are still living their lives doing only what pleases them. The sudden coming of Jesus will thus catch many unprepared and fearful.

Q18. (Colossians 1:15-20) Which of Christ's qualities of preeminence and greatness is especially meaningful to you? What does it mean for Jesus to humble himself (Philippians 2:7-8). Why is the incarnation such a miracle? My take is that God so love me that he send his son who humbled himself to become man in baby Jesus, to live here and show me and humanity all the qualities of the invisible God and then die and resurrect carrying my sin and thereby become the first to rise from the dead. Hallelujah.

1. What does the darkness at Jesus' crucifixion represent, do you think? (Luke 23:44-45a) The darkness probably represents the wickedness of humans in the treatment meted on the righteous son of God. 2. What is the meaning of the curtain of the temple being torn in two? (Luke 23:45b) It represented the destruction of the bpingarrier that separated us from direct access to the Lord God. We now have direct access. 3. What does Jesus mean when he says, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit"? (Luke 23:46) Why does this saying comfort us so much? Everything thing about Jesus from the beginning to the end of his earthly ministry was initiated, planned, and operated along with the involvement of his father. Thus Jesus now knowing that the assignment has been completed ‘handed over’ his spirit to his Father for safe keeping.

Q17. (Luke 2:15-20) How did the shepherds know to find the Holy Family? I personally think that the Holy Spirit led them to the right place without a search all over the town. If not, then it is possible that they probably search every likely place where animals were kept and looked for the place where a anger was to locate him. According to verses 17, 18, and 20, what was their response to finding Christ? They were excited and spread the good news, the story that was told to them by the angels, which they had found exactly as they were told, - that a Saviour who is the Messiah and Lord has been born in the city of David. What was Mary's reaction? Mary treasured and pondered all that was said.

. (Luke 2:8-14) Why do you think the angels shocked the shepherds with their radiant glory? I think the angels were shocked by the great number of the angels and great brightness that lit them. Why not something more low-key? The news they conveyed was great because it was about a great man Jesus for great purpose, the redemption of the world and thus couldn't be law keyed. What does the good news consist of that the angels bring? The good news was about the news of salvation offered to all mankind. . What allows the shepherds to authenticate this news? They found the baby exactly where and how the angels described they would find him in the manger.

Q15. (Luke 2:1-7) Why is it important for us to know who governed the area at the time of Jesus' birth? This ensures that Jesus story was not just like one of the children stories in “Tales by the Moon light” but a true story at a record time with historic real figures/ people at the time of his birth. What difficulties did Mary and Joseph face? They had to go through treacherous and long journey with Mary already heavy with a baby thus walking with difficulties. And above all these, there was no place to lodge and for the Royal baby to be born except at the Manger!! What do you think God allowed such difficulties? Why does he allow difficulties in our lives? God allowed such difficulties that Jesus, the ‘Discipler’ will teach us disciples to expect difficulties and challenges as we embark on discipleship in our lives.

Q14. (Galatians 4:4-5) Why do you think God sent Jesus into this world when he did? God sent Jesus into this world at the time He did because it was the set time when everything was ripe- religiously, politically, commercially etc. for the assignment the son would do. What does it mean that he "redeemed" you? What does it mean that he "adopted" you? What is your inheritance? He redeemed me means he bought me back (redeemed me back) from satanic reign doomed for eternity in hell unto the kingdom of light with the Lord Jesus where I would reign with him as I share my inheritance with him in heaven.

Q13. (Isaiah 11:6-10) Where is love most at home -- in times of strife or in times of peace? Love is at home in times of peace of course. What does our passage say about the emptiness of winning as our ultimate value? One day everything will be over as the rule of the Lord leads to general love, peace and unity by and for all. How can you bring peace from Jesus in your world? Who will it bless? By showing love for one another.

Q12. (Isaiah 11:3-5) Why do you think God has a special place in his heart for the poor and disadvantaged? He is sympathetic to their helplessness and desires they be treated with justice, righteousness and faithfulness. Who are the unloved, overlooked, and looked-down-upon in your city? The above category of people are the social, religious and political outcast in my country Nigeria. Social outcast or poor are those due to different circumstances cannot afford the basic requirements for shelter, food, health, etc. They are many. The religious and political outcast and needy happen to be those who are segregated upon and denied certain rights because those in authority pay more attention to their own in terms of employment and provision of amenities/ infrastructure. What are you doing to demonstrate Messiah's love and justice to them? I by the grace of God, in my area of authority, I try to ensure fair play, justice and righteousness. I however need to do better especially in the area of love.