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Prepare to Serve God and Others
ECWA Theme for 2026
“Prepare for Service, keep your lamps burning…”
(Luke 12: 35, NIV)
Introduction
Serving God is depicted in the Bible as a calling requiring selfless love, dedication, humility and not for personal gain. In Matthew 20: 28, Jesus says, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many” NLT. The core of what Jesus is saying is that serving is believer’s life purposes. Again, Jesus says in Mark 8: 35 that, “If you insist on saving your life, you will lose it. Only those who throw away their lives for my sake and for the sake of the ‘Good News’ will ever know what it means to really live” TLB. Here, Jesus reminds us that man’s best use of his time is his highest legacy and only way to meaningfully impact the world(See: 1 Cor. 15: 58).
As we all know, it is widely understood that Christ’s victory over death makes “New Life” possible and is where the Bible says reward for faithful living can be expected when we eventually get to heaven. This study is aimed to help us understand that our purpose goes beyond just a willingness to serve God and others, it requires a transformed heart, as true serving is not possible without a changed life (See Gal. 1: 13 - 24; Heb. 6: 10). To articulate that serving God must align with being saved and guided by divine inspiration to avoid embarrassment, it’s worthwhile we consider the events in Acts 19:13-16; Acts 16: 6 - 10.
In a sense, without being saved, while harboring pride, worldliness, materialism, fear of failure, busyness, lack of faith, greed, selfishness, bitterness, anger, anxiety, resentment, worries, being distracted and lack of reverence for God are pitfalls, a person cannot truly serve God while living this way, as these are fundamental obstacles that block genuine service. Even when believers know these things, often they shrink and trade the high calling of kingdom service.
Building upon our previous study, we engaged in a focused reflection on the narratives in Matt. 25: 1-13 and Luke 19: 11-27 as prime examples of “Divine blessings and Missed opportunity,” to serve as warning and reminder for ourselves to remain watchful and service ready when the Lord comes.
Questions
1. The Apostle Paul following his conversion described his life as a bond-slave to Jesus Christ, he focused entirely on finishing his assigned work to spread the Gospel sacrificially despite intense suffering and death threats (2 Cor. 11: 16 –33).
A. What, in your view, drives Paul’s daily sense of obligation
B. Reading Heb. 12: 2, highlight the triumph of faith over adversity in the story of Esther and Mordecai in Esther 3: 1 – 6; 4: 5-17; 5:1 - 10, 7:1 - 10. From the story. draw a parallel with Luke 22: 47 - 53 regarding the different events and explain what each biblical narrative illustrates.
2. The intent of our actions is important. Comment on what should affect our action to work according to Colossians 3: 22 - 25. Discuss other related reasons that’s the cause of tension. Explain what usually influence your attitude to work and serving Christ.
A. In Mark 10: 35-45 and Matt. 20: 20-28, several people make a request. With 1 Kings 2: 19 and Psalm 110:1, discuss what you think they were anticipating from Jesus. Explain anything you found interesting from how the discussion continued regarding God’s kingdom.
B. Paul in Galatians 5: 13-15 discuss our former way of life of slavery before salvation. In view of the demands, obligations and negative consequences of slavery, what are ways to approach freedom because of responsibilities in Christ. How can the church help believers to avoid falling back.
3. Matt 24: 36 - 40 and Lk. 17: 26-35 talks about sudden separation between the righteous and the wicked. As a follower of Christ, what services and work would you be doing to demonstrate physical readiness at the return of Christ.
A. Hebrews 6: 10-12 emphasize acts of service and show the purpose of continuing in hard work. How does the text change your attitude and motivate you for service.
B. According to Proverbs 19:17, God takes personal responsibility for kindness shown to the poor. How is generosity towards the poor viewed. What, from this passage can you highlight regarding serving the poor
4. Romans 12: 9 -13 outlines practical markers of genuine Christianity and fervent service. Reflect on the practical application of the passage in your own life and discuss one thing you are doing to encourage others emulate you.
A. Which of these instructions in Romans 12: 9-13 is most challenging for you. Cite any example(s) to explain your reason
B. What does it mean to be fervent in service, and how can one remain fervent and not get weary considering the demand of work and daily family and professional life
C. Ephesians 2: 10 states that a believer is God’s workmanship created by God to perform good works. How does this affect the view of your personal identity and any work that you feel God has called you to do.
Using Your Spiritual Gift(s) to Build The Church; MaintainingWatchfulness
ECWA Theme for 2026
“Keep your lamps burning…”
(Luke 12: 35, NIV)
Introduction
1 Peter 4: 7-11, instructs Christians to live with urgency and love deeply, showing hospitality using their spiritual gifts to serve others in anticipation of Christ’s imminent return to confirm proper attitude and what we should be doing as pilgrims on the way home to heaven. This study will help us to reflect on why Peter and Paul share the same perspective with Luke regarding the need for believers to remain ready and watchful in view of Christ return and the sobering reality of divine judgement (Lk. 12:35-37; 2 Tim. 4: 1- 5; 1 Pet. 4: 3-11; Rm. 12: 1 - 3).
Regarding the theme of “Keeping your lambs burning” Peter and Peter write to leave no doubt about who we are and what we are to focus on doing so we don’t get wrapped up in confusion concerning God’s priorities for our lives because challenges often cause feelings of frustration, bitterness, and even anger and put us at risk of neglecting our primary purposes in life. They both write to remind and warn us concerning the imminent return of Christ and chose the example of the way a runner stretches and strains for the finish line.
Since Peter and Paul wrote to issue a call to action on the body of Christ to use our resources, time, talents and spiritual gifts given to us by the Holy Spirit to serve in love and in ways that benefits the body of Christ in anticipation of Christ return, how does these encourage you – besides, do you have good understanding of what to be doing so you can keep your lambs burning or are you confuse or not yet accepted the truth that the coming of Christ would occur someday and we shall altogether give account of our lives to God
This Bible study is aimed to help us fulfill our duties so that Christ’s church could stand together participating in active spiritual services and battle ready for the eventual return of Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord.
Questions
1. 1 Peter 4: 7 opens with the word, “But/Now” to serve as bridge connecting the sobering reality of divine judgement previously mentioned in verses 5-6. Summarize what these passages say within the context of judgment 2Corinthians 5: 6 - 10; 1 Corinthians 3: 11 - 15 and Romans 14: 10 – 12.
A. Carefully list out the spiritual gifts found in these passages: Ephesians 4: 11 -13; Romans. 12: 6 – 8; 1 Peter 4: 7 - 11 and 1 Corinthians 12: 7 - 11. What’s the difference between spiritual gift and talent
B. Peter wrote on love and spiritual gifts to admonishing believers. Reflecting on 1Peter 4: 9 – 11, What is worth comparing in practical application with the churches in Ephesus and Thyatira according to Rev. 2: 1 - 3; 18 - 19.
C. Read about Jesus returning to establish justice and rectify the wrongs of the world in Matt. 16: 27, Acts 17: 3; 2 Thess. 1: 6-10. Spot as you read how to live so we don’t get wrapped up in the world as God’s chosen in Col. 3:1-10.
2. Paul shows the source of spiritual gifts and provides a broader context of gifts in Ephesians 4: 4 - 6; 11 - 16. Trace the source and the purpose of the gifts. Discuss how he wrote to encouraged and emphasize active participation.
A. Explain how Paul described Christian maturity and Spiritual Infancy. What is the profound danger of being a spiritual infant and when can we be sure God receives glory from how we use our gifts.
B. An action recorded in Acts 13: 4-13 and 2 Timothy 4: 9-11 can be regarded as useful for our study. Dis cuss what happened and how the situation was handled. On a personal thought, reflect with example when you or a believer you know is seen building up someone in love
3. Paul urges believers to walk worthy of their calling in Ephe. 4: 1- 3. Summarize what you feel called to do and explain how the virtues of humility, gentleness and patience would help you to love others, maintain and promote unity in the church
A. Romans 12: 1-2 marks a shift from theological doctrine to practical Christian living. In your view, what does it mean to offer our body as a living sacrifice and discuss ways that Christians are tempted to conform to the world’s pattern.
B. Paul in Romans 12: 3 warned believers to avoid prideful self-exaltation urging them to evaluate themselves with sober judgement. Trace the greater context to leave no one in doubt looking at verses 4 - 8, and 1 Cor.12: 4 -10
4. Speak the truth in love originates from Ephe. 4:15. Also, key aspects of 1 Pet. 4:8-10 speaks about loving others and practicing hospitality. Read Matt. 15: 32 and MK. 8: 1-3 and highlight what Peter and Paul wanted to ensure about truth and love
A. Luke 19: 11-27, the parable of the Ten Minas emphasizes personal watchfulness, accountability, and faithfulness. On what basis were other servants rewarded and the other servant warned and punished
B. Reflecting on the implication of the servant resisting Christ’s authority and in view of Ephe 4: 11 - 16, are there areas in your life where you are acting like the third servant. Discuss
C. How does the thought of accountability and stewardship make you feel towards Spiritual infants concerning what you have learned, known and received from God. List out and mention what you planned on doing moving
forward
Prepare for Jesus’ Return or Face Judgement
ECWA Theme for 2026
“Keep your lamps burning…”
(Luke 12: 35, NIV)
Introduction
Ancient first century Jewish wedding customs helps to provide clarity about the parable of the 10 virgins in Matt. 25: 1-13 in the mind of the reader. The parable uses metaphors and imagery related to first century cultural setting of a wedding procession to emphasize constant watchfulness until the bridegroom arrives, then the door is closed to the unprepared. On such wedding occasions, the groom accompanied by friends would journey to the bride’s home at night to escort her and her attendants in a joyful procession back to his house for the feast. To ensure this cultural context occurs, the parable confirms 10 virgins serving as the bride’s companions who joined the parade had lamps and expect to meet the groom as he comes from the bride’s house
Examining the context surrounding the parable for effective understanding, specific point is being made to describe the kingdom of God and warning against predicting the return of Christ and highlights watchfulness to caution us against unpreparedness so we can remain focus and prepared. This study would teach us to examine our spiritual condition in light of Christ’s coming and remain true to our faith no matter what so that when the day or hour arrive, we will be ready for him so he will receive and welcome us when he returns. In the days of Noah, the people were caught unprepared for the flood because they refused and rejected every warning going about their usual life activities thinking life would continue as usual while humanity continue in obedience against God.
Questions
The story in Matthew 25: 1-13 draws from ancient Jewish customs, even more Jesus compares the Kingdom of Heaven to bridesmaids awaiting a delayed groom.
A. What is a Parable and why would Jesus speak in Parables. Afterall, people hardly understand him, even the disciples frequently ask Him privately for clarification to understand His teachings (Matt. 13:10; Mk. 4: 10; Lk. 8:9)
B. In the context of a Nigerian cultural weddings, being without a wedding plan and unpreparedness is always a matter of great concern. Using your cultural context, highlight any concern unpreparedness may cause after a wedding date has been fixed.
2. Unpreparedness for Christ ‘s return would be sorrowful.
A. Considering the seriousness of the matter and the phrase from Matt. 5: 42, why would the wise virgins not spare some oil leaving the foolish behind, is there a limit that love itself will impose.
B. Who are the virgins and what is a virgin in this context. Why are we required to observe these virgins split into a 50% wise and 50% foolish
C. Explain the symbolism of oil in James 5: 4; Exo. 29: 7; 30: 25 - 38; Esther 2: 12; Acts 10: 38; Isa. 61: 1; Luke 4: 18. Since the context in Matt. 25: 1-13 signifies being prepared for Christ’s return, what in your opinion does oil represents
3. We are always warned to prepare for Christ’s return and always prepare for the Day of judgement in Matt. 24: 10-12; 42, Matt. 25: 13; Lk. 12: 45; 1 Pet. 4: 7
A. What is the main lesson that the door was closed up against the foolish virgins in Matt. 25: 10. In addition, what does it demonstrate or foreshadow for the Lord to close the door as in the Days of Noah and the ark when the Bible states, “And the Lord shut him in” Genesis 7: 13-17.
B. What is the meaning of door(s) John 10: 7-10; Rev. 3: 7-8; 3: 20. What does that illustrate and the lessons we are to learn about Jesus
C. In the opening words of Matt. 24: 1, the Bible says Jesus left the Temple and was walking away never to physically enter the Temple again. Explain what this means symbolically and significantly
4. The Bible often centers on themes of spiritual readiness, hope, holiness while focusing on practical application like how to stay mentally alert.
A. According to Luke 12: 35-36, what is the first sign of readiness to show a man is prepared to work. Discuss some hindrances to spiritual work
B. In 1 Peter 1: 13-16, what does it mean to be mentally alert and sober-minded today. What distracts you from this focus, and what is the one change you can make to better prepare your mind for Christ’s return
C. Read Ephesians 6: 10-20 closely. List and discuss what this full armor means to a believer. What would you do daily on the basis of the full armor to prepare for the return of Christ
Repeated Warning; Devastating consequences!!!
Theme “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart,” Jer.
29: 13.
Introduction
Theological affirmation and religious culture in which Jeremiah ministered reflected the idea that Judah is loved and cared for by God and God’s word and message when spoken by true prophetic voices are unchanged by circumstances whether there is war or peace. Circumstance aren’t what decide things that happens whether good or bad which is why many people have beautiful homes, material possessions, financial security and good health, yet are miserable and suicidal while others live in poverty, own nothing, have poor health, yet appear to be successful and are filled with joy of the Lord.
God is the Sovereign Lord to whom all obedience and allegiance is due. But often times, man though created by God want God to rubber stamp his decision. Repeatedly, God has sent prophets to Israel, but they have not listened. They continued to serve and worship other gods and provoked the Lord (See 2 kgs. 17: 13 – 16). Earlier, the Lord has warned the people through Jeremiah about what will happen in a vision according to Jer. 24: 8 - 10, that “Whoever stays in this city will die by the sword, famine and plaque.” The very bad figs in Jeremiah’s vision are those who refused to submit to the Lord’s discipline and elected to stay in Jerusalem.
As noted, rather than heeding to Jeremiah’s instructions and warning from the Lord to surrender to the Babylonians, Zedekiah obstinately persisted in trying to do things on his own terms, even looking to Egypt to deliver them as noted in Jer. 37: 5 - 7. Of course, God’s people never think the whole country of Judah will become a desolate wasteland and will serve the king of Babylon seventy years until the prophecy came to Jeremiah in 605BC. Key verses that capture this idea includes (Jer. 25: 6 – 13; Luke 7: 26 - 30).
Keep in mind, the duty of a king is not elated above God and king Zedekiah with his political loyalist were privileged with evidence to know the mind of God and had known ahead of time what would happen when Jeremiah spoke to him. The reality is that it sounded Zedekiah remained nasty and defiantly reject the Lord’s instruction and when people refuse to submit to God’s will for whatever reason, the Lord brings judgment against them.
Similar to the days of Hezekiah, Zedekiah never prioritize Jeremiah’s instruction and warning as something he must take seriously even when his life, the life of his family and entire nation is in danger (See 2 kgs. 20: 16 - 19). Painfully, he realized the vain attempt to fear his officials who viewed Jeremiah’s message with guarded hatred and urged him to disregarded Jeremiah’s bold plea for correction because they feel Jeremiah is a traitor against national life and policies and was not ready to change his tone, insisting that going to Babylon is the only guaranteed future for the nation.
Zedekiah’s disobedient choice is an embodied spiritual practice that we sometime dismiss at every turn until we oppose God’s warning and get caught up. In this study, we shall see that there’s something wrong lingering and engaging in conversation as an excuse to avoid obeying God every single time so we cannot go and do likewise.
Question
1. Reading from Jer. 37: 1 – 10, Zedekiah was counselled not to build vain hopes. Discuss what was happening:
A. Why do you think Jeremiah feels there’s still no future to be enjoyed and the situation as no good for Jerusalem.
B. We noticed in Jer. 37: 11 – 21, Jeremiah at the Benjamin gate and delivered him to the state officials who had him beaten and in their rage imprisoned him. Why was Zedekiah optimistic and ask Jeremiah again whether there was a word from Yahweh.
C. What did Jeremiah’s imprisonment reveal about the challenges of speaking the truth. Knowing he’s going to suffer, why would he had to warn the king that Pharoah’s army would retreat and the Chaldeans would return
2. Jeremiah’s words were regarded as treasonable when he proclaimed before High Government officials to the effect that desertion to the Babylonians was the one choice an individual had to save his life.
A. Compare the arrest of Jeremiah in Jeremiah 37: 11–16 and Jeremiah 38: 1-13. Expand on the details surrounding his arrest and comment on anything you think is rather pathetic about Zedekiah
B. From Jer. 38: 1-13, Jeremiah would have died had not the Ethiopian eunuch Ebed-Melech secured from the king a change of imprisonment. How would these passages speak in such situations: 1 John 4: 4; Ps. 32:7; 2 Cor. 10; 3 - 4; James 5: 13 - 16; Ps. 91: 10; 2 Thess. 3: 3; Deut. 31: 6; Isa. 41: 10; Prov. 2: 11; Zeph. 3: 17.
C. Reading from Jer. 38: 14 - 28, one is bewildered when Zedekiah sought to hear a frank message and Jeremiah hesitated at the request of the king. Were you to be candid, are there people you know going the wrong direction, yet whatever advice you try to give will go unheeded. Discuss
3. We can feel the instability of the throne when the king petitioned that his meeting with Jeremiah be kept in strict confidence.
A. What in your opinion is the apparent reason(s) for this warning, and how does this reflect our approach towards warnings in life
B. Reading Jeremiah 52: 1 -11, How does the account of Zedekiah’s capture and blinding illustrate God’s sovereignty and what does it illustrate that Zedekiah’s eyes were removed
C. From related biblical interpretation of blindness in Acts 22, 26 and Acts 13:1- 12, what happened to Zedekiah is a cautionary historical event. How does that affect us and why must we apply the lessons to our lives today
4. Judges 21: 25 shows in the period of the Judges, Rulers are supposed to give divine guidance otherwise there would be instability. And Rulers who disobey God, engage in violence, bribery and oppression brought ruin upon their nations as seen in Dan. 4: 25 – 35
A. What were the two roots of pride for Nebuchadnezzar according to the text in Daniel 4: 25 - 35
B. In contrast to human governance, Scripture states that God controls earthly powers, remove and establish kings as He wills according to Daniel 2: 19 - 22. What does righteousness and justice teach you in Ps. 89: 14; Prov. 29:4; Prov. 16: 12 and mention some specific ways with examples
C. What interconnected themes does Rom.14: 12; Ezekiel 18: 20 and Jer. 52: 1-11 emphasized, explore the relationship between personal responsibility
and community consequences. How do we live as Spirit powered people in Galatians 6: 2
God Blesses Faithfulness and Sacrifice
TEXT: Ruth 4: 1 – 22
Questions
1. From Ruth 4: 1 - 12, Boaz met the elders at the gate and followed the law, he extended his love to Ruth and fulfilled Naomi’s hope of security. Discuss the significant role the elders played at the gate in affirming the legal proceeding and how they validate the transaction from their response in Ruth 4: 9 – 12
A. Read Ruth 4: 18 – 22 and Genesis 35: 23 – 26 and explain the significance of the blessings the elders pray for Boaz and Ruth in Ruth 4: 9 - 12. Why is it important for the writer to note the family from Perez to David
B. Think of the choices Boaz and the unnamed Kingsman redeemer made and discuss how Boaz was rewarded for risking his own name and posterity in Matt. 1: 5 – 10.
2. When Obed was born, the women congratulate Naomi in her old age and share the joy of a special relationship with her daughter in-law. What three reasons do the women express in their praises to God for the way he has blessed Naomi verse 14 – 17
A. How do you react to Naomi’s initial view of God’s hand in her life. Do you think she accurately understands what God was doing or misunderstood in Ruth 1: 15 - 22
B. Read the various Christian respond to tragedy similar to what Naomi may have experienced from Psa. 13: 1- 6; 86: 1 – 7; 2 Cor. 1: 8 – 11; 2 Cor. 4: 7 – 18; 2 Cor. 5: 1 – 10; 2 Cor. 12: 7 – 10. From these passages as you read of Naomi, how would you sacrificially show Christian love.