Keep Your Lamps Burning; Share and Defend the Hope Within You

Bible Passage - 1 Peter 1: 1 - 2; 3: 13 - 17

Introduction

For the past several weeks, we have been reflecting on the theme of spiritual readiness. The recently concluded Bible study has been a deeply enriching time of fellowship with the that the insights we gained will continue to illuminate our daily walk with the Lord to share our faith with others. Hear again, we shall be drawing inspiration from Peter’s admonition on the spiritual journey of Christians facing persecution throughout Asia Minor in 1 Peter 3: 13 – 17. Peter’s message to the brethren is a lesson of spiritual readiness for our study irrespective of our settings.

As we study 1 Peter 3: 13 - 17, we want to examine Peter’s statements to determine how they relate to broader contexts. We would analyzed Peter’s remarks, evaluate and explore their correlation to the Book of Acts. In other words, we would be looking at what Peter said to see how it connects to Paul’s defense and everything else because the apostles were certain the risen Jesus had called, commissioned and empowered them (See - Acts 4: 20).

Jesus’ ascension was not the end, but a mark of a new beginning and the launch of a new phase where He empowers His followers through the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus ministered through the early disciples, He continues His redemptive work in the world today through the church – His body of believers as stated in Hebrews 7: 23 - 25. So, our lives are meant to be living reflection of Jesus to everyone we meet.

The call to share the Christian faith openly is heavily rooted in the New Testament. we found the apostles publicly stand and declare their beliefs boldly in public and in everyday conversations and interactions. They have nothing about themselves or the gospel to hide. We can gather and talk about the Christian faith, share knowledge and experiences amongst themselves, but the gospel was intended to go out in the open for all to hear and believe.

Questions

1. The Apostle Peter was separated, dedicated and ready - he knew how important it was to give a defense to everyone who asks them regarding their faith and actions. Read Acts 2: 14 - 39; Acts 3: 11 - 26; Acts 4: 8 - 12; Acts 5: 29 – 32 and describe how Peter had done this showing what he had relied on in his defense.

A. Peter says Christians are commanded to suffer for what is good and respond to evil with good because God prove wrong and make ashamed those who question our godly lives. With 1 Pet. 3: 13 -17, how do you understand the suffering of those in Asisa Minor from Matt. 28: 18 – 20. What two best ways should we respond to evil.

B. What’s the believers bottom line statement about Christian suffering according to Acts 5: 33 – 42. When and how does the Bible admonished believers in the face of challenges, trials and suffering in 1 Pet. 3: 13 - 15

2. Peter’s admonition connects to Paul when Apostle Paul seized the opportunity to share the gospel when taken to Caesarea to face Trial and make his decision (Acts 23: 23 - 35).

A. Paul had to defend himself against the Jews who accused him of creating problems for Jews throughout the Roman empire and for trying to desecrate the temple. Using Acts 24: 1 - 9, clarify why this is a gospel opportunity.

B. In Acts 24: 10 – 21, Paul challenged the charges, calling on the Jewish leaders to produce hard evidence, but no evidence could be produced. Describe and discuss two things Paul had affirmed in his defense. How has that helped you to be effective witness for Christ.

C. Paul concluded that he was tried because of one singular reason. How has the events in Acts 24: 10 – 21 helped you to be effective in witnessing for Christ

3. Reading from Acts 24: 22-27, when Paul reasoned during his defense, Felix was intriguing hearing Paul. Discuss the core theological principles of what Paul emphasized that made Felix nervous.

A. State the two reasons why Paul had to be in prison for two years and the implication on Felix eventually.

B. Examine Luke’s full writing in Acts 25: 1- 12 related to Paul’s defense of the gospel, highlight some major reasons and explain why the admonition of the Bible passage in Hebrews 13: 3 apply to us.

4. Clarify from Acts 25: 13 - 22, When Agrippa and his wife arrived Caesarea to visit Festus, mention what Festus admitted and its implication today when describing Paul’s case to Agrippa.

A. Explore the broader contexts of Acts 25: 9 – 11 into the historical custom of the trials of Jesus looking at more interactions between Jesus, Pilate and the Jews in Mk. 15: 15-16; Lk.23: 13-25; John 18: 39-40. In each case what do you think is being stimulated.

B. Paul had series of defense in Acts 26. Identify how each of these steps/stages can help prepare you share the gospel better.

I. Words of praise for the king – verse 1- 3

II. Jewish upbringing, training and persecution of Christians – verse 4 -11

III. His Damascus experience – verse 12 – 23

IV. Paul gave Agrippa opportunity to make a decision for Christ – verse 24 – 32

KEEP YOUR LAMBS BURNING BY DOING EVANGELISM FOR OUR CONTEXT

PASSAGE - Acts2:36-47; Acts 4:23-37

INTRODUCTION

The fulfilment of prophecy is very important because the Jews had been waiting for the promised Messiah for generations. This hope of salvation was not for Jews alone because through Jesus God offers salvation for all of humanity. Inasmuch as it is for humanity, Peter tells the crowd for certain, God has made this Jesus both “Lord and Messiah” and they must, “Turn from sins and accept Christ, be baptized for the forgiveness of sins.” Acts 2: 36-39. Peter knows, it is an ongoing fact that many who came to Jerusalem for the feast of Pentecost have personal opinions and thoughts, some lack the capacity to be followers and for these reasons find it very difficult to belief Christ’s uniqueness and role.

Note, too, Peter is aware that others are split concerning his personality, sometimes ignore the teachings of Scripture and even try to explain things away (John 7: 45-48; John 9: 32-33; Matthew 11: 4-5). By calling Jesus Lord and Messiah, Peter was staking the biggest possible claim in addressing the people, majority of which were specifically the Jews which prompted them to ask the question, “what shall we do?”

What is clear from Scripture is once you’re a believer, you are no longer the same person after conversion anymore, you’re in right standing with God and find comfort in God’s best promise of a future life (2 Cor. 5:17). John 5: 24 confirmed certain assurances and Jesus spoke about current reality and future assurances for anyone who hears God’s word and believes. The truly tragic part isn’t just what Jesus said has happened; it’s that so many people refuse to see and accept it. Tragically, some people doubt or refuse to have faith in Jesus despite his truth and it’s deeply sad they cannot bring themselves to believe on Christ.

The event in which our study occur is very important when we consider the statistics from our partners, Vision Ministries Canada (VMC) that more than ½ Christians do not equip for evangelism, 77% Christians dropped to 55% while 2% Muslim rose to 5% and about 17.5% non-religious affiliated rose to 35% in 20 years from 2001-2021. This analysis brings to light systemic issues, prompting reevaluation of current church practices to help us critically examine the implications and begin doing evangelism for our context and living for the benefit of others and their salvation. Therefore, this study is aimed to draw attention to our need for spiritual fervor serving God, sense of community and church growth as described in Acts 2: 47; Romans 12:11; Hebrews 10: 24-25.

QUESTIONS

1. In Acts 2: 36, the climax of Peter’s sermon declared that God made this Jesus Lord and Messiah. Does, Jesus has a split personality. Otherwise, comment on why the statement is necessary then and relevant even today when the Bible is clear about Christ’s uniqueness and role

A. Acts 2: 40 - 41 typically describes the aftermath of Peter’s sermon. Mention and discuss Peter’s main plea to the crowd and how they responded during this birth of the early church.

B. Explain what Colossians 2: 11-12; Galatians 3:27; Romans 6:11 say about baptism.

C. When Peter commanded them to repent and be baptized on the day of baptism in Acts 2: 37- 40, discuss why they did not make any effort to explain that away since it wasn’t easy for Jews to identify with Christ and commit to water baptism.

2. According to Acts 2:47, those who were being saved were added to the church. Study 1 Corinthians 3: 5-9, and describe the role of man and what does Paul says about inclusion in church.

A. What methods or ideas do you know that believers apply today in their hope to promote church inclusion.

B. Combine what Paul highlights in 1 Corinthians 3: 5-9 and what Jesus told his disciples in Mk. 9:38-40; Luke 9: 49-50. What information are significant that you can use to explain a complex Bible study topic related to church growth or increase.

3. A community is viewed as group of people connected by shared interests, values, goals and location, interacting with a sense of mutual support, and identity toward fulfilling fundamental human need and being a part of something larger than themselves.

A. In response to Peter’s preaching in Acts 2: 41-47, what practices have you seen to say for certain that church community life is formed, and should be considered normative for the church today.

B. What do you think was responsible for the spontaneous and immediate addition of such a huge number of 3000 to the church.

C. Thinking and reflecting through Acts 2: 44-45, and Acts 4: 32-35, why do you think they sold their possessions and share everything they owned.

4. Advice on what ECWA Canada can do or should be doing to model the church in Jerusalem which Scripture described as being united in heart and mind, abandoning every ownership in favor of community sharing.

A. The “Early Church” was an evangelizing church, growing daily (Acts 2:47). But evangelism doesn’t always take place in the Temple as seen in Acts 8:26-40; Acts 16: 11-15. What do you think God is teaching us and how has that motivated and changed how you planned on living

B. Read 2 Cor. 5: 14; Matt. 28: 19; 1 peter 3: 15, and describe what you think was the mind and heart condition of the people for doing evangelism

C. Discuss how in spiritual and community contexts fellowship and growth is interconnected. With summer at hand and people feeling free to move, walk and visit, what biblical insights have you learned that motivates you to want to share the comfort, peace and joy of redemption with people going through difficult seasons of life.

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

1. 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