ABIDING IN GOD'S PRESENCE- A BIBLE STUDY OUTLINE

 DIOCESE OF ABA

A THREE DAY RETREAT FOR 2022 KNIGHTS ELECTS 

FROM WEDNESDAY 25TH- FRIDAY 27TH MAY, 2022

THEME: RAISING GOOD SOLDIERS OF JESUS CHRIST (2TIM. 2)

BIBLE STUDY OUTLINE

TOPIC:    ABIDING IN GOD’S PRESENCE

TEXT:      John 15:5, 7-8

M.V:        John 15:7


INTRODUCTION:  To abide, means to ‘remain’, ‘to continue’ ‘to tarry’, or ‘to dwell. Literally, it points to accepting or acting in accordance with a set rule, decision or recommendation. However, in the context of our study, it has a much deeper meaning. It means to spend quality time with God, to linger in his presence, or to live in the consciousness of His presence. God’s presence could be viewed in three forms, all of which pointing to one thing. First, God is Omnipresent; he is present everywhere at the same time (Psalm 139:6-12). Second is the visible or manifest majesty of Divine presence which is called “the Shekinah Glory.” See Exodus 3:1-5.The third is the abiding presence of God. At the fullness of time, God, who is in heaven sent his Son Jesus Christ and he was called “Emmanuel or Immanuel (both are correct), which means God with us (Matt. 1:22). From that time on wards, God is no longer an occasional guest or visitor, but an abiding guest (1 John 4:13). Anyone who is in Christ Jesus  abides in his presence. It’s our expectation that the Holy Spirit shall, through this study re-awaken our consciousness of God’s abiding presence.


DISCUSSION GUIDE

1. Read Psalm 15 and Psalm 24:3, 4, Point out the requirements for abiding in God’s presence (b) From these passages: Psalm 1:2; 119:10, 11; John 15:5-8.mention ways through which we can abide in God’s presence.

2.  How can the under-listed vices as contained in Gal.5:19-21, Eph 5:3 and 1 Cor. 3:3,4 hinder God’s presence in one’s life

  • Covetousness and idolatry
  • Sexual immorality
  • Division, acrimony and malice
  • Hatred, jealousy and envy
  • Drunkenness and worldliness

3.  “Without me you can do nothing” John 15:5. In the light of the above statement, how can you, as a Knight of the Church convince those who think they can make it without God, perhaps, given their connections and wealth?

4.  In Practical terms and with biblical instances, highlight the effects of living a life devoid of God’s continued presence

5.  What benefits are there for us when we as individuals, family and society abide in God’s presence? Psalm 1:3; John 15:7; Psalm 91:1-16; Psalm 34:7,19,20


CONCLUSION: Abiding in God’s presence begins the moment we accept the Lordship of Christ and live daily by to the leading of the Spirit. The benefits thereof, are inexhaustible. Have you been abiding in the majesty of Divine Presence?


Rev Canon Princewill Uche Onyema

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