RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER'S/STUDENT'S MANUAL FOR MAY 25TH, 2025 : TOPIC - ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND CHRISTIANITY

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER'S/STUDENT'S MANUAL  FOR MAY 25TH, 2025 : TOPIC - ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND CHRISTIANITY

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER'S/STUDENT'S MANUAL

SUNDAY MAY 25TH, 2025

LESSON THIRTY-NINE(39)

TOPIC: QUARTERLY REVIEW/SUMMARY(27-38)

*SUMMARY OF LESSONS 27-38*

LESSON TWENTY-SEVEN (27)

TOPIC: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND CHRISTIANITY

BIBLE PASSAGE: Daniel 12:1-4.

MEMORY VERSE: ““Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God" 1 Corinthians 10:31

INTRODUCTION: Technology has existed since the Bible days (Genesis 11:3, 5-6). However, what appears new to people is the advancement and how it expands opportunities for humans. One of the latest innovations in technology in recent times is Artificial Intelligence (AI). There are varying views as to whether Christians should use AI or not. Some believers tag it as an end-time tool of the devil and the antichrist; others hold that it is a result of being created in God’s likeness with a creative mind (Genesis 1:26-27). This lesson will bridge the information gap on AI and how it can be purposefully embraced in Christendom.

OUTLINES:

1. AI EXPLAINED

2. BENEFITS AND CAUTION

1. AI EXPLAINED

The teacher should ask the students what they know about artificial intelligence.

The teacher should explain the subject matter to the students.

Question 1: What is Artificial intelligence?

Answer: Artificial intelligence refers to the imitation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence. 

Question 2: What are the other things to note about AI?

Answer: Other things to note include the fact that:

i. AI can learn and make decisions from available options, just like humans. 

ii. Like cars, aeroplanes, and social media (meant to improve life), AI is a tool created by scientists and engineers whom God has given creative ability to improve lives (Exodus 31:2-4). 

iii. AI can become the controller and caretaker of man. This can degenerate into humanity worshipping the works of their hands-idolatry (Deuteronomy 5:8-9).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should share their knowledge of AI with the class.

2. BENEFITS AND CAUTION

Question 1: What are the benefits of AI?

Answer: The teacher should mention the benefits below in addition to answers given by the students.

Artificial Intelligence has several benefits for Christians. 

i. It can quickly aid access to a wealth of scriptures and other Christian texts when needed (John 5:39). 

ii. It can break down the language barrier in sharing the gospel by translating texts and teachings to a broader global audience. 

iii. It can be used to build online communities where Christians can pray, fellowship, and offer brotherly support (Hebrews 10:24-25). 

iv. It can make online worship as real as physical gatherings. It can automatically give support by responding to common spiritual questions and guidance (1 Peter 3:15). 

v. It can be used to develop personalised training to execute kingdom projects. AI can be used to advance God's kingdom if aligned with Christian values and principles.

Question 2: What are the cautions to be exercised in the use of AI?

Answer: The teacher should mention the cautions below to better enlighten the students. Christians should watch out for areas of caution (1 Corinthians 10:23; Ephesians 5:15). 

i. There are risks and privacy issues in using AI which should not be abused (1Corinthians 7:31). 

ii. We must understand our limits that we are God’s creation (Genesis 1:27), and we cannot outdo His creative power (Isaiah 55:8-9). 

iii. Christians should be wary of some scientists who are determined to make a new religion out of AI (Exodus 23:2a; Leviticus 26:1). 

iv. AI should not be used in a way that conflicts with Christian beliefs (Romans 14:21-22). 

v. In providing support for one another, Christians should ensure that human relationships are not replaced by technology (Hebrews 10:25). 

vi. AI should not replace the place of waiting upon the Lord for fresh words or inspiration (2Timothy 2:15; Acts 20:32). 

vii. Christians should beware lest they devote their entire lives to AI or other technological innovations and forget God (Deuteronomy 6:12). 

viii. Technological addiction should be avoided so as not to kill mental and spiritual growth (1Corinthians 6:12).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: The class should discuss their level of interaction with modern technology.

CONCLUSION: Artificial intelligence is one of the technological tools borne from the creative ability God gave to man. Christians should cautiously use it to the glory of God.

LESSON TWENTY-EIGHT (28)

TOPIC: CHRISTIAN COUPLES AND IN-LAWS

BIBLE PASSAGE: Ruth 2:8-12.

MEMORY VERSE: “And Moses went out to meet his father-in-law, and did obeisance, and kissed him; and they asked each other of their welfare; and they came into the tent.”  Exodus 18:7.

INTRODUCTION: Christian couples are expected to live according to the dictates of God’s word. For instance, the Bible tells us that a man should leave his parents and cleave to his wife (Genesis 2:24). This shows that a line must be drawn between the families from which both partners originated and the new family the couple is building. Also, the Bible admonishes us to honour our parents (Ephesians 6:2-3) and be good to all men; which include our in-laws. In-laws are people related to us by marriage and we should relate with them with godly wisdom (James 3:17).

OUTLINES:

1. BUILDING A CORDIAL RELATIONSHIP

2. THE THIN LINE

1. BUILDING A CORDIAL RELATIONSHIP

A. Let us learn from Ruth’s relationship with her mother-in-law. 

i. She placed her in the position of her biological mother. 

ii. We must treat our in-laws like our own blood relations. 

B. In our relationship with in-laws, Christian couples should, therefore:

i. Avoid Preconceptions: Do not have a biased perspective against your in-laws. Be open-minded in your dealings with them (Romans 12:10, 16; 1 Peter 3:8).

ii. Refuse to act like strangers: Do well to let your in-laws see you as another child of theirs and not a stranger (Exodus 18:7-9; Proverbs 18:24). 

iii. Stay off damaging rules: Make sure you avoid rules that can destroy the relationship with your in-laws (1 Timothy 5:1-2; Judges 14:11-13, 18-20). Be wise in all decisions relating to your in-laws especially in speech (Psalm 34:13; Colossians 4:6). 

iv. Treat in-laws as important people and avoid strife (Philippians 2:3). Exhibit maturity and patience with in-laws (2 Corinthians 6:4).

v. Remain humble and encourage mutual submission (1 Peter 5:5; Ephesians 5:21). Always seek peace and pursue it (Psalm 34:14; Romans 12:18).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention any behaviour that can cause misunderstanding between married couples and their in-laws

2. THE THIN LINE

A. While it is important to establish a cordial relationship with in-laws, it is equally important that in-laws give some breathing space to their married sons or daughters to build a godly home with little or no external interference (Colossians 3:21; Matthew 19:4-6). 

B. In-laws, especially the couple’s parents can counsel (Exodus 18:19-24; Proverbs 11:14) and prayerfully support their children in marriage without necessarily imposing their views (Ephesians 6:4). 

C. The married couple should be allowed to make their own decisions.

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: As an in-law, how do you relate with the married couples in your family?

CONCLUSION: Christian couples must relate with their in-laws in love and as salt/light of the world (Matthew 5:13-14), be at peace, and remain humble at all times (Hebrews 12:14).

LESSON TWENTY-NINE (29)

TOPIC: UNITY IN MARRIAGE

BIBLE PASSAGE: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12.

MEMORY VERSE: “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” Amos 3:3.

INTRODUCTION: Marriage is a covenant relationship between a man and a woman which makes them husband and wife. The marriage institution can be likened to the relationship between Jesus and His church (Ephesians 5:24-25). Marriage is not co-habiting: it is to be physically, emotionally, spiritually, financially, sexually, and materially connected. It will be impossible for a couple to succeed in marriage unless they are united. From the beginning, unity in marriage was not given as hope; it was a command (Genesis 2:24).

OUTLINES:

1. FACTORS THAT ENHANCE UNITY

2. THE BLESSEDNESS OF UNITY

1. FACTORS THAT ENHANCE UNITY

A. Unity in marriage means to be of one mind and purpose in the union. 

B. Let us examine some ways to promote unity in marriage:

i. Make Jesus The Foundation And The Chief Cornerstone Of Your Marriage (1 Corinthians 3:11; 1 Peter 2:6). When you allow Jesus to be actively involved in your relationship, your marriage will stand firm, even during storms (John 2:2-3, 7-10; Mark 4:36-39).

ii. Rely On God’s Word And Be Prayerful. There is an answer to all of life’s questions in God’s word. This includes your spouse’s temperament (Psalm 119:98, Proverbs 24:3). Always pray against the arrow of disunity from the enemy. Satan and his agents are constantly waging war against godly and successful marriages (James 5:16, Psalm 66:3). 

iii. Love And Submit: These are two mutually exclusive factors that promote harmony in marriage (Ephesians 5:22, 25, 33). A husband who loves his wife genuinely and a wife who submits to her husband will be united in marriage. When submission is unpretentious, love follows and when true love is displayed, submission will follow (Colossians 3:18-19). 

iv. Communicate With Understanding: Every spouse must be ready and free to talk and understand their differences in personalities, backgrounds, talents, strengths, etc. The more we communicate, the more we understand each other and the more we thrive in unity (Philippians 2:2-3).

v. Trust And Respect: Trust is built and earned over time. It is to have confidence that your partner will not deliberately hurt or violate you (Proverbs 31:11). Respect each other’s opinion, use your words wisely, and speak kindly to yourselves. Do not discuss your spouse’s weaknesses with others (Ephesians 5:33b; Romans 12:10b). If a couple is fond of taking their disagreements to outsiders, disunity is bound to prevail in their home (Mark 10:9).

vi. Be Romantic And Sexually Intimate: Call yourselves sweet names, play with each other, surprise yourselves with gifts and do not forget to celebrate your anniversaries together (Song of Solomon 4:7, 9-11; Genesis 26:8). Having regular sex breeds intimacy and has lots of health benefits for both husband and wife (1 Corinthians 7:2-5).

vii. Avoid Distant Relationships And Learn To Forgive Each Other: The closer you are to each other physically, sexually, financially, mentally, etc. the more united you’ll become. Resolve issues amicably, eat, sleep, talk, bathe, walk, pray, dress together, and forgive each other easily and quickly. (Ephesians 4:32; Matthew 18:21-22).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should mention some of the major causes of disunity among married couples.

2. THE BLESSEDNESS OF UNITY

There are many benefits that couples stand to gain if they live in agreement in their marriages. Here are some of them: 

i. They will enjoy peace and togetherness (Psalm 133:1).

ii. Receive answers to prayers (Matthew 18:19).

iii. Make faster and better decisions, and achieve more (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). 

iv. They will also be happy, fulfilled, and enjoy good health (Proverbs 17:22a).

v. A stable environment to nurture children, and a lasting marriage.

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should mention other benefits of unity in marriage.

CONCLUSION: Unity in marriage is possible. You must give your best to get the best.

LESSON THIRTY (30)

TOPIC: PARENTING LIKE GOD

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 Samuel 7:12-15.

MEMORY VERSE: “And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.”  2 Corinthians 6:18.

INTRODUCTION: The Bible constantly admonishes us to conform to the image of our Maker - God (2 Corinthians 3:18; Colossians 3:9-10). God wants to be involved in the lives of His children (2 Corinthians 6:17-18) hence, the need to consider the example of His parenting style.

OUTLINES:

1. GOD’S INVOLVEMENT AND COMMUNICATION STYLE

2. GOD’S INSTRUCTIVE STYLE

1. GOD’S INVOLVEMENT AND COMMUNICATION STYLE

A. God, our Father, loves us His children, and wants to be connected with us (Jeremiah 31:3). 

i. He is forgiving and merciful when we err (Hebrews 8:12). 

ii. He is willing to receive all who come to Him for forgiveness of their sins (1 John 1:9). 

iii. He is approachable (Isaiah 1:18). 

iv. Therefore, as parents, we must be willing to love and associate freely with our children. 

v. We must be forgiving and merciful when our children go astray. 

B. Also, God - our Father communicates clear boundaries for us to follow as His children (Exodus 20:12-17). 

C. Therefore, as parents, we must communicate to our children all the things that they need to know for a successful life (Proverbs 22:6; 4:20-22).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: How do you feel when you rebuke your children?

2. GOD’S INSTRUCTIVE STYLE

A. God, our Father is not manipulative because He gives us freedom over all non-moral issues in our lives. 

i. From the beginning, God gave Adam and Eve the freedom to eat from any of the trees of the Garden (Gen. 2:16-17). 

ii. However, He did communicate a moral boundary so they would not eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. 

iii. We must also have that balance in our parenting style. 

iv. We must draw clear moral boundaries and grant freedom to our children over non-moral issues. 

B. Our Heavenly Father also disciplines us when we disobey and rebel against Him (Proverbs 3:12; Hebrews 12:7). 

i. He will not look the other way when we sin (2 Samuel 7:14). 

ii. As parents, we must be willing to use all forms of correction at our disposal to secure moral boundaries within the family (Proverbs 19:18).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: How often do you communicate with your children?

CONCLUSION: Just like Jesus, being an example to our children is one of the most powerful and authoritative teaching tools we possess as parents (John 13:15).

LESSON THIRTY-ONE (31)

TOPIC: ZELOPHEHAD’S DAUGHTERS

BIBLE PASSAGE: Numbers 27:1-7.

MEMORY VERSE: “The daughters of Zelophehad speak right: thou shalt surely give them a possession of an inheritance among their father's brethren; and thou shalt cause the inheritance of their father to pass unto them.”  Numbers 27:7.

INTRODUCTION: Zelophehad means, the shade or tingling of fear. A man from the tribe of Manasseh, he was part of the Israelites who left Egypt under Moses' leadership and died in the wilderness. He had five daughters but no sons and therefore no male heirs. After His death, his daughters; Mahlah, Noha, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah went to Moses to demand their father’s inheritance because as women, they were not entitled to any inheritance. Moses took the matter to God and they were justified. We have some lessons to learn from these ladies and the need to ask for our entitlements.

OUTLINES:

1. THE NEED TO ASK

2. LESSONS FROM ZELOPHEHAD’S DAUGHTERS

1. THE NEED TO ASK

The teacher should ask the students to give reasons why it is important to ask questions when necessary.

The class teacher should explain the outline as stated below

A. Although our heavenly Father knows our needs (Matthew 6:8), Jesus emphasised the need to ask in Matthew 7:7. 

i. To ask is important because it is those who ask that will receive (Matthew 7:8; 1 Kings 10:13). 

ii. Enquiring sheds light on a subject (Deuteronomy 32:7-8) as it brings clarity and revelation. 

iii. It brings results and requests are granted (Ezra 7:6). 

iv. We have access to information and become informed (Genesis 43:7-8). 

v. It resolves the question of leadership and provides adequate counsel (Judges 1:1; 20:23). 

vi. Being specific in our demand gives us what we want (2 Kings 2: 9-10; Matthew 7:9). 

vii. It gives us access to our inheritance (Psalm 2:8). 

viii. We get a good grasp of the old path (Jeremiah 6:16). 

B. Even research shows that asking questions builds emotional intelligence.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Why are some people afraid to either ask questions or ask for help when in need of such?

2. LESSONS FROM ZELOPHEHAD’S DAUGHTERS

The class teacher should ask the students to mention some attributes needed to make a demand for their benefits or inheritance.

The teacher should then explain the outline

The following are some life lessons to learn from these ladies:

1. Being Audacious: Irrespective of their gender and the limitations placed on women in Israel (then) they were brave (Numbers 27:1).

2. One Voice: They stood in unity before Moses, the priest, and even the congregation of Israel (Numbers 27:1-2; Genesis 11:6).

3. Go To The Right Source: These ladies did not beat about the bush; they went to the man in charge who they knew could handle their matter and give them what they wanted. They went to the right source (Numbers 27:2).

4. Knowledge: They were informed and had a good knowledge of history to know those who rebelled against God and died in the wilderness (Numbers 27:3a; Proverbs 13:16; 11:9).

5. Speak Out: They placed a demand on Moses to get their father’s inheritance. Moses brought their matter to God (Numbers 27:4-5) and He vindicated them by granting their request (Numbers 27:7). As a child of God, you must learn to speak out and claim your inheritance.

6. Emancipators: They brought freedom to others as they raised the legal case of a woman’s right and obligation to inherit property in the absence of a male in the family and a law was made to regulate inheritance in Israel (Numbers 27:8).

7. Obedience: They fully complied with the instruction God gave through Moses that they should get married only within their father’s tribe (Numbers 36:6; 11).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Have you ever demanded what belonged to you before? What was your experience?

SUMMARY:

CONCLUSION: Taking what belongs to us may sometimes require some conscious, deliberate, and necessary efforts. Step out into your inheritance now.

LESSON THIRTY-TWO (32)

TOPIC: MIDLIFE CRISIS

BIBLE PASSAGE:.Ecclesiastes 2:14-19.

MEMORY VERSE:.“From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”  Psalm 61:2.

INTRODUCTION: A midlife crisis is a term used to describe a period of transition in life where someone struggles with their identity and self-confidence. It happens anywhere around 35 years old to 60 years old and affects men and women. A midlife crisis is not a clinical disorder but is mainly psychological, emotional, or sometimes behavioural.

OUTLINES:

1. REASONS AND SYMPTOMS OF A MIDLIFE CRISIS

2..ANTIDOTES FOR A MIDLIFE CRISIS

1. REASONS AND SYMPTOMS OF A MIDLIFE CRISIS

1. The teacher should ask the students to mention some reasons for a midlife crisis

The teacher should explain some of these reasons in addition to the students’ responses.

Question 1: What are some of the reasons for a midlife crisis?

Answer: It varies and may include:

i. Feelings of dissatisfaction with one’s present status (financial, marital, social, etc.), 

ii. Self-doubt, yet-to-be-fulfilled dreams.

iii. A desire for significant changes in direction and purpose in various aspects of life, such as career, relationships, or lifestyle (Psalm 90:13-17). 

Question 2: Are there triggers for mid-life crisis?

Answer: 2. These feelings are naturally amplified as we age: 

i. We realise we are running out of time.

ii. Our past is likely becoming more permanent (Psalm 69:1).

2. While spiritual warfare can happen at any time in our lives, it certainly could play an integral role in a midlife crisis. For instance, Job - adjudged by God to be just and upright - was attacked by Satan in his midlife (Job 1:8, 13-21, 2:7).

Question 3: What are the noticeable signs or symptoms of a midlife crisis?

The teacher should allow the students to mention some common symptoms of a midlife crisis

Some common symptoms of a midlife crisis may include:

1. Questioning the meaning and purpose of life to make significant, often impulsiv