Nigerian Baptist Convention Sunday School Lesson For February 1, 2026: Topic - Preview For February

SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON (NBC)

PREVIEW FOR FEBRUARY

The general theme for the month is “The Church and Her Teachings.” The lessons are drawn from various passages in both the Old and New Testaments. Throughout the month, attention will be given to the following key topics:

Working together for better results

The outward expression of inner truth

Balancing rhythms of rest and work

Values, money, and experience

The teachings of the church continually remind believers of their place and responsibility within the Body of Christ. As a church, we must emphasise the importance of unity and cooperation as we labour together in God’s vineyard. Instruction on Christian ordinances—such as baptism and the Lord’s Supper—must be upheld, alongside the observance of the Lord’s Day (Sabbath). Furthermore, our teachings should prioritise giving towards the mission of the Gospel rather than placing value on pursuits that do not advance God’s Kingdom.

SUGGESTED TEACHING METHODS

The following methods may be used either during the general opening or within individual classes.

February 1 – Questions and Answers

Prepare at least ten questions that highlight unity in the Body of Christ and its importance to the Christian faith, based on the lesson passage. Teachers should ask the questions while class members respond, after which the lesson should be summarised.

February 8 – Teaching/Lecture

Hold a general assembly where all members gather for collective learning. Encourage questions due to the significance of the lesson to Christian faith and practice.

February 15 – Drama

Inform the church drama group ahead of time. The presentation should focus particularly on the theme of Sabbath rest.

February 22 – Panel Discussion

Appoint a moderator and assign subtopics to panel members at least one week in advance to allow for adequate preparation. Provide opportunities for congregational participation.

SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON (NBC)

Sunday, February 1, 2026

WORKING TOGETHER MAKES US BETTER

Devotional Reading: Acts 2:42–47

Background Scriptures: Matthew 16:13–20; 1 Timothy 3:15

Lesson Scriptures: Mark 4:26–32; Ephesians 4:4–6, 11–18

GOLDEN TEXT

“Indeed, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of Him who is the head, that is, Christ. From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”

— Ephesians 4:15–16

OBJECTIVES

By the end of this lesson, class members should be able to:

Explain the relationship between Christian unity and spiritual maturity using biblical and/or personal examples.

Commit to promoting unity in the church through the use of their spiritual gifts.

List all the spiritual gifts mentioned in the passage without referring to the Bible.

INTRODUCTION

A full symphony orchestra often consists of over one hundred performers, all guided by a single conductor. It includes a wide range of instruments—violins, cellos, bass violas, harps, brass instruments such as trumpets and trombones, percussion instruments, pianos, and sometimes hundreds of human voices in harmony.

Despite their diversity, these instruments and voices blend together to produce beautiful music under one direction. Each part contributes to the fullness of the composer’s vision.

In the same way, Ephesians 4:11–18 reminds us that the Church grows in harmony and strength when believers use their God-given gifts and work together in unity.

THE LESSON EXPLAINED

A. Faith and Growth in the Kingdom

(Mark 4:26–32)

The parables in this passage reveal important truths about the nature and growth of God’s Kingdom. They highlight God’s sovereignty and the power of faith in spiritual development.

In the parable of the growing seed, the farmer sows the seed and waits, trusting God to bring growth. While human effort in sharing the Gospel is necessary, God alone determines the outcome and timing of the harvest. This teaches believers to trust God even when results are not immediately visible.

The parable of the mustard seed further illustrates how small beginnings can lead to great outcomes. Though it starts as the smallest of seeds, it grows into a large tree that provides shelter for many. This encourages believers to remain faithful in small acts of obedience, knowing that God can use them to accomplish great purposes.

Believers are therefore called to sow Gospel seeds patiently, trusting God to bring growth. Even simple acts of kindness, service, and love can lead to profound transformation when placed in God’s hands.

Discussion Time

What challenges do Christians face while waiting for spiritual growth in themselves or others?

How can believers remain patient and hopeful during such seasons?

B. Unity and Ministry in the Body of Christ

(Ephesians 4:4–6, 11–18)

This passage underscores the deep unity shared by believers in Christ. The Church is described as one body made up of diverse members who share one faith, one hope, and one baptism. Paul urges believers to live in patience, humility, and mutual support, reflecting the unity of the Trinity.

Paul also identifies ministry gifts—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers—given to equip believers for service and promote spiritual maturity. These gifts are essential for building a strong, unified church where every member contributes to growth.

The lesson reminds believers of both individual responsibility and collective purpose. By recognising and using our spiritual gifts, we can support one another, strengthen church unity, and reflect Christ’s love in our community.

Discussion Time

What visible challenges hinder unity in churches today?

How can the church effectively use spiritual gifts to foster unity?

Fellowship and Ministry-Building Activity

Class members should identify situations that hinder spiritual growth within the church. They should also discuss available growth opportunities and explore how the church can maximise them.

TAKE HOME

Write down three key lessons you learned from today’s teaching.

PRAYER POINTS

Ask God to help you build His church through the effective use of your spiritual gifts.

Pray for the church to grow into spiritual maturity, receiving grace and power to fulfil God’s purpose.

COMMITMENT

Based on today’s lesson, commit yourself to promoting unity in your church by faithfully using your spiritual gifts.