Rccg Sunday School Manual For February 22, 2026, Lesson 25: Title - The Theology of Democracy

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL

TEACHER’S MANUAL

Date: Sunday, February 22nd, 2026

Lesson 25

Topic: The Theology of Democracy

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN

O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

O how I love thee well;

I am happy, it makes me glad

To rejoice at thy birth.

O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

Thy friendship suits me well;

Both young and old will sing thy song,

We long for Sunday School.

O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

Christ was thy first Teacher;

The Holy Spirit, great Teacher,

Manifests Himself in thee.

O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

This testimony is sure:

God, the Father Almighty,

Has poured His blessing on thee.

O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

Though the sun shines bright,

Or clouds are dark with rain,

I’ll be in Sunday School.

O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,

I rejoice to see thee;

Will thou pass over me today

Without my being blessed?

OPENING PRAYER

Father, grant me the grace to be a just and godly leader, in Jesus’ name.

MEMORY VERSE

“The God of Israel said, The Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.”

— 2 Samuel 23:3

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Samuel 10:17–23

This passage records how Saul was publicly chosen as king over Israel. Samuel gathered the people before the Lord at Mizpeh and reminded them of God’s faithfulness in delivering them from oppression. Yet, they had rejected God’s direct rule and requested a human king.

Through a transparent selection process involving the tribes and families, Saul was identified. God was directly involved in the process, demonstrating that leadership selection must acknowledge divine guidance.

This event marks the beginning of monarchy in Israel and shows that leadership processes should be open, orderly, and God-centred.

INTRODUCTION

The word democracy comes from the Greek words demos (people) and kratos (power), meaning “the power of the people.” It refers to a system of government in which citizens participate in decision-making, either directly or through elected representatives. It seeks to reflect the will of the majority while safeguarding minority rights.

Although the Bible does not explicitly command democracy as a system of government, it contains principles that align with democratic values such as justice, fairness, accountability, and shared leadership (Deuteronomy 1:13).

This lesson aims to help believers understand democracy from a biblical perspective and emphasise the civic responsibilities of citizens in light of scriptural principles.

LESSON OUTLINES

Biblical Principles of Democracy

Citizens’ Civic Responsibilities

LESSON OUTLINE 1

Biblical Principles of Democracy

The teacher should first ask: Does God rule by democracy? Allow discussion before guiding the class through the following principles:

1. Justice and Fairness

Democracy is rooted in justice and impartiality. Laws must apply equally to all without favouritism (Mark 12:17). Scripture consistently calls for justice in governance (Jeremiah 22:3).

2. Equality and Participation

A healthy democracy recognises the worth and dignity of every individual (Galatians 3:28). People may participate in governance directly or through representatives (Acts 1:20–26; 6:1–5).

The Bible also highlights the importance of counsel and collective decision-making (Exodus 18:19–22; Proverbs 11:14).

3. Rule of Law

No one is above the law—not even leaders (Matthew 17:24–27). Scripture emphasises the appointment of fair judges and just laws (Deuteronomy 16:18–20; Matthew 23:23).

4. Balance of Leadership Roles

The Bible recognises distinct roles in governance, religious leadership, and judicial authority (Acts 25:1–4), suggesting the importance of balanced leadership structures.

5. Accountability

Leaders must remain accountable to those they serve (1 Corinthians 4:2). They are stewards who must govern in righteousness and integrity (Luke 12:48; 1 Corinthians 4:1–2).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1

What is your honest opinion about the state of democracy in our nation?

LESSON OUTLINE 2

Citizens’ Civic Responsibilities

Citizens in a democratic society have both rights and duties. Every individual should be informed about governance and political developments to contribute meaningfully (Acts 22:25–29).

Key Responsibilities:

Voting and Participation

Citizens should vote, contest elections if qualified, and hold leaders accountable through lawful and peaceful means (Proverbs 31:8–9).

Constructive Dialogue

Engage in respectful discussions and debates on national issues.

Community Involvement

Join political parties, attend town hall meetings, and participate in community engagements.

Advocacy for Good Governance

Groups such as youth associations, women’s groups, labour unions, NGOs, and community councils should promote fairness and responsible leadership.

Ethical Conduct

Avoid bribery, violence, electoral malpractice, and political apathy.

Role of Religious Leaders

Religious leaders must speak truthfully, address societal issues with wisdom, and uphold moral integrity (Romans 9:1).

Role of the Media

The media should report truthfully and objectively (1 John 1:1,5; James 3:5).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2

Mention three civic responsibilities every believer should uphold.

CONCLUSION

When citizens and leaders uphold biblical principles of justice, accountability, participation, and integrity, democracy can truly serve the common good.

Believers are called to be agents of righteousness in every system of governance.

EVALUATION

Mention three principles of a true democracy.

CLOSING PRAYER

Lord, make me an instrument of positive change and righteous influence, in Jesus’ name.

ASSIGNMENT

State two distinct civic responsibilities of a good citizen in a true democracy.

(2 × 5 = 10 Marks)