RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER’S MANUAL FOR JANUARY 12 2025

BIBLE PASSAGE: Luke 7:11-16.

[11]And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people.

[12]Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.

[13]And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.

[14]And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.

[15]And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.

[16]And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.

INTRODUCTION: Empathy is the capacity to feel another person’s feelings, thoughts, or attitudes indirectly, especially because of his or her suffering. It is an attitude and ability to “rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15). Empathy is related to sympathy but is generally considered more personal. True empathy is the feeling of participating in the suffering of another person.

LESSON AIM: To teach the students to empathise with one another.

TEACHING OBJECTIVES:.At the end of this lesson, students should be able to:

• Explain the meaning of empathy.

• Identify the biblical basis for empathy.

• Know how to empathise.

TEACHING PLAN: To achieve the above-stated objectives, the teacher should:

a. Allow the students to recite the memory verse, read the Bible passage, contribute to the discussion, and do class activities and assignments.

b. Allow the Assistant Teacher to see to the well-being of the class, and mark attendance and assignment.

c. Teach the lesson outline, summarize, conclude, evaluate the lesson, and give an assignment to the students.

TEXT REVIEW: Luke 7:11-16.

Saint Luke records the account of how Jesus empathised with a widow who lost her son and proffered a solution to her problem. Study this passage and fill in the gaps appropriately:

i. …. it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people…..V11

ii. Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, …………………………..V12.

Read and summarize the remaining verses:

iii. …….………………….……..V13.

iv. ……………………….………..V14.

v. …………………………………..V15.

vi. ………………………………….V16

The teacher should explain as follows:

The biblical basis for showing empathy as a believer will be discussed under three major headings: the model, the motive, and the method.

A. THE MODEL: God Himself is the very best at empathy (2 Corinthians 7:6). He knows our frame and afflictions (Psalm 103:13-14; Exodus 3:7-8) and even helps us in our errors and shortcomings (Genesis 3:21). Jesus Christ also showed empathy when He wept at the tomb of Lazarus (John 11:35) and the Bible affirms His undeniable feelings for us (Hebrews 4:14-15; 1 Peter 5:7). The Holy Spirit exemplifies empathy by comforting us in times of grief and pain (John 14:16, 18; Acts 9:31).

B. THE MOTIVE: The motive for empathy is to imitate God and to obey His repeated commands to show empathy toward one another (Matthew 25:35-40; Colossians 3:12; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

C. THE METHOD: The method of empathy is to discern sufferings or needs and to act quickly, personally, and deliberately to alleviate or meet them (Luke 10:33-34; Galatians 6:2).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Why do you think people hardly show empathy nowadays?

2. PRACTICING EMPATHY

A. Empathy is at the core of the Christian witness. Though not lacking in modern Christianity, a lot of effort and work is still needed. Believers should imbibe the culture of showing empathy to all (Galatians 6:10). It should be enshrined in our day-to-day interactions (Hebrews 13:16).

B. The teacher should take time to explain the following:

i. Christians are called to restore those who have sinned in a spirit of gentleness (Galatians 6:1).

ii. Be understanding and supportive with friends and partners during their emotional moments (Proverbs 17:17).

iii. At work, we can show empathy to colleagues in times of stress or difficulties (Galatians 6:2).

iv. Believers in healthcare should demonstrate empathy when dealing with patients’ concerns and pains (Ezekiel 34:16).

v. Teachers can be empathetic to students’ learning challenges and emotional needs (Proverbs 9:9).

vi. In communities, support and understand the struggles of people especially during challenging times (Proverbs 14:21).

vii. Globally, empathize with those affected by global crises or disasters by providing help or support (Genesis 4:9).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should share their experience of how they empathised with someone in need and they were able to help.

CONCLUSION: Every believer must imitate God and have empathy for one another. We must try to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes (Ephesians 4:32).

QUESTIONS:

* Explain the biblical basis for showing empathy

* Mention four ways of practicing empathy.

EVALUATION:.What is empathy?

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, please give me a loving heart in Jesus’ name.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five areas you plan to empathise with people around you (2×5=10 Marks)