i. to discuss the factors that led to Christ's uplifting,
ii. to expose us to types of uplifting and
iii. to discuss the Biblical injunctions for God's uplifting.
Last Thursday, May 9 marked the 40th day after the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ and it is remembered as the day he ascended into heaven (Acts 1:9). Today, being the Sunday after, our study shall be centred on being lifted up by God. In this study, we want to see being lifted up by God to mean He steps in and changes our position or status for the best.
1. What does lifting up and being lifted up in the context of Matt. 4:5-6, Acts 1:9 and Phil. 2:9 mean?
2. From Phil. 2:6-8, critically analyse the qualities that led to the uplifting up of Jesus Christ by God. How can these qualities help in lifting us up as Christians?
3. Is there anything like satanic lifting? Critically discuss this in the context of Matt 4:5-6. Describe how some people were uplifted in our generation in the context of Num. 16:1-3, 32-35.
4. Discuss the Biblical injunctions for God's uplifting according to Gen 41:38-40; Matt 23:12; Jam 4:10.
There is no doubt that every good purpose of God has its satanic versions, including promotion. We should be very careful to know when satan is approaching us to improve our lives, which invariably will end in degradation (Luke 14:11). As Christians, we should always desire the virtues for humility and godliness so as to be uplifted at God's own time.
Beware! Satanic uplift starts with pride and ends in shame.
Jam 4:10: "Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up".