English bible study

             SITUATIONS CALLING FOR HEALING OF THE LAND

TOPIC:   Physical Devastation
TEXT:     Joel 1:1-20.
AIMS: To realize

1. The distressed state of our environment today;
2. The attendant economic and health-related consequences, and to
3. Recognise the need and pathway to recovery (healing).

INTRODUCTION: Ordinarily, many Christians see it as an unnecessary distraction talking about earth related and physical issues, particularly thoseabout devastation, desertification, pollution and other practices that are harmful to our environment. We tend to prefer talking about spiritual matters. However, in this study we shall discover that we are seriously mistaken! The physical challenges under which we groan may indicate that all is not well between God and man. This study analyses the causes and proffers some solution.

STUDY GUIDE
1. Describe the physical state of the environment of Joel’s day and comparetoNigeria’s today,Joel1:4, 5, 7, 9 – 12, 16 - 20.
2. a. Discuss the health implications of pollution in our environment.
b. Discuss the economic consequences of physical devastation.
c. How can this situation be remedied?Joel 1:11a, 13-14
3. a. Identify and discuss the probable natural and human factors responsible for these challenges; Joel 4, 6, 19; Judges 15:3 -5.
b. What is at the root of these devastations?Joel 1:15; Isa 13:6, 9…
c. How may the Church rise to the present challenge? Joel 1:13, 14.

CONCLUSION: The consequences of environmental degradation can be grave, if we fail to do something about it. We need to reexamine and mend our ways.Behind it may be found sin-selfishness, greed, sheer wickedness, etc. God’s wrath is yet another. The Church should lead the way through advocacy, enlightenment and repentance!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Land devastation and degradation will cease only when men cease to be self-centred and wicked.

MEMORY VERSE: Joel 1:13..