Epistle of James
Epistle of James
1914 Quater 4
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No. 78 Mountain View, Cal., October, 1914 5 Cents
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Epistle of James
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‘Sabbath-School Lessons
ON THE EPISTLE OF JAMES SENIOR 1 DIVISION
Fourth C uarter".
1914
Introductory Note AUTHORSHIP.— There are several persons mentioned in the New Testament bearing the name James : (I) the son of Zebe- dee; Mark : 19, 20; 3 : 17 ; (2) the son of Alpheus, Matt. to: 3; Mark 3: 18; (3) the Lord's brother, Matt. 13 : 55;'Mark 6 ; (4) James the Less; Mark 15 : 40 ; (5) the brother of Jude, Jude r. While there is some question as to the authorship of, the epistle of .James, it is generally conceded that it was written by James the Just, the Lord's brother. He is called "the Just" by Josephus, who says that he was. celebrated for his integrity and zeal., Dr. Adam Clarke says :. "Modern. critics are agreed, with almost entire unanimity, that 'James the brother of our Lord,' who seems to have been recognized as the chief minister 9f the church at Jerusalem, was the author of the epistle." "He resided at Jerusalem, seems,.„to,„have been married 0 Cor. 9 : 5), and was early a,re'cognized1eader in the church. Acts 12: 17; 21:..18; :Gal.. 2: 9, 12. He appears to have seen Christ shortly before His ascension (1 Cor. 15 : 7), and to have presided over the council held at Jerusalem A. D. 49. Acts 15: 13." ("Smith's Bible Dictionary.") ' • '
DATE AND PLACE.— There is some difference ,of opinion con- cerning .the date . of the epistle, the latest date assigned being A. D. 62. • "The epistle of James is generally supposed to have been written at Jerusalem, about A. D. 61, by James .to jUst, shortly before his death." (Id.)
"Many expressions and references in the epistle make it fully certain that it was written before the destruction of Jeru- salem:. It would seem, from a comparison of all the evidence that can be made to bear upon the case, that the epistle could not have- been :written earlier than A. D., 5o,..nor later than A. D. 62." Adam Clarke.
4 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY OCTOBER 3, 1914 Lesson 1— Trials; Seeking Wisdom DAILY STUDY OUTLINE Questions Notes Sunday Exhortation to nil Christians 1-4 Monday Source of true wisdom 6, 7 Tuesday …. Seeking wisdom 8-10 5 Wednesday .. The prayer of faith 11-13 Thursday … Unstability; saving faith 14,15 Friday Review the lesson LESSON SCRIPTURE: James I: 1-8 Questions 1. What does James call himself? To whom is this epistle addressed? James I : I. Note 1. 2. To what time does the instruction of this epistle extend? James 5: 3, 7-9. Note 2. 3. What experiences are we to receive with joy? James I : 2. Note 3. 4. What will the trying of our faith, if patiently en- dured, do for us? Verse 3. Note 4. 5. What scope should be given to patience? What will result to us personally if we do this? Verse 4. 6. From whom should we ask wisdom? What en- couragement is given those who thus seek? Verse 5. 7. From whom does all true wisdom and knowledge come? Jer. 8: 9. Compare James 3 : 17. 8. How does the wisdom of this world compare with that which comes from above? 1 Cor. I : 20, 25-27. 9. How are we to ask for this wisdom? James I : 6, first part. Icr. To what are those who ask with doubt compared? Verse 6, last part. Note 5. T. What kind of prayer has the Lord promised to answer? Matt. 2c1_,.; 22,; Mark 1.1..:.22-24.,
- What needithe wavering manotl think? Jame’ : 7.
- What is he who wavers through unbelief called? What is he said to be? Verse 8. SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 5
- What example is given of an unstable man? How does unstability affect the development of character? Gen. 49 : 3, 4.
-
What is possible to the one who believes God? Mark 9 : 23. Notes t. James assumes no title. He does not claim to be the Lord’s brother, or an apostle, or bishop at Jerusalem. He simply designates himself as “a servant of God,” a title which is an honor above all others. He writes to the twelve tribes scattered abroad,—to all Christians. His exhortations to faith, stability, obedience, patience, and devotion to God, while equally applicable to any age and to any people, may be especially helpful to those who live .through the conflicts of the last days. 2. As the instruction given reaches down to the last days, and Christians are designated as “the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad,” it shows that no Israel is now recognized but Christian, or spiritual Israel. This would explain how the sealing work of Rev. 7: 1-8, which gathers twelve thousand from each of the twelve tribes of Israel, can be fulfilled in the last genera- tion. 3. “The word which is here translated ‘temptation’ signifies affliction, persecution, or trial of any kind ; and in this sense is used here.”— Clarke. When temptations come, we are not to consider them as a punishment, or as some curse or calamity visited upon us because we are wicked. God’s people in all ages have been tried, many even suffering death. 4. The word “steadfastness” is given in the margin of the Revised Version instead of “patience.” This gives the true idea. A person might seemingly be very patient and yet be very un- stable. The design of all trials is to develop steadfastness, and stability is wrought into the character of the person who patiently endures trials. 5. Nothing presents a more striking symbol of unstability and restlessness than the surging, ever-changing, shifting waves of the sea, never at rest, always on the move, coming in and go- ing out, subject to wind and tide. Compare Isa. 57: 20, 21. The Lord does not want us to be like that. He exhorts us to be es- tablished on the immovable rock of faith. It is ask and receive ; seek and find. If we ask for wisdom, He will not upbraid us for .ou.r_ignorance, but from the storehouse of His fulness, will liberalrvgiv_g to us all that we need. 6 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
OCTOBER JO, 1914
Lesson 2— The Frailty of Man; The Root of Temptation DAILY STUDY OUTLINE . Questions Notes Sunday Class distinction’ ;Uwe—away,. in ‘Christ; frailty lot man 1-3 1 Monday True riches 4, 5 Tuesday …. Enduring temptation 6-10 2,3 Wednesday .. Wages of sin; danger of not knowing the Scriptures 11-18 4, 5 Thursday . Source of , every good and perfect gift 14,15 6,7 Friday Review the lesson
LESSON SCRIPTURE : James I : 9-18
cniestions
T. In what may one of low degree rejoice? James r : 9.
2. In what are.the rich to rejoice? Why should this be a -cause for rejoicing? Verse ro. Note I.
3. is the frailty of the rich man illustrated? Verse 11.
4. For what good purpose may wealth be used? Luke r6: 9=12.
5. Wbat is characteristic of those who love riches? Eecl. -Io
Upon whom , is a blessing pronounced? What is promised to those who endure temptation? James I : 12. Note 2.
7. What are the tempted not to say? Why should they not say this? Verse 13.
8. Where is the root of all temptation? Verse 14. Note 3. ' 9. What is the offspring of lust? Verse 15, first part.
Jo. When finished, what does sin bring forth? Verse -15, last part.
11. What* is the wage that sin pays? Rom. 6 : 23 ; Rev. 20 : 14. Note 4. •12. -What caution is given? James I : 16.
SABBATH -SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 7 yeason’did’ the SaviOui-, give as to why the Pharisees had…erred? Matt. 22: 29.. Note 5..
- From whom -does every gbod and perfect
come? “ is’ God’s ufichdrikeableriess .e4reSsed?’
James 1; 17. Note 6. ,,
- Is. What has’God done. for ‘us?- By what are We be-
gOtten? For
, what• ptirpbSe?, Verse
Peter. I.23.
I:23.- Note •1 :..
Notes
i. Among men there are clags distinctions, but all are one in
Christ Jesus. Christianity brings up On the same level. The
true value of a man consists in moral worth. Character is what
the Lord considers ,of value.,, Christ•did.not. die for the:talented
and wealthy’only. He died(for all. .All have equ’alOiiii3Ortunity
to be saved. The poor of this world, the ignorant, the downcast,
the downtrodden, the one of lowly rank, or humble circumstances,
though of degree” ‘in ‘man’s- sight,Ariay -,be` of more - value
in God’s sight than the. gold ..of, -Ophir.-; ‘the rich
‘ of this world;-,
without noble aspirations, covetous, and .SeIfiSh. unless they, re
pent, may only be’as a’ivithereirbranck:’:Vell; indeed, maY’siliCh
a one who.comes to himself, and seeks; the lowlinessiot:
spirit, rejoice in that -hiS. heart has:.beer’.brOlceri arid humbled.,
- Before’ we receive- the crown,.we riitigt be tested. trial that the chaff is separated from the wheat. ‘There must,be battle-fields in every life. Fire and hammer and- file- are - neces- sary to give form to metal. So character is shaped and bright- ened in trial. Those who faithfully endure the grinding, test- ing process will receive the crown. 3: The word “hist” here means desire.: . The source of all temtitation is in man himself. There maY be induceinerit to sin’; but there must be some inclination, some desire for it, - to give it power. If there were no desire, or appetite, for food, there would be no temptation -to eat even if it were placed-before us. The unrestrained man will be drawn along by his Own natural propensities to sin. Power over the sin in his own fleshly heart is the need of every
- The wages, or reward, of sin is not eternal life iri misery, and unspeakable torture in the lake of fire; but it is death, the second death, in the “fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” The righteous receive the gift of God, eternal life; the wicked the opposite, eternal death.
- Error is darkness. Truth is light. Ignorance of the Scrip- tures and of the power of God is responsible for all the •error and darkness that cover the earth, whether scientific or religious. 8 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
- Is. What has’God done. for ‘us?- By what are We be-
gOtten? For
, what• ptirpbSe?, Verse
Peter. I.23.
I:23.- Note •1 :..
Notes
i. Among men there are clags distinctions, but all are one in
Christ Jesus. Christianity brings up On the same level. The
true value of a man consists in moral worth. Character is what
the Lord considers ,of value.,, Christ•did.not. die for the:talented
and wealthy’only. He died(for all. .All have equ’alOiiii3Ortunity
to be saved. The poor of this world, the ignorant, the downcast,
the downtrodden, the one of lowly rank, or humble circumstances,
though of degree” ‘in ‘man’s- sight,Ariay -,be` of more - value
in God’s sight than the. gold ..of, -Ophir.-; ‘the rich
‘ of this world;-,
without noble aspirations, covetous, and .SeIfiSh. unless they, re
pent, may only be’as a’ivithereirbranck:’:Vell; indeed, maY’siliCh
a one who.comes to himself, and seeks; the lowlinessiot:
spirit, rejoice in that -hiS. heart has:.beer’.brOlceri arid humbled.,
- God is always the same, at all seasons and in all ages. “For I am the Lord, I change not.” There is no alteration in His character, His purposes, His plans. What Be was in the eter- nity of the past, He will be countless ages yet to come. Human affairs change, nations pass away, but God is the same. We have to-day the same blessed Christ that healed the sick and comforted the sorrowful when on earth. Heb. I : 10-12; 13:8.
-
The word from which the phrase “begat He us” is trans- lated is the same that in verse 15 is rendered “bringeth forth.” Sin “bringeth forth” death, but the word of God “bringeth forth” life. It is the voice of God, His word, that “bringeth forth” the dead out of their dusty beds at the resurrection.
OCTOBER 17, 1914Lesson 3 — The Engrafted Word; Pure Religion DAILY STUDY OUTLINE Questions Notes Sunday Instruction In hearing and speaking 1-3 1 Monday The engrafted Word; hearing and doing 4-8 2 Tuesday The Christian’s mirror; bridling the tongue 9-12 3, 4 Wednesday .. Pure religion 13, 14 5 Thursday … Complete surrender to God; trans- formation of character 15, 18 Friday Review the lesson
LESSON SCRIPTURE: James I: 19-27
Questions
I. What instruction is given with reference to how we should hear? What in reference to speaking? What concerning anger? James i : 19. Note I.
2. What similar instruction is given by the apostle Paul? Eph. 5 :4; Col. 3 : 8.
3. Why should we be slow to wrath? James : 20.
4. What are we admonished to lay aside? Verse 21, first part.
5. What are we to receive? What is this Word able to do? Verse 21, last part. Note 2.
6. What is necessary upon our part, that the Word may benefit us? Verse 22.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON’ QUARTERLY 9 7. To whom is the man who hears, but does not obey, compared? What does he do? What does he forget? Verses 23, 24. 8. By what illustration did the Saviour show the folly of this course? Matt. 7: 24-27. 9. What constitutes the great Christian mirror? To whom is a blessing promised? James i : 25. Note 3. 1o. By what is a vain profession of religion shown? Verse 26. Note 4. 1. From what should the tongue ever be withheld? I Peter 3: io; Ps. 34: 13.
- What did the psalmist say he would do in this matter? Ps. 39 : I.
- How is pure religion defined? James I : 27. Note 5.
- How much is embraced in the expression “un- spotted from the world”? i John 2 : 15, 16. 15., How thorough should be our surrender to God? Rom. 12: I.
- To what should we not be conformed? What transformation should be experienced? Why should this change take place? Verse 2. Notes I. “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin.” Prov. to: 10. “He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life.” Prov. 13: 3. “Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter anything before God.” Eccl. 5: 2. Many times we have occasion to regret that we have spoken, but seldom that we remained silent. 2. The Revised Version reads the “implanted Word”; and in the margin, the “inborn Word.” The word of God implanted in the heart creates us new creatures in Christ Jesus. “Having been begotten again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorrupti- ble, through the word of God who liveth and abideth.” I Peter I : 23, A. R. V., margin. 3. It is not enough to look occasionally into the great mirror of God’s law ; because, as in looking into a glass, we soon lose sight of the defects shown us. We should continually look into the law of God, by which sin is revealed, not being forgetful 0 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON. QUARTERLY,
hearers, but doers of the Word. (Some endeavor to destroy the law, because it reveals defects and failures in their lives. This is no’Nviser than it would be to da:h a mirror into fragments. lie- cause it revealed defects in our persons or clothing. Such are like the Hindu who, when the microscope made known to him the fact that there were living Organisins in’the water he drank, at once destroyed the microscope. 4. “Many _will. be weighed in the balance and found wanting in this matter of so great importance. Where are the Christians who walk by this rule? Who will take God’s part against the evil speaker? who will please God, and, set a watch, a continual watch, before the mouth, and keep the door of the lips? Speak evil of no man. Hear evil of no man. If there be no hearers, there will be no speakers of evil. If any one speaks evil in your presence, check him. Refuse to hear him, though his manner be ever ,so soft, and his accents mild. He may profess attachment, and yet throw out covert hints and stab the char- acter in the dark.”—”Testimonies for the Church,” volume 2, page 54. 5. Much is said about the need of the physical nature for Pure water, pure air, and pure food. But that which is of the greatest importance is pure religion. It is possible to drink pure water, breathe pure air, and eat pure food, and yet be cor- rupt in heart, and have a censorious, domineering character. Only by the power of God, through the Holy Spirit, can the wicked, deceitful heart of man be changed.
OCTOBER 24, 1914
Lesson 4 — God No Respecter of Persons; The
Judgment Standard
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Questions Notes Sunday God no respecter of persons 1-6 1 Monday Our attitude toward all men 7, 8 2 Tuesday .... Oppressing the poor; the royal law 9,10 `3 Wednesday .. Transgressors of the law 11-13 4 Thursday Standard of God's Judgment 14,15 Friday. RevieW 'the lesson
LESSON SCBIPTURE: James 2:
Questions A. With what exhortation does this chapter. open? James : T. Note 1.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY II
2. How are the rich and the poor frequently disz tinguished? Verse 2.
3. How was.- respect of persons often manifested? Verse 3.
4. What had those who made these distinctions be- come? Verse 4.
5. How does God look upon the inhabitants of this world? Ps. 33: 13-16.
6. What did the apostle Peter perceive? Acts to: 34, 35-
7. What should be our attitude toward all men? Prov. 24 : 23; 28: 21. Note 2.
8. To whom is the kingdom of God promised? Matt. 5:3, 5, 1o.
9. What charge is made against some? What do the rich do? James 2 : 6, 7. 10. How is the royal law fulfilled? Verse 8. ,Com-' pare Matt. 22 : 3,5-4o. Note •3. -•4
1. What do those• who have respect"Oi persons , do? By what is this sin shown? James 2 : 9. • 12. Of what are those guilty who offend in but one point? Verse 10. Note 4. 13. How is this illustrated? Verse 11. 14. What is this law called? How are we exhorted to speak? Verse 12. 15. How will those be judged who have shown no mercy? Verse 13.
Notes z. The Revised Version, margin, of this text reads, "My brethren, do ye, in accepting persons, hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord .of glory?" None who profess the. pure and undefiled religion of our Lord should countenance any. dis- tinction, or manifest any partiality, among members of the church, because of difference in wealth or social standing. We are all one in Christ Jesus. 2. While God is no respecter of persons, He is a respecter of character. He will immortalize a 'pure and holy chafacter in His
I2 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON- QUARTERLY
kingdom. We, too, should love and respect good character, no matter in whom it may be found. 3. We are here cited to the higher, supreme law, before which all will stand on an equality. There will- be no rich or poor, no high or low. Right and wrong, guilt and innocence alone will be considered. It is the “royal law” because it is the law of the great King. Before this law all must how. By it all differences must finally be settled. 4. The moral law “is that revelation of the divine will which relates to the duties men owe both to their Maker and to their fellow men, or neighbors, as explained in Luke 10 : 33-37. This law is spiritual and perfect, extending to all the inward creations and outward actions of men, and can never be changed or an- nulled.Binney’s Theological Compend,” page 153.)”
OCTOBER 31, 1914
Lesson 5 — Faith and Works
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Questions Notes Sunday Faith without works 1-3 1, 2 Monday Real faith prompted by love 4-7 3, 4 Tuesday .... Au example of perfect faith S, 9 5 Wednesday .. Justification by faith 10-12 Thursday ... Rahab's faith; illustration of a
dead faith 13, 14 Friday Review the lesson
LESSON SCRIPTURE: James 2: 14-26
. Questions
- What questions does James ask concerning faith? James 2 : 14. Note 1.
- By what illustration does he make plain the mean- ing of his question? Verses 15, 16. Note 2.
- What conclusion is drawn? Verse 17.
- What does real faith do? Gal. 5 : 6.
- What objection is propounded? What challenge is made in reply? James 2: 18. Note 3.
- How is faith in the existence of God commended? What is said concerning the faith of the fallen angels? Verse 19. Note 4.
- What conclusion is again drawn? Verse 20. SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 13
8. What question is asked concerning Abraham? Verse 21.
9. What was it that wrought the works? How was the perfection of faith shown? Verse 22. Note 5. 1o. What scripture was thus fulfilled? What is Abra- ham called? Verse 23.
1. How is this same truth stated by the apostle Paul? Rom. 4 : 1-5. 12. What conclusion is drawn from the example of Abraham? James 2 : 24. 13. What further example is given of justification by faith? Verse 25. 14. What impressive illustration is given of a dead faith? Verse 26.
Notes
i. "Can faith save him?"—Yes, real faith can save the soul. "By grace are ye saved, through faith." "He that believeth . . shall be saved." Works can not save us. We are saved by faith alone. But the writer of this epistle is seeking to show that the mere profession of faith does not prove that we have faith. James is setting forth the emptiness of the claim when there is no fruit in the life as proof. A sign advertising wares for sale is not sure evidence that the goods are within. The meaning here seems to be that that faith which a man may claim to have, but which does not manifest itself in a holy life, will save no one, for it is not genuine faith.
2. The apostle Paul speaks of the "work of faith." i Thess. : 3. Faith is living, and manifests itself in good works. That kind of faith which will permit a man to say, "I have faith," and at the same time allow the destitute and naked to go unfed and unclothed, when he might minister to their needs, is of no avail. It is dead. It does not exist in reality. Such a person does not really believe. He is professing to be what he is not. The fruit seen in the life will determine whether or not we have real faith. The tree is known by the fruit.
3. "The word which is rendered 'yea' would be better ren- dered by 'but.' The apostle designs to introduce an objection, not to make an affirmation. The sense is, 'Some one might say,' or, 'To this it might be urged in reply.' That is, it might perhaps be said that religion is not always manifested in the same way, or we should not infer, because it is not always exhibited in the
14 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
same form, that it does not exist:” One man may manifest it in one way, and another in another, and still both have true piety: One may be distinguished for his. faith, and another for his works, and both may have real religion.”:— Barnes. “But it must be a living faith — a’ faith that showS’its sincer- ity by the sacrifices of self which it makes, by the .works of love which it performs. A merely intellectual orthodoxy may be held by demons. A mere profession of faith may be worth no niore than the body of a man without the breath of life. A true faith loves, works, lives. It regulates the conscience, the. speech, and the life, by the . conviction of God’s constant presence; it shows its appreciation of spiritual realities by separation from• the world. It takes the law of God as a reality, and, bringing its grand truths and inspiring motives to bear directly upon, the conduct of every day, works by love.”—”Bible in the Hoine,” page 115. 4. A.mere intellectual belief is not faith. It will save no„one. The fallen angels intellectually believe in a God. They know He exists. They have been in heaven. They know something of His nature and majesty, though engaged in warfare against Him. Their belief does not lead them to repentance. It terri- fies them. They tremble at the knowledge of the ‘future which their belief reveals to them. Many have what ‘might be termed an intellectual belief in the existence of God; and in tliinspira- tion of the Word, yet continue in sin:. Real faith ‘leads to a refor- Mation Of life, a surrendering of all to God, manifested in a seiv. ice of love. 5. “There are many who fail to understand the relation of faith and works. They say, ‘Only believe in Christ,-and you are safe. You have nothing. to do with keeping the law’. ,are genuine faith will be - manifest in obedience.”=”Patriarchs and Prophets,” pages 153, 154.
'NOVEMBER 7, 1914
Lesson 6 — The Tongue
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE - - - ,
. - . 'Questions N0€8 Sunday Believers cautioned; test of one's
power to control the body .... 1-4 1,-2 Monday The "unruly member" .. ........ , . 5-8 3,4 Tuesday Our words; will stand for or
against us in the Judgment ... 9-11 Wednesday Unsuccessful attempts to tame thC
tongue 12,1s Thursday ... Exhortations to those desiring fife l4-16 Friday Review the lesson L -' ' *
LESSON SCRIPTURE : James 3 : 1-9
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON, QUARTERLY 15 Questions . I. Against what did James caution the believers? What reason is given for the caution?. James 3: I. Note i. • 2. Whatclo we all do? Verse 2, first part. ,• 3. ‘What is the test of one’s power. to control - the whole body? Verse 2, last .part. Note 2. , . 4. How does the wise man state the same thing? Prov. 13 : 3 ; 29: II, 20. 5. How are horsesmade obedient? James 3 : 3., 6. How .are ships controlled? Verse 4. 7. How is the tongue described? Verse 5. Note 3. 8. Bow is the “.unruly member” further described? How does it sometimes affect believers? Verse 6. Note 4. 9. What do our words- reveal? Matt. 12: 34; Luke
- 44, 45.
•- io. By what will we be judged at the last day? Matt.
12 :36, 37.
- What exhortation does Solomon therefore give con- cerning our words? Eccl. 5 : 2 ; Prov. 10 : 19.
- What success have men had in training animals? * James 3: 7:
- What success has attended their efforts to bring the tongue into subjection?. What is said of the tongue? Verse 8.
- What inconsistent rise is often made of the tongue? Verse 9. •
- What exhortation- is, given those who desire.!life? Ps. 13. “•: • “• ,
- Whit should lieciur .prayer? PS.141:3. Notes, i. The plan of this epistle seems to be to notice such things as needed to be especially eori-ected. Some of the errors. and improprieties that: .eNisted, among the people have .beeri rioticed in . the.prieviotts ChaPter. Others are notieed in this chapter. The 12.eyiia.’ ‘Version’ thig’i;’erk reads, -“Be”-niit’inanY Of you teachers, my brethren,,ltriErWing- that we:shall receive;heavier 16 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
judgment.- “Evidently designed to censure the false mania for teaching, the dogmatizing contentiousness which is thoroughly characteristic of Judaizing Christians.” (Lange.) 2. “He who truly masters his words will master his works.” 3. The Revised Version, margin, reads, “Behold, how great a forest is kindled by how small a fire!” The figure is that of a wide-spread conflagration kindled by the incendiary work of an unruly, unsanctified tongue. 4. “Setteth on fire the wheel of nature.” R. V. This indicates how an unbridled tongue can completely possess and have a reflex influence on the soul, changing the whole course of human life into a great fire wheel of destruction. “Set on fire of hell.” The word “hell” is not here translated .from the word hades, or the grave, but ge henna. The unsanctified, unruly tongue kindles in the family, in the church, in the neighborhood, the flames of gehenna –“fire of hell.” We should individually take heed that we do not kindle .the first spark of this awful devastation. How often this “fire of hell” has been kindled in churches and communities by the improper use of the tongue! Nothing will drive the Holy Spirit from the life more effectually than a wrong use of this unruly member. An unbridled, unconsecrated tongue may be a remorseless tool of Satan. There is no more infamous instrument of evil than the tongue of the gossiper, the tattler, the backbiter, and the slanderer. There are many tearful eyes, broken hearts, ruined homes, and blasted lives, as the result of the wrong use of the tongue. Churches-have been ruined and neighborhoods disgraced by busybodies and scandal-mongers:-
NOVEMBER 14, 1914
Lesson 7 — The Tree Known by the Fruit
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE Questions Notes Sunday Inconsistencies in the life 1-5 1-3 Monday What our words reveal; true
wisdom 6-8 4,5 Tuesday .... The terrible results of envy and
strlfeAn—the—heare 9-11 6 Wednesday .. Laying aside all evil speaking 12-14 Thursday ... The fruit of righteousness 15,16 7 Friday Review the lesson LESSON SCRIPTURE : James 3: io-i8
Questions i. After speaking concerning an unruly tongue, what inconsistency in the life does James mention? What is said of this? James 3: 10. Note T.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 17
2. What does Solomon say concerning the power of the tongue? Prov. 18: 21.
3. What illustration is used to show the incongruity of such a life? James 3 : 1. Note 2.
4. By what pertinent question setting forth other il- lustrations drawn from nature is the inconsistency of such a life further emphasized? Verse 12. Note 3.
5. By what illustration did Jesus set forth this same truth? Matt. 7: I5-20.
6. What do our words reveal? Luke 6 : 45 ; Matt. 12 : 33-35.
7. By what are true wisdom and understanding re- vealed? James 3 : 13. Note 4.
8. Through what was the true light made known to the world? John I : 4 ; 9 : 5. Note 5.
9. If we have strife in the heart, what are we bidden not to do? James 3 : 14. Note 6. 10. From what source does such wisdom come? Verse 15.
I. What is the fruitage of envy and strife? Verse 16. 12. What are we earnestly exhorted to lay aside? I Peter 2: 1. 13. What led the people to crucify Christ? Matt. 27: 18 ; Mark 15 : 10. 14. What comparison does Solomon make between a sound heart and one filled with envy? Prov. 14 : 30. 15. What is said of the wisdom from above? James 3 : 17. 16. How is the fruit of righteousness sown? By whom is it sown? Verse 18. Note 7.
Notes I. "These things ought not so to be." That is, they must not be, they are not fitting. 2. No fountain is both sweet and bitter. Be the stream of water ever so small that comes into the fountain of pure water through some opening or fissure in the rock, the whole stream is
18 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
made bitter. No such inconsistency is found in nature as for a fountain to send forth both fresh water and salt, and none such should be found in the life of any individual, especially a Chris- tian. 3. Four illustrations are given, showing the inconsistency of living such a contradictory life: (a) a fountain; (b) a fig-tree; (c) a vine; (d) salt water. A fountain can not produce sweet water and bitter; a fig-tree can not produce olive berries; a•vitie can not bear figs; the sea can not yield fresh water. According to the ordinary operations of nature, these things are iMpossible. All these illustrations are used to show the utter impossibility of depravity and virtue dwelling in the same heart, or of th_love of God dwelling in the heart when hatred and maliee are cherished. 4. Proud, haughty, disdainful, unholy persons may pass for great scholars, and have the reputation of being very learned, but such do not have true wisdom. This comes from above, and is revealed in a holy life. • 5. That “the life is the light” is .true of Christ’s followers also. We are epistles known and read of men. Our words have but little weight unless they are emphasized by a consistent life. 6. “If ye be under the influence of an unkind, fierce,’ and con- temptuous spirit, even while attempting or pretending to defend true religion, do not boast. . . . Ye have no religion, and no true wisdom; and to profess either is to lie against the truth.”— Clarke. • 7. “Sown in peace.” Fields are not sown with grain in the tumult of a mob, or in a battle. Nothing is more peaceful than a farmer going forth with measured tread to scatter seed over his field. “The whole effect, therefore, of religion is to produce peace. It is all peace—peace in the original and in its results; in the’ heart of the individual, and in society; on earth, and in heaven.” — Barnes.
NOVEMBER 21, 1914
Lesson 8 — Friendship with the World; Its Results
DAILY STUDY. OUTLINE •. „ Questions Notes Sunday Personal application of strife
among the members 1-3 1,2 Monday Prayer; Jesus' example; things
that binder 4-7 3 Tuesday .... Friendship with the world S-11 4, 5 Wednesday .. Submitting to God; resisting the '
enemy " '12-15 6 Thursday ... An earnest admonition 16 Friday Review the lesson
LESSON SCRIPTURE : James 4: 1-8,
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 19 Questions 1. With what question does tl-iis chapter open? What answer is given? James I. Note 1. 2. How ‘is strife among members described? Verse 2, first part. 3. To what lack, is their condition attributed? Verse 2, last part. Note 2. 4. What encouragement have we to pray? John 14 : 13 ; Luke 11 : 9-13; Matt. 21 : 22. 5. What example did Jesus leave us in this matter? Mark 1: 35; Luke 5 : 15, 16 ; 6 : 12. 6. What did James say had hindered answer to prayer? James 4: 3. Note 3. 7. What similar instruction, is given elsewhere in the Word? Ps. 66: 18; Isa. i : 13-15. Compare I John 3: 22 ; John 9: 31. 8. What are professed Christians who unite with the world called? What is- the:friendship of the world said to be? James 4: 4, first part. 9. What is said of one who is a friend of the world? Verse 4, last part. Note 4. Compare i John 2: 15, 16. o. In what words did Jesus state the same truth? Matt. 6 : 24. 1. What question does James ask? James 4: 5. Note 5.
- Whom does the Lord resist? To whom is grace given? Verse 6. Note 6.
- How are we counseled to relate ourselves to God? What attitude are we to maintain toward the enemy? Verse 7. 14.. How did Jesus, when tempted, resist the enemy? Matt. 4 : I-Io.
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How successful was He in resisting the tempter’s power? Verse 11. Compare Isa. 59 : 19. 20 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
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What earnest admonition to personal godliness is given? James 4:8. Note 7. Notes I. Hitherto the instruction and admonitions seem to have been somewhat general. But now the application is made more personal: “Whence come wars and fightings among you.” “Not public or national wars, nor yet conflicts in the courts, but rather quarrels growing out of their selfishness and unchari- tableness.”— Clarke. 2. “Ye have not, because ye ask not.” One of the great causes of all spiritual death, and strife in homes and churches, is here pointed out. It is the lack of prayer. 3. “The general sense is: If you prayed aright, this feeling of continued craving after more of worldly things would not exist. All your proper wants would be supplied ; and these im- proper ones, which beget wars and fightings among you, would not exist.”— Alford. 4. This world has its god. We can not worship the God of heaven and the god of this world. Those who bow before the god of this world are truly the enemies of God. “How strange it is that people professing Christianity can suppose that with a worldly spirit, worldly companions, and their lives governed by worldly maxims, they can be in favor of God, or have a place in the kingdom of heaven! When the world gets into the church, the church becomes a painted sepulcher, its spiritual vitality being extinct.”— Clarke. 5.,The Revised Version, margin, reads: “Or think ye that the Scripture speaketh in vain? That Spirit which He made to dwell in us yearneth for us even unto jealous envy.” This rendering contains a promise of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit to resist envy. 6. “The sure way to please God is to submit to the dispen- sations of His grace and providence ; and when a man acknowl- edges Him in all his ways, He will direct all his steps. The covetous man grasps at the shadow and loses the substance.” — Clarke. 7. “The heathen and the Jews were accustomed to wash their hands before they engaged in public worship. The par- ticular idea here is, that in order to obtain the favor of God, it is necessary to put away our sins; to approach Him with a pur- pose and desire to be pure and holy. The mere washing of the hands, in itself, could not recommend us to His favor; but that of which the washing of the hands would be an emblem would be accepted in His sight. It may he inferred from what is said here that no one can hope for the favor of God who does not abandon transgression.”— Barnes. SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 9
NOVEMBER 28, 1914
Lesson 9 — Judging; Vanity of Earthly Things
DAILY STUDY OUTLINE
Questions Notes Sunday Exhortation to repentance and hu-
mility; speaking evil of one
another 1-4 1-3 Monday Judging others 5-8 4 Tuesday .... Presumptuous planning concern-
ing this life 9,10 5,0 Wednesday .. The frailty of man 11-13 7 Thursday ... Boasting; result of not doing what
we know is right 14,15 Friday Review the lesson
LESSON SCRIPTURE : James 4: 9-17
Questions
I. What exhortation to deep repentance does the writer of this epistle next give? James 4: 9. Note 1.
2. What further admonition is given? If this is heeded, what blessed result will follow? Verse 10. Note 2.
3. What are we admonished not to do? Verse II, first part.
4. Of what are those guilty who speak evil of their brethren? What do those become who do this? Verse I i, last part. Note 3.
5. What similar instruction is given by Jesus? Matt. 7: I, 2.
6. In what words does the apostle Paul emphasize the same truth? Rom. 2 : I ; Eph. 4: 29-31.
7. What instruction does the apostle Peter give con- cerning evil speaking? I Peter 2: I.
8. How many true sources of law are there? What is this Lawgiver able to do? What searching personal question is asked? James 4: 12. Note 4.
9. What class are especially addressed? What are these persons represented as saying? Verse 13. Note 5. 10. How is the uncertainty of life pointed out? Verse 14. Note 6.
22 ‘ SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
1. How is the weakness and frailty of man expressed by the psalmist? Ps. 39: 5. 12. How does die' prophet Isaiah set forth the brevity of man's life? Isa. 4o:6. 13. What ought we therefore .to say, in all the affairs of this life? James 4: 15. Note 7. 14. In what were they rejoicing? What is said of this kind of rejoicing? Verse 16. 15. What is the sad result of failing to do what we know is right? Verse 17.
Notes
I. James continues his exhortation and admonition to those who through lack of Christian experience were guilty of the things mentioned in the previous lesson. Thorough repentance and humiliation of heart are demanded from those who trans- gress the instruction of the Lord.
2. "Mourners and penitents lay on the ground and rolled themselves in the dust. When comforted and pardoned, they arose from the earth, shook themselves from the dust, and clothed themselves in their better garments. God promises to raise men from the dust, when they are truly humbled."— Clarke.
3. "There is nothing more decidedly condemned in the Scrip- tures than the habit of pronouncing a judgment on the motives and conduct of others. There is nothing in which we are more liable to err, or to indulge in wrong feelings'; and there is noth- ing which God claims more for Himself as His peculiar prerog- ative."— Barnes.
4. Those who judge usurp the office and prerogative of the supreme Judge. As God alone knows the heart and can read the motives, He alone can be the Judge. Those, therefore, who assume to judge others, put themselves in the place of God, which is the essence of the papacy. ' 5. The custom of ancient times is probably referred to here. The people traded from city to city, carrying their goods on their backs. Presumptuously planning concerning the things of this life, while leaving God out of the reckoning, and taking no account of the vicissitudes and uncertainties of life, is rebuked. The evil of fixing a definite time, designating the exact period (luring which they would remain, and when they would return, without any reference to God's will or purpose, is pointed out. This contains a searching lesson for this time.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 23
- The Revised Version reads: “What is your life?. For ye are a vapor that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” Surely man, being but vapor, has nothing whereof to boast: How needful that he lay hold upon an enduring sub- stance!
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“Not only oui- doing depends on the Will of the Lord, but also, first of all, life itself.”— Lange.
DECEMBER 5, 1914 •
Lesson 10 — Last Day Conditions; Exhortations to Patience DAILY STUDY OUTLINE Questions Notes Sunday ……. Distress among the rich 1-4 1-3 ;Hondas’ Oppression of the poor 5-7 4 Tuesday …. Exhortation to patience; the early and the latter rain 8-10 5,6 Wednesday .. The great day near at hand 11-13 Thursday … Murmur not; example of suffering affliction, and patience 14,15 7 Friday Review the lesson
LESSON SCRIPTURE: James 5: I-to
Questions
1. What distress among the rich does James describe? James 5 : I.
2. What is said of the condition of their earthly treasures? Verse 2. Note I.
3. What is said of their gold and silver? What will the rust be? Verse 3, first part. Note 2. 4. To what time is this accumulation of wealth espe- cially applied? Verse 3, last part. Note 3.
5. How are those who labor represented as being treated? Who listens to their cry of distress? Verse 4. 6. To what purpose have the rich employed their wealth? What have they worshiped? How is the terrible time in which they live described? Verse 5. Compare Eze. 9 : 4-8. 7. What acts of oppression have the rich committed? James 5 : 6. Note 4.
24 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
- What are the believers exhorted to do? Until what time? Verse 7, first part.
- What illustration is used to make clear what is meant by being patient? Verse 7, last part. Compare Rom. 12’: 19. Note 5.
- What exhortation is repeated? What should be the condition of the heart? James 5 : 8, first part. Note 6. t. What great event is near at hand? Verse 8, last part.
- What admonition did Jesus give those who were to be living at the time of His coming? Matt. 24 : 44-5’.
- What similar counsel did the apostle Paul give? Rom. 13: t1-t3.
- What are we told not to do? Why should we avoid this? Who is at the door? James 5 : 9. Note 7.
- Who is set forth as our example at this time? Verse 10. Notes I. “The, term ‘riches’ is to be taken . . . generically for all kinds of property having a money value which is proverbially liable to loss or perishing.”— Clarke. 2. “A witness.” “Their putrefied stores, moth-eaten garments, and tarnished coin are so many proofs that it was not for want of property that they did not help the poor, but through selfish- ness and avarice they defrauded the poor.” • “Eat your flesh as it were fire.” “This is a very bold and striking figure. He represents the rust of their ‘coin as becoming a canker that should produce gangrenes and phagedenous ulcers in their flesh, till it should be eaten away from their bones.”— Clarke. 3. “In a paper on ‘The Concentration of Wealth,’ Henry L. Call, of Washington, D. C., says : ‘Fifty years ago there were not to exceed fifty millionaires in the United States, and their combined fortunes did not exceed probably one hundred million dollars, or one per cent of the then aggregate wealth of the nation. To-day a bare one per cent of our population owns practically ninety-nine per cent of the entire wealth of the nation.’ “—”Capital and Labor.” 4. “And he doth not resist.” The poor have no one to plead their cause while they are groaning under the load of injustice SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 25
and oppression. But if they wait patiently, the One into whose ears their cry has entered will give justice and equity to all. 5. The reference to the early and the latter rain has a broader application. The early rain was the rain of seed-time, the latter rain was the rain of ripening for the harvest. The first fell in Judea about November; the second toward the end of April, when the ears of grain were filling. Without these the earth would have been unfruitful. In like manner the former rain of the Spirit fell at Pentecost to water the seed. The latter rain is to fall to ripen the harvest of the earth. We are to be patient until then. 6. In the time of trial, we are not to grow impatient, and seek, as many do, to right wrongs by resorting to force and questionable methods; but we should look forward patiently to the time when Jesus will come, and render a just reward to every man. 7. “Groan not; grumble not; do not murmur through im- patience ; and let not any ill treatment which you receive induce you to vent your feelings in imprecations against your op- pressors. Leave all this in the hands of the Lord.”— Clarke.
DECEMBER 12, 1914
Lesson 11 — Patience; Prayer for the Sick ; Saving a Sinner DAILY STUDY OUTLINE Qtt eations Notes Sunday Patience; attributes of God’s char- acter; a strong admonition 1-3 1,2 Monday Prayer for the sick 4-7 3-6 Tuesday …. Prevailing prayer; example 8-10 7 Wednesday .. Our attitude toward those who trespass against us 11,12 Thursday … Saving a sinner 13,14 Friday Review the lesson
LESSON SCRIPTURE : James 5 : 11-20 Questions i. Who are counted blessed? Of what have we heard? What have we seen? What beautiful attributes of God’s character are seen? James 5 : I I. Note i.
- What strong admonition is given? Verse 12.
- What counsel did the Saviour give concerning this same matter? Matt. 5 : 33-37. Note 2. 26 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
4. What are the afflicted to do? The merry? James 5:,13. Note 3.
5. What are the sick exhorted to do? What are the elders to do? Verse 14: Note 4.
6. What will the prayer of faith do? What blessing is assured to those who are raised up in answer.. to prayer? Verse 15. Note 5.
7. What should those desiring to be healed., do? Verse 16, first part. Note 6:
8: What is said of ferVent prayer? Verse r6, last pirt.'
9. What example is given of the power of _prevailing: supplication? Verses 17, 18. Note 7. io..What assurance haS Jesus given its that our prayers will be. answered? John. 1.4': 13 ; Mark IL: 22-24.
II What is' said of the--one who succeeds in turning a sinner from the error of his ways? James 5: 19, 20. 12. When a brother trespasses against us, what did Jesus instruct us to do? Matt. 18 : 15-17. 13. How does the Lord regard the saving of a soul? Luke `i5: IO. 14. How is this same comforting truth expressed by one of the prophets? Eze. 18 : 23 32.
'Notee
s. "The end of the Lord." The word "end" here means object. There was a purpose in the trial and affliction of Job." The Lord was working toward an end. It is even so. in -the trials and afflictions that He permits to befall each of us. .In• trial we are to learn that the Lord is pitiful and compassionate.
2. "Our Saviour did not, however, forbid the use of the judicial oath, in which God is .solemnly called to witness that what is said is ale truth, and nothing but the truth. Jesus Himself; at His trial before the Sanhedrin, did not refuse to testify under oath. The high priest said unto Him, 'I adjure Thee by the living God, that Thou tell us whether Thou be the Christ, the Son of God.' Jesus answered, 'Thou hast said.' Had Christ, in the Sermon on the Mount, condemned the judicial oath, He would at His trial have reproved the high priest, and thus, for the benefit of His followers, have enforced His own teach- ing."—"Mount of Blessing."
() • t 0 Li-
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 27
- “The remedy is prayer.; not necessarily to obtain the reward of trial, but at any rate for the increase of faith, to raise the spirits, so that we be comforted and of good cheer.”—”Speaker’s Commentary.”
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“In the word of God we have instruction relative to special prayer for the recovery of the sick. But the offering of such prayer is a most solemn act, and should not be entered upon without careful consideration. In many cases of prayer• for the healing of the sick, that which is called faith is nothing .less than presumption.”—”Ministry of Healing,” page 227. Read the entire chapter on this subject. 5. “It is labor lost to teach people to look to God as a healer of their infirmities, unless they are taught ,also to aside un- healthful practises. In order to receive His blessing in answer to prayer, they must cease. to do evil and learn to do well.’ Their surroundings must be .sanitary, their habits of life correct. They must liVe in harmony with the law of God, both natural and spiritual.”— Id., pages 227, 228. •6. “If any who are seeking health have been guilty of evil speaking, if they have sowed discord in the home, the neighbor- hood, or the church, and have stirred up alienation and dissen- sion; if by any wrong practise they have led others into sin, these things should- be confessed before God’ and before those who have been offended.”— Id., page 229. 7. It would be helpful, in the study of this lesson, to read carefully the story of Elijah’s remarkable experience recorded in. i .Kings, chapters 17, 18. We should remember that Elijah was a man like ourselves, having the same passions and desires; and what God did for him in answer to prayer, He is able and willing to do for us, if we continue in prayer as Elijah did.
DECEMBER 19, 1914 Lesson 12 — Covetousness DAILY STUDY OUTLINE Q re est- Vs Notex SuzdaY The sin of covetousness 1-7, 1-4' Monday Root of evil; qualifications of men chosen anciently as leaders ,of God's people S-10 Tuesday All things belong to God; our re- lation to them 11-13 Wednesday The Lord's charge against His peo- ple; the sad result 14,15 5 Thursday Blessing to those who repent 16,17 Friday Review the lesson28 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Questions i. Repeat the tenth commandment. Ex. 20: 17. Note 1. 2. What warning did the Saviour utter against covet- ousness? Luke 12 : 15. Note 2. 3. By what parable did He emphasize this solemn warning? Verses 16-21. 4. How is covetousness defined by the apostle Paul? Col. 3 : 5. Note 3. 5. What will be the awful end of all idolaters? Eph. 5 : 5 ; Rev. 22: 15. 6. How does the Lord regard a covetous person? Ps. 10: 3. 7. What was the sin of Achan? Joshua 7: 20, 21. Note 4. 8. What is the root of all evil? How have some erred in this matter? What has been the sad result? I Tim. 6: 10. 9. What warning does the apostle give? Verse 11. 1o. What kind of persons were to be chosen anciently as leaders among God's people? Ex. 18: 21. 1. To whom do all things in the earth belong? To whom do we belong? Ps. 24: i ; 50:9-12 ; Haggai 2 : 8. - What is man’s relationship to all these things? Luke 19: 13.
- How much of all we have is holy to the Lord? Lev. 27 : 30-33.
- What charge does the Lord bring against His people? Mal. 3: 8. Note 5.
- What is the sad result of robbing God? Verse 9.
- What blessing is promised to those who repent? Verses io, 11.
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What promise is made to those who hate covet- ousness? Prov. 28: 16. SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 29
Notes I. "The greatest sin which now exists in the church is covet- ousness."—"Testimonies for the Church," volume I, page 194. - “I saw that anciently the covetousness of some led them to withhold a suitable proportion; they made their offering stinted. This was recorded in heaven, and they were cursed in their har- vest and their flocks just as they withheld. Some were visited with affliction in their families. God would not accept a lame offering.”—Id., page 221.
- “The word of God defines covetousness as idolatry. It is impossible for men and women to keep the law of God and love money. The heart’s affections should be placed upon heavenly things. Our treasure should be laid up in heaven ; for where our treasure is, there will our heart be also.”—Id., volume 3, page 13o.
- “A concealed golden wedge and a Babylonish garment troubled the entire camp of Israel. The frown of God was brought upon the people because of the sin of one man. Thou- sands were slain upon the field of battle because God would not bless and prosper a people among whom there was even one sinner, one who had transgressed His word.”—Id., page 239.
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“I saw that many who profess to be keeping the command- ments of God are appropriating to their own use the means which the Lord has intrusted to them, and which should come into His treasury. They rob God in tithes and in offerings. They dissemble, and withhold from Him to their own hurt. They bring leanness and poverty upon themselves and darkness upon the church, because of their covetousness, their dissembling, and their robbing God in tithes and offerings.”— Id., page 269.
DECEMBER 26, 1914 Lesson 13 — Review The thirteenth Sabbath offering for this quarter is to be given to the work in the Malaysian mission field. The amount asked is $14,600. "Over against the treasury He sits, To see what gifts thou bring'st to Him. He knows The riches of thy store, and truly weighs The portion thou dost spare, to tell thy love." DAILY STUDY OUTLINE Lessons James Sunday Trials; seeking wisdom; frailty of man; the root of tempta- tion 1, 2 1: 1-18 Monday The engrafted Word; pure relig- • ion; God no respecter of per- 3,4 1:19-27 sons; the Judgment standard 2: 1-1330 SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Lessons James Tuesday .... Faith and works; the tongue .. 5, 6 2: 14-26 3: 1-9 Wednesday .. The tree known by the fruit; - friendship with the world; 7, 8 3: 10-18 its results 4: 1-8 Thursday ... Judging; the vanity of earthly things; last-day conditions; 9, 10 419-17 exhortations 5: 1-10 Friday Patience; prayer for the sick; 11.,,,2 5.: 11-20 saving a sinnert-eovotoomness Questions 1. Who is the author of this epistle? What does the writer call himself? When we fall into trial, what are we to do? Where is the source of wisdom? To what are those compared who ask in the spirit of doubt? How great is the possibility of faith? -Lesson I. 2. To what are the rich compared? Will the accu- mulation of wealth bring peace to the heart? What is the wages of sin? By what are Christians. begotten? Lesson 2. 3. What counsel is given in reference to hearing and speaking? What should Christians put away? What should they receive? What is the great mirror of char- acter? How is pure religion defined? Lesson 3 4. With what exhortation does chapter 2 open? Is there distinction of persons with God? Whom has God chosen as heirs of the kingdom? What is the standard of the Judgment? L-esson- 4. 5. What question is asked concerning a faith that does not work? -What is said concerning the faith of • the fallen'angels? What is the evidence of true faith?, HON was faith shown in the experience of Abraham? -Lesson-5: 6. In what do many offend? What are those who con- trol their tongues able to do? How is the unruly nature of the tongue illustrated? By what will we be justified or condemned in the Judgment? Lesson 6. 7. Can sweet water and bitter flow from the same fountain? How is the true nature of a tree shOrli'?SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 31 1\V hat’ do our Wo’rds’ feve’al D’e’scribe” the’ wisdom that Is from- above.- Lesson 7: 8. What does James say is the cause of strife and controversies among the members? Repeat some promises concerning prayer. What—Was the example of Jesus in this matter?- What hinders prayer? What is union with the world called? With what weapon should we resist temptation? Lesson, 8. 9. What is said of the ‘Sin of judging? What—did Jesus say concerning this sin? What is said concerning the uncertainty of life? Whom should we recognize in all the affairs of life? -Lesson 9. io. How is the distress described that is coming upOn the rich? When does this, especially apply? What con- flict ,between capital and labor is mentioned? What ex- hortations are given to God’s people? State the time and purpose of the latter rain. What example of patience is given? Lesson io. I I. What instruction is given concerning praying for the sick? What instruction is given concerning confes- sion to one another? :What case is cited as an example of prevailing prayer? Lesson I I. 12. Repeat the tenth commandment.. Define covet- ousness. Repeat a warning given by the Saviour against covetousness. How-extensive is God’s ownership in this World? What is a tithe.? When the tithe is withheld, which commandment do we’ transgress?
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