Studies in the Psalms

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PACIFIC PRESS PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION BROOKFIELD, ILLINOIS PSALMS OF TRUST Lesson 1—The Greatness of Jehovah JANUARY 4, 1919 LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 104: 1-12 NOTE.—For the convenience of all, the American Revised Version is given in connection with each lesson of the series. Daily StUdy Outline 1. Read the lesson scripture. 2. Study questions 1-10, and read the marginal references. 3. Study questions 11-25, and read the marginal references. 4. Study the notes. 5. Select two verses and memorize them. 6. Review the lesson. 7. Read “Patriarchs and Prophets,” pages 44, 45.

    American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture 1 Bless Jehovah, 0 my soul.    0 Jehovah my God, Thou art very great;    Thou art clothed with honor and majesty: 2 Who coverest Thyself with light as with a garment    Who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain; 3 Who layeth the beams of His chambers in the waters;    Who maketh the clouds His chariot;    Who walketh upon the wings of the wind; 4 Who maketh winds His messengers ;    Flames of fire His ministers ; 5 Who laid the foundation of the earth,    That it should not be moved forever. 6 Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a vesture;    The waters stood above the mountains.  I At Thy rebuke they fled ;    At the voice of Thy thunder they hasted away  S (The mountains rose, the valleys sank down)    Unto the place which Thou hadst founded for them. 9 Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over;    That they turn not again to cover the earth. 10 He sendeth forth springs into the valleys;    They run among the mountains; 11 They give drink to every beast of the field;    The wild asses quench their thirst. 12 By them the birds of the heavens have their habitation ;    They sing among the branches.

                            Questions    1. With what exhortation does this psalm open?    2. What general statement is then made concerning Jehovah?

4 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

With what is Jehovah clothed?
What serves as a robe for Him?
What has He done to the heavens?
Where has He placed the beams of His chambers?
To what use does He put the clouds?
Upon what does He walk?
What does He use as His messengers?
What does He use as His ministers?
How permanently has He founded the earth?
With what was the earth at one time covered?
How high did the waters stand?
What caused the waters to recede?
For what reason did they speedily retire?
What changes took place in the surface of the  earth?
What disposition was made of the waters?
How are they held in their appointed place?    •19. What are they thus prevented from doing? . 20. Where does Jehovah cause the waters to flow forth?
Where do they wend their way?
What need of the animal kingdom is thus supplied?
What animals are thus able to quench their thirst?
What part of the animal kingdom find a home near  the streams?                             •
How do they give expressions of praise to Jehovah?
                         Notes
 This psalm sets forth the greatness of Jehovah, the Cre-  ator, Provider, and Ruler of the world. Its purpose is "to  make man bow in lowly faith before God's boundless wisdom,  believing that He, whose power created, and whose provi-  dence rules, the whole order of nature, is no less wonderful  in His government of the moral world. He never mistakes."
 "The whole natural world is designed to be an inter-  preter of the things of God. . . . As the works of God are  studied, the Holy Spirit flashes conviction into the mind. It  is not the conviction which logical reasoning produces • but,  unless the mind has become too dark to know God, the eye  too dim to see Him, the ear too dull to hear His voice, a  deeper meaning is grasped, and the sublime spiritual truths  of the written Word are impressed on the heart. . . . God  has, in the natural world, placed in the hands of the children  of men the key to unlock the treasure house of His word.  The unseen is illustrated by the seen; divine wisdom, eternal

SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 5

truth, infinite grace, are understood by the things that God has made.” With verse 2 compare 1 John 1: 5; Gen. 1: 2, 3; 2 Cor. 4: 6. Observe the use made of verse 4 of this psalm, by the writer of the Hebrews, in chapter 1: 7. There is undoubted reference to the Flood in verses 6-9. Although the record states that “the fountains of the great deep [were] broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened,” and that the waters were assuaged by a wind which passed over the earth, yet it was none the less directly the personal act of God which brought the Flood, and it was at His rebuke that the waters fled. The so-called operations of nature are in truth the operations of God, and the so-called laws of nature are the habitual methods of God’s working. By studying the things which God has made, and observing the working of His power in upholding and caring for them, we may become acquainted with that power which is the essential feature of the gospel. Rom. 1: 16-20.

             Lesson      2—The        Great Provider
                          JANUARY 11, 1919
               LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 104: 13-24
                          Daily Study Outline
      1.   Read the lesson scripture.
      2.   Study questions 1-11, and read the marginal references.
      3.   Study questions 12-22, and read the marginal references.
      4.   Study the notes.
      5.   Memorize verse 24.
      6.   Review the lesson.
      7.   Read "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 114-116.

       American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture 13   He
  watereth the mountains from His chambers:    The earth is filled with the fruit of Thy works. 14 He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle,    And herb for the service of man ;    That he may bring forth food out of the earth, 15 And wine that maketh glad the heart of man,    And oil to make his face to shine,    And bread that strengtheneth man's heart. 16 The trees of Jehovah'are filled with moisture,    The cedars of Lebanon, which He hath planted; 17 Where the birds make their nests:    As for the stork, the fir trees are her house. 18 The high mountains are for the wild goats;    The rocks are a refuge for the conies.

6 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 19 He appointed the moon for seasons: The sun knoweth his going down. 20 Thou makest darkness, and it is night, Wherein all the beasts of the forest creep forth. 21 The young lions roar after their prey, And seek their food from God. 22 The sun ariseth, they get them away, And lay them down in their dens. 23 Man goeth forth unto his work And to his labor until the evening. 24 0 Jehovah, how manifold are Thy works ! In wisdom hast Thou made them all: The earth is full of Thy riches.

                           Questions
From what source do the mountains receive their supply of water?
With what is the earth filled?
How is the need of the cattle supplied?
What is made to grow ,for the benefit of man?
What purpose is carried out by this working?
What is thus supplied to gladden man?
How is the supply of strength continued to man?
What evidence is given of the Husbandman's care for the forests?
What specific case is mentioned?    10. What homes are found among these trees?    11. What instance of selecting a tree-house is men- tioned?                                                 •    12. For what kind of animals are the mountains adapted?    13. For what kind of animals do the rocks furnish a hiding place?    14. To what use is the moon appointed in the economy of nature?    15. How is the close of the day marked?    16. What condition distinguishes the night from the day?    17. What creatures venture forth in the night?    18. From whom do the young lions ask their food? In what way?    19. What do these animals do at the dawn of day?    20. For whom has the day been appointed as the season of labor?

SA13RATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 7

21: What is said of the works of Jehovah? HoW have they been wrought?

What has the Lord bestowed upon the earth?

                       Notes
Although the ground was cursed on account of the sin of man (Gen. 3: 17), yet the power of God is working through it to supply His creatures with food.
From verses 14, 15, we may learn that food, both for man and for beast, is the gift of God. Read John 6: 5-12, 27, 32-35, and note the explanation there given of the power of God in multiplying the loaves to feed the world.
Before sin came into the world and brought so many artificial conditions, man was in much closer touch with his Maker. "The sinless pair wore no artificial garments; they were clothed with a covering of light and glory such as the angels wear. So long as they lived in obedience to God, this robe of light continued to enshroud them."
"It was the work of Adam and Eve to train the branches of the vine to form bowers, thus making for themselves a dwelling from living trees covered with foliage and fruit." Although the animal creation has been involved in the.suffer- ing consequent upon sin, yet the trees still constitute a home for the birds, the mountains for the goats, and the rocks for the conies. When the young lions roar after their prey, God regards it as a call upon Him for food.
Work was not imposed upon man as a punishment for sin. The father and the Son are both workers. John 5: 17. Our experience of weariness and of wearing out while working is one of the results of sin.
With verse 24 compare Prov. 3: 19, 20 and Jer. 10: 12.

Lesson       3—God's         Care for His Creatures
                     JANUARY 18, 1919
           LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 104: 25-35
                     Daily Study Outline
 1.   Read the lesson scripture.
 2.   Study questions 1-13, and read the marginal references.
 3.   Study Miestions 14-25, and read the marginal references.
 4.   Study the notes.
 5.   Memorize verses 33, 34.
 6.   Review the lesson.
 7.   Review the entire psalm.

8 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

    American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture 25 Yonder is the sea, great and wide,    Wherein are things creeping [moving] innumerable,    Both small and great beasts [living creatures]. 26 There go the ships ;    There is leviathan, whom Thou bast formed to play therein. 27 These wait all for Thee,    That Thou mayest give them their food in due season. 28 Thou givest unto them, they gather;    Thou openest Thy hand, they are satisfied with good. 29 Thou hidest Thy face, they are troubled ;    Thou takest away their breath, they die,    And return to their dust. 30 Thou sendest forth Thy Spirit, they are created ;    And Thou renewest the face of the ground. 31 Let the glory of Jehovah endure forever;    Let Jehovah rejoice in His works: 32 Who looketh on the earth, and it trembleth ;    He toucheth the mountains, and they smoke. 33 I will sing unto Jehovah as long as I live:    I will sing praise to my God while I have any being. 34 Let my meditation be sweet unto Him:    I will rejoice in Jehovah. 35 Let sinners be consumed out of the earth.    And let the wicked be no more.    Bless Jehovah, 0 my soul.    Praise ye Jehovah.
                    Questions    1. What description of the sea is given in this psalm?    2. What are found in the sea?    3. In what way does the sea serve the purposes of commerce?    4. What sea monster sports in the water?    5. What is the attitude of all these creatures toward their Creator?    6. What do they expect from Him?    7. What part does God act in the matter?    8. What part do these living creatures act?    9. How fully does God supply the needs of His creatures?   10. What brings His creatures into distress?   11. What causes their death? To what do they then return?   12. By what agency are they re-created?   13. What change is thus made in the condition of the earth?   14. What desire is expressed concerning the glory of Jehovah?

SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 9

What further desire does the psalm express?
How much power is there in a look of Jehovah?
How much power is there in His touch?
What vow does the psalmist make to Jehovah?
To what does he say his whole life shall be devoted?
What desire does he express concerning his medi- tation?
What does he declare shall be the basis of his re- joicing?
What experience awaits the sinners?
What will become of the wicked?
What exhortation is now. repeated?
What significant admonition closes the psalm? Notes Still the psalmist sings of the eternal mercies of God and His wonderful providence. Now he shows that divine care is over even’ the innumerable forms of life beneath the broad expanse of the ocean. All wait upon God, and not one is forgotten. Luke 12: 6, 7, 24. But that which is given, “they gather.” Busy activity is the law of life for all creatures. “The Lord shall rejoice in His works.” See Ps. 147: 11; Zeph. 3: 16, 17. The earth itself is represented as responding to a look from the Creator.. This sensitiveness of all creation to the touch of God leads the psalmist to declare his purpose to meditate on God’s care and glory continually. Here is a divinely inspired prayer for the blotting out of sin, which mars creation.

Lesson 4—An Exhortation to Make Known the Wondrous Works of God JANUARY 25, 1919 LESSON. SCRIPTURE: Psalm 105: 1-13 Daily Study Outline 1. Read the lesson scripture. 2. Study questions 1-13, and read the ‘marginal references. 3. Study questions 14-23, and read the marginal references. 4. Study the notes. 5. Memorize verses 1-4. 6. Review the lesson. 7. Side-light reading: Covenant between God and Abraham, “Pa- triarchs and Prophets,” pages 370-373. 10 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

   American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture 1 Oh give thanks unto Jehovah, call upon His name ;    Make known among the peoples His doings. 2 Sing unto Him, sing praises unto Him;    Talk ye of all His marvelous works. 3 Glory ye in His holy name:    Let the heart of them rejoice that seek Jehovah. 4 Seek ye Jehovah and His strength;    Seek His face evermore. 5 Remember His marvelous works that He hath done,    His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth, 6 0 ye seed of Abraham His servant,    Ye children of Jacob, His chosen ones. 7 He is Jehovah our God:    His judgments are in all the earth. 8 He hath remembered His covenant forever,    The word which He commanded to a thousand generations, 9 The covenant which He made with Abraham,    And His oath unto Isaac, 10 And confirmed the same unto Jacob for a statute,    To Israel for an everlasting covenant, 11 Saying, Unto thee will I give the land of Canaan,'    The lot of your inheritance ; 12 When they were but a few men in number,    Yea, very few, and sojourners in it. 13 And they went about from nation to nation,    From one kingdom to another people.

                        Questions    1. With what urgent appeal-does this.psalm open?    2. What are we asked to make known?    3. How is praise to Jehovah to be expressed?    4. What is is be kept before the mind?    5. In what is all boasting to be done?    6. What brings rejoicing'to the heart?    7. 'What are we to seek?    8. What are to be called to mind?    9. How are these works specially mentioned?   10. Who are first called upon to do this?   11. How are they further -designated?   12. What relationship is declared between us and God?   13. Where are His judgments to be found?   14. What has God never forgotten?   15. How is this ,covenant defined?   16. With whom did He make this covenant?   17. What is it called as renewed to Isaac?   18. How was it renewed to Jacob?   19. What is it next declared to be?

SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 11

What gift was promised in this covenant?
How is this gift defined?
Under what circumstances was this promise made?
What experience did the people have even after this promise was made? Notes Continuing the subject of the previous lesson, the psalmist exhorts us to call upon the name of the Lord, giving thanks to Him. He would have this done intelligently, and so sug- gests that the deeds of the Most High be made known among the people, both in song and in conversation with our asso- ciates. This, followed out, would work reform,in many ways. We in these last days are especially to consider the deal- ing of God with His children in olden times. Isa. 51: 9-11; Ps. 44: 1-3. Notice the promise 10. Abraham (Gen. 13: 14-17), oath- confirmed to Isaac (Gen. 26: 2-5), and then to Jacob (Gen. 35: 10-12). It is the promise of the inheritance and ever- lasting life through faith. Gal. 3: 29. “Though this covenant was made with Adam and renewed to Abraham, it could not be ratified until the death of Christ. It had existed by the promise of God since the first intimation of redemption had been given; it had been accepted by faith; yet when ratified by Christ, it is called a new covenant. The law of God was the basis of this covenant, which was simply an arrangement for bringing men again into harmony with the divine will, placing them where they could obey God’s law.”—”Patriarchs and Prophets,” pages 370, 371.

Lesson 5—God’s Care for His People FEBRUARY 1, 1919 LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 105: 14-25 Daily Study Outline 1. Read the lesson scripture. 2. Study questions 1-11, and read the marginal references. 3. Study questions 12-21, and read the marginal references. 4. Study the notes. 5. Review the story of Joseph, Genesis, chapters 39-41. 6. Review the lesson. 7. Side-light reading: God’s care for His people, “Steps to Christ,” pages 127-132.

American Revised Version of Lesson Scriptime._ 14 He suffered no man to do them wrong ; Yea, He reproved kings for their sakes, 15 Saying,. Touch not Mine anointed ones, 12 8A98ATH ScRoOL LESSON MIARTVILV And do My prophets no harm. 16 And He called for a famine upon the land He brake the whole staff of bread. 17 He sent a man before them ; Joseph was sold for a servant: 18 His feet they hurt with fetters: He was laid in chains of iron, 19 Until the time that His word came to pass, The word of Jehovah tried him. 20 The king sent and loosed him ; Even the ruler of peoples, and let him go free. 21 He made him lord of his house, And ruler of all his substance ; 22 To bind his princes at his pleasure, And teach his elders wisdom. 23 Israel also came into Egypt; And Jacob sojourned in the land of Ham. 24 And He increased His people greatly, And made them stronger than their adversaries. 25 He turned their heart to hate His people, To deal subtly with His servants.
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             Questions
1. To what extent did God protect His people in their journeyings?
2. Did He show respect of persons in this matter?
3. What warning did He give to the enemies of His people?
4. What experience did He bring upon the sojourners in the land of promise?
5. What support did He remove from them?
6. How did He provide for their deliverance?
7. In what way did the deliverer enter the land of Egypt?
8. Through what experience did Joseph pass?
9. To what test was he subjected? For how long a time?
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At whose command was he released?
On whose authority was he restored to freedom?
To what position was Joseph now elevated?
What control did he have over the king’s property?
What power did he have over other persons of high rank?
What was his standing as a teacher?
Who then came into the land of the Pharaohs?
Where did he become a sojourner?
What did God then do for His people? SABBATH ‘SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 18
How great did their power become as compared with that of their enemies?
What change did God make in the feelings of their adversaries toward them?
What did He lead their adversaries to do? Notes The Lord promises to care for those who do the right and trust Him. See Gen. 35: 5; Ps. 34: 7; Ex: 2: 24. Over and over, in the story of reform and missionary effort, God’s invisible hand has restrained, and His voice has said to savage hearts, “Touch not Mine anointed.” In the story of his life among the South Sea cannibals, John G. Paton says of one occasion: “A club was raised to follow the blow of the killing stone, but God baffled the aim. They encircled us in a deadly ring, and one kept urging another to strike the first blow, or fire the first shot. . . . The host of armed men also ran along on each side with their weapons ready; but, leaving every- thing to Jesus, I ran on as if they were my escort. If any reader wonders how they were restrained, much more would I, unless I believed the same Hand that restrained the lions from touching Daniel held back these savages from hurt- ing me.” The Lord sent Joseph into Egypt, overruling the evil pur- pose of his brethren. God uses even the wrath of men to praise Him; and, whatever men do to us, we are in His hands. That which Jacob thought against him (Gen. 42: 36) was being worked for him by God. Notice that it was the blessings God gave Israel in Egypt that turned against them the hatred of the people of the land.

Lesson 6—god’s Power Manifested in Deliverance FEBRUARY 8, 1919 LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 105: 26-38 Daily Study Outline
1. Read the lesson scripture.
2. Study questions 1-9, and read the marginal references.
3. Study questions 10-18, and read the marginal references.
4. Study the notes.
5. From memory, name the ten plagues in their order.
6. Review the lesson.
7. Side-light reading: The seven last plagues, “The Great Contra. veraY,” Nges 627.634. 14 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture 26 He sent Mpses His servant, And Aaron whom He had chosen. 27 They set among them His signs, And wonders in the land of Ham. 28 He sent darkness, and made it dark ; And they rebelled not against His words. 29 He turned their waters into blood, And slew their fish. 30 Their land swarmed with frogs In the chambers of their kings. 31 He spake, and there came swarms of flies, And lice in all their borders. 32 He gave them hail for rain, And flaming fire in their land. 33 He smote their vines also and their fig trees, And brake the trees of their borders. 34 He spake, and the locust came, And the grasshopper, and that without number, 35 And did eat up every herb in their land, And did eat up the fruit of their ground. 36 He smote also all the first-born in their land, The chief of all their strength. 37 And He brought them forth with silver and gold ; And there was not one feeble person among His tribes. 38 Egypt was glad when they departed ; For the fear of them had fallen upon them. Questions
Whom did God send to lead out His people? 2. Who was associated with him in the work? 3. In what power did they bring their message of deliverance?
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          MOSES AND THE BURNING BUSH
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SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 15
What was the first sign wrought by Jehovah? 5. What effect did this have? 6. What change was wrought in the water of the Nile?
What was thus accomplished? 8. What was then brought upon the land? Did royalty escape?
In what two marked ways was the power of God’s word next shown?
What kind of storm was then brought upon the land?
What was the result of this storm?
What plague did His word then bring upon the land?
How completely was that which grew out of the earth consumed?
What was the last plague? What was thus cut off?
Did God’s people depart empty-handed from the land of bondage?
What was their physical condition?
How did their oppressors feel about their de- parture?
What led to this changed condition of things? Notes Read also Ps. 78: 43-52. Moses’ preparation for service deserves more than casual study. That decree which brought sadness and gloom into the homes of the Hebrews was used by the Lord to fit the man whom He had chosen to lead His people out of Egypt when the fullness of the time should come. The circumstances which would not permit Moses’ parents to rear him in their own home led to his being placed where he could receive the training and education that would fit him to be Israel’s future leader. Note Moses’ fidelity to God when the crisis came in his life (Heb. 11: 23-26; read also Ps. 84: 11) and the hope which buoyed him up in these trying hours (Heb. 11: 26, 39, 40). But Moses’ preparation was not complete when he had• served in the Egyptian court. Forty years were spent in the solitude of the mountains, where he could become acquainted with God. Do not fail to observe .the practical lessons in the life of Moses, 16 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

A study of the plagues reveals the fact that they seemed to be designed to destroy the confidence of the Egyptians in the power and protection of their idols. By reference to the history itself (Exodus 7-13), we find that some of the Egyptians did have their faith shaken in their idols, and saw in these things the finger o'f God.
"The plagues upon Egypt were similar in character to those more terrible and extensive judgments which are to fall upon the world just before the final deliverance of God's people." Ps. 91: 1, 10. Now, while Jesus still intercedes for us, the preparation must be made that will enable us to stand in the trying times before us.


 Lesson 7—God's Purpose in Deliverance
                      'FEBRUARY 15, 1919
    LESSON SCRIPTURE:         Psalm 105: 39-45; 106: 1-5
                      Daily Study Outline
   1.   Read the lesson scripture.
   2.   Study questions 1-13, and read the marginal references.
   3.   Study questions 14-22, and read the marginal references.
   4.   Study the notes.
   5.   Memorize Ps. 106: 1-5.
   6.   Review the lesson.
   7.   Review the experiences of Israel recorded in Exodus 16, 17.
    American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture
                          PSALM 105: 39-45 39 He spread a cloud for a covering,    And fire to give light in the night. 40 They asked, and He brought quails,    And satisfied them with the bread of heaven. 41 He opened the rock, and waters gushed out;    They ran in the dry places like a river. 42 For He remembered His holy word,    And Abraham His servant. 43 And He brought forth His people with joy,    And His chosen with singing. 44 And He gave them the lands of the nations ;    And they took the labor of the peoples in possession: 45 That they might keep His statutes,    And observe His laws.    Praise ye Jehovah [hallelujah].
                        PSALM 106: 1-5 1 Praise ye Jehovah.   Oh give thanks unto Jehovah; for He is good;   For His loving-kindness endureth forever. 2 Who can utter the mighty acts of Jchov..%,   Or show forth all His praise? a Blessed arc they that keep justice,

SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 17 And he that doeth righteousness at all times. 4 Remember me, 0 Jehovah, with the favor that Thou bearest unto Thy people ; Oh visit me with Thy salvation, 6 That I may see the prosperity of Thy chosen, That I may rejoice in the gladness of Thy nation, That I may glory with Thine inheritance.

                      Questions
1. What shield did God provide for His people by day?
2. What furnished a light for them in the darkness?
3. What did God give them in response to their request?
4. With what did He feed them?
5. How did God provide water for His people?
6. How abundant was the supply of water?
7. What was thus being fulfilled?
8. Whom did God still keep in mind?
9. How did His people give expression to their grati- tude for deliverance?   10. What were now given to them?   11, What return did they receive for their unrequited labor?   12. For what purpose was this great deliverance wrought?   13. What significant admonition closes the psalm?   14. With what exhortation dots Psalm 106 open?   15. What exhortation follows? What reason is given?   16. How enduring is His kindness?   17. How is the number of the great deeds of Jehovah emphasized?   18. How is the greatness of His praise set forth?   19. What class are counted happy? Who is included in this class?   20. What request does the psalmist make of the Lord?   21. What further request does he make?    22. What is the first expected result of a favorable response to these petitions? The second? The third?
                      . Notes
Ps. 78: 14; 1 Cor. 10 : 1, 2; and Ps. 84: 11 should be studied with Ps. 105: 39.
"By day the cloud directed the journeyings, or spread as a canopy above the host. It served as a protection from the

18 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

burning heat, and by its coolness and moisture afforded grateful refreshment in the parched, thirsty desert. By night it became a pillar of fire, illuminating their encampment, constantly assuring them of divine presence.” Read Isa. 4: 5, 6. “Here reference is made to the pillar of cloud and of fire to represent God’s care for His people in the great final struggle with the power of evil.” The cloud that flooded the entire encampment of the Hebrews with the radiance of day was a wall of darkness to the Egyptians. The way that God marks out for His people will be flooded with light, although the unbelieving will not see it. The manna was a type of Jesus, the Bread of life. John 6: 48-51. Read also Rev. 2: 17; 1 Cor. 10: 3. With Ps. 105: 41 read Ps. 78: 15, 16. “Moses smote the rock; but it was the Son of God who, veiled in the cloudy pillar, stood beside Moses, and caused the life-giving water to flow.” Ps. 65: 9; Rev. 22: 1; 1 Cor. 10:4; John 4: 13, 14; 7: 37, 38. Ps. 105: 42; Gen. 15: 12-14; and Acts 7: 6, 7 record the covenant with Abraham. For the blessing of this covenant to Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise, see Heb. 6: 11-20. With Ps. 105: 43 read Ps. 116: 12, 13; Psalm 33. God brought forth His people “that they might keep His statutes, and observe His laws.” The same is true in regard to His people to-day. In all these experiences, God designed to teach His people their utter dependence upon Him, and not merely on the man Moses, who was their leader.

 Lesson 8—Experiences of Israel for Our
             Learning
                     FEBRUARY 22, 1919
            LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 106: 6-20
                     Daily Study Outline
  1.   Read the lesson scripture.
  2.   Study questions 1-13, and read the marginal references.
  3.   Study questions 14-21, and read the marginal references.
  4.   Study questions 22-28, and read the marginal references.
  6.   Study the notes.
  6.   Review the lesson.
  7.   Study the similarity of the experiences of the church to-day to
          that of ancient Israel.
    American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture 6 We have sinned with our fathers,    We have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly. 7 Our fathers understood not Thy wonders in Egypt ;

SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 10

t’hey remembered not the multitude of • Thy loving-kindnesses, But were rebellious at the sea, even at the Red Sea. 8 Nevertheless He saved them for His name’s sake, That He might make His mighty power to be known. 9 He rebuked the Red Sea also, and it was dried up: So He led them thilough the depths, as through a wilderness. 10 And He saved them from the hand of him that hated them, And redeemed them from the hand of the enemy. 11 And the waters covered their adversaries; There was not one of them left. 12 Then believed they His words; They sang His praise. 13 They soon forgat His works ; They waited not for His counsel, 14 But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, And, tempted God in the desert. 15 And, 1e gave them their request, But sent leanness into their soul. 16 They envied Moses also in the camp, And Aaron the saint of Jehovah. 17 The earth opened and swallowed up Dathan, And covered the company of Abiram. 18 And a fire was kindled in their company ; The flame burned up the wicked. 19 They made a calf in Horeb, And worshiped a molten image. 20 Thus they changed their glory For the likeness of an ox. that eateth grass.

                    Questions    1. In what respect, did the psalmist say, were their descendants like the fathers?    2. What other confession was made?    3.' What did the fathers fail to understand?    4. What did they forget?    5. Where did their rebellious spirit break forth?    6. What did God do for them? Why?    7. What was His purpose in all this?    8. What did God do to the Red Sea? What was the result?    9. How easily were they then brought through the sea?   10. From what were they thus saved?   11. From whom were they redeemed?   12. With what experience did their enemies meet?   13. How complete was their destruction?   14. What influence did this have upon-the faith of God's people?   15. How did they give expression to their feelings?

20 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

How long did they maintain this attitude toward God?
What shows their headstrong impatience?
What did they do?
How is their conduct toward God characterized?
What response did God make to their demands? 2E What experience came upon them as a consequence?
How did the people treat Moses and Aaron?
What judgment came upon Dathan?
What happened to Abiram and his friends?
What other judgment came upon the people?
What was the result of this judgment?

How did they show that their hearts had not been converted from the idolatrous practices of Egypt? .28. In what way did they express their estimate of their Deliverer?

    WOMHIPING THE CALF Grin, ArIgi

SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 21

                 Notes
This psalm opens with an exhortation to praise and thanksgiving, and the acknowledgment that God's people to-day are repeating the history of His chosen people in the wilderness.
Verse 7. Observe how extensively this experience is be- ing repeated in the lives of the majority of professed Chris- tians. How rarely the multitude of God's mercies are re- counted! This is the source of strength, the means by which Satan will always be defeated.
Verse 8. God is now gathering out a people for His name. Acts 15: 14. Not only may we be among that people, but we may share hi gathering them, with this closing mes- sage, from every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. Through this people, God will make known His mighty power; for He will vindicate His righteous character before the u!iiverse. This is the highest reason that can be as- signed for God's great love in pardoning and saving sinners. Compare Ezek. 36: 22, 32; Isa. 43: 25; 48: 9; Jer. 14: 7; Ps. 6: 4; 23: 3; 25: 11; 31: 16.
The song of Moses (Ex. 15: 1-18) does not belong to the Jewish people alone. It points forward to the final victory, when the Israel of God will sing not only the song of Moses, but the song of the Lamb (Rev. 15: 2, 3). Those who will sing that song of triumph then must learn to sing it now. Ps. 50: 23; 67: 5; 146: 2.
"The history of the wilderness life of Israel was chroni- cled for the benefit of the Israel of God to the close of time. The varied experience of the Hebrews was a school of prepa- ration for their promised home in Canaan. God would have His people in these days review with a humble heart and teachable spirit the trials through which ancient Israel passed, that they may be instructed in their preparation for the heavenly Canaan."
On the significance of their idolatrous worship, "Patri- archs and Prophets," appendix, note 7, page 760, says:
"The golden calf was a representation of the sacred bull called Apis, which the Egyptians worshiped, and with which the Israelites had necessarily become very familiar during their long sojourn in Egypt. Concerning this god Apis and what it signified, we find the following:
" `Apis, the bull worshiped by the ancient Egyptians, who regarded it as a symbol of Osiris, the god of the Nile, the hus- band of Isis, and the great divinity of Egypt.' "—Chambers's Encyclopedia.

22 SABBATH’ SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

 Lesson 9—Experiences in the Wilderness
                       MARCH 1, 1919
            LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 106: 21-33

                     Daily Study Outline
   1.   Read the lesson scripture.
   2.   Study questions 1-6, and read the marginal references.
   3.   Study questions 7-12, and read the marginal references.
   4.   Study questions 13-22, and read the marginal references.
   6.   Study the notes.
   6.   Review the lesson.
   7.   "Spake unadvisedly." Read "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages
           420, 421.

    American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture 21 They forgat God their Saviour,    Who had done great things in Egypt, 22 Wondrous works in the land of Ham,    And terrible things by the Red Sea. 23 Therefore He said that He would destroy them,    Had not Moses His chosen stood before Him in the breach,    To turn away His wrath, lest He should destroy them. 24 Yea, they despised the pleasant land,    They believed not His word, 25 But murmured in their tents,    And hearkened not unto the voice of Jehovah. 26 Therefore He sware unto them,    That He would overthrow them in the wilderness, 27 And that He would overthrow their seed among the nations,    And scatter them in the lands. 28 They joined themselves also unto Baal-peor,    And ate the sacrifices of the dead. 29 Thus they provoked Him to anger with their doings;    And the plague brake in upon them. 30 Then stood up Phinehas, and executed judgment;    And so the plague was stayed. 31 And that was reckoned unto him for righteousness,    Unto all generations forevermore. 32 They angered Him also at the waters of Meribah,    So that it went ill with Moses for their sakes ; 33 Because they were rebellious against His Spirit,    And he spake unadvisedly with his lips.

                          Questions    1. How far did God's people neglect Him?    2. What reason had God given them for remember- ing Him?    3. What was the character of the works He had wrought for them?

SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 28 4. In what other place had He shown His power in their behalf? 5. Because of Israel’s departure from God, what did the Lord come near doing to them? 6. What saved them from destruction? 7. How did the people regard the promised land? 8. How did they show their lack of faith in God? 9. What was the climax of their rebellious course? • . 10. What did God declare He would do to them? 11. What would become of their seed? 12. How would He bring an end to their national ex- istence? 13. In what way did they show their complete apostasy to idolatry? 14. What was stirred up by their wicked course? 15. What came upon them in consequence of this? 16. What course did Phinehas take? 17. What was the result of his action? 18. What permanent blessing did the mediation of Phinehas bring to him? 19. What course did the people pursue when the water failed? 20. What influence did this have upon the experience of Moses? 21. How did the people treat Moses? 22. What did this lead him to do? Notes Unsanctified memory is a treacherous thing. Notice how continually the people forgot God and His deliverances, and remembered the trials and the difficulties. They remembered the leeks and onions of Egypt, but forgot the bitterness of their bondage. Let us count the mercies, and forget not the Lord’s benefits. When Moses pleaded with God for the people, he based his plea for pardon upon the covenant with Abraham (Ex. 32: 11-13), the promise of forgiveness and righteousness by faith• in Christ. Many of the people, as they journeyed, lost sight of the aim of the movement, and did not believe the promise of an inheritance. Hence the murmuring by the way. Now, with the inheritance just before us, let no one murmur in his tent. There is where it usually begins,—in the home. 24 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

At Baal-peor, they ate the sacrifices that had been offered to the dead, joined in the heathen rites of ancient spiritual- ism. As ancient Israel had to contend with this delusion, so in these last days, the doctrines of spiritualism, theosophy, and similar deceptions, are spreading abroad to ensnare souls. But the very increase of Satan's deceptions is evidence that the time is short.




  Lesson 10—The Result of Disobedience
                       MARCH 8, 1919
           LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 106: 34-48
                     Daily Study Outline
   L Read the lesson scripture.
   2. Study questions 1-7, and read the marginal references.
   3. Study questions 8-17, and read the marginal references.
   4. Study questions 18-24, and read the marginal references.
   6. Study the notes.
   6. Memorize verses 47, 48.
   7. Review the lesson.

    American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture 84 They did not destroy the peoples,    As Jehovah commanded them, 35 But mingled themselves with the nations,    And learned their works, 86 And served their idols,    Which became a snare unto them. 37 Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto demons, 38 And shed innocent blood,    Even the blood of their sons and of their daughters,    Whom they sacrificed unto the idols of Canaan ;    And the land was polluted with blood. 39 Thus were they defiled with their works,    And played the harlot in their doings. 40 Therefore was the wrath of Jehovah kindled against His people,    And He abhorred His inheritance. 41 And He gave them into the hand of the nations;    And they that hated them ruled over them. 42 Their enemies also oppressed them,    And they were brought into subjection under their hand. 43 Many times did He deliver them ;    But they were rebellious in their counsel,    And were bropght low in their iniquity.. 44 Nevertheless He regarded their distress,    When He heard their cry: 45 And He remembered for them His covenant,    And repented according to the multitude of His loving-kindnesses. 46 He made them also to be pitied    Of all those that carried them captive.

SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 25 47 Save us, 0 Jehovah our God, And gather us from among the nations, To give thanks unto Thy holy name, And to triumph in Thy praise. 48 Blessed be Jehovah, the God of Israel, From everlasting even to everlasting. And let all the people say, Amen. Praise ye Jehovah. Questions 1. What command of Jehovah did His people fail to execute? 2. How did they relate themselves to the nations about them? 3. What was the result of this association with the heathf n? • 4. To what extent was the idea of the sacrificial of- ferings perverted? 5. Whose blood was shed in their idolatrous worship? 6. What effect did this have upon the land? 7. What effect did their wrong course have upon them? 8. What statement shows that they violated their vows to Jehovah? 9. How did their apostasy influence the attitude of Jehovah toward them?

How did He regard His own inheritance?
Under whose power did He bring them?
Who thus gained the dominion over them?
What was their experience with their enemies?
How merciful was Jehovah in His dealing with them?
How did they repay His kindness?
What was the result of this course?
Even after they had turned from the Lord, what attitude did He still manifest toward them?
What did the Lord keep in mind? What did He do?
How did He lead the captors of His people to feel toward them?
What petitions are now put into the mouth of the true Israel?
For what purpose is Israel to be gathered out from the nations? 26 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
In what ascription is Jehovah adored?
What response are the people to make?
What significant phrase closes the psalm? Notes The book of Judges is the story of repeated apostasy and rebellion and deliverances. The second chapter shows how compromise with the world caused the troubles of the people. A precious lesson for times of distress is that in Judges 6: 12-14. The prayer of the psalmist in verse 47 is especially ap- propriate for these days, when God is gathering out His people from among the nations to triumph in His praise. There is triumph in praise, as there is defeat in murmuring. In the gathering of His people in these last days, vze are to see again His power to deliver and save as in ancient days. Jer. 16: 14, 15; Isa. 11: 10-12. Review the whole psalm, and see how much murmuring and apostasy would have been saved had people but trusted God. The psalm begins and ends with the same cry, “Hallelujah.” It is the battle cry of Christian warfare.
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Lesson 11—Deliverance from Sin
                MARCH 15, 1919
     LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 107: 1-16
               Daily Study Outline
 1.   Read the lesson scripture.
 2.   Study questions 1-8, and read the marginal references.
 3.   Study questions 9-16, and read the marginal references.
 4.   Study questions 17-27, and read the marginal references.
 5.   Study the notes.
 6.   Memorize verses 1, 2, 6.
 7.   Review the lesson.
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American Revised -Version of Lesson Scripture 1 Oh give thanks unto Jehovah; for He is good; For His loving-kindness endureth forever. 2 Let the redeemed of Jehovah say so, Whom He hath redeemed from the hand of the adversary, 3 And gathered out of the lands, From the east and from the west, From the north and from the south. 4 They wandered in the wilderness in a desert way ; They found no city of habitation. 5 Hungry and thirsty, Their soul fainted in them. SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 27 6 Then they cried unto Jehovah in their trouble, And He delivered them out of their distresses, 7 He led them also by a straight, way, That they might go to a city of habitation. 8 Oh that men would praise Jehovah for His loving-kindness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men I 9 For He satisfieth the longing soul, And the hungry soul He filleth with good. 10 Such as sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, Being bound in affliction and iron, 11 Because they rebelled against the words of God, And contemned the counsel of the Most High: 12 Therefore He brought down their heart with labor; They fell down, and there was none to help. 13 Then they cried unto Jehovah in their troubles, And He saved them out of their distresses. 14 He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, And brake their bonds in sunder. 15 Oh that men would praise Jehovah for His loving-kindness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men 16 For He hath broken the gates of brass, And cut the bars of iron in sunder.
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              Questions
1. With what exhortation does the psalm open?
2. What is the first reason given for this? The second?
3. What class are urged to bear this testimony?
4. From whom have they been redeemed?
5..Whence have they been gathered?
6. From what parts of the earth have they been brought?
7. Where have the people wandered?
8. What were they unable to find?
9. What was their condition? How did this affect their courage?
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Upon whom did they then call?
How did He answer their petition?
How did He save them from their wanderings?
For what purpose did He direct their course?
What are men exhorted to do? For what reasons?
How does He deal with the longing soul?
What does He do for the hungry soul?
What class of persons is next introduced?
How strongly is their bondage represented?
What has brought them into this condition?
How has Jehovah disciplined them? 28 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
What was their experience?
Upon whom did they then call?
How did He answer their petition?
From what did He deliver them?
How did He deliver them from their bondage?
What are men exhorted to do? For what reasons?
With what power has the Lord wrought to deliver from captivity? Notes We are not merely to think, but to say, that the Lord is good. The more the redeemed of the Lord say it, the deeper sense of His goodness will they have. It is wonderful how much help one may receive by the earnest effort to tell others how good the Lord is. Let us open our mouths and say it out. Heb. 13: 15. God led the people forth “by the right way.” The ways of the Lord are right. In Christ, the Way, we have deliver- ance from sin, from the power of the enemy. See the song of Zacharias. Luke 1: 63-75. The record of the deliverances of a whole people is but the history of the work of God in our own hearts, the defeats, the victories, and the leadings in individual experiences. Rebellion (verse 11) is the cause of our troubles, as it was the cause of the troubles of ancient Israel. Jesus, our ex- ample, received teaching and discipline, and was not rebel- lious. Isa. 50: 4-10. When they fell down and there was none to help, then came deliverance, as they called on God. What assurance of victory in verses 12-14 of this psalm! Not a soul should pass this lesson, surely, without accepting deliverance; for every bond is loosed and every bar cut asunder.

Lesson 12—A Saviour from Sin and Distress MARCH 22, 1919 LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 107: 17-32 Daily Study Outline 1. Read the lesson scripture. 2. Study questions 1-10, and read the marginal references. 3. Study questions 11-19, and read the marginal references. 4. Study questions 20-25, and read the marginal references. 5. Study the notes. 6. Memorize verses 19-21. 7. Review the lesson. SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 29 “ American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture 17 Fools because of their transgression, And because of their iniquities, are afflicted. 18 Their soul abhorreth all manner of food ; And they draw near unto the gates of death. 19 Then they cry unto Jehovah in their trouble, And He saveth them out of their distresses. 20 He sendeth His word, and healeth them, And delivereth them from their destructions. 21 Oh that men would praise Jehovah for His loving-kindness, And for His wonderful works to the children of menl 22 And let them offer the sacrifices of thanksgiving, And declare His works with singing. 23 They that go down to the sea in ships, That do business in great waters; 24 These see the works of Jehovah, And His wonders in the deep. 25 For He commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, Which lifted up the waves thereof. 26 They mount up to the heavens,-. They go down again to the depths: Their soul melteth away because of trouble. 27 They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, And are at their wits’ end. 28 Then they cry unto Jehovah in their trouble, And He bringeth them out of their distresses. 29 He maketh the storm a calm, So that the waves thereof are still. 30 Then are they glad because they are quiet; So He bringeth them unto their desired haven. 31 Oh that men would praise Jehovah for His loving-kindness, And for His wonderful works to the children of men ! 32 Let them exalt Him also in the assembly of the people, And praise Him in the seat of the elders.

                    Questions
What brings suffering' upon foolish people?
How does this affect their desire for food?
To what extremity are they brought?
Upon whom do they then call?
How does He answer their petitions?
Through what instrumentality does He save them from disease?
To what extent does He save them?
What are men exhorted to do? For what reasons?
What sacrifice are they urged to offer?   10. How should they make known His deeds?   11. How is the life of seafaring men described?   12. What do they have opportunity to observe?    13. What is the direct cause of 'the stormy wind?

30 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

What effect does the wind have upon the water?
Through what trying experiences do the sailors pass?
What effect do these experiences have upon them?
How does the roughness of the sea affect their walk?
To what extremity of trouble are they reduced?
If they then call upon God sincerely, how does He answer their petitions?
What change does He at once bring about?
What state of mind prevails among the sailors because of this?
How does their voyage end?
What are men exhorted to do? For what reason?
How public should this.acknowledgment of God’s goodness be?
Where should praise be offered? Notes With verse 19, many illustrations may be drawn from Old and New Testament history, showing God’s speedy de- liverance when His people sought Him. Jacob, the children of Israel before the Red Sea, Daniel, the three Hebrews in Babylon, Hezekiah, Peter, Paul, and many other instances, will suggest themselves. The power of His word (Ps. 33: 6-9) heals the sick. With verse 30, read Matt. 8: 8; Luke 7: 7; Ps. 103: 2-4; Isa. 53: 4, R. V., margin. The experience recorded in Mark 4: 36-40 is an excellent comment on verses 23-30. He who created the sea can speak peace to its troubled waters. But still more precious is the promise of peace to the troubled soul that calls upon Him. John 14: 27; 16: 33; Rom. 5: 1; Phil. 4: 6, 7. There is power in His word to perform that which He speaks. “All His biddings are enablings.” The last verse of the lesson makes clear the obligation to speak God’s praise in the public congregation. Mal. 3: 16-18. This is especially enjoined upon those who see the end ap- proaching. Heb. 10: 25. SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY 31

Lesson 13—The Wisdom of the Righteous
                       MARCH 29, 1919
            LESSON SCRIPTURE: Psalm 107:33-43

                      Daily Study Outline
  Read the lesson scripture.
  Study questions 1-5, and read the marginal references.
  Study questions 6-12, and read the marginal references.
  Study questions 13-19, and read the marginal references.
  Study the notes.
  Review the lesson.
  Comment on verse 43: "Steps to Christ," pages 92, 93.

    American Revised Version of Lesson Scripture 33 He turneth rivers into a wilderness,    And water-springs into a thirsty ground ; 34 A fruitful land into a salt desert,    For the wickedness of them that dwell therein. 35 He turneth a wilderness into a pool of water,    And a dry land into water-springs. 36 And there He maketh the hungry to dwell,    That they may prepare a city of habitation, 37 And sow fields, and plant vineyards,    And get them fruits of increase. 38 He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied greatly ;    And He suffereth not their cattle to decrease. 39 Again, they are diminished and bowed down    Through oppression, trouble, and sorrow. 40 He poureth contempt upon princes,    And causeth them to wander in the waste, where there is no way. 41 Yet setteth He the needy on high from affliction,    And maketh him families like a flock. 42 The upright shall see it, and be glad ;    And all iniquity shall stop her mouth. 43 Whoso is wise will give heed to these things ;    And they will consider the loving-kindnesses of Jehovah.

                            Questions
What change is God able to make in the flowing streams?
What change can He make in the springs?
Into what is He able to turn productive land?
What leads to such a reversal of the usual order of things?
What change can God make in the desert? In dry ground?
For whom is a dwelling place thus provided?
What will they prepare?

32 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

What labor will they undertake? With what result?
What blessing is bestowed upon their homes?
What temporal blessing is also bestowed upon them?
What different experience is brought upon them? Through what means?
How is the vanity of human greatness made ap- parent?
How are men of high rank shown that their way is not in themselves?
What blessing is bestowed upon the needy?
What blessings come to them in their home life?
How will the righteous regard these experiences?
What effect will they have upon evil-disposed per- sons?
How will the wise treat these lessons?
What will they observe in these dealings of Je- hovah with men? Notes While verses 33 to 37 show God’s marvelous power-to pro- vide for His people, even in solitary places, an experience which awaits many of the faithful children of God before the final triumph of His work, there is no doubt that they also refer to the wondrous provision He has made for His people in the new earth, when the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose. Isaiah 35; also 65: 17-25. Verses 38 to 42 are a wonderful commentary on that familiar verse, Rom. 8: 28. Everything is in the hands of God. If there is prosperity, it comes from Him; if there are reverses, He permits them. God deals with man in the way that will best cause him to recognize his Creator. The right- eous see these things, and rejoice now; and the time is coming when even the mouth of the wicked will be led to acknowledge the wisdom of God. Then it will be too late to accept His mercy, which is still offered. “To-day if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” “Behold, now is the day of salvation.” This Sabbath should be the time when we submit our all to God, if we have not done so before, accepting everything that He sends as from the hand of a loving heavenly Father. See 1 Cor. 13: 12.

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