The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit
1934 Quater 1
A. T. Robinson
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No. 155 • FIRST QUARTER, 1934
2'eter 'Rebukes Simon Magus
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Subject: THE HOLY SPIRIT
CS- Appropriations of Past Thirteenth Sabbath Overflow Offerings to JAPAN and KOREA
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teenth Sabbath overflows: 1917 Korean Publishing House $ 1,500.00
Japanese Publishing House 1,500.00 1924 Land Adjustment, Seoul, Korea 2,613.23
New School, Japan 2,613.23 1928 Korea: Thirteen Chapels, Food Factory, Soonan
School Library, Ministerial Student Help . . 8,965.79
Japan: Training School, Tokyo Sanitarium Enter-
prise, Publishing House, Evangelistic Efforts . 8,965.79
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SABBATH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT.
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Lesson 1—January 6, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY : Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY MONDAY I TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SABBATH 1!
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The Great Open Secret of the Universe MEMORY VERSE: "We speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hid- den wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory." 1 Cor. 2 :7. Note.—"The word 'mystery' signifies a secret, a thing kept secret and hid from our understanding, till it be revealed to us."—Cruden.
THE LESSON
1. What revelation is made apart from the Bible, that leaves the heathen without excuse? Rom. 1 : 19, 20.
NOTES.—"The works of creation testify of God's power and greatness."— "Patriarchs and Prophets," p. 116.
"Among the heathen are those who worship God ignorantly, those to whom the light is never brought by human instrumentality, yet they will not perish. Though ignorant of the written law of God, they have heard His voice speak- ing to them in nature, and have done the things that the law required."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 638.
"The things of nature that we now behold give us but a faint conception of Eden's glory. Sin has marred earth's beauty ; on all things may be seen traces of the work of evil. Yet much that is beautiful remains. Nature testifies that. One infinite in power, great in goodness, mercy, and love, created the earth, and filled it with life and gladness. Even in their blighted state, all thingo reveal the handiwork of the great Master Artist. Wherever we turn, we may hear the voice of God, and see evidences of His goodness.
"From the solemn roll of the deep-toned thunder and old ocean's ceaseless roar, to the glad songs that make the forests vocal with melody, nature's ten thousand voices speak His praise."—"The Ministry of Healing," pp. 410, 411. 2. Aside from what has been made known through nature and, revela- tion, how much may be known of the Creator? Job 11:7-9. Answer.— Nothing. NorEs.—"No finite mind can fully comprehend the existence, the power, the wisdom, or the works of the Infinite One."—"Patriarchs and Prophets," p. 116. "Never can humanity, of itself, attain to a knowledge of the divine. . Only the spirit of adoption can reveal to us the deep things of God."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 412. Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 155, January, 1934. 20c a year. Published in the U. S. A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S. D. A.), Moun- tain View, California. Entered as second-class matter Oct. 13, 1904, at the post office in Mountain View, Calif., under the Act of Congress of March 3, 1879. Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in section 1103, Act of Oct 3, 1917,
and authorized Sept. 18, 1918.
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“To the keenest intellect, the most highly educated mind, that holy Being must ever remain clothed in mystery.”—”Steps to Christ,” p. 110. 3. Only how much may we understand concerning the Creator of the universe? Deut. 29:29. Norn.—Beyond what is revealed in nature and the written word is an im- penetrable wall of mystery ‘which human speculation may not enter. “Just how God accomplished the work of creation He has never revealed to men; human science cannot search out the secrets of the Most High. His creative power is as incomprehensible as His existence.”—”Patriarchs and Prophets,” p. 113. 4. How much of the Bible is a revelation from God concerning Jesus Christ, our Saviour? Luke 24:27, 44. 5. In communicating this revelation to mankind, what part was per- formed by the Holy Spirit? 2 Peter 1:21. 6. How much of the Bible is profitable for our instruction? 2 Tim. 3: 16,17. 7. In what words does Christ urge the study of the Scriptures? John 5:39. NOTES.—”Jesus was the.light of His people,—the light of the world,—before He came to earth in the form of humanity. The first gleam of light that pierced the gloom in which sin had wrapped the world, came from Christ. And from Him has come every ray of heaven’s brightness that has fallen upon the inhab- itants of the earth. In the plan of redemption, Christ is the Alpha and the Omega,—the First and the Last.”—Id., p. 367. “The Old Testament sheds light upon the New, and the New upon the Old. Each is a revelation of the glory of God in Christ. Both present truths that will continually reveal new depths of meaning to the earnest seeker.”—”Christ’s Object Lessons,” p. 128. 8. How has God been made known to mankind from earliest times? Ps. 19:1-4. NOTES.—”Divine wisdom, infinite grace, were made plain by the things of God’s creation. Through nature and the experiences of life, men were taught of God.”—Id., p. 22. “The author of nature is the author of the Bible. Creation and Christianity have one God.”—”Fundamentals of Christian Education,” p. 375. “He who placed the pearls in the ocean and the amethyst and chrysolite among the rocks, is a lover of the beautiful. The sun rising in the heavens is a representative of Him who is the life and light of all that He has made. All the brightness and beauty that adorn the earth and light up the heavens, speak of God:”—”The Ministry of Healing,” p. 412. 9. What is said concerning the personality of the Godhead? 1 John 5:7. NOTES.—”Sin could be resisted and overcome only through the mighty agency of the Third Person of the Godhead, who would come with no modified energy, but in the fullness of divine power.”—”The Desire of Ages,” p. 671. “There are three living persons of the heavenly trio; in the name of these- three great powersthe Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—those who re- ceive Christ by living faith are baptized, and these powers will cooperate with the obedient subjects of heaven in their efforts to live the new life in Christ.”— “Testimonies,” Series B, No. 7; p. 63, r4 1 10. How does Paul make reference to the Trinity? 2 Cor. 13:14. NorE.—”The Father is all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and is invis- ible to mortal sight, The Son is all the fullness of the Godhead manifested… . The Comforter that Christ promised to send after He ascended to heaven, is the Spirit in, all the fullness of the Godhead, making manifest the power of divine grace to all who receive and believe in Christ as a personal Saviour.”— Id., pp. 62, 63. 11. What is the mystery of the gospel declared to be? 1 Tim. 3:16. NOTE.—”The union of the divine with the human nature is one of the most precious and most mysterious truths of the plan of redemption. . . . The union of the divine and the human, manifest in Christ, exists also in the Bible. . . . Thus it may be said of the Book of God, as it was of Christ, that ‘the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.’“—”Testimonies,” vol. 5, pp. 746, 747 12. What did Jesus say concerning His personal presence among His disciples? John 8:12. 13. What other statement did He make? John 9:5. 14. When about to leave His disciples, whom did He promise to send to be His successor in the world? John 14:16-18. NOTE.—”Before offering Himself as the sacrificial victim, He [Christ] in- structed His disciples regarding a most essential and complete gift which He was to bestow upon His followers,—the gift that would bring within their reach the boundless resources of His grace. . . The Saviour. was pointing forward to the time when the Holy Spirit should come to do a mighty work, as His representative. The evil that had been accumulating for centuries was to be resisted by the divine power of the Holy Spirit.”—”Acts of the Apostles,” pp. 47, 48. 15. What is the result of turning away from the revelation of God? Rom. 1:21-25.
Lesson 2—January 13, 1934
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The First Advent of Christ MEMORY VERSE: "The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only-begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." John 1:14.
INTRODUCTION "Even before He took humanity upon Him, He saw the whole length of the path He must travel in order to save that which was lost.. Every pang that
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rent His heart, every insult that was heaped upon His head, every privation that He was called to endure, was open to His view before He laid aside His crown and royal robe, and stepped down from the throne, to clothe His divin- ity with humanity. The path from the manger to Calvary was all before His eyes. He knew the anguish that would come upon Him. He knew it all, and yet He said, To, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of Me, I de- light to do Thy will, 0 My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart.’ “Ever before Him He saw the result of His mission. His earthly life, so full of toil and self-sacrifice, was cheered by the prospect that He would not have all this travail for naught. By giving His life for the life of men, He would win back the world to its loyalty to God. Although the baptism of blood must first be received; although the sins of the world were to weigh upon His innocent soul; although the shadow of an unspeakable woe was upon Him; yet for the joy that was set before Him, He chose to endure the cross, and despised the shame.”—”The Desire of Ages,” p. 410. THE LESSON 1. What has been the greatest of all events in human history? Luke 2:4-11. NOTE.—”With profound and reverent interest the elders of Israel should have been studying the place, the time, the circumstances, of the greatest event in the world’s history,—the coming of the Son of God to accomplish the redemption of man. All the people should have been watching and waiting that they might be among the first to welcome the world’s Redeemer. But lo, at Bethlehem two weary travelers from the hills of Nazareth traverse the whole length of the narrow street to the eastern extremity of the town, vainly seeking a place of rest and shelter for the night. No doors are open to receive them. In a wretched hovel prepared for cattle, they at last find refuge, and there the Saviour of the world is born.”—”The Great Controversy,” p. 313. 2. How did the prophet Isaiah describe the mission of the Son of God to this world? Isa. 42:2-4. NoTE.—”The Sun of Righteousness did not burst upon the world in splen- dor, to dazzle the senses with His glory. It is written of Christ, ‘His going forth is prepared as the morning.’ Quietly and gently the daylight breaks upon the earth, dispelling the shadow of darkness, and waking the world to life. So did the Sun of Righteousness arise, ‘with healing in His wings.’ “—”The Desire of Ages,” p. 261. 3. How definitely was the place of Jesus’ birth foretold in prophecy? Micah 5:2. NOTE.—”The decree of imperial Rome for the enrollment of the peoples of her vast dominion, has extended to the dwellers among the hills of Galilee. As in old time Cyrus was called to the throne of the world’s empire that he might set free the captives of the Lord, so Cxsar Augustus is made the agent for the fulfillment of God’s purpose in bringing the mother of Jesus to Bethlehem. She is of the lineage of David, and the Son of David must be born in David’s city.”—Id., p. 44. 4. What details are revealed concerning His birth? Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:22, 23. 5. What was foretold concerning the exact year of His Messiahship? Dan. 9:25. [6] NOTE.—” ‘Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks,’ sixty-nine weeks, •or four hundred and eighty-three years. The commandment to restore and build Jerusalem, as completed by the decree of Artaxerxes Longimanus, went into effect in the autumn of B. c. 457. From this time four hundred and eighty- three years extend to the autumn of A. D. 27. According to the prophecy, this period was to reach to the Messiah, the Anointed One. In A. D. 27, Jesus at His baptism received the anointing of the Holy Spirit, and soon afterward began His ministry.”—Id., p. 233. 6. What is said of the Child born to Mary? Isa. 9:6, 7. NOTES.—”By His life and His death, Christ has achieved even more than recovery from the ruin wrought through sin. It was Satan’s purpose to bring about an eternal separation between God and man; but in Christ we become more closely united to God than if we had never fallen. In taking our nature, the’Saviour has bound Himself to humanity by a tie that is never to be broken. . . . To,assure us of His immutable counsel of peace, God gave His only-be- gotten Son to become•one of the human family, forever to retain His human nature. . . . God has adopted human nature in the person of His Son, and has carried the same into the highest heaven. . . . In Christ the family of earth and the family of heaven are bound together. Christ glorified is our brother.”—Id., pp. 25, 26. “In Christ the cry of humanity reached the Father of infinite pity. As a man He supplicated the throne of God, till His humanity was charged with a heavenly current that should connect humanity with divinity. Through con- tinual communion He received life from God, that He might impart life to the world. His experience is to be ours.”—Id., p. 363. 7. Whom did Christ reveal in His earthly mission? John 14:8, 9. NOTE.—”Christ came to reveal God to the world as a God of love, full of mercy, tenderness, and compassion. The thick darkness with which Satan had endeavored to enshroud the throne of Deity was swept away by the world’s Redeemer, and the Father was again manifest to men as the light of life.”— “Testimonies,” vol. 5, pp. 738, 739. 8. How early in the history of mankind was the mission of Christ fore- told? Gen. 3:15. NOTE.—”To man the first intimation of redemption was communicated in the sentence pronounced upon Satan in the garden. The Lord declared, ‘I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her Seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.’“—”Patriarchs and Prophets,” p. 65.
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When was the compact entered into that Christ should be the one to represent the Father in a lost world? Rev. 13:8; 1 Peter 1:19, 20. NOTE. “Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled.”— “The Desire of Ages,” p. 834. [7) 10. In addressing the Father, what did Christ say concerning His min- istry on the earth? John 17:4. 11. What prayer did He offer in behalf of His followers? Verse 24. NOTE.—”When upon the cross He cried out, ‘It is finished,’ He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out. Now He declares, ‘Father, it is finished. I have done Thy will, 0 My God. I have completed the work of redemption. If Thy justice is satisfied, “I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.” ‘ “—Ibid. 12. Near the close of His earthly ministry, what comforting assurance did Jesus give His followers? John 14:16, 17. 13. Why did Jesus withhold many things that He would gladly have told His disciples? John 16:12. 14. Through whoin did He say He would reveal those things later? Verses 13, 14. NorE.—”Henceforth through the Spirit, Christ was to abide continually in the hearts of His children. Their union with Him was closer than when He was personally with them. The light, and love, and power of the indwelling Christ shone out through them, so that men, beholding, ‘marveled; and they took knowledr of them, that they had been with Jesus.’ “—”Steps to Christ,” p. 80.
Lesson 3—January 20, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY I SABBATHOFFERING RECORD: Fill in each space with the weekly record. WEEKLY OFFERING ACTUALLY TOTAL GIVEN BALANCE UNPAID PLANNED FOR GIVEN TO DATE TO DATE
The Advent of the Holy Spirit MEMORY VERSE: "I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you." John 14:18, margin. INTRODUCTION We know from the study of the Old Testament Scriptures, that the Son of God visited this world before the time we speak of as His first advent. But there came a time, in the plan for man's salvation, when the Son of God was to leave His home in heaven, and for a time make this world His'home. From the manger birth in Bethlehem until the ascension from the Mount of Olives, was what might be called the time ministry of Jesus. We also know that the Holy Spirit, the Third Person of the Godhead, was often in this world, before the first advent of Christ. But there came a time, in the working out of that great plan, when He, the Holy Spirit, in a special sense should be given to this world. It is well to bear in mind that, while Jesus clothed His divinity with the garb of humanity, no such limitation was neces- sary on the part of His successor, the Holy Spirit. [8ITHE LESSON 1. After being with their divine-human teacher for three and a half years, how did the disciples feel when He spoke of leaving them? John 16:5, 6. 2. Who did He say would take His place after He left them? John 14:16. 3. How real was to be the presence of the Holy Spirit in the church? Verse 17. 4. What was the greatest of all gifts that Jesus could solicit for His followers in this world? John 14:16. NoTE.—”The Holy Spirit was the highest of all gifts that He could solicit from His Father for the exaltation of His people. The Spirit was to be given as a regenerating agent, and without this the sacrifice of Christ would have been of no avail. The power of evil had been strengthening for centuries, and the submission of men to this satanic captivity was amazing. Sin could be resisted and overcome only through the mighty agency of the Third Person of the God- head, who would come with no modified energy, but in the fullness of divine power. It is the Spirit that makes effectual what has been wrought out by the world’s Redeemer.”—”The Desire of Ages,” p. 671. 5. What assurance have we that this heavenly gift will be bestowed upon those who ask for it, and fulfill the conditions on which the promise is based? Luke 11 : 13.’ 6. What precedes the comfort which the Holy Spirit gives? Matt. 5:4. NarE.—”Real sorrow for sin is the result of the working of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit reveals the ingratitude of the heart that has slighted and grieved the Saviour, and brings us in contrition to the foot of the cross.”—Id., p. 300. 7. What will be the experience of those to whom the Holy Spirit makes a full revelation of the terrible sinfulness of the human heart? Zech. 12 : 10. NoTE.—”By every sin, Jesus is wounded afresh ; and as we look upon Him whom we have pierced, we mourn for the sins that have brought anguish upon Him. Such mourning will lead to the renunciation of sin. . . . The tears of the penitent are only the raindrops that precede the sunshine of holiness. This sorrow heralds a joy which will be a living fountain in the soul.”—Ibid. 8. With whom does the Lord dwell? Isa. 57:15. 9. To whom does the Lord give the Holy Spirit without measure? John 3:34. NOTE.—”So with the followers of Christ. We can receive of heaven’s light only as we are willing to be emptied of self. . . . To all who do this, the Holy Spirit is given without measure.”—”Testimonies,” vol. 8, p. 334. 10. What will be the experience of those who renounce the works of the flesh, and walk “after the Spirit?” Rom. 8:1. 11. In the provisions of the gospel, when do we become sons of God? John 1:12; 1 John 3:1-3. 12. Through what agency are we made members of the heavenly fam- ily,—sons of the living God? Rom. 8:13, 14. [9] 13. When we become sons. of God, through the ministry of the Holy -Spirit, what relation do we sustain to Christ? Heb. 2:11. 14. Who, besides the Holy Spirit, ministers to God’s children in the world? Heb. 1:13, 14. NoTEs.—Wonders of redeeming love and grace ! Mysterious union ! God, -our Father ! Jesus, our Elder Brother ! The Holy Spirit, our friend and helper ! The angel family, our ministering. spirits ! “We need to understand better than we do the mission of the angels. It would be well to remember that every true child of God has the cooperation -of heavenly beings. Invisible armies of light and power attend the meek and lowly ones who believe and claim the promises of God.”—”Acts of the Apos- ties,” p. 154.
Lesson 4—January 27, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY : Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY I MONDAY I TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SABBATHOFFERING RECORD: Fill in each space with the wee,:ly record. WEEKLY OFFERING ACTUALLY TOTAL GIVEN BALANCE UNPAID PLANNED FOR GIVEN TO DATE TO DATE
Personality of the Holy Spirit . MEMORY VERSE: "Great is the mystery of godliness." 1 Tim. 3:16. INTRODUCTION "Sin could be resisted and overcome only through the mighty agency of the Third Person of the Godhead, who would come with no modified energy, but in the fullness of divine power. It is the Spirit that makes effectual what has been wrought out by the world's Redeemer. It is by the Spirit that the heart is made pure."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 671. Beyond the fact that the Holy Spirit is the person or power associated with Christ and God in the work of creation (Gen. 1:2, 26), in the work of recrea- tion through the new birth (John 3), in the regeneration of sinners, leading them in the paths of righteousness (Rom. 8:1), God has seen fit to make but little known. Invisible, yet all powerful (John 3:8), unseen yet shaping the lives and characters of multitudes of hearts that have freely surrendered to Him (Acts 2:41-47; 5:14), comforting, instructing, guiding those who have given their all to the Master, still the Spirit is unseen except in the revelation of the Christ in the daily life of human souls- (John 14:15-20) who are being reborn and prepared for the kingdom of heaven. THE LESSON 1. What fundamental truth of revelation is expressed in the first four words of the Bible? Gen. 1:1. NOTE.—The Bible is a revelation from God of His plans and purposes for the human family. Everything that is essential to man's salvation is included 1 101in that revelation. Belief in the existence of a living, personal God is the very foundation stone upon which the plan for the redemption of a lost world, or of a lost soul rests. “He that cometh to God must believe that He is.” This mighty pillar of truth, which is now held loosely or openly denied in the Chris- tian world, is the opening declaration of God’s revelation to man,—”In the be- ginning God.” 2. What implies that God, the Father, was not alone in the work of creation? Verses 2, 3, 26. NOTE.—”The Sovereign of the universe was not alone in His work of benef- icence. He had an associate,—a coworker who could appreciate His purpose, and could share His joy in giving happiness to created beings. ‘In the begin- ning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God.’ Christ, the Word, the only-begotten of God, was one with the Eternal Father,—one in nature, in character, in pur- pose,—the only being that could enter into all the counsels and purposes of God.”—”Patriarchs and Prophets,” p. 34. 3. How much can human reasoning find out concerning the nature of the Godhead? Isa. 40:28. NOTES.—”The nature of the Holy Spirit is a mystery. Men cannot explain it, because the Lord has not revealed it to them. Men having fanciful views may bring together passages of Scripture and put a human construction on them; but the acceptance of these views will not strengthen the church. Re- garding such mysteries, which are too deep for human understanding, silence is golden.”—”Acts of the Apostles,” p. 52. “We cannot rightly understand or appreciate divine revelation without the aid of that Spirit by whom the word was given.”—”Testimoniesrvol. 5, p. 241. 4. What fact does faith accept without being able to explain? Matt. 1:18. NOTE.—”That which happened historically must take place experimentally. In each of us Jesus Christ must be born through the direct action of the Holy Spirit. See Gal. 4:1-5. This is what we mean by the new birth; and when He has so entered our hearts, our Lord will become our Saviour, not merely from the penalty but from the love and the power of our sins.”—F. B. Meyer. 5. What does the apostle Paul state concerning the union of the divine and human nature in Christ? 1 Tim. 3:16. NOTE.—”The union of the divine with the human nature is one of the most precious and most mysterious truths of the plan of redemption. It is this of which Paul speaks when he says, ‘Without controversy great is the mystery of godliness; God was manifest in the flesh.’ “—”Testimonies,” vol. 5, p. 746. 6. How much of the mystery surrounding the personality of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, is open to our study? Deut. 29 : 29. NOTE.—”The revelation of Himself that God has given in His word is for our study. This we may seek to understand. But, beyond this we are not to penetrate. The highest intellect may tax itself until it is wearied out in con- jectures regarding the nature of God; but the effect will be fruitless. This problem has not been given us to solve. No human mind can comprehend God. Let not finite man attempt to interpret Him. Let none indulge in speculation regarding His nature. Here silence is eloquence. The Omniscient One is above discussion.”—Id., vol. 8, p. 279. 11 7. What is declared to be “the riches of the glory of this mystery”? Col. 1:27. 8. What special preparation did Gideon receive when called to leader- ship? Judges 6:34, margin. 9. How was Amasai prepared for his work in defending David? 1 Chron. 12:18, margin. 10. What is stated concerning the experience of Zechariah? 2 Chron. 24:20, margin. 11. When the Holy Spirit came in fulfillment of the promise, whose spiritual presence did He bring to the disciples? John 14:18. NOTES.—”It is through the Spirit that Christ dwells in us; and the Spirit of God, received into the heart by faith, is the beginning of the life eternal”— “The Desire of Ages,” p. 388. “Christ Himself calls our attention to the growth of the vegetable world as an illustration of the agency of His Spirit in sustaining spiritual life. The sap of the vine, ascending from the root, is diffused to the branches, sustaining growth and producing blossoms and fruit. So the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit, proceeding from the Saviour, pervades the soul, renews the motives and affections, and brings even the thoughts into obedience to the will of God, en- abling the receiver to bear the precious fruit of holy, deeds.”—”Acts of the Apostles,” p. 284. 12. What work was the Holy Spirit commissioned to do? John 16:13-15. Notts.—”On the day of Pentecost the promised Comforter descended, and the power from on high was given, and the souls of the believers thrilled with the conscious presence of their ascended Lord.”—”The Great Controversy,” p. 351. “Pentecost brought them the heavenly illumination. The truths they could not understand while Christ was with them were now unfolded. With a faith and assurance that they had never before known, they accepted the , teachings of the Sacred Word. No longer was it a matter of faith with them 4 that Christ was the Son of God. They knew that although clothed with hu- manity, He was indeed the Messiah, and they told their experience to the, world with a confidence which carried with it the conviction that God was with them.”—”Acts of the Apostles,” pp: 45, 46.
During the first three months of last year there was an increase in our Sab- bath school membership of 16,991. Every world division showed an increase, —Southern Africa and Central Europe more than 3,600 each ; North America, China, and Inter-America more than 2,400 each, while two others of the world divisions, Northern and Southern Europe, exceeded the thousand mark in that first quarter's gains. Counted by Sabbath schools, this would add 170 new schools of a hundred each. It is soul-thrilling to think of this army of Bible students who are making ready for the coming of the Lord. Every new pupil is an omen of cheer, every new school a beacon light in the darkness, an evi- dence that God is baring His arm to make a short work in the earth.
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Lesson 5—February 3, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY : Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY I MONDAY I TUESDAY WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY SABBATH
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Intercession in Our Behalf MEMORY VERSE: "If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." 1 John 2:1.
INTRODUCTION
The word Paraclete occurs four times in the Gospel of John,—chapter 14: 16, 26; 15:26; and 16:7. "Paraclete is simply the Greek word transferred into English. . . . In general the word signifies (1) a legal advocate, or counsel for defense, (2) an intercessor, (3) a helper. . . . Perhaps there is no English word broad enough to cover all the significance of the word `Paraclete' except the word 'Helper.' "—International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, art., "Para- clete."
THE LESSON
1. Who is our attorney, or advocate, in the supreme court of the uni- verse? 1 John 2:1.
NOTES.—"In the courts above, Christ is pleading for His church—pleading for those for whom He has paid the redemption. price of His blood."—"Acts of the Apostles," p. 552.
"No sooner does the child of God approach the mercy seat than he becomes the client of the great Advocate. At his first utterance of penitence and appeal for pardon; Christ espouses his case, and makes it His own, presenting the sup- plication before the Father as His own request."—"Testimonies," vol. 6, p. 364.
"He has placed at. His altar an Advocate clothed in our nature. As our intercessor, Christ's office work is to introduce us to God as His sons and daugh- ters. He intercedes in behalf of those who receive Him. With His own blood He has paid their ransom. By virtue of His merits, He gives them power to become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. And the Father demonstrates His infinite love for Christ by receiving and welcoming Christ's friends as His friends."—"Testimonies," vol. 8, p. 177.
2. Who besides Christ intercedes with God in behalf of man? Rom. 8: 26, 27.
NOTE.—"In the great and measureless gift of the Holy Spirit are contained all of heaven's resources. It is not because of any restriction on the part of God that the riches of His grace do not flow earthward to man. If all were willing to receive, all would become filled with His Spirit."—"Christ's Object Les- sons," p. 419.
3. What reason did Christ give why it would be expedient for Him to leave His disciples? John 16:7.
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NOTE.—”The Holy Spirit is Christ’s representative, but divested of the per- sonality of humanity, and independent thereof. Cumbered with humanity, Christ could not be in every place personally. Therefore it was for their in- terest that He should go to the Father, and send the Spirit to be His successor on earth. No one could then have any advantage because of his location or his personal contact with Christ. By the Spirit the Saviour would be accessible to all. In this sense He would be nearer to them than if He had not ascended on high.”—”The Desire of Ages,” p. 669. 4. What mysterious relationship, closer than simply dwelling among us, does the Holy Spirit sustain to believers? John 14:17.
- Of whom does the Holy Spirit testify? John 15:26.
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By what other term is the work of Christ, our Advocate, brought to view? 1 Tim. 2:5. NOTE.—The guilt of His clients is admitted. The plea of guilty is the only one that can be entered. The law has been broken, the penalty for which is death. In order to present a successful plea in man’s behalf, as an advocate, He must offer some means by which the demands of justice can be satisfied. 7. Who only possessed sufficient merit to meet the demands of justice, thus bridging the gulf of separation between God and man? Heb. 2:9, 10; Acts 4:12. NOTE.—”The broken law of God demanded the life of the sinner. In all the universe there was but one who could, in behalf of man, satisfy its claims. Since the divine law is as sacred as God Himself, only one equal with God could make atonement for its transgression. None but Christ could redeem fallen man from the curse of the law, and bring him again into harmony with Heaven. Christ would take upon Himself the guilt and shame of sin,—sin so offensive to a holy God that it must separate the Father and His Son. Christ would reach to the depths of misery to rescue the ruined race.”—”Patriarchs and Prophets,” p. 63. 8. What impelled the Father and the Son to provide a way of salvation for man? John 3:16; Heb. 12:2. NOTES.—”Though corruption and defiance might be seen in every part of the alien province [our lost world], a way for its recovery was provided. At the very crisis, when Satan seemed about to triumph, the Son of God came with the embassage of divine grace. Through every age, through every hour, the love of God had been exercised toward the fallen race. Notwithstanding the perversity of men, the signals of mercy had been continually exhibited. And when the fullness of the time had come, the Deity was glorified by pour- ing upon the world a flood of healing grace that was never to be obstructed or withdrawn till the plan of salvation should be fulfilled.”—”The Desire of Ages,” p. 37. “Love is the ‘Alpha and Omega’ of redemption, the love of God to man. Read it in the journey of the Mediator from heaven to earth! Read it in His pilgrimage through the land of sorrow ! Behold Him ‘nailed to the shameful tree !’ See the blood and water gushing from His side ! Hear the sound of the waterspouts, as the floods of wrath roll over Him ! Then ask the reason. The answer is: ‘God is love.’ “—Evangelistic Cyclopaedia, pp. 290, 291. [ 14 I 9. What plea does His mediation enable Him to present to the Father in behalf of His followers? John 17:9-11. 10. What must be the qualifications of such a Mediator? Heb. 4:15.. NOTE.—”Wonderful must be the qualifications of such a Mediator. He fills with His own merit the gap between two worlds. He bows the heavens and lifts up the earth to meet them. He takes hold of God and man and brings them together in Himself. He reconciles the rebel and the law, glorifies the- Father by humbling Himself, and His cross becomes our life.”—Id., p. 291. 11. What should the fact that Christ, as Mediator and Advocate, repre- sents us before the Father in heaven inspire in the heart of every believer? Verse 16. NOTES.—”If ever there was a time when every house should be a house of prayer, it is now. Infidelity and skepticism prevail. Iniquity abounds. Cor- ruption flows in the vital currents of the soul, and rebellion against God breaks. out in the life. . . . And yet, in this time of fearful peril, some who profess to• _ be Christians have no family worship.”—”Testimonies,” vol. 7, p. 42. Is it possible that this great lack prevails in any Seventh-day Adventist home? If so, may the study of this lesson lead to the erection of the family altar, ere it shall be too late to pray. 12. How does the apostle John give expression to the love of God, re- vealed through Christ as mediator and advocate? 1 John 3:1, 2. NoTE.—”In our life here, earthly, sin-restricted, though it is, the greatest joy and the highest education are in service. And in the future state, untram- meled by the limitations of sinful humanity, it is in service that our greatest joy and our highest education will be found ;—witnessing, and ever as we wit- ness learning anew ‘the riches of the glory of this mystery ;”which is Christ- in you, the hope of glory.’ “—”Education,” p. 309.
Lesson 6—February 10, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SABBATH OFFERING RECORD: Fill in each space with the weekly record. WEEKLY OFFERING ACTUALLY TOTAL GIVEN BALANCE UNPAID PLANNED FOR GIVEN TO DATE TO DATE The Holy Spirit as Teacher MEMORY VERSE: "The Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your ,re- membrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." John 14:26. INTRODUCTION We have learned that it is the cooperation between Christ, as advocate and mediator in heaven, and the Holy Spirit, as another advocate and helper on- [ 15 1the earth, that makes successful the plan of our salvation. We are now to study their cooperation as divine teachers. THE LESSON
- Whom did Nicodemus recognize in the Saviour? John 3:1, 2.
2. What qualifications, as the world’s great teacher, did Christ possess?
Col. 2:3.
NOTE.—”To all eternity men may be ever searching, ever learning, and yet
never exhaust the treasures of His wisdom, His goodness, and His power.”—
“Steps to Christ,” p. 114.
3. What could Jesus therefore say of Himself? John 8:12.
NOTE.—”We can trace the line of the world’s great teachers as far back as
human records extend; but the Light was before them. As the moon and the
stars of the solar system shine by the reflected light of the sun, so, as far as
their teaching is true, do the world’s great thinkers reflect the rays of the Sun
of Righteousness. Every gem of thought, every flash of the intellect, is from
the Light of the world.”—”The Desire of Ages,” pp. 464, 465.
4. Since Christ, the “teacher come from God,” returned to His home
in heaven, who continues the work of teaching which He began? How much
does the Holy Spirit teach concerning what Christ said to His disciples?
John 14:26.
NOTE.—”Many of His lessons, when spoken, they [the disciples] had not
appreciated or understood; now they longed to recall these lessons, to hear
again His words.”—”Education,” p. 94.
5. What is this other “Comforter” called? Verse 17.
- From what inexhaustible source does the Holy Spirit receive the light and truth which He imparts? John 16:14, 15. NOTE.—”It is plainly declared regarding the Hdly Spirit, that in His work of guiding men into all truth, ‘He shall not speak of Himself.’“—”Acts of the Apostles,” p. 51.
- What should inspire believers to pray earnestly for the presence of
the Holy Spirit? John 14:16.
NoTE.—”Wherever the need of the Holy Spirit is a matter little thought
of, there is seen spiritual drought, spiritual darkness, spiritual declension and
death. Whenever minor matters occupy the attention, the divine power which
is necessary for the growth and prosperity of the church, and which would
bring all other blessings in its train, is lacking, though offered in infinite pleni-
tude.”—Id., p. 50.
- ‘What blessings follow the reception of the Holy Spirit? Acts 1:8. NOTE.—”Since this is the means by which we are to receive power, why do we not hunger and thirst for the gift of the Spirit? Why do we not talk of it, pray for it, and preach concerning it? The Lord is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to those who serve Him than parents are to give good gifts to their children. For the daily baptism of the Spirit, every worker should offer his petition to God. Companies of Christian workers should gather to ask for special help, for heavenly wisdom, that they may know how to plan and exe- cute wisely. Especially should they pray that God will baptize His chosen • {16] ambassadors in mission fields with a rich- measure of His Spirit. The presence of the Spirit with God’s workers will give the proclamation of truth a power that not all the honor or glory of the world could give.”—Id., pp. 50, 51.
- If unhindered by sin and unbelief, how much truth will the Holy Spirit unfold to us? John 16 : 12-15.
- How is the receiving of the Holy Spirit referred to by the apostle? 1 John 2:20, 27. NoTE.—”An unction” means an anointing. The phrase, “the Holy One,” doubtless refers to the Holy Spirit. The text does not say that those who had once received the teaching of the Holy Spirit would have no further need of instruction in the gospel, but rather that they would have no need of the minis- try of the false teachers mentioned in 1 John 2:18, 19, nor of any other teach- ing different from, or opposed to, that which the Spirit of God had given them.
- From whom does the heavenly anointing come? 2 Cor. 1:21. 12. Through whom does God send the heavenly anointing? Acts 10:38. NOTE.—”Christ, the outshining of the Father’s glory, came to the world as its light. He came to represent God to man, and of Him it is written that He was anointed ‘with the Holy Ghost, and with power.’ “—”Prophets and Kings,” p. 718. 13. What does the great Teacher point out as being the greatest need of the remnant church? Rev. 3:14-18. NOTES.—”The Laodicean message applies to the people of God who profess to believe present truth. The greater part are lukewarm professors, having a name but no zeal.”—”Testimonies,” vol. 4, p. 87. “The True Witness counsels us to buy of Him gold tried in the fire, white raiment,’ and eye salve. The gold here recommended as having been tried in the fire, is faith and love.”—Id., p. 88. “To those who are indifferent at this time Christ’s warning is, ‘Because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth’ Rev. 3 :16. The figure of spewing out of His mouth means that He cannot offer up your prayers or your expressions of love to God. He cannot indorse your teaching of His word or your spiritual work in any wise. He cannot present your religious exercises with the request that grace be given you.”—Id., vol. 6, p. 408. 14. As we come in close, daily contact with the Holy Spirit, the promised teacher, how will our pathway be made clearer? Prov. 4:18. NOTES.—”Wonderful possibilities are open to those who lay hold of the divine assurances of God’s word. There are glorious truths to come before the people of God. Privileges and duties which they do not even suspect to be in the Bible will be laid open before them.”—Id., vol. 8, p. 322. “The truths of redemption are capable of constant development and ex- pansion. Though old, they are ever new, constantly revealing to the seeker for truth a greater glory and a mightier power.”—”Christ’s Object Lessons,” p. 127.
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What enables the Holy Spirit to “teach you all things”? 1 Cor. 2:10. NOTE.—”It is impossible for any human mind to exhaust even one truth or promise of the Bible. One catches the glory from one point of view, another [ 17 from another point; yet we can discern only gleamings. The full radiance is beyond our vision. “As we contemplate the great things of God’s word, we look into a foun- tain that broadens and deepens beneath our gaze. Its breadth and depth pass our knowledge. As we.gaze, the vision widens; stretched out before us we be- hold a boundless, shoreless sea. Such study gives vivifying power. The mind and heart acquire new strength, new life.”—”Education” p. 171.
Lesson 7—February 17, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY I MONDAY I TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY I SABBATHOFFERING RECORD: Fill in each space with the weekly record. WEEKLY OFFERING ACTUALLY TOTAL GIVEN BALANCE UNPAID PLANNED FOR GIVEN TO DATE TO DATE
The Holy Spirit and the New Birth MEMORY VERSE: “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorrup- tible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.” 1 Peter 1:23.
INTRODUCTION . "The Christian's life is not a modification or improvement of the old, but a transformation of nature. There is a death to self and sin, and a new life altogether. This change can be brought about only by the effectual working of the Holy Spirit."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 172. THE LESSON 1. What solemn statement did the Saviour make.to Nicodemus? John 3:3. NorE.—"It is impossible for finite minds to comprehend the work of re- demption. Its mystery exceeds human knowledge; yet he who passes from death to life realizes that it is a divine reality. The beginning of redemption we may know here through a personal experience. Its results reach through the eternal ages."—"The Desire of Ages,' p. 173. 2. How much could Nicodemus, whose heart was unrenewed, under- stand concerning this spiritual experience? With what words did Jesus seek to make His ,meaning clear? Verses 4-6. - How only can spiritual truth be discerned? 1 Cor. 2:14. NOTES.—”It is by faith that the soul beholds the glory of Jesus. This glory is hidden, until, through the Holy Spirit, faith is kindled in the soul.”—Id., p. 392. “Not by the decisions of courts or councils or legislative assemblies, not by the patronage of worldly great men, is the kingdom of Christ established, but by the implanting of Christ’s nature in humanity through the work of the Holy p. 509. 4. What conflict is going on in the human heart? Rom. 7:23, 24. NOTE.—”To man the first intimation of redemption was communicated in the sentence pronounced upon Satan in the garden. . . . This sentence, uttered in the hearing of our first parents, was to them a promise. While it foretold war between man and Satan, it declared that the power of the great adver- sary would finally be broken. . . . When Satan heard that enmity should exist betweei. himself and the woman, and between his seed and her Seed, he knew that his work of depraving human nature would be interrupted; that by some means man would be enabled to resist his power.”—”Patriarchs and Prophets,” pp. 65, 66. 5. What decides the conflict and gives victory to the struggling human soul? Rom. 8:1, 2. 6. To what is the new birth likened? John 3:8. NOTE.—”Like the wind, which is invisible, yet the effects of which are plainly seen and felt, is the Spirit of God in its work upon the human heart. That regenerating power, which no human eye can see, begets a new life in the soul ; it creates a new being in the image of God. While the work of the Spirit is silent and imperceptible, its effects are manifest.”—”Steps to Christ,” p. 61. 7. How are the natural and the spiritual birth defined by the Saviour? Verse 6. 8. What is accomplished by the new birth? Gal. 6:15. 9. What agency does the Holy Spirit use in bringing about the new birth? 1 Peter 1:23. 10. What must always precede the new birth? Gal. 2:19, 20.
- By whom is the new creation? Eph. 2:10. NoTE.—He who created the world and man in the beginning, is the One who creates men and women anew, and who. will one day create new heavens and a new earth.
- How is it shown that the One who created the worlds is the One who purges our sins, thus making us new creatures in Christ Jesus? Heb. 1:1-3. 13. What part did the Holy Spirit act in the work of creation, in the beginning? Gen. 1:2, last part. NOTE.—In the work of the new creation, the Holy Spirit moves upon the sinful human heart, bringing conviction, which is the first step in the work of conversion.
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What then is accomplished through the new birth? Eph. 2:4-6. NoTE.—”By an agency as unseen as the wind, Christ is constantly work- ing upon the heart. Little by little, perhaps unconsciously to the receiver, im- pressions are made that tend to draw the soul to Christ. These may be re- ceived through meditating upon Him, through reading the Scriptures, or through hearing the word from the living preacher. Suddenly, as the Spirit comes with more direct appeal, the soul gladly surrenders itself to Jesus.”— “The Desire of Ages,” p. 172. [ 191 Lesson 8—February 24, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY I MONDAY I TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY I SABBATH
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Indwelling and Abiding Presence ©f the Holy Spirit MEMORY VERSE: “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” 1 John 4:4.
INTRODUCTION "The Saviour was pointing forward to the time when the Holy Spirit should come to do a mighty work as His representative. The evil that had been accumulating for centuries was to be resisted by the divine power of the Holy Spirit. . . The lapse of time has wrought no change in Christ's part- ing promise to send the Holy Spirit as His representative. . . . Since this is the means by which we are to receive power, why do we not hunger and thirst for the gift of the Spirit? Why do we not talk of it, pray for it, and preach concerning it?"—"Acts of the Apostles," pp. 47-50.
THE LESSON
1. After Christ had been personally present in the world for thirty- three years, what did He promise concerning the length of time His suc- cessor would remain in the world? John 14:16.
NoTE.—"The dispensation in which we are now livino is to be, to those that ask, the dispensation of the Holy Spirit. Ask for His' blessing. It is time .we were more intense in our devotions. To us is committed the arduous, but happy, glorious work of revealing Christ to those who are in darkness. We are called to proclaim the special truths for this time. For all this the outpour- ing of the Spirit is essential. We should pray fOr it. The Lord expects us to ask. Him. We have not been whole-hearted in this work."—"Testimonies to Ministers," pp. 511, 512.
2. To whom is the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit assured? Verses 20, 21.
NOTE.—"What was the strength of those who in the past have suffered persecution for Christ's sake? It was union with God, union with the Holy Spirit, union with Christ. Reproach and persecution have separated many from earthly friends, but never from the love of Christ."—"Acts of the Apostles," p. 85.
3. What promise is made to those who ask in faith for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the time of the latter rain? Zech. 10:1. NoTE.—"Under the figure of the early and the latter rain, that falls in Eastern lands at seedtime and harvest, the Hebrew prophets foretold the be- stowal of spiritual grace in extraordinary measure upon God's church. The
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outpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostles was the beginning of the early, or former, rain, and glorious was the result. To the end of time, the presence of the Spirit is to abide with the true church.”—Id., pp. 54, 55. 4. Upon what foundation is the living temple, the household of God, being built? Eph. 2:19-21. NOTE.—”To those who believe, Christ is a sure foundation. Upon this living stone, Jews and Gentiles alike may build. It is broad enough for all, and strong enough to sustain the weight and burden of the whole world.”— Id., p. 175. 5. Who is one of the agents in the erection of this spiritual building? Verse 22. NOTES.—By His representative, the Holy Spirit, Christ dwells in the hearts of believers. “Not those whose hearts are touched by the Spirit, not those who now and then yield to its power, but they that are led by the Spirit, are the sons of God.”—”Mount of Blessing,” p. 215. 6. In order to dwell in the church, in whom must the Holy Spirit abide? 1 Cor. 3:16, 17. NoTEs.—The Holy Spirit continually observes our course of action, seek- ing to guide us in harmony with God’s will. “Heaven is brought near to earth by that mystic ladder [Gen. 28:10-12], the base of which is firmly planted on the earth, while the topmost round reaches the throne of the Infinite. Angels are constantly ascending and de- scending this ladder of shining brightness, bearing the prayers of the needy and distressed to the Father above, and bringing blessing and hope, courage and help, to the children of men. These angels of light create a heavenly at- mosphere about the soul, lifting us toward the unseen and the eternal. We cannot behold their forms with our natural sight ; only by spiritual vision can we discern heavenly things. The spiritual ear alone can hear the harmony of heavenly voices.”—”Acts of the Apostles,” p. 153. 7. What change is the Holy Spirit w•rking in human hearts? 2 Cor. 3: 17, 18. NoTE.—”The Lord Jesus is making experiments on human hearts through the exhibition of His mercy and abundant grace. He is effecting transforma- tions so amazing that Satan, with all his triumphant boasting, with all his confederacy of evil united against God and the laws of His government, stands viewing them as a fortress impregnable to his sophistries and delusions. They are to him an incomprehensible mystery. The angels of God, seraphim and cherubim, the powers commissioned to cooperate with human agencies, look on with astonishment and joy, that fallen men, once children of wrath, are through the training of Christ developing characters after the divine simili- tude, to be sons and daughters of God, to act an important part in the occu- pations and pleasures of heaven.”—”Testimonies to Ministers,” p. 18. 8. What importance does the apostle attach to the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit? Rom. 8:9. NOTE.—”The Holy Spirit seeks to abide in each soul. If it is welcomed as an honored guest, those who receive it will be made complete in Christ. The good work begun will be finished; the holy thoughts, heavenly affections, and { 21] Christlike actions will take the place of impure thoughts, perverse sentiments, and rebellious acts.”—”Counsels on Health,” p. 561. 9. What longing does the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit create in the soul? Phil. 3:10. NOTE.—”Transformation of character is the testimony to the world of an indwelling Christ. The Spirit of God produces a new life in the soul, bringing the thoughts and desires into obedience to the will of Christ; and the inward man is renewed in the image of God.”—”Prophets and Kings,” p. 233.
- Who only are sons of God? Rom. 8:14. 11. Who witnesses to our sonship? Verse 16. NOTE.—”This conformity to Jesus will not be unobserved by the world. It is a subject of notice and comment. The Christian may not be conscious of the great change; for the more closely he resembles Christ in character, the more humble will be his opinion of himself ; but it will be seen and felt by all around him. Those who have had the deepest experience in the things of God, are the farthest removed from pride or self-exaltation. They have the hum- blest thoughts of self, and the most exalted conception of the glory and excel- lence 01 Christ.”—”Testimonies,” vol. 5, p. 223. 12. How can one person be said to dwell in the heart of another whom he loves? Phil. 1:7, 8. 13. What promise does Christ make of His indwelling presence? Rev. 3:20. 14. Who does the apostle Paul say will be the chief crown of his re- joicing at the second coming of Christ? 1 Thess. 2:19, 20. NOTE.—”Who can measure the results to the world of Paul’s life work? Of all those beneficent influences that alleviate suffering, that comfort sor- row, that restrain evil, that uplift life from the selfish and the sensual, and glorify it with the hope of immortality, how much is due to the labors of Paul and his fellow workers, as with the gospel of the Son of God they made their unnoticed journey from Asia to the shores of Europe? “What is it worth to any life to have been God’s instrument in setting in motion such influences of blessing? What will it be worth in eternity to wit- ness the results of such a life work?”—”Education,” p. 70.
BIBLE STORIES for the CRADLE ROLL
Book Two
By Rosamond D. Ginther •
Mothers and teachers of small children should have
this second book on Old Testament stories. It contains
the Sabbath school lessons for the entire year in simpli-
fied form. Well illustrated. Price, $1.25.
Order from your Book and Bible Hous4.
( 22 3
Lesson 9—March 3, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY I MONDAY TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY SABBATH
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The Holy Spirit and the New Covenant MEMORY VERSE: "In that He saith, A new covenant, He hath made the first old." Heb. 8:13.
INTRODUCTION No theme is of more vital interest and importance to mankind, than is that of the new covenant. It is God's eternal covenant of grace whereby sin- ners, members of Satan's "kingdom of darkness," may become members of the royal family, members of "the kingdom of His dear Son."
THE LESSON 1. What evidence is given us that God's eternal purpose to redeem a fallen race was formed before sin entered into the world? 1 Peter 1:18-20; Rev. 13:8.
NOTE.—"The plan for our redemption was not an afterthought, a plan formulated after the fall of Adam. It was a revelation of the mystery which hath been kept in silence through times eternal.' It was an unfolding of the principles that from eternal ages have been the foundation of God's throne. From the beginning, God and Christ knew of the apostasy of Satan, and of the fall of man through the deceptive power of the apostate. God did not or- dain that sin should exist, but He foresaw its existence, and made provision to meet the terrible emergency."—"The Desire of Ages," p. 22.
2. What intimation do we have of a council having been held when the plan of redemption was agreed upon? Zech. 6:13.
NOTE.—"Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race. This pledge Christ has fulfilled. When upon the cross He cried out, 'It is finished,' He addressed the Father. The compact had been fully carried out."—Id., p. 834.
3. Who only of all the familrof heaven was qualified to bridge the gulf of separation that sin had made? Acts 4:10, 12.
NOTES.—"Since the law of Jehovah is the foundation of His government in heaven as well as upon the earth, even the life of an angel could not be ac- cepted as a sacrifice for its transgression."—"Patriarchs and Prophets," p. 66.
"None but the Son of God.could accomplish our redemption; for only He who was in the bosom of the Father could declare Him. Only He who knew the height and depth of the love of God could make it manifest. Nothing less
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than the infinite sacrifice made by Christ in behalf of fallen man could express the Father’s love to lost humanity.”—”Steps to Christ,” p. 16. 4. When was God’s eternal covenant of grace first announced to man- kind? Gen. 3:15. NOTE.—”To man the first intimation of redemption was communicated in the sentence pronounced upon Satan in the garden.”—”Patriarchs and Proph- ets,” p. 65. THE OLD COVENANT BY WAY OF COMPARISON WITH THE NEW 5. How does the apostle speak of the enduring nature of the new cove- nant, the covenant of grace? Heb. 13:20, 21. 6. What was the basis of the old covenant? Ex. 19:5, 8. 7. After the Israelites had thrice solemnly promised to keep the Ten Commandments, of how much value did their promises prove to be? Ex. 32: 7, 8. NoTE.—The old covenant on the people’s part was based solely on their promise to keep the Ten Commandments. In other words, it was the promise of the people to make themselves righteous. 8. In what respect does Inspiration declare the new covenant better than the old? Heb. 8:6. 9. What are the “better promises,” and by whom were the promises of the new covenant made? Jer. 31:31-33. NOTE.—The old covenant was a mutual agreement based upon the promises of God and His people, but the promise of God was conditioned upon the promise of the people. Ex. 19:5, 6, 8. The failure of the people to keep their promise (Ex. 32:1-6) released God from His obligation under that particular covenant. 10. What agency does the Lord employ in writing the law of God upon the human heart? 2 Cor. 3:3. NOTES.—Under the terms of the old covenant, the people promised to make themselves righteous by keeping the law of God, written upon tables of stone. Under the terms of the new covenant, the Lord promises to make the people righteous by writing the same law upon the fleshly tables of the heart. “The same law that was engraved upon the tables of stone, is written by the Holy Spirit upon the tables of the heart.”—”Patriarchs and Prophets,” p. 372. 11. When we comply with the conditions of the new covenant, permit- ting the Holy Spirit to write the law of God in the heart, what do we become to those with whom we associate? Verse 2. NOTE.—”In every one of His children, Jesus sends a letter to the world. If you are Christ’s follower, He sends in you a letter to the family, the village, the street, where you live. Jesus, dwelling in you, desires to speak to the hearts of those who are not acquainted with Him. Perhaps they do not read the Bible, or do not hear the voice that speaks to them in its pages; they do not see the love of God through His works. But if you are a true representative of Jesus, it may be that through you they will be led to understand something of His goodness, and be won to love and serve Him.”—”Steps to Christ,” p. 119.
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When permitted to have His full right of way in our hearts, what change does the .Holy Spirit work in our Christian experience? Verse 18. [24) 13. What exalted mission does the Holy Spirit qualif 7 the believer to fill in this world? John 17:18. NOTE.—”It is through the agency of the Holy Spirit that God communi- cates with man; and those who deliberately reject this :agency as satanic, .,lave cut off the channel of communication between the coal and Heaven. God works by the manifestation of His Spirit to reprove and convict the sinner; and if the Spirit’s work is finally rejected, there is no more that God -.an do for , the soul. The last resource of divine mercy been employed’ fhe trans- gressor has cut himself off from God; and sir Das no remedy i o cure itself. There is no reserved power by which God car work to convict and convert the sinner.”—”Patriarchs and Prophets,” p. 405 14. What was Christ’s attitude towr.s.d the law of God? Ps. 40:8. 15. When the•Holy Spirit control’ sis heart, what change of attitude on the part of the sinner takes place it relationship to the law of God? Ps. 1:2; Rom. 7:22. NoTE.—When the Holy Spirit the heart or the sinner and transforms and changes it, the sinner no longer 1,_,2S his manner of living. His pleasures are now found, not in sinful practices an.-: worlehy pleasures, but in righteous- ness. He loves the law and meditates upon it. With the S’aviour he can exclaim, “I delight to do Thy will, 0 my God: yea, Thy law is within my heart.”
Lesson 10—March 10, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY: Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY I MONDAY I TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY I FRIDAY I SABBATH IOFFERING RECORD: Fill in each space with the weekly record. WEEKLY OFFERING ACTUALLY TOTAL GIVEN BALANCE UNPAID PLANNED FOR GIVEN TO DATE TO DATE
The Fruits of the Spirit MEMORY VERSE: "Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." Matt. 7:20. INTRODUCTION It is true we are not to judge one another. We cannot read a man's heart and judge the motive that prompts his actions. But, as expressed in Dr. Wey- mouth's translation, "Are grapes gathered from thorns or figs from brambles? Just so every good tree produces good fruit, but a poisonous tree produces bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor a poisonous tree good fruit. . . . So by their fruits at any rate, you will easily recognize them." THE LESSON 1. What shows whether a man is a true Christian or a lifeless professor? Matt. 7:16-20. NOTE.—"It is a solemn and terrible truth that many who have been zealous in proclaiming the third angel's message are now becoming listless and indif- [ 25ferent ! The line of demarcation between worldlings and many professed Chris- tians is almost indistinguishable.”—”Testimonies,” vol. 8, p. 118. 2. How long will the good and the bad mingle together? Matt. 13:30. NOTE.—”The tares closely resembled the wheat while the blades were green ; but when the field was white for the harvest, the worthless weeds bore no like- ness to the wheat that bowed under the weight of its full, ripe heads. Sinners who make a pretension of piety mingle for a time with the true followers of Christ, and the semblance of Christianity is calculated to deceive many; but in the harvest of the world there will be no likeness between good and evil. Then those who have joined the church, but who have not joined Christ, will be manifest.”—”Christ’s Object Lessons,” p. 74. 3. What are the fruits of the Holy Spirit? Gal. 5:22, 23. NorE.—”It is possible with our lips to confess Christ, yet in our works deny Him. The fruits of the Spirit manifested in the life, are a confession of Him.”—”Testimonies,” vol. 1, p. 303. 4. How does the apostle contrast the works of the flesh with the fruits of the Spirit? Verses 19-23. NOTE.—”Those who become new creatures in Christ Jesus will bring forth the fruits of the Spirit, ‘love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.’ They will no longer fashion themselves accord- ing to the former lusts, but by the faith of the Son of God they will follow in His steps, reflect His character, and purify themselves even as He is pure. The things they once hated, they new love; and the things they once loved, they hate. The proud and self-assertive become meek and lowly in heart. The vain and supercilious became serious and unobtrusive. The drunken become sober, and the profligate pure. The vain customs and fashions of the world are laid aside. Christians will seek not the `outward adorning,’ but ‘the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit.’“—”Steps to Christ,” pp. 62, 63. • 5. How should Christians stand as related to the works of the flesh? Eph. 5:3-6. NorE.—Observe that the “covetous man, who is an idolater” is in the list of those who shall not have any inheritance in the kingdom of God. “And yet, notwithstanding all these warnings, covetousness abounds. Everywhere its slimy track is seen. It creates discontent and dissension in families; it ex- cites envy and hatred in the poor against the rich; it prompts the grinding op- pression of the rich toward the poor. And this evil exists not in the world alone, but in the church. How common even here to find selfishness, avarice, overreaching, neglect of charities, and robbery of God in tithes and offerings.’” —”Patriarchs and Prophets,” p. 497. 6. How is the fruit of the Spirit manifested? Verse 9. 7. How only is one enabled to bear the fruits of the Spirit? John 15: 4-8. Norns.—”You are just as dependent upon Christ, in order to Jive a holy life, as is the branch upon the parent stock for growth and fruitfulness.”— “Steps to Christ,” p. 73. “A character formed according to the divine likeness is the only treasure that we can take from this world to the next. Those who are under the in- [ 26 struction of Christ in this world will take every divine attainment with them to the heavenly mansions. And in heaven we are continually to improve. How important, then, is the development of character in this life.”—”Christ’s Object Lessons,” p. 332. “All the true followers of Christ bear fruit to His glory. Their lives testify that a good work. has been wrought in them by the Spirit of God, and their fruit is unto holiness.”—”Counsels to Teachers,” p. 329. 8. What prayer did the apostle offer concerning fruit bearing? Phil. 1:9-11. NOTE.—”Oh, what can I say to open blind eyes, to enlighten the spiritual understanding Sin must be crucified. A complete moral renovation must be wrought by the Holy Spirit. We must have the love of God, with living, abid- ing faith.”—”Testimonies,” vol. 5, p. 105. • 9. What comparison does the apostle make between earthly and heav- enly wisdom? James 3:13-17. Narks.—”In one who is learning of Jesus, there will be manifest a grow- ing distaste for careless manners, unseemly language, and coarse thought. When Christ abides in the heart, there will be purity and refinement of thought and manner.”—”The Mount of Blessing,” p. 42. “Who can be trifling, who can engage in frivolous, common talk, while by faith he sees the Lamb that was slain pleading before the Father as the inter- cessor of the church upon earth? By faith let us look upon the rainbow round about the throne, the cloud of sins confessed behind it. The rainbow of promise is an assurance to every humble, contrite, believing soul, that his life is one with Christ, and that Christ is one with God.”—”Testimonies to Ministers,” p. 157. 10. What counsel is given the members of the Laodicean church? Rev. 3:18. NOTE.—”The gold tried in the fire is faith that works by love. Only this can bring us into harmony with God. We may be active, we may do much work; but without love, such love as dwelt in the heart of Christ, we can never be numbered with the family of heaven.”—”Christ’s Object Lessons,” p. 158. “Only the covering which Christ Himself has provided, can make us meet to appear in God’s presence. This covering, the robe of His own righteousness, Christ will put upon every repenting, believing soul. . . . This robe, woven in the loom of heaven, has in it not one thread of human devising. Christ in His humanity wrought out a perfect character, and this character He offers to impart to us.”—Id., p. 311. 11. What is the experience of him who tries himself to cover his sin? Prov. 28 : 13. 12. Why does self-righteousness not cover us? Isa. 64:6. 13. What will those do at Christ’s appearing who do not have the cover- ing of His righteousness? Rev. 6:15, 16. NOTE.—The robe of Christ’s righteousness is the only perfect covering for sin. Rags of self-righteousness cannot cover and hide one’s nakedness, hence those so clothed will be ashamed before the Lord of righteousness when He shall appear. Those who stand properly clothed will hail His coming with gladness. [ 27 14. What covering will shelter God’s people in the great day of trouble? Ps. 91 : 4-8. NoTE.—”I saw a covering that God was drawing over His people to pro- tect them in the time of trouble; and every soul that was decided on the truth, and was pure in heart, was to be covered with the covering of the Almighty. . . . Satan was trying his every art to hold them where they were, until the sealing was past, until the covering was drawn over God’s people, and they left without a shelter from the burning wrath of God, in the seven last plagues. God has begun to draw this covering over His people, and it will soon be drawn - over all who are to have a shelter in the day of slaughter. God will work in power for His people; and Satan will be permitted to work also.”—”Early Writings,” pp. 43, 44.
Lesson 11—March 17, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY : Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY MONDAY I. TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SABBATHOFFERING RECORD: Fill in each space with the weekly record. WEEKLY OFFERING ACTUALLY TOTAL GIVEN BALANCE UNPAID PLANNED FOR GIVEN TO DATE TO DATE
The Holy Spirit and the Sealing Work MEMORY VERSE: “Grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” Eph. 4:30.
,INTRODUCTION The sealing of the servants of God in their foreheads is a work that takes place while people are living in this world, surrounded with all the unhallowed influences of wicked men and evil angels. They are to be "sealed unto the day of redemption." Their salvation will then be made eternally sure. "I saw that many were neglecting the preparation so needful, and were looking to the time of 'refreshing' and the 'latter rain' to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord, and to live in His sight. Oh, how many I saw in the time of trouble without a shelter.! They had neglected the needful preparation, therefore- they could not receive the refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God."—"Early Writings," p. 71. THE LESSON 1. What experiences were the disciples to have which would enable them to carry the gospel to all the world? Acts 1:8. NOTE.—"The work committed to the disciples would require great effi- ciency; for the tide of evil ran deep and strong against them. A vigilant, deter- mined leader was in command of the forces of darkness, and the followers of Christ could battle for the right only through the help that God, by His Spirit, would give them."—"Acts of the Apostles," p. 31. -
As Christ was about to take leave of His disciples, what did He as- sure them they would receive? For what were they to tarry? Luke 24:49. {28 1 3. With what are believers sealed? Eph. 1:12, 13. NorE.—”The Lord has shown me the danger of letting our minds be filled with worldly thoughts and cares. I saw that some minds are led away from present truth and a love of the Holy Bible, by reading other exciting books; others are filled with perplexity and care for what they shall eat, drink, and wear. Some are looking too far off for the coming of the Lord. Time has continued a few years longer than they expected, therefore they think it may continue a few years more, and in this way their minds are being led from present truth, out after the world. In these things I saw great danger; for if the mind is filled with other things, present truth is shut out, and there is no place in our foreheads for the seal of the living God. I saw that the time for Jesus to be in the most holy place was nearly finished, and that time can last but a very little longer. What leisure time we have should be spent in search- ing the Bible, which is to judge us in the last day.”—”Early Writings,” p. 58. 4. What does the promise of God, sealed by the Holy Spirit, make sure to the one who is sealed with the seal of the living God? Verse 14. NoTE.—The Spirit is given the believer as a pledge, an earnest, of the full inheritance in due time. “Christ, by His sacrifice paying the penalty of sin, would not only redeem man, but recover the dominion which he had forfeited. . All that was lost by the first Adam will be restored by the second.”—”Patri- archs and Prophets,” p. 67. 5. How is this thought of the Holy Spirit’s being given as a pledge— part payment for the full inheritance—again stated by the apostle? 2 Cor. 1 : 21, 22. 6. Having been established in our faith in Christ, what are we exhorted to do? Gal. 5:1; 1 Thess. 3:8. 7. What are Christians admonished to guard against? What are some of the things that grieve the Holy Spirit? Eph. 4:30, 31. 8. For what did Jesus say men should labor? What declaration is made concerning the Son of man? What declaration did He make concerning Himself? John 6:26, 27. 9. When Christ should come to restore that which was lost through Adam, in what would He take delight? Where would be found His Father’s law? Ps. 40:7, 8. NOTE.—”We marvel at the Saviour’s sacrifice in exchanging the throne of heaven for the manger, and the companionship of adoring angels for the beasts of the stall. Human pride and self-sufficiency stand rebuked in His presence. Yet this was but the beginning of His wonderful condescension. It would have been an almost infinite humiliation for the Son of God to take man’s nature, even when Adam stood in his innocence in Eden. But Jesus accepted human- ity when the race had been weakened by four thousand years of sin. Like every child of Adam He accepted the results of the working of the great law of heredity. What these results were is shown in the history of His earthly an- cestors. He came with such a heredity to share our sorrows and temptations, and to give us the example of a sinless life. . . . Into the world where Satan claimed dominion God permitted His Son to come, a helpless babe, subject to the weakness of humanity. He permitted Him to meet life’s peril in common with every human soul, to fight the battle as every child of humanity must fight it, at the risk of failure and eternal loss.”—”The Desire of Ages,”pp.48, 49. [29 1 10. As the Son of man, what did Jesus learn? Of what did He become the author? Heb. 5:7-9. 11. In evidence that He had kept His father’s law, hidden in His heart, what challenging question was addressed Jesus’ enemies near the close of His life? John 8:46. 12. Confirming Jesus’ statement, “Him hath God the Father sealed,” what further testimony was heard from heaven? Matt. 3:16, 17; John 12: 27, 28. NOTES.—”The word that was spoken to Jesus at the Jordan, ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased,’ embraces humanity. God spoke to Jesus as our representative. . . . The voice which spoke to Jesus says to every believing soul, ‘This is My beloved child, in whom I am well pleased.’ “ —Id., p. 113. “The religion of Christ is sincerity itself. Zeal for God’s glory is the motive implanted by the Holy Spirit ; and only the effectual working of the Spirit can implant this motive. Only the power of God can banish self-seeking and hypocrisy. This change is the sign of His working. When the faith we accept destroys selfishness and pretense, when it leads us to seek God’s glory and not our own, we may know that it is of the right order. ‘Father, glorify Thy name,’ was the keynote of Christ’s life, and if we’ follow Him, this will be the keynote of our life. He commands us to ‘walk, even as He walked;’ and `hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.’ “— Id., p. 409. 13. What was the experience of the disciples in the upper room during their ten days of tarrying? Acts 1:14. NoTE.—”These disciples prepared themselves for their work. Before the day of Pentecost they met together, and put away all differences. They were of one accord. They believed Christ’s promise that the blessing would be given, and they prayed in faith.”—Id., p. t27. “Christ’s visible presence was about to be withdrawn from the disciples, but a new endowment of power was to be theirs. The Holy Spirit was to be given them in its fullness. . . . The Saviour knew that no argument, however logical, would melt hard hearts, or break through the crust of worldliness and selfishness. He knew that His disciples must receive the heavenly endow- ment.”—”Acts of the Apostles,” pp. 30, 31. 14. What work is to be accomplished for God’s servants while the winds of strife and commotion are being held in check by the angels? Rev. 7:1-3. 15. Under the new covenant, where has God promised to write His law? Jer. 31:31-33. 16. What testimony is borne concerning that company heeding the last gospel messages recorded in Revelation 14:6-11? Rev. 14:12. NOTE.—The psalmist, speaking for the Messiah, says: “Thy law is within My heart.” God promises to those who are of the Israel of God, “I will put. My laws into their mind, and write them. in their hearts.” Of those who are sealed and chosen, the remnant church, He says, “Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” There is a close relation- ship between the Saviour and God’s earthly children. Each is sealed by the working of the Spirit upon the heart to a life of complete obedience. (30] 17. What character will have been attained by this company whom John saw having “the seal of the living God”? Rev. 14:1, 5. NOTE.—”Now is the time to prepare. The seal of God will never be placed upon the forehead of an impure man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of the ambitious, world-loving man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of men or women of false tongues or deceitful hearts. All who receive the seal must be without spot before God—candidates for heaven.”—”Testimonies,” vol. 5, p. 216. • 18. Through whom alone may this perfectness of character be obtained? Jer. 23:6; Rom. 3:22. NOTE.—” ‘All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.’ Everything that we of ourselves can do is defiled by sin. But the Son of God ‘was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin.’ Sin is defined to be ‘the transgression of the law.’ But Christ was obedient to every requirement of the law. . . . When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness. Then as the Lord looks upon us, He sees, not the fig-leaf garment, not the nakedness and deformity of sin, but His own robe of righteousness, which is perfect obedience to the law of Jehovah.”—”Christ’s Object Lessons,” pp. 311, 312.
Lesson 12—March 24, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY : Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDAY I MONDAY I TUESDAY I WEDNESDAY I THURSDAY FRIDAY 1 SABBATHOFFERING RECORD: Fill in each space with the weekly record. WEEKLY OFFERING ACTUALLY TOTAL GIVEN BALANCE UNPAID PLANNED FOR GIVEN TO DATE TO DATE
The Holy Spirit and the Latter Rain MEMORY VERSE: "I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon. the dry ground: I will pour My Spirit upon thy seed, and My blessings upon thine off- spring." Isa. 44:3. INTRODUCTION "Christ has promised the gift of the Holy Spirit to His church, and the. promise belongs to us as much as to the first disciples. But like every other promise, it is given on conditions. There are many who believe and profess to claim the Lord's promise; they talk about Christ and about the Holy Spirit,. yet receive no benefit. They do not surrender the soul to be guided and con- trolled by the divine agencies. We cannot use the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is to use us. Through the Spirit God works in His people 'to will and to do of His good pleasure.' But many will not submit to this. They want to manage themselves. This is why they do not receive the heavenly gift. Only to those who wait humbly upon God, who watch for His guidance and grace, is the Spirit given. The power of God awaits their demand and reception. This. ( 31 ]promised blessing, claimed by faith, brings all other blessings in its train. It is given according to the riches of the grace of Christ, and He is ready to supply every soul according to the capacity to receive.”—”The Desire of Ages,” p. 672. THE LESSON 1. What promise is given to those who return to the Lord with full purpose of heart? Hosea 6:1. 2. What experience is for those who “follow on to know the Lord”? Verse 3. 3. What is a cause of joy in heaven? Luke 15:7. NOTE.—”When sinners are led to give themselves to the Saviour, angels bear the tidings heavenward, and there is great rejoicing among the heavenly host. . . . A report is borne to heaven of every successful effort on our part to dispel the darkness and to spread abroad the knowledge of Christ. As the deed is recounted before the Father, joy thrills through all the heavenly host.” —”Acts of the Apostles,” p. 154. 4. What parable illustrates the heavenly Father’s joy when a soul re- turns to Him? Verses 11-24. NOTE.—”Arise and go to your Father. He will meet you a great way off. If you take even one step toward Him in repentance, He will hasten to enfold you in His arms of infinite love. His ear is open to the cry of the contrite soul. The very first reaching out of the heart after God is known to Him. Never a prayer is offered, however faltering, never a tear is shed, however secret, never a sincere desire after God is cherished, however feeble, but the Spirit of God goes forth to meet it.”—”Christ’s Object Lessons,” p. 206. 5. What gracious appeal and message await those who respond to the Saviour’s invitation? Rev. 3:20. 6. What announcement is due the church and the world when the day of the Lord is near? Joel 2:1. NOTE.—”To prepare a people to stand in the day of God, a great work of reform was to be accomplished. God saw that many of His professed people were not building for eternity ; and in His mercy He was about to send a mes- sage of warning to arouse them from their stupor, and lead them to make ready for the coming of the Lord.”—”The Great Controversy,” p. 311. 7. How earnestly does the Lord, through the prophet, plead with His remnant people? Verses 12-14. NoTE.—”I saw that the remnant were not prepared for what is coming upon the earth. Stupidity, like lethargy, seemed to hang upon the minds of most of those who profess to believe that we are having the last message. My accompanying angel cried out with awful solemnity, ‘Get ready ! get ready ! get ready ! for the fierce anger of the Lord is soon to come. His wrath is to be poured out, unmixed with mercy, and ye are not ready’.”—”Early Writings,” p. 119.
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What blessed experience belongs to the members of the remnant church who seek God earnestly? Verses 23-27. . 9. How does God regard one who has friendship with the world? James 4:4. 132 7 10. What does the Lord say of the spirit of the people when the latter rain is due? Jer. 5:23, 24. 11. What is the result of sins within the church? Verse 25. 12. With a heaven-sent message to go to the world, where must that message spring up and bring forth the fruits of righteousness? Hosea 10:12. NOTES.—”The garden of the heart must be cultivated. The soil must be broken up by deep repentance for sin. Poisonous, satanic plants must be up- rooted. The soil once overgrown by thorns can be reclaimed only by diligent labor. So the evil tendencies of the natural heart can be overcome only by earnest effort in the name and strength of Jesus. The Lord bids us by His prophet, ‘Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns.’ Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy.’ This work He desires to accom- plish for us, and He asks us to cooperate with Him.”—”Christ’s Object Les- sons,” p. 56. “Let me tell you that the Lord will work in this last work in a manner very much out of the common order of things, and in a way that will be con- trary to any human planning.”—”Testimonies to Ministers,” p. 300. 13. In our individual experience, what must precede the outpouring of the latter rain? Joel 2:23.. NOTE.—”We may be sure that when the Holy Spirit is poured out, those who did not receive and appreciate the early rain will not see or understand the value of the latter rain. When we are truly consecrated to God, His love will abide in our hearts by faith, and we will cheerfully do our duty in accord- ance with the will of God. “But the little interest that has been manifested in the work of God by our churches alarms me. I would ask all who have means, to remember that God has intrusted this means to them to be used in the advancement of the work which Christ came to our world to do. The Lord tells every man that in the sight of God he is not the owner of what he possesses, but only a trustee. Not thine, but Mine, saith the Lord. God will call you to account for your stew- ardship.”—Id., p. 399. 14. What is an appropriate subject of prayer at this time? Zech. 10:1. NOTE.—”Near the close of earth’s harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain; and it is for this added power that Christians are to send their petitions to the Lord of the harvest ‘in the time of the latter rain.’ In response, ‘the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain.’ He will cause to come down . . . the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.’“—”Acts of the Apostles,’ p. 55.
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING March 31, 1934 TO JAPAN AND KOREA
1337Lesson 13—March 31, 1934 DAILY LESSON STUDY : Place a check mark in the proper space. SUNDA HONDA TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY I SABBATH
OFFERING RECORD : Fill in each space with the weekly record. WEEKLY OFFERING ACTUALLY TOTAL GIVEN BALANCE UNPAID PLANNED F OR GIVEN TO DATE TO DATEThe Holy Spirit and the Kingdom of God A Spiritual Contest for the Supremacy of the World MEMORY VERSE: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matt. 6:33.
INTRODUCTION When Adam was'created he was endowed with life which might have been as measureless as the unending years of eternity. Gen. 2:7. He was intrusted with the family name—"son of God." Luke 3:38: He was given the dominion and rulership of this earth. Gen. 1:26. In other words he was given a king- ship. Through disobedience Adam lost: (a) the life that had been given to him; (b) the family name; (c) his kingship over the family inheritance. Jesus Christ came to this world to seek and to save that which was lost. This mis- sion involved a spiritual warfare between Christ and Satan for the supremacy of the world. When Jesus went back to heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit, "the representative of the Captain of the Lord's host, to direct the battle." THE LESSON 1. Where had the first battle for supremacy been fought? Rev. 12:7-9. 2. What then became the place of conflict? Rev. 12:13. 3. For what purpose did the Lord fix beforehand the time limit and the boundary limit of all nations? Acts 17:26, 27. NorE.—One of God's purposes in the existence of organized human govern- ments is that men may have opportunity to seek the Lord. 4. When, in the divine plan for this world, was the division of nations made? Deut. 32:8. 5. How were the righteous and the wicked designated at that time? Gen. 6:1, 2. NorE.—"For some time the two classes remained separate. The, race of Cain, spreading from the place of their first settlement, dispersed over the plains and valleys where the children of Seth had dwelt; and the latter, in order to escape from their contaminating influence, withdrew to the moun- tains, and there made their home. So long as this separation continued, they maintained the worship of God in its purity. But in the lapse of time they ventured, little by little, to mingle with the inhabitants of fhe valleys. This association was productive of the worst results. 'The sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair.' The children of Seth, attracted by the [ 34 3beauty of the daughters of Cain’s descendants, displeased the Lord by inter- marrying with them. Many of the worshipers of God were beguiled into sin by the allurements that were now constantly before them, and they lost their peculiar, holy character. Mingling with the depraved, they became like them in spirit and in deeds; the restrictions of the seventh commandment were dis- regarded, ‘and they took them wives of all which they chose.’ “—”Patriarchs and Prophets,” p. 81. 6. Whom did the Lord choose to build up His kingdom in this world? Gen. 12:1-3. NoTE.—”After the dispersion from Babel, idolatry again became well-nigh universal, and the Lord finally left the hardened transgressors to follow their evil ways, while He chose Abraham, of the line of Shem, and made him the keeper of His law for future generations. . . . The son of Terah became the in- heritor of this holy trust.”—Id., p. 125. 7. What was the message of John the Baptist? Matt. 3:1, 2. Of Jesus? Matt. 4:17. Of the twelve when sent forth to preach? Matt. 10:5-7. • Nora.—A kingdom involves: (a) a king; (b) a throne; (c) subjects; (d) dominion or territory. 8. When questioned by Pilate concerning His kingship, what reply did Jesus make? John 18:33-37. 9. What does Inspiration say of the mission of Christ to this world?0 1 John 3:8. 10. How soon after His birth did the powers of darkness attempt the destruction of Christ? Rev. 12:4. 11. How was this attempt made? Matt. 2:16. NorE.—Though Herod was the one who was the direct instrument in the attempt to destroy Christ, the real instigator was Satan. “Satan had purposed to compass the destruction of the Saviour.”—”The Desire of Ages,” p. 66. 12. What is the nature of this warfare? Eph. 6:11-13. Noms.—”Put on the complete armor of God, so as to be able to stand firm against all the strategems of the devil. For ours is not a conflict with mere flesh and blood, but with the despotisms, the empires, the forces that control and govern this dark world—the spiritual hosts of evil arrayed against us in the heavenly warfare. Therefore put on the complete armor of God, so that you may be able to stand your ground on the day of battle, and, having fought to the end, to remain victors on the field.”—Weymouth’s translation. “The battles waging between the two armies are as real as those fought by the armies of this world, and on the issue of the spiritual conflict eternal des- tinies depend.”—”Prophets and Kings,” p. 176. 13. In the last great struggle, who will have personal command of the forces of evil? Rev. 12:12; 2 Cor. 11:14. Nora.—”As the crowning act in the great drama of deception, Satan him- self will personate Christ. . . . In different parts of the earth, Satan will manifest himself among men as a majestic being of dazzling brightness, re- sembling the description of the Son of God given by John in the Revelation. The glory that surrounds him is unsurpassed by anything that mortal eyes have yet beheld.”—”The Great Controversy,” p. 624. [ 35 ) 14. Who is the commander in chief of the Lord’s army in this warfare? 2 Tim. 2:3, 4; Isa. 59:19, 20. NorEs—”All the intelligences of heaven are in this army. And more than angels are in the ranks. The Holy Spirit, the representative of the Captain of the Lord’s host, comes down to direct the battle.”—”The Desire of Ages,”p.352. “We do not understand as we should the great conflict going on between invisible agencies, the controversy between loyal and disloyal angels. Over every man, good and evil angels strive. This is no make-believe conflict. It is not mimic battles in which we are engaged. We have to meet most power- ful adversaries, and it rests with us to determine which shall win.”—”Testi- monies,” vol. 7, p. 213. 15. Before we can stand on the winning side of this great spiritual war- fare, what experience must come to us? Col. 1:12, 13. 16. Is there any neutral ground which one may occupy while this con- flict is raging? Matt. 6:24; 12:30. NorE—”The enmity of Satan against good, will be manifested more and more, as he brings his forces into activity in his last work of rebellion; and every soul that is not fully surrendered to God, and kept by divine power, will form an affiance with Satan against heaven, and join in battle against the Ruler of the universe.”—”Testimonies to Ministers,” p. 465. 17. What will then be the only safety of God’s people? 1 Peter 1:5. NOTE.—”The soul that is yielded to Christ, becomes His own fortress, which He holds in a revolted world, and He intends that no authority shall be known in it but His own. A soul thus kept in possession by the heavenly agen- des, is impregnable to the assaults of Satan. But unless we do yield ourselves to the control of Christ, we shall be dominated by the wicked one. We must inevitably be under the control of the one or the other of the two great pow- ers that are contending for the supremacy of the world.”—”The Desire of Ages,” p. 324. 18. What will be the final outcome of the struggle between unseen forces for the supremacy of the world? Rev. 11:15. 19. What glorious climax is assured? Isa. 9:6, 7; Dan. 7:27. May all who study this Sabbath school lesson be found loyal soldiers of the cross, fighting the good fight of faith, under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel.
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