Lessons From the The Gospel Prophet
Lessons From the The Gospel Prophet
1956 Quater 1
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON
RTE
.
LESSONS FROM ‘THE GOSPEL -PROP
SENIOR DIVISION, Pao. 243, FIRST INDIVIDUAL SABBATH-SCHOOL OFFERING GOAL “As God hath prospered him.” MY WEEKLY GOAL (Check Amount)
$5.00 RECORD
.1 7 13.
2.00
2 Birthday
8
1.50 "God loveth a
3. 9
cheerful giver." Investment
1.00 4. 10
.50 5. 11 ,
6 12 TOTAL
.40
DAILY LESSON STUDY PLEDGE
As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I pledge my- self to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sabbath school lesson each day of the week.
Name
Place a check mark in each space below for the days you have studied.
STUDY RECORD 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
1st Day's Study
2d Day's Study
3d Day's Study
4th Day's Study
5th Day's Study
6th Day's Study
7th Day's Study
"Let the Sabbath-school lesson be learned, not by a hasty glance at the lesson scrip- ture on Sabbath morning, but by careful study for the next week on Sabbath afternoon, with daily review or illustration during the week. Thus the lesson will become fixed in the memory, a treasure never to be wholly lost."—"Education," pages 251, 252.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 243, January-March, 1956. 15 cents a single copy, 50 cent a year, in U.S.A. and Canada; 15 cents a single copy, 60 cents a year to all other countries. Published in the U.S.A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), Mountain View. California. Entered as second-class matter Oct. 13, 1904, at the post office in Mountain View, Califor- nia, 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. When a change of address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses. Copyright, 1955, by Pacific Press Publishing Association
Printed in U.S.A.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly
LESSONS FROM THE GOSPEL PROPHET
FOREWORD
While the entire Bible is the word of God 15:4. We should not forget, however, that and replete with sound counsel of abiding though “these things” were indeed “written value, there are certain books that stand out for our admonition,”they also “happened above the rest with special messages for unto them [literal Israel] for ensamples.” specific time and conditions. 1 Cor. 10:11. The inspired messages of the Among the most important of these is the prophets of old were addressed to Israel of book of Isaiah. ‘ The prophet stresses the their own day, to prepare them as individ- eternal truths of sin and salvation, repent- uals and as a nation for the proclamation of ance and conversion, righteousness and holi- the gospel, for the coming of the Messiah, ness, as do the other writers. But in these and for the establishment of His eternal subjects he excels. Rarely are found such kingdom. moving passages as his portrayal .of the suf- But as a nation. Israel failed to live up to fering and death of the Servant of God. No- the high privileges of her calling, and as a where else do we find a sweeter or more result many of the predictions and promises, touching picture of Him who was despised particularly those relating to the proclama- and rejected of men, a Man of Sorrows and tion of the gospel and the establishment of acquainted .with grief ; who willingly bared the Messianic kingdom, could not be ful- His back to the smiters and His cheek to filled to her. Accordingly “that which God them that plucked off the hair; who hid not purposed to do for the world through Israel, His face from shame and spitting, but stead- the chosen nation, He will finally accomplish fastly set His heart not to fail or be dis- through His church on earth today” (Proph- couraged. Nowhere else is God’s love for ets and Kings, pages 713, 714), and the mes- sinners more beautifully portrayed than in sages of Isaiah and other prophets are replete the promise that though our sins be as with lessons of profound value for God’s scarlet, they shall be as white as snow, people today. In studying these messages, it and though they be red like crimson, they is our privilege to find guidance for personal shall be as wool. Nowhere else is found a Christian living and for a more intelligent more tender description of God’s abounding co-operation with divine agencies in the compassion and loving-kindness than in the task of proclaiming heaven’s last message Shepherd passage, where Christ is presented of mercy to the world. as One who shall feed His flock like a shep- In the study of any passage of Isaiah, herd, gather the lambs with His arm and then, we do well first to examine its context carry them in His bosom, and gently lead and become familiar with the historical cir- those that are with young. cumstances that called forth the counsel There are explicit reasons why Isaiah is of there given. Second, our only safe course in special importance to those living at the applying Old Testament prophecy to spirit- present time. Problems, controversies, issues, ual Israel is to rely for guidance on what greater and more complicated than those of later inspired writers have written. This previous ages, are facing men today. The approach is fundamental to a correct under- principles underlying these are more com- standing of what any of the prophets have prehensively treated in Isaiah than in any written. Discovering thus the mind of the other book of Holy Writ. Spirit speaking to the people of that earlier “Whatsoever things were written afore- time, we are better prepared to understand time were written for our learning,” that the lessons these messages have for us today through them we “might have hope.” Rom. and to apply them to our own lives. 3 Lesson 1, for January 7, 1956
God's Arraignment of Israel
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 1. MEMORY VERSE: “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Isa. 1:18. . STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “Patriarchs and Prophets,” pages 634, 635 (new ed., pp. 661, 662); “Steps to Christ,” pages 26-33, 40, 41; “Prophets and Kings,” pages 599, 600, 605, 606; “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapter 1.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Wednesday: Questions 11-14. the lesson. Thursday: Read from Study Helps as- Sunday: Questions 1-3. signment. Monday: Questions 4-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Questions 8-10.
Lesson Outline: 7. Doom averted only because of a remnant. Isa. 1:9. Introduction I11. The Divine Challenge I. Rebellion of Israel 8. Repudiation of meaningless services. Isa. 1:10-12. 1. God’s complaint against Israel. 9. Vanity of Israel’s worship. Isa. Isa. 1:2. 1:13-15. 2. Israel’s attitude compared with the 10. Radical reform called for. Isa. domestic animals. Isa. 1:3. 1:16, 17. 3. A seven-point indictment. Isa. 1:4. 11. Invitation to repentance. Isa. 1:18.
- Israel’s Lamentable Condition IV. The Basis of Hope
- Futility of further punishment. 12. Promises based on obedience. Isa. Isa. 1:5, first part. 1:19, 20.
- Likened to a loathsome body. Isa. 13. Dross may be purged. Isa. 1:21-25. 1:5 (last part), 6. 14. Restoration and redemption prom-
-
Their desolated country. Isa. 1:7, 8. ised. Isa. 1:26, 27.
THE LESSON Introduction whom he was not related. Isaiah lived in Jerusalem, was of the "royal line," and had Isaiah has been called the greatest of the easy access to the king. He had two sons. Old Testament prophets, the "king of all Isa. 7:3; 8:3. prophets." His name signifies "Jehovah is Various authorities state that Isaiah be- salvation." Nothing is known of his father gan to prophesy between the years 745 and beyond the mere fact of his name Amoz, not 739 B.c. As his active labors continued more to be confused with Amos the prophet, to than sixty years, he must have died some [4]time after 680 B.c., during the reign of had heard the seraphim sing, “Holy, holy, Manasseh. Tradition records that he was holy.” That impression never left him. God placed inside a hollow log and sawn asunder. was to him, “Holy, holy, holy.” There may be a reference to this in Hebrews “The term [“the Holy One”] occurs four- 11:36-38. teen times in the first part of Isaiah, and The first chapter of Isaiah has aptly been sixteen times in the second. A corrupt peo- named the “Great Arraignment,” as it is ple needed to be reminded ever more and cast in the aspect of a court scene, with more of the truth which the name asserted.” God as accuser and the people as defenders. —Ellicott’s Commentary on Isa. 1:4. God has a controversy with Israel, and calls heaven and earth to witness the awful fact Israel’s Lamentable Condition that rebellion has sprung up in His family. As plaintiff He details seven charges against 4. How did God express the cer- the people, all having to do with apostasy tainty of further punishment if the and rebellion. The scene is most solemn. people continued to revolt? Isa: 1:5, What can the people say in defense? first part. They have kept up the form of worship; they have brought their sacrifices; they have made “many prayers;” but all this has been merely a matter of form. The Lord is dis- 5. How completely had the body pleased. He is weary of empty ceremonies, been afflicted because of their trans- which He hates. But instead of pronouncing sentence upon the transgressors, as He might gression? Isa. 1:5 (last part), 6. justly do, He invites them to come “and let us reason together.” 6. What had befallen their coun- Rebellion of Israel try? Isa. 1:7, 8.
- What is God’s complaint against His people? Isa. 1:2. • 7. What would have taken place had there not been “a very small rem- NoTE.—Surely it must be a serious situa- nant”? Isa. 1:9. tion when God Himself makes the charge of rebellion against His people. “In every age . because of His infinite love for the erring, God has borne long with the rebellious, and NoTE.—”Hearts that respond to the in- has urged them to forsake their course of fluence, of the Holy Spirit are the channels evil, and return to Him.”—Prophets and through which God’s blessing flows. Were Kings, pages 324, 325. those who serve God removed from the earth, and His Spirit withdrawn from among
- What impressive illustration men, this world would be left to desolation does God use to show how low Israel and destruction, the fruit of Satan’s do- had fallen? Isa. 1:3. minion. Though the wicked know it not, they owe even the blessings of this life to the presence, in the world, of God’s people whom they despise and oppress.”—The De-
- How is the complete depravity sire of Ages, page 306. of the people contrasted with God’s holy character? Isa. 1:4. The Divine Challenge 8. Addressing the rulers and the people, by what questions does God NoTE.—What a fearful condition is here attempt to have them consider the real portrayed ! In contrast with this, God is meaning and purpose of sacrifices? spoken of as “the Holy One of Israel.” In How does God regard their offerings? vision, Isaiah had seen “the Holy One,” and Isa. 1:10-12. [5] 9. How is the uselessness of the worship Israel was then offering set forth? Isa. 1:13-15.
NOTE.—No form or ceremonies can ever take the place of heart service. Without /:,„ I( „ • • • Christ, without true repentance, no act is of any value in God’s sight. Even prayer may ,\goAlvo become an abomination. Prov. 28:9. .k,Akmivvvi\o`44
-
What radical reform does God call for? Isa. 1:16, 17. • GOD’S GREAT TRANSFORMATION- -BEHOLD, I MAKE ALL THINGS NEW.*
-
What invitation does God ex- tend? What happy condition follows walk when the man believed that he was the acceptance of the invitation? Isa. healed. It is so if you believe it.”—Steps, to 1:18. Christ, pages 47, 48, 55.
The Basis of Hope 12. On what conditions does God NOTE.—"The government of God is not, as Satan would make it appear, founded promise His people the good of the upon a blind submission, an unreasoning land? What attitude on the part of control. It appeals to the intellect and the the people will lead to their destruc- conscience. 'Come now, and let us reason tion? Isa. 1:19, 20. together,' is the Creator's invitation to the beings He has made. God does not force the will of His creatures. He cannot accept an homage that is not willingly and intelligently given. A mere forced submission would pre- NoTE.—"Here are the promises, plain and vent all real development of mind or charac- definite, rich and full; but they are all upon ter; it would make man a mere automaton. conditions. If you comply with the con- Such is not the purpose of the Creator. He ditions, can you not trust the Lord to fulfill desires that man, the crowning work of His His word? Let these blessed promises, set creative power, shall reach the highest pos- in the framework of faith, be placed in mem- sible development. . . . It remains for us to ory's halls. Not one of them will fail. All choose whether we will be set free from the that God hath spoken He will do. 'He is bondage of sin, to share the glorious liberty faithful that promised.' "—Testimonies, vol. of the sons of God." 5, p. 630. "You cannot atone for your past sins, you cannot change your heart, and make your- 13. While the once "faithful city" self holy. But God promises to do all this for goes further and further into evil, you through Christ. You believe that prom- what will God do for His own? What ise. You confess your sins, and give yourself will God purge away? Isa. 1:21-25. to God. You will to serve Him. Just as surely as you do this, God will fulfill His word to you. If you believe the promise,— believe that you are forgiven and cleansed,— God supplies the fact; you are made whole, 14. What promise of restoration just as Christ gave the paralytic power to and redemption is made? Isa. 1:26, 27. [6 lLesson 2, for January 14, 1956
Rebuke and Triumph of Zion
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 3:14-26; 4. MEMORY VERSE: “In that day shall the branch of the Lord be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and comely for them that are escaped of Israel.” Isa. 4:2. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “Prophets and Kings,” pages 323, 324; “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapters 3, 4.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Wednesday: Questions 11-14. the lesson. Thursday: Read from Study Helps as- Sunday: Questions 1-4. signment. Monday: Questions 5-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Questions 8-10.
Lesson Outline: 7. Written among the living. Isa. 4:3, last part. Introduction I11. A Cleansed People I. The Daughters of Zion Rebuked 8. Washing away the filth of Zion. Isa. 4:4. 1. Haughtiness and display. Isa. 3:16. 9. The refiner’s fire. Mal. 3:1-3. 2. The smiting of the Lord. Isa. 10. Enduring the devouring fire. Isa. 3:17-26. 33:14-17. 3. Paul’s instruction about dress. 1 Tim. 2:9, 10. IV. The Protecting Pillar 4. Women seek to remove their re- 11. Israel led by pillar of fire and cloud. proach. Isa. 4:1. Ex. 13:21. 12. God’s people find refuge. Isa. 4:5, 6.
- Deliverance Through the Branch 13. God is a present help in trouble.
Ps. 46:1-7.
- A glorious Branch. Isa. 4:2. 14. Safety under the shadow of the Al-
-
A holy remnant. Isa. 4:3, first part. mighty. Ps. 91:1-7.
THE LESSON Introduction The other daughters are those who are getting ready to meet their Lord. These God The lesson deals with two classes in Zion will cleanse and purge. When the destruc- under the figure of daughters. The one is the light, frivolous, clothes-conscious kind, tion comes, as it will to all the world, they who, on the eve of destruction, are more have a sure refuge. interested in what they should wear than in The emphasis of the lesson should be what they should be. The third chapter of. on the fourth chapter and the preparation Isaiah deals with these. needed to meet the approval of God. 7The Daughters of Zion Rebuked are not above reproach. They are willing to enter into an unholy alliance, being desirous
-
What controversy does God have of having a name presumably for their ex- with the daughters of Zion? Isa. 3:16. pected offspring.
Deliverance Through the Branch NorE.—"The prophecy of Isaiah 3 was 5. How does the prophet speak of presented before me as applying to these the Branch of the Lord? Isa. 4:2. last days, and the reproofs are given to the daughters of Zion who have thought only of appearance and display."—Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 270. NorE.—Christ is called the Branch in sev- - What does the Lord say will be- eral places in the Scriptures. See Isa. 11:1; come of the artificialities of the daugh- Jer. 23:5; Zech. 3:8; 6:12, 13. Christ said: “I am the Vine, ye are the ters of Zion? Isa. 3:17-26. branches.” John 15:5. As Isaiah is about to discuss the children of God and their ex- periences, he refers to them as “the branch of NorE.—”Only a few short years, and the the Lord.” They are presented in contrast ten tribes of the kingdom of Israel were to to the women mentioned in chapter 3, and be scattered among the nations of heathen- also the women spoken of in chapter 4:1. dom. And in the kingdom of Judah also the They are the remnant, the chosen of God outlook was dark. The forces for good were who will pass through the trials of the last rapidly diminishing, the forces for evil multi- days, including the seven last plagues, and plying.”—Prophets and Kings, page 324. will come forth victorious. Conditions in the world today are not unlike those in the time of Isaiah. We are 6. What is said of those who are standing before the event of the ages, and left in Zion and who remain in Je- we, the sons of Zion as well as the daughters rusalem? Isaiah 4:3, first part. of Zion, should be deeply concerned. The rebuke which God administered then is ap- plicable today. We are not to think that the women are sinners above the men. All are guilty before God and should take warning. NOTE.—In the shaking time many will be shaken out. These, with others who have
- What instruction does Paul in apostatized, will have no part in the cleans- the New Testament give about dress? ing when God begins His work in the church. 1 Tim. 2:9, 10. It is not those who are outside the church that come into the reckoning at this time, but those that are left, those that remain in the church. Let all have this in mind. Yet,
-
From the practice of some. strange to say, there are among those outside women what spiritual and prophetic the church such as would gladly reform the lessons may be drawn? Isa. 4:1. church. But God will not use apostates or critics. God has means within the church for its purification. Everyone that remains “shall be called NOTE.—In view of the setting of the text holy.” They are called holy because they and in the light of what follows, we believe are holy. For those that remain, the rem- that there is a spiritual and prophetic appli- nant, God will do a special work of grace. cation of this text apart from the literal one. When He has finished His work with them, “Woman” in the Bible is used as a symbol of they will be holy. a church. Rev. 12:1, 2; 17:3; 19:7-9; 21:9. By parity of reason, a good woman would 7. How are those who are left in symbolize the church of God; a bad woman, Zion further described? Isa. 4:3, last the apostate church. The seven women here part. [8 3 NoTE.—Refiner’s fire is hot fire. This is needed to clear away the dross. Fuller’s soap was used in washing the wool to remove impurities. 10. Who shall be able to endure the devouring fire and the everlasting burnings? What will be the reward of such? Isa. 33:14-17.
The Protecting Pillar 11. When God brought Israel out of Egypt, how did He lead them? Ex. 1 3:2 1. 12. What will the Lord do for His remnant people? Isa. 4:5, 6.
NOTE.—There may be a special signifi- cance to the phrase, “written among the living.” NoTE.—This will find its fulfillment in the When God set out to cleanse the apostolic last crisis. “In one of the most beautiful and church of dishonest and untruthful mem- comforting passages of Isaiah’s prophecy, bers, some who refused to repent were car- reference is made to the pillar of cloud and ried out dead. (Read the story of Ananias of fire to represent God’s care for His people and Sapphira in Acts 5.) This experience in the great final struggle with the powers of brought great fear “upon all the church, and evil.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 283. upon as many as heard these things. . . . And of the rest durst no man join himself 13. What assurance is given God’s to them.” Acts 5:11, 13. people in the time of trouble? Ps. When God shall cleanse His church at this 46:1-7. time, getting His people ready for transla- tion, the story of Ananias and Sapphira may give point to the expression that those who remain “among the living in Jerusalem” will 14. What further does the psalmist be called holy. say about the security afforded by the protecting “shadow of the Almighty”? A Cleansed People Ps. 91:1-7.
- How will God accomplish the cleansing? Isa. 4:4. NOTE.—”The eye of God, looking down the ages, was fixed upon the crisis which His people are to meet, when earthly powers NOTE.—God will wash away all filth. That shall be arrayed against them. Like the cap- which cannot be removed by washing, He tive exile, they will be in fear of death by will remove by the spirit of judgment and starvation or by violence. But the Holy One the spirit of burning. God will have a clean who divided the Red Sea before Israel, will people and will use whatever means are manifest His mighty power and turn their necessary to effect the cleansing. captivity. ‘They shall be Mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up My jewels; and I will spare them, as a man
-
How does Malachi describe the spareth his own son that serveth him.’ If process of cleaning? Mal. 3:1-3. the blood of Christ’s faithful witnesses were 9 shed at this time, it would not, like the blood to their enemies, it would be a triumph for of the martyrs, be as seed sown to yield a - the prince of darkness. . . . [See Ps. 27:5 ; harvest for God. Their fidelity would not be Isa. 26:20, 21.1 Glorious will be the deliver- a testimony to convince others of the truth; ance of those who have patiently waited for for the obdurate heart has beaten back the His coming, and whose names are written in waves of mercy until they return no more. the book of life.”-The Great Controversy, If the righteous were now left to fall a prey page 634.
Lesson 3, for January 21, 1956 The Vineyard of the Lord; A Vision of God
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 5 and 6. MEMORY VERSE: “Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.” Isa. 6:8. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “Prophets and Kings,” intro- ductory chapter, pages 303-310; “Christ’s Object Lessons,” pages 284-306 (new ed., pp. 287-311); “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapters 5, 6. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Wednesday: Questions 10-15. the lesson. Thursday: Read from Study Helps as- Sunday: Questions 1-3. signment. Monday: Questions 4, 5. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Questions 6-9.
Lesson Outline: 6. Isaiah’s vision. Isa. 6:1. 7. Description of seraphim. Isa. 6:2. Introduction 8. The holy chorus. Isa. 6:3. Compare Rev. 4:8. I. The Lord’s Vineyard 9. The effect. Isa. 6:4. Compare Acts 1. The care and fruit of the vineyard. 2:1-4. Isa. 5:1, 2. 2. God’s appeal for judgment. Isa. I11. The Prophet’s Reaction 5:3, 4. 3. The desolated vineyard. Isa. 5:5-7. 10. “Woe is me.” Isa. 6:5. 4. Christ’s parable of the vineyard. 11. The live coal-sin purged. Isa. 6:6, 7. Matt. 21:33-40. 12. The call and the response. Isa. 6:8. 5. Condemnation of the Jews. Matt. 13. The commission and the message. 21:41. Isa. 6:9, 10. 14. How long? Isa. 6:11, 12.
-
Visions of God 15. The promised remnant. Isa. 6:13.
THE LESSON Introduction people to bring forth good fruit, but, behold, The first part of the lesson deals with the they brought forth "wild grapes." Some of Lord's vineyard. The Lord expected His these wild grapes .are mentioned in the latter [ 10]part of chapter 5 under the six woes there 2. How does God appeal to the discussed. people? Isa. 5:3, 4. The second part of the lesson deals with the vision which Isaiah had of Jehovah. This was the great decisive event in Isaiah’s life. It settled his career, his destiny. He had 3. Because of Israel’s failure, what seen the Lord ; his lips had been touched does God say He will do to His vine- with coals from off the altar. From now on they were to be dedicated wholly to the yard? Isa. 5:5-7. Lord. He now offered himself willingly for serv- ice, and the Lord instructed him what to say to the people and also told him that they Nom.—”God in His Son had been seeking would not understand nor accept the mes- fruit, and had found none. Israel was a sage. Yet his work was not to be fruitless. cumberer of the ground. Its very existence There would be left a tenth, a “holy seed,” was a curse; for it filled the place in the which should be as the stump of a sturdy vineyard that a fruitful tree might fill. It oak that still retains its life and will survive. robbed the world of the blessings that God This thought of a remnant buoyed him in designed to give. The Israelites had mis- days of discouragement. Isaiah refers to a represented God among the nations. They remnant again and again. God’s work would were not merely useless, but a decided hin- not be a failure. A remnant should be saved. drance. To a great degree their religion was misleading, and wrought ruin instead of sal- vation.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, page 215. The Lord’s Vineyard
-
What disappointing results are 4. In Christ’s parable of the vine- expressed in the song of the vineyard? yard how did the husbandmen treat Isa. 5:1, 2. the messengers and the son who were sent to them? Matt. 21:33-40.
Nom.—”As the Lord’s vineyard they were 5. What judgment did the Jews to produce fruit altogether different from that of the heathen nations. These idolatrous pronounce upon themselves? Matt. peoples had given themselves up to work 21:41. wickedness. . . . In marked contrast was to be the fruit borne on the vine of God’s planting. “It was the privilege of the Jewish nation Visions of God to represent the character of God as it had 6. In the year that King Uzziah been revealed to Moses. In answer to the prayer of Moses, ‘Show me Thy glory,’ the died, what vision came to Isaiah? Lord promised, will make all My goodness Isa. 6:1. pass before thee.’ Exodus 33:18, 19. ‘And the Lord passed by before him, and pro- claimed, The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant 7. What description is given of the in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for seraphim? Isa. 6:2. thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgres- sion and sin.’ Exodus 34:6, 7. This was the fruit that God desired from His people. In the purity of their characters, in the holiness Nom.—The seraphim are an exalted order of their lives, in their mercy and loving- of angels that stand above or around the kindness and compassion, they were to show throne. The cherubim are another order, that ‘the law of the Lord is perfect, convert- mentioned in Ezekiel, chapters 1 and 10. ing the soul.’ “—Christ’s Object Lessons, “Suddenly the gate and the inner veil of the pages 285, 286. Compare Christ’s parable, temple seemed to be uplifted or withdrawn, Matt. 21:33-44. See also Isa. 27:2, 3. and he [Isaiah] was permitted to gaze within, upon the holy of holies, where even the prophet’s feet might not enter. There rose up before him a vision of Jehovah sit- ting upon a throne high and lifted up, while the train of His glory filled the temple. On each side of the throne hovered the seraphim, their faces veiled in adoration, as they min- istered before their Maker, and united in the solemn invocation, ‘Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of His glory,’ until post and pillar and cedar gate seemed shaken with the sound, and the house was filled with their tribute of praise.”— Prophets and Kings, page 307. 8.. What was their exalted refrain? Isa. 6:3. Compare with Rev. 4:8. WHEN GOD CALLS, CONSECRATED WORKERS REPLY,.HERE AM 1; SENO
- How did the tribute of praise affect the very building? With what light of the divine presence within the inner was the house filled? Isa. 6:4. Com- sanctuary, he realized that if left to his own pare with the apostles’ experience on imperfection and inefficiency, he would be utterly unable to accomplish the mission to the Day of Pentecost. Acts 2:1-4. which he had been called. But a seraph was sent to relieve him of his distress, and to fit him for his great mission. A living coal from the altar was laid upon his lips, with the The Prophet’s Reaction words, To, this hath touched thy lips; and
- How did this view of God’s thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin holiness and glory affect the prophet? purged.’ Then the voice of God was heard Isa. 6:5. saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?’ and Isaiah responded, ‘Here am I; send me.’ “—Prophets and Kings, page 308. 12. To what call was Isaiah now NOTE.—”As Isaiah beheld this revelation ready to respond? Isa. 6:8. of the glory and majesty of his Lord, he was overwhelmed with a sense of the purity and holiness of God. How sharp the contrast between the matchless perfection of his Creator, and the sinful course of those 13. What shows the obstinacy of who, with himself, had long been numbered the people to whom Isaiah was sent? among the chosen people of Israel and Isa. 6:9, 10. Judah! Woe is me!’ he cried; ‘for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the NoTE.—”It is not God that blinds the eyes King, the Lord of hosts.’ “—Prophets and of men or hardens their hearts. He sends Kings, pages 307, 308. them light to correct their errors, and to lead them in safe paths; it is by the rejection
-
How did the Lord bring cleans- of this light that the eyes are blinded and ing to the prophet in the midst of his the heart hardened.”—The Desire of Ages, vision? Isa. 6:6, 7. page 322. 14. As the prophet asks, “How long?” what answer is given? Isa. NoTE.—”Standing, as it were, in the full 6:11, 12. 15. What hope is given the divine purpose finally accomplished, the full prophet? Isa. 6:13. fruitage of his efforts, and of the labors of all God’s faithful messengers, would appear. A remnant should be saved. . . . “The Promised Land was not to remain NOTE.-“The evils that had been multi- wholly forsaken forever. . . . This assurance plying for many generations could not be [verse 13] of the final fulfillment of God’s removed in his day. Throughout his lifetime purpose brought courage to the heart of he must be a patient, courageous teacher,-a Isaiah.”-Prophets and Kings, pages 309, prophet of hope as well as of doom. The 310.
Lesson 4, for January 28, 1956The Government of God Established in Righteousness, Peace, and Joy
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Isaiah 9:6, 7; 11; 12. MEMORY VERSE: “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; He also is become my salvation.” Isa. 12:2. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapters 9, 11, 12.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Wednesday: Questions 11-15. the lesson. Thursday: Read from Study Helps as- Sunday: Questions 1, 2. signment. Monday: Questions 3-6. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Questions 7-10.
Lesson Outline: 7. Jeremiah’s reference to the Right- eous Branch. Jer. 23:5, 6. Introduction 8. Judging in righteousness. Isa. 11:3-5. I. The Pre-eminent Son I11. The Coming Kingdom 1. “Unto us a child is born.” Isa. 9:6, 9. Peaceful conditions. Isa. 11:6-9. first part. 10. An Ensign for the people. Isa. 11:10. 2. His significant names. Isa. 9:6, last 11. Gathering of the remnant. Isa. 11: part. 11, 12. 3. His kingdom established. Isa. 9:7, 12. Deliverance from the enemy. Isa. first part. 11:13-16. 4. Foundation principles of His king- dom. Isa. 9:7, last part. IV. In That Day
- The Branch 13. Praise for anger turned away. Isa.
12:1,2.
- The rod from the stem of Jesse. 14. Water from wells of salvation. Isa. Isa. 11:1. 12:3.
- The spirit of discernment. Isa. 11:2. 15. Songs of praise. Isa. 12:4-6. [13 1 THE LESSON Introduction written, ‘The government shall be upon His shoulder,’ is the Wonderful Counselor.”— “Darkness, distress, anguish, and gloom The Desire of Ages, page 363. will be dispelled and God’s glorious light will “Christ, the Word, the Only Begotten of take its place in the world, for the gift of God, was one with the eternal Father,—one heaven to earth is to come in the person of in nature, in character, in purpose,—the only a holy Child. What a transformation His being that could enter into all the counsels coming is to make! Even Isaiah at the and purposes of God And the Son of distance of seven hundred years is able to God declares concerning Himself: ‘The Lord describe something of the glory of it. Divine possessed Me in the beginning of His way, wisdom, divine might, divine fatherhood, before His works of old. I was set up from and divine peace are to come as a result of everlasting. . . . When He appointed the His reign on the earth. These four pairs of foundations of the earth, then I was by Him, names for the Messiah emphasize His di- as one brought up with Him ; and I was vinity. The coming King is wise, is mighty, daily His delight, rejoicing always before is to be a guardian of His people, and will Him.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 34. bring into the world a heavenly peace.”— In the counsels of eternity Christ was Kyle M. Yates, Preaching From the Proph- present, and even at that time He was a ets, page 93. Wonderful Counselor. He is the same today. Mighty God. There are some who would The Pre-eminent Son belittle Christ and make Him a created be- ing. Such have no conception of the dishonor
- In what words was the hope of they thus heap upon Him. Christ is God, He the Messiah set forth? Isa. 9:6, first is “mighty God.” part. Compare Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:18-28. The Everlasting Father. To make even more sure that Christ is accorded the honor of Godhood, He is here called the Everlast- ing Father. This gives Christ the honor of NOTE.—”It was Satan’s purpose to bring equality with the Father Himself. The two about an eternal separation between God are one, in honor, in character, in purpose, and man; but in Christ we become more but not in person. Christ Himself says, “All closely united to God than if we had never men should honor the Son even as they fallen. . . . To assure us of His immutable honor the Father.” John 5:23. If Christ counsel of peace, God gave His only-begot- were not God, and God in the highest sense, ten Son to become one of the human family, this would be the highest blasphemy. forever to retain His human nature. This is The Prince of Peace. At the birth of Christ the pledge that God will fulfill His word. the angels sang, “Glory to God in the high- ‘Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is est, and on earth peace, good will toward given: and the government shall be upon men.” Luke 2:14. Christ came to bring his shoulder.’ God has adopted human na- peace to earth among men and nations, but ture in the person of His Son, and has mostly to bring peace to troubled souls, carried the same into the highest heaven.”— “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give The Desire of Ages, page 25. unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled,
- By what significant names is He neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27. called? Isa. 9:6, last part. 3. What was indicated as to the nature of His reign? Isa. 9:7, first part.
NoTE.—Wonderful Counselor. The Author- ized Version separates these two words, oth- ers place them together. As there is nothing in the original to settle this question, we NorE.—When Satan’s rule is over, God’s may feel free to follow our choice. Christ is government will be infinitely extended, not wonderful, however considered. He is also only throughout the earth but also to the a wonderful counselor. “He of whom it is illimitable reaches of the universe. [ 14 3 8. In what words does Isaiah fur- ther describe the principles of the Lord’s government? Isa. 11:3-5.
NOTE.—"Quick understanding" does not
merely mean a ready grasp of a problem, but
rather an understanding of the underly ing
causes. We may freely come to God. He
understands. He is not led astray by ap-
pearances or by words. He can see through
a situation, and He is ready with the counsel
and help.
The Coming Kingdom CHRIST IS AN ENSIGN,
A RALLYIN G POINT, 9. What is said of conditions in the
FOR THE FAITHFUL. coming kingdom? Isa. 11:6-9.
- Upon what principles were the throne and the kingdom to be 10. What shall the root of Jesse be founded? Verse 7, last part. in “that day”? Isa. 11:10.
NoTE.—”Order,” the word here used, is not found, in the original Hebrew, elsewhere 11. What closing work is to be in the Old Testament. It signifies to set accomplished in all the earth? Isa. up, erect, “stand perpendicular,” confirm, 11:11, 12. fasten, set right. “Established” here means to strengthen, to support, to hold up. These words reveal the plan which God had in mind from the beginning, but which NoTE.—The “first” deliverance of His has been “kept in silence through times people was from Egypt at the Exodus. The eternal.” Rom. 16:25, R.V. The government “second” deliverance of His people referred shall rest on the shoulders of Christ, and He to here in Isaiah 11 is their restoration from will establish and order that which is to be. captivity in Assyria, Media, and Babylonia. This we may see as a “type and assurance” The Branch of the final deliverance at the second coming.
- What was to issue from the stem 12. At that time what will become of Jesse? Isa. 11:1. of envy and jealousy? Against whom will they use their united strength? Isa. 11:13-16. NoTE.—Jesse was the name of David’s father. 1 Sam. 17:12. Christ, therefore, was of the house of David. Luke 1:32. NoTE.—There should never at any time be
- What spiritual discernment envy or jealousy among God’s people. Such would He possess? Isa. 11:2. not only causes dissension among the breth- ren, but it also effectively hinders the out- pouring of the Spirit. It was when the disciples “were all with one accord in one
- How does Jeremiah refer to this place” that Pentecost came. Acts 2:1. We Righteous Branch? Jer. 23:5, 6. must be a united people or we shall fail. [151 In That Day 15. In what words will the saints express their praise? Isa. 12:4-6..
- What will God’s people say in “that day”? Isa. 12:1, 2.
Nora.—”That day” is the same day as is NOTE.—”At the time of Hezekiah’s acces- referred to in the latter part of chapter 11. sion to the throne of Judah, the Assyrians It is a day of praise and thanksgiving when had already carried captive a large number the people of God experience the joy and of the children of Israel from the northern peace that come with harmony and love kingdom; and a few years after he had among the brethren, and the assurance that begun to reign, and while he was still the day of deliverance is at hand. God has strengthening the defenses of Jerusalem, the been angry with them because of their luke- Assyrians besieged and captured. Samaria, warmness and indifference, but His anger is and scattered the ten tribes among the many now turned away, and He has become their provinces of the Assyrian realm. The bor- strength and salvation. ders of Judah were only a few miles distant, with Jerusalem less than fifty miles away;
-
What will the people do joy- and the rich spoils to be found within the fully? Isa. 12:3. temple would tempt the enemy to return. “But the king of Judah had determined to do his part in preparing to resist the enemy; and having accomplished all that NOTE.—”Let him that heareth say, Come; human ingenuity and energy could do, he and whosoever will, let him come. Let every had assembled his forces, and had exhorted soul, women as well as men, sound this message. Then the work will be carried to them to be of good courage. ‘Great is the the waste places of the earth. The scripture Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee,’ had will be fulfilled: In that day the Lord shall been the message of the prophet Isaiah to open fountains in the valleys, and ‘rivers in Judah; and the king with unwavering faith the desert,’ and ‘with joy shall ye draw water now declared, ‘With us is the Lord our God out of the wells of salvation.’ Isa. 41:18; to help us, and to fight our battles.’ “— 43:19, 20; 12 :3.”—Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 86. Prophets and Kings, page 351.
Lesson 5, for February 4, 1956 The Day of the Lord; The Refuge of the Remnant
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Isaiah 13; 24; 25. MEMORY VERSE: “And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.” Isa. 25:9. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapters 13, 14, 25.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Tuesday: Questions 6-10. the lesson. Wednesday: Questions 11-16. Sunday: Questions 1-3. Thursday: Read Study Helps assignment. Monday: Questions 4, 5. Friday: Review the entire lesson. [ Lesson Outline: 8. Glorifying the Lord in the midst of trouble. Isa. 24:15, 16. Introduction
I. A Time of Destruction I11. The Wicked
1. The day of the Lord described. Isa. 9. The despair of the wicked. Isa. 24:
13:6-9. 17, 18.
2. Testimony of Zephaniah. Zeph. 10. The end of this world. Isaiah 24:
1:14-18. 19, 20.
3. Signs in the heavens. Isa. 13:10. 11. The wicked during the millennium.
Compare Matt. 24:29. Isa. 24:21, 22.
4. The earth laid waste. Isa. 13:11, 13 ; 12. The new earth and New Jerusalem.
24:1, 3, 4. Compare Jer. 4:23-28. Isa. 24:23.
5. Reasons for judgments of God. Isa.
24:5, 6.
6. Results in the "cities of confusion." IV. God a Refuge and Strength
Isa. 24:7-12. 13. A refuge from the storm. Isa. 25:1-4. 11. The Remnant 14. A feast of fat things. Isa. 25:6, 7.
15. Death swallowed up in victory. Isa. „
7. Gleaned from among the peoples. 25:8.
Isa. 24:13, 14. 16. Rejoicing in His salvation. Isa. 25:9.
THE LESSON
Introduction NoTE.-The signs in the sun, moon, and
stars are the same as those mentioned133/ the Amos says: "Shall not the day of the Lord Lord in Matthew 24. The sun was darkened be darkness, and not light? even very dark, in accord with this prophecy May 19, 1780; and no brightness in it?" Amos 5:20. Joel the moon the following night; and the great calls it "a day of darkness and of gloominess, sign of the falling of the stars took place a day of clouds and of thick darkness." Joel November 13, 1833. 2.:2. Isaiah agrees with this, but he knows that a remnant will be saved. 4. What terrible destruction will
God bring upon the world? What
A Time of Destruction punishment will come to the wicked? 1. What description is given by Isa. 13:11, 13; 24:1, 3, 4. Compare Isaiah of the day of the Lord? What Jer. 4:23-28. will be the effect upon mankind? Isa. 13:6-9.
NOTE.-"The whole earth appears like a
desolate wilderness. The ruins of cities and 2. How is the clay of the Lord villages destroyed by the earthquake, up-
rooted trees, ragged rocks thrown out by the spoken of by Zephaniah? Zeph. 1: sea or torn out of the earth itself, are scat- 14-18. tered over its surface, while vast caverns
mark the spot where the mountains have
been rent from their foundations."-The
Great Controversy, page 657. NoTE.-The day of the Lord will come as a day of deliverance to the people of God, 5. Why will this destruction come? but to the wicked it will be a day of wrath Isa. 24:5, 6. and fierce anger. 3. What is said of the stars, the sun, and the moon? Isa. 13:10. See NoTE.-God's charge against the people also Matt. 24:29. is that "they have transgressed the laws,
17 ]
changed the ordinance, broken the everlast- ing covenant.” This charge is true today. The laws of God and of men are lightly regarded, crime and violence are alarmingly increasing, and the everlasting covenant is broken.
- What is the result of this destruc- tion? Isa. 24:7-12.
NOTE.—God will speak in ways that can- not be misunderstood. When the earth shall III be given over to desolation, the merry- hearted will sigh, the harp and the song will cease, all joy will be darkened, and there will • • r be no mirth. Men are now pleasure mad; WE THANK OUR FATHER TOO LITTLE:- itw//, LET GODS PEOPLE PRAISE HIM. but when the cities are broken down and WU • destruction reigns, there will be sorrow and anguish. How significant is the expression, “city of confusion”! hopeless condition of the wicked? Isa. 24:17, 18. The Remnant
- What will be the experience of the remnant? Isa. 24:13, 14. NoTE.—Fear and panic shall seize the wicked. As they flee, some will be caught in the snare, some in the pit. And should they escape from one, they will fall into another. NoTE.—In the midst of these calamities, “For the windows from on high are open.” as when an olive tree is shaken, or as when This is an expression similar to the one in grapes are gathered, there are a few still left, Malachi where God is said to open the win- so a remnant will remain. But many will be dows of heaven to pour out a blessing. Here shaken out. It is vitally important to be so He pours out the vials of His wrath. rooted and grounded in the truth, so firmly anchored to eternal verities, that nothing can 10. What happens to this old earth? shake us. All that can be shaken will be Isa. 24:19, 20. shaken.
- Whence will come a song of praise? Isa. 24:15, 16. 11. What is done with the wicked? Isa. 24:21, 22.
NOTE.—While all things earthly are pass- ing away, God’s people will remain calm NOTE.—”The high ones that are on high,” and composed. Mountains may be cast into as contrasted with the kings of earth, are the the sea, the earth may shake, but they are angels that fell, including Satan. The pit and firmly anchored to the Rock of Ages. But the prison into which they will be shut up is let no one be deceived. Only those who are the devastated earth. Rev. 20:1. “Many prepared will stand. And it will be too late days” has reference to the thousand years. to attempt to get ready when the world is “At the close of the thousand years the collapsing. Now is the accepted time. second resurrection will take place. Then the wicked will be raised from the dead and The Wicked appear before God for the execution of ‘the judgment written.’ . . . And Isaiah declares,
- What is revealed concerning the concerning the wicked: ‘They shall be gath- E 18 ered together, as prisoners are gathered in Then the veil that has been over all na- the pit, and shall be shut up in the prison, tions shall be removed, and the covering cast and after many days shall they be visited.’ “ off, and we shall see, in all things, God’s —The Great Controversy, page 661. purpose that before was dark and hidden.
-
What new-earth conditions are 15. What threefold assurance does brought to view? Isa. 24:23. God give to His people? Isa. 25:8.
NOTE.—" 'They shall call them, The holy NOTE.—When the new kingdom is estab- people, The redeemed of the Lord.' He hath lished, the glory will be so great that the appointed 'to give unto them beauty for sun• and the moon will pale in comparison, ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the. or, as the text expresses it, "be confounded" garment of praise for the spirit of heavi- and "ashamed." See Rev. 22:5. ness.' Isa. 62:12 ; 61:3. They are no longer feeble, afflicted, scattered, and oppressed. God a Refuge and Strength Henceforth they are to be ever with the Lord. They stand before the throne clad in - During this time of distress richer robes than the most honored of the and destruction what has God been earth have ever worn. They are crowned to His people? Isa. 25:1-4. with diadems more glorious than were ever placed upon the brow of earthly monarchs. The days of pain and weeping are forever ended. The King of glory has wiped the NOTE.—Notice particularly verse 4. Dur- tears from all faces; every cause of grief has ing the raging of the elements, during the been removed.”—The Great Controversy, time of persecution, God has been near and page 650. protected His own. 16. What shall be said in that day?
- What will God do “in this Isa. 25:9. mountain”? What will He destroy? Isa. 25:6, 7. Noza.—”Those who would have destroyed Christ and His faithful people now witness the glory which rests upon them. In the NOTE.—”A feast of fat things.” We take midst of their terror they hear the voices of this to be a spiritual experience. And what the saints in joyful strains exclaiming: `Lo, a wonderful thing it will be when Christ this is our God; we have waited for Him, Himself shall open to us the things that and He will save us.’ “—The Great Contro- formerly seemed dark! versy, page 644.
FOREIGN-LANGUAGE SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLIES
The senior "Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly" is published in
the following foreign languages: Bohemian, Danish-Norwegian,
German, Hungarian, Italian, Polish, Russian, Serbian, Slovakian,
Spanish, Swedish, Ukrainian, and Yugoslavian. Write to the Inter-
national Branch of the Pacific Press at Brookfield, Illinois, for any
of these quarterlies for the strangers within your gates.
[ 19 ]
Lesson 6, for February 11, 1956
The Trials and Triumph of God's People; The New Earth
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Isaiah 26 and 35. MEMORY VERSE: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee.” Isa. 26:3. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “The Acts of the Apostles,” pages 593-602; “The Great Controversy,” pages 635-642, 672-678 (new ed. pp. 717-724, 755-762); “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapters 26, 35. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Tuesday: Questions 8-10. the lesson. Wednesday: Questions 11-13. Sunday: Questions 1-3. Thursday: Read Study Helps assignment. Monday: Questions 4-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Lesson Outline: 6. “Thy dead men shall live.” Isa. 26:19. Introduction 7. Blessed invitation to God’s people. Isa.. 26:20, 21. I. Confidence and Trust I11. The Joyous Reward of the Redeemed 1. A song of assurance. Isa. 26:1, 2. 8. The desert blossoms as the rose. 2. Peace of mind. Isa. 26:3, 4. Isa. 35:1. 3. Waiting on the Lord. Isa. 26:8, 9, 9. Rejoicing with joy and singing. Isa. first part. 35:2. 4. Purpose of God’s judgments. Isa. 10. Assurance of recompense. Isa. 26:9 (last part), 10-12; Eph. 2:10. 35:3, 4.
- Triumphant in Trouble
11. Changed conditions. Isa. 35:5-7.
12. The way of holiness. Isa. 35:8, 9.
-
The Lord wrought for us against the 13. The ransomed of the Lord. Isa. wicked. Isa. 26:12-14. 35:10.
THE LESSON Introduction 2. Through all the struggles and In the midst of all the destruction of the turmoils of the last days, what may last days, God's people will have a song of God's people possess? Isa. 26:3, 4. trust and confidence. All things earthly will fail, the world itself will reel and be dis- solved, but with faith God's people exclaim: "We have a strong city." They have not been perfect, but they have made God their NOTE.-"Those who take Christ at His trust, and all is well. word, and surrender their souls to His keep- ing, their lives to His ordering, will find Confidence and Trust peace and quietude. Nothing of the world can make them sad when Jesus makes them
-
- What song will be sung “in that glad by His presence. In perfect acquies- day”? To whom will the gates be cence there is perfect rest…. Our lives may opened? Isa. 26:1, 2. See Rev. 22:14. seem a tangle; but as we commit ourselves [ 20 to the wise Master Worker, He will bring thing of ourselves. But, says the apostle out the pattern of life and character that Paul, “I have strength for anything through will be to His own glory. And that charac- Him who gives me power.” Phil. 4:13, ter which expresses the glory—character– Weymouth. of Christ will be received into the Paradise of God. A renovated race shall walk with 6. What joyful news is proclaimed Him in white, for they are worthy.”—The concerning those who have died in Desire of Ages, page 331. the Lord? Isa. 26:19.
- What will characterize those who are waiting for the Lord? Isa. 26:8, 9, first part. 7. When God comes forth to pun- ish the world, what gracious invita- tion is given to God’s people? Isa. 26:20, 21. Nom.—The people here spoken of have been waiting for the Lord. When His judg- ments were in the earth, they waited. Their desire was to the name of God and to His remembrance, or memorial. The American Nom.—”If the blood of Christ’s faithful Revised Version of verse 8 reads: “Yea, in witnesses were shed at this time, it would the way of Thy judgments, 0 Jehovah, have not, like the blood of the martyrs, be as seed we waited for Thee; to Thy name, even to sown to yield a harvest for God. Their Thy memorial name, is the desire of our fidelity would not be a testimony to con- soul.” The name of God is His character. vince others of the truth; for the obdurate And the remnant people will have the name heart has beaten back the waves of mercy of God in their foreheads. Rev. 14:1. until they return no more. If the righteous were now left to fall a prey to their enemies, it would be a ‘triumph for the prince of
- What is the effect of God’s judg- darkness. Says the psalmist: ‘In the time of ment upon mankind? What does God trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion: in ordain for His own? What has He the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide done for them? Isa. 26:9 (last part), me.’ Ps. 27:5. Christ has spoken: ‘Come, 10-12; Eph. 2:10. My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. For, behold, the Lord cometh out of His place to punish the Nom.—Thus it has ever been. When inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity.’ God’s judgments are in the land, men Isa. 26:20, 21. Glorious will be the deliver- humble themselves. They promise to do ance of those who have patiently waited for right. Verse 9. Let the judgments be taken His coming and whose names are written in away, let the danger pass, and many will the book of life.”—The Great Controversy, forget all their good intentions. Verse 10. page 634. The Joyous Reward of the Triumphant in Trouble Redeemed
-
What confession do God’s peo- ple make? What becomes of the 8. What is said of the wilderness wicked? Isa. 26:12-14. and the solitary place? Isa. 35:1.
Nom.—This text has reference primarily Nom.—The American Revised Version to new-earth conditions. However, it may reads, "Thou hast also wrought all our also have a spiritual application to the pres- works for us." Verse 12. God works in us ent as in the following quotation: "There both to will and to do. We can do no good are places which are now a moral wilderness, [21 1and these are to become as the garden of the Lord. The waste places of the earth are to be cultivated, that they may bud and blos- som as the rose. New territories are to be worked by men inspired by the Holy Spirit. . The light is to shine to all lands and all peoples. And it is from those who have received the light that it is to shine forth. The daystar has risen upon us, and we are to flash its light upon the pathway of those in darkness.”—Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 24. “In the transformation of character, the casting out of evil passions, the development of the sweet graces of God’s Holy Spirit, we see the fulfillment of the promise, ‘Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree.’ We behold life’s desert ‘rejoice, and GODS REHABILITATION PROGRAM WILL MAKE A WORN-OUT EARTH TO BLOSSOM blossom as the rose.’ “—Ibid., p. 308. AS EDEN IS RESTORED. o
- In the desert wastes, what changes are foretold? Isa. 35:2. fruitage, and soon the gospel message will have been proclaimed to all nations. ‘To the praise of the glory of His grace,’ men and women from every kindred, tongue, and NoTE.—The desert “shall blossom abun- people are being made ‘accepted in the dantly.” “Christ delights to take apparently Beloved,’ that in the ages to come He might hopeless material, those whom Satan has show the exceeding riches of His grace in debased and through whom he has worked, His kindness toward us through Christ Je- and make them the subjects of His grace. sus.’ “—Prophets and Kings, pages 313, 314. He rejoices to deliver them from suffering and from the wrath that is to fall upon the 10. What encouraging message is the disobedient. He makes His children His given to the weak and fearful? Isa. agents in the accomplishment of this work, 35:3, 4. and in its success, even in this life, they find a precious reward.”—Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 308, 309. By “the glory of Lebanon” and “the ex- cellency of Carmel and Sharon” are without NOTE.—”Angels from a pure and holy doubt meant their fruitfulness. In the desert heaven come to this polluted world to sym- are no trees or grainfields. But this shall be pathize with the weakest, the most helpless changed. Those barren lives that have pro- and needy, while Christ Himself descended duced no fruit shall blossom abundantly. from His throne to help just such as these. This seems to be a distinct prophecy of the You have no right to hold yourself aloof times when those lands that have been un- from these faltering ones, nor to assert your responsive to the gospel shall be wide open. marked superiority over them. Come more “It was concerning the future fulfillment into unison with Christ, pity the erring, lift of this prophecy that Isaiah had heard the up the hands that hang down, strengthen shining seraphim singing before the throne, the feeble knees, and bid the fearful hearts be The whole earth is full of His glory.’ The strong. Pity and help them, even as Christ prophet, confident of the certainty of these has pitied you.”—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 131. words, himself afterward boldly declared of The fearful, the fainthearted, are not to be those who were bowing down to images of despised, but rather encouraged. And this in wood and stone, ‘They shall see the glory view of the fact that Christ is soon coming. of the Lord, and the excellency of our God.’ This is to be the keynote of every message: “Today this prophecy is meeting rapid Christ is coming. He will come with ven- fulfillment. The missionary activities of the geance, to punish. He will come with the church of God on earth are bearing rich recompense, to reward. He will come to [ 22 ] save; so be courageous. The Master is at 13. What thrilling experience the door. awaits the ransomed of the Lord? Isa. 35:10.
- What wonderful changes will take place when the Lord comes? Isa. 35:5-7. NOTE.-The picture presented in verse 10 was familiar to all Jews. At the annual feasts the Israelites would come in groups
-
How is the highway of the Lord from all parts of the land. They would be- and its travelers described? Isa. 35:8, 9. deck themselves and their animals in festive adornment, and sing as they journeyed along. It is with joy that God’s redeemed people NoTE.-The American Revised Version of shall return to the heavenly Zion. No sor- verse 8 reads: “It shall be for the redeemed,” row, no sighing, but everlasting joy shall be rather than, “It shall be for those.” theirs. Lord, speed that day !
Lesson 7, for February 18, 1956. Behold Your God
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 40. MEMORY VERSE: “He shall feed His flock like a shepherd: He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.” Isa. 40:11 STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald:” “The Desire of Ages,” pages 132-135; “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapter 40.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Tuesday: Questions 7-9. the lesson. Wednesday: Questions 10-14. Sunday: Questions 1-3. Thursday: Read Study Helps assignment. Monday: Questions 4-6. Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Lesson Outline: 5. The vital message. Isa. 40:10. 6. The gentle shepherd. Isa. 40:11. Introduction Compare John 10:1-16. 7. The incomprehensible ways of God. I. A Voice in the Wilderness Isa. 40:12-14. 1. A message of comfort. Isa. 40:1, 2. I11. God Incomparable 2. “Prepare ye the way of the Lord.” Isa. 40:3-5; Matt. 3:1-3. 8. Insignificance of the nations. Isa. 3. Frailty of man-the strength of 40:15-17. God’s word. Isa. 40:6-8. 9. God contrasted with idols. Isa. 40: 18-20.
- Good Tidings 10. Sovereign greatness of God. Isa.
- Zion, bearer of good tidings. Isa. 40:21-24. 40:9. 11. The Creator’s power. Isa. 40:25, 26. [ 23 ] IV. The Creator’s Watchcare 13. God assures His people. Isa. 40: 28, 29.
-
Israel reproved for doubting God’s 14. Promise of strength renewed. Isa. care. Isa. 40:27. 40:30, 31.
THE LESSON Introduction for this time. For this reason God's people had received double punishment. But God The section in Isaiah beginning with chap- does not hate his people any more than the ter 40 is of special interest to God's people at gardener hates the vine which he prunes. this time. The believer in the Bible has no God loves His people and sends them a mes- difficulty in seeing Christ portrayed before sage. of comfort and love. his eyes as the suffering Servant of God. The angel of Revelation 14 calls upon men 2. What message is proclaimed by to "worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of the voice crying in the wilderness? waters." Revelation 14:7. This message is Who fulfilled this scripture? Isa. due to the world today, and it constitutes a 40:3-5; Matt. 3:1-3. direct challenge to modernism and the de- structive theory of evolution, which is God- denying in its effect. When we are told to worship Him that made heaven and earth, the attention by these words is drawn to the NOTE.—"In this age, just prior to the first chapter of the Bible, where the account second coming of Christ in the clouds of of creation is recorded. The angel calls upon heaven, such a work as that of John is to be men to worship the God of the first chapter done. God calls for men who will prepare a of Genesis, the God who created. people to stand in the great day of the Lord. While the entire Bible is filled with refer- The message preceding the public ministry of ences to God as Creator, Isaiah is the only Christ was: 'Repent, publicans and sinners; one who presents a sustained argument for repent, Pharisees and Sadducees ; "repent ye: creation as opposed to theories which would for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."' . . . dethrone God and deprive Him of His due "In order to give such a message as John glory. When He, therefore, in the chapters gave, we must have a spiritual experience we are about to study, repeatedly calls at- like his. The same work must be wrought in tention to God as Creator, He is presenting us. We must behold God, and in beholding present truth. Him lose sight of self."—Testimonies, vol. 8, More than a third of the chapters that pp. 332, 333. remain are concerned with God as the great 3. In what language does Isaiah Creator. The other two thirds contain some of the most beautiful and helpful passages contrast the temporal with the eter- in the entire book of God. They are all of nal? Isa. 40:6-8. special interest to God's people at this time.
A Voice in the Wilderness
- What comforting message does NorE.—Man and his wisdom shall perish, but “the word of our God shall stand for- God send to His people? Isa. 40:1, 2. ever.” Men’s theories will go down. Their ideas of future peace and of a millennium will not bear the test of “the word.” It is well to build on something that will “stand” Nom—Sin, wherever found, is abhorrent when everything else is shaken. to God, but doubly so in the case of those who know the truth. Light brings responsi- Good Tidings bility. Those who know the truth and still persist in sin are more guilty than those who 4. How is the proclamation of good do not have a knowledge of God’s message tidings made effective? Isa. 40:9. 24 , NOTE.—”The children of God are to mani- fest His glory. In their own life and charac- ter they are to reveal what the grace of God has done for them. The light of the Sun of Righteousness is to shine forth in good works—in words of truth and deeds of holiness.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, pages 415, 416.
- What is a vital part of the mes- sage to be given? Isa. 40:10.
NOTE.—”The Lord God will come.” , This is the advent proclamation, and should be the keynote of every message. The Lord will Kam.
come “with strong hand.” He will “rule.” THE HEAVENS PROCLAIM THAT AN See Ps. 2:8, 9. He will also bring the “re- EVERLASTING CREATOR MADE ALL THINGS. IOU- ward” with Him. See Rev. 22:12. The Lord will come to punish and to reward. God Incomparable
-
Under what beautiful symbol is Christ presented? How are His love 8. In comparison to God’s om- and care revealed? Isa. 40:11. See also nipotence, what is said of the nations? John 10:1-16. Isa. 40:15-17.
NoTE.—The dripping of a bucket or a NorE.—"Christ, the Chief Shepherd, has little dust blown from the scales is not entrusted the care of His flock to His min- regarded as great or important. Yet if whole isters as undershepherds ; and He bids them nations are so counted, how much smaller have the same interest that He has mani- must the individual be 1 But puny man sets fested, and feel the sacred responsibility of himself up against God and attempts to the charge He has entrusted to them. He has teach Him ! Such indeed must be counted solemnly commanded them to be faithful, to by Heaven less than nothing, and vanity. feed the flock, to strengthen the weak, to revive the fainting, and to shield them from 9. What shows that it is impossible devouring wolves."—Patriarchs and Proph- to make any comparison to the great ets, page 191. God of heaven? How are idols made? - How does the prophet illustrate Isa. 40:18-20. the mighty power of God? What fur- ther questions are asked? Isa. 40:12-14. NoTE.—The inference is plain. God is the Creator. He has made all things. Idols can- not create. They themselves must be made. NOTE.—These questions are so put as to require the negative answer,—No one,—the 10. How is the majesty of God con- strongest way in which such statements can trasted with the rulers of earth? Isa. be placed. The positive would be, God has 40:21-24. not been taught by anyone; no one has shown Him “the way of understanding.” That is, God is the Original One, the Ulti- mate One, the Source of all things. There NoTE.—Verse 22 in the American Revised was none before Him. No one “instructed” Version reads, “above the circle of the or “taught” Him. earth,” and the same version in the margin 26 renders verse 24: “Scarce are they planted, of His knowledge and care? Isa. scarce are they sown, scarce bath their stock 40:28, 29. taken root in the earth, when He bloweth upon them.” That is, men hardly begin to live ere they are taken away. NOTE.—”There is no searching of His un-
- What are we counseled to do? derstanding.” That is, God knows. You How are God’s wisdom and power may think He does not know your perplexi- shown? Isa. 40:25, 26. ties, or, even worse, that He does not care. Be assured, dear soul, God knows and He cares. Your God not only understands, but He will give you the needed power and will increase your strength. NOTE.—”God calls upon His creatures to “God’s workers will meet with turmoil, turn their attention from the confusion and discomfort, and weariness. At times, un- perplexity around them, and admire His certain and distracted, they are almost in handiwork. As we study His works, angels despair. When this restless nervousness from heaven will be by our side, to enlighten comes, let them remember Christ’s invita- our minds, and guard them from Satan’s tion: ‘Come ye yourselves apart, . . . and deceptions. As you look at the wonderful rest awhile.’ The Saviour `giveth power to things that God’s hand has made, let your the faint; and to them that have no might proud, foolish heart feel its dependence and He increaseth strength.’ Isa. 40:29.”—Testi- inferiority. How terrible it is when the monies, vol. 7, p. 244. acknowledgment of God is not made when it should be made ! How sad to humble one’s 14. What may be the experience self when it is too late !”—Counsels to Par- of the youth? What is noted of them ents, Teachers, and Students, page 457. “that wait upon the Lord”? Isa. 40:30, 31. The Creator’s Watchcare
- What do Jacob and Israel say? Isa. 40:27. Nora.—”Remember that prayer is the source of your strength. A worker cannot gain success while he hurries through his prayers and rushes away to look after some- NoTE.—The complaint of Jacob and Is- thing that he fears may be neglected or for- rael seems to be that “my way,” that is, gotten. He gives only a few hurried thoughts their course and condition of life, is hidden to God; he does not take time to think, to from the Lord, and that “my judgment” or, pray, to wait upon the Lord for a renewal rather, “my right,” escapes His notice. It is of physical and spiritual strength. He soon really a complaint from the people that God becomes weary. He does not feel the uplift- does not pay enough attention to them, that ing, inspiring influence of God’s Spirit. He He passes them by. is not quickened by fresh life. His jaded frame and tired brain are not soothed by
-
How does God meet the com- personal contact with Christ.”—Testimo- plaint of the people and assure them nies, vol. 7, p. 243. Read Psalm 27:14.
LESSON QUARTERLIES FOR THE BLIND The senior Sabbath-school lessons, slightly condensed, are published each quarter in Braille and supplied free to the blind upon request. Address: The Christian Record Benevolent Association, Box 66, Lincoln 6, Nebraska. [26 7Lesson 8, for February 25, 1956
Jehovah's Challenge to False Gods LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 41. MEMORY VERSE: "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of My righteousness." Isa. 41:10. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in "Review and Herald:" "Prophets and Kings," pages 143-154; "Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," Isaiah, chapter 41. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Tuesday: Questions 7-9. the lesson. Wednesday: Questions 10-14. Sunday: Questions 1-3. Thursday: Read Study Helps assignment. Monday: Questions 4-6. Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Lesson Outline: 6. Promise of help renewed. Isa. 41: 13, 14. 7. Victory over enemies promised. Isa. Introduction 41:15, 16. 8. Promise to poor and needy. Isa. I. The Man From the East 41:17, 18. 9. Evidence of the hand of the Lord. 1. God’s challenge to the people. Isa. 41:1-3. Isa. 41:19, 20. 2. God propounds and answers a ques- I11. Challenge to the Idols tion. Isa. 41:4. 3. Mutual encouragement. Isa. 41:5-7. 10. A test proposed. Isa. 41:21. 11. Challenged to reveal the future. Isa.
- God Assures His People 41:22-24.
12. Cyrus is raised up. Isa. 41:25.
- Fear not, I am with thee. Isa. 41: 13. God scorns the futility of false gods. 8-10. Isa. 41:26, 28, 29.
-
Their enemies confounded. Isa. 41: 14. Good tidings to Jerusalem. Isa. 11, 12. 41:27.
THE LESSON Introduction nations." He will give him rule over kings. Though this man is not named as yet, he is "Study the forty-first chapter of Isaiah, without doubt Cyrus, mentioned by name and strive to understand it in all its signifi- first in Isaiah 44:28, many years before he cance."-Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 39. was born. In Isaiah 40 God is presented as the God gives every man ample ground for Creator. In this chapter the nations are faith. In this chapter He says, in substance, challenged to appear as witnesses to God's to Israel, "I will foretell the future. By that foreknowledge. The Lord will tell them you may know that I am God. I challenge about the future, concerning one who hath the idols to tell what shall come to pass. been "raised up . . . from the east, whom They cannot do this. When I tell you con- He calleth in righteousness to His foot." Isa. cerning the man I will raise up and you see 41:2, R.V. God will give this man "the it come to pass, you may know that I am [ 27 ]indeed the true God, the Creator of the of trusting God, they appeal to their idols, heavens and the earth.” and decide to make a particularly good and “Islands,” literally “coastlands,” or lands strong set of gods. bordering on the sea. When the people of “Well might the words written of the Isaiah’s time spoke of “islands” they referred idol builders of old be, with worthier aim, to “foreign lands.” adopted as a motto by character builders of today:—”They helped everyone his neigh- The Man From the East bor; and everyone said to his brother, Be of good courage.’ “—Education, page 286.
- How does God address the is- lands and the people? What questions God Assures His People does God ask? What would the “man 4. What comforting assurance does from the east” do? Isa. 41:1-3. God give to His people? Isa. 41:8-10.
NOTE.—God calls the nations before Him. NOTE.—”Abraham My friend”! What a He is about to speak to them, so He asks wonderful designation ! And we are the chil- them to keep silence. After God has spoken, dren of Abraham, God’s friend. God’s peo- “then let them speak.” ple will come from the ends of the earth. The sense of these verses may perhaps best They may not be perfect, but God has not be presented by this paraphrase: “Who hath cast them away. raised up one from the east who is always victorious? Who hath given him authority 5. What will be the experience of over the nations, and made him rule over those who are incensed against God’s kings? His sword drives them like dust, his people? Isaiah 41:11, 12. bow like chaff before the wind. He pursues them and marches forward safely and that so swiftly that he does not tread the path with his feet.” 6. How does the Holy One of Israel Cyrus is the “man from the east.” See encourage His people? Isa. 41:13, 14. Introduction.
- What question does God pro- pound? How is God spoken of? Isa. NOTE.—”The heart of Infinite Love yearns 41:4. after those who feel powerless to free them- selves from the snares of Satan; and He graciously offers to strengthen them to live for Him. ‘Fear thou not,’ He bids them; ‘for NoTE.—This verse does not say that God I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am is the first and the last. That indeed is true. thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will Rev. 1:11. But here it states that God is help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the with the last. Even as God was in the right hand of My righteousness.’ I the Lord beginning, so He will be with His people to thy God will hold thy right hand, saying the end, with the last. unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel;
-
How did the people encourage I will help thee, saith the Lord, and thy Re- one another? Isa. 41:5-7. deemer, the Holy One of Israel.’“—Proph- ets and Kings, page 316. 7. In what words does the Lord NoTE.—The prophet is here describing the indicate the triumph of His people condition which would accompany the con- over their enemies? Isa. 41:15, 16. quests of Cyrus. The islands and the nations would be afraid; they “drew near,” but not to God. This drawing near probably has reference to the league between Lydia, NOTE.—The time was to come when Israel Babylon, and Egypt against Cyrus. Instead should again reign. As the instrument of the [ 28 ] the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the Lord will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them.’ “ 9. What will God plant in the wilderness and in the desert? Why does God do this? Isa. 41:19, 20.
Nom—These trees are of the choicest. The desert itself shall be transformed into a grove of stately, beautiful trees. And the object is that men may see in this a demon- stration of the creative power of God. IN THE TIME OF TROUBLE BOOS •PEOPLE .%9U. BE SHIELDED BY HEAVENLY Challenge to the Idols ANGELS. 10. What does the Lord call upon the idols of the nations to do? Isa. Almighty they would thresh the nations 41:21. (mountains). A day also lies just ahead when the Israel of God will no longer be a savor of life to a rebellious world. No more will God spare a world in rebellion because 11. What does God challenge the of the righteous remnant. Instead, because of their rebellion and their oppression of His idols to reveal? What does God de- people, the vials of His wrath will be poured clare them to be? Isa. 41:22-24. upon them. The land will be emptied and desolate (Rev. 6:14-17; Jer. 4:23-28) like Babylon of old (Jer. 51:2). But in that day God's people shall rejoice in Him and "glory NorE.—God's challenge is definite, "Show in the Holy One of Israel." See Isa. 25:8, 9. us the future. Prove your power to predict, or give any proof of life and activity." See - What precious promise does God Jer. 10:5. God’s idea of these idols is well give to the poor and the needy? Isa. expressed in the margin, “worse than noth- 41:17, 18. ing,” “worse than of a viper.” 12. Whom does God say He has raised up? What shall He do to Nom—This text has a literal application princes? Isa. 41:25. as well as a spiritual one. Speaking of the time of trouble, we read in The Great Con- troversy, page 629: “The people of God will not be free Nom—Cyrus is here again introduced. from suffering; but while persecuted and He is said to have come from the north, also distressed, while they endure privation, and from the east. In fact, he came from the east, suffer for want of food, they will not be left though all armies from the east came around to perish. That God who cared for Elijah, the Arabian Desert, and hence attacked will not pass by one of His self-sacrificing Palestine from the north. children. He who numbers the hairs of their “Call upon My name.” The Cambridge head, will care for them ; and in time of Bible, page 23, makes the following com- famine they shall be satisfied. Whiie the ment: “It is true that in Isaiah 45:4 it is wicked are dying from hunger and pesti- said that Cyrus had not known Jehovah; lence, angels will shield the righteous, and but it is also said (verse 3) that the effect of supply their wants. To him that `walketh his remarkable successes will be ‘that thou righteously’ is the promise, ‘Bread shall be mayest know that I am Jehovah that calleth given him ; his waters shall be sure.’ When thee by thy name, the God of Israel.’ There f 29 ) is therefore no difficulty in the idea that ride false gods? Isa. 41:26, 28, 29. Cyrus, who was at first the unconscious instrument of Jehovah’s purpose, shall at length recognize that Jehovah was the true author of his success.” 14. How is the promise of good tidings to Jerusalem reiterated? Isa.
-
In what words does God de- 41:27.
Lesson 9, for March 3, 1956 The Elect of God, a Light to the Gentiles
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 42. MEMORY VERSE: “A bruised reed shall He not break, and the smoking flax shall He not quench: He shall bring forth judgment unto truth.” Isa. 42:3. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “Prophets and Kings,” pages 692-694; “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapter 42.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Tuesday: Questions 8-10. the lesson. Wednesday: Questions 11-14. Sunday: Questions 1-4. Thursday: Read Study Helps assignment. Monday: Questions 5-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Lesson Outline: I11. Triumph Over Enemies
Introduction 8. A new song. Isa. 42:10-12. 9. Release from long restraint. Isa. I. The Lord’s Servant 42:13-15. 10. The shame of worshipers of images. 1. God’s chosen servant. Isa. 42:1. Isa. 42:17. 2. His quiet ways. Isa. 42:2. 11. Promises to the blind. Isa. 42:16, 18. 3. His gentle dealing. Isa. 42:3. 12. Commendable blindness. Isa. 42: 4. His resolute purpose. Isa. 42:4. 19, 20.
- A Light to the Gentiles IV. The Law Magnified
- The Creator and Sustainer. Isa. 42:5. 13. Reason for the Lord’s pleasure. Isa.
- Commission to His servant. Isa. 42 : 21. 42:6, 7. 14. The law made effective. Heb. 8:
-
His name and glory. Isa. 42:8, 9. 10-13.
THE LESSON Introduction of Isaiah. He is gentle, quiet, compassionate. He does not come to crush life, but to de- The work of Christ is definitely set forth velop it; not to despise the weak, but to help in this chapter. He is the elect of God, a them. If there is but a dimly burning wick, term which occurs six times in this portion He does not give up hope. He will not stop [ 30 ]until the work is accomplished. Many of 4. What is Christ’s attitude toward the blind shall see the light, and the whole His work? For what do the isles wait? earth shall praise the Lord. Isa. 42:4. The Lord’s Servant
- ‘What description is given o Nom.—Christ will not fail, He will not God’s servant? Isa. 42:1. give up, He will not give way to discourage- ment nor break under the strain. The margin of the American Revised Version gives “burn dimly” instead of “fail,” and “bruised” in- Nom.—Christ is the Servant (John 6:38), stead of “discouraged.” sent to do the Father’s will. He is the elect whom the Father has chosen, and whom He A Light to the Gentiles upholds. 5. How is the true God revealed? “Bring forth judgment.” The word “judg- Isa. 42:5. ment” occurs three times in these first verses, and may be translated “law ;” but commen- tators agree that the word is used here in a larger sense, some rendering the sentence thus: “He shall carry the true religion to the Nom.—Again and again the true God is Gentiles.” mentioned as the Creator. Here the reading really is, Thus saith the God who alone is
- What will be the manner of truly God. Christ’s working? Isa. 42:2. “That which cometh out of it” probably refers to all that the earth produces—gold, silver, and vegetation. 6. How does God speak of Christ’s NOTE.—”In marked contrast to all this appointment and of His work? Isa. [the manner of the Pharisees] was the life 42:6, 7. of Jesus. In that life no noisy disputation, no ostentatious worship, no act to gain ap- plause, was ever witnessed. Christ was hid in God, and God was revealed in the charac- 7. What does God set forth as a ter of His Son. To this revelation Jesus reason for His superiority to idols? desired the minds of the people to be di- Isa. 42:8, 9. rected, and their homage to be given.”— The Desire of Ages, page 261.
-
What two figures are used to show Christ’s love and tenderness for Nom.—The “former things” had all been the weak? Isa. 42:3, margin. fulfilled. The “new things” will as surely come to pass. Triumph Over Enemies 8. What are we exhorted to do? Nom.—There are few more beautiful pas- sages in the Bible. The reed may be bruised, Who are to sing this song? Isa. but Christ will not break it. The candle may 42:10-12. burn dimly, but He will not blow it out. There may not be much strength, the life may be bruised and broken; there may not be much light, rather smoke and darkness. 9. What is the Lord about to do? But Christ does not give up hope. His own Isa. 42:13-15. light does not burn dimly. By gentle meas- ures the smoking flax may be fanned into a flame. His purpose shall not be broken, and the true religion, shall be extended to all NoTE.—The reason for singing the new the earth. song is given in these verses. God is about [ 31 The terms ‘My servant,’ Israel,”The Lord’s servant,’ mean anyone that the Lord may select and appoint to do a certain work. He makes them ministers of His will, though some who are selected may be as ignorant of His will as was Nebuchadnezzar.”—Testi- monies, vol. 9, p. 138. “God does not wish us to hear all that is to be heard, or to see all that is to be seen. It is a great blessing to close the ears, that we hear not, and the eyes, that we see not. The greatest anxiety should be to have clear eyesight to discern our own shortcomings, and a quick ear to catch all needed reproof and instruction, lest by our inattention and carelessness we let them slip and become forgetful hearers and not doers of the work.” N300 DOES NOT WISH NE TO HEAR ALL THAT —Testimonies, vol. 1, pp. 707, 708. IS TO SE HEARD, OR TO SEE ALL THAT IS TO SE SEEN: – Testimonies, mi. I, p. 707.
The Law Magnified
to manifest Himself. The second coming 13. What is the Lord well pleased of Christ is here brought to view. For a to do? Isa. 42:21. Compare Matt. long time God has restrained Himself and 5:18, 19. kept still when iniquity raised its ugly head, but now God will restrain Himself no more. He will go forth. He will prevail against His enemies. NcrrE.—”The beloved disciple, who lis-
- What will happen to the wor- tened to the words of Jesus on the mount, shipers of graven images? Isa. 42:17. writing long afterward under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, speaks of the law as of perpetual obligation. He says that ‘sin is the transgression of the law,’ and that ‘whoso- ever committeth sin transgresseth also the
- What is God’s promise to the law.’ He makes it plain that the law to blind? Isa. 42:16, 18. which he refers is ‘an old commandment which ye had from the beginning.’ He is speaking of the law that existed at the creation, and was reiterated upon Mount NOTE.—The blind here must have refer- Sinai.”—Thoughts From the Mount of ence to the spiritually blind. In Prophets Blessing, page 78. and Kings, page 378, this text is applied to “It was further prophesied of the Mes- “all the honest in heart in heathen lands.” siah: ‘He shall not fail nor be discouraged, There are many who are blind, but honest. till He bath set judgment in the earth: That which seems to them to be darkness and the isles shall wait for His law.’ The will then be made light, and the crooked Son of God was to ‘magnify the law, and things will be made straight. This should make,it honorable.’ He was not to lessen give us hope for many who apparently are its importance and binding claims; He was rejecting light. rather to exalt it. At the same time, He was to free the divine precepts from those
- How is the attitude of God’s burdensome exactions placed upon them by servant to his surroundings revealed? man, whereby many were brought to dis- Isa. 42:19, 20. couragement in their efforts to serve God acceptably.”—Prophets and Kings, page 693. “The third angel’s message, embracing the messages of the first and second angels, is NOTE.—”The work outlined in these scrip- the message for this time. We are to raise tures [Isa. 42:16-21] is the work before us. aloft the banner on which is inscribed: ‘The [ 32 ] commandments of God, and the faith of sinful men, in themselves, to meet the stand- Jesus.’ The world is soon to meet the great ard of its requirement. This was why Jesus Lawgiver over His broken law. This is not came as our Redeemer. It was His mission, the time to put out of sight the great issues by making men partakers of the divine na- before us. God calls upon His people to ture, to bring them into harmony with the magnify the law and make it honorable.”— principles of the law of heaven. . . . Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 197. “The new-covenant promise is, ‘I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds
-
How does God propose to make will I write them.’ While the system of the law effective in the life of the types which pointed to Christ as the Lamb of God that should take away the sin of the Christian? Heb. 8:10-13. world, was to pass away at His death, the principles of righteousness embodied in the Decalogue are as immutable as the eter- nal throne. Not one command has been an- NOTE.—”So long as heaven and earth con- nulled, not a jot or tittle has been changed. tinue, the holy principles of God’s law will Those principles that were made known to remain. His righteousness, ‘like the great man in Paradise as the great law of life, will Mountains,’ will continue, a source of bless- exist unchanged in Paradise restored. When ing, sending forth streams to refresh the Eden shall bloom on earth again, God’s law earth. of love will be obeyed by all beneath the “Because the law of the Lord is perfect, sun.”—Thoughts From the Mount of Bless- and therefore changeless, it is impossible for ing, pages 80, 81.
Lesson 10, for March 10, 1956 Gathering of Israel; Witnesses for God
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 43. MEMORY VERSE: “I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” Isaiah 43:25. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapter 43.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Wednesday: Questions 10-13. the lesson. Thursday: Read from Study Helps as- Sunday: Questions 1-4. signment. Monday: Questions 5-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Questions 8, 9.
Lesson Outline: 3. Value God places on His people. Isa. 43:3, 4. Introduction 4. Gathers them from all places. -Isa. 43:5-7. I. God’s Love for His People 11. The Divine Summons 1. “Fear not: .. . thou art Mine.” Isa. 5. God’s call to the nations. Isa. 43:8, 9. 43:1. 6. Called to be His witnesses. Isa. 2. Promised protection. Isa. 43:2. 43:10. E 33 7. Responsibility of His witnesses. Isa. IV. God Reproves His People 43:11-13. I11. God Intervenes for His People 10. His complaint. Isa. 43:22-24. 11. His willingness to blot out their sins. 8. Foretells the overthrow of Babylon. Isa. 43:25. Isa. 43 :14-17. 9. Makes a way in the wilderness. Isa. 12. “Let us plead together.” Isa. 43:26. 43:18-21. 13. Sin brings a curse. Isa. 43:27, 28.
THE LESSON
Introduction Saviour died."—The Desire of Ages, pages
479, 480. The lesson of this chapter centers around two main topics. The first seven verses tell of God's great love for His people, His 2. What promises are given to willingness to make any sacrifices to ensure God's people when in trial? Isa. 43:2. their salvation, to make certain that no honest heart should be lost. He then makes the promise that every member of His fam- ily, those called by His name, should be Nora—God's promise to help His people gathered to Himself. has been wonderfully fulfilled in the past. The second topic deals with the weighing For example, see Daniel 3:27 and Exodus of men in the balances, a testing of their 14:21, 22. When the trials of the last days loyalty. God depends upon the witness of shall come, these promises will become very His children. We are to testify of what He precious indeed. has done for us, of what we know by per- sonal experience. A witness is allowed to tell "Often the church militant is called upon only that which he personally knows to be to suffer trial and affliction; for not without true. Now, what has God done for you? severe conflict is the church to triumph. God is looking for witnesses to testify to `The bread of adversity,' the water of afflic- what He has done for them. tion,' these are the common lot of all; but
none who put their trust in the One mighty
to deliver will be utterly overwhelmed."—
God's Love for His People Prophets and Kings, page 723. 1. What comforting statement is made by the Lord to His people? Isa. 3. How much does God think of 43:1. His people? Isa. 43:3, 4.
NorE.—”Fear not.” This blessed assurance Nora—God loves His people. He loves that we need not fear is especially comfort- ing in view of the last verses of the preced- them so much that their worth cannot .be ing chapter, where it is stated that God will expressed in terms of money. He would pour out His fury against them that walk gladly give Egypt, Ethiopia, and Seba for not in His ways nor keep His law. them. “I will give men for thee.” That “Called thee by thy name.” “Jesus knows which is of immeasurably greater value than us individually, and is touched with the silver or gold, than property of any kind— feeling of our infirmities. He knows us all men, human lives—God would give for His by name. He knows the very house in people. He spared not His own Son, but which we live, the name of each occupant. freely gave Him. He has permitted some of He has at times given directions to His serv- His own to give their lives for those “other ants to go to a certain street in a certain sheep” who have not known Him. city, to such a house, to find one of His sheep. Every soul is as fully known to Jesus 4. With what promise does God al- as if he were the only one for whom the lay the fears of His people? Isa. 43:5-7. [34] NOTE.—These encouraging words should have been fulfilled under the decree of Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes when (a) the people scattered throughout the Persian Em- pire from Ethiopia to India (see Esther 1:1 and 3:8) returned to Palestine, and (b) in a great world-wide missionary movement car- ried out by a holy people thus restored to their land. Because they failed to do their part, this scripture is now being fulfilled. The message is sounding in all parts of the earth, and God is calling men from every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. “Called by My name.” Of a certain com- pany it is written that they will have the Father’s name written in their foreheads. Rev. 14:1. God’s name is what He is. Ex. 3:14. Hence to be called by the name of GOD DOES NOT ALWAYS SAVE US FROM TROUBLE ; HE SAVES u9 IN OUR God means to have His character. AFFLi011oNe.
The Divine Summons 5. What call does God now issue to marked with our own individuality. These all the nations? What challenge does precious acknowledgments to the praise of
the glory of His grace, when supported by a He make? Isa. 43:8, 9.
Christlike life, have an irresistible power
that works for the salvation of souls."—The
Ministry of Healing, page 100. NOTE.—God is calling all nations together 7. Of what are God's people to as to a judgment scene. "Let them bring bear witness? Isa. 43:11-13. forth their witnesses," He says. The ques- tion is, Who is the true God? He challenges them to "show us former things," that is, things that they have predicted and which have come to pass. If they profess to do this, NOTE.—"The people of the world are wor- let them bring forth their witnesses to sup- shiping false gods. They are to be turned port their contention. If they cannot do from their false worship, not by hearing this, let them hear God's side of the case denunciation of their idols, but by beholding and say, "It is truth." something better. God's goodness is to be
made known. 'Ye are My witnesses, saith
the Lord, that I am God.' "—Christ's Ob- 6. To what exalted privilege and ject Lessons, page 299. task are God's people called? Isa. As to .being a witness, "This also we shall 43:10. be in eternity."—Education, page 308.
"Thc redeemed only, of all created beings,
have in their own experience known the
actual conflict with sin; they have wrought NorE.—"Our confession of His faithful- with ,Christ, and, as even the angels could ness is Heaven's chosen agency for re- not do, have entered into the fellowship of vealing Christ to the world. We are to His sufferings; will they have no testimony acknowledge His grace as made known as to the science of redemption,—nothing through the holy men of old; but that which that will be of worth to unfallen beings?"— will be most effectual is the testimony of our Ibid. own experience. We are witnesses for God The first statement, "Before the day was as we reveal in ourselves the working of a I am He," is variously translated. The sense power that is divine. Every individual has a seems to be, "I am ever the same." Before life distinct from all others, and an experi- the day was, that is, before time began,. "I ence differing essentially from theirs. God am He." "Fr om this day forth I am He." desires that our praise shall ascend to Him, (American Revised Version, margin.)
[3b]
God Intervenes for His People NOTE.—God’s people have neglected prayers; they have become weary of Him.
- How is the fall of Babylon an- What an indictment! Against this charge nounced? Isa. 43:14-17. God defends Himself. He has not required much of His people. He has not wearied them either with offerings or with incense. God now speaks of His weariness with NoTE.—In these verses the fall of Babylon His people. “I have not caused thee to is announced, but in very general terms. We serve,” He says, “but thou hast made Me to are told that the chariot and horse, the army serve with thy sins.” I have not “wearied and the power, shall lie down together and thee with incense,” but “thou hast wearied not rise again, that they shall become ex- Me with thine iniquities.” All power is of tinct. When this calamity should come, His God. When we sin, we use for a base pur- people were to know that the Holy One, the pose the power God has given us. We make Creator of Israel, is their King, and that He Him to serve with our sins. What a fearful will make a way for them in the sea and a condition! path in the mighty waters. 11. What wonderful service will
- What figures are used to indi- God perform for His people? Isa. cate the way the people of God will 43:25. show forth His praise? Isa. 43:18-21.
NoTE.—These verses seem to have also a NOTE.—It would be natural to expect God prophetic meaning, referring to the time to be so weary with our sins that He would when the Lord shall gather His sons and turn us away. On the contrary, God blots daughters from the ends of the earth. Then out our sins, not for our sakes, not because He will do a new thing. He will make ways we deserve it, but for His own sake. of travel in the wildernesses of the world and along the rivers of the desert so that His 12. What does God say we are to witness may reach His children in the east do, and for what purpose? Isa. 43:26. and gather them from the west.
God Reproves His People 10. What complaint does God 13. What are the results of Israel's bring 'against His people? Isa. 43: following in the transgressions of 22-24. their leaders? Isa. 43:27, 28.
ATTENTION, SABBATH SCHOOL TEACHERS!
Are you using the Teacher's Edition of the "Sabbath School
Lesson Quarterly"? If not, you should ask your Sabbath-school
secretary to secure it for you. You will find it a great help in the
preparation of your lesson as well as in teaching, for every other
page in the quarterly is blank, thus giving space on which to
write out answers to questions, notes, or special comments to use
in class. It has been provided in response to requests from many
teachers. It is designed to help you, but it cannot help you if you
do not use it. Try it!
[ 36 ]
Lesson 11, for March 17, 1956
Worship of the True God
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 44; 45:1-4. MEMORY VERSE: “I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins: return unto Me; for I have redeemed thee.” Isa. 44:22. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapters 44, 45.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Wednesday: Questions 11-14. the lesson. Thursday: Read from Study Helps as- Sunday: Questions 1-4. signment. Monday: Questions 5-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Questions 8-10.
Lesson Outline: 7. Foolishness of idolatry. Isa. 44:18- 20. Introduction I11. Israel My Servant
I. God’s Message to Israel 8. A precious reminder. Isa. 44:21, 22. 9. Rejoicing over redemption of Jacob. 1. God is Creator. Isa. 44:1, 2. Isa. 44:23. 2. Outpouring of the Spirit. Isa. 44:3, 4. 10. Redeemer and Creator confirms the 3. Called by the name of the Lord. Isa. word of His servant. Isa. 44:24-27. 44:5. 4. Attested by the God of Israel. Isa. IV. Cyrus-The Lord’s Anointed 44:6-8. 11. Commission to rebuild Jerusalem. Isa. 44:28.
- Vanity of Graven images 12. An instrument in God’s hand to
subdue nations. Isa. 45:1.
- Profitable for nothing. Isa. 44:9-11. 13. God goes before him. Isa. 45:2, 3.
-
Description of image making. Isa. 14. Named for the sake of God’s people. 44:12-17. Isa. 45:4.
THE LESSON Introduction tute for creation, we have formed another god and rejected the true One. God will pour out His Spirit, but only God may use nations and kings to fulfill upon them that are thirsty. Many will be His word. So He did in the case of Cyrus. converted also among the Gentiles. These Our faith should be strengthened as we see shall all acknowledge the true God and keep prophecy fulfilled. themselves from idols. Two things distinguish the true God from God's Message to Israel false gods. God is the Creator. God is the God of prophecy. He can tell the future. 1. In addressing His chosen people, We may not worship idols of wood and how does God again call attention to stone. But if we do not acknowledge God as the fact that He is the Creator? Isa. Creator, if we accept evolution as a substi- 44:1, 2. [ 37 ]NoTE.—It is interesting to note how God uses every opportunity to emphasize the fact of creation. Here He announces Himself as the One who made and formed man. I HAVE BLOTTED NT._ THY TRANS60.ESSKIHS, Jeshurun means the “upright one.” It may here be used to show the change from “Jacob, the supplanter.”
- What will be the result of the outpouring of God’s Spirit? Isa. 44:3, 4.
NOTE.—”There are certain conditions upon which we may expect that God will hear and answer our prayers. One of the THE PRECIOUS PROMISE first of these is that we feel our need of help FORA PENITENT SINNER from Him. He has promised, ‘I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground.’ Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, who long after God, may be sure that they will be filled. Vanity of Graven Images The heart must be open to the Spirit’s in- 5. How does God again emphasize fluence, or God’s blessing cannot be re- ceived.”—Steps to Christ, page 99. the vanity of graven images? Isa. The result of the outpouring of the Spirit 44:9-11. is the springing up here and there of life— new believers.
- What will be the response of NarE.—”Their delectable things.” An- different people? Isa. 44:5. other name for their idols which are “pets, favorites, treasures.” They are their own witnesses. They witness against themselves, for they can neither see nor know. How, NOTE.—This verse tells of the ingathering then, can they help others? Verse 10 is a of Gentiles as a result of the outpouring of rhetorical question, “Who is so foolish as to the Spirit. make an image?” “His fellows,” that is, worshipers.
- What proof does God present to The workmen are men. And how can men show that beside Him there is no god? make a god? Isa. 44:6-8. 6. How is the fashioning of an idol described? Isa. 44:12-17.
NOTE.—God is here King, Redeemer, the First and the Last, the only One. A paraphrase of verse 7 would read: “Who 7. In what striking language does is like Me? For since the beginning, I have God expose the stupidity of those who prophesied and declared and set in order. make and worship idols? Isa. 44:18-20. Now let them—the false gods—tell us the future.” God repeatedly calls attention to prophecy as incontestable proof of divinity. We may do the same. We need not fear. God stands NOTE.—”He bath shut their eyes.” Rather, by His predictions. their eyes are plastered over. 38 ] “None considereth.” They do not think, one hundred fifty years before his appear- they do’not reflect. If they did, they would ance, has been one of the chief factors in see the folly of their action. causing critics to believe that Isaiah did not “Feedeth on ashes.” See Proverbs 15:14 ; write this part of his .prophecies. It seems Hosea 12:1. impossible to them that God could give a “A deceived heart.” We need to ask God man’s name even before his birth. Such an to help us not to deceive ourselves. attitude shows a great lack of faith, and, “Cannot deliver his soul.” Help must indeed, most of the work of the critics is come from some outside source. We cannot founded in unbelief. Josiah’s name was an- save ourselves. An idol is a lie. Men believe nounced three centuries before his birth. an idol can help, but this is a vain hope. 1 Kings 13:2. And why should it be thought thing incredible that God should do this? Israel My Servant These very chapters in Isaiah emphasize again and again that God is different from
- What vital facts are Jacob ‘and idols. He can foretell the future. They can- Israel told to remember? What invi- not. For anyone to hold the view that God tation is given? Isa. 44:21, 22. cannot tell what is to come, is to put Him on a level with idols. 12. How is Cyrus and his work fur- NOTE.—God tells His people to remember ther spoken of? Isa. 45:1. these things of which He has just been speaking. And if they do, God will remem- ber them. They shall not be forgotten. God does not merely promise. to forgive, but in NorE.—”His anointed.” The only place in this text it is spoken of as already done. “I the Scriptures where this is spoken of a have blotted out.” It is as though a father Gentile. were speaking to a wayward son or daughter “The advent of the army of Cyrus before who had caused the parents much sorrow the walls of Babylon was to the Jews a sign and grief: I have forgiven the past. All is that their deliverance from captivity was well. Come home. Return to me. I have drawing nigh. More than a century before redeemed you. the birth of Cyrus, Inspiration had men- tioned him by name, and had caused a record
- Why are heaven and earth called to be made of the actual work he should do upon to break forth into singing? in taking the city of Babylon unawares, and Isa. 44:23. in preparing the way for the release of the children of the captivity. Through Isaiah the word had been spoken.. . “In the unexpected entry of the army of NorE.—Rejoice, for the Lord hath done the Persian conqueror into the heart of the it! The Lord hath redeemed Jacob. Babylonian capital by way of the channel of the river whose waters had been turned
- How does the Lord again men- aside, and through the inner gates that in tion His creative power? What other careless security had been left open and un- protected, the Jews had abundant evidence references does He make to His of the literal fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy power? Isa. 44:24-27. concerning the sudden overthrow of their oppressors.”—Prophets and. Kings, pages 551, 552. Cyrus—The Lord’s Anointed 13. What did God promise to do for Cyrus, and for what reason? Isa.
-
As the Lord’s servant, what 45:2, 3. important proclamation was Cyrus to make? Isa. 44:28.
NOTE —God would go before and help Cyrus. He is the One who would cause Nom—The mention of Cyrus by name, the gates to open. God would so work [ 39 3that Cyrus could not fail to know that NorE.-To establish the faith of His peo- some supernatural power was helping him. ple, God called Cyrus by name. When we see Babylon, according to Herodotus, had one prophecy fulfilled, our faith should become hundred gates, all of brass. The city could stronger. The fulfillment of prophecy in the not be taken in any ordinary manner. signs of the times occurring all about us should have the same effect. Now is no
-
For whose sake was Cyrus time for discouragement. We are about to called by name? Isa. 45:4. see the consummation of our hope.
Lesson 12, for March 24, 1956 Only One Saviour
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 45:5-25; 46. MEMORY VERSE: “Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else.” Isa. 45:22. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapters 45, 46.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Tuesday: Questions 8-11. the lesson. Wednesday: Questions 12-15. Sunday: Questions 1-4. Thursday: Read Study Helps assignment. Monday: Questions 5-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson.
Lesson Outline: 7. Earth created not in vain. Isa. 45: 18, 19. Introduction 8. God, the Creator, calls to the ends of the earth. Isa. 45:20-22. I. No God but the Lord. 9. Every knee shall bow. Isa. 45:23. 10. In Him is righteousness and justifi- 1. The one true God girded Cyrus. Isa. 45:5, 6. cation. Isa. 45:24, 25. 2. His power over light and darkness, peace and evil. Isa. 45:7. I11. There Is None Else 3. Promised blessings. Isa. 45:8. 4. Woe for those who strive against 11. Downfall of Babylonian gods. Isa. God. Isa. 45:9, 10. 46:1, 2. 12. Sustaining power of God. Isa.
- God Is the Creator 46:3, 4.
- God makes known His creative 13. God not to be compared to idols. power and foreknowledge. Isa. 45: Isa. 46:5-9. - 11-14. 14. Immutability of His counsel. Isa.
-
Idolators confounded; worshipers of 46:10, 11. Creator vindicated. Isa. 45:15-17. 15. Salvation in Zion. Isa. 46:13. [ 40] THE LESSON
Introduction God Is the Creator The warnings against idolatry have mean- 5. How does God here make known ing for more people than those of Isaiah's His creative power and foreknowl- time. Anything that comes between us and edge? Isa. 45:11-14. our God is a false god, an idol. The lusts of the flesh or the eye, worldly wisdom, the follies and fashions of the hour, position or honor, any attempt to purchase or earn our salvation by our own merits—anything or NoTE.—God had raised up Cyrus and anyone besides Christ which we trust to would direct his ways. He was to conquer make us worthy to obtain God's favor, be- Egypt and Ethiopia, and they were to ac- comes a vain hope, a false god. No works of knowledge God's dealings. our own can take the place of Christ. There is only one Saviour. Isaiah 45:21. He saves 6. What is God said to do? What to the uttermost. Remember the admonition, contrast is shown in the experience "Keep yourselves from idols." 1 John 5:21. of Israel? Isa. 45:15-17.No God but the Lord
- What was the ultimate purpose NoTE.—God sometimes hides Himself. He of God in the call and girding of “moves in a mysterious way His wonders to Cyrus for his work? Isa. 45:5, 6. perform.” See Romans 11:33. “An everlasting salvation.” Not saved today and lost tomorrow. Not a wonderful mountaintop experience one year at some NoTE.—”I girded thee.” As God loosed great meeting, and then an intermediate the loins of the adversaries (verse 1), to lapse into the valley. weaken them, so He “girded” those of Cyrus, “World without end.” Literally, to all to strengthen him. eternity.
- What does God form, create, 7. For what purpose did God form make? Isa. 45:7. the earth? How has God spoken to mankind? Isa. 45:18, 19.
NoTE.—”Create evil.” The “evil” here mentioned is not moral evil but physical, NoTE.—God does not ask men to seek and could well be translated “calamity.” God Him in vain, literally, in chaos, that is, with- punishes for sin, and it is these calamities to out definite guidance and without hope of which the prophet refers. See Amos 3:6. result.
- What blessings are promised to 8. What invitation and assurance God’s people? Isa. 45:8. does the one true God give to all mankind? Isa. 45:20-22.
NoTE.—These words indicate in figurative language the blessed consequences of open- NOTE.—”Ye that are escaped of the na- ing the heart to God’s righteousness. Refer- tions.” As Cyrus issued a call to the Jews ence is here made to the creative power of throughout his kingdom to return to Jerusa- God manifested in the new life. lem and restore the temple, so God is calling us today to return to Him.
- What warning is given concern- “Tell ye.” Announce, or, as in the Ameri- ing our strife against our Maker? Isa. can Revised Version, “declare,” His message 45:9, 10. of mercy to the nations. [41 ] 9. What has God sworn concerning the people of the earth? Isa. 45:23.
NoTx.—Referring to events to take place at the close of the millennium, the following description is given: “Now Christ again ap- pears to the view of His enemies. Far above the city, upon a foundation of burnished gold, is a throne, high and lifted up. Upon this throne sits the Son of God, and around Him are the subjects of His kingdom. The power and majesty of Christ no language can describe, no pen portray.”—The Great Controversy, page 665. “As if entranced, the wicked have looked ANYTHING THAT COMES BETWEEN upon the coronation of the Son of God. US AND GOD IS AN 1001. . They see in His hands the tables of the divine law, the statutes which they have despised and transgressed. They witness the outburst of wonder, rapture, and adoration from the saved; and as the wave of melody sweeps over the multitudes without the city, NOTE.—The contrast here is striking. all with one voice exclaim, ‘Great and mar- While the Babylonians must carry their idols velous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; to save them, God carries and delivers. God just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of will not forsake. “Even to your old age I saints;’ and falling prostrate, they worship am He.” the Prince of life.”—Ibid., pp. 668, 669. 13. What points are emphasized as
-
In whom do we have righteous- God again calls the people to distin- ness, strength, and justification? Isa. guish between His power and that of 45:24, 25. useless idols? Isa.
NOTE.—Remember this, and show your- There Is None Else selves men ! In a time of idolatry, when the whole current of life is downward, it takes - What is said of the downfall of courage to stand against popular supersti- the Babylonian gods? Isa. 46:1, 2. tions and customs. God calls for men. “The greatest want of the world is the want of men,—men who will not be bought or sold; men who in their inmost souls are true and honest; men who do not fear to call Nom—Bel and Nebo were Babylonian sin by its right name; men whose conscience gods, answering to Jupiter and Mercury. is as true to duty as the needle to the pole; See Acts 14:12. Bel is much the same as men who will stand for the right though the Baal, mentioned elsewhere in the Bible. heavens fall.”—Education, page 57. The picture here is of Babylonians trying to save their gods. They put them on beasts, 14. What does God declare from and they make a load. “They could not the beginning? What example does deliver.” Their gods cannot save them. The He cite? Isa. 46:10, 11. gods themselves are “gone into captivity.”
- What beautiful promises are given those who are growing old in NOTE.—God again calls attention to the Israel? Isa. 46:3, 4. prophetic word, saying He has declared “the [ 42 end from the beginning.” Even in the first not tarry: and I will place salvation in Zion chapter of the Bible the heavenly bodies are for Israel My glory.’ mentioned as being signs. “In word and in deed the Messiah, during “My counsel shall stand.” See Isa. 14:24. His earthly ministry, was to reveal to man- “My pleasure,” rather, My purpose. kind the glory of God the Father. Every act Cyrus is here likened to a ravenous bird, of His life, every word spoken, every miracle as Nebuchadnezzar was likened to an eagle. wrought, was to make known to fallen hu- Ezek. 17:3. The royal Persian ensign was an manity the infinite love of God. . . . eagle. “Through- patriarchs and prophets, as well as through types and symbols, God spoke
-
Where has God placed salva- to the world concerning the coming of a tion? Isa. 46:13. Deliverer from sin. A long line of inspired prophecy pointed to the advent of ‘the Desire of all nations.’ Even the very place of His birth, and the time of His appearance, NOTE.-“ ‘I bring near My righteousness; were minutely specified.”-Prophets and it shall not be far off, and My salvation shall Kings, pages 696, 697.
Lesson 13, for March 31, 1956 God's Care for His People
LESSON SCRIPTURE: Isaiah 47; 48; 49:1-23. MEMORY VERSE: “Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands; thy walls are continually before Me.” Isa. 49:15, 16. STUDY HELPS: Lesson Helps in “Review and Herald;” “Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” Isaiah, chapters 47, 48, and 49.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT
Sabbath afternoon: general survey of Wednesday: Questions 12-16. the lesson. Thursday: Read from Study Helps as- Sunday: Questions 1, 2. signment. Monday: Questions 3-8. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Questions 9-11.
Lesson Outline: Isa. 49:1-3. Compare Rev. 18:1-3. 4. “Labored in vain.” Isa. 49:4. Com- Introduction pare Rev. 18:4. 5. Purpose of the call. Isa. 49:5. I. Babylon and the House of Jacob 1. Reasons for fall of Babylon. Isa. I11. A Light to the Gentiles 47:6, 8, 10. 6. God’s purpose. Isa. 49:6. 2. Plea to house of Jacob. Isa. 48: 7. The Holy One of Israel. Isa. 49:7. 17-20. 8. A covenant to the people. Isa. 49:8. 9. A Liberator. Isa. 49:9, first part.
- The Lord’s Servant 10. A Protector. Isa. 49:9 (last part), 10.
- Isles called to listen to His servant. Compare Ps. 121:2-8. [48 1 IV. God’s Purpose for His Church V. Enlargement Promised
- Way prepared for the peoples. Isa. 49:11, 12. 14. Gathering of the peoples. Isa. 49:18.
- Heaven’s rejoicing, Zion’s complaint. 15. Need for expansion. Isa. 49:19, 20. Isa. 49:13, 14.
-
God’s remembrance of His people. 16. Enlargement from the Gentiles. Isa. Isa. 49 :15-17. 49:21-23.
THE LESSON Introduction as yet wrestled with God and obtained the victory. Yet "they call themselves of the The judgments against ancient Babylon, Holy City, and stay themselves upon the and God's summons to His people to depart God of Israel." Verse 2. To them the mes- from her, find their modern counterpart in sage comes, "Go ye forth of Babylon." Verse His judgments against spiritual Babylon and 20. They are members of the church of His call, "Come out of her, My people." In God, but they live in Babylon. If such the present lesson we touch briefly on chap- would only hearken to God's command- ters 47 and 48 before going on to a more ments, their peace would be like a river. detailed study of chapter 49. Those who have the time to do so will be greatly bene- fited by reading and studying all three chap- The Lord's Servant ters embraced in this lesson. 3. In the beginning of chapter 49 who are called upon to listen? What Babylon and the House of Jacob does God say of His people? Isa.
- Enumerate the reasons given in 49:1-3. Compare Rev. 18:1-3. Isaiah 47 for the fall of Babylon. Isa. 47:6, 8, 10. NOTE.-“Isles,” literally, “coastland,” that is, distant countries; “people,” literally, peo- NOTE.-In the three verses cited, three ples. The whole world is called upon to hear reasons are given: the announcement, for it concerns the whole a. Unmercifulness. Babylon showed no world. mercy to the captives. Even the aged, “The Lord hath called Me.” See Luke “the ancient,” were made to do hard labor. 1:31-33. Verse 6. “Mention of My name.” See Matthew b. Pride. Verse 8. “I am, and none else 1:21. beside Me.” “Sharp sword.” See Hebrews 4:12. c. Wisdom and knowledge of the wrong “A polished shaft,” or arrow, even sharper kind. The education of Babylon “caused than a sword. thee to turn away,” caused the students The description of “My Servant” is that thereof to turn from God. Verse 10, margin. of Christ. In The Desire of Ages, pages 678 and 679,
-
What plea does God make to the where Isaiah 49:4, 5, 7-10 is quoted, this house of Jacob? What are they to do? scripture is applied to Christ. In TesOnio- Isa. 48:17-20. hies, volume 7, pages 191, 192, it is applied to the people of God. Hence we accept these references as having a double application, first to Christ, then to Israel, old and new. NOTE.-The message in Isaiah 48 is di- rected to the house of Jacob, “which are 4. What brought discouragement called by the name of Israel” but “not in to God’s “Servant”? By what words truth; nor in righteousness.” Isaiah 48:1. did He show that He left the matter That is, while they are called Israel, they with God? Isa. 49:4. Compare Rev. are in reality only Jacobs, such as have not 18:4. 44 A Light to the Gentiles 6. What twofold responsibility did God place upon His Servant? Isa. 49:6.
Non.—"This prophecy was generally un- derstood as spoken of the Messiah, and when Jesus said, 'I am the Light of the world,' the people could not fail to recognize His claim to be the Promised One."—The Desire of Ages, page 465. "It was generally understood that the coming of the Messiah was referred to in the prophecy [Isaiah 49:6]."—Prophets and OUR SAVIOUR NEVER FORGETS US, FOR Kings, pages 688, 689. OUR NAMES ARE ENGRAVED ON HIS HANDS. This prophecy, however, also has an appli- cation to the people of God. "This is the word of the Lord to all who are in any way connected with His appointed Norh.—"As the world's Redeemer, Christ institutions. They are favored of God, for was constantly confronted with apparent they are brought into channels where the failure. He, the messenger of mercy to our light shines. They are in His special service, world, seemed to do little of the work He and they should not esteem this a light longed to do in uplifting and saving. Sa- thing."—Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 192. tanic influences were constantly working to A paraphrase of Isaiah 49:6 would read: oppose His way. But He would not be dis- "It is too small a work for you to labor only couraged. Through the prophecy of Isaiah among those who already know the truth. He declares, 'I have labored in vain, I have I will send you for a light to the heathen, spent My strength for nought, and in vain: that you may bring salvation to the ends of yet surely My judgment is with the Lord, the earth." and My work with My God.' "—The Desire of Ages, page 678. 7. How is Christ spoken of? What If Christ could feel a sense of discourage- prophecy is made concerning Him? ment, is it surprising that we sometimes feel Isa. 49:7. the same way? Let us follow His example: Leave ourselves with the Lord, and take courage. The American Revised Version translates NoTE.—This verse refers definitely to the latter part of the verse: "Yet surely the Christ. "It is to Christ that the promise is justice due to Me is with Jehovah, and My given."—The Desire of Ages, page 678. He recompense with My God." was despised of men. Isaiah 53:3. It is not the Jews only who cry, "Away with Him." - For what purpose was “My Serv- John 19:15. “A servant of rulers,” taunted ant” called? Isa. 49:5. and scourged by such rulers as Herod and Pontius Pilate. Luke 23:11; John 19:1, 16. Nevertheless, the time will come when kings and rulers shall “see and arise.” Wonderful NorE.—This verse seems to have definite change! reference to Christ. He was called to bring “Jacob” back to God, and also, as the Amer- 8. What assurance does God give ican Revised Version has it, “that Israel be to His Servant? Isa. 49:8. gathered unto Him.” Christ was glorious, or honorable, in the sight of God. Yet He did not take glory to Himself. He said, “I can of Mine own self Nom—Christ is here again spoken of as do nothihg.” John 5:30. “a covenant of the people.” Compare chap- 46 ter 42:6. He has become the mediator of NorE.—”Not a single soul who puts his a new covenant (Hebrews 8:6), and hence trust in Him will be forgotten. God thinks may be spoken of in the terms of our text. of His children with the tenderest solicitude “Establish the earth,” rather, raise up the and keeps a book of remembrance before earth, that is, lift it out of its present de- Him, that He may never forget the children graded, sin-cursed condition. Christ came of His care.”—Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 329, to seek and to save that which is lost, and 330. this includes the earth. Verse 17 contains an interesting statement. “Thy destroyers and they that made thee
-
What proclamation is to be made waste shall go forth of thee.” While God’s to the prisoners? Isa. 49:9, first part. people are to go out of Babylon, when it comes to the church, it is not the church that leaves and goes out, but the destroyers, the wasters. It is not those that “go forth” that NOTE .—Compare Isaiah 61:1. Moffatt constitute the church. The church remains. translates the latter part of Isaiah 49:9 thus: “On the road home, food shall never fail them, they shall find pasture even upon bare hills.” Enlargement Promised
- What promise is made to them? 14. After the wasters and destroyers Isa. 49:9 (last part), 10. Compare Ps. have gone forth from the church, who 121:2-8. shall come to take their place? What solemn statement does the Lord make? Isa. 49:18. God’s Purpose for His Church
- How shall the way of the peo- ple be prepared? Whence do these 15. How is the enlargement of prisoners come? Isa. 49:11, 12. God’s people indicated? Isa. 49:19, 20.
NorE.—By many commentators Sinim is thought to refer to China. Other possible 16. What questions shall Zion ask? interpretations of this verse are made in the What answer does the Lord give? Isa. Commentary. 49:21-23.
- Why are the heavens and the earth to rejoice? But what does Zion, or God’s people, say? Isa. 49:13, 14. NorE.—These latter verses without doubt found their first fulfillment in the coming in of the Gentiles in the Christian Era. May we
- What illustrations are used to not believe they will find another and even show forth God’s remembrance of His more complete fulfillment, and that they that people? Who shall be separated from wait for the Lord’s second advent shall not God’s people? Isa. 49:15-17. be ashamed?
It is not possible in one quarter’s lessons to do justice to the wealth of material found in the book of Isaiah. Therefore we will continue the study during next quarter, and even then it will be necessary to omit or greatly abbreviate certain portions of the book. [ 46 ] THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING
March 31, 1956 The overflow of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering on March 31 goes to the Australasian Division to help to establish a medical unit in the New Hebrides at Aore and to help in enlarging the Coral Sea Union Training School at Kabiufa, New Guinea. The work in these heathen South Pacific Islands has gone slowly during the years, but now within the last few years there is a much greater turning to the light. Now is our time of opportunity to come to the aid of these poor people. Through the medical ministry, doors are opened for the gospel ministry, and through our training schools young people are trained to work for their own people. This is the only way the work can be finished in these islands, for the foreign missionaries can never do it alone. Won't you pray and give for the advancement of the work in these needy fields at this time?
Lessons foi the Second Quarter, 1956 Sabbath-school members who have failed to receive a senior Lesson Quarterly for the second quarter of 1956 will be helped by the following outline in studying the first lesson. The subject of the quarter's lessons is "Lessons From the Gospel Prophet, 11." The title of the first lesson is, "Thy Saviour and Thy Redeemer." The Memory Verse is Isaiah 50:10. The texts to be studied are:
Ques. 1. Isa. 49:24. Ques. 8. Isa. 50:6.
Ques. 2. Isa. 49:25. Ques. 9. Isa. 50:7.
Ques. 3. Isa. 49:26. Ques. 10. Isa. 50:8.
Ques. 4. Isa. 50:1. Ques. 11. Isa. 50:9.
Ques. 5. Isa. 50:2, 3. Ques. 12. Isa. 50:11.
Ques. 6. Isa. 50:4. Ques. 13. Isa. 50:10.
Ques. 7. Isa. 50:5.
[ 47 ]
AUSTRALASIAN DIVISION CORAL SEA UNION MISSION CENTRAL PACIFIC UNION MISSION NEW GUINEA NEW HEBRIDES 0
(
10
0 0
RANKS IS.
SINE RIVER
NANA / AL ip ..... , • AfTh . /
, \py TRAINING SCHOOL 0 I s- ''''co
...*... , / K.,, ,p,
\
• ....44... coloKA
.,, s4 0tAINANTU t.Af
...,e4,.. ,, MAEWO I.
ESPIRITU SANTO I.
PAPUA
,
\ ‘Cs4 N
\ WAU \\ PENTECOST 1.
\ • \
5 \
FRE A
HOSPITAL AMBR1M I.
0011DA
PORT MO.
RESIW MALEKULA I. EPI I.
rZ$ATE L
CO SS.
Population Churches AMNIA WPM.
B1SMARCK.SOLOMONS 271,608 102 5,588 12,791
CENTRAL PACIFIC 712,120 84 3,785 6,052
CORAL SEA 1,329.570 32 3,198 25.893 EROMANCA
TRANS-COMMONWEALTH U.0 4659,187 131 9,208 10,938
TRANS-TASMAN U.C. 6,058538 167 14,636 16,438
DIVISION TOTALS 13,031,023 516 36,415 72,112