The Life of Christ
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THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY "With joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation." Isa. 12:3. "Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by Thy name, 0 Lord God of hosts." Jer. 15:16. "As a means of intellectual training, the opportunities of the Sabbath are invaluable. Let the Sabbath-school lesson be learned, not by a hasty glance at the lesson scripture 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. "Every day some portion of time should be appropriated to the study of the lessons, not merely in learning to mechanically repeat the words, while the mind does not comprehend the meaning; but to go to the very founda- tion, and become familiar with what is brought out in the lesson."—Counsels on Sabbath School Work, page 53.
My Daily Lesson Study Pledge As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sab- bath-school lesson each day of the week.
Name
LESSON TITLES FOR THE QUARTER I. Vital Christian Principles Set Forth 8. Gethsemane 2. Lessons on the Kingdom 9. Christ Rejected of Men 3. Christ in Conflict With Jewish 1o. Jesus on Trial Before the Roman
Leaders Law 4. Jesus Seeking the Lost I I. Calvary 5. Our Lord's Great Prophecy 12. The Burial and Resurrection 6. Jesus' Last Passover; A Transition of Jesus
Service 13. Forty Days of Fellowship 7. Jesus Gives Final Instructions Following Christ's Passion Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 246, October-December, 1956. 15 cents a single copy, 50 cents 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
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Copyright, 1956, by Pacific Press Publishing Association
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Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly LESSONS FROM THE LIFE OF CHRIST GENERAL INTRODUCTION “It would be well for us to spend a constant, our love will be quickened, and thoughtful hour each day in contemplation we shall be more deeply imbued with His of the life of Christ. We should take it spirit. If we would be saved at last, we point by point, and let the imagination must learn the lesson of penitence and hu- grasp each scene, especially the closing ones. miliation at the foot of the cross.”-The As we thus dwell upon His great sacrifice Desire of Ages, page 83. for us, our confidence in Him will be more
Lesson 1, for October 6, 1956
Vital Christian Principles Set Forth LESSON SCRIPTURES: John 7:14-53; 8:1-11; Luke 10:1-37. MEMORY VERSE: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself." Luke 10:27. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 447-462, 485-505; "Christ's Object Les- sons," pages 376-389; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 5; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of September 20.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath Afternoon: General survey. ❑ from Study Helps assignment. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. Thursday: Read further from Study Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Helps assignment. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8-11. Friday: Review. O Wednesday: Questions 12, 13; read
Lesson Outline:
I. At the Feast of Tabernacles I11. Jesus Sends Forth the Seventy 1. Teaching in the temple court. 8. Their marching orders. Luke 10:1-9. John 7:14-17. 9. Judgment on the rejectors of 2. Living water. John 7:37-39. Christ’s messengers. Luke 3. Jesus’ arrest delayed. John 7:32, 10:12-16. 45-53. 10. A successful missionary tour. Luke 10:17-19.
- A Cunning Trap 11. Spiritual vision. Luke 10:20, 21.
- The accused woman. John 8:2,3. IV. Jesus Answers a Lawyer’s Questions
- A catch question. John 8:4-6.
- Jesus’ challenge to the accusers. 12. The lawyer’s questions. Luke John 8:7-9. 10:25-29.
- Gracious admonition. John 13. An apt illustration. Luke 8:10,11. 10:30-37. [81 THE LESSON
At the Feast of Tabernacles NorE.—”Hardened as were their hearts, they were melted by His words. While He was speaking in the temple court, they had
- What effect did the teaching of lingered near, to catch something that Jesus at the Feast of Tabernacles have might be turned against Him. But as they upon the Jews? How only may the listened, the purpose for which they had truth be discerned? John 7:14-17. been sent was forgotten. They stood as men entranced. Christ revealed Himself to their souls. They saw that which priests and rulers would not see,—humanity flooded with the glory of divinity. They re- NoTE.—”Man’s advantages for obtaining turned, so filled with this thought, so im- a knowledge of the truth, however great pressed by His words, that to the inquiry, these may be, will prove of no benefit to `Why have ye not brought Him?’ they him unless the heart is open to receive the could only reply, ‘Never man spake like truth, and there is a conscientious surrender this Man.’ “—The Desire of Ages, page 459. of every habit and practice that is opposed to its principles. To those who thus yield A Cunning Trap themselves to God, having an honest desire to know and to do His will, the truth is revealed as the power of God for their sal- 4. While Jesus was teaching in the vation.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 455, temple, how was He interrupted?
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John 8:2, 3.
- On the last day of the feast, what earnest appeal did the Saviour make? John 7:37-39. NoTE.—”To subject this unveiled, di- sheveled, terror-stricken woman to the cold and sensual curiosity of a malignant mob —to make her, with total disregard to her own sufferings, the mere passive instrument NoTE.—”They [the people attending the of their hatred against Jesus; and to do all feast] had been engaged in a continued this—not under the pressure of moral scene of pomp and festivity, their eyes indignation, but in order to gratify a calcu- had been dazzled with light and color, and lating malice—showed on their part a their ears regaled with the richest music; cold, hard cynicism, a graceless, pitiless, bar- but there had been nothing in all this round barous brutality of heart and conscience.” of ceremonies to meet the wants of the —F. W. Farrar, The Life of Christ (1-vol. spirit, nothing to satisfy the thirst of the ed., Boston, 1905), pp. 409, 410. soul for that which perisheth not. . . Many of those who heard Jesus were 5. How did the scribes and Phari- mourners over disappointed hopes, many were nourishing a secret grief, many were sees seek to trap Jesus? How’ did Je- seeking to satisfy their restless longing sus respond? John 8:4-6, with the things of the world and the praise of men; but when all was gained, they found that they had toiled only to reach a broken cistern, from which they could not quench their thirst.”—The Desire of NOTE.—”Had our Lord disapproved the Ages, pages 453, 454. sentence of the law, they would doubtless have represented Him to the multitude as a person who contradicted Moses, and fa-
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After the failure of the officers vored adultery.; which could not have failed to arrest Jesus, with what question did of rendering Him odious to the people. On Nicodemus further delay their design the other hand, had He ordered her to be to arrest Him? John 7:32, 45-53. stoned, it would have afforded a plausible [4:7 failing them taught forever some eternal principle of thought and action, are among the most unique and decisive proofs of His more than human wisdom; and yet not one of these gleams of sacred light which were struck from Him by collision with the malice or hatred of men was brighter or more beautiful than this.”—Farrar, The Life of Christ, page 414.
Jesus Sends Forth the Seventy 8. In sending out the seventy, what IN THE ROUND OF four points did Jesus stress? Luke CEREMONIES THERE MAY BE LITTLE TO 10:1-9. SATISFY SPIRITUAL LONGING.
406-1 9. What pronouncement did Jesus make upon the cities that would re- pretense for accusing Him to the Roman ject His messengers? Luke 10:12-16. governor as a person who stirred up the people to rebellion, the Romans having now taken the power of life and death into their own hands.”—Fleetwood, Life of NoTE.—”With a great show of prudence Christ (New Haven, 1832), p. 194. the rabbis had warned the people against receiving the new doctrines taught by this
- When the scribes and Pharisees new teacher; for His theories and prac- pressed for an answer, what challenge tices were contrary to the teachings of the did Christ give? In what order did fathers. The people gave credence to what the guilty accusers steal away? John the priests and Pharisees taught, in place 8:7-9. of seeking to understand the word of God for themselves. They honored the priests and rulers instead of honoring God, and re- jected the truth that they might keep their Nora.—”He had not set aside the law Own traditions. . . . Our condemnation in given through Moses, nor infringed upon the judgment will not result from the fact the authority of Rome. The accusers had that we have been in error, but from the been defeated. Now, their robe of pre- fact that we have neglected heaven-sent op- tended holiness torn from them, they stood, portunities for learning what is truth.”— guilty and condemned, in the presence of The Desire of Ages, pages 489, 490. Infinite Purity. They trembled lest the hidden iniquity of their lives should be laid 10. What report of their mission- open to the multitude; and one by one, ary tour did the seventy give? What with bowed heads and downcast eyes, they comment did Jesus make? Luke 10: stole- away, leaving their victim with the 17-19. pitying Saviour.”—The Desire of Ages, page 461.
- With what gracious words did Jesus admonish the woman?- John -8: Nom.—”He beheld Lucifer as he was first cast out from the heavenly places. He 1:0;.11. looked forward to the scenes of His own agony, when before all the worlds the character of the deceiver should be un- NOTE.—”The repeated instances in which, veiled. . . . Jesus looked forward to the without a moment’s hesitation, He foiled great final day, when the prince of the the crafty designs of His enemies, and in power of the air will meet his destruction 151 in the earth so long marred by his rebellion. that which had been advanced by an ex- . . . Henceforward Christ’s followers were positor of the law. to look upon Satan as a conquered foe.”— “ ‘This do, and thou shalt live,’ Christ The Desire of Ages, page 490. said. In His teaching He ever presented the law as a divine unity, showing that it
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What caution was given to is impossible to keep one precept and break these workers? For what did Jesus another; for the same principle runs express gratitude? Luke 10:20, 21. through all. Man’s destiny will be deter- mined by his obedience to the whole law.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, pages 377, 378.
Jesus Answers a Lawyer’s 13. In answering the lawyer’s ques- tion, what impressive story did Jesus Questions relate? Luke 10:30-37.
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How did Jesus turn a lawyer’s question? Seeking to justify himself, what further question did the lawyer ask? Luke 10:25-29. NoTE.—”This was no imaginary scene, but an actual occurrence, which was known to be exactly as represented.”—The Desire of Ages, page 499. NoTE.—”The lawyer was not satisfied “The lesson is no less needed in the world with the position and works of the Phari- today than when it fell from the lips of Je- sees. . . . In his answer as to the require- sus. Selfishness and cold formality have ments of the law, he passed by all the . . . well-nigh extinguished the fire of love, and ceremonial and ritualistic precepts. For dispelled the graces that should make fra- these he claimed no value, but presented grant the character. . . . Unless there is the two great principles on which hang all practical self-sacrifice for the good of others, the law and the prophets. The Saviour’s in the family circle, in the neighborhood, commendation of this answer placed Him in the church, and wherever we may be, on vantage ground with the rabbis. They then whatever our profession, we are not could not condemn Him for sanctioning Christians.”—Ibid., p. 504.
Lesson 2, for October 13, 1956 Lessons on the Kingdom LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 19:13-30; Mark 10:13-31; Luke 18:15-20; John 11: 11-44. MEMORY VERSE: "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die." John 11:25, 26. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 511-541; "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 390-396; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 5; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of September 27. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 7-10. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1, 2; read Wednesday: Questions 11-13. ❑ "Christ's Object Lessons," Thursday: Read further from Study pages 390-396. ❑ Helps assignment. ❑ Monday: Questions 3-6. ❑ Friday: Review. ❑ Is]Lesson Outline: I11. From Death to Life I. Jesus and the Children 7. Lazarus sleepeth. John 11:11-14. 1. The children brought to Jesus. 8. The unconscious sleep of death. Mark 10:13, 14. Job 14:12; Ps. 146:3, 4 ; Eccl. 2. God’s kingdom belongs to the 9:5, 6, 10. children. Mark 10:15, 16; 9. Jesus the Life-giver. John 11:21-26. Matt. 18:1-6, 14. 10. The glory of God. John 11:38-40.
- The Cost of Discipleship IV. The Voice of the Life-Giver
- A vital question. Matt. 19:16-19. 11. The crowning evidence of divinity.
- A vital test. Matt. 19:20, 21; John 11:43, 44. Mark 10:20, 21. 12. The voice that awakens the dead. S. A fateful choice. Mark 10:22-27; John 5:28, 29; 1 Thess. 4:16, 17; Matt. 19:22. Job 14:14, 15.
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The disciples’ reward. Matt. 13. The resurrection of the just. 19:27-30. 1 Cor. 15:51-55.
THE LESSONJesus and the Children received. The little children may be Chris- tians, having an experience in accordance I. With what words did our Lord with their years. . . . In working for the rebuke the disciples for their unsym- conversion of our children, we should not look for violent emotion as the essential pathetic attitude toward the children? evidence of the conviction of sin. Nor is it Mark 10:13, 14. necessary to know the exact time when they are converted. We should teach them to bring their sins to Jesus, asking His for- giveness, and believing that He pardons NorE.-“When Jesus told the disciples and receives them as He received the chil- not to forbid the children to come to Him, dren when He was personally on earth.”- He was speaking to His followers in all The Desire of Ages, page 515. ages,-to officers of the church, to ministers, “The most childlike disciple is the most helpers, and all Christians. Jesus is drawing efficient in labor for God. The heavenly the children, and He bids us, Suffer them intelligences can co-operate with him who to come; as if He would say, They will is seeking, not to exalt self, but to save come if you do not hinder them. souls. . . . The simplicity, the self-forget- “Let not your un-Christlike character fulness, and the confiding love of a little misrepresent Jesus. Do not keep the little child are the attributes that Heaven values.” ones away from Him by your coldness and -Ibid., pp. 436, 437. harshness.”-The Desire of Ages, page 517. The Cost of Discipleship
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In what way did Jesus empha- size the necessity of a childlike atti- 3. What question did a young ruler tude on the part of all who would ask of Jesus? How did Jesus reply? enter the kingdom? Mark 10:15, 16; Matt. 19:16-19. Matt. 18:1-6, 14.
NOTE.-"This ruler had a high estimate NOTE.-"It is still true that children are of his own righteousness. He did not really the most susceptible to the teachings of the suppose that he was defective in anything, gospel; their hearts are open to divine influ- yet he was not altogether satisfied. He felt ences, and strong to retain the lessons the want of something that he did not [7]possess. Could not Jesus bless him as He blessed the little children, and satisfy his soul want?”—The Desire of Ages, page 518.
- What assertion did the young man make? By what test did Christ reveal the one thing this ruler in Is- rael lacked? Matt. 19:20, 21; Mark 10:20, 21.
NoTE.—”The lover of self is a transgressor WE CANNOT BE RESCUED of the law. This Jesus desired to reveal to FROM A LOST WORLD IF WE the young man, and He gave him a test TRY TO TAKE GREEDY WEALTH WITH US. that would make manifest the selfishness of his heart. He showed him the plague spot in his character. The young man desired no further enlightenment. He had cherished an idol in the soul; the world was his god. He professed to have kept the command- grace stand back. Crowd every attraction ments, but he was destitute of the princi- around them, and they will be surely ours.” ple which was the very spirit and life of —Early Writings, pages 266, 267. them all. He did not possess true love for God or man. This want was the want of 6. What question did Peter raise? everything that would qualify him to enter How did Jesus respond? Matt. 19: the kingdom of heaven. In his love of self 27-30. and worldly gain he was out of harmony with the principles of heaven.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, page 392. NoTE.—”While much of the fruit of their
- What was the reaction of this labor is not apparent in this life, God’s man? What comment did Jesus make workers have His sure promise of ultimate on the danger of riches? Mark 10: success. As the world’s Redeemer, Christ was constantly confronted with apparent 22-27; Man. 19:22. Compare 1 Tim. failure. . . . But He would not be discour- 6:17-19. aged. Ever before Him He saw the result of His mission. . . . The life of Christ’s disciples is to be like His, a series of unin- terrupted victories—not seen to be such NOTE.—”I saw that Satan bade his an- here, but recognized as such in the great gels lay their snares especially for those hereafter. who were looking for Christ’s second ap- “Those who labor for the good of others pearing, and keeping all the command- are working in union with the heavenly ments of God. . . . ‘Go, make the posses- angels.. . Angels of light and power are sors of lands and money drunk with cares. ever near to protect, to comfort, to heal, to If you can make them place their affections instruct, to inspire. The highest education, upon these things, we shall have them yet. the truest culture, the most exalted service They may profess what they please, only possible to human beings in this world, are make them care more for money than for theirs.”—Gospel Workers, pages 514, 515. the success of Christ’s kingdom or the spread of the truths we hate. Present the world before them in the most attractive From Death to Life light, that they may love and idolize it. . . . Make covetousness and love of earthly 7. How did Christ describe the treasures the ruling traits of their character. condition of Lazarus in death? John As long as these traits rule, salvation and 11:11-14. [ 8,] NOTE.—”Christ represents death as a NOTE.—”His voice, clear and penetrating, sleep to His believing children. Their life pierces the ear of the dead. As He speaks, is hid with Christ in God, and until the divinity flashes through humanity. In His last trump shall sound those who die will face, which is lighted up by the glory of sleep in Him.”—The Desire of Ages, page God, the people see the assurance of His
- power. Every eye is fastened on the en- trance to the cave. Every ear is bent to
- How is the unconscious sleep of catch the slightest sound. With intense and death stated in the following scrip- painful interest all wait for the test of tures? Job 14:12; Ps. 146:3, 4; Eccl. Christ’s divinity, the evidence that is to sub- 9:5, 6, 10. stantiate His claim to be the Son of God, or to extinguish the hope forever. “There is a stir in the silent tomb, and he who was dead stands at the door of the sepulcher.”—The Desire of Ages, page 536.
- By what declaration did Jesus comfort the sorrowing? John 11:21- 12. When will the voice of the
- Compare Rev. 1:18. Life-giver again be heard, and who will hear it? John 5:28, 29; 1 Thess. 4:16, 17; Job 14:14, 15.
NoTE.—”Christ here looks forward to the time of His second coming. Then the righteous dead shall be raised incorruptible, 13. How does Paul describe the and the living righteous shall be trans- resurrection of the righteous? 1 Cot. lated to heaven without seeing death. • . . 15:51-55. By His word and His works He declared Himself the Author of the resurrection. He who Himself was soon to die upon the cross stood with the keys of death, a con- NoTE.—”The earth mightily shook as the queror of the grave, and asserted His right voice of the Son of God called forth the and power to give eternal life.”—The De- sleeping saints. They responded to the call, sire of Ages, page 530. and came forth clothed with glorious im- mortality, crying, ‘Victory, victory, over
- With what assurance did Jesus death and the grave! 0 death, where is approach the tomb of Lazarus? John thy sting? 0 grave, where is thy victory?’ 11:38-40. Then the living saints and the resurrected ones raised their voices in a long, trans- porting shout of victory. Those bodies that had gone down into the grave bearing the marks of disease and death came up in The Voice of the Life-Giver immortal health and vigor. The living saints are changed in a moment, in the
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By what demonstration did twinkling of an eye, and caught up with Christ reveal His power as Life-giver? the risen ones, and together they meet their John 11:43, 44. Lord in the air. Oh, what a glorious meet- ing! Friends whom death had separated were united, nevermore to part.”—Early Writings, page 287.
The teacher's edition of the "Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly" is a valuable aid to every Sabbath-school teacher, because every other page is blank, providing space for writing out texts, notes, comments, etc. Ask your Sabbath-school secretary to secure one for you along with the order for regular "Quarterlies." [9Lesson 3, for October 20, 1956
Christ in Conflict With Jewish Leaders LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 22:15-46; 23:1-33; Mark 12:13-40; Luke 20:20-47. MEMORY VERSE: "Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's." Matt. 22:21. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 601-620; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 5; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of Octo- ber 4. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. 0 Wednesday: Questions 10-13. Sunday: Questions 1-3. 0 Thursday: Read further from Study Monday: Questions 4-7. Helps assignment. 0 Tuesday: Questions 8, 9; start read- Friday: Review. 0 ing Study Helps assignment. 0
Lesson Outline: 7. Proof of the resurrection. Mark I. Pharisees and Herodians Silenced 12:26, 27; Ex. 3:6; Rom. 4:17. 1. Jesus faithfully warns Jewish lead- I11. Pharisees Return to the Encounter ers. Matt. 21:43 ; 22:7. 2. Pharisees and Herodians seek to 8. The great commandment. Matt. trap Jesus. Matt. 22:15-17; 22:34-40. Mark 12:12-14; Luke 20:19-22. 9. Jesus asks some questions. Matt. 3. Jesus enunciates a great principle. 22:41-46; Ps. 110:1. Matt. 22:18-22 ; Luke 20:23-26. IV. The Great Denunciation
- The Sadducees Question Jesus
10. Jesus exposes Jewish leaders.
- The Sadducees’ disbelief in the Matt. 23:1-10. resurrection. Matt. 22:23; Acts 11. Woes on the scribes and Pharisees. 23:8. Matt. 23:13-22 ; Luke 11:52,
- A hypothetical question. Matt. margin. 22:24-28; Deut. 25:5, 6. 12. Woeful hypocrisy. Matt. 23:23-33.
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An unequivocal answer. Matt. 13. The farewell lamentation. Matt. 22:29, 30; Luke 20:34-36. 23:34-39.
THE LESSON Pharisees and Herodians Silenced rael. Ingratitude to God, the neglect of opportunities and blessings, the selfish ap-
- With what plain statement did propriation of God’s gifts,-these were our Lord set forth the fateful results comprised in the sin that brought wrath upon Israel. They are bringing ruin upon of His rejection by the Jewish lead- the world today. . . . ers and nation? Matt. 21:43; 22:7. “Men are in peril. Multitudes are perish- ing. But how few of the professed follow- ers of Christ are burdened for these souls. NcrrE.-“The sin of the world today is The destiny of a world hangs in the bal- the sin that brought destruction upon Is- ance ; but this hardly moves even those [ 10 ] who claim to believe the most far-reaching Caesar’s.”—George Bancroft, History of truth ever given to mortals. . . . There is the United States (1884 ed.), vol. 6, p. 444. a stupor, a paralysis, upon the people of God, which prevents them from understand- The Sadducees Question Jesus ing the duty of the hour.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, pages 302, 303. 4. Who next questioned Christ? What was the belief of the Sadducees re-
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When they were unable to re- garding life after death? Matt. 22:23; fute the teachings of Jesus, how did Acts 23:8. the Pharisees and. Herodians further seek to entrap Him? Matt. 22:15-17; Mark 12:12-14; Luke 20:19-22. NorE.—”The Sadducees rejected the tra- ditions of the Pharisees. They professed to believe the greater portion of the Scriptures, and to regard them as the rule of action; NoTE.—”The priests therefore imagined, but practically they were skeptics and that it was not in His power to decide the materialists. . . . Many of them were point, without rendering Himself obnoxious wealthy, and they had the influence which to some of the parties: if He should say it wealth imparts. In their ranks were in- was lawful to pay the taxes, they believed cluded most of the priests, and from among that the people, in whose hearing the ques- them the high priest was usually chosen.” tion was proposed, would be incensed —The Desire of Ages, pages 603, 604. against Him. . . . But if He should affirm that it was unlawful to pay tribute, they 5. Citing a statute of Moses, on determined to inform the governor, who what hypothetical case did the Saddu- they hoped would punish Him as a former cees base another question? Matt. 22: of sedition.”—Fleetwood, Life of Christ (New Haven, 1832), p. 289. 24-28; Deut. 25:5, 6.
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By what fundamental principle did the Master define man’s relation 6. What definite reply did our Lord to God and to the civil government? give? Matt. 22:29, 30; Luke 20:34-36. How did this answer affect His ques- tioners? Matt. 22:18-22; Luke 20: 23-26. NOTE.—”The words of Christ are too plain to be misunderstood. They should forever settle the question of marriages and births in the new earth. Neither those NoTE.—”The treacherous question was who shall be raised from the dead, nor answered with a dearness, precision, and those who shall be translated without see- wisdom, which defined, for all ages, the ing death, will marry or be given in mar- relations of His kingdom to the civil power. riage. They will be as the angels of God, . . . To realize the immense significance of members of the royal family.”—Medical this utterance, delivered as it was, on the Ministry, pages 99, 100. moment, without an instant’s hesitation, we must remember that it introduced an en- 7. In proof of the resurrection, tirely new conception of the relation of what statement of God to Moses did church and state.”—Cunningham Geikie, Christ interpret? Mark 12:26,.27; Ex. The Life of Christ (New York, John B. Alden, 1889), p. 678. 3:6; Rom. 4:17. “No one thought of vindicating liberty of religion for the conscience of the indi- vidual till a voice in Judea, breaking day NoTE.—”God counts the things that are for the greatest epoch in the life of human- not as though they were. He sees the end ity by establishing for all mankind a pure, from the beginning, and beholds the results spiritual, and universal religion, enjoined of His work as though it were now accom- to render to Caesar only that which is plished.”—The Desire of Ages, page 606. Pharisees Return to the Encounter
- Hearing that the Sadducees had been put to silence, what question did one of the Pharisees put to Jesus? What was Jesus’ answer? Matt. 22: 1,11111111111111i 34-40. Compare Deut. 6:4, 5; Lev. 19:18.
NorE.—”The first four of the Ten Com- mandments are summed up in the one great precept, ‘Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart.’ The last six are included in the other, ‘Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.’ Both these com- THE CHRISTIAN HAS A POSITIVE DVTV mandments are an expression of the princi- TO gENDER”UNTO CAESAR THE THINGS WHICH ARE CAESAR’S.” ple of love. The first cannot be kept and 4956-3 the second broken. . . . When God has His rightful place on the throne of the credit upon Jesus, a teacher whose virtue heart, the right place will be given to our and knowledge shone forth the brighter neighbor. We shall love him as ourselves. from every assault. . . . Through their And only as we love God supremely is it reverence for tradition and their blind possible to love our neighbor impartially.” faith in a corrupt priesthood, the people —The Desire of Ages, page 607. were enslaved. These chains Christ must
- With what questions did Jesus break. The character of the priests, rulers, and Pharisees must be more fully exposed.” finally silence His opponents? Matt. —The Desire of Ages, pages 611, 612. 22:41-46; Ps. 110:1. 11. For what reasons were the first four woes pronounced upon the scribes and Pharisees? Matt. 23:13-22; NorE.—”The true answer . . , would Luke 11:52, margin. have been—He is David’s son by His hu- man descent, but, as the Son of God, pro- ceeding from the Father, He is exalted far above David and all mankind, and there- Nom—Substituting the traditions of men fore was rightly called, by David, his Lord. for the commandments of God, the reli- But this twofold relation of the Messiah gious leaders of Christ’s day rejected the to their great king, and, with it, the true light from heaven, and put forth every ef- estimate of the dignity and office of the fort to keep their members from walking Messiah, were not in their theology.”— in the light. The same experience is being Geikie, The Life of Christ, page 683. repeated in these last days. See 2 Timothy 4:3, 4. The Great Denunciation 12. For what reasons were the four
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To relieve the perplexity of the woes pronounced? Matt. 23:23-33. people, how did our Lord proceed to set forth the true character of the re- ligious leaders? Matt. 23:1-10. NoTE.—”Many follow in the track of the Pharisees. . . . They wonder at the blind- ness of the Jews in rejecting Christ. . . . NOTE.—”In all religious matters they had But when obedience to God requires self- ever yielded implicit obedience to their denial and humiliation, these very persons [the rabbis’ and priests’] authority. Yet stifle their convictions, and refuse obedi- now they saw these men trying to cast dis- ence.”—The Desire of Ages, page 618. 12 1 13. With what sad words did Christ “Every ray of light rejected, every warn- foretell the fearful results of their per- ing despised or unheeded, every passion in- sistent rejection of heaven’s message dulged, every transgression of the law of and messengers? Matt. 23:34-39. God, is a seed sown which yields its un- failing harvest. The Spirit of God, per- sistently resisted, is at last withdrawn from the sinner, and then there is left no power to control the evil passions of the soul, and NoTE.-“This is the separation struggle. no protection from the malice and enmity In the lamentation of Christ the very heart of Satan. The destruction of Jerusalem is a of God is pouring itself forth. It is the fearful and solemn warning to all who are mysterious farewell of the long-suffering trifling with the offers of divine grace.”- love of the Deity.”-The Desire of Ages, The Great Controversy, page 36. page 620.
Lesson 4, for October 27, 1956 Jesus Seeking the Lost LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 21:1-16; 26:8-16; Mark 14:3-9; Luke 7:36-50; 19:1-48; John 12:1-19. MEMORY VERSE: "For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost." Luke 19:10. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 552-600; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 5; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of Octo- ber 11. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 6-8. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1, 2; start read- Wednesday: Questions 9.13. ❑ ing from Study Helps assign- Thursday: Read further from Study ment. 0 Helps assignment. ❑ Monday: Questions 3-5. ❑ Friday: Review. ❑
Lesson Outline:
I. Jesus Finds the Publican 7. Mary’s devotion compared with 1. A guest of Zacchaeus. Luke 19:1-7. Simon’s. Luke 7:44-46. 2. Evidence of conversion. Luke 8. Mary’s sins forgiven. Luke 19:8-10. 7:47-50.
- Jesus Attends the Feast at Simon’s IV. Jesus’ Solicitude for Jerusalem
House
9. “Thy King cometh.” Matt.
- The broken alabaster box. Mark 21:1-7; Zech. 9:9. 14:3 ; Luke 7:36-38. 10. The multitudes acclaim Jesus.
- Mary’s act criticized. John. Matt. 21:8, 9; Luke 19:36-38; 12 :4-8 ; Matt. 26:8-13. John 12:12-16.
- The perfidy of Judas. Matt. 11. Protesting Pharisees rebuked. 26:14-16. Luke 19:39, 40. I11. Jesus Gently Rebukes Simon and 12. Jesus weeps over Jerusalem. Comforts Mary Luke 19:41-44.
- Parable of two debtors. Luke 13. Fulfilling prophecy. Matt. 7:39-43. 21:10, 11. [ 13] THE LESSON
Jesus Finds the Publican the restoration of her brother? Mark 14:3; Luke 7:36-38.
- In his desire to see Jesus, what did Zacchaeus do? Ignoring Jewish prejudice, what announcement did NOTE.—”He [Simon] was one of the few Jesus make? Luke 19:1-7. Pharisees who had openly joined Christ’s followers. He acknowledged Jesus as a teacher, and hoped that He might be the Messiah, but he had not accepted Him as NorE.—”That he, the hated and de- a Saviour. His character was not trans- spised one, should have been thus favored, formed; his principles were unchanged. in a moment won his heart, and waked “Simon had been healed of the leprosy, the impulse of a new and better life; but and it was this that had drawn him to it also raised the hostile feeling of the mul- Jesus.”—The Desire of Ages, page 557. titude. . . . They little knew the mighty change his having done so had, in a mo- 4. Who stirred up criticism among ment, wrought in a soul hitherto degraded the disciples against this act? With and lost, not less by an ignoble life, than what words did Christ rebuke the by the social proscription which barred all hope of self-recovery.”—Geikie, The Life criticism and commend Mary? John of Christ (New York, John B. Alden, 1889), 12:4-8; Matt. 26:8-13. p. 656.
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What evidence of genuine re- NOTE.—”As the alabaster box was bro- pentance did Zacchaeus give? How ken, and filled the whole house with its did Christ commend this publican and fragrance, so Christ was to die, His body justify His treatment of him? Luke was to be broken; but He was to rise J9:8-10. Compare Ex. 2 2:1-4. from the tomb, and the fragrance of His life was to fill the earth. . . . And as far as the gospel extended, Mary’s gift would shed its fragrance, and hearts would be NorE.—”No repentance is genuine that blessed through her unstudied act. King- does not work reformation. The right- doms would rise and fall; the names of eousness of Christ is not a cloak to cover monarchs and conquerors would be for- unconfessed and unforsaken sin; it is a gotten; but this woman’s deed would be principle of life that transforms the charac- immortalized upon the pages of sacred ter and controls the conduct. Holiness is history. Until time should be no more, wholeness for God; it is the entire sur- that broken alabaster box would tell, the render of heart and life to the indwelling story of the abundant love of God for a of the principles of heaven. . . . fallen race.”—The Desire of Ages, page 563. “If we have injured others through any unjust business transaction, if we have over- 5. Stung by the Saviour’s rebuke, reached in trade, or defrauded any man, what covenant did Judas make with even though it be within the pale of the the chief priests? What was to be the law, we should confess our wrong, and price of the betrayal? Matt. 26:14-16. make restitution as far as lies in our power.” —The Desire of Ages, pages 555, 556.
Jesus Attends the Feast at Non.—”When Mary anointed the. Sav- iour’s feet, Judas manifested his ‘covetous Simon’s House disposition. At the reproof from Jesus his very spirit seemed turned to gall. Wounded
- At whose home was a feast made pride and desire for revenge broke down for Jesus? By what act did Mary show the barriers, and the greed so long in- her gratitude for pardoned sin and dulged held him in control. This will be 14 ] the experience of everyone who persists in tampering with sin. The elements of de- pravity that are not resisted and overcome respond to Satan’s temptation, and the soul is led captive at his will.”—The Desire of Ages, page 720.
Jesus Gently Rebukes Simon
and Comforts Mary 6. Why did Simon doubt in his mind the prophetic role of his Guest? By what parable did Jesus cause the Pharisee to pronounce his own sen- tence? Luke 7:39-43.
THE PRINCE OF PEACE STANDS BEFORE
EVERY CITY, EVERY HOME, EVERY PERSON,
LONGING TO DRAW THEM TO HIM, 4. 56, NOTE.—"Simon had led into sin the woman he now despised. She had been deeply wronged by him."—The Desire of were to be realized. . . . The one who had Ages, pages 566. fallen, and whose mind had become a habi-
tation of demons, was brought very near 7. How did Christ compare Simon's to the Saviour in fellowship and ministry. treatment of Him with Mary's? Luke It was Mary who sat at His feet and 7:44-46. learned of Him. It was Mary who poured
upon. His head the precious anointing oil,
and bathed His feet with her tears. Mary
stood beside the cross, and followed Him NoTx.—"While he [Simon] thought him- to the sepulcher. Mary was first at the self reading his Guest, his Guest had been tomb after His resurrection. It was Mary reading him. He saw how true Christ's who first proclaimed a risen Saviour."— judgment of him was. His religion had The Desire of Ages, page 568. been a role of pharisaism. He had despised the compassion of Jesus.. . . While Mary Jesus' Solicitude for Jerusalem was a sinner pardoned, Simon was a sin- ner - unpardoned. . . . Simon was touched 9. In preparation for His entry into by the kindness of Jesus in not openly re- Jerusalem, what instruction did Christ buking him before the guests. . Stern give to two of His disciples? What denunciation would have hardened Simon prophecy was thus fulfilled? Matt. 21: against repentance, but patient admonition 1-7; Zech. 9:9. convinced him of hiS- erfor. He saw the magnitude of the debt which he owed his Lord. His pride was humbled; he re= pented, and the proud Pharisee became a lowly; self-sacrificing distiple."The De- "NoTE.—"He had, therefore, determined, sire of Ages, pages 567, 568. with calm deliberation, and consciousness
of what it- involved, to enter Jerusalem 8. _What comforting assurance was publicly, with such circumstance as would given to Mary? Luke 7:47-50. openly announce His claim to be the Mes-
siah. He would also perform specific Mes-
siahie acts, in the very citadel of the
theocracy, and under the eyes of the NoTa.—"When to human eyes her case haughty, and yet alarmed, hierachy. He appeared hopeless, Christ saw in Mary ca- would enter as a king, but, as the Prince of pabilities for good. . . . The plan of •re- Peace, giving no real pretense for any demption has invested humanity with great charge of political design."—Geikie, The possibilities, and in Mary these. possibilities LzfQof Christ,, page 660.
E 1s.1'
10. What demonstration by the NoTE.—”Christ came to save Jerusalem multitude marked the triumphal en- with her children; but Pharisaical pride, try? Matt. 21:8, 9; Luke 19:36-38; hypocrisy, jealousy, and malice had pre- vented Him from accomplishing His pur- John 12:12-16. pose. . . “Jerusalem had been the child of His care, and as a tender father mourns over a wayward son, so Jesus wept over the NoTE.—”Never before had the world beloved city.”—The Desire of Ages, page seen such a triumphal procession. . . . The 577. blind whom He had restored to sight were “In every age there is given to men leading the way. The dumb whose tongues their day of light and privilege, a proba- He had loosed shouted the loudest hosan- tionary time in which they may become nas. The cripples whom He had healed reconciled to God. But there is a limit to bounded with joy, and were the most ac- this grace. Mercy may plead for years tive in breaking the palm branches and and be slighted and rejected; but there waving them before the Saviour. . . . The comes a time when mercy makes her last lepers whom He had cleansed spread their plea. The heart becomes so hardened that untainted garments in His path, and hailed it ceases to respond to the Spirit of God. Him as the King of glory. . . . Lazarus, . . . That day had come to Jerusalem.”— whose body had seen corruption in the Ibid., p. 587. grave, but who now rejoiced in the strength of glorious manhood, led the beast on which the Saviour rode.”—The Desire of Ages, 13. As the procession approached page 572. Jerusalem, what inquiry was raised? What joyful response was made? Matt.
- When the Pharisees sought to 21:10, 11. stop the demonstration, how did Jesus approve the conduct of the people? Luke 19:39, 40. N0TE.—”The disciples, filled with the spirit of inspiration, answer this question. In eloquent strains they repeat the proph- NoTE.—”That scene of triumph was of ecies concerning Christ: God’s own appointing. It had been fore- “Adam will tell you, It is the seed of the told by the prophet, and man was power- woman that shall bruise the serpent’s head. less to turn aside God’s purpose. Had men “Ask Abraham, he will tell you, It is failed to carry out His plan, He would `Melchizedek King of Salem,’ King of have given a voice to the inanimate stones, Peace. . . . and they would have hailed His Son with “Isaiah will tell you, ‘Immanuel,”Won- acclamations of praise.”—The Desire of derful, Counselor, The mighty God, The Ages, page 5’72. everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.’ …
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As Christ viewed the Holy City “Daniel will tell you, He is the Mes- siah. . . . from the brow of Olivet, how were “John the Baptist will tell you, He is His feelings manifested?. What fate ‘the Lamb of God which taketh away the did He predict would come upon sin of the world.’“—The Desire of Ages, Jerusalem? Why? Luke 19:41-44. pages 578, 579.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSONS IN BRAILLE The senior Sabbath-school lessons, slightly condensed, are published each quarter in Braille, and they are supplied free to the blind upon request. Address: The Christian Record Benevo- lent Association, Box 66, Lincoln 6, Nebraska. C is ILesson 5, for November 3, 1956
Our Lord's Great Prophecy LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 24; Mark 13; Luke 21. MEMORY VERSE: "Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be over- charged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares." Luke 21:34. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 627-636; "The Seventh-day Advent- ist Bible Commentary," volume 5; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of October 11. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ reading from Study Helps Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ assignment. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Thursday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 8-11. ❑ Helps assignment. Wednesday: Questions 12, 13; start Friday: Review.
Lesson Outline:
I. Destruction of Jerusalem Foretold 7. Moral degeneracy. Matt. 24:37-39; Luke 17:26-30. 1. The city that would not be saved. Matt. 23:34-38; 24:1-3. 8. World evangelism. Matt. 24:14. 2. Sign of Jerusalem’s downfall. 9. Last-day delusions. Matt. 24:23-27. Matt. 24:15-19; Luke 21:20-24. I11. The Hope of the World 3. Continued Sabbath observance. Matt. 24:20. 10. World conditions hopeless. Luke 21:25-28. II, Signs of Christ’s Second Coming 11. At the door. Matt. 24:32-36; 4. The dark day. Matt. 24:29, first Luke 21:29-33. part. 12. Foolish virgins. Matt. 24:12, 5. Time specified. Mark 13:24. 48-51; 25:8-12. 6: The falling stars. Matt. 24:29, 13. Watch and pray. Mark 13:33-37; last part ; Rev. 6:13. Luke 21:34-36.
THE LESSON
Destruction of Jerusalem Foretold coming. . . . In mercy to them He blended the description of the two great crises,
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What prediction was made con- leaving the disciples to study out the cerning the fate of the Holy City? meaning for themselves.. . . This entire discourse was given, not for the disciples What pertinent questions did the dis- only, but for those who should live in the ciples’ ask Jesus? Matt. 23:34-38; last scenes of this earth’s history.”-The 24:1-3. Desire of Ages,. page 628.
2. What sign was to be the signal NoTE.-"Jesus did not answer His disci- for the believers to flee from the ples by taking up separately the destruc- doomed city? Matt. 24:15-19; Luke tion of Jerusalem and the great day of His 21:20-24. [ 17 ]NOTE.—”Not one Christian perished in nomenon is not known.”—Noah Webster’s the destruction of Jerusalem. . . . The be- Dictionary (edition 1869), under Explana- sieged, despairing of successful resistance, tory and Pronouncing Vocabulary of Noted were on the point of surrender, when the Names of Fiction, etc. Quoted in Source Roman general withdrew his forces with- Book for Bible Students, page 133. out the least apparent reason. But God’s merciful providence was directing events 5. How precisely was the time of for the good of His own people…. Events this sign fixed? Mark 13:24. were so overruled that neither Jews nor Romans should hinder the flight of the Christians. Upon the retreat of Cestius, the Jews, sallying from Jerusalem, pursued af- Nom.—”In those days, after that tribu- ter his retiring army; and while both lation.” The 1260 years of papal suprem- forces were thus fully engaged, the Chris- acy ended in 1798, when Pope Pius VI was tians had an opportunity to leave the city.” carried into exile by the French General —The Great Controversy, page 30. Berthier. For the elect’s sake the days of tribulation were to be shortened. Under
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For what were believers in- pressure of the great powers, Pope Clement structed to pray? Matt. 24:20. XIV, on July 21, 1773, issued his famous decree supressing the Jesuit order in all the states of Christendom, thereby marking the end of organized persecution. Imme- NOTE.—”He who made the Sabbath did diately after the tribulation ceased, yet be- not abolish it. . . . The Sabbath was not fore the end of papal supremacy, there rendered null and void by His death. Forty occurred the darkening of the sun and years after His crucifixion it was still to moon, May 19, 1780. be held sacred. For forty years the disci- ples were to pray that their flight might not 6. What other startling sign was to be on the Sabbath day.”—The Desire of give impetus to the proclamation of Ages, page 630. our Lord’s return? Matt. 24:29, last part; Rev. 6:13. Signs of Christ’s Second Coming
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What definite sign in the heav- ens would be given to direct men to NOTE.—”On the night of November 12- 13, 1833, a tempest of falling stars broke the study of the prophecies? Matt. over the earth. North Ametica bore the 24:29, first part. Compare Rev. 6:12. brunt of its pelting. From the-Gulf of Mex- ico to Halifax, until daylight with some difficulty put an end to the display, the sky was scored in every direction with shining NOTE.—”The Dark Day, May 19, 1780 tracks- and illuminated with majestic fire- socalled on account of a remarkable dark- balls.”—History of Astronomy in the Nine- ness on that day extending over all New teenth Century, Agnes M. Clerke, page 328. England. In some places, persons could London, 1902. Quoted in Source Book for not see to read common print in the open Bible Students, page 176. air for several,hours together. Birds sang their evening songs, disappeared, and be- 7. How did Jesus describe the moral came silent; fowls went to roost; cattle and social conditions that would mark sought the barnyard; and candles were lighted in the houses. The obscuration be- the last days? Matt. 24:37-39; Luke gan about ten o’clock in the morning, and 17:26-30. Compare Gen. 6:5, 11-13. continued till the middle of the next night, but with differences of degree and duration in different places. For several days previ- ous, the wind had been variable, but chiefly NOTE.—”The spirit of anarchy is per- from the southwest and the northeast. meating all nations, and the outbreaks that The true cause of this remarkable phe- from time to time excite the .horror of the [18 1 heals the diseases of the people, and then, in his assumed character of Christ, he claims to have changed the Sabbath to Sunday, and commands all to hallow the day which he has blessed. . . . This is the strong, almost overmastering delusion. . . . This [Christ’s] coming, there is no possi- bility of counterfeiting. It will be univer- sally known—witnessed by the whole world. “Only those who have been diligent stu- dents of the Scriptures and who have re- ceived the love of the truth will be shielded from the powerful delusion that takes the world captive.”—The Great Controversy, pages 624, 625.
BOMB SHELTERS WILL NOT BE ENOUGH The Hope of the World IN THE TIME OF TROUBLE. so’s- s 10. To what hopeless condition will sin bring the world? What will be world are but indications of the pent-up fires of passion and lawlessness that, having the sure hope of the people of God in once escaped control, will fill the earth with earth’s darkest hour? Luke 21:25-28. woe and desolation. The picture which in- spiration has given of the antediluvian world, represents too truly the condition to which modern society is fast hastening. NoTE.—”Without having improved ap- Even now, in the present century, and in preciably in virtue or enjoying wiser guid- professedly Christian lands, there are ance, it [mankind] has got into its hands crimes daily perpetrated, as black and ter- for the first time the tools by which it can rible as those for which the old-world sin- unfailingly accomplish its own extermina- ners were destroyed.”—Patriarchs and tion. That is the point in human destinies Prophets, page 102. to which all the glories and toils of men have at last led them. . . . Death stands
- What world-wide movement did at attention, obedient, expectant, ready to Christ say would immediately precede serve, ready to shear away the peoples en His return? Matt. 24:14. Compare masse; ready, if called on, to pulverize without hope of repair, what is left of civi- Rev. 14:6-14. lization.”=Winston Churchill, The Gath- ering Storm, page 40. 11. As we see all these things come
- Against what type of deception to pass, what are we to know? Matt. did the Saviour specially warn? Why 24:32-36; Luke 21:29-33. will the elect not be deceived? Matt. 24:23-27. 12. What will be the sad condition of many who profess to be looking NOTE.—”As the crowning act in the for the coming of the Lord? Matt. great drama of deception, Satan himself 24:12, 48-51; 25:8-12. will personate Christ. . . . The great de- ceiver will make it appear that Christ has come. In different parts of the earth, Satan will manifest himself among men as a ma- NOTE.—”They have no oil in their ves- jestic being of dazzling brightness, resem- sels with their lamps. They are destitute of bling the description of the Son of God the Holy Spirit. Without the Spirit of God given by John in the Revelation. . . . He a knowledge of His word’ is of no avail. 11 J The theory of truth, unaccompanied by NOTE.-“Oh, how many I saw In the the Holy Spirit, cannot quicken the soul time of trouble without a shelter! They or sanctify the heart. One may be familiar had neglected the needful preparation, with the commands and promises of the therefore they could not receive the re- Bible; but unless the Spirit of God sets the freshing that all must have to fit them to truth home, the character will not be trans- live in the sight of a holy God. Those who formed. Without the enlightenment of the refuse to be hewed by the prophets, and Spirit, men will not be able to distinguish fail to purify their souls in obeying the truth from error, and they will fall under whole truth, and who are willing to be- the masterful temptations of Satan.”- lieve that their condition is far better than Christ’s Object Lessons, pages 408, 411. it really is, will come up to the time of the falling of the plagues, and then see that they needed to be hewed and squared
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With what earnest admonition for the building. But there will be no time to His people did our Lord close His then to do it and no Mediator to plead discourse? Mark 13:33-37; Luke 21: their cause before the Father.”-Early 34-36. Writings, page 71.
Lesson 6, for November 10, 1956 Jesus' Last Passover; A Transition Service LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 26:17-30; Mark 14:12-26; Luke 22:1-27; John 13:1-30. MEMORY VERSE: "If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them." John 13:17. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 642-661; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 5; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of Octo- ber 25. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey ❑ Wednesday: Questions 12, 13; read Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ further from Study Helps Monday: Questions 5-8. ❑ assignment. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 9-11; start read- Thursday: Read further from Study ing from Study Helps assign- Helps assignment. ❑ ment. 0 Friday: Review. ❑
Lesson Outline: 6. A spiritual cleansing. John 13:6-11, 7. Necessity of heart searching: I. The Last Passover 1 Cor. 11:27-29. 8. The divine example. John 13:12-17. 1. Preparation of the upper room. Luke 22:7-13; Mark 14:12-16. I11. The Lord’s Supper 2. Items included in the paschal meal. Ex. 12:3, 6, 8, 11 ; Luke 22:17. 9. Instituted at the Passover table. 3. Christ tlie true Passover. Mark Matt. 26:26-28. 14:1, 2; Luke 22:1, 2; 1 Cor. 5:7. 10. Significance of the broken bread. 4. Marred by perfidy and strife. Luke 22:19. Luke 22:3-6, 21-26. 11. The symbolic cup. Luke 22:20. 12. “In remembrance of Me.”
- A Cleansing Ordinance Instituted 1 Cor. 11:23-25.
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Christ takes the place of a servant. 13. A promise of the coming king- John 13:3-5. dom. Matt. 26:29; 1 Cor. 11:26. I 20 THE LESSON
The Last Passover Nom.—”There was ‘a strife among them, which of them should be accounted
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- What preparations were made the greatest.’ This contention, carried on for the last Passover that Jesus at- in the presence of Christ, grieved and tended? Luke 22:7-13; Mark 14:12-16. wounded Him. . . . When the disciples en- tered the supper room, their hearts were full of resentful feelings. Judas pressed next to Christ on the left side; John was on
- What items were to be included the right. If there was a highest place, in the paschal meal? Ex. 12:3, 6, 8, 11; Judas was determined to have it, and that Luke 22:17. place was thought to be next to Christ. And Judas was a traitor.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 643, 644.
NoTE.—”According to the Mishna [tra- A Cleansing Ordinance Instituted ditional doctrines of the Jews], the bitter herbs (Ex. 12:8) might be endive, chicory, wild lettuce, or nettles. . . . The sauce into 5. While the disciples were at the which the herbs, the bread, and the meat Passover table, what service did Jesus were dipped as they were eaten (John 13: perform for them? John 13:3-5. 26; Matt. 26:23) is not mentioned in the Pentateuch. . . . There is no mention of wine in connection with the Passover in the Pentateuch; but the Mishna strictly en- NoTE.—”How was Christ to bring these joins that there should never be less than poor souls where Satan would not gain four cups of it provided at the paschal over them a decided victory? How could meal.”—Smith’s Bible Dictionary, article, He show that a mere profession of disci- “Passover.” pleship did not make them disciples, or ensure them a place in His kingdom? How
- How were events shaping up to could He show that it is loving service, true make this Passover especially signifi- humility, which constitutes real greatness? cant? Mark 14:1, 2; Luke 22:1, 2; . . . This action opened the eyes of the 1 Cor. 5:7, last part. disciples. Bitter shame and humiliation filled their hearts. They understood the unspoken rebuke, and saw themselves in altogether a new light.”—The Desire of Nora.—”Christ was standing at the point Ages, page 644. of transition between two economies and their two great festivals. He, the spotless 6. In Jesus’ statement to Peter what Lamb of God, was about to present Him- did He reveal as to the deeper mean- self as a sin offering, and He would thus ing of this service? John 13:6-11. bring to an end the system of types and ceremonies that for four thousand years had pointed to His death. As He ate the Passover with His disciples, He instituted NoTE.—”These words mean more than in its place the service that was to be the bodily cleanliness. Christ is still speaking memorial of His great sacrifice. The na- of the higher cleansing as illustrated by the tional festival of the Jews was to pass lower. He who came from the bath was away forever. The service which Christ clean, but the sandaled feet soon became established was to be observed by His fol- dusty, and again needed to be washed. So lowers in all lands and through all ages.”— Peter and his brethren had been washed The Desire of Ages, page 652. in the great fountain opened for sin and uncleanness. Christ acknowledged them
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In what unprepared state did as His. But temptation had led them into this last Passover find the disciples? evil, and they still needed His cleansing Luke 22:3-6, 21-26. grace. When Jesus girded Himself with a [211 forgiven. The subduing grace of Christ comes into the soul, and the love of Christ draws hearts together in a blessed unity.”— The Desire of Ages, pages 650, 651. 8. As their Master, what did Jesus intend that His humble ministry should be to His disciples? John 13: 12-17.
NOTE.—"That His people might not be misled by the selfishness which dwells in the natural heart, and which strengthens by self-serving, Christ Himself set the example JESUS STOOD BETWEEN TWO GREAT of humility. . . . While they were con- SERVICES. THE CHURCH WAS TO OBSERVE THE LORDS SUPPER THROUGH ALL AGES. tending for the highest place, He to whom 40U-6 every knee shall bow, He whom the angels of glory count it honor to serve, bowed down to wash the feet of those who called towel to wash the dust from their feet, He Him Lord. He washed the feet of His be- desired by that very act to wash the aliena- trayer. . . tion, jealousy, and pride from their hearts. "He served all, ministered to all. . . . This was of far more consequence than the "Again and again Jesus had tried to es- washing of their dusty feet."—The Desire tablish this principle among His disciples. of Ages, page 646. . . . In My kingdom the principle of prefer- ence and supremacy has no place. The -
As a preparation for the com- only greatness is the greatness of humility. munion service, how does Paul ex- The only distinction is found in devotion press the necessity of heart searching? to the service of others.”—The Desire of 1 Cor. 11:27-29. Ages, pages 649, 650.
The Lord's Supper
NOTE.—”This ordinance is Christ’s ap- 9. When and how did Jesus insti- pointed preparation for the sacramental tute the Communion service? Matt. service. While pride, variance, and strife 26:26-28. for supremacy are cherished, the heart can- not enter into fellowship with Christ. We are not prepared to receive the communion of His body and His blood. Therefore it NOTE.—”Christ is still at the table on was that Jesus appointed the memorial of which the paschal supper has been spread. His humiliation to be first observed. . . . The unleavened cakes used at the Passover “The holy Watcher from heaven is pres- season are before Him. The Passover ent at this season to make it one of soul wine, untouched by fermentation, is on the searching, of conviction of sin, and of the table. These emblems Christ employs to blessed assurance of sins forgiven. Christ represent His own unblemished sacrifice. in the fullness of His grace is there to Nothing corrupted by fermentation, the change the current of the thoughts that symbol of sin and death, could represent have been running in selfish channels. the ‘Lamb without blemish and without The Holy Spirit quickens the sensibilities spot.’ 1 Peter 1:19.”—The Desire of Ages, of those who follow the example of their page 653. Lord. . . . Defects of character, neglect of duties, ingratitude to God, coldness to- 10. What is represented by the ward our brethren, are called to remem- broken bread? Luke 22:19. Compare brance. • . . Sins are confessed, they are John 6:48-51. [ 22 ] NoTE.—”The Jews were about to cele- great sacrifice, the soul assimilates the brate the Passover at Jerusalem, in com- spiritual life of Christ. That soul will re- memoration of the night of Israel’s deliver- ceive spiritual strength from every Com- ance, when the destroying angel smote the munion. . . . homes of Egypt. In the paschal lamb God “As we receive the bread and wine sym- desired them to behold the Lamb of God, bolizing Christ’s broken body and spilled and through the symbol receive Him who blood, we in imagination . . . witness the gave Himself for the life of the world.”— struggle by which our reconciliation with The Desire of Ages, pages 388, 389. God was obtained. Christ is set forth cru- cified among us.”—The Desire of Ages, page
- What is symbolized by the cup? 661. Luke 22:20. 13. In addition to being a reminder of Christ’s death, what other purpose is served in the observance of the NOTE.—”At the first feast He attended Lord’s Supper? Matt. 26:29; 1 Cor. with His disciples, Jesus gave them the cup 11:26. that symbolized His work for their salva- tion. At the Last Supper He gave it again, in the institution of that sacred rite by which His death was to be shown. . . . NoTE.—”The Communion service points “The wine which Christ provided for the to Christ’s second coming. It was designed feast, and that which He gave to the disci- to keep this hope vivid in the minds of the ples as a symbol of His own blood, was the disciples. Whenever they met together to pure juice of the grape.”—The Desire of commemorate His death, they recounted Ages, page 149. how ‘He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, . . . I will not
-
As the church observes this drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, service, whom particularly are they until that day when I drink it new with to keep in mind? 1 Cor. 11:23-25. you in My Father’s kingdom.’ In their Compare John 6:54-57. tribulation they found comfort in the hope of their Lord’s return. Unspeakably pre- cious to them was the thought, ‘As often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, NoTE.—”To the holy Communion this ye do show the Lord’s death till He come.’ scripture [John 6:54-571 in a special sense 1 Cor. 11:26.”—The Desire of Ages, page applies. As faith contemplates our Lord’s 659.
Lesson 7, for November 17, 1956 Jesus Gives Final Instructions
LESSON SCRIPTURE: John 14 to 17. MEMORY VERSE: “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:1-3. STUDY HELPS: “The Desire of Ages,” pages 662-680; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” volume 5; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of Novem- ber 1. 23 ] DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. 0 ment. Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13. 0 Monday: Questions 5-7. 0 Thursday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 8-10; start read- Helps assignment.
ing from Study Helps assign- Friday: Review.
Lesson Outline:
I. The Blessed Hope 8. The legacy of joy and peace. John 14:27; 15:11; 16:33. 1. The promise of His return. John 14:1-3. I11. The True Vine 2. The only way of life. John 9. The vine and branches. John 14:5, 6. 15:1, 5, first part. 3. The request in His name. John 10. The secret of fruit bearing. John 14:13; 16:23, 24. 15:2-8. 4. The conditions of answered prayer. John 14:14, 15; 15:7. IV. Jesus’ Prayer as He Approaches Gethsemane
- Our Mighty Helper
11. He prays for Himself. John
- The Holy Spirit promised. John 17:1, 4-6. 14:16-18; 16:7. 12. He prays for unity among His
- The work of the Spirit. John disciples. John 17:11, 20-23; 14:26; 16:8-13. 13:35.
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The power for witnessing. John 13. He prays for sanctification of 14:12; Acts 1:8. believers. John 17:17-19, 24.
THE LESSONThe Blessed Hope uplifted as the way, the truth, and the life. He was the way when Adam lived, when
-
As the hearts of the disciples Abel presented to God the blood of the were troubled at the thought of His slain lamb, representing the blood of the departure, what words of hope did Redeemer. Christ was the way by which patriarchs and prophets were saved. He is Jesus leave with them? John 14:1-3. the way by which alone we can have access to God.”-The Desire of Ages, page 66.
3. What assurance was given con- -
What question did Thomas raise? cerning prayer? John 14:13; 16: What vital truth did the Master utter? 23, 24. John 14:5, 6.
Non.-"He [the Saviour] explained NcrrE.-"There are not many ways to that the secret of their success would be heaven. Each one may not choose his own in asking for strength and grace in His way. . . . Since the first gospel sermon name. . . Every sincere prayer is heard was preached, when in Eden it was de- in heaven. It may not be fluently expressed; clared that the seed of the woman should but if the heart is in it, it will ascend to bruise the serpent's head, Christ had been the sanctuary where Jesus ministers, and [ 24 ]He will present it to the Father without His Father for the exaltation of His people. one awkward, stammering word, beautiful The Spirit was to be given as a regenerat- and fragrant with the incense of His own ing agent, and without this the sacrifice of perfection.”—The Desire of Ages, page 667. Christ would have been of no avail.. . Sin could be resisted and overcome only
- What does it mean to pray in through the mighty agency of the Third
Christ’s name? John 14:14, 15; 15:7. Person of the Godhead, who would come
with no modified energy, but in the fullness
of divine power. . . . Through the Spirit
the believer becomes a partaker of the di-
NOTE.—”To pray in Christ’s name means vine nature. Christ has given His Spirit
much. It means that we are to accept His as a divine power to overcome all heredi-
character, manifest His spirit, and work tary and cultivated tendencies to evil, and
His works. The Saviour’s promise is given to impress His own character upon the
on condition. ‘If ye love Me,’ He says, church.”—The Desire of Ages, page 671.
‘keep My commandments.’ He saves men,
not in sin, but from sin; and those who 7. Under the working of the Holy
love Him will show their love by obedience. Spirit, what results would surely fol-
. . . If we consent, He will so identify low? John 14:12; Acts 1:8.
Himself with our thoughts and aims, so
blend our hearts and minds into conformity
to His will, that when obeying Him we
shall be but carrying out our own im- NOTE.—”Jesus revealed no qualities, and
pulses.”—The Desire of Ages, page 668. exercised no powers, that men may not
have through faith in Him. His perfect
Our Mighty Helper humanity is that which all His followers
may possess, if they will be in subjection to
God as He was.
- What mighty Helper would “‘And greater works than these shall he Christ ask His Father to send in His do; because I go unto My Father.’ By this stead? John 14:16-18; 16:7. Christ did not mean that the disciples’ work would be of a more exalted character than His, but that it would have greater extent. He did not refer merely to miracle NoTE.—”The Holy Spirit is Christ’s rep- working, but to all that would take place resentative, but divested of the personality under the working of the Holy Spirit.”— of humanity, and independent thereof. The Desire of Ages, page 664. Cumbered with humanity, Christ could not be in every place personally. There- 8. For the the time of tribulation, fore it was for their interest that He what legacy did Jesus leave His peo- should go to the Father, and send the ple? John 14:27; 15:11; 16:33. Spirit to be His successor on earth. No one could then have any advantage be- cause of his location or his personal contact with Christ. By the Spirit the Saviour NorE.—”At all times and in all places, would be accessible to all. In this sense He in all sorrows and in all afflictions, when would be nearer to them than if He had the outlook seems dark and the future per- not ascended on high.”—The Desire of Ages, plexing, and we feel helpless and alone, the page 669. Comforter will be sent in answer to the prayer of faith. Circumstances may sepa-
- What would be the work of the rate us from every earthly friend; but no Holy Spirit? John 14:26; 16:8-13. circumstance, no distance, can separate us from the heavenly Comforter. Wherever we are, wherever we may go, He is always at our right hand to support, sustain, up- NorE.—”The Holy Spirit was the high- hold, and cheer.”—The Desire of Ages, est of all gifts that He could solicit from pages 669, 670. [ 25 ] The True Vine
-
How did our Lord illustrate the relationship between Himself and His disciples? John 15:1, 5, first part.
- What is the secret of abundant fruit bearing, and of what is fruitful- ness an evidence? John 15:2-8.
NoTE.”The life of the vine will be man- ifest in fragrant fruit on the branches. ‘He that abideth in Me,’ said Jesus,. ‘and I in PRUNING CAUSES PAIN, BUT THE CHRISTIAN NEEDS THE PROCESS TO him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: BEAR MUCH. FRUIT FOR GOD. - for without IVIe ye can do nothing.’ When we live by faith on the Son of God, the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in our life; not one will be missing. . . . 12. As Jesus was leaving His disci- “The pruning will cause pain, but it is ples, what was the burden of His the Father who applies the knife. He works prayer for them? What effect would with no wanton hand or indifferent heart. the unity of the believers have upon There are branches trailing upon the the world? John 17:11, 20-23; 13:35. ground; these must be cut loose from the earthly supports to which their tendrils are fastening. They are to reach heavenward, and find their support in God. The exces- 13. By what agency is the believer sive foliage that draws away the life current sanctified and kept? What final re- from the fruit must be pruned off. The overgrowth must be cut out, to give room quest did Jesus make on behalf of His for the healing beams of the Sun of Right- people? John 17:17-19, 24. eousness. The husbandman prunes away the harmful growth, that the fruit may be richer and more abundant.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 676, 677. NOTE.—”Let the student take the Bible as his guide and stand firm for principle, Jesus’ Prayer as He Approaches and he may aspire to any height of attain- ment. All the philosophies of human nature Gethsemane have led to confusion and shame when God has not been recognized as all in all.
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As Christ approached Geth- But the precious faith inspired of God im- semane and Calvary, what request did parts strength and nobility of character. He make of His Father? What did As His goodness, His mercy, and His love He say of the task assigned Him? John are dwelt upon, clearer and still clearer 17:1, 4-6. will be the perception of truth; higher, holier, the desire for purity of heart and clearness of thought. The soul dwelling in the pure atmosphere of holy thought is NcrrE.—”Before the world was. There transformed by intercourse with God could not be a more distinct and clear dec- through the study of His word. Truth is laration of the pre-existence of Christ than so large, so far-reaching, so deep, so broad, this. It means before the creation of the that self is lost sight of. The heart is soft- world; before there was any world.”— ened and subdued into humility, kindness, Albert Barnes, Notes on the Gospels (Har- and love.”—The Ministry of Healing, pages per and Brothers, 1876), vol: 2, p. 385. 465, 466. [ 26 ] Lesson 8, for November 24, 1956
Gethsemane LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 26:31-68; Mark 14:27-50; Luke 22:31-53; John 18:1-14. MEMORY VERSE: "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." Matt. 26:41. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 685-697; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 5; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of No- vember 8. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Helps assignment. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ Thursday: Read further from Study Monday: Questions 5-8. ❑ Helps assignment. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 9-13. ❑ Friday: Review. ❑ Wednesday: Read from Study
Lesson Outline: 7. The sleeping disciples. Matt. 26:40, 41, 43, 45. I. Jesus Warns His Disciples 8. An angel strengthens Jesus for 1. Facing a night of test. Mark 14:27. final struggle. Luke 22:43, 44. 2. Jesus’ special warning to Peter. I11. The Betrayal Luke 22:31, 34. 3. Peter’s declaration of loyalty. 9. The mob seek Jesus. Matt. 26:47; Mark 14:29-31; Luke 22:33. John 18:3-5. 4. Jesus’ comforting promise. Mark 10. Divine power manifested. John 14:28. 18:6. 11. The traitor’s kiss. Matt. 26:48-50;
- Jesus in Gethsemane Luke 22:47, 48.
- A special prayer group. Matt. 12. Peter’s rash act. John 18:10, 11; 26:36-38. Matt. 26:51, 52.
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Jesus prays, “Let this cup pass.” 13. The Scriptures fulfilled. Matt. Matt. 26:39, 42, 44. 26:54-56.
THE LESSON
Jesus Warns His Disciples the flock shall be scattered abroad.’ Matt. 26:31. The disciples listened in sorrow and
- How did Jesus seek to prepare amazement. . . . In their self-confidence His disciples for their coming trial they denied the repeated statement of Him who knew. They were unprepared for the and disappointment? Mark 14:27. test; when temptation should overtake them, they would understand their own weakness.”-The Desire of Ages, page 673. NcrrE.-“Through the crowded streets they made their way, passing out of the city 2. What special warning did Jesus gate toward the Mount of Olives. Slowly give to Peter? Luke 22:31, 34. they proceeded, each busy with his own thoughts. As they began to descend to- ward the mount, Jesus said, in a tone of deepest sadness, ‘All ye shall be offended 3. What protestation of loyalty to because of Me this night: for it is written, I the Saviour did Peter make? Mark will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of 14:29-31; Luke 22:33. [27 ] NorE.—”When Peter said that he would follow his Lord to prison and to death, he meant it, every word of it; but he did not know himself. Hidden in His heart were elements of evil that circumstances would fan into life. Unless he was made conscious of his danger, these would prove his eternal ruin. The Saviour saw in him a self-love and assurance that would overbear even his love for Christ. . . . Christ’s solemn warning was a call to heart searching.”— The Desire of Ages, page 673.
- With what comforting promise did Jesus seek to assure His disciples? Mark 14:28. Compare John 16:20. OUR SAVIOUR OFFERS PEACE,”NOT AS THE WORLD GIVETH,” BUT TO CALM THE TROUBLED HEART. NorE.—” ‘These things I have spoken 405,8
unto you,’ He said, ‘that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have 6. Going a little way from His tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have companions, what anguished petition overcome the world.’ Christ did not fail, did the Saviour make? Matt. 26:39, neither was He discouraged, and His fol- 42, 44. lowers are to manifest a faith of the same enduring nature. They are to live as He lived, and work as He worked, because they depend on Him as the great Master Worker. NorE.—”As Christ felt His unity with Courage, energy, and perseverance they the Father broken up, He feared that in must possess. Though apparent impossi- His human nature He would be unable to bilities obstruct their way, by His grace endure the coming conflict with the powers they are to go forward. Instead of deplor- of darkness. . . . Now the tempter had ing difficulties, they are called upon to sur- come for the last fearful struggle. . . . mount them. They are to despair of noth- Everything was at stake with him. If he ing, and to hope for everything.”—The failed here, his hope of mastery was lost. Desire of Ages, page 679. . . . The conflict was terrible. . . . The sins of men weighed heavily upon Christ, and Jesus in Gethsemane the sense of God’s wrath against sin was crushing out His life.”—The Desire of
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Upon arrival at Gethsemane, Ages, pages 686, 687. whom did Jesus take with Him to a retired spot for prayer? What state- 7. In what condition did Jesus find ment and request indicated the crisis the disciples? Matt. 26:40, 41, 43, 45. He was facing? Matt. 26:36-38.
NorE.—"In the supreme agony of His Nors.—"Now He [Christ] seemed to be soul, He [Christ] came to His disciples shut out from the light of God's sustaining with a yearning desire to hear some words presence. Now He was numbered with the of comfort from those whom He had so transgressors. The guilt of fallen humanity often blessed and comforted. . . . They did He must bear. Upon Him who knew no not intend to forsake their Lord, but they sin must be laid the iniquity of us all. So seemed paralyzed by a stupor which they dreadful does sin appear to Him, so great might have shaken off if they had con- is the weight of guilt which He must bear, tinued pleading with God. They did not that He is tempted to fear it will shut Him realize the necessity of watchfulness and out forever from His Father's love."— earnest prayer in order to withstand temp- The Desire of Ages, page 685. tation. . . . Thus when the Saviour was in [28]need of their sympathy and prayers, they 11. With what sign did Judas be- were found asleep.”—The Desire of Ages, tray his Lord? How did Jesus re- pages 687-689. spond? Matt. 26:48-50; Luke 22:
- In this crisis hour, who was sent 47, 48. to strengthen Jesus? How. was His intense agony revealed? Luke 22: 43, 44. NOTE.—”Judas the betrayer did not for- get the part he was to act. When the mob entered the garden, he had led the way, closely followed by the high priest. To the NoTE.—”The awful moment had come— pursuers of Jesus he had given a sign, say- that moment which was to decide the des- ing, ‘Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is tiny of the world. The fate of humanity He: hold Him fast.’ Matthew 26:48. Now trembled in the balance. Christ might even he pretends to have no part with them. now refuse to drink the cup apportioned to Coming close to Jesus, he takes His hand guilty man. . • . Three times has humanity as a familiar friend. With the words, ‘Hail, shrunk from the last, crowning sacrifice. Master,’ he kisses Him repeatedly, and ap- … The woes and lamentations of a doomed pears to weep as if in sympathy with Him world rise before Him. He beholds its im- in His peril. pending fate, and His decision is made. He “Jesus said to him, ‘Friend, wherefore art will save men at any cost to Himself.. . . thou come?’ His voice trembled with sor- “Having made the decision, He fell dying row as He added, ‘Judas, betrayest thou the to the ground. . . . In this awful crisis, Son of man with a kiss?’ This appeal when everything was at stake, when the should have aroused the conscience of the mysterious cup trembled in the hand of the betrayer, and touched his stubborn heart; sufferer, the heavens opened, a light shone but honor, fidelity, and human tenderness forth amid the stormy darkness of the bad forsaken him.”—The Desire of Ages, crisis hour, and the mighty angel who stands pages 695, 696. in God’s presence, occupying the position from which Satan fell, came to the side of 12. What principle did Jesus set Christ.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 690- forth as He corrected Peter’s rash act?
- John 18:10, 11; Matt. 26:51, 52. The Betrayal
-
As Jesus and His disciples were about to leave, who came to the gar- 13. What did the disciples do as den? Matt. 26:47; John 18:3-5. Christ referred to all this as but ful- filling the Scriptures? Matt. 26:54-56.
-
What was the effect on the mob as divine glory was revealed? John Nora.—”The disciples were terrified as they saw Jesus permit Himself to be taken 18:6. and bound. They were offended that He should suffer this humiliation to Himself and them. They could not understand His NoTE.—”As these words were spoken, the conduct, and they blamed Him for sub- angel who had lately ministered to Jesus mitting to the mob. In their indignation moved between Him and the mob. A di- and fear, Peter proposed that they save vine light illuminated the Saviour’s face, themselves. Following this suggestion, ‘they and a dovelike form overshadowed Him. In all forsook Him, and fled.’ But Christ had the presence of this divine glory, the mur- foretold this desertion. ‘Behold,’ He had derous throng could not stand for a mo- said, ‘the hour cometh, yea, is now come, ment. They staggered back. Priests, elders, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his soldiers, and even Judas, fell as dead men own, and shall leave Me alone: and yet I to the ground. The angel withdrew, and am not alone, because the Father is with the light faded away.”—The Desire of Ages, Me’ John 16:32.”—The Desire of. Ages, page 694. page 697. I 29 I Lesson 9, for December 1, 1956
Christ Rejected of Men
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 26:57-75; 27:3-10; Mark 14:53-72; Luke 22:54-71; John 18:12-24. MEMORY VERSE: “Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.” Matt. 26:64. STUDY HELPS: “The Desire of Ages,” pages 698-722; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” volume 5; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of No- vember 15. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps Monday: Questions 4-6. ❑ assignment. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 7-10. ❑ Friday: Review.
Lesson Outline: I. Peter Denies His Lord 7. Peter follows afar off. Matt. 26:58. I. Before Annas and Caiaphas 8. Peter’s first denial. John 18:17, 18; Matt. 26:69, 70; Mark 14:66-68. 1. Christ before Annas. John 18: 9. Peter’s second and third denials. 12, 13. Mark 14:69-71; Matt. 26:71-74. 2. Before Caiaphas. John 18:24. 10. Peter’s repentance. Luke 22:60-62. 3. Night trial by council. Matt. 26:59-62. I11. The Fate of Judas 4. Jesus testifies to His divinity. 11. The betrayer’s contract. Matt. Matt. 26:63, 64. 26 : 14-16. 5. Condemned by council. Matt. 12. Remorse and despair. Matt. 26:65, 66. 27:3-5. 6. Inhuman treatment. Matt. 26:67, 13. The potter’s field. Matt. 27:6-10; 68; Luke 22:63-65. Zech. 11:12, 13; Acts 1:16-19.
THE LESSON
Before Annas and Caiaphas and He moved painfully. But in eager
haste His captors made their way with Him 1. After His arrest, where did they to the palace of Annas, the ex-high priest. lead Jesus? John 18:12, 13. . . . Christ was to be tried fOrtnally before
the Sanhedrin; but before Annas He was
subjected to a preliminary trial."-The De-
sire of Ages, page 698. NoTE.-"Over the brook Kedron, past 2. To whom did Annas send Christ? gardens and olive groves, and through the John 18:24. hushed streets of the sleeping city, they hurried Jesus. It was past midnight, and the cries. of the hooting mob that followed Him broke sharply upon the still Air. The NoTE.-,--"Annas ordered JeSus- to be taken Saviour was bound and closely guarded, to Caiaphas. Caiaphas belonged to the Sad-
ducees, some of whom were now the most desperate enemies of Jesus. He himself, though wanting in force of character, was fully as severe, heartless, and unscrupulous as was Annas. He would leave no means untried to destroy Jesus.”—The Desire of Ages, page 703.
- Arraigned before the council in the court of Caiaphas, what false testi- mony was borne against Jesus? Matt. 26:59-62.
Non.—”This He spoke of His body; they NOT ALONE BY OUTWARD FORMS OR BIBLE perverted it, endeavoring to show that He STUDY IS THE LIFE TRULY TESTED WHAT WE SAY REVEALS OUR INNER THOUGHTS. meant the temple at Jerusalem. They nei- 4056-9
ther stated it as it was, nor did they state correctly its meaning; nor did they agree about the words used. . . . They had ut- 5. In his fury, what significant act terly failed in their proof. They had no did the high priest perform? What way left to accomplish their purpose of , was the verdict of the Sanhedrin? condemning Him, but to draw it from His Matt. 26:65, 66. • own lips.”—Barnes, Notes on the Gospels, vol. 1, p..347. -
- In his desperation, putting Jesus Nora.—”In this act, done to influence the on oath, what direct question did Cai- judges and secure Christ’s condemnation, aphas ask? What was the definite the high priest ‘had condemned himself. reply? Matt. 26:63, 64. By the law of -God he was disqualified: for the priesthood, . . . By those beautifuI’of ficial- garments was represented the charac- ter of the great antitype, Jesus Christ. . . : No rent must ‘be made in the priestly Nora.—”In these words Christ presented robes, for this would mar the representation the reverse of the scene then taking place. of heavenly things. The high priest who He, the Lord of life’ and glory,I would bp dared to appear’in holy office, and engage seated at God’s right hand. He would be in the service of the sanctuary, with a rent the judge of all the earth, and from His robe, was looked upon as having severed decision there would be no appeal. Then himself. from God.”—The Desire of Ages, every ‘secret thing would be set in the light pages 708, 709. ,See Leviticus 10:4. of God’s countenance, and judgment be passed upon ‘every man according ‘to his 6. To what brutal treatment was deeds…. Christ now subjected? Matt. 26:67, “The words of Christ startled the high 68; Luke 22:63-65. priest. The thought that there was to be A resurrection of the dead, when all would stand at the bar of God, to be rewarded according to their works, was a thought Nora.—”The Sanhedrin had pronounced of terror to Caiaphas. . . . For a moment Jesus worthy of death; but it was contrary he felt as if standing before the eternal to the Jewish law to try a prisoner by Judge, whose eye, which sees all things, night. In legal condemnation nothing was reading his soul, bringing to light could be done except in the light of day mysteries -supposed-to be hidden with the and before a full session of - the council. dead.”—The Desire of Akes, page 708. Notwithstanding this, the Saviour was now 131 ] treated as a condemned criminal, and given 10. How was Peter reminded of up to be abused by the lowest and vilest his Lord’s prediction? What act of Je- of humankind. . . . Mercy and justice were sus brought Peter to repentance? Luke trampled upon. Never was prisoner treated 22:60-62. in so inhuman a manner as was the Son of God.”—The Desire of Ages, page 710. NOTE.-“It was in sleeping when Jesus Peter Denies His Lord bade him watch and pray that Peter had prepared the way for his great sin. All
- What is revealed concerning Pe- the disciples, by sleeping in that critical ter while his Lord was being taken to hour, sustained a great loss. Christ knew trial? Matt. 26:58. Compare John the fiery ordeal through which they were to 18:15, 16. pass. He knew how Satan would work to paralyze their senses that they might be unready for the trial. Therefore it was that He gave them warning. Had those
- How did Peter react to his iden- hours in the garden been spent in watch- ing and prayer, Peter would not have been tification by the doormaid? John 18: left to depend upon his own feeble strength. 17, 18; Matt. 26:69, 70; Mark 14: He would not have denied his Lord.”—The 66-68. Desire of Ages, pages 713, 714. Compare Revelation 3:10. The Fate of Judas NoTE.—”Many who do not shrink from active warfare for their Lord are driven by 11. What contract had Judas made ridicule to deny their faith. By associating with the priests? Matt. 26:14-16. with those whom they should avoid, they place themselves in the way of tempta- tion. They invite the enemy to tempt them, and are led to say and do that of which 12. When he saw that Christ was under other circumstances they would never submitting to His enemies, what dra- have been guilty. The disciple of Christ matic confession did Judas make pub- who in our day disguises his faith through licly? In despair, what course did the dread of suffering or reproach denies his Lord as really as did Peter in the judgment traitor take? Matt. 27:3-5. hall.”—The Desire of Ages, page 712.
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How did Peter respond to the NoTE.—For “repented himself,” Wey- second accusation? When he was con- mouth’s translation reads, “smitten with fidently identified by a servant of the remorse.” high priest, what degrading form did “The word rendered repented himself, it Peter’s third denial take? Mark 14: has been observed, does not of necessity de- 69-71; Matt. 26:71-74. note a change for the better, but any change of views and feelings. Here it evidently means no other change than that produced by the horrors of a guilty conscience, and NoTE.—”We should draw from it im- by deep remorse for crime at its unex- portant practical uses: 1st. The danger of pected results. It was not saving repent- self-confidence. He that thinketh he stand- ance. That leads to a holy life—this led to eth should take heed lest he fall. . . . 2d. an increase of crime in his own death.”— The highest favors, the most exalted privi- Barnes, Notes on the Gospels, vol. 1, p. 352. leges, do not secure us from the danger of falling into sin. . . . 3d. When a man be- 13. What did the priests do with gins to sin, his fall from one act to another the betrayal money? Unwittingly what is easy—perhaps almost certain.”—Barnes, prophecy did they fulfill? Matt. 27: Notes on the Gospels, vol. 1, p. 351. 6-10; Zech. 11:12, 13; Acts 1:16-19. [32] NoTE.-“As the trial drew to a close, that had been the price of his Lord’s be- Judas could endure the torture of his guilty trayal. Eagerly grasping the robe of Caia- conscience no longer. Suddenly a hoarse phas, he implored him to release Jesus, de- voice rang through the hall, sending a thrill claring that He had done nothing worthy of terror to all hearts: He is innocent; of death. Caiaphas angrily shook him off, spare Him, 0 Caiaphas! but was confused, and knew not what to “The tall form of Judas was now seen say. The perfidy of the priests was re- pressing through the startled throng. His vealed. It was evident that they had face was pale and haggard, and great drops bribed the disciple to betray his Master. of sweat stood on his forehead. Rushing “ have sinned,’ again cried Judas, ‘in to the throne of judgment, he threw down that I have betrayed the innocent blood.’” before the high priest the pieces of silver -The Desire of Ages, pages 721, 722.
Lesson 10, for December 8, 1956 Jesus on Trial Before the Roman Law
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 27:1, 2, 11-30; Mark 15:1-19; Luke 23:1-25; John 19:1-15. MEMORY VERSE: “He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth: He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shears is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth.” Isa. 53:7. STUDY HELPS: “The Desire of Ages,” pages 723-740; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” volume 5; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of No- vember 22.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ reading from Study Helps Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ assignment. ❑ Monday: Questions 5-7. ❑ Thursday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 8-10. 0 Helps assignment. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13; start Friday: Review. ❑
Lesson Outline 7. Jesus is mocked. Luke 23:11.
I. Christ’s First Appearance Before I11. Before Pilate the Second Time Pilate 8. Without fault. Luke 23:13-16. 1. Priests deliver Christ to Pilate. 9. Christ or Barabbas. Matt. Matt. 27:1, 2. 27:15-18, 20; Mark 15:6-11. 2. False accusations. Luke 23:2. 10. “What shall I do then with 3. Christ explains nature of His Jesus?” Matt. 27:22. kingdom. John 18:33-38. 11. Jesus’ shameful treatment. Luke 4. Christ a Galilean. Luke 23:5-7. 23:22 ; John 19:1-3 ; Mark 15:15-20.
- Christ Before Herod
12. Pilate washes his hands. Matt.
- Herod glad to see Jesus. Luke 23:8. 27:24.
- Jesus is silent. Luke 23:9. 13. The fatal choice. John 19:12-15. [33 1 THE LESSON
Christ’s First Appearance Before Antipas had. . . . It would, moreover, get him clear of a troublesome matter.”—Gei- Pilate kie, The Life of Christ (New York, John B. Alden, 1889), pp. 762, 763.
- Having condemned Jesus, to whom did the priests deliver Him? Christ Before Herod Matt. 27:1, 2. 5. Why was Herod glad to see Je- sus? What did he hope to see Jesus NOTE.—”Under the Roman rule, the San- do? Luke 23:8. hedrin could not execute the sentence of death. They could only examine a prisoner, and pass judgment, to be ratified by the Roman authorities. . . . There were two NOTE.—”This Herod was he whose hands charges which the priests desired to main- were stained by the blood of John the tain. If Jesus could be proved a blasphemer, Baptist. . . . He would be condemned by the Jews. If “At the command of the king, the decrepit convicted of sedition, it would secure His and maimed were then called in, and Christ condemnation by the Romans. The second was ordered to prove His claims by work- charge Annas tried first to establish.”— ing a miracle. . . . The Son of God had The Desire of Ages, pages 698, 699. taken upon Himself man’s nature. He must do as man must do in like circumstances.
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What false accusations did the Therefore He would not work a miracle to rulers of the Jews bring against Je- save Himself the pain and _humiliation that sus? Luke 23:2. man must endure when placed in a similar position.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 728; 729.
- Questioned by Pilate, how did 6. How did Jesus react to Herod’s Christ explain the nature of His king- many questions? Luke 23:9. Compare dom? What historic pronouncement Isa. 53:7. did Pilate make to the Jews? John 18:33-38. NoTE.—”Herod was irritated by this si- lence. It seemed to indicate utter indiffer- ance to his authority. To the vain and NoTE.—”These words from a heathen pompous king, open rebuke would have judge were a scathing rebuke to the perfidy been less offensive than to be thus ignored. and falsehood of the rulers of Israel who Again he angrily threatened Jesus, who still were accusing the Saviour.”—The Desire remained unmoved and silent. of Ages, page 727. “The mission of Christ in this world was
- In desperation, what charges did not to gratify idle curiosity. He came to heal the brokenhearted. Could He have the chief priests hurl at Jesus? At the spoken any word to heal the bruises of sin- mention of Galilee, how did Pilate sick souls, He would not have kept silent. seek to avoid responsibility? Luke But He had no words for those who would 23:5-7. but trample the truth under their unholy feet. “Christ might have spoken words to Herod that would have pierced the ears of NOTE.—”If Jesus were a Galilean, it the hardened king. He might have stricken would be a graceful courtesy to send Him him with fear and trembling by laying be- to be tried, as a Galilean, before His own fore him the full iniquity of his life, and prince, and would perhaps efface the grudge the horror of his approaching doom. But [ 34 1 Christ’s silence was the severest rebuke that He could have given. Herod had re- jected the truth spoken to him by the greatest of the prophets, and no other mes- sage was he to receive. Not a word had the Majesty of heaven for him. That ear that had ever been open to human woe, had no room for Herod’s commands. Those eyes that had ever rested upon the penitent sin- ner in pitying, forgiving love had no look to bestow upon Herod. Those lips that had uttered the most impressive truth, that in tones of tenderest entreaty had pleaded with the most sinful and the most degraded, were closed to the haughty king who felt no need of a Saviour.”—The Desire of Ages, page 730. THE MOST IMPORTAN QUESTION COMES TO EVERY MAN:
- Enraged by the silence of Jesus, 4 .„.,,, “WHAT SHALL I DO WITH JESUS?” to what treatment did Herod subject Him? Luke 23:11. scourged to pacify His accusers. He would sacrifice justice and principle, in order to compromise with the mob. This placed him at a disadvantage. The crowd presumed NOTE.—”The Roman soldiers joined in upon his indecision, and clamored the more this abuse. All that these wicked, corrupt for the life of the prisoner. If at the first soldiers, helped on by Herod and the Jew- Pilate had stood firm, refusing to condemn ish dignitaries, could instigate was heaped a man whom he found guiltless, he would upon the Saviour. Yet His divine patience have broken the fatal chain that was to failed not. . . . Herod was convicted. The bind him in remorse and guilt as long as’ he last rays of merciful light were shining lived. . . . His wavering and indecision upon his sin-hardened heart. He felt that proved his ruin.”—The Desire of Ages, this was no common man; for divinity had pages 731, 732. flashed through humanity. At the very time when Christ was encompassed by 9. To Pilate’s offer, of a choice be- mockers, adulterers, and murderers, Herod felt that he was beholding a God upon His tween Christ and Barabbas, what did throne. the people say? Matt. 27:15-18, 20; “Hardened as he was, Herod dared not Mark 15:6-11. ratify the condemnation of Christ. He wished to relieve himself of the terrible responsibility, and he sent Jesus back to the Roman judgment hall.”—The Desire of NoTE.—”Pilate now sent for Barabbas to Ages, page 731. be brought into the court. He then pre- sented the two prisoners side by side, and Before Pilate the Second Time pointing to the Saviour he said in a solemn voice of entreaty, ‘Behold the Man I’ . . . “There stood the Son of God, wearing
- How did Pilate report the find- the robe of mockery and the crown, of ings of Herod and himself regarding thorns. Stripped to the waist, His, back Jesus? What did he propose to do showed the long, cruel stripes, from which with the prisoner? Luke 23:13-16. the blood flowed freely. His face was stained with blood, and bore the marks of exhaustion and pain. . . . Every feature ex- pressed gentleness and resignation and the NoTE.—”Here Pilate showed his weak- tenderest pity for His cruel foes. . . . Every ness. He had declared that Jesus was inno- line of the countenace of Barabbas– pro- cent, yet he was willing for Him to be claimed him the hardened’ ruffian ‘that he [ 85 ] was. The contrast spoke to every be- 12. By what act did Pilate seek to holder. . . . Even the priests and rulers free himself of responsibility for the were convicted that He [Jesus] was all crucifixion of our Lord? Man. 27:24. that He claimed to be.”—The Desire of Ages, page 735.
- As they insisted on their choice NoTE.—”Pilate yielded to the demands of of Barabbas, what vital question did the mob. Rather than risk losing his posi- Pilate raise? What was their answer? tion, he delivered Jesus up to be crucified. Matt. 27:22. But in spite of his precautions, the very thing that he dreaded afterward came upon him. His honors were stripped from him, he was cast down from his high office, and, NOTE.—”What shall I do with Jesus who stung by remorse and wounded pride, not is called Christ?” (R.S.V.) Pilate had to long after the crucifixion he ended his own do something with Him. The Jews could life. So all who compromise with sin will not escape the answer to that question. gain only sorrow and ruin.”—The Desire of Everyone must answer the question. No Ages, page 738. other decision goes so deep down into life and so far out into eternity. 13. As Pilate put forth a final effort to release Jesus, what question of loy-
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Overridden by the clamor of alty to Caesar was raised by the Jews? the mob, to what unjust punishment In rejecting Christ, what fateful choice did Pilate subject the Saviour? Luke did they make? John 19:12-15. 23:22; John 19:1-3; Mark 15:15-20.
NorE.—"Thus by choosing a heathen Nogg.—"The unhappy sufferer was pub- ruler, the Jewish nation had withdrawn licly stripped, was tied by the hands in a from the theocracy. They had rejected God bent position to a pillar, and then, on the as their king. Henceforth they had no de- tense quivering nerves of the naked back, liverer. They had no king but Ceasar. To the blows were inflicted with leathern this the priests and teachers had led the thongs, weighted with jagged edges of bone people. For this, with the fearful results and lead. . : . It was a punishment so that followed, they were responsible. A hideous that, under its lacerating agony, the nation's sin and a nation's ruin were due victim generally fainted, often died."— to the religious leaders."—The Desire of Farrar, The Life of Christ, page 624. Ages, pages 737, 738. Lesson 11, for.December 15, 1956 Ca Iva ry
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 27:31-53; Mark 15:20-38; Luke 23:26-49; John 19: 16-30. MEMORY VERSE: “He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” Isa. 53:5. STUDY HELPS: “The Desire of Ages,” pages 741-764; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” volume 5; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of No- vember 29.
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DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ reading from Study Helps Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ assignment. 0 Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Thursday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 8-11. ❑ Helps assignment. Wednesday: Questions 12, 13; start Friday: Review. 0
Lesson Outline: 7. Saved on the cross. Luke 23:43. 8. Jesus provides for His mother. I. The Crucifixion John 19:25-27. 1. Jesus nailed to the cross. Mark I11. It Is Finished 15:22, 25, 27; Luke 23:33. 9. Supernatural darkness. Matt. 2. Jesus prays for His enemies. Luke 27:45. 23:34. 10. Bearing the sins of the world. 3. The inscription. John 19:19-22. Matt. 27:46, 47.
- On the Cross
11. The supreme sacrifice. John
19:28-30; Luke 23:46.
- Fulfilling scriptures. Matt. 27:34, 35; John 19:23, 24; Ps. 22:18; IV. Type Meets Antitype 69:21. 12. Type fulfilled. Ex. 12:6, margin;
- Jesus reviled and mocked. Matt. Matt. 27:46, 50. 27:39-44; Ps. 22:8. 13. Inner veil rent. Mark 15:37, 38;
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The penitent thief. Luke 23:39-42. Matt. 27:50, 51.
THE LESSON The Crucifixion 2. What prayer did the Saviour of- fer for His enemies? Luke 23:34.
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Where was Jesus crucified, and at what hour? Who were crucified with Him? Mark 15:22, 25, 27; Luke 23:33. NoTE.-“Racked by the extremest pain, and covered with every shame which men were wont to heap on the greatest crimi- nals; forsaken and denied by His disciples; NoTE.-“Arriving at the place of execu- no sigh escaped His lips, no cry of agony, tion, the prisoners were bound to the instru- no bitter or faltering word; only a prayer ments of torture. . . . As soon as Jesus was nailed to the cross, it was lifted by strong for the forgiveness of His enemies. They men, and with great violence thrust into the had acted in blindness, under the impulse of place prepared for it. This caused the most religious and political fanaticism. . . . His intense agony to the Son of God.”-The prayer that His heavenly Father would Desire of Ages, pages 744, 745. pardon them was only a last utterance of “This punishment was deemed the most the love of which He had been the embodi- disgraceful and ignominious that was prac- ment and expression through life.”-Geikie, ticed among the Romans. It was the way The Life of Christ (New York, John B. in which slaves, robbers, and the most no- Alden, 1889), p. 780. torious and abandoned wretches were com- monly put to death. . . . As it was the 3. What protest did the chief priests most ignominious punishment known, so it make concerning the inscription Pi- was the most painful.”-Barnes, Notes on late placed on the cross? How did the Gospels, vol. 1, p. 363. Pilate reply? John 19:19-22. 137 7 NorE.—”In Pilate’s court they had cried, `Crucify Him !”We have no king but Caesar.’ . . . They had declared that who- ever should acknowledge any other king was a traitor. Pilate wrote out the senti- ment they had expressed. . . The inscrip- tion was a virtual acknowledgment of the allegiance of the Jews to the Roman power. It declared that whoever might claim to be the King of Israel, would be judged by them worthy of death. . . . In the provi- dence of God, it was to awaken thought, and investigation of the Scriptures. . . . Thousands of people from all lands were then at Jerusalem, and the inscription de- IN THE SHADOW claring Jesus of Nazareth the Messiah would OF THE CROSS WE SEE come to their notice.”—The Desire of Ages, OUR NEED AND THE EXCEEDING SINFULNESS OF pages 745, 746. OUR LIVES.
On the Cross - When offered the customary stu- convicton, what appeal did the dying pefying potion, what did Jesus do? thief make? Luke 23:39-42. How were His garments divided, and what scriptures were thus fulfilled? Matt. 27:34, 35; John 19:23, 24; Ps. NorE.—”He [the thief] calls to mind all 22:18; 69:21. he has heard of Jesus, how He has healed the sick and pardoned sin. . . . The Holy Spirit illuminates his mind, and little by little the chain of evidence is joined to- NorE.—”He [Jesus] would receive noth- gether. In Jesus, bruised, mocked, and ing that could becloud His mind. His faith hanging upon the cross, he sees the Lamb must keep fast hold upon God. This was of God, that taketh away the sin of the His only strength. To becloud His senses world. Hope is mingled with anguish in would give Satan an advantage.”—The De- his voice as the helpless, dying soul casts sire of Ages, page 746. himself upon a dying Saviour.”—The De- sire of Ages, page 750.
- To what reviling and mocking was the Son of God subjected? How 7. In that darkest hour, what were these mockers fulfilling proph- blessed assurance was given to the ecy? Matt. 27:39-44; Ps. 22:8. penitent thief? Luke 23:43.
NorE.—”Although spoken in mockery, NOTE.—”And Jesus said to him, ‘Verily these words led men to search the Scriptures to you I am saying today, with Me you as they had never done before. Wise men shall be in the paradise.’“—Concordant Ver- heard, searched, pondered, and prayed. sion of the Sacred Scriptures. There were those who never rested until, by “Christ did not promise that the thief comparing scripture with scripture, they should be with Him in Paradise that day. saw the meaning of Christ’s mission. Never He Himself did not go that day to Para- before was there such a general knowledge dise. He slept in the tomb, and on the of Jesus as when He hung upon the cross.” morning of the resurrection He said, am —The Desire of Ages, page 749. not yet ascended to My Father.’ . . . But on the day of the crucifixion, the day of
- How did one of the thieves ad- apparent defeat and darkness, the promise monish his associate? Under deep was given. ‘Today’ while dying upon the 88 cross as a malefactor, Christ assures the festation of His displeasure because of iniq- poor sinner, Thou shalt be with Me in Par- uity, filled the soul of His Son with con- adise.”—The Desire of Ages, page 751. sternation. . . . The withdrawal of the divine countenance . . . in this hour of su-
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What devoted women are noted preme anguish, pierced His heart with a as standing at the foot of the cross? sorrow that can never be fully understood With what tender words did Jesus by man. . . . He feared that sin was so of- commit His widowed mother to the fensive to God that their separation was to be eternal. Christ felt the anguish which care of the beloved disciple? John 19: the sinner will feel when mercy shall no 25-27. longer plead for the guilty race.”—The De- sire of Ages, page 753.
11. What response was made to the NoTE.—"O pitiful, loving Saviour; amid all His physical pain and mental anguish, Saviour's expression of thirst? What He had a thoughtful care for His mother! were His last words as He died upon . . . The perfect example of Christ's filial the cross? John 19:28-30; Luke 23:46. love shines forth with undimmed luster from the mist of ages. . . . Those who fol- low Christ will feel that it is a part of their religion to respect and provide for NoTE.—"Christ did not yield up His life their parents. From the heart where His till He had accomplished the work which love is cherished, father and mother will He came to do, and with His parting never fail of receiving thoughtful care and breath He exclaimed, 'It is finished.' John tender sympathy."—The Desire of Ages, 19:30. The battle had been won. . . . Sa- page 752. tan was defeated, and knew that his king- It Is Finished dom was lost." "Well, then, might the angels rejoice as they looked upon the Saviour's cross; for -
From the sixth hour to the ninth, though they did not then understand all, what supernatural phenomenon is re- they knew that the destruction of sin and corded? Matt. 27:45. Satan was forever made certain, that the redemption of man was assured, and that the universe was made eternally secure.”— The Desire of Ages,.pages 758, 764. NorE.—”Inanimate nature expressed sym- pathy with its insulted and dying Author. The sun refused to look upon the awful Type Meets Antitype scene. . . . In the thick darkness, God veiled the last human agony of His Son. 12. How precisely was type ful- • . A nameless terror held the throng filled as to the time of our Lord’s that was gathered about the cross. . . . death? Ex. 12:6, margin; Matt. 27: Priests, rulers, scribes, executioners, and 46, 50. the mob, all thought that their time of retribution had come.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 753, 754.
- What anguished cry came from NOTE.—”The great paschal Lamb, Jesus, died at the very hour the lamb was to be the lips of the Saviour? How did offered, between the evenings, about three some misunderstand? Matt. 27:46, 47. o’clock in the afternoon.”—F. C. Gilbert, Compare Ps. 22:1; Isa. 53:5. Practical Lessons From the Experiences of Israel, page 234. “These types were fulfilled, not only as to the event, but as to the time. On the N0TE.—”The guilt of every descendant of fourteenth day of the first Jewish month, Adam was pressing upon His heart. The the very day and month on which for wrath of God against sin, the terrible mani- fifteen long centuries, the Passover lamb [ 39 ] had been slain, Christ, having eaten the NOTE.-“With a rending noise the inner Passover with His disciples, instituted that veil of the temple is torn from top to bot- feast which was to commemorate His own tom by an unseen hand, throwing open to death as ‘the Lamb of God which taketh the gaze of the multitude a place once away the sin of the world.’ That same filled with the presence of God. . . . The night He was taken by wicked hands, to be most holy place of the earthly sanctuary is crucified and slain.”-The Great Contro- no longer sacred. versy, page 399. “All is terror and confusion. The priest is about to slay the victim; but the knife
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At the death of Christ, what drops from his nerveless hand, and the lamb supernatural happening signified the escapes. Type has met antitype in the end of the typical services in the death of God’s Son. . . . Henceforth the Saviour was to officiate as priest and advo- earthly sanctuary? Mark 15:37, 38; cate in the heaven of heavens.”-The Desire Matt. 27:50, 51. of Ages, page 757.
Lesson 12, for December 22, 1956 The Burial and Resurrection of Jesus LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 27:57 to 28:15; Mark 15:42 to 16:11; Luke 23:50 to 24:12; John 19:31 to 20:18. MEMORY VERSE: "I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death." Rev. 1:18. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 769-794; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 5; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of De- cember 6. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Start reading Study Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ Helps assignment. 0 Monday: Questions 5-8. ❑ Thursday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 9-13. ❑ Helps assignment. 0 Friday: Review.
Lesson Outline:
I. The Burial of Jesus 1. Jewish leaders’ request. John 7. A lying report. Matt. 28:11-15. 19:31, 32. 8. The wave sheaf. Lev. 23:10, 11; 2. The pierced side. John 19:33-37; 1 Cor. 15:20; Matt. 27:52, 53. Num. 9:12 ; Ps. 34:20; Zech. I11. The Empty Tomb 12:10. 3. In Joseph’s new tomb. Matt. 9. First at the tomb. John 20:1, 2. 27:57-60; Mark 15:42-46; 10. The other women. Mark 16:1-8; John 19:38-42. Luke 24:1-8. 4. The guarded tomb. Matt. 27:62-66. 11. Peter and John at the tomb. John 5. Sabbath rest. Luke 23:54-56. 20:3-10. 12. Christ appears first to Mary Mag-
- The Resurrection of Jesus
dalene. John 20:11-15.
- Jesus rises the third day. Matt. 13. Christ appears to the women. 28:1-4. Matt. 28:9, 10; Luke 24:10, 11. 40 THE LESSON The Burial of Jesus condemned, and persons put to death for this offense were consigned to a burial
- As the Sabbath drew near, what ground especially provided for such crimi- request did the Jewish leaders make nals. . . . of Pilate? What was done to the two “In this emergency, Joseph of Arima- thieves? John 19:31, 32. thea and Nicodemus came to the help of the disciples. Both these men were mem- bers of the Sanhedrin, and were acquainted with Pilate. Both were men of wealth and NOTE.—”The priests and rulers were not influence. They were determined that the at rest. . . . They dreaded the dead Christ body of Jesus should have an honorable more, far more, than they had ever feared burial.”—The Desire of Ages, page 773. the living Christ. They dreaded to have the attention of the people directed any 4. Recalling Jesus’ prediction of further to the events attending His cruci- His resurrection, what request did the fixion. They feared the results of that day’s Jewish leaders make of Pilate? What work. Not on any account would they measures were taken to guard the have had His body remain on the cross tomb? Matt. 27:62-66. during the Sabbath.”—The Desire of Ages, page 771.
- What did the soldiers refrain from doing to Jesus? Why? To make NOTE.—”He was adjudged to be dead by the Jews themselves. . . . He was bur- sure of His death, what did one sol- ied alone; the place of His sepulcher was dier do? How were the Scriptures made sure—expressly to prevent His being fulfilled? John 19:33-37; Num. 9:12; removed; and they placed around Him a Ps. 34:20; Zech. 12:10. guard, in their own judgment large enough to prevent His being taken away by force or strength. His very enemies, therefore, took every possible precaution to place His NOTE.—”It was not the spear thrust, it resurrection beyond the possibility of sus- was not the pain of the cross, that caused picion of fraud and imposture, and those the death of Jesus. That cry, uttered ‘with precautions were the very means of furnish- a loud voice,’ . . . at the moment of death, ing the most striking proof that His death, the stream of blood and water that flowed burial, and resurrection were not imposi- from His side, declared that He died of a tions, but most affecting, awful, and yet broken heart. His heart was broken by cheering realities.”—Barnes, Notes on the mental anguish. He was slain by the sin of Gospels, vol. 1, p. 371. the world.”—The Desire of Ages, page 772. “It was the sense of sin, bringing the 5. Having observed the place of Father’s wrath upon Him as man’s substi- His burial, what did certain devoted tute, that made the cup He drank so bit- women do? How precisely is the Sab- ter, and broke the heart of the Son of God.” bath identified? Luke 23:54-56. —Ibid., p. 753.
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Who secured Pilate’s permission to give Jesus an honorable burial? NoTE.—”And thus the Redeemer was left What assistance was rendered by Nic- —pale, but victorious—to sleep through the odemus? How was prophecy again Sabbath.”—Geikie, The Life of Christ (New fulfilled? Matt. 27:57-60; Mark 15: York, John B. Alden, 1889), p. 791. 42-46; John 19:38-42. “His work completed, His hands folded in peace, He rested through the sacred hours of the Sabbath day. In the beginning the Father and the Son had rested upon NoTE.—”Treason against the Roman gov- the Sabbath after Their work of creation. ernment was the crime for which Jesus was . . . Now Jesus rested from the work of [ 41 ] redemption; and though there was grief among those who loved Him on earth, yet there was joy in heaven. . . . When there shall be a ‘restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world began’ (Acts 3:21), the creation Sabbath, the day on which Jesus lay at rest in Joseph’s tomb, will still be a day of rest and rejoicing.”— The Desire of Ages, pages 769, 770. See Isaiah 66:22, 23.
The Resurrection of Jesus
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How long did Jesus remain in the tomb? What effect did the angel have upon the Roman guard? Matt. WHY DO WE SORROW AND MOURN WHEN WE HAVE A RISEN SAVIOUR 28:1-4. PLEADING FOR US IN HEAVEN?
8. How was the type of the sheaf NoTE.—"An earthquake marked the hour of the first fruits fulfilled as to time when Christ laid down His life, and another and event? What special group bore earthquake marked the moment when He witness of the resurrection to many? took it up in triumph. He who had van- Lev. 23:10, 11; 1 Cor. 15:20; Matt. quished death and the grave came forth 27:52, 53. from the tomb with the tread of a con- queror, amid the reeling of the earth, the flashing of lightning, and the roaring of thunder. When He shall come to the earth NoTE.—"Christ arose from the dead as again, He will shake 'not the earth only, the first fruits of those that slept. He was but also heaven.' . . . Mountains piled the antitype of the wave sheaf, and His upon mountains over His sepulcher could resurrection took place on the very day not have prevented Him from coming when the wave sheaf was to be presented forth."—The Desire of Ages, pages 780, 781. before the Lord. . . . The sheaf dedicated to God represented the harvest. . . . His - What lying report did the Jew- resurrection is the type and pledge of the ish leaders bribe the soldiers to give? resurrection of all the righteous dead. . . . Matt. 28:11-15. As Christ arose, He brought from the grave a multitude of captives. . . . They were those who had been colaborers with God, and who at the cost of their lives had borne NoTE.—”The chief priests and rulers sent testimony to the truth. . . . They ascended for them to be brought first into their with Him as trophies of His victory over presence. A strange appearance those sol- death and the grave.”—The Desire of Ages,” diers presented. Trembling with fear, their pages 785, 786. faces colorless, they bore testimony to the “He presents to God the wave sheaf, resurrection of Christ. The soldiers told all, those raised with Him as representatives of just as they had seen it; they had not had that great multitude who shall come forth time to think or speak anything but the from the grave at His second coming.”— truth. . . . They came in before the priests Ibid., p. 834. burdened with a most startling message of truth; they went out with a burden of The Empty Tomb money, and on their tongues a lying report which had been framed for them by the 9. In the early morning of the first priests.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 781, day of the week, who was the first to
- arrive at the tomb? John 20:1, 2. [42 1 10. What problem concerned the NOTE.—”In the garden, Mary had stood other women as they approached the weeping, when Jesus was close beside her. sepulcher? What joyful message did Her eyes were so blinded by tears that she two angels give them for the eleven? did not discern Him. And the hearts of the disciples were so full of grief that they did Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-8. not believe the angels’ message or the words of Christ Himself. “How many are still doing what these disciples did . . . To how many might the NoTE.—” ‘Tell His disciples and Peter,’ Saviour’s words be spoken, ‘Why weepest the angels said. . . . His shameful denial thou? Whom seekest thou?’ He is close of the Lord, and the Saviour’s look of love beside them, but their tear-blinded eyes do and anguish, were ever before him. . . . To not discern Him. He speaks to them, but him the assurance is given that his repent- they do not understand. . . . He lives to ance is accepted and his sin forgiven. He is make intercession for us. Grasp this hope, mentioned by name.”—The Desire of Ages, and it will hold the soul like a sure, tried page 793. anchor. Believe, and thou shalt see the glory of God.”—The Desire of Ages, page
- On hearing Mary Magdalene’s 794. report, what did Peter and John im- mediately do? What did they note 13. What homage did our Lord concerning the graveclothes? John 20: later accept from the group of 3-10. women? For the third time what message was sent to the disciples? How did they regard the women’s story? Matt. 28:9, 10; Luke 24:10, 11. NOTE .—”Here was testimony that He had risen. The graveclothes were not thrown heedlessly aside, but carefully folded, each in a place by itself. . . . It was the Sav- NoTE.—”Jesus refused to receive the iour’s hand that folded each, and laid it in homage of His people until He had the its place. In His sight who guides alike the assurance that His sacrifice was accepted by star and the atom, there is nothing unim- the Father. He ascended to the heavenly portant. Order and perfection are seen in courts, and from God Himself heard the all His work.”—The Desire of Ages, page assurance that His atonement for the sins of
- men had been ample, that through His blood all might gain eternal life. The Fa-
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As the weeping Mary looked ther ratified the covenant made with Christ, into the sepulcher, what did she see that He would receive repentant and obe- and hear? What question was ad- dient men, and would love them even as dressed to her by the one she supposed He loves His Son. . . . All power in heaven to be the gardener? How did she ex- and on earth was given to the Prince of life, and He returned to His followers in a plain her sorrow? John 20:11-15. world of sin, that He might impart to them of His power and glory.”—The Desire of Ages, page 790.
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.
[ 43]Lesson 13, for December 29, 1956
Forty Days of Fellowship Following Christ’s Passion
LESSON SCRIPTURES: Matt. 28:16-20; Mark 16:12-20; Luke 24:13-53; John 20:19- 31; 21:1-26; Acts 1:2-11. MEMORY VERSE: “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye there- fore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatso- ever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Matt. 28:18-20. STUDY HELPS: “The Desire of Ages,” pages 795-835; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” volume 5; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of De- cember 13.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read Study Helps assign- Monday: Questions 4-6. ❑ ment. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 7-10. ❑ Friday: Review. ❑
Lesson Outline:
I. The Walk to Emmaus I11. Other Appearances 1. Jesus questions two disciples. Luke 7. Doubting Thomas. John 20:24-28. 24:13-24. 8. By the sea. John 21:1-6, 11. 2. Jesus instructs them. Luke 9. The great Provider. John 21:7-14. 24:25-27. 10. Peter’s confession and commission. 3. The disciples recognize Him. Luke John 21:15-19. 24:28-32. IV. Christ’s Ministry Draws to a Close .
- In the Upper Room
11. The divine commission. Matt.
- Report to the disciples. Luke 28:16-20; 1 Cor. 15:6. 24:33-36; John 20:19. 12. Power for witnessing. Luke
- Jesus appears to the disciples. Luke 24:49; Mark 16:17, 18; Acts 24:37-43. 1:4, 5, 8.
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Jesus expounds the prophecies. 13. Jesus returns to heaven. Luke Luke 24:44-48; John 20:21-23. 24:50-53; Acts 1:3, 9-11.
THE LESSONThe Walk to Emmaus 2. What did the Stranger indicate
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As Jesus joined two disciples on to be the cause of their disappoint- the way to Emmaus, what inquiry did ment? How did He proceed to give He make? How did they explain the them convincing proof of. Christ’s cause of their sadness? Luke 24:13-24. Messiahship? Luke 24:25-27. 44 NOTE.—”In teaching these disciples, Je- sus showed the importance of the Old Tes- tament as a witness to His mission. Many professed Christians now discard the Old Testament, claiming that it is no longer of any use. But such is not Christ’s teaching. So highly did He value it that at one time He said, ‘If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.’ . . . “It is the light from the prophetic past that brings out the life of Christ and the teachings of the New Testament with clear- ness and beauty. The miracles of Christ are a proof of His divinity; but a stronger proof that He is the world’s Redeemer is found in comparing the prophecies of the CHRIST’S MESSAGE IS THE SAME AFTER NINE- Old Testament with the history of the TEEN HUNDRED YEARS: “GO,…TEACH New.”—The Desire of Ages, page 799. BAPTIZING THEM:..,I AM WITH YOU ALWAY.”
- How did Christ reveal Himself to these two disciples? As He vanished glorified body their identity will be per- from their presence, what did they fectly preserved. Then shall we know even recall? Luke-24:28-32. as also we are known. . . . In the face ra- diant with the light shining from the face of Jesus, we shall recognize the lineaments of those we love.”—The Desire of Ages, NorE.—”Had the disciples failed to press page 804. the invitation, they would not have known that their traveling companion was the risen 5. What effect did the appearance Lord. Christ never forces His company of their risen Lord have upon the dis- upon anyone. He interests Himself in those ciples? What physical evidences did who need Him. Gladly will He enter the humblest home, and cheer the lowliest He giVe? Luke 24:37-43. heart. But if men are too indifferent to think of the heavenly Guest, or ask Him to abide with them, He passes on. Thus many meet with greats.”—The os Desire of Ages, NorE.—”Nothing could be more amazing page 800. than the result of such a sight of Him thus glorified, on the apostles. From despair they In the Upper Room passed at once to triumphant confidence— from incapacity to believe that the Messiah
- Realizing that they had seen Je- could have suffered as He had done to the sus, where did Cleopas and his com- most fervent and exulting faith in Him as panion go? As they were recounting the Messiah, on account of these very suf- their experience, who suddenly. ap- ferings. They became, suddenly, men into whom the very spirit of Christ seemed to peared? Luke 24:33-36; John 20:19. have passed; their spiritual nature had been wholly changed, and they were bound to Him, henceforth, with a deathless, and Nom—”The countenance of the risen ecstatic devotion.”—Geikie, The Life of Saviour, His manner, His speech, were all Christ (New York, John B. Alden, 1889), to His disciples. As Jesus arose p. 804. from the dead, so .those- who sleep in Him 6. Referring to the prophecies re- are to rise again. We shall know our friends, even as the disciples knew Jesus. lating to His sufferings, death, and They may have been deformed, diseased, or resurrection, what solemn responsibil- disfigured, in this mortal life, and they rise ity did Jesus place upon the disciples? in perfect -health and symmetry; yet in the Luke 24:44-48; John 20:21-23. f46] NOTE.—” Whosesoever sins ye remit,’ said NOTE.—”Jesus had a purpose in bidding Christ, ‘they are remitted; . . . and whose- them cast their net on the right side of the soever sins ye retain, they are retained.’ . . . ship. On that side He stood upon the Toward those who fall into sin, the church shore. That was the side of faith. If they has a duty, to warn, to instruct, and if pos- labored in connection with Him,—His di- sible to restore. . . . Declare what God vine power combining with their human has said in regard to lying, Sabbathbreak- effort,—they could not fail of success.”— ing, stealing, idolatry, and every other evil. The Desire of Ages, page 811. `They which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.’ . . . If they persist 9. Recognizing his Master, what in sin, the judgment you have declared from did Peter do? How was the morning God’s word is pronounced upon them in meal provided? John 21:7-14. heaven. In choosing to sin, they disown Christ; the church must show that she does not sanction their deeds, or she herself dis- honors her Lord. . . . She must deal with NoTE.—”Though they were to be de- it as God directs, and her action is ratified prived of His personal companionship, and in heaven. . . . Let the shepherds have a of the means of support by their former tender care for the flock of the Lord’s pas- employment, the risen Saviour would still ture. Let them speak to the erring of the have a care for them. While they were do- forgiving mercy of the Saviour. Let them ing His work, He would provide for their encourage the sinner to repent, and believe needs.”—The Desire of Ages, page 811. in Him who can pardon. . . . Let the re- pentance of the sinner be accepted by the 10. What thrice-repeated answer church with grateful hearts. . . . Such a did Peter give when he was questioned remission is ratified in heaven.”—The De- by Jesus? On each occasion, what sire of Ages, pages 805, 806. charge was given him? How did his Lord reveal the last full measure of Other Appearances devotion that Peter would give? John
- How emphatically did Thomas 21:15-19. express his doubts? Appearing eight days later when Thomas was present, what did Jesus invite him to do? What NoTE.—”Jesus thus made known to Pe- joyful acknowledgment did Thomas ter the very manner of his death; He even make? John 20:24-28. foretold the stretching forth of his hands upon the cross. Again He bade His disci- ple, ‘Follow Me.’ . . . Now He was pre- pared to share in his Lord’s mission of sac- NOTE.—”Many who, like Thomas, wait rifice. When at last brought to the cross, he for all cause of doubt to be removed, will was, at his own request, crucified with his never realize their desire. They gradually head downward. He thought it too great become confirmed in unbelief. Those who an honor to suffer in the same way as his educate themselves to look on the dark Master did.”—The Desire of Ages, pages side, and murmur and complain, know not 815, 816. what they do. They are sowing the seeds of doubt, and they will have a harvest of Christ’s Ministry Draws to doubt to reap. At a time when faith and confidence are most essential, many will a Close thus find themselves powerless to hope and believe.”—The Desire of Ages, page 808. 11. How many believers met with their Lord at the appointed place in
- After seven of the disciples had Galilee? What commission was given spent a fruitless night fishing, what them? Matt. 28:16-20; 1 Cor. 15:6. instructions were given by a watcher on the shore? What remarkable re- sults followed obedience? John 21: NoTE.—”The Saviour’s commission to the 1-6, 11. disciples included all the believers. It in- [46 3 cludes all believers in Christ to the end of Pentecost they met together, and put away time. It is a fatal mistake to suppose that all differences. They were of one accord. the work of saving souls depends alone on They believed Christ’s promise that the the ordained minister. . . . For this work blessing would be given, and they prayed the church was established, and all who in faith. . . . The gospel was to be carried take upon themselves its sacred vows are to the uttermost parts of the earth, and thereby pledged to be co-workers with they claimed the endowment of power that Christ.”-The Desire of Ages, page 822. Christ had promised. Then it was that the Holy Spirit was poured out, and thousands
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What pledge of power was were converted in a day. So it may be given for carrying out the commis- now.”-The Desire of Ages, page 827. sion? How was this promise con- firmed? Luke 24:49; Mark 16:17, 18; 13. As the Lord gave His final in- Acts 1:4, 5, 8. struction on Olivet, what glorious event did the apostles witness? What blessed promise, given by two angels, NoTE.-“These disciples prepared them- cheered their hearts? Luke 24:50-53; selves for their work. Before the Day of Acts 1:3, 9-11.
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING December 29, 1956 Southern African Division Again we have the opportunity of sending aid to the great Southern African Division, and this time it is for the worthy cause of providing homes for African workers. Many of our African young people are go- ing out as "foreign missionaries" to other tribes. In order to enable these workers to do the most effective work and to make their homes models of Christian homes in the communities where they labor, we need to provide them with modest but substantial houses in which to live. That is the call that comes to us from Africa this quarter. Will you help answer the call? LESSONS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER, 1957 Sabbath-school members who have failed to receive a senior Lesson Quarterly for the first quarter of 1957 will be helped by the following outline in studying the first lesson. The lessons are on "Christian Virtues," and the first lesson is entitled "Goodness and Nobility." The Memory Verse is Matt. 5:16. The texts to be studied are: Ques. 1 Luke 18:18, 19. Ques. 8. Gal. 5:22, 23. Ques. 2. Ex. 33 :19 ; 34:6, 7. Ques. 9. 1 Peter :15, 16; Matt. Ques. 3. Acts 10:38. 5:48; Eph. 4:13. Ques. 4. Luke 4:18, 19. Ques. 10. Matt. 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12. Ques. 5. Ps. 14:2, 3. Ques. 11. Titus 2:11-14. Ques. 6. Rom. 2:4. Ques. 12. Heb. 13:20, 21. Ques. 7. Ps. 107:9; Matt. 5:6. Ques. 13. Matt. 25:21. [47 ]UNION MISSION POPULATION CHURCHES CH. MEN. 33. MEN. CONGO 15,976,415 249 39,656 116,405 SOUTHERN AFRICAN EAST AFRICAN 18,771,489 221 38.608 65,739 SOUTH AFRICAN 13,829,542 176 14,349 72,880 SOUTHEAST AFRICAN 2,413,000 69 13,373 16,436
DIVISION ZAMBESI 4,633,083 107 22,093 49,020 DIVISION TOTALS 55,623,529 822 128,079 269,980 ••• ...464, 01. ••••6,,„. mme.06. 11141,0••••••- MA. C UGANDA li L ALIEN KENYA • OUSWAI STANLETVILLE I" L EDWARDP • • 'UMW" KISUMU FR. EQUATORIAL ••• DU • KARU1A N— • NAIR0111 AFRICA L KIVU ww,) • iliku., WANDA URUND1, CONGO UNION MISSION • ••••• LEOPOLDVILLE EAST AFRICAN ••••••••••• UNION MISSION NTIKA • BELGIAN CONGO /6*fti ••• • CNIMPEMPE • TANGANYIKA 11••••••• ...ausorn4voe i SP° ANGOLA •5.._• LUWAY.I• Southern Europarrn Division - • ••NORTHERN •• .• MWAMI TASA SOUTHEAST AFRICAN I RHODESIA Nusc,Fu.:••• UNION MISSION •• 4T C A1E MIAMUL: <4. • POO • •Mo • Mereir ••••• . ch;. 0 ‘"/ N11: SALSBURY • I • .•-•••• (2 1,h," INTAZUMA•• 600 \O\ SR OH UOTDHE Es A N • SOUTHWEST AFRICA „. •sui.A .Gw w•c:: I SOLUSI • WINDHOEK • Alt> • "1/44v • SHILOH (*. I 17. TRANSVAAL I,T1 • •••• • iBECHUANALAND/ • 4, • PRETORIA J I • JOHANNESBURG • 4, I r. 1 ORANGE • swAILLAND), KIMBERLEY FREE STATE OMNGE RIVER TEITI tillANUEL UTOLAND 4 io I ALU KOIb : J ,. t. SPITA TINZ, coti +V. • CAPE PROVINCE "4 . CAPE TOWN SDN ATLANTIC OCEAN HELDERI INDIAN OCEAN 4•0.„ •