Christian Virtues
Christian Virtues
1957 Quater 1
i LESSO SABBATH sdmoil
7; 'FIRS AirdR, 195
14.144,-r;74p..tt 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
1. Goodness and Nobility 8. Meekness and Humility
2. Faithfulness and dependability 9. Reverence and Worship
3. Temperance and Sobriety 10. Diligence and Industry
4. Liberality and Benevolence 11. Kindness and Sympathy
5. Self-Denial and Sacrifice 12. Justice and Equity
6. Purity and Morality 13. Zeal and Soulsaving
7. Patience and Forbearance
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 247, January-March, 1957. 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 address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses. Copyright, 1956, by Pacific Press Publishing Association
COVER CREDIT: DEVANEY Printed in U.S.A. Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly CHRISTIAN VIRTUES
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
It has been some time since we reviewed The stern “Thou shalt nots” of the Bible, the cardinal principles of Christian living in though important for our counsel, give place a comprehensive way such as is presented here to the injunction of Jesus, “This do, here. The preparation of these lessons was and thou shalt live,” which is applicable motivated by a desire to promote the prac- throughout. The titles of the lessons are tice of those graces and virtues in everyday twofold to give wider scope, if possible, to life by which we bear witness to the world the leading thought of each week’s study. of the faith that sustains our Christian ex- These lessons give opportunity for exten- perience. sive study in the counsel of the spirit of The emphasis has been placed on the prophecy, to which much reference has been active rather than on the passive virtues. made.
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Lesson 1, for January 5, 1957
Goodness and Nobility
MEMORY VERSE: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matt. 5:16. STUDY HELPS: “Testimonies,” vol. 1, pp. 303-310; vol. 5, pp. 532-541; vol. 9, pp. 19-29; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for December 20, 1956.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Read the Study Help. General Introduction and the Wednesday: Ques. 12, 13; read first Study Help. fourth Study Help. Sunday: Lesson Introduction; Thursday: Review first eight ques- Ques. 1-4. tions; learn Memory Verse. Monday: Ques. 5-8; read second Friday: Review last five ques- Study Help. tions; meditate on Key Tuesday: Ques. 9-11; read third Thought.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction 2. Nature of God’s goodness. Ex. 33:19; 34:6, 7. I. The Divine Example 3. Jesus demonstrates God’s goodness. Acts 10:38. 1. God the only source of goodness. 4. Christ’s pattern of service. Luke Luke 18:18. 19. 4:18, 19. [3 1 11. The Effects of Goodness 10. Influence of a godly life. Matt. 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12. 5. Man in his natural state. Ps. 14:2, 3. 11. Character of believers looking for 6. God’s goodness and man’s salvation. Christ’s coming. Titus 2:11-14. Rom. 2:4. 7. Goodness to be desired. Ps. 107:9; IV. The Power for Noble Living and Matt. 5:6. Its Reward 8. Fruits of goodness. Gal. 5:22, 23. 12. God working in man. Heb. 13:20,21. 13. The eternal reward. Matt. 25:21. I11. God’s Ideal for Man Key Thought: 9. Exalted standard for Christian con- duct. 1 Peter 1:15, 16; Matt. 5:48; “True goodness is . . . true greatness.”- Eph. 4 : 13. Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 305.
THE LESSON
Introduction of God as altogether such a one as .itself.
Until we have renounced this, we cannot Without dispute the supreme virtue in understand Him who is love. Only the un- Christian living is godliness, from which selfish heart, the humble and trustful spirit, stems every other virtue in the list of Chris- shall see God as 'merciful and gracious, long- tian graces enjoined on the children of God. suffering, and abundant in goodness and To cultivate all the attributes of a noble truth.' "-The Desire of Ages, page 302. character is to attain the goodness mani- "Righteousness is holiness, likeness to fested in Jesus as He moved among men. God; and 'God is love.' It is conformity to This holy objective is the work of a life- the law of God; for 'all Thy commandments time, and can be realized only in progressive are righteousness;' and 'love is the fulfilling spiritual growth as we daily recognize God's of the law.' Righteousness is love, and love goodness, appropriate His power in over- is the light and the life of God. The coming temptation, and in fellowship and righteousness of God is embodied in Christ. communion with Christ strive to follow the
We receive righteousness by receiving Him." divine pattern. -Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,
page 34.
The Divine Example
3. How did Jesus reveal the char- 1. How did Jesus direct seekers af- acter of God? Acts 10:38. ter virtue to the true source of good- ness? Luke 18:18, 19.
4. To what broad pattern of serv-
ice was He dedicated? Luke 4:18, 19. NoTE.-"The ruler had addressed Christ merely as an honored rabbi, not discerning in Him the Son of God. The Saviour said, `Why callest thou Me good?' . . . God is the The Effects of Goodness one good. If you recognize Me as such, you must receive Me as His Son and representa- 5. What is said of man in his tive."-Christ's Object Lessons, pages 390, natural state? Ps. 14:2, 3. 391. 2. What is the nature of God's goodness? Ex. 33:19, first part; 34:6, NOTE.-"We must behold Christ. It is 7. Compare 1 John 4:8, last part. ignorance of Him that makes men so up-
lifted in their own righteousness. When we
contemplate His purity and excellence, we
shall see our own weakness and poverty and NOTE.-"Selfishness prevents us from be- defects as they really are."-Christ's Object holding God. The self-seeking spirit judges Lessons, page 159.
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6. What part does God’s goodness play in man’s salvation? Rom. 2:4.
NoTE.—”Without the divine working, man could do no good thing. God calls every man to repentance, yet man cannot even repent unless the Holy Spirit works upon his heart. . . . The Saviour is continually drawing men to repentance; they need only to submit to be drawn, and their hearts will be melted in penitence.”—Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 64, 65.
- To be filled with God’s good- ness, how intense must be our desire? Ps. 107:9; Matt. 5:6. 1 arse. JESUSCHRIST IS COMPLETE VIRTUE. WE MAY orzow TO HIS STATURE,.
NOTE.—”As His goodness, His mercy, and His love are dwelt upon, clearer and still “God’s ideal for His children is higher than clearer will be the perception of truth; the highest human thought can reach. . . . higher, holier, the desire for purity of heart “The ideal of Christian character is and clearness of thought.”—Testimonies, Christlikeness. As the Son of man was vol. 8, p. 322. perfect in His life, so His followers are to be perfect in their life.”—The Desire of Ages,
- With what other fruits of the page 311. Spirit is goodness identified? Gal. 5:22, 23. 10. How far-reaching is the in- fluence of a godly life? Matt. 5:16; 1 Peter 2:12. NOTE.—”Those who become new crea- tures in Christ Jesus will bring forth the fruits of the Spirit. . . . The proud and self- assertive become meek and lowly in heart. NOTE.—”The Jews thought to confine the The vain and supercilious become serious benefits of salvation to their own nation; and unobtrusive. The drunken become so- but Christ showed them that salvation is ber, and the profligate pure. The vain cus- like the sunshine. It belongs to the whole toms and fashions of the world are laid world. The religion of the Bible is not to be aside.”—Steps to Christ, pages 6-2T- 63: confined between the covers of a book, nor F14,41..0 ;; 0. within the walls of a church. It is not to be God’s Ideal for Man brought out occasionally for our own bene- fit, and then to be carefully laid aside again.
- How exalted is the standard for It is to sanctify the daily life, to manifest Christian conduct? 1 Peter 1:15, 16; itself in every business transaction and in all Matt. 5:48; Eph. 4:13. our social relations.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 306, 307. 11. How are the believers described NOTE.—The word here translated “con- who look for the Lord’s coming? versation” really means “conduct” or “way Titus 2:11-14. of living.” “By sin the image of God in man has been marred and well-nigh obliterated; it is the work of the gospel to restore that which has No-rt.—The word “peculiar” here has the been lost; and we are to co-operate . • . in connotation of “special” or “set apart.” We this work.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 743. must be different from the world in an at- [6] tractive sort of way, not odd and eccentric heavenly Father; it is trusting God in trial, in an offensive way. in darkness as well as in the light; it is walk- “How many shrink from the purifying ing by faith and not by sight; it is relying process! They are unwilling to live out the on God with unquestioning confidence, and truth, unwilling to appear singular in the resting in His love.”—The Acts of the Apos- eyes of the world. It is this mingling with tles, page 51. the world that destroys our spirituality, pureness, and zeal. Satan’s power is con- 13. What reward is in store for those stantly exercised to stupefy the sensibilities who measure up to the Christian of God’s people, that their consciences may standard? Matt. 25:21. not be sensitive to wrong, and that the sign of distinction between them and the world may be destroyed.”—Testimonies, vol. 1, pp. 274, 275. NOTE.—”Upon the heads of the over- comers, Jesus with His own right hand The Power for Noble Living places the crown of glory. For each there is a crown, bearing his own ‘new name,’ and and its Reward the inscription, ‘Holiness to the Lord.’ . . .
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What noble aim is expressed “Before the ransomed throng is the Holy City. Jesus opens wide the pearly gates, and in the apostolic benediction to the the nations that have kept the truth enter Hebrews? Heb. 13:20, 21. in. There they behold the Paradise of God, the home of Adam in his innocency. Then that voice, richer than any music that ever fell on mortal ear, is heard, saying, ‘Your NorE.—”Holiness is not rapture: it is an conflict is ended.”Come, ye blessed of My entire surrender of the will to God; it is Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for living by every word that proceeds from the you from the foundation of the world.’ “— mouth of God; it is doing the will of our The Great Controversy, page 646.
C ? //'‘6 Lesson 2, for January 12, 1957 Faithfulness and Dependability
MEMORY VERSE: “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.” Luke 16:10. STUDY HELPS: “Testimonies,” vol. 5, pp. 272-285; “The Acts of the Apostles,” pages 546-556; “Christ’s Object Lessons,” pages 325-365; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for December 27, 1956.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Read the In- Study Help. troduction; survey lesson, fol- Wednesday: Ques 13-15; read lowing outline. fourth Study Help. Sunday: Ques. 1-4; read first Thursday: Review Ques. 1-9; Study Help. learn Memory Verse. Monday: Ques. 5-9; read second Friday: Review Ques. 10-15; Study Help. meditate on Key Thought. Tuesday: Ques. 10-12; read third
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Lesson Outline: Fidelity in Life’s Routines Introduction 10. Faithfulness in every responsibility. I. Faithfulness a Divine Attribute Luke 16:10. 1. Assurance of God’s faithfulness. Isa. 11. Doing all things with our might. 25:1; 1 Cor. 1:9. Eccl. 9:10 ; Rom. 12:11. 2. God’s faithfulness described. Lam. 12. Test of stewardship. 1 Cor. 4:2. 3:22, 23; 1 Cor. 10:13. IV. The Rewards of Faithfulness 3. Abiding nature of His faithfulness. Ps. 119:89, 90, 160; 2 Tim. 2:13. 13. Promise made to servants who had 4. The example of Jesus. Luke 6:12 ; improved their talents. Matt. 25: Matt. 4:10; Luke 4:16; Mark 21, 23. 12:17. 14. Reward assured to those who perse- vere. Gal. 6:9.
- Faithful Witnesses of Old 15. Happy prospect of those who en-
- Samuel defends his integrity. 1 Sam. dure. Matt. 24:13 ; Rev. 2:10, last 12:3, 4. part.
- Incentive to faithfulness. 1 Sam. Key Thought 12:24.
- Job’s integrity. Job. 1:20-22. “Success is not the result of chance or of
- Daniel’s fidelity. Daniel 6:10. destiny; it is . . . the reward of faith and
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Nehemiah’s steadfastness. Neh. 6: discretion, of virtue and persevering effort.” 3, 4. -Christ’s Object Lessons, page 353.
THE LESSON Introduction is that in it is revealed to men the will of God. Here we learn the object of our cre- In a world of shifting values and moral ation and the means by which that object defection such as is ours today, leaders of may be obtained. We learn how to improve industry and finance place a high premium wisely the present life and how to secure the on the dependable man or woman. They future life."-Counsels to Teachers, page 53. recognize the quality of fidelity in men by appointing them to high office, heavy re- 2. How is the faithfulness of God sponsibilities, and rich remuneration. God further described? Lam. 3:22, 23; 1 has a high standard of attainment for His Cor. 10:13. church in these last days, too, and "the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him." 2 Chron. 16:9. Only those who meas- NOTE.-"The Bible shows us God in His ure up to the "high calling of God in Christ high and holy place, not in a state of in- Jesus" can share in the unspeakable riches activity, not in silence and solitude, but sur- of His grace. rounded by ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands of holy beings, Faithfulness a Divine Attribute all waiting to do His will. Through these messengers He is in active communication
- What assurance are we given with every part of His dominion. By His that God is faithful? Isa. 25:1; 1 Cor. Spirit He is everywhere present. Through the agency of His Spirit and His angels 1:9. He ministers to the children of men.”-The Ministry of Healing, page 417.
NOTE.-“That which above all other con- 3. How abiding is God’s faithful- siderations should lead us to prize the Bible ness? Ps. 119:89, 90, 160; 2 Tim. 2:13. [7 1 example. From childhood he had been con- nected with the work of God, and during his long life one object had been ever before him,—the glory of God and the highest good of Israel.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 614. 6. What reason for faithfully serv- ing God was set before Israel in the days of Samuel? 1 Sam. 12:24.
7. What did Job do when deprived
of his dearest possessions? Job 1:20-
22. ABOVE, BENEATH, ANO BEYOND THE CHRISTIAN IS INFINITE LOVE AND GUIDANCE. 057-2
8. What example of faithfulness NorE.—"It is not by inherent power that did Daniel set? Dan. 6:10. year by year the earth yields its bounties and continues its march around the sun. The hand of the Infinite One is perpetually at work guiding this planet. It is God's power NOTE.—"Why should he cease to pray continually exercised that keeps the earth now, when he most needed to pray? Rather in position in its rotation." —The Ministry would he relinquish life itself, than his hope of Healing, page 416. of help in God. . . . He did not try to con-
ceal his act. Although he knew full well 4. How did Jesus show His fi- the consequences of his fidelity to God, his delity to heaven's principles in per- spirit faltered not. . . . Neither the king nor sonal devotion? Luke 6:12; in resisting his decree could make him swerve from al- temptation? Matt. 4:10; in Sabbath- legiance to the King of kings."—Prophets keeping? Luke 4:16; in good citizen- and Kings, pages 541, 542. ship? Mark 12:17.
9. What example of fidelity did
Nehemiah show in the work of the
Lord? Neh. 6:3, 4. NOTE.—"We must put on the heavenly graces, and, with the eye directed upward to the crown of immortality, keep the Pattern ever before us."—Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 358. NOTE.—"The faith of him who is con-
stantly advancing does not weaken; for
Faithful Witnesses of Old above, beneath, beyond, he recognizes In-
finite Love, working out all things to ac- 5. In his parting speech to Israel complish His good purpose. God's true how did Samuel defend his integrity, servants work with a determination that and what did the people acknowl- will not fail, because the throne of grace is edge? 1 Sam. 12:3, 4. their constant dependence."—Prophets and
Kings, page 660.
NOTE.—”Samuel was not seeking merely Fidelity in Life’s Routines to justify his own course. He had previously set forth the principles that should govern 10. What basic principle is found both the king and the people, and he desired in the work and conduct of a reliable to add to his words the weight of his own person? Luke 16:10. [8 3 NOTE.—”All may be certain that faithful- upon man, than to see him selfishly grasping ness in little things is the evidence of fitness these gifts and making no returns to the for greater responsibilities. Every act of Giver.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 731, 732. life is a revelation of character; and he only who in small duties proves himself ‘a workman that needeth not to be ashamed,’ The Rewards of Faithfulness can be honored by God with higher service.” —Prophets and Kings, page 218. 13. What promise was made to the faithful servants who had improved
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What should be our attitude to their talents? Matt. 25:21, 23. our daily tasks? Eccl. 9:10; Rom. 12:11.
NoTE.—"The talents, however few, are to be put to use. The question that most con- NoTE.—"Whether pleasing or unpleasing, cerns us is not, How much have I received? we are to do the duty that lies nearest. . . . but, What am I doing with that which I He does not permit us to pass by the homely have?"—Christ's Object Lessons, page 329. but sacred duties that lie next us. Often "Our reward for working with Christ in these duties afford the very training essential this world is the greater power and wider to prepare us for a higher work. Often our privilege of working with Him in the world plans fail that God's plans for us may suc- to come."—Ibid., p. 361. ceed."—The Ministry of Healing, page 473. "Examine under the microscope the small- 14. How will those who persevere est and commonest of wayside blossoms, and be rewarded? Gal. 6:9. note in all its parts the exquisite beauty and completeness. So in the humblest lot true excellence may be found; the commonest tasks, wrought with loving faithfulness, are beautiful in God's sight."—Education, page NOTE.—"Holiness will lead its possessor - to be fruitful and abound in all good works. He will never become weary in well-doing,
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What is the test of Christian neither will he look for promotion in this stewardship. 1 Cor. 4:2. world. He will look forward for promotion to the time when the Majesty of heaven shall exalt the sanctified ones to His throne. . . . The Lord then enumerates the works NOTE.—”The knowledge of God’s grace, of self-denial and mercy, compassion and the truths of His- word, and temporal gifts righteousness, which they had wrought.”— as well,—time and means, talents and in- Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 445._ fluence,—are all a trust from God to be employed to His glory and the salvation of 15. What assurance is given those men. Nothing can be more offensive to who patiently endure earth’s trials? God, who is constantly bestowing His gifts Matt. 24:13; Rev. 2:10, last part.
C~tii 1:i 16 /96h Lesson 3, for January 19, 1957 Temperance and Sobriety
MEMORY VERSE: “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Cor. 10:31. STUDY HELPS: “Testimonies,” vol. 2, pp. 354-376; “Prophets and Kings,” pages 479-490; “The Ministry of Healing,” pages 325-335; “Temperance,” pages 137- 169; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for January 3. C 9] DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey les- Wednesday: Ques. 11-14; read son, following the outline. third Study Help. Sunday: Read Introduction; Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8; Ques. 1-5. read fourth Study Help; learn Monday: Ques. 6-8; read first Memory Verse. Study Help. Friday: Review Ques. 9-14; read Tuesday: Ques. 9, 10; read sec- fifth Study Help; meditate on ond Study Help. Key Thought.
Lesson Outline: I11. John the Baptist and Herod Antipas
Introduction 9. The prophecy concerning John the Baptist. Luke 1:15. I. Warnings and Obligations 10. The intemperate wrath of Herod. Mark 6:18, 21-27. 1. Timely warning. Luke 21:34. 2. Obligations on Christians. 1 Cor. IV. Moderation the Only Safeguard 6:19, 20; 3:16, 17. 11. The broad principle of conduct for 3. The principle in self-mastery. 1 Cor. the church. Titus 2 : 1-6. 9:25-27. 12. Personal responsibility for our con- 4. Moderation in all things. 1 Cor. 10: duct. Rom. 14:21; Hab. 2:15. 31; Co1.3:23. 13. Temperance in speech. Col. 4:6; 5. Responsibilities of administrators. Matt. 5:37. Prov. 31:4, 5. 14. Safeguard against modern excesses. Phil. 4:5; Col. 3:17.
- Daniel’s Example and Belshazzar’s
Feast Key Thought:
- Daniel’s resolution and its results. “Men and women . . . need to be im- Dan. 1:8, 12, 15. pressed with the fact that all their powers of
- God’s displeasure on Belshazzar. mind and body are the gift of God, and are Dan. 5:1-4. to be preserved in the best possible condition
- Retribution on the king. Dan. 5:5, for His service.”-The Ministry of Healing,
- page 130.
THE LESSON Introduction NoTE.-"Men who are engaged in giving the last message of warning to the world, a Only the temperate are free from spiritual message which is to decide the destiny of bondage and ready for the infilling of God's souls, should make a practical application in power. The broad principle of moderation their own lives of the truths they preach to in all things lawful for our use calls not only others. They should be examples to the peo- for abstinence from liquor and narcotics, ple in their eating, in their drinking, and in but for a check on every form of excess, their chaste conversation and deportment." whether mental or physical. In eating and -Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 490. drinking, in labor, study, and recreation 2. What solemn sense of obligation moderation is an admirable Christian virtue should deter Christians from sensual indulgences? 1 Cor. 6:19, 20; 3:16, 17. Warnings and Obligations
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Of what must those beware who NOTE.-“If all who profess to be follow- look for Jesus’ coming? Luke 21:34. ers of • Christ were truly sanctified, their 10 means, instead of being spent for needless W -.–. -7–_ —–N\ - ‘ – •-‘,’ ‘ ,<,,-,,,,, ‘‘…. . and even hurtful indulgences, would be turned into the Lord’s treasury, and Chris- 77:- ‘…… -==’— • ,„_ \
tians would set an example of temperance, ff,-• self-denial, and self-sacrifice. Then they ‘: 1… 4– ,-, - - - - - - - - - 7F•*.”’ would be the light of the world.”—The .
Great Controversy, page 475. “He who remains in willing ignorance of the laws of his physical being, and who violates them through ignorance, is sinning against God.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, page 348. 3. What is the fundamental prin- 0,111ENZElts, ciple in self-mastery, and how did Paul exercise it? 1 Cor. 9:25-27.VICTORY AT THE TABLE CAN STRENGTHEN ONE FOR COMPLETE VICTORY IN LIFE - NoTE.—"As our first parents lost Eden through the indulgence of appetite, our only hope of regaining Eden is through the firm men should be held guilty of a crime when denial of appetite and passion. Abstemious- they yield to intemperance. All who exe- ness in diet and control of all the passions cute the laws should be lawkeepers. They will preserve the intellect and give mental should be men of self-control. They need and moral vigor, enabling men to bring all to have full command of their physical, their propensities under the control of the mental, and moral powers, that they may higher powers and to discern between right possess vigor of intellect, and a high sense of and wrong, the sacred and the common."— justice."—The Desire of Ages, page 222: Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 491. - What spiritual objective should Daniel’s Example and Belshazzar’s inspire moderation and self-control in Feast all things? 1 Cor. 10:31; Col. 3:23. 6. When offered the king’s dain- ties, what resolve did Daniel make, and what did he propose? With what result? Dan. 1:8, 12, 15. NOTE.—”To have firm religious principles is an inestimable treasure. It is the purest, highest, and most elevated influence mortals can possess. Such have an anchor. Every NcrrE.—”Daniel and his associates had act is well considered, lest its effect be in- been trained by their parents to habits of jurious to another and lead away from strict temperance. They had been taught Christ. The constant inquiry of the mind that God would hold them accountable for is: Lord, how shall I best serve Thee, and their capabilities, and that they must never glorify Thy name in the earth?”—Testimo- dwarf or enfeeble their powers. This educa- nies, vol. 2, p. 129. tion was to Daniel and his companions the means of their preservation amidst the de-
- What social evils result from moralizing influences of the court of Baby- the intemperance of rulers and legis- lon.”—Prophets and Kings, page 482. lators? Prov. 31:4, 5. 7. What abandoned conduct brought God’s displeasure upon Bel- shazzar? Dan. 5:1-4. NoTE.—”Oh, how often has the life of the innocent been sacrificed through the in- temperance of those who should have been guardians of justice! . . . Those who have NOTE.—”With reason dethroned through jurisdiction over the lives of their fellow shameless intoxication, and with lower im- pulses and passions now in the ascendancy, Moderation the Only Safeguard the king himself took the lead in the riotous orgy. . . . 11. What broad principle of con- “Little did Belshazzar think that there duct did Paul give Titus for the was a heavenly Witness to his idolatrous church? Titus 2:1-6. revelry; that a divine Watcher, unrecog- nized, looked upon the scene of profanation, heard the sacrilegious mirth, beheld the idolatry.”—Prophets and Kings, pages 523, 12. How responsible are we for
- our conduct and influence? Rom.
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How swift was the retribution 14:21; Hab. 2:15. upon the king? Dan. 5:5, 30.
NoTE.—"Through Christ, God has in- vested man with an influence that makes it John the Baptist and Herod Antipas impossible for him to live to himself. Indi- vidually we are connected with our fellow - What was prophesied of John men, a part of God’s great whole, and we stand under mutual obligations. . . . the Baptist before his birth? Luke “This is a responsibility from ,which we 1:15. cannot free ourselves. Our words, our acts, our dress, our deportment, even the expres- sion of the countenance, has an influence.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, pages 339, 340. NOTE.—”In the time of John the Baptist, greed for riches, and the love of luxury 13. What admonition is given to and display had become widespread. Sen- us regarding our speech? Col. 4:6; suous pleasures, feasting and drinking, were Matt. 5:37. causing physical disease and degeneracy, benumbing the spiritual perceptions, and lessening the sensibility to sin. John was to stand as a reformer. By his abstemious NOTE.—”No evilspeaking, no frivolous life and plain dress he was to rebuke the talk, no fretful repining or impure sugges- excesses of his time. Hence the directions tion, will escape the lips of him who is given to the parents of John,—a lesson of following Christ.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, temperance by an angel from the throne of page 337. heaven.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 100, “God’s word condemns also the use of
- those meaningless phrases and expletives that border on profanity. It condemns the
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Rebuked by John the Baptist deceptive compliments, the evasions of for his profligacy, to what intemper- truth, the exaggerations, the misrepresenta- ate lengths did Herod go? Mark tions in trade, that are current in society and 6:18, 21-27. in the business world.”—Education, page 236. 14. What principle, if heeded, will keep us from the excesses of our time? NoTE.—”The king was dazed with wine. Phil. 4:5; Col. 3:17. Passion held sway, and reason was de- throned. . . . Oh, how often has the life of the innocent been sacrified through the in- temperance of those who should have been NOTE.—”Whatever our department of la- guardians of justice! He who puts the in- bor, be it housework or fieldwork or intel- toxicating cup to his lips makes himself lectual pursuits, we may perform it to the responsible for all the injustice he may com- glory of God so long as we make Christ first mit under its besotting power.”—The Desire and last and best in everything.”—Testimo- of Ages, pages 221, 222. nies, vol. 5, p. 459. [ 12 ] ,.j 3,066 Lesson 4, for January 26, 1957
Liberality and Benevolence
MEMORY VERSE: “I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35. STUDY HELPS: “Gospel Workers,” pages 454-457; “The Acts of the Apostles,” pages 335-345; “Patriarchs and Prophets,” pages 525-536; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for January 10.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey the Wednesday: Ques. 12-15; read lesson, following outline. third Study Help. Sunday: Read Introduction; Thursday: Review Ques. 1-7; Ques. 1-3. learn Memory Verse; read Monday: Ques. 4-7; read first fourth Study Help. Study Help. Friday: Review Ques. 8-15; Tuesday: Ques. 8-11; read sec- meditate on Key Thought. ond Study Help.
Lesson Outline: I11. The Rewards of Generous Giving 8. The law of sowing and reaping. Introduction 2 Cor. 9:6; John 12:24. 9. Promise to those who honor God I. God’s Ownership with gifts. Prov. 3:9, 10. 1. God the source of all wealth. 10. How God rewards the giver. Luke 1 Chron. 29:11, 12. 6:38. 2. God’s claim on the world’s wealth. 11. Blessings delayed yet assured. Eccl. Ps. 89:11; Hag. 2:8. 11:1. 3. Spiritual danger of the prosperous. IV. Liberality Among Brethren Deut. 8:11-14, 18. 12. Paul recalls Jesus’ words on giving.
- God’s Requirements in Tithes and Acts 20:35.
Offerings 13. Those who fail to feel a brother’s
need. 1 John 3:17.
- God’s proportion of men’s income. 14. Promises to those who share. Prov. Lev. 27:30, 32. 11:25; 19:17; 22:9.
- Promise to the tithepayer. Mal. 3: 15. Our abiding sufficiency. 2 Cor. 3:5. 10-12.
- Israel’s offerings for the tabernacle. Key Thought: Ex. 35:29. “Spiritual prosperity is closely bound up
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Attitudes in giving contrasted. with Christian liberality.”-The Acts of the 2 Cor. 9:7; Matt. 6:1. Apostles, page 344.
THE LESSON Introduction fat." The penny-pinching soul is a miserly one. The truly thrifty person saves that he The rich life is the outflowing life. Stated may give intelligently. True benevolence is Scripturally, "The liberal soul shall be made not extravagance and impulsive spending, 131but a consecrated directing of what we have God’s Requirements in Tithes to share into worthy channels. The philan- and Offerings thropy that heaven approves is the serving of a neighbor’s needs out of a scanty store 4. What proportion of the boun- rather than ostentatious giving from lavish ties God gives to men does He require profits. The test of liberality is not in the us to return? Lev. 27:30, 32. size of the gift, but in the simple principle, “God loveth a cheerful giver.” 2 Cor. 9:7.
God's Ownership NOTE.—"As to the amount required, God, has specified one tenth of the increase. This' - How did Solomon acknowledge is left to the conscience and benevolence of God as the source and distributor of men, whose judgment in this tithing system all wealth? 1 Chron. 29:11, 12. should have free play. . . . “All that is withheld of that which.lGod claims, the tenth of the increase, is recorded in the books of heaven, against the with- NOTE.—”All that men receive of God’s holders, as robbery.”—Testimonies, vol. 3, bounty still belongs to God. Whatever He p. 394. has bestowed in the valuable and beautiful things of earth is placed in our hands to test 5. What remarkable promise is us, to sound the depths of our love for Him given to the faithful tithepayer? Mal. and our appreciation of His favors.”—Testi- 3:10-12. monies, vol. 5, p. 736.
- To how much of the world’s wealth does God lay claim? Ps. 89:11; NoTE.—”Whenever God’s people, in any Hag. 2:8. period of the world, have cheerfully and willingly carried out His plan in systematic benevolence and in gifts and offerings, they have realized the standing promise that NoTE.—”Every good thing of earth was prosperity should attend all their labors just placed here by the bountiful hand of God as in proportion as they obeyed His require- cy„71 41 expression of His love to man. The poor ments. . . . But when they robbed God in are His, and the cause of religion is His. The tithes and in offerings they were made to gold and the silver are the Lord’s, and He realize that they were not only robbing Him could rain them from heaven if He chose. but themselves, for He limited His blessings But instead of this He has made man His to them just in proportion as they limited steward, entrusting him with means, not to their offerings to Him.”—Testimonies, vol. be hoarded, but to be used in benefiting 3, p. 395. others.”—Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 255. 6. In what spirit did the children
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Against what danger are the of Israel bring their offerings for the prosperous warned? Deut. 8:11-14, building of the tabernacle? Ex. 35:29. 18.
NOTE.—"The plan of Moses to raise means NoTE.—"It is God who gives men power for the building of the tabernacle was highly to get wealth, and He has bestowed this successful. No urging was necessary. Nor ability, not as a means of gratifying self, but did he employ any of the devices to which as a means of returning to God His own. churches in our day so often resort. He With this object it is not a sin to acquire made no grand feast. He did not invite the means. . . . Wealth will prove a blessing if people to scenes of gaiety, dancing, and gen- we regard it as the Lord's, to be received eral amusement. . . . He was to accept gifts with thankfulness and with thankfulness re- from everyone that gave willingly, from his turned to the Giver."—Testimonies, vol. 6, heart. And the offerings came in so great pp. 452, 453. abundance that Moses bade the people cease 14bringing, for they had supplied more than could be used.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 529. “God requires no less of His people in these last days, in sacrifices and offerings, than He did of the Jewish nation. Those whom He has blessed with a competency, and even the widow and the fatherless, should not be un- mindful of His blessings. Especially should those whom He has prospered render to Him the things that are His. They should appear before Him with a spirit of self-sacrifice.”— Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 599.
- What attitude in a giver does God approve? How does He rebuke the proud giver? 2 Cor. 9:7; Matt. 6:1. “NOT WHAT WE GIVE, BUT WHAT WE SHARE.: PERSONAL GIVING TO OTHERS BRINGS JOY TO GIVER AND RECEIVER. /057-4
The Rewards of Generous Giving bear the marks of the crucifixion. Would they enjoy their substance? Let them use it
- What is the law of sowing and to bless the needy and suffering. Would they reaping? 2 Cor. 9:6; John 12:24. increase their possessions? Let them heed the divine injunction, ‘Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first fruits of all thine increase.’ “—The Acts of the Apostles, NoTE.—”By casting it away the sower page 345. multiplies his seed. So by imparting we in- crease our blessings. God’s promise assures 11. Although the blessings of be- a sufficiency, that we may continue to give. nevolence may seem delayed, of what . . The law of self-sacrifice is the law of is the generous giver assured? Eccl. self-preservation.”—Education, page 110. 11:1.
- What promise is assured to those who honor God with their best gifts? Prov. 3:9, 10. NOTE.—”In this life our work for God often seems to be almost fruitless. Our ef- forts to do good may be earnest and perse- NOTE.—”In every dispensation, from vering, yet we may not be permitted to Adam’s time to ours, God has claimed the witness their results. To us the effort may property of man, saying: I am the rightful seem to be lost. But the Saviour assures us owner of the universe; therefore consecrate that our work is noted in heaven, and that to Me thy first fruits, bring a tribute of the recompense cannot fail.”—Testimonies, loyalty, surrender to Me My own, thus vol. 6, p. 305. acknowledging My sovereignty, and you shall be free to retain and enjoy My boun- Liberality Among Brethren ties, and My blessing shall be with you.”— Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 477. 12. In counseling the church to care for its needy, what words of
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In what generous way does Jesus did Paul recall? Acts 20:35. God reward the liberal giver? Luke 6:38.
NOTE.—"Paul sometimes worked night NoTE.—"Would men make their property and day, not only for his own support, but secure? Let them place it in the hands that that he might assist his fellow laborers. He [ 151shared his earnings with Luke, and he helped And the joy of the soul redeemed would Timothy. He even suffered hunger at times, be little, little worth that he might relieve the necessities of oth- If, content with its own security, it ers.”—The Acts of the Apostles, page 352. could forget the rest.” —Thoughts From the Mount of
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What is lacking in the experi- Blessing, page 112. ence of those who fail to feel a broth- er’s need? 1 John 3:17. 14. What liberal promises are made to those who share their boun- ties? Prov. 11:25; 19:17; 22:9. NOTE.— “For to share is the bliss of heaven, as it is the joy of earth; And the unshared bread lacks savor, 15. Who is our abiding sufficiency and the wine unshared lacks zest; in every good work? 2 Cor. 3:5.
- a, e? 4 4. Lesson 5, for February 2, 1957 Self-Denial and Sacrifice
MEMORY VERSE: “Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” Matt. 16:24. STUDY HELPS: “Testimonies,” vol. 2, pp. 200-215; vol. 3, pp. 485-492; vol. 4, pp. 571-575; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for January 17.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey les- Wednesday: Ques. 12-14; read son, following the outline. third Study Help. Sunday: Read Introduction; Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8; Ques. 1-4. learn Memory Verse; read Monday: Ques. 5-8; read first fourth Study Help. Study Help. Friday: Review Ques. 9-14; Tuesday: Ques. 9-11; read sec- meditate on Key Thought. ond Study Help.
Lesson Outline: 11. Patterns in Self-Denial 5. The self-abnegation of John the Introduction Baptist. Mark 1:7; John 3:30. 6. The complete consecration of Paul. I. The Divine Example in Sacrifice Phil. 3:7, 8. 7. The example of Epaphroditus. Phil. 1. God’s love for the world. John 3:16. 2:25-30. 2. The supreme sacrifice of Jesus. John 8. Jesus’ reply to Peter’s complaint. 10:15, 17, 18, 30. Matt. 19:27-29. 3. How Jesus met temptation. Luke 4:1-4. I11. Admonitions to Believers 4. The marks of a true disciple. Matt. 9. Every Christian called to consecra- 16:24; Luke 9:23. tion. 1 Peter 2:21-24. [ 16 ] 10. The battle against sin. Col. 3:5, 8; 13. Earthly gain against eternal loss. 1 Peter 2:11. Mark 8:34-37. 11. Paul’s example in self-discipline. 14. Promise to those who suffer with 1 Cor. 9:27. Christ. 2 Tim. 2:11, 12. Key Thought: IV. The. Heavenly Goal “True happiness will be the result of every 12. Admonitions to believers in the ad- self-denial, every crucifixion of self .”—Testi- vent. Titus 2 : 11-13 . monies, vol. 4, p. 345.
THE LESSON
Introduction NOTE.—"I present before you the life of
self-denial, humility, and sacrifice of our di- In a self-indulgent, self-seeking, self-ap- vine Lord. The Majesty of heaven, the King proving world like ours, a lesson on self- of glory, left His riches, His splendor, His denial and sacrifice goes contrary to the honor and glory, and, in order to save sinful innate sinful heart. Yet nothing elevates the man, condescended to a life of humility, soul and strengthens the spirit like resolute poverty, and shame."—Testimonies, vol. 2, self-control that molds the conduct into pat- pp. 490, 491. terns that heaven can approve. Not until we enter truly into the meaning of Christ's 3. How did the Saviour overcome Sacrifice for the world can we partake of the the temptations of the flesh in the spirit of. His self-denial in our service for wilderness? Luke 4:1-4. Him. Although a way of trials and crosses, it is the sure road to happiness.
The Divine Example in Sacrifice NOTE.—”In our own strength it is im- possible for us to deny the clamors of our
- How did God reveal the height fallen nature. Through this channel Satan and depth and breadth of sacrificial will bring temptation upon us. Christ knew love? John 3:16. that the enemy would come to every hu- man being, to take advantage of hereditary weakness, and by his false insinuations to ensnare all those who trust not in God. And NOTE.—”What an incomparable love is by passing over the ground which man must this! A theme for the most profound medi- travel, our Lord has prepared the way for us tation! The amazing love of God for a to overcome…. ‘Be of good cheer,’ He says; world that did not -love ‘Him! The thought ‘I have overcome the world.’ “—The Desire has a subduing power upon the soul and of Ages, pages 122, 123. brings the mind into captivity to the will of God.”—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 80. 4.. What did Jesus set forth as the “He laid aside His glory, His dominion, mark of a true disciple? Matt. 16:24; His riches, and sought after those who were Luke 9:23. perishing in sin. He humbled Himself to our necessities, that He might exalt us to heaven. Sacrifice, self-denial, and disinterested be- nevolence characterized His life. . . . He is NoTE.—Observe the word “daily” that a perfect and holy example. . . . Love for Luke adds to our memory verse. souls for whom Christ died will lead to a “Yes, follow Him through evil as well as denial of self and a willingness to make any through good report. Follow Him in be- sacrifice in order to be co-workers with friending ‘the most needy and friendless. Christ in the salvation of souls.”—Testimo- Follow Him in being forgetful of self, abun- nies, vol. 2, p. 549. dant in acts of self-denial and self-sacrifice to do others good; when reviled, reviling not
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How closely was Jesus in accord again; manifesting love and compassion for with His. Father in the redemption of the fallen race.”—Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 178. man? John 10:15, 17, 18, 30. “We cannot equal the pattern; but we [ 17 j shall not be approved of God if we do not copy it and, according to the ability which God has given, resemble it.”—Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 549.
Patterns in Self-Denial
- What spirit of self-abnegation did John the Baptist manifest? John 3:30; Mark 1:7.
NOTE.—”For a time the Baptist’s influence over the nation had been greater than that of its rulers, priests, or princes. . . . Now he saw the tide of popularity turning away I N THE LIGHT OF THE CROSS. WHAT from himself to the Saviour. Day by day DO WE KNOW OF REAL SACRIFICE? the crowds about him lessened. .. . Looking in faith to the Redeemer, John had risen to the height of self-abnegation. He sought not to attract men to himself, but to lift their Admonitions to Believers thoughts higher and still higher, until they should rest upon the Lamb of God.”—The 9. To what complete consecration Desire of Ages, pages 178, 179. is every Christian called? 1 Peter 2: 21-24.
- How completely did Paul give up worldly advantages, that he might know Christ? Phil. 3:7, 8. NoTE.—”A noble, all-round character is not inherited. It does not come to us by accident. A noble character is earned by in-
- For what did Paul commend dividual effort through the merits and grace Epaphroditus? Phil. 2:25-30. of Christ. . . . It is formed by hard, stern battles with self. Conflict after conflict must be waged against hereditary tendencies.”— Christ’s Object Lessons, page 331. Nora.—The example of both Timothy and Epaphroditus was in striking contrast 10. Against what physical and spir- to the spirit of many whom Paul said “seek itual temptations must we wage bat- their own, not the things which are Jesus tle? Col. 3:5, 8; 1 Peter 2:11. Christ’s.” See verse 21.
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What reply did Jesus make to Peter’s claim that the disciples had 11. How did Paul set an example sacrificed everything for the gospel? in self-discipline? 1 Cor. 9:27. Matt. 19:27-29.
NoTE.—"We are under solemn obligations NoTE.—"God gave all for man, and He to God to keep the spirit pure and the body asks him to place His service above every healthy, that we may be a benefit to hu- earthly and selfish consideration. He cannot manity, and render to God perfect service." accept a divided heart. The heart that is Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 381. absorbed in earthly affections cannot be "To all those who fully comply with the given up to God."—Christ's Object Lessons, conditions in God's word, and have a sense page 223. of their responsibility to preserve physical [ 18vigor and activity of body, that they may NOTE.—”Selfishness is death. No organ of have well-balanced minds and healthy mor- the body could live should it confine its serv- als, the race is not uncertain. They all may ice to itself. The heart, failing to send its gain the prize, and win and wear the crown lifeblood to the hand and the head, would of immortal glory that fadeth not away.”— quickly lose its power. As our lifeblood, so Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 35. is the love of Christ diffused through every part of His mystical body. We are members one of another, and the soul that refuses to The Heavenly Goal impart will perish.”—The Desire of Ages, page 417.
- What will be the manner of life of those who look for the coming 14. What assurance is given to all of the Lord? Titus 2:11-13. who die to self and suffer for Christ’s sake? 2 Tim. 2:11, 12.
NOTE.—”The Lord, by close and pointed truths for these last days, is cleaving out a NOTE.—”Were it possible to reach the tree people from the world and purifying them of life in the midst of the Paradise of God unto Himself. Pride and unhealthful fash- without suffering, we would not enjoy so ions, the love of display, the love of appro- rich a reward for which we had not suf- bation—all must be left with the world if we fered. We would shrink back from the glory; would be renewed in knowledge after the shame would seize us in the presence of image of Him who created us.”—Testimo- those who had fought the good fight, had nies, vol. 3, p. 52. run the race with patience, and had laid hold on eternal life. But none will be there who
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How does God weigh self-de- have not, like Moses, chosen to suffer afflic- nial and unselfish devotion against tion with the people of God.”—Testimonies, worldly gain? Mark 8:34-37. vol. 1, p. 78.
)to-41 7 /%6 Lesson 6, forektmary-9,--195`7. Purity and Morality
MEMORY VERSE: “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Prov. 4:23. STUDY HELPS: “Testimonies,” vol. 5, pp. 591-603; vol. 9, pp. 89-96; “The Ministry of Healing,” pages 356-362; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for Jan- uary 24.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey les- Wednesday: Ques. 13-15; read son, following the outline. third Study Help. Sunday: Read Introduction; Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8; Ques. 1-4. learn Memory Verse; read Monday: Ques. 5-8; read first fourth Study Help. Study Help. Friday: Review Ques. 9-15; medi- Tuesday: Ques. 9-12; read sec- tate on Key Thought. ond Study Help.
[ 19 ]
Lesson Outline: 8. Ruth preserved by her devotion. Ruth 1:16. Introduction Ill. Integrity in the Family 9. Jesus’ pronouncement on marriage. I. Guarding the Soul Against Evil Matt. 19:4-6. 1. Source of purity and moral conduct. 10. Relationship between husband and Titus 1:15; Prov. 15:26; Matt. wife. Eph. 5:22, 25. 15 : 19. 11. Children to honor their parents. 2. A sobering deterrent against evil. Eph. 6:1-3. Hab. 1:13, first part; Gen. 16:13. 12. Rules for harmony in the home. 3. The natural condition of the heart. Eph. 6:4; Prov. 6:20. Jer. 17:9. 4. How we are kept from impurity. IV. Aspects of Pure Religion Prop. 4:23; Phil. 4:8; Ps. 51:10. 13. Pure religion defined. James 1:27. 14. Admonitions for keeping the life
- Lessons From the Past pure. Col. 3:5; Rom. 8:12-14.
- Joseph in Potiphar’s house. Gen. 15. Guarding our influence. 1 Thess. 39:9, last part. 5:22.
- David’s acknowledgment of sin. His reminder of God’s requirements. Key Thought: Ps. 51:7; 24:3, 4. “We need a constant sense of the en-
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Solomon’s description of a virtuous nobling power of pure thoughts. The only wife and mother. Prov. 31:10-12, security for any soul is right thinking.”- 20, 27-29. The Ministry of Healing, page 491.
THE LESSON Introduction is defiled, and the tempter has triumphed." -Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 623. True morality is more than outward re- "To a great degree the experiences of life spectability. It involves the thoughts and are the fruition of our own thoughts and attitudes of the mind as well as public de- deeds."-Education, page 146. corum and social relationships. The pure in heart will be pure in conversation, honest in 2. What should deter the Christian dealing with others, and zealous in opposing believer from compromise with evil? every form of evil. The prevailing licentious- Hab. 1:13, first part; Gen. 16:13. ness of the age, flaunted at us from palaces of vice, from books and magazines, from stage and screen, should be a challenge to every Christian who loves his Lord to "gird NOTE.-"As a shield from temptation and up the loins" of his mind that the citadel of an inspiration to purity and truth, no other his soul may not be invaded by evil. influence can equal the sense of God's pres- ence. 'All things are naked and opened unto Guarding the Soul Against Evil the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.' "-Education, page 255.
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What is the source of morality 3. What is the natural condition of and purity of conduct? Titus 1:15; the human heart? Jer. 17:9. Prov. 15:26; Matt. 15:19.
NOTE.-"We must search the Scriptures NoTE.-"The thoughts of the heart are with humble hearts, trembling at the word discerned of God. When impure thoughts of the Lord, if we would not be in any way are cherished, they need not be expressed deceived in regard to our true character.... by word or act to consummate the sin and As Christians we are less thorough in self- bring the soul into condemnation. Its purity examination than in anything else; it is no [ 20 ]wonder, then, that we make such slow ad- vancement in understanding self.”—Testi- monies, vol. 5, pp. 332, 333.
- What, then, will keep us from the sin of impurity? Prov. 4:23; Phil. 4:8. For what should we pray? Ps. 51:10.
NOTE.—” ‘Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart,’ the human heart, with its conflicting emotions of joy and sorrow, the wandering, wayward heart, which is the abode of so much impurity and deceit. He knows its motives, its very intents and purposes. Go to Him with your soul all stained as it is. ‘JOSEPH CARRIED HIS RELIGION EVERYWHERE!’ ss-6• Like the psalmist, throw its chambers open to the all-seeing eye, exclaiming, ‘Search me, 0 God, and know my heart: try me, and that he prayed, but for purity of heart. know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way David did not in despair give over the strug- everlasting.’ “—Steps to Christ, page 39. gle. In the promises of God to repentant sinners, he saw the evidence of his pardon and acceptance.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, Lessons From the Past page 725.
- What was Joseph’s reply to 7. What was the mature observa- temptation in the house of Potiphar? tion of Solomon regarding a success- Gen. 39:9, last part. ful wife and mother? Prov. 31:10-12, 20, 27-29.
NoTE.—”The love and fear of God kept Joseph pure and untarnished in the king’s NoTE.—”Human love should draw its court. . . . He showed the same sacred re- closest bonds from divine love. Only where gard for God’s will when he stood next the Christ reigns can there be deep, true, un- throne as when in a prisoner’s cell. Joseph selfish affection.”—The Ministry of Healing, carried his religion everywhere, and this page 358. was the secret of his unwavering fidelity.”— “Around every family there is a sacred Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 544. circle that should be kept unbroken. Within this circle no other person has a right to
- How did David acknowledge come. Let not the husband or the wife per- his sin, and what solemn reminder of mit another to share the confidences that God’s requirements has he left us? belong solely to themselves.”—Ibid., p. 361. Ps. 51.;7; 24:3, 4. 8. What resolution preserved Ruth in the land of her adoption? Ruth 1:16. NoTE.—”David’s repentance was sincere and deep. There was no effort to palliate his crime. No desire to escape the judgments threatened, inspired his prayer. But he saw NoTE.—”To the great principle of love the enormity of his transgression against and loyalty to God, the Father of all, the God; he saw the defilement of his soul; he principle of filial love and obedience is loathed his sin. It was not for pardon only closely related. Contempt for parental au- [ 21 ] thority will soon lead to contempt for the to temptations. Daily annoyances beset the authority of God.”—Patriarchs and Proph- path of young and old. Those who would ets, page 337. live patient, loving, cheerful lives must pray. . . . “Home should be a place where cheerful- Integrity in the Family nesscourtesy, and love abide; and where these graces dwell, there will abide happiness
- How did Jesus emphasize the and peace.”—The Ministry of Healing, page sacred nature of marriage? Matt. 19: 393. 4-6. Aspects of Pure Religion 13. How is pure religion defined? NoTE.—”When the divine principles are James 1:27. recognized and obeyed in this relation, mar- riage is a blessing; it guards the purity and happiness of the race, it provides for man’s social needs, it elevates the physical, the 14. What is necessary in maintain- intellectual, and the moral nature.”—Patri- ing inward purity of mind and heart? archs and Prophets, page 46. Col. 3:5; Rom. 8:12-14.
- How tender should be the rela- tionship between husband and wife? Eph. 5:22, 25. NOTE.-“A terrible picture of the condi- tion of the world has been presented before me. Immorality abounds everywhere. Li- centiousness is the special sin of this age.
- What promise is made to chil- Never did vice lift its deformed head with dren who honor their parents? Eph. such boldness as now.”—Testimonies, vol. 2, 6:1-3. See Prov. 20:11. p. 346. “Choose poverty, reproach, separation from friends, or any suffering rather than to defile the soul with sin. Death before NoTE.—”Jesus did not ignore His relation dishonor or the transgression of God’s law to His earthly parents. . . . For eighteen should be the motto of every Christian.”— years after He had recognized that He was Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 147. the Son of God, He acknowledged the tie that bound Him to the home at Nazareth, 15. How should we guard our and performed the duties of a son.”—The Christian influence? 1 Thess. 5:22. Desire of Ages, page 82.
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How may happy harmony in the home be maintained? Eph. 6:4; NOTE.-“A faithful record is kept of the Prov. 6:20. acts of the children of men. Nothing can be concealed from the eye of the high and holy One.”—Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 336. “It is Satan’s studied plan to make the NoTE.—”Fathers and mothers, however workers weak in prayer, weak in power, and pressing your business, do not fail to gather weak in influence. . . . We . . . must be your family around God’s altar. Ask for the united in frowning down and condemning guardianship of holy angels in your home. everything that bears the least approach to Remember that your dear ones are exposed evil.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 592.
MAKE NEXT THIRTEENTH SABBATH DOUBLE DOLLAR DAY
[22]a-0-1 ILk /944 Lesson 7, for February 16, 1957
Patience and Forbearance
MEMORY VERSE: “Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness.” Col. 1:11. STUDY HELPS: “Gospel Workers,” pages 475-480; “Testimonies,” vol. 5, pp. 331- 336; “Christ’s Object Lessons,” pages 243-251; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for January 31.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey les- Wednesday: Ques. 13, 14; read son, following the outline. third Study Help. Sunday: Read Introduction; Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8; Ques. 1-4. learn Memory Verse; read Monday: Ques. 5-8; read first fourth Study Help. Study Help. Friday: Review Ques. 9-14; Tuesday: Ques. 9-12; read sec- meditate on Key Thought. ond Study Help.
Lesson Outline: I11. The Practice of Patience 9. Patience an active virtue. 1 Thess. Introduction 5:14, 15. 10. Advice to Timothy applicable to- I. Christ the Patient Sufferer day. 2 Tim. 2:24, 25. 1. As a lamb to the slaughter. Isa. 53:7. 11. Sanctified speech and influence. Ti- 2. Jesus comforts His disciples. John tus 3:2 ; Prov. 15:1. 16:33. 12. Fortitude among brethren. Rom. 3. Following the Master. Rom. 15:5; 12:16; Col. 3:13. Col. 1 : 10, 11. IV. The Hope of the Church 4. Spirit of Paul’s counsel. 2 Cor. 10:1. 13. Harmony among brethren. Eph. 4: The School of Discipline 2, 3 ; 2 Thess. 3:5. 5. How to develop patience. Heb. 12: 14. Patience until coming of the Lord. 5-7; Rom. 5:3. Heb. 10:35-37; James 5:7, 8. 6. The experience of Moses. Heb. 11: Key Thought: 24-27. 7. David’s testimony in trial. Ps. 40: “A Christian must have a sanctified ten- 1-3; 94:12. derness and love, in which there is no im- 8. Job’s resolution in affliction. Job patience or fretfulness.”-Testimonies, vol. 40:3, 4. 5, p.335.
THE LESSON
Introduction less and thankless people, all arise out of that
inward strength of the soul we recognize as The outward graces of gentleness to the patience. Moses exemplified the grace in the rude, of noble tolerance in fretful circum- midst of the disobedience and unfaithfulness stances, and of forbearance toward thought- of God's chosen people. Jesus gave us a ma-
[ 23 ]
jestic example of it in His forgiveness of 4. In what spirit did Paul wish his those who hated Him, leaving us that coun- counsels to be expressed and under- sel of His loving heart, “Love your enemies, stood? 2 Cor. 10:1. bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which de- spitefully use you.” Matt. 5:44. Surely the stress of modern living demands a special watchfulness against annoyances that spoil NOTE.—”Paul’s patience and cheerfulness our equanimity of temper. during his long and unjust imprisonment, his courage and faith, were a continual ser- mon. His spirit, so unlike the spirit of the Christ the Patient Sufferer world, bore witness that a power higher than that of earth was abiding with him.”—
- What figure did Isaiah use in The Acts of the Apostles, page 464. describing Christ as the patient suf- ferer? Isa. 53:7. The School of Discipline 5. How has God designed that we should develop patience? Heb. 12:5-7; NoTE.—”The priests and rulers, in great Rom. 5:3. anxiety, urged their accusations against Him. Raising their voices, they declared, He is a traitor, a blasphemer. . . . But no sign from Jesus gave evidence that He heard NOTE.—”God has a purpose in sending a word.”—The Desire of Ages, page 730. trial to His children. He never leads them “Christ’s very nobility and godlike bear- otherwise than they would choose to be led ing goaded them to madness. His meekness, if they could see the end from the beginning, His innocence, His majestic patience, filled and discern the glory of the purpose that them with hatred born of Satan.”—/bid., they are fulfilling.”—Prophets and Kings, p. 710. page 578.
- With what words did Jesus con- 6. What experience developed pa- sole His disciples concerning their tience and forbearance in Moses? future trials? John 16:33. Heb. 11:24-27.
NOTE.—”The trials to which Christians NOTE.—”It was the experience gained are subjected in sorrow, adversity, and re- during the years of toil and waiting in proach are the means appointed of God to Midian,—the spirit of humility and long- separate the chaff from the wheat.”—Testi- suffering there developed,—that prepared monies, vol. 3, p. 115. Moses to meet with patience the unbelief “The trials hardest to bear are those that and murmuring of the people, and the pride come from our brethren, our own familiar and envy of those who should have been friends; but even these trials .may be borne his unswerving helpers.”—Patriarchs and with patience.”—/bid., vol. 8, p. 128. Prophets, page 384.
- How are we encouraged to fol- 7. What was David’s testimony in low the example of Jesus in patience? the face of deep trial? Ps. 40:1-3. Rom. 15:5; Col. 1:10, 11. Whom did he call blessed? Ps. 94:12.
NoTE.—The marginal reading of “accord- 8. Rather than complain to the ing to Christ Jesus” is “after the example Lord in his affliction, what did Job of.” say he would do? Job 40:3, 4. [24 1 NOTE.—”By his patient endurance he vindicated his own character, and thus the character of Him whose representative he was.”—Education, page 156.
The Practice of Patience 9. How may patience become an- active virtue? 1 Thess. 5:14, 15.
NoTE.—”Patience as well as courage has its victories. By meekness under trial, no less than by boldness in enterprise, souls may be won to Christ. The Christian who manifests patience and cheerfulness under bereave.. “ PATIENCE AS WELL AS COURAGE ment and suffering, who meets even death., HAS ITS VICTORIES.” ,ors- itself with the peace and calmness of an unwavering faith, may accomplish for the gospel more than he could have effected bye • • a long life of faithful labor.”—The Acts of NOTE.—”Do not let anything interpose the Apostles, page 465. between you and your brethren. If there is anything that you can do by sacrifice to 10. What admonition to Timothy clear away the rubbish of suspicion, do it. is applicable to every Christian? 2 God wants us to love one another as breth- Tim. 2:24, 25. ren. He wants us to be pitiful and courteous. He wants us to educate ourselves to believe that our brethren love us, and to believe that Christ loves us.”—Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 193. NOTE.—”Those who are walking in the light can afford to be calm, gentle with the erring, ‘apt to teach,’ making manifest the The Hope of the Church fact that they have asked and received wis- dom of God.”—Testimonies to Ministers, 13. How can harmony in the pages 164, 165. church be preserved? Eph. 4:2, 3; 2 Thess. 3:5.
- How will patience sanctify our speech and our influence? Titus 3:2; Prov. 15:1. NOTE.—”Christ designs that heaven’s or- der, heaven’s plan of government, heaven’s divine harmony, shall be represented in His NOTE.—”Do all that lies in your power, church on earth.”—The Desire of Agee, page without the sacrifice of principle, to con- 680. ciliate others. . “The apostle exhorts his brethren to “If impatient words are spoken to you, manifest in their lives ‘the power of the truth never reply in the same spirit. . . . Anger which he had presented to them. By meek- met with silence, in a tender, forbearing ness and gentleness, forbearance and love, spirit, quickly dies away.”—The Ministry they were to exemplify the character of of Healing, page 486. Christ.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 239.
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What attitude of mind will re- 14. In view of the soon coming of sult in patient forbearance among the Saviour, of what are we reminded? brethren? Rom. 12:16; Col. 3:13. Heb. 10:35-37; James 5:7, 8. [251 NOTE.-“Let the afflictions which pain us gladden our hearts. . . . It will not be long so grievously become instructive lessons, till we shall see Him in whom our hopes of teaching us to press forward toward the eternal life are centered. And in His pres- mark of the prize of our high calling in ence, all the trials and sufferings of this life Christ. Let us be encouraged by the thought will be as nothingness.”-Testimonies, vol. that the Lord is soon to come. Let this hope 9, p. 287.
77tefy / Lesson 8, for February 23, 1957 Meekness and Humility
MEMORY VERSE: “Be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5. STUDY HELPS: “The Desire of Ages,” pages 432-442, 642-651; “Prophets and Kings,” pages 25-32; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for February 7.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey les- and Study Help. son, following the outline. Wednesday: Ques. 11-14; read Sunday: Read Introduction; third Study Help. Ques. 1-3. Thursday: Review Ques. 1-7; Monday: Ques. 4-7; read first learn Memory Verse. Study Help. Friday: Review Ques. 8-14; Tuesday: Ques. 8-10; read sec- meditate on Key Thought.
Lesson Outline: 9. Solomon’s humble prayer for wis- Introduction dom rewarded. 1 Kings 3:5-14. 10. Josiah’s humility averts punish- I. The Divine Example ment. 2 Chron. 34:26-28. 1. The humility of Jesus. Phil. 2:6-8; Heb. 5:8. IV. New Testament Admonitions 2. Pride of the Pharisees in contrast. 11. Secret of Paul’s success as a laborer Matt. 9:10-12. for God. Phil. 4:12; 1 Cor. 9:19- 3. Jesus sets an example for His dis- 23. ciples. John 13:4, 5, 15. 12. Paul’s exhortation to humility and
- The Master’s Teachings unity. Phil. 2:3, 4.
13. Peter’s exhortation to the church.
- Who is greatest in the kingdom of 1 Peter 5:5, 6. heaven? Matt. 18:2-4. 14. James points the way of favor with
- Jesus rebukes vainglory of the Pharisees. Matt. 23:5-7. God. James 4:6, 10.
- Mark of Christian brotherhood. Key Thought: Matt. 23:8-12.
- The parable of the wedding supper. “The strength of the children of God is Luke 14:7-11. in their humility. When they are little in their own eyes, Jesus will be to them their I11. Old Testament Object Lessons strength and their righteousness, and God
- God’s mercy to King Ahab. 1 Kings will prosper their labors.”-Testimonies, vol. 21:27-29. 3, p.307. [ 26 ] THE LESSON Introduction nized the dignity of humanity.”—The De- sire of Ages, page 274. Self-sufficiency gives, rise to vanity and “But although the Pharisees thought so pride that frequently results in an offensive highly of themselves, they were really in a self-praise. How to be aggressive in the worse condition than the ones they despised. work of God without rudely clamoring for The publicans were less bigoted and self- the adoption of our own ideas and belittling sufficient, and thus were more open to the other men’s plans requires frequent contem- influence of truth.”—/bid., p. 275. plation of the humble spirit of the Master Workman as He went about doing good. He 3. What example of humble serv- was never elated by applause nor dejected ice rebuked the ambition for eminence by censure. His self-abasement was not a among the disciples? John 13:4, 5, 15. passive meekness that let men beguile Him into compromise with evil, but an active humility that exalted the dignity of His character. His example and that of His wit- nesses in all ages afford a pattern for our NOTE.—”There was ‘a strife among them, study in this lesson. which of them should be accounted the greatest.’ . . . In heart each still longed for the highest place in the kingdom. . . . The Divine Example Judas, in choosing his position at table, had tried to place himself first, and Christ as a
- How is the humility of Christ servant served him first.”—The Desire of described? Phil. 2:6-8; Heb. 5:8. Ages, pages 643-645. “Christ would have His disciples under- stand that although He had washed their feet, this did not in the least detract from His dignity. . . . No one was so exalted as NoTE.—”It was the marvel of all the Christ, and yet He stooped to the humblest universe that Christ should humble Himself duty.”-Ibid., p. 649. to save fallen man. That He who had passed from star to star, from world to world, superintending all, by His providence sup- The Master’s Teachings plying the needs of every order of being in His vast creation,—that He should consent 4. Who did the Saviour say should to leave His glory and take upon Himself be greatest in the kingdom of heaven? human nature, was a mystery which the Matt. 18:2-4. sinless intelligences of other worlds desired to understand.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 69. “It would have been an almost infinite NOTE.—”Christ will not undertake to humiliation for the Son of God to take teach the self-righteous self-conceited, and man’s nature, even when Adam stood in his self-willed. . . . It is only the meek, that He innocence in Eden. But Jesus accepted hu- will guide in judgment; the meek will He manity when the race had been weakened by teach His way.”—Testimonies,vol.3, p. 449. four thousand years of sin.”—The Desire of Ages, page 49. 5. How did Jesus describe the vain- glory of the Pharisees? Matt. 23:5-7.
- How did the pride of the Phari- sees contrast with the meekness of Jesus? Matt. 9:10-12. NoTE.—”In such plain words the Saviour revealed the selfish ambition that was ever reaching for place and power, displaying a NOTE.—”Jesus sat as an honored guest at mock humility, while the heart was filled the table of the publicans, by His sympathy with avarice and envy.”—The Desire of and social kindliness showing that He recog- Ages, page 613. [27 1 6. What attitude of mind and prin ciple of conduct will mark true Chris tian brotherhood? Matt. 23:8-12.
NoTE.—”Among the peculiarities which should distinguish God’s people from the world in these last days, is their humility and meekness. . . . Instead of being am- bitious, to be equal to another in honor and position or perhaps even higher, we should seek to ‘be the humble, faithful servants of Christ.”—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 226.
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In what parable did Jesus illus- trate the wisdom of humility? Luke THE WISE KING PRAYED:” I AM BUT A LITTLE CHILD.0 TRUE GREATNESS 14:7-11. ACKNOWLEDGES ITS NEED.
as when he confessed, 'I am but a little Old Testament Object Lessons child: I know not how to go out or come in.' "—Prophets and Kings, page 30. - Why did God defer punishment on the house of Ahab? 1 Kings 21:27- 10. How might Josiah have escaped
- the evil that was decreed against an offending Judah? 2 Chron. 34:26-28.
NOTE.—The apostasy of Ahab was un- paralleled among all the kings of Israel. The NoTE.—Because Josiah did not stead- record tells us, “There was none like unto fastly continue in his spirit of humility and Ahab, which did sell himself to work wick- obedience to God, God could not fulfill His edness in the sight of the Lord.” 1 Kings promises to him, and he was killed in bat- 21:25. How wonderfully gracious, then, tle. Read 2 Chron. 35:20-24. was the mercy. of God in acknowledging so quickly the evidences of his humility. “The very first reaching out of the heart after God New Testament Admonitions is known to Him. Never a prayer is offered, however faltering, never a tear is shed, how- 11. What was one important rea- ever secret, never a sincere desire after God son for Paul’s success as a laborer for is cherished, however feeble, but the Spirit God? Phil. 4:12, first part; 1 Cor. of God goes forth to meet it.”—Christ’s 9:19-23. Object Lessons, page 206.
- What humble confession did Solomon make in the ‘ dream God 12. What exhortation did Paul give gave him, and how was he rewarded? to promote harmony in the church? 1 Kings 3:5-14. Phil. 2:3, 4.
NOTE.—”The language, used by Solomon NOTE.—”Vainglory, selfish ambition, is while praying to God before the ancient al- the rock upon which many souls have tar at Gibeon, reveals his humility and his been wrecked and many churches rendered strong desire to honor God. . . . Solomon powerless. Those who know least of de- was never so rich or so wise or so truly great votion, who are least connected with God, [287 are the ones who will most eagerly seek the perspective of ‘cl6.r spiritual underitaridirig: highest place…. The soul that is constantly All too often it is a late-flowering virtue in looking unto Jesus will see His self-denying Christian experience, love and deep humility, and will copy His example.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 174, 175. 14. How_ does James show the way of humble submission to be the way
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How does Peter show the im- of favor with God? James 4:6, 10. portance of true humility? 1 Peter 5:5, 6.
NOTE.—"When the Spirit of God, with its marvelous awakening power, touches the NOTE.—One cannot be clothed with hu- soul, it abases human pride. Worldly pleas- mility while wearing the cloak of pride, ure and position and power are seen to be nor can God strip him for effective service worthless. . . . Then humility and self- who wears an armor of self-sufficiency. The sacrificing love, so little valued among men, really humble person gees his relationship to are exalted as alone of worth."—The Desire God and to others about him in the true of Ages, page 135. Lesson 9, for March 2, 1957 Reverence and Worship
MEMORY VERSE: “Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence, and godly fear.” Heb. 12:28. STUDY HELPS: “Testimonies,” vol. 5, pp. 491-500; vol. 6, pp. 349-368; “The Min- istry, of Healing,” pages 458-466; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for February 14. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey les- Wednesday: Ques. 12-15; read-. son, following the outline. third Study Help. Sunday: Read Introduction; Thursday: Review Ques. 1-7; Ques. 1-4. learn Memory Verse; ;read Monday: Ques. 5-7; read first foisrth-Study•Help. Study Help. Friday: Review Ques. 8-15: Tuesday: Ques. 8-11; read sec- meditate on Key Thought. ond Study Help.
Lesson Outline: 4. Invitation to worship God. Ps. 148: Introduction 11-13. I. The Holy Character of God 11. Reverence Commanded 1. Declaration of God’s character. Ex. 5. God’s name is holy. Ps. 111:9; Ex. 20:3-6. 20:7. 2. God’s supreme attribute. 1 Peter 1: 6. The Sabbath is sacred. Ex. 20:8-11; 15, 16; Lev. 19:2; 20:7, last part. Ezek. 20:19, 20. 3. God revealed to man. Matt. 11:27; 7. Sanctuary to be revered. Ex. 25:8; John 14:9. Isa. 56:7; Lev. 19:30. [ 29 J I11. God’s Presence Hallows Times 13. Conduct in the sanctuary. Hab. 2: and Places 20; Eccl. 5:1; Ps. 95:6. 14. Acceptable worship. Ps. 100:4; Col. 8. Jacob at Bethel. Gen. 28:16-19. 3:16; 1 Chron. 16:29. 9. Paul on Mars’ hill. Acts 17:24-27. 15. Assembling together. Heb. 10:25;
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Paul and Silas in prison. Acts 16:25, 12:28. 26.. Key Thought: 11. Daniel in Babylon. Dan. 6:10. “Nothing that is sacred, nothing that per- IV. Worship Approved of Heaven tains to the worship of God, should be treated with carelessness or indifference.”- 12. Basis of wisdom. Prov. 9:10. Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 491.
THE LESSON Introduction and devotion? 1 Peter 1:15, 16; Lev. 19:2; 20:7, last part. Reverence for God, for His word and His sanctuary, must be cultivated before there can be any worship that is acceptable to heaven. This attitude of mind and heart should be inculcated in children by parents 3. How has God's holy character and teachers who themselves have a love been revealed to man? Matt. 11:27; for sacred things. "Those who desire their John 14:9. children to love and reverence God, must talk of His goodness, His majesty, and His power, as revealed in His word and in the works of creation."-Patriarchs and Proph- ets, page 504. Let us remind ourselves that NOTE.-"Christ came to the earth to re- a knowledge of the holy cannot be experi- veal to men the character of His Father." enced or maintained with unopened Bibles, Patriarchs and Prophets; page 469. absence from the place of worship, or care- "All that man needs to know or can know lessness in our personal devotion. of God has been revealed in the life and character of His Son."-Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 286. ' The Holy Character of God 4. To whom and to how many is -
What solemn declaration did the invitation given to worship God God make in the first two command- for His great glory? Ps. 148:11-13. ments of the Decalogue? Ex. 20:3-6. Reverence Commanded
5. Why should we hallow God's NorE.-"Jehovah, the eternal, self-exist- name? Ps. 111:9; Ex. 20:7. ent, uncreated One, Himself the source and sustainer of all, is alone entitled to supreme reverence and worship. Man is forbidden to give to any other object the first place in NOTE.-"We are never in any manner to his affections or his service. Whatever we treat lightly the titles or appellations of the cherish that tends to lessen our love for God Deity. . . . or to interfere with the service due Him, of "This name is hallowed by the angels that do we make a god."-Patriarchs and of heaven, by the inhabitants of unfallen Prophets, page 305. worlds. When you pray, 'Hallowed be Thy name,' you ask that it may be hallowed in -
What supreme attribute of God’s this world, hallowed in you.”-Thoughts character should evoke our reverence From the Mount of Blessing, pages 157, 158. [303. every link of which is a promise.”—Testimo- nies, vol. 6, p. 350. 7. Why is reverence required in the house of God? Ex. 25:8; Isa. 56:7; Lev. 19:30.
NOTE.—"To the humble, believing soul, the house of God on earth is the gate of heaven. The song of praise, the prayer, the words spoken by Christ's representatives, are God's appointed agencies to prepare a 414 people for the church above."—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 491. ARE THERE ,MOMENTS IN OUR. LIFE WHEN WE COULD ERECT A MONUMENT BECAUSE WE FEEL SODS PRESENCE NEAR? God's Presence Hallows Times and Places 8. Realizing God had visited him, -
What makes the Sabbath how did Jacob show his devotion? uniquely sacred to God’s people? Ex. Gen. 28:16-19. 20:8-11; Ezek. 20:19, 20.
NOTE.—"Jacob's statement is not evi- NOTE.—"To those who reverence His holy dence, as some commentators suggest, that day the Sabbath is a sign that God recog- Jacob conceived of God as appearing only at nizes them as His chosen people. It is a certain consecrated places. . . . It is, rather, pledge that He will fulfill to them His cove- an expression of his surprise and joy upon nant. Every soul who accepts the sign of finding that whereas he had imagined him- God's government places himself under self alone, he was in reality in the very com- the divine, everlasting covenant. He fastens pany of God."—The Seventh-day Adventist himself to the golden chain of obedience, Bible Commentary, vol. 1, p. 382. ATTENTION, SABBATH SCHOOL TEACHERS! Are you using the Teacher's Edition of the "Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly"? If not, you should ask your Sabbath-school secretary to secure it for you. You will find it a great help in the preparation of your lesson as well as in teaching, for every other page in the quarterly is blank, thus giving space on which to write out answers to questions, notes, or special comments to use in class. It has been provided in response to requests from many teachers. It is designed to help you, but it cannot help you if you do not use it. Try it! [ 31.]9. Of what did Paul remind the come dwarfed and enfeebled. . . . In the Athenians in his address on Mars’ reverent contemplation of the truths pre- sented in His word, the mind of the student hill? . Acts 17:24-27. is brought into communion with the infinite mind.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 596. 13. What instruction is given re- NOTE.—”Although God dwells not in specting conduct in the sanctuary? temples made with hands, yet He honors with His presence the assemblies of His peo- Hab. 2:20; Eccl. 5:1; Ps. 95:6. ple. He has promised that when they come together to seek Him, to acknowledge their sins, and to pray for one another, He will meet with them by His Spirit.”—Prophets NOTE.—”True reverence for God is in- and Kings, page 50. spired by a sense of His infinite greatness and a realization of His presence. . . . The
- How did God reward the de- hour and place of prayer and the services of votion of Paul and Silas in the Philip- public worship the child should be taught to pian prison? Acts 16:25, 26. regard as sacred because God is there.”— Education, pages 242, 243. 14. What exercises are acceptable Nora.—”Christ was beside them there, to God as expressions of worship? and the light of His presence irradiated the Ps. 100:4; Col. 3:16; 1 Chron. 16:29. gloom with the glory of the courts above.” —Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pages 57, 58.
- Confronted with the decree to NOTE.—”When consecrated believers as- semble, their conversation will not be upon yield to false worship, what did Dan- the imperfections of others or savor of mur- iel do? Dan. 6:10. muring or complaint; charity, or love, the bond of perfectness, will encircle them.”— Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 509. “The freewill offerings of the humble, NOTE.—”Daniel’s history is a remarkable contrite heart He will receive . . . as the one. . . . He was condemned to death be- sacrifice of grateful obedience.”—Testimo- cause he would not abate one jot of his nies, vol. 2, p. 653. allegiance to God even in the face of the king’s decree. It might, at this day, be called 15. What counsel to the Hebrews overrighteousness to go, as was his wont, has particular application to the three times a clay and kneel before the open church today? Heb. 10:25; 12:28. window for prayer while he knew that pry- ing eyes were observing him; … but Daniel would allow no earthly power to come in between him and his God.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 527. NOTE.—”Never entertain the thought that you can be Christians and yet withdraw within yourselves. Each one is a part of the Worship Approved of Heaven great web of ,humanity, and the nature and quality of your experience will be largely
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What is the basis of wisdom determined by the experiences of those with and understanding? Prov. 9:10. whom you associate. Jesus says: ‘Where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst.’ Matthew 18:20. Then let us not forsake the assem- NOTE.—”It is a law of the mind that it bling of ourselves together, as the manner of gradually adapts itself to the subjects upon some is; but exhort one another; and so which it is trained to dwell. If occupied much the more, as we see the day approach- with commonplace matters only, it will be- ing.”—Testimonies, vol. 7, page 190. 32 ] , -r14. 3 )1bf 91 Lesson 10, for March 9, 1957
Diligence and Industry
MEMORY VERSE: “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” Eccl. 9:10. LESSON HELPS: “Testimonies,” vol. 5, pp. 178-182; “The Acts of the Apostles,” pages 346-358; “Counsels to Teachers,” pages 273-280; Lesson Help in “Re- view and Herald” for February 21.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Read Intro- Study Help. duction; survey lesson, follow- Wednesday: Ques. 13, 14; learn ing the outline. Memory Verse; --reacL-fotrrth Sunday: Ques. 1-4; read first -Ste -dr-Mel p. Study Help. Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8. Monday: Ques. 5-8; read second Friday: Review Ques. 9-14; Study Help. meditate on Key Thought. Tuesday: Ques. 9-12; read third
Lesson Outline: I11. Paul’s Pattern and Counsel 9. Paul’s method of self-support. 1 Introduction Cor. 4:11, 12. 10. Paul’s counsel to Thessalonian be- I. Benefits of Honest Labor lievers. 2 Thess. 3:10, 11. 11. Motive in labor. Col. 3 :22, 23. 1. God’s decree on Adam. Gen. 3:19. 12. Work to be approved of God. 2 Tim. 2. Blessings on the faithful toiler. Ps. 2:15. 128:1, 2. 3. Lot of the laboring man. Eccl. 5:12. IV. Diligence Commended 4. Result of diligence. Prov.. 10:4. 13. Characteristic of successful leaders. Prov. 22:29.
- Christ’s Example and Teaching
14. Each day’s tasks to be done thor-
- Jesus’ occupation. Matt. 13:55; oughly. Eccl. 9:10; 12:14. Mark 6:3.
- Balance between labor and rest. Key Thought: Mark 6:31. “Those who recognize science in the hum-
- Invitation to the toilworn and blest work, will see in it nobility and beauty, heavy-laden. Matt. 11:28. and will take pleasure in performing it with
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Strive for values beyond wages. faithfulness and efficiency.”-Counsels to John 6:27. Teachers, page 273.
THE LESSON Introduction an old-fashioned virtue that is becoming obscured today by a growing indolence that Much counsel has come to us emphasiz- demands shorter working hours and more ing the need for bringing moral principles leisure for personal pleasure. It is with the into our everyday work. Honest and thor- conviction that pure religion and conscien- ough labor, whether physical or mental, is tious labor go hand in hand that this lesson [ 33 )has been prepared. The lesson calls for a re- !ICI FEW MIN emphasis of the joy and satisfaction in tasks I “ well done, of objectives realized through perseverance and industry, of accomplish- ments attained through cultivated skills and it fellowship with the Master Workman.
Benefits of Honest Labor
- Because of Adam’s transgression, what decree from God came upon the human race? Gen. 3:19.
NoTE.—”The life of toil and care which was henceforth to be man’s lot was ap- pointed in love. It was a discipline rendered JESUS DID GOO’S SERVICE needful by his sin, to place a check upon the “AT THE CARPENTER’S BENCH’ indulgence of appetite and passion, to de- velop habits of self-control. It was a part of NOTE.—”The persevering and industrious God’s great plan for man’s recovery from are not only happy themselves, but they the ruin and degradation of sin.”—Patri- contribute largely to the happiness of others. archs and Prophets, page 60. Competency and comfort are not ordinarily
- What blessing is promised to attained except at the price of earnest indus- try.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 180. the faithful toiler? Ps. 128:1, 2. Christ’s Example and Teaching 5. What was the occupation of NoTE.—”It was God’s purpose to alle- Jesus before He began His public viate by toil the evil brought into the world ministry? Matt. 13:55; Mark 6:3. by man’s disobedience. By toil the tempta- tions of Satan might be made ineffectual, and the tide of evil stayed. And though attended with anxiety, weariness, and pain, labor is Nora.—”Jesus is our example. . . . He still a source of happiness and develop- lived to please, honor, and glorify His Fa- ment, and a safeguard against temptation.” ther in the common things of life. His work —Counsels to Teachers, page 274. began in consecrating the lowly trade of the craftsmen who toil for their daily bread. He
- How is the laboring man’s lot was doing God’s service just as much when compared with that of a rich man? laboring at the carpenter’s bench as when Eccl. 5:12. working miracles for the multitude.”—The Desire of Ages, page 74. 6. How did Jesus teach the dis- NOTE.—”Those who are always busy, and ciples proper balance between labor go cheerfully about the performance of their and rest? Mark 6:31. daily tasks, are the most happy and healthy. The rest and composure of night brings to their wearied frames unbroken slumber. The Lord knew what was for man’s happiness NOTE.—”Christ’s words of compassion are when He gave him work to do.”—Testimo- spoken to His workers today just as surely nies, vol. 2, p. 529. as they were spoken to His disciples. . . . It is not wise to be always under the strain of
- How does the lot of the diligent work and excitement, even in ministering to contrast with that of the slothful? men’s spiritual needs.”—The Desire of Ages, Prov. 10:4. page 362. [ 34 “Let the laborer carefully husband his 11. How diligently, and with what strength, and when wearied with toil, let him motive, should all labor and service turn aside and commune with Jesus.”—Gos- be performed? Col. 3:22, 23. pd Workers, page 245.
- What invitation of the Saviour shows His sympathy for the careworn NOTE.—”The humble, common duties of toilers of the earth? Matt. 11:28. life are all to be performed with fidelity; `heartily,’ says the apostle, ‘as to the Lord.’ Whatever our department of labor, be it housework or field work or intellectual NOTE.—”In these words Christ is speaking pursuits, we may perform it to the glory of to every human being. Whether they know God so long as we make Christ first and last it or not, all are weary and heavy-laden. All and best in everything.”—Testimonies, vol. are weighed down with burdens that only 5, p. 459. Christ can remove. .. . He invites us to cast all our care upon Him; for He carries us 12. What counsel to Timothy upon His heart.”—The Desire of Ages, pages should be heeded by all believers 328, 329. today? 2 Tim. 2:15. Compare Rom.
- Beyond earthly security and the 12:11. reward of toil, for what should we strive? John 6:27. Compare Prov. 23:4, 5. NOTE.—”None can know what may be God’s purpose in His discipline; but all may be certain that faithfulness in little things NOTE.—”The prayer for daily bread in- is the evidence of fitness for greater responsi- cludes not only food to sustain the body, but bilities. Every act of life is a revelation of that spiritual bread which will nourish the character, and he only who in small duties soul unto life everlasting.”—Thoughts From proves himself ‘a workman that needeth not the Mount of Blessing, page 164. to be ashamed,’ will be honored by God with, “Christ presents to us something higher to weightier trusts.”—Education, page 61. toil for than merely what we shall eat, and what we shall drink, and wherewithal we Diligence Commended shall be clothed.”—Testimonies, vol. 3, p.
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- What characteristic leads to ad- vancement, even in the world’s work? Paul’s Pattern and Counsel Prov. 22:29.
- In what spirit and manner did Paul support himself in the work of the Lord? 1 Cor. 4:11, 12. 14. In view of the brevity of life, how should each day’s tasks be per- formed? Eccl. 9:10; 12:14. NOTE.—”Before he became a disciple of Christ, Paul had occupied a high position, and was not dependent upon manual labor for support. But afterward, when he had NOTE.—”We are to look upon every duty, used all his means in furthering the cause of however humble, as sacred because it is a Christ, he resorted at times to his trade to part of God’s service. Our daily prayer gain a livelihood.”—The Acts of the Apos- should be, ‘Lord, help me to do my best. tles, page 347. Teach me how to do better work. Give me energy and cheerfulness. Help me to bring
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Of what did Paul remind the into my service the loving ministry of the believers at Thessalonica? 2 Thess. Saviour.’ “—The Ministry of Healing, page 3:10, 11. 474. ( 35 ] , f Lesson 11, for March 16, 1957
Kindness and Sympathy .1\
MEMORY VERSE: “And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.” Luke 6:31. STUDY HELPS: “Christ’s Object Lessons,” pages 376-389, 243-251; “Testimonies,” vol. 3, pp. 527-534; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for February 28.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: read Intro- Tuesday: Ques. 7, 8; read third duction; survey lesson, follow- Study Help. ing the outline. Wednesday: Ques. 9-11; learn Sunday: Ques. 1-3; read first Memory Verse. Study Help. Thursday: Ques. 12, 13; medi- Monday: Ques. 4-6; read second tate on Key Thought. Study Help. Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline: I11. Old and New Testament Examples Introduction 7. Love of David and Jonathan. 1 I. God’s Loving-Kindness Sam. 19:1-6. 1. God’s kindness and His covenant. 8. Paul’s plea for Onesimus. Philemon Isa. 54:6-10. 10, 16, 17. 2. Appeal of His great loving-kindness. IV. Exhortations to Brotherly Kindness Joel 2:12, 13. 3. Regenerating power of God’s love. 9. Gracious virtues commended to the Titus 3:3-6. elect. Col. 3:12, 13. 10. Communion in the early church.
- The Saviour’s Compassion Rom. 12:10; Eph. 4:32.
- Jesus commends quality of God’s 11. Steps to brotherly kindness and mercy to His followers. Luke 6: charity. 2 Peter 1:5-7. 35, 36. 12. Gracious speaking and the law of
- The active compassion of Jesus- kindness. Prov. 31:26.
a. To the multitudes. Matt. 14:14- 13. The golden rule. Matt. 7:12.
- Key Thought: b. Toward children. Matt. 19:14. c. Toward His enemies. Luke 22: “A kind, courteous Christian is the most 50, 51. powerful argument that can be produced
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Mutual helpfulness a Christian duty. in favor of Christianity.”-Gospel Workers, Matt. 22:39; Luke 10:27, 28. page 122.
THE LESSON Introduction neighbor. It is an active and powerful prin- ciple that provokes the true Christian to a As is clear from this study, kindness is sense of responsibility in the presence of more than a benign feeling toward our need. It is a self-sacrificing sympathy born [, 36 )of God’s own love for us that makes us kin NOTE.—”While we were yet unloving and to the poor and lowly and despised of earth. unlovely in character, ‘hateful and hating It is the virtue that impels men beyond the one another,’ our heavenly Father had requirements of duty into a service of love mercy on us. . . . His love received, will “that seeketh not her own.” He who is make us, in like mannner, kind and tender, discourteous and unkind forfeits the joy of not merely toward those who please us, but the communion of saints. to the most faulty and erring and sinful.. .. Even sinners whose hearts are not utterly closed to God’s Spirit, will respond to kind- God’s Loving-Kindness ness. . . . To be kind to the unthankful and to the evil, to do good hoping for noth-
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Upon what enduring attribute of ing again, is the insignia of the royalty of His character has God pledged the heaven.”—Thoughts From the Mount of surety of His covenant? Isa. 54:6-10. Blessing, page 115.
The Saviour's Compassion NOTE.—"AS the bow in the cloud results 4. What standard of mercy did from the union of sunshine and shower, so the bow above God's throne represents the Jesus commend to His followers? union of His mercy and His justice."—Edu- Luke 6:35, 36. cation, page 115. "When man by his great wickedness in- vites the divine judgments, the Saviour, interceding with the Father in his behalf, NoTE.—"Taking humanity upon Him, points to the bow in the clouds, to the Christ came to be one with humanity and rainbow around the throne and above His at the same time to reveal our heavenly own head, as a token of the mercy of God Father to sinful human beings. . . . toward the repentant sinner."—Patriarchs "Tender, compassionate, sympathetic, ever and Prophets, page 107. considerate of others, He represented the character of God, and was constantly en- - In view of the great loving- gaged in service for God and man.”—Testi- kindness of the Saviour what is the monies, vol. 8, p. 286. sinner exhorted to do? Joel 2:12, 13. • 5. How was the compassion of Je- sus demonstrated (a) to the needy mul- titudes? Matt. 14:14-16; (b) toward NoTE.—”As you see the enormity of sin, children? Matt. 19:14; (c) toward His as you see yourself as you really are, do not enemies? Luke 22:50, 51. give up to despair. It was sinners that Christ came to save. We have not to reconcile God to us, but—O wondrous love !—God in Christ is ‘reconciling the world unto Him- NoTE.—”The people pressed into Christ’s self.’ He is wooing by His tender love the presence with urgent, pitiful appeals: Mas- hearts of His erring children. No earthly ter, bless me. His ear heard every cry. With parent could be as patient with the faults pity exceeding that of a tender mother He and mistakes of His children, as is God with bent over the suffering little ones. All re- those He seeks to save. No one could plead ceived attention. Everyone was healed of more tenderly with the transgressor. No whatever disease he had. The dumb opened human lips ever poured out more tender their lips in praise; the blind beheld the face entreaties to the wanderer than does He. of their Restorer. The hearts of the suffer- All His promises, His warnings, are but the ers were made glad.”—The Desire of Ages, breathing of unutterable love.”—Steps to page 163. Christ, page 40. 6. What commandment of the Sav-
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What change is seen in the life iour makes mutual helpfulness a that yields itself to the kindness and Christian duty? Matt. 22:39; Luke love of God? Titus 3:3-6. 10:27, 28. [37 1 Nora.—”With his usual tact and kindness, the apostle pleaded the cause of the repent- ant slave.” “Christianity makes a strong bond of union between master and slave, king and subject, the gospel minister and the degraded sinner who has found in Christ cleansing from sin.”—The Acts of the Apos- tles, pages 456, 460. See The Ministry of Healing, page 489.
Exhortations to Brotherly Kindness 9. To the exercise of what gracious virtues are the elect of God admon- ished? Col. 3:12, 13. -a • COMMON ACTS OF KINDNESS ARE A • POWERFUL ARGUMENT FOR CHRISTIANITY.,, NOTE.—"Let each ask himself: Do I pos- sess the grace of love? Have I learned to NOTE.—"The question arises: 'Who is my suffer long and to be kind? Talents, learn- neighbor?' His reply is the parable of the ing, and eloquence, without this heavenly good Samaritan, which teaches us that any attribute, will be as meaningless as sounding human being who needs our sympathy and brass or a tinkling cymbal. Alas that this our kind offices is our neighbor."—Testimo- precious treasure is so lightly valued and nies, vol. 4, p. 226. so little sought by many who profess the "If our hearts are softened and subdued faith !"—Testimonies, vol. 5, p.. 169. by the grace of Christ, and glowing with a sense of God's goodness and love, there will 10. What principles of Christian be a natural outflow of love, sympathy, and fellowship did Paul commend to the tenderness to others."—Testimonies, vol. 5, early church?. Rom. 12:10; Eph. 4:32. p. 606.
Old and New Testament Examples NOTE.—”The cultivation of a uniform
- In pleading for the life of Da- courtesy, a willingness to do to others as we vid, his rival to the throne, how did would wish them to do to us, would annihi- Jonathan show his gracious spirit? late half the ills of life.”—Patriarchs and 1 Sam. 19:1-6. Prophets, page 133. 11. By what steps does one reach the flowering of character in brotherly NOTE.—”Jonathan, by birth heir to the kindness and charity? 2 Peter 1:5-7. throne, yet knowing himself set aside by the divine decree; to his rival the most tender and faithful of friends, shielding David’s life at the peril of his own— . . . the name of Jonathan is treasured in heaven; and it NoTE.—”Christ, who connects earth with stands on earth a witness to the existence heaven, is the ladder. The base is planted and the power of unselfish love.”—Educa- firmly on the earth in His humanity; the tion, page 157. topmost round reaches to the throne of God in His divinity. … We are saved by climb-
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What does Paul’s plea for Onesi- ing round after round of the ladder, looking mus show regarding the relationship to Christ, clinging to Christ, mounting step between masters and servants? Phi- by step to the height of ,Christ.”—Testimo- lemon 10, 16, 17. nies, vol. 6, p. 147. C38 ] 12. What will control and season sums up our Christian relationship the tongue of the true Christian? to others? Matt. 7:12. Prov. 31:26.
NoTE.—"Thy brother, sick in spirit, needs NOTE.—"A word of cheer, an act of kind- thee, as thou thyself hast needed a brother's ness, would go far to lighten the burdens love. He needs the experience of one who that are resting heavily upon weary shoul- has been as weak as he, one who can sympa- ders. . . . Let the law of kindness be ever thize with him and help him. The knowledge on your lips. Forbearance and unselfishness of our own weakness should help us to help mark the words and actions of those who are another in his bitter need. Never should we born again, to live the new life in Christ."— pass by one suffering soul without seeking to Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 50. impart to him the comfort wherewith we are comforted of God."—Christ's Object Les- -
What principle of conduct sons, pages 387, 388.
t-(-.) e/6A Lesson 12, for arch 23, 1957 Justice and Equity
MEMORY VERSE: “He hath showed thee, 0 man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Micah 6:8. STUDY HELPS: “Testimonies,” vol. 4, pp. 309-312, 489-495; “Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,” pages 192-197; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” for March 7. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey les- Study Help. son, following the outline. Wednesday: Ques. 10-15; read Sunday: Read Introduction: third Study Help. Ques. 1-4. Thursday: Review Ques. 1-9; Monday: Ques. 5, 6; read first learn Memory Verse. Study Help. Friday: Review Ques. 10-15; Tuesday: Ques. 7-9; read second meditate on Key Thought.
Lesson Outline: 4. Lesson from Israel’s failure. Ex. 23: 2, first part; Ps. 1:1. Introduction 5. Achan’s sin and punishment. Joshua 7:20-25. I. The Standard of Equity in Israel 6. Retribution on Ananias and Sap- phira. Acts 5:1-10. 1. Israel’s inheritance based on justice. Deut. 16:20. I11. God Frowns on Inequity 2. Instructions in equity and justice. 7. How the Lord views dishonesty. Lev. 19:13, 15, 18. Prov. 11:1; 20:10.
- God’s Hatred of Double-Dealing 8. Jeremiah’s cry against injustice. Jer.
22:13.
- Those who led Israel astray. Num. 9. Fraud a sign of the last days. James 11:4. 5:1-6. [ 39 ] IV. Principles to Live By 14. Mutual sharing among brethren. 2 Cor. 8:13-15.
- Description of a just man. Ezek. 15. God’s standard of integrity. Micah 18:5, 7-9. 6 :8.
- A guiding principle for fair dealing. Prov. 3:27. Key Thought:
- The pronouncement of Jesus. Matt. 5:39-41. “Firm integrity shines forth as gold amid
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Paul’s teaching on equity. Rom. the dross and rubbish of the world.”—Testi- 12:17; 13:7, 8. monies, vol. 4, p. 310.
THE LESSON Introduction church.... God requires undeviating princi- ple in the minutest details of the transactions Honesty and fair dealing are among of life."—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 337. the princely virtues of Christian living. Shortcuts to gain and material advantage are often snares to even well-intentioned God's Hatred of Double-Dealing people. The neighbor's landmark, the just 3. Who were the first to murmur weight, and fairness in every deal are as inviolable in God's sight as they were in the in the wilderness and to lead Israel Mosaic economy. There is no sight dearer to into apostasy? Num. 11:4. heaven that a Christian who rules his house- hold with equity, covers his neighbor's faults with charity, and tempers his justice with mercy. NOTE.—"The mixed multitude that came up with the Israelites from Egypt were a Standard of Equity in Israel source of continual temptation and trouble. . . . They were oftenest the ones to stir up
- Upon the observance of what strife, and were the first to complain, and principle was the inheritance of Is- they leavened the camp with their idolatrous rael assured? Deut. 16:20. practices and their murmurings against God.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 408. 4. What lesson may we learn from Israel’s failures? Ex. 23:2, first part; NOTE.—”If the Israelites would be true to Ps. 1:1. their trust, they would become a power in the world. God would be their defense, and He would exalt them above all other na- tions.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 314. NOTE.—”If choice is made of companions “It was God’s purpose that by the revela- who fear the Lord, the influence will lead to tion of His character through Israel men truth, to duty, and to holiness. . . . To walk should be drawn unto Him.”—Prophets and in the counsel of the ungodly is the first step Kings, page 19. toward standing in the way of sinners and sitting in the seat of the scornful.”—Testi-
- What were some of the instruc- monies, vol. 4, p. 587. tions intended to keep them a people of justice and equity? Lev. 19:13, 15, 5. What was Achan’s sin, and how
- was he punished? Joshua 7:20-25.
NoTE.—”Religion does not consist merely NOTE.—”The deadly sin that led to in a system of dry doctrines, but in practical Achan’s ruin had its root in covetousness, faith, which sanctifies the life and corrects of all sins one of the most common and the the conduct in the family circle and in the most lightly regarded. While other offenses [ 40 ] meet with detection and punishment, how rarely does the violation of the tenth com- mandment so much as call forth censure…. For a goodly Babylonish garment, multi- tudes sacrifice the approval of conscience and their hope of heaven. Multitudes barter their integrity, and their capabilities for use- fulness, for a bag of silver shekels.”—Patri- archs and Prophets, pages 496, 497.
- What swift retribution came upon Ananias and Sapphira? Acts 5:1-10.
NoTE.—”God hates hypocrisy and false- hood. Ananias and Sapphira practiced fraud in their dealing with God; they lied to the Holy Spirit, and their sin was visited with swift and terrible judgment. . . . This judg- ment testified that men cannot deceive God, NorE.—”Belief in the near coming of the that He detects the hidden sin of the heart, Son of man in the clouds of heaven will not and that He will not be mocked.”—The Acts cause the true Christian to become neglectful of the Apostles, pages 72, 73. and careless of the ordinary business of life. The waiting ones who look for the soon ap- pearing of Christ will not be idle, but dili- God Frowns on Inequity gent in business. Their work will not be done carelessly and dishonestly, but with
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How does the Lord look upon fidelity, promptness, and thoroughness.”— dishonesty? Prov. 11:1; 20:10. Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 309.
Principles to Live By NoTE.—"The children of God should not fail to remember that in all their business 10. What part do fair and honest transactions they are being proved, weighed dealings have in God's description of in the balances of the sanctuary.... All that a just man? Ezek. 18:5, 7-9. is obtained by deceit and fraud will be only a curse to the receiver."—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 311. NOTE.—"A man who is honest before God -
What message did the Lord give will deal justly with his fellow men, whether Jeremiah against injustice and op- or not it is for his own personal interest to pression? Jer. 22:13. do so. The outward acts are a fair transcript of the principles within.”—Life Sketches, page 244.
NorE.—”God’s word sanctions no policy 11. What words of Solomon set that will enrich one class by the oppression forth a guiding principle in our deal- and suffering of another. In all our business ings with others? Prov. 3:27. transactions it teaches us to put ourselves in the place of those with whom we are deal- ing, to look not only on our own things, but also on the things of others.”—The Ministry NOTE.—”God has bound us together as of Healing, page 187. members of one family, and this relationship everyone is bound to cherish. There are
- What is described as a particular services due to others which we cannot ig- evil of the last days? James 5:1-6. nore and yet keep the commandments of [ 41 ] God. To live, think, and act for self only is not sanction arbitrary authority, nor will He to become useless as servants of God. High- serve with the least selfishness or overreach- sounding titles and great talents are not ing. To Him all such practices are abhor- essential in order to be good citizens or rent.”—Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 179. exemplary Christians.”—Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 339, 340. 14. How are brethren counseled to share with one another the blessings
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How did Jesus show that the of varying abundance? 2 Cor. 8:13- Christian is obligated to a higher law 15. See James 2:15, 16. than mere duty? Matt. 5:39-41.
NOTE.—"Study to be rich in good works, NoTE.—"In the days of Christ these mer- ready to distribute, willing to communicate, ciful provisions were little regarded; but laying up for yourselves a good foundation Jesus taught His disciples to submit to against the time to come, that you may lay the decision of the court, even though this hold on everlasting life."—Testimonies, vol. should demand more than the law of Moses 1, p. 706. authorized."—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, page 111. 15. How does Micah sum up God's standard of integrity? Micah 6:8. -
What was Paul’s teaching on equity? Rom. 12:17; 13:7, 8. NOTE.—”The end is near, and every soul is now to walk carefully, humbly, meekly NOTE.—”It is the devising of men that with Christ Jesus. Our precious Saviour, leads to injustice and oppression. The cause from whom all the rays of truth radiate to of God is free from every taint of injustice. the world, wants us to put not our trust in It seeks to gain no advantage by depriving princes, nor in the son of man, in whom the members of His family of their indi- there is no help; but to lean wholly upon viduality or of their rights. The Lord does Him.”—Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 203.
f9he, Lesson 13, for March 30, 1957 Zeal and Soulsaving MEMORY VERSE: "Whosoever shall confess Me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God." Luke 12:8. STUDY HELPS: "Testimonies," vol. 9, pp. 19-29, 43-48, 109-124; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" for March 14. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey les- Wednesday: Ques. 12-14; read son, following the outline. first Study Help, pp. 109-124 Sunday: Read Introduction: Thursday: Review Ques. 1-8; Ques. 1-4. learn Memory Verse; read Monday: Ques. 5-8; read first second Study Help. Study Help, pp. 19-29. Friday: Review Ques. 9-14; medi- Tuesday: Ques. 9-11; read first tate on Key Thought. Study Help, pp. 43-48. I, 42Lesson Outline: I11. God’s Witnesses Today Introduction 9. The burden of our testimony. Isa. I. The Gospel Commission 43:10; Luke 12:8. 1. The gospel commission. Matt. 28: 10. The boldness of Peter and John. 19, 20; Mark 16:15; 13:10. Acts 4:13. 2. The disciples follow the Lord’s com- 11. Paul’s counsel to Timothy. 2 Tim. mand. Mark 16:20. 1:8. 3. Need of zealous endeavor. John IV. The Needful Preparation 4:35. 4. Work at the eleventh hour. Matt. 12. Paul’s varied experiences as a 20:6,7. worker. 2 Cor. 6:4-10. 13. What Peter urges as needful prepa-
- Great Movements Under God ration. 1 Peter 3:15.
- The spirit of Nehemiah. Neh. 4:6, 14. The special message for today. Rev. 17, 18. 14:6.
- Jonah’s message and its results. Jo- Key Thought: nah 3:5-10.
- The revival in Samaria. John 4:39- “The inhabitants of the heavenly universe
- expect the followers of Christ to shine as
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Paul’s evangelistic effort in Ephesus. lights in the world.”-Testimonies, vol. 9, • Acts 19:17-20. p. 22.
THE LESSON Introduction the proclamation of the warning message." -Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 19. Zeal and religious activity are often substituted for an essential knowledge of 2. How zealously did the disciples God. To be effective as a soul-saving virtue, follow the Lord's command? Mark religious enthusiasm must be molded by 16:20. heavenly wisdom and sanctified common sense. There are few weapons more destruc- tive in Satan's hands than a zeal "not ac- cording to knowledge." In it are found the NOTE.-"These disciples prepared them- roots of fanaticism. On the other hand, there selves for their work. Before the Day of is danger of drawing back from aggressive Pentecost they met together, and put away service for God because of spiritual indo- all differences. . . . They did not ask for a lence or false modesty. "We are to be conse- blessing for themselves merely; they were crated channels, through which the heavenly weighted with the burden for the salvation life is to flow to others."-Testimonies, vol. of souls. The gospel was to be carried to 9, p. 20. the uttermost parts of the earth, and they claimed the endowment of power that Christ The Gospel Commission had promised."-The Desire of Ages, page 827.
- What was Christ’s last great commission to His disciples? Matt. 3. How did Jesus impress upon His 28:19, 20; Mark 16:15; 13:10. followers the need of zealous en- deavor? John 4:35.
NOTE.-Note the various means of evan- gelism to be employed-preaching, teaching, Nora.-“Let not the fields lying in the publishing. “It is His purpose that divine shadow of our doors, such as the great cities and human instrumentalities shall unite in in our land, be lightly passed over and [ 43 ] neglected…. The destruction of these cities, “Especially today, while earth’s history is almost wholly given up to idolatry, is im- closing, the Lord requires of His children a pending.”—Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 31, 32. vigilance that knows no relaxation.”—Ibid., p. 571.
- In the parable of the house- holder, what were the eleventh-hour 6. What was the result of . Jonah’s idlers bidden to do? Matt. 20:6, 7. God-given message to Nineveh? Jo- nah 3:5-10.
NOTE.—”Long has God waited for the spirit of service to take possession of the Nolx.—”The message was not in vain. whole church, so that everyone shall be The cry that rang through the streets of the working for Him according to his ability.”— godless city was passed from lip to lip, until The Acts of the Apostles, page 111. all the inhabitants had heard the startling “There must be an awakening, a spiritual announcement. The Spirit of God pressed renovation. The temperature of Christian the message home to every heart, and caused piety must be raised…. There is work for multitudes to tremble because of their sins, every individual who names the name of and to repent in deep humiliation.”—Proph- Christ. A voice from heaven is solemnly ets and Kings, page 270. calling you to duty. Heed this voice, and “In every city, filled though it may be go to work at once in any place, in any ca- with violence and crime, there are many pacity.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 203, 204. who with proper teaching may learn to be- come followers of Jesus.”—Ibid., p. 277. Great Movements Under God 7. How was the message of the
- With what resolute spirit were Samaritan woman received after her the walls of Jerusalem built? Neh. conversion at Jacob’s well? John 4:6, 17, 18. 4:39-41.
NOTE .—”Notwithstanding the plots of NoTE.—”As soon as she had found the enemies, open and secret, the work of build- Saviour the Samaritan woman brought ing went steadily forward, and in less than others to Him. She proved herself a more two months from the time of Nehemiah’s ar- effective missionary than His own disciples. rival in Jerusalem, the city was girded with The disciples saw nothing in Samaria to its defenses, and the builders could walk indicate that it was an encouraging field… . upon the walls, and look down upon their But through the woman whom they de- defeated and astonished foes.”—Prophets spised, a whole cityful were brought to hear and Kings, page 657. the Saviour.”—The Desire of Ages, page 195.
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of these quarterlies for the strangers within your gates.
(44 ]
10. If we would have the boldness of Peter and John, what must be re- vealed in our testimony? Acts 4:13.
NOTE.—"No -longer were they ignorant
and uncultured. . . . No longer were their
hopes set on worldly greatness. They were
of 'one accord,' of 'one mind and one soul.'
Christ filled their thoughts. The advance-
ment of His kingdom was their aim."—Edu-
cation, page 95.
11. What admonition to Timothy
is good counsel for God's last-day
witnesses? 2 Timothy 1:8. IS OUR MISSIONARY WORK SYMBOLIZED BY FINING ANGELS? 107-11
The Needful Preparation 8. How is the great revival un- der Paul's preaching at Ephesus de- 12. What rich and varied experi- scribed? Acts 19:17-20. ence gave Paul his power as a worker
for God? 2 Cor. 6:4110.
NOTE.—”By burning their books on magic, the Ephesian converts showed that 13. What did Peter urge as needful the things in which they had once delighted preparation for winning souls? 1 Pe- they now abhorred. … Thus they gave evi- dence of true conversion.”—The Acts of the ter 3:15. Apostles, page 288. “The Lord has in our large cities many precious souls who have not bowed the knee NOTE.—”Many who profess to believe the to Baal, and He has those who have wor- shiped Baal ignorantly. On these the light of truth for these last days . . . do not know truth is to shine, that they may see Christ as why they believe the truth. . . . They can the way, the truth, and the life.”—Testimo- give no intelligent reason why they believe. nies, vol. 9, p. 142. Many have allowed their minds to be filled with things of minor importance, end their eternal interest is made secondary.”—Testi- God’s Witnesses Today monies, vol. 2, p. 634.
- As witnesses for God, what 14. How is the special message for should be the burden of our confes- today described, and how , widely sion? Isa. 43:10; Luke 12:8. must it be proclaimed? Rev. 14:6.
Nora.—”We are witnesses for God as we NOTE.—”The message of Revelation 14 is reveal in ourselves the working of a power the message that we are to bear to the world. that is divine. Every individual has a life It is the bread of life for these last days…. distinct from all others, and an experience We are not to cease our efforts or relax our differing essentially from theirs. God desires vigilance. Never is our zeal to grow less. that our praise shall ascend to Him, marked Our spiritual life must be daily revived by with our own individuality.”—The Ministry the stream that makes glad the city of our of Healing, page 100. God.”—Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 27. L46] THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING
March 30, 1957
The Thirteenth Sabbath Offering overflow for the first quarter of 1957 will help to provide both a boys' and a girls' dormitory for the Nile Union Academy, located near Cairo, Egypt, and to erect a class- room building, one dormitory, and some faculty homes for the Iran Training Institute just outside the walls of Teheran, Iran.
Our workers of the Middle East write as follows :
"One of the greatest needs is for a strong educational program in Iran to save our youth and to prepare them to take up the responsibili- ties God would have them carry."
"At the present time at our Nile Union Academy we can accept only boys, as there are no dormitories for either boys or girls. The boys sleep in double-decker beds in the classrooms of our only building—the administration building. There are from twelve to eighteen students sleeping in a room."
"Living on the crossroads of the nations, with events changing so rapidly, we are conscious of the fact that time is running out. As you give, remember you are helping to save the youth in these lands of the Bible."
Lessons for the Second Quarter, 1957
Sabbath-school members who have failed to receive a senior Les- son Quarterly for the second quarter of 1957 will be helped by the following outline in studying the first lesson. The subject of the quarter's lessons is "Lessons From the Acts of the Apostles I." The title of the first lesson is "The Great Commission; The Twelve Apostles." The Memory Verse is Acts :8. The texts to be studied are:
Ques. 1. Acts 1:3. Ques. 6. Acts 1:9, 10, 12.
Ques. 2. Acts 1:6, 7. Ques. 7. Acts 1:11.
Ques. 3. Acts 1:5, 8. Ques. 8. Acts 1:13, 15.
Ques. 4. Luke 24:49. Ques. 9. Acts 1:13, 14.
Ques. 5. John 15:26, 27; Matt. Ques. 10. Acts 1:16-22.
28:19, 20; Luke 24:48; Ques. 11. Acts 1:22.
Acts 1:8. Ques. 12. Acts 1:23-26.
[46 1
7adid de?ad DEVA1
You wouldn't think much of a bricklayer without a
trowel, or a painter without a brush, would you? There
are tools for every task. Are you as a Sabbath-school
teacher making use of all the tools at your command?
You can depend on the Conflict Series as a reliable
denominational commentary.
CONFLICT OF THE AGES SERIES,
by
Pafrjorchs and Prophets
•4; ELLEN G. WHITE
17rorifietiand Kings
The Desire of Ages
The Acts of the Apostles
The Great Controversy
Cloth, five volumes,
$21,00. De luxe, harp,
five volumes, $26.00.
Prices higher in Can-
ado. Add soles tux
where, necessary.
When ordering by mail, allow 30 cents
per set to cover mailing expenses.
OROER’ FROM YOUR CHURCH -MISSIONARY—SECRETARY OR YOUR BOOK AND BIBLE HOUSE-
PACIFIC PRESS PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION, Mountain View, California
X 601 TURKEY • CASPIAN SEA
EAST MEDITERRANEAN UNION • 1AZA101
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..• MOSUL
.ALEPPO ;TEHERAN
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, •:',
MEDITERRANEAN SEA SYRIA
CYPRUS LEBAN N4 ",q, q!. :
IFIRLT • j t
IRAN TRAINING INSTITUTE
,_DAMASCUS..,..- ..
TRIPOLI HAIM .... . SAGHEAD
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IRAQ
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IRAN MISSION
LIBYA NILE UNION ACADEMY
NILE • UNION
SAUDI ARABIA
MAN
*N. ‘ 7
ANCLO-EGYPTIAN SUDAN
MIDDLE EAST DIVISION UNION MISSION POPULATION CHURCHES CH MEM. S.S. MEM EAST MEDITERRANEAN 35,922,000 17 958 2,222 NILE 36,600,000 19 826 415 IRAN M. 17,000,000 7 226 1,056
DIVISION TOTALS 89,522,000 43 2,010 3,693