Lessons for Today From the Time of Ezra and Nehemiah
Lessons for Today From the Time of Ezra and Nehemiah
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THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY “The beauty and riches of the word have a transforming influence on mind and character.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, page 132. “There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the study of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If God’s word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of mind, a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose rarely seen in these times.”—Steps to Christ, page go. “The more you search the Scriptures with humble hearts, the greater will be your interest. . . . Every day you should learn something new from the Scriptures.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 266.
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 Sabbath school lesson each day of the week.
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LESSON TITLES FOR THE QUARTER I. The Divine Purpose in the Captivity 9. The Ministry of Ezra 2. Deliverance From Captivity It). Nehemiah Rebuilds the Walls 3. The Sacrificial System Restored it. Reforms Instituted by Nehemiah 4. The Rebuilding Hindered 12. Failure of Exiles to Fulfill Divine 5. Rebuilding Resumed Purpose 6. Zechariah Encourages the Builders 13. The Divine Purpose Fulfilled in the 7. Further Messages of Encouragement Christian Church 8. The Temple Completed
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 260, April-June, 1960. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents a year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350 Villa Street, Mountain View, California. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. When a change of address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses. Copyright, 1960, by Pacific Press Publishing Association Printed in U.S.A. Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly LESSONS FOR TODAY FROM THE TIMES OF EZRA AND NEHEMIAH
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
The times of Ezra and Nehemiah here The prophets Haggai and Zechariah min- mean not only the period covered by the istered during the early part of the times of lives of these men but also the historical Ezra and Nehemiah, and their writings times covered in the books bearing their provide the basis for many of the lessons names. The period thus extends from the we may draw from those turbulent times. return of the exiles under the decree of Cy- Those were the days in which the Lord rus about 537 B.C. to the close of Nehe- set His hand the second time to recover the miah’s governorship some time before 407 remnant of His people, which had been a.c. Ezra’s ministry began in 457 B.c., scattered abroad. But Israel failed to learn and Nehemiah’s about 444 B.c. God’s lessons and to fulfill His purposes In the ancient Hebrew manuscripts the after the return from Babylonian captivity, two books of Ezra and Nehemiah con- and today He is gathering the spiritual stituted one volume. A division first ap- remnant from every nation, kindred, peared in the Septuagint and from there tongue, and people. The first remnant failed was carried over into the Latin Vulgate. to fulfill the divine purpose in their gather- About the middle of the fifteenth century ing. It is for us to learn the cause of their the division appeared in a Hebrew manu- failure and thus avoid a repetition of their script and was subsequently perpetuated in blunder. “For whatsoever things were writ- Hebrew printed editions. From these it was ten aforetime were written for our learn- carried over into our present versions. Ezra ing, that we through patience and comfort is believed to have been the author of the of the Scriptures might have hope.” Rom. two books. 15:4.
Lesson 1, for April 2, 1960
The Divine Purpose in the Captivity
MEMORY VERSE: “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” Rom. 15:4. STUDY HELPS: “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” vol. 4, pp. 25-33, and on Scripture references; “Christ’s Object Lessons,” chapter, “The Lord’s Vineyard;” Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of March 17.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-14. ❑ Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read further from Study Monday: Questions 4, 5; begin read- Helps. ❑
ing Study Helps. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. 0 Tuesday: Questions 6-10. ❑
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Lesson Outline I11. Purpose of Captivity for Israel 6. Correction and punishment. Jer. Introduction 30:11. 7. Repentance. Jer. 31:18, 19. I. God’s Original Purpose for Israel 8. Consuming of sin. Ezek. 22:15. 9. Vindication of true prophets. Ezek. 1. Israel’s history recorded for our 33:33; Deut. 18:21, 22. learning. Rom. 15:4. 10. New heart. Ezek. 36:24-31. 2. The purpose stated. Ex. 19:5, 6. IV. Purpose of Israel’s Captivity for the 3. Extent of failure. 2 Kings 17:7-12, 14-19; Isa. 1:1-4. Nations 11. A challenge to decide for God. Jer.
- The Captivity a Last Resort 12 :14-17.
12. Captives spread knowledge of true
- God’s reluctance to give up His God. Dan. 2:47; 3:28, 29; 6:25-27. people. Hosea 11:8; Ezek. 33:11. 13. God’s name dishonored. Ezek. 36:
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God’s thoughts of peace. Jer. 29: 19, 20. 11-13. 14. God’s name dishonored today. James 2:7.
THE LESSON Introduction their light became darkness. They walked in the light of their own eyes instead of In order fully to grasp the significance following the leadings of God. The his- of the times of Ezra and Nehemiah, it is tory of the children of Israel was written necessary to understand the historical back- for the benefit of those who live in the last ground of those times. God called Israel to days, that they may avoid following their be His representatives in the world, to example of unbelief ."-T estimonies, vol. 4, spread to all nations a true knowledge of p. 43. God. This purpose they failed to fulfill. As a result they suffered the humiliation of 2. What was God's original pur- the captivity. However, God did not abandon them in their exile. He had a mer- pose for Israel? Ex. 19:5, 6. ciful purpose in their affliction. He prom- ised to bring them back to their own land and to give them another opportunity. The divine purpose is here presented. The NOTE.-"Through the Jewish nation it objectives of the captivity are examined was God's purpose to impart rich blessings to ascertain how the exiles profited from to all peoples. Through Israel the way was the discipline of the captivity and to what to be prepared for the diffusion of His light extent they took advantage of their op- to the whole world. The nations of the portunities after their return to Palestine. world, through following corrupt practices, had lost the knowledge of God. Yet in His mercy God did not blot them out of exist- God's Original Purpose for Israel ence. He purposed to give them opportu- nity for becoming acquainted with Him
- For what purpose have the rec- through His church. He designed that the ords of Israel’s history been preserved principles revealed through His people for us? Rom. 15:4. Compare 1 Cor. should be the means of restoring the moral 10:11. image of God in man.”-Christ’s Object Lessons, page 286.
NOTE.-“I was pointed back to ancient 3. How woefully short of fulfilling Israel. They had great light and exalted the divine purpose did both Israel and privileges; yet they did not live up to the Judah fall? 2 Kings 17:7-12, 14-19; light nor appreciate their advantages, and Isa. 1:1-4. [43 NOTE.—”But Israel did not fulfill God’s purpose. They forgot God and lost sight of their high privilege as His representatives. (_(1 LP The blessings that they had received brought HISTORY OF ISRAEL no blessing to the world. All their advan- tages were appropriated for their own glorification. They robbed God of the service He required of them, and they robbed their fellow men of religious guid- ance and a holy example. . . “Is not the same thing repeated in this generation? Many in our day are keeping back that which the Lord has entrusted to -17 them for the salvation of a world unwarned, unsaved.”—Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 26.
The Captivity a Last Resort The history of Is ad is to benefit Ch is fans today, so
that they may avoid the Israelites example of unbelief. 4. How did God feel toward giving up His people? Hosea 11:8; Ezek. 33:11.
Purpose of Captivity for Israel
6. What was God's purpose in the NOTE.—"Had Israel heeded the messages captivity? Jer. 30:11. of the prophets, they would have been spared the humiliation that followed. It was because they had persisted in turning aside from His law that God was compelled NOTE.—"God had pleaded with Judah to let them go into captivity. 'My people not to provoke Him to anger, but they had are destroyed for lack of knowledge,' was hearkened not. Finally sentence was pro- His message to them through Hosea. 'Be- nounced against them. They were to be led cause thou hast rejected knowledge, I will away captive to Babylon. The Chaldeans also reject thee: . . . seeing thou hast for- weie to be used as the instrument by which gotten the law of thy God.'"—Prophets God would chastise His disobedient people. and Kings, page 297. The sufferings of the men of Judah were to
be in proportion to the light they had had 5. Despite the seeming severity of and to the warnings they had despised and the affliction, what was God's attitude rejected. Long had God delayed His judg- toward His people? Jer. 29:11-13. ments, but now He would visit His dis-
pleasure upon them as a last effort to check
them in their evil course."—Prophets and
Kings, page 425. NorE.—"God permits trials to assail His 7. What spirit or attitude were Is- people, that by their constancy and obedi- ence they themselves may be spiritually en- rael's afflictions intended to produce? riched, and that their example may be a Jer. 31:18, 19. source of strength to others. 'I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil.' Jeremiah 29:11. The very trials that task NoTE.—In the prophetic writings "Eph- our faith most severely and make it seem raim" frequently stands for the ten tribes that God has forsaken us, are to lead us that after the secession in the time of Reho- closer to Christ, that we may lay all our boam formed the northern kingdom of burdens at His feet and experience the peace Israel. which He will give us in exchange."—Pa- To smite upon the thigh was a token of triarchs and Prophets, page 129. extreme grief or mourning. See Ezek. 21:12.
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8. What were the fires of affliction The Lord in His providence brought His intended to consume? Ezek. 22:15. servants, Daniel, Nehemiah, Ezra, face to face with kings and rulers, that these idolaters might have an opportunity to receive the light. Thus the work which God had given His people to do in pros- NoTE.—”To sin, wherever found, ‘our perity, in their own borders, but which had God is a consuming fire.’ Heb. 12:29. In been neglected through their unfaithfulness, all who submit to His power the Spirit was done by them in captivity, under great of God will consume sin. But if men cling trial and embarrassment.”—Testimonies, - to sin, they become identified with it. Then vol. 5, p. 455. the glory of God, which destroys sin, must destroy them.”—The Desire of Ages, Page
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- As a result of witness borne by the captives of Judah, how was God’s
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How would God’s prophets be name extolled among the heathen? vindicated in the crisis? Ezek. 33:33; Dan. 2:47; 3:28, 29; 6:25-27. Deut. 18:21, 22.
NOTE.—"Through the Hebrew captives the Lord was made known to the heathen - What was to be the spiritual ex- in Babylon. This idolatrous nation was perience of those who returned from given a knowledge of the kingdom the Lord captivity? Ezek. 36:24-31. was to establish, and through His power maintain against all the power and craft of Satan. Daniel and his fellow companions, Ezra and Nehemiah, and many others were NorE.—”Every time a soul is converted, witnesses for God in their captivity. The and learns to love God and keep His com- Lord scattered them among the kingdoms mandments, the promise of God is fulfilled. of the earth that their light might shine . The change in human hearts, the trans- brightly amid the black darkness of hea- formation of human characters, is a miracle thenism and idolatry.”—Ellen G. White that reveals an ever-living Saviour, working supplement in The Seventh-day Adventist to rescue souls. A consistent life in Christ Bible Commentary, vol. 4, p. 1169. is a great miracle.”—The Desire of Ages, page 407. 13. What was one of the tragic ef- fects of the captivity? Ezek. 36:19, 20. Purpose of Israel’s Captivity for the Nations
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What was God’s design for the NOTE.—”The Israelites had misrepre- nations holding His people captive? sented God among the nations. They were not merely useless, but a decided hindrance. Jer. 12:14-17. To a great degree their religion was mis- leading, and wrought ruin instead of salvation.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 215. “Their [the Jewish nation’s] covetousness NOTE.—”God brought the hand of the and greed caused them to be despised even oppressor upon His people and scattered by the heathen. Thus the Gentile world them as captives among the nations. In was given occasion to misinterpret the char- affliction many of them repented of their acter of God and the laws of His kingdom.” transgressions and sought the Lord. Scat- —Prophets and Kings, pages 20, 21. tered throughout the countries of the hea- then, they spread abroad the knowledge of the true God. The principles of the 14. How may our failure to live up divine law came in conflict with the cus- to light that shines in our pathway toms and practices of the nations. Idolaters result in dishonor to God’s name? endeavored to crush out the true faith. James 2:7. Compare Rom. 2:23, 24. [6] Lesson 2, for April 9, 1960
Deliverance From Captivity
MEMORY VERSE: “Flee out of the midst of Babylon, and deliver every man his soul: be not cut off in her iniquity; for this is the time of the Lord’s vengeance; He will render unto her a recompense.” Jer. 51:6. STUDY HELPS: “Prophets and Kings,” pages 551-560; “The Seventh-day Advent- ist Bible Commentary,” on Scripture references; Lesson Help in “Review and. Herald” of March 24.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 9-12. ❑ Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read further from Study Monday: Questions 4, 5; begin read- Helps. ❑
ing Study Helps. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 6-8. ❑
Lesson Outline 11. Prophetic Background of the Decree 6. Prophecy fulfilled. Jer. 25:11, 12; Introduction 29:10. 7. Daniel’s study of Jeremiah’s proph- I. The Decree ecy. Dan. 9:1, 2. 8. Prayer for fulfillment. Dan. 9: 1. The issuance of the decree. Ezra 1:1. 4-6, 20. 2. Prophecy concerning Cyrus. Isa. 44:28; 45:13. I11. The Call to Come Out of Babylon 3. Stipulations of the decree. Ezra 1:3. 9. Babylon’s fall predicted. Isa. 21:9. 10. God’s call to His people. Jer. 51: 4. Cyrus’s recognition of divine com- 6, 8. mand. Ezra 1:2. 11. Response to call. Ezra 1:5; 2:64, 65. 5. Command to those remaining in 12. The call out of spiritual Babylon. Babylon. Ezra 1:4, 6. Rev. 18:1-4.
THE LESSON
Introduction of the work they had thus far in their
history neglected to accomplish. When Cyrus granted permission to the Jews to return to their homeland a number The Decree responded, but many more chose to remain in the land of captivity. 1. What was Cyrus, king of Persia, Among those who did return there was stirred to do in the first year of his only a halfhearted attempt to follow the reign? Ezra 1:1. divine plan. The discipline of the captivity had accomplished some good, but it had not produced the thorough reformation that God desired. NOTE.-"The Persian Empire stretched Nevertheless He wrought with His people. from the desert wastes of Iran in the east This was a fresh opportunity to lay hold to the coast of Asia Minor in the west, and
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from the Armenian highlands in the north mind of Cyrus the Great. The sterling to the border of Egypt in the south. Cyrus, qualities of the man of God as a statesman its founder, was a prudent and humane of far-seeing ability led the Persian ruler monarch. In harmony with his policy of to show him marked respect and to honor appeasing nations subjugated by Babylon, his judgment. And now, just at the time he resettled them in their old homes and God had said He would cause His temple restored their places of worship. In accord at Jerusalem to be rebuilt, He moved upon with this generous policy, the Jews were Cyrus as His agent to discern the prophe- allowed to return to their old homeland cies concerning himself, with which Daniel and rebuild their temple. . . . was so familiar, and to grant the Jewish “When Cyrus took Babylon he became people their liberty.”—Prophets and Kings, acquainted with the aged Daniel, trusted page 557. counselor of the great Nebuchadnezzar of a former era, and learned to appreciate his 5. What were the Jews who re- advice. Through Daniel, Cyrus must have mained in Babylon required to do for become acquainted with Isaiah’s prophecies those who returned to Jerusalem? concerning him and his appointed role in Ezra 1:4, 6. behalf of God’s people (Isa. 44:21 to 45: 13), and granted their restoration.”—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, pp. 320, 321. Prophetic Background of the Decree
- What remarkable prophecy con- cerning Cyrus was given through Isa- 6. What prophecies of Jeremiah iah nearly 200 years previously? Isa. were fulfilled by the issuance of Cy- 44:28; 45:13. rus’s decree? Jer. 25:11, 12; 29:10.
NoTE.—”In the unexpected entry of the NOTE.—”Since the Babylonian captivity army of the Persian conqueror into the had begun in 605 s.c. (see on Dan. 1:1), heart of the Babylonian capital by way the 70 years of Jeremiah’s prophecies were of the channel of the river whose waters due to expire in 536, according to inclusive had been turned aside, and through the reckoning (see Vol. II, p. 136). Therefore inner gates that in careless security had if the decree of Cyrus was issued in the been left open and unprotected, the Jews summer or autumn of 537, and the Jews had abundant evidence of the literal ful- probably returned to their homeland in fillment of Isaiah’s prophecy concerning the the spring of the following year, 536, this sudden overthrow of their oppressors. And would fulfill the prophecies of Jeremiah.” this should have been to them an unmis- —The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- takable sign that God was shaping the mentary, on Ezra 1:1. affairs of nations in their behalf.”—Prophets and Kings, page 552. 7. Shortly before the issuance of
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What privilege did the decree the decree, who was studying Jere- grant? Ezra 1:3. miah’s prophecies? Dan. 9:1, 2.
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Who did Cyrus say instructed NoTE.—”Often had Daniel and his com- him to build a house for the Lord? panions gone over these and similar prophe- Ezra 1:2. cies outlining God’s purpose for His people.” —Prophets and Kings, page 553. “Still burdened in behalf of Israel, Daniel studied anew the prophecies of Jeremiah. NOTE.—”The deliverance of Daniel from They were very plain—so plain that he the den of lions had been used of God to understood by these testimonies recorded create a favorable impresssion upon the in books ‘the number of the years, where- [8] 11. How many responded to the de- cree? Ezra 1:5; 2:64, 65.
NoTE.—"Only a comparative minority of the exiles returned. Even many of the clans of Judah and Benjamin chose to re- main in the land of their adoption. Many had come to honor and wealth in Baby- lonia, as cuneiform records reveal, and were unwilling to forsake all they had acquired by hard labor through the years in ex- change for an uncertain future in desolate Judea."—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Lack of faith in God's promises caused many Jews Commentary, on Ezra 1:5. "Under the favor shown them by Cyrus, in Baby on to remain there instead of nearly fifty thousand of the children of eturning to Jerusalem. the captivity had taken advantage of the decree permitting their return. These, how- ever, in comparison with the hundreds of thousands scattered throughout the prov- of the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah inces of Medo-Persia, were but a mere the prophet, that He would accomplish remnant. The great majority of the seventy years in the desolations of Jeru- Israelites had chosen to remain in the land salem.' "—Ibid., p. 554. of their exile rather than undergo the hard- ships of the return journey and the re- -
In view of the prospect of a establishment of their desolated cities and speedy fulfillment of God’s promise, homes.” “It was those ‘whose spirit God had how did Daniel seek to remove every raised’ who had returned under the decrees hindrance to a realization of the of Cyrus.”—Prophets and Kings, pages 598, promise? Dan. 9:4-6, 20. 599.
12. How does God apply His call to come out of ancient Babylon to the people in modern Babylon? Rev. 18: NOTE.-"With faith founded on the sure word of prophecy, Daniel pleaded with the 1-4. Lord for the speedy fulfillment of these promises. He pleaded for the honor of God to be preserved. In his petition he identi- fied himself fully with those who had fallen Notn.—"No longer have the hosts of evil short of the divine purpose, confessing their power to keep the church captive; for sins as his own."—Prophets and Kings, `Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city,' pages 554, 555. which hath 'made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication;' and to spiritual Israel is given the message, The Call to Come Out of Babylon `Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye re- - What prediction concerning ceive not of her plagues.’ (Revelation 14: Babylon’s fall had Isaiah made? Isa. 8; 18:4.) As the captive exiles heeded the 21:9. message, Flee out of the midst of Babylon,’ (Jeremiah 51:6) and were restored to the Land of Promise, so those who fear God to- day are heeding the message to withdraw from spiritual Babylon, and soon they are
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What message had Jeremiah di- to stand as trophies of divine grace in the rected to God’s people in view of the earth made new, the heavenly Canaan.”— ultimate fall of Babylon? Jer. 51:6, 8. Prophets and Kings, page 715. [9] Lesson 3, for April 16, 1960
The Sacrificial System Restored
MEMORY VERSE: “And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the Lord; because He is good, for His mercy endureth forever toward Israel.” Ezra 3:11, first part.
STUDY HELPS: “Prophets and Kings,” pages 560-566; “The Seventh-day Advent- ist Bible Commentary,” on Scripture references; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of March 31.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 10-13. ❑ Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1, 2. ❑ Thursday: Read further from Study Monday: Questions 3-7. ❑ Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8, 9; begin read- Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑
ing from Study Helps. ❑
Lesson Outline 7. Daily sacrifices continued. Ezra 3: 5, 6. Introduction I11. Foundation of Temple Laid I. Arrival at Jerusalem 8. Preparations for rebuilding. Ezra 3:7-9. 1. Civil and religious leaders named. 9. Foundation laid. Ezra 3:10, 11, Ezra 3:2, first part; Haggai 1:14. first part. 2. Thanksgiving service. Ezra 2:68, 69. IV. Mixed Reactions
- Offerings and Feasts Reinstated 10. People’s response to laying of foun-
- Gathering at Jerusalem. Ezra 3:1. dation. Ezra 3:11, last part.
- Altar built. Ezra 3:2, second part. 11. Response of those who had seen first house. Ezra 3:12.
- Daily sacrifices offered. Ezra 3:3. 12. Confusion of mixed reactions. Ezra
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Feast of Tabernacles observed. Ezra 3:13. 3:4. 13. Day of small things. Zech. 4:10.
THE LESSON Introduction four months to reach Jerusalem (ch. 7:8, 9; 8:31), and it is reasonable to think that The long journey of some 1,000 miles Zerubbabel's journey lasted as long as that from Babylon to Jerusalem was accom- of Ezra."—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible plished in safety. "The time of departure Commentary, on Ezra 2:68. was probably the spring of 536 B.c., . . . With courage the returned exiles set about and perhaps Jerusalem was reached in the to establish themselves in their new home. summer of the same year. Eighty years When the seventh month (about October) later it took Ezra and his caravan almost drew near they assembled at Jerusalem. 10Arrival at Jerusalem fice to re-establish the temple and its service.
- Who were the civil and religious “God has ever provided His people with leaders of the returned exiles? Ezra opportunities to give of the means entrusted 3:2, first part; Haggai 1:14. to them. There is no better cure for the spirit of selfishness that naturally infects the human heart than to respond ‘freely’ to calls to advance the cause of God in the NoTE.—”Haggai (ch. 1:1) speaks of Ze- earth and to help their fellow men. Those rubbabel, a grandson of King Jehoiachin, as who truly love God will cultivate the spirit governor of Judah. Cyrus thus appointed of liberality (see 2 Cor. 9:6, 7).”—The Sev- the descendant of a former king of Judah enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary, on to rule in the name of the Persian king, a Ezra 2:68. choice with which Cyrus could expect the Jews to be pleased. They would naturally Offerings and Feasts Reinstated accord more willing service to one of their own princes than to a foreigner. 3. What did the children of Israel “Jeshua . . . is the Aramaic form of the do when the seventh month drew Hebrew name usually translated ‘Joshua.’ near? Ezra 3:1. This Jeshua was the spiritual leader of the returning exiles. . . . He was a direct de- scendant of Aaron, through his father Joza- dak, high priest at the time of Nebuchad- NOTE.—”Shortly after their arrival in nezzar’s captivity (1 Chron. 6:3-15; Ezra Palestine, probably in the summer of 536 3:2). Jeshua was probably born in exile, B.C., the newly returned exiles assembled since he lived to see the completion of the at Jerusalem to inaugurate the new temple temple 20 years after the return to Jeru- service. This gathering took place at the salem. end of the sixth month, as a comparison “Thus, two men of the old Jewish no- of v. 1 with v. 6 shows. The 7th month bility led out in the restoration of Judah, (Tishri) was one of the most sacred months one a descendant of the former reigning of the entire Jewish religious year. The house as the appointed political leader, and first day of that month was New Year’s the other a son of the last precaptivity Day of the civil calendar (see Vol. II, p. high priest as spiritual head.”—The Sev- 110). The month began with a blowing enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary, on of trumpets and a holy convocation (Lev. Ezra 2:2. 23:24; see Vol. II, p. 106). Ten days later
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After their arrival at Jerusalem, came the solemn Day of Atonement (Lev. what did some of the chiefs of the 23:27), followed almost immediately by the Feast of Tabernacles, from the 15th fathers first do? Ezra 2:68, 69. to the 22nd day of the same month (Lev. 23:34-36).”—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, on Ezra 3:1. NOTE.—”Arriving at the site of the for- 4. What was the first step in the mer temple, the members of the expedition conducted a thanksgiving service in which re-establishment of the sacrificial ser- the heads of families and the people offered vice? Ezra 3:2, second part. gifts for the planned reconstruction of the temple building to the sum of 61,000 drams of gold (about $300,000) and 5,000 silver minas (about $52,950). This was certainly 5. What type of offerings were the a remarkable sum for a group of people first to be presented? Ezra 3:3. Com- who had but recently regained liberty. A pare Ex. 29:38-42. spirit of liberality must have taken hold of them like that which gripped the people at the building of the tabernacle at Sinai (see Ex. 36:5-7). They knew how God NoTE.—One of the most important serv- had fulfilled His promises through the ices of the ancient tabernacle and temple prophets, and were willing to make a sacri- ritual was the daily burnt offering. “Every I\TorE.—”The setting up of the altar of daily burnt offerings greatly cheered the faithful remnant. Heartily they entered into the preparations necessary for the re- building of the temple, gathering courage as these preparations advanced from month to month.”—Prophets and Kings, page 560.
Foundation of Temple Laid 8. What steps were taken to start the work of rebuilding the temple? Ezra 3:7-9.
Criticism and complaining delayed the divine plan Noix.—”The workmen engaged in the of completing the Lord’s house. preparation of the building material, found among the ruins some of the immense stones brought to the temple site in the morning and evening a lamb of a year old days of Solomon. These were made ready was burned upon the altar, with its ap- for use, and much new material was pro- propriate meat offering, thus symbolizing vided; and soon the work was advanced to the daily consecration of the nation to the point where the foundation stone must Jehovah, and their constant dependence be laid.”—Prophets and Kings, page 563. upon the atoning blood of Christ.”—Patri- archs and Prophets, page 352. 9. What ceremony accompanied the laying of the foundation of the
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What feast did they observe? temple? Ezra 3:10, 11, first part. Ezra 3:4. Compare Lev. 23:34-36.
Mixed Reactions NOTE.—"In the seventh month came the Feast of Tabernacles, or of ingathering. 10. How did the people respond? This feast acknowledged God's bounty in Ezra 3:11, last part. the products of the orchard, the olive grove, and the vineyard. It was the crown- ing festal gathering of the year. The land had yielded its increase, the harvests had been gathered into the granaries, the fruits, NOTE.—"This praise and thanksgiving, the oil, and the wine had been stored, the we have no need to say, was entirely ap- first fruits had been reserved, and now the propriate. The house upon which their people came with their tributes of thanks- eyes rested was of sufficient consequence giving to God, who had thus richly blessed for the Lord to send His word again and them. . again to encourage the builders. The "Like the Passover, the Feast of Taber- Lord gives His servants words to speak; nacles was commemorative. In memory of and this gratitude all should have . . . ex- their pilgrim life in the wilderness the peo- pressed when they saw that the foundation ple were now to leave their houses, and of the house . . . was laid."—Ellen G. dwell in booths, or arbors, formed from White supplement in The Seventh-day Ad- the green branches."—Patriarchs and ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 1133. Prophets, page 540. 11. What mixed reaction came - What sacrifices were continued? from among those who had seen the Ezra 3:5, 6. first house? Ezra 3:12. [ 12 ] NOTE.—”But there came another diffi- NOTE.—”The murmuring and complain- culty. Lamentation and weeping and ing, and the unfavorable comparisons made, mourning were heard because the temple was had a depressing influence on the minds of not outwardly so glorious as the first. There many and weakened the hands of the build- were those who used their conversational ers. The workmen were led to question powers to talk of the inferiority of the whether they should proceed with the erec- building to the one built by Solomon. tion of a building that at the beginning was Mingled with music and singing, with re- so freely criticized and was the cause of joicing and praise to God, was an in- so much lamentation. harmonious sound, not of joy or praise “Could those who failed to rejoice at the or thanksgiving, but of dissatisfaction.”— laying of the foundation stone of the temple The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- have foreseen the results of their lack of mentary, vol. 3, p. 1134. faith on that day, they would have been “It was natural that sadness should fill appalled. Little did they realize the weight the hearts of these aged men, as they of their words of disapproval and disap- thought of the results of long-continued pointment; little did they know how much impenitence. Had they and their genera- their expressed dissatisfaction would delay tion obeyed God, and carried out His the completion of the Lord’s house.”— purpose for Israel, the temple built by Prophets and Kings, pages 564, 565. Solomon would not have been destroyed and the captivity would not have been 13. What should the worker for necessary. . . . God not despise? Zech. 4:10. “God had moved upon the heart of Cyrus to aid them in rebuilding the temple, and this should have called forth expressions of profound gratitude. But some failed of discerning God’s opening providences. In- NoTE.—”The way of the world is to be- stead of rejoicing, they cherished thoughts gin with pomp and boasting. God’s way of discontent and discouragement.”—Proph- is to make the day of small things the be- ets and Kings, page 564. ginning of the glorious triumph of truth and righteousness.”—Prophets and Kings,
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What confusion resulted from page 595. this demonstration? Ezra 3:13.
Lesson 4, for April 23, 1960 The Rebuilding Hindered MEMORY VERSE: "Thus saith the Lord of hosts; Consider your ways." Haggai 1:7. STUDY HELPS: "Prophets and Kings," pages 567-574; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of April 7. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13; read Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-3. ❑ further from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Thursday: Finish reading Study Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8-10; begin read- Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑ ing from Study Helps. ❑ [ 13]Lesson Outline 7. The work brought to a standstill. Ezra 4:23, 24. Introduction I11. Encouragement Through Prophets I. The Request of the Samaritans 8. Haggai and Zechariah sent. Ezra 1. The request presented. Ezra 4:1, 5:1; Haggai 1:1; Zech. 1:1. 2, first part. 9. The Jews’ false conclusion. Haggai 2. The Samaritans identified. Ezra 4: 1:2. 2, last part; 2 Kings 17:24-29. 10. God’s house neglected. Haggai 1: 3. The request denied. Ezra 4:3. 3, 4.
- The Rebuilding Halted 11. Impoverishment because of neglect.
Haggai 1:6.
- The work hindered. Ezra 4:4-6. 12. God’s appeal. Haggai 1:5, 7.
- The letter to Artaxerxes. Ezra 4: 13. Purpose of afflictions. Haggai 1:8-11. 7-16.
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The king’s reply. Ezra 4:17-22.
THE LESSON Introduction NOTE.-"Only a remnant had chosen to return from Babylon; and now, as they The laying of the foundation of the undertake a work seemingly beyond their temple aroused the determined opposition strength, their nearest neighbors come with of the enemy. "All during the reigns of an offer of help. The Samaritans refer to Cyrus and his successor, Cambyses, the their worship of the true God, and express enemies of the Jews endeavored to secure a desire to share the privileges and bless- a royal edict to stop this work (Ezra 4:5). ings connected with the temple service. 'We However, the Lord interposed in behalf of seek your God, as ye do,' they declared. His people (see on Dan. 10:12, 13), and `Let us build with you.' "-Prophets and prevented these enemies from succeeding. Kings, page 568. The way thus remained open for the re- turned exiles to press forward in the re- 2. Who were these adversaries? construction of the house of the Lord. Ezra 4:2, last part; 2 Kings 17:24-29. "However, after such a promising start, work on the second temple gradually slowed down until it virtually ceased, owing mainly to the continued opposition and hindrance of the Samaritans (see Ezra 4:1-5). The NoTE.-"Close by the Israelites who had discouraged exiles turned to working their set themselves to the task of rebuilding own plots of land and to erecting living the temple, dwelt the Samaritans, a mixed quarters for themselves. Little did those race that had sprung up through the in- who mourned when the foundation of the termarriage of heathen colonists from the second temple was laid (see on Ezra 3:12), provinces of Assyria with the remnant of realize how far their example would go in the ten tribes which had been left in bringing discouragement to all who were Samaria and Galilee. In later years the endeavoring to restore the house of God." Samaritans claimed to worship the true -The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- God, but in heart and practice they were mentary, vol. 4, p. 1073. idolaters. It is true, they held that their idols were but to remind them of the living God, the Ruler of the universe; The Request of the Samaritans nevertheless the people were prone to reverence graven images."-Prophets and
- When the adversaries of the Jews Kings, page 567. heard that the temple was being re- built, what request did they make? 3. How did the Jews respond to the Ezra 4:1, 2, first part. request of the Samaritans? Ezra 4:3. [ 14 ] NOTE.—” ‘Thou shalt make no covenant all, the time had come to rebuild. The feel- with them,’ God had said; and those who ing soon became widespread. Many of the had recently rededicated themselves to the workmen, discouraged and disheartened, Lord at the altar set up before the ruins returned to their homes to take up the or- of His temple, realized that the line of dinary pursuits of life.”—Prophets and demarcation between His people and the Kings, page 572. world is ever to be kept unmistakably dis- tinct. They refused to enter into alliance with those who, though familiar with the Encouragement Through Prophets requirements of God’s law, would not yield to its claims. 8. In the second year of Darius, “The principles set forth in Deuteronomy what prophets did the Lord raise up for the instruction of Israel are to be fol- to encourage the builders? Ezra 5:1; lowed by God’s people to the end of time. Haggai 1:1; Zech. 1:1. True prosperity is dependent on the con- tinuance of our covenant relationship with God. Never can we afford to compromise principle by entering into alliance with those who do not fear Him.”—Prophets and NoTE.—”But even this dark hour was Kings, page 570. not without hope for those whose trust was in God. The prophets Haggai and The Rebuilding Halted Zechariah were raised up to meet the crisis. In stirring testimonies these ap-
- When refused participation in pointed messengers revealed to the people the rebuilding, what did these ad- the cause of their troubles. The lack of versaries do? Ezra 4:4-6. temporal prosperity was the result of a neglect to put God’s interests first, the prophets declared. Had the Israelites hon- ored God, had they shown Him due re- spect and courtesy, by making the building
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What were the contents of a let- of His house their first work, they would ter they wrote to King Artaxerxes? have invited His presence and blessing.”— Ezra 4:7-16. Prophets and Kings, pages 573, 574.
9. Because of continued opposition, to what conclusion had the people -
What was the king’s reply? come? Haggai 1:2. Ezra 4:17-22.
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When the adversaries of the NOTE.—”The expression, ‘This people Jews received the king’s letter, what say,’ is significant. In the hour of their did they do? What was the effect up- opportunity, the Israelites had not shown themselves willing. Prompt obedience is on the building program? Ezra 4: expected of those whom the Lord chooses 23, 24. and leads. Pleas for delay are a dishonor to God. And yet those who choose to fol- low their own way, often frame ingenious excuses in self-justification. Thus the NOTE.—”The opposition of their enemies Israelites declared that they had begun to was strong and determined, and gradually rebuild, but that they were broken off in the builders lost heart. Some could not for- their work because of the hindrances de- get the scene at the laying of the corner- vised by their enemies. These hindrances stone, when many had given expression to they reasoned were an indication that it their lack of confidence in the enterprise. was not the proper time to rebuild. They And as the Samaritans grew more bold, declared that the Lord had interposed diffi- many of the Jews questioned whether, after culties to reprove their hot haste. This is [ 15 ] why, in a communication through His prophet, He referred to them not as ‘My people,’ but as ‘this people.’“—Ellen G. White supplement in The Seventh-day Ad- ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, p. 1175.
- Instead of building the Lord’s house, what had the people been do- ing? Haggai 1:3, 4.
NoTE.—”The Israelites had no real excuse for leaving their work on the temple. The time when the most serious objections were raised, was the time for them to persevere Discouragement can stop the progress of Gods work in building. • . today as it stopped the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. “This history will be repeated. There will be religious failures because men do not have faith. When they look at the things that are seen, impossibilities appear; but God can lead them step by step in the NOTE.—”Too often we are prone to make course He desires them to take. His work `all these [material] things’ the main object will advance only as His servants move of our search in life, in the vain hope that forward by faith. While they may be called God will be indulgent with us, and, at the upon to pass through trying times, yet they close of life’s journey, add to our brief should ever remember that they are con- span of threescore and ten years the eternal tending with a weakened, beaten foe. God’s kingdom.”—The Seventh-day Adventist Bi- people will finally triumph over every ble Commentary, on Matt. 6:33. power of darkness.”—Ellen G. White sup- plement in The Seventh-day Adventist Bible 13. Through what means had the Commentary, vol. 4, p. 1175. Lord sought to arouse the people to a sense of their responsibility? Hag-
- Because of their neglect of the gai 1:8-11. Lord’s house, what experience had the Lord permitted to come to them? Haggai 1:6. NOTE.—”There are many who urge that they cannot do more for God’s cause than they now do ; but they do not give ac- cording to their ability. The Lord some- NOTE.—”The house where God is wor- times opens the eyes blinded by selfishness shiped should be in accordance with His by simply reducing their income to the character and majesty. There are small amount they are willing to give. Horses churches that ever will be small because are found dead in the field or stable, houses they place their own interests above the or barns are destroyed by fire, or crops fail. interests of God’s cause. While they have In many cases God tests man with bless- large, convenient houses for themselves, ings, and if unfaithfulness is manifested in and are constantly improving their prem- rendering to Him tithes and offerings, His ises, they are content to have a most un- blessing is withdrawn. ‘He which soweth suitable place for the worship of God, where sparingly shall reap also sparingly.’ By the His holy presence is to dwell.”—Testi- mercies of Christ and the riches of His monies, vol. 5, pp. 268, 269. goodness, and for the honor of truth and religion, we beseech you who are follow-
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In view of the situation, what ers of Christ to dedicate yourselves and pointed appeal did the Lord make to your property anew to God.”—Testimonies, His people? Haggai 1:5, 7. vol. 4, p. 484. [16] Lesson 5, for April 30, 1960
Rebuilding Resumed MEMORY VERSE: "Be strong, all ye people of the land, saith the Lord, and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts." Haggai 2:4. STUDY HELPS: "Prophets and Kings," pages 575-578; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of April 14. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13; read Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-4. ❑ further from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 5-7; begin read- Thursday: Finish reading Study ing from Study Helps. 0 Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8-10. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑.
Lesson Outline 6. Encouragement despite inferiority. Haggai 2:4, 5. Introduction 7. Messiah to come to new temple. Haggai 2:6-9. I. The Work Started Again 1. The Lord’s command heeded. Hag- 111. Correction and Reproof gai 1:12; Ezra 5:1, 2. 8. Holiness not transmitted. Haggai 2. Divine promise to rebuilders. Hag- 2:11, 12; Ezek. 14:20. gai 1:13. 9. Nation unclean. Haggai 2:13, 14. 3. The Lord’s promise today. Matt. 10. Attempts to arouse nation. Hag- 28:20. gai 2:15-17. 4, Spirit of leaders stirred. Haggai 1: 14, 15. IV. Assurance of Blessing
- Comparisons With Former House 11. Blessing promised. Haggai 2:18, 19.
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Glory of new house inferior. Hag- 12. Glorious prospect. Haggai 2:20-22. gai 2:1-3. 13. Promise to Christians. Haggai 2:23.
THE LESSON Introduction be considered the measure of a prophet's success. The noble example of leaders and "In its entirety, the message of Haggai people is eminently worthy of emulation met with a more prompt and eager re- today. sponse on the part of both leaders and "It was the spirit of hearty co-operation people than that of any other prophet. In that led, within a remarkably short time, to contrast, that of Jeremiah was utterly and the completion of the Lord's house. The openly repudiated. Most of the prophets, same spirit will, in our day, lead to the in fact, encountered opposition ranging all completion of the spiritual house of God the way from apathy through contempt to and to the establishment of His eternal persecution. But Haggai stands forth as kingdom (1 Peter 2:5; cf. Matt. 24:14). the most successful of the prophets, if im- Had the spirit manifested by the Jews in mediate compliance with his message may Haggai's day continued, the glorious prom- [17]ises made to the fathers by the prophets would soon have met their fulfillment and Messiah would have come (PK 703, 704) and died and begun His eternal reign (see Vol. IV, pp. 27-32). Haggai’s message to the church today is not only one of warn- ing and admonition but also one of great encouragement.”—The Seventh-day Ad- ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, p. 1074.
The Work Started Again
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How did the people respond to Haggai’s appeal to build the house of 4/# God? Haggai 1:12; Ezra 5:1, 2. Christians are God’s jewels. They shine for Him with the light of His love.
NoTE.—”With fields lying waste, with their scant store of provisions rapidly fail- ing, and surrounded as they were by un- 3. What similar message of en- friendly peoples, the Israelites nevertheless couragement is given to those who moved forward by faith in response to labor in the gospel harvest? Matt. the call of God’s messengers, and labored 28:20. diligently to restore the ruined temple. It was a work requiring firm reliance upon God. As the people endeavored to do their part, and sought for a renewal of God’s grace in heart and life, message after mes- NOTE.—”Christ did not tell His disciples sage was given them through Haggai and that their work would be easy. He showed Zechariah, with assurances that their faith them the vast confederacy of evil arrayed would be richly rewarded and that the against them. They would have to fight word of God concerning the future glory `against principalities, against powers, of the temple whose walls they were rear- against the rulers of the darkness of this ing would not fail.”—Prophets and Kings, world, against spiritual wickedness in high page 577. places.’ Ephesians 6:12. But they would not be left to fight alone. He assured
- As soon as the people responded, them that He would be with them; and that if they would go forth in faith, they what comforting message did the Lord should move under the shield of Omnipo- send them? Haggai 1:13. tence. He bade them be brave and strong; for One mightier than angels would be in their ranks—the General of the armies of heaven.”—The Acts of the Apostles, page 29. NcrrE.—”It was after Haggai’s second message that the people felt that the Lord 4. When the Lord stirred the hearts was in earnest with them. They dared not of the leaders and people, what was disregard the repeated warning that their the result? Haggai 1:14, 15. prosperity and the blessing of God were dependent upon their entire obedience to the instructions given them. As soon as they decided that they would do the words of the Lord, His messages of reproof Comparisons With Former House changed to words of encouragement. 0 how merciful a God we have!”—Ellen G. 5. How did the temple then being White supplement in The Seventh-day Ad- built compare with Solomon’s temple? ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, p. 1176. Haggai 2:1-3. [181 6. What message of encouragement NOTE.—”In order that the builders of the was given the leaders and people? second temple might make no mistakes, the What would be the basis of their Lord, plainly instructed them, in the form strength? Haggai 2:4, 5. of a parable, regarding the nature of service acceptable in His sight…. “A soul corrupted by sin is represented by the figure of a dead body in a state of
- What did Haggai predict con- putrefaction. All the washings and sprin- cerning the house then under con- klings enjoined in the ceremonial law were struction? Haggai 2:6-9. lessons in parables, teaching the necessity of a work of regeneration in the inward heart for the purification of the soul dead in trespasses and sins, and also the necessity NOTE.—”As the people endeavored to do of the sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit.” their part, and sought for a renewal of —Ellen G. White supplement in The Sev- God’s grace in heart and life, message enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. after message was given them through Hag- 4, p. 1176. gai and Zechariah, with assurances that their faith would be richly rewarded and 10. How did the Lord seek to that the word of God concerning the future arouse them to a sense of their true glory of the temple whose walls they were condition? Haggai 2:15-17. rearing, would not fail. In this very build- ing would appear, in the fullness of time, the Desire of all nations as the Teacher and Saviour of mankind.”—Prophets and Kings, page 577. Assurance of Blessing “The second temple was not honored with the cloud of Jehovah’s glory, but with the 11. Now that the people had laid living presence of One in whom dwelt the hold of the work of God, what did fullness of the Godhead bodily—who was the Lord promise to do? Haggai 2: God Himself manifest in the flesh. The 18, 19. `Desire of all nations’ had indeed come to His temple when the Man of Nazareth taught and healed in the sacred courts.”— The Great Controversy, page 24. NoTE.—”The message of counsel and re- proof given through Haggai was taken to Correction and Reproof heart by the leaders and people of Israel. They felt that God was in earnest with
- By what illustration from the them. They dared not disregard the re- ancient Levitical code did Haggai peated instruction sent them—that their prosperity, both temporal and spiritual, show that mere ritual forms cannot was dependent on faithful obedience to impart holiness? Haggai 2:11, 12. God’s commands.”—Prophets and Kings, Compare Ezek. 14:20. page 575. 12. How would God deal with the NoTE.—The lesson is clear. The offering heathen nations that would oppose of sacrifices, such as were then offered on His plan? Haggai 2:20-22. the rebuilt altar, did not effect a cleans- ing of the soul from sin. Only thorough repentance and renewal by divine grace could accomplish this. The people were Nom—The prophet envisioned most de- not to depend for holiness upon the ex- termined opposition by surrounding nations ternal ceremonies of the ritual system. against the rebuilders. In part this was fulfilled in the opposition of the Samaritans.
- By what illustration did Haggai However, if the Jews had earnestly prose- show that the people were sinful?, cuted the work of God their obedience Haggai 2:13, 14. would have brought spiritual and temporal I 19 l prosperity. Then, should the nations of than they would choose to be led if they earth band together to crush the thriving could see the end from the beginning, and state, God would have mightily intervened. discern the glory of the purpose that they are fulfilling.”-Prophets and Kings, page
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What promise made to Zerub- 578. babel may we apply also to our own “God will not suffer one of His true- experience? Haggai 2:23. hearted workers to be left alone to struggle against great odds and be overcome. He preserves as a precious jewel everyone whose life is hid with Christ in God. Of NoTE.-“This personal word to Zerub- every such an one He says, ‘I . . . will babel has been left on record for the en- make thee as a signet: for I have chosen couragement of God’s children in every age. thee.’ “-Ellen G. White supplement in The God has a purpose in sending trial to His Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, children. He never leads them otherwise vol. 4, p. 1177.
Lesson 6, for May 7, 1960 Zechariah Encourages the Builders
MEMORY VERSE: “The eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to cease.” Ezra 5:5. STUDY HELPS: “Prophets and Kings,” pages 578-581; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on Scripture references; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of April 21.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 10-14. ❑ Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Finish reading Study Monday: Questions 4-6. ❑ Helps. Tuesday: Questions 7-9; begin read- Friday: Review entire lesson.
ing from Study Helps. ❑
Lesson Outline 7. Report of couriers. Zech. 1:11. 8. God’s displeasure at apathy of the Introduction nation. Zech. 1:12-15. 9. Promises concerning Jerusalem. I. Attempts to Hinder the Work Zech. 1:16, 17. 1. The enemy investigates the work. I11. Zechariah’s Second Vision Ezra 5:3. 2. Further questioning. Ezra 5:4. 10. The four horns. Zech 1:18. 3. The work progresses despite op- 11. The symbolism explained. Zech. position. Ezra 5:5. 1:19. 12. The four artisans. Zech. 1:20.
- Zechariah’s First Vision 13. Symbolism explained.. Zech. 1:21.
- The word of the Lord to Zechariah. IV. Final Victory Over Opposition Zech. 1:7.
- The rider and the horses. Zech 1:8. 14. Final victory assured. Matt. 16:18;
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Symbolism explained. Zech. 1:9, 10. Rev. 19:19-21. 20 THE LESSON
Introduction decided to make a personal investigation before passing on the complaint. It is also Sacred history reveals that during major possible, however, that Tatnai came to Jeru- epochs and crises, or whenever a particular salem, not as the result of a complaint con- need arose, God sent a prophet to bring cerning the renewed building activities at encouragement or rebuke to His people the site of the temple, but on a routine and to tell them specifically what the divine tour of inspection, perhaps his first, fol- requirements were under the new circum- lowing appointment to the office of deputy stances that had arisen. Such a prophet satrap of 'Beyond the River.' Arriving in was Zechariah, who was sent to minister Jerusalem and observing the building pro- to the discouraged builders of the temple. gram in progress, he demanded to know Because many of Zechariah's messages the authority for it. It may seem strange were given in the form of a symbol or today that he asked for the 'command' prophecy, some have regarded them as for rebuilding the temple rather than the being somewhat vague and obscure and `permit,' but in the official language of the consequently have given them little atten- times a 'permit' was a 'command.' "—The tion. Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, However, an understanding of the his- on Ezra 5:3. torical background of the messages will remove much of this obscurity. This back- 2. What further inquiry was made? ground has been set forth in our Sabbath Ezra 5:4 (see Revised Standard Ver- school lessons thus far this quarter. Thus, sion). it is clear to whom Zechariah addressed his messages, what their needs and problems were, and what the Lord wished Zechariah to accomplish. Furthermore, many students of the Bible Nora.—The "we" should most probably make the mistake of trying to identify read "they," in harmony with the Septua- every detail of a parable or symbolic. gint, the pre-Christian translation of the prophecy. Many of these features are Old Testament into Greek, thus making needed simply to round out the prophetic the latter part of the verse a request by narrative. In general, it is a safe rule to the delegation for the names of the builders. attach interpretative significance only to those features that are clearly declared to 3. Despite these renewed attempts have such by the divine interpreter of the prophecy or by some other inspired writer. to hinder the work, what did the el- It is important that the central teaching, ders of the Jews do? Ezra 5:5. objective, or purpose of the prophecy or parable be ascertained.
Attempts to Hinder the Work NorE.—”The officers were answered so wisely that they decided to write a letter
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While the work of rebuilding to Darius Hystaspes, then the ruler of Medo-Persia, directing his attention to the temple was in progress, what dele- the original decree made by Cyrus, which gation arrived to investigate the commanded that the house of God at work? What inquiry did they make? Jerusalem be rebuilt, and that the expenses Ezra 5:3. for the same be paid from the king’s treasury.”—Prophets and Kings, page 578. “For months before this decree [Darius’s] was made, the Israelites had kept on work- ing by faith, the prophets of God still NoTE.—”The reason for this visit seems helping them by means of timely messages, to have been another complaint made by through which the divine purpose for Is- the enemies of the Jews. Tatnai, appar- rael was kept before the workers.”—/bid., antly a conscientious Persian official, had pp. 579, 580. [21 ] Zechariah’s First Vision
- Through whom did the Lord send renewed messages of encourage- ment? Zech. 1:7.
NOTE.—”Two months after Haggai’s last recorded message was delivered, Zechariah had a series of visions regarding the work of God in the earth. These messages, ‘given in the form of parables and symbols, came at a time of great uncertainty and anxiety, and were of peculiar significance to the men who were advancing the name of the God of Israel. It seemed to the leaders as As prophets encouraged Israel in building t e nation, if the permission granted the Jews to re- so the spirit of prophecy is the blueprint to build was about to be withdrawn; the help build the remnant church for God. future appeared very dark. God saw that His people were in need of being sustained and cheered by a revelation of His infinite compassion and love.”—Prophets and NOTE.—”God’s program seems to be Kings, page 580. stalemated. The nations are doing nothing to bring relief and help to the people of
- In his first vision what did God. It appears, in fact, that the per- Zechariah see? Zech. 1:8. mission to rebuild is about to be recalled.” —The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- mentary, on Zech. 1:11. NozE.—”The first vision was designed to 8. What was God’s attitude toward give confidence in God’s gracious purpose the nations who did nothing to help to restore His people. It gave assurance forward the work of rehabilitation, that the Gentile nations would be over- but rather added to the affliction? thrown; and that despite the present state Zech 1:12-15. of Israel, God’s merciful purpose would be carried out on condition the people do their part.”—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, on Zech. 1:8. NOTE.—”Although God had punished the
- What were these horses and Israelites because of their sins, He had been riders declared to be? Zech 1:9, 10. only ‘a little displeased’ and had planned to limit the judgments. On the other hand, the ‘heathen,’ going further than God in- tended, essayed to put the Israelites per- Nora.—”These couriers are represented as manently under subjection.”—The Seventh- giving a report to the great Ruler of the day Adventist Bible Commentary, on Zech. universe concerning affairs on earth, par- 1:15. ticularly with respect to Israel as God’s chosen people suffering captivity and op- 9. What comforting promise was pression at the hands of the heathen nations made concerning Jerusalem and its round about. They have already ac- temple? Zech. 1:16, 17. complished their mission and are ready to report.”—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, on Zech. 1:10. Non.—”Verses 16, 17 show God’s gra-
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What report did the couriers cious designs for the remnant. The pre- bring as to conditions in the earth? dictions were fulfilled in part. The temple Zech. 1:11. was rebuilt and Jerusalem restored. But [22) the prosperity here indicated was never number ‘four’ may denote universality as fully realized. The people failed to fulfill suggested by the four points of the com- the spiritual conditions upon which their pass (see Dan. 8:8; 11:4) to which Israel temporal prosperity was based. Neverthe- had been scattered.”—The Seventh-day Ad- less the opportunity was theirs. The vision ventist Bible Commentary, on Zech. 1:18. was designed to offer encouragement and to present a strong inducement to them to 12. What was Zechariah next take advantage of their neglected privileges. shown? Zech. 1:20. . . . God’s plan for Israel, temporarily in- terrupted by the captivity, was now to go forward again, and Israel was to be re- stored to the privileges and responsibilities 13. What were these artisans de- of the covenant relationship.”—The Sev- clared to be? Zech. 1:21. enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary, on Zech. 1:16.
Zechariah’s Second Vision Norz.—”Many conjectures have been made as to the identity of these four arti-
- In his next vision, what did sans. The number ‘four’ may denote simply `the four corners of the earth’ whither the Zechariah see? Zech. 1:18. outcasts of Israel had been scattered (Isa. 11:12). The artisans represented ‘the agen- cies used by the Lord in restoring His people and the house of His worship’ (PK
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What were these horns declared 581).”—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible to be? Zech. 1:19. Commentary, on Zech. 1:20.
Final Victory Over Opposition NOTE.—"The second vision (vs. 18-21; 14. What assurance is given that in the Hebrew, ch. 2:1-4) shows the means by which God planned to fulfill His pur- the enemy will not be able to prevail pose. The horns are clearly defined as the in his opposition to the building of powers that had 'scattered Judah, Israel, the Christian church? Matt. 16:18; and Jerusalem' (v. 19; see PK 581). The Rev. 19:19-21. Lesson 7, for May 14, 1960 Further Messages of Encouragement
MEMORY VERSE: “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” Zech. 4:6. STUDY HELPS: “Prophets and Kings,” pages 582-592; “Testimonies,” vol. 5, pp. 467-476; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on Scripture refer- ences; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of April 28.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13; read Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-3. ❑ further from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Thursday: Finish reading Study Tuesday: Questions 8-10; begin read- Helps.
ing from Study Helps. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson.
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Lesson Outline 7. Israel’s glorious future. Zech. 2: 10-13. Introduction I11. The Fourth Vision I. The Third Vision 8. Joshua, the Angel, and Satan. Zech. 1. The man with a measuring line. 3:1. Zech. 2:1. 9. Satan rebuked. Zech. 3:2. 2. The mission of the man. Zech. 2:2. 10. Joshua’s filthy ,garments. Zech. 3: 3. Symbolism explained. Zech. 2:3-5. 3; Isa. 64:6. tl. Appeal to Flee From Babylon 11. Joshua’s iniquity removed. Zech. 3:4, 5; Isa. 61:10. 4. Appeal to those still in Babylon. 12. Blessing to follow obedience. Zech. Zech 2:6, 7. 3:6, 7. 5. God’s love for His people. Zech. 13. Importance of robe. Matt. 22: 2:8. 1-14. 6. Israel’s enemies punished. Zech. 2:9.
THE LESSON
Introduction with the program of heaven. The man
with the measuring line is not identified, This lesson presents more of Zechariah's nor is it necessary to the understanding prophecies. The principles set forth in the of the vision that he be."-The Seventh- Introduction to Lesson 6 should be reviewed day Adventist Bible Commentary, on Zech. and applied. 2:1. One more principle should be noted. It is important to discover first what the 2. What question did he raise, and prophetic messages meant to the people how was it answered? Zech. 2:2. to whom they were addressed, before we make an application of them to ourselves or to our present time. Note how this principle is set forth with regard to the instruction in the Sermon on 3. What was the vision designed to the Mount. "Let us in imagination go back teach? Zech. 2:3-5. to that scene, and, as we sit with the dis- ciples on the mountainside, enter into the thoughts and feelings that filled their hearts. Understanding what the words of Jesus NoTE.-"God had commanded that Jeru- meant to those who heard them, we may salem be rebuilt; the vision of the meas- discern in them a new vividness and beauty, uring of the city was an assurance that He and may also gather for ourselves their would give comfort and strength to His deeper lessons."-Thoughts From the Mount afflicted ones, and fulfill to them the prom- of Blessing, page 1, (1943 ed., p. 10). ises of His everlasting covenant. His pro-
tecting care, He declared, would be like
`a wall of fire round about;' and through
The Third Vision them. His glory would be revealed to all
the sons of men. That which He was ac- 1. In his third vision, what did complishing for His people was to be known Zechariah see? Zech. 2:1. in all the earth."-Prophets and Kings,
page 581.
NoTE.-“The third vision shows the Appeal to Flee From Babylon triumph of God’s plan. The glorious pros- pect here presented would have been realized 4. What appeal was made to those by Israel if the people had fully cooperated still in Babylon? Zech. 2:6, 7. [24j NOTE.—”How sad it is to contemplate that this touching appeal met with so little response! Had this entreaty to flee from Babylon been heeded, how different might have been the condition of the Jews in the trying times of Mordecai and Esther!”— Ellen G. White supplement in The Sev- enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, p. 1177.
- By what striking figure did the Lord illustrate His loving solicitude for His children? Zech. 2:8.
NOTE.—”Heaven is very near those who How w II the church stand the test when suffer for righteousness’ sake. Christ iden- it is measured by God’s standards? tifies His interests with the interests of His faithful people; He suffers in the person of His saints, and whoever touches His chosen ones touches Him. The power NOTE.—”In the prophecy of Zechariah that is near to deliver from physical harm is brought to view Satan’s accusing work, or distress is also near to save from the and the work of Christ in resisting the greater evil, making it possible for the adversary of His people. . . . servant of God to maintain his integrity “The people of God are here represented under all circumstances, and to triumph as a criminal on trial. Joshua, as high through divine grace.”—Prophets and priest, is seeking for a blessing for his Kings, page 545. people, who are in great affliction. While he is pleading before God, Satan is stand-
- What was to be the fate of ing at his right hand as his adversary. He Israel’s enemies? Zech. 2:9. is accusing the children of God, and making their case appear as desperate as possible. He presents before the Lord their evil-do- ings and their defects. He shows their
- What glorious future did God faults and failures, hoping they will appear plan for Israel? Zech. 2:10-13. of such a character in the eyes of Christ that He will render them no help in their great need. . . . “The work of Satan as an accuser began NOTE.—”The Lord’s purposes for His in heaven. This has been his work on people have ever been the same. He desires earth ever since man’s fall, and it will be to bestow on the children of men the his work in a special sense as we approach riches of an eternal inheritance. His king- nearer to the close of this world’s history. dom is an everlasting kingdom. When those As he sees that his time is short, he will who choose to become obedient subjects of work with greater earnestness to deceive the Most High are finally saved in the and destroy.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, kingdom of glory, God’s purpose for man- pages 166-168. kind will have been fulfilled.”—Ellen G. White supplement in The Seventh-day Ad- 9. As the Lord rebuked Satan, what ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, p. 1177. did He declare Joshua to be? Zech. 3:2. The Fourth Vision
- In the scene next presented to NorE.—”Then the Angel, who is Christ Zechariah, what was Satan doing? Himself, the Saviour of sinners, puts to Zech. 3:1. silence the accuser of His people. . Is- L251 rael had long remained in the furnace of NoTE.—His [Joshua’s] own sins and affliction. Because of their sins they had those of his people were pardoned. Israel been well-nigh consumed in the flame were clothed with ‘change of raiment’— kindled by Satan and his agents for their the righteousness of Christ imputed to them. destruction, but God had now set His The miter placed upon Joshua’s head was hand to bring them forth. In their peni- such as was worn by the priests and bore tence and humiliation the compassionate the inscription, ‘Holiness to the Lord,’ Saviour will not leave His people to the signifying that, notwithstanding his former cruel power of the heathen.”—Testimonies, transgressions, he was now qualified to vol. 5, p. 469. minister before God in His sanctuary.”— Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 469.
- What did the condition of Joshua’s garments represent? Zech. 12. On what conditions were future blessings based? Zech. 3:6, 7. 3:3; Isa. 64:6.
NOTE.—”In filthy garments, symbolizing 13. How did Jesus emphasize the the sins of the people, which he [Joshua] importance of the robe of righteous- bears as their representative, he stands ness? Matt. 22:1-14. before the Angel, confessing their guilt, yet pointing to their repentance and humilia- tion, and relying upon the mercy of a sin- pardoning Redeemer. In faith he claims NOTE.-“All the hatred and malignity of the promises of God.”—Prophets and Kings, the archrebel is stirred as he beholds the pages 583, 584. evidence of Christ’s supremacy, and with fiendish power and cunning he works to
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What command was given wrest from Him the remnant of the children concerning Joshua, and what did it of men who have accepted His salvation.” signify? Zech. 3:4, 5; Isa. 61:10. —Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 470.
Lesson 8, for May 21, 1960 The Temple Completed
MEMORY VERSE: “Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Phil. 1:6.
STUDY HELPS: “Prophets and Kings,” pages 593-597; “Testimonies to Ministers,” pages 509-512; “Testimonies,” vol. 6, pp. 11, 12, 459-462; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on Scripture references; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of May 5.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. 0 from Study helps. Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-4. 0 Wednesday: Questions 10-13. 0 Monday: Questions 5, 6; begin read- Thursday: Finish reading Study
ing from Study Helps. 0 Helps. Tuesday: Questions 7-9; read further Friday: Review entire lesson.
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Lesson Outline IV. The Eighth Vision 7. The chariots. Zech. 6:1-3. Introduction 8. The symbolism explained. Zech. 6: I. The Fifth Vision 4-7. 1. The candlestick. Zech. 4:1-3. 9. God’s will accomplished in the 2. The symbolism explained. Zech. 4: north country. Zech. 6:8. 4-6. V. The Temple Completed 3. Success promised. Zech. 4:7-10. 4. The olive trees. Zech. 4:11-14. 10. The time. Ezra 6:14, 15.
- The Sixth Vision 11. The celebration. Ezra 6:16, 17.
- The flying roll. Zech. 5:1-4. 12. The feasts. Ezra 6:18-22. 13. Work of grace to be completed. I11. The Seventh Vision Phil. 1:6.
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The ephah and the woman. Zech. 5:5-11.
THE LESSON Introduction of spiritual rehabilitation and the advance of the gospel. The visions of Zechariah continued to "To us is committed the arduous, but bring inspiration to the builders. They happy, glorious work of revealing Christ promised success-not by the power of man, to those who are in darkness. We are called but by the power of God. They warned to proclaim the special truths for this that God would thoroughly search out iniq- time. For all this the outpouring of the uity and remove it from the people. At Spirit is essential. We should pray for it. the same time He would work on foreign The Lord expects us to ask Him. . . . powers, securing their co-operation in the "We cannot depend upon form or ex- project. ternal machinery. What we need is the With God thus working for His people, quickening influence of the Holy Spirit of and the people co-operating with the divine God. 'Not by might, nor by power, but program, the temple was completed in a by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.' remarkably short time. Pray without ceasing, and watch by work- The secret of success is still the same to- ing in accordance with your prayers. As day. Trust in God and co-operation with you pray, believe, trust in God. It is the Him bring success-neglect of these brings time of the latter rain, when the Lord will failure. give largely of. His Spirit. Be fervent in prayer, and watch in the Spirit."-Testi- monies to Ministers, pages 511, 512. , The Fifth Vision
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What vision was Zechariah next 3. How were the builders assured shown? Zech. 4:1-3. of the successful completion of the temple project? Zech. 4:7-10.
- What was the vision designed to teach? Zech. 4:4-6. NOTE.-“Throughout the history of God’s people great mountains of difficulty, ap- parently insurmountable, have loomed up before those who were trying to carry out NOTE.-The work of rehabilitation in the purposes of Heaven. Such obstacles which Zerubabbel was engaged could be ac- are permitted by the Lord as a test of complished successfully only by the aid of faith. When we are hedged about on every divine power. The same is true in the work side, this is the time above all others to [27 ] NOTE.—It was necessary that the– re builders of the temple and of the new state be cleansed from sin. Only thus could Israel successfully fulfill her spiritual role as the representatives of Jehovah. The vision was a warning to those still clinging to sin, that the curse would surely over- take them. This passage is quoted in the book -Education with -the following appli- cation: “Against every evildoer God’s law ut- ters condemnation. He may disregard that voice, he may seek to drown its warning, but in vain. It follows him. It makes it- self heard. It destroys his peace. If: un- heeded, it pursues him to the grave. It In planning for advance in God’s work, do we de- bears witness against him at the judgment. pend on external machinery and financial gains A quenchless fire, it consumes at last soul more than on the Holy’Spirit? and body.”—Education, pages 144, 145.
trust in God and in the power of His The Seventh Vision Spirit.”—Prophets and Kings, pages 594,
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- How was the removal of sin from Israel illustrated? Zech. 5:5-11.
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What further explanation was given of the symbolism of the vision? Zech. 4:11-14. NOTE.—An ephah is a dry measure of about five gallons. However, shape or Nom.—”From the two olive trees, the form rather than capacity may here be golden oil was emptied through golden intended. The land of Shinar is Bablyon. pipes into the bowl of the candlestick and Though some of the details are not ex- thence into the golden lamps that gave light plained, the general teaching seems clear. to the sanctuary. So from the holy ones It was because of iniquity that the people that stand in God’s presence, His Spirit is of Judah had been taken captive to Baby- imparted to human instrumentalities that lon. God had designed that the captivity are consecrated to His service. The mis- should cure them of their backsliding, but sion of the two anointed ones is to com- it was evident that the cure had not been municate light and power to God’s people. complete. Now in this figurative vision, It is to receive blessing for us that they God tells them that their iniquities should stand in God’s presence. As the olive be removed to Babylon, where they should trees empty themselves into the golden have been left. But even now God was pipes, so the heavenly messengers seek to willing to pardon their iniquities. A for- communicate all that they receive from saking of sin was absolutely necessary for God. The whole heavenly treasure awaits the success of the new program. our demand and reception; and as we receive the blessing, we in our turn are to The Eighth Vision impart it. Thus it is that the holy lamps are fed, and the church becomes a light 7. What did Zechariah next see? bearer irahe world.”—Testimonies to Minis- Zech. 6:1-3. ters, page 510.
The Sixth Vision - By what symbolism was the $. What were the horses declared prophet shown how the Lord would to be, and what was their mission? search out iniquity? Zech. 5:1-4. Zech. 6:4-7. f28] 9. What did those dispatched to Although the present substructures of the the north country accomplish? Zech. temple area at Jerusalem date from Hero- 6:8. dian times or later, as far as they are visible, they reveal the tremendous efforts that must have been made by the early builders to construct a foundation plat- Nom.—Again, for an understanding of form on which the temple and its many the ‘central objective of the vision it, is auxiliary buildings could be erected. When not necessary that every detail_ of the pic- the exiles returned they probably found ture be explained. that- great parts of this substructure :were “The chariots ‘which go _forth from still good enough to use without expensive, standing before the Lord of all the earth’ time-consuming repair work: furthermore, (Zech. 6:5) doubtless represent God’s the buildings seem to haVe been less -elab- agencies operating throughout the earth, orate and numerous than in Solomon’s `silently, patiently working out the coun- time, and probably much less lavishly deco- sels of His own will’ (see Ed 173). The rated.”—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible delegation to the north country probably Commentary, on Ezra 6:15. symbolized the influence exerted upon the rulers of the Persian realm to further the 11. How was the completion of work of God. It seemed at the time ‘as if the temple celebrated? Ezra 6:16, 17’. the permission granted the Jews to rebuild was about to be withdrawn’ (PK 580). The vision must have brought great en- couragement to the disheartened builders, 12. Whai feasts were Obserired the for it gave them the assurance that the following months? Ezra 6:18-22. mission to the north country would be successful. ‘These that go toward the north country have quieted My Spirit in the north country’ (see on v. 8). Darius issued a new NOTE.—”A number of particularly solemn decree shortly afterward, permitting the Passovers were celebrated in Jewish his- work to go forward, encouraging the en- tory, and these were accorded special at- terprise by public funds, and threatening tention by the writers of the Bible. Such any who might oppose it.”—The Seventh- are the Passover celebrated by Hezekiah day Adventist Bible Commentary, on Zech. after his cleansing of the temple (2 Chron. 6:6. 30), and that celebrated by Josiah after the completion of his reform (2 Chron. 35). The Temple Completed Both of these Passovers accompanied a revival of temple worship after a period of
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Encouraged by the prophecies apostasy. Ezra places in the same category of Haggai and Zechariah, what were the Passover following the dedication of the elders of the Jews able to ac- the new temple. This does not mean that complish? Ezra 6:14, 15. the exiles had not celebrated the Passover prior to the year 515 B.c., since Ezra 3:5 contains the information that they observed `all the set feasts of the Lord’ as soon as they arrived in their homeland. However, NOTE.—”The rebuilding of the temple this first Passover after the completion of from the time the foundation stone had the building of the new temple marked been laid a second time (Kislev 24, 2d the full re-establishment of the regular year ,of Darius) to its completion, had ordinances of religion, more or less inter- therefore occupied about 4 years and 3 rupted from the time of the destruction months, some 2 years and 3 months shorter of the first temple.”—The Seventh-day Ad- than it had taken Solomon to build his ventist Bible Commentary, on Ezra 6:19. temple. The reason for this difference probably lies in the fact that Solomon had 13. How will the Lord enable us first to prepare a flat surface on which to to bring to completion the work of erect the various buildings belonging to the grace in our spiritual temples? Phil. temple complex, a task of no small size. 1:6. 129 7 Lesson 9, for May 28, 1960
The Ministry of Ezra
MEMORY VERSE: “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Isa. 55:7. STUDY HELPS: “Prophets and Kings,” pages 607-627; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on Scripture references; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of May 12.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ from Study Helps. Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-3. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 9-14. ❑ Monday: Questions 4, 5; begin read- Thursday: Finish reading Study
ing from Study Helps. ❑ Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 6-8; read further Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline 8. Prohibition to Christian church. 2 Cor. 6:14. Introduction I11. Repentance and Reformation I. The Journey to Jerusalem 9. Prayer of confession. Ezra 9:5-15. 1. Introduction to Ezra. Ezra 7:1-6, 10. 10. People’s response. Ezra 10:1. 2. Members of party. Ezra 7:7. 11. Proposal of a covenant. Ezra 10: 3. Artaxerxes’ decree. Ezra 7:11-26. 2-5. 4. Prayer for protection. Ezra 8:21-23. 12. The proclamation and response. 5, Protection granted. Ezra 8:31, 32; Ezra 10:6-9. 7:9. 13. The situation rectified. Ezra 10: 10-17.
- Departure From God 14. God’s willingness to forgive the
- The evil disclosed. Ezra 9:1-4. penitent. Isa. 55:7; John 1:9.
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Prohibition against intermarriages. Deut. 7:1-4.
THE LESSON Introduction perienced repeated reverses in Greece, Egypt, and elsewhere that disturbed the Our lessons thus far have traced the internal peace and stability of the em- history of the postexilic Jews from the pire. The next two kings, Xerxes and decree of Cyrus in about 537 B.C. to, the Artaxerxes I, were weaklings, opportunists, completion of the temple a little more than and unstable in character, and owed their twenty years later, in the sixth regnal throne to the strong hand of powerful year of Darius, 515 s.c. Concerning events counselors. Disastrous campaigns in Greece of the next six decades, the sacred record and rebellions in Egypt and other parts of is silent. From secular records the follow- the empire caused great unrest and led to ing picture emerges: vacillating domestic and foreign policies. "An era of unrest began, however, when "It was during a serious rebellion in late in his reign Darius decided to invade Egypt (462-454 B.c.) that Ezra received Greece. From that time on the empire ex- major concessions for the Jews whose 1 80good will Artaxerxes needed in this cru- to sacrifice these possessions. They loved cial period, since Judea lay athwart the ease and comfort and were well satisfied highway into Egypt.”—The Seventh-day to remain. Their example proved a hin- Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 321. drance to others who otherwise might have An interval of about fifty-eight years chosen to cast in their lot with those who thus lies between chapters 6 and 7 of Ezra. were advancing by faith.”—Prophets and It is this period that is referred to in the Kings, page 612. phrase, “Now after these things.” Ezra 7:1. 3. What far-reaching decree did Artaxerxes the Persian king issue? The Journey to Jerusalem Ezra 7:11-26.
- Who was Ezra, and what were his qualifications? Ezra 7:1-6, 10. N0TE.—”The angel had been sent to Daniel for the express purpose of explain- ing to him the point which he had failed to NOTE.—”Born of the sons of Aaron, Ezra understand in the vision of the eighth had been given a priestly training; and in chapter, the statement relative to time— addition to this he had acquired a familiar- `Unto two thousand and three hundred ity with the writings of the magicians, the days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.’ astrologers, and the wise men of the Medo- . . . If the date of this commandment Persian realm. But he was- not satisfied could be found, then the starting point with his spiritual condition. He longed to for the great period of 2300 days would be in full harmony with God; he longed be ascertained. for wisdom to carry out the divine will. “In the seventh chapter of Ezra the de- And so he ‘prepared his heart to seek the cree is found. Ezra 7:12-26. In its corn- law of the Lord, and do it.’ Ezra 7:10. pletest form it was issued by Artaxerxes, This led him to apply himself diligently to king of Persia, 457 B.c.”—The Great Con- a study of the history of God’s people, as troversy, page 326. recorded in the writings of prophets and kings. He searched the historical and 4. Upon whom did Ezra depend for poetical books of the Bible to learn why the Lord had permitted Jerusalem to be protection on his journey? Ezra 8: destroyed and His people carried captive 21-23. into a heathen land.. . “Ezra endeavored to gain a heart prep- aration for the work he believed was be- fore him. He sought God earnestly, that NOTE.—”Ezra was aware that enemies he might be a wise teacher in Israel. As lay in wait by the way, ready to plunder he learned to yield mind and will to and destroy him and his company; yet he divine control, there were brought into his had asked from the king no armed force life the principles of true sanctification, for protection…. which, in later years, had a molding in- “In this matter, Ezra and his companions fluence, not only upon the youth who saw an opportunity to magnify the name of sought his instruction, but upon all others God before the heathen. Faith in the power associated with him.”—Prophets and Kings, of the living God would be strengthened if pages 608, 609. the Israelites themselves should now reveal implicit faith in their divine Leaden”—
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Who accompanied him to Jeru- Prophets and Kings, page 615. salem? Ezra 7:7. 5. How did the Lord honor their request? Ezra 8:31, 32; 7:9. NOTE.—”Ezra had expected that a large number would return to Jerusalem, but the number who responded to the call was NoTE.—”About four months were occu- disappointingly small. Many who had pied on the journey, the multitude that ac- acquired houses and lands had no desire companied Ezra, several thousand in all, [ 31 ] including women and children, necessitat- ing slow progress. But all were preserved in safety. Their enemies were restrained from harming them. Their journey was a prosperous one, and on the first day of the fifth month, in the seventh year of Artaxerxes, they reached Jerusalem.”— Prophets and Kings, page 617.
Departure From God
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What evil did Ezra discover among the Jews in Jerusalem, and how did he react to this evil? Ezra 9:1-4.
Does the floodtide of worldliness 'threaten our NorE.—"Now when he learned that not- church and its soul-winning institutions? withstanding the lessons of the past, men of prominence had dared transgress the laws given as a safeguard against apostasy, to place yourself on Satan's ground. You his heart was stirred within him. He grieve the Spirit of God and forfeit His thought of God's goodness in again giv- protection. Can you afford to have such ing His people a foothold in their native terrible odds against you in fighting the land, and he was overwhelmed with right- battle for everlasting life?"—Testimonies, eous indignation and with grief at their in- vol. 5, pp. 364; 365. gratitude."—Prophets and Kings, page 620. " This [2 Corinthians 6:14, 151 means in a special sense marriage with unbelievers, - What command had the Lord but it covers more ground than this: it given concerning intermarriages with means in our instrumentalities ordained the heathen? Deut. 7:1-4. of God, in our institutions for health, in our colleges, in our publishing houses.”— Testimonies to Ministers, page 271.
NorE.—”God strictly forbade the inter- marrying of His ancient people with other Repentance and Reformation nations. The plea is now offered that this prohibition was made in order to prevent 9. What prayer of confession did the Hebrews from marrying idolaters, and Ezra offer? Ezra 9:5-15. forming connections with heathen families. But the heathen were in a more favorable condition than are the impenitent in this age, who, having the light of truth, yet NOTE.—”Ezra had the true spirit of persistently refuse to accept it. The sinner prayer. Presenting his petition before God of today is far more guilty than the for Israel, when they had sinned grievously heathen, because the light of the gospel in the face of great light and privileges, he shines clearly all around him. He violates exclaimed, ‘I am ashamed and blush to lift conscience and is a deliberate enemy of up my face to Thee, my God; for our iniq- God.”—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 508. uities are increased over our head, and our trespass is grown up unto the heavens!:
- What prohibition is given the Ezra remembered the goodness of God in Christian church? 2 Cor. 6:14. again giving his people a foothold in their native land, and he was overwhelmed with indignation and grief at the thought .of their ingratitude in return for the divine NorE.—”There is no concord between favor. His language is that of true humilia– Christ and Belial. The two cannot har- tion of soul, the contrition that prevails, monize. To connect with an unbeliever is with God in prayer. Only: the, prayer of; [32] the humble enters into the ears of the Lord are to teach transgressors the way of life of Sabaoth.”—Ellen G. White supplement by inculcating principles that are the foun- in The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- dation of all rightdoing.”—Prophets and mentary, vol 3, p. 1135. Kings, page 623.
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What effect did this have on 13. What response and reformation the people? Ezra 10:1. followed? Ezra 10:10-17.
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What did one of the Jews sug- 14. How willing is the Lord to gest, and how did Ezra respond? hear the prayers of the penitent? Isa. Ezra 10:2-5. 55:7; 1 John 1:9.
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What proclamation was made NOTE.—”Arise and go to your Father. He and how many responded? Ezra 10: will meet you a great way off. If you take 6-9. even one step toward Him in repentance, He will hasten to enfold you in His arms of infinite love. His ear is open to the cry of the contrite soul. The very first NorE.—”Ezra’s motives were high and reaching out of the heart after God is holy; in all that he did he was actuated known to Him. Never a prayer is offered, by a deep love for souls. The compassion however faltering, never a tear is shed, and tenderness that he revealed toward however secret, never a sincere desire after those who had sinned, either willfully or God is cherished, however feeble, but the through ignorance, should be an object les- Spirit of God goes forth to meet it. Even son to all who seek to bring about reforms. before the prayer is uttered, or the yearn- The servants of God are to be as firm as a ing of the heart made known, grace from rock where right principles are involved; Christ goes forth to meet the grace that is and yet, withal, they are to manifest working upon the human soul.”—Christ’s sympathy and forbearance. Like Ezra, they Object Lessons, page 206.
Lesson 10, for June 4, 1960 Nehemiah Rebuilds the Walls
MEMORY VERSE: “And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?” Neh. 6:3. STUDY HELPS: “Prophets and Kings,” pages 628-645; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on Scripture references; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of May 19.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Read from Study Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-5. ❑ Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 6-9. ❑ Thursday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 10-14. ❑ Helps. ❑
Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑
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Lesson Outline 11. Rebuilding of Walls Begun 6. Encouragement to build. Neh. 2:9, Introduction 11-18. 7. Derision from adversaries. Neh. 2: I. Nehemiah Aroused 10, 19. 1. Introduction to Nehemiah. Neh. 1: 8. Courageous reply. Neh. 2:20. 1, 11, last part; 2:1, first part. 9. Walls rebuilt. Neh. 3. 2. Report from Jerusalem. Neh. 1: I11. Active Opposition 2, 3. 3. Nehemiah’s reaction to report. Neh. 10. Proposed attack. Neh. 4:1-3, 7, 8, 11. 1:4-11. 11. Scheme foiled. Neh. 4:9, 13, 16-23. 4. The king’s inquiry. Neh. 2:1, last 12. Further schemes. Neh. 6:1, 2, 4, part, 4. 7, 10. 13. Nehemiah’s courage. Neh. 6:3, 8, 5. Nehemiah’s request. Neh. 2:5-8. 9, 11-14. 14. Opposition today. Rev. 12:12, 17.
THE LESSON
Introduction selor. The recipient of royal favor, how-
ever, though surrounded by pomp and Nehemiah came upon the scene of action splendor, did not forget his God nor his in 444 s.c., about thirteen years after Ezra's people. With deepest interest his heart journey to Jerusalem and nearly 100 years turned toward Jerusalem; his hopes and after the first migration under Zerubbabel. joys were bound up with her prosperity. Because of great opposition, little prog- Through this man, prepared by his residence ress had been made in the work of rebuild- in the Persian court for the work to which ing the walls. It appears, too, that in an he was to be called, God purposed to bring attack by the Samaritans portions of the blessing to His people in the land of their rebuilt walls had been destroyed and some fathers."—Prophets and Kings, page 628. of the repaired gates had been burned. News of these conditions greatly saddened Nehe- 2. What report did he receive? miah, who was a trusted official to the Neh. 1:2, 3. Persian king, Artaxerxes I. Nehemiah succeeded in securing per- mission from the king to go to Jerusalem and rebuild its walls. He was appointed its governor, and under his able leadership NOTE.—"The arrival of Hanani and other the walls were eventually completed. Jews from the homeland seems to have been
the first contact Nehemiah had been able
Nehemiah Aroused to make with the returned exiles in Judea
since the beginning of hostilities between 1. What is recorded concerning the Artaxerxes and Megabyzos, the satrap identity and position of Nehemiah? of the province called 'Beyond the. River,' Neh. 1:1, 11, last part; 2:1, first part. of which Judea was a part (see on Ezra
4:10). During the period of Megabyzos'
rebellion very little reliable news from
Judea seems to have reached Nehemiah,
though he may have heard rumors of a NOTE.—"Nehemiah, one of the Hebrew Samaritan attack on Jerusalem and the exiles, occupied a position of influence and destruction by them of a part of the re-
cently rebuilt city wall."—The Seventh-day honor in the Persian court. As cupbearer
Adventist Bible Commentary, on Neh. 1:2. to the king he was admitted freely to the royal presence. By virtue of his position, and because of his abilities and fidelity, he 3. For what did Nehemiah pray? had become the monarch's friend and coun- Neh. 1:4-11.
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than Artaxerxes. He had a sacred trust to fulfill, in which he required help from the king; and he realized that much depended upon his presenting the matter in such a way as to win his approval and enlist his aid. ‘I prayed,’ he said, ‘to the God of heaven.’ In that brief prayer Nehemiah pressed into the presence of the King of kings and won to his side a power that can turn hearts as the rivers of waters are turned. “To pray as Nehemiah prayed in his hour of need is a resource at the command of the Christian under circumstances when other forms of prayer may be impossible. Toilers in the busy walks of life, crowded “Toilers in the busy walks of life, crowded and • and almost overwhelmed with perplexity, almost overwhelmed with perplexity, can send up a can send up a petition to God for divine petition to God for divine guidance.”—Ellen G. White. guidance.”—Prophets and Kings, page 631.
Rebuilding of Walls Begun NOTE.—"Not only did Nehemiah say that Israel had sinned. He acknowledged 6. Arriving at Jerusalem and not- with penitence that he and his father's ing the condition of its walls, what house had sinned. 'We have dealt corruptly did Nehemiah encourage Jerusalem's against Thee,' he says, placing himself inhabitants to do? Neh. 2:9, 11-18. among those who had dishonored God by not standing stiffly for the truth. . . . "We all need to draw near to God. He will draw near to those who approach Him in humility, filled with a holy awe for 7. What reaction did Nehemiah's His sacred majesty, and standing before arrival and plans arouse? Neh. 2: Him separate from the world."—Ellen G. 10, 19. White supplement in The Seventh-day Ad- ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 1136. 4. How was the attention of the 8. How did Nehemiah meet this king drawn to Nehemiah's problem? opposition? Neh. 2:20. Neh. 2:1, last part, 4.
9. Encouraged by Nehemiah's en- 5. What request did Nehemiah thusiastic leadership, to what task did make to the king, and how did the the people set themselves? Neh. 3. king respond? Neh. 2:5-8.
NOTE.—"The special purpose of this NOTE.—"The recital of the condition of chapter seems to be the rendering of honor Jerusalem awakened the sympathy of the where honor was due—the placing on record monarch without arousing his prejudices. of the names of the men who nobly came Another question gave the opportunity for to the front on this important occasion, which Nehemiah had long waited: Tor sacrificed ease to duty, and thereby ex- what dost thou make request?' But the posed themselves to a threatened hostile man of God did not venture to reply till attack."—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible he had sought direction from One higher Commentary, on Neh. 3:1.
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Active Opposition Christians are tried, not only by the anger, contempt, and cruelty of enemies, but by
- What did the enemies of the the indolence, inconsistency, lukewarmness, Jews propose to do? Neh. 4:1-3, 7, and treachery of avowed friends and help- 8, 11. ers.”—Prophets and Kings, page 644. “If we feel our dangers we shall feel the need of prayer, as did Nehemiah, and like him we shall obtain that sure defense that will give us security in peril. If we are
- How was the plan foiled? Neh. careless and indifferent, we shall surely be 4:9, 13, 16-23. overcome by Satan’s devices. We must be vigilant. While, like Nehemiah, we resort to prayer, taking all our perplexities and burdens to God, we should not feel that we have nothing to do. We are to watch NoTE.—”Satan takes advantage of every as well as pray. We should watch the work unconsecrated element for the accomplish- of our adversaries, lest they gain advantage ment of his purposes. Among those who in deceiving souls. We should, in the wis- profess to be the supporters of God’s cause dom of Christ, make efforts to defeat there are those who unite with His enemies their purposes, while, at the same time, we and thus lay His cause open to the attacks do not suffer them to call us from our of His bitterest foes. Even some who de- great work. Truth is stronger than error.” sire the work of God to prosper will yet —Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 572. weaken the hands of His servants by hear- ing, reporting, and half believing the slan- 13. How did Nehemiah show his ders, boasts, and menaces of His adversaries. trust in God? Neh. 6:3, 8, 9, 11-14. Satan works with marvelous success through his agents, and all who yield to their influence are subject to a bewitching power that destroys the wisdom of the wise and the understanding of the prudent. 14. What similar opposition may But, like Nehemiah, God’s people are neither the people of God expect today? to fear nor to despise their enemies. Put- ting their trust in God, they are to go stead- Rev. 12:12, 17. ily forward, doing His work with unselfish- ness, and committing to His providence the cause for which they stand.”—Prophets and Kings, page 645. NoTE.—”Satanic agencies have been moved from beneath, and they have in-
- What further schemes to in- spired men to unite in a confederacy of timidate Nehemiah did the enemy de- evil, that they may perplex, harass, and vise? Neh. 6:1, 2, 4, 7, 10. cause the people of God great distress. The whole world is to be stirred with enmity against Seventh-day Adventists, because they will not yield homage to the papacy, by honoring Sunday, the institution of this NoTE.—”The opposition and discourage- antichristian power. It is the purpose of ment that the builders in Nehemiah’s day Satan to cause them to be blotted from met from open enemies and pretended the earth, in order that his supremacy of friends is typical of the experience that the world may not be disputed.”—Testi- those today will have who work for God. monies to Ministers, page 37.
Sabbath school lessons in Braille are supplied free to the blind upon
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Lesson 11, for June 11, 1960
Reforms Instituted by Nehemiah
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: “Prophets and Kings,” pages 646-668; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on Scripture references; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of May 26.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ ing from Study Helps. ❑ Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-3. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-14. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. Thursday: Read from Study Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8-10; begin read- Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑
Lesson Outline 6. The people’s response. Neh. 8:9-12. 7. The Feast of Booths. Neh. 8:13-18. Introduction IV. Rededication I. Social Evil 8. Special service. Neh. 9:1-3. 1. The complaint. Neh. 5:1-5. 9. Review of past history. Neh. 9:4, 5. 2. Rebuke and correction. Neh. .5: 10. Covenant entered in10. Neh. 9:38; 6-13. 10:1, 28, 29. 3. Nehemiah’s example. Neh. 5:14-19. V. Terms of Covenant
- The Walls Rebuilt
11. Regarding intermarriage. Neh. 10:
- The work completed. Neh. 6:15; 30. 7:1. 12. Regarding Sabbath observance. I11. The Reading of the Law Neh. 10:31. 13. Regarding offerings. Neh. 10:32-39.
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Law read and explained. Neh. 8: 14. Warning to Christians. Heb. 10: 1-8. 28, 29.
THE LESSON Introduction completed in an amazingly short time. Fifty-two days saw the last break repaired The work of rehabilitation was not with- and the last gate installed. out difficulties. Serious social evils arose, But spiritual rehabilitation was the chief which required prompt attention. God concern of Ezra and of Nehemiah. Impres- could not bless His people so long as they sive services were held at which the read- walked contrary to His commands. Nehe- ing of the law and a review of Israel's past miah was the man of the hour. history brought conviction of sin and re- Under his efficient and courageous leader- dedication of life. The people entered into ship and through the wholehearted co- a covenant to obey God. The outlook ap- operation of the people, the walls were peared bright. [371Social Evil girded with its defences and the builders could walk upon the walls, and look down
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What complaints did the people upon their defeated and astonished foes.” bring to Nehemiah? Neh. 5:1-5. —Prophets and Kings, page 657.
The Reading of the Law -
What rebuke was given and 5. At the gathering at Jerusalem in what result followed? Neh. 5:6-13. the seventh month, what did Ezra and his associates do? Neh. 8:1-8.
- What example of unselfish serv- ice had Nehemiah given the people? NOTE.—”On a platform of wood, erected Neh. 5:14-19. in one of the broadest streets, and sur- rounded on every hand by the sad re- minders of Judah’s departed glory, stood Ezra, now an aged man. At his right and NOTE.—”The customs of the world are left were gathered his brother Levites. no criterion for the Christian. He is not Looking down from the platform, their eyes to imitate its sharp practices, its over- swept over a sea of heads. From all the reaching, its extortion. Every unjust act surrounding country the children of the toward a fellow being is a violation of the covenant had assembled. ‘And Ezra blessed golden rule. Every wrong done to the the Lord, the great God. And all the people children of God is done to Christ Himself answered, Amen.’ . . . in the person of His saints. Every attempt “Yet even here was evidence of the sin to take advantage of the ignorance, weak- of Israel. Through the intermarriage of ness, or misfortune of another is registered the people with other nations, the Hebrew as fraud in the ledger of heaven. He who language had become corrupted, and great truly fears God, would rather toil day and care was necessary on the part of the night, and eat the bread of poverty, than speakers to explain the law in the language to indulge the passion for gain that op- of the people, that it might be understood presses the widow and fatherless or turns by all.”—Prophets and Kings, pages 661, the stranger from his right. . . . 662. “We were all debtors to divine justice, but we had nothing with which to pay the debt. Then the Son of God, who pitied 6. How were the people affected? us, paid the price of our redemption. He Neh. 8:9-12. became poor that through His poverty we might be rich. By deeds of liberality toward His poor we may prove the sin- cerity of our gratitude for the mercy ex- NOTE.—”As the law was explained, they tended to us.”—Prophets and Kings, pages were convinced of their guilt, and they 651, 652. mourned because of their transgressions. But this day was a festival, a day of re- The Walls Rebuilt joicing, a holy convocation, a day which the Lord had commanded the people to
- What work was finally accomp- keep with joy and gladness; and in view plished? Neh. 6:15; 7:1. of this they were bidden to restrain their grief and to rejoice because of God’s great mercy toward them. . . . “There was great rejoicing because the NorE.—”Notwithstanding the plots of words of the law had been read and under- enemies, open and secret, the work of stood.”—Prophets and Kings, page 662. building went steadily forward, and in less than two months from the time of Nehe- 7. What feast was observed? Neh. miah’s arrival in Jerusalem the city was 8:13-18. [ 38 ] They must not only mourn and weep, and repent, but they must believe that God pardoned them. They must show their faith by recounting His mercies and praising Him for His goodness.”—Prophets and Kings, pages 665, 666. The people blessed the name of God in the form of a song of praise. Neh. 9:6. Following this, the leaders recounted Israel’s past history, stressing particularly Israel’s ingratitude, and acknowledging God’s jus- tice in the punishments He had allowed to come upon His people. Neh. 9:7-37. Read the whole passage to catch the spirit of re- pentance and of praise to God for His /1w1 I justice and mercy. May every child of God who reads this passage review his own The Christian is honest in all his dealings. He refuses past experience and see in it the hand of a to imitate the sharp practices, fraud, or extortion of the world. merciful and loving heavenly Father. 10. Stirred by the confessions of the Levites, what did the leaders and Rededication people do? Neh. 9:38; 10:1, 28, 29.
- What special service was held on the twenty-fourth day of the month? Neh. 9:1-3. NoTE.—”Israel had returned to God with deep sorrow for backsliding. They had made confession with mourning and lamen- NOTE.—”As they had listened from day tation. They had acknowledged the right- to day to the words of the law, the people eousness of God’s dealings with them, and had been convicted of their transgressions, had covenanted to obey His law. Now they and of the sins of their nation in past must manifest faith in His promises. God generations. They saw that it was be- had accepted their repentance; they were cause of a departure from God that His now to rejoice in the assurance of sins protecting care had been withdrawn and forgiven and their restoration to divine that the children of Abraham had been favor.”—Prophets and Kings, pages 667, scattered in foreign lands, and they deter- 668. mined to seek His mercy and to pledge themselves to walk in His commandments. Terms of Covenant Before entering upon this solemn service, held on the second day after the close of 11. What reform was undertaken the Feast of Tabernacles, they separated regarding intermarriages with the themselves from the heathen among them.” heathen? Neh. 10:30. —Prophets and Kings, page 665.
- What did certain of the Levites do, and what were the people in- structed to do? Neh. 9:4, 5. 12. What promises were made with respect to Sabbath observance? Neh. 10:31.
NoTE.—”As the people prostrated them- selves before the Lord, confessing their sins and pleading for pardon, their leaders en- 13. What provisions were made couraged them to believe that God, ac- for the payment of tithes and offer- cording to His promise, heard their prayers. ings? Neh. 10:32-39. 39 14. What warning is given to those They are His property; and if they will who enter into solemn covenant with not yield obedience to Him who has given Christ? Heb. 10:28, 29. His life for them, but devote their time and strength and talents to the service of Satan, they are earning their wages, which is death. . . NoTE.-“Every child and youth, every “Those who have once rejoiced in the man and woman, has Jesus rescued by His evidence of sins forgiven, who have tasted own blood from the abyss of ruin to a Saviour’s love and who then persist in which Satan was compelling them to go. uniting with the foes of Christ, rejecting Because sinners will not accept of the the perfect righteousness that Jesus offers salvation freely offered them, are they re- them and choosing the ways that He has leased from their obligations? Their choos- condemned, will be more severely judged ing to remain in sin and bold transgres- than the heathen who have never had the sion does not lessen their guilt. Jesus paid light and have never known God or His a price for them, and they belong to Him. law .”-T estimonies, vol. 3, pp. 365, 366.
Lesson 12, for June 18, 1960
Failure of Exiles to Fulfill Divine Purpose
MEMORY VERSE: “Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.” Jude 24. STUDY HELPS: “Prophets and Kings,” pages 669-678; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on Scripture references; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of June 2.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-3. ❑ from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Thursday: Read Study Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8-11. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑
Lesson Outline 7. Situation corrected. Neh. 13:17-22.
Introduction I11. Heathen Alliances I. Nehemiah’s Return to Jerusalem 8. Foreign marriages. Neh. 13:23, 24. 9. Sinners upbraided. Neh. 13:25-29. 1. Nehemiah’s absence. Neh. 13:6. 10. Reformation. Neh. 13:30, 31. 2. Temple profaned. Neh. 13:1-5, 7; Deut. 23:3-5. 11. Reform temporary. Mal. 1:6-10; 3. Temple cleansed. Neh. 13:8, 9. 3:7.
- God’s Laws Broken IV. Final Victory Assured
- Levites neglected. Neh. 13:10. 12. Final purification. Mal. 3:1-6.
- Neglect corrected. Neh. 13:11-14. 13. Secret of victory. 2 Peter 1:5-10.
- Sabbath broken. Neh. 13:15, 16. 14. Victory promised. Jude 24. 40 THE LESSON Introduction temple, which heretofore had been used as a storeroom for tithes and offerings of the Soon after entering upon this solemn people. covenant to serve the Lord, the Jews again “Because of the cruelty and treachery of lapsed into apostasy. Nehemiah was absent the Ammonites and Moabites toward Israel, for a brief period; and being left without God had declared through Moses that they strong leadership, they seemed powerless should be forever shut out from the con- against Satan’s devices. gregation of His people. See Deuteronomy What was the reason for their failure? 23:3-6. In defiance of this word, the high They had no life and root in themselves. priest had cast out the offerings stored in Their spiritual experiences seemed to be the chamber of God’s house, to make a principally influenced by their leader. This place for this representative of a proscribed had been the situation ever since they left race. Greater contempt for God could not Egypt. When a leader ardent in the service have been shown than to confer such a of God arose, the people followed the Lord. favor on this enemy of God and His truth.” When one with idolatrous tendencies came —Prophets and Kings, pages 669, 670. upon the scene, large numbers drifted into apostasy. They lacked a personal religious 3. How did Nehemiah meet this experience. situation? Neh. 13:8, 9. Nehemiah’s Return to Jerusalem
- Where did Nehemiah go for a God’s Laws Broken time? Neh. 13:6. 4. What responsibility to the Le- vites had the people neglected? Neh. 13:10. NorE.—”It is from this passage only that we know of Nehemiah’s two terms as governor. His first term was for 12 years (ch. 5:14), but no indication is given of NOTE.—”What Nehemiah saw was that the length of his second term. It must have the Levites were absent, and that the temple ended before 407 B.c., when, we know from service was neglected. On inquiry, he as- an Elephantine letter, the governor of Judea certained the reason for their absence— was Bigvai.”—The Seventh-day Adventist tithe had not been paid. Since the Levites Bible Commentary, on Neh. 13:6. lived from the tithe and the first fruits, and these were held back, they had to earn
- What profanation of the house a living from the fields surrounding the of God had taken place during Nehe- towns and the villages where they lived.” miah’s absence? Neh. 13:1-5, 7; Deut. —The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- 23:3-5. mentary, on Neh. 13:10. 5. How was the evil rectified? Neh. 13:11-14. NoTE.—”During his [Nehemiah’s] ab- sence from Jerusalem, evils crept in that threatened to pervert the nation. Idolaters not only gained a foothold in the city, but NorE.—”Of the four treasurers, one was contaminated by their presence the very priest, one a Levite, one a secretary, and precincts of the temple. Through inter- one a layman of rank. In this way the marriage, a friendship had been brought main classes of the population were repre- about between Eliashib the high priest and sented. The individuals mentioned cannot Tobiah the Ammonite, Israel’s bitter en- be identified, though several of the names emy. As a result of this unhallowed al- occur elsewhere in Nehemiah.”—The Sev- liance, Eliashib had permitted Tobiah to enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary, on occupy an apartment connected with the Neh. 13:13. 41 to separate from them. But no distinction was made; no respect was shown for rank or position. . . . “Many who had married idolaters chose to go with them into exile, and these, with those who had been expelled from the con- gregation, joined the Samaritans. Hither some who had occupied high positions in the work of God found their way and after a time cast in their lot fully with them. De- siring to strengthen this alliance, the Sa- maritans promised to adopt more fully the Jewish faith and customs, and the apos- tates, determined to outdo their former brethren, erected a temple on Mount Ger- izim in opposition to the house of God at Jerusalem. Their religion continued to be What shall it profit to build a city and a temple, a mixture of Judaism and heathenism, and but break God’s holy law and apostatize? their claim to be the people of God was the source of schism, emulation, and enmity between the two nations, from generation
- How far had the people departed to generation.”—Prophets and Kings, pages 674, 675. from the Lord in the matter of Sab- bath observance? Neh. 13:15, 16. 10. What success followed Nehe- miah’s reform measures? Neh. 13: 30, 31. NOTE.—”Another result of intercourse with idolaters was a disregard of the Sab- bath, the sign distinguishing the Israelites NOTE.—”The success attending Nehe- from all other nations as worshipers of the miah’s efforts shows what prayer, faith, true God. Nehemiah found that heathen and wise, energetic action will accomplish. merchants and traders from the surround- Nehemiah was not a priest; he was not a ing country, coming to Jerusalem, had prophet; he made no pretension to high induced many among the Israelites to en- title. He was a reformer raised up for gage in traffic on the Sabbath.”—Prophets an important time. It was his aim to set and Kings, page 671. his people right with God. Inspired with a great purpose, he bent every energy of
- What definite steps in reform his being to its accomplishment. High, were taken? Neh. 13:17-22. unbending integrity marked his efforts. As he came into contact with evil and oppo- sition to right he took so determined a stand that the people were roused to labor with Heathen Alliances fresh zeal and courage. They could not but recognize his loyalty, his patriotism, and
- Into what other error had the his deep love for God; and, seeing this, people again fallen? Neh. 13:23, 24. they were willing to follow where he led.” —Prophets and Kings, pages 675, 676. 11. What subsequent record reveals
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In correcting this situation, what the temporary nature of this reforma- drastic course did Nehemiah pursue tion? Mal. 1:6-10; 3:7. to meet the problem? Neh. 13:25-29.
NoTE.—"Under the leadership of Zerub- NOTE.—"There were some in sacred office babel, of Ezra, and of Nehemiah they re- who pleaded for their heathen wives, de- peatedly covenanted to keep all the com- claring that they could not bring themselves mandments and ordinances of Jehovah. The [ 42 ]seasons of prosperity that followed gave and of John the Baptist, messengers of ample evidence of God’s willingness to ac- God’s appointment are calling the atten- cept and forgive, and yet with fatal short- tion of a judgment-bound world to the sightedness they turned again and again solemn events soon to take place in con- from their glorious destiny and selfishly nection with the closing hours of probation appropriated to themselves that which and the appearance of Christ Jesus as King would have brought healing and spiritual of kings and Lord of lords. Soon every life to countless multitudes. man is to be judged for the deeds done in “This failure to fulfill the divine purpose the body. The hour of God’s judgment has was very apparent in Malachi’s day. Sternly come, and upon the members of His church the Lord’s messenger dealt with the evils on earth rests the solemn responsibility of that were robbing Israel of temporal pros- giving warning to those who are standing perity and spiritual power. In his rebuke as it were on the very brink of eternal ruin.” against transgressors the prophet spared —Prophets and Kings, pages 715, 716. neither priests nor people. ‘The burden of the word of the Lord to Israel’ through 13. How only can the Christian Malachi was that the lessons of the past be keep from falling into repeated er- not forgotten, and that the covenant made rors? 2 Peter 1:5-10. by Jehovah with the house of Israel be kept with fidelity. Only by heartfelt re- pentance could the blessing of God be realized.”—Prophets and Kings, page 705. NOTE.—”Christ, who connects earth with heaven, is the ladder. The base is planted Final Victory Assured firmly on the earth in His humanity; the topmost round reaches to the throne of
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How did the Lord say He God in His divinity. The humanity of would eventually purify the sons of Christ embraces fallen humanity, while Levi? Mal. 3:1-6. His divinity lays hold upon the throne of God. We are saved by climbing round after round of the ladder, looking to Christ, clinging to Christ, mounting step by step NOTE.—”When the promised Messiah was to the height of Christ, so that He is made about to appear, the message of the fore- unto us wisdom and righteousness and runner of Christ was: Repent, publicans sanctification and redemption.”—Testi- and sinners; repent, Pharisees and Sad- monies, vol. 6, p. 147. ducees; ‘for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ 14. What power for victory is “Today, in the spirit and power of Elias promised? Jude 24.
Lesson 13, for June 25, 1960The Divine Purpose Fulfilled in the Christian Church
MEMORY VERSE: “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and dis- obedience received a just recompence of reward; how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?” Heb. 2:1-3. STUDY HELPS: “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” vol. 4, pp. 34-38; “Prophets and Kings,” pages 703-733; “Christ’s Object Lessons,” pages 296- 306; “Testimonies,” vol. 6, pp. 9-13; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of June 9. [ 43 DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 6-9. Sunday: Introduction; Questions 1-3. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 10-13. Monday: Questions 4, 5; begin read- Thursday: Read from Study Helps. 0
ing from Study Helps. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. 0
Lesson Outline 7. New nation identified. 1 Peter 2:9. Introduction 8. Individuals not rejected. Rom. 11: 1, 5. I. Israel’s Failures Illustrated 9. Abraham’s spiritual descendants. Gal. 3:29. 1. Record for our learning. Rom. 15:4. 2. The vineyard and the husbandmen. IV. Responsibilities Matt. 21:33. 3. Failure of repeated efforts. Matt. 10. World missionaries. Mark 16:15. 21:34-36. V. Warnings
- Israel’s.Last Opportunity
11. Danger of coming short. Heb. 4:
- Final effort. Matt. 21:37-39. 1, 2.
- Status as chosen people removed. 12. Failure through lack of knowledge. Matt. 21:43, first part. Hosea 4:6. I11. Privileges Transferred to the Chris- 13. The church triumphant. John 14: 3; Rev. 7:9, 14-17; 21:3; 22:1-4. tian Church
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Another nation chosen. Matt. 21: 43, last part.
THE LESSON Introduction earth in power and great glory."-The Desire of Ages, pages 633, 634. As a people, the Jews in the times of "Whatsoever things were written afore- Ezra and Nehemiah failed to fulfill the time were written for our learning." Rom. divine purpose. So did their descendants 15:4. It is important that we heed the in the period between the Testaments. But lessons of Israel's failure and avoid her God offered them one last opportunity. He mistakes. sent to them His Son. Glorious would have been Israel's future if she had accepted Israel's Failures Illustrated her Saviour. See The Desire of Ages, page
- When the nation rejected Him it lost its status as God’s representative in the 1. For what purpose have the rec- world. That privilege was transferred to ords of Israel’s history in the times the Christian church. of Ezra and Nehemiah been pre- Today the remnant church in a special served? Rom. 15:4. sense is the inheritor of the privileges and responsibilities of ancient Israel. Already there has been a measure of failure. “Had the church of Christ done her appointed NOTE.-“I was pointed back to ancient work as the Lord ordained, the whole world Israel. They had great light and exalted would before this have been warned, and privileges; yet they did not live up to the the Lord Jesus would have come to our light nor appreciate their advantages, and [ 44 ] their light became darkness. They walked in the light of their own eyes instead of FAILURE following the leadings of God. The history of the children of Israel was written for the benefit of those who live in the last days, that they may avoid following their example of unbelief.”—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 43.
- In His parable showing the re- jection of the chosen people, to what COWS COMMISSION did Jesus liken Israel? Matt. 21:33. OW OD Wawa ii•M•••••• •••••••
Compare Isa. 5:1. “ :Obey My Voice”“Go rrePare to Meet Thy God
- How does the parable illustrate Will God’s remnant church finish His plan and God’s repeated efforts to secure Is- obey His commission, which Israel failed to do? rael’s co-operation? Matt. 21:34-36. Compare Isa. 5:2, 4. ence unto eternal life or disobedience unto eternal death, they rejected the Holy One of Israel.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, pages NOTE.—”With a father’s heart, God bore 293, 294. with His people. He pleaded with them by 5. As a result, what privilege was mercies given and mercies withdrawn. Pa- tiently He set their sins before them, and in taken from Israel? Matt. 21:43, first forbearance waited for their acknowledg- part. ment. Prophets and messengers were sent to urge God’s claim upon the husbandmen; but instead of being welcomed, they were treated as enemies. The husbandmen per- NOTE.—”Christ designed that the Phari- secuted and killed them.”—Christ’s Object sees should answer as they did. He de- Lessons, page 293. signed that they should condemn them- selves. His warnings, failing to arouse them to repentance, would seal their doom, and Israel’s Last Opportunity He wished them to see that they had brought ruin on themselves. He designed
- What final effort did God make, to show them the justice of God in the and what was the response? Matt. withdrawal of their national privileges, 21:37-39. which had already begun, and which would end, not only in the destruction of their temple and their city, but in the dispersion of the nation.”—The Desire of Ages, page NoTE.—”Christ, the Beloved of God, 597. came to assert the claims of the Owner of the vineyard; but the husbandmen treated Privileges Transferred to the Him with marked contempt, saying, We Christian Church will not have this man to rule over us. They envied Christ’s beauty of character. 6. To whom was the kingdom of His manner of teaching was far superior God to be given? Matt. 21:43, last to theirs, and they dreaded His success. part. He remonstrated with them, unveiling their hypocrisy, and showing them the sure re- sults of their course of action. This stirred them to madness. . . . His whole life was NorE.—”That which God purposed to a reproof to their selfishness, and, when the do for the world through Israel, the chosen final test came, the test which meant obedi- nation, He will finally accomplish through [- 45 ] His church on earth today. He has ‘let out to the covenant promises, all who emulate His vineyard unto other husbandmen,’ even his lofty example of faith will enter the to His covenant-keeping people, who faith- `city which hath foundations,’ to which he fully ‘render Him the fruits in their sea- himself ever looked forward in faith (Heb. sons.’ Never has the Lord been without 11:10).”—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible true representatives on this earth who have Commentary, on Gal. 3:29. made His interests their own. These wit- nesses for God are numbered among the spiritual Israel, and to them will be fulfilled Responsibilities all the covenant promises made by Jehovah 10. What work that Israel failed to to His ancient people.”—Prophets and Kings, pages 713, 714. do has the Christian church been called to perform? Mark 16:15.
- Who constitutes. this new na- tion? 1 Peter 2:9. NOTE.—”All who are ordained unto the life of Christ are ordained to work for the salvation of their fellow men. Their hearts NOTE.—”I was shown that those who are will throb in unison with the heart of trying to obey God and purify their souls Christ. The same longing for souls that He through obedience to the truth are God’s has felt will be manifest in them. Not all chosen people, His modern Israel.”—Testi- can fill the same place in the work, but monies, vol. 2, p. 109. there is a place and a work for all.”— Christ’s Object Lessons, page 301.
- What shows that the Jews as individuals were not rejected? Rom. 11:1, 5. Warnings 11. In view of Israel’s failure, what is the church of God to fear? Heb. NOTE.—”Through unbelief and the re- 4:1, 2. Compare Heb. 2:1-3. jection of Heaven’s purpose for her, Israel as a nation had lost her connection with God. But the branches that had been separated from the parent stock God was NOTE.—”The same disobedience and able to reunite with the true stock of Is- failure which were seen in the Jewish church rael—the remnant who had remained true have characterized in a greater degree the to the God of their fathers.”—The Acts of people who have had this great light from the Apostles, pages 377, 378. heaven in the last messages of warning. Shall we, like them, squander our oppor-
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To whom do the promises to tunities and privileges until God shall per- Abraham now apply? Gal. 3:29. mit oppression and persecution to• come upon us? Will the work which might be performed in peace and comparative pros- perity be left undone until it must be performed in days of darkness, under the NOTE.—”As spiritual children of Abra- pressure of trial and persecution?”—Testi- ham, Christians become ‘joint heirs with monies, vol. 5, pp. 456, 457. Christ’ (Rom. 8:17). As Son of God, Christ is likewise heir to the honor and 12. Through what lack was Israel glory of heaven, and those who believe in destroyed? Hosea 4:6. Him fall heir to a position of honor in the universe that would never have been pos- sible for created beings to enjoy had the Word not become flesh (John 1:1, 14). At the Incarnation, divinity and humanity 13. What glorious future awaits were united by ties never to be broken the church triumphant? John 14:3; (DA 21, 25, 26). As heirs with Abraham Rev. 7:9, 14-17; 21:3; 22:1-4. I 46 NOTE.—”There, immortal minds will con- aspirations reached, the highest ambitions template with never-failing delight the won- realized; and still there will arise new ders of creative power, the mysteries of heights to surmount, new wonders to ad- redeeming love. There will be no cruel, de- mire, new truths to comprehend, fresh ob- ceiving foe to tempt to forgetfulness of jects to call forth the powers of mind and God. Every faculty will be developed, every capacity increased. The acquirement of soul and body. And the years of eternity, as knowledge will not weary the mind or ex- they roll, will bring riches and still more haust the energies. There the grandest en- glorious revelations of God and of Christ.” terprises may be carried forward, the loftiest —The Great Controversy, pages 677, 67&.
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING June 25, 1960, Southern European Division This quarter the overflow of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering goes to the Southern European Division, which extends into three conti- nents: Europe, Africa, and Asia, where nearly 300,000,000 souls are to be evangelized. What a challenge! Our projects for the offering overflow this quarter will strengthen our evangelistic program. Two chapels are to be built—one in Novi Sad, Yugoslavia, and the other in Lourenco Marques, Mozambique, Africa. They are to be used as evangelistic centers for these two cities. At our Munguluni Mission in Mozambique the water supply is insuf- ficient and unhealthful. It is with a sense of urgency, therefore, that we provide a proper water supply for this mission, where also a new mis- sion home must be built. Let us sustain the work of God in these areas by a splendid offering on June 25. The fields to benefit from the overflow for the next four quarters are: Third quarter—Australasian Division Fourth quarter—Inter-American Division First quarter, i961—Middle East Division Second quarter—Southern African Division LESSONS FOR THE THIRD QUARTER, 1960 Sabbath school members who have failed to receive a senior Lesson Quarterly for the third quarter of 1960 will be helped by the following outline in studying the first lesson. The title of the first lesson is "The Law and the Gospel." The Memory Verse is Rom. 8:3, 4. The texts to be studied are: Ques. 1. Heb. 11:3 ; Isa. 40:26. Ques. 8. Rom. 5:18, 19; 1 John 1:9. Ques. 2. Acts 17 :28 ; Deut. 30 : 19. Ques. 9. Rom. 8:3, 4. Ques. 3. Ps. 119:104 ; Rom. 3 :20. Ques. 10. Heb. 11:8; Acts 6:7; Rev. 14:12. Ques. 4. John 8:9; 1 John 3:21. Ques. 11. Acts 17:31. Ques. 5. Prov. 15:9; Ps. 37:38. Ques. 12. John 3:18. Ques. 6. Rom. 5 :12 ; 3 : 23. Ques. 13. Rom. 6:22. Ques. 7. Rom. 3:24-26. Ques. 14. Heb. 10:15, 16. [ 47 ]SOUTHERN EUROPEAN DIVISION TANGANYIKA UNION MISSION POPULATION CHURCHES CO. MEN. SS. MEM DIVISION TOTALS 278,970,131 1.515 100515 148445
YUGOSLAVIAN U. C. 17,300000 230 8,423 9,000 MOZAMBIQUE 1.4. 4,500,000 12 1,212 4073 AUSTRIA • HUNGARY SLOVENIA \ • SACKER ••••• - RUMANIA .0". O VENICE 71t1ISTE NOVI SAO • 1 MISSION HOME AND WATER CROATIA • SLAVONIA • BELGRADE L C'--- e01.0 FOR THE MUNGULUNI MISSION 0 M ILANCE f;; \BULGARIA • tatneouu. MISSION FLORENCE EVANGELISTIC CENTER • NOVI SAD ••••••••••? FQ.4 • NIS ‘••• • SALISBURY • SOFIA i`• 0§' U ELIMANE f.‘''‘.4 ER INDIAN OCEAN • 51(011E •••/. "r• SOUTHERN / I A RHODESIA ALBANIA ./0..'C'THUMi"ICA HAKES\? TARANTO IRINERSI O \ 0 5 GREECE LOUREN40 MARQUES ATHENS EVANGELISTIC CENTER RMO LOURFNCO MARQUES SHADED C \ AREAS REPRESENT SOUTHERN EUROPEAN MEDITERRANEAN SEA SOUTH AFRICA DIVISION