Keys of the Kingdom
Keys of the Kingdom
1969 Quater 4
SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON
Senior Division, No. 298, Fourth Quarter, 1969 THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY “Set apart a little time each day for study of the Sabbath School lesson.”— Counsels to Parents ,Teachers, and Students, page 137. “Let the Sabbath School lesson be learned, not by a hasty glance at the lesson scripture on Sabbath morning, but by careful study for the next week on Sabbath afternoon, with daily review or illustration during the week. Thus the lesson will become fixed in the memory, a treasure never to be wholly lost.” —Education, pages 251, 252.
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.
Nano
Lesson Titles for the Quarter
1. Christ, the Author and the Theme of Scripture.
2. The Inspiration of the Scriptures.
3. Searching the Scriptures.
4. The Two Books of God.
5. The Sure Word of Prophecy.
6. The Historical Bible.
7. Conditional Prophecy.
8. Prophecies Concerning Israel—I.
9. Prophecies Concerning Israel—11.
10. Treasures New and Old.
11. Responsibilities of Bible Study.
12. The Scriptures and My Life.
13. Triumph of the Scriptures.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 298, Oct.-Dec., 1969. 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 94040. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. Form 3579 requested. When a change of address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses. Copyright, 1969, by Pacific Press Publishing Association
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Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly KEYS OF THE KINGDOM A Series of Sabbath School Lessons Dealing With The Holy Scriptures, Their Study, Meaning, and Application “And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven.” Matt. 16:19.
“‘The keys of the kingdom of heaven are the words of Christ. All the words of Holy Scripture are His, and are here included. These words have power to open and to shut heaven.”—The Desire of Ages, page 413.
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
Keys to Bible Study During this quarter we shall discuss the what the inspired writer had in mind. theme, "The Holy Scriptures, their study, What did the text mean to him and what meaning, and application." How can we does it mean to us today? get the most spiritual benefit and enjoy- 3. Good sense of values. ment out of reading God's Word? Let us The student should see each gem in the think of the Scriptures as a storehouse full treasure-house of truth in relation to the of valuable treasures. In order to open up others, the part in relation to the whole. the treasure-house and find access to the Where does it belong in the whole plan of priceless gems of truth, the Bible student redemption? No Bible truth has value ex- must have in his possession certain keys. cept as related to Christ and the whole These may be labeled as follows: truth of the gospel. 1. Spiritual sense of "sight" and "hear- 4. Good "heart" sense. ing." What will I do with this truth? What is The student must come to the Bible it worth to me? How can I apply it to prayerfully, with open eyes to observe and my own heart? What duty does it point a willing spirit to be taught the truth. He out to me? All Bible study is meant to should study the context of each scripture, benefit the seeker for truth himself as well know the essential geographical and his- as the whole church. torical connections related to the different 5. Good sense of obligation. passages, and as far as possible be ac- Gems are of value to all, not simply to quainted with the writer and his biograph- the miner himself. So the truth discovered ical background. So that the words of the must be shared. How to communicate the prophets in the Scriptures may be under- light received should become a subject for stood, careful study should also be given study. Gems of truth shared with others as to whether there should be a past, pres- encourage the quest to discover more and ent, or future application made of the text. still more of the jewels of the Lord. Each scripture should always be compared Scripture references to NEB are from with other scripture. If the student does The New English Bible, copyright by The this, then with sensitive spiritual "ears" he Delegates of the Oxford University Press may "hear"—that is, become aware of— and the Syndics of the Cambridge Uni- what the Spirit of truth has for him versity Press, 1961. Used by permission of personally in the passage before him. the Cambridge University Press, Inc., New 2. Good judgment. York City. The Bible student should carefully weigh References to Phillips are from The New the evidence of each paragraph. Is it his- Testament in Modern English, copyright torical in nature or prophetic? literal or by J. B. Phillips, 1958. Used by permission symbolic? He must also seek to ascertain of the Macmillan Company.
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Lesson 1, for October 4, 1969
Christ, the Author and the Theme of Scripture
MEMORY VERSE: “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me.” John 5:39. STUDY HELPS: “The Desire of Ages,” pages 413, 414; “Fundamentals of Christian Education,” pages 308, 381-389; “Steps to Christ,” chapter, “A Knowledge of God”; “SDA Bible Dictionary,” pages 144, 1152; “SDA Bible Commentary.” STUDY AIM: To find the central theme of the Old and New Testament revelations; and to discover how Christ regarded the Old Testament Scriptures in relation to Himself and to His mission to the world.
Lesson Outline: 8. His prophets speak with power. Hosea 6:5. Introduction I11. His Reverence for the Old I. The Author and Theme of Scripture Testament 1. The word of Christ, the source of truth. Col. 3:16 (first part). 9. He taught with certainty. 2. Christ speaks through the prophets. Luke 4:32 ; Matt. 7:29. 1 Peter 1:10-12. 10. He amplified God’s revealed will. 3. Old Testament Scriptures testified Matt. 5:21, 22, 27, 28, 38, 39, 43, 44. of Christ. John 5:39. 11. He pointed men to the Scriptures. Matt. 21:42 (first part) ; Luke
- His Knowledge of the Scriptures 10:26.
- His knowledge foretold. Isa. 11:1-3. IV. His Use of the Scriptures
- His respect for God’s Word foretold. Ps. 40:7, 8. 12. He recognized man’s need.
- His weapon in temptation. John 3:19-21; 1:9-11, 5. Matt. 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13. 13. He spoke through all the prophets.
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His Word is powerful. Heb. 4:12. Luke 24:25-27.
THE LESSON The Author and Theme Introduction of Scripture "From the promise given to Adam, down through the patriarchal line and the legal 1. What admonition did Paul give economy, heaven's glorious light made plain the church at Colosse? Col. 3:16 (first the footsteps of the Redeemer. Seers beheld part). Compare John 5:24; 2 Thess. the Star of Bethlehem, the Shiloh to come, 3:1. as future things swept before them in mysterious procession. In every sacrifice Christ's death was shown. In every cloud of incense His righteousness ascended. By NoTE.—The Biblical expressions, "The word of Christ," "My word," "The word every jubilee trumpet His name was of the Lord," all refer to God's message sounded. In the awful mystery of the holy made known to men. Through His Spirit, of holies His glory dwelt."—The Desire of Christ is the Author of this Word, speak- Ages, pages 211, 212. ing to us through the prophets. The Bible 4is the Word of God in the language of Word was His guide. “To every temptation men, even as Christ was the Word “made He had one answer, ‘It is written.’ “— flesh.” John 1:14. In His divine-human Ibid., p. 88. Jesus’ every thought and ac- form He is “God’s thought made visible, tion were in harmony with the Scriptures. audible, and intelligible to human beings, To this familiarity with God’s Word may particularly with respect to His infinite be traced in large measure His great wis- purpose that all men should find salvation.” dom, understanding, and power. —SDA Bible Dictionary, on “Word,” page
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- What prophecy pinpointed Christ’s relationship to the revealed
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With whose Spirit were the Old will of God? Ps. 40:7, 8. Compare Ps. Testament prophets imbued? 1 Peter 119:9-11; Heb. 10:5-7; Luke 24:44, 45. 1:10-12.
NOTE.—The expression "the law of NorE.—The prophets' teachings harmo- Moses" in Luke 24:44 refers to God's mes- nize because there is only one Author sage to man recorded in the Pentateuch, the speaking through them all. The New Testa- first five books of the Old Testament. ment writers quote liberally from the Old Frequently in Scripture this is abbreviated Testament (1) to show the fulfillment of to "the law," which the Bible writers—as certain Old Testament passages in the per- in Psalm 40:7, 8—also use in a general son and ministry of Christ, in events in sense to refer to all of God's will as re- the nation of Israel, in the reception of the vealed in the Old Testament. gospel by Gentiles, and in the development "The Child Jesus did not receive in- of the Christian church; (2) to make plain struction in the synagogue schools. His the plan of redemption prefigured in the mother was His first human teacher. From Old Testament and now made real by the her lips and from the scrolls of the proph- blood of Christ; (3) to reinforce truths of ets, He learned of heavenly things. The eternal consequence taught clearly in the very words which He Himself had spoken Old Testament, largely forgotten or mis- to Moses for Israel He was now taught at understood, now strengthened by New His mother's knee. As He advanced from Testament teaching. childhood to youth, He did not seek the schools of the rabbis. He needed not the - What is the great central theme education to be obtained from such sources; of Old Testament Scriptures? John for God was His instructor.”—The Desire of Ages, page 70. 5:39. 6. When Jesus faced temptation, what weapon did He use? Matt. 4:1- His Knowledge of the Scriptures 11; Luke 4:1-13. Compare Eph. 6: 11-13, 17 (last part).
- What did Isaiah predict con- cerning the spirit that was to rest upon Christ? Isa. 11:1-3. Compare NOTE.—”Jesus met Satan with the words Luke 2:41-49. of Scripture. ‘It is written,’ He said. In every temptation the weapon of His war- fare was the Word of God. Satan demanded of Christ a miracle as a sign of His di- NOTE.—”And all who heard Him were vinity. But that which is greater than all amazed at His intelligence and the an- miracles, a firm reliance upon a ‘Thus saith swers He gave.” Luke 2:47, NEB. the Lord,’ was a sign that could not be “Jesus seemed to know the Scriptures controverted. So long as Christ held to this from beginning to end, and He presented position, the tempter could gain no ad- them in their true import.”—The Desire of vantage.”—The Desire of Ages, page 120. Ages, page 85. During the days of Jesus’ youthful con- 7. To what is the Word of God flict and throughout His earthly life God’s compared? Heb. 4:12. [5] NOTE.—”Practical truth must be brought 11. In His teaching ministry, what into the life, and the Word, like a sharp, questions did Jesus ask? Matt. 21:42 two-edged sword, must cut away the sur- (first part); Luke 10:26. plus of self that there is in our characters.” —Ellen G. White Comments, SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 928. NoTE.—Jesus always pointed to the Old
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What did God say He had done Testament Scriptures as authoritative. His “by the prophets,” and what had been probing questions were stimulants—as if the effect of God’s words? Hosea 6:5. He were saying, “The truth is in the Scriptures if you will search for it dili- gently. As you read, listen to God’s Word speaking to you. Do not get into the habit NOTE.—”The figure is that of hard stone of skimming the surface. Dig deep.” or wood to which, by hewing, the right shape is given, and obdurate Israel is con- His Use of the Scriptures ceived of as having been subjected to such treatment for its good through the objur- 12. What was man’s reaction when gations [reproofs] of the prophets.”— light came into the world? John 3:19- Lange’s Commentary, on Hosea 6:5. 21; 1:9-11, 5. Compare Rom. 1:21, 25.
His Reverence for the Old Testament NOTE.—”Men had well-nigh ceased to discern God in His works. The sinfulness
- What was the reaction of the of humanity had cast a pall over the fair people to Christ’s teaching? Luke 4: face of creation; and instead of manifest- 32; Matt. 7:29. ing God, His works became a barrier that concealed Him. Men ‘worshiped and served the creature more than the Creator.’ Thus the heathen ‘became vain in their imagina- tions, and their foolish heart was darkened.’ NoTE.—”The rabbis spoke with doubt Rom. 1:25, 21. So in Israel, man’s teaching and hesitancy, as if the Scriptures might had been put in the place of God’s. Not be interpreted to mean one thing or exactly only the things of nature, but the sacri- the opposite. The hearers were daily in- ficial service and the Scriptures them- volved in greater uncertainty. But Jesus selves—all given to reveal God—were so taught the Scriptures as of unquestionable perverted that they became the means of authority. Whatever His subject, it was concealing Him. presented with power, as if His words “Christ sought to remove that which could not be controverted.”—The Desire of obscured the truth. The veil that sin has Ages, page 253. cast over the face of nature, He came to draw aside, bringing to view the spiritual
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In His Sermon on the Mount, glory that all things were created to re- how did Jesus magnify and amplify flect. His words placed the teachings of Old Testament instruction? Matt. 5: nature as well as of the Bible in a new 21, 22, 27, 28, 38, 39, 43, 44. aspect, and made them a new revelation.” —Christ’s Object Lessons, pages 18, 19. 13. How thorough and broad was NoTE.—”His mission was to ‘magnify the Christ’s use of the Scriptures? Luke law, and make it honorable.’ Isaiah 42:21. 24:25-27. He was to show the spiritual nature of the law, to present its far-reaching principles, and to make plain its eternal obligation.”— Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, NOTE.—”Beginning at Moses, the very page 49. Alpha of Bible history, Christ expounded in [ all the Scriptures the things concerning “In teaching these disciples, Jesus showed Himself. Had He first made Himself known the importance of the Old Testament as a to them, their hearts would have been sat- witness to His mission. Many professed isfied. In the fullness of their joy they Christians now discard the Old Testament, would have hungered for nothing more. claiming that it is no longer of any use. But it was necessary for them to under- But such is not Christ’s teaching. So stand the witness borne, to Him by the highly did He value it that at one time types and prophecies of the Old Testament. He said, ‘If they hear not Moses and the Upon these their faith must be established. prophets, neither will they be persuaded, Christ performed no miracle to convince them, but it was His first work to explain though one rose from the dead.’ Luke 16:31. the Scriptures. They had looked upon His “It is the voice of Christ that speaks death as the destruction of all their hopes. through patriarchs and prophets, from the Now He showed from the prophets that days of Adam even to the closing scenes this was the very strongest evidence for of time.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 796- their faith. 799.
Lesson 2, for October 11, 1969 The Inspiration of the Scriptures
MEMORY VERSE: “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Tim. 3:16, 17. STUDY HELPS: “The Great Controversy,” pages v-xii; “Selected Messages,” Bk. 1, pp. 19-23, 25, 26; “Testimonies,” Vol. 4, p. 449; Vol. 5, p. 747; “SDA Bible Commentary.” STUDY’AIM: To seek to discover in the Bible itself a basis for faith in it as an inspired revelation of God’s truth.
Lesson Outline: 7. Source of prophetic utterances. Jer. 2:2 ; Ezek. 6:1, 2. Introduction 8. Prophetic writings called “Scriptures.” 2 Peter 3:15, 16. I. Early Revelations of God to Man 9. God’s message to be given to men. 1. Face-to-face communion. 2 Tim. 4:1, 2. Gen. 1:27-29; 2:15-17. I11. Inspired Nature of the Book 2. Sin hid God’s face from man. Gen. 3:1-6. 10. Its source. 2 Tim. 3:16 (first part). 3. Earliest written revelation. 11. Its results. 2 Tim. 3:15; John 1:17 (first part). 1 Peter 1:23. IV. Dimensions of God’s Book
- How God’s Book Came to Man
- The prophets speak for God. 12. Four profitable dimensions. 2 Tim. 3:16 (last part). Amos 3:7; Heb. 1:1. 13. Study leads to perfection.
- Oral messages. Ezek. 40:2-4 ; 2 Tim. 3:17. 44:4-6. 14. Provides safeguards.
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Written messages. Rev. 1:10, 11. Ps. 119:11, 104. 71 THE LESSON
Introduction NOTE.—"Before the entrance of sin, Adam enjoyed open communion with his "The Bible points to God as its author; Maker; but since man separated himself yet it was written by human hands; and in from God by transgression, the human race the varied style of its different books it has been cut off from this high privilege. presents the characteristics of the several By the plan of redemption, however, a way writers. The truths revealed are all 'given has been opened whereby the inhabitants by inspiration of God' (2 Timothy 3:16) ; of the earth may still have connection with yet they are expressed in the words of men. heaven. God has communicated with men The Infinite One by His Holy Spirit has by His Spirit, and divine light has been shed light into the minds and hearts of imparted to the world by revelations to His servants. He has given dreams and His chosen servants. 'Holy men of God visions, symbols and figures; and those to spake as they were moved by the Holy whom the truth was thus revealed, have Ghost.' 2 Peter 1:21."—The Great Con- themselves embodied the thought in human troversy, Introduction, page v. language. "The Ten Commandments were spoken 3. By whose hand was "the law," by God Himself, and were written by His or earliest written revelation of God's own hand. They are of divine, and not of will, given to men? John 1:17 (first human composition. But the Bible, with its part). God-given truths expressed in the language of men, presents a union of the divine with the human. Such a union existed in the nature of Christ, who was the Son of God NorE.—"The preparation of the Written and the Son of man. Thus it is true of the Word began in the time of Moses. Inspired Bible, as it was of Christ, that 'the Word revelations were then embodied in an in- was made flesh, and dwelt among us.' spired Book. This work continued during John 1:14."—The Great Controversy, In- the long period of sixteen hundred years— troduction, pages v, vi. from Moses, the historian of creation and "The Holy Scriptures are to be accepted the law, to John, the recorder of the most as an authoritative, infallible revelation of sublime truths of the gospel."—The Great His will. They are the standard of char- Controversy, Introduction, page v. acter, the revealer of doctrines, and the test of experience."—/bid., p. v11. How God's Book Came to Man Early Revelations of God to Man 4. What human instrumentalities
- How did God communicate with has God used to communicate with man? Amos 3:7; Heb. 1:1. man in Eden? Gen. 1:27-29; 2:15-17.
NorE.—The Creator spoke to Adam and 5. In what manner did Ezekiel re- Eve face to face, instructing them con- ceive instruction from God? Ezek. 40: cerning His will. “The holy pair were 2-4; 44:4-6. not only children under the fatherly care of God but students receiving instruction from the all-wise Creator. They were visited by angels, and were granted com- 6. How was John instructed to com- munion with their Maker, with no obscur- municate the light he received? Rev. ing veil between.”—Patriarchs and Proph- 1:10, 11. ets, page 50.
- What broke the face-to-face com- munion between God and man? Gen. NoTE.—The Scriptures teach that the 3:1-6. Compare Isa. 59:1, 2. Lord’s messages were communicated to the [8 I prophets in visions and dreams. (Num. recorded in the Old Testament canon of 12:6). These revelations were then em- Scriptures, was the inspired point of refer- bodied in human language and communi- ence in preaching the gospel of salvation cated to the people. The truths received through Christ. The entire Bible, as we were sometimes spoken, sometimes written. know it today, did not exist when Paul’s Note the following phrases: “spoken of letters to Timothy were written. The New by Daniel the prophet” (Matt. 24:15) ; Testament writings appeared during the “spoken of the Lord by the prophet” first century AD., and soon came to be (Matt. 1:22) ; “things which are written recognized by Christians as equally in- may be fulfilled” (Luke 21:22) ; “Moses in spired with the Old Testament. the law, and the prophets, did write” (John 1:45). Inspired Nature of the Book
- Whom did prophets acknowl- edge as the source of their messages to 10. What does Paul say about the the people? Jer. 2:2; Ezek. 6:1, 2. “inspiration” of the Scriptures? 2 Tim. 3:16 (first part).
NOTE.—God’s prophetic messengers de- NOTE.—”Inspiration of God” suggests the clared to Israel that the “word of the divine origin of the Scriptures. “Inspiration Lord” came to them (Micah 1:1; Zech. 8: of God” means literally, “God breathed.” 1, et cetera), and it was this divine word The actual impartation of the divine reve- or message—not their own—which they lation of truth came to the prophet under communicated to the people. If the word the Spirit’s guidance and control. See Num. or message was rejected, it was said that 12:6; Hosea 12:10; Rev. 1:10. The com- the people had “despised the word of the munication to the people of the light re- Holy One of Israel.” Isa. 5:24. Indeed, to ceived by the prophet, was also directed reject God’s word through His prophet by the Holy Spirit. See 2 Peter 1:21; was equivalent to rejecting the Lord Him- Rev. 1:2, 11. self. 1 Sam. 8:1-10. The Spirit of God also operates to aid the reader in his study of the truth thus
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In what category did Peter place revealed (John 14:26; 15:26). But this Paul’s writings? 2 Peter 3:15, 16. kind of Spirit-aided guidance, or illumi- nation, is not equivalent to prophetic in- spiration. NoTE.—Different terms are used in the 11. What great benefits accrue from Bible to designate “the Word of the Lord.” the sincere study of God’s Book? It is called the “Scripture” or “Scriptures” 2 Tim. 3:15; 1 Peter 1:23. some fifty times in the New Testament. The word Bible is a term frequently em- ployed today when referring to the Scrip- tures, but this word is not actually used in Dimensions of God’s Book the text of our English Bible. It derives from the Greek word biblia, which means 12. Name four “profitable” dimen- “little books.” The Bible is a collection of sions of the Bible. 2 Tim. 3:16 (last sacred books, a complete collection of es- sential spiritual knowledge. part).
- What solemn charge did Paul give to Timothy? 2 Tim. 4:1, 2. Com- NoTE.—Four dimensions of the Bible pare 1 Peter 1:25 (last part). mentioned by Paul satisfy four specific areas of man’s spiritual and intellectual need. God’s Word is “profitable” for: (1) doctrine, that is, imparting knowledge NOTE.—”Preach the word,” said Paul to about the teachings of the Christian faith; the young minister, Timothy. In apostolic (2) reproof, that is, reprimanding sin and days God’s “Word,” or message to men as censuring unlawful acts; (3) correction, [9] that is, refuting perverted and erroneous that continues throughout life.”-SDA Bi- teaching; (4) instruction, that is, “resetting ble Commentary, on 2 Tim. 3:16. the direction of a man’s life and training him in good living.” Phillips. 14. What safeguards are presented in God’s Word? Ps. 119:11, 104.
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Through the instruction of the Scriptures, to what heights of spiritual experience may men attain? 2 Tim. 3:17. Compare Eph. 4:13-15. NoTE.-“Every promise in God’s Word is ours. ‘By every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God’ are we to live. When assailed by temptation, look not to NOTE.-“As a child is taught the basic circumstances or to the weakness of self, responsibilities of manhood, so the Chris- but to the power of the Word. All its tian finds in the Scriptures,,those principles strength is yours. ‘Thy Word,’ says the that will help hirC..t.Qz27 up)to the ‘per- psalmist, ‘have I hid in mine heart, that fect man, unto the meastre- ol the stature I might not sin against thee.’ ‘By the word of the fullness of Christ’ (Eph. 4:13). of thy lips I have kept me from the paths This process of growing up to be like of the destroyer.’ Ps. 119:11; 17:4.”-The Christ is known as sanctification, a training Desire of Ages, page 123.
Lesson 3, for October 18, T969 Searching the Scriptures
MEMORY VERSE: “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scrip- tures daily, whether those things were so.” Acts 17:11. STUDY HELPS: “Education,” pages 185-192; “Early Writings,” page 88; “Gospel Workers,” pages 302, 303, 152; “Testimonies,” Vol. 2, pp. 650, 651, 692; Vol. 5, p. 708; Vol. 6, p. 131; “SDA Bible Commentary.” STUDY AIM: To discover helpful methods of Bible reading and study that will bring the most spiritual benefits into the personal life and experience.
Lesson Outline: 6. With the spirit of obedience. 1 Kings 22:14. Introduction 7. A grave danger. Prov. 16:25. I11. Methods for Bible Reading I. Adequacy of Biblical Revelation 8. Telescopic. Deut. 31:10-13 ; 1. A complete spiritual food. 11:18-21. Deut. 8:3 (last part) ; Matt. 4:4. 9. Microscopic. Acts 8:26-38. 2. One part supports another. 10. Daily, diligent Bible reading. Dan. 9:2. Acts 17:11. 11. Compare scripture with scripture.
- Approaching the Sacred Text 1 Cor. 2:9-13.
- With a prayer for guidance. IV. Key to the Kingdom 1 Sam. 23:1-5.
- With a deep longing to understand. 12. The key is the Word itself. Ps. 119:18-20. Matt. 16:19.
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With a willingness to share. 13. Misuse of the key. 2 Peter 3:16 Isa. 21:11, 12. (last part). [ 10 THE LESSON
Introduction Approaching the Sacred Text
“We should exert all the powers of the 3. When David needed special guid- mind in the study of the Scriptures and ance, what did he do? How did the should task the understanding to compre- Lord respond? 1 Sam. 23:1-5. Com- hend, as far as mortals can, the deep things pare 1 Sam. 10:22. of God; yet we must not forget that the docility and submission of a child is the true spirit of the learner. Scriptural diffi- culties can never be mastered by the same methods that are employed in grappling NoTE.—When we desire to know the way with philosophical problems. We should of the Lord, we should go as a church or not engage in the study of the Bible with as individuals to the Word, for we shall that self-reliance with which so many enter find safe guidance there. A good Bible the domains of science, but with a prayer- concordance is a great help, and the spirit ful dependence upon God and a sincere of prophecy was given to the church in the desire to learn His will. We must come last days as an inspired Bible commentary. with a humble and teachable spirit to ob- Here our minds are attracted to the Scrip- tain knowledge from the great I AM. ture and to its teachings, so that we may Otherwise, evil angels will so blind our learn the meaning of God’s Word and to minds and harden our hearts that we shall reverence and obey the Lord. not be impressed by the truth.”—The Great Controversy, page 599. 4. For what did the psalmist pray? Ps. 119:18-20. Adequacy of Biblical Revelation
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How is man’s spiritual life sus- tained? Deut. 8:3 (last part); Matt. NOTE.—”Tire:Bible should never be stud- ied without prayei9The Holy Spirit alone 4:4. can cause us to-feel the importance of those things easy to be understood, or prevent us from wresting truths difficult of com- prehension. It is the office of heavenly NOTE.—”The Bible contains all the prin- angels to prepare the heart so to compre- ciples that men need to understand in hend God’s Word that we shall be charmed order to be fitted either for this life or with its beauty, admonished by its warn- for the life to come. And these principles ings, or animated and strengthened by its may be understood by all. No one with a promises. We should make the psalmist’s spirit to appreciate its teaching can read petition our own, ‘Open Thou mine eyes, a single passage from the Bible without that I may behold wondrous things out gaining from it some helpful thought.”— of Thy law.’ Psalm 119:18.”—The Great Education, page 123. Controversy, pages 599, 600.
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How did one Bible writer reveal 5. What inquiry was made of Is- his confidence in the writings of an- rael’s watchmen? What reply was other prophet? Dan. 9:2. Compare given? Isa. 21:11, 12. Jer. 25:11-14; Ezra 1:1.
NoTE.—"God's watchmen upon the walls NoTe.—"Daniel searched the portion of of Zion today should be ready to give an the Old Testament which he had at his answer to those who inquire what hour of command, and made the Word of God earth's long night it is, and when the dawn his highest instructor."—Fundamentals of of eternal day may be expected."—SDA Christian Education, page 358. Bible Commentary, on Isa. 21:12.6. What spirit did the prophets Ezra and the associate Levites read the manifest in receiving and communi- Torah, or the five books of Moses, to the cating God’s truth to the people? people of God who gathered at Jerusalem in connection with the Feast of Trumpets 1 Kings 22:14. Compare Num. 22:38; (Prophets and Kings, page 661). The read- Jer. 1:7. ings continued for many days, so keen was the interest and desire of the people to know God’s will. There is a certain advantage to the read- NOTE.—The spirit shown by the prophets ing of God’s Word in sweeping, panoramic in humbly receiving and communicating the sequences, whether privately, in family messages God gave to them should be seen worship, or in study groups. This method in the churches today among all believers. of study might be called “the telescopic The Bible should be searched in an effort method,” taking a lengthy, grand sweep of to find the truth on a given subject but the Bible, reading one book after another not to prove and promote pet theories. in order. See Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Stu- dents, pages 341, 463. The world needs the 9. How did the Ethiopian eunuch messages of God in the Book, not the study the prophets? Acts 8:26-38. theories and twisted ideas of worldly phi- losophers and false teachers.
- What danger does the wise man NOTE.—The eunuch sought to understand point out? Prov. 16:25. of whom the inspired writer spoke. Philip explained to him that it was Jesus, show- ing that Isaiah 53 pointed to the suffering Messiah. The eunuch believed and was NoTE.—”Ignorance is no excuse for error baptized. By a careful study of each por- or sin, when there is every opportunity to tion of the chapter he was led to the light. know the will of God. A man is traveling This verse-by-verse Bible study is the best and comes to a place where there are sev- method and has been called “the micro- eral roads and a guideboard indicating scopic method.” There is also the “topical” where each one leads. If he disregards the or “subject” approach, for which a good guideboard, and takes whichever road seems concordance or Bible subject guide is help- to him to be right, he may be ever so ful. sincere, but will in all probability find him- self on the wrong road. 10. How did the Bereans read the “God has given us His Word that we Bible? Acts 17:11. may become acquainted with its teachings, and know for ourselves what He requires of us.”—The Great Controversy, pages 597,
- NOTE.—The noble Bereans read the Word of God “daily.” Theirs was not a hasty or Methods for Bible Reading occasional or disconnected study. God has given to some men and women
- In what manner was the Word the gift of opening the Scriptures to others. The labors of these men and women of God brought to Israel in ancient should be respected. But no living human times? Deut. 31:10-13; 11:18-21. Com- being is to be considered an infallible in- pare Ezra 7:6, 10; Neh. 8:1-8, 18. terpreter. The Bible explains itself, and we should study it for ourselves and not read it through the spectacles of others. NOTE.—”Every seventh year the whole 11. What promise is made to those law was to be read in the assembly of all who love the Lord? 1 Cor. 2:9-13. Israel, as Moses commanded.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 503. “Not alone the men of Israel, but ‘all the women and the little ones’ listened to NOTE.—”The mind will enlarge, if it is the reading of the law.”—Ibid. employed in tracing out the relation of the [12] subjects of the Bible, comparing scripture John 20:23) the authority and power to with scripture, and spiritual things with bring men into the kingdom. It was Peter’s spiritual. Go below the surface; the rich- perception of the truth that Jesus is in- est treasures of thought are waiting for deed the Christ that placed the keys’ of the skillful and diligent student.”—Funda- the kingdom in his possession and let him mentals of Christian Education, page 127. into the kingdom, and the same may be said of all Christ’s followers to the very close of time.”—SDA Bible Commentary, Key to the Kingdom on Matt. 16:19.
- What did Jesus give to Peter? 13. What did Peter say that the un- Matt. 16:19. Compare Matt. 18:18; learned and unstable had done with John 20:22, 23. Paul’s writings? 2 Peter 3:16 (last part).
NOTE.—”The ‘keys’ to the kingdom of heaven are the words of Christ (see DA 413; cf. John 1:12; 17:3). It is important NOTE.—”If men would but take the Bi- to note that Christ Himself speaks of the ble as it reads, if there were no false teach- ‘key’ here referred to as ‘the key of ers to mislead and confuse their minds, a knowledge’ of how to enter the kingdom work would be accomplished that would (see Luke 11:52). The words of Jesus are make angels glad and that would bring ‘spirit’ and ‘life’ to all who receive them into the fold of Christ thousands upon (see John 6:63). It is the words of Christ thousands who are now wandering in er- that bring eternal life (see John 6:68). The ror.”—The Great Controversy, page 599. Word of God is the key to the new-birth “I take the Bible just as it is, as the In- experience (1 Peter 1:23). . . . spired Word. I believe its utterances in an “Christ simply bestowed upon Peter and entire Bible.”—Selected Messages, Bk. 1, all the other disciples (see on Matt. 18:18; p. 17.
Lesson 4, for October 25, 1969
The Two Books of God MEMORY VERSE: "How precious also are Thy thoughts unto me, 0 God! how great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with Thee." Ps. 139:17, 18. STUDY HELPS: "Christ's Object Lessons," page 24; "Education," pages 128-134; "The Ministry of Healing," pages 458-466; "Testimonies," Vol. 8, pp. 255- 279, 326; "SDA Bible Commentary." STUDY AIM: To discover ways in which nature and revelation "bear the impress of the same master mind and speak in harmony."
Lesson Outline: 11. God Speaks Through Natural Things
Introduction 3. In the voice of nature. Ps. 19:1, 2; 8:3, 4. I. Divine Character of the Scriptures 4. In things that are made. 1. God’s Word pure and true. Rom. 1:19, 20. Ps. 119:105, 140, 160; John 17:17. 5. Figures of speech not to be 2. A divine test. Isa. 8:19, 20; construed literally. Isa. 11:12 1 Tim. 6:20; Col. 2:8. (last part) ; Rev. 7:1 (first part). 13 I11. Testimony of Nature and Scripture 9. One reason why the Sadducees erred. Matt. 22:23, 29. 6. The Creator’s power revealed in 10. God revealed in Christ. Heb. 1:1-3. nature. Ps. 33:6-9; Gen. 1:3, 6, 9. 7. God’s Word interprets nature. V. Study With Divine Guidance Matt. 6:25-34. IV. Mysteries in Both Books 11. Promise of the Spirit’s help. John 14:26; 15:26; 16:13. 8. Infinite power and wisdom. 12. Remember the intruder! Gen. 3:1-6. Job 42:1-6. 13. A prayer for today. Ps. 119:18.
THE LESSON
Introduction to us as truth. . . . The Word of God
gives us a test whereby we may know "Since the book of nature and the Book what is truth. The prophet says, 'To the of revelation bear the impress of the same law and to the testimony: if they speak master mind, they cannot but speak in not according to this word, it is because harmony. By different methods, and in there is no light in them.' (Isa. 8:20). different languages, they witness to the "From this statement it is evident that same great truths. Science is ever dis- it becomes us to be diligent Bible students, covering new wonders; but she brings from that we may know what is according to her research nothing that, rightly under- the law and the testimony. We are safe in stood, conflicts with divine revelation. The no other course of action."-Selected Mes- book of nature and the Written Word sages, Bk. 2, p. 99. shed light upon each other. They make
God Speaks Through Natural us acquainted with God by teaching us something of the laws through which He Things works."-Education, page 128.
3. What sources teach important
knowledge? Ps. 19:1, 2; 8:3, 4. Divine Character of the Scriptures
- What is the Word of God said NoTE.-“Day to day pours forth speech, to be? Ps. 119:105, 140, 160; John and night to night declares knowledge.” 17:17. Ps. 19:2, RSV. Correctly understood, all Biblical observations touching the opera- tion of natural law in earth and sky are NOTE.-“He who has a knowledge of in harmony with true scientific findings. God and His Word through personal ex- perience has a settled faith in the divinity - 4. How is the power and Godhead of the Holy Scriptures. He has proved of the Creator revealed? Rom. 1:19, that God’s Word is truth, and he knows 20. Compare Isa. 40:26. that truth can never contradict itself. He does not test the Bible by men’s ideas of science; he brings these ideas to the test NoTE.-The power, wisdom, love, and of the unerring standard.”-The Ministry glory of God are revealed through His of Healing, page 462. creation. And “all true science is but an interpretation of the handwriting of God
- Whom are men to consult, and in the material world.”-Patriarchs and against what are they to be on guard? Prophets, page 599. Isa. 8:19, 20; 1 Tim. 6:20; Col. 2:8. 5. What figure of speech is em- ployed with reference to the earth? NOTE.-“In these days of peril we are Isa. 11:12 (last part); Rev. 7:1 (first not to accept everything that men bring part). [14] NoTE.—The expression “four corners of pose. The heavens and all the host of them, the earth” is a figure of speech. But in the earth and all things therein, are not medieval times theologians interpreted these only the work of His hand; they came scriptures literally and taught that the into existence by the breath of His mouth.” earth was flat and had corners! Not until —Testimonies, Vol. 8, pp. 258, 259. navigators and astronomers of the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries exposed this error 7. How did Jesus illumine nature and established the fact that the earth is and correctly interpret its lessons? spherical was this false view abandoned. In Matt. 6:25-34. this instance, scientific truth led the theo- logians, eventually, to correct a false in- terpretation. Science often brings help from the book of nature to enlighten the chil- dren of God. Nom—The words of Christ, whether This and other theological errors ac- spoken directly by Himself or by His count, in part, for the fact that scientists prophets, are the key to unlock nature’s came to regard the Bible as unreliable and lessons, and nature in turn throws light unauthoritative. Though this reaction was on the Bible. almost as unreasonable as the erroneous Biblical interpretations, it nevertheless Mysteries in Both Books points up the urgent importance of sound Bible scholarship. Satan uses erroneous 8. What does Job say concerning views to prejudice minds against the truths of the Word and to destroy souls. Wrote the Creator’s knowledge and power? Ellen White: Job 42:1-6. Compare Col. 2:2 (last “It is true that many theories and doc- part), 3. trines popularly supposed to be derived from the Bible have no foundation in its teaching, and indeed are contrary to the whole tenor of inspiration. These things NOTE.—”Skeptics refuse to believe in have been a cause of doubt and perplexity God because with their finite minds they to many minds. They are not, however, cannot comprehend the infinite power by chargeable to God’s Word, but to man’s which He reveals Himself to men. But perversion of it.”—Steps to Christ, pages God is to be acknowledged more from 108, 109. what He does not reveal of Himself than from that which is open to our limited comprehension. Both in divine revelation Testimony of Nature and in nature, God has given to men mysteries to command their faith. This and Scripture must be so. We may be ever searching, ever inquiring, ever learning, and yet there
- By whose word did all things in is an infinity beyond.”—Testimonies, Vol. heaven and earth spring forth? Ps. 33: 8, p. 261. 6-9; Gen. 1:3, 6, 9. Compare John 1:1-3, 14. 9. Why did the Sadducees err in their religious understanding? Matt. 22:23, 29.
NoTE.—”The work of creation can never be explained by science. What science can explain the mystery of life? NOTE.—”Because they cannot fathom all “The theory that God did not create its mysteries, the skeptic and the infidel matter when He brought the world into reject God’s Word; and not all who pro- existence is without foundation. In the fess to believe the Bible are free from formation of our world, God was not in- danger on this point. The apostle says, debted to preexisting matter. On the con- `Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any trary, all things, material or spiritual, of you an evil heart of unbelief, in de- stood up before the Lord Jehovah at His parting from the living God.’ Hebrews voice and were created for His own pur- 3:12. It is right to study closely the teach- 15 ings of the Bible and to search into ‘the grasped, and the sublime, spiritual truths deep things of God’ so far as they are of the Written Word are impressed on the revealed in Scripture. 1 Corinthians 2:10. heart.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, page 24. While ‘the secret things belong unto the Lord our God,’ those things which are 12. How did Satan in the begin- revealed belong unto us.’ Deuteronomy ning interpose to destroy confidence 29:29.”—Steps to Christ, page 108. in God and His word? Gen. 3:1-6.
- What do the Scriptures say con- cerning the revelation of God in Christ? Heb. 1:1-3. NOTE.—”Satan addressed her [Eve] with a question that looked innocent but was full of cunning. . . . Satan intended that his words should be indefinite and ambigu- ous. His purpose was obvious. He wished to Nom—Appearing on earth as “the ex- sow doubt in the heart of the woman con- press image” of the Father’s person, Christ cerning the real phraseology and the ex- represented God in His totality—His per- act meaning of the divine commandment, sonal being, His character, His power, His especially concerning the reasonableness and love, His wisdom, and His justice. The justice of such a command.”—SDA Bible revelation of God in the incarnation of Commentary, on Gen. 3:1. Christ and in the Scriptures was essential. Satan’s subtle question was designed to Nature unaided could not reveal Him to make the word of God and the testimony perfection. of nature ambiguous and vague to our first parents. So he works today, introduc- Study With Divine Guidance ing questions of doubt and uncertainty to unsettle the faith of young and old in divine revelation.
- Whom has God appointed to aid in the study of truth? John 14:26; 13. What request did the psalmist 15:26; 16:13. make? Ps. 119:18. Compare Ps. 139: 17, 18 (first part).
NoTE.—”As the works of God are stud- ied, the Holy Spirit flashes conviction into NOTE.—This is really a prayer for di- the mind. It is not the conviction that vine guidance in the understanding of all logical reasoning produces; but unless the the truth in God’s great storehouse and mind has become too dark to know God, treasury of truth, scientific discoveries as the eye too dim to see Him, the ear too well as the truths clearly taught in the dull to hear His voice, a deeper meaning is Bible.
Lesson 5, for November 1, 1969
The Sure Word of Prophecy
MEMORY VERSE: “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the daystar arise in your hearts.” 2 Peter 1:19. STUDY HELPS: “Education,” pages 173-184; “The Great Controversy,” chapters 18, 19; “SDA Bible Dictionary,” pages 882, 883; “SDA Bible Commentary.” STUDY AIM: (1) To uncover the prophetic character of certain parts of the Scrip- tures. (2) To discover the basic principles of prophetic interpretation. 16 Lesson Outline: 6. The prophets study the prophets. 1 Peter 1:10. Introduction 7. The Spirit of Christ in the prophets. 1 Peter 1:11, 12. I. The Bible a Book of Predictive 8. Established in “present truth.” Prophecy 2 Peter 1:12 (last part). 1. The first and last prophecies. I11. Basic Principles of Prophetic Gen. 3 :15 ; Rev. 22 :20. Interpretation 2. The last book a prophecy of the 9. The Bible its own expositor. future. Rev. 1:1. 1 Cor. 2:12, 13. 3. A study of Daniel and the Reve- 10. No private interpretation. lation commended. Matt. 24:15 ; 2 Peter 1:20. Rev. 1:3. 11. Interpreting figurative prophecies.
- Dependability of Bible Prophecy Daniel 2; 7 to 9; Revelation 10
to 14.
- The prophetic Word made sure. 12. Wisdom for those who ask. 2 Peter 1:19. Deut. 29:29.
-
The prophets “moved” by God’s 13. Progressive revelation of truth. Spirit. 2 Peter 1:21. James 1:5-8.
THE LESSON Introduction The Bible a Book of Predictive Prophecy The word "prophecy" as used in the Bi- ble, e.g., Rom. 12:6, refers to every mes- sage from God, whatever its nature. In a 1. Locate the first and the last more limited sense the word is commonly prophecies in the Holy Scriptures. used in referring to predictions of future Gen. 3:15; Rev. 22:20. events. "Scripture plainly presents prediction as a manifestation of God's power glorifying His Person, exalting His redemptive work NOTE .—The first predictive prophecy in Christ and setting forth the divine char- found in the, first book of the Bible, Gene- acter of His revealed Word. The words of sis, foretells the first advent of Christ and fulfilled prophecies with regard to the Christ's smiting of the serpent's head by first advent of Christ speak of the wisdom means of His victory on the cross. The and power of God in interposing for man's predictive prophecies of the last book of need. Scripture not only presents the the Bible forecast the second coming of prophetic word as a demonstration of God's Christ, the day of the Lord, and the de- power and wisdom but His response to liverence of the saints. Between Genesis man's need. Since man is ignorant of what and Revelation are to be found hundreds a day may bring forth, the revelation of of prophetic predicitions which (1) have not only God's will for the present but the meaning today, (2) have met fulfillment disclosure of His plans and purposes for in the past, or (3) will be fulfilled in the future. the future are of inestimable benefit to the believer. In the light of —these facts, widespread neglect of Biblical prophecy is 2. What words introduce the not only tragic but inexcusable."—Unger's prophetic book of Revelation? Rev. Bible Dictionary, page 894. 1:1. [ 17Nora.—”The book of Revelation opens and complete knowledge on all matters. to the world what has been, what is, and The prophet knows only that which God what is to come; it is for our instruction has revealed to him, and only this is he upon whom the ends of the world are come. permitted to set forth as a ‘Thus saith the It should be studied with reverential awe.” Lord.’ Since the messages to one prophet —Ellen G. White Comments, SDA Bible often complement those given to others, it Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 954. becomes necessary to compare the various revelations in order to get a balanced and
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What is said of those who read comprehensive view of the messages from the books of Daniel and the Revela- Heaven. This the ancient prophets did.”— tion? Matt. 24:15; Rev. 1:3. SDA Bible Commentary, on 1 Peter 1:10.
7. Whose Spirit was operating in the prophets? 1 Peter 1:11, 12. NOTE.—"When the books of Daniel and Revelation are better understood, believers will have an entirely different religious NoTE.—"What a lesson to the people experience. . . of God in the Christian age, for whose "One thing will certainly be understood benefit these prophecies were given to His from the study of Revelation—that the servants! 'Unto whom it was revealed, that connection between God and His people not unto themselves, but unto us they did is close and decided."—Testimonies to minister.' Witness those holy men of God Ministers, page 114. as they 'inquired and searched diligently' concerning revelations given them for gen- erations that were yet unborn. Contrast Dependability of Bible Prophecy their holy zeal with the listless unconcern with which the favored ones of later ages - What word of confidence did treat this gift of Heaven. What a rebuke Peter express? 2 Peter 1:19. to the ease-loving, world-loving indifference which is content to declare that the proph- ecies cannot be understood !”—The Great Controversy, page 344.
- How were the prophecies of the Scriptures given? 2 Peter 1:21. 8. In what did Peter say those to whom he was writing were estab- lished? 2 Peter 1:12 (last part). NoTE.—The Old Testament and the New Testament prophets were “moved” by the NorE.—The “present truth” is the truth Holy Ghost. In Acts 27:15, 17 Luke uses possessed by the church at any given time the same word of a ship being driven be- in church history—the revealed truth for fore the wind. “The prophets were borne that time. In apostolic times, the recent along by the Spirit as a ship is borne along first advent of Jesus—His coming, His by a wind. They were entirely under the life, His death, and His resurrection—con- Spirit’s motivation.”—SDA Bible Commen- stituted “present truth” for that era. These tary, on 2 Peter 1:21. events had fulfilled a host of Old Testa- ment predictions. In our day, the three
- What did the prophets seek to angels’ messages, which include the gospel know? 1 Peter 1:10. of the first advent and of the imminence of the second advent, are “present truth.”
NoTE.—”Enquired. Or, ‘sought out,’ a reference to the diligent study by the Basic Principles of Prophetic prophets of divine utterances, doubtless their own along with those of their fellow Interpretation prophets, particularly with respect to the coming of the Redeemer. The possession 9. What principle is stated by Paul? of the prophetic gift does not imply full 1 Cor. 2:12, 13. [ 18] NOTE.—A dozen principles of interpre- tation are stated in the following inspired 12. To whom do the revelations of paragraph. Can you locate them? God belong? Deut. 29:29. “The Bible is its own expositor. Scrip- ture is to be compared with scripture. The student should learn to view the Word as a whole, and to see the relation of its NOTE.—”We may not, in this life, be parts. He should gain a knowledge of its able to explain the meaning of every pas- grand central theme, of God’s original pur- sage of Scripture; but there are no vital pose for the world, of the rise of the great points of practical truth that will be controversy, and of the work of redemp- clouded in mystery. When the time shall tion. He should understand the nature of come, in the providence of God, for the the two principles that are contending for world to be tested upon the truth for that supremacy, and should learn to trace their time, minds will be exercised by His Spirit working through the records of history to search the Scriptures, even with fasting and prophecy, to the great consummation. and with prayer, until link after link is He should see how this controversy enters searched out and united in a perfect chain. into every phase of human experience; how Every fact which immediately concerns the in every act of life he himself reveals the salvation of souls will be made so clear that one or the other of the two antagonistic none need err or walk in darkness.”— motives; and how, whether he will or not, Testimonies, Vol. 2, p. 692. he is even now deciding upon which side of the controversy he will be found.”— 13. What instruction given by Education, page 190. James with respect to wisdom for 10. What does Peter say about meeting trials is valid also in asking prophecy? 2 Peter 1:20. for wisdom to understand the Bible? James 1:5-8.
NoTE.—Peter here declares that no Bible prophecy reflects the private opinion of the NorE.—"Those who are teaching the prophet; as he hastens to state, these holy most solemn message ever given to the men of old were moved by the Holy Ghost world, should discipline the mind to com- as they wrote. Surely, if those who wrote prehend its significance. The theme of re- the Bible were not permitted to inject their demption will bear the most concentrated own ideas into it, we who read what they study, and its depth will never be fully wrote have no right to inject our private explored. You need not fear that you will ideas into a passage of Scripture and then exhaust this wonderful theme. Drink deep claim for our private ideas the authority of the well of salvation. Go to the foun- of Scripture. tain for yourself, that you may be filled
with refreshment, that Jesus may be in
you a well of water, springing up unto
11. What figurative prophecies everlasting life. Only Bible truth and Bible were given in the Old and New Tes- religion will stand the test of the judg- taments to delineate world events with ment."—Fundamentals of Christian Edu- relationship to the close of time? cation, page 127. Daniel 2; 7 to 9; Revelation 10 to 14.
"Those who rejoice in the
NoTE.—The great nations of antiquity precious light of truth were represented by the metallic image of , Daniel 2, also by the four figurative beasts should feel a burning desire of Daniel 7. Ellen White wrote: "The lan- to have it sent everywhere." guage of the Bible should be explained ac- —Counsels on Stewardship, cording to its obvious meaning, unless a page 42. symbol or figure is employed."—The Great Controversy, page 599.
[ 19
Lesson 6, for November 8, 1969
The Historical Bible
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: “Education,” pages 146-158, 51-70; “Patriarchs and Prophets,” pages 44-51, 90-104; “Fundamentals of Christian Education,” pages 84, 85; “SDA Bible Dictionary,” pages 230-234, 342, 343, 354-358, 473-480. STUDY AIM: To discover the relevancy for today of the historical Biblical record.
Lesson Outline: I11. A Comprehensive View of History 6. God’s purpose for the races of Introduction men. Acts 17:24-30. 7. Object of human governments. I. A True Record of Creation Dan. 4:10-12, 20-22, 27. 8. End of a rebellious empire. 1. Our world “in the beginning.” Jer. 51:12, 13, 63, 64; Isa. 13:19; Gen. 1:1-5, 31; 2:1-4. 14:22, 23. 2. The origin of man. Gen. 1:27; 9. Final overthrow of earthly 2:7; 5:1, 2; Luke 3:38. dominions. Dan 2:44; 7:27. 3. Jesus affirms creation story. 10. Reliability of God’s Word; for Mark 10:6-8. our learning. John 17:17; Rom. 15:4.
- An Accurate Record of Human IV. The Future in God’s Hand
Catastrophes
11. Certainty assured for Israel.
- The catastrophe of man’s fall. Ezek. 12:27, 28. Gen. 2:15-17; 3:1-7, 22-24. 12. Solemn events ahead.
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The Noachian Deluge. Gen. 6:5-8, Matt. 24:6, 7. 17, 13, 14; 7:1, 11-13, 17-24; 13. Enduring quality of God’s Word. 8:15-19. 1 Peter 1:24, 25.
THE LESSON Introduction false theories. The mind would be sub- jected to the tyranny of superstition and falsehood. But having in our possession an "We are dependent on the Bible for a authentic history of the beginning of our knowledge of the early history of our world, we need not hamper ourselves with world, of the creation of man, and of his human conjectures and unreliable theories." fall. Remove the Word of God, and what —Medical Ministry, page 89. can we expect than to be left to fables and conjectures, and to that enfeebling of the intellect which is the sure result of A True Record of Creation entertaining error. We need the authentic history of the origin of the earth, of the 1. What does the inspired historian fall of the covering cherub, and of the say concerning our world "in the be- introduction of sin into our world. With- ginning"? Gen. 1:1-5, 31; 2:1-4. Com- out the Bible, we should be bewildered by pare Ps. 33:6, 9. [ 20 ]NOTE.—”Just how God accomplished the NOTE.—”Neither evolution nor special work of creation He has never revealed to creation of basic types can be demon- men; human science cannot search out the strated in the laboratory. This situation has secrets of the Most High. His creative existed as far back as authentic records power is as incomprehensible as His ex- extend. Therefore, the scientists (and many istence. . . . famous names appear here) who are as- “It may be innocent to speculate beyond serting today that evolution of new basic what God’s Word has revealed, if our types is as completely demonstrated as is theories do not contradict facts found in the shape of our earth are completely the Scriptures; but those who leave the wrong. If they would be truthful they Word of God, and seek to account for His would have to say, ‘We cannot prove in the created works upon scientific principles, laboratory that evolution of new basic are drifting without chart or compass types has occurred, or is occurring, but upon an unknown ocean.”—Patriarchs and we believe such to be the case.’ “—Frank Prophets, page 113. L. Marsh, Evolution or Special Creation? page 4.
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What does the Bible teach about the origin of man? Gen. 1:27; 2:7; An Accurate Record of Human 5:1, 2; Luke 3:38. Compare Eccl. 7:29. Catastrophes
4. What great catastrophe befell man in the Garden of Eden? Gen. NOTE.—"Akin to the theory concerning 2:15-17; 3:1-7, 22-24. Compare Ro- the evolution of the earth is that which at- mans 5:12, 21; 1 Cor. 15:21, 22. tributes to an ascending line of germs, mollusks, and quadrupeds the evolution of man, the crowning glory of the creation. "When consideration is given to man's opportunities for research; how brief his NoTE.—According to Bible history a suc- life; how limited his sphere of action; how cession of falls and curses have occurred restricted his vision; how frequent and on the earth. how great the errors in his conclusions, "The first curse was pronounced upon especially as concerns the events thought to the posterity of Adam and upon the earth, antedate Bible history; how often the sup- because of disobedience. The second curse posed deductions of science are revised or came upon the ground after Cain slew cast aside; with what readiness the as- his brother Abel. The third most dreadful sumed period of the earth's development is curse from God, came upon the earth at from time to time increased or diminished the Flood."—Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 4, p. 121. by millions of years; and how the theories advanced by different scientists conflict 5. What calamity overtook the with one another,—considering all this, world in Noah's day? Gen. 6:5-8, 17, shall we, for the privilege of tracing our 13, 14; 7:1, 11-13, 17-24; 8:15-19. descent from germs and mollusks and apes, consent to cast away that statement of Holy Writ, so grand in its simplicity, 'God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him'? Genesis NOTE.—"Apart from Bible history, geol- 1:27. Shall we reject that genealogical ogy can prove nothing. . . . In the history record,—prouder than any treasured in theof the Flood, inspiration has explained that courts of kings,—'which was the son of which geology alone could never fathom. Adam, which was the son of God'? Luke In the days of Noah, men, animals, and 3 :38."—Education, page 130. trees, many times larger than now exist, were buried, and thus preserved as an evi- - How did Jesus affirm the truth dence to later generations that the ante- diluvians perished by a flood. God designed of the Mosaic record of man’s crea- that the discovery of these things should tion? Mark 10:6-8. Compare Gen. establish faith in inspired history; but 1:27, 28; 2:22-25. men, with their vain reasoning, fall into [ 21 ] the same error as did the people before “But the king failed of recognizing the the Flood—the things which God gave them power that had exalted him. . . . To the as a benefit, they turn into a curse by ruler of Babylon came the sentence of the making a wrong use of them.”—Patriarchs divine Watcher: ‘0 king, to thee it is and Prophets, page 112. spoken; The kingdom is departed from thee.’ Dan. 4:31.”—Education, pages 175, A Comprehensive View of 176. History 8. What was predicted concerning the latter end of Babylon? Jer. 51:12,
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What does Paul say of the crea- 13, 63, 64; Isa. 13:19; 14:22, 23. tion of the world and man and of the distribution of nations? Acts 17: 24-30. NOTE.—”Every nation that has come upon the stage of action has been permitted to occupy its place on the earth, that it NOTE.—”Paul is stating the historical might be seen whether it would fulfill the truth that all men, and consequently all purpose of ‘the Watcher and the Holy nations, sprang from one common ancestor, One.’ Prophecy has traced the rise and Adam. . . . But there was no place in fall of the world’s great empires—Babylon, Paul’s theology for a ‘superior’ race. He Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. With each believed the Genesis account of the crea- of these, as with nations of less power, tion of man. He saw the oneness of physical history repeated itself. Each had its period structure, of potential or actual develop- of test, each failed, its glory faded, its ment, which forbids any one race or nation power departed, and its place was oc- —Hebrew, Hellenic, Latin, or Teutonic—to cupied by another.”—Education, pages 176, assume that it is the cream and flower of 177. humanity. Compare Gal. 3:28; Col. 3:11, where Paul stresses the unity achieved 9. In what language was the final through belief in Christ. The Christian is doubly obligated to recognize the oneness overthrow of all earthly dominions of men—through creation and through foretold? Dan. 2:44; 7:27. Compare salvation.”—SDA Bible Commentary, on Ezek. 21:26, 27. Acts 17:26.
- What impressive dream did King Nebuchadnezzar have, and what did NOTE.—”The final overthrow of all Daniel say it signified? Dan. 4:10-12, earthly dominions is plainly foretold in 20-22, 27. Compare 2 Sam. 23:3, 4. the Word of truth. In the prophecy uttered when sentence from God was pronounced upon the last king of Israel is given the message: [Ezek. 21:26, 27 quoted]. That time is at hand.”—Education, page 179. NOTE.—”To Nebuchadnezzar the king the true object of national government 10. What did Jesus say concerning was represented under the figure of a great tree. . . . This representation shows God’s Word? What reason is given the character of a government that fulfills for studying the Scriptures? John 17: God’s purpose—a government that protects 17; Rom. 15:4. and upbuilds the nation. “God exalted Babylon that it might ful- fill this purpose. Prosperity attended the nation until it reached a height of wealth and power that has never since been NOTE.—”Thy Word is truth.” This is equaled—fitly represented in the Scriptures true of the historical records of the Bible by the inspired symbol, a ‘head of gold.’ as well as of its teachings. Whether the in- Dan. 2:38. spired writings deal with men as individuals [ 22 ] or with nations, the truth is told. There 12. What prophecy of international is no glossing over the record. Even the significance did Jesus give? Man. 24: sins of God’s servants and His judgments 6, 7. upon them are revealed. There are also strong archaeological proofs that the Bib- lical records are true. “Many critical scholars admit today that the Bible has to be treated with greater 13. For how long will God’s Word respect since the archaeological evidence endure? 1 Peter 1:24, 25. has shown how accurate its records are.” —L. E. Froom, Our Firm Foundation, Vol. 1, pp. 62, 63. NOTE.—”From the rise and fall of nations The Future in God’s Hand as made plain in the pages of Holy Writ,
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What words of certainty con- they need to learn how worthless is mere cerning the fulfillment of Ezekiel’s outward and worldly glory. Babylon, with all its power and its magnificence, the like prophecies did God speak to the of which our world has never since be- house of Israel? Ezek. 12:27, 28. held,—power and magnificence which to the people of that day seemed so stable and enduring,—how completely has it passed away ! As ‘the flower of the grass’ NOTE.—”All that prophecy has foretold it has perished. So perishes all that has as coming to pass, until the present time, not God for its foundation. Only that has been traced on the pages of history, which is bound up with His purpose and and we may be assured that all which expresses His character can endure. His is yet to come will be fulfilled in its order.” principles are the only steadfast things our —Education, page 178. world knows.”—Education, page 183.
Lesson 7, for November 15, 1969 Conditional Prophecy MEMORY VERSE: "0 the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out!" Rom. 11:33. STUDY HELPS: Jonah 1 to 4; Isaiah 38, 39; "Prophets and Kings," pages 531-533, 551, 552; "Selected Messages," Bk. 2, p. 102; "Counsels on Sabbath School Work," page 23; "Testimonies," Vol. 2, pp. 147, 148; "SDA Bible Commen- tary." STUDY AIM: To ascertain the conditions upon which the promises and threaten- ings of the Scriptures are based.
Lesson Outline: 2. The shape of things to come. Isa. 46:9, 10. Introduction 3. Cyrus the deliverer. Isa. 44:24-28; 45:1-3. I. The Future Unfolded 4. The divine-human struggle. Dan. 10:1, 5-7, 12, 13, 18-21. 1. Immutability of God’s purposes. 5. God’s Word confirmed. Prov. 19:21. Isa. 44:24, 25, 26 (first part). [ 23] 11. Predicted Benefits Conditional 9. No stated prospects of mercy. on Obedience Jonah 3:4 (last part). 6. Changed fulfillment resulting from 10. A revelation of God’s character. disobedience. Jer. 18:9, 10. Jonah 4:1, 2. 7. Changed fulfillment resulting from 11. Reversal of a divine pronounce- obedience. Jer. 18:7, 8. ment. 2 Kings 20:1-6. I11. Examples of Threatenings 12. A promise postponed. Ex. 6:2-8; Unfulfilled Num. 14:26-34. 8. The prophecy of Jonah. 13. A nation laid aside. Jonah 3:1, 4. Dan. 5:1-6, 25-28, 30, 31.
THE LESSON
Introduction ambitious designs, his changing whims and
fancies. "God's Word is sure (Isa. 40:8; 55:11; Rom. 11:29), and His plan for the sal- 2. With regard to "things that are vation of man will ultimately prevail (Isa. 46:10). With Him there is `no variableness, not yet done," what does the Lord do? neither shadow of turning' (James 1:17). Isa. 46:9, 10. Compare Isa. 44:6-8. He is 'the same yesterday, and today, and forever' (Heb. 13:8). His word `endureth forever' (1 Peter 1:25). Eventually God's purposes will prevail and the plan of sal- 3. What was foretold concerning vation will succeed, irrespective of the Cyrus? Isa. 44:24-28; 45:1-3. failure of any person or group (PK 705, 706). The plan itself never changes because God never changes. But the manner in which it is carried out may change because NOTE.—"Cyrus was a 'shepherd' to the man may change. The fickle human will is scattered flock of Israel, but a ravenous the weak, unstable factor in conditional bird of prey to Babylon, the enemy of prophecy."—SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. God's people. . . . 4, p. 34. "God would one day deliver His people "It should be remembered that the prom- from Babylon, through Cyrus (ch. 45:13). ises and threatenings of God are alike The deliverance from Babylon is a type conditional."—Selected Messages, Bk. 1, of the greater deliverance from sin accom- p. 67. plished through Christ.
"The Babylonian captivity was to be
for a period of 70 years (Jer. 25:11, 12;
The Future Unfolded 29:10), at the close of which the Jews
were to return to their homeland under 1. How are the divine purposes Cyrus' decree (2 Chron. 36:21-23; Ezra 1: contrasted with human plans? Prov. 1-4)."—SDA Bible Commentary, on Isa. 19:21. Compare Heb. 6:17; Acts 5: 46:11. 38, 39.
4. What struggle ensued over the
proclamation of Cyrus's decree for
the return of the exiled Jews? Dan. NoTE.—The Revised Standard Version 10:1, 5-7, 12, 13, 18-21. renders Proverbs 19:21: "Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will be estab- lished." The author of Hebrews speaks of NoTE.—"While Satan was striving to "the immutability of His counsel." Heb. influence the highest powers in the king- 6:17. This means the "unchangeableness dom of Medo-Persia to show disfavor to of His purpose" as contrasted with man's God's people, angels worked in behalf of
[24 ]
the exiles. The controversy was one in NOTE.—The sad story of Israel’s failure, which all heaven was interested. Through captivity, and dispersion is the most poig- the prophet Daniel we are given a glimpse nant illustration in sacred history of how of this mighty struggle between the forces the divine principle enunicated in Jeremiah of good and the forces of evil. For three 18:9, 10 operates. If the conditions of weeks Gabriel wrestled with the powers loyalty and obedience to the divine law of darkness, seeking to counteract the in- are not met by God’s people, His bless- fluences at work on the mind of Cyrus; ings are withheld; indeed, His judgments and before the contest closed, Christ Him- will fall upon the disobedient. See Deut. self came to Gabriel’s aid. ‘The prince of 28:15-68. “The Jews were not to think the kingdom of Persia withstood me one that their role as God’s chosen people as- and twenty days,’ Gabriel declares; ‘but, sured them of continued divine favor, ir- lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came respective of whether or not they acted in to help me; and I remained there with the harmony with the divine will.”—SDA Bible kings of Persia.’ Daniel 10:13. All that Commentary, on Jer. 18:10. heaven could do in behalf of the people of God was done. The victory was finally 7. What hope is extended to a sin- gained ; the forces of the enemy were held ful people who repent of their evil in check all the days of Cyrus, and all the deeds? Jer. 18:7, 8. Compare Ezek. days of his son Cambyses, who reigned 18:21; 1 Kings 21:27-29; 2 Chron. about seven and a half years.”—Prophets and Kings, pages 571, 572. 34:24-28. This incident reveals the hand of God in prophecy and history, yet the actors in the unfolding historic drama acted with freedom of choice and followed the course NoTE.—Prosperity or adversity may come of their own action. They were not robots to individuals, to cities, to states, dependent or machines moved by an irresistible force upon right or wrong attitudes toward God toward a certain predetermined goal. God’s and His revealed will. Consider the mer- angels strove with Cyrus, urging a right cies extended to wicked Ahab when he decision, and eventually he chose to co- humbled himself before God; also, to King operate with the divine will. Josiah in spite of the perversity of his people.
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How does God regard the word “This is a moral universe, and . .. nations spoken through His prophetic mes- stand or fall according to their relation- sengers? Isa. 44:24, 25, 26 (first part). ship to the moral law. If a nation conducts its affairs uprightly, following the pre- Compare Zech. 1:6. cepts of justice and mercy, it ‘shall pros- per’ (Ps. 1:3). If, on the other hand, it becomes tyrannical, gives itself wholly to the material and secular values of life, NoTE.—God confirms the word of His and disregards the norms of honest national servants and performs the counsels of His and international dealing, it ‘shall perish’ prophetic messengers. “He establishes the (see Ps. 1:6).”—SDA Bible Commentary, reliability of true prophets. Their predic- on Jer. 18:8. tions are fulfilled.”—SDA Bible Commen- tary, on Isa. 44:26. Even rebellious Israel Examples of Threatenings had to concede that God’s word concern- Unfulfilled ing them had been fulfilled. 8. What warning of impending Predicted Benefits Conditional judgment did Jonah bring to the in- habitants of Nineveh? Jonah 3:1-4. on Obedience
- What conditional aspect is in- herent in the Lord’s promises to the NoTE.—Wicked Nineveh repented at the children of men? Jer. 18:9, 10. Com- preaching of Jonah (Jonah 3:5-10), and pare Deut. 28:1-15, 58, 63, 64. the fulfillment of the prophecy, “Yet forty [ 25 ] days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown” ecy was a forecast of the results that would (Jonah 3:4), was postponed. The predic- follow the circumstances as they existed at tion might have been canceled altogether that time. With an alteration in circum- if the humbled Ninevites had forsaken stances the prediction was changed (see v. their idolatry and persisted in obeying the 5). Some prophetic predictions are not true God. necessarily absolute but may be condi- tional.”—SD A Bible Commentary, on 2
- Did the prophet Jonah’s mes- Kings 20:1. sage, as recorded in Scripture, offer any stated prospect of divine mercy? 12. The fulfillment of what prom- Jonah 3:4 (last part). ise made to Abraham and Moses con- cerning ancient Israel was postponed because of the sins of the people? Ex. 6:2-8; Num. 14:26-34. Compare Gen. NOTE.—”It is doubtful that Jonah had 15:16. given any assurance of a possible reversal of the divine decree. His anger at the spar- ing of the city (ch. 4:1) indicates that he had not.”—SDA Bible Commentary, on Jonah 3:9. NorE.—God’s promise that Israel should proceed immediately into the land of Ca-
- What words in Jonah’s prayer naan in the fourth generation and thus indicate that he had long understood fulfill His purpose for them, was altered— but not completely thwarted—by the un- God’s mercy toward the erring? belief and murmuring of the people. It was Jonah 4:1, 2. the fifth generation that Joshua led over Jordan.
Nom—Jonah understood conditional 13. Why did judgment come upon prophecy. He knew that all of God’s ancient Babylon? Dan. 5:1-6, 25-28, dealings with men reflect His merciful 30, 31. character. He was more interested, how- ever, in his own reputation—he did not want to be regarded as a false prophet— than in establishing the people of Nineveh NorE.—”God may reject one nation or in the true knowledge of God’s love and group of people in favor of another if goodness. those first summoned persistently refuse to cooperate with Him.”—SDA Bible Com-
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What reversal of a divine pro- mentary, Vol. 4, p. 34. nouncement occurred in the life of The advent people are subject to the Hezekiah? 2 Kings 20:1-6. divine principles of God’s government. Some may lose their way and, in a time of great testing soon to come, leave the church, but those who remain faithful Nora.—”The normal course of the dis- will triumph with the church and be among ease would bring certain death. The proph- the redeemed.
For those who speak other languages, the senior “Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly” is available in the following languages: Armenian, Chinese, Croatian, Czech, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Norwegian, Polish, Portu- guese, Russian, Serbian, Slovak, Spanish, Swedish, Ukrainian, Yugoslav (Latin or Cyrillic type).
[ 26 ]Lesson 8, for November 22, 1969
Prophecies Concerning Israel-I MEMORY VERSE: "Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand of the sea, a remnant shall be saved." Rom. 9:27. STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 232, 447, 603; "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 9-16; "Testimonies," Vol. 6, pp. 9, 10; "SDA Bible Dictio- nary," article, "Israel," also pages 515-517, 8-11. STUDY AIM: To understand: (1) God's destiny for Israel', ancient and spiritual, as revealed in Bible prophecy, and (2) the principles by which to interpret and apply these prophecies.
Lesson Outline: 11. Israel’s Failure to Implement God’s Plan Introduction 8. Why Israel was divided. I. God’s Plan for Ancient Israel 1 Kings 11:29-36. 9. How God was disappointed. 1. The plan announced to Abraham. Isa. 5:1-7. Gen. 12:1-3 ; 22:15-18. 2. The plan accepted by Israel. I11. Promises of Postexilic Glory Ex. 19:1-8; 24:3-8. 3. Rules for Israel’s monarchy. 10. The covenant renewed. Deut. 17:14-20. Jer. 31:31-34. 4. A happy, healthy society foreseen. 11. Promises of restoration. Deut. 4:5-8. Jer. 50:4, 5, 17-19; Isa. 27:12, 13. 5. A world-embracing witness. IV. Israel Confronts the Messiah Deut. 26:19. 6. Opportunities for Israel’s leaders. 12. “His own received Him not.” 1 Kings 10:1-9; 2 Kings 20:12-15. John 1:11. 7. God’s purpose for Egypt and 13. Christ’s death not in vain. Assyria. Isa. 19:18-25. Matt. 21:33-43.
THE LESSON
Introduction called it forth. Remember that-generally
speaking-it was originally given with re- In the messages of the Old Testament spect to the historical circumstance that prophets are to be found guidance, com- called it forth. It was ordained of God to fort, and direction for the church today. meet the needs of His people at the time Many of these prophecies concerned Is- it was given and to remind them of the rael; others applied to surrounding na- glorious destiny that awaited them as a tions. In order rightly to understand the nation, of the coming of the Messiah, and prophecies concerning Israel, certain sim- of the establishment of His eternal king- ple rules need to be applied to each pro- dom. Discover what the message meant to phetic passage. If this understanding can be the people of that time. . . . acquired, a major obstacle to a right un- "2. Observe the conditional aspects of derstanding of the Bible will be removed. the prediction and ascertain whether or The following guidelines are helpful: not, or to what extent, the conditions were "1. Examine the prophecy in its entirety. met. Note by whom it was spoken, to whom it "3. Discover what application later in- was addressed, and the circumstances that spired writers make of the prophecy, and
(271
on this basis determine its possible signifi- 3. Later when Israel set up a mon- cance for God’s people in this time. archy, what precautions were to be “4. Remember that the record of God’s observed? Deut. 17:14-20. dealings with His people in ages past has been recorded for the benefit of all later generations to the end of time. Our study of messages originally proclaimed by holy NOTE.—It was not until the leaders of men of old to the people of their day is Israel rejected the Messiah and declared not to become an end in itself, but a that they had “no king but Caesar” (John means of discovering the will of God for 19:15) that Israel ceased to be a theocracy. all who would render Him truehearted “By choosing a heathen ruler, the Jewish service now, at the climax of the ages. nation had withdrawn from the theocracy. The voice of God through the prophets They had rejected God as their king. distinctly speaks to us today.”—SDA Bi- Henceforth they had no deliverer. They had ble Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 38. no king but Caesar.”—Ilie Desire of Ages, pages 737, 738. God’s Plan for Ancient Israel 4. In what specific way did God
- Whom did God call to be the intend to use Israel as His witness to father of Israel, and “of all them that the world? Deut. 4:5-8. believe”? Gen. 12:1-3; 22:15-18. Com- pare Rom. 4:6-13. NoTE.—Israel was placed at the cross- roads of the ancient world and equipped with every facility to become the greatest nation on the face of the earth. See Christ’s NOTE.—”With the call of Abraham, God Object Lessons, page 288. The Jews were set in operation a definite plan for bring- to reveal to the heathen nations with whom ing the Messiah into the world and for they were surrounded a superiority in spir- presenting the gospel invitation to all men itual, intellectual, physical, cultural, and (Gen. 12:1-3; PP 125; PK 368). In Abra- social growth. Israel’s religious, govern- ham God found a man ready to yield un- mental, and economic maturity was to qualified obedience to the divine will (Gen. stand out head and shoulders above the 26:5 ; Heb. 11:8) and to cultivate a simi- systems of pagan nations. Thus the results lar spirit in his posterity (Gen 18:19). of Jehovah’s laws and regulations were to Accordingly, Abraham became in a special be seen in a happy, healthy, and holy sense the ‘Friend of God’ (James 2:23) and society of men. Jehovah’s revealed will was `the father of all them that believe’ (Rom. to be manifest in His people as represent- 4:11).”—SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, ing a God of love, mercy, justice, and truth. p. 26. 5. What was to be Israel’s position
- How did Abraham’s descendants with respect to the nations? Deut. respond to the divine call to enter 26:19. into covenant relationship with God? Ex. 19:1-8; 24:3-8. Compare Deut. 7: 6-14. NOTE.—”Had Jerusalem known what it was her privilege to know, and heeded the light that Heaven sent her, she would have stood forth in magnificent prosperity, ‘the NoTE.—Israel as a nation promised to be queen of kingdoms,’ the mighty metropolis obedient to God and to be the Lord’s own of the earth’ (DA 577), and would, like a special people, through whom He planned noble vine, have filled ‘the face of the to make His truth known to the world. world with fruit’ (Isa. 27:6). ‘Had Israel Thus Israel entered into a theocratic form as a nation preserved her allegiance to of government directly under the divine Heaven, Jerusalem would have stood for- leadership. ever, the elect of God’ (GC 19; cf. PK 46; [ 28 Jer. 7:7; 17:25).”—SDA Bible Commen- NOTE.—These precious promises were to tary, Vol. 4, p. 30. have “met fulfillment in large measure during the centuries following the return
- Illustrate how opportunities were of the Israelites from the lands of their provided for the rulers of Israel to captivity. It was God’s design that the witness for God, and with what re- whole earth be prepared for the first advent sults. 1 Kings 10:1-9; 2 Kings 20: of Christ, even as today the way is pre- paring for His second coming.”—Prophets 12-15. and Kings, pages 703, 704. “In spite of Israel’s ultimate failure, a limited knowledge of the true God and of the Messianic hope was widespread when NOTE.—Solomon revealed to the Queen the Saviour was born (see on Matt. 2:1). of Sheba both the spiritual and material If the nation had been faithful to its trust treasures of his realm, and she was left and had appreciated the high destiny re- breathless by the spectacle. But Hezekiah served for it by God, the whole earth revealed only the treasures of gold. In do- would have awaited the coming of the ing this he lost a glorious opportunity to Messiah with eager expectancy. He would give the light of truth to the leaders of have come. He would have died, and would Babylon. have risen again. Jerusalem would have be- come a great missionary center (COL 232),
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What might have been the des- and the earth would have been set ablaze tiny of Egypt and Assyria? Isa. 19: with the light of truth in one grand, final 18-25. Compare Jer. 18:7-10. appeal to those who had not as yet ac- cepted the invitation of divine mercy. God’s call to the nations would have been, ‘Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of Israel’s Failure to Implement the earth’ (Isa. 45:22).”—SDA Bible Com- mentary, Vol. 4, pp. 29, 30. God’s Plan
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What circumstances led to Is- Israel Confronts the Messiah rael’s becoming a divided monarchy? 1 Kings 11:29-36. Compare 1 Kings 12. When the Messiah appeared to 12:1-16. save Israel, how did they regard Him? John 1:11.
- How did the Lord lament Is- rael’s failure to carry out His plan? NOTE.-“At the time of the Babylonian Isa. 5:1-7. Compare Isa. 27:2, 3, 6. captivity God had specifically announced that that experience was not to mark ‘a full end’ of Israel as God’s people (Jer. 4: 27; 5:18; 46:28). But when the Jews re- jected Christ there was no such assurance Promises of Postexilic Glory of reinstatement. The present-day return of the Jews to Palestine and the estab-
- While His people were in lishment of the modern state of Israel do Babylonian captivity, what promise not imply such a reinstatement, either pres- did God make to them? Jer. 31:31-34. ent or future. Whatever the Jews, as a Compare Ezek. 36:21-26; Zech. 1:12- nation, may do, now or in time to come, 17; 2:12. is in no way related to the former promises made to them. With the crucifixion of Christ they forever forfeited their special position as God’s chosen people. Any idea that the return of the Jews to their an-
- What promises of restoration cestral home, that is, to the new state of were made to Israel and Judah? Jer. Israel, may in any way be related to Bible 50:4, 5, 17-19; Isa. 27:12, 13. prophecy is . . . without valid Scriptural [29 1 foundation.”-SDA Bible Commentary, God ‘let out His vineyard [see Isa. 5:1-7] Vol. 4, p. 33. unto other husbandmen’ who would ‘render Him the fruits in their season.’ . . . Upon
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How will God’s original plan His final departure from the sacred pre- for Israel be realized? Matt. 21:33-43. cincts of the Temple, Jesus said, ‘Your Compare 1 Peter 2:9, 10. house is left unto you desolate’ (Matt. 23: 38). The day before, He had called it ‘My house’ (ch. 21:13), but henceforth He no longer owned it as His. Jesus’ own ver- NOTE.-“The formal rejection of Jesus dict was, ‘The kingdom of God shall be by the Jews, as a nation, marked the close taken from you, and given to a nation of their last opportunity as the special bringing forth the fruits thereof.’ “-SDA agents of God for the salvation of the Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 35. world. It was ‘last of all’ that God ‘sent What a lesson for Christians today ! For unto them His Son,’ according to Christ’s we are the “nation” that God has called to own words (Matt. 21:37), but they ‘caught “bring forth the fruits” that Israel should Him’ and ‘slew Him’ (v. 39). Thereafter, have borne.
Lesson 9, for November 29, 1969 Prophecies 'Concerning Israel-II MEMORY VERSE: "Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in re- membrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth." 2 Peter 1:12. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 27-38; "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 593-602; "SDA Bible Commentary," Vol. 4, pp. 35, 36, and on lesson texts. STUDY AIM: To seek a better understanding: (1) of God's destiny for Israel, an- dent and spiritual, as revealed in Bible prophecy, and (2) of the principles by which to interpret and apply these prophecies.
Lesson Outline: I11. Prophecies Fulfilled in Spiritual Israel Introduction 6. Abraham’s seed identified.
- Glimpses of Ancient Israel’s Glory Gal. 3:29.
7. An illustration of a principle.
- Early witnesses for God. Ezekiel 38; 39; Rev. 20:7-9. Deut. 34:7-12; 1 Sam. 3:19-21; 8. A principle to remember. Dan. 1:19-21. 1 Cor. 10:11.
- The influence of David and 9. Four prophetic categories. Solomon. 1 Chron. 14:2, 17; (1) Jeremiah 27; 28; (2) Isa. 9: 1 Kings 4:21-24, 29-34. 6, 7; (3) Dan. 8:14; (4) Jer. 51:64. lh Place of the Christian Church 10. Joel’s prophecy applied. Acts 2:16, 17.
- Messiah’s coming foretold. Isa. 11:1; 53:1-9. IV. Beware of False Prophets
- Israel’s fate described. Matt. 22:2-10. 11. Results of their work. 2 Peter 2:1-3.
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The gospel to all the world. 12. Warning against misuse of Matt. 24:14. Scripture. 2 Peter 3:16. 130 1 THE LESSON
Introduction and the establishment of His eternal king- dom, in order to afford them a view of the "Seventh-day Adventists believe that, things of time in the light of eternity. How- generally speaking, the promises and pre- ever, these messages pertaining to the then- dictions given through the Old Testament distant future were intended, not only to prophets originally applied to literal Israel inspire patience, comfort, and hope in the and were to have been fulfilled to them on day they were first given, but also to pro- the condition that they obey God and re- vide men of Christ's day with confirming main loyal to Him. But the Scriptures evidence of His Messiahship. The pro- record the fact that they disobeyed God found conviction that the messages of the and proved disloyal to Him instead. Ac- prophets had been fulfilled led many to cordingly, what He purposed to do for the believe in Christ as the Son of God (DA world through Israel of old He will finally 775, 799). The prophets thus provided a accomplish through His church on earth firm foundation for the faith of the apos- today, and many of the promises originally tolic church and made a direct and vital made to Israel will be fulfilled to His contribution to the Christian faith."—SDA remnant people at the close of time."— Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 36. SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, pp. 25, 26. 4. By what parable did Jesus de- Glimpses of Ancient Israel's Glory scribe the fate of the nation that re- jected Him? Matt. 22:2-10.
- Who were some of the leaders through whom the Lord witnessed in ancient times? Deut. 34:7-12; 1 Sam. 3:19-21; Dan. 1:19-21. NoTE.—In parables Christ described Is- rael’s rejection of Himself as the Messiah and the results of such rejection. “The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the NOTE.—The honor the nation of Israel fruits thereof.” Matt. 21:43. The Christian failed to achieve was reached at times by church henceforth would become God’s in- individual Israelites who were faithful to strument to save the world. See 1 Peter God. 2:9, 10.
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To what position of eminence 5. How extensive will be the proc- did the Hebrew nation rise in the lamation of the gospel? Matt. 24:14. days of David and Solomon? 1 Chron. 14:2, 17; 1 Kings 4:21-24, 29-34.
NOTE.—"The glorious promises originally made to literal Israel are meeting their Place of the Christian Church fulfillment today in the proclamation of - Cite prophecies linked to the coming of the Messiah. Isa. 11:1; 53: 1-9. “After the tithe is set apart, let gifts and offerings be ap- portioned, ‘as God hath pros- pered’ you.”—Counsels on NOTE.—”These repeated Messianic pre- Sabbath School Work, page dictions were designed to lift the eyes of 130. the people from the transitory events of their own time to the coming of Messiah En] the gospel to all men (PK 374, 375; GC never fulfilled in literal Israel; but John 451; Rev. 14:6, 7). ‘The blessings thus as- the revelator assures us that in principle, sured to Israel are, on the same conditions though not necessarily in all details (such and in the same degree, assured to every as those of Eze. 39:9-15), this battle will nation and to every individual under the occur at the close of the millennium (Rev. broad heavens’ (PK 500, 501; cf. 298). 20:7-9). . . . Where Inspiration has not `The church in this generation has been thus clearly spoken it is our privilege to endowed by God with great privileges and compare scripture with scripture in an blessings, and He expects corresponding endeavor to understand more perfectly the returns. . . . In the lives of God’s people mind of the Spirit.”—SDA Bible Commen- the truths of His Word are to reveal their tary, Vol. 4, p. 37. glory and excellence. Through His people “The fundamental principle by which we Christ is to manifest His character and the can tell unerringly when any particular principles of His kingdom’ (COL 296) .”— promise or prediction of the Old Testament SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, pp. 35, 36. made originally to literal Israel is to meet its fulfillment with respect to spiritual Prophecies Fulfilled in Spiritual Israel is—when a later inspired writer makes such an application of it.”—Ibid. Israel 8. For what purpose were the ex-
- Through what means may men periences of ancient Israel recorded? become Abraham’s seed? Gal. 3:29. 1 Cor. 10:11. Compare 1 Cor. 10:1-10; Compare Rom. 2:28, 29; 9:24-26. Rom. 15:4.
NOTE.—”Paul emphasizes the fact that NOTE.—”Many are casting contempt the rejection of literal Israel as God’s chosen upon the Old Testament Scriptures, but instrument for the salvation of the world these are not to lose their sacredness; does not mean that individual Jews can throughout all time they are not to be no longer be saved (chs. 9:6; 11:1, 2, 11 dropped out of our instruction. Paul writes 15), for he is a Jew himself (chs. 9:3; 10:1; concerning the experiences of the people 11:1, 2). But they are to be saved as of God in ancient times, ‘All these things Christians and not as Jews.”—SDA Bible happened unto them for ensamples ; and Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 35. they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.’
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Cite an Old Testament prophecy The prophets spoke less for their own time concerning the future of Israel, and than for the ages which have followed, a New Testament text that reapplies and for our own day.”—Ellen G. White, Ezekiel’s prediction. Ezek. 38; 39; Signs of the Times, April 2, 1896. (Italics Rev. 20:7-9. supplied).
9. Cite and classify various Old Testament prophecies. (1) Jeremiah NOTE.—"The prophecy of the battle of 27; 28; (2) Isa. 9:6, 7; (3) Dan. 8:14; Gog and Magog in Ezekiel 38, 39 was (4) Jer. 51:64. Compare Rev. 18:2, 21. If you are a Sabbath-school teacher, you will find the Teach- er's Edition of the "Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly" a great help because a full blank page is provided for each page of printed lesson copy for recording answers and additional notes. Order from your Book and Bible House. [ 32 ]NOTE.—The following classification may Beware of False Prophets be helpful in the study of Old Testament prophecies: 11. What observation did Peter “1. Those that grew out of and were make concerning false prophets? 2 Pe- related only to the immediate historical situation or to events soon to occur. Such ter 2:1-3. were Jeremiah’s acted prophecy of the wooden and iron yokes (ch. 28), his sym- bolic purchase of a field near Anathoth (ch. 32), and his prediction of the death 12. Against what misuse of Scrip- of the false prophet Hananiah (ch. 28: ture did Peter warn? 2 Peter 3:16. 15-17). . . “2. . . . Those that pointed forward manifestly and exclusively to events re- lated to the coming of the Messiah, such NOTE.—”In an age when every wind of as the prophetic statements of Isa. 9:6, doctrine is blowing it is well to make 7; 40:3-5; 53; 61:1-3; Dan. 9; Zech. 9:9; certain that our understanding of Bible 13:1, 6, 7. prophecy rests upon a positive ‘Thus saith “3. Those prophecies of the book of the Lord.’ . . . In so doing we shall be Daniel that deal primarily with historical secure against the fanciful explanations events of the remote future, that is, with sometimes given certain Old Testament the Christian Era and the time of the end, prophecies. We shall be protected against as specifically stated in the prophecies the grossly literal explanation of some ex- themselves (Dan. 2:44; . . . 8:14). . . . positors concerning a supposed return of “4. Those that have a dual application literal Israel to literal Palestine to rule —first, to a local, historical situation; sec- the world for a thousand years prior to ond, to the Messiah and to His Kingdom. the close of human probation, and also It is the prophecies of this fourth category against other equally unscriptural inter- that are most likely to be misunderstood pretations that propose to apply allegor- and thus misapplied. Often this is because ically to the church all the details of the of a failure to realize that certain proph- promises originally made to literal Israel. ecies do have a dual aspect.”—SDA Bible Both of these extreme methods wrest the Commentary, on Deut. 18:15. obvious intent of the Scriptures and render a sound understanding of the messages of
- What application did Peter the prophets for the church today un- make of Joel’s prophecy? Acts 2:16, attainable.”—SDA Bible Commentary, Vol.
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Compare Joel 2:28-32. 4, p. 38.
Lesson 10, for December 6, 1969 Treasures New and Old MEMORY VERSE: "Then said He unto them, Therefore every scribe which is in- structed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an house- holder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old." Matt. 13:52. STUDY HELPS: "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 95-114, 124-134; "Christian Ser- vice," pages 7-29; "SDA Bible Commentary." STUDY AIM: To seek to discover: (1) in both Old and New Testaments evidences of inspired revelations of divine truth; (2) the progressive unfolding of truth; and (3) the results of walking in its light. [33 ]Lesson Outline: 7. With the hope of sanctification. John 17:17. Introduction I11. Receiving and Imparting Truth I. The Great Storehouse of Truth 8. The truth like mustard seed and
- New treasures and old. leaven. Luke 13:18-21. Matt. 13:52. 9. Eating and drinking God’s truth.
- Jesus accepted Old Testament as John 6:32-35. authoritative. Matt. 4:4, 7, 10. 10. Receiving and imparting. John 6:5-13.
- Opening God’s Treasure Store
IV. Advancing in the Light
- With a desire for knowledge. Ps. 119:9-16. 11. With opening understanding.
- To find heavenly treasure. Eph. 1:15-19. Matt. 13:44. 12. In the path of the just.
- For spiritual insight. 1 Cor. 2:14. Prov. 4:18.
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With the will to obey. 13. Cleansing from all sin. 1 Peter 1:22. 1 John 1:7.
THE LESSON Introduction "It is important to note that neither upon this occasion nor at any other time "The treasure gained by the householder did Jesus depreciate the value of the OT he does not hoard. He brings it forth to Scriptures or even suggest that in the communicate to others. And by use the future they were to have less force. . . . treasure increases. The householder has The OT is not invalidated by the NT, but precious things both new and old. So Christ amplified and given new life. Both were teaches that the truth committed to His inspired by Christ and both are full of disciples is to be communicated to the truth for the sincere seeker."-SDA Bible world. And as the knowledge of truth is Commentary, on Matt. 13:52. imparted, it will increase."-Christ's Object Lessons, page 124. 2. How did Jesus show that He accepted the authority of the Old The Great Storehouse of Truth Testament Scriptures? Matt. 4:4, 7, 10. Compare Deut. 8:3 (last part);
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From what source does the Ps. 17:4. householder bring forth “things new and old”? Matt. 13:52.
Opening God's Treasure Store
Nors.-“The great storehouse of truth 3. In what manner are we to relate is the Word of God-the Written Word, ourselves to divine revelation? Ps. the book of nature, and the book of ex- 119:9-16. Compare Ps. 19:9, 10. perience in God’s dealing with human life. Here are the treasures from which Christ’s workers are to draw.”-Christ’s Object Les- sons, page 125. “By the ‘old,’ Christ refers to all the 4. How did Christ illustrate the will of God as revealed ‘in time past unto the fathers by the prophets’ (Heb. 1:1. search for, and discovery of, heavenly . .). By the ‘new,’ He refers to His own treasure? Matt. 13:44. Compare teachings (see Heb. 1.•2 ). verses 45, 46. L34 ] NorE.—”This parable illustrates the value in which His voice is heard. . . . ‘Ye shall of the heavenly treasure, and the effort know them by their fruits.’ We need no that should be made to secure it. The other evidence in order to judge of men’s finder of the treasure in the field was ready sanctification; if they are fearful lest they to part with all that he had, ready to put shall not obey the whole will of God, if forth untiring labor, in order to secure they are listening diligently to His voice, the hidden riches. So the finder of heavenly trusting in His wisdom, and making His treasure will count no labor too great and Word the man of their counsel, then, no sacrifice too dear, in order to gain the while they make no boasts of superior treasures of truth. goodness, we may be sure that they are “In the parable the field containing the seeking to attain to perfection of Chris- treasure represents the Holy Scriptures. tian character. But if the claimants of And the gospel is the treasure. The earth holiness even intimate that they are no itself is not so interlaced with golden longer required to search the Scriptures, we veins and filled with precious things as is need not hesitate to pronounce their sanc- the Word of God.”—Christ’s Object Les- tification spurious. They are leaning to sons, page 104. their own understanding, instead of con- forming to the will of God.”—Ellen G.
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Why are the things of the White Comments, SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, p. 1147. Spirit unappreciated by some? 1 Cor. 2:14. Compare 2 Cor. 4:3; John 3: 19-21; 9:39-41. Receiving and Imparting. Truth
8. With what common things did Jesus illustrate the truths He taught? Luke 13:18-21. Compare. Matt. 13:33. - What effect is seen in the life of one who obeys the truth? 1 Peter 1:22. NOTE.—”The leaven hidden in the flour works invisibly to bring the whole mass under its leavening process; so the leaven NorE.—”While your minds become sanc- of truth works secretly, silently, steadily, tified by obedience to the truth,” is Mur- to transform the soul. The natural incli- dock’s translation (Syriac New Testa- nations are softened and subdued. New ment). Willingness to do what God says is thoughts, new feelings, new motives, are a prerequisite to receiving the life-giving implanted. A new standard of character is benefits of God’s Word. Having learned set up—the life of Christ. The mind is the truth it is essential to act upon it at changed; the faculties are roused to action once. See Acts 8:27-38. in new lines. Man is not endowed with new faculties, but the faculties he has are sancti- fied. The conscience is awakened. We are
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In His prayer how did Jesus endowed with traits of character that en- indicate that His disciples are to be able us to do service for God..”—Christ’s sanctified? John 17:17. Compare Matt. Object Lessons, pages 98, 99. 7:15-20.
"If you fail ninety-nine times NOTE.—"The Bible is the standard by in a hundred, but succeed in which to test the claims of all who pro- saving the one soul from fess sanctification. Jesus prayed that His ruin, you have done a noble disciples might be sanctified through the truth, and He says, 'Thy Word is truth;' deed for the Master's cause." while the psalmist declares, 'Thy law is —Testimonies, Vol. 4, p. 132. the truth.' All whom God is leading will manifest a high regard for the Scriptures 3519. What did Jesus declare Himself Advancing in the Light and the truths He taught to be? John 6:32-35. 11. What wish did Paul express on behalf of the Ephesian believers? Eph. 1:15-19. NoTE.—” ‘I am the bread of life,’ the Author, Nourisher, and Supporter of eter- nal, spiritual life. . . . To eat His flesh and to drink His blood means to receive Him as a heaven-sent teacher. Belief in NoTE.—”In eternity we shall learn that Him is essential to spiritual life. . . . which, had we received the enlightenment “It is not enough for us to know and that it was possible to obtain here, would respect the words of the Scriptures. We have opened our understanding. . . . For- must enter into the understanding of them, ever and forever new views of the perfection studying them earnestly, eating the flesh and glory of Christ will appear. Through and drinking the blood of the Son of God. endless ages the faithful Householder will Christians will reveal the degree to which bring forth from His treasures things new they do this by the healthiness of their and old.”—My Life Today, page 360. spiritual character. We must know the practical application of the Word to our own individual character-building. We are 12. How did the wise man describe to be holy temples, in which God can live the path of the just? Prov. 4:18. Com- and walk and work. Never must we strive pare John 8:12. to lift ourselves above the servants whom God has chosen to do His work and to honor His holy name. ‘All ye are brethren.’ Let us apply this Word to our individual selves, comparing scripture with scripture.” —Ellen G. White Comments, SDA Bible NoTE.—New light will never contradict Commentary, Vol. 5, p. 1135. old light. It is not independent of old light but often an unfolding of it. Some-
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How did Jesus feed the hungry times what is called “new light” is simply multitudes? John 6:5-13. a rediscovery of an old truth, “new” to the student, which may have been lost sight of for a time. The Bible is a center of light and, sun-like, its reserves of radiant NOTE.—”In Christ’s act of supplying the knowledge are inexhaustible. temporal necessities of a hungry multitude is wrapped up a deep spiritual lesson for 13. What is the result of walking all His workers. Christ received from the in the light? 1 John 1:7. Father; He imparted to the disciples; they imparted to the multitude; and the people to one another. So all who are united to Christ will receive from Him the bread of life, the heavenly food, and impart it to others.”—The Desire of Ages, page 369. NoTE.—”If we walk in the light we walk with God, from whom the light shines, and have fellowship not only with Him but also with all others who are following “Do we receive the Bible as the Lord. Serving the same God, believing `the oracle of God’? It is as the same truths, following the same in- structions on the pathway of life, we can- really a divine communica- not fail to walk in unity. The slightest sign tion as though its words came of ill will between us and our brethren to us in an audible voice.” should make us review our own conduct, —Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 533. to be sure that we are not veering away from the lighted path of life.”—SDA Bible Commentary, on 1 John 1:7. [ 36 ] Lesson 11, for December 13, 1969
Responsibilities of Bible Study MEMORY VERSE: "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings; for they will increase unto more ungodliness." 2 Tim. 2:15, 16. STUDY HELPS: "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 110, 111; "Counsels on Sabbath School Work," pages 33-37; "The Desire of Ages," page 154; "Selected Messages," Bk. 1, pp. 44, 161, 162, 196; Bk. 2, pp. 102-104, 110, 113, 238; "Testimonies," Vol. 3, p. 194; Vol. 5, pp. 698-711; "SDA Bible Commentary." STUDY AIM: To discover how the Bible can help develop mature Christians and protect God's people from fanaticism.
Lesson Outline: 7. Cleansing of the sanctuary. Dan. 8:14. Introduction I11. Wresting the Scriptures
I. Ignorance of Scripture 8. Bible reading without profit. 2 Peter 3:15, 16. 1. Sadducees’ teaching unscriptural. 9. Hold to the truth t Matt. 22:23-33. 2 Peter 3:17, 18. 2. Disciples knew not the Scriptures. John 20:9. IV. The Unfolding Scriptures 3. A famine for God’s Word. 10. God’s Word a light. Amos 8:11, 12. Ps. 119:105. 4. Destroyed for lack of knowledge. 11. The Spirit the Revealer. Hosea 4:6. 1 Cor. 2:10, 11. 5. A willing ignorance. 2 Peter 3:3-5. V. Habits of Scripture Study
- Misinterpreting Scripture 12. The example of the Bereans.
Acts 17:11.
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Movement to make Christ king. 13. Manna each day for Israel. John 6:14, 15. Ex. 16:4.
THE LESSON Introduction Ignorance of Scripture
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“When faith in God’s Word is lost, the 1. Why did the Sadducees err in soul has no guide, no safeguard. The the understanding of spiritual mat- youth are drawn into paths which lead ters? Matt. 22:23-33. away from God and from everlasting life. “To this cause may in great degree be attributed the widespread iniquity in our world today. When the Word of God is set aside, its power to restrain the evil NOTE.—”He [Jesus] did not charge them, passions of the natural heart is rejected.” as He had charged the Pharisees, with —Christ’s Object Lessons, page 41. hypocrisy, but with error of belief. [ 37] “The Sadducees had flattered themselves from God! but no, they must hunger and that they of all men adhered most strictly thirst on. Day after day have they slighted to the Scriptures. But Jesus showed that salvation, prizing earthly riches and earthly they had not known their true meaning. pleasure higher than any heavenly treasure That knowledge must be brought home to or inducement. They have rejected Jesus the heart by the enlightenment of the Holy and despised His saints. The filthy must re- Spirit. Their ignorance of the Scriptures main filthy forever.’ “—Early Writings, and the power of God He declared to be pages 281, 282. the cause of their confusion of faith and darkness of mind.”—The Desire of Ages, 4. Why were God’s ancient people, pages 605, 606. Israel, destroyed? Hosea 4:6. Com- pare 8:12.
- What shows that the disciples did not always understand and readily grasp the Scriptures? John 20:9. Com- pare Luke 24:25. Nor.—”The greatest ignorance that now curses the human race is in regard to the binding claims of the law of God; and this ignorance is the result of neglecting NOTE .—The disciples were sometimes dull of understanding and did not grasp the study of the Word of God. It is Satan’s divine ideas, for example, that Christ must determined plan to so engage and absorb suffer and die and rise from the dead. the mind, that God’s great guidebook shall Even the character of Christ’s mission of not be the Book of books, and that the grace they did not appreciate fully until sinner may not be led from the path of after Pentecost. Doubt and unbelief and transgression to the path of obedience.”— fear plagued them. All of this was as- Fundamentals of Christian Education, page sociated with their ignorance of the Scrip- 131. tures and preconceived ideas that pre- vented them from grasping the truth as 5. What attitude did Peter say Christ taught it to them. This was why would be expressed by many toward they were so terribly disappointed at the revealed truth? 2 Peter 3:3-5. Com- cross. pare Jude 17-19.
- What prediction did Amos make? Amos 8:11, 12. NOTE.—Those “who scoff at religion and live self-indulgent lives” (NEB), the shoul- NorE.—”Those who had not prized God’s der-shruggers of our time and wishful Word were hurrying to and fro, wandering thinkers, point to the uniformity of natural from sea to sea, and from the north to the processes and argue against the Bible teach- east, to seek the Word of the Lord. Said ing of a cataclysmic second coming of the angel, ‘They shall not find it. There is Christ on the grounds that “everything a famine in the land; not a famine of continues exactly as it has always been bread, nor a thirst for water, but for hear- since the world began.” NEB. But the ing the words of the Lord. What would same word of God which called forth the they not give for one word of approval earth in the beginning and established the laws of the natural world has proclaimed a second advent of Christ (In the midst of the convulsion of nature), and it will be “Every day some portion of fulfilled ! time should be appropriated to the study of the lessons.” Misinterpreting Scripture —Counsels on Sabbath 6. After the miracle of the loaves, School Work, page 53. what did certain men seek to do with Jesus? John 6:14, 15. [88] NoTE.—The Jewish expectation of a will make plain and simple to those who Messiah-deliverer who would liberate their thus seek an understanding of them. But nation from Rome and exalt it to world without the guidance of the Holy Spirit dominion was based on the belief that the we shall be continually liable to wrest the covenant promises of the Old Testament Scriptures or to misinterpret them. There were to be fulfilled unconditionally, that is much reading of the Bible that is with- is, irrespective of whether they as a people out profit, and in many cases a positive complied with the conditions upon which injury. When the Word of God is opened the covenant promises had been made. without reverence and without prayer; Even the disciples were blinded by the pop- when the thoughts and affections are not ular failure to recognize the conditional fixed upon God, or in harmony with His nature of these promises of national great- will, the mind is clouded with doubts; ness. As a result, the disciples now united and in the very study of the Bible, skepti- in the plan of the multitude to make Jesus cism strengthens. The enemy takes control king, in the expectation that He would of the thoughts, and he suggests interpre- liberate Israel from Rome. But Christ dis- tations that are not correct. Whenever missed them, and then the multitude, and men are not in word and deed seeking to quietly withdrew to the mountain. be in harmony with God, then, however The disappointment of the disciples at learned they may be, they are liable to err the death of Christ (Luke 24:21) likewise in their understanding of Scripture, and came about as the result of their failure to it is not safe to trust to their explanations. understand and properly apply Old Testa- Those who look to the Scriptures to find ment prophecies. discrepancies, have not spiritual insight. With distorted vision they will see many
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What was to be cleansed at the causes for doubt and unbelief in things end of the 2,300 days? Dan. 8:14. that are really plain and simple.”—Steps to Christ, pages 110, 111.
9. What warning does Peter give NoTE.—The prophecy of the cleansing of those who know of the dangers of the sanctuary in Daniel 8:14, the early Adventists believed to have reference to being led astray? 2 Peter 3:17, 18. the second advent. "But the appointed time had passed, and the Lord had not appeared. The- believers knew that God's Word could not fail; their interpretation of the prophecy must be at fault; but where was the mistake?"—The Great Con- The Unfolding. Scriptures troversy, page 409. "In their investigation they learned that 10. What is God's Word declared there is no Scripture evidence sustaining to be? Ps. 119:105. the popular view that the earth is the sanctuary; but they found in the Bible a full explanation of the subject of the sanc- tuary, its nature, location, and services; the testimony of the sacred writers being so clear and ample as to place the matter be- H. Who is the Revealer of the deep yond all question."—Ibid., p. 411. things of God? 1 Cor. 2:10, 11. Com- Wresting the Scriptures pare John 16:13, 14. -
What did Peter say some had done with Paul’s writings? 2 Peter 3:15, 16. NoTE.—”God intends that even in this life the truths of His Word shall be ever unfolding to His people. There is only one NoTE.—”There are many things ap- way in which this knowledge can be ob- parently difficult or obscure, which God tained. We can attain to an understanding [39] of God’s Word only through the illumi- be studied to find the author’s intent and nation of that Spirit by which the Word meaning. Questions should be asked, for was given. ‘The things of God knoweth example: “Why did the sacred writer put no man, but the Spirit of God;’ for the it just this way?” “What is meant by this Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep expression?” The context in which every things of God.’ 1 Corinthians 2:11, 10. And statement occurs must be determined and the Saviour’s promise to His followers was, studied by the reader if a correct under- ‘When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, standing is to be reached. He will guide you into all truth. . . . For He shall receive of Mine, and shall show 13. How often did God give manna it unto you.’ John 16:13, 14.”—Steps to to feed Israel? Ex. 16:4. Compare Ps. Christ, page 109. 78:24, 25; Rev. 2:17.
Habits of Scripture Study
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How often did the Bereans NorE.—”Are all the members of your study the Bible? Acts 17:11. church seeking to gather fresh manna every morning and evening? Are you seeking di- vine enlightenment? or are you devising means whereby you can glorify yourselves? Are you, with your whole soul, might, NOTE.—The Bereans “examined” (RSV) mind, and strength, loving and serving God the Scriptures daily. So should we examine in blessing others around you by leading them, verse by verse, studying each part them to the Light of the world?”—Testi- carefully. Words and expressions should monies, Vol. 5, p. 486.
Lesson 12, for December 20, 1969 The Scriptures and My Life
MEMORY VERSE: “It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:63. STUDY HELPS: “Child Guidance,” page 507; “Counsels on Sabbath School Work,” pages 17-23; “The Great Controversy,” chapter 37; “Messages to Young People,” pages 253-264, 105-113; “Steps to Christ,” chapter, “A Knowledge of God”; “Selected Messages,” Bk. 2, p. 39. STUDY AIM: To discover how the Bible may touch the total life of man and the power it has to regenerate the spiritual life.
Lesson Outline: 2. Limits to man’s understanding. Job 11:7-9. Introduction I. The Intellectual Life and the Word 11. The Practical Life and the Word
1. Understanding for man's mind. 3. Physical toil and man's well-being.
Ps. 119:130. Gen. 3 :17-19 ; 1 Thess. 4:11, 12.
1 40
4. Provisions for social equality. John 6:48-58. Num. 26:55, 56; Lev. 25:23. 9. Eating His words. John 6:63. 5. The care of the poor and lowly. 10. Spiritual life only in Christ. Deut. 15:7, 8, 11; 24:14, 15, 19. John 6:66-69. 6. Acknowledging God’s blessings. Mal. 3:10-12. IV. Eternal Life and the Word
Ill. The Spiritual Life and the Word 11. Earnest desire for the Word. 1 Peter 2:2. 7. Physical bread for the multitude. 12. Receiving God’s Word. rames 1:21. John 6:25-27. 13. God’s blessed man. 8. Spiritual bread for all. James 1:22-27.
THE LESSON
Introduction not but expand and strengthen."-Educa-
tion, page 124. "The life of Christ that gives life to the world is in His word. It was by His word 2. What limits did one of Job's that Jesus healed disease and cast out de- friends point out in man's search for mons; by His word He stilled the sea, and God? Job 11:7-9. raised the dead; and the people bore wit- ness that His word was with power. He spoke the word of God, as He had spoken through all the prophets and teachers of NorE.-"To acknowledge that we cannot the Old Testament. The whole Bible is a fully comprehend the great truths of the manifestation of Christ, and the Saviour Bible is only to admit that the finite mind desired to fix the faith of His followers is inadequate to grasp the infinite; that on the Word. When His visible presence man, with his limited, human knowledge, should be withdrawn, the Word must be cannot understand the purposes of Om- their source of power. Like their master, niscience.. . they were to live 'by every word that pro- "It is right to study closely the teachings ceedeth out of the mouth of God.' Matt. of the Bible and to search into 'the deep 4:4."-The Desire of Ages, page 390. things of God' so far as they are revealed
in Scripture. 1 Corinthians 2:10. While 'the
secret things belong unto the Lord our The Intellectual Life and the Word God,' those things which are revealed be-
long unto us.' Deuteronomy 29:29. But it 1. What precious gift is imparted is Satan's work to pervert the investigative by the entrance of God's words? Ps. powers of the mind."-Steps to Christ, 119: 130. Compare Ps. 119:104; 19:7. page 108.
The Practical Life and the Word
3. What practical lessons concern- NOTE.-"As a means of intellectual train- ing, the Bible is more effective than any ing physical work are taught in God's other book, or all other books combined. Word? Gen. 3:17-19; 1 Thess. 4:11, The greatness of its themes, the dignified 12. Compare 1 Tim. 5:8; Prov. 24: simplicity of its utterances, the beauty of 30-34. its imagery, quicken and uplift the thoughts as nothing else can. No other study can impart such mental power as does the effort to grasp the stupendous truths of NoTE.-"In the sweat of thy face. The revelation. The mind thus brought in con- arduous toil that was to add to man's tact with the thoughts of the Infinite can- burdensome life is now vividly expressed.
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This refers specifically to the husbandman, which during the interval had gone wrong who must live by forcing from a reluctant in the social and political economy of the earth food for himself and his family, but nation.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page it applies equally to all other vocations. 534. Since Adam’s fall human achievement may be realized only through toil. Nevertheless, 5. How did God provide for the it should be recognized that this punish- care of the poor? Deut. 15:7, 8, 11; ment was indeed a blessing in disguise for 24:14, 15, 19. Compare Gal. 6:2. sinful beings. When a man works he is far less likely to sin than when he spends his days in idleness. Toil and labor develop character and teach man humility and co- operation with God. This is one reason why 6. In what tangible way should all the Christian church has generally found its acknowledge God’s ownership of ma- most loyal adherents and supporters among the laboring class. Work, even when ardu- terial things? Mal. 3:10-12. Compare ous, should not be despised; ‘a blessing is Lev. 27:30. in it.’ “—SDA Bible Commentary, on Gen. 3:19.
- What principle of land distribu- The Spiritual Life and the Word tion did God give to ancient Israel? Num. 26:55, 56; Lev. 25:23. 7. For what reason did Jesus say the people sought Him? John 6:25-27.
NOTE.—”By the special direction of God the land had been divided by lot. After 8. How did the Jews misunderstand the division was made no one was at Christ’s words about giving them His liberty to trade his estate. Neither was he flesh to eat? John 6:48-58. to sell his land unless poverty compelled him to do so, and then, whenever he or any of his kindred might desire to redeem it, the purchaser must not refuse to sell it; and if unredeemed, it would revert to its NOTE.—To the Jews and to some of His first possessor or his heirs in the year of disciples Jesus’ affirmation was “a hard jubilee…. saying.” But Jesus was making plain the “The Lord would place a check upon the same fact that He was to teach in the inordinate love of property and power. institution of the Lord’s Supper—namely, Great evils would result from the con- that He was Himself the answer to man’s tinued accumulation of wealth by one spiritual hunger. And He would use what- class, and the poverty and degradation of ever symbols could best portray His per- another. Without some restraint the power sonal power to satisfy the hungry souls of the wealthy would become a monopoly, of men. and the poor, though in every respect fully as worthy in God’s sight, would be regarded 9. How did Jesus explain His state- and treated as inferior to their more pros- perous brethren. The sense of this oppres- ment about eating His flesh and drink- sion would arouse the passions of the ing His blood? John 6:63. Compare poorer class. There would be a feeling of Jer. 15:16; Job 23:12. despair and desperation which would tend to demoralize society and open the door to crimes of every description. The regula- tions that God established were designed to promote social equality. The provisions NcrrE.—”By looking constantly to Jesus of the sabbatical year and the jubilee with the eye of faith, we shall be strength- would, in a great measure, set right that ened. God will make the most precious (427 revelations to His hungering, thirsting peo- fear and pain. To be destitute of a Saviour ple. They will find that Christ is a personal was to be adrift on a dark and stormy Saviour. As they feed upon His Word, they sea.”—The Desire of Ages, page 393. find that it is spirit and life. The Word destroys the natural, earthly nature, and Eternal Life and the Word imparts a new life in Christ Jesus. The Holy Spirit comes to the soul as a Com- fo terBy’llre-transfoxin agency of His 11. How eagerly should we desire raee,_the_irna of God is reproduced in “the sincere milk of the Word”? the disciple; he Arnea new creature. 1 Peter 2:2. Love takes the place of hatred, and the heart receives the divine similitude. This is what it means to live ‘by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.’ 12. In what spirit should the Word This is eating the Bread that comes down of God be received? What is the from heaven.”—The Desire of Ages, page Word of God able to do for us?
- James 1:21.
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When many of the disciples forsook Christ, what did He ask the Twelve? What was Peter’s reply? 13. What man is said to be blessed John 6:66-69. in his deeds? James 1:22-27.
NOTE.-"[James 1:23-27 quoted.] This NOTE.-" 'To whom shall we go?' Not is the word of the living God. The law is from the teaching of Christ, His lessons of God's great moral looking glass. Man is to love and mercy, to the darkness of un- compare his words, his spirit, his actions belief, the wickedness of the world. While with the Word of God. . . . True religion the Saviour was forsaken by many who means living the Word in your practical had witnessed His wonderful works, Peter life. Your profession is not of any value expressed the faith of the disciples,—`Thou without the practical doing of the Word." art that Christ.' The very thought of losing —Ellen G. White Comments, SDA Bible this anchor of their souls filled them with Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 935. Lesson 13, for December 27, 1969 Triumph of the Scriptures
MEMORY VERSE: “The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the Word of our God shall stand forever.” Isa. 40:8. STUDY HELPS: “The Great Controversy,” chapter 15; “Daniel and the Revelation,” pages 529-542 (1944 revised edition, pages 531-547); “The SDA Bible Com- mentary.” STUDY AIM: To discover why the Bible has survived the bitterest attacks of its enemies and why it will endure to the close of time.
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Lesson Outline: I11. The Two Witnesses in Sackcloth Introduction 6. The enemy of the witnesses. Rev. 11:7. I. Power and Endurance of God’s Word 7. Struggle and warfare. Rev. 11:8-10. 1. Power in God’s Word. Heb. 4:12. IV. The Two Witnesses Exalted 2. Enduring qualities. Isa. 40:8. 8. Their “resurrection.” Rev. 11:9, 11.
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God’s Word Tested 9. Their glorification. Rev. 11:12.
- A prophetic symbol. V. God’s Witnesses and the Final Rev. 11:3 (first part), 4. Message
- Appearance of the witnesses. 10. God’s last message. Rev. 11:3 (second part). Rev. 14:6-12.
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Their great power and influence. 11. The earth lightened. Rev. 18:1. Rev. 11:5, 6. 12. Examples for us. 1 Cor. 10:11, 12.
THE LESSON Introduction 2. How long will the Word of God endure? Isa. 40:8. Compare Ps. 111: "The infidel Voltaire once boastingly 7, 8. said: 'I am weary of hearing people repeat that twelve men established the Christian religion. I will prove that one man may suffice to overthrow it.' Generations have God's Word Tested passed since his death. Millions have joined in the war upon the Bible. But it is so far 3. What prophetic symbol is in- from being destroyed, that where there troduced by the angel in the book of were a hundred in Voltaire's time, there are Revelation? Rev. 11:3 (first part), 4. now ten thousand, yes, a hundred thousand Compare Zech. 4:1-6, 11-14. copies of the Book of God. In the words of an early Reformer concerning the Chris- tian church, 'The Bible is an anvil that has worn out many hammers.' Saith the Lord: NOTE.-"Inasmuch as the fullest expres- 'No weapon that is formed against thee sion of the Holy Spirit to men is con- shall prosper ; and every tongue that shall tained in the Scriptures of the OT and the rise against thee in judgment thou shalt NT, they may be considered to be the two condemn.' Isaiah 54:17."-The Great Con- witnesses."-SDA Bible Commentary, on troversy, page 288. Rev. 11:3. "The two witnesses represent the Scrip- tures of the Old and the New Testament. Power and Endurance of Both are important testimonies to the ori- gin and perpetuity of the law of God. Both God's Word are witnesses also to the plan of salvation. The types, sacrifices, and prophecies of the
- How is the power of God’s Old Testament point forward to a Saviour Word described? Heb. 4:12. Compare to come. The Gospels and Epistles of the Jer. 23:29. New Testament tell of a Saviour who has 1 44 come in the exact manner foretold by type The Two Witnesses in Sackcloth and prophecy.”—The Great Controversy, page 267. 6. Who is said to make war against the two witnesses? Rev. 11:7.
- For how long were the two wit- nesses to prophecy in sackcloth? With what were they clothed? Rev. 11:3 (second part). NOTE.—”Commentators identify this beast as a power that would seek to de- stroy the Scriptures (symbolized by the two witnesses) at the close of the 1,260- NOTE.—The twelve hundred sixty sym- day period, in A.D. 1798. . . . Inasmuch as bolic days or literal years (Ezek. 4:6; atheism was particularly popular in France Num. 14:34) are mentioned several times at this time, and the anti-religious spirit of in the prophecies of Daniel and the Reve- the day naturally militated against the lation (see Dan. 7:25; 12:7; Rev. 12:6; use of and belief in Scripture, the First 13:5). Protestant commentators have iden- French Republic has been identified as the tified this prophetic period with the his- beast of the present passage.”—SDA Bible torical dates 538-1798, when the papacy Commentary, on Rev. 11:7. dominated Western Europe and the Word of God was dishonored by the church of 7. What disrespect was shown to Rome and was thus, figuratively, dressed in the two witnesses? Rev. 11:8-10. sackcloth. “During the greater part of this period, God’s witnesses remained in a state of obscurity. The papal power sought to hide NOTE.—”It has been Rome’s policy, un- from the people the Word of truth, and der a profession of reverence for the Bible, set before them false witnesses to contradict to keep it locked up in an unknown tongue its testimony. . . . When the Bible was and hidden away from the people. Under proscribed by religious and secular author- her rule the witnesses prophesied, ‘clothed ity; . . . then the faithful witnesses proph- in sackcloth.’ But another power—the esied in sackcloth. Yet they continued their beast from the bottomless pit—was to testimony throughout the entire period of arise to make open, avowed war upon the 1,260 years. In the darkest times there were Word of God.”—The Great Controversy, faithful men who loved God’s Word and page 269. were jealous for His honor. To these loyal The use of the words “Egypt” and servants were given wisdom, power, and “Sodom” and “great city” is symbolic and authority to declare His truth during the characterized the licentiousness and athesim whole of this time.”—The Great Contro- of France during the Revolution when the versy, pages 267, 268. Word of God and religion were despised by the government of the First French
- What power did the witnesses Republic, when “Reason” was enthroned have over their enemies? Rev. 11:5, 6. as Deity and a profligate woman was wor- Compare Rev. 22:19. shiped as her symbol.
NOTE.—”All who exalt their own opinions “Receive into the soul by above divine revelation, all who would faith the incorruptible seed change the plain meaning of Scripture to of the Word, and it will suit their own convenience, or for the sake of conforming to the world, are taking bring forth a character and upon themselves a fearful responsibility. a life after the similitude of The Written Word, the law of God, will the character and the life of measure the character of every man, and God.”—Christ’s Object Les- condemn all whom this unerring test shall declare wanting.”—The Great Controversy, sons, page 38. page 268. 45 The Two Witnesses Exalted half, the Bible, rather than being relegated to oblivion as a spiritual guide, has come
- What is said concerning the “res- to enjoy its widest circulation. “Ascended . . . in a cloud. As Jesus bade urrection” of the two witnesses? Rev. His disciples farewell, a cloud ‘received Him 11:9, 11. out of their sight’ (Acts 1:9). So also the two witnesses are carried to heaven in a cloud. The figure fittingly describes the exaltation of the Scriptures in the period NOTE.—”In harmony with the principle following their suppression in France.”— of prophetic interpretation, that a day SDA Bible Commentary, on Rev. 11:12. stands for a year,’three days and an half’ would be equivae nt to three years and a God’s Witnesses and the Final half. Seventh-day Adventists, who generally Message understand the beast of v. 7 to represent the First French Republic (1789 to 1801), especially in terms of its anti-religious bias, 10. What messages did the prophet find this prophecy fulfilled during that hear the three angels proclaim? Rev. brief period in French revolutionary history 14:6-12. Compare 1 Peter 1:25. when atheism was at its height. This period may be reckoned from November 26, 1793, when a decree, issued in Paris, abolished religion, to June 17, 1797, when, it is held, the French government removed restric- NOTE.—The Word of God endures for- tions against the practice of religion.”— ever. Seventh-day Adventists proclaim these SDA Bible Commentary, on Rev. 11:9. three angels’ messages. Here the testimony “It was in 1793 that the decrees which of the two witnesses is heard speaking abolished the Christian religion and set forth the gospel tidings in the setting of aside the Bible passed the French Assembly. the judgment-hour message. This we may Three years and a half later a resolution regard as the climactic act of God in the rescinding these decrees, thus granting tol- exaltation of the two witnesses. eration to the Scriptures, was adopted by the same body. The world stood aghast at 11. What happened when another the enormity of guilt which had resulted angel came down from heaven? Rev. from a rejection of the Sacred Oracles, and 18:1. men recognized the necessity of faith in God and His Word as the foundation of virtue and morality.”—The Great Contro- versy, page 287. NoTE.—The entire world is lightened with the glory of truth shining from the pro-
- How great was to be the ex- phetic Scriptures, and many heed the call altation of the witnesses? Rev. 11:12. of the angel of Revelation 18:1-4 to come out of Babylon and join the remnant peo- ple of God in their march to the Holy City. 12. What important truth did the NOTE.—”This exaltation of the witnesses apostle Paul emphasize? 1 Cor. 10: has been understood as symbolizing the re- 11, 12. markable popularity that the Scriptures have enjoyed since the early 19th century. Soon after the French Revolution various national Bible societies were established. Particularly notable among these were the NOTE.—Phillips translates verse 11 as fol- British and Foreign Bible Society, founded lows: “Now these things which happened to in 1804, and the American Bible Society, our ancestors are illustrations of the way in organized in 1816. These societies, with which God works, and they were written others, have circulated the Scriptures down to be a warning to us who are the throughout the world in more than 1,000 heirs of the ages which have gone before languages. Thus in the last century and a us.” ( 46] THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING December 20, 1969 Southern Asia Division
Southern Asia is not only the home of several powerful non-Christian religions, it is the birthplace of two of the most aggressive of these; namely, Hinduism and Buddhism. For centuries, even millenniums, the views of life offered by these religions have cast their spell over the hun- dreds of millions of people who live in these lands and have made it extremely difficult for the gospel to penetrate.
Of late, however, the Spirit of God is being poured out in unprece- dented measure, and we are beginning to see each year hundreds accepting Christianity. One of the agencies of the church in meeting the challenge of spreading the gospel has been its educational system, which in mission fields is open to the public. This avenue in Southern Asia has accounted for almost one third of all baptisms through the years of our endeavor.
The overflow this quarter will be used to supply additional dormitory space for the students at Spicer Memorial College and to modernize and improve the Lasalgaon High School. Part of the overflow will also be used for new church buildings. These are all urgent needs. Southern Asia is counting on fellow believers around the world to come to her aid at this time. Make your Thirteenth Sabbath Offering a real Christmas sacrifice offering.
Lessons for the First Quarter of 1970 Beginning with the first quarter of 1970 the senior Sabbath School lessons will appear in a different format than has been used for many years in the past. One page of the quarterly will be devoted to the material for one day's study. Each lesson will be divided into six sections. Those who have not yet received a copy of the first quarter's Quarterly will be helped in the study of the first lesson by this outline: 1. The New Name. Luke 11:2; Matt. 10:29-31; Mal. 3:17; 1 John 4:8-10. 2. The Father Revealed in Christ. John 14:8-10; Rom. 5:5; Gal. 4:6; Matt. 11:27; John 14:6. 3. The Privilege of Sonship. 1 John 3:1, 2; John 1:12, 13. 4. The Discipline of Sonship. Heb. 12:5-7, 11. 5. The Father's Love. Rom. 8:35-39; John 10:29, 30; 2 Cor. 5:14. 6. Approaching the Father. John 4:23, 24; Heb. 4:16; Heb. 10:22.
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Benno U. 25,000.000 4,127 4,895 Ceylon U. 11,500.000 1,138 1,000 Northeast U. 156,941,283 4,343 4,964 Northwesters. India U. 185,500,000 2,367 2,930 Pakistan U. 125.000,000 3,730 8,622 South India U. 110,160,887 22,279 25,421 Western India U. 60,523,600 2,319 2,950
40,303 50,782