PRICE, 6 CENTS Sabbath School Lessons FROM THE Book of Genesis FOR SENIOR CLASSES FOURTH QUARTER 1898 PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY PAGIFIG PRESS PUBLISHING COMPANY FOR THE International Sabbath School Association of Seventh-Day Adventists Number 14 Oakland, Cal., October, 1808 20 Cents a Year Entered at the Post-Office at Oakland, Cal. " And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou lieSt down, and when thou risest up." Deut. 6 : 6, 7. " Parents, set apart a little time each day .for the study of the Sabbath-school lesson with your children."—Nrs. E. G. Odle. PROGRAM FOR FAMILY STUDY OF THE S. S. LESSONS. SABBATH.—(After church services or at the close of the Sabbath.) Read carefully the lesson for the next Sabbath, and assign verses to be memorized during the week. SUNDAY.—Name the persons and places mentioned in the lesson, and locate the places on the map. Pronounce and define the hard words. MONDAY. —Let each tell what he can of the lesson, and then read it over, carefully noting the points which were not remembered. TUESDAY.—Repeat verses already committed to mem- ory. Read the " Spirit of Prophecy " on the lesson, or study the lesson from the Instructor or Little Friend. WEDNESDAY.—Let each give a synopsis of the lesson, or tell the lesson story. Look up the ancient manners and cus- toms referred to. THURSDAY.—Name again the persons mentioned, and tell what each said or did. Give time and place of each event. FRIDAY.—Ask the questions from the lesson book, study the notes, and repeat the memory verses. SABBATH.—Let each repeat as much of the lesson scrip- ture as possible. Give each one the privilege of questioning others upon the lesson. Relate personal experiences in which the truths of the lesson have been helpful. (This program is simply suggestive and can of course be varied to suit circumstances, but we do urge upon all the necessity of daily. systematic study of the scriptures covered by the Sabbath-school les- sons.) SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSONS FROM THE BOOK OF GENESIS For Senior Classes FOUR ir 1-1 QUARTER, 1898. PREFACE. THE most thorough student of the book of Genesis will know that he has only begun to comprehend the majestic truths recorded there; for from the first to the last chapter, whether as history or as prophecy, he finds divine revelations of "the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowl- edge of God," and can but exclaim, with Paul, "How unsearch- able are His judgments, and His ways past tracing out!" The history and the prophecy, the types and the symbols, the forms and ceremonies, the manners and customs, the style of thought and method of expression,—all show that the patri- archs were men of great intellectual penetration and spiritual foresight. And those whose history is specially recorded, were men who loved to commune with God, their recognized strength. They saw the history of God's people in the plan of redemption unto the final consummation. The mighty work- ings in their souls of the mystery of. iniquity, or of the mystery of godliness, was typical of the great struggle which is continually going on in the hearts of the children of men. Thus every recorded act of theirs is "for our admonition upon whom the ends of the world are come." This series has been interspersed with lessons by the topical, or outline, method: These are given only as models, and the (3) 4 BOOR OP GENESIS. student should outline each lesson for himself, studying the Scripture texts, asking and answering questions, reciting and reviewing lessons, from such outlines from week to week. The sank order and method of study are otherwise recom- mended as during the past quarter. LESSON 1.—October 1, 1898. ISAA&S MARRIAGE. (Genesis 24.) I. PRELIMINARY: i. Abraham blessed. (a) In age. (b) In all things. Verse r. 2. The oath. (a) With whom. Verse 2. (b) By whom. Verse 3. (c) What it was. Verses 6, 8. (d) The con- dition. Verses 5, 8. (e) The confirmation. Verses 2, 9. 3. Encouragement. Verse 7. II. DEPARTURE OP SERVANT: I. Preparation. Verse io. 2. To what country and city. Verse ro. III. AT THE WELL: I. Where and at what time of day. Verse 2. Prayer. Verses 12-14. 3. Meeting with Rebecca. (a) Her lineage. Verse 15. (b) Her beauty. Verse 16. (c) Her character. Verses 16-20. (d) The servant's reflections, and conversation with Rebecca. Verses 21-25. 4. Thanksgiving. Verses 26, 27. IV. AT THE HOUSE: I. First information. Verse 28. 2. Invitation, or welcome. Verses 29-31. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK OF GENESIS. 5 3. Hospitality. Verses 32, 33. 4. Servant's speech. (a) Abraham's prosperity. Verses m, 35. (b) The sole heir. Verse 36. (c) The oath. Verses 37-41. (d) At the well. Verses 42-48. (See note.) (e) The important question. Verse 49. 5. The way prospered. (a) The consent. Verses 5o, 51. (b) Worship. Verse 52. (c) Presents. Verse 53. (d) Haste. Verse 54. (e) Rebecca consulted. Verses 55-58. 6. The departure. (a) Who.o, Verses 59, 61. (b) The blessing. Verse 6o. READINGS. "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 171-176. NOTE. Notice that Abraham's servant's prayer was of the heart trueprayer, a prayer which received an immediate answer. "Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend. Not that it is necessary, in order to make known to God what we are, but in order to enable us to receive Him." " Every prayer which is sent up in faith from an honest heart, will be heard of God and answered; and the one that sent up the petition will have the blessing when he needs it most, and it will often exceed his expectations. Not a prayer of a true saint is lost if sent up in faith, from an honest heart." ADDITIONAL STUDY. T. What in the life of Isaac reveals the truthfulness of the statement of the Lord concerning Abraham, in Gen. 18:19? What in the life of Eliezer? 2. Who really selected a wife for Isaac? Through what agencies? 3. Why did not Abraham wish Isaac ever to go back to the country of his kindred? Wh-- :lid Abraham loave home and kindred? IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 6 13001K OE GENESIS. 4. What should precede and what follow every important act of ours?—Prayer, thanksgiving. 5. Of whom was the servant's first thought? His last? Where did he keep self? 6. What lessons are there in this chapter for parents? For children? 7. Who besides Eliezer doubtless prayed for his success? What lesson in this for us? 8. How is the faith of Abraham, of Isaac, of Eliezer, and the others, manifested in this chapter? How are we to show our faith in the Lord's guidance? Can a servant of God believe in mere chance? 9. Who accompanied Eliezer? Who accompanies us? to. What characteristics of Abraham, of his servant, of Rebecca, of Laban, and of Isaac, are brought to light in this chapter? II. How old was Isaac when he took Rebecca to wife? Gen. 25: zo. How long after Sarah's death? Gen. 17 : 17; 23: 1. 12. Look up the following subjects,—oath, marriage, wife, camels, damsel, pitcher, bracelets, ring, jewels, nurse, Laban, Rebecca, Mesopotamia, Ilaran. 13. Note the order of consent to the marriage on the part of Bethuel's family. What is the present order? LESSON 11.—October 8, 1898. JACOB THE SUPPLANTER. (Gen. 25: 27-34; 27:.-40.) I. WITAT were the occupations of Esau and Jacob? Gen. 25:27. 2. Which . was the elder? What revelation was made DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORX BOOK O1 GENESIS. 7 concerning them? How old was Isaac at the time of their birth? Verses 23, 26. 3. Whom did Isaac love, and why? Whom did Rebecca love? Whom did God love? Verse 28; Rom. 9: 13; John 3: 16. See note. 4. Narrate the circumstances by which Esau despised the birthright. Verses 29-34. 5. What did Isaac purpose to do for Esau before his death? What did he ask Esau first to do for him? Gen. 27: 1-5. 6. Who overheard what Isaac said to Esau? Verse 5. 7. To whom did she make this known? and what did she tell him to do? Verses 6-ro. 8. What objection did Jacob raise to this plan? Verses II, 12. 9. What reply did his mother make? \Terse 13. io. What did Jacob then do? Verse 14- What special precautions were taken to make this decep- tive scheme complete? Verses 15-17. 12. Give the introductory conversation between Jacob and his father. Verses 18-24- 13. How complete was the deception? Verses 23, 25. 14. When Jacob at Isaac's request came near and kissed him, what blessing did Isaac pronounce upon him? Verses 26-29. 15. Who came in just after Jacob went out? What had he also done? What conversation took place? Verses 30-32. 16. What effect did this have upon Isaac? Yet what did he say? Verse 33. 17. What effect did Isaac's words have upon Esau, and what request did he make? Verse 34; Heb. I2 : 17. 18. What did Isaac say Jacob had done? Verse 35. 19. 'What did Esau say about it? and what question did he ask? Verse 36. zo. What was Isaac's reply? Verse 37. 21. How did Esau. still urge Ids request? Verse 38. 22. What blessing did Isaac bestow upon him? Verses 39, 49. IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 8 BOOK ON GENESIS. READINGS. "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 177-182. NOTE. "There was no arbitrary choice on the part of God, by which Esau was shut out from the blessings of salvation. The gift of His grace through Christ is free to all." Esau sold his birthright for a mess of pottage. This was his own voluntary act. The success of Jacob in defrauding Esau of the blessing which he desired did not deprive him of the privilege of secur- ing God's blessing. See Isa. 55 : 6, 7; Rev. 22 : 17. " Man turns from God, not God from him." The responsibility now is with man. God hated Esau only in the sense that He hates sin. See " Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 207, 208. ADDITIONAL STUDY. I. Read Genesis 26, and note how Isaac followed in the way of his father. 2. What was the nature of Isaac's love for Esau? Gen. 25 : 28. What effect did Isaac's love for flesh meat have upon his spiritual discernment? 3. Note carefully the meaning of the birthright. See " Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 178, 179. 4. What class of people did Esau represent? Jacob? Was Jacob converted at this time? Was his course such as to win Esau to righteousness? What is the meaning of their names? 5. What effect does godly sorrow have upon heart, mind, and character? See 2 Cor. 7 : 9-li. Is weeping a sure sign of repentance? What is? 6. Why was Esau called Edom? 7. Trace the steps taken in Rebecca's and Jacob's wrong course of action. 8. What lessons are there in this chapter for you? (a) In the life of Esau,? (b) In the life of Jacob? (c) In the life of Rebecca? (d) In the life of Isaac? IIANATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION minim BOOK OE GENESIS. 9 q. Note that Isaac blessed Jacob in the name of God, but Esau only in his own name, and that this was in harmony with their desires. The one was spiritual, the other carnal. Isaac's words were prophetic. Heb. I : 20. 10. Look up quiver, bow, venison. LESSON II1.—October 15, 1898. JACOB'S FLIGHT. (Gen. 27 : 41-46; 28:1--5, 10-22.) I. CAUSES OE : I. Previous faithless course of : (a) Isaac. (b) Rebecca. (c) Esau. (d) Jacob. a. Esau's hatred and words. Verse 41. 3. Rebecca's fear and advice. Verses 42-45. 4. Esau's wives. Verse 46. 5. Isaac's (a) Charge. Gen. 28: I, 2. (b) Blessing. Verses 3, 4. (c) Sending Jacob. Verse 5. II. FROM AND TO WHERE. Verses 5, 10. III. EXPERIENCE ON THE WAY : 1. In the evening. Preparation. Verse xi. a. In the night. Dream. (a) The ladder. (b) The angels. (c) God. Verse 12. Note 1. (d) The promise. Repeat verses 13-15. (e) The effect upon Jacob. Verses 16, 17. Note 2. 3. In the morning. (a) Stone. Verses 18, 22. (b) The place. Verse 19. (c) The vow. Verses 20-22. READINGS. ";Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 183-188; Review and ilera41, November II, IS90; "Great Controversy," page t9; ,Chri,s4n Education, pages 155, 156. IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS I0 BOOK OB GENESIS. NOTES. i. This is the only way back to God. " Here the Redeemer identifies Himself as the mystic ladder that makes communi- cation possible between heaven and earth." " In assuming humanity, Christ planted the ladder firmly upon the earth. The ladder reaches unto the highest heaven, and God's glory shines-from its summit, and illuminates its whole length, while the angels pass to and fro with messages from God to man, with petition and praise from man to God. Through the divine nature, Christ was one with the Father ; and by assum- ing humanity, He identified Himself with man. He `being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God; but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.' In the vision of Jacob was represented the union of the human and the divine in Christ. As the angels pass to and fro on the ladder, God is represented as looking down with favor upon the children of men, because of the merit of His Son." "The sinner can not take one step unless the Spirit draws 1] ; he must cling to Christ if he would be saved. If he ascends to heaven, it must be by mounting up step by step the whole height of Christ's work, so that Christ shall be his wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. The gaining of eternal life is no easy thing. By living faith we are to keep on reaching forward, ascending the ladder round by round, seeing and taking the necessary steps; and yet we must under- stand that not one holy thought, not one unselfish act, can be originated in self. It is only through Christ that there can be any virtue in humanity. Without Christ we can do no good thing, but with Him we may do all things."—Review, .thoo, No. 44. 2. Note the number and the order of the promises made to Jacob in verses 13-15, and the fitness of each to comfort and encourage him ever after that memorable night. What must have been his state of mind and heart on the night previous, DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK OF GENESIS. It in order to receive so glorious a revelation concerning the future of himself and his posterity ! (a) He felt lonely; but God said, " I am with thee." (b) He was fearful; but God said, " I will keep thee." (c) He felt forsaken; but God said, " I will not leave thee." (d) He had no property with him; and his father's blessing seemed lost forever; but God said, " I will do that which I have spoken to thee of." (a) He thought that he might be slain; but God said, " In thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed." How terrible must Jacob's misdeeds have seemed to him after that angel vision ! but how precious the plan of salvation ! ADDITIONAL STUDY. 1. Trace carefully the causes of Jacob's exile. Are we in banishment? If so, why? 2. From the human standpoint, who was most prosperous then, Jacob or Esau ? 3. Note that Jacob was forced from lack of faith to do what Isaac was forbidden to do,—go to. Haran, thus risking his spir- itual to save his natural life. 4. What did Jacob take with him when he left home, (a) of the earthly inheritance, (b) of the heavenly birthright? Gen. 28 : 18; 32: 10. 5. Note the order of the causes and effects of sin in the human soul,—lack of • faith, lack of love, distrustful of man, human planning, human working, bitter hatred on the part of his brother, distrustful of God's protecting care, fearful, fleeing for life. 6. Note the order of return to God; distress, humility, lone- liness, repentance, prayer, visions of glory. 7. In what special promise did Adam and Eve see Christ? Did Abel? Enoch? Noah? Abraham? Isaac? Jacob? We? 8. What does every one behold who really sees Christ? See John I : 51. There are two ways of seeing Him—by. fear and by love. " This is the finger of God," said the tremblingly IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 12 BOOK OF GENESIS. opposing Egyptian astrologers; and the heart of Pharaoh was hardened. Ex. 8: 19. Love discerns Him. " it . is the Lord," said the loving and beloved disciple; and the hearts of the disciples were melted with joy. John 21 : 7, 8. Behold the ladder; study the ladder; walk upon the ladder; see the angels with you on the ladder; behold God above the ladder. LESSON IV.—October 22, 1898. JACOB IN EXILE. (Genesis 29 to 35.) i. AFTER Jacob's rich experience at Bethel, in what spirit did he continue his journey? Gen. 29: i, Revised Version, margin. 2. Briefly narrate the circumstances connected with Jacob's introduction to the home of Laban. Verses 2-14. 3. After a month's visit at Laban's house, into what con- tract did Laban and Jacob enter? Verses 15-19. 4. What effect does true love have upon the labors of man ? Verse 20. 5. What family trait of character did Laban now manifest? Verses 21-25. 6. Love for what, led him to this deception? Verses 27, 28. See " Patriarchs and Prophets," page 189. 7. Read the intervening verses, and answer, What has always been the result of polygamy? 8. After Jacob had a family of eleven sons and one daughter, what request did he make to Laban ? Gen. 3o : 25, 26. 9. How did Laban regard this request? What acknowl- edgment and offer did he make? Verses 27, 28. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK OE GENESIS. 13 10. What agreement did they finally enter into? Verses 2 9-34- When, as the result of this agreement, Jacob " increased exceedingly," what was the attitude of Laban and his sons toward him? Gen. 31 : I, 2. 12. In his perplexity, what did God in a dream tell hint to do? Verses 3, II, 13. 13. How did Rachel and Leah feel in regard to the matter? Why? Verses 7, 14-16. 14. What did Jacob immediately proceed to do? Verses 17, 18. 15. Upon hearing of Jacob's flight, what did Laban do? Verses 22, 23. 16. How did the Lord reveal again to Jacob that " IIe is faithful that promised " ? Verses 24, 29; Gen. 28 : 15. 17. 'What lessons do you learn from the meeting of Laban and Jacob at Mt. Gilead? Gen. 31 : 25-55. IS. What do you learn in this lesson of the manners and customs of the " children of the East " ? READINGS. " Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 188-194. NOTE. It was Jacob's own course that rendered his experience in Haran necessary. " Evil imparted, also returns again. Every one who has been free to condemn, or discourage, will in his own experience be brought over the ground where he has caused others to pass; will feel what they have suffered because of his want of sympathy and tenderness. It is the love of God toward us that has decreed this. He would lead us to abhor our own hardness of heart, and to open our hearts to let Jesus abide in them. And thus, out of evil, good is brought, and what appeared a curse becomes a blessing. . . . In slighting the claims of the poor, the suffering, and the sinful, we are proving IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS IQ BOOK OF OP:NJ:ISIS. ourselves traitors to Christ. It is because men take upon them- selves the name of Christ, while in life they deny His character, that Christianity has so little power in the world. The name of the Lord is blasphemed because of these things."—Illount of Blessing, pages 1So, ADDITIONAL STUDY. I. Compare Jacob's arrival in Padan-Aram with that of Abraham's servant about one hundred years before. 2. Show from this lesson that Laban intellectually believed in the God of Jacob. Will others know if we are servants of God? How? Read Psalms i. 3. What evidence have we in this and previous chapters that Abraham's kindred were worshipers of false gods? 4. Were Jacob's descendants ever again in that country? If so, when, and under what circumstances? 5. Look up the following names and places: Haran, Padan- Aram, Syria, "the river," Gilead, tabret, harp, gods, Jegar- Sahadutha, Gaelecl, Mizpah. LESSON V.—October 29, 1898. NIGHT OF WRESTLING. (Genesis 32.) L. WHAT additional assurance did Jacoo now have of God's protecting care ? Gen. 32 : I. 2. What did Jacob say? What is the meaning of Ma- hanaim ? Verse 2. Note I. 3. What message did Jacob now send to Esau? To what place? Why? Verses 3-5. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK O1 GENESIS. 15 4. What reply did he receive? Verse 6. 5. What immediate effect did this have upon Jacob? What did he do and say? Verses 7, 8. 6. To whom did this news drive him? What was his prayer? and in what spirit? Verses 9-12. 7. What presents did he send before him for Esau? Why? Verses 13-16. Also verse 20. 3. What questions did he expect Esau to ask? How was the foremost, and every other servant, to answer? Verses 17-19. 9. What statement were they each to make? Why did he pursue this course, and adopt this special order of arrange- ment? Verse zo. Dz. Where did he stop for the night? Could he sleep? What did he finally do with his wives and children, and all that lie had? Verses 21-23. ix. Where was he then ? What troublous experience did he now have? Verse 24. 12. At daybreak what miraculous event occurred? Verse 25. 13. What did this reveal to Jacob, and what attitude did he now assume? What was his great desire? Verse 26. 14. What question did this mighty wrestler ask Jacob? Verse 27. 15. What great change was this night effectually reached in Jacob's character? Verse 28. 16. What did Jacob now desire to know? What was the result of his struggle and desire ? - Verse 29. Note 2. 17. Did Jacob now know who it was? What effect did this knowledge have upon him? Verse 3o. IS. As he passed over Penuel, what rose upon him ? Verse 31. 19. How did the children of Israel keep this significant. vision in mind? Verse 32. ' READINGS. " Patriarchs and .Prophets," pages 195-203; " Mount of Blessing," pages 193, 194; " Great Controversy," pages 613-634- IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 16 BOOK OF GENESIS. NOTES. 1. " Mahanaim " signifies two hosts. Jacob named the place " Mahanaim," because he saw two host of heavenly angels. It is when passing through the deepest waters, encom- passed with greatest doubt and perplexity, difficulty and danger, that the angels of God encamp about the children of His care. If by the eye of faith we could only see them day by day, as they really are, no fear would disturb our souls. See Deut. 32 : so; Ps. 32 : S; 2 Chron. 16: 9; 2 Kings 6: 14-17; Ps. 34 7- 2. Jacob's external struggle was the result of a mightier struggle within. It was a strife between self and God. When the angel gained the victory over that soul, Jacob was crucified; it was then that, in the strength of his mighty Contestant, he conquered; it was then that Jacob, the Supplanter, could receive a new name, Israel, Prince of God, power with man. That night had been one of darkness and suffering, but the morning was one of light and glory. The greatest suffering precedes the greatest glory. Now Jacob could see the face of God, and as he " passed over Penuel," the sun rose upon him. Just so, when we pass through "the night of Jacob's trouble," we shall be prepared through suffering, with bodies glorified, to behold with joy the face of God ; and " the Sun of Right- eousness shall arise with healing in His wings." Suffering precedes the glory. See Luke 24 : 26; Dan. II : 35; Acts 14 : 22; Phil. 3 : 21; Roni. S: IS; 2 Tim. 2: 12. ADDITIONA I, STUDY. 1. What will become of us when Christ prevails? What is our name before Christ takes us? What after? After our "royal birth," what are we to be with God? See Rev. 20: 6; 22 : 4, last clause. 2. How only can we have power over wicked men for good? When only do we really live? When do we live most? 3. When a man becomes a prince witl God, what becomes of the prince of this world? DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK OE GENESIS. 17 4. Draw a careful comparison between Jacob in his time of trouble, and the remnant people of God in their time of trouble. • 5. Show that the Angel was Christ. See Hosea 12 : 4, 5. 6. What other persons do you think of whose names the Lord changed? Whose names are yet to be Changed? 7. How does God wrestle with us, and we with God? What for? and with what result? S. What effect should trial and adversity have upon the servant of God always? Does it have this effect upon me? LESSON Vt.—November 5, 1898. L1EETINU OF JACOB AND ESAU. (Gen. 33; 35 : 1-15.) 1. WuoM was Jacob now fearlessly prepared to see? Gen. 33: 1. 2. What arrangement, however, did he make of his family? Verse 2. 3. Describe the meeting of this humble shepherd and that warrior chief. Verses 3, 4. 4. How did Jacob's family meet Esau? Verses 5-7. 5. What question did Esau now ask? What was Jacob's reply ? Verse S. 6. Did Esau wish to take the present? Verse 9. 7. How was it that Jacob could see the face of God in Esau's face ? Verse so. S. By what words did he show that he recognized the hand of God in all his dealings with him? Verse Is. 9. What proposition did Esau now make? Verse 12. so. Did Jacob accept it? Verses 33, 14. IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 18 BOOK OE GENESIS. What other proposition of Esau's was gracefully re- jected? Verse 15. 12. Where did Esau now go ? To what place did Jacob journey? Verses 16, 17. 13. Where did Jacob journey from Succoth? Verse IS. 14. \Vhat example of Abraham's did he follow here? What name did he give the altar? Verses 19, 20. 15. After his experiences at Sliechem, what instruction did the Lord give Jacob? Gen. 35: 16. \Vhat did Jacob say to his household? Verses 2, 3. 17. What were their strange gods ? and what was done with them? Why did not the people pursue afterthem ? Verses 4, 5, IS. How did Jacob here reveal his reverence for God? What did he call the altar ? Verses 6, 7. 19. \Vhat sad event occurred in this place? Verse 8. zo. \Vhat blessing was here renewed? Compare it with the previous blessing at Penuel. Verses 9-13. 21. By what ceremony did Jacob here reveal his reverence for the Lord? Verses 14, 15. READINGS. " Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 204-208. NOTE. The life of Jacob is a vivid illustration of the utter futility of huinan planning to accomplish the designs of God. " The wisdom of any human agent is not sufficient for' the planning and devising in this time. Spread every plan before God; with fasting, with the humbling of the soul before the Lord Jesus, and commit thy ways unto the Lord, and the promise is, shall direct thy paths.' " " The Lord will work in this last work in a manner very much out of the common order of things, and in a way that will be contrary to any human planning. . . . God will use ways and means by which it will be seen that He is taking the lines in His own hands. Workers will be DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK OF GENESIS. 19 surprised by the simple means that E[e.will use to bring about and perfect His work of righteousness." It is by prayer that we know the will and plans of God. It is the prayer, and not the planning, of Jacob that turns the heart of Esau. ADDITIONAL STUDY. 1. Write a comparison of the lives of Jacob and Esau. 2. What did Jacob's attitude in this meeting with Esau signify as to his mind with reference to his former course concerning the birthright? 3. Note the directions of Mt. Seir and Succoth from this place of meeting. 4. Who had been at Shalem before Jacob stopped there? Between what two famous mountains was the field of Shechem? 5. Trace Jacob's travels from Haran back to Bethel, and look up the places in the Bible dictionary. 6. How often do we read of Esau's erecting an altar to the Lord? Jacob? What does this show? LESSON VII.—November 12, 1898. JOSEPH HATED BY HIS BRETHREN. (Genesis 37.) I. CAUSES: I. Preliminary. (a) Jacob's dwelling-place. Verse 1. (b) Joseph's age and occupation. Verse 2. 2. Joseph told evil deeds of his brethren to his father. Verse 2. 3. Loved his father, and the costly coat. Verses 3, 4. 4. His dreams. (a) Of the sheaves. Verses 5-8. (b) Of the sun, moon, and stars. Verses 9-11. Note s. IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 20 BOOK OF GENESIS. II. RESULTS (Note 2): 1. Conspiracy to kill him. Verses 18-2o. 2. Reuben's entreaty. Verses 21-24. 3. The interval. (a) Eating bread. (b) Passing of the Ishmaelites. Verse 25. 4. Suggestion of Judah. Verses 26-2S. 5. Reuben's terror. Verses 29, 3o. 6. Concealment of their guilt. Verses 31, 32. 7. Father's grief. Verses 33-35. S. Joseph sold into Egypt. Verse 36. READINGS. "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 208-212. NOTES. 1. "As the lad stood before his brothers, his beautiful countenance lighted up with the spirit of inspiration, they could not withhold their admiration ; but they did not choose to renounce their evil ways, and they hated the purity that reproved their sins. The same spirit that actuated Cain was kindling in their hearts." 2. Stephen says that the " patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt." Acts 7 : 9. Envy signifies: (t) "Mal- ice; ill-will; spite." (2) " Chagrin, mortification, discontent, or uneasiness at the sight of another's excellence or good fortune; a repining at the prosperity or good of another." Who can stand before envy? Prov. 27 : 4. The beginning of the history of the children of Israel was marked with envious hatred against their younger brother, just as the end of their history was characterized by the most intensely hitter hatred, even unto death, against their Elder Brother. Joseph was the tender and most-beloved son of his father, through whom he desired communication with his children; but his brethren sold him for twenty pieces of silver : Jesus was the only- begotten Son of God, through whom He emptied His heart of infinite love upon His fallen sons of earth; but they sold Him for thirty pieces of silver. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK ItOOK V GENPSIS. 21 ADDITION AL STUDY. I. Note the downward steps on the part of Joseph's breth- ren: (a) Envy, (b) hatred, (c) scheme of murder, (d) deceit, (e) a fearful expectation of wrath to he visited upon them. 2. Show from this chapter that Jacob understood and believed Joseph's dreams. 3. What mistakes are recorded in this chapter? (a) Of Jacob? (b) Of Joseph? (c) Of Joseph's brethren? 4. Who inherited Isaac's earthly possessions, and who inherited the enduring substance? Chapter 35. What was the end of the birthright for which Jacob longed? Esau? Which did each receive? See " Patriarchs and Prophets," page 208. 5. Show from this chapter that Jacob was a wanderer like his fathers. How old was he at his death? 6. Look up the history of Jacob's well. What did Joseph's coat signify? 7. Who was the chief instigator in the crime against Joseph? Gen. 42:24; 43:23; 24:36. See `‘ Patriarchs and Prophets," page 226. 8. What is the inevitable result of partiality in the family or in. the school? 9. Note that the divine plan concerning the children of Israel is, in this chapter, being developed. See chapter 15:13. LESSON V111.—November 19, 1898. JOSEPH IN PRISON. (Genesis 39 and 40.) I. WHAT did the Ishmaelites do with Joseph? Geu. 39: 1. 2. What noted and special guest did Joseph have in this IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 21 1300K OP' oF,'NEsV. house? What effect did it have upon his work? What w.: his office? Verse 2. 3. What discernment did his Egyptian master manifest? What did lie do for Joseph? And from that time, what did the Lord do for Potiphar? Verses 3-5. 4. How far did this confidence in Joseph extend? What was Joseph's outward appearance? Verse 6, R. V. Note r. 5. What was his appearance in the presence of Him who looketh upon the heart? Verses 7-18. Note 1. 6. Notwithstanding the fact that Joseph lived as in the presence of God (verse 9), what happened to him? Vs. 19, 20. 7. Nevertheless, what special friend did Joseph have with him in the prison? Verse 21. Note 2. 8. What effect did this have upon the keeper of the prison? How far did his confidence in Joseph go? Verses 22, 23. 9, After these things, what two noted persons were put into this prison ? Gen. 4o : io. Who had charge of them? Verse 4. II. What experience did they both have in the same night? Verse 5. 12. What effect did it have upon them? Who discerned it? What question did he ask them? Verses 6, 7. 13. What did they answer? And what request did Joseph make? Verse 8. 14. Relate the chief butler's dream. Verses 9-11. 15. What interpretation did Joseph give to him? Vs. 12, 13. 16. What request did Joseph make of him? What just reason did he give for this request? Verses 14, 15. 17. Relate the chief baker's dream. Verses 16, 17. 18. What was its interpretation? Verses 18, 19. 19. How were these dreams, with their interpretation, ful- filled? Verses 20-22. 20. What ingratitude did the butler show? Verse 23. READIN GS. " Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 213-219. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK 1300% OE GENESIS. 23 NOTES. I. Joseph was comely, winsome, well-favored; but he did not exalt himself. In all Old Testament history there is no life more universally admired for its frank, open, humble simplicity, and the fragrant beauty of its purity; and, withal, in its growth more " strong in a strength not its own." It was his upright and holy life that gave him power with God. But every young man and woman may, by following his example, be like him. " He [man] may be enlightened by science, ennobled by virtue, and make progress in mental and moral dignity, until he reaches a perfection of intelligence and a purity of character but little lower than the perfection and purity of the angels. With the light of truth shining upon the minds of men, and the love of God shed abroad in their hearts, we can not con- ceive what they may become, nor what great work they may do." 2. What the Lord needs to-day is young men like Joseph and Moses in Egypt, Daniel and his fellows in Babylon, John the Baptist in Judea, and Paul in the civilized and heathen portions of the world. In order to be this, they must, like Joseph, have God with them in the prison; like Moses, endure as seeing Him who is invisible; like Daniel and his fellows, swerve not from duty, though cast into the lions' den, or into the fiery furnace; like John the Baptist, stand before and reprove kings; and, like Paul, pass undaunted through that long category of trial and persecution, counting it all joy that he is considered worthy to suffer for Christ's sake. ADDITIONAL STUDY. 1. Make an outline of this lesson. 2. In what sense was Joseph a slave? In what sense were his brethren slaves? What is the only real freedom? 3. Consider the life of Potipha'r; of Pharaoh. 4. Describe the jail in which Joseph was imprisoned. See I's. 103 : 18-20. IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 24 Booiz or c.v,Nrsis. 5. What was the office relation between Potiphar and the keeper of the prison? 6. The interpretation of the dreams of the butler and the baker were fulfilled within three days. How was it with the interpretation of Joseph's own dreams? -7. Trace the different steps in Joseph's humiliation. Such an experience is a preparation for service. 8. What kept Joseph? What will keep us? Psalms 121, R. V. LESSON 1X.-November 26, 1898. JOSEPH EXALTED. (Genesis 41.) I. PHARAOH'S DREAMS : 1. The sevens of kine. Verses 1-4. 2. The sevens of ears of corn. Verses 5-7. II. TUE INTERPRETATION SOUGHT : i. Failure of magicians and wise men of Egypt. Verses 8, 24. See Luke 10 : 21. 2. The chief butler's story. 'Verses 9-13. 3. Joseph sent for. Verse 14. 4. Pharaoh's dream. Verse 15. 5. Joseph's humble reply and encouraging assurance. Verse 16. 6. The dream reiterated. Verses 17-24. III. THE INTERPRETATION GIVEN : 1. The revelation was to Pharaoh. Verses 25, 28. 2. The good kine and the full ears. Verses 26, 29. 3. The lean kine and the empty ears. Verses 27, 3o, 31. 4. Meaning of double dream. Verse 32. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOT; OF OVNVST8. 25 IV. JosEPH's ADVICE. Verses 33-36. V. .PFIA.RAOH'S JUDGMENT : i. As to Joseph's wisdom and character. Verses 37-39. 2. As to Joseph's executive ability. Verses 40, 41. VI. JOSEPH MADE RULER AT THE AGE OF THIRTY. Verses 42-46. VII. THE YEARS OF PLENTY : L Gathering food. Verses 46-49. 2. Names, with their meaning, of Joseph's wife and chil- dren. Verses 50-52. VIII. FAMINE E.1CTENSIVE AND GRIEVOUS. Verses 53-57. READINGS. " Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 219-223. NOTE. Joseph had learned the lesson of submission to the will of God, so that he did riot seek to lay plans, or to concoct schemes, for extricating himself from difficulty; but he left his case to be decided in the higher court. He seemed to be going down the ladder, yet when, to outward observation, he had taken the last step in that direction, he had reached the topmost round even of earthly fame. He followed the law of true greatness— that of service, which is the law of true goodness. Slavery in the dungeon was followed,by service on the throne. See Matt. 2o: 26, 27; I Peter 5 : 6-10; 2 Cor. 12 : 9; I Sam. 2 : 3o; Luke ADDITIONAL STUDY. i. See how Joseph hid self in God (verse 16), and honored Pharaoh (verse 25). 2. Notice that Potiphar, the keeper of the prison, the butler, and Pharaoh, all alike, recognized the hand of God with Joseph. This illustrates the fact that ability is recognized; and we are generally estimated for all that we are worth. IN FRE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 26 BOOK O) GENESIS. 3. Trace the different steps by which Joseph rose to the premiership. 4. When the Lord gives a man a vision or a dream, it causes him to feel that it is full of meaning. 5. How long was Joseph in Egypt before he was made gov- ernor? Note the meaning of the name which Pharaoh gave to Joseph. Gen. 41 : 45. 6. Who was this Pharaoh? LESSON X.-December 3, 1898. JOSEPH'S BRETHREN VISIT EGYPT. (Genesis 42. and 43.) I. FIRST VISIT ; I. The reasons. Gen. 42:1-5. 2. Their reception in Egypt. (a) Bow before Joseph. Verse 6. (b) Known by Joseph, but do not know him. Verses 7, 8. (c) Joseph's accusation, and their defense. Verses 9-14. (d) Imprisonment. Verses 15-17. (e) Joseph's final proposition accepted. Verses 38-2o. 3. Their remorse of conscience. (a) Confession. Verse 21. (b) Reuben's statement. Verse 22. (c) Joseph affected. Verses 23, 24. (d) Simeon bound. Verse 24. 4. Their departure for home. (a) How. Verses 25, 26. (6) Made afraid. Verses 27, 28. 5. Their report to Israel. Verses 29-34. 6. Israel troubled. Verses 35, 36. Note I. 7. Reuben's proposal rejected. Verses 37, 38. II. SECOND VISIT : I. The reason. Gen. 43 : I, 2. 2. The cause of delay removed. (a) Judah's proposal. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER F9R MISSION WORK BOOK OE GENESIS. 27 VerSes 3-5. (b) Israel's complaint. Verse 6. Note I. (c) The answer. Verse 7. (d) Judah's touching appeal and surety. Verses S-ro. (e) Israel sends presents, and yields all into the hands of God. Verses 11-14. (f) The departure. Verse-i5. 3, Their reception in Egypt. (a) Joseph's order to the steward. Verses 16, 17. (b) Their distress. Verse 18. (c) Their speech to the steward. Verses 19-22. (d) The steward's reply, and Simeon brought forth. Verse 23. (e) Preparation to meet the governor. Verses 24, 25. (f) Meeting with Joseph. Verses 26-29. (g) Joseph's deep yearnings. Verses 3o, 31. (Ii) The feast. Verses 32-34. Note 2. READINGS. "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 224-229. NOTES. i. "Jacob said, 'All these things are against me.' It was a great mistake. Joseph was alive—the governor of Egypt—sent there to preserve their lives, and to be the stay of Jacob's closing years. Simeon was also alive—the blessed link which was drawing and compelling his brothers to return into the pres- ence of the strange Egyptian governor. Benjamin would come safely back again. All things, so far from being against him, were working together for good to him; and if only he would trust in God, he would live to see it so. All things are yours, if you are Christ's. , All things serve you. Even those that seem most awry and trying are really promoting your best interests. . . . Let us cultivate the habit of looking at the bright side of things. If there are only a few clouds floating in your sky, do not state that the whole is overcast; and if all the heaven is covered, save one small chink of blue, make much of that; and by all means do not exaggerate the dark- ness."—Meyer. IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 25 rtooiC or. GENT,S18. 2. " By the laws of caste, the Egyptians were forbidden to eat with people of any other nation. The sons of Jacob had therefore a table by themselves, while the governor, on account of his high rank, ate by himself, and the Egyptians also had separate tables. "—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 228. ADDITIONAL STUDY. i. Recite the lesson from the outline. 2. What do you learn in this chapter of Egyptian manners and customs? 3. Note the wisdom, the meaning, the love, that charac- terized every act of Joseph in this lesson, and its effect. 4. In giving up Benjamin, how much did Jacob yield? Why was he permitted to be tested to the utmost with regard to his beloved Rachel, Joseph, and Benjamin? 5.. Notice how Joseph attempted to awaken the consciences of his brethren. 6. Make a list of the lessons to be learned from adversity. What do you do when in trouble of any kind? See "Patriarchs and Prophets," page 225. 7. What traits in Joseph's character are revealed in this lesson? In Judah's ? In Reuben's ? In Jacob's? LESSON XI.—December 10, 1898. JOSEPH flAKES HIrISELF KNOWN TO HIS BRETHREN. (Genesis 44 and 45.) WHAT instruction did Joseph now give to his steward? Cell. 44: 5, 2. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK OE GENESIS. 29 2. After his brethren were sent away, what accusing mes- sage was sent to them ? Verses 3-6. 3. How did they endeavor to show that they were true and honest men? Verses 7-9. 4. In how far did the steward accept their final proposition? Verse to. 5. What did they immediately do? What were the results? Verses 11-13. 6. In harmony with what has gone before, what did Joseph feign to know, and how? Verses 14, 15. Note 1. 7. What did Judah say ? mid what was Joseph's reply? Verses 16, 17. 8. What eloquently touching speech did Judah now make? Verses 18-34. 9. What effect did it have upon Joseph? Gen. 45 : 1,2. to. What did he first say to them? How did they feel about it? What request did he make? Verses 3, 4. II. By what remarkable statement did he now reveal his unbounded faith in the God of Jacob? Verses 5-3. Note 2. 12. What glorious message did he send to his father? Verses 9-13. 13. How did he further show his love for his brethren ? Verses 14, 15. 14. What effect did this news concerning Joseph's brethren have upon Pharaoh and his house? Verse 16. See also verse 2. 15. What message did Pharaoh send through Joseph to his brethren ? Verses 17-20. 16. What did Joseph now do for them all? For the ten? For Benjamin? For Israel? With what final injunction did he send them away? Verses 21-24. 17. When they came home and told Jacob this wonderful . story, what effect did it have upon him ? Verses 25, 26. 18. What became of his unbelief and low spirits? When he saw the wagons what did he say ? Verses 27, 23. IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS BOOK OP GENESIS. 19. What humiliating confession now became necessary on the part of Joseph's ten brethren? Note 3. READINGS. " Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 229-232. NOTES. 1. "This cup was supposed to possess power of detecting any poisonous substances placed therein. At that day cups of this kind were highly valued as a safeguard against murder by poisoning. . . . 'What deed is this that ye have done ? ' he said; `wot ye not that such a man as I can certainly divine ? ' Joseph designed to draw from them acknowledgment of their sin. He had never claimed the power of divination, but was willing to have them believe that he could read the secrets of their lives." 2. It is probable that the fame of Joseph had gone out all over the world as an interpreter of dreams, and a preserver of life, on account of his connection with the true and living God. Note the impression which comes into the soul when one recognizes that his life is in accordance with the divine Plan. The revelation of God to Joseph in those two dreams of his boyhood, seems to have given direction to his entire inner and outer life. In these verses we see the large-hearted sympathy of Joseph standing out in vivid contrast to the cold-blooded envy which once found lodgment in the hearts of his brethren. His was a high ideal of the Christian life; and his high mission was recognized, not only by himself, but by Pharaoh and his subjects, as well as by Israel and his sons. See Gen. 45 ; 7; 41 :45; 47 ; 25; 45 ; 27, 28; 5o : 18-2o. 3. "Another act of humiliation remained for the ten brothers. They now confessed to their father the deceit and cruelty that for so many years had embittered his life and theirs. Jacob had not suspected them of so base a sill; but he saw that all had been overruled for good, and he forgave DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK OE GENESIS. 31 and blessed his erring children." He no doubt remembered his own course of life which had resulted in so much sorrow and trouble to himself and his loved ones. "Jacob had sinned, and had deeply suffered. . . . Over and over he saw repeated among his sons the sins of which he him- self had been guilty. But, bitter as had been the discipline, it had accomplished its work. The chastening, though griev- ous, had yielded the peaceable fruits of righteousness."— Patriarchs and Prophets, pages 232, 237, 238. ADDITIONAL STUDY. 1. Make an outline of your own and recite this lesson from it. . 2. Note the care with which Joseph's steward obeyed his instructions. 3. Show from this and preceding chapters that God was held in high reverence with both Joseph and his brethren. 4. What do you learn in this lesson of Joseph's influence? (a) Among his brethren? (b) Among the people of Egypt? (c) Among the nations of the world? 5. At what place did Jacob and his family live during the first two years of this universal famine? 6. Life consists, as with Jacob and his children, of a series of surprises, apparently good or ill. 7. What traits of character in Judah are revealed in this lesson ? 8. Make a list of the points in which Joseph's life repre- sents that of Christ. 9. Joseph's life is an illustration of the sublime and glori- ous truth that when Satan seems most successfully to have hidden the light that is burning in the soul loyal to its God, then the flame bursts forth, and the light is lifted up, to be seen both near and afar off, even if it becomes necessary for every nation of the earth to be stricken with famine. IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 32 BOOK Or GENESIS. LESSON X11.-December 17, 1898. ISRAEL IN EGYPT. (Gen. 46:1-7, 26-34; 47: 1-12, 27-31 ; 48 : 1-22.) I. THE JOURNEY : 1. At Beer-sheba. (a) Offering sacrifices. Verse 1. (b) Jacob's vision. Verses 2-4- 2. From Beer-Sheba to Egypt. Verses 5-7. Number of souls. Verses 26, 27. II. SETTLEMENT: I. At Goshen. Verse 28. 2. Meeting with Joseph. Verses 29, 30. 3. Joseph's instruction to his father and brethren. Why? • Verses 31-34. .4. Meeting with Pharaoh. (a) Of Joseph's brethren. Geu. 47: 1-6. (6) Of Israel. Verses 7-10. See note. 5. Dwelling (a) In Goshen, or Land of Rameses. Verse II. (6) In prosperity. Verses 12, 27. III. JACOB'S LAST SICKNESS: I. Jacob's age. Verse 2S. 2. Joseph's first visit. His oath. Verses 29-31. 3. Joseph's second visit. (a) Manasseh and Ephraim. Gen. 4S: I. (6) Jacob informed. Verse 2. (c) Jacob recalls the promise. Verses 3, 4. (d) Joseph's double portion. Verses 5, 6. (a) Jacob refers to Rachel's death. Verse 7. (f) Jacob blesses Ephraim and Manasseh. (a) Intro- duction. Verses 8-11. (b) The presentation. Verses 82-84. (c) In whose name? Verses 15, i6. (d) The contention. Verses 87-19. (6) Ephraim placed first. Verses 19, 20. (f) Divine assurance of faith. Verse 21. (g) Joseph's special portion. Verse 22. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK OF GENESIS. 33 READINGS. " Patriarchs and Prophets," pp. 232-235. NOTE. Gen. 47: 7-To reveals the superiority of the shepherd patriarch over the Egyptian king; for "without contradiction the less is blessed of the better." The only true greatness is goodness. ADDITIONAL STUDY. I. Show that Abraham and his seed sojourned in Canaan 215 years, and in Egypt 215 years. See Ex. 12 : 40, 41. 2. How did the lives of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, and the children of Israel, illustrate the truth of the expres- sion, " Man's necessity is God's opportunity " ? 3. (a) How do you know who was the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? Is he your God? (b) Will He deal with and do for us as He dealt with and did for them ? The lives of what distinguished persons in the book of Genesis were types of Christ? In what particulars? 4. How much of the land of Canaan did Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, or Joseph and his brethren occupy as their own? What do we inherit through the first birth? What through the second? See also Gen. 47: 9; Acts 7 : 5; Gen. 49 : 29; 5o: 25. 5. Look up the following names: Goshen, Rameses, Zoan 6. Joseph bought the cattle, the lands, and the Egyptians themselves, with corn, for Pharaoh, and thus saved their lives. Gen. 47: 17, 19. Who bought us and all that we possess? With what? John 6 : 51; Gal. 2 : 20; Titus 2: 14. 7. Draw a parallel between the life of Joseph and the life of Christ. 8. How does this chapter illustrate that in prosperity we forget adversity? Isa. 65: 17; Rev. 21:4. IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 34 BOOK 01: GENE.SIS. 9. What beasts of burden were used in Egypt, in Canaan, in Mesopotamia, in the times of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? What other animals are mentioned in connection with their lives ? LESSON XIII.—December 24, 1898. ISRAEL'S PROPHECY AND DEATH. (Genesis 49.) I. FOR what purpose did Jacob now call his sons together? Gen. 49: I, 2. 2. What did he say Reuben ought to be? Verse 3. Why could he not hold this position ? Verse 4- 3. What close union existed between Simeon and Levi ? With what curse did lie reprove them and forewarn their tribe? What was to be their future? Verses 5-7. 4. What was to be Judah's position among his brethren ? By what fitting symbol was his tribe represented? How was he made the central figure? Verses 8-12. Who was Shiloh? See marginal readings of verse It), R. V.; Rev. 5 : 5; Heb. 7 5. What was the prophecy concerning Zebulun ? Verse 93. 6. What did Jacob say of the future of Issachar ? Vs. 94,95. 7. What did he say Dan should be? In what did Dan's success consist? Verses 16-18. S. What shows the endurance of Gad? Verse 19. 9. How was Asher to flourish? Verse 20. 10. What was the character of the tribe of which Naphtali was the father? Verse 21. II. By what appropriate figures, and lofty expressions, does Jacob foretell Joseph's prosperity, his strength, his help, and his blessings? Verses 22-26. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK Or GENr.SIS. 35 12. By what symbol did he represent the future of Ben- jamin ? Verse 27. 13. What was this that Jacob's prophetic eye had so clearly seen and so vividly described? In harmony with what was his blessing? Verse 23. 14. How did Jacob now show his " pilgrim and stranger " spirit? Verses 29-32. 15. His last inspired life duty having now been performed, what was the closing scene? Verse 33. 16. Carefully read the fiftieth chapter of Genesis. READINGS. " Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 235-24o. NoTE. Make a careful study of the fulfilment of this last prophecy of Jacob in the future history of the several tribes. Meyer says : "Reuben, though the first-born, never excelled; no judge, prophet, or ruler, sprang from his tribe. Simeon was almost absorbed in the nomad tribes of southern Palestine. The cities in which the sons of Levi dwelt were scattered through- out all the tribes. Vestiges of terraced vineyards still attest how well the hilly province assigned to Judah suited the culture of the vine. Zebulun embosomed the Lake of Galilee, and stretched away toward the coast of the blue Mediterranean. Esdraelon, the battle-field of Palestine, where Assyria from the north and Egypt from the south often met in deadly feud, lay within the limits of Issachar. Dan was small as an adder, but, like it, could inflict dangerous wounds on any invader who had to pass by it towards the heart of the country. Gad, much pressed by border war. Asher, notable for fertility. Naphtali, famous for eloquence. Benjamin, cruel as a wolf. All these justified the prophecy of their dying ancestor, whilst the mighty tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, springing from the sons of Joseph, inherited to the full ' blessings of heaven above ; blessings of the deep that lieth under ; blessings of the breast IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 36 I3001C or GIINESIS. and of the womb ; blessings to the utmost bounds of the ever- lasting hills.' " Jacob's " paternal tenderness would have found expression only in words of encouragement and hope ; but the power of God rested upon him, and under the influence of inspiration, he was constrained to declare the truth, however painful."—Patriarchs and Profihels, bage 237. ADDITIONAL STUDY. i. Make an outline of this chapter. 2. Read Deuteronomy 33, and compare with this chapter. 3. Look up the character of the several symbols mentioned in Jacob's dying prophecy, and observe their appropriateness in each instance. 4. In the study of the prophecy concerning Judah, note what is the only royalty of worth in the sight of God, and what the only law. Observe that at the close of Solomon's reign, his kingdom was divided into Israel, or Ephraim, and Judah, but that at the time of Christ, Ephraim was absorbed in Judah, and thus the scepter did not depart from Judah till Shiloh came. See Hosea 4: 17 ; Ps. 78 : 67-69. 5. Why are the faults and follies of Bible characters re- corded as well as their virtues and victories? Has this fact been of any help to you? What? 6. Note how the prophetic spirit was preserved during the history of God's people up to this point in the lives of Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. The study of this early history and prophecy stood first in the schools of the prophets as well as in the lives of the prophets themselves. Adam and Eve continually saw the seed of the woman ; Abel looked to the Lamb of God slain from the foundation of the world ; Enoch beheld the Lord coming with ten thousand of His saints ; Noah was enraptured with the rainbow glory about the throne ; Abraham saw the Father and the Son to the com- pletion of the great mediatorial plan and the ratification of the everlasting covenant ; Isaac witnessed the results of that plan and that ratified covenant, " On earth peace, good-will toward DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK BOOK OF' GENESIS. 37 men ; " Jacob saw the ministration of angels, Christ the way, God over all ; Joseph had a view of the final coronation—Christ enthroned in glory. LESSON X1V.—December 31, 1898. REVIEW. I. NAME, the things made on each day of the creative week. 2. What two institutions have come down to us from Eden ? Were they instituted as types? By what acts was the Sabbath made ? 3. In what respects was man different from the animals in his creation ? Gen. I : 26, 27 ; 2 : 7, 19. 4. Trace the successive steps in the temptation and fall. 5. How, when, why, and how many times, was the earth cursed during the patriarchal age? 6. Carefully trace the causes, and state the effects of the flood. 7. Why, when, and where was the tower of Babel built? Why, how, and with what result was it destroyed? Is this in favor of, or against, concentration in the Lord's work ? Give reason for your reply. 8. Give Scripture reasons why Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were called to be pilgrims and strangers in a strange land. 9. In what special sense were they the called of the Lord? io. By what characteristics, manners, and customs, or habits of life, were they distinguished from the world? Ir. How often, and under what circumstances, did the Lord appear to Abraham? to Isaac? to Jacob? 12. In what places did Abraham sojourn? Isaac? Jacob? 13. In what places did they erect altars of worship? IN THE MOST NEEDY FIELDS 38 BOOK OE GENESIS. 14. What special promise was made and confirmed to them all? How, when, under what circumstances, and how many times? 15. What was the patriarchal age? Describe the patriarchal government. Why was the genealogy of this age kept with so great care? 16. Trace the genealogy of the world to the death of Joseph. 17. Make a list of the prophets, and of their prophecies, giving interpretations, showing in whom they all center. 18. In how many ways did the Lord commune with them ? In how many ways does He speak to us? 19. In what different ways is the plan of redemption re- vealed in the book of Genesis? 20. Under what covenant did the patriarchs live? Give proof. • 21. Of how many of the patriarchs have we a record of their "last end"? What does the brevity and simplicity of that record show? 22. Make a list of the benefits you have received in the study of the book of Genesis, and fix them in your mind. 23. What are the principal events recorded in the book? 24. Make an outline of the book. Give the lesson head- ings in their order of the twenty-six lessons of the past two quarters, naming the scripture included in each. DONATIONS THIS QUARTER FOR MISSION WORK • ▪ .41.13 asi.E•Wator.. .sqd•Sipitieto•IN..6 voAlA A SEW TORVSseSIWOO,. WYNN. , ••• IWW•est7l1 `Twin. S.M.AP'...H! amble p• straise Wed. " hew. iititee No um oshimu phoicn•ruo•?,.oi Toe appro.& of toonit 4/1 3 AMO . it McuMMI. NS • Too of tabelot..10 W.Va. • um M politkv. It 164 tir,r141.4m)imuy atom: tho. eumolipt is Tx . 'lots( lin Mktal Ramer Itrolth •ran Is 411 orimento O. awe to Motto( nn Me/WO+ elatle. •aoth to.[tlmwtwll wd .itaittl .w. togeLo om oimai. tommt morti.oaort aapartloa . ai ,NeitIgy tot a moody Mr me la MP Mi. or . ottla ,emit •Watis botroomOstreabbatit mot plialmt boiamerrtmlakbp. teMintrowee Om Moo Wit IMMO:" tuts. AM tom tato, • --"" • rInsInirs'grent Wt.& Goo otion tic Manila bath, on, 5,M4s si5lMajc.-oid c W..111 tiot paMM uny r. Sunday. An n, km . it la not Moor al o• ioto• • Mao to litoO tree et.t. Imu JonW pm*. • •Mo• A .n.n.LiVgal:,..nn nn...onn fonght •.ne the Sabbath' one 4n,tnnn• j. • fts 1.,44 ow. teamed dto 1▪r•.••••• • nnen Inn an. In, mamma., to Ow TV imrortno a ova.. analta.non anal.. om of a man. ia, Ton. Safi,.Y..r a. m., If es Ina, tn.. me but the Ingnnonnal notara WOW, We 15. Y.n511. halinor, fro. did forl.ni • 10.1.1••••••• tb• snindn of MI la-I walhiloaskithemossi Reduced Facsimile Page. Actual size 834x1 134 inches The Sentinel is like a trumpet giving a certain sound; and all The Sentinel our people should read it care. Is a 16-Page Weekly fully, and then send it to some Price, $1.00 per year relative or friend, thus putting to the best use the light that God Address has given tbem."—Testimonies for ArIERICAN SENTINEL the Church, vol. 5, t. 718. 39 Bond St., New York City 39 FALL SUBSCRIPTION BOOKS ttemtric.+1100.**titetrkfiltte? 111 TEN THOUSAND ACCEPTANCES Is quite a response to a single invita- tion! Let us explain. Six months ago we used these columns to invite our friends to circulate "The Story of Re- demption." They responded promptly, and the first edition of 10,000 was sold. /IC "Adam and Eve Another edition is now printed, and the stepped out of Par- invitation has not been withdrawn. 447 adise into the shad- ow of the Cross." The first report of one agent showed the value of orders taken to average 511 $1.50 per hour; another shows $1.70 per Reduced from hour; while another says "The people • "Story of are delighted with `The Story of Re- Redemption." demption.' " 11. Cloth, lemon edge - $1 00 • Cloth, gilt edge - Prospectus - - - 1 25 .60 4', Live Issues it Are treated in "The Com- ing King." That's why it tic? sells so easily. Another reason is, its 290 pages are illustrated with over 180 engravings. There are 1'9 other reasons, but we haven't space to give sle? them here, and then you can get the book itself in tt/ Cloth, plain edge, for $1.00 Cloth, gilt top, for 1 50 Prospectus - .60 tts.10*.tficemiclic For terms and territory, address your State Tract Society, or Pacific Press Publishing Lo., Oakland, Cal. 40 FALL SUBSCRIPTION BOOKS It sells easily Is the testimony of those who canvass for "Christ Our Sav- iour." Ladies and even young girls have been especially suc- cessful with this beautiful little volume. Some 200,000 copies have been circulated and still it sells, Why? .Well, it treats a most important subject in an interesting way, is originally illustrated, and is cheap. Notice the prices: Presentation Edition (see cut) $1.25 Cloth, aluminum title - - .75 Board, cloth back . - .50 Prospectus - - — .55 It is issued in cloth and board bindings in German, Swedish, Danish and Spanish. In this list is "Looking unto Jesus, or The Newest Book Christ in Type and Antitype." It gives a clear and comprehensive view of that mystery of mysteries—the incarnation and sacrifice of Christ. It contains over 300 pages, is well illustrated and beautifully printed. The prices are: Cloth, plain edge, $1.00; Cloth, gilt edge, $1.50. GOOD PICTURES Help to interest the youth in the scriptures; therefore the pub- lishers illustrated "The Gospel eader" with 22 half-tones and 25 pen drawings. The book is written by a prom- inent author and scholar, and is well calculated to interest and instruct. It contains 192 pages and sells as follows: Board, with cloth back 50c Cloth (see cut) . 75c Prospectus - - - 50c For terms and territory, address your State Tract Society, or Pacific Press Publishing Co., Oakland, Cal. 41 FALL SUBSCRIPTION BOOKS THOUGHTS FROM THE MOUNT OF BLESSING Is a real literary gem—a Christian's handy classic. Notice what others say: "A book for the quiet hour. "A very devout, truthful exposition of the Lord Christ's words."—Western Christian Ad- vocate. "It can by no means be read with profit at one sitting, but is a book for time of medi- tation, as its title indicates."—Baptist Union. The book contains over 200 pages, and 19 half-tone engravings. Is bound in Cloth, with side title in gold $0.75 Half Calf, marbled edge - 1.00 Prospectus - . THE GOSPEL IN Gr°''' '' THE C' OSPEL CREATION r.:. c IN CIVTION There is no better commentary on the sig- nificance of creation week than that contained in this volume. It will give the reader much 31A.z1:21 1-.21gis inN food for thought, and is calculated to inspire a love for scripture study. It is especially ap- propriate in connection with our present Sab- bath-school lessons. Contains 176 pages. Prices: Board binding - 25c Cloth • - - 40c .... zdvegommt R Mighty In the south seas and the subsequent history of the mutineers, is the subject of "Story of Pitcairn Island." It is written by a direct descendant of one of the mutineers, and is absolutely reliable. It contains 266 pages. Illustrated. Price, $1.00 For terms to agents and territory on any of the fore- going books, address your State Tract Society, or PACIFIC PRESS PUBLISHING CO„ PUBLISHERS OAKLAND. CAL. 42 pAl ay) .1,5A IW 1 Mt Rea 61: iWn We. Missionary Biographies "We commended this series in our last issue, nd a further examina- tion leads us to renew our comtnendation, and to urge the placing of this n. series of missionary books in all our Sabbath- school libraries." — The Missionary Herald. fiV Griffith John, Founder of the Hankow Mission, Central. uhina. By William Robson - - - - - 75c Robert Moffat, the Missionary Hero of Kurumau. By David J. Deane - - - - - 75c i. James Chalmers, Missionary and Explorer of Raratonga and New Guinea. By Wm. Robson - - 75c Y'M William Carey, the Shoemaker who became a Missionary. F,W By Rev. John B. Myers - - - - - - 75c •-%; Robert Morrison, the Pioneer of Chinese Missions. By 4; Wm. J. Townsend - - - - - - 75c Bishop Patteson, the Martyrof Melanesia. By Jesse Page, 75c Samuel Crowther, the Slave Boy who became Bishop of the Niger. By Jesse Page - - - - - 75c Thomas J. Comber, Missionary Pioneer to the Congo. i.— • By Rev. John B. Myers - - - - - - 75c Missionary Ladies in Foreign Lands. By Mrs. E. R. A' Pitman - - - - - - - - - 75c John Williams, the Martyr Missionary to Polynesia. By Rev. James J. Ellis - - - - - 75c David 'Brainerd, the Apostle to the North American Indians - - - - - - - - - - 75c David Livingstone 75c Pacific Press Publishing Co. 39 Bond St. 18 West Fifth St. MI New York City Oakland, Cal. Kansas City, Mo. FLA !mit kV. El l a • vos, (Eis rvi a 43 Mignigiaggeatinglatietatittla, Pi.l to 1flu 74 •ra .i1:44l 15 3 000 ti4 Oa oty. 4:74 els crti vw •t4 fits :4 tv, tVI 70 PACES 2 ‘w It* 1.10 I DAILY 0-4 V4. Ito VI a/141 010 aVi .I 31 ws %I Was the average sale of the trtr ii %Ii Apples of Gold Libra"), for Apples F4 74 fr... tvo the year 1897. 07,1 7,4 .1-0 0.1. 4.4. i'4 a.. •V/ .4 ral Its tror/ 4 re. 04 Recent Numbers have been 2 tra $4 74 •:,,,d 44 Back to the "Old Paths" - $1.00 per 100 its 45 Historical Facts and Incidents 2 00 " " 2 Vet 46 True "Christian Citizenship" .50 " " Siti 47 The Great Threefold Message 1.00 ,,, 44 t34 74 ir41 48 "Try the Spirits" - - - .50 " " ilb 49 Kept by the Power of God - - .25 " " .4 50 The Day of the Sabbath - - 1.00 a e 2 fire 51 Heralds of His Coming - 1.50 " " OR 7,4 52 Prayer - - - - - 1 00 " 66 fp., .2# 53 Winning of Margaret - - 1.00 " ,,, In 743 54 Unawares—Ye Did It unto Me .50 " " Ike go 55 Twelve Principles of Holy Living .50 " 41 AI ► 4 it" ty/ 04 74 tke i44 ► fIS go v:4 For Order Blank giving titles and prices tit wo for the whole series, address /Ito eto 2 1„vo 7161 Pacific Press Publishing Co.: •ra 39 Bond St. ilAto Oakland, Cal. Kansas City, rte. 2 18 West Fifth St. tit New York City tto 74, 51 MDMONVOMONOWICONNWAVOWRI 44 •• WONDERS OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY The above is the title of a forthcoming tract by Elder A. 0. Tait which will be published October 1st as No. 155 of the Bible Students' Library. It discusses the wonderful inventions and discoveries of this century and gives their true significance. It will be well illustrated and contain about forty pages. The price will be about $2.50 per hundred, but it wilt not be printed on the cover, hence a retail price of five cents may be readily obtained. This is a timely tract and its sale will no doubt equal that of "Alarm of War." Send a card for a complete list of the numbers of "Bible Student? Library." Here are a few of the late ones: 144 The Eastern Question. What 149 From Glory to Glory. 20th its Solution Means to all the thousand - - - 1%c World. 40th thousand - lc 150 Rome's Arraignment of Sab- 145 Will a Man Rob God? 10th bath-Breakers. 40th thou'nd lc thousand - - - - 10c 151 " Christian " Demand for 146 Rich Man and Lazarus. 20th War. 40th thousand - lc thousand - - • - 152 The Alarm of War. 150th 147 Home Missionary Work. 25th thousand - - - 2c thousand - - - 2c 153 The Arming of the Nations. 148 The Sabbath in Prophecy. 42d thousand - - • 10c 20th thousand - - - 2c 154 Sunday in the Greek - %c PACIFIC PRESS PUBLISHING CO. n load St., New York City OAKLAND, CAL. 18 W. 5th 111., K City, Ms. 45 This Winter Mzri). =War= Will be an opportune time to study the " Testimonies for the Church." Have you..a complete set? Aniid the peri s of these last days we are invited "to the Law and the Testimony." This invitation would not be extended unless it were necessary, therefore let us accept it. Prices: Cloth, - per volume, $1.00; per set (5 volt), $5.00 66 46. Library 1.50 " " " 7.50 No. 33 in cloth, special price, 30c Volume 5 is also bound in limp leather with colored edge -, $1.50 Address your STATE TRACT SOCIETY, or Pacific Press Publishing Co. 39 Bond Street 18 West Fifth Street New York City Oakland, Cal. Kansas City, Mo. Our Little Friend An Illustrated Paper for Children The only child's paper published by the Seventh- day Adventist denomination. Contains the Sabbath-school lessons for the Inter- liate and Primary Divisions. Is designed to give practical moral lessons in easy and interesting Style. Has received hearty commendation from all parts of the field. TERMS: 1„1! Single copy, weekly, per year, post-paid 50c 2: In clubs of 5 to 9 copies to one address, each 45c In clubs of 10 or more, each - - 40c Address, OUR LITTLE FRIEND Box 548, Oakland, Cal. 46 ME DESIRE OF AGES Actual Size, 7x10% The above is the title of the long-looked-for life of Christ, by Mrs. E. G. White. It is much more than a life of Christ, however; it is a use of that life as a great object lesson with which to illustrate lice principles of true Christian living. For that reason no more important book can be placed before a people living, as we are, amid the perils of the last days. For-over ten years the author has been at work on the manuscript, and for a year and a half a corps of New York's best artists, under the supervision of our own art director, have been engaged in studying and illustrating it. Their work consists of 38 full-page engravings,87 illumi- nated chapter headings, and nearly 300 text illustrations. All of these have been designed especially for this book. There is nearly twice as much matter in this book as in " Great Controversy," hence it seemed necessary at first to publish it in two volumes, but enlarging the page to 7x10 inches enables us to issue it in one 900-page volume at the following prices: Cloth, marbled edges - - $3.50 Cloth, gilt edges - - - - 4 25 Library, marbled edges - - 5.00 Full Morocco, gilt edges - - 700 Prospectus - - - - - - 1.25 It will be ready about Oct. 15th. For terms and territory, address your State Tract Society. • PACIFIC PRESS PUBLISHING CO., Publishers 47 4 tk OltoPi Ito. Imm...Otk 0 Q0 te ►0,4 _ ...,,,c,► ►,oto woo, l. etk Imm". ... Ai% 4 Am% ► t4 .0m#.. OA Oi, n ...,,_ or►et i49,_ent ►a►el►anellgitte" or et. 171241201MnignittliatiMegbatitit.L.►&.. ., lea liti iat tiri fel titi The World's Progress Idemm tomm. sti tr li opa: ........„ i FOR A QUARTER OF A CENTURY 4pain ..ttbA, ItiN ► Ic.„ ,..,IA". 1 Vtml 14111 In just a few months it will be twenty-fiv9 years since the Signs of the Times was started on its mission. These twenty-five years have marked exceedingly mar- velous developments in the fulfilling of prophecy. This wonderful procession of events, showing that the Lord's coming is right at hand, is most intensely thrilling when we take time to consider it. On January 5, 1899, the Signs of the Times will be a 32-page double number, with an artistic,decorative cover, making four pages more. In this issue, these wonderful fulfillments of prophecy during the last twenty-five years will be set forth. The very best of writers are preparing the matter now. Good artists are illustrating it fully so as to clearly present, in the light of God's great prophetic word, the absorbing movements and conditions of this time. This will be the most important issue of the Signs of the Times ever printed, and it should have at least a million circulation. Bvery Sabbath-school Superintend- ent, officer, teacher, and scholar is needed to help in this work. Write us at once for further particulars. Lay your plans without delay to do your part in placing a copy of this issue of the Signs in every home in all the land. "4N Following are a few of the topics that will be presented: Marked Development of Church Progress in Astronomy and State During 25 Years Progress in rledical Science European Changes for a Quarter rledical rlissionary Work Century Summary of Prophetic Fulfill- Striking Inventions for 25 Years ment Military and Naval Develop- Sabbath Reform, True and False ment, and Its Meaning Testimony of the Ancient Flonu- The Development of the Money ments (Witnesses in Stone) Am IA va Power, and its Place in Proph- The Last Reformation (Predicted KI1•• ecy by Prophet and Reformer) tA False Religions and Isms—Their Rise and Development Demand fora Definite rlessage The Gospel of Christ Pet But we have not space to say more here. Drop us a card for our illustrated announcement. Address, SIGNS OF THE TIMES,' Oakland, Cal. 1.4.0 WOWS it. re AIN okworeilpfirytioryie, Prot