SABBATH SCHOOL tar& UARTER No. 223, FIRST QUARTER, 1951 LAST-DAY EVENTS Thirteenth Sabbath Offering, March 31, 1951, Southern African Division INDIVIDUAL SABBATH SCHOOL OFFERING GOAL "As God hath prospered him" MY WEEKLY GOAL (Check.Amount) I 5.00 I 2.00 I 1.50 1 1.00 1 .50 1 .35 I "God loveth a cheerful giver" RECORD ... ..4 Cs1 e* .iir It) CO C.• CO CO C, .--1 C4 . Cl.. 0 ol ....4 ..q E. 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. Name Place a check mark in each space below for the days you have studied STUDY RECORD 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 1ST DAY'S STUDY 2D DAY'S STUDY 3D DAY'S STUDY 4TH DAY'S STUDY 5TH DAY'S STUDY 6TH DAY'S STUDY 7TH DAY'S STUDY "Let the Sabbath school lesson be learned, not by a hasty glance at the lesson scrip- ture 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. Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 223, January-March, 19.,51,:'16 ;. gents a single copy, 35 cents a year, in `CT. S. A. i 12 cents a single copy, 45 mi)ear, in. Canada and foreign countries. Published in the U. S.',A. by Pacific Press TiibliStiing Asso- ciation (a corporation of S. D. A.), Mountain View, California. Entered as second- class matter Oct. 13, 1904, at the post office in Mountain View, California, under the Act of Congress of March 3, 1879. Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in Section 1103, Act of Oct. 3, 1917, and authorized Sept. 18, 1918. Copyright, 1950, by Pacific Press Publishing Association. Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly LAST- DAY EVENTS Lesson 1, for January 6, 1951 The Fall of Empires 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: "Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., pp. 29-69; "Beacon Lights of Prophecy," pages 43-51. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT I. General survey. 5. Read part of study-help assignment. 2. Questions 1-5. 6. Read remainder of study-help assign- 3. Questions 6-10. ment. 4. Questions 11-15. 7. Review. The Certainty of Prophecy 1. What declaration does God make regarding His foreknowl- edge and His power? Isa. 46:9, 10. NOTE.—"The history which the great I AM has marked out in His word, uniting link after link in the prophetic chain, from eternity in the past to eternity in the future, tells us where we are today in the procession of the ages, and what may be expected in the time to come. All that prophecy has foretold as coming to pass, until the present time, has been traced on the pages of history, and we may be assured that all which is yet to come will be ful- filled in its order."—Education, page 178. 2. In the midst of the turmoil and uncertainty of these times, what sure guide is given us? 2 Peter 1:19. The Rise and Fall of Civilizations 3. On what period of time did the dream of Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, focus? Dan. 2:28. 4. What is represented by the head of gold? Dan. 2:36-38. NcrrE.—"It was the golden kingdom of a golden age. Babylon, its metrop- olis, towered to a height never reached by any of its successors. . . . This city, containing in itself many things which were themselves wonders of the world, was itself another and still mightier wonder."—Daniel and the Reve- lation, pages 42, 43. [3 ] 5. Why did this marvelous civilization fall, and how complete was its ruin? Dan. 5:22-28; Isa. 13:19-22. NOTE.—"Today scarcely enough even of the ruins is left to mark the spot where once stood the largest, richest, and proudest city of the ancient world. Thus the ruin of great Babylon shows us how accurately God fulfills His word, and makes the doubts of skepticism appear like willful blindness."—Daniel and the Revelation, page 49. 6. How are the second and third kingdoms designated? Dan. 2:39. 7. How does the record of Paul's visit to Athens give the key to the downfall of Grecia? Acts 17:16. NoTE.—Grecian architecture is copied by our builders. Solon has be- queathed his name to modern lawyers. The speeches of her orators, and the writings of her wise men are classics in our halls of learning. Her high physical development is memorialized in our Olympic games. The impress of her art stands out in the sculpture of Western civilization. Her philosophers soared to the fog-covered peaks of intellectualism. But they all left God out of their thoughts, and their sculpture and literature reveal the moral impotency that brought the downfall of another great civilization. 8. What description of conditions in the iron monarchy of Rome accounts for the disintegration of that powerful empire? Dan. 2:40; Rom. 1:21-32. 9. Why did these kingdoms fall? Ps. 9:17. A Divided World 10. Referring to the kingdoms suggested by the ten toes of the image, what divine prediction describes the hopeless division of the nations? Dan. 2:41-43. NOTE.—The breakup of Rome into ten kingdoms was completed in A.D. 476. Time and again during the more than fourteen centuries which have followed, men have endeavored to weld the nations of Europe into one great empire. Charlemagne tried it. Charles V tried it. Louis XIV tried it. Napoleon tried it. Kaiser Wilhelm tried it. Hitler tried it. The League of Nations tried to get the nations to pull together. The United Nations is trying to do it. God's seven words still stand, "They shall not cleave one to another." 11. What conditions are to be expected in the last days, judging from the changes from nation to nation as indicated in the image? Dan. 2:35, 45. [4] The Setting Up of Christ's Kingdom 12. What is represented by the stone which smote the image on its feet? Dan. 2:34, 44; Matt. 21:42, 44; Ps. 2:7-9. NOTE.—"So it will be in the great final day, when judgment shall fall upon the rejectors of God's grace. Christ, their rock of offense, will then appear to them as an avenging mountain. The glory of His countenance, which to the righteous is life, will be to the wicked a consuming fire. Because of love rejected, grace despised, the sinner will be destroyed."—The Desire of Ages, page 600. 13. In connection with what great event does the smiting of the nations occur? Rev. 19:11-16; Isa. 11:4. 14. What is the significance of the stone's becoming a great mountain filling the whole earth? Dan. 2:35 (last part), 44; Isa. 11:9. NoTE.—"In the days of these kings the God of heaven is to set up a king- dom. We have been in the days of these kings for many centuries, and we are still in their days. So far as this prophecy is concerned, the very next event is the setting up of God's everlasting kingdom."—Daniel and the Revelation, page 65. 15. How only are men prepared for a home in that kingdom? John 3:3-5. N0TE.—"When the Spirit of God takes possession of the heart, it trans- forms the life. Sinful thoughts are put away, evil deeds are renounced; love, humility, and peace take the place of anger, envy, and strife. Joy takes the place of sadness, and the countenance reflects the light of heaven. No one sees the hand that lifts the burden, or beholds the light descend from the courts above. The blessing comes when by faith the soul surrenders itself to God. Then that power which no human eye can see creates a new being in the image of God. . . . The beginning of redemption we may know here through a personal experience. Its results reach through the eternal ages."— The Desire of Ages, page 173. • Lesson 2, for January 13, 1951 Last-Day Signs MEMORY VERSE: "Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares." Luke 21:34. STUDY HELP: "The Great Controversy," pages 299-316, 333, 334 (new ed., pp. 343-361, 382, 383). [ 6] DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Questions 13, 14. 2. Questions 1-5. 6. Read study help. 3. Questions 6-9. 7. Review. 4. Questions 10-12. Signs in the Heavens 1. Give terms used in Holy Scripture to designate the final period of earth's history. Dan. 12:4; Matt. 13:39; 2 Tim. 3:1. 2. What definite questions did His disciples put to Jesus pri- vately? Matt. 24:3. 3. What direct answer was given? Luke 21:11, 25. 4. How did our Lord describe the first great sign in the heavens? When did it occur? Matt. 24:29; Rev. 6:12; Mark 13:24. NoTE.—"The nineteenth of May, 1780, was a remarkably dark day. Candles were lighted in many houses. The birds were silent, and disappeared. The fowls retired to roost. It was the general opinion that the day of judgment was at hand. The legislature of Connecticut was in session at Hartford, but being unable to transact business, adjourned."—President Timothy Dwight of Yale, in Historical Collections, 2d ed., 1836, p..403. 5. What was the next great sign, and when was it given? Matt. 24:29; Rev. 6:13. "Many who witnessed the falling of the stars, looked upon it as a herald of the coming judgment,—`an awful type, a sure forerunner, a merciful sign, of that great and dreadful day.' Thus the attention of the people was directed to the fulfillment of prophecy, and many were led to give heed to the warning of the second advent."—The Great Controversy, page 334. Signs in the Earth 6. With what two other periods of time does Jesus compare the last days? Luke 17:26-30. 7. How do the Scriptures describe conditions in Noah's day? Gen. 6:5, 11-13. NoTE.—"The spirit of anarchy is permeating all nations, and the outbreaks that from time to time excite the horror of the world are but indications of the pent-up fires of passion and lawlessness that, having once escaped control, will fill the earth with woe and desolation. The picture which inspiration has given of the antediluvian world, represents too truly the condition to which 6 modern society is fast hastening. Even now, in the present century, and in professedly Christian lands, there are crimes daily perpetrated, as black and terrible as those for which the old-world sinners were destroyed."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 102. 8. Describe the conditions in Sodom and Gomorrah at the time of their destruction. Gen. 18:20, 32; Ezek. 16:49, 50; Jude 7. 9. What conditions in the religious world contribute to the perils of the last days? 2 Tim. 3:1-5. NorE.—"We may believe that the name of Jesus is the only name under heaven whereby man may be saved, and yet we may not through faith make Him our personal Saviour. It is not enough to believe the theory of truth. It is not enough to make a profession of faith in Christ and have our names registered on the church roll. 'He that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and He in him. And hereby we know that He abideth in us, by the Spirit which He hath given us.' Hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.' This is the genuine evidence of conversion. Whatever our profession, it amounts to nothing unless Christ is revealed in works of righteousness."—Christ's Object Lessons, pages 312, 313. 10. What will be the attitude toward the teachings of the word of God? 2 Tim. 4:3, 4. NOTE.—"There is cause for alarm in the condition of the religious world today. God's mercy has been trifled with. The multitude make void the law of Jehovah, 'teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.' Infidelity prevails in many of the churches in our land; not infidelity in its broadest sense,—an open denial of the Bible,—but an infidelity that is robed in the garb of Christianity, while it is undermining faith in the Bible as a revelation from God. Fervent devotion and vital piety have given place to hollow formalism. As the result apostasy and sensualism prevail."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 166. The Hope of the World 11. How does James describe the results of human greed and selfishness in the last days? James 5:1-5. NoTE.—"There are not many, even among educators and statesmen, who comprehend the causes that underlie the present state of society. Those who hold the reins of government are not able to solve the problem of moral corruption, poverty, pauperism, and increasing crime. They are struggling in vain to place business operations on a more secure basis."—Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 13. 12. When conditions get beyond human remedy, what is the only hope of the world? Luke 21:25-28; James 5:7, 8; Titus 2: 11-13. [7] 13. As we see the fast fulfilling signs, what are we to know? Luke 21:29-33. NOTE.—"Though no man knoweth the day nor the hour of His coming, we are instructed and required to know when it is near. We are further taught that to disregard His warning, and refuse or neglect to know when His advent is near, will be as fatal for us as it was for those who lived in the days of Noah not to know when the Flood was coming. And the parable in the same chapter, contrasting the faithful and the unfaithful servant, and giving the doom of him who said in his heart, 'My Lord delayeth His coming,' shows in what light Christ will regard and reward those whom He finds watching, and teaching His coming, and those denying it."—The Great Controversy, page 371. 14. What should be our attitude in this solemn hour? Luke 21: 34-36. NOTE.—"As the time of their probation was closing, the antediluvians gave themselves up to exciting amusements and festivities. .. . Do we not see the same repeated in our day? While God's servants are giving the message that the end of all things is at hand, the world is absorbed in amusements and pleasure seeking. There is a constant round of excitement that causes indiffer- ence to God, and prevents the people from being impressed by the truths which alone can save them from the coming destruction."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 103. Lesson 3, for January 20, 1951 A Last-Day Message MEMORY VERSE: "Seeing then that we have a great High Priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession." Hebrews 4:14. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 324-329, 409-432 (new ed., pp. 370-376, 467-481) ; "Beacon Lights of Prophecy," pages 91-107. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Read from "The Great Controversy." 2. Questions 1-5. 6. Read from "Beacon Lights of Proph- 3. Questions 6-9. ecy." 4. Questions 10-13. 7. Review. God's Judgments Foretold 1. What fundamental principle always governs God's dealings with mankind? Amos 3:7. 2. What examples does the Bible give of this fact? Heb. 11:7; Gen. 18:17; 19:14; Matt. 3:1-3. [8] 3. If God sent a message foretelling the judgment of a single city, may we look for a special warning message as the doom of the whole world approaches? Joel 2:1, 2; Zeph. 2:1-3; Mal. 4:5, 6. NoTE.—"When the judgment of the great day shall come, when Christ shall appear King of kings and Lord of lords, when the dead shall be raised, when the world shall end, and all things earthly shall be closed up, how vastly more important will this event be than all others! In this grand event all will have an interest, both the living and the dead, from Adam to the last child born. Before this grand and awful event all others sink into insignifi- cance. Shall, then, such an event as this come upon the people of God and upon the world, and God's servants know nothing about it, and the world be unwarned concerning it?"—Present Truth (tract), page 9. 4. How widely will this message be proclaimed? Matt. 24:14. The Hour of God's Judgment 5. What prophecy forms the basis of the judgment-hour mes- sage? Dan. 8:13, 14. 6. In symbolic prophecy, what does a day represent? Num. 14:34; Ezek. 4:6. 7. When did the 2300 year-days begin and end? Dan. 9:25; Ezra 7:9-14. NoTE.—"The 2300 days had been found to begin when the commandment of Artaxerxes for the restoration and building of Jerusalem, went into effect, in the autumn of 457 a.c."—The Great Controversy, page 410. UNTO 2.300 DAYS: THEN SHALL THE SANCTUARY SE CLEANSED 2.300 YEARS .10 441.50 ARE 62110.1 . 490 SCARS '"' "'". MG AM /Lk 4s7 17 31 3 3551- 3/. 3 RON 4002160 overil,o0 years 1810 years THE 2300 DAYS 8. What outstanding events check the accuracy of the interpre- tation? Dan. 9:25-27. NoTE.—"From this date, 483 years extend to the autumn of A.D. 27. At that time this prophecy was fulfilled. The word 'Messiah' signifies 'the Anointed One.' In the autumn of A.D. 27, Christ was baptized by John, and received the anointing of the Spirit. . . . 'In the midst of the week He shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease.' In A.D. 31, three and a half years [9] after His baptism, our Lord was crucified. With the great sacrifice offered upon Calvary, ended that system of offerings which for four thousand years had pointed forward to the Lamb of God."—The Great Controversy, pages 327, 328. The Cleansing of the Sanctuary 9. To what sanctuary does the prophecy refer? Heb. 8:1, 2; 9:23. NoTE.—"The 'true tabernacle' in heaven is the sanctuary of the new cove- nant. And as the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 is fulfilled in this dispensation, the sanctuary to which it refers must be the sanctuary of the new covenant. At the termination of the 2300 days, in 1844, there had been no sanctuary on earth for many centuries. Thus the prophecy, 'Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed,' unquestionably points to the sanctuary in heaven."—The Great Controversy, page 417. 10. In the typical service what did the cleansing of the sanc- tuary signify? Lev. 16:15-19; 23:26-30. NOTE.—"As anciently the sins of the people were by faith placed upon the sin offering, and through its blood transferred, in figure, to the earthly sanc- tuary; so in the new covenant the sins of the repentant are by faith placed upon Christ, and transferred, in fact, to the heavenly sanctuary. And as the typical cleansing of the earthly was accomplished by the removal of the sins by which it had been polluted, so the actual cleansing of the heavenly is to be accomplished by the removal, or blotting out, of the sins which are there recorded. But before this can be accomplished, there must be an examination of the books of record to determine who, through repentance of sin and faith in Christ, are entitled to the benefits of His atonement. The cleansing of the sanctuary therefore involves a work of investigation,—a work of judgment." —The Great Controversy, pages 421, 422. 11. In heaven what event marked the close of the 2300 days? Heb 9:6, 7, 23, 24; Rev. 11:19. NorE.—"The announcement that the temple of God was opened in heaven, and the ark of His testament was seen, points to the opening of the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary, in 1844, as Christ entered there to perform the closing work of the atonement."—The Great Controversy, page 433. 12. What divinely inspired message was sounded at that time? Rev. 7:1-3; 10:1-7; 14:6-11. 13. What result follows this proclamation of the judgment-hour message to all the world? Rev. 14:12. NoTE.—"Necessarily, the message of the judgment hour must call men to loyalty to God's holy law. That law is the standard of the judgment. Every man must meet it there, before the bar of Eternal Justice.... "The whole controversy between truth and error is waged over loyalty to [ 10] God. His law is the foundation of His government, even as an earthly govern- ment is founded upon its laws. The great apostasy has arisen that was to `think to change' the holy law of God. Dan. 7:25. Now, with the judgment hour at hand, soon to pass upon all living, the gospel message for the time calls men to loyalty to the living God. And at its call, in all the world, the people of the prophecy are springing up, keeping 'the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.' "—W. A. Spicer, Beacon Lights of Prophecy, pages 315, 316. Lesson 4, for January 27, 1951 The Investigative Judgment MEMORY VERSE: "He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels." Revelation 3:5. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 479-491 (new ed., pp. 545- 557) ; "Testimonies," vol. 4, pp. 384-387. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Read from "The Great Contro- 2. Questions 1-4. versy." 3. Questions 5-9. 6. Read from "Testimonies," 4. Questions 10-14. volume 4. 7. Review. The Judgment in Session 1. In the certainty of what event does Paul call men to repent- ance? Acts 17:31; 24:25. 2. With whom will the judgment begin? 1 Peter 4:17. NOTE.—"In the typical service, only those who had come before God with confession and repentance, and whose sins, through the blood of the sin-offer- ing, were transferred to the sanctuary, had a part in the service of the Day of Atonement. So in the great day of final atonement and investigative judg- ment, the only cases considered are those of the professed people of God. The judgment of the wicked is a distinct and separate work, and takes place at a later period."—The Great Controversy, page 480. 3. Who will be the judge? Dan. 7:9, 10; Ps. 50:6. 4. By what standard of conduct will all be judged? Eccl. 12:13, 14; James 2:10-12. NOTE.—"That men may be prepared to stand in the judgment, the message commands them to 'fear God, and give glory to Him,' and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.' The result of an acceptance of these messages is given in the words, 'Here are they that [11 1 keep the commandments of God, and the faith of. Jesus.' In order to be pre- pared for the judgment, it is necessary that men should keep the law of God. That law will be the standard of character in the judgment. The apostle Paul declares, 'As many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law, . . in the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ.' And He says that `the doers of the law shall be justified.' Faith is essential in order to the keeping of the law of God; for 'without faith it is impossible to please Him.' "—The Great Controversy, page 436. 5. On what evidence will the decisions be based? Dan. 7:10; Isa. 65:6, 7; Mal. 3:16; Rev. 20:12. NorE.—A book of remembrance is written before God, in which are re- corded the good deeds of "them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name." "There is a record also of the sins of men. . . . Opposite each name in the books of heaven is entered, with terrible exactness, every wrong word, every selfish act, every unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin, with every artful dissembling. Heaven-sent warnings or reproofs neglected, wasted mo- ments, unimproved opportunities, the influence exerted for good or for evil, with its far-reaching results, all are chronicled by the recording angel."—The Great Controve6; pages 481, 482. 6. By whom art. `he records kept? Eccl. 5:6; Dan. 4:13, 17. NorE.—"Could the veil which separates the visible from the invisible world be swept back, and the children of men behold an angel recording every word and deed, which they must meet again in the judgment, how many words that are daily uttered would remain unspoken; how many deeds would remain undone."—The Great Controversy, page 487. Tire Book of, Life 7. Whose names are recorded in the book of life? Luke 10:20; Phil. 4:3; Rev. 13:8; 21:27. NOTE.—"The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God."—The Great Controversy, page 480. 8. What part does Jesus take in the judgment? 1 John 2:1; Heb. 7:25; Matt. 10:32, 33. 9. When one's name comes up in the judgment, what will be the result if sin has not been confessed and put away? Ex. 32:33; Ezek. 18:24. 10. What will be the result where every sin has been pardoned and overcome? Acts 3:19-21; Isa. 43:25; Rev. 3:5. [ 12 I NcrrE.—"All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life."—The Great Controversy, page 483. 11. What importance is attached to having the name retained in the book of life? Rev. 20:15; Dan. 12:1. 12. How searching will be the test of the judgment? Eccl. 12:14; Rom. 2:16; Matt. 12:36, 37. 13. What decree will go forth at the close of the judgment? Rev. 22:11, 12. NOTE.—"Perilous is the condition of those who, growing weary of their watch, turh to the attractions of the world. While the man of business is absorbed in the pursuit of gain, while the pleasure lover is seeking indulgence, while the daughter of fashion is arranging her adornments,—it may be in that hour the Judge of all the earth will pronounce the sentence, 'Thou art weighed in the balances, and art found wanting.' "—The Great Controversy, page 491. 14. What should be our constant prayer? Ps. 139:23, 24. NOTE.—"How solemn is the thought! Day after day, passing into eternity, bears its burden of records for the books of heaven. Words once spoken, deeds once done, can never be recalled. Angels have registered both the good and the evil. The mightiest conqueror upon the earth cannot call back the record of even a single day. Our acts, our words, even our most secret motives, all have their weight in deciding our destiny for weal or Woe. Though they may _ be forgotten by us, they will bear their testimony to justify or to condemn." —The Great Controversy, pages 486, 487. Lesson 5, for February 3, 1951 Last-Day Delusions MEMORY VERSE: "We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against princi- palities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against wicked spirits in high places." Ephesians 6:12, margin. STUDY HELP: "The Great Controversy," pages 551-562, 593-602 (new ed., pp. 623-635, 669-679). DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. QuestiOns 11-14. 2. Questions 1-4. 6. Read study help. 3. Questions 5-7. 7. Review. 4. Questions 8-10. 13 False Teachers 1. Against what last-day movements is special warning given? 1 Tim. 4:1, 2. 2. In the judgment day what will many say who profess to work miracles, in the name of Christ? Why had they been deceived? Matt. 7:21-23; 2 Thess. 2:10-12. NOTE.—"Before the final visitation of God's judgments upon the earth, there will be, among the people of the Lord, such a revival of primitive godli- ness as has not been witnessed since apostolic times. . . . The enemy of souls desires to hinder this work; and before the time for such a movement shall come, he will endeavor to prevent it, by introducing a counterfeit. In those churches which he can bring under his deceptive power, he will make it appear that God's special blessing is poured out; there will be manifest what is thought to be great religious interest. Multitudes will exult that God is work- ing marvelously for them, when the work is that of another spirit. Under a religious guise, Satan will seek to extend his influence over the Christian world."—The Great Controversy, page 464. Spiritism 3. What directions were given to ancient Israel concerning spirit mediums and all their kind? Lev. 19:31; 20:27; Deut. 18:9-13. Nora.—"There are few who have any just conception of the deceptive power of spiritualism and the danger of coming under its influence. Many tamper with it, merely to gratify their curiosity. They have no real faith in it, and would be filled.•with horror at the thought of yielding themselves to the spirits' control. But they venture upon the forbidden ground, and the mighty destroyer exercises his power upon them against their will."—The Great Controversy, page 558. 4. With whom do spirit mediums claim to communicate? 1 Sam. 28:11, 12. NOTE.—"It was not God's holy prophet that came forth at the spell of a sorcerer's incantation. Samuel was not present in that haunt of evil spirits. That supernatural appearance was produced solely by the power of Satan. He could as easily assume the form of Samuel as he could assume that of an angel of light, when he tempted Christ in the wilderness."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 679. 5. Why cannot the dead return to communicate with the living? Ps. 146:3, 4; Eccl. 9:5, 6,10. 6. What spirits deceive the nations? Rev. 16:13, 14. [ 14 ] NOTE.—"These visitants will appeal to our tenderest sympathies, and will work miracles to sustain their pretensions. We must be prepared to withstand them with the Bible truth that the dead know not anything, and that they who thus appear are the spirits of devils."—The Great Controversy, page 560. 7. Whence came these evil spirits? What is their work? Rev. 12:7-9. Satan's Crowning Act 8. What form may we expect Satan's master deception to as- sume? 2 Cor. 11:14. 9. What supreme efforts will Satan put forth as he sees the end approaching? Rev. 12:12; 2 Thess. 2:9, 10. NOTE.—"It was by satanic aid that Pharaoh's magicians were enabled to counterfeit the work of God. Paul testifies that before the second advent of Christ there will be similar manifestations of satanic power. The coming of the Lord is to be preceded by 'the working of Satan with all power and signs , and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness.' "—The Great Controversy, page 553. 10. How far will Satan go in impersonating Christ? Matt. 24:24. NOTE.—"As the crowning act in the great dr.ma of deception, Satan him- self will personate Christ. . . . The great deceiver will make it appear that Christ has come. In different parts of the earth, Satan will manifest himself among men as a majestic being of dazzling brightness, resembling the descrip- tion of the Son of God given by John in the Revelation. The glory that surrounds him is unsurpassed by anything that mortal eyes have yet beheld. The shout of triumph rings out upon the air, 'Christ has come l'"—The Great Controversy, page 624. The Scriptures Our Safeguard 11. How may the people of God distinguish between the coun- terfeit and the genuine appearing of Christ? Matt. 24:25-27. NOTE.—"So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true, that it will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. . . . None but those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will stand through the last great conflict."—The Great Controversy, page 593. 12. How only can we successfully contend with the forces of evil? Eph. 6:11-14. 13. With what significant words will the saints greet their Lord at His coming? Isa. 25:9. 14. What thrilling response will God's waiting people receive from their Redeemer? Luke 12:32. [16 ] Lesson 6, for February 10, 1951 Last-Day Dangers MEMORY VERSE: "Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved." Matthew 24:12, 13. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 518-530 (new ed., pp. 589- 600); "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 405-421 (new ed., pp. 415-431). DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Read from "The Great Contro- 2. Questions 1-4. versy." 3. Questions 5-8. 6. Read from "Christ's Object Les- 4. Questions 9-13. sons." 7. Review. Losing the First Love 1. In the discourses on His second coming, what warning state- ment does our Lord make? Matt. 24:12, 13. 2. What will be the experience of many who profess to be look- ing for the coming of the Lord? Matt. 24:48. NOTE.—" 'He [Satan] works upon minds to excite jealousy and dissatis- faction toward those at the head of the work. The gifts are next questioned; then, of course, they have but little weight, and instruction given through vision is disregarded.' Next follows skepticism in regard to the vital points of our faith, the pillars of our position, then doubt as to the Holy Scriptures, and then the downward march to perdition.'"—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 672. 3. In what way will the evil servant smite his fellow servants? Matt. 24:49; James 3:5, 6; Prov. 16:28. NOTE.—"An earnest effort should be made in every church to put away evilspeaking and a censorious spirit as among the sins productive of the great- est evils in the church. Severity and faultfinding must be rebuked as the workings of Satan. Mutual love and confidence must be encouraged and strengthened in the members of the church. Let all, in the fear of God and with love to their brethren, close their ears to gossip and censure."—Testi- monies, vol. 5, p. 609. 4. What is the result of strife in churches? James 3:14-16. The Lusts of the Flesh 5. What is the significance of eating and drinking with the drunken? Matt. 24:38, 39; 1 John 2:15-17. [ 16 ] NOTE.—"The crisis is stealing gradually upon us. . .. Men are still eating and drinking, planting and building, marrying, and giving in marriage. . . . Pleasure lovers are still crowding to theaters, horse races, gambling hells. sing, and every The highest excitement prevails, yet probation's hour is fast clo case is about to be eternally decided. Satan sees that his time is short. He has set all his agencies at work that men may be deceived, deluded, occupied and entranced, until the day of probation shall be ended, and the door of mercy be forever shut."—The Desire of Ages, page 636. 6. What sin prevalent in Sodom and Gomorrah will cause the downfall of, many in this degenerate age? Luke 17:28-30; Jude 7. NoTE.—"In all ages, temptations appealing to the physical nature have been most effectual in corrupting and degrading mankind. Through intem- perance, Satan works to destroy the mental and moral powers that God gave to man as a priceless endowment. Thus it becomes impossible for men to appreciate things of eternal worth. Through sensual indulgence, Satan seeks to blot from the soul every trace of likeness to God.... "His [Christ's] example declares that our only hope of eternal life is through bringing the appetites and passions into subjection to the will of God."—The Desire of Ages, page 122. 7. How complete is our sanctification to be in preparation for the coming of the Lord? 1 Thess. 5:23; Rom. 12:1. NOTE.—"Christians are bidden to present their bodies, 'a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.' In order to do this, all their powers must be preserved in the best possible condition. Every practice that weakens physi- cal or mental strength unfits man for the service of his Creator. And will God be pleased with anything less than the best we can offer? Said Christ, 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart.' Those who do love God with all the heart will desire to give Him the best service of their life, and they will be constantly seeking to bring every power of their being into har- mony with the laws that will promote their ability to do His will. They will not, by the indulgence of appetite or passion, enfeeble or defile the offering which they present to their heavenly Father."—The Great Controversy, pages 473, 474. Foolish Servants 8. In the parable of the ten virgins what fatal mistake was made by the foolish virgins? Matt. 25:8. See margin. NoTE,.—"The class represented by the foolish virgins are not hypocrites. They have a regard for the truth, ... they are attracted to those who believe the truth; but they have not yielded themselves to the Holy Spirit's working. . . . The class represented by the foolish virgins have been content with a superficial work. They do not know God.... Their service to God degener- ates into a form."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 411. 9. Against what trait of character are we especially warned? Luke 12:15; Col. 3:5, last part. [17] NOTE.—"I saw that Satan bade his angels lay their snares especially for those who were looking for Christ's second appearing and keeping all the commandments of God. . . . 'Go, make the possessors of lands and money drunk with cares. If you can make them place their affections upon these things, we shall have them yet. They may profess what they please, only make them care more for money than for the success of Christ's kingdom or the spread of the truths we hate. Present the world before them in the most attractive light, that they may love and idolize it.' "—Early Writings, page 266. 10. Why will the servant with one talent be r2jected in the day of final reckoning? Matt. 25:25-30. NOTE.—"In the great judgment day those who have not worked for Christ, those who have drifted along, carrying no responsibility, thinking of them- selves, pleasing themselves, will be placed by the Judge of all the earth with those who did evil. They receive the same condemnation."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 365. Watch 11. As we put on the whole armor of God, what must not be neglected? Eph. 6:17, 18. NorE.—"Satan well knows that all whom he can lead to neglect prayer and the searching of the Scriptures, will be overcome by his attacks. Therefore he invents every possible device to engross the mind."—The Great Contro- versy, page 519. 12. What solemn admonition does our Lord address to those who are looking for His coming? Mark 13:35-37. 13. What reward is promised to those who are ready and watch- ing? Matt. 24:45-47; 25:10. NOTE.—"The judgment is now passing in the sanctuary above. For many years work has been in progress. Soon—none know how soon—it will pass to the cases of the living. In the awful presence of God our lives are to come up in review. At this time above all others it behooves every soul to heed the Saviour's admonition, 'Watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.' " —The Great Controversy, page 490. Lesson 7, for February 17, 1951 The Impending Conflict MEMORY VERSE: "It is time for Thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void Thy law." Psalm 119:126. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 436-450, 582-592 (new ed., pp. 498-513, 657-667) ; "Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., pp. 549-623; "Beacon Lights of Prophecy," pages 279-311. [ 18 ] DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Read part of study-help selections. 2. Questions 1-3. 6. Read remainder of study helps. 3. Questions 4-8. 7. Review. 4. Questions 9-14. The Great Controversy 1. By what symbol does the revelator represent the church at the beginning of the Christian Era? Rev. 12:1, 2; 2 Cor. 11:2. NOTE.—"The faithful ones, the church of the living God,—few as their numbers may be, are represented as the 'woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars.' It is the closing of one era, the age of types and shadows, which, like the moon, reflect the light of the true. The moon is under the feet of the church, and the glorious sunrising of a new day is ushered in. The paler light of the moon seems dim in that more glorious day. The types and ceremonies of the sanc- tuary service, which had been a shadow of the real, were passing away; for type met antitype in the Child that was born.... "Around the head of the church clustered twelve stars, representing the twelve apostles, who became the fathers of the Christian church, their names are also on the twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem."—S. N. Haskell, Story of the Seer of Patmos, pages 212, 213. 2. What opposing power was symbolized by the red dragon with seven heads and ten horns? Rev. 12:3. NOTE.—"The dragon is said to be Satan; he it was that moved upon Herod to put the Saviour to death. But the chief agent of Satan in making war upon Christ and His people during the first centuries of the Christian Era, was the Roman Empire, in which paganism was the prevailing religion. Thus while the dragon, primarily, represents Satan, it is, in a secondary sense, a symbol of pagan Rome."—The Great Controversy, page 438. 3. Who was the moving power back of the persecutions by pagan Rome? Where did Satan's opposition to God and to His law begin? Rev. 12:7-9. The Papacy in Prophecy 4. What power is represented by the beast of Revelation 13:1, 2? NOTE.—"This symbol, as most Protestants have believed, represents the papacy, which succeeded to the power and seat and authority once held by the ancient Roman Empire."—The Great Controversy, page 439. 5. In what points does this beast correspond to the little horn of Daniel 7? Dan. 7:8, 25; Rev. 13:5-7. 6. How is the beast further identified? Rev. 13:18. f19 ] NoTE.—"It is an evident reference to the ancient practice of designating the name of a person by the numeral value of the letters in the name. . . . "The Douay (Catholic) Bible has a note on this eighteenth verse: " 'Six hundred sixty-six. The numeral letters of his name shall make up this number.' "Applying this to an essential title of the pope, 'Vicar of the Son of God,' spelled in Latin, which is the official language of this power that the prophecy is dealing with, we see the numeral letters adding up as follows: Vicar of the Son of God VICARIVS FILII DEI 5 - 1-100 1-5 1- 50 - 1 - 1 500 - 1 . Total, 666." —Beacon Lights of Prophecy, page 311. 7. How was Daniel's prophecy fulfilled concerning the attempt to change the times and law of God? ANSWER: "The Catholic Church for over one thousand years before the existence of a Protestant, by virtue of her Divine Mission, changed the day from Saturday to Sunday."—Catholic Mirror, Sept. 23, 1893. 8. When and how was the deadly wound' (Rev. 13:3, 10) in- flicted upon the papal head? ANSWER: "In the year 1798, Berthier, with a French army, entered Rome, proclaimed a republic, took the pope prisoner, and inflicted a deadly wound upon the papacy."—Daniel and the Revelation, page 145. The United States in Prophecy 9. At that very time, what nation symbolized by the beast with two horns was seen coming upon the stage of action? Rev. 13:11. NOTE.—"The lamblike horns indicate youth, innocence, and gentleness, fitly representing the character of the United States when presented to the prophet as 'coming up' in 1798. Among the Christian exiles who first fled to America, and sought an asylum from royal oppression and priestly intolerance, were many who determined to establish a government upon the broad founda- tion of civil and religious liberty. Their views found place in the Declaration of Independence, which sets forth the great truth that 'all men are created equal,' and endowed with the inalienable right to 'life, liberty, and the pur- suit of happiness.' "—The Great Controversy, page 441. 10. How does the revelator indicate that this nation will become a persecuting power? Rev. 13:11, last clause. NoTE.="The 'speaking' of the nation is the action of its legislative and judicial authorities. By such action it will give the lie to those liberal and peaceful principles which it has put forth as the foundation of its policy. (20] The prediction that it will speak 'as a dragon,' and exercise 'all the power of the first beast,' plainly foretells a development of the spirit of intolerance and persecution that was manifested by the nations represented by the dragon and the leopardlike beast."—The Great Controversy, page 442. 11. What papal institution will be enforced by law? Rev. 13:16. NOTE.—"As the sign of the authority of the Catholic Church, papist writ- ers cite, 'the very act of changing the Sabbath into Sunday, which Protestants allow of; . . . because by keeping Sunday, they acknowledge the church's power to ordain feasts, and to command them under sin' What then is the change of the Sabbath, but the sign, or mark, of the authority of the Roman Church? ... "In the very act of enforcing a religious duty by secular power, the churches would themselves form an image to the beast ; hence the enforce- ment of Sundaykeeping in the United States would be an enforcement of the worship of the beast and his image."—The Great Controversy, pages 448, 449. 12. What miracle-working power will combine with Protestant and Catholic forces in the enforcement of Sunday observance? Rev. 13:13, 14; 16:14. NorE.—"When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the prop- agation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. "As the approach of the Roman armies was a sign to the disciples of the impending destruction of Jerusalem, so may this apostasy be a sign to us that the limit of God's forbearance is reached, that the measure of our nation's iniquity is full, and that the angel of mercy is about to take her flight, never to return."—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 451. 13. What penalties will be decreed against those who refuse to worship the image of the beast or to receive his mark? What sol- emn warning does the third angel's message utter against those who worship the beast or receive his mark? Rev. 13:15, 17; 14:9-11. NOTE.—"The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The mark of the beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step by step yielded to worldly demands and conformed to worldly customs will not find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than subject themselves to derision, insult, threatened imprisonment, and death.... Many a star that we have admired for its brilliancy will then go out in darkness. Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat."—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 81. 14. What assurance of deliverance is given the loyal people of God? Rev. 15:2, 3. 21 Lesson 8, for February 24, 1951 The Sealing Work MEMORY VERSE: "And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with Him an hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father's name written in their foreheads." Revelation 14:1. STUDY HELPS: "Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., pp. 453-471, 625-628; "Testimonies," vol. 5, pp. 207-216; "Bible Readings for the Home," 1949 ed., pp. 441-444. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Read part of study-help assignment. 2. Questions 1-6. 6. Read remainder of study-help assign- 3. Questions 7-10. ment. 4. Questions 11-14. 7. Review. The Seal of God 1. Before the winds of strife sweep the whole earth with destruc- tion, what preparatory work must take place? Rev. 7:1-3. NorE.—"The sign, or seal, of God is revealed in the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath, the Lord's memorial of creation. 'The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.' Ex. 31:12, 13. Here the Sabbath is clearly designated as a sign between God and His people. "The mark of the beast is the opposite of this—the observance of the first day of the week. This mark distinguishes those who acknowledge the suprem- acy of the papal authority from those who acknowledge the authority of God." —Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 117. 2. How many are sealed? Who are the true Israel? Rev. 7:4; Rom. 2:28, 29; Gal. 3:28, 29. 3. With what is the seal connected? What three things must the seal of a law contain? Isa. 8:16; 1 Kings 21:8; Esther 3:12; 8:8. NoTE.—"That is, affix the signature of royalty, that it may have the proper authority. Anciently kings used a seal ring, containing the name, initials, or monogram, for this purpose. Jezebel, the wife of Ahab, 'wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed them with his seal.' 1 Kings 21:8. Of a Persian decree it is said that 'in the name of King Ahasuerus was it written, and sealed with the king's, ring.' Esther 3:12."—Bible Readings for the Home, 1949 ed., p. 441. 4. What distinguishes the true God from all false gods? What is the memorial of His creative works? Jer. 10:10-12; Ex. 20:8-11. NoTE.—"God's claim to reverence and worship, above the gods of the heathen, is based upon the fact that He is the Creator, and that to Him all other beings owe their existence."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 336. [ 22 3 5. What three characteristics of a seal are found in the fourth commandment? ANSWER: "In six days, (1) the Lord (name) ; (2) made (office, Creator) ; (3) heaven and earth (dominion). This commandment alone, therefore, con- tains 'the seal of the living God' This commandment shows God's authority to enact all the commandments, and shows all other gods to be false gods. The Sabbath commandment, therefore, contains the seal of God; and the Sabbath itself, which is enjoined by the commandment, is inseparably con- nected with this seal; it is to be kept in memory of God's creation of all things; and it is itself called a 'sign' of the knowledge of this great truth. (Exodus 31:17; Ezekiel 20:20.)"—Bible Readings for the Home, 1949 ed., pp. 441, 442. "The Sabbath of the fourth commandment is the seal of the living God." —The Great Controversy, page 640. 6. What other expressions are used as synonymous with "seal"? Rom. 4:11; Ezek. 9:4. The Sign of Sanctification 7. Of what is the Sabbath a sign? Can an unsanctified man keep the Sabbath holy? Ex. 31:13, 17; Ezek. 20:12, 20. NOTE.—"The Sabbath is the sign of God's creative power, whether mani- fested in creation or redemption; for redemption is creation—re-creation. It requires the same power to redeem that it does to create. 'Create in me a clean heart.' Psalm 51:10. 'We are . . . created in Christ Jesus unto good works.' Ephesians 2:10. God designs that each Sabbath shall call Him to mind as the One who created us, and whose grace and sanctifying power are working in us to fit us for His eternal kingdom."—Bible Readings for the Home, 1949 ed., p. 442. 8. Under the new covenant how and where are the principles of the law written? Heb. 8:10; 2 Cor. 3:3. NorE.—"The same law that was engraved upon the tables of stone, is written by the Holy Spirit upon the tables of the heart. Instead of going about to establish our own righteousness, we accept the righteousness of Christ. His blood atones for our sins. His obedience is accepted for us. Then the heart renewed by the Holy Spirit will bring forth 'the fruits of the Spirit.' Through the grace of Christ we shall live in obedience to the law of God written upon our hearts. Having the Spirit of Christ, we shall walk even as He walked."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 372. 9. What does it mean to have the name of the Father in the forehead? Rev. 14:1, 5; Ex. 34:5-7. NOTE.—"The name of the Father is expressive of His character. When Moses asked to see the glory of God, the Lord passed by and proclaimed His [ 23 ] name—Me Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.' (Exodus 33:18, 19; 34:6.) God's law is the transcript of that character, and the -name averred to in Revelation 14:1 is equivalent to the law of God. This is in harmony with the work of the new covenant, under which the law. is written in the mind. (Hebrews 8:10.) Since the law is written in the mind, the seal of the law is there also."—Bible Readings for the Home, 1949 ed., p. 442. "The seal of God will never be placed upon the forehead of an impure man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of the ambitious, world-loving man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of men or women of false tongues or deceitful hearts. All who receive the seal must be without spot before God—candidates for heaven."—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 216. 10. How do the prophecies foretell the restoration of the Sab- bath after many generations? Isa. 58:12-14; Rev. 14:9-12. God's Seal of Protection 11. By what sign were the homes of Israel protected when the destroying angel passed through Egypt? Ex. 12:7, 13. NOTE.—"Had the Israelites disregarded in any particular the directions given them, had they neglected to separate their children from the Egyptians, had they slain the lamb, but failed to strike the doorpost with blood, or had any gone out of their houses, they would not have been secure."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 278. 12. As the judgments of God fall upon the world, what will be the fate of professed believers who do not receive the seal of God? Ezek. 9:4-6. 13. To those who receive the seal, what protection is assured? Ps. 91:4-10. NoTE.—"What are you doing, brethren, in the great work of preparation? Those who are uniting with the world are receiving the worldly mold, and preparing for the mark of the beast. Those who are distrustful of self, who are humbling themselves before God and purifying their souls by obeying the truth—these are receiving the heavenly mold and preparing for the seal of God in their foreheads. When the decree goes forth and the stamp is im- pressed, their character will remain pure and spotless for eternity."—Testi- monies, vol. 5, p. 216. 14. What glorious privileges will be theirs? Rev. 7:14-17; 14:2-4. NoTE.—"None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the - song of their experience,—an experience such as no other company have ever had. 'These are they which follow the Lamb whitherso- ever He goethl' "—The Great Controversy, page 649. f 24] Lesson 9, for March 3, 1951 The Latter Rain MEMORY VERSE: "Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts." Zechariah 4:6. STUDY HELP: "The Great Controversy," pages 603-612 (new ed., pp. 681-691). DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Questions 11-13. 2. Questions 1-4. 6. Read study help. 3. Questions 5-7. 7. Review. 4. Questions 8-10. The Call for a Revival and Reformation 1. How is the Laodicean church described by the faithful and true witness? Rev. 3:14-17. NOTE.—"What is our condition in this fearful and solemn time? Alas, what pride is prevailing in the church, what hypocrisy, what deception, what love of dress, frivolity, and amusement, what desire for supremacy ! All these sins haAie clouded the mind, so that eternal things have not been discerned." —Review and Herald, March 22, 1887. 2. Like the Ethiopian eunuch, what is the attitude of many all over the world today? Acts 8:27-31. NOTE.—"There are many who are reading the Scriptures who cannot un- derstand their true import. All over the world men and women are looking wistfully to heaven. Prayers and tears and inquiries go up from souls longing for light, for grace, for the Holy Spirit. Many are on the verge of the king- dom, waiting only to be gathered in. "An angel guided Philip to the one who was seeking for light, and who was ready to receive the gospel; and today angels will guide the footsteps of those workers who will allow the Holy Spirit to sanctify their tongues and refine and ennoble their hearts."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 109. 3. What is our greatest need? Zeph. 2:1-3; Joel 2:12-17. NOTE.—"A revival of true godliness among us is the greatest and most urgent of all our needs. To seek this should be our first work."—Review and Herald, March 22, 1887. 4. How only can the work be finished? Zech. 4:6; Acts 1:8. NoTE.—"The greatest victories to the church of Christ or to the individual Christian, are not those that are gained by talent or education, by wealth, or the favor of men. They are those victories that are gained in the audience chamber with God, when earnest, agonizing faith lays hold upon the mighty arm of power."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 203. "From the secret place of prayer came the power that shook the world in the Great Reformation."—The Great Controversy, page 210. 26 1 5. Upon what condition will the Spirit be bestowed? Zech. 10:1; Acts 2:1-4; 3:19, R.V. NoTE.—The Revised Version of Acts 3:19 reads: "Repent -ye therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that so there may come seasons of refreshing from the presence of the Lord." "I saw that none could share the 'refreshing,' unless they obtain the vic- tory over every besetment, over pride, selfishness, love of the world, and over every wrong word and action."—Early Writings, page 71. "When this reformation begins, the spirit of prayer will actuate every be- liever and will banish from the church the spirit of discord and strife. Those who have not been living in Christian fellowship will draw close to one an- other."—Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 251. The Loud Cry 6. As the people of God unite in a reformatory movement, what marked manifestation of divine power will be witnessed in the finishing of the work? Joel 2:28, 29, 32; Rev. 18:1. NoTE.—"In visions of the night, representations passed before me of a great reformatory movement among God's people. Many were praising God. The sick were healed, and other miracles were wrought. A spirit of intercession was seen, even as was manifested before the great Day of Pentecost. Hun- dreds and thousands were seen visiting families and opening before them the Word of God. Hearts were convicted by the power of the Holy Spirit, and a spirit of genuine conversion was manifested. On every side doors were thrown open to the proclamation of the truth. The world seemed to be lightened with the heavenly influences."--Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 126. 7. In the time of the early rain how did the layman participate? Acts 8:1, 4. NoTE.—"The work of God in this earth can never be finished until the men and women comprising our church membership rally to the work and unite their efforts with those of ministers and church officers."—Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 117. 8. In times of crisis what type of men does God use? 1 Cor. 1:26- 29; 1 Kings 19:19; Matt. 4:18-20. NoTE.—"As the time comes for it [the third angel's message] to be given with greatest power, the Lord will work through humble instruments, leading the minds of those who consecrate themselves to His service. The laborers will be qualified rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the training of literary institutions. Men of faith and prayer will be constrained to go forth with holy zeal, declaring the words which God gives them."—The Great Con- troversy, page 606. 9. Into what three religious groups is modern Babylon divided? Rev. 16:13, 19. [26] Nom—The dragon represents the pagan world, the beast symbolizes the papacy, the false prophet signifies apostate Protestantism. 10. Under the loud cry of the angel of Revelation 18 how is the condition of the popular churches described? What urgent call is given, and why? Rev. 18:2-5. NoTE.—"The sins of Babylon will be laid open. The fearful results of enforcing the observances of the church by civil authority, the inroads of spiritualism, the stealthy but rapid progress of the papal power,—all will be unmasked. By these solemn warnings the people will be stirred. Thousands upon thousands will listen who have never heard words like these."—The Great Controversy, page 606. 11. What course of the religious leaders in Christ's day will be repeated? Luke 11:52. NOTE.—"Since many refuse to be satisfied with the mere authority of men, and demand a plain 'Thus saith the Lord,' the popular ministry, like the Pharisees of old, filled with anger as their authority is questioned, will denounce the message as of Satan, and stir up the sin-loving multitudes to revile and persecute those who proclaim it."—The Great Controversy, page 607. 12. As the fullness of divine power rests upon the people of God, how will Satan's power be manifested? 2 Thess. 2:9, 10; Rev. 13: 13, 14. NoTE.—"Fearful sights of a supernatural character will 'soon be revealed in the heavens, in token of the power of miracle-working demons. The spirits of devils will go forth to the kings of the earth and to the whole world, to fasten them in deception, and urge them on to unite with Satan in his last struggle against the government of heaven. By these agencies, rulers and subjects will be alike deceived. Persons will arise pretending to be Christ Himself, and claiming the title and worship which belong to the world's Redeemer. They will perform wonderful miracles of healing, and will pro- fess to have revelations from heaven contradicting the testimony of the Scriptures. "As the crowning act in the great drama of deception, Satan himself will personate Christ."—The Great Controversy, page 624. 13. As the final warning is given with compelling power, what results will be seen? Luke 14:23; Rom. 9:28; Isa. 60:1-3. Nora.—"Now the rays of light penetrate everywhere, the truth is seen in its clearness, and the honest children of God sever the bands which have held them. Family connections, church relations, are powerless to stay them now. Truth is more precious than all besides. Notwithstanding the agencies -com- bined against the truth, a large number take their stand upon the Lord's side." —The Great Controversy, page 612. ( 27 Lesson 10, for March 10, 1951 The Time of Trouble MEMORY VERSE: "Because thou hast kept the word of My patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth." Revelation 3:10. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 613-634 (new ed., pp. 693- 715) ; "Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., p. 685. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Questions 11-13. 2. Questions 1-4. 6. Read study-help selections. 3. Questions 5-7. 7. Review. 4. Questions 8-10. An Irrevocable Decision 1. By what fateful decree is the close of the investigative judg- ment announced? Rev. 22:11, 12. 2. What will be the condition of those who have neglected the needful preparation? Matt. 25:8-13; Jer. 8:20. NorE.—"Oh, how many I saw in the time of trouble without a shelter I They had neglected the needful preparation, therefore they could not receive the refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God. Those who refuse to be hewed by the prophets, and fail to purify their souls in obeying the whole truth, and who are willing to believe that their condition is far better than it really is, will come up to the time of the falling of the plagues, and then see that they needed to be hewed and squared for the building. But there will be no time then to do it and no Mediator to plead their cause before the Father."—Early Writings, page 71. 3. When Jesus ceases His intercession in heaven, what follows on earth? Dan. 12:1. NOTE. "The wicked have passed the boundary of their probation; the Spirit of God, persistently resisted, has been at last withdrawn. Unsheltered by divine grace, they have no protection from the wicked one. Satan will then plunge the inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble. As the angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the elements of strife will be let loose. The whole world will be involved in ruin."—The Great Controversy, page 614. The Experience of God's People 4. How will the hatred toward the people of God be manifested? Rev. 13:15, 17. NoTE.—"Conscientious obedience to the word of God will be treated as rebellion. Blinded by Satan, the parent will exercise harshness and severity [ 28] toward the believing child; the master or mistress will oppress the command- ment-keeping servant. Affection will be alienated; children will be disin- herited, and driven from home. The words of Paul will be literally fulfilled, `All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.' As the defenders of truth refuse to honor the Sunday-sabbath, some of them will be thrust into prison, some will be exiled, some will be treated as slaves."— The Great Controyersy, page 608. 5. How will many commandment keepers seek to escape the wrath of their enemies? Luke 17:28-32; Isa. 33:16, first part. NOTE.—"As the decree issued by the various rulers of Christendom against commandment keepers shall withdraw the protection of government, and abandon them to those who desire their destruction, the people of God will flee from the cities and villages and associate together in companies, dwelling in the most desolate and solitary places. Many will find refuge in the strong- holds of the mountains. . . . But many of all nations, and of all classes, high and low, rich and poor, black and white, will be cast into the most unjust and cruel bondage."—The Great Controversy, page 626. 6. As the death decree is pronounced upon the people of God, into what experience will they be plunged? Jer. 30:5-7. NOTE.—"Jacob's night of anguish, when he wrestled in prayer for deliver- ance from the hand of Esau, represents the experience of God's people in the time of trouble." "Had not Jacob previously repented of his sin in obtaining the birthright by fraud, God would not have heard his prayer and mercifully preserved his life. So, in the time of trouble, if the people of God had uncon- fessed sins to appear before them while tortured with fear and anguish, they would be overwhelmed; despair would cut off their faith, and they could not have confidence to plead with God for deliverance."—The Great Controversy, pages 616, 620. The Plagues 7. When Pharaoh lifted his hand against God and against His chosen people, how was Egypt brought low? Ps. 105:28-36. NoTE.—"When Christ ceases His intercession in the sanctuary, the un- mingled wrath threatened against those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark, will be poured out. The plagues upon Egypt when God was about to deliver Israel, were similar in character to those more terrible and extensive judgments which are to fall upon the world just before the final deliverance of God's people."—The Great Controversy, pages 627, 628. 8. As the powers of earth set themselves to destroy the people and truth of God, how will God's judgments be manifested? Rev. 15:1; 18:8. NOTE.—"It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be alive upon the earth when celestial glory and a repetition [ 29 ] of the persecutions of the past are blended. They will walk in the light pro- ceeding from the throne of God."—Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 16. 9. What is the first plague, and upon whom will it fall? Rev. 16:2; Zech. 14:12. 10. How will the very elements be used in the next four plagues? Rev. 16:3-11; Joel 1:15-20. NOTE.—"These plagues are not universal, or the inhabitants of the earth would be wholly cut off. Yet they will be the most awful scourges that have ever been known to mortals. All the judgments upon men, prior to the close of probation, have been mingled with mercy."—The Great Controversy, pages 628, 629. 11. What other famine will come upon those who have rejected the last message of mercy and warning? Amos 8:11, 12. NOTE.—"Others rushed to the people of God and begged to be taught how they might escape His judgments. But the saints had nothing for them. The last tear for sinners had been shed, the last agonizing prayer offered, the last burden borne, the last warning given. The sweet voice of mercy was no more to invite them. When the saints, and all heaven, were interested for their salvation, they had no interest for themselves."—Early Writings, page 281. 12. Under the sixth plague, through the influence of the spirits of devils how universal will be the final war? Rev. 16:12-16; Joel 3:9-14; Jer. 25:32, 33. NOTE.—"Without having improved appreciably in virtue or enjoying wiser guidance, [mankind] has got into its hands for the first time the tools by which it can unfailingly accomplish its own extermination. That is the point in human destinies to which all the glories and toils of men have at last led them. They would do well to pause and ponder upon their new responsibilities. Death stands at attention, obedient, expectant, ready to serve, ready to shear away the peoples en masse; ready, if called on, to pulverize, without hope of repair, what is left of civilization."—Winston Churchill, Amid These Storms, page 248. 13. What assurance of divine protection and deliverance is given the loyal remnant? Isa. 33:16, last part; Hab. 3:17, 18; Ps. 91:3-10. NoTE.—"The people of God will not be free from suffering; but while persecuted and distressed, while they endure privation, and suffer for want of food, they will not be left to perish. That God who cared for Elijah, will not pass by one of His self-sacrificing children. He who numbers the hairs of their head, will care for them; and in time of famine they shall be satisfied. While the wicked are dying from hunger and pestilence, angels will shield the righteous, and supply their wants."—The Great Controversy, page 629. X30] Lesson 11, for March 17, 1951 God's People Delivered MEMORY VERSE: "At that time shall Michael stand up, the great Prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, everyone that shall be found written in the book." Daniel 12:1. STUDY HELP: "The Great Controversy," pages 635-652 (new ed., pp. 717-733). DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Questions 11-14. 2. Questions 1-4. 6. Read study-help selections. 3. Questions 5-7. 7. Review. 4. Questions 8-10. The Hour of Deliverance 1. What assurance have the people of God that their earnest petitions in the time of trouble are heard in heaven? Luke 18:7, 8. NOTE.—"The assaults of Satan are fierce and determined, his delusions are terrible; but the Lord's eye is upon His people, and His ear listens to their cries."—The Great Controversy, page 621. 2. On the very day set for the slaying of the Jews, what divine deliverance was wrought? Esther 9:1, 6. NOTE.—"Angels that excel in strength had been commissioned by God to protect His people while they 'stood for their lives.'"—Prophets and Kings, page 602. 3. How does the psalmist reveal God's final intervention on be- half of His people? Ps. 50:1-5. NoTE.—"It was at midnight that God chose to deliver His people. As the wicked were mocking around them, suddenly the sun appeared, shining in his strength, and the moon stood still. The wicked looked upon the scene with amazement, while the saints beheld with solemn joy the tokens of their deliverance. Signs and wonders followed in quick succession. Everything seemed turned out of its natural course. The streams ceased to flow."—Early Writings, page 285. Under the Seventh Plague 4. As under the seventh plague the voice of God is heard, what mighty upheaval follows? Rev. 16:17-21; Joel 3:16. NoTE.—"That voice shakes the. heavens and the earth. There is a mighty earthquake, 'such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great.' The firmament appears to open and shut. The glory from the throne of God seems flashing through. . . . The whole earth [ 31 ] heaves and swells like the waves of the sea. Its surface is breaking up. Its very foundations seem to be giving way. Mountain chains are sinking. Inhabited islands disappear. . . . The proudest cities of the earth are laid low."—The Great Controversy, page 637. 5. Who will come up in a special resurrection to witness the coming of the Lord? Dan. 12:2; Matt. 26:64; Rev. 1:7. NoTE.—"All who have died in the faith of the third angel's message come forth from the tomb glorified, to hear God's covenant of peace with those who have kept His law. 'They also which pierced Him,' those that mocked and derided Christ's dying agonies, and the most violent opposers of His truth and His people, are raised to behold Him in His glory, and to see the honor placed upon the loyal and obedient."—The Great Controversy, page 637. 6. At this time what triumphant song will express the holy trust of those who have held fast their faith in the very face of death? Ps. 46:1-3; Isa. 30:29, 30. His Glorious Appearing 7. In what striking manner will Jehovah vindicate His right- eousness? Ps. 50:6. Compare also Ps. 119:172. NOTE.—"Then there appears against the sky a hand holding two tables of stone folded together. Says the prophet, 'The heavens shall declare His righteousness: for God is Judge Himself.' That holy law, God's righteousness, that amid thunder and flame was proclaimed from Sinai as the guide of life, is now revealed to men as the rule of judgment. The hand opens the tables, and there are seen the precepts of the Decalogue, traced as with a pen of fire."—The Great Controversy, page 639. 8. How does the prophet Habakkuk describe the glorious com- ing of the Lord? Hab. 3:3-6, 11. 9. As they see the King in His glory, what will the wicked do? Isa. 2:10-12, 19-21, margin; Rev. 6:14-17. NOTE.—"The derisive jests have ceased. Lying lips are hushed into silence. The clash of arms, the tumult of battle, 'with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood,' is stilled. Nought now is heard but the voice of prayer and the sound of weeping and lamentation. The cry bursts forth from lips so lately scoffing, 'The great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?' The wicked pray to be buried beneath the rocks of the mountains, rather than meet the face of Him whom they have despised and rejected."— The Great Controversy, page 642. The Resurrection of the Just 10. What glorious event now takes place? 1 Thess. 4:16, 17; Matt. 24:30, 31. (32 ] NOTE.—"The living righteous are changed 'in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.' At the voice of God they were glorified ; now they are made immortal, and with the risen saints are caught up to meet their Lord in the air. Angels 'gather together the elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.' Little children are borne by holy angels to their mothers' arms. Friends long separated by death are united, nevermore to part, and with songs of gladness ascend together to the City of God."—The Great Con- troversy, page 645. 11. What change takes place in the righteous at this time? Phil. 3:20, 21; 1 Cor. 15:51-53; Isa. 35:4-6. NOTE.—"All come forth from their graves the same in stature as when they entered the tomb. . . . But all arise with the freshness and vigor of eternal youth. In the beginning, man was created in the likeness of God, not only in character, but in form and feature. Sin defaced and almost obliterated the divine image; but Christ came to restore that which had been lost. He will change our vile bodies, and fashion them like unto His glorious body. The mortal, corruptible form, devoid of comeliness, once polluted with sin, becomes perfect, beautiful, and immortal. All blemishes and deformities are left in the grave."—The Great Controversy, pages 644, 645. 12. At His coming what precious promise does our Lord ful- fill? John 14:1-3. Palms of Victory 13. How did Isaiah foretell the entrance of the redeemed into the New Jerusalem? Isa. 26:1, 2. 14. As the unnumbered multitude of the saved stand before the throne of God, to whom do they ascribe praise? Rev. 7:9, 10. NoTE.—"Upon the heads of the overcomers, Jesus with His own right hand places the crown of glory. For each there is a crown, bearing his own `new name,' and the inscription, 'Holiness to the Lord.' In every hand are placed the victor's palm and the shining harp. Then, as the commanding angels strike the note, every hand sweeps the harp strings with skillful touch, awaking sweet music in rich, melodious strains. Rapture unutterable thrills every heart, and each voice is raised in grateful praise."—The Great Contro- versy, page 646. Lesson 12, for March 24, 1951 The Binding of Satan MEMORY VERSE: "Judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God." 1 Corinthians 4:5. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 653-661 (new ed., pp. 735- 743) ; "Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., pp. 739-753; "Beacon Lights of Proph- ecy," pages 391-400. [ 33 ] DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Read part of study-help selections. 2. Questions 1-5. 6. Read remainder of study-help selec- 3. Questions 6-9. tions. 4. Questions 10-14. 7. Review. The Earth Desolated 1. At the coming of Christ what will be the fate of the wicked? Jer. 25:31-33; 2 Thess. 2:8. NorE.—"At the coming of Christ the wicked are blotted from the face of the whole earth,—consumed with the spirit of His mouth, and destroyed by the brightness of His glory."—The Great Controversy, page 657. 2. How complete will be the desolation of the earth? Isa. 24:1-3; Jer. 4:23-27. NOTE.—"The earth looked like a desolate wilderness. Cities and villages, shaken down by the earthquake, lay in heaps. Mountains had been moved out of their places, leaving large caverns. Ragged rocks, thrown out by the sea, or torn out of the earth itself, were scattered all over its surface. Large trees had been uprooted, and were strewn over the land."—Early Writings, page 290. 3. Why are these judgments visited upon the world? Isa. 24:5, 6; Rev. 18:5-8. 4. What is the bottomless pit of Revelation 20:1? ANSWER: "The use which specially throws light upon the meaning of the word here is found in Genesis 1:2, where we read that 'darkness was upon the face of the deep.' The word there rendered 'deep' is the same word that is here rendered 'bottomless pit.' . . . [It] is applied to the earth in its chaotic state. Precisely this it must mean in this third verse of Revelation 20. Let it be borne in mind that at the time the angel does this work, the earth is a vast charnel house of desolation and death."—Daniel and the Revelation, pages 742, 743. 5. For how long will this earth in its desolate condition be the prison house of Satan and his angels? Rev. 20:1-3. NorE.—"Here is to be the home of Satan with his evil angels for a thousand years. Limited to the earth, he will not have access to other worlds, to tempt and annoy those who have never fallen. It is in this sense that he is bound: there are none remaining, upon whom he can exercise his power. He is wholly cut off from the work of deception and ruin which for so many centuries has been his sole delight."—The Great Controversy, page 659. 6. In what work will the saints engage during the thousand years in heaven? Rev. 20:4; 1 Cor. 6:2, 3; 4:5. E34 ] NoTE.—"It is at this time that, as foretold by Paul, 'the saints shall judge the world.' In union with Christ they judge the wicked, comparing their acts with the statute book, the Bible, and deciding every case according to the deeds done in the body. Then the portion which the wicked must suffer is meted out, according to their works; and it is recorded against their names in the book of death. Satan also and evil angels are judged by Christ and His people."—The Great Controversy, page 661. ' Satan Loosed 7. At the end of the thousand years who returns to earth with Christ? What sacred spot will our Lord prepare for the New Jerusalem? Zech. 14:4, 5, 9; Rev. 21:2. 8. By what means is Satan loosed? Isa. 24:22; Acts 24:15; Rev. 20:5. NOTE.-"At the close of the thousand years, Christ again returns to the earth. He is accompanied by the host of the redeemed, and attended by a retinue of angels. As He descends in terrific majesty, He bids the wicked dead arise to receive their doom. They come forth, a mighty host, number- less as the sands of the sea."—The Great Controversy, page 662. 9. What, final attempt does Satan make to overthrow the throne of God? Rev. 20:7-9. Nora.—"At last the order to advance is given, and the countless host moves on,—an army such as was never summoned by earthly conquerors, such as the combined forces of all ages since war began on earth could never equal. Satan, the mightiest of warriors, leads the van, and his angels unite their forces for this final struggle. . . . With military precision, the serried ranks advance over the earth's broken and uneven surface."—The Great Con- troversy, page 664. The Final Judgment Scene 10. As the numberless host of the wicked surround the city of God, what revelation of glory appears? Rev. 20:11, 12. NOTE.—"As soon as the books of record are opened, and the eye of Jesus looks upon the wicked, they are conscious of every sin which they have ever committed. They see just where their feet diverged from the path of purity and holiness, just how far pride and rebellion have carried them in the viola- tion of the law of God. The seductive temptations which they encouraged by indulgence in sin, the blessings perverted, the messengers of God despised, the warnings rejected, the waves of mercy beaten back by the stubborn, unrepentant heart,—all appear as if written in letters of fire."—The Great Controversy, page 666. 11. What prophetic words of Jesus are then fulfilled? Matt. 25: 31-46. [35] NoTE.—"Let none suppose that they can live a life of selfishness, and then, having served their own interests, enter into the joy of their Lord. In the joy of unselfish love they could not participate. They would not be fitted for the heavenly courts. They could not appreciate the pure atmosphere of love that pervades heaven."—Christ's Object Lessons, pages 364, 365. 12. As every secret thing comes to light in the judgment, what universal confession will be made? Rom. 14:11, 12. NOTE.—"Satan bows down, and confesses the justice of his sentence. . . . With all the facts of the great controversy in view, the whole universe, both loyal and rebellious, with one accord declare, 'Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints.' "—The Great Controversy, pages 670, 671. 13. What follows the pronouncing of the sentence of doom? Rev. 20:9 (last part), 14, 15; 2 Peter 3:10-12; Mal. 4:1. NOTE.—"Fire comes down from God out of heaven. The earth is broken up. The weapons concealed in its depths are drawn forth. Devouring flames burst from every yawning chasm. The very rocks are on fire. The day has come that shall burn as an oven. The elements melt with fervent heat, the earth also, and the works that are therein are burned up. The earth's surface seems one molten mass,—a vast, seething lake of fire. It is the time of the judgment and perdition of ungodly men,—`the day of the Lord's vengeance, and the year of recompenses for the controversy of Zion.'"—The Great Con- troversy, pages 672, 673. 14. While mercy still lingers, what divine appeal should we heed? Isa. 55:6, 7; Ezek. 18:30-32. Lesson 13, for March 31, 1951 The Controversy Ended MEMORY VERSE: "That in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus." Ephesians 2:7. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 674-678 (new ed., pp. 757- 762) ; "Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., pp. 755-783; "Beacon Lights of Proph- ecy," pages 401-410. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT 1. General survey. 5. Read part of study-help selections. 2. Questions 1-4. 6. Read remainder of study-help selec- 3. Questions 5-10. tions. 4. Questions 11-13. 7. Review. Two Fundamental Principles 1. In the life of Satan what fundamental principle was mani- fested? Isa. 14:13, 14; 1 Tim. 3:6. 36 I NOTE.—"Little by little, Lucifer came to indulge the desire for self-exalta- tion. . . . Not content with his position, though honored above the heavenly host, he ventured to covet homage due alone to the Creator. Instead of seeking to make God supreme in the affections and allegiance of all created beings, it was his endeavor to secure their service and loyalty to himself. And covet- ing the glory with which the infinite Father had invested His Son, this prince of angels aspired to power that was the prerogative of Christ alone;"—Patri- archs and Prophets, page 35. 2. What is the outworking of the principle of pride and self- seeking? Ezek. 28:17-19; Mal. 4:1. NOTE.—"Satan's work of ruin is forever ended. For six thousand years he has wrought his will, filling the earth with woe, and causing grief throughout the universe. The whole creation has groaned and travailed together in pain. Now God's creatures are forever delivered from his presence and temptations." —The Great Controversy, page 673. 3. In the life of Jesus what great principle was demonstrated? Phil. 2:5-8; Matt. 20:28. NOTE.—"We marvel at the Saviour's sacrifice in exchanging the throne of heaven for the manger, and the companionship of adoring angels for the beasts of the stall. Human pride and self-sufficiency stand rebuked in His presence. Yet this was but the beginning of His wonderful condescension. . . . Jesus accepted humanity when the race had been weakened by four thousand years of sin. . . . He [God] permitted Him to meet life's peril in common with every human soul, to fight the battle as every child of humanity must fight it, at the risk of failure and eternal loss."—The Desire of Ages, pages 48, 49. 4. What was the outworking of the principle of love and un- selfish service? Phil. 2:9-11; Matt. 23:12. NoTE.—"The plan of redemption will not be fully understood, even when the ransomed see as they are seen and know as they are known; but through the eternal ages, new truth will continually unfold to the wondering and delighted mind. . . . The cross of Christ will be the science and song of the redeemed through all eternity."—The Great Controversy, page 651. God's Promises Fulfilled 5. After the purifying fire destroys sin and sinners, what will come forth from the hand of the Creator? Rev. 21:1; 2 Peter 3:13. 6. What promise is then fulfilled? Gen. 13:14-16; Heb. 11:9, 10. 7. Who are the true Israel of the promise? Rom. 2:28, 29; Gal. 3:16, 29. 8. What promise made to David now comes to pass? 2 Sam. 7:12, 13, 16; Luke 1:31-33; Isa. 9:6, 7. The Restitution 9. How is the original purpose in the creation of the earth then realized? Matt. 5:5; Micah 4:8; Ps. 37:10,11. NOTE.—"The time has come, to which holy men have looked with longing since the flaming sword barred the first pair from Eden, the time for 'the redemption of the purchased possession.' The earth originally given to man as his kingdom, betrayed by him into the hands of Satan, and so long held by the mighty foe, has been brought back by the great plan of redemption." —The Great Controversy, page 674. 10. How complete will be the restoration? Luke 19:10; Acts 3:21; Isa. 11:9. 11. What assurance is given that we shall know each other there? 1 Cor. 13:12. NoTE.—"There the redeemed shall 'know, even as also they are known.' The loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul, shall there find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages, who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, the sacred ties that bind together 'the whole family in heaven and earth,'—these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed."—The Great Controversy, page 677. From Glory to Glory 12. What is said of the activity of the inhabitants of the new earth? Isa. 65:21, 22. 13. As the rolling years of eternity bring richer and more glori- ous revelations, with what universal anthem of praise will the arches of heaven ring? Rev. 5:13. NOTE.—"The great controversy is ended. Sin and sinners are no more. The entire universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and gladness beats through the vast creation. From Him who created all, flow life and light and gladness, throughout the realms of illimitable space. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love."—The Great Controversy, page 678. [ 38 SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS FOR SECOND QUARTER Those who have not been provided with a senior Lesson Quarterly for the second quarter may be helped by the outline given below for the study of the first lesson. The daily lesson study plan may thus be carried out. The general topic is "The Finishing of the Work." Lesson 1, for April 7, is entitled "The Gospel Commission." The memory verse is Matthew 28:19, 20. The Study Helps are The Desire of Ages, pages 818-828; While It Is Day, C. J. Ritchie, Chapter 1. You may secure this book, especially written for the Sabbath school lessons, from your Book and Bible House. The texts in answer to each question of Lesson 1, are: Ques. 1. Matt. 10:1, 5-8. Ques. 8. Rom. 1:16. Ques. 2 Luke 10:1, 2, 9. Ques. 9. Rev. 14:6, 12. Ques. 3. Matt. 28:7, 16-20. Ques. 10. Matt. 21:43. Ques. 4. Mark 13:34-37 ; 1 Peter Ques. 11. Rev. 3:14-16, -19. 2:5-9. Ques. 12. Matt. 28:18-20; Acts Ques. 5. Rev. 22:17. 1:8, first part. Ques. 6. Acts 1:8, last part. Ques. 13. Rev. 18:1; Zech. 10:1; Ques. 7. Matt. 24:14; Rev. Acts 5:32. 14:6. THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING March 31, 1951—Southern African Division A wonderful privilege is accorded the Sabbath school members this quar- ter in giving for the extension of our mission work in the Southern African Division. A new school building at Cuale, in Angola, is greatly needed. No more needy project than this could be selected. It is a field of wonderful opportunity, but requires trained native workers. Another project is the establishment of a new training school in the Kasai area of the Congo. Here is a vast, unentered area where millions of people still sit in darkness. The third project is a hospital building at Malamulo, Nyasaland. The Malamulo Mission Hospital has proved itself an evangelizing center. Some of the old buildings date from early days, and are entirely inadequate. There is great need for better facilities. The influence of our schools and hospitals upon the lives and thinking of those who come in contact with them is incalculable. In this day of change in an Africa full of problems and difficulties, these institutions are exerting a stabilizing influence upon the people, and are demonstrating that there is a better way—a way of peace, of good will and Christian kindness. In 1949 an overflow offering of $36,117.73 was given for a hospital in Basutoland. For this, grateful thanks come from South Africa. Can you not double your offering on March 31 for the furtherance of the gospel and for the alleviation of suffering in South Africa, where the offerings give such great results? [ 391 UNION MISSION POPULATION CHURCHES CH MEM R., MEM ANGOLA 5200.000 30 3249 9,176 SOUTHERN AFRICAN DIVISION CONGO . 14.290.350 6/ 10301 43.506 EAST AFRICAN 15.713350 104 15.732 43,079 NORTHERN SECTION sO _ .......... SolluT HAF,RTICAA T.A Ric. FN 12.898.568 149 10.132 13,10/ .... .....--...‘ 6,112.098 52 7335 14.16/ •..^.0\ ZAMBESI 3,723.623 85 14,911 29.563 ''''' . N•••f"'. "." 152.598 • • DIVISION TOTALS 56.937.989 480 r 61,680 g4s4 UGANDA ,,;.,.,,.,,„,L, ...\:(... • ( • 1. ALBn, L IOCA KENYA iKAI" 0 ' ' 4174rYVILLE PAL • CLDORET PUTEMBO 1 EQUATO CONGO • RI UNION MISSION • L IDVD 07.,210TV) `4L. MATRON TRAINING RUANDA URLItIpl • NTUSU. • SCHOOL ClIANGALINIE 1014 ••••.•• LROPOLDVILLY 0(31 EAST AFRICAN 32"• --- • .--• •tzar UNION MISSION Si=l0OLDIG L. TANGANYIKA zANKIRA* BELGIAN CONGO SCHOOL DAR 39 SALAAM J •kL RIK A TANGANYIKA • CU•LE03 ATLANTIC OC EA N DUQUE 34AGANCA • PAMPA INDIAN OCEAN Mu ‘5•••••••• • LUZ \ SoNu•i ANGOLA UNION MISSION •( BANCWIDLUll'A • YU IL. N. • ELIETIVILLE IIIKAi• 50006[ '''S '41 L. NYASA • NOVA LISBOA • RONCO ' *VI , SOUTHEAST AFRICAN • NORTHERN RHODESIA Nw,. .c . .74 UNION ANGOLA .....-• • "..... ..-...4, ,yr MISSION OSAKA • liAMPDA• .• :, PORTE U A IIESE MAILING ILASANGU • ....A.:RIC A ZAMEFESI UNION MISSIONI, INCS O • HOSPITAL MADAGASCAR 163(1 0 42113 2 WING •