SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON TERN THE MINISTRY OF ANGEL SEM'R DIVISION 242, FOUR INDIVIDUAL SABBATH-SCHOOL OFFERING GOAL "As God hath prospered him." MY WEEKLY GOAL (Check Amount) $5.00 RECORD 1 7 13 2.00 Birthday 2 8 1.50 "God loveth a 3 9 cheerful giver." Investment 1.00 4 10 .50 5 11 6 12 TOTAL .40 DAILY LESSON STUDY PLEDGE As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I pledge my- self 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. 242, October-December, 1955. 15 cents a single copy, 50 cent a year, in U.S.A. and Canada; 15 cents a single copy, 60 cents a year to all other countries. Published in the U.S.A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), Mountain View California. Entered as second-class matter Oct. 13, 1904, at the post office in Mountain View, Califor nia, under the Act of Congress of March 3, 1879. Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in Section 1103, Act of Oct. 3, 1917, and authorized Sept. 18, 1918. When a change o address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses. Copyright, 1955, by Pacific Press Publishing Association Printed in U.S.A. Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS Lesson 1, for October 1, 1955 Angels Created Beings; Disaffection and Conflict MEMORY VERSE: "For verily He took not on Him the nature of angels; but He took on Him the seed of Abraham." Heb. 2:16. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help; see "Index to the Writings of Ellen G. White" on angels. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 11-14. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab- Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3. bath School Lesson Help. Monday: Ques. 4-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Ques. 8-10. Lesson Outline: I. Introduction 2. Before death of any man. Gen. 3:24. II. The Family of God V. Lucifer and Evil Angels 1. In heaven and in earth. Eph. 1. Exaltation and disaffection of Lu- 3:14, 15. cifer. Isa. 14:12-14. 2. Sons of God. Job 1:6; 1 John 3:1. 2. War in heaven. Rev. 12:7-9. 3. The heavenly part of the family. 3. Reserved unto judgment. 2 Peter 1 Tim. 5:21; Heb. 1:5. 2:4; Jude 6. III. Orders and Titles of Angels VI. Man in Conflict With the Powers 1. Cherubim and seraphim. Ezek. of Evil 10:19, 20; Isa. 6:2, 6. 1. Woe unto inhabitants of earth. 2. Specific names of angels. Jude 9; Rev. 12:12. Luke 1:19. 2. A powerful enemy. Eph. 6:11, 12. IV. Origin of Angels 3. A more powerful deliverer. Luke 10:17-19. 1. Before creation of the world. Job 4. Ministering spirits for heirs of sal- 38:4-7. vation. Heb. 1:13, 14. [3] THE LESSON Introduction hence is a fit title for Christ. Gabriel signi- fies, 'The strength of God,' an appropriate With this lesson we begin a series of stud- name for the angel or being who stands next ies on a phase of Bible truth the under- to Christ."—Bible Readings for the Home, standing of which will become more and 1949 ed., p. 514. more important as the days go by. As the great controversy moves on to its final stages, the interposition of superhuman Origin of Angels agencies in the affairs of men will become increasingly apparent. To meet the issues 6. How far back can the existence intelligently, we need a clear understanding of angels be traced? Job 38:4-7. of the Scriptures dealing with the question of angels, both good and bad. In this les- son we deal with the primary facts involved in a study of angels. NOTE.—"Before the creation of man, an- gels were in existence; for when the foun- The Family of God dations of the earth were laid, 'the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God 1. By what term does the apostle shouted for joy.'"—The Great Contro- Paul show the close relationship that versy, page 511. exists between the inhabitants of heaven and the inhabitants of earth? 7. What other fact shows that an- Eph. 3:14, 15. gels are not the spirits of men who have died? Gen. 3:24. 2. By what name are the members of this family called? Job 1:6; 1 John Nora.—"Satan commenced his deception 3:1. in Eden. He said to Eve, 'Ye shall not surely die.' This was Satan's first lesson upon the immortality of the soul, and he has carried on this deception from that time to the present, and will carry it on 3. In the heavenly family who are until the captivity of God's children shall mentioned along with the Father and be turned. I was pointed to Adam and the Son? 1 Tim. 5:21; Heb. 1:5. Eve in Eden. They partook of the forbid- den tree, and then the flaming sword was Orders and Titles of Angels placed around the tree of life, and they were driven from the garden, lest they 4. Of what two orders of angels should partake of the tree of life, and be are we informed? Ezek. 10:19, 20; Isa. immortal sinners. The fruit of this tree 6:2, 6. was to perpetuate immortality. I heard an angel ask, 'Who of the family of Adam have passed that flaming sword, and have par- taken of the tree of life?' I heard another angel answer, 'Not one of the family of 5. What are some of the specific Adam has passed that flaming sword, and names of angels? Jude 9; Luke 1:19. partaken of that tree; therefore there is not an immortal sinner.' The soul that sinneth, it shall die an everlasting death—a death from which there will be no hope of a resur- rection; and then the wrath of God will NoTE.—Michael is called the Archangel. be appeased."—Early Writings, 1945 Chris- "Michael means, 'Who is like God,' and tian Home Library ed., p. 218. [4] Lucifer and Evil Angels I WILL BE LIKE 8. With whom did disaffection THE MOST HIGH. 111 among the angels originate? Isa. 14: 12:14. Compare Ezek. 28:13, 14. Nofx.—"Little by little, Lucifer came to indulge the desire for self-exaltation. The Scripture says: 'Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty; thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness.' `Thou hast said in thine heart, . . . I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; . . . I will be like the Most High.' Though all his glory was from God, this mighty REBELLION AGAINST AGAINST GOO BEGINS WITH angel came to regard it as pertaining to SELF-EXALTATION. himself. 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 rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual God supreme in the affections and alle- hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." giance of all created beings, it was his en- "The power and malice of Satan and his deavor to secure their service and loyalty host might justly alarm us, were it not that to himself. And coveting the glory with we may find shelter and deliverance in the which the infinite Father had invested His superior power of our Redeemer. We care- Son, this prince of angels aspired to power fully secure our houses with bolts and locks that was the prerogative of Christ alone." to protect our property and our lives from —Patriarchs and Prophets, page 35: evil men; but we seldom think of the evil angels who are constantly seeking access to 9. In what did this disaffection re- us, and against whose attacks we have, in sult? Rev. 12:7-9. our own strength, no method of defense. If permitted, they can distract our minds, disorder and torment our bodies, destroy our possessions and our lives. Their only 10. Unto what have the evil angels delight is in misery and destruction. Fear- been reserved? 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6. ful is the condition of those who resist the divine claims, and yield to Satan's tempta- Man in Conflict With the tions, until God gives them up to the con- trol of evil spirits. But those who follow Powers of Evil Christ are ever safe under His watchcare. - Angels that excel in strength are sent from 11. Why is woe pronounced upon heaven to protect them. The wicked one the earth? Rev. 12:12. cannot break through the guard which God has stationed about His people."—The Great Controversy, page 517. 12. Against what strong influence 13. What comforting promise is do God's children in this world have given the child of God in this con- to war? Eph. 6:11, 12. flict? Luke 10:17-19. Nom.—The American Revised Version reads, "For our wrestling is not against 14. What aid may we have in our flesh and blood, but against the principal- warfare against the powers of dark- ities, against the powers, against the world ness? Heb. 1:13, 14. [5] Lesson 2, for October 8, 1955 Angels a Higher Order of Being Than Man MEMORY VERSE: "What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that Thou visitest him? For Thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honor." Ps. 8:4, 5. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 12-14. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab- Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3. bath School Lesson Help. Monday: Ques. 4-7. Friday: General review of the entire Tuesday: Ques. 8-11. lesson. Lesson Outline: 1. Introduction IV. Natural and Spiritual Bodies II. The Creation and Dominion of Man, 1. Question concerning the resurrec- tion. 1 Cor. 15:35. and His Mortality 2. Celestial and terrestial bodies. 1. Made in God's image. Gen. 1:26. 1 Cor. 15:36-41. 2. Man's assigned dominion. Gen. 3. The resurrection body. 1 Cor. 1:26-28; Ps. 8:6-8. 15:42-44. 3. Man's mortal state. Job 4:17; 4. Christ's nature while on earth. Heb. Rom. 6:12. 2:9, 16. III. Superiority of Angels V. Will Men Ever Become Angels? 1. Relative position of angels and men. Ps. 8:4, 5. 1. Mortal puts on immortality. 1 Cor. 2. Gideon's fear in presence of an an- 15:49-53. gel. Judges 6:21-23. 2. "Equal to angels" in one respect. 3. Daniel's attitude in presence of an- Luke 20:36. gel Gabriel. Dan. 8:16, 17. 3. Man's final exaltation assured 4. Angels at the tomb of Christ. through Christ. Heb. 2:9, 14, 18; Matt. 28:2-4. Phil. 3:21. THE LESSON Introduction The Creation and Dominion The majority of people have an entirely of Man, and His Mortality wrong conception of the nature of both man 1. In whose image was man made? and angels. In this lesson we shall study a few of the many passages of Scripture that Gen. 1:26. clarify this whole subject, even to the an- swering of the question as to whether men NorE.-"Man was to bear God's image, will ever be transformed into angels. both in outward resemblance and in char- E6] acter. Christ alone is 'the express image' of NOTE.—"Clothed with the panoply of the Father; but man was formed in the God, this angel left the heavenly courts. The likeness of God. His nature was in har- bright beams of God's glory went before mony with the will of God. His mind was him, and illuminated his pathway. 'His capable of comprehending divine things. His countenance was like lightning, and his rai- affections were pure; his appetites and pas- ment white as snow: and for fear of him sions were under the control of reason. He the keepers did shake, and became as dead was holy and happy in bearing the image men.' of God, and in perfect obedience to His "Now, priests and rulers, where is the will. power of your guard? Brave soldiers that "As man came forth from the hand of his have never been afraid of human power are Creator, he was of lofty stature and per- now as captives taken without sword or fect symmetry. His countenance bore the spear. The face they look upon is not the ruddy tint of health, and glowed with the face of mortal warrior; it is the face of the light of life and joy. Adam's height was mightiest of the Lord's host."—The Desire much greater than that of men who now of Ages, pages 779, 780. inhabit the earth. Eve was somewhat less in stature; yet her form was noble, and full of beauty. The sinless pair wore no arti- Natural and Spiritual Bodies ficial garments; they were clothed with a covering of light and glory, such as the an- 8. What questions do some ask re- gels wear. So long as they lived in obedience garding the resurrection? 1 Cor. to God, this robe of light continued to en- 15:35. shroud them."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 45. 2. What dominion was given to man? Gen. 1:26-28; Ps. 8:6-8. 9. What differences in bodies does the apostle Paul call to our attention? 1 Cor. 15:36-41. 3. What is man's nature declared to be? Job 4:17; Rom. 6:12. 10. What change of body comes Superiority of Angels to man in the resurrection? 1 Cor. 4. In God's creative plan how did 15:42-44. man compare with angels? Ps. 8:4, 5. 5. How did the angel's presence af- 11. When the Son of God was born fect Gideon? Judges 6:21-23. in Bethlehem, was He born with a spiritual or a natural body? Heb. 2: 9, 16. 6. What was Daniel's attitude in the presence of Gabriel? Dan. 8: 16, 17. NorE.—When Jesus came into this world, He came as a man. He did not take "the nature of angels," but He took the nature of "the seed of Abraham." Jesus, then, was 7. What effect did the presence of made for "a little while" lower than the an angel have upon the Roman guard angels. Read carefully Hebrews 2:7, 9, 17, at the tomb of Christ? Matt. 28:2-4. noting marginal readings of the verses. t7 Every longing of the heart will find com- plete satisfaction. The fear of death will be banished; and they will receive from the hand of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, the priceless gift of immortal life." —I. H. Evans, The Ministry of Angels, 1953 Christian Home Library ed., p. 45. 14. Through whom is man's final exaltation assured? Heb. 2:9, 14, 18; Phil. 3:21. NoTE.—"God has adopted human nature in the person of His Son, and has carried the same into the highest heaven. It is the "IN CHRIST THE FAMILY OF EARTH AND THE `Son of man' who shares the throne of the FAMILY OF HEAVEN ARE BOUND TOGETHER.' universe. It is the 'Son of man' whose name shall be called, 'Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.' Isa. 9:6. The I AM is the Will Men Ever Become Angels? Daysman between God and humanity, lay- ing His hand upon both. He who is 'holy, 12. What change of body will be harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners,' given to the righteous in the resurrec- is not ashamed to call us brethren. Heb. tion? 1 Cor. 15:49-53. 7:26; 2:11. In Christ the family of earth and the family of heaven are bound to- gether. Christ glorified is our brother. Heaven is enshrined in humanity, and hu- 13. In what respect will the re- manity is enfolded in the bosom of Infinite deemed be "equal unto the angels" af- Love. ter the resurrection? Luke 20:36. "Of His people God says, 'They shall be as the stones of a crown, lifted up as an en- sign upon His land. For how great is His goodness, and how great is His beauty!' NOTE.—"Let us not forget that the prom- Zech. 9:16, 17. The exaltation of the re- ise is never given to man that he will at deemed will be an eternal testimony to any time become an angel. We are assured, God's mercy. 'In the ages to come,' He however, that in one respect we shall be will 'show the exceeding riches of His grace made equal to the angels—we shall not be in His kindness toward us through Christ subject to death. Of those who are ac- Jesus.' To the intent that . . . unto the counted worthy to have a part in the first principalities and the powers in the heav- resurrection, Jesus Himself said, 'Neither enly places might be made known . . . can they die any more: for they are equal the manifold wisdom of God, according to unto the angels.' Luke 20:36. At that long- the eternal purpose which He purposed in desired and triumphant day, the saved of Christ Jesus our Lord.' Eph. 2:7; 3:10, 11, earth will be made 'equal unto the angels.' R.V."—The Desire of Ages, pages 25, 26. If you are a Sabbath-school teacher, you will find the Teach- er's Edition of the "Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly" a great help because a full blank page is provided for each page of printed lesson copy for recording answers and additional notes. Order from your Book and Bible House. [8 3 Lesson 3, for October 15, 1955 The Dominion of God and the Number and Glory of His Messengers MEMORY VERSE: "Ye are come unto Mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels." • Heb. 12:22. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 9-12. the lesson. Thursday. Ques. 13-15. "Review and Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1, 2. Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Monday: Ques. 3-5. Help. Tuesday: Ques. 6-8. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Lesson Outline: I. Introduction 2 Kings 6:17. 3. Composed of angels. Ps. 68:17. II. God's Universal Kingdom 1. Lord of heaven and earth. Acts V. Glory of the Angels 17:24. 1. Cherubim at gates of Eden. Gen. 2. Vastness of His domain. Isa. 40:15, 3:24. 17, 26. 2. Angel ascended in flame from Ma- III. God's Retinue of Couriers noah's altar. Judges 13:19-22. 3. The angel who rolled away the 1. The Lord attended by 10,000 holy stone. Matt. 28:2-4. ones. Deut. 33 :2. 4. Daniel's description of angelic visi- 2. As revealed to Daniel. Dan. 7:9, 10. tor. Dan. 10:5, 6. 3. As revealed to John. Rev. 5:11. 5. The living creatures around the throne of God. Ezek. 1:13, 14. IV. Angels Appear as Chariots of Fire 6. The glory of the Archangel. Rev. 1. Appeared at Elijah's translation. 1:13-16. 2 Kings 2:11, 12. 7. Our privilege to share His glory. 2. Revealed to Elisha's servant. 1 John 3:2. THE LESSON Introduction sengers. In our lesson today we catch a lit- tle glimpse of this limitless dominion. God is the ruler of the universe, the Lord of heaven and earth, the Creator and Sus- God's Universal Kingdom tainer of unnumbered worlds. Over this vast dominion He holds sway and com- 1. To what great fact did Paul mands an innumerable host of angelic mes- point the Greeks? Acts 17:24. 91 2. How is the vastness of God's 5. What similar vision was shown kingdom emphasized? Isa. 40:15, 17, to the prophet John? Rev. 5:11. 26. NOTE.—"In this wonderful description we NOTE.—"This language leaves us in a obtain a glimpse of how this earth and its state of uncertainty concerning the precise people appear in the eyes of heaven. In number of the heavenly beings—`thousands God's sight the earth is but as a grain of of thousands ministered unto Him, and ten sand, the waters He can measure in the thousand times ten thousand stood before hollow of His hand, and all the inhabitants Him.' We know that 'ten thousand times of the earth are but as grasshoppers. Look- ten thousand' equals one hundred million, ing up to the starry heavens, man can see but we can form no idea of the number with the naked eye something of the mag- represented by 'thousands of thousands.' nitude of God's creation. He beholds, and Nowhere in the word of God is given the marvels—but his unaided eye cannot num- exact number of the heavenly beings."— I. ber those glitterings suns. Now let him H. Evans, The Ministry of Angels, page 55. bring to his aid the strongest telescope, and again gaze at some chosen spot in the heav- ens. What myriads of worlds, before un- Angels Appear as Chariots of Fire seen, are visible! Could he add to this telescope still greater magnifying power, 6. How are the chariot and horses there would be revealed still other worlds that took Elijah into heaven de- —worlds that have been hidden from the scribed? 2 Kings 2:11, 12. gaze of man during all the ages past. So great is the immensity of space into which we gaze, that man has never found the end. By the aid of photography, stars otherwise invisible have been distinguished; and as- NOTE.—"Elijah had walked, with God. tronomers tell us there are 18,000,000 worlds His work had been painful and trying, for in a single system, and that the systems are the Lord through him had reproved the beyond counting."—I. H. Evans, The Min- sins of Israel. Elijah was a prophet of God; istry of Angels, pages 50, 51. yet he was compelled to flee from place to place to save his life. His own nation God's Retinue of Couriers hunted him like a wild beast that they might destroy him. But God translated 3. How did Moses speak of the at- Elijah. Angels bore him in glory and tri- tendant host at the giving of the umph to heaven."—Early Writings, page law? Deut. 33:2. Compare Acts 7:53. 162. 7. What was the appearance of the horses and chariots that the servant NOTE.—"Speaking out of the thick dark- saw about Elisha? 2 Kings 6:17. ness that enshrouded Him, as He stood upon the mount, surrounded by a retinue of angels, the Lord made known His law. Moses, describing the scene, says: The Lord came from Sinai, and rose up from 8. How does the psalmist define the Seir unto them; He shined forth from chariots of the Lord? Ps. 68:17. Com- Mount Paran, and He came with ten thou- pare Ps. 104:4. sands of saints; from His right hand went a fiery law for them.'"—Patriarchs and Prophets, pages 304, 305. Glory of the Angels 4. How many angel ministers did 9. What is the first reference in the the prophet Daniel see before the Bible to the glory of angels? Gen. throne of God? Dan. 7:9, 10. 3:24. 1107 ing angels knew that the time for the re- lease of God's dear Son, their loved Com- mander, had nearly come. As they were waiting with the deepest emotion the hour of His triumph, a mighty angel came fly- ing swiftly from heaven. His face was like the lightning, and his garments white as snow. His light dispersed the darkness from his track and caused the evil angels, who had triumphantly claimed the body of Je- sus, to flee in terror from his brightness and glory. One of the angelic host who had witnessed the scene of Christ's humili- ation, and was watching His resting place, joined the angel from heaven, and together they came down to the sepulcher. The earth trembled and shook as they ap- proached, and there was a great earth- quake."—Early Writings, page 181. 12. What description is given by 10. How did the angel that ap- the prophet Daniel of the glory of an peared to Manoah reveal his glory? angelic being? Dan. 10:5, 6. Judges 13:19-22. 13. How does Ezekiel describe the NOTE.—"I was shown that when God living creatures around the throne of sent His angels anciently to minister or God? Ezek. 1:13, 14. communicate to individuals, and these per- sons learned that they had seen and talked with an angel, they were struck with awe and were afraid that they should die. They had so exalted views of the terrible majesty 14. How does the prophet John de- and power of God that they thought it scribe the glory of the Son of God? would destroy them to be brought into Rev. 1:13-16. close connection with one direct from His holy presence. I was referred to Judges 13: 21, 22: 'Then Manoah knew that he was an angel of the Lord. And Manoah said unto his wife, We shall surely die, because NoTE.—The Son of God is the "Arch- we have seen God.'"—Testimonies, vol. 1, angel." See 1 Thessalonians 4:16. To no p. 410. other being is given this exalted title. The glory of His presence surpasses that of the 11. What was the appearance of angels. the angel who rolled back the stone from the Saviour's tomb? Matt. 28: 15. If faithful, what may we some- 2-4. Compare Luke 24:4, 5. day share in some degree? 1 John 3:2. NOTE.—"As night drew on, soldiers were NOTE.—"Our Redeemer has opened the stationed to guard the Saviour's resting way so that the most sinful, the most needy, place, while angels, unseen, hovered above the most oppressed and despised, may find the sacred spot. The night wore slowly access to the Father."—The Desire of Ages, away, and while it was yet dark, the watch- page 113. Lesson 4, for October 22, 1955 Power and Speed of the Angels MEMORY VERSE: "Bless the Lord, ye His angels, that excel in strength, that do His commandments, hearkening unto the voice of His word." Ps. 103:20. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 11-14. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab- Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3. bath School Lesson Help. Monday: Ques. 4-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Ques. 8-10. ' Lesson Outline: IV. Speed of the Angels I. Introduction 1. Ezekiel's description of the swift- ness of the angels' movements. Ezek. 1:14. Power of the Angels 2. Daniel attests to swift flight of an- gels. Dan. 9:21, last part. 1. Excel in strength. Ps. 103:20. 3. Jesus could immediately summon 2. Illustrated in deliverance of Peter legions of angels. Matt. 26:53. from prison. Acts 5:17-19, 22, 23. V. Examples of Speedy Intervention of Angels III. Example of Angelic Power Over Armies of Assyria 1. Daniel's prayer. Dan. 9:3, 4, 18, 19. 2. The immediate response. Dan. 9:20, 1. Defiance of Assyria. 2 Kings 19: 21, 23. 10-13. 3. Peter's imprisonment arouses church 2. Hezekiah seeks God. 2 Kings 19: to prayer. Acts 12:4, 5. 14-19. 4. Angel intervention on eve of pro- 3. Lord's message through prophet posed execution. Acts 12:6-9. Isaiah. 2 Kings 19:20-34. 5. Church surprised that their prayers 4. Destruction of Assyrian army. were so soon answered. Acts 2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chron. 32:21. 12:11-16. THE LESSON Introduction should bring great assurance to the people of God as we approach the time of trouble. The power of the angels whom God sends forth to minister to the heirs of salvation, Power of the Angels and the speed with which the angels can come to our deliverance at the command of 1. How does the psalmist refer to God in the hour of crisis are facts that the power of the angels? Ps. 103:20. L 12] 2. How is the power of angels il- From a study of this record, we must ad- lustrated in the experience of Peter? mit that the power of angels is limited only Acts 5:17-19, 22, 23. by the work which God designs they shall accomplish."—I. H. Evans, The Ministry of Angels, page 73. Example of Angelic Power Speed of the Angels Over Armies of Assyria 7. What description does Ezekiel 3. With what words did Rab- give of the swiftness of the movement shakeh, leader of the Assyrian hosts, of angels? Ezek. 1:14. taunt Hezekiah and defy heaven? 2 Kings 19:10-13. NOTE.—Man has never attempted to measure the velocity of anything traveling 4. What did Hezekiah do when he faster than light. Light travels 186,000 received the letter? 2 Kings 19:14-19. miles a second—more than seven times around the earth in one second of time. Yet angels can travel faster than this. Ezekiel wrote of their movement that they "ran and returned as the appearance of a 5. What was the message sent by flash of lightning." Men may move about the Lord through Isaiah in answer to by train, automobile, or airplane at what Hezekiah's prayer? 2 Kings 19:20-34. we consider an extremely high rate of speed; but when we compare such move- ment to that of an angel, it is as nothing. Faster than the telegraph message, these 6. That very night what did one heavenly messengers speed on their errands angel do? 2 Kings 19:35; 2 Chron. of ministry to man. 32:21. 8. How does Daniel speak of the speed of an angel? Dan. 9:21, last part. NOTE.—"What a thrilling tale of deliver- ance from captivity wrought by God through the agency of an angel! Where, now, is the boasting of that proud, blas- 9. In what words did Jesus indicate phemous monarch, who defied the Lord of that legions of angels were at His im- heaven and said He was not able to de- mediate command? Matt. 26:53. liver out of his hand? Before the Assyri- ans can shoot an arrow or throw a javelin, the God of heaven sends an angel to smite their sleeping hosts. In a single night, one hundred eighty-five thousand of Sennache- Examples of Speedy Intervention rib's warriors are slain, not on the field of of Angels battle, but by this silent messenger from heaven. 10. In his burden for the restora- "Was ever such victory won before in the history of nations?—a whole army gone tion of Jerusalem what was Daniel down into the jaws of death, not in battle, constrained to do? Dan. 9:3, 4, 18, 19. not on the field of campaign and strife, but while they lay sleeping, dreaming per- chance of the morrow, when they hoped to scale the walls of Jerusalem and satisfy NoTE.—This prayer in its entirety cannot their lust and appetite and greed in the be considered a very long prayer. In con- plunder and spoils of a conquered city. nection with what follows we should mark [ 13 ] 12. What did Peter's imprisonment arouse the church to do? Acts 12:4, 5. 13. On the eve of Peter's proposed execution what deliverance came to him? Acts 12:6-9. NOTE.—"With the prison doors securely fastened, and a strong guard before them, all chance of rescue or escape through hu- man means was cut off. But man's extrem- ity is God's opportunity.. . `WE MAY HAVE HEAVEN'S HELP AT A "It is the last night before the proposed MOMENT'S CALL IF WE, LIKE DANIEL, execution. A mighty angel is sent from TRUST IN GOD heaven to rescue Peter. The strong gates that shut in the saint of God open without the aid of human hands. The angel of the the comparative brevity of this prayer. Most High passes through, and the gates "Heaven was bending low to hear the close noiselessly behind him. He enters the earnest supplication of the prophet. Even cell, and there lies Peter, sleeping the peace- before he had finished his plea for pardon ful sleep of perfect trust. . . . He feels the and restoration, the mighty Gabriel again touch of the angel's hand, and hears a voice appeared to him, and called his attention saying, 'Arise up quickly.' . . . to the vision he had seen prior to the fall "They step over the guard, and reach the of Babylon and the death of Belshazzar. heavily bolted door, which of its own ac- And then the angel outlined before him in cord swings open, and closes again imme- detail the period of the seventy weeks, diately, while the guards within and with- which was to begin at the time of 'the go- out are motionless at their post. ing forth of the commandment to restore "The second door, also guarded within and to build Jerusalem.'"—Prophets and and without, is reached. It opens as did Kings, page 556. the first, with no creaking of hinges or rattling of iron bolts. They pass through, 11. How does Daniel speak of the and it closes again as noiselessly. In the immediacy of the response to his same way they pass through the third gate- prayer? Dan. 9:20, 21, 23. way, and find themselves in the open street. No word is spoken; there is no sound of footsteps. The angel glides on in front, encircled by a light of dazzling bright- ness, and Peter, bewildered, and still be- NOTE.—"Here a messenger from heaven, lieving himself to be in a dream, follows his standing before the throne of God when deliverer. Thus they pass on through one Daniel began to pray, was commanded to street, and then, the mission of the angel come to the prophet, and to give him skill being accomplished, he suddenly disap- and understanding concerning the revela- pears."—The Acts of the Apostles, pages tions of Jehovah. While the prayer was 146, 147. still on his lips, before he had closed his 14. What surprise was expressed petition, a messenger from the throne of God was at Daniel's side, announcing, 'At by the church at prayer? Acts 12: the beginning of thy supplications the com- 11-16. mandment came forth, and I am come to show thee.' Verse 23. Surely one could not ask for a more speedy response to his NoTE.—Thus again the Lord demon- supplication than this."—I. H. Evans. The strated the assurance that God is "a very Ministry of Angels, pages 82, 83. present help in trouble." 14 Lesson 5, for October 29, 1955 Guardian Angels MEMORY VERSE:, "He shall give His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone." Ps. 91:11, 12. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 12-14. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sob- Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3. bath School Lesson Help. Monday: Ques. 4-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Ques. 8-11. Lesson Outline: young man." 2 Kings 6:16, 17. IV. Illustrated in the Experience I. Introduction of Daniel II. Angelic Protection 1. Daniel accused. Dan. 6:10-13. 1. "Their angels." Matt. 18:10. 2. The king's reluctant order. Dan. 2. "Charge over thee." Ps. 91:11, 12. 6:14-17. 3. "Encampeth round about." Ps. 34:7. 3. The king's inquiry. Dan. 6:18-20. 4. Daniel's deliverance. Dan. 6:21-23. III. Illustrated in Experiences of Job 5. Fate of Daniel's accusers. and Elisha V. In the Final Conflict 1. "My servant Job." Job 1:6-8. 2. "An hedge about him." Job 1:9, 10. 1. Promise for time of trouble. Ps. 3. "Alas, my master ! how shall we 27:5. do?" 2 Kings 6:15. 2. Saved out of time of Jacob's trou- 4. "The Lord opened the eyes of the ble. Jer. 30:7. THE LESSON Introduction Angelic Protection One of the most comforting assurances in the Bible is that every child of God has 1. How is the personal interest of the protection of heavenly angels. As we angels in human beings expressed? study this lesson on guardian angels, may we commit the keeping of our lives anew to Matt. 18:10. God's protecting care in a fuller apprecia- tion of the fact that, "God's people, ex- posed to the deceptive power and unsleep- ing malice of the prince of darkness, and in conflict with all the forces of evil, are 2. What charge does God give His assured of the unceasing guardianship of heavenly angels."-The Great Controversy, angels concerning the care of His peo- page 513. ple? Ps. 91:11, 12. [ 151 delivereth them.' God commissions His angels to save His chosen ones from calam- ity, to guard them from 'the pestilence that walketh in darkness,' and 'the destruc- tion that wasteth at noonday.' Again and again have angels talked with men as a man speaketh with a friend, and led them to places of security. Again and again have the encouraging words of angels re- newed the drooping spirits of the faithful, and carrying their minds above the things of earth, caused them to behold by faith the white robes, the crowns, the palm branches of victory, which overcomers will receive when they surround the great white throne."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 153. "HEAVEN IS VERY NEAR THOSE WHO Illustrated in Experiences of SUFFER FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS' SAKE." Job and Elisha NOTE.-"I have seen the tender love that 4. What question did God once ask God has for His people, and it is very Satan regarding Job? Job 1:6-8. great. I saw angels over the saints with their wings spread about them. Each saint had an attending angel. If the saints wept through discouragement, or were in dan- ger, the angels that ever attended them 5. How did Satan complain of the would fly quickly upward to carry the tid- protection about Job? Job 1:9, 10. ings, and the angels in the city would cease to sing. Then Jesus would commission an- other angel to descend to encourage, watch over, and try to keep them from going out of the narrow path; but if they did not 6. In time of peril how did Elisha's take heed to the watchful care of these servant express his alarm? 2 Kings angels, and would not be comforted by 6:15. them, but continued to go astray, the an- gels would look sad and weep. They would bear the tidings upward, and all the angels in the city would weep, and then with a loud voice say, 'Amen.' But if the saints 7. How were his fears allayed? 2 fixed their eyes upon the prize before them Kings 6:16, 17. and glorified God by praising Him, then the angels would bear the glad tidings to the city, and the angels in the city would touch their golden harps and sing with a loud voice, 'Alleluia!' and the heavenly Illustrated in the Experience arches would ring with their lovely songs." of Daniel —Early Writings, page 39. 3. What comforting assurance is 8. What accusation was brought given to those who fear God? Ps. 34:7. against Daniel? Dan. 6:10-13. :NOTE.—" 'The angel of the Lord encamp- 9. What order did the king reluc- eth round about them that fear Him, and tantly give? Dan. 6:14-17. [ 16 ] NotE.—"God did not prevent Daniel's 12. Whose lives did the angels not enemies from casting him into the lions' guard? Dan. 6:24. den; He permitted evil angels and wicked men thus far to accomplish their purpose; but it was that He might make the deliver- ance of His servant more marked, and the defeat of the enemies of truth and right- In the Final Conflict eousness more complete. 'Surely the wrath of man shall praise Thee,' the psalmist has 13. In the final conflict what extra testified. Through the courage of this one provision will be made for the protec- man who chose to follow right rather than tion of God's people? Ps. 27:5. policy, Satan was to be defeated, and the name of God was to be exalted and hon- ored."—Prophets and Kings, pages 543, 544. 10. After a wakeful night, what NOTE.—"Said the angel, 'List ye!' Soon I heard a voice like many musical instru- concern did the king manifest? Dan. ments all sounding in perfect strains, sweet 6:18-20. and harmonious. It surpassed any music I had ever heard, seeming to be full of mercy, compassion, and elevating, holy joy. It thrilled through my whole being. Said the angel, 'Look ye!' My attention was then 11. What was Daniel's reassuring turned to the company I had seen, who reply to the king's inquiry? Dan. 6: were mightily shaken. I was shown those 21-23. whom I had before seen weeping and pray- ing in agony of spirit. The company of guardian angels around them had been doubled, and they were clothed with an armor from their head to their feet. They NoTE.—"From the story of Daniel's de- moved in exact order, like a company of liverance, we may learn that in seasons of soldiers. Their countenances expressed the trial and gloom, God's children should be severe conflict which they had endured, the just what they were when their prospects agonizing struggle they had passed through. were bright with hope and their surround- Yet their features, marked with severe in- ings all that they could desire. Daniel in ternal anguish, now shone with the light the lions' den was the same Daniel who and glory of heaven. They had obtained stood before the king as chief among the the victory, and it called forth from them ministers of state and as a prophet of the the deepest gratitude and holy, sacred joy." Most High. A man whose heart is stayed —Early Writings, pages 270, 271. upon God will be the same in the hour of 14. On what promise should the his greatest trial as he is in prosperity, child of God rest in that hour of trou- when the light and favor of God and of ble? Jer. 30:7. man beam upon him. Faith reaches to the unseen, and grasps eternal realities. "Heaven is very near those who suffer for righteousness' sake. Christ identifies His interests with the interests of His faithful NOTE.—"The people of God will then be plunged into those scenes of affliction and people; He suffers in the person of His distress described by the prophet as the saints; and whoever touches His chosen time of Jacob's trouble. 'Thus saith the ones touches Him. The power that is near Lord: We have heard a voice of trembling, to deliver from physical harm or distress is of fear, and not of peace. . . . All faces also near to save from the greater evil, are turned into paleness. Alas! for that making it possible for the servant of God to day is great, so that none is like it: it is maintain his integrity undet all circum- even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he stances, and to triumph through divine shall be saved out of it.' "—The Great Con- grace."—Prophets and Kings, page 545. troversy, page 616. [ 17 ] Lesson 6, for November 5, 1955 Angels and the Judgment MEMORY VERSE: "Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name." Mal. 3:16. STUDY HELPS: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help; "Index to the Writings of Ellen G. White" on Books of record in heaven. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Read from Ellen G. White the lesson. on Books of record in heaven. Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab- Monday: Ques. 4-8. bath School Lesson Help. Tuesday: Ques. 9-12. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Lesson Outline: I. Introduction 3. "Book of remembrance." Mal. 3:16, 17. II. The Judgment IV. Detailed Record Kept of Our Lives 1. An appointed time for judgment. 1. \Vords taken into account. Matt. Acts 17:31. 12:36, 37. 2. Universality of the judgment. 2 Cor. 2. Even motives reviewed. 1 Cor. 4:5. 5:10. 3. "Every secret thing." Eccl. 12:14. 3. Judgment scene described. Dan. 7:9, 10. V. The Angel Witnesses 1. "Before the angel." Eccl. 5:6. III. Life's Records Consulted 2. Names confessed before the angels. 1. "In Thy book." Ps. 56:8. Rev. 3:5. 2. "The books were opened." Rev. 3. Deliverance of those written in the 20:11-15. book. Dan. 12:1; Rev. 21)27. THE LESSON Introduction "How solemn is the thought! Day after day, passing into eternity, bears its burden One of the outstanding teachings of the of records for the books of heaven. Words Bible is that all men must face a final hour once spoken, deeds once done, can never be of judgment. Along with this is also several recalled. Angels have registered both the references to the book of records from good and the evil. The mightiest conqueror which man will be judged. The question upon the earth cannot call back the record might be raised, "Who has kept the records of even a single day. Our acts, our words, of men's lives?" While there is no direct even our most secret motives, all have their statement in the Bible that angels are the weight in deciding our destiny for weal or divine recorders, there are indications that woe. Though they may be forgotten by this is so. There are numerous references us, they will bear their testimony to justify in the spirit of prophecy to this effect such or to condemn."—The Great Controversy, as the following: pages 486, 487. [ 18 3 The Judgment 1. For what event has God ap- pointed a time? Acts 17:31. 2. How many must appear before the judgment bar? 2 Cor. 5:10. 3. What description of the judg- ment is given by Daniel? Dan. 7:9, 10. WORDS AND ACI7ONS AND M077VOS ARZ RZCOROff0 mina BOOKS OF HEAVEN. NOTE.—"Thus was presented to the proph- et's vision the great and solemn day when heaven; for there is a record kept of the the characters and the lives of men should impieties of nations, of families, of indi- pass in review before the Judge of all the viduals. God may bear long while the ac- earth, and to every man should be ren- count goes on, and calls to repentance and dered 'according to his works.' The An- offers of pardon may be given; yet a time cient of Days is God the Father. Says the will come when the account will be full; psalmist, 'Before the 'mountains were when the soul's decision has been made; brought forth, or ever Thou hadst formed when by his own choice, man's destiny has the earth and the world, even from ever- been fixed. Then the signal will be given lasting to everlasting, Thou art God.' It is for judgment to be executed."—Patriarchs He, the source of all being, and the foun- and Prophets, page 165. tain of all law, that is to preside in the judgment. And holy angels, as ministers 6. For whom is a book of remem- and witnesses, in number 'ten thousand brance kept? Mal. 3:16, 17. times ten thousand, and thousands of thou- sands,' attend this great tribunal."—The Great Controversy, page 479. NoTE.—" 'A book of remembrance' is Life's Records Consulted written before God, in which are recorded the good deeds of 'them that feared the 4. Where did the psalmist indicate Lord, and that thought upon His name.' that his life record was kept? Ps. 56:8. Their words of faith, their acts of love, are registered in heaven. Nehemiah refers to this when he says, 'Remember me, 0 my God, . . . and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God.' 5. When all men finally stand be- In the book of God's remembrance every fore the "great white throne," what deed of righteousness is immortalized. There every temptation resisted, every evil records will be opened? Rev. 20: overcome, every word of tender pity ex- 11-15. pressed, is faithfully chronicled. And every act of sacrifice, every suffering and sorrow endured for Christ's sake, is recorded. Says the psalmist, 'Thou tellest my wanderings: NOTE.---"You who are slighting the offers put Thou my tears into Thy bottle: are of mercy, think of the long array of figures they not in Thy book?'"—The Great Con- accumulating against you in the books of troversy, page 481. [19 ] Detailed Record Kept of Our Lives 9. What shows that the secrets of our lives are registered in heaven? 7. What is taken into account in Eccl. 12:14. the judgment? Matt. 12:36, 37. NoTE.—"Opposite each name in the books NOTE.—"Some talk too much; they stand of heaven is entered, with terrible exactness, in this position: 'Report, . . . and we will every wrong word, every selfish act, every report it.' Miserable indeed is such a po- unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin, with sition ! If all these gossipers would ever every artful dissembling. Heaven-sent warn- bear in mind that an angel is following ings or reproofs neglected, wasted moments, them, recording their words, there would unimproved opportunities, the influence ex- be less talking and much more praying."— erted for good or for evil, with its far- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 40. reaching results, all are chronicled by the "You all have an influence for good or recording angel."—The Great Controversy, for evil on the minds and characters of page 482. others. And just the influence which you exert is written in the book of records in heaven. An angel is attending you and The Angel Witnesses taking record of your words and actions.. When you rise in the morning, do you feel 10. What witness is there of our your helplessness and your need of strength actions and words? Eccl. 5:6. from God? and do you humbly, heartily make known your wants to your heavenly Father? If so, angels mark your prayers, and if these prayers have not gone forth out of feigned lips, when you are in danger NoTE.—"I was shown that the recording of unconsciously doing wrong and exerting angel makes a faithful record of every of- an influence which will lead others to do fering dedicated to God and put into the wrong, your guardian angel will be by your treasury, and also of the final result of the side, prompting you to a better course, means thus bestowed. The eye of God takes choosing your words for you, and influ- cognizance of every farthing devoted to encing your actions."—Testimonies, vol. 3, His cause, and of the willingness or reluc- pp. 363, 364. tance of the giver. The motive in giving is also chronicled. Those self-sacrificing, con- 8. How inclusive is this record? 1 secrated ones who render back to God the Cor. 4:5. things that are His, as He requires of them, will be rewarded according to their works. Even though the means thus consecrated be misapplied, so that it does not accom- NoTE.—"Words and actions and motives plish the object which the donor had in are recorded; but how little do these light, view,—the glory of God and the salvation superficial heads and hard hearts realize of souls,—those who made the sacrifice that an angel of God stands writing down in sincerity of soul, with an eye single to the manner in which their precious mo- the glory of God, will not lose their re- ments are employed. God will bring to ward."—Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 518, 519. light every word and every action. He is in every place. His messengers, although 11. What precious promise is made unseen, are visitors in the workroom and in to the overcomer? Rev. 3:5. the sleeping apartment. The hidden works of darkness will be brought to light. The thoughts, the intents and purposes of the heart, will stand revealed. All things are naked and open to the eyes of Him with 12. Who are promised deliverance whom we have to do."—Testimonies, vol. in the time of trouble? Dan. 12:1; 4, pp. 589, 590. Rev. 21:27. [ 20] Lesson 7, for November 12, 1955 Angels Agents in Divine Revelation MEMORY VERSE: "He said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show unto His servants the things which must shortly be done. Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book." Rev. 22:6, 7. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 13-15. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab- Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3. bath School Lesson Help. Monday: Ques. 4-8. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Ques. 9-12. Lesson Outline: I. Introduction IV. Prophecy of Zechariah Example of Instruction by an Angel II. Prophetic Messengers 1. Secrets revealed to prophets. Amos 1. An angel explains vision of red 3:7. horse. Zech. 1:7-14. 2. An angel enlightens Daniel. Dan. 2. Joshua and the angel. Zech. 8:15-19. 3:1-7. 3. An angel signifies revelation to 3. An angel interprets vision of can- John. Rev. 1:1. dlestick and olive trees. Zech. 4:1-14. III. Gabriel the Chief Messenger of the Lord V. Other Instances of Angelic 1. Gabriel sent to Daniel. Dan. 9: Instruction 21, 22. 2. His honored position. Dan. 10:21. 1. To Abraham. Gen. 22:11, 12, 15-18. 3. The one who stands in presence of 2. To Gideon. Judges 6:11, 12. God. Luke 1:19. 3. To Zacharias. Luke 1:11-18. 4. "Thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren the prophets." Rev. 22: 4. To Mary. Luke 1:26-35. 6, 8, 9. 5. To the shepherds. Luke 2:8-15. THE LESSON Introduction between God and man. . . . Man was . . . cut off from direct approach to his Creator, One of the functions of the angels is to but God would communicate with him reveal God's will to men. "Adam, in his through Christ and angels."-Patriarchs innocence, had enjoyed open communion and Prophets, page 67. In this lesson we with his Maker; but sin brought separation will study about angels as God's messengers. [21] Prophetic Messengers 1. To whom does God reveal His secrets? Amos 3:7. 2. What agency did God use in en- lightening the prophet Daniel? Dan. 8:15-19. 3. What part did an angel serve in • making plain God's message to John? 6A131ZIEL BROUGHT THE WONDERFUL , ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE SON Of Rev. 1:1. GOD TO A HUMBLE MAIDEN. 5. How did Gabriel indicate his honored position? Dan. 10:21. NOTE.—"In the past, God has revealed to man many of His plans and purposes. Again and again, in different ages, He has spoken to men in various ways, through His Holy Spirit, by vision, and by sending 6. In his announcement to Zacha- angels to bring His messages to those rias how did Gabriel reveal his rela- through whom He would reveal His will. tion to God? Luke 1:19. Almost from the earliest records of God's dealings with His chosen people, to the clos- ing book in the Bible, we find that God has repeatedly spoken to His prophets and His people through the agency of angels."—I. 7. How did the angel who ap- H. Evans, The Ministry of Angels, page 127. peared to John refer to himself? Rev. 22:6, 8, 9. Gabriel the Chief Messenger of the Lord NOTE.—"Christ sent and made known the 4. By what name was the angel Revelation to John by 'His angel.' A par- sent to Daniel identified? Dan. 9: ticular angel seems here to be brought to 21, 22. view. What angel could appropriately be called Christ's angel? May we not find an answer to this question in a significant pass- age in the prophecy of Daniel? In Daniel 10:21, an angel, which was doubtless Ga- NOTE.—"It was Gabriel, the angel next briel (see Daniel, chapters 9, 10, and 11:1), in rank to the Son of God, who came with in making known some important truths to the divine message to Daniel. It was Ga- Daniel, said, 'There is none that holdeth briel, 'His angel,' whom Christ sent to open with me in these things, but Michael your the future to the beloved John; and a bless- prince.' Who Michael is we easily learn. ing is pronounced on those who read and Jude (verse 9) calls him the 'Archangel.' hear the words of the prophecy, and keep And Paul tells us that when the Lord de- the things written therein. Rev. 1:3."— scends from heaven, and the dead in Christ The Desire of Ages, page 234. are raised, the voice of the Archangel shall [22] be heard. 1 Thess. 4:16. And whose voice little displeased, and they helped forward will be heard at that amazing hour when the affliction. Therefore thus saith the the dead are called to life? The Lord Him- Lord; I am returned to Jerusalem with self replies, 'Marvel not at this; for the mercies: My house shall be built in it, . . . hour is coming in the which all that are in and a line shall be stretched forth upon the graves shall hear His voice' (John 5: Jerusalem.' "—Prophets and Kings, page 28) ; and the previous verse shows that the 580. one here referred to, whose voice will then be heard, is the Son of man, or Christ. It is 9. What comforting message did the voice of Christ, then, that calls the dead the angel bring to the accused Joshua? from their graves. That voice, Paul de- Zech. 3:1-7. clares, is the voice of the Archangel; and Jude says that the Archangel is called Mi- chael, the very personage mentioned in Daniel, and all referring to Christ. The statement in Daniel, then, is, that the truths 10. What interpretation did the an- to be revealed to Daniel were committed to gel give to the vision of the candle- Christ, and confined exclusively to Him, and to an angel whose name was Gabriel. Simi- sticks and olive trees? Zech. 4:1-14. lar to the work of communicating impor- tant truth to the 'beloved prophet' is the work of Christ in the Revelation of com- municating important truth to the 'be- loved disciple;' and who, in this work, can Other Instances of Angelic be His angel but he who was engaged with Instruction Him in the former work, that is, the angel Gabriel?"—Daniel and the Revelation, 1918 ed., pp. 353, 354. See pages 340, 341 in The 11. In what direct way does God Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation. sometimes communicate with man? Gen. 22:11, 12, 15-18. Prophecy of Zechariah Example of Instruction by an Angel 12. How did God once reveal His 8. Who came to explain to Zecha- purpose to Gideon? Judges 6:11, 12. riah his vision of the red horse and his rider? Zech. 1:7-14. 13. Who appeared unto the priest Zacharias, and what message did he NOTE.—"Zechariah had a series of vi- deliver? Luke 1:11-18. sions regarding the work of God in the earth. These messages, given in the form of parables and symbols, came at a time of great uncertainty and anxiety, and were of peculiar significance to the men who were 14. What did this special heavenly advancing in the name of the God of Israel. . . . 'And the Lord answered the angel that messenger announce to Mary? Luke talked with me,' Zechariah declared, 'with 1:26-35. good words and comfortable words. " 'So the angel that communed with me said unto me, Cry thou, saying, Thus saith the Lord of hosts; I am jealous for Jerusa- lem and for Zion with a great jealousy. 15. What medium did heaven use And I am very sore displeased with the in bringing glad tidings to the shep- heathen that are at ease: for I was but a herds? Luke 2:8-15. [ 23 ] Lesson 8, for November 19, 1955 Angel Ministry to Men MEMORY VERSE: "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." Heb. 13:2. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 13-15. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab- Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-4. bath School Lesson Help. Monday: Ques. 5-8. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Ques. 9-12. Lesson Outline: I. Introduction 4. Deliverance of Lot's immediate family. Gen. 19:15-17. II. Abraham's Heavenly Visitors 5. As a result of Abraham's interces- sion. Gen. 18:23-32; 19:29. - 1. Abraham's reception of three strangers. Gen. 18:1-8. IV. An Angel Comforts Hagar 2. Previous promise of posterity. Gen. 1. Angel questions Hagar. Gen. 16':6-8. 15:5; 17:1-8. 2. The angel's message to Hagar. Gen. 3. Promise to be realized through 16:9-13. Sarah. Gen. 18:9-15. 3. Hagar again in distress. Gen. 21: 4. Mission of messengers to Sodom. 14-16. Gen. 18:16-22. 4. God again provides angel ministry for Hagar. Gen. 21:17-19. III. Angels Visit Sodom V. An Angel Intervenes in Abra- 1. Lot welcomes angel visitors. Gen. 19:1-3, 5, first part. ham's Supreme Test 2. Supernatural power of Lot's guests. 1. Abraham's great test of faith. Gen. Gen. 19:9-11. 22:2, 9. 3. Warning of destruction. Gen. 2. An angel stays Abraham's hand. 19:12-14. Gen. 22:10-12. THE LESSON Introduction attend the meek and lowly ones who believe and claim the promises of God. Cherubim One of the most important functions of and seraphim and angels that excel in the angels is their ministry to man. "We strength,-ten thousand times ten thou- need to understand better than we do the sand and thousands of thousands,-stand mission of the angel visitants. It would be at His right hand, 'all ministering spirits, well to consider that in all our work we sent forth to minister for them who shall have the co-operation and care of heavenly be heirs of salvation.' "-Christ's Object beings. Invisible armies of light and power Lessons, page 176. [ 24 ] Abraham's Heavenly Visitors these heavenly messengers that very night they would reach the climax of the guilt 1. Who were the "three men" en- which doomed their proud city. But there tertained by Abraham in the plains of was one man who manifested kindly at- tention toward the strangers, and invited Mamre? Gen. 18:1-8. Compare Gen. them to his home. Lot did not know their 19:1. true character, but politeness and hospital- ity were habitual with him; they were a part of his religion,—lessons that he had learned from the example of Abraham. Had NOTE.—"God conferred great honor upon he not cultivated a spirit of courtesy, he Abraham. Angels of heaven walked and might have been left to perish with the rest talked with him as friend with friend. When of Sodom. Many a household, in closing its judgments were about to be visited upon doors against a stranger, has shut out God's Sodom, the fact was not hidden from him, messenger, who would have brought bless- and he became an intercessor with God for ing and hope and peace."—Patriarchs and sinners. His interview with the angels pre- Prophets, page 158. sents also a beautiful example of hospital- ity."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 138. 6. In what way was the real char- acter of Lot's guest revealed? Gen. 2. What promise had previously 19:9-11. been made to Abraham regarding his posterity? Gen. 15:5; 17:1-8. 7. What did the angels then tell Lot regarding the object of their visit? 3. How did the Lord at this time Gen. 19:12-14. tell Abraham the promise concerning his seed was to be fulfilled? Gen. 18: 9-15. 8. While these angels had been sent to destroy the wicked inhabitants, what was their work in behalf of Lot 4. What was the mission of the an- and his family? Gen. 19:15-17. gels to Sodom and neighboring cities? Gen. 18:16-22. 9. Who had especially intervened for Lot and his family? Gen. 18:23-32; 19:29. Angels Visit Sodom 5. Although referred to as "an- gels," what indicates that the identity NOTE.—"Though Lot had become a of these visitors to Sodom was con- dweller in Sodom, he did not partake in the cealed? Gen. 19:1-3, 5, first part. iniquity of its inhabitants. Abraham thought that in that populous city there must be other worshipers of the true God. And in view of this he pleaded, 'That be far from Thee, to do after this manner, to NOTE.—"In the twilight, two strangers slay the righteous with the wicked; . . . drew near to the city gate. They were ap- that be far from Thee. Shall not the parently travelers coming in to tarry for Judge of all the earth do right?' Abra- the night. None could discern in those hum- ham asked not once merely, but many ble wayfarers the mighty heralds of divine times. Waxing bolder as his requests were judgment, and little dreamed the gay, care- granted, he continued until he gained the less multitude that in their treatment of assurance that if even ten righteous persons [25 ] Lord hath heard thy affliction.' I will mul- tiply thy seed exceedingly, that it shall not be numbered for multitude.' And as a per- petual reminder of his mercy, she was hid- den to call her child Ishmael, 'God shall hear.'"—Patriarchs and Prophets, pages 145, 146. 12. What distressing experience again came to Hagar? Gen. 21:14-16. mN uEAVENLY MESSENGERS SAVE 13. How did God again provide for Y tir FROM OUR OWN Hagar in her banishment? Gen. 21: WILLFUL, WAYS. 17-19. NOTE.—"Thus it is that heaven ministers to man's needs. These poor exiles were hopeless and friendless. No more could could be found in it, the city would be they return to the abundance of Abraham's spared. house. Moreover, He to whom the future "Love for perishing souls inspired Abra- is as an open book, knew that Ishmael ham's prayer. While he loathed the sins of would not choose to walk in the paths of that corrupt city, he desired that the sin- righteousness; yet, notwithstanding all this, ners might be saved. His deep interest for He sent an angel from heaven to this sor- Sodom shows the anxiety that we should rowing mother and her suffering child to feel for the impenitent. We should cherish supply their needs. hatred of sin, but pity and love for the "In this dark world there is many a sinner. All around us are souls going down mother whose heart aches as did Hagar's; to ruin as hopeless, as terrible, as that many a one who, like the outcast Egyptian, which befell Sodom."—Patriarchs and knows not what to do. Often her heart is Prophets, pages 139, 140. too full for utterance. There may be no true human friend to whom she can tell her An Angel Comforts Hagar sorrows, none from whom she may seek counsel. In utter hopelessness, she may feel 10. When Hagar fled from her mis- that life is too bitter to be borne, and long tress, who found her in the wilder- for the time when she may rest from her ness? Gen. 16:6-8. troubles. But there is not one such who may not find comfort and help in God."— I. H. Evans, The Ministry of Angels, pages 168, 169. 11. What message did the angel give to her? Gen. 16:9-13. An Angel Intervenes in Abra- ham's Supreme Test 14. What supreme test of faith NoTE.—"She made her way to the desert, and as she rested beside a fountain, lonely came to Abraham? Gen. 22:2, 9. and friendless, an angel of the Lord, in hu- man form, appeared to her. Addressing her as 'Hagar, Sarai's maid,' to remind her of her position and her duty, he bade her, 'Re- 15. As Abraham was about to sac- turn to thy mistress, and submit thyself rifice his son, by what divine inter- under her hands.' Yet with the reproof vention was his, hand stayed? Gen. there were mingled words of comfort. 'The 22:10-12. [26 1 Lesson 9, for November 26, 1955 Angel Ministry to Men (Continued) MEMORY VERSE: "Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the Lord is in this place; and I knew it not." Gen. 28:16. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 12-14. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab- Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3. bath School Lesson Help. Monday: Ques. 4-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Ques. 8-11. Lesson Outline: I. Introduction IV. An Angel Ministers to Elijah 1. Jezebel's threat against the prophet. II. Ministry of Angels Revealed 1 Kings 19:1, 2. to Jacob 2. Elijah's flight and despondency. 1 Kings 19:3, 4. 1. Jacob's dream. Gen. 28:10-12. 3. An angel awakens Elijah. 1 Kings 2. Divine assurance. Gen. 28:13-15. 19:5, 6. 3. Bethel-The House of God. Gen. 4. Angel again appears and strength- 28:16-22. ens Elijah. 1 Kings 19:7, 8. III. Angels Appear to Jacob on His V. Angel Ministry in Resisting Return From Padan-aram Enemies of God's People 1. "God's host." Gen. 32:1, 2. 1. Balaam hired to curse Israel. Num. 2. Jacob's prayer. Gen. 32:9-12. 22:5-7. 3. Preparation to meet Esau. Gen. 2. Angel intercepts Balaam. Num. 32:13, 21. 22:22-26, 31-35. 4. Jacob's night of wrestling. Gen. 3. Angel influence in Persian court. 32:24-30. Dan. 10:13. THE LESSON Introduction and again have the encouraging words of angels renewed the drooping spirits of the The examples of angel ministry on behalf faithful. . . . of God's people are so numerous that we "It is the work of the angels to come close have the privilege of a second lesson on this to the tried, the suffering, the tempted. subject. How grateful we should be for They labor untiringly in behalf of those for this ministry ! "God commissions His an- whom Christ died. . . gels to save His chosen ones from calamity. "The principalities and powers of heaven . . . Again and again have angels• talked are watching the warfare which, under ap- with men as a man speaketh with a friend, parently discouraging circumstances, God's and led them to places of security. Again servants are carrying on. New conquests I 271, spiritual ear alone can hear the harmony of heavenly voices."—The. Acts of the Apos- tles, page 153. 2. What message did God speak to Jacob? Gen. 28:13-15. 3. What are some of the indications of the deep impression this dream had upon Jacob? Gen. 28:16-22. HWM Angels Appear to Jacob on His IN MANY DAILY EXPERIENCES ANGELS SE814 • TO SAVE US FROM OURSELVES;' Return From Padan-aram 4. Who met Jacob as he was re- turning to his father's land twenty are being achieved, new honors won, as the years later? Gen. 32:1, 2. Christians, rallying round the banner of their Redeemer, go forth to fight the good fight of faith. All the heavenly angels are at the service of the humble, believing peo- NOTE.—"Again the Lord granted Jacob a people of God; and as the Lord's army of token of the divine care. As he traveled workers here below sing their songs of southward from Mount Gilead, two hosts praise, the choir above join with them in of heavenly angels seemed to encompass ascribing praise to God and to His Son."— him behind and before, advancing with The Acts of the Apostles, pages 153, 154. his company, as if for their protection. Ja- cob remembered the vision at Bethel so long Ministry of Angels Revealed before, and his burdened heart grew lighter at this evidence that the divine messengers to Jacob who had brought him hope and courage at 1. In Jacob's dream at Bethel whom his flight from Canaan, were to be the guardians of his return. And he said, 'This did he see ascending and descending is God's host; and he called the name of between earth and heaven? Gen. 28: that place Mahanaim'—`two hosts, or 10-12. camps.'"—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 195. 5. When in distress for fear of NoTE.—"Heaven is brought near to earth Esau, for what did Jacob pray? Gen. by that mystic ladder, the base of which is 32:9-12. firmly planted on the earth, while the top- most round reaches the throne of the In- finite. Angels are constantly ascending and descending this ladder of shining brightness, 6. What preparation did Jacob bearing the prayers of the needy and dis- tressed to the Father above, and bringing make to meet his brother? Gen. 32: blessing and hope, courage and help, to the 13, 21. children of men. These angels of light create a heavenly atmosphere about the soul, lifting us toward the unseen and the eternal. We cannot behold their forms 7. What experience did he have with our natural sight; only by spiritual with an angel during the night? Gen. vision can we discern heavenly things. The 32:24-30. [28 7 NoTE.—"The struggle continued until a foundation more firm than the everlast- near the break of day, when the stranger ing hills; and new faith, new life, would placed his finger upon Jacob's thigh, and spring into being."—Prophets and Kings, he was crippled instantly. The patriarch page 162. now discerned the character of his antago- nist. He knew that he had been in conflict Angel Ministry in Resisting with a heavenly messenger, and this was why his almost superhuman effort had not Enemies of God's People gained the victory. It was Christ, 'the An- gel of the covenant,' who had revealed 12. Whom did Balak, the enemy of Himself to Jacob."—Patriarchs and Proph- Israel, hire to curse God's people? ets, page 197. Num. 22:5-7. An Angel Ministers to Elijah 8. What threat did Jezebel make against Elijah? 1 Kings 19:1, 2. 13. How did an angel intervene, and what restrictions were placed upon the mercenary prophet? Num. 22:22-26, 31-35. 9. For what did Elijah pray when in utter discouragement at the threat of Jezebel? 1 Kings 19:3, 4. 14. What other instance is re- corded of angel intervention on be- half of God's people in the time of Daniel? Dan. 10:13. 10. In this dark hour of despon- dency who ministered to the weary prophet? 1 Kings 19:5, 6. NOTE.—"While Satan was striving to in- fluence the highest powers in the kingdom of Medo-Persia to show disfavor to God's 11. At the second appearance of the people, angels worked in behalf of the ex- angel how did he minister to Elijah? iles. The controversy was one in which all What was the result of that ministry? heaven was interested. Through the prophet 1 Kings 19:7, 8. Daniel we are given a glimpse of this mighty struggle between the forces of good and the forces of evil. For three weeks Ga- briel wrestled with the powers of darkness, seeking to counteract the influences at work NOTE.—"Into the experience of all there on the mind of Cyrus; and before the con- come times of keen disappointment and test closed, Christ Himself came to Ga- utter discouragement,—days when sorrow briel's aid. 'The prince of the kingdom of is the portion, and it is hard to believe that Persia withstood me one and twenty days,' God is still the kind benefactor of His earth- Gabriel declares; 'but, lo, Michael, one of born children; days when troubles harass the chief princes, came to help me; and I the soul, till death seems preferable to life. remained there with the kings of Persia.' It is then that many lose their hold on All that heaven could do in behalf of the God, and are brought into the slavery of people of God was done. The victory was doubt, the bondage of unbelief. Could we finally gained; the forces of the enemy were at such times discern with spiritual insight held in check all the days of Cyrus, and all the meaning of God's providences, we the days of his son Cambyses, who reigned should see angels seeking to save us from about seven and a half years."—Prophets ourselves, striving to plant our feet upon and Kings, pages 571, 572. 29 Lesson 10, for December 3, 1955 Angel Ministry to Jesus MEMORY VERSE: "Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He shall presently give Me more than twelve legions of angels?" Matt. 26:53. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 13-16. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab- Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-4. bath School Lesson Help. Monday Ques. 5-8. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Ques. 9-12. Lesson Outline: I. Introduction 3. Legions at His command. Matt. 26:52-54. II. Angels at the Birth and the 4. Warning to Pilate in the judgment hall. Matt. 27:2, 19. Temptation of Christ 5. Cruel treatment in spite of angel 1. Angels announce the birth of Christ. warning. Matt. 27:26-30. Luke 2:8-14. IV. Angels at His Resurrection and 2. Wise Men follow the "star." Matt. 2:1, 2, 9, 10. Ascension 3. Angel appears to Joseph. Matt. I. Angel at the tomb. Matt. 28:1, 2. 2:13. 2. Effect upon the soldiers. Matt. 4. Angel ministry to Christ in the wil- 28:3, 4. derness. Matt. 4:1, 11. 3. Angel's message to the women. Matt. 28:5-7. III. Angels in Gethsemane and at 4. Luke mentions two angels. Luke Trial of Jesus 24:3-5. 5. Christ's ascension. Acts 1:9. I. Angel strengthens Christ for His 6. Angels' message of comfort. Acts hour of agony. Luke 22:39-44. 1:10, 11. 2. Mob struck to the ground. John 7. Angelic choir receives Christ. Ps. 18:4-6. 24:3-10. THE LESSON Introduction "The angels of God are ascending, bear- ing the prayers of the needy and distressed In the angels' ministry to Christ while to the Father above, and descending, bring- upon earth we have an example of their ing blessing and hope, courage, help, and loving solicitude for all His followers. Christ life, to the children of men. availed Himself of no divine assistance that "The angels of God are ever passing from is not at the disposal of His people. earth to heaven, and from heaven to earth. 1 301 The miracles of Christ for the afflicted and NOTE.—"After the foe had departed, Je- suffering were wrought by the power of sus fell exhausted to the earth, with the pal- God through the ministration of the an- lor of death upon His face. The angels of gels. And it is through Christ, by the heaven had watched the conflict, beholding ministration of His heavenly messengers, their loved Commander as• He passed that every blessing comes from God to us. through inexpressible suffering •to make a In taking upon Himself humanity, our way of escape for us. He had endured the Saviour unites His interests with those of test, greater than we shall ever be called to the fallen sons and daughters of Adam, endure. The angels now ministered to the while through His divinity He grasps the Son of God as He lay like one dying. He throne of God. And thus Christ is the was strengthened with food, comforted medium of communication of men with with the message of His Father's love and God, and of God with men."—The Desire the assurance that all heaven triumphed in of Ages, pages 142, 143. His victoryr—The Desire of Ages, page 131. Angels at the Birth and the Temptation of Christ Angels in Gethsemane and at Trial of Jesus 1. Who announced the Saviour's birth with joy and song? Luke 2:8-14. 5. What ministry did an angel per- form for Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane? Luke 22:39-44. 2. How were the Wise Men from the East guided to the birthplace of Jesus? Matt. 2:1, 2, 9, 10. NOTE.—"The worlds unfallen and the heavenly angels had watched with intense interest as the conflict drew to its close. Sa- tan and his confederacy •of evil, the legions NOTE.—"The Wise Men had seen a mys- of apostasy, watched intently this great terious light in the heavens upon that night crisis in the work of redemption. The pow- when the glory of God flooded the hills of ers of good and evil waited to see what Bethlehem. As the light faded, a luminous answer would come to Christ's thrice-re- star appeared, and lingered in the sky. It peated prayer. Angels had longed to bring was not a fixed star nor a planet, and the relief to the divine sufferer, but this might phenomenon excited the keenest interest. not be. No way of escape was found for That star was a distant company of shining the Son of God. In this awful crisis, when angels, but of this the Wise Men were ig- everything was at stake, when the mysteri- norant. Yet they were impressed that the ous cup trembled in the hand of the suf- star was of special import to them."—The ferer, the heavens opened, a light shone Desire of Ages, page 60. forth amid the stormy darkness of the crisis hour, and the mighty angel who stands in God's presence, occupying the position from which Satan fell, came .to the 3. What message did an angel side of Christ. The angel came not to take bring to Joseph? Matt. 2:13. the cup from Christ's hand, but to strengthen Him to drink it, with the assurance of the Father's love."—The Desire of Ages, page 693. 4. How did the angels show their 6. What experience came to a band interest and sympathy when Jesus of men in Gethsemane when Jesus an- was tempted in the wilderness? Matt. swered them, "I am He"? John 18: 4:1, 11. 4-6. [317 NOTE.—"No traces of His recent agony THIS SAME JESUS —St' were visible as Jesus stepped forth to meet SHALL 50 His betrayer. Standing in advance of His COME." disciples He said, 'Whom seek ye?' They answered, 'Jesus of Nazareth.' Jesus re- plied, 'I am He.' As these words were spoken, the angel who had lately ministered to Jesus moved between Him and the mob. A divine light illuminated the Saviour's face, and a dovelike form overshadowed Him. In the presence of this divine glory, the murderous throng could not stand for a moment. They staggered back. Priests, elders, soldiers, and even Judas, fell as dead men to the ground."—The Desire of Ages, page 694. 7. In His rebuke to Peter to what TWO OF THE GRANDEST ANGEL .MES5AGES potential aid did Christ refer? Matt. EVER GIVEN TO MAN. 26:52-54. 9. In spite of the angel's warning NOTE.—"Peter in his •anger rashly drew what cruel treatment was meted out his sword and tried to defend his Master. to Jesus? Matt. 27:26-30. . . . He then said to Peter, 'Put up again thy sword into his place. . . . Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to My Fa- ther, and He shall presently give Me more than twelve legions of angels?'—a legion NoTE.—"The multitude were clamorous in place of each one of the disciples."—The for the blood of Jesus. They cruelly Desire of Ages, page 696. scourged Him, and put upon Him an old purple kingly robe, and bound His sacred 8. What warning was sent to Pi- head with a crown of thorns. They put a late from his wife during the trial of reed into His hand, and bowed to Him, and Jesus? Matt. 27:2, 19. mockingly saluted Him, 'Hail, king of the Jews!' They then took the reed from His hand and smote Him with it upon the head, causing the thorns to penetrate His tem- ples, sending the blood trickling down His Non.—"From the first, Pilate was con- face and beard. victed that Jesus was no common man. He "It was difficult for the angels to endure believed Him to be an excellent character the sight. They would have delivered Jesus, and entirely innocent of the charges brought but the commanding angels forbade them, against Him. The angels who were witness- saying that it was a great ransom which ing the scene marked the convictions of the was to be paid for man; but it would be Roman governor, and to save him from en- complete and would cause the death of him gaging in the awful act of delivering Christ who had the power of death. Jesus knew to be crucified, an angel was sent to Pilate's that angels were witnessing the scene of His wife, and gave her information through a humiliation. The weakest angel could have dream that it was the Son of God in whose caused that mocking throng to fall power- trial her husband was engaged, and that He less and could have delivered Jesus. He was an innocent sufferer. She immediately knew that if He should desire it of His Fa- sent a message to Pilate, stating that she ther, angels would instantly release Him. had suffered many things in a dream on But it 17,4s necessary that He should suffer account of Jesus and warning him to have the violence of wicked men, in order to nothing to do with that holy man."—Early carry out the plan of salvation."—Early Writings, page 173. Writings, page 170. [32] Angels at His Resurrection body of Jesus? They did not think of their duty or of the disciples' stealing Him away. and. Ascension As the light of the angels shone around, brighter than the sun, that Roman guard 10. What work was given an an- fell as dead men to the ground."—Early gel the morning of Christ's resurrec- Writings, page 182. tion? Matt. 28:1, 2. 12. What message did the angel give to the women? Matt. 28:5-7. NoTE.—"A heavenly host surrounded the sepulcher. Angels that excel in strength were guarding the tomb, and waiting to welcome the Prince of life. 13. How many angels at least had " 'And, behold, there was a great earth- special duties in connection with the quake: for the angel of the Lord descended resurrection? Luke 24:3-5. from heaven.' Clothed with the panoply of God, this angel left the heavenly courts. The bright beams of God's glory went be- fore him, and illuminated his pathway. `His countenance was like lightning, and 14. What record do we have of the his raiment white as snow: and for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as ascension of Jesus? Acts 1:9. dead men.' "Now, priests and rulers, where is the power of your guard? Brave soldiers that have never been afraid of human power are now as captives taken without sword 15. What message of comfort came or spear. The face they look upon is not to the sorrowing disciples? Acts 1: the face of mortal warrior; it is the face of 10, 11. the mightiest of the Lord's host. This mes- senger is he who fills the position from which Satan fell. It is he who on the hills of Bethlehem proclaimed Christ's birth. The earth trembles at his approach, the hosts NoTE.—"These angels were of the com- of darkness flee, and as he rolls away the pany that had been waiting in a shining stone, heaven seems to come down to the cloud to escort Jesus to His heavenly home. earth. The soldiers see him removing the The most exalted of the angel throng, they stone as he would a pebble, and hear him were the two who had come to the tomb cry, Son of God, come forth ; Thy Father at Christ's resurrection, and they had been calls Thee. They see Jesus come forth from with Him throughout His life on earth. the grave, and hear Him proclaim over the With eager desire all heaven had waited for rent sepulcher, 'I am the resurrection, and the end of His tarrying in a world marred the life.' As He comes forth in majesty and by the curse of sin. The time had now glory, the angel host bow low in adoration come for the heavenly universe to receive before the Redeemer, and welcome Him their King. Did not the two angels long with songs of praise."—The Desire of Ages, to join the throng that welcomed Jesus? pages 779, 780. But in sympathy and love for those whom He had left, they waited to give them com- 11. What effect did the angelic fort. 'Are they not all ministering spirits, presence have upon the soldier guard? sent forth to minister for them who shall Matt. 28:3, 4. be heirs of salvation?' Heb. 1:14."—The Desire of Ages, page 832. 16. In what words was the ascen- NoTE.—"Terror seized the Roman guard. sion prophesied by the psalmist? Ps. Where was now their power to keep the 24:3-10. [33 1 Lesson 11, for December 10, 1955 Angel Ministry to the Apostles MEMORY VERSE: "But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life." Acts 5:19, 20. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 13-16. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab• Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3. bath School Lesson Help. Monday: Ques. 4-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Ques. 8-12. Lesson Outline: IV. Cornelius and Peter Directed I. Introduction by an Angel 1. Angel visits Roman centurion. Acts II. Peter and John Delivered 10:1-6. by an Angel 2. Cornelius sends messengers to Joppa. Acts 10:7, 8. 1. Peter and John healing and preach- 3. Peter prepared for his visitors. ing. Acts 3:1-8; 4:8-10, 33. Acts 10:9, 10, 17-20. 2. Imprisoned at instigation of the 4. Messengers make known their re- priests. Acts 5:17, 18. quest. Acts 10:21-23. 3. Delivered by an angel. Acts 5:19, 20. 5. Results of following the angel's di- rections. Acts 10:24, 34, 35, 44-48. III. Stephen and Philip Subject to V. Peter and Paul Experience Inter- Influence of Angels position of Angels 1. Stephen's appearance before his 1. Peter imprisoned under Herod's persecutors. Acts 6:8-15. persecution. Acts 12:1-5. 2. Persecution spreads the gospel. 2. An angel releases his chains. Acts Acts 8:1-4. 12:6-8. 3. Philip's mission to Samaria. Acts 3. Herod smitten by an angel. Acts 8:5-8. 12:21-24. 4. Angel directs Philip to Ethiopian 4. Paul assured by the angel. Acts eunuch. Acts 8:26-30. 27:22-25. THE LESSON Introduction apostolic church, we are assured of the same interest of heaven in the messengers of God As we contemplate the divine guidance today. and angelic interposition in behalf of the "The experience of Philip, directed by an [ 34 ] angel from heaven to go to the place where NOTE.—"As Stephen stood face to face he met one seeking for truth; of Cornelius, with his judges to answer to the charge of visited by an angel with a message from blasphemy, a holy radiance shone upon his God; of Peter, in prison and condemned to countenance, and 'all that sat in the coun- death, led by an angel forth to safety,—all cil, looking steadfastly on him, saw his face show the closeness of the connection be- as it had been the face of an angel.' Many tween heaven and earth. who beheld this light trembled and veiled "To the worker for God, the record of their faces, but the stubborn unbelief and these angel visits should bring strength and prejudice of the rulers did not waver." courage. Today, as verily as in the days of "The martyrdom of Stephen made a deep the apostles, heavenly messengers are pass- impression upon all who witnessed it. . . . ing through the length and breadth of the His death was a sore trial to the church, but land, seeking to comfort the sorrowing, to it resulted in the conviction of Saul, who protect the impenitent, to win the hearts could not efface from his memory the faith of men to Christ. We cannot see them per- and constancy of the martyr, and the glory sonally; nevertheless they are with us, guid- that had rested on his countenance."—The ing, directing, protecting."—The Acts of the Acts of the Apostles, pages 99, 101. Apostles, pages 152, 153. 5. What resulted from the raging persecution following the death of Peter and John Delivered Stephen? Acts 8:1-4. by an Angel 1. What glimpse is given us of the ministry of Peter and John in the NOTE.—"The persecution that came upon early days of the apostolic church? the church in Jerusalem resulted in giving Acts 3:1-8; 4:8-10, 33. a great impetus to the work of the gospel. . . . To scatter His representatives abroad, where they could work for others, God per- mitted persecution to come upon them. Driven from Jerusalem, the believers 'went 2. What resulted from their effec- everywhere preaching the word.' "—The tive preaching of the gospel? Acts Acts of the Apostles, page 105. 5:17, 18. 6. What did Philip do when per- secution arose at Jerusalem? Acts 8: 5-8. NorE.—"While Peter and John were pri- soners, the other disciples, knowing the malignity of the Jews, had prayed unceas- ingly for their brethren, fearing that the 7. What direction did an angel cruelty shown to Christ might be repeated." give to Philip, and with what results? —The Acts of the Apostles, page 67. Acts 8:26-30. 3. What deliverance came to these apostles? Acts 5:19, 20. NoTE.—"This Ethiopian represents a large clasg who need to be taught by such missionaries as Philip,—men who will hear Stephen and Philip Subject the voice of God, and go where He sends to Influence of Angels them. There are many who are reading the Scriptures who cannot understand their true import. All over the world men and 4. How did Stephen in his martyr- women are looking wistfully to heaven. dom reflect the influence of angels in Prayers and tears and inquiries go up from his experience? Acts 6:8-15. souls longing for light, for grace, for the [35 1 name is Peter: he lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the seaside.' "The explicitness of these directions, in which was named even the occupation of the man with whom Peter was staying, shows that heaven is acquainted with the history and business of men in every sta- tion of life. God is familiar with the ex- perience and work of the humble laborer, as well as with that of the king upon his throne."—The Acts of the Apostles, pages 133, 134. 9. In harmony with the angel's in- struction what course did Cornelius "THE RECORD OF THESE follow? Acts 10:7, 8. ANGEL VISITS SHOULD BRING STRENGTH AND COURAGE." 10. How did God prepare Peter to receive the delegation from Cornel- Holy Spirit. Many are on the verge of the ius? Acts 10:9, 10, 17-20. kingdom, 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 NoTE.—"The angel, after his interview guide the footsteps of those workers who with Cornelius, went to Peter, in Joppa."— will allow the Holy Spirit to sanctify their The Acts of the Apostles, page 135. tongues and refine and ennoble their hearts. The angel sent to Philip could himself have 11. What experience did the mes- done the work for the Ethiopian, but this sengers repeat as they made known is not God's way of working. It is His plan their request to Peter? Acts 10:21-23. that men are to work for their fellow men." —The Acts of the Apostles, page 109. Cornelius and Peter Directed NOTE.—"Because Cornelius was living in by an Angel obedience to all the instruction he had re- ceived, God so ordered events that he was 8. How did the Lord answer the given more truth. A messenger from the prayer of a Roman officer? Acts 10: courts of heaven was sent to the Roman officer and to Peter, in order that Cornelius 1-6. might be brought into touch with one who could lead him into greater light. "There are in our world many who are nearer the kingdom of God than we sup- pose. In this dark world of sin, the Lord NOTE.—"The angel appeared to Cornel- has many precious jewels, to whom He will ius while he was at prayer. As the centu- guide His messengers. Everywhere there rion heard himself addressed by name, he are those who will take .their stand for was afraid, yet he knew that the messenger Christ. Many will prize the wisdom of God had come from God, and he said, 'What is it, above any earthly advantage, and will be- Lord?' The angel answered, 'Thy prayers come faithful light bearers. Constrained by and thine alms are come up for a memo- the love of Christ, they will constrain oth- rial before God. And now send men to ers to come to Him."—The Acts of the Joppa, and call for one Simon; whose sur- Apostles, pages 140, 141. [ 36 12. What was the result of this sword, as another Herod had caused the meeting arranged by an angel? Acts prophet John to be beheaded. Seeing that the Jews were well pleased with these ef- 10:24, 34, 35, 44-48. forts, he imprisoned Peter also."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 143. 14. How was Peter released? Acts Peter and Paul Experience 12:6-8. Interposition of Angels 13. Under whom did persecution continue, and what persons were par- 15. What judgment came upon ticularly involved? Acts 12:1-5. Herod? Acts 12:21-24. NOTE.—"The government of Judea was NOTE.—"The same angel who had come then in the hands of Herod Agrippa. . . . from the royal courts to rescue Peter, had Herod also held the position of tetrarch of been the messenger of wrath and judgment Galilee. He was professedly a proselyte to to Herod. The angel smote Peter to arouse the Jewish faith, and apparently very him from slumber: it was with a different zealous in carrying out the ceremonies of stroke that he smote the wicked king, lay- the Jewish law. Desirous of obtaining the ing low his pride, and bringing upon him favor of the Jews, hoping thus to make se- the punishment of the Almighty. Herod cure his offices and honors, he proceeded to died in great agony of mind and body, un- carry out their desires by persecuting the der the retributive judgment of God."—The church of Christ, spoiling the houses and Acts of the Apostles, page 152. goods of the believers, and imprisoning the leading members of the church. He cast 16. On the storm-tossed sea what James, the brother of John, into prison, and assurance was brought by an angel sent an executioner to kill him with the to Paul? Acts 27:22-25. Lesson 12, for December 17, 1955 Angels in the Final Gospel Work MEMORY VERSE: "After these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory." Rev. 18:1. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 12-15. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab- Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3. bath School Lesson Help. Monday: Ques. 4-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Ques. 8-11. [ 37 Lesson Outline: 4. Angel proclaims fall of Babylon. Rev. 14:8. I. Introduction 5. The message of the third angel. Rev. 14:9-12. II. Angel Interest in the Heirs of 6. Angel that lightens the world. Rev. Salvation 18:1, 2. 1. Angel ministry. Heb. 1:13, 14. IV. Angels and the Sealing Work 2. Joy of angels over repentant sinner. Luke 15:7, 10. 1. Angels holding the winds. Rev. 7:1. 3. Names confessed before angels. 2. Angel with the seal of God. Rev. Rev. 3:5. 7:2, 3. 3. A being clad in linen with writer's III. Gospel Heralds in the Final Work inkhorn. Ezek. 9:2, 4, 11. 4. Destruction of all but those who of Salvation have the mark of God. Ezek. 1. The angel with the open book. Rev. 9:5-7. 10:1-3. 5. Number sealed. Rev. 7:4. 2. The angel's message. Rev. 10:5-7. 6. A great multitude on sea of glass 3. The angel with the everlasting gos- cause rejoicing among the angels. pel. Rev. 14:6, 7. Rev. 7:9-12. THE LESSON Introduction 2. What shows their deep interest To God's people in the closing up of the in the salvation of men? Luke 15: gospel work, this lesson on the angels in the 7, 10. final work of the gospel should come with special encouragement. As Satan and his angels become increasingly active in the lat- ter days, how comforting it is to know that Nora.-"The angels of glory find their holy angels become all the more prominent joy in giving,-giving love and tireless in the work of God. watchcare to souls that are fallen and un- In the time of trouble in the last days we holy. Heavenly beings woo the hearts of have the assurance of angelic care over men; they bring to this dark world light God's people. "Angels will shield the right- from the courts above; by gentle and pa- eous, and supply their wants. . . . tient ministry they move upon the human "Could men see with heavenly vision, spirit, to bring the lost into a fellowship they would behold companies of angels that with Christ which is even closer than they excel in strength stationed about those who themselves can know."-The Desire of Ages, have kept the word of Christ's patience.... page 21. "The heavenly sentinels, faithful to their trust, continue their watch. . . . None can 3. What confession further indi- pass the mighty guardians stationed about cates the interest of angels in the sal- every faithful soul. Some . .. are defended vation of men? Rev. 3:5. by angels in the form of men of war. "In all ages, God has wrought through holy angels for the succor and deliverance of His people."-The Great Controversy, NOTE.-"To all the faithful ones who pages 629-631. were striving against evil, John heard the promises made: 'To him that overcometh Angel Interest in the Heirs will I give to eat of the tree of life.' . . . of Salvation `And I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name 1. To whom are the angels sent to before My Father, and before His angels.' " minister? Heb. 1:13, 14. -The Acts of the Apostles, pages 588, 589. 138 3 Gospel Heralds in the Final Work of Salvation 4. What significant statements are made in connection with the angel messenger introduced in the tenth chapter of the Revelation? Rev. 10: 1-3. NorE.—His standing on both the sea and the land, and crying with a loud voice, in- dicates that his message was for the whole world. • THESE ANGELS SYMBOLIZE THE WORK OF GOO'S MESSENGERS ON " 'He had in his hand a little book open.' EARTH OWING THE sotemN We may infer from this language that this WARNINGS FROM HEAVEN. book was at some time closed. We read in Daniel of a book which was closed and sealed to a certain time: 'Thou, 0 Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even ple. But the preaching of the gospel has to the time of the end. . . .' Daniel 12:4. not been entrusted to literal angels; it has Since this book was closed only until the been committed unto men, who are respon- time of the end, it follows that at the time sible for this sacred trust placed in their of the end the book would be opened. . . . hands. Each of these three angels, there- There is no book spoken of as closed and fore, symbolizes a body of religious teach- sealed except the book of Daniel's proph- ers, who are commissioned to make known ecy, and there is no account of the opening to their fellow men the special truths which of that book unless it be here in Revelation constitute the burden of these messages 10."—The Prophecies of Daniel and the respectively. Revelation, pages 519, 520. "But we are to consider further that an- gels, literally, are intensely interested in the 5. What was the startling message work of grace among men, being sent forth of this angel? Rev. 10:5-7. to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. And as there is order in all the movements and appointments of the heav- enly world, it may not be fanciful to sup- pose that a literal angel has charge and NoTx.—"Few will be disposed to deny oversight of the work of each message."— that the mystery of God is the gospel. It is Daniel and the Revelation, 1918 ed., p. 633. the same, then, as if the angel had de- clared, In the days of the voice of the sev- 7. How was the fall of Babylon an- enth angel, when he shall begin to sound, nounced? Rev. 14:8. the gospel shall be finished."—The Proph- ecies of Daniel and the Revelation, pages 526, 527. 6. How is the world-wide nature of 8. What is said of the message of the judgment hour expressed? Rev. the third angel? Rev. 14:9-12. 14:6, 7. NOTE.—"I then saw the third angel. Said NorE.—"These angels are evidently sym- my accompanying angel, 'Fearful is his bolic; for the work assigned them is that of work. Awful is his mission. He is the angel preaching the everlasting gospel to the peo- that is to select the wheat from the tares, [39 ] and seal, or bind, the wheat for the heav- . . . The expression, 'after these things,' enly garner. These things should engross the does not mean after the fulfillment of all whole mind, the whole attention.' "—Early the events previously described, but after Writings, page 118. the prophet had been carried in vision to the close of the sixth seal. . . . It must be 9. What mighty being will join the accomplished before the departing of the third angel in the last warning to man heavens as a scroll, for after that event and lighten the earth with his glory? there is no place for such a work as this. Rev. 18:1, 2. It must take place after the signs in the sun, moon, and stars, for these signs have already been fulfilled, and such a sealing work has not yet been accomplished. It comes in therefore between the 13th and NoTE.—"I saw angels hurrying to and 14th verses of Revelation 6. There, as al- fro in heaven, descending to the earth, and ready shown, is just where we now stand. again ascending to heaven, preparing for Hence the first part of Revelation 7 relates the fulfillment of some important event. to a work the accomplishment of which Then I saw another mighty angel commis- may be looked for now."—The Prophecies sioned to descend to the earth, to unite his of Daniel and the Revelation, page 453. voice with the third angel, and give power and force to his message. Great power and 11. What vitally important work glory were imparted to the angel, and as he of another angel is next introduced? descended, the earth was lightened with his Rev. 7:2, 3. glory. . . . "Angels were sent to aid the mighty an- gel from heaven, and I heard voices which seemed to sound everywhere, 'Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of NOTE.—"I saw four angels who had a her sins, and that ye receive not of her work to do on the earth, and were on their plagues. For her sins have reached unto way to accomplish it. Jesus was clothed heaven, and God hath remembered her with priestly garments. He gazed in pity iniquities.'"—Early Writings, page 277. on the remnant, then raised His hands, and with a voice of deep pity cried, 'My blood, Father, My blood, My blood, My blood!' Angels and the Sealing Work Then I saw an exceeding bright light come 10. What did John see four angels from God, who sat upon the great white doing? Rev. 7:1. throne, and was shed all about Jesus. Then I saw an angel with a commission from Jesus, swiftly flying to the four an- gels who had a work to do on the earth, and waving something up and down in his NOTE.—"The time of the work here intro- hand, and crying with a loud voice, 'Hold! duced is established beyond mistake. The Hold! Hold! Hold! until the servants of sixth chapter closed with the events of the God are sealed in their foreheads.' sixth seal, and the seventh seal is not men- "I asked my accompanying angel the tioned until we reach the beginning of Rev- meaning of what I heard, and what the elation 8. The whole of Revelation 7 is four angels were about to do. He said to therefore thrown in here parenthetically. me that it was God that restrained the SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSONS IN BRAILLE The senior Sabbath-school lessons, slightly condensed, are published each quarter in Braille, and they are supplied free to the blind upon request. Address: The Christian Record Benevo- lent Association, Box 66, Lincoln 6, Nebraska. E 40 7 powers, and that He gave His angels charge 13. What terrible commission was over things on the earth; that the four an- next to be carried out? Ezek. 9:5-7. gels had power from God to hold the four winds, and that they were about to let them go; but while their hands were loose- ening, and the four winds were 'about to NoTE.—"The mark of deliverance has blow, the merciful eye of Jesus gazed on been set upon those 'that sigh and that cry the remnant that were not sealed, and He for all the abominations that be done.' Now raised His hands to the Father and pleaded the angel of death goes forth, represented with Him that He had spilled His blood for in Ezekiel's vision by the men with the them. Then another angel was commis- slaughtering weapons, to whom the com- sioned to fly swiftly to the four angels and mand is given: 'Slay utterly old and young, bid them hold, until the servants of God both maids, and little children, and women: were sealed with the seal of the living God but come not near any man upon whom is in their foreheads."—Early Writings, page the mark; and begin at My sanctuary.' 38. Says the prophet, 'They began at the an- cient men which were before the house.' 12. How is the sealing work de- The work of destruction begins among those scribed by the prophet? Ezek. 9:2, who have professed to be the spiritual 4, 11. guardians of the people. The false watch- men are the first to fall. There are none to pity or to spare. Men, women, maidens, and little children perish together."—The NOTE.—"I saw angels hurrying to and fro Great Controversy, page 656. in heaven. An angel with a writer's ink- 14. How many from the tribes of horn by his side returned from the earth Israel are sealed? Rev. 7:4. and reported to Jesus that his work was. done, and the saints were numbered and sealed. Then I saw Jesus, who had been ministering before the ark containing the Ten Commandments, throw down the cen- 15. What is the cause of great re- ser. He raised His hands, and with a loud joicing among the angel throng voice said, 'It is done.' "—Early Writings, around the throne of God? Rev. 7: page 279. 9-12. Lesson 13, for December 24, 1955 Angels in the World Harvest MEMORY VERSE: "When the Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory." Matt. 25:31. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: General survey of Wednesday: Ques. 12-15. the lesson. Thursday: "Review and Herald" Sab- Sunday: Introduction; Ques. 1-3. bath School Lesson Help. Monday: Ques. 4-7. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Ques. 8-11. [ 41 ] Lesson Outline: IV. The Angel Reapers I. Introduction 1. Work of angels in the harvest. Matt. 13:39, last part. II. Time of the Harvest 2. Reaping the vintage. Rev. 14:17-19. 1. Prophecy of the final harvest. Joel 3. Angels referred to as "the armies 3:12-14. which were in heaven." Rev. 2. Harvest, the end of the world. 19:11-15. Matt. 13:39, middle part of verse. 3. Angel announces that harvest is V. Separation of Wicked From the ripe. Rev. 14:15. Righteous 1. Parable of the wheat and the tares. III. At Christ's Coming Matt. 13:25-30. 1. All nations gathered before Him. 2. Interpretation of the parable. Matt. Matt. 25:31, 32, first part. 13:38-41. 2. Comes with angels and awards. 3. Angels sever the wicked from the Matt, 16:27. just. Matt. 13:49. 3. Effect on the wicked. Matt. 24:30, 4. Wicked cast into furnace of fire. 31, first part. Matt. 13:42, 50; Mal. 4:1. 4. The joy of the righteous. Isa. 5. Righteous rewarded in kingdom of 25:8, 9. their Father. Matt. 13:43; 25:34. THE LESSON Introduction 2. When is the harvest declared to be? Matt. 13:39, middle part of verse. The greatest manifestation of holy angels ever witnessed upon this earth will be at the second coming of Christ, when He comes in glory with all the holy angels with Him to 3. How is the time of the harvest reap the harvest of earth. With what com- referred to by John? Rev. 14:15. fort may the child of God look forward to this final service of angels for man upon this earth! "When Christ comes, He will send His NoTE.-"Events grow solemn as we near angels in every direction, wherever the the end. It is this fact which gives to the saints of God lie sleeping, to gather out His third angel's message, now going forth, its faithful ones, His elect, chosen, precious, unusual degree of solemnity and impor- ransomed from among men. Not one grave, tance. It is the last warning to go forth however lonely, will be neglected in that prior to the coming of the Son of man, here hour; not one burial place overlooked. Not represented as seated upon a white cloud, one who made God his trust, though he lie a crown upon His head, and a sickle in His in the depths of the sea, will be forgotten." hand, to reap the harvest of the earth."- -I. H. Evans, The Ministry of Angels, The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revela- page 279. tion, pages 676, 677. At Christ's Coming Time of the Harvest 4. At Christ's coming who will be 1. What prophecy of the final har- gathered before Him? Matt. 25:31, vest is made by Joel? Joel 3:12-14. 32, first part. [42 ] NOTE.—"With unerring accuracy the In- finite One still keeps account with the na- tions. While His mercy is tendered, with calls to repentance, this account remains open; but when the figures reach a certain amount which God has fixed, the ministry of His wrath begins. The account is closed. Divine patience ceases. Mercy no longer pleads in their behalf."—Prophets and Kings, page 364. 5. At this time what will be ac- complished by Christ and the angels? Matt. 16:27. THE mans WILL OATH!! clops FAITHFUL ONES FROM AU. THE EARTH, 6. What will be the effect upon the wicked as Jesus comes with His an- gels? Matt. 24:30, 31, first part. Com- pare Rev. 6:15-17. is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us.' "—Early Writings, page 110. The Angel Reapers Noza.—"The time is not far distant when God will arise to vindicate His insulted 8. What is the work of the angels authority. 'The Lord cometh out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the earth in the time of the harvest? Matt. 13: for their iniquity.' . . . The voice of the 39, last part. Archangel and the trump of God shall sum- mon, from the whole earth, both the living and the dead to the presence of their Judge. The Father and the Son, attended by a mul- titude of angels, were present upon the 9. What command is given to an mount. At the great judgment day, Christ angel when the grapes are fully ripe? will come 'in the glory of His Father with Rev. 14:17-19. His angels.' He shall then sit upon the throne of His glory, and before Him shall be gathered all nations."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 339. 10. Who will accompany Christ as 7. How will the righteous express He comes to tread the wine press? their joy at this time? Isa. 25:8, 9. Rev. 19:11-15. NcrE.—"All heaven will be emptied of NOTE.—"Jesus rides forth as a mighty the angels, while the waiting saints will be conqueror. Not now a 'Man of Sorrows,' looking for Him and gazing into heaven, as to drink the bitter cup of shame and woe, were the men of Galilee when He ascended He comes, victor in heaven and earth, to from the Mount of Olivet. Then only those judge the living and the dead. 'Faithful and who are holy, those who have followed true,' in righteousness He doth judge and fully the meek Pattern, will with rapturous make war.' And 'the armies which were in joy exclaim as they behold Him, `Lo, this heaven follow Him.' With anthems of ce- [ 43 lestial melody the holy angels, a vast, un- NOTE.—"The derisive jests have ceased. numbered throng, attend Him on His way. Lying lips are hushed into silence. . . . The The firmament seems filled with radiant wicked pray to be buried beneath the rocks forms,—`ten thousand times ten thousand, of the mountains, rather than meet the face and thousands of thousands.' No human of Him whom they have despised and re- pen can portray the scene; no mortal mind jected."—The Great Controversy, page 642. is adequate to conceive its splendor. 'His glory covered the heavens, and the earth 14. What disposition will be made was full of His praise. And His brightness of the wicked? Matt. 13:42, 50; Mal. was as the light.' As the living cloud comes 4:1. still nearer, every eye beholds the Prince of life. No crown of thorns now mars that sacred head, but a diadem of glory rests on His holy brow. His countenance outshines the dazzling brightness of the noonday sun. NOTE.—"Both the parable of the tares `And He hath on His vesture and on His and that of the net plainly teach that there thigh a name written, King of kings, and is no time when all the wicked will turn Lord of lords.' "—The Great Controversy, to God. The wheat and the tares grow to- page 641. gether until the harvest. The good and the bad fish are together drawn ashore for a final separation. Separation of Wicked From "Again, these parables teach that there is to be no probation after the judgment. the Righteous When the work of the gospel is completed, there immediately follows the separation 11. In the parable of the wheat and between the good and the evil, and the tares what were the reapers to do in destiny of each class is forever fixed. the time of the harvest? Matt. 13: "God does not desire the destruction of any. 'As I live, saith the Lord God, I have 25-30. no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live. Turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die ?' Throughout the period of probationary time His Spirit is entreat- 12. In interpreting the parable ing men to accept the gift of life. It is only what did Jesus say would be the work those who reject His pleading that will be of angels? Matt. 13:38-41. left to perish. God has declared that sin must be destroyed as an evil ruinous to the universe. Those who cling to sin will perish in its destruction."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 123. NOTE.—"The tares are permitted to grow among the wheat, to have all the advantage 15. What will be the reward of the of sun and shower; but in the time of har- righteous? Matt. 13:43; 25:34. vest ye shall 'return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.' Christ Himself will decide who are NoTE.—"The great controversy is ended. worthy to dwell with the family of heaven. Sin and sinners are no more. The entire He will judge every man according to his universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and words and his works. Profession is as noth- gladness beats through the vast creation. ing in the scale. It is character that de- From Him who created all, flow life and cides destiny."—Christ's Object Lessons, light and gladness, throughout the realms page 74. of illimitable space. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, ani- 13. What separation will then take mate and inanimate, in their unshadowed place at the end of the world? Matt. beauty and perfect joy, declare that God 13:49. is love."—The Great Controversy, page 678. [ 44] Lesson 14, for December 31, 1955 Review MEMORY VERSE: Review the memory verses for the quarter and endeavor to fasten them in the memory. STUDY HELP: "Review and Herald" Sabbath School Lesson Help. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT Sabbath afternoon: Review the memory Wednesday: Lessons 9-11. verses. Thursday: Lessons 12, 13. Sunday: Lessons 1, 2. Friday: "Review and Herald" Sabbath Monday: Lessons 3-5. School Lesson Help. Tuesday: Lessons 6-8. THE LESSON Introduction How have men been affected at the ap- We have just completed the study of a pearance of an angel? Judges 6:21-23; series of lessons that should be a great bless- Dan. 8:16, 17. What change in man's ing to us in the knowledge that an angel is position will follow the resurrection? with us every step of the way when we Luke 20:36. walk in the path of righteousness, and that our Father in heaven has legions of angels which He sends forth "to minister for them Lesson 3—The Dominion of God and who shall be heirs of salvation." On this the Number and Glory of His fourteenth Sabbath of the quarter we shall His Messengers review some of the highlights of the lessons that have gone before in an endeavor to By virtue of the act of creation, strengthen our confidence in the ministry of what is God's position over the uni- angels as we face the trials of the last days. verse? Acts 17:24. How many angels attend the Lord of heaven and earth? Lesson 1—Angels Created Beings; Dan. 7:9, 10. How does Daniel de- Disaffection and Conflict scribe the glory of an angel? Dan. By what name are the members of 10:5, 6. God's family in heaven and earth known? Job 1:6; 1 John 3:1. How Lesson 4—Power and Speed far back can the existence of angels of the Angels be traced? Job 38:4-7. How do we know that angels are created beings? How does the psalmist refer to the Ezek. 28:15. What was the cause of power of angels? Ps. 103:20. How the conflict in heaven, and what was was this power illustrated in the de- the result? Isa. 14:12-14; Rev. 12:7-9. liverance of Peter from prison? Acts 5:17-19. How does Ezekiel describe Lesson 2—Angels a Higher Order the movements of angels? Ezek. 1:14. of Being Than Man What is one example of the swiftness What comparative relation exists with which angels can come to man's between angels and men? Ps. 8:4, 5. help? Dan. 9:21. L45 ] Lesson 5—Guardian Angels works through angels to influence un- Who stands before God in behalf believers? Dan. 10:13. of His little ones? Matt. 18:10. What evidence have we that the same care Lesson 10—Angel Ministry to Jesus is over all God's children? Job 1:6-12; How did angels minister to Jesus in Ps. 91:11, 12. the hour of His agony? Luke 22:39- 44. What part did an angel play at Lesson 6—Angels and the Judgment the resurrection of Jesus? Matt. 28: What vision of the judgment was 1-7. What ministry did angels per- given to John the revelator? Rev. form at the ascension of Christ? Acts 20:11-15. What indicates that an an- 1:9-11. gel keeps the record of our lives? Eccl. Lesson 11—Angel Ministry to the 5:6. Before whom will the name of Apostles the overcomer be confessed? Rev. 3:5. How did an angel minister to Peter Lesson 7—Angels Agents in and John? Acts 5:17-20. How did an Divine Revelation angel direct Philip? Acts 8:26-30. What experience did Cornelius have Whom did God send to communi- that led to his conversion? Acts 10:7, cate His message to Daniel? Dan. 9: 8, 44-48. 21, 22. Name some other instances of divine revelation through angels. Gen. Lesson 12—Angels in the Final 22:11, 12; Judges 6:11, 12; Luke 1: Gospel Work 11-18, 26-35. What should be our at- titude toward these heavenly messen- To whom are the angels of God gers? Rev. 22:8, 9. sent forth to minister? Heb. 1:14. In the last warning message to mankind Lesson 8—Angel Ministry to Men who are represented as leading God's children? Rev. 14:6-8; 18:1, 2. What How did Abraham entertain "an- part will angels act in the sealing of gels unawares"? Gen. 18:1-8. What the saints? Ezek. 9:1-11; Rev. 7:4. ministry did angels perform in behalf of Abraham and Lot? Gen. 19:15-24. Lesson 13—Angels in the World Harvest Lesson 9—Angel Ministry to In the harvest at the end of the Men (Continued) world what work will the angels do? Matt. 13:37-42, 47-49. At Christ's ap- At Bethel what vision appeared to pearing what does He send the angels Jacob? Gen. 28:10-15. How did an to do? Matt. 24:30, 31. How does the angel minister to Elijah? 1 Kings 19: revelator describe the work of angels 5-8. What experience shows that God at the time of harvest? Rev. 14:14-20. The senior "Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly" is published in the following foreign languages: Bohemian, Danish-Norwegian, German, Hungarian, Italian, Polish, Russian, Serbian, Slovakian, Spanish, Swedish, Ukrainian, and Yugoslavian. Write to the Inter- national Branch of the Pacific Press at Brookfield, Illinois, for any of these quarterlies for the strangers within your gates. [46] THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING December 24, 1955 This quarter the overflow of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering goes to two interesting fields- that we do not hear as much about as we do of some other parts of the world. These are two mission fields of the Southern European Division—the island of Madagascar, and Portuguese East Africa. The Gen- eral Conference, through the Southern European Division, has bought 2,50o acres of good land twelve miles from the railroad near Vila Pery in Portu- guese East Africa in order to establish a new mission station. We have pros- pects of a good evangelistic work among the natives and also among the large white population. There are no other missions in the locality. We must build a school, a church, a dispensary, and houses for missionary families. Our first secular work will be farming, and for this we need agricultural implements. It is to help meet these needs that part of the overflow will be used at the end of the fourth quarter. The rest of the overflow will go to Madagascar to help establish a new mission station at Tamatave. The main thing about this mission station will be a training school where workers can be trained to work for their own peo- ple. These far-distant fields are looking to Sabbath-school members around the world to bring a real Christmas offering on December 24. Let us not dis- appoint them. LESSONS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER, 1956 Sabbath-school members who have failed to receive a senior Lesson Quarterly for the first quarter of 1956 will be helped by the following outline in studying the first lesson. The subject of the quarter's lessons is "Lessons From the Gospel Prophet," the first of a two-quarter series of lessons on the book of Isaiah. The title of the first lesson is "God's Arraignment of Israel." The Memory Verse is Isaiah 1:18. The texts to be studied are: Ques. 1. Isa. 1:2. Ques. 8. Isa. 1:10-12. Ques. 2. Isa. 1:3. Ques. 9. Isa. 1:13-15. Ques. 3. Isa. 1:4. Ques. 10. Isa. 1:16-17. Ques. 4. Isa. 1:5, first part. Ques. 11. Isa. 1:18. Ques. 5. Isa. 1:5, last part, 6. Ques. 12. Isa. 1:19, 20. Ques. 6. Isa. 1:7, 8. Ques. 13. Isa. 1:21-25. Ques. 7. Isa. 1:9. Ques. 14. Isa. 1:26, 27. [ 47 ] PORTUGUESE EAST AFRICA and MADAGASCAR MISSIONS ,..=•ZA, a COMORES ISLANDS IECO.SUAREZ r / ""S " (SOUTHERN EUROPEAN DIVISION ) V. CASEAL NORTHERN RHODES,U0ANTASALANO MOZAMBIQUE ACALA k.04 6, OCAMIIIQu( .41102..0 ZA MI RIVER ;For I. MANINCA MISSION 1.1k LANutz vrE.0 MILANGF "ZIG UNNNNNNI MIS 0 12T. MARIE ISLAND CUP LA ALAOTIA fAS.SNDIANA NATAvE MISSION uLLIMANt• MOZAMBIQUE CHANNEL TANANARIVE t.LiSiii W,Itetar,, NEW ANTTIRAIE MISSION MISSION STATION INDIAN OCEAN MADAGASCAR TULEAR SOUTH AFRICA UNION MISSION POPULATION CHURCHES CH. MEN. S.S. M INDIAN OCEAN 4,775,000 60 2,514 4,852 PORTUGUESE 11,670,000 22 1,889 2,305 ,3.445,000 82 4,403 7,157 OURENCO MARQUES