.1 tyb E PROV0115HR, ARTIST T. P. P. A. STUDIES AN THE BOOK .9, REVELATION 14' r SENIOR DIVISON, No. 252, SECOND QUARTER, 1958. C. C.tAA. c THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY "He who by faith receives the word is receiving the very life and character of God. Every seed brings forth fruit after its kind. . . . Receive into the soul by faith the incorruptible seed of the word, and it will bring forth a character and a life after the similitude of the character and the life of God."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 38. "Appreciation of the Bible grows with its study."—Mid., p. 132. "God will make the most precious revelations to His hungering, thirsting people. They will find that Christ is a personal Saviour. As they feed upon His word, they find that it is spirit and life. The word destroys the natural, earthly nature, and imparts a new life in Chi-ist Jesus."—The Desire of Ages, page 391. "The neglect of the word means starvation to the soul."—Counsels on Sabbath School Work, page 44. My Daily Lesson Study Pledge As one who greatly desires to improve his' knowledge of the Scriptures, I pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sab- bath school lesson each day of the week. Name LESSON TITLES FOR THE QUARTER 5. The Counsel of Jesus Christ to His 8. The Seven Last Plagues Church Through the Ages 9. The Judgment of the Apostate 2. A Glimpse of the Throne of God Church 3. The Seven Seals 5o. The Triumph of the King of Kings 4. The Sealing The Millennium 5. The Glorious Reign of Christ 12. The New Jerusalem 6. The Church Victorious 53. The Saints' Inheritance 7. The Three Angels' Messages Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 252, April-June, 1958. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents a year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350 Villa Street, Mountain View, California. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. When a change of address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses. Copyright, 1958, by Pacific Press Publishing Association Printed in U.S.A. Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly STUDIES IN THE. BOOK OF REVELATION Lesson 1, for April 5, 1958 The Counsel of Jesus Christ to His Church Through the Ages LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 1 to 3. MEMORY VERSE: "Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand." Rev. 1:3. STUDY HELPS: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 578-587; "The Great Controversy," pages 49-60 (new ed., pp. 55-65); Uriah Smith, "The Prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., pp. 339-405; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of March 20. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Read Intro- Tuesday: Questions 6-8; read third duction; survey lesson, follow- Study Help. ❑ ing the outline. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 9-12; read Sunday: Questions 1-3; read first fourth Study Help. ❑ Study Help. ❑ Thursday: Questions 13, 14; read Monday: Questions 4, 5; read Study Help in "Review and second Study Help. ❑ Herald." Friday: Review entire lesson. Lesson Outline 4. Christ's second coming not secret. Rev. 1:7. Introduction 5. John in vision on "the Lord's day." Rev. 1:10. I. A Vision of Christ's Glory II. The Messages to the Churches of Ephesus and Smyrna. 1. The Revelation of Jesus Christ.1 Rev. 1:1. 6. Christ's care for His church. Rev. 1:13, 20; 2:1. 2. The blessing upon those who 7. Commendation and counsel to the read. Rev. 1:3. church of Ephesus. Rev. 2:1-7. 3. The book of Revelation dedicated 8. Promise of reward to Smyrna. to the churches. Rev. 1:4, 11. Rev. 2:8-10. [3 ]. III. The Messages to Pergamos and 11. The gracious promise to Sardis in Thyatira spite of imperfections. Rev. 3:1-6. 9. Difficulties of the Pergamos 12. The church of "Brotherly Love" church. Assurance to overcomers. rewarded. Rev. 3:7, 8, 10, 12. Rev. 2:12-17. 10. Thyatira manifests Christian V. The Last Church, Laodicea virtues in time of trial. Rev. 2:18-20, 24-29. 13. The self-righteousness of the Laodiceans. Rev. 3 :14, 17. IV. The Messages to Sardis and 14. Faithful counsel given. Rev. Philadelphia 3:18-21. THE LESSON Introduction whom the ends of the world are come. It should be studied with reverential awe. . . . A great blessing and revival will come to "The Lord Himself revealed to His serv- God's people as they read and understand ant John the mysteries of the book of Rev- the book of Revelation. Especially as this elation, and He designs that they shall be book is studied in conjunction with the open to the study of all. (RH, Aug. 31, book of Daniel will the divine light from 1897.)"—Ellen G. White Supplement, Rev., heaven shine upon its sacred pages. "When ch. 1, The Seventh-day Adventist Bible we as a people understand what this book Commentary, vol. 7. means to us, there will be seen among us a great revival. . . . When the books of 2. What promise is made to those Daniel and Revelation are better under- who will read, hear, and obey the stood, believers will have an entirely dif- words of this book? Rev. 1:3. ferent religious experience. They will be given such glimpses of the open gates of heaven that heart and mind will be im- pressed with the character that all must develop in order to realize the blessedness 3. To whom was the book of Rev- which is to be the reward of the pure in elation addressed? Rev. 1:4, 11. heart."—Testimonies to Ministers, pages 113, 114. A Vision of Christ's Glory NorE.—"The names of the seven churches are symbolic of the church in different 1. Who is revealed in this last book periods of the Christian Era. The number of the Bible? Rev. 1:1, first part. seven indicates completeness, and is sym- bolic of the fact that the messages extend to the end of time, while the symbols used reveal the condition of the church at dif- NOTE.—The Greek word apokalupsis, or ferent periods in the history of the world." Anglicized "apocalypse," means a disclo- —The Acts of the Apostles, page 585. sure, a revelation, or an unveiling. Here in the book of Revelation is presented a pano- 4. How does John describe Christ's rama of Christ's glory—a picture of His second coming? Rev. 1:7. enthronement with the Father, of His over- ruling providence in the affairs of His church, and His coming again in triumphant glory. "The book of Revelation opens to the world what has been, what is, and what is 5. On what day was the vision to come; it is for our instruction upon given? Rev. 1:10. [4 1 would languish, and die; but He is the true watchman in the Lord's house, the true warden of the temple courts. His continued care and sustaining grace are the source of life and light."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 586. 7. What commendation and coun- sel was given to Ephesus? Rev. 2:1-7. NoTE.—"At the first, the experience of the church at Ephesus was marked with childlike simplicity and fervor. The believ- -?k tr ers sought earnestly to obey every word of #. God, and their lives revealed an earnest, CHRIST WATCHES TH LIGHTS OF HIS SENTINELS TO sincere love for Christ. . . . SEE IF THEY ARE BURNING BRIGHTLY OR F LICK ERING OUT. "The members of the church were united in sentiment and action. Love for Christ was the golden chain that bound them to- NOTE.—"It was on the Sabbath that the gether. . . . Lord of glory appeared to the exiled apos- "But after a time the zeal of the believers tle. The Sabbath was as sacredly observed began to wane, and their love for God and by John on Patmos as when he was preach- for one another grew less. Coldness crept ing to the people in the towns and cities of into the church." Judea. He claimed as his own the precious "But in His mercy God did not leave promises that had been given regarding the church to continue in a backslidden that day."—The Acts of the Apostles, page state. In a message of infinite tenderness 581. He revealed His love for them, and His de- (For explanation of the Lord's day, see sire that they should make sure work for Ex. 20:8-11; Isa. 58:13; Mark 2:23-28.) eternity. 'Remember,' He pleaded, 'from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do The Messages to the Churches the first works.'"—The Acts of the Apos- tles, pages 578-580, 587. of Ephesus and Smyrna 8. What encouraging promise was 6. How is Christ's relation to the given to the church of Smyrna? Rev. earthly church symbolized? Rev. 1:13, 2:8-10. 20; 2:1. NOTE.—The word Smyrna means "myrrh," NoTE.—"Christ is spoken of as walking which when crushed gives a sweet-smelling in the midst of the golden candlesticks. savor and appropriately symbolizes the Thus is symbolized His relation to the apostolic church as it passed through se- churches. He is in constant communication vere trials. Especially were the ten years with His people. He knows their true of Diocletian from 303-313 a time of bitter state. He observes their order, their piety, persecution. their devotion. Although He is high priest and mediator in the sanctuary above, yet The Messages to Pergamos He is represented as walking up and down in the midst of His churches on the earth. and Thyatira With untiring wakefulness and unremitting vigilance, He watches to see whether the 9. What difficulties were met by light of any of His sentinels is burning dim the church of Pergamos? What prom- or going out. If the candlesticks were left ise was assured to the overcomer? to mere human care, the flickering flame Rev. 2:12-17. [I i NoTE.—"To secure worldly gains and church of Philadelphia, and what as- honors, the church was led to seek the surance was given? Rev. 3:7, 8, 10-12. favor and support of the great men of earth; and having thus rejected Christ, she The Last Church, Laodicea was induced to yield allegiance to the rep- resentative of Satan,—the bishop of Rome." 13. What is the condition and at- —The Great Controversy, page 50. titude of the Laodicean church? Rev. 3:14, 17. 10. What message was borne by the Son of God to the church of Thya- tira? Rev. 2:18-20, 24-29. NOTE.—"Were you cold, there would be some hope that you would be converted; but where self-righteousness girds one NOTE.—"And now began the 1260 years about, instead of the righteousness of of papal oppression foretold in the proph- Christ, the deception is so difficult to be ecies of Daniel and the Revelation. Chris- seen, and the self-righteousness so hard to tians were forced to choose either to yield be put away, that the case is the most dif- their integrity and accept the papal cere- ficult to reach. An unconverted, godless monies and worship, or to wear away their sinner stands in a more favorable condition lives in dungeons or suffer death by the rack, the fagot, or the headsman's ax.. . than such."—Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 176. For hundreds of years the church of Christ 14. What encouragement is held found refuge in seclusion and obscurity. out to the Laodiceans? Rev. 3:18-21; Thus says the prophet: 'The woman fled Isa. 55:1; John 14:6. into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and three- score days.' "—The Great Controversy, pages 54, 55. NOTE.—"The gold here recommended as having been tried in the fire is faith and The Messages to Sardis love. It makes the heart rich; for it has been purged until it is pure, and the more and Philadelphia it is tested the more brilliant is its luster. The white raiment is purity of character, 11. What imperfections were the righteousness of Christ imparted to the pointed out in Sardis, and what gra- sinner. This is indeed a garment of heav- cious promise was given to the faith- enly texture, that can be bought only of ful? Rev. 3:1-6. Christ for a life of willing obedience. The eyesalve is that wisdom and grace which enables us to discern between the evil and the good, and to detect sin under any 12. What had God set before the guise."—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 88. Lesson 2, for April 12, 1958 A Glimpse of the Throne of God LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 4 and 5. MEMORY VERSE: "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." Rev. 5:12. STUDY. HELPS: Uriah Smith, "Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., pp. 407-423; The Seventh-day.Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of March 27. [6] DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Read Intro- second Study Help. ❑ duction; survey lesson, fol- Wednesday: Questions 11-14; read lowing the outline. ❑ third Study Help. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3; read first Thursday: Review Questions 1-8; Study Help. ❑ learn Memory Verse. 0 Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Friday: Review Questions 9-14; Tuesday: Questions 8-10; read meditate on Key Thought. Lesson Outline 8. Description of the four beings. Rev. 4:6-8. Introduction 9. Ezekiel's vision of the cherubim. Ezek. 1:5-14; 10:1-15. 10. Concerted praise of the eternal I. The Heavenly Throne Room God. Rev. 4:8-10. 1. John invited to view the future. IV. Universal Worship of the Lamb Rev. 4:1. 2. The setting of the vision. Rev. 11. Man's unworthiness, inability, 4:2, 5, 6. and failure. Rev. 5:1-4. 3. A view of God's throne. Rev. 12. The Redeemer as the Lion- 4:3, 5. Lamb. Rev. 5:5, 6. 13. The golden vials fragrant with II. The Twenty-Four Elders at Worship the prayers of saints. Rev. 5:8. 4. Twenty-four elders seated. Compare Rev. 8:4. Rev. 4:4, first part. 14. Christ adored by the universe. 5. Clothed in white raiment. Rev. Rev. 5:11-14. 4:4, last part. Key Thought 6. Raised with the Lord. Matt. 27:52, 53 ; Eph. 4:8, margin. "Both the redeemed and the unfallen be- 7. Worship of the Creator. Rev. ings will find in the cross of Christ their 4:10, 11. science and their song. It will be seen that the glory shining in the face of Jesus is,the III. The Four "Living Creatures" at glory of self-sacrificing love."—The Desire Worship of Ages, pages 19, 20. THE LESSON "The fifth chapter of Revelation needs to Introduction be closely studied. It is of great impor- tance to those who shall act a part in the In Revelation 4 and 5 the ministry of work of God for these last days. There Christ in the first apartment of the heavenly are some who are deceived. They do not sanctuary is portrayed: "As in vision the realize what is coming on the earth. Those apostle John was granted a view of the who have permitted their minds to become temple of God in heaven, he beheld there beclouded in regard to what constitutes sin `seven lamps of fire burning before the are fearfully deceived. Unless they make throne.' . . . Here the prophet was per- a decided change they will be found want- mitted to behold the first apartment of the . ing when God pronounces judgment upon sanctuary in heaven."—The Great Contro- the children of men."—Testimonies, vol. versy, pages 414, 415. 9, p. 267. The Heavenly Throne Room 5. With what are the elders clothed? Rev. 4:4, last part. Compare 1. What did the heavenly voice tell Rev. 19:8. John he would be shown? Rev. 4:1. 6. On what occasion did a group NoTE.—This is not a door into heaven, of human beings enter heaven? Matt. but in heaven ("a door in heaven standing 27:52, 53; Eph. 4:8, margin. Com- open," Weymouth), actually in the heav- pare Rev. 5:8-10. enly sanctuary itself, since the themes of salvation and judgment are so intertwined in this vision. The word "was" is supplied; the door is already standing open as John NOTE.—"All heaven was waiting the beholds it. hour of triumph when Jesus should ascend to His Father. Angels came to receive the 2. What heavenly scene appeared King of glory, and to escort Him trium- to the prophet? Rev. 4:2, 5, 6. phantly to heaven. After Jesus had blessed His disciples, He was parted from them, and taken up. And as He led the way up- ward, the multitude of captives who were raised at His resurrection followed."— 3. How is the divine Being upon Early Writings, page 190. the throne described? Rev. 4:3, 5. Compare Gen. 9:13. 7. As the saints worship, what at- tribute of God in particular is ac- claimed? Rev. 4:10, 11. NOTE.—"As the bow in the cloud- is formed by the union of the sunlight and the shower, so the rainbow encircling the NOTE.—"The duty to worship God is throne represents the combined power of based upon the fact that He is the Crea- mercy and justice. It is not justice alone tor, and that to Him all other beings owe that is to be maintained; for this would their existence. And wherever, in the Bible, eclipse the glory of the rainbow above the His claim to reverence and worship, above promise; man could see only the penalty of the gods of the heathen, is presented, there the law. Were there no justice, no penalty, is cited the evidence of His creative power. there would be no stability to the govern- . . . The holy beings who worship God in ment of God. It is the mingling of judg- heaven state, as the reason why their ment and mercy that makes salvation full homage is due to Him, 'Thou art worthy, and complete. (Letter lf, 1890.)"—Ellen O Lord, to receive glory and honor and G. White Supplement, Rev., ch. 4, The Sev- power: for Thou hast created all things.' " enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. —The Great Controversy, pages 436, 437. 7. See also vol. 6, pp. 1071, 1072. The Four "Living Creatures" The Twenty-Four Elders at Worship at Worship 4. Whom did John see surrounding 8. How are the four beings on each the central throne? Rev. 4:4, first side of the throne described? Rev. 4: part. 6-8. NoTE.—The original word for "beasts" NoTE.—Observe the similarity of this here is zoo, derived from the word meaning scene with that described in Daniel 7:9, 10. "alive." It should be translated "living [8) 12. By what twofold symbolism is introduced the one Being in the uni- verse whose experience and character qualify Him to open the book? Rev. 5:5, 6. NoTE.—"The Saviour is presented before John under the symbols of the 'Lion of the tribe of Judah,' and of a 'Lamb as it had been slain.' These symbols represent the union of omnipotent power and self-sac- rificing love. The Lion of Judah, so terri- ble to the rejecters of His grace, will be the Lamb of God to the obedient and faithful. The pillar of fire that speaks terror and LET US WORSHIP N GOD'S HOUSE, FOR HE IS wrath to the transgressor of God's law, is a OUR CREATOR AND REDEEMER. token of light and mercy and deliverance to those who have kept His command- creatures." The vital element common to ments. The arm strong to smite the rebel- the whole animated creation is here em- lious will be strong to deliver the loyal."— phasized. (See Abbott-Smith, Manual Greek The Acts of the Apostles, page 589. Lexicon of the New Testament, 1950, page 13. What symbol represents the 197.) prayers of the saints? Rev. 5:8. Com- 9. How does John's vision compare pare Rev. 8:4. with that of Ezekiel? Ezek. 1:5-14; 10:1-15. NOTE.—"Between the cherubim was a golden censer, and as the prayers of the saints, offered in faith, came up to Jesus, 10. Of what does the worship of and He presented them to His Father, a the four living creatures consist? Rev. cloud of fragrance arose from the incense, 4:8-10. looking like smoke of most beautiful colors. . . . As the incense ascended to the Father, the excellent glory came from the throne to Jesus, and from Him it was shed upon NorE.—"The angel showed me those those whose prayers had come up like who ceased not day nor night to cry, 'Holy, sweet incense."—Early Writings, page 252. Holy, Lord God Almighty.' Continued 14. What praise is directed by the repetition,' said the angel, 'yet God is glori- fied by it.' Although we may tell the same entire universe to the sacrificed Lamb story over and over, it honors God, and of God? Rev. 5:11-14. shows that we are not unmindful of His goodness and mercies to us."—Early Writ- ings, page 116. NoTE.—"There the redeemed greet those Notice the beautiful unity of worship be- who led them to the Saviour, and all unite tween these four beings and the twenty- in praising Him who died that human be- four elders. ings might have the life that measures with the life of God. The conflict is over. Tribu- lation and strife are at an end. Songs of Universal Worship of the Lamb victory fill all heaven as the ransomed ones take up the joyful strain, Worthy, worthy is 11. What seeming impossibility the Lamb that was slain, and lives again, a blocked the progress of John's vision triumphant conqueror."—The Acts of the of the future? Rev. 5:1-4. Apostles, page 602. 9 Lesson 3, for April 19, 1958 The Seven Seals LESSON SCRIPTURES: Revelation 6 and 8:1. MEMORY VERSE: "And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for Thou wast slain, and host redeemed us to God by Thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation." Rev. 5:9. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 635-652; "The Seventh-day Advent- ist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of April 3. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson, second Study Help. ❑ following the outline. Wednesday: Questions 9-11; read Sunday: Read Introduction; third Study Help. Questions 1, 2. Thursday: Questions 12-14; learn Monday: Questions 3-6; read first Memory Verse. ❑ Study Help. Friday: Review lesson; meditate on Tuesday: Questions 7, 8; read Key Thought. ❑ Lesson Outline IV. Signs of Christ's Coming 9. The great earthquake. Rev. 6:12, Introduction first part. 10. The signs in the heaven. Rev. I. The Early Christian Era 6:12 (last part), 13; Matt. 24:29. 1. Christ worthy to open seals. Rev. 11. The departing of the heavens. 5:2, 5-7; 6:1. Rev. 6:14. 2. Symbols revealed as first seal is opened. Rev. 6:2. V. The Second Coming 11. The Era of Persecution 12. Silence in heaven. Rev. 8:1. 13. Anguish of the wicked. Rev. 3. Opening of second seal reveals 6:15-17. red horse. Rev. 6:3, 4. 14. joy of the righteous. Isa. 25: 8, 9. 4. The third seal opened-black horse. Rev. 6:5, 6. 5. The wheat and the barley, the oil Key Thought and the wine. Rev. 6:6. 6. The pale horse and his rider. "The Lamb of God is represented before Rev. 6:7, 8. us as 'in the midst .of the throne' of God. III. Souls Under the Altar He is the great ordinance by which man and God are united and commune together. 7. Souls cry as did Abel's blood. Thus men are represented as sitting in Rev. 6:9, 10; Gen. 4:10. heavenly places in Christ Jesus. This is the 8. All of God's people rewarded appointed place of meeting between God together. Rev. 6:11; Heb. and humanity."-Testimonies to Ministers, 11:39, 40; 1 Thess. 4:16, 17. page 124. [ 10 ] THE LESSON Introduction and that of the first. By this time the church, as a result of her compromise with "The seven seals represent events of a paganism, had fallen into moral and spirit- religious character, and contain the history ual darkness. There was a famine for the of the church from the opening of the pure word of God. Tradition and the Christian Era to the second coming of teaching of the church fathers were fast Christ. When the seals were broken, and taking the place of the teaching of the the record was brought to light, the scenes Scriptures. This false system of religion were presented before John, not by the developed into the papacy. reading of the description, but by a repre- sentation of what was described in the 5. What was a voice then heard to book being made to pass before his view in say? Rev. 6:6. living characters, and in the place where the reality was to occur, namely, on the earth."—Uriah Smith, Daniel and the Rev- elation, 1944 ed., page 425. 6. What was the color of the fourth horse, and what power was given to his rider? Rev. 6:7, 8. The Early Christian Era 1. Who alone is worthy to open the seals? Rev. 5:2, 5-7; 6:1. Souls Under the Altar 7. What strange sight does John 2. As the first seal was opened, behold under the fifth seal? Rev. 6:9, what symbols were revealed? Rev. 10. Compare Gen. 4:10. 6:2. NoTE.—"As the blood of Abel cried from NoTE.—"A white horse, symbol of purity the ground, there are voices also crying to and victory. God from martyrs' graves, from the sepul- "The rider is crowned and, bearing a chers of the sea, from mountain caverns, bow, He goes forth conquering and to from convent vaults: 'How long, 0 Lord, conquer: a beautiful symbol of the tri- holy and true, dost Thou not judge and umphs of the gospel in the first century of avenge our blood on them that dwell on the Christian dispensation."—R. A. Ander- the earth?'"—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 451. son, Unfolding the Revelation, page 63. 8. When will these witnesses for Christ receive their reward? Rev. 6: The Era of Persecution 11; Heb. 11:39, 40; 1 Thess. 4:16, 17. 3. What does John see as the sec- ond seal is opened? Rev. 6:3, 4. Nora.—"Not until the personal advent of Christ can His people receive the king- dom."—The Great Controversy, page 322. 4. As the third seal is opened, what comes into view? Rev. 6:5, 6. Signs of Christ's Coming 9. What outstanding event marks NorE.—Here we see a black horse. What the opening of the sixth seal? Rev. a contrast between the color of this horse 6:12, first part. NorE.—"In fulfillment of this prophecy there occurred, in the year 1755, the most terrible earthquake that has ever been re- corded. Though commonly known as the earthquake of Lisbon, it extended to the greater part of Europe, Africa, and Amer- ica. It was felt in Greenland, in the West Indies, in the island of Madeira, in Norway and Sweden, Great Britain and Ireland. It pervaded an extent of not less than four million square miles. In Africa the shock was almost as severe as in Europe. A great part of Algiers was destroyed; and a short distance from Morocco, a village contain- ing eight or ten thousand inhabitants was swallowed up. A vast wave swept over the coast of Spain and Africa, engulfing cities, and causing great destruction."—The Great MEN MAY SCOFF AT GOD'S WORD NOW; BUT WHEN HE SPEAKS IN JUDGMENT, THEY. Controversy, page 304. 10. WILL TRY TO HIDE FROM HIS WRAT H. 10. What notable signs in the heavens were also to take place? Rev. ens. The atmosphere or firmament is also 6:12 (last part), 13. Compare Matt. called 'heaven.' See Genesis 1:8. At the 24:29. second coming of Christ the atmosphere will pass away and the mountains and is- lands will disappear. Revelation 6:14; 16: 18-20. . . . It is significant to realize that NOTE.-" 'Almost if not altogether alone, our generation finds • itself just between as the most mysterious and as yet unex- verses 13 and 14. The signs in the heavens plained phenomenon of its kind, . .. stands have been fulfilled, and we can look confi- the dark day of May 19, 1780,—a most dently for the coming of our Lord."—R. unaccountable darkening of the whole visi- A. Anderson, Unfolding the Revelation, ble heavens and atmosphere in New Eng- page 73. land.' . . . " 'Nor was the darkness of the [follow- The Second Coming ing] night less uncommon and terrifying than that of the day; notwithstanding there was almost a full moon, no object was 12. What condition prevails in discernible but by the help of some arti- heaven during the opening of the sev- ficial light.' . . . After midnight the dark- enth seal? Rev. 8:1. ness disappeared, and the moon, when first visible, had the appearance of blood."— The Great Controversy, pages 306-308. "In 1833, two years after Miller began to present in public the evidences of Christ's NorE.—One cannot imagine heaven to be soon coming, . . . this prophecy received a silent with the angels continually praising striking and impressive fulfillment in the God. So this period of silence evidently great meteoric shower of November 13, takes place when Christ returns to earth 1833."—Ibid., p. 333. with "all the holy angels." Matt. 25:31. Then heaven, for a short period, will be 11. What unprecedented distur- empty of the angelic host. This is the rea- bance of nature followed? Rev. 6:14. son for the silence. 13. What terrible anguish will the wicked experience at the coming of NorE.—"This cannot refer to the celestial Christ? Rev. 6:15-17. Compare Matt. heavens, but rather the atmospheric heav- 24:30. [ 12 ] Nora.—"Those who have disregarded and hide us from . . . the wrath of the the law of God and trodden underfoot the Lamb."—Patriarchs and Prophets, pages blood of Christ, 'the kings of the earth, and 340, 341. the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men,' shall 14. What joy will Christ's coming hide themselves 'in the dens and in the bring to the righteous? Isa. 25:8, 9. rocks of the mountains,' and they shall Compare 1 Cor. 15:54, 55; 1 Thess. say to the mountains and rocks, 'Fall on us, 4:16, 17. Lesson 4, for April 26, 1958 The Sealing LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 7. MEMORY VERSE: "For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes." Rev. 7:17. STUDY HELPS: "Early Writings," pages 48 (par. 1), 72; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of April 10. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson, Tuesday: Questions 6-8; read second following the outline. Study Help. ❑ Sunday: Read Introduction; Ques- Wednesday: Questions 9-11. tions 1-3. Thursday: Questions 12, 13; learn Monday: Questions 4, 5; read first Memory Verse. ❑ Study Help. Friday: Review the lessons; medi- tate on Key Thought. ❑ Lesson Outline Honor and Glory Ascribed to the Lamb Introduction 6. The shout of the redeemed. Rev. 7:10. I. The Holding of the Winds 7. Effect on the angelic host. Rev. 1. The restraining angels. Rev. 7:1. 7:11. 2. Angel with seal of the living God. 8. Praise to the Lord forever. Rev. Rev. 7:2. 7:12. 3. Servants of God sealed. Rev. 7:3. IV. Experiences, Privileges, and Joys II. The Sealing of the Saints Of the Redeemed 4. Number and character of those 9. Arrayed in white robes. Rev. who are sealed. Rev. 7:4; 14:1, 5. 7:13. 5. Beholding the multitude of the 10. Passed through great tribulation: redeemed. Rev. 7:4, 9. Rev. 7:14. [13 ] 11. Before the throne of God. Rev. or stain upon them. . . . The seal of God 7:15. will never be placed upon the forehead of 12. Promises of better things. Rev. an impure man or woman. It will never be 7:16. placed upon the forehead of the ambitious, 13. Eternal joys established. Rev. 7:17. world-loving man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of men or Key Thought women of false tongues or deceitful hearts." "Not one of us will ever receive the seal —Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 214-216. of God while our characters have one spot THE LESSON Introduction "When God shall bid His angels loose the winds, there will be such a scene of strife "Just as soon as the people of God are as no pen can picture."—Testimonies, vol. sealed in their foreheads—it is not any seal 6, p. 408. or mark that can be seen, but a settling into 2. What significant token is next the truth, both intellectually and spiritually, brought to view? Rev. 7:2. so they cannot be moved—just as soon as God's people are sealed and prepared for the shaking, it will come. Indeed, it has begun already; the judgments of God are NOTE.—"The fourth commandment alone now upon the land, to give us warning, of all the ten contains the seal of the great that we may know what is coming. (From Lawgiver, the Creator of the heavens and MS 173, 1902.)"—The Seventh-day Ad- the earth. Those who obey this command- ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, p. 1161. ment take upon themselves His name, and all the blessings it involves are theirs."— Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 350. The Holding of the Winds "The sign, or seal, of God is revealed in the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath, 1. What restraining force is the Lord's memorial of creation."—Testi- brought to view as the seventh chap- monies, vol. 8, p. 117. ter opens? Rev. 7:1. "The Lord is doing His work. All heaven is astir. The Judge of all the earth is soon to arise and vindicate His insulted au- thority. The mark of deliverance will be NOTE.—"Here is a picture of divine inter- set upon the men who keep God's com- position. As the judgments of God are mandments, who revere His law, and who about to fall, the Lord reveals that a re- refuse the mark of the beast or of his straining hand is over the affairs of men. image."—Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 451, 452. But for this, civilization would destroy it- self. 3. How long are the angels com- " 'The four winds' denote the four points missioned to hold the winds of strife, of the compass. Jeremiah 49:36. Wind and where is the seal of God placed? symbolizes war or strife and commotion. Rev. 7:3. Daniel 7:2 ; Jeremiah 25:31-34; 51:1, 2, 11. The powers of evil, however, are not per- mitted to do their deadly work until God's people have been sealed for His kingdom. NOTE.—"The Sabbath question is to be A seal stands for ownership and protection. the issue in the great final conflict, in which At the very time all the world is turning all the world will act a part. Men have away from God, there are faithful ones on honored Satan's principles above the prin- whom the Lord can place His seal."—R. A. ciples that rule in the heavens. They have Anderson, Unfolding the Revelation, pages accepted the spurious sabbath, which Satan 75, 76. has exalted as the sign of his authority. But [141 God has set His seal upon His royal re- quirement. Each Sabbath institution, both true and false, bears the name of its author, an ineffaceable mark that shows the au- thority of each. "The great decision now to be made by everyone is, whether he will receive the mark of the beast and his image, or the seal of the living and true God. And now, when we are on the very borders of the eternal world, what can be of so much value to us as to be found loyal and true to the God of heaven?"—Ellen G. White, in the Signs of the Times, March 22, 1910. The Sealing of the Saints WHAT A GRADUATION DAY I WE SHALL PASS FROM THE SCHOOL OF TRIAL TO THE GLORIES OF HEAVEN. 4. What did the prophet hear at 93B4 this time, and what are the character- istics of those who are sealed? Rev. 7:4; 14:1, 5. Honor and Glory Ascribed to the Lamb NoTE.—Certain descriptions are given of 6. What cry proceeds from the lips those who are sealed: of this redeemed host? Rev. 7:10. a. The law of God is in their hearts and minds. Ps. 40:7, 8; Early Writings, p. 58. b. They "must reflect the image of Jesus fully."—Ibid., p. 71. Nora.—Glorious will be the realization c. They are "without spot before God— of the saints of God that the conflict is candidates for heaven."—Testimonies, vol. over and as they stand upon the scene as 5, p. 216. victors, a great shout of triumph is heard, d. They have been "loyal to the divine ascribing praise to God. precepts."—The Great Controversy, page 613. 7. As the angels view the host of e. They have been victorious over the the redeemed, what are they con- beast and his image. Rev. 15:2, 3. strained to do? Rev. 7:11. f. They have a clear view of the sinful- ness of sin. Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 267. 5. After the prophet heard the number of those that were sealed, NOTE.—"All through the ages the angels what did he behold? Rev. 7:4, 9. have diligently studied the wonderful plan of salvation and eagerly co-operated in leading souls from darkness into the light. No wonder, therefore, that when they see NoTE.—"What John now sees is not just in the vast assemblage of the redeemed the a hundred and forty-four thousand, com- culmination of the divine purpose, they will prising the living saints who see Jesus re- fall down in adoration, and, in a seven- turning in glory, but a 'great multitude.' fold anthem, extol the glories and praise of This vast assemblage comprises the re- God."—W. L. Emmerson, God's Good deemed of every nation and of all the ages News, pages 378, 379. raised in the first resurrection to join the 144,000 before the throne of. God."—W. L. 8. What attributes are ascribed to Emmerson, God's Good News, page 378. God? Rev. 7:12. 15 Experiences, Privileges, and entrance. They will be among that num- ber who have washed their robes and Joys of the Redeemed made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 'Therefore are they before the throne of 9. What question did one of the God, and serve Him day and night in His elders ask? Rev. 7:13. temple: and He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.'"—The Desire of Ages, pages 301, 302. 10. Through what experiences 12. From what experiences will the have the faithful ones been permitted redeemed of God be free forever? to pass? Rev. 7:14. Rev. 7:16. NOTE.—"They [the faithful ones] have NorE.—"In all ages the Saviour's chosen been partakers with Christ in His suffer- have been educated and disciplined in the ings, they have been workers together with school of trial. They walked in narrow Him in the plan of redemption, and they paths on earth; they were purified in the are partakers with Him in the joy of seeing furnace of affliction. . . . Having been par- souls saved in the kingdom of God, there takers of Christ's sufferings, they are fitted to praise God through all eternity."—Tes- to be partakers with Him of His glory." tit/ton/es, vol. 9, p. 285. —The Great Controversy, pages 649, 650. 11. What blessed privilege will be 13. With what blessed promise for granted to the redeemed? Rev. 7:15. the redeemed does the chapter close? Rev. 7:17. NoTE.—"Those who reveal the meek and NOTE.—"The great controversy is ended. lowly spirit of Christ are tenderly regarded Sin and sinners are no more. The entire by God. They may be looked upon with universe is clean. One pulse of harmony scorn by the world, but they are of great and gladness beats through the vast crea- value in His sight. Not only the wise, the tion. From Him who created all, flow life great, the beneficent, will gain a passport and light and gladness, throughout the to the heavenly courts; not only the busy realms of illimitable space. From the mi- worker, full of zeal and restless activity. nutest atom to the greatest world, all No; the poor in spirit, who crave the things, animate and inanimate, in their un- presence of an abiding Christ, the humble shadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare in heart, whose highest ambition is to do that God is love."—The Great Contro- God's will,—these will gain an abundant versy, page 678. Lesson 5, for May 3, 1958 The Glorious. Reign of Christ LESSON SCRIPTURES: Revelation 8:3-5; 10; 11. MEMORY VERSE: "And he said unto me, Thou must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, and tongues, and kings." Rev. 10:11. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 343-354; "Education," pages 178- 184; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of April 17. 1.6 DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Read Intro- Study Help. ❑ duction; survey lesson, fol- Wednesday: Questions 10-12; read lowing the outline. ❑ further from third Study Help. Sunday: Questions 1-3; read first Thursday: Questions 13-15; read Study Help. ❑ fourth Study Help. Monday: Questions 4-6; read Friday: Review entire lesson; medi- second Study Help. ❑ tate on Key Thought; learn Tuesday: Questions 7-9; read third Memory Verse. ❑ Lesson Outline III. The Two Witnesses 10. The Dark Ages period. Rev. Introduction 11:2, second part. 11. The two witnesses clothed in I. The Altar of Intercession sackcloth. Rev. 11:3-6. 1. Saints' prayers enter heaven. 12. The exaltation of the two wit- Rev. 8:3. nesses. Rev. 11:7-12. 2. Angels' interest in prayers. Rev. 8:4. IV. The Beginning of Christ's Glorious 3. Heavenly ministration ceases. Reign Rev. 8:5. 13. The sounding of the seventh trumpet. Rev. 11:15. II. The Book and the Bitter Experience 14. Events immediately preceding 4. The sealed book. Daniel 12:4; Christ's second coming. Rev. Rev. 10:1, 2. 11:18. 5. Time no longer. Rev. 10:5, 6. 15. The temple of God opened in heaven. Rev. 11:19. 6. The bitter disappointment. Rev. 10:8, 9. Key Thought . 7. The command to prophesy again. "We are living in the most solemn period Rev. 10:11. of this world's history. The destiny of 8. Attention to be given to the temple, earth's teeming multitudes is about to be the altar, and the worshipers. decided. Our own future well-being, and Rev. 11:1. also the salvation of other souls, depend 9. The court not to be measured. upon the course which we now pursue."- Rev. 11:2, first part. The Great Controversy, page 601. THE LESSON Introduction NoTE.-"The incense, ascending with the prayers of Israel, represents the merits and "The storm of God's wrath is gathering, intercession of Christ, His perfect righteous- and those only will stand who are sanctified ness, which through faith is imputed to His through the truth in the love of God."- people, and which can alone make the Testimonies to Ministers, page 182. worship of sinful beings acceptable to God. Before the veil of the most holy place, was - The Altar of Intercession an altar of perpetual intercession, before the holy, an altar of continual atonement. 1. How are the prayers of the By blood and by incense, God was to be saints presented before the heavenly approached,-symbols pointing to the great throne? Rev. 8:3. Mediator, through whom sinners may ap- [ 17 I proach Jehovah."—Patriarchs and Proph- The Book and the Bitter Experience ets, page 353. 4. What was Daniel commanded 2. What interest do the angels to do with his prophecy, and what did manifest in the prayers of the saints? John see in the angel's hand? Daniel Rev. 8:4. 12:4; Rev. 10:1, 2. Compare Rev. 22:10. NoTE.—"Let the families, the individual Christians, and the churches bear in mind NoTE.—"Daniel stood in his lot to bear that they are closely allied to heaven. The his testimony which was sealed until the Lord has a special interest in His church time of the end, when the first angel's militant here below. The angels who offer message should be proclaimed to our the smoke of the fragrant incense are for world."—Testimonies to Ministers, page the praying saints. Then let the evening 115. prayers in every family rise steadily to 5. What announcement does the heaven in the cool sunset hour, speaking angel make with reference to time? before God in our behalf of the merits of the blood of a crucified and risen Saviour. Rev. 10:5, 6. That blood alone is efficacious. It alone can make propitiation for our sins. It is the blood of the only-begotten Son of God NoTE.—"This time which the angel de- that is of value for us that we may draw nigh unto God, His blood alone that taketh clares with a solemn oath, is not the end `away the sin of the world.' Morning of this world's history, neither of proba- and evening the heavenly universe behold tionary time, but of prophetic time, which every household that prays, and the angel should precede the advent of our Lord. with the incense, representing the blood of That is, the people will not have another the atonement, finds access to God. (From message upon definite time. After this MS 15, 1897.)"—Ellen G. White Supple- period of time, reaching from 1842 to 1844, ment, Rev., ch. 8, The Seventh-day Advent- there can be no definite tracing of the ist Bible Commentary, vol. 7. prophetic time. The longest reckoning reaches to the autumn of 1844 (MS 59, 3. Will there come a time when 1900.)"—Ellen G. White Supplement, Rev., the ministration at the heavenly altar ch. 10, The Seventh-day Adventist Bible will cease? Rev. 8:5. Commentary, vol. 7. 6. What bitter experience awaited those who had mistaken the meaning of the time prophecy of Daniel? Rev. NoTE.—"As Jesus moved out of the 10:8, 9. most holy place, . . . a cloud of darkness covered the inhabitants of the earth. There was then no mediator between guilty man and an offended God. While Jesus had Nora.—"With intense desire they had been standing between God and guilty prayed, 'Come, Lord Jesus, and come man, a restraint was upon the people; but quickly.' But He had not come. And now when He stepped out from between man to take up again the heavy burden of life's and the Father, the restraint was removed, cares and perplexities, and to endure the and Satan had entire control of the finally taunts and sneers of a scoffing world, was impenitent. It was impossible for the a terrible trial of faith and patience."— plagues to be poured out while Jesus of- The Great Controversy, page 404. ficiated in the sanctuary; but as His work there is finished, and His intercession closes, 7. At the time of this bitter disap- there is nothing to stay the wrath of God." pointment what was yet left to be —Early Writings, page 280. done on earth? Rev. 10:11. [18 ] NOTE.—"We must sleep no longer on Sa- tan's enchanted ground, but call into requi- sition all our resources and avail ourselves of every facility with which Providence has furnished us. The last warning is to be proclaimed 'before many peoples, and nations, and tongues, and kings;' and the promise is. given, `Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.'"—Testi- monies, vol. 5, p. 454. 8. In what striking way was the attention of the disappointed believ- ers directed to the heavenly sanctu- ary? Rev. 11:1. • MORNING AND EVENING THE HEAVENLY UNIVERSE BEHOLD EVERY HOUSE- HOLD THAT PRAYS." --a. ca.w. 1.3-3 9. Why was the instruction given not to measure the court? Rev. 11:2, first part. and set before them false witnesses to con- tradict its testimony. . . . Yet they con- tinued their testimony throughout the The Two Witnesses entire period of 1260 years. In the darkest times there were faithful men who loved 10. For how long a period would God's word, and were jealous for His the Gentiles, or the enemies of truth, honor. To these loyal servants were given oppress the true church? Rev. 11:2, wisdom, power, and authority to declare second part. His truth during the whole of this time." —The Great Controversy, pages 267, 268. 12. What outrage was committed against the two witnesses at the end of Nom.—"The periods here mentioned— this period, and how were they ex- `forty and two months,' and 'a thousand onerated? Rev. 11:7-12. two hundred and threescore days'—are the same, alike representing the time in which the church of Christ was to suffer oppres- sion from Rome. The 1260 years of papal supremacy began in A.D. 538, and would NorE.—"It was in 1793 that the decrees therefore terminate in 1798."—The Great which abolished the Christian religion and Controversy, page 266. set aside the Bible, passed the French As- sembly. Three years and a half later a reso- 11. During the long age of spirit- lution rescinding these decrees, thus grant- ual darkness, how did God's two wit- ing toleration to the Scriptures, was nesses bear their testimony, and with adopted by the same body. . . "Since France made war upon God's two what result? Rev. 11:3-6. witnesses, they have been honored as never before. In 1804 the British and Foreign Bible Society was organized. This was fol- lowed by similar organizations, with nu- NOTE.—"The two witnesses represent the merous branches, upon the continent of Scriptures of the Old and the New Testa- Europe. In 1816 the American Bible Society ment. . . . During the greater part of this was founded. When the British Society period, God's witnesses remained in a state was formed, the Bible had been printed and of obscurity. The papal power sought to circulated in fifty tongues."—The Great hide from the people the word of truth, Controversy, page 287. E19 1. The Beginning of Christ's had not stood up, and that the time of trouble, such as never was, had not yet Glorious Reign commenced. The nations are now getting angry, but when our High Priest has fin- 13. At the sounding of the seventh ished His work in the sanctuary, He will trumpet what announcement is made stand up, put on the garments of ven- in heaven? Rev. 11:15. geance, and then the seven last plagues will be poured out."—Early Writings, page 36. NoTE.—"About His coming cluster the 15. What especially was seen in glories of that 'restitution of all things, the heavenly temple? Rev. 11:19. which God hath spoken by the mouth of all His holy prophets since the world be- gan.' Then the long-continued rule of evil shall be broken; 'the kingdoms of this NOTE.—"Again, 'the temple of God was world' will become 'the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He shall reign opened,' and he looked within the inner for ever and ever.' "—The Great Contro- veil, upon the holy of holies. Here he be- versy, page 301. held 'the ark of His testament,' represented by the sacred chest constructed by Moses 14. What significant events now to contain the law of God. taking place reveal that the close of "Thus those who were studying the sub- earth's history draws near? Rev. 11:18. ject found indisputable proof of the exist- ence of a sanctuary in heaven. Moses made the earthly sanctuary after a pattern which was shown him. Paul teaches that NOTE.—"I saw that the anger of the na- that pattern was the true sanctuary which tions, the wrath of God, and the time to is in heaven. .And John testifies that he judge the dead; were separate and distinct, saw it in heaven."—The Great Controversy, one following the other, also that Michael page 415. Lesson 6, for May 10, 1958 The Church Victorious LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 12. MEMORY VERSE: "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." Rev. 12:11. STUDY HELPS: "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of April 24. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson, Wednesday: Questions 13, 14; read following the outline. 0 second Study Help. ❑ Sunday: Read Introduction; Thursday: Review Questions 1-9; Questions 1-4. learn Memory Verse. ❑ Monday: Questions 5-9. ❑ Friday: Review Questions 10-14; Tuesday: Questions 10-12; read meditate on Key Thought. ❑ first Study Help. [ 20] Lesson Outline III. Satan's Persecution of the Church 10. Satan persecutes the church. Rev. Introduction 12:13. 11. The church in seclusion 1260 I. The Woman and the Dragon years. Rev. 12:14, 6. 1. Woman clothed with the sun. Rev. 12. Satan's plan thwarted. Rev. 12:1, 2. 12:15, 16. 2. The great red dragon. Rev. 12:3, 9. 3. Satan's attempt to destroy Jesus. IV. Satan's Warfare Against the Rev. 12:4, 5. Remnant 4. God's protecting care for His church. Rev. 12 :6. 13. Satan's wrath directed against the remnant. Rev. 12:17, first II. The Origin and Outcome of the part. Controversy 14. The cause of Satan's wrath. Rev. 12:17, last part. 5. War in heaven. Rev. 12:7. 6. The outcome of the controversy. Rev. 12:8, 9. Key Thought 7. The accuser and the Advocate. Rev. 12:10; 1 John 2:1. "It is true that Satan is a powerful be- 8. The secret of overcoming power. ing; but, thank God, we have a mighty Rev. 12:11. Saviour, who cast out the evil• one from 9. A warning to the world. Rev. 12:12. heaven."-The Desire of Ages, page 493. THE LESSON Introduction 2. What power is represented by the great red dragon? Rev. 12:3, 9. Satan has manifested terrible hatred against Christ and the church. Having been cast out of heaven, Satan has con- tinued on earth the rebellion that he insti- NorE.-"The dragon is said to be Satan; gated in the courts above. Failing to destroy he it was that moved upon Herod to put Christ, his wrath is vented against the the Saviour to death. But the chief agent church. In the end of time his wrath of Satan in making war upon Christ and bursts forth against the "remnant" who His people during the first centuries of the gain the victory over him through humble Christian Era, was the Roman Empire, in reliance upon God and obedience to all which paganism was the prevailing religion. His commandments. Thus while the dragon, primarily, repre- sents Satan, it is, in a secondary sense, a symbol of pagan Rome."-The Great Con- The Woman and the Dragon troversy, page 438. 3. What does the dragon attempt 1. What symbol is used to depict to do? Rev. 12:4, 5. the church? Rev. 12:1, 2. 4. How does God manifest His care for the church? Rev. 12:6. NoTE.-A pure woman is a symbol of the true church. Jer. 6:2 ; 2 Cor. 11:2 ; Eph. 5:25-32. An apostate church is symbolized by a corrupt woman. Ezek. 23:2-4; Rev. NorE.-"Amid the gloom that settled 17:3-6, 15, 18. upon the earth during the long period of [21 ] 6. What was the outcome of this conflict? Rev. 12:8, 9. NoTE.—"There are Christians who think and speak altogether too much about the power of Satan. They think of their ad- versary, they pray about him, they talk about him, and he looms up greater and greater in their imagination. It is true that Satan is a powerful being; but, thank God, we have a mighty Saviour, who cast out the evil one from heaven. Satan is pleased when we magnify his power. Why not talk of Jesus? Why not magnify His 'SATAN 15 PLEASED WHEN WE MAGNIFY HIS POWER. power and His love?"—The Desire of WHY NOT TALK OF JESUSS WHY NOT MAGNIFY HIS POWER AND HIS LOVES E.G.W. Ages, page 493. IIPIB 7. What function does Jesus per- papal supremacy, the light of truth could form on behalf of His people? Rev. not be wholly extinguished. In every age 12:10; 1 John 2:1. there were witnesses for God,—men who cherished faith in Christ as the only media- tor between God and man, who held the Bible as the only rule of life, and who hal- lowed the true Sabbath."—The Great Con- NOTE.—"The victory gained at His death troversy, page 61. on Calvary broke forever the accusing power of Satan over the universe and si- The Origin and Outcome of lenced his charges that self-denial was im- the Controversy possible with God and therefore not essen- tial in the human family. (MS 50, 1900.)" 5. Who were the contenders in a —Ellen G. White Supplement, Rev., ch. 12, war in heaven? Rev. 12:7. The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- mentary, vol. 7. 8. How may the individual be- Nom.—"When God said to His Son, 'Let liever overcome Satan? Rev. 12:11. Us make man in Our image,' Satan was jealous of Jesus. He wished to be con- sulted concerning the formation of man, and because he was not, he was filled with 9. Of what are the inhabitants of envy, jealousy, and hatred."—Early Writ- the earth warned? Rev. 12:12. ings, page 145. "The King of the universe summoned the heavenly hosts before Him, that in their Satan's Persecution of the Church presence He might set forth the true posi- tion of His Son, and show the relation He 10. Satan having been defeated by sustained to all created beings. The Son of God shared the Father's throne. . . . Christ, whom does he now persecute? The Son of God had wrought the Father's Rev. 12:13. will in the creation of all the hosts of heaven; and to Him, as well as to God, their homage and allegiance were due. Christ was still to exercise divine power, NOTE.—"The devil, defeated in his at- in the creation of the earth and its inhabi- tempts against God in heaven, and foiled tants."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 36. in his attack upon the man-child—Christ I 22 I Jesus (see ver. 5), now directs his efforts the same scenes that were exhibited at the against the woman—the Church."—The trial, rejection, and crucifixion of Christ Pulpit Commentary, Revelation, page 314. will be revived. Through yielding to sa- tanic influences, men will be transformed 11. How long does the church re- into fiends; and those who were created in main in seclusion? Rev. 12:14, 6. the image of God, who were formed to honor and glorify their Creator, will be- come the habitation of dragons, and Satan will see in an apostate race his master- NoTE.—The period of time during which piece of evil—men who reflect his own the church is nourished in the wilderness is image. (RH, April 14, 1896.)"—Ellen G. shown in verse 6. These 1260 symbolic White Supplement, Rev., ch. 12, The Sev- days signify 1260 actual years. The period enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary, of papal domination over the truth of God vol. 7. is here represented. Many were martyred "While Jesus is purifying His people unto for their faith, while others were protected Himself, redeeming them from all iniquity, by fleeing into the Alpine mountains and Satan will employ his forces to hinder the valleys. work and prevent the perfection of the saints."—Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 105. 12. How is Satan's work of per- secution thwarted? Rev. 12:15, 16. 14. What characteristics of the remnant provoke Satan's wrath? Rev. 12:17, last part. Nora.—The Protestant Reformation was a powerful agency to thwart the persecu- tion of the true church. The new world NoTE.—"Those who love and keep the opened its doors to the downtrodden of commandments of God are most obnoxious the earth and prepared a way for religious to the synagogue of Satan, and the powers freedom. of evil will manifest their hatred toward them to the fullest extent possible. (RH, Satan's Warfare Against the April 14, 1896.)"—Ellen G. White Supple- Remnant ment, Rev., ch. 12, The Seventh-day Ad- ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7. 13. Against whom does Satan vent "The great conflict now being waged is his wrath? Rev. 12:17, first part. not merely a strife of man against man. On one side stands the Prince of life, acting as man's substitute and surety; on the other, the prince of darkness, with the NOTE.—"The forces of darkness will fallen angels under his command [Eph. 6: unite with human agents who have given 12, 13, 10, 11 quoted]. (RH, Feb. 6, 1900.)" themselves into the control of Satan, and Ibid., vol. 7. Lesson 7, for May 17, 1958 The Three Angels' Messages LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 14. MEMORY VERSE: "Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." Rev. 14:12. STUDY HELPS: "Prophets and Kings," pages 703-733; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of May 1. 23 DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson, Tuesday: Questions 6-9; read following the outline. ❑ third Study Help. Sunday: Read Introduction; Ques- Wednesday: Questions 10, 11. ❑ tions 1-3; read first Study Help. ❑ Thursday: Questions 12, 13; learn Monday: Questions 4, 5; read sec- Memory Verse. ond Study Help. ❑ Friday: Review the entire lesson. Lesson Outline 7. Hour of God's judgment. Rev. 14:7. Introduction 8. Fall of Babylon proclaimed. I. The Hundred Forty and Four Thou- Rev. 14:8; 18:4. sand on Mount Zion 9. Warning against worship of the 1. Christ and the 144,000 on Mount beast. Rev. 14:9-11. Zion. Rev. 14:1. 10. Identification of God's people. 2. The new song. Rev. 14:2, 3, first Rev. 14:12. part. 11. God's people comforted. Rev. 3. Redeemed from earth. Rev. 14:3, 14 : 13. last part. 4. Pure in life. Rev. 14:4. III. God's Judgment of the World 5. Faultless before God. Rev. 14:5. 12. Christ comes to judge the world. II. God's Last Warning Messages Rev. 14: 14-16. 6. The everlasting gospel to all the 13. Destruction follows rejection of world. Rev. 14:6. warning. Rev. 14:17-20. THE LESSON Introduction "John saw a Lamb on Mount Zion, and NOTE.-"Why were they so specially with Him 144,000 having His Father's name singled out? Because they had to stand written in their foreheads. They bore the with a wonderful truth right before the signet of heaven. They reflected the image whole world, and receive their opposition, of God. They were full of the light and the and while receiving this opposition they glory of the Holy One. If we would have were to remember that they were sons and the image and superscription of God upon daughters of God, that they must have us, we must separate ourselves from all Christ formed within them the hope of iniquity. We must forsake every evil way, glory. (MS 13, 1888.) "-Ellen G. White and then we must trust our cases in the Supplement, Rev., ch. 14, The Seventh-day hands of Christ. While we are working out Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7. our own salvation with fear and trembling, "Those who have in their foreheads the God will work in us to will and to do His seal of the infinite God will regard the own good pleasure. (RH, March 19, 1889.)" world and its attractions as subordinate to -Ellen G. White Supplement, Rev., ch. 14, eternal interests. (RH, July 13, 1897.)"- The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commen- Ellen G. White Supplement, Rev., ch. 14, tary, vol. 7. The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- mentary, vol. 7. The Hundred Forty and Four Thousand on Mount Zion 2. In what are the 144,000 espe- cially engaged? What indicates that 1. Whom does the prophet behold this scene takes place in heaven? Rev. on Mount Zion? Rev. 14:1. 14:2, 3, first part. [ 24 ] NorE.—The new song, " . . . the song NOTE.—"It is God's purpose that the of their experience,—an experience such as truth for this time shall be made known no other company have ever had."—The to every kindred and nation and tongue and Great Controversy, page 649. people. In the world today men and Song of Moses—deliverance from earthly women are absorbed in the search for foes. worldly gain and worldly pleasure. There Song of the Lamb—deliverance from sin. are thousands upon thousands who give no time or thought to the salvation of the 3. From whence has this special soul. The time has come when the message group been redeemed? Rev. 14:3, last of Christ's soon coming is to sound through- part. out the world."—Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 24. 7. What is the message of the first angel? Rev. 14:7. NOTE.—" 'These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.' NorE.—Christ and the apostles spoke of The vision of the prophet pictures them as the judgment to come (Matt. 10:15; 11: standing on Mount Zion, girt for holy 21-24; Acts 24:25), but this message lo- service, clothed in white linen, which is the cates the beginning of the judgment. See righteousness of the saints. But all who Daniel 8:14; 9:24-27. This message calls follow the Lamb in heaven must first have men to worship God as Creator. followed Him on earth, not fretfully or capriciously, but in trustful, loving, willing 8. What significance does the mes- obedience, as the flock follows the shep- sage of the second angel have for the herd."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 591. people of God at this time? Rev. 14: 8; 18:4. 4. What further identification is given the 144,000? Rev. 14:4. NOTE.—"As the captive exiles heeded the message, 'Flee out of the midst of Babylon,' NoTE.—"The Lord has a people on the and were restored to the Land of Promise, earth, who follow the Lamb whithersoever so those who fear God today are heeding He goeth. He has His thousands who the message to withdraw from spiritual have not bowed the knee to Baal. Such Babylon, and soon they are to stand as will stand with Him on Mount Zion. But trophies of divine grace in the earth made they must stand on this earth, girded with new, the heavenly Canaan."—Prophets and the whole armor, ready to engage in the Kings, page 715. work of saving those who are ready to perish. Heavenly angels conduct this 9. What terrible warning is given search, and spiritual activity is demanded by the third angel? Rev. 14:9-11. of all who believe present truth, that they may join the angels in their work. (RH, Apr. 12, 1898.)"—Ellen G. White Supple- ment, Rev., ch. 14, The Seventh-day Ad- NOTE.—"Never did this message apply ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7. with greater force than it applies today. More and more the world is setting at 5. What testimony is borne of this nought the claims of God. Men have be- group? Rev. 14:5. come bold in transgression. The wicked- ness of the inhabitants of the world has almost filled up the measure of their iniq- God's Last Warning Messages uity. This earth has almost reached the place where God will permit the destroyer 6. How extensively is the everlast- to work his will upon it. The substitution ing gospel to be proclaimed? Rev. of the laws of men for the law of God, the 14:6. exaltation, by merely human authority, of [ 25 ] of life freely.' "—Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 206, 207. 11. What is said of those who will be laid to rest before Jesus comes? Rev. 14:13. Compare Isa. 57:1. NOTE.—Why blessect? Because all those who have died believing in the third an- gel's message will be raised at the first resur- rection and will behold Christ in the clouds of heaven. See Dan. 12:2; The Great Con- troversy, page 637. THE GRANDEST CHORUS BROADCAST TO ALL God's Judgment of the World THE UNIVERSE A NEW SONG.— DELIVERANCE mss-, FROM SIN! 12. What description is given of earth's final harvest? Rev. 14:14-16. Sunday in place of the Bible Sabbath, is .Compare 2 Thess. 1:7, 8. the last act in the drama. When this substi- tution becomes universal, God will reveal Himself. He will arise in His majesty to NOTE.—"The time is not far distant when shake terribly the earth. He will come out God will arise to vindicate His insulted au- of His place to punish the inhabitants of thority. . . . How will those who have the world for their iniquity, and the earth trampled upon His authority endure His shall disclose her blood and shall no more glory in the great day of final retribution? cover her slain."—Testimonies, vol. 7, p. . . . At the great judgment day, Christ will 141. come 'in the glory of His Father with His angels.' . . . When Moses came from the 10. How are the saints of God divine presence in the mount, where he had identified? Rev. 14:12. received the tables of the testimony, guilty Israel could not endure the light that glori- fied his countenance. How much less can transgressors look upon the Son of God NOTE.—"The third angel of Revelation when He shall appear in the glory of His 14 is represented as flying swiftly through Father, surrounded by all the heavenly the midst of heaven crying: 'Here are they host, to execute judgment upon the trans- that keep the commandments of God, and gressors of His law and the rejecters of His the faith of Jesus.' Here is shown the na- atonement."—Patriarchs and Prophets, ture of the work of the people of God. pages 339, 340. They have a message of so great importance that they are represented as flying in the 13. What figure is used to repre- presentation of it to the world. They are sent the manifestation of the wrath holding in their hands the bread of life for of God against the rejecters of His a famishing world. The love of Christ con- message? Rev. 14:17-20. straineth them. This is the last message. There are no more to follow, no more in- vitations of mercy to be given after this message shall have done its work. What a NOTE.—"He that ruleth in the heavens is trust! What a responsibility is resting the One who sees the end from the begin- upon all to carry the words of gracious ning,—the One before whom the mysteries invitation: 'And the Spirit and the bride of the past and the future are alike out- say, Come. And let him that heareth say, spread, and who, beyond the woe and Come. And let him that is athirst come. darkness and ruin that sin has wrought, And whosoever will, let him take the water beholds the accomplishment of His own 1 26 1 purposes of love and blessing. Though loyal, will one day understand. 'His work `clouds and darkness are round about Him, is perfect; for all His ways are judgment: a righteousness and judgment are the founda- God of truth, and without iniquity, just tion of His throne.' And this the inhabi- and right is He.' "-Patriarchs and Proph- tants of the universe, both loyal and dis- ets, page 43. Lesson 8, for May 24, 1958 The Seven Last Plagues LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 15 and 16. MEMORY VERSE: "Because thou host made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling." Ps. 91:9, 10. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," chapters 39 and 40; Uriah Smith, "Daniel and the Revelation," chapters 15 and 16; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of May 8. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson, Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read following the outline. 0 second Study Help. ❑ Sunday: Read Introduction; Ques- Thursday: Learn Memory Verse; read tions 1, 2. ❑ third Study Help. ❑ Monday: Questions 3-6; read first Friday: Review the entire lesson; Study Help. read fourth Study Help. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 7-11. Lesson Outline 8. River Euphrates dried up. Rev. 16:12. Introduction 9. The role of spiritism in the final events. Rev. 16:13, 14. I. Victorious Saints; Judgment on 10. A word of counsel. Rev. 16:15. Wicked 11. Armageddon. Rev. 16:14-16. 1. Saints on the sea of glass. Rev. 15:2-4. IV. Events Under the Seventh Plague 2. Preparations for outpouring of 12. VoiCe from heaven shakes the wrath of God. Rev. 15:1, 6-8. earth. Rev. 16:17, 18. II. God's Methods of Punishment 13. Babylon divided into three parts. Rev. 16:19. 3. A noisome and grievous sore. 14. A great hail from heaven. Rev. Rev. 16:1, 2. 16:21. 4. The sea becomes blood. Rev. 16:3. 5. Rivers turned into blood. Rev. Key Thought 16:4-6. 6. The sun given power to scorch "Ile that dwelleth in the secret place of men. Rev. 16:8, 9. the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." "He shall cover III. The Fifth and Sixth Plagues thee with His feathers, and under His 7. The seat of apostasy in darkness. wings shalt thou trust: His truth shall be Rev. 16:10, 11. thy shield and buckler." Ps. 91:1, 4. (271 THE LESSON Introduction NOTE.—"When Christ ceases His inter- cession in the sanctuary, the unmingled The Lord is "merciful and gracious." His wrath threatened against those who wor- character is a character of love. He loves ship the beast and his image and receive sinners but despises their sin, and because his mark, will be poured out. The plagues He loves them so He is reluctant to punish upon Egypt when God was about to de- until all have had full opportunity to re- liver Israel, were similar in character to pent. To God the punishment of the wicked those more terrible and extensive judg- is a "strange act." Isa. 28:21, 22. By rea- ments which are to fall upon the world son of His character of justice and love just before the final deliverance of God's and His hatred for sin He will finally de- people."—The Great Controversy, pages stroy sin and those who refuse to separate 627, 628. from it. In this lesson we will study the awful scourges that will come upon unre- 4. What will be affected by the pentant men when God's wrath is poured second plague? Rev. 16:3. upon them. Victorious Saints; Judgment on Wicked NOTE.-"A more infectious and deadly substance can scarcely be conceived of than 1. What triumphant scene did the blood of a dead man; and the thought John behold? Rev. 15:2-4. that the great bodies of water on the earth, which are doubtless meant by the term sea, will be changed to such a state under this NOTE.-"With the Lamb upon Mount plague, presents a fearful picture."—Uriah Zion, 'having the harps of God,' they stand, Smith, Daniel and the Revelation, 1944, ed., the hundred and forty and four thousand p. 689. that were redeemed from among men.. . . And they sing 'a new song' before the 5. What change comes to the riv- throne, a song which no man can learn ers as a result of the pouring out of save the hundred and forty and four the third vial? Rev. 16:4-6. thousand. It is the song of Moses and the Lamb,—a song of deliverance. None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their 6. What power is given to the sun experience,—an experience such as no other during the fourth plague, and how company have ever had."—The Great Con- do men react to this? Rev. 16:8, 9. troversy, pages 648, 649. 2. What impending judgment is brought to view? Rev. 15:1, 6-8. Nom—Sun worship has been the most widespread form of idolatry. Now the ob- ject of their veneration smites them. Nom—The temple being filled with "These plagues are not universal, or the smoke signifies that the work of interces- inhabitants of the earth would be wholly sion has ceased. No man has access there cut off. Yet they will be the most awful since probation has closed. The plagues that scourges that have ever been known to follow are the wrath of God unmixed with mortals. All the judgments upon men, prior the mercy of Christ. to the close of probation, have been min- gled with mercy. The pleading blood of God's Methods of Punishment Christ has shielded the sinner from receiv- ing the full measure of his guilt; but in the 3. Where is the first vial poured final judgment, wrath is poured out un- out, and upon whom does it fall? mixed with mercy."—The Great Contro- Rev. 16:1, 2. versy, pages 628, 629. [287 The Fifth and Sixth Plagues 7. Upon what power is the fifth vial poured, and with what effects? Rev. 16:10, 11. 8. What is the result of the pour- ing out of the sixth vial? Rev. 16:12. NOTE.—"Evidently both the name Eu- phrates and its drying up are to be con- sidered symbolically, for the drying up of the literal river could have little or no sig- SATAN'S 'TRANQUILIZERS' ARE LULLING MANY CHRISTIANS INTO FALSE SECURITY AS THE nificance in the world-wide events of the ,,,,, SaTORM OF GOD'S WRATH APPROACHES. :1 last days. "The river Euphrates naturally means waters, and these, we are told, represent reached the full accomplishment of his de- `peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and signs; but it will be reached in the last tongues.' (Rev. 17:1, 15.) But these wa- remnant of time. . . . Except those who ters are dried up, and when this historic are kept by the power of God, through moment arrives, the way is prepared for faith in His word, the whole world will be the final gathering of the nations of the swept into the ranks of this delusion. The whole world, even those from the east, to people are fast being lulled to a fatal se- the battle of the great day of God."—Our curity, to be awakened only by the out- Firm Foundation, vol. 2, p. 283. pouring of the wrath of God."—The Great All the earth will be the battlefield. Controversy, pages 561, 562. "A terrible conflict is before us. We are nearing the battle of the great day of God 10. What word of counsel is inter- Almighty: That which has been held in jected into this scene of deception? control is to be let loose. The angel of mercy is folding her wings, preparing to step down Rev. 16:15. from the throne and leave the world to the control of Satan. The principalities and powers of earth are in bitter revolt against the God of heaven. They are filled with 11. What powers are gathered at hatred against those who serve Him, and Armageddon? Rev. 16:14-16. soon, very soon, will be fought the last great battle between good and evil. The earth is to be the battlefield—the scene of the final contest and the final victory."—Ellen G. NOTE.—"There are only two parties in White, My Life Today, page 308. our world, those who are loyal to God, and those who stand under the banner of the 9. What is the significance of the prince of darkness. Satan and his angels three unclean spirits, and what do will come down with power and signs and they accomplish? Rev. 16:13, 14. lying wonders. . . . "The battle of Armageddon is soon to be fought. He on whose vesture is written the name, King of kings and Lord of lords, Nora.—"Satan has long been preparing leads forth the armies of heaven on white for his final effort to deceive the world.. . . horses, clothed in fine linen, clean and Little by little he has prepared the way for white. (MS 172, 1899.)"—Ellen G. White his masterpiece of deception in the develop- Supplement, Rev., ch. 16, The Seventh-day ment of spiritualism. He has not yet Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7. [ 29 I Events Under the Seventh Plague and ragged rocks are scattered on every side."-The Great Controversy, page 637. 12. What is the effect upon the 13. What great apostate powers earth under the seventh angel? Rev. are to receive the wrath of God under 16:17, 18. Compare Haggai 2:6, 7. the seventh plague? Rev. 16:19. NOTE.-"That voice shakes the heavens 14. To add to the perplexing situa- and the earth.. . . The firmament appears to open and shut. The glory from the tion of the wicked, what is sent upon throne of God seems flashing through. The them from heaven? Rev. 16:21. Com- mountains shake like a reed in the wind, pare Isa. 30:30; Job 38:22, 23. Lesson 9, for May 31, 1958 The Judgment of the Apostate Church LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 17 and 18. MEMORY VERSE: "These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall over- come them: for He is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with Him are called, and chosen, and faithful." Rev. 17:14. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 382, 383; "The Seventh-day Ad- ventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of May 15. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson, Tuesday: Questions 7-10; read sec- following the outline. ond Study Help. ❑ Sunday: Read Introduction; study Wednesday: Questions 11-14. ❑ Questions 1-3. Thursday: Learn Memory Verse; read Monday: Questions 4-6; read first third Study Help. Study Help. ❑ Friday: Review the entire lesson. ❑ Lesson Outline 5. The eighth beast. Rev. 17:8, 11. 6. The doom foretold. Rev. 17:13, 14. Introduction I. The Apostate Church III. The Judgment of the Apostate Church 1. The angel shows John the apostate church. Rev. 17:1-3, 18. 7. The predicted judgment. Rev. 2. Babylon the great. Rev. 17:4, 5. 17:16; 18:8. 3. The accusation against her. Rev. 8. The result of the judgment. Rev. 17:6; 18:24. 18:9-11, 15-19. 9. The reason for the judgment. II. The Mystery of the Beast Explained Rev. 18:5-7. 4. The beast with seven heads and 10. The overthrow of Bgbylon. • ten horns. Rev. 17:9, 10, 12. Rev. 18;a43, [30] IV. The Final Warning Given 13. The last call of mercy to the 11. The mighty power of an angel. world. Rev. 18:4, 5. Rev. 18:1. 14. The effect of the judgment of 12. The fallen condition of the Babylon upon the righteous. apostate church. Rev. 18:2, 3. Rev. 18:20. THE LESSON Introduction "Babylon is said to be 'the mother of har- lots.' By her daughters must be symbolized In the Scriptures a pure woman repre- churches that cling to her doctrines and sents the true church. Jeremiah 6:2. An traditions, and follow her example of sac- impure woman here would represent the rificing the truth and the approval of God, false religious system under the control of in order to form an unlawful alliance with Satan. the world."—Ibid., pp. 382, 383. 3. What specific accusation is made The Apostate Church against this church? Rev. 17:6; 18:24. 1. How did the angel introduce to The Mystery of the Beast Explained John the apostate church and her ne- farious alliance with the civil pow- 4. What do the seven heads and ers of the world? Rev. 17:1-3, 18. the ten horns of the beast represent? Rev. 17:9, 10, 12. Norr.—"Babylon is also charged with the sin of unlawful connection with 'the kings of the earth.' It was by departure from NOTE.—The beast having seven heads and the Lord, and alliance with the heathen, ten horns can readily be identified with the that the Jewish church became a harlot; dragon of Revelation 12:3 and with the and Rome, corrupting herself in like man- leopard beast of Revelation 13:1. These ner by seeking the support of worldly primarily symbolize Satan and secondarily powers, receives a like condemnation."— the agencies or powers through which Satan The Great Controversy, page 382. carries on his warfare against God's people on earth. 2. How was this woman arrayed, and what name was written upon her 5. What is said of the eighth, or forehead? Rev. 17:4, 5. final phase of the beast? Rev. 17: 8, 11. NOTE.—"The great sin charged against Babylon is, that she 'made all nations drink NoTE.—"As the crowning act in the great of the wine of the wrath of her fornica- drama of deception, Satan himself will per- tion.' This cup of intoxication which she sonate Christ. The church has long pro- presents to the world, represents the false fessed to look to the Saviour's advent as doctrines that she has accepted as the result the consummation of her hopes. Now the of her unlawful connection with the great great deceiver will make it appear that ones of the earth. Friendship with the Christ has come. In different parts of the world corrupts her faith, and in her turn earth, Satan will manifest himself among she exerts a corrupting influence upon the men as a majestic being of dazzling bright- world by teaching doctrines which are op- ness, resembling the description of the Son posed to the plainest statements of Holy of God given by John in the Revelation." Writ."—The. Great Controversy, page 388. —The Great Controversy, page 624. L 31 I The Final Warning Given 11. What does the message of "an- other" angel accomplish? Rev. 18:1. NoTE.—"It is with an earnest longing that I look forward to the time when the events of the Day of Pentecost shall be re- peated with even greater power than on that occasion. John says, 'I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory.' Then, as at the Pentecostal x0,60 • GOD CAN BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO EVERY SOUL... season, the people will hear the truth THOUSANDS OF VOICES WILL... SPEAK FORTH THE WONDERFUL TRUTHS OF GOD'S WORD.....w, spoken to them, every man in his own tongue. God can breathe new life into every soul that sincerely desires to serve Him, and can touch the lips with a live coal 6. How will all these evil powers from off the altar, and cause them to be- be overthrown? Rev. 17:13, 14. come eloquent with His praise. Thousands of voices will be imbued with the power to speak forth the wonderful truths of The Judgment of the Apostate God's word. (RH, July 20, 1886.)"—Ellen G. White Supplement, Rev., ch. 18, The Church Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7. See also vol. 6, p. 1055. 7. What judgment will come upon the apostate church? Rev. 17:16; 18:8. 12. How is the fallen spiritual con- dition of this apostate religious power presented? Rev. 18:2, 3. 8. What is the effect of the judg- ments upon her and upon her worldly associates? Rev. 18:9-11, 15-19. NoTE.—"Of Babylon, at the time brought to view in this prophecy, it is declared, 'Her sins have reached unto heaven, and God bath remembered her iniquities.' She has filled up the measure of her guilt, and 9. Why is such severe retribution destruction is about to fall upon her. But meted out to this apostate power? God still has a people in Babylon; and be- Rev. 18:5-7. fore the visitation of His judgments, these faithful ones must be called out, that they `partake not of her sins, and receive not of her plagues.' Hence the movement symbo- lized by the angel coming down from NOTE.—"Such are the judgments that fall heaven, lightening the earth with his glory, upon Babylon in the day of the visitation and crying mightily with a strong voice, of God's wrath. She has filled up the announcing the sins of Babylon."—The measure of her iniquity; her time has come; Great Controversy, page 604. she is ripe for destruction."—The Great Controversy, page 653. 13. What is the last call of mercy 10.. How complete will be the to be given to the inhabitants of this overthrow of Babylon? Rev. 18:21-23. earth? Why? Rev. 18:4, 5. [ 32 ] NOTE.—"The heirs of God . . . on earth the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of . . . were 'destitute, afflicted, tormented.' praise for the spirit of heaviness.' "—The Millions went down to the grave loaded Great Controversy, page 650. with infamy because they steadfastly re- fused to yield to the deceptive claims of 14. What effect will the just re- Satan. By human tribunals they were ad- ward or judgment of the apostate judged the vilest of criminals. But now church have upon the inhabitants of `God is judge Himself.' . . . He hath ap- heaven and the righteous of earth? pointed 'to give unto them beauty for ashes, Rev. 18:20. Lesson 10, for June 7, 1958 The Triumph of the King of Kings LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 19. MEMORY VERSE: "Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to Him: for the mar- riage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready." Rev. 19:7. STUDY HELPS: Uriah Smith, "Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., pp. 731-737; "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 307-319 (1923 ed., pp. 313-325); "The Sev- enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of May 22. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson, Tuesday: Questions 8-11; read sec- following the outline. ❑ ond Study Help. ❑ Sunday: Read Introduction; Ques- Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read tions 1-3. ❑ third Study Help. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7; read first Thursday: Learn Memory Verse; Study Help. ❑ '. read fourth Study Help. Friday: Review the entire lesson. Lesson Outline 3. Righteousness of saints. Rev. 19:8. 6. The wedding garment. Matt. Introduction 22:11-13. 7. The wedding invitation. Rev. 19:9. I. The Hallelujah Chorus III, The Conquering King 1. Honor to God. Rev. 19:1. 2. His righteous judgment. Rev. 19:2. 8. The testimony of Jesus. Rev. 3. Small and great praise God. 19:10. Rev. 19:3-5. 9. The faithful Judge and Warrior. Rev. 19:11, 12. II. The Marriage of the Lamb 10. His glorious name. Rev. 19:13, 16. 4. Bride hath made herself ready. 11. The armies of heaven. Rev. 19: Rev. 19 : 7. 14, 15. [ 33 IV. The Final Victory Key Thought 12. Banquet of the vultures. Rev. "Only the covering which Christ Himself 19:17, 18. has provided, can make us meet to appear 13. The clash of opposing armies. in God's presence."—Christ's Object Les- Rev. 19:19-21. 14. Triumphant paean of praise. sons, page 311 (1923 ed., p. 318). Rev. 19:6; 5:13. THE LESSON Introduction placed themselves on the side of Satan, in warfare against Christ. When the prince of "God is the husband of His church. The this world shall be judged, and all who church is the bride, the Lamb's wife. Every have united with him shall share his fate, true believer is a part of the body of Christ. the whole universe as witnesses to the sen- Christ regards unfaithfulness shown to Him tence will declare, 'Just and true are Thy by His people as the unfaithfulness of a wife ways, Thou King of saints.' "—Patriarchs to her husband. We are to remember that and Prophets, page 79. we are members of Christ's body. (Letter 39, 1902.)"—Ellen G. White Supplement, The Marriage of the Lamb Rev., ch. 19, The Seventh-day Adventist Bi- ble Commentary, vol. 7. 4. What preparation was made by the bride for the marriage of the The Hallelujah Chorus Lamb? Rev. 19:7. 1. Following the lament for Bab- ylon by the kings and merchants of earth, what triumph song is heard in NoTE.—"In Revelation 21:9, 10 the bride heaven? Rev. 19:1. Compare Rev. is clearly defined as the Holy City, New Jerusalem. But in other scriptures the 18:19, 20. church is called 'the bride.' Even in the Revelation itself, the bride is mentioned as being arrayed 'in fine linen, clean and white,' and this is called 'the righteousness 2. What testimony is borne con- of saints'—a figure hardly applicable to cerning the judgment of God upon merely a material city. . . . It is the peo- Babylon? Rev. 19:2. ple who occupy those buildings that make the city what it is."—R. A. Anderson, Un- folding the Revelation, page 184. 3. Who join in this ascription of 5. How is the bride attired for the praise? Rev. 19:3-5. royal wedding? Rev. 19:8. NorE.—"His justice will finally be ac- NOTE.—"It is the righteousness of Christ, knowledged by the whole world, though the His own unblemished character, that acknowledgment will be made too late to through faith is imparted to all who re- save the rebellious. God carries with Him ceive Him as their personal Saviour."— the sympathy and approval of the whole Christ's Object Lessons, page 310 (1923 ed., universe as step by step His great plan ad- p. 317). vances to its complete fulfillment. He will carry it with Him in the final eradication 6. How did Christ stress the im- of rebellion. It will be seen that all who portance of accepting the wedding have forsaken the divine precepts have garment? Matt. 22:11-13. [34 ] kinds of fruit. I asked Jesus to let me eat of the fruit. He said, 'Not now. Those who eat of the fruit of this land, go back to earth no more. But in a little while, if faithful, you shall both eat of the fruit of the tree of life, and drink of the water of the fountain."—Early Writings, pages 19, 20. The Conquering King 8. What humble attitude is taken by the divine announcer? Rev. 19:10. NOTE.—"The angel from heaven came to ARE WE TOO BUSY TO ACCEPT AND PREPARE John in majesty, his countenance beaming FOR THE GREATEST EVENT OF THE AGES ? with the excellent glory of God. He re- vealed to John scenes of deep and thrill- ing interest in the history of the church of NoTE.—"And of those who accepted the God, and brought before him the perilous invitation, there were some who thought conflicts which Christ's followers were to only of benefiting themselves. They came endure. John saw them passing through to share the provisions of the feast, but fiery trials, made white and tried, and, had no desire to honor the king. finally, victorious overcomers, gloriously "When the king came in to view the saved in the kingdom of God. The coun- guests, the real character of all was re- tenance of the angel grew radiant with vealed. For every guest at the feast there joy, and was exceeding glorious, as he had been provided a wedding garment. showed John the final triumph of the This garment was a gift from the king. By church of God. As the apostle beheld the wearing it the guests showed their respect final deliverance of the church, he was for the giver of the feast. But one man carried away with the glory of the scene, was clothed in his common citizen dress. and with deep reverence and awe fell at the He had refused to make the preparation feet of the angel to worship him. The required by the king. The garment provided heavenly messenger instantly raised him for him at great cost he disdained to wear." up, and gently reproved him, saying, 'See —Christ's Object Lessons, page 309 (1923 thou do it not; I am thy fellow servant, ed., p. 315). and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus; worship God; for the testimony 7. What benediction is pronounced of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.' "—Early on the guests at the marriage supper? Writings, pages' 230, 231. Rev. 19:9. Compare Luke 14:15, last part. 9. What glorious vision was given to John as he saw heaven opened? Rev. 19:11, 12. NoTE.—"Soon we heard His lovely voice again, saying, 'Come, My people, you have come out of great tribulation, and done My 10. With what was this divine war- will; suffered for Me; come in to supper, rior clad, and what names did He for I will gird Myself, and serve you.' We bear? Rev. 19:13, 16. shouted, 'Alleluia! glory !' and entered into the city. And I saw a table of pure silver; it was many miles in length, yet our eyes could extend over it. I saw the fruit of the Nora.—"Jesus rides forth as a mighty tree of life, the manna, almonds, figs, conqueror. Not now a 'man of sorrows,' to pomegranates, grapes, and many other drink the bitter cup of shame and woe, He [851 comes, victor in heaven and earth, to judge NoTE.—"What is to be understood by the living and the dead. 'Faithful and the angel standing in the sun? In Revela- true,' in righteousness He doth judge and tion 16:17 we read of the seventh vial be- make war.' And 'the armies which were in ing poured out into the air, from which heaven follow Him.' Rev. 19:11, 14. With it was inferred that as the air envelops the anthems of celestial melody the holy an- whole earth, that plague would be univer- gels, a vast, unnumbered throng, attend sal. May not the same principle of inter- Him on His way. The firmament seems pretation apply here, and show that the filled with radiant forms,—`ten thousand angel standing in the sun, and issuing his times ten thousand, and thousands of thou- call from there to the fowls of heaven to sands.' No human pen can portray the come to the supper of the great God, de- scene; no mortal mind is adequate to con- notes that this proclamation will go wher- ceive its splendor."—The Great Contro- ever the sun's rays fall upon this earth ?"— versy, page 641. Uriah Smith, Daniel and the Revelation, 1944 ed., p. 736. 11. Who followed Him to the con- • quest of the nations? Rev. 19:14, 15. 13. What is the result of the clash of these opposing armies? Rev. 19: 19-21. NOTE.—"We are here carried back to the second coming of Christ, this time under the symbol of a warrior riding forth to battle. Why is He represented thus?—Be- cause He is going forth to war, to meet 'the NoTE.—"The beast and the false prophet kings of the earth and their armies,' and are taken. The false prophet is the one this would be the only proper character in that works miracles before the beast and which to represent Him on such a mission. is identical with the two-horned beast of . . . The armies of heaven, the angels of Revelation 13, to whom the same work, God, follow Him. Verse 15 shows how He for the same purpose, is there attributed. rules the nations with a rod of iron when The fact that these are cast alive into the they are given Him for an inheritance, as lake of fire, shows that these powers will recorded in the second psalm."—Uriah not pass away and be succeeded by others, Smith, Daniel and the Revelation, 1944 ed., but will be living powers at the second ad- p. 735. vent of Christ."—Uriah Smith, Daniel and the Revelation, 1944 ed., pp. 736, 737. The Final Victory 12. What summons was issued by 14. What universal paean of praise an angel to the fowls of heaven? Rev. will acclaim Christ's triumph over 19:17, 18. His foes? Rev. 19:6; 5:13. Lesson 11, for June 14, 1958 The Millennium LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 20. MEMORY VERSE: "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years." Rev. 20:6. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 653-678; "Early Writings," pages 51-54, 289-295; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of May 29. [36] DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey lesson, and Study Help. ❑ following the outline. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read Sunday: Read Introduction; Ques- third Study Help. 0 tions 1-4. ❑ Thursday: Learn Memory Verse; Monday: Questions 5-7; read first read fourth Study Help. Study. Help. ❑ Friday: Review the entire lesson. Tuesday: Questions 8-11; read sec- Lesson Outline 7. Evil angels being judged. 1 Cor. 6:2, 3. Introduction I. Events at Beginning of the Millen- III. Events at Close of the Millennium nium 8. The New Jerusalem descends 1. The righteous dead raised and living from heaven. Rev. 21:2. saints translated. Rev. 20:6; 9. Wicked raised to life. Rev. 1 Thess. 4:16,17. 20:5, 7, 13. 2. The wicked destroyed. Rev. 20:5; 10. Satan leads evil host. Rev. 20:8. Matt. 24:37-39. 11. The attack on the Holy City. 3. Satan is bound. Rev. 20:1, 2. Rev. 20:9, first part. 4. Earth desolate. Isa. 24:1-6. 12. The judgment of the wicked. 5. Jeremiah's description of earth in Rev. 20:12. chaotic state. Jer. 4:23-27. 13. The exaltation of Christ. Rev. 20:11. II. Events During the Millennium 14. The purification of the universe. 6. Saints in heaven. Rev. 20:4. Rev. 20:9, 13, 14. THE LESSON Introduction awake ! ye that sleep in the dust, and arise."-Early Writings, page 16. "For, behold, the Lord cometh out of His "Those bodies that had gone down into place to punish the inhabitants of the earth the grave bearing the marks of disease and for their iniquity: the earth also shall dis- death came up in immortal health and close her blood, and shall no more cover vigor. The living saints are changed in a her slain." Isa. 26:21. moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and caught up with the risen ones, and to- gether they meet their Lord in the air. Oh, Events at Beginning of the what a glorious meeting! Friends whom Millennium death had separated were united, never- more to part."-Ibid., p. 287. 1. What event marks the begin- 2. What is the fate of the wicked ning of the millennium? Rev. 20:6; at Christ's second coming? Rev. 20:5; 1 Thess. 4:16, 17. Matt. 24:37-39. NOTE.-"He gazed on the graves of the NOTE.-" 'And the kings of the earth, and sleeping saints, then raised His eyes and the great men, and the rich men, and the hands to heaven, and cried, 'Awake I awake 1 chief captains, and the mighty men, and 37 1 every bondman, and every freeman, hid NOTE.—"Here he [the devil] will be con- themselves in the dens and in the rocks of fined, to wander up and down over the the mountains; and said to the mountains broken surface of the earth, and see the and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the effects of his rebellion against God's law. face of Him that sitteth on the throne, . . . During this time, Satan suffers ex- and from the wrath of the Lamb: for the tremely."—Early Writings, page 290. great day of His wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?' Events During the Millennium "The derisive jests have ceased.. . . That voice which penetrates the ear of the 6. Where are the saints during the dead, they know. How often have its plain- tive, tender tones called them to repent- millennium, and how are they oc- ance."—The Great Controversy, page 642. cupied? Rev. 20:4. 3. To what is Satan doomed during the millennium? Rev. 20:1, 2. 7. Whom are the righteous to judge? 1 Cor. 6:2, 3. NorE.—"Here is to be the home of Satan NorE.—"During the thousand years be- with his evil angels for a thousand years. tween the first and the second resurrection, Limited to the earth, he will not have ac- the judgment of the wicked takes place. cess to other worlds, to tempt and annoy . . . At this time the righteous reign as those who have never fallen. It is in this kings and priests unto God. . . . In union sense that he is bound: there are none re- with Christ they judge the wicked, com- maining, upon whom he can exercise his paring their acts with the statute book, the power. He is wholly cut off from the work Bible, and deciding every case according to of deception and ruin which for so many the deeds done in the body. Then the por- centuries has been his sole delight. . . . tion which the wicked must suffer is meted "For a thousand years, Satan will wander out, according to their works; and it is re- to and fro in the desolate earth, to behold corded against their names in the book of the results of his rebellion against the law of death."—The Great Controversy, pages 660, God. During this time his sufferings are 661. intense."—The Great Controversy, pages 659, 660. Events at Close of the Millennium 4. How does Isaiah picture the 8. What does John see coming desolation of the earth? Isa. 24:1-6. down from heaven? Rev. 21:2. NOTE.-"At the close of the thousand NoTE.—"The earth seemed to be deluged years, Christ again returns to the earth. with blood, and dead bodies were from one He is accompanied by the host of the re- end of it to the other. deemed, and attended by a retinue of an- "The earth looked like a desolate wilder- gels. As He descends in terrific majesty, He ness. Cities and villages, shaken down by bids the wicked dead arise to receive their the earthquake, lay in heaps. Mountains doom. They come forth, a mighty host, had been moved out of their places, leaving numberless as the sands of the sea. . . . large caverns. Ragged rocks, thrown out by "As the wicked went into their graves, so the sea, or torn out of the earth itself, were they come forth, with the same enmity to scattered all over its surface."—Early Writ- Christ, and the same spirit of rebellion. . . . ings, page 290. "Christ descends upon the Mount of Olives, whence, after His resurrection, He 5. How does Jeremiah describe the ascended, and where angels repeated the chaos of the earth? Jer. 4:23-27. promise of His return. . . . As the New 88 Jerusalem, in its dazzling splendor, comes down out of heaven, it rests upon the place __purified and made ready to receive it, and Christ, with His people and the angels, en- ters the Holy City."—The Great Contro- THE FULL UR Sim versy, pages 662, 663. OF JOHN JONES 9. When are the wicked dead AS R ecoR pro IN THE COURTS raised to life? Rev. 20:5, 7, 13. 00 HeAVIS. NOTE.—"At the first resurrection all come forth in immortal bloom, but at the second, the marks of the curse are visible upon all. All come up as they went down into their graves. Those who lived before the Flood, come forth with their giantlike stature, WOULD YOU WANT YOUR LIFE— ALL ITS WORDS AND DEEDS—FLASHED'BEFORE THE WORLD ? oNLV more than twice as tall as men now living THE BLOOD OF CHRIST CAN BLOT OUT THE MISTAKES. upon the earth, and well proportioned. The generations after the Flood were less in stature. There was a continual decrease NOTE.—"At last the order to advance is through successive generations, down to the given, and the countless host moves on. last that lived upon the earth. The contrast . . . Satan, the mightiest of warriors, leads between the first wicked men who lived the van, and his angels unite their forces for upon the earth, and those of the last gen- this final struggle. . . . By command of eration, was very great. The first were of Jesus, the gates of the New Jerusalem are lofty height and well proportioned—the last closed, and the armies of Satan surround came up as they went down, a dwarfed, the city, and make ready for the onset."— feeble, deformed race. A mighty host of The Great Controversy, page 664. kings, warriors, statesmen and nobles, down to the most degraded, came up together 12. As the judgment of the wicked upon the desolate earth."—Spiritual Gifts, is executed, what evidence is brought vol. 3, pp. 84, 85. forth? Rev. 20:12. 10. What is Satan's plan as he sees the nations of the lost raised to life? Rev. 20:8. NOTE.—"Moses manifested his great love for Israel in his entreaty to the Lord to forgive their sin, or blot his name out of NOTE.—"Now Satan prepares for a last the book which He had written. His inter- mighty struggle for the supremacy. . . . As cessions here illustrate Christ's love and the wicked dead are raised, and he sees the mediation for the sinful race. But the Lord vast multitudes upon his side, his hopes re- refused to let Moses suffer for the sins of vive, and he determines not to yield the His backsliding people. He declared to him great controversy. He will marshal all the that those who had sinned against Him He armies of the lost under his banner.. . would blot out of His book which He had With fiendish exultation he points to the written; for the righteous should not suffer unnumbered millions who have been raised for the guilt of the sinner. The book here from the dead, and declares that as their referred to is the book of records in heaven, leader he is well able to overthrow the city, in which every name is inscribed, and the and regain his throne and his kingdom."— acts of all, their sins, and obedience, are The Great Controversy, page 663. faithfully written. When individuals com- mit sins which are too grievous for the 11. Upon whom do the wicked led Lord to pardon, their names are erased by Satan make the attack? Rev. 20:9, from the book, and they are devoted to first part. destruction. (ST, May 27, 1880.)"—Ellen [39] G. White Supplement, Rev., ch. 20, The tants of earth and heaven the final corona- Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, tion of the Son of God takes place."— vol. 7. The Great Controversy, pages 665, 666. 13. How is the exaltation of the 14. How is the final destruction of victorious Christ described? Rev. sin and sinners described? Rev. 20: 20:11. 9, 13, 14. NoTE.—"Now Christ again appears to the NOTE.—"The conflict is over. Tribulation view of His enemies. Far above the city, and strife are at an end. Songs of victory upon a foundation of burnished gold, is a fill all heaven as the ransomed ones take throne, high and lifted up. Upon this up the joyful strain, Worthy, worthy is the throne sits the Son of God, and around Lamb that was slain, and lives again, a Him are the subjects of His kingdom. . . . triumphant conqueror."—The Acts of the In the presence of the assembled inhabi- Apostles, page 602. Lesson 12, for June 21, 1958 The New Jerusalem LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 21. MEMORY VERSE: "He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son." Rev. 21:7. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 662-678; Uriah Smith, "Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., pp. 755-783; "Testimonies," vol. 1, pp. 67-69; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," volume 7; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of June 5. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Read Intro- Tuesday: Questions 9-12; read third duction; survey lesson, fol- Study Help. ❑ lowing the outline. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 13, 14; read Sunday: Questions 1-5; read first fourth Study Help. ❑ Study Help. ❑ Thursday: Read fifth Study Help; Monday: Questions 6-8; read sec- learn Memory Verse. ❑ ond Study Help. ❑ Friday: Review the entire lesson; meditate on Key Thought. ❑ Lesson Outline 2. John's vision of the New Jerusalem. Rev. 21:2. Introduction 3. God dwells with men. Rev. 21:3. 4. Comfort for the sorrowing. Rev. I. All Things New 21 : 4. 1. The new heaven and earth. Rev. 5. Christ, the beginning and the end. 21:1. Rev. 21:6, first part. [ 40 ] II. Rewards and Punishments 11. The size and reality of the city. 6. Fountains of water given to the Rev. 21:15-18. 12. The splendor of the city. Rev. thirsty. Rev. 21:6, second part. 21:19-21. 7. The overcomers inherit all things. Rev. 21:7. IV. The Abode of the Redeemed 8. The wicked destroyed. Rev. 21:8. 13. No night there. Rev. 21:22-25. 14. The names of the redeemed in the III. The Description of the Holy City book of life. Rev. 21:26, 27. 9. John beholds the Holy City. Rev. Key Thought 21:10, 11. "And the gates of it shall not be shut at 10. The walls and gates of the city all by day: for there shall, be no night described. Rev. 21:12-14. there." Rev. 21:25. THE LESSON Introduction Our associations are broken up by the broad, fathomless ocean. In the new earth "Now the church is militant, now we are there will be no more sea, and there shall confronted with a world- in midnight dark- pass there 'no galley with oars.' In the ness, almost wholly given over to idolatry. past many who have loved and served God But the day is coming in which the battle have been bound by chains to their seats in will have been fought, the victory won. galleys, compelled to serve the purpose of The will of God is to be done on earth, as cruel, hardhearted men. The Lord has it is done in heaven. Then the nations will looked upon their suffering in sympathy own no other law than the law of heaven. and compassion. Thank God, in the earth All will be a happy, united family, clothed made new there will be no fierce torrents, with the garments of praise and thanksgiv- no engulfing ocean, no restless, murmuring ing—the robe of Christ's righteousness. All waves. (MS 33, 1911.)"—Ellen G. White nature in its surpassing loveliness will offer Supplement, Rev., ch. 21, The Seventh-day to God a constant tribute of praise and Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7. adoration. The world will be bathed in the light of heaven. The years will move on in 2. To what is the New Jerusalem gladness. The light of the moon will be as likened? Rev. 21:2. the light of the sun, and the light of the sun will be sevenfold greater than it is now. Over the scene the morning stars will sing together, and the sons of God will shout for NorE.—"The marriage represents the re- joy, while Christ and God will unite in pro- ception by Christ of His kingdom. The claiming, 'There shall be no more sin, nei- Holy City, the New Jerusalem, which is the ther shall there be any more death.' (RH, capital and representative of the kingdom, Dec. 17, 1908.)"—Ellen G. White Supple- is called 'the bride, the Lamb's wife.' . . . ment, Rev., ch. 21, The Seventh-day Ad- Christ, as stated by the prophet Daniel, will ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7. receive from the Ancient of Days in heaven, `dominion, and glory, and a kingdom;' He will receive the New Jerusalem, the capital All Things New of His kingdom, 'prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.' Having received 1. What change will take place in the kingdom, He will come in His glory, as the heavens and the earth? Rev. 21:1. King of kings and Lord of lords, for the redemption of His people, who are to 'sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Ja- cob,' at His table in His kingdom, to par- NoTE.—"The sea divides friends. It is a take of the marriage supper of the Lamb." barrier between us and those whom we love. —The Great Controversy, pages 426, 427. [41 1 3. What happy state will be re- stored at this time? Rev. 21:3. Com- pare Gen. 3:8, first part. NorE.—"Restored to His presence, man NO DOCTORS, will again, as at the beginning, be taught of UNDERTAKERS, God."—Education, page 302. DRUGGISTS, PREACHERS , 4. What beautiful promise of com- OR NURSES fort is given to all who suffer pain WED"' and sorrow? Rev. 21:4. NoTE.—"Pain cannot exist in the atmos- phere of heaven. There will be no more THERE SHALL BE NO 51N, SUFFERING. OR DEATH IN EDEN RESTORED. tears, no funeral trains, no badges of mourning. . . . 'The inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity.'"— 8. What traits of character will The Great Controversy, page 676. prevent some from entering the new 5. By whom are all these promises earth? What will be their doom? made? Rev. 21:6, first part. Rev. 21:8. Rewards and Punishments The Description of the Holy City 6. To whom is the water of life 9. In prophetic vision what does given? Rev. 21:6, second part. John behold? Rev. 21:10, 11. NOTE.—"This promise is only to those that thirst. None but those who feel their 10. What description is given of need of the water of life, and seek it at the the walls and gates of the New Jeru- loss of all things else, will be supplied."— salem? Rev. 21:12-14. The Great Controversy, page 540. 7. What glorious inheritance awaits the overcomer? Rev. 21:7. NoTE.—"Angels were all about us as we marched over the sea of glass to the gate of the city. Jesus raised His mighty, glorious NOTE.—"The great controversy is ended. arm, laid hold of the pearly gate, swung it Sin and sinners are no more. The entire back on its glittering hinges, and said to us, universe is clean. One pulse of harmony and `You have washed your robes in My blood, gladness beats through the vast creation. stood stiffly for My truth, enter in.' We From Him who created all, flow life and all marched in and felt that we had a per- light and gladness, throughout the realms of fect right in the city."—Early Writings, illimitable space. From the minutest atom page 17. to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty 11. What is said concerning the and perfect joy, declare that God is love." size and reality of this city? Rev. 21: —The Great Controversy, page 678. 15-18. I- 42 12. Of what materials are the foun- NOTE.-" The light of the sun will be dations, gates, and streets, made? Rev. superseded by a radiance which is not pain- 21:19-21. fully dazzling, yet which immeasurably sur- passes the brightness of our noontide. . . . The redeemed walk in the sunless glory of perpetual day."—The Great Controversy, NOTE.-" 'At the base is the crimson jas- page 676. per, typical of the suffering and death of the Saviour slain from the foundation of 14. Where is the list of candidates for the world. Above this, is laid the sapphire, that fair land to be found? Rev. 21: like a blue flame of truth. In the pure 26, 27. white chalcedony is reflected the purity of the Christ life. The emerald green, like the rainbow about the throne, offers hope to those who rest upon the others. The sar- donyx reflects many colors, but above it, is NOTE.—"The book of life contains the the deep red sardius, covered by the chryso- names of all who have ever entered the lite. This is overlaid by the beautiful blue service of God. Jesus bade His disciples, beryl, whose light mingles with the blazing `Rejoice, because your names are written topaz in telling the story of joy and peace in heaven.' Paul speaks of his faithful fel- in the Lord. The eleventh is the purple of royalty, crowned with the purity of the low workers, 'whose names are in the book amethyst.' "—Quoted by S. N. Haskell in of life.' Daniel, looking WW1 to dine of trouble, such as never was,' declares that The Story of the Seer of Patmos, page 344, 345. God's people shall be delivered, 'everyone that shall be found written in the book.' The Abode of the Redeemed And the revelator says that those only shall enter the City of God whose names `are 13. What glorious light will illu- written in the Lamb's book of life.' "—The minate the new earth? Rev. 21:22-23." Great Controversy, pages 480, 481. Lesson 13, for June 28, 1958 The Saints' Inheritance LESSON SCRIPTURE: Revelation 22. MEMORY VERSE: "And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that hear- eth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." Rev. 22:17. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 662-678; Uriah Smith, "Daniel and the Revelation," 1944 ed., pp. 755-783; "Education," pages 301-309; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of June 12. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Read Intro- Tuesday: Questions 9-11; read fur- duction; survey lesson, follow- ther from second Study Help. 0 ing the outline. 0 Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read Sunday: Questions 1-4; read first third Study Help. ❑ Study Help. Thursday: Read fourth Study Help; Monday: Questions 5-8; read from learn Memory Verse. 0 second Study Help. 0 Friday: Review the entire lesson; meditate on Key Thought. 0 [ 431 Lesson Outline III. A Time of Rewards 9. The final decree. Rev. 22:11. Introduction 10. Rewards according to deeds. Rev. 22:12. I. A City of Life and Light 11. The loving obedience of the right- 1. The river of life. Rev. 22:1. eous and their reward. Rev. 22:14. 2. The tree of life. Rev. 22:2. 3. No more curse. Rev. 22:3. IV. Invitation and Assurance 4. No darkness there. Rev. 22:5. 12. The divine authority attested. II. Promises Assured Rev. 22:16. 13. The gracious invitation. Rev. 5. Mansions prepared. John 14:1-3. 22:17; Isa. 55:1. 6. The joy awaiting the overcomer. 14. Response to Christ's promise of 1 Cor. 2:9; 13:12. His return. Rev. 22:20. 7. Faithful and true sayings. Rev. 22:6, 7. Key Thought 8. Worship belongs to God alone. Rev. 22:8, 9. "Even so, come, Lord Jesus." Rev. 22:20. THE LESSON Introduction side of the river, both of pure, transparent gold. At first I thought I saw two trees. "In the Bible the inheritance of the saved I looked again, and saw that they were is called a country. There the heavenly united at the top in one tree. So it was the Shepherd leads His flock to fountains of liv- tree of life on either side of the river of life. ing waters. The tree of life yields its fruit Its branches bowed to the place where we every month, and the leaves of the tree are stood, and the fruit was glorious; it looked for the service of the nations. There are like gold mixed with silver."-Early Writ- ever-flowing streams, clear as crystal, and ings, page 17. beside them waving trees cast their shadows upon the paths prepared for the ransomed 3. What has rested upon this earth of the Lord. There the wide-spreading that will not be found in the earth plains swell into hills of beauty, and the made new? Rev. 22:3. mountains of God rear their lofty summits. On those peaceful plains, beside those living streams, God's people, so long pilgrims and wanderers, shall find a home."-The Great Controversy, page 675. NoTE.-"There shall be nothing to 'hurt nor destroy in 'all My holy mountain, saith A City of Life and Light the Lord.' Isa. 65:25. There man will be restored to his lost kingship, and the lower 1. What is the source of the river order of beings will again recognize his of life? Rev. 22:1. sway; the fierce will become gentle, and the timid trustful."-Education, page 304. "All the perplexities of life's experience will then be made plain. Where to us have 2. How does John describe the tree appeared only confusion and disappoint- of life growing by the river of life? ment, broken purposes and thwarted plans, Rev. 22:2. will be seen a grand, overruling, victorious purpose, a divine harmony."-Ibid., p. 305. 4. Why does darkness never enter NorE.-"On one side of the river was a that glorious land? Rev. 22:5. Com- trunk of a tree, and a trunk on the other pare Isa. 30:26. 1 443 NOTE.—"In the City of God 'there shall be no night.' None will need or desire re- pose. There will be no weariness in doing the will of God and offering praise to His name. We shall ever feel the freshness of the morning, and shall ever be far from its close. . . . The glory of God and the Lamb floods the. Holy City with unfading light." —The Great Controversy, page 676. Promises Assured 5. What celestial dwellings will be provided for the redeemed to oc- cupy? John 14:1-3. BROKEN DREAMS AND THWARTED PLANS WILL - BE FORGOTTEN IN THE LAND OF BEGINNING AGAIN. NOTE.—"A fear of making the future in- heritance seem too material has led many to spiritualize away the very truths which lead us to look upon it as our home. Christ 8. With what kindly words did the assured His disciples that He went to pre- angel Gabriel show John that wor- pare mansions for them in the Father's ship is due to God alone? Rev. 22:8, 9. house. Those who accept the teachings of God's word will not be wholly ignorant concerning the heavenly abode. And yet, `eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither NOTE.—"The countenance of the angel have entered into the heart of man, the grew radiant with joy, and was exceeding things which God hath prepared for them glorious, as he showed John the final tri- that love Him.' . . . No finite mind can umph of the church of God. As the apostle comprehend the glory of the Paradise of beheld the final deliverance of the church, God."—The Great Controversy, pages 674, he was carried away with the glory of the 675, scene, and with deep reverence and awe fell at the feet of the angel to worship him. 6. Beyond our present restricted The heavenly messenger instantly raised vision what great joy awaits the child him up, and gently reproved him, saying, of God? 1 Cor. 2:9; 13:12. 'See thou do it not.' . . . The angel then showed John the heavenly city with all its splendor and dazzling glory, and he, en- raptured and overwhelmed, and forgetful of NOTE.—"There the redeemed shall know, the former reproof of the angel, again fell even as also they are known. The loves to worship at his feet. Again the gentle re- and sympathies which God Himself has proof was given."—Early Writings, pages planted in the soul, shall there find truest 230, 231. and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life A Time of Rewards with the blessed angels and with the faith- ful ones of all ages, . . . the sacred ties 9. What will be the most solemn that bind together 'the whole family in announcement ever uttered? Rev. heaven and earth,'—these help to constitute 22:11. the happiness of the redeemed."—The Great Controversy, page 677. 7. What assurance is given to John NOTE.—"When the third angel's message concerning the truth of this testi- closes, mercy no longer pleads for the mony? Rev. 22:6, 7. guilty inhabitants of the earth. The people [ 45 I of God have accomplished their work. They unending ages the inhabitants of sinless have received 'the latter rain,' the refresh- worlds shall behold, in that garden of de- ing from the presence of the Lord,' and light, a sample of the perfect work of God's they are prepared for the trying hour before creation, untouched by the curse of sin,— them. Angels are hastening to and fro in a sample of what the whole earth would heaven. An angel returning from the earth have become, had man but fulfilled the announces that his work is done; the final Creator's glorious plan."—Patriarchs and test has been brought upon the world, and Prophets, page 62. all who have proved themselves loyal to the divine precepts have received 'the seal of the living God.' Then Jesus ceases His in- Invitation and Assurance tercession in the sanctuary above. He lifts His hands, and with a loud voice says, 'It is 12. By whose command were these done.'"—The Great Controversy, page 613. messages given to the churches? Rev. 22:16. 10. What great event immediately follows the final decree? Rev. 22:12. 13. What gracious invitation is ex- tended to all? Rev. 22:17; Isa. 55:1. NOTE.—"With unutterable love, Jesus welcomes His faithful ones to the 'joy of their Lord.' The Saviour's joy is in see- ing, in the kingdom of glory, the souls that NOTE.—"The invitation is given, 'Ho, have been saved by His agony and humilia- everyone that thirsteth, come ye to the wa- tion."—The Great Controversy, page 647. ters.' And in the closing pages of the sacred word this invitation is echoed. The river of 11. What is the great reward for the water of life, 'clear as crystal,' proceeds those who have been obedient to the from the throne of God and the Lamb; and commandments of God? Rev. 22:14. the gracious call is ringing down through Compare Rev. 12:17; 14:12. the ages, 'Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.'"—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 413. NoTE.—"Then they that have kept God's 14. What is the Christian's response commandments shall breathe in immortal to the Bible's closing promise? Rev. vigor beneath the tree of life; and through 22:20. 46 ] THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING June 28, 1958 This quarter we visit the islands of the Australasian Division and give our money on the thirteenth Sabbath for two worthy projects. Ful- ton Missionary College on the island of Fiji is one of the objectives to benefit from the overflow. This school has a recruiting ground for stu- dents covering an area of the Pacific about 4,000 by 3,000 miles, or, in other words, the whole. Central Pacific Union Mission. The buildings of this school are rapidly going to pieces in the tropical heat and rain, and the enrollment is constantly increasing; so the time has come when they need the following improvements: Bigger staff,, a library room, and more books, woodwork classroom and woodwork shop and tools, new chemistry and science equipment, water pipes for better water supply, bigger and better buildings. The demand for trained workers has never been greater. Educational standards are rising, and we must make provision for the proper train- ing of those who will be the future leaders of the work in these island fields. The highways between the islands are really waterways, and boats instead of automobiles are the means of transportation. Another objec- tive of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering overflow this quarter is a new mission launch to be used in the New Britain area. The old boat is no longer seaworthy. Let us give them a new one on June 28. LESSONS FOR THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1958 Sabbath school members who have failed to receive a senior Lesson Quarterly for the third quarter of 1958 will be helped by the following outline in studying the first lesson. The subject of the quarter's lessons is "Christian Ideals." The title of the first lesson is "God's Ideal for His Children." The Memory Verse is Ephesians 5:27. The texts to be studied are: Ques. 1. Deut. 39:9; 1 Kings 8:53. Ques. 8. Eph. 4:7, 12-14. Ques. 2. Deut. 7:6 ; Lev. 20:26. Ques. 9. Eph. 2:10; Titus 3:5. Ques. 3. Ps. 135:4. Ques. 10. Isa. 61:3. Ques. 4. Titus 2:14. Ques. 11. Matt. 7:16, 17. Ques. 5. Ex. 19:5 ; Deut. 7:6. Ques. 12. Isa. 43:10 ; 49:6. Ques. 6. Mal. 3:12. Ques. 13. Isa. 59:19. Ques. 7. Eph. 2:21, 22. Ques. 14. Isa. 27:2, 3, 6; Eph. 5:27. I 47 FIJI LIE Ii MUT ' I: fAUSTRALASIAP DIVISION) RA84 illi111/1.0//Y6 R/ZPON Af/S8/0/YARY coutof ) KOKOPO / cer&;;) VI TU ISLANDS' A NEW ICAMBUBU / 41/SS/ONSAVA ato405 // spION.-- TALASEA SUVA NEW BRITAIN 40 UHIPH SOSS4011 BISMARCK-SOLOMONS U. M. CENTRAL PACIFIC U. M. POPULATION 271,608 759,220 CHURCHES CU SMARM SS MEMOIRS 89 94 6,165 4,384 13,702 7,950 . CORAL SEA U. M. 1,588,000 57 4,911 24,370 TRANS.-COMMON. U. C. 4,659,187 • 136 9,811 11,816 TRANS.-TASMAN U. C. 6,413,600 171 15,597 17,669 TOTALS 13,691,615 547 40,868 75,507