let 4 • - MBATI4* Olt LBSSON' 4‘ + 7 R R T'ANDOSOMAIITItt 8TOpiEs ON THE LAW OF GOD -.V k 14 4 > ^44 .4 4 SFAS4,01,t DIVISIQN, N9. 26k, THIRD QUARTER, 4960,4 THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY "The beauty and riches of the word have a transforming influence on mind and character."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 132. "There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the study of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If God's word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of mind, a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose rarely seen in these times."—Steps to Christ, page go. "The more you search the Scriptures with humble hearts, the greater will be your interest. . . . Every day you should learn something new from the Scriptures."—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 266. My Daily Lesson Study Pledge As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sabbath school lesson each day of the week. Name LESSON TITLES FOR THE QUARTER r. The Law and the Gospel 8. The Gift of Life 2. The Decalogue 9. Pure in Heart and Life 3. No Other Gods ro. Honesty in All Things 4. True Worship r. Truthful Lips 5. The Holy Name 12. Holy Contentment 6. Creation's Memorial 13. The Supreme Motive 7. Parents and Children Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 261, July-September, 1960. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents 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, 1960, by Pacific Press Publishing Association Printed in U.S.A. Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly STUDIES ON THE LAW OF GOD GENERAL INTRODUCTION As presented in these lessons, the expres- in these • last days, Seventh-day Adventists sion "law of God" refers particularly to the can well spend thirteen weeks in a study of Decalogue, or Ten Commandments. The the great underlying principles of God's law Bible writers often use the same expression and become newly aware of the difference when speaking of all the revealed will of between the letter of the law and the spirit God, including, of course, the Decalogue of the law. itself. Inasmuch as the Decalogue is a part The law of God "is a transcript of His of God's revealed will, and in fact sums up own character."—Christ's Object Lessons, all the moral principles of His righteous will, page 315. Therefore, in this study we passages of Scripture that use the expres- should see not merely ten do's and don't's, sion "law of God" in its broader sense are but the love, mercy, justice, and goodness particularly appropriate to the Ten Com- of God Himself. May our hearts respond mandments. The principle of obedience to in love to Him, and may our love be evi- God's revealed will is as applicable to the denced by more faithful obedience, for He church today as it was to Israel of old. has told us, "If ye love Me, keep My com- As God's commandment-keeping church mandments." John 14:15. Lesson 1, for July 2, 1960 The Law and the Gospel MEMORY VERSE: "For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." Rom. 8:3, 4. STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," chapters 2 to 4; "The Seventh-day Ad- ventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of June 16. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 6-9. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1, 2; begin Wednesday: Questions 10-14. reading from Study Helps. ❑ Thursday: Read Study Helps. Monday: Questions 3-5. Friday: Review entire lessen. [3] Lesson Outline: 7. Redemption made possible through Christ. Rom. 3:24-26. I. An Ordered Universe 8. The free gift of righteousness. 1. Origin and operation of physical Rom. 5:18, 19; 1 John 1:9. universe. Heb. 11:3, first part; 9. God sent His Son to condemn Isa. 40:26. sin. Rom. 8:3, 4. 2. Man dependent upon God. Acts 17:28; Deut. 30:19, second part. IV. The Righteous Remnant II. God's Beneficent Provision 10. Faith and obedience characterize 3. Law points out sin. Ps. 119:104; the remnant. Heb. 11:8; Acts 6:7; Rom. 3:20, last part. Rev. 14:12. 4. Conscience convicts of sin. John 11. God will judge in righteousness. 8:9; 1 John 3:21. Acts 17:31. 5. Fate of those who heed not the law 12. Belief or unbelief, basis of justi- or conscience. Prov. 15:9, first part; fication or condemnation. John Ps. 37:38. 3:18. III. Sin and Redemption 13. Reward of the righteous. Rom. 6. Adam's disobedience led to all 6:22. men's being sinners. Rom. 5:12 ; 14. The law to be written in hearts of 3:23. redeemed. Heb. 10:15, 16. THE LESSON An Ordered Universe God's Beneficent Provision 1. How did the physical universe 3. What beneficent provision has originate? What is the secret of its God made that man may know the harmonious operation? Heb. 11:3, way of life? Ps. 119:104; Rom. 3:20, first part; Isa. 40:26. last part. NoTE.-As used in Psalm 119:104 and NOTE.-"Everything in nature, from the Romans 3:20 the words "precepts" and mote in the sunbeam to the worlds on high, "law" refer to all the revealed will of God is under law. And upon obedience to these concerning man, including the Decalogue. laws the order and harmony of the natural Generally speaking, the same is true of world depend."-Thoughts From the Mount these terms as used elsewhere in Scripture. of Blessing, 1956 ed., p. 48. "Without the law, men have no just con- ception of the purity and holiness of God 2. To whom does man owe his life? or of their own guilt and uncleanness. They Upon what is his well-being depend- have no true conviction of sin and feel no need of repentance."-The Great Contro- ent? Acts 17:28; Deut. 30:19, second versy, page 468. part. 4. By what means does God make man conscious of his deviation from the law- of • God? John 8:9; 1 John NOTE.-"There are great principles of 3:21. righteousness to control the life of all in- telligent beings, and upon conformity to these principles the well-being of the uni- verse depends."Thoughts From the Mount NOTE.-"This daily review of our• acts, ot Blessing, page 48. to see whether conscience • approyes or. con- [4 ] 8. What gracious provision did God make whereby the guilt of trans- gression might be removed? Rom. 5: 18, 19; 1 John 1:9. NoTE.—"The broken law of God de- manded the life of the sinner. In all the universe there was but one who could, in behalf of man, satisfy its claims. Since the divine law is as sacred as God Himself, only one equal with God could make atone- ment for its transgression. None but Christ could redeem fallen man from the curse of the law and bring him again into harmony with Heaven."—Patriarchs and Prophets, There could be no accurate course for man-made page 63. satellites if there were not laws in the universe. 9. What further provision has He made whereby the pardoned sinner demns, is necessary for all who wish to ar- may be brought into conformity with rive at the perfection of Christian charac- the will of God? Rom. 8:3, 4. ter."—Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 512. 5. What is the inevitable fate of those who reject God's counsel? Prov. NOTE.—"The conditions of eternal life, 15:9, first part; Ps. 37:38. under grace, are just what they were in Eden—perfect righteousness, harmony with God, perfect conformity to the principles of His law. The standard of character pre- NOTE.—"A signpost was erected by God sented in the Old Testament is the same for those journeying through this world. that is presented in the New Testament. One arm of this signpost pointed out will- This standard is not one to which we can- ing obedience to the Creator as the road to not attain. In every command or injunc- felicity and life, while the other arm indi- tion that God gives there is a promise, the cated disobedience as the path to misery most positive, underlying the command. and death."—Prophets and Kings, page God has made provision that we may be- 179. come like unto Him, and He will accom- Sin and Redemption plish this for all who do not interpose a perverse will and thus frustrate His grace." 6. In earth's earliest days what —Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, page 76. tragedy befell the human race, and how far-reaching have been its conse- The Righteous Remnant quences? Rom. 5:12; 3:23. 10. What two essentials have al- ways characterized the experience of NOTE.—"By venturing to disregard the those who avail themselves of the di- will of God upon one point, our first par- vine way of escape from condemna- ents opened the floodgates of woe upon the tion? Heb. 11:8; Acts 6:7; Rev. 14:12. world. And every individual who follows their example will reap a similar result." —Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, page 52. NoTE.—"In every age, from the midst of apostasy and rebellion, God gathers out a 7. Since the law of God could not people that are true to Him—a people 'in be set aside, to what task did God set whose heart is His law.' "—Patriarchs and Himself? Rom. 3:24-26. Prophets, page 338. 6 11. When all have had the oppor- N o-IT.—"The redeemed will be wel- tunity of accepting or rejecting God's comed to the home that Jesus is preparing gracious offer, what will God do? Acts for them. There their companions will not 17:31. be the vile of earth, liars, idolaters, the im- pure, and unbelieving; but they will as- sociate with those who have overcome Sa- tan and through divine grace have formed perfect characters. . . . They are without 12. In what sense do men deter- fault before the great white throne, sharing mine their own standing in the judg- the dignity and the privileges of the an- ment? John 3:18. gels."—Steps to Christ, 1956 and pocket eds., p. 126. 14. Under the provision of the new NOTE.—"As those who believe in Christ covenant, what is accomplished for are justified by virtue of their faith in the believer? Heb. 10:15, 16. Him, so those who do not believe are automatically condemned because of their lack of faith. . . . God has predetermined that those who believe shall be saved and that those who do not believe shall be lost, NoTE.—"The law of God is an expression but He has left it to every man to choose of His very nature; it is an embodiment of whether or not to believe. In this sense the the great principle of love, and hence is the case of every believer and every unbe- foundation of His government in heaven liever, every saint and every sinner, was and earth. If our hearts are renewed in settled when the plan of salvation was first the likeness of God, if the divine love is laid, but it was left to every individual to implanted in the soul, will not the law of choose whether he would be a saint or a God be carried out in the life? When the sinner. This is Bible predestination. In the principle of love is implanted in the heart, final judgment, sentence will be passed on when man is renewed after the image of men individually, as, long ago, it was Him that created him, the new-covenant passed on them collectively."—The Sev- promise is fulfilled, 'I will put My laws enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary, on into their hearts, and in their minds will John 3:18. I write them' Hebrews 10:16. And if the law is written in the heart, will it not shape 13. What will be the reward of the life? Obedience—the service and al- those whom God approves? Rom. legiance of love—is the true sign of disci- 6:22. pleship."—Steps to Christ, page 60. Lesson 2, for July 9, 1960 The Decalogue MEMORY VERSE: "He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father." John 14:21. STUDY HELPS: "Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing," pages 45-51 (1943 ed., pp. 73-81); "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 303-314, 331-342; Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Commandments," pages 9-22; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of June 23. [6] DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Cheek Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11, 12; read Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ further from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4, 5; begin Thursday: Continue reading Study reading from Study Helps. 0 Helps. Tuesday: Questions 6-10. 0 Friday: Review entire lesson. Lesson Outline: III. Still the Standard of Righteousness 6. Jesus did not abolish law. Matt. I. God's Ten Words 5:17-19. 7. Keeping of law an evidence of love. 1. The oracles committed to Israel. John 14:15; 15:10, 14. Rom. 3:1, 2; Neh. 9:13, 14. 8. Faith establishes the law. Rom. 2. Ten brief, comprehensive precepts. 3:31. Deut. 4:12, 13. 9. Believers will keep the whole law. 3. Written by God Himself. Ex. James 2:8-12. 24:12; Deut. 5:22. 10. Possible to keep through God's indwelling. Phil. 2:13 ; Gal. 2:20. II. Declared From the Beginning IV. Keeping the Law in the Last Days 4. Abraham kept the law. Gen. 26:5. 11. Last-day saints will keep com- 5. Earth's first inhabitants con- mandments. Rev. 14:12 ; 2 Tim. demned for disobedience. Gen. 3:1-5. 3:6, 16-19; 4:10-12; 27:18, 19, 12. "Blessed are they that do His 41-43; 31:19; 35:2. commandments." Rev. 22:14. THE LESSON God's Ten Words man to God and to his fellow man; and all based upon the great fundamental prin- 1. What special privilege did God ciple of love."-Patriarchs and Prophets, grant to Israel, and where was it page 305. given? Rom. 3:1, 2; Neh. 9:13, 14. "The first table containing the first, sec- ond, third, and fourth commandments, and comprehending the . . . reverence we owe and the religious service we should render Nora.-"The law was not spoken at this to Him. The second, containing the six time exclusively for the benefit of the He- last commandments, and comprehending a brews. God honored them by making them complete system of ethics, or moral duties, the guardians and keepers of His law, but which man owes to his fellows. . . . By it was to be held as a sacred trust for the this division, the first table contains our whole world."-Patriarchs and Prophets, duty to God; the second, our duty to our page 305. neighbor."-Adam Clarke, Commentary, note on Exodus 20:1. 2. In what form did God set forth 3. How did God indicate the unique the principles of His moral govern- character of the Ten Commandment ment? Deut. 4:12, 13. Read Exodus code? Ex. 24:12; Deut. 5:22. 20:1-17. Nora.-"He [God] did not even then NoTE.-"Ten precepts, brief, comprehen- trust His precepts to the memory of a sive, and authoritative, cover the duty of people who were prone to forget His re- [7] the earth. To deceive men, and thus lead them to transgress God's law, is the ob- ject which he has steadfastly pursued."— The Great Controversy, page 582. Still the Standard of Righteousness 6. What did Jesus say He had no intention of abrogating? Matt. 5: 17-19. NOTE.—"While the Saviour's death brought to an end the law of types and ' God's character is revealed by His law — shadows, it did not in the least detract . love, justice, mercy, truth, holiness. from the obligation of the moral law. On the contrary, the very fact that it was necessary for Christ to die in order to atone for the transgression of that law, proves quirements, but wrote them upon tables of it to be immutable."—Patriarchs and Proph- stone. He would remove from Israel all pos- ets, page 365. sibility of mingling heathen traditions with His holy precepts, or of confounding His 7. Of what is commandment keep- requirements with human ordinances or customs."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page ing an evidence? John 14:15; 15: 364. 10, 14. Declared From the Beginning 4. While the law of God was first NoTE.—"There are only two classes in the set forth as the Decalogue at Sinai, world today, and only two classes will be recognized in the judgment—those who what evidence have we that the moral violate God's law and those who obey it. law existed before Sinai? Gen. 26:5. Christ gives the test by which to prove our loyalty or disloyalty. 'If ye love Me,' He says, 'keep My commandments.' "— Christ's Object Lessons, page 283. NoTE.—"God's law is a transcript of His "If we abide in Christ, if the love of character. It was given to man in the be- God dwells in the heart, our feelings, our ginning as the standard of obedience. . . . thoughts, our actions, will be in harmony At Sinai the law was given a second time." with the will of God. The sanctified heart —Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 207. is in harmony with the precepts of God's law."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 563. 5. Mention some examples of indi- "The commandments of Jesus were also viduals being condemned for disobe- the commandments of the Father, for Je- dience to God's law. Gen. 3:6, 16-19; sus spake not of Himself (chs. 12:49; 14: 4:10-12; 27:18, 19, 41-43; 31:19; 35:2. 10). He endorsed the moral commands given to ancient Israel . . . and magnified them. . . . He gave commands of His own, such as the new commandment (John 13: NoTE.—"From the very beginning of the 34), not to replace any of the moral pre- great controversy in heaven it has been cepts, which reflected the character of the Satan's purpose to overthrow the law of unchangeable God, but to set forth their God. It was to accomplish this that he en- true meaning and to show how their tered upon his rebellion against the Crea- principles should be applied to various life tor, and though he was cast out of heaven situations."—The Seventh-day Adventist he has continued the same warfare upon Bible Commentary, on John 14:15. 8 8. What testimony did Paul bear NOTE.-"With the setting aside of the concerning the place of the law in the Bible has come a turning away from God's life of faith and grace? Rom. 3:31. law. The doctrine that men are released from obedience to the divine precepts, has weakened the force of moral obligation and opened the floodgates of iniquity upon the world. Lawlessness, dissipation, and cor- NoTE.—In the Greek the word law in ruption are sweeping in like an overwhelm- this text is not preceded by the article the, ing flood. Everywhere are seen envy, evil which may indicate that Paul was refer- surmising, hypocrisy, estrangement, emu- ring to the principle of law in general as lation, strife, betrayal of sacred trusts, in- well as to the written law. See The Seventh- dulgence of lust."—Prophets and Kings, day Adventist Bible Commentary on this page 624. text and on Romans 2:12. "We are nearing the end of this earth's "It is true that Paul 'made void' the Jew- history, and God calls upon all to lift the ish idea of law as a means of attaining standard bearing the inscription, 'Here are righteousness and the Jewish insistence that they that keep the commandments of God, the Gentiles must follow the same method and the faith of Jesus,'"—Testimonies, (Acts 15:1; Gal. 2:16-19). But law in its vol. 6, p. 292. true function is confirmed, rather than abrogated, by God's appointed method of 12. What will be the reward of justifying sinners."—The Seventh-day Ad- ventist Bible Commentary, on Rom. 3:31. those who, by grace, remain loyal to God and to His law? Rev. 22:14. 9. How complete will be the be- liever's conformity to the law of God? James 2:8-12. NOTE.—Some of the ancient manuscripts translate this text, "that wash their robes," and others, "that keep His commandments." 10. How is such conformity with "In actual fact both readings suit the the law of God made possible in the context and are in harmony with John's life of the forgiven sinner? Phil. 2: teaching elsewhere. . . . Our title to heaven 13; Gal. 2:20. is the righteousness of Christ imputed: our fitness for heaven, the righteousness of Christ imparted, represented by the washed robes. The outward evidence of the right- NOTE.—"It is the work of conversion eousness of Christ imparted is perfect com- and sanctification to reconcile men to God pliance with the commandments of God. by bringing them into accord with the Hence the two ideas of washed robes and principles of His law."—The Great Con- obedience to commandments are closely troversy, page 467. related."—The Seventh-day Adventist Bi- ble Commentary, on Rev. 22:14. "Those principles that were made known Keeping the Law in the Last Days to man in Paradise as the great law of life, will exist unchanged in Paradise restored. 11. What will be the attitude of the When Eden shall bloom on earth again, children of God in contrast to the law- God's law of love will be obeyed by all be- lessness of the world in the last days? neath the sun."—Thoughts From the Rev. 14:12; 2 Tim. 3:1-5. Mount of Blessing, 1956 ed., pp. 50, 51. Tape-recorded mission appeals for the Thirteenth Sabbath projects are available for offering promotion in the Sab- bath school. Order through your Book and Bible House. [9I Lesson 3, for July 16, 1960 No Other Gods MEMORY VERSE: "0 come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our Maker." Ps. 95:6. STUDY HELPS: Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Commandments," pages 23-34; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of June 30. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ reading from Study Helps. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 10-12. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Thursday: Read Study Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8, 9; begin Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑ Lesson Outline: 6. Money and appetite also may be worshiped. 1 Tim. 6:10; Phil. 3:19. I. God the True Object of Worship 7. Intellectualism worshiped by some. Col. 2:8. 1. God alone entitled to worship. Ex. 20:1-3 ; Isa. 42:8; Ex. 23:13. III. False Gods Degrade and Ruin 2. Because of what He is. Ps. 99:5 ; 8. "By beholding we become 1 Tim. 1:17; Ps. 95:6; 107:8; Ex. changed." Rom. 1:28-32. 20:2; Col. 1:13. 9. They shall perish from the earth. 3. Requires undivided affection. Jer. 10:11, 15; Rev. 22:15. Deut. 6:5 ; Matt. 22:37, 38. IV. God's Last Appeal II. From Creator Worship to Creature Worship 10. Men will be spiritually seduced. 2 Tim. 3:4, last part; 2 Peter 3:3; 4. Man turns to creature worship. 1 Tim. 4:1; Rev. 13:4, 15. Rom. 1:21, 22, 25. 11. Call to worship true God. Rev. 5. Sun, moon, birds, beasts, etc., 14:6, 7. worshiped. Deut. 4:15, 19; Rom. 12. Flee idolatry. 1 Cor. 10:14; 1:23; Col. 2:18. 1 John 5:21. THE LESSON God the True Object of Worship preme reverence and worship. Man is for- bidden to give to any other object the 1. In the first commandment what first place in his affections or his service." affirmation does God make, and what -Patriarchs and Prophets, page 305. is His legitimate demand? Ex. 20:1-3; 2. On what grounds does God Isa. 42:8; Ex. 23:13. claim man's exclusive allegiance and worship? NorE.-"Jehovah, the eternal, self-exist- ent, untreated One, Himself the Source and ANSWER: a. For what He is. Ps. 99:5 ; Sustainer of all, is alone entitled to su- 1 Tim. 1:17. 101 b. For what He has done as Creator, Ps. 95:6; as Provider, Ps. 107:8; as Deliverer, Ex. 20:2;. Col. 1:13. NorE.—"The seal of God's law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all the ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. It declares Him to be the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and thus shows His claim to reverence and worship above all others."— The Great Controversy, page 452. 3. What kind of worship does God expect from His creatures? Deut. 6: 5; Matt. 22:37, 38. The greatest idol—money — turns millions from God. Norz.—"There is allowed no separation NOTE.—"The sun and moon were objects of our affections from God. Nothing is to of worship to the Egyptians."—Patriarchs divide our supreme love for Him or our and Prophets, page 272. delight in Him."—Testimonies, vol. 1, p. "In ancient Egypt everything that had 436. life, great and small, beautiful or disgust- ing, was idealized and deified, from the From Creator Worship to mighty monarch to the crawling beetle, from the bull to the onion."—W. Senior, Creature Worship God's Ten Words, page 29. 4. By what steps did man depart 6. What other things have men from the true worship of God? To made into gods and worshiped? 1 what new objects did he begin to give Tim. 6:10; Phil. 3:19. reverence? Rom. 1:21, 22, 25. NorE.—"Whatever we cherish that tends to lessen our love for God or to interfere with the service due Him, of that do we NoTE.—" 'Glorified him not.' The un- make a god."---Patriarchs and Prophets, willingness to honor God as the divine page 305. Creator was the real source of the darkened minds and abominable practices of the 7. What mental conceptions have Gentiles. To glorify God means to rever- been set up as gods and worshiped? ence, love, and obey Him. Col. 2:8. " 'Neither were thankful.' Unwilling- ness to give thanks to God for His love and goodness toward men is one of the causes of corruption and idolatry. Ingratitude Nora.—"It is as easy to make an idol of hardens the heart and leads men to forget false doctrines and theories as to fashion an the Being to whom they are unwilling to idol of wood or stone. By misrepresenting express thankfulness."—The Seventh-day the attributes of God, Satan leads men to Adventist Bible Commentary, on Rom. conceive of Him in a false character. With 1:21. many, a philosophical idol is enthroned in the place of Jehovah; while the living God, as He is revealed in His word, in 5. What forms of creature worship Christ, and in the works of creation, is became prominent in ancient times? worshiped by but few."—The Great Con- Deut. 4:15, 19; Rom. 1:23; Col. 2:18. troversy, page 583. False Gods Degrade and Ruin unregenerate heart."—Prophets and Kings, page 177. 8. Why is the worship of false gods not merely foolish but degrading? 11. How is God seeking to recall man to the worship of Himself? Rev. Rom. 1:28-32. 14:6, 7. NOTE.-"It is a law of the human mind that by beholding we become changed. NOTE.—"In the last days of this earth's Man will rise no higher than his concep- history the voice that spoke from Sinai is tions of truth, purity, and holiness. If the still declaring, 'Thou shalt have no other mind is never exalted above the level of gods before Me.' Exodus 20:3. Man has humanity, if it is not uplifted by faith to set his will against the will of God, but he contemplate infinite wisdom and love, the cannot silence the word of command. The man will be constantly sinking lower and human mind cannot evade its obligation to lower. The worshipers of false gods a higher power. Theories and speculations clothed their deities with human attributes may abound; men may try to set science and passions, and thus their standard of in opposition to revelation, and thus do character was degraded to the likeness of away with God's law; but stronger and sinful humanity."—Patriarchs and Proph- still stronger comes the command, 'Thou ets, page 91. shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him 9. What will be the fate of all false only shalt thou serve."—Prophets and gods and of those who persist in wor- Kings, pages 624, 625. shiping them? Jer. 10:11, 15; Rev. 12. What, therefore, are we urged 22:15. to do if we would partake of the joys of the eternal kingdom? 1 Cor. 10:14; 1 John 5:21. God's Last Appeal 10. In what forms will false wor- ship culminate in the last days? 2 Tim. 3:4, last part; 2 Peter 3:3; 1 Tim. 4:1; NOTE.—"Whatever divides the affections, and takes away from the soul supreme love Rev. 13:4, 15. to God, assumes the form of an idol. Our carnal hearts would cling to our idols and seek to carry them along; but we cannot NoTE.—"The present age is one of idola- advance until we put them away, for they try, as verily as was that in which Elijah separate us from God. The great Head of lived. No outward shrine may be visible; the church has chosen His people out of the there may be no image for the eye to rest world and requires them to be separate. upon; yet thousands are following after He designs that the spirit of His command- the gods of this world—after riches, fame, ments shall draw them to Himself and pleasure, and the pleasing fables that per- separate them from the elements of the mit man to follow the inclinations of the world."—Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 289. Lesson 4, for July 23, 1960 True Worship MEMORY VERSE: "And let them make Me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them." Ex. 25:8. STUDY HELPS: "Early Writings," pages 210-213; Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Com- mandments," pages 35-63; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture refProncos; Lesson Help in "Review and. Herald" of July .7. [ 12 ]: DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 6-9. Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 10-12. 0 Monday: Questions 4, 5; begin Thursday: Read Study Helps. reading from Study Helps. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. Lesson Outline: III. Ancient and Modern Image Worship 6. Idols cannot save. Isa. 44:10, 18-20; I. The Spirit of Devotion 45:20; 46:7. 7. Similarities between ancient and 1. God to be worshiped in spirit and modern image worship. Hosea truth. John 4:24. 13:1-3 ; 1 Kings 19:18; Ezek. 16: 2. Israel given pattern of worship. 17-20; 8:10, 11. Ex. 25:8, 9. 8. Rome's change of commandments 3. Jesus revealed the Father. John to conceal violation. 14:8-11; Heb. 1:1-3. 9. Idols may be in heart. Ezek. 14:3. IV. A "Jealous" God II. Images a Snare 10. God's displeasure called jealousy. Ex. 20:5. 4. Man forbidden to worship images. 11. Those refusing to abandon idols Ex. 20:4, 5 ; Deut. 4:15-19. will be cut off. Hosea 8:4. 5. Images result in idol worship. 12. God shows mercy to those who Isa. 44:9, 14, 16, 17. worship Him. Ex. 20:6. THE LESSON The Spirit of Devotion NoTE.-"The whole worship of ancient Israel was a promise, in figures and sym- 1. How is God described, and how bols, of Christ; and it was not merely a only may He be worshiped? John promise, but an actual provision, designed by God to aid millions of people by lifting 4:24. their thoughts to Him who was to mani- fest Himself to our world."-Testimonies to Ministers, page 123. Non.-"Not by seeking a holy moun- 3. How has Jesus made God real tain or a sacred temple are men brought to us? John 14:8-11; Heb. 1:1-3. into communion with heaven. Religion is not to be confined to external forms and ceremonies. The religion that comes from NoTE.-"Christ declares Himself to be God is the only religion that will lead to sent into the world as a representative of God. In order to serve Him aright, we the Father. In His nobility of character, in must be born of the divine Spirit. This His mercy and tender pity, in His love and will purify the heart and renew the mind, goodness, He stands before us as the em- giving us a new capacity for knowing and bodiment of divine perfection, the image of loving God. It will give us a willing obedi- the invisible God."-Testimonies, vol. 5, ence to all His requirements. This is true p. 739. worship."-The Desire of Ages, page 189. Images a Snare 2. What legitimate aids were af- forded to ancient Israel to assist their 4. In worship what was man ex- worship of the invisible God? Ex. pressly forbidden to use? Ex. 20:4, 5; 25:8, 9. Deut. 4:15-19. [131 NOTE,—"Ill what does it (the second commandment) differ from the first? The first forbade the worship of any false god with or without an image, sun, moon, stars, Baal, or Ashtoreth. The second forbids even the worship of Jehovah Himself un- der any symbolic form whatever."—W. Senior, God's Ten Words, page 48. "The second commandment forbids the worship of the true God by images or similitudes. Many heathen nations claimed that their images were mere figures or sym- bols by which the Deity was worshiped, but God has declared such worship to be sin. The attempt to represent the Eternal One by material objects would lower man's conception of God. The mind, turned away • NKAN from the infinite perfection of Jehovah, We may look askance at those kneel ng at would be attracted to the creature rather shrines; but is God actually In our thoughts? than the Creator. And as his conceptions of God were lowered, so would man be- come degraded."—Patriarchs and Prophets, 7. What features that may be wit- page 306. nessed in modern image worship char- 5. In what perversion of worship acterized that of apostate Israel? Ho- do images ultimately result? Isa. 44: sea 13:1-3; 1 Kings 19:18; Ezek. 16: 9, 14, 16, 17. 17-20; 8:10, 11. NoTE.—"It may have seemed strange to NOTE.—"The worship of images and rel- many of us, that among the Ten Com- ics, the invocation of saints, and the exal- mandments which were to set forth in the tation of the pope are devices of Satan to shortest possible form the highest, the most attract the minds of the people from God essential duties of man, the second place and from His Son. To accomplish their should be assigned to a prohibition of any ruin, he endeavors to turn their attention kind of images. . . Let those who wish from Him through whom alone they can to understand the hidden wisdom of these find salvation. He will direct them to any words study the history of ancient reli- object that can be substituted for the One gions. Let them read the descriptions of Who has said, 'Come unto Me.'"—The religious festivals in Africa, in America, and Great Controversy, page 568. Australia. . . . History is sometimes a stronger and sterner teacher than argu- 8. How has Rome endeavored to ment, and one of the lessons which the conceal her violation of the second history of religions certainly teaches is this, commandment? that the curse pronounced against those who would change the invisible into the visible, the spiritual into the material, the divine into the human, the infinite into the ANSWER: By substituting as far as pos- finite, has come true in every nation on sible the reading of catechisms for the read- earth."—Max Muller, quoted by W. Senior ing of the Bible. In these catechisms the in God's Ten Words, pages 59, 60. Decalogue is so markedly abridged as to amount to a change. In Butler's Catechism Ancient and Modern Image the first commandment is thus given: "I am Worship the Lord, thy God; thou shalt not have strange gods before Me." The second is 6. How utterly foolish and profit- given: "Thou shalt not take the name of less is the worship of graven images? the Lord thy God in vain." Assuming that Isa. 44:10, 18-20; 45:20; 46:7. what we call the second commandment is [ 14 ] a part of the first, they omit all reference A "Jealous" God to graven images as presented in Exodus 20:4. In order to present ten command- 10. How does God feel toward idol ments, the catechism makes two command- worship, ancient or modern? Ex. 20: ments of the tenth as we understand it. Their ninth commandment reads: 'Thou 5. See also Deut. 32:16, 21. shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife." Their tenth reads: "Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's goods." In this way the com- mand against the making of, or bowing NOTE.—"The close and sacred relation of down to, graven images is hidden from God to His people is represented under the view. figure of marriage. Idolatry being spiritual adultery, the displeasure of God against it NOTE.—"There are twenty-nine cate- is fitly called jealousy."—Patriarchs and chisms in use in Rome and Italy, France, Prophets, page 306. Belgium, Austria, Bavaria, Silesia, Poland, Ireland, England, Spain, and Portugal, in 11. What will be the ultimate fate twenty-seven of which the second com- of those who fail to abandon their mandment is totally omitted; in two, mu- idols? Hosea 8:4. tilated."—Dr. McCaul, quoted by R. H. Charles in The Decalogue, page 74. 9. Is idolatry necessarily limited to 12. How will God regard those the worship of images of wood, metal, who love and obey Him? Ex. 20:6. or stone? Ezek. 14:3. NOTE.—" 'Showing mercy unto thousands of them that love Me, and keep My com- NoTz.—A false philosophy to which a mandments.' In prohibiting the worship of man gives his acquiescence, and in which he false gods, the second commandment by trusts rather than in God, may become to implication enjoins the worship of the true him an idol. Science, evolution, education, God. And to those who are faithful in His reason, progress, civilization, humanism, all service, mercy is promised, not merely to forms of state worship and secular ideal- the third and fourth generation as is the isms, are some of the "idols" to which wrath threatened against those who hate modern man is giving his allegiance today Him, but to thousands of generations."— rather than to God. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 306. Lesson 5, for July 30, 1960 The Holy Name MEMORY VERSE: "Give unto the Lord the glory due unto His name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness." Ps. 29:2. STUDY HELPS: "Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing," 1956 ed., pp. 66-69, 106, 107 (1943 ed., pp. 102-106, 157, 158); Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Command- ments," pages 64-76; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of July 14. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11, 12; Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ begin reading Study Helps. Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Thursday: Read Study Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8-10. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. Lesson Outline: 7. Even though hypocrites call upon His name, the Lord will not I. God's Name to be Honored recognize them. Matt. 7:21-23. 1. "Holy and reverend is His name." III. Invoking God's Name Ps. 111:9, last part; 29:2. 2. "Hallowed be Thy name." Matt. 8. Judicial oath not forbidden. Deut. 6:9. 6:13; Dan. 12:7; Matt. 26:63, 64; 3. The Lord's name never to be used Rev. 10:5, 6. in vain. Ex. 20:7; Lev. 19:12, last 9. Common swearing forbidden. part. Matt. 5:34-37. 10. Blasphemy and foolish talking to II. The Name of the Lord Profaned be put away. Col. 3:8; Eph. 5:4. 4. Israel dishonored God before IV. Attitude Toward God's Name in heathen. Ezek. 36:20, 23. Last Days 5. Misrepresentation of God by Christians causes His name to be 11. Blasphemies will be common. blasphemed. 2 Sam. 12:14 ; Rom. Rev. 13:1, 5, 6; 2 Tim. 3:2-5. 2:23, 24. 12. Some will fear the name of the 6. God's name profaned by hypocrites. Lord and be rewarded. Mal. 3:16; Luke 6:46; Matt. 15:7, 8. 4:2; Rev. 11:18. THE LESSON God's Name to Be Honored NoTE.-"Holy angels have been dis- pleased and disgusted with the irreverent 1. What do the Scriptures say of the manner in which many have used the name name of God? Ps. 111:9, last part; of God, the great Jehovah. Angels men- 29:2. tion that sacred name with the greatest awe, ever veiling their faces when they speak the name of God; and the name of Christ is so sacred to them that they speak NorE.-"The Scripture declares of God, it with the greatest reverence."-Testi- 'Holy and reverend is His name.' Ps. 111: monies, vol. 1, p. 410. 9. To what human being is such a title "To hallow the name of the Lord re- [reverend] befitting? How little does man quires that the words in which we speak reveal of the wisdom and righteousness it of the Supreme Being be uttered with indicates How many of those who assume reverence."-Thoughts From the Mount of this title are misrepresenting the name and Blessing, 1956 ed., p. 106. character of God! Alas, how often have worldly ambition, despotism, and the bas- "Never should that name be spoken lightly or thoughtlessly. Even in prayer its est sins, been hidden under the broidered frequent or needless repetition should be garments of a high and holy office !"-The avoided."-Education, page 243. Desire of Ages, page 613. 2. How, then, should the name of 3. Of what should man never be God be regarded by man? Matt. 6:9. guilty? Ex. 20:7; Lev. 19:12, last part. 16 ] NOTE.—"This commandment not only prohibits false oaths and common swear- ing, but it forbids us to use the name of God in a light or careless manner, without regard to its awful significance. By the thoughtless mention of God in common conversation, by appeals to Him in trivial matters, and by the frequent and thought- less repetition of His name, we dishonor Him."—Patriarchs and Prophets, pages 306; 307. The Name of the Lord. Profaned 4. How did God's people of old profane the name of the Lord among the heathen? Ezek. 36:20, 23. See also We wont labels to tell the truth-. Lev. 18:21. about goods and persons. Him to the world, unless in life and charac- NoTE.—"God had pleaded with Judah ter you represent the very life and charac- not to provoke Him to anger, but they ter of God. This you can do only through had hearkened not. Finally sentence was the acceptance of the grace and righteous- pronounced against them. They were to ness of Christ."—Thoughts From the be led away captive to Babylon. The Mount of Blessing, page 107. Chaldeans were to be used as the instru- ment by which God would chastise His disobedient people. The sufferings of the 6. In what other way may profess- men of Judah were to be in proportion to ing believers profane the name of the light they had had and to the warnings God? Luke 6:46; Matt. 15:7, 8. they had despised and rejected. Long had God delayed His judgments, but now He would visit His displeasure upon them as a last effort to check them in their evil course."—Prophets and Kings, page 425. NOTE.—"Open apostasy would not be 5. What terrible guilt is incurred more offensive to God than hypocrisy and by the misrepresentation .of God by mere formal worship."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 523. His people? 2 Sam. 12:14; Rom. 2: "Men may deny Christ by evilspeaking, 23, 24. by foolish talking, by words that are un- truthful or unkind. They may deny Him by shunning life's burdens, by the pursuit of sinful pleasure. They may deny Him by NorE.—"When you pray, 'Hallowed be conforming to the world, by uncourteous Thy name,' you ask that it may be hal- behavior, by the love of their own opinions, lowed in this world, hallowed in you. God by justifying self, by cherishing doubt, bor- has acknowledged you before men and an- rowing trouble, and dwelling in darkness. gels as His child; pray that you may do no In all these ways they declare that Christ dishonor to the 'worthy name by which ye is not in them. And 'whosoever shall deny are called.' James 2:7. God sends you Me before men,' He says, 'him will I also into the world as His representative. In deny before My Father which is in heaven.' " every act of life you are to make manifest —The Desire of Ages, page 357. the name of God. This petition calls upon you to possess His character. You cannot 7. How will God regard hypo- hallow His name, you cannot represent crites? Matt. 7:21-23. [.1.7 NoTE.—"Ten thousand times ten thou- pletives that border on profanity."— sand may profess to obey the law and the Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, gospel, and yet be living in transgression. page 68. Men may present in a clear manner the "Some exaggerate in their language. Some claims of truth upon others, and yet their swear by their own life; others swear by own hearts be carnal. Sin may be loved their head—as sure as they live; as sure as and practiced in secret. The truth of God they have a head. Some take heaven and may be no truth to them, because their earth to witness that such things are so. hearts have not been sanctified by it. The Some hope that God will strike them out love of the Saviour may exercise no con- of existence if what they are saying is not straining power over their base passions. true. It is this kind of common swearing We know by the history of the past that against which Jesus warns His disciples." men may stand in sacred positions and yet —Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 201. handle the truth of God deceitfully."—Tes- timonies, vol. 5, p. 536. 10. What does Paul urge all be- lievers to put away? Col. 3:8; Eph. Invoking God's Name 5:4. 8. In what legitimate way may the name of God be invoked? Deut. 6:13; NoTE.—"In our mingling in society, in Dan. 12:7; Matt. 26:63, 64; Rev. 10: families, or in whatever relations of life we 5; 6. are placed, either limited or extended, there are many ways wherein we may acknowl- edge our Lord and many ways wherein we may deny Him. We may deny Him in our NoTE.—"Our Saviour did not . . . forbid words, by speaking evil of others, by fool- the use of the judicial oath, in which God ish talking, jesting and joking, by idle or is solemnly called to witness that what is unkind words, or by prevaricating, speak- said is truth and nothing but the truth. ing contrary to truth. In our words we Jesus Himself, at His trial before the San- may confess that Christ is not in us."— hedrin, did not refuse to testify under oath. Testimonies, vol. 3, pp. 331, 332. The high priest said unto Him, 'I adjure Thee by the living God, that Thou tell us whether Thou be the Christ, the Son of Attitude Toward God's Name God.' Jesus answered, 'Thou hast said.' in Last Days Matt. 26:63, 64. Had Christ in the Sermon on the•Mount condemned the judicial oath, 11. How widespread will be the He would at His trial have reproved the profanation of God's name in the lat- high priest and thus, for the benefit of His followers, have enforced His own teaching." ter days? Rev. 13:1, 5, 6; 2 Tim. 3:2-5. —Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pages 66, 67. "If there is anyone who can consistently testify under oath, it is the Christian. . . . 12. What special regard will God When required to do so in a lawful man- have for those who in the last days ner, it is right for him to appeal to God as revere His name? How will they be a witness that what he says is the truth, and rewarded? Mal. 3:16; 4:2; Rev. 11:18. nothing but the truth."—Ibid., p. 67. 9. What proper reticence, however, should we exercise even in this solemn NoTE.—"God will remember those who act? Matt. 5:34-37. have met together and thought upon His name, and He will spare them from the great conflagration. They will be as pre- cious jewels in His sight, but His wrath will NoTE.—"These words [verse 37] con- fall on the shelterless head of the sinner."— demn all those meaningless phrases and ex- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 107. [ 18 ] Lesson 6, for August 6, 1960 Creation's Memorial MEMORY VERSE: "And He said unto them, The Sabbath was made for man, and• not man for the Sabbath: therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the Sab- bath." Mark 2:27, 28. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 281-289; Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Commandments," pages 77-90; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commen- tary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of July 21. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. 0 Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read Sunday: Questions 1-4. 0 from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 5-8. Thursday: Finish reading Study Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 9-11; begin Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑, reading from Study Helps. ❑ Lesson Outline: 7. Sabbath instituted at creation. Gen. 2:1-3; Ex. 16:23-26.. 1. Remembering the Creator 8. Sabbath observed after resurrec- 1. Worship recognizes creative power... tion. Matt. 24:20. Jer. 10:10-12 ; Ps. 96:5. 2. Sabbath set aside for worship. III. A Sign of Allegiance Ex. 20:8-11. 3. Bounds of Sabbath defined. Mark 9. A sign between God and His peo- 1:21, 32; Luke 4:31, 40. ple. Ex. 31:13 ; Ezek. 20:12, 20. 4. Jesus, Lord of the Sabbath. Mark 10. Secular labor forbidden. Ex. 31: 2:28. 14, 15. 11. Day of rest and worship. Lev. II. Universality and Perpetuity of the 23:3, first part; Luke 4:16. Sabbath 12. Lawful to do well. Matt. 12:10-12. 5. Sabbath made for man. Mark 2:27. 13. Blessings promised those who ob- 6. No labor to be required of man or serve Sabbath. Isa. 58:13, 14. beast. Ex. 20:10, last part; 23:12 ; 14. Sabbath will be observed in new Isa. 56:6, 7. earth. Isa. 66:23. THE LESSON Remembering the Creator existence. And wherever, in the Bible, His claim to reverence and worship, above the 1. What fundamental difference be- gods of the heathen, is presented, there is tween the power of the true God and cited the evidence of His creative power. . . . 'This great fact can never become ob- false gods should be recognized in solete, and must never be forgotten.' "-The worship? Jer. 10:10-12; Ps. 96:5. Great Controversy, pages 436-438. 2. What period of time was par- Noxt.-"The duty to worship God is ticularly set apart for the worship of based upon the fact that He is the Creator the Creator, and why? Ex. 20:8-11 and that to Him all other beings owe their See also Gen.. 2:1-3,. (19 7 NcrrE.—"The Sabbath, as a memorial of God's creative power, points to Him as the Maker of the heavens and the earth. Hence it is a constant witness to His existence and a reminder of His greatness, His wisdom, and HIS love. Had the Sabbath always been sacredly observed, there could never have been an atheist or an idolater."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 336. 3. How specifically are the bounds of the Sabbath defined? Mark 1:21, 32; Luke 4:31, 40. Compare Lev. 23: 32, last part; Neh. 13:19. How better can we show our allegiance to God than by NoTE.—"All through the week we are to giving Him one seventh of the hours of our life? have the Sabbath in mind and be making preparation to keep it according to the commandment."—Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 353. family. Its observance was to be an act of "When the Sabbath commences, we should grateful acknowledgment, on the part of place a guard upon ourselves, upon our all who should dwell upon the earth, that acts and our words, lest we rob -God by God was their Creator and their rightful appropriating to our own use that time Sovereign; that they were the work of His which is strictly the Lord's."—Testimonies, hands and the subjects of His authority." vol. 2, p. 702. —Patriarchs and Prophets, page 48. " 'The Lord made.' It is significant that 4. In view of His participation in Christ Himself, as Creator (John 1:1-3), the work of creation, what claim was rested upon the world's first Sabbath day. Jesus also justified in making? Mark . . . Those who are re-created in His like- 2:28. ness (Eph. 4:24) will choose to follow His example in this as in other matters (1 Pe- ter 2:21). . . . The Sabbath was made for man (Mark 2:27), to satisfy a need that NoTE.—"It belongs to Christ. For 'all was originally spiritual, but which, with things were made by Him; and without the entrance of sin, became physical as well Him was not anything made that was made' (see Gen. 3:17-19)."—The Seventh-day Ad- John 1:3. Since He made all things, He ventist Bible Commentary, on Ex. 20:11. made the Sabbath. By Him it was set apart as a memorial of the work of crea- 6. 'How was the universality of the tion. It points to Him as both the Creator Sabbath emphasized? Ex. 20:10, last and the Sanctifier."—The Desire of Ages, part; 23:12; Isa. 56:6, 7. page 288. Universality and Perpetuity of the Sabbath 7. How do we know that the Sab- bath antedated Sinai? Gen. 2:1-3; Ex. 5. For whom was the Sabbath 16:23-26. made? Mark 2:27. NorE.—"God's sanctifying the day is NoTE.—"In Eden, God set up the memo- equivalent to His commanding men to sanc- rial of His work of creation, in placing His tify it. As at the close of the creation the blessing upon the seventh day. The Sab- seventh day was thus set apart by the Most bath was committed to Adam, the father High for such purposes, without limitation and representative of the whole human to age or country, the observance of it is [ 20 obligatory upon the whole human race. NotE.—"The law forbids secular labor on . . . The sanctification of the seventh day the rest day of the Lord; the toil that in the present case, can only be understood gains a livelihood must cease; no labor for of its being set apart to the special worship worldly pleasure or profit is lawful upon and service of God."—G. Bush, Notes on that day; but as God ceased His labor of Genesis, vol. 1, pp. 47-49. creating, and rested upon the Sabbath and "The Sabbath is not introduced as a new blessed it, so man is to leave the occupa- institution but as having been founded at tions of his daily life, and devote those creation. It is to be remembered and ob- sacred hours to- healthful rest, to worship, served as the memorial of the Creator's and to holy deeds."—The- Desire of Ages, work."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 307. page 207. "Those who discuss business matters or 8. What convincing evidence have lay plans on the Sabbath are regarded by we that the Sabbath would continue God as though engaged in the actual trans- to be obligatory in the Christian Era? action of business. To keep the Sabbath Matt. 24:20. holy, we should not even allow our minds to dwell upon things of a worldly charac- ter."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 307. NOTE.—" 'Sabbath day.' Forty years 11. How is the time of the Sabbath after the resurrection the Sabbath would be to be used? Lev. 23:3, first part; Luke as sacred as it was when Jesus spoke these 4:16. words on the slopes of Olivet. He intimates no change in the sacredness of the day such as many Christians now suppose took place when He came forth from the tomb. The 12. What works are commendable commotion, excitement, fear, arid travel on the Sabbath day? Matt. 12:10-12. incident to flight from Jerusalem would be inappropriate on the Sabbath day. Chris- tians were to pray that, they might be able to keep the Sabbath as a day of rest, as NoTE.—"Nature must continue her- un- God intended it should be kept. Christ did varying course. God could not for a mo- not abolish the Sabbath when He was ment stay His hand, or man would faint nailed to the cross. It has lost none of the and die. And man also has a work to per- sacredness God originally imparted to it." form on this day. The necessities of life —The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- must be attended to, the sick must be cared mentary, on Matt. 24:20. for, the wants of the needy must be sup- plied. He will not be held guiltless who A Sign of Allegiance neglects to relieve suffering on the Sabbath. God's holy rest day was made for man, and 9. Of what was the Sabbath de- acts of mercy are in perfect harmony with clared to be a sign? Ex. 31:13; Ezek. its intent. God does not desire His crea- 20:12, 20. tures to suffer an hour's pain that may be relieved upon the Sabbath or any other day."—The Desire of Ages, page 207. NOTE.—"Pointing to God as the Maker 13. What is promised to those who of the heavens and the earth, it distinguishes rightly observe the Sabbath? Isa. 58: the true God from all false gods. All who 13, 14. keep the seventh day, signify by this act that they are worshipers of Jehovah. Thus the Sabbath is the sign of man's allegiance to God as long as there are any upon the NoTE.—"All heaven was represented to earth to serve Him."—Patriarchs and Proph- me as beholding and watching upon the ets, page 307. Sabbath those who acknowledge the claims of the fourth commandment and are ob- 10. What is forbidden on the Sab- serving the Sabbath. Angels were marking bath day, and why? Ex. 31:14, 15. their interest in, and high regard for, this f21 7 divine institution. Those who sanctified the NOTE.—"When there shall be a 'restitu- Lord God in their hearts by a strictly de- tion of all things, which God hath spoken votional frame of mind, and who sought by the mouth of all His holy prophets since to improve the sacred hours in keeping the world began' (Acts 3:21), the creation the Sabbath to the best of their ability, Sabbath, the day on which Jesus lay at and to honor God by calling the Sabbath a rest in Joseph's tomb, will still be a day of delight—these the angels were specially rest and rejoicing. Heaven and earth will blessing with light and health, and special unite in praise, as 'from one Sabbath to an- strength was given them."—Testimonies, other' (Isa. 66:23) the nations of the saved vol. 2, pp. 704, 705. shall bow in joyful worship to God and the Lamb."—The Desire of Ages, pages 769, 770. 14. In what special way will God's creative work continue to be remem- bered? Isa. 66:23. Lesson 7, for August 13, 1960 Parents and Children MEMORY VERSE: "Honor thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth." Eph. 6:2, 3. STUDY HELPS: "Christ's Object Lessons," 1941 ed., pp. 198-211 (1923 ed., pp. 201- 213); "Messages to Young People," pages 325-340; Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Commandments," pages 91-109; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- mentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of July 28. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 10-12; read Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ further from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 5-7. ❑ Thursday: Questions 13, 14; finish Tuesday: Questions 8, 9; begin reading from Study Helps. 0 reading from Study Helps. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. 0 Lesson Outline: 6. Jesus emphasized the fifth com- mandment. Matt. 19:19, first part; I. Parental Responsibility 15:4-6. 7. Paul emphasized obedience to par- 1. The institution of the family estab- ents. Eph. 6:1; Col. 3 :20. lished in Eden. Gen. 2:20-24; 5:3-5. 2. Material and spiritual obligation of Rewards of Obedience parents. 1 Tim. 5:8; Deut. 6:3-7; Eph. 6:4. 8. Commandment of promise. Eph. 6:2, 3. II. Children's Debt to Parents 9. Obedience rewarded with life and 3. Commanded to honor. Ex. 20:12. health. Prov. 4:20-22 ; 3:1, 2. 4. Enjoined to love parents. Prov. IV. Children Bring Blessing or Sorrow 23:26. 5. Jesus was subject to parents. Luke 10. Godly children bring joy to par- 2:51, 52. ents. Prov. 23:24, 25; 29:17. 122 11. Wayward children bring heartache. V. Last-Day Sign and Promise Luke 15:11-13. 13. Disobedience to parents a last-day 12. Return of the prodigal causes joy. sign. 2 Tim. 3:1-3 ; Mark 13:12. Luke 15:17-24. 14. God's promise to save children. Isa. 49:25. THE LESSON Parental Responsibility Children's Debt to Parents 1. What institution besides the Sab- 3. What corresponding debt do bath was established in the begin- children owe their parents? Ex. 20:12. ning? How did God complete the first family circle? Gen. 2:20-24; 5:3-5. NoTE.—"Parents are entitled to a degree NorE.—"The heart of the community, of of love and respect which is due to no other the church, and of the nation is the house- person. God Himself, who has placed upon hold. The well-being of society, the success them a responsibility for the souls com- of the church, the prosperity of the nation, mitted to their charge, has ordained that depend upon home influences."—The Min- during the earlier years of life, parents shall istry of Healing, page 349. stand in the place of God to their children. "God designs that the families of earth And he who rejects the rightful authority of shall be a symbol of the family in heaven. his parents is rejecting the authority of Christian homes, established and conducted God."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 308. in accordance with God's plan, are among "One of the first lessons a child needs to His most effective agencies for the forma- learn is the lesson of obedience. Before he tion of Christian character and for the ad- is old enough to reason, he may be taught vancement of His work."—Testimonies, vol. to obey. By gentle, persistent effort, the 6, p. 430. habit should be established. Thus, to a great degree, may be prevented those later 2. What responsibilities devolve conflicts between will and authority that upon parents? 1 Tim. 5:8; Deut. 6: do so much to create alienation and bitter- 3-7; Eph. 6:4. ness toward parents and teachers, and too often resistance of all authority, human and divine."—Education, page 287. 4. What counsel should a son heed? NOTE.—"The family circle is the school in which the child receives its first and most Prov. 23:26. enduring lessons. Hence parents should be much at home. By precept and example, they should teach their children the love and the fear of God; teach them to be in- telligent, social, affectionate, to cultivate NoTE.—"The fifth commandment re- habits of industry, economy, and self- quires children not only to yield respect, denial."—Fundamentals of Christian Edu- submission, and obedience to their pafents, cation, page 65. but also to give them love and tenderness, "To a great extent, parents hold in their to lighten their cares, to guard their repu- own hands the future happiness of their tation, and to succor and comfort them in children. Upon them rests the important old age."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page work of forming the character of these 308. children. The instructions given in child- hood will follow them all through life."— 5. What example of filial devotion Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 393. did Jesus set? Luke 2:51, 52. [23 ] NOTE.—"Jesus is our example. There are many who dwell with interest upon the .4.,,..Ej9ST:f01i RARE ;';" period of His public ministry, while they O HONEST IN BUSINESS pass unnoticed the teaching of His early 0 UPHOLD CHURCH STANDARDS • years. But it is in His home life that He is 0 LOVE BETWEEN HUSBA the pattern for all children and youth. . . . AND WIFE And every youth who follows Christ's ex- 0-KIND AND JUST ample of faithfulness and obedience in His 0 STUDENTS OF BIBLE lowly home may claim those words spoken 0 REFLECT CHRIST'S CHARACTER of Him by the Father through the Holy Spirit, 'Behold My Servant, whom I uphold; Mine Elect, in whom My soul delighteth.' " —The Desire of Ages, page 74. 6. What emphasis did Jesus place upon the fifth commandment? Matt. As parents, do we live a life our children can honor? 19:19, first part; 15:4-6. NOTE.—"Christ does not lessen the claims structions, can have no part in the earth of the law. In unmistakable language He made new. The purified new earth will be presents obedience to it as the condition of no place for the rebellious, the disobedient, eternal life—the same condition that was the ungrateful, son or daughter. Unless required of Adam before his fall. The Lord such learn obedience and submission here, expects no less of the soul now than He ex- they will never learn it; the peace of the pected of man in Paradise, perfect obedi- ransomed will not be marred by disobedi- ence, unblemished righteousness. The re- ent, unruly, unsubmissive children."—Tes- quirement under the covenant of grace is timonies, vol. 1, pp. 497, 498. just as broad as the requirement made in Eden—harmony with God's law, which is 9. What rewards does the com- holy, just, and good."—Christ's Object Les- mandment bring with it? Prov. 4:20- sons, 1941 ed., p. 391. 22; 3:1, 2. 7. In what language does Paul stress its continued obligation? Eph. 6:1; Col. 3:20. NOTE.—"Our youth profess to be among those who keep the commandments of God, and yet many of them neglect and break the fifth commandment; and the Rewards of Obedience rich blessing promised to those who observe this precept, and honor father and mother, 8. In what is the fifth command- cannot be fulfilled to them."—Messages to ment unique? Eph. 6:2, 3. Young People, page 331. Children Bring Blessing or Sorrow NOTE.—"This is not a subject unworthy 10. How does filial devotion en- of notice, but a matter of vital importance. rich the life of parents? Prov. 23:24, The promise is upon condition of obedience. If you obey you shall live long in the land 25; 29:17. which the Lord your God gives you. If you disobey you shall not prolong your life in' that land."—Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 80, 81. NOTE.—"If your children come forth from ;`.`Children Who.dishonor and clisabeY their the home training pure and virtuous, if they parents, and disregard their advice and iii- fill the least and lowest place in. God's great 24 plan of good for the world, your life can I will forgive, their iniquity, and I will re- never be called a failure and can never be member their sin no more' Jer. 31:34... reviewed with remorse."—Testimonies, vol. What assurance here, of God's willingness 5, p. 44. to receive the repenting sinner!"—Christ's "When the judgment shall sit, and the Object Lessons, pages 204, 205. books shall be opened; when the 'well done' of the great Judge is pronounced, and the crown of immortal glory is placed upon the Last-Day Sign and Promise brow of the victor, many will raise their crowns in sight of the assembled universe 13. What will be prominent among and, pointing to their mother, say, 'She the sins of the last days, and what made me all I am through the grace of tragic consequences will result? 2 God. Her instruction, her prayers, have Tim. 3:1-3; Mark 13:12. been blessed to my eternal salvation' "— Messages to Young People, page 330. 11. What sorrow will the wayward NOTE.—"Perhaps no sign of the present child bring? Luke 15:11-13. See also time is more sad than the prevalence of Prov. 17:25. disobedience on the part of children to par- ents during the days of childhood, and lack of reverence and respect when once the restraints of home have been left behind." NoTE.—"Little did the gay, thoughtless —G. Campbell Morgan, The Ten Com- youth, as he went out from his father's mandments, page 62. gate, dream of the ache and longing left in that father's heart. When he danced and 14. When the church is faced with feasted with his wild companions, little did this menace, what comforting prom- he think of the shadow that had fallen on ise may godly parents claim? Isa. his home."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 49:25. 203. "Many fathers and mothers have gone down brokenhearted to the grave because of the ingratitude, the lack of respect, NcrrE.—" 'I will save' The answer is em- shown them by their children."—Messages phatic—God can save and will save. His to Young People, page 332. people have nothing to fear. They are not to focus their attention on the strength of 12. In what spirit did the father re- those who oppress them, but on the might ceive back the prodigal son? Luke 15: of their Great Deliverer. 17-24. "'Thy children.' That is, Zion's children (see vs. 14-22). Here Isaiah refers specifi- cally to the Hebrew exiles scattered in for- eign lands. In common Hebrew usage NoTE.—"In the parable there is no taunt- 'children,' literally, 'sons,' is synonymous ing, no casting up to the prodigal of his evil with 'descendants.' . . . It is the privilege course. The son feels that the past is for- of parents today to claim for their chil- given and forgotten, blotted out forever. dren the promise here made to ancient Is- And so God says to the sinner, 'I have rael, for our little ones are objects of di- blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgres- vine love."—The Seventh-day Adventist sions, and, as a cloud, thy sins.' Isa. 44:22. Bible Commentary, on Isaiah 49:25. SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS IN BRAILLE The senior Sabbath school lessons, slightly condensed, are published each, quarter in Braille, and they are supplied free - to the blind upon request. Address: The Christian Record Benevo lent Association, Box 66, Lincoln 6, Nebraska. [ 25.1' Lesson 8, for August 20, 1960 The Gift of Life MEMORY VERSE: "Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him." 1 John 3:15. STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 74-77; "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 568-577; "Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing," 1956 ed., pp. 55-58 (1943 ed., pp. 87-90); Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Commandments," pages 110- 119; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of August 4. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-14; read Sunday: Questions 1, 2; begin further from Study Helps. 0 reading from Study Helps. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. Monday: Questions 3-7. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. Tuesday: Questions 8-10. Lesson Outline: III. God's People Persecuted 8. Many ill-treated and killed. Heb. I. A Sacred Gift 11:36-38; Matt. 24:9. 1. Life comes from God. Gen. 2:7. 9. Persecutors to receive double pun- 2. "Thou shalt not kill." Ex. 20:13. ishment. Rev. 18:6, 24; Matt. 23:34-36. II. Murder and Its Motive 10. Spirit of hatred to be manifested. Luke 21:9, 10; Rev. 13:15 ; Matt. 3. Cain the first murderer. Gen. 24:9, 10. 4:8-10. 11. God's people do not resist. Matt. 4. Hatred the motive of Cain's sin. 5:38, 39. Gen. 4:5, 8; 1 John 3:12. 12. Persecutors' ultimate fate. 1 John 5. Conspiracy and murder. 2 Kings 3:15; Rev. 21:8. 21:23, 24. 13. Way of escape for sinners. Matt. 6. The Lord abhors murder. Ps. 5:6, 12:31; Mark 4:12, last half; last part; Prov. 6:16, 17. 1 John 1:9. 7. Hatred same as murder. Matt. 14. Vengeance belongs with the Lord. 5:21, 22; 1 John 3:15. Rom. 12:19; Matt. 5:11, 12. THE LESSON . A Sacred Gift "In the creation of man was manifest the agency of a personal God. When God had 1. To whom does man owe the gift made man in His image, the human form of life? Gen. 2:7. was perfect in all its arrangements, but it was without life. Then a personal, self- existing God breathed into that form the breath of life, and man became a. liv- NOTE.-"Life is mysterious and sacred. It ing, intelligent being. . . . Through Christ is the manifestation of God Himself, the the Word, a personal God created man, source of all life."-The Ministry of Heal- and endowed him with intelligence and ing, page 397. power. . . . [26] "Above all lower orders of being, God 6. What divine condemnation does designed that man, the crowning work of the murderer incur? Ps. 5:6, last part; His creation, should express His thought Prov. 6:16, 17. and reveal His glory."—Ibid., p. 415. 2. What prohibition does the sixth commandment enjoin? Ex. 20:13. NOTE.—" 'Abhor.' God holds sin' in such abomination that He cannot overlook its presence in the sinner. Those whom God NoTE.—"Life may be taken accidentally, abhors are literally 'men of bloods and de- or in self-defense, or even in shocking care- ceit.' The plural form 'bloods' refers to lessness, all which is homicide, but not mur- bloodguiltiness or murder (see Gen. 4:10)." der. To constitute murder, life must be —The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- taken evilly and willfully. There must be mentary, on Ps. 5:6. present in the act personal feeling, hate, or 7. How may the sixth command- revenge, or covetousness. It is this personal ment be broken without actually tak- feeling which makes murder awful, and ing the life of another? Matt. 5:21, which sends a thrill of horror through the land as the national conscience is con- 22; 1 John 3:15. fronted with the hideous sin."—W. Senior, God's Ten Words, page 219. NoTE.—"Our Lord makes plain the very Murder and Its Motive spirit of the law, and so confronts the true spirit within us by teaching that there may 3. Under what circumstances was be murder without any killing, or wound, this law first transgressed? Gen. 4: or even blow. He carries it down from the 8-10. deed of the hand to the feeling of the heart: . . . passion, hate, malice, covetous- ness, ill temper. . . . In the sight of the Searcher of hearts, all evil anger, malicious NOTE.—"When Cain, moved by the spirit feeling, and unforgiving temper is the spirit of the wicked one, saw that he could not of murder."—W. Senior, God's Ten Words, control Abel, he was so enraged that he page 232. destroyed his life. And wherever there are "All acts of injustice that tend to shorten any who will stand in vindication of the life; the spirit of hatred and revenge, or righteousness of the law of God, the same the indulgence of any passion that leads to spirit will be manifested against them. It is injurious acts toward others, or causes us the spirit that through all the ages has set even to wish them harm (for 'whoso hateth up the stake and kindled the burning pile his brother is a murderer') ; a selfish neglect for the disciples of Christ."—Patriarchs and of caring for the needy or suffering; all self- Prophets, page 77. indulgence or unnecessary deprivation or 4. What was the motive for Cain's excessive labor that tends to injure health sin? Gen. 4:5, 8; 1 John 3:12. —all these are, to a greater or less degree, violations of the sixth commandment."— Patriarchs and Prophets, page 308. NoTE.—"Cain hated and killed his God's People Persecuted brother, not for any wrong that Abel had done, but 'because his own works were 8. What have the people of God evil, and his brother's righteous.' 1 John sometimes suffered for their faith? 3:12. So in all ages the wicked have hated Heb. 11:36-38; Matt. 24:9. those who were better than themselves."— Patriarchs and Prophets, page 74. 5. For what other reason has man NoTE.—"In all ages God's appointed wit- sought to destroy his fellow man? 2 nesses have exposed themselves to reproach Kings 21:23, 24. and persecution for the truth's sake. Joseph t27 1 was maligned and persecuted because he preserved his virtue and integrity. David, the chosen messenger of God, was hunted like a beast of prey by his enemies. Daniel was cast into a den of lions because he was true to his allegiance to heaven. Job was deprived of his worldly possessions, and so afflicted in body that he was abhorred by his relatives and friends; yet he maintained his integrity. Jeremiah could not be deterred from speaking the words that God had given him to speak; and his testimony so enraged the king and princes that he was cast into a loathsome pit. Stephen was stoned because he preached Christ and Him crucified. Paul was imprisoned, beaten with rods, stoned, and finally put to death because he was a faithful messenger for The sacredness of life vanishes in the crime God to the Gentiles. And John was ban- „tee features of our oge. ished to the Isle of Patmos 'for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.'"—The Acts of the Apostles, page rael, so in the near future he will stir up 575. the wicked powers of earth to destroy the people of God."—Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 231. 9. How will the bloodguiltiness of the persecutors recoil upon their own 11. How will God's people deport heads? Rev. 18;6, 24; Matt. 23:34-36. themselves under persecution? Matt. 5:38, 39. NoTE.—"Not long hence they will stand before the Judge of all the earth, to render NoTE.—"Satan's attacks against the ad- an account for the pain they have caused vocates of the truth will wax more bitter to the bodies and souls of His heritage. and determined to the very close of time. . . . They may consign His believing ones . . . The people will be led to acts of vio- to prison, to the chain gang, to banishment, lence and opposition.. . to death; but for every pang of anguish, "What course shall the advocates of truth every tear shed, they must answer. God pursue? They have the unchangeable, eter- will reward them double for their sins."— nal word of God, and they should reveal Christ's Object Lessons, pages 178, 179. the fact that they have the truth as it is in 10. In what ways will the spirit of Jesus. Their words must not be rugged and evil manifest itself in the last days? sharp. In their presentation of truth they must manifest the love and meekness and Luke 21:9, 10; Rev. 13:15; Matt. 24: gentleness of Christ. Let the truth do the 9, 10. Compare Gen. 6:11. cutting; the word of God is as a sharp, two- edged sword and will cut its way to the heart."—Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 239. NOTE.—"The remnant church will be 12. What will be the ultimate fate brought into great trial and distress. Those of the persecutors? 1 John 3:15; Rev. who keep the commandments of God and 21:8. the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts. Satan numbers the world as his subjects, he has gained control of the apostate churches; but here is a lit- NOTE —"The spirit of hatred and revenge tle company that are resisting his suprem- originated with Satan, and it led him to put acy. If he could blot them from the earth, to death the Son of God. Whoever cherishes his triumph would be complete. As he malice or unkindness is cherishing the same influenced the heathen nations to destroy Is- spirit, and its fruit will be unto death. In [28] the revengeful thought the evil deed lies 14. What assurance does God give enfolded, as the plant in the seed. 'Whoso- to His suffering people? Rom. 12:19; ever hateth his brother is a murderer: and Matt. 5:11, 12. ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him' "—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 1956 ed., p. 56. 13. What way of escaping this fear-, NorE.—"From garrets, from hovels, from ful fate is held out to the sinner? Matt. dungeons, from scaffolds, from mountains 12:31; Mark 4:12, last half; 1 John 1:9. and deserts, from the caves of the earth and the caverns of the sea, Christ will gather His children to Himself. On earth they have been destitute, afflicted, and tor- NorE.—"The humble and broken heart, mented. Millions have gone down to the subdued by genuine repentance, will ap- grave loaded with infamy because they re- preciate something of the love of God and fused to yield to the deceptive claims of the cost of Calvary; and as a son con- Satan. By human tribunals the children fesses to a loving father, so will the truly of God have been adjudged the vilest of penitent bring all his sins before God. And criminals. But the day is near when 'God it is written, `If we confess our sins, He is is judge Himself.' Ps. 50:6. Then the de- faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and cisions of earth shall be reversed. 'The re- to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.' " buke of His people shall He take away.' —Steps to Christ, 1956 and pocket eds., Isa. 25:8."—Christ's Object Lessons, pages p. 41. 179, 180. Lesson 9, for August 27, 1960 Pure in Heart and Life MEMORY VERSE: "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God." Matt. 5:8. STUDY HELPS: "Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing," 1956 ed., pp. 59, 60 (1943 ed., pp. 93, 94); Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Commandments," pages 120-134; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of August 11. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 10-13. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-6. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 7-9. ❑ Lesson Outline: II. Secret of Stability I. A Sacred Relationship 4. Disregard of God is cause of 1. Marriage relationship ordained of instability. Rom. 1:28, 29. God. Matt. 19:4-6. 5. Hatred of sin stabilizing influence. 2. Seventh commandment a safe- Gen. 39:9, last part. guard. Ex. 20 : 14. 6. God is our sufficiency. 2 Peter 3. The inevitability of life's harvest. 2:9, first part; Col. 3:5 ; 1 Thess. Gal. 6:7, 8; 1 Cor. 15:33. 4:3-5. 1 29 ] Ill. Temple of God's Spirit 10. Fix minds on the holy and pure. 7. Body, the temple of Holy Ghost. Phil. 4:8. 1 Cor. 6:15, 19, 20. 11. Possible through Christ. 2 Cor. 8. The saints' goal is holiness. 10:4, 5. 1 Thess. 4:7. V. The Pure Remnant 12. The righteous referred to as IV. Every Thought in Captivity "virgins." Rev. 14:1, 4. 9. Seventh commandment forbids 13. The pure in heart will see God. sensual thoughts. Matt. 5:28. Matt. 5:8. THE LESSON A Sacred Relationship NOTE.—"He who has once yielded to temptation will yield more readily the sec- 1. What relationship did God or- ond time. Every repetition of the sin les- dain in the creation of our first par- sens his power of resistance, blinds his eyes, and stifles conviction. Every seed of indul- ents? Matt. 19:4-6. See also Gen. 2: gence sown will bear fruit. God works no 20-24. miracle to prevent the harvest."—Patri- archs and Prophets, page 268. Secret of Stability NoTE.—"God celebrated the first mar- riage. Thus the institution has for its origi- 4. To what may sensuality ulti- nator the Creator of the universe. . . . When the divine principles are recognized mately be traced? Rom. 1:28, 29. and obeyed in this relation, marriage is a blessing; it guards the purity and happiness of the race, it provides for man's social needs, it elevates the physical, the intellec- NOTE.—"Let the mind be directed to high tual, and the moral nature."—Patriarchs and holy ideals, let the life have a noble and Prophets, page 46. aim, an absorbing purpose, and evil finds little foothold. Let the youth, then, be 2. How is family life safeguarded taught to give close study to the word of in the seventh commandment? Ex. God. Received into the soul, it will prove 20:14. a mighty barricade against temptation."— Education, page 190. 5. What was the stabilizing princi- ple in the life of Joseph? Gen. 39:9, NoTE.—"The command is a simple, un- last part. qualified, irrevocable negative. 'Thou shalt not!' No argument is used, no reason given, because none is required. The sin is of so destructive and damning a nature that it is Non.—"Joseph's answer reveals the in itself sufficient cause for the stern for- power of religious principle. He would not bidding. . . . A sevenfold vice is this sin betray the confidence of his master on of unchaste conduct, being sin against the earth, and, whatever the consequences, he individual, the family, society, the nation, the race, the universe, and God."—G. would be true to his Master in heaven. Campbell Morgan, The Ten Command- Under the inspecting eye of God and holy ments, page 78. angels many take liberties of which they would not be guilty in the presence of their fellow men, but Joseph's first thought was 3. What law inexorably operates in of God. 'How can I do this great wicked- the life of man? Gal. 6:7, 8; 1 Cor. ness, and sin against God ?' he said."— 15:33. Patriarchs and Prophets, page 217. [30] '6. By what power may the sinner be delivered from temptation? 2 Pe- ter 2:9, first part; Col. 3:5; 1 Thess. 4:3-5. NorE.—"If you draw close to Jesus and seek to adorn your profession by a well- ordered life and godly conversation, your feet will be kept from straying into for- bidden paths. If you will only watch, con- tinually watch unto prayer, if you will do everything as if you were in the immediate presence of God, you will be saved from yielding to temptation, and may hope to Q's be kept pure, spotless, and undefiled till The test of keeping the seventh commandment the last. . . . If Christ be within us, we 3. 060, 3 begins in the mind. shall crucify the flesh with the affections and lusts."—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 148. NoTE.—"This commandment forbids not only acts of impurity, but sensual thoughts and desires, or any practice that tends to Temple of God's Spirit excite them. Purity is demanded not only in the outward life but in the secret in- 7. Why are sins against the body tents and emotions of the heart. Christ, so extremely wicked? What do we who taught the far-reaching obligation of owe God? 1 Cor. 6:15, 19, 20. the law of God, declared the evil thought or look to be as truly sin as is the unlawful deed."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 308. 10. What thoughts should possess NOTE.—"Is it true that all the powers of the mind of the believer? Phil. 4:8. our being, our bodies, our spirits, all that we have, and all we are, belong to God? It certainly is. And when we realize this, what obligation does it lay us under to God to NOTE.—"It is your duty to control your preserve ourselves in that condition that thoughts. You will have to war against a we may honor Him upon the earth in our vain imagination. You may think that bodies and in our spirits which are His."— there can be no sin in permitting your Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 354. thoughts to run as they naturally would without restraint. But this is not so. You 8. What manner of life only is be- are responsible to God for the indulgence of coming to saints? 1 Thess. 4:7. vain thoughts; for from vain imaginations arises the committal of sins, the actual do- ing of those things upon which the mind has dwelt."—Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 82. NoTE.—"Nothing but purity, sacred pu- 11. By what means is control of rity, will stand the grand review, abide the the thoughts made possible? 2 Cor. day of God, and be received into a pure 10:4, 5. and holy heaven."—Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 458. NOTE.—"It is for you to yield up your Every Thought in Captivity will to the will of Jesus Christ; and as you do this, God will immediately take posses- 9. How wide an application did sion and work in you to will and to do of Jesus give to the seventh command- His good pleasure. Your whole nature will ment? Matt. 5:28. then be brought under the control of the 81 Spirit of Christ, and even your thoughts NOTE.—"The Bible is an unerring guide. will be subject to Him."—Testimonies, vol. It demands perfect purity in word, in 5, p. 514. thought, and in action. Only virtuous and spotless characters will be permitted to en- The Pure Remnant ter the presence of a pure and holy God." —Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 312. 12. What figure is used symboli- "The pure in heart live as in the visible cally of the righteous? Rev. 14:1, 4. presence of God during the time He-appor- tions them in this world. And they will also see Him face to face in the future, im- mortal state, as did Adam when he walked 13. Who only will be permitted to and talked with God in Eden."—Thoughts see God? Matt. 5:8. From the Mount of Blessing, 1956 ed., p. 27. Lesson 10, for September 3, 1960 Honesty in All Things MEMORY VERSE: "Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, work- ing with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth." Eph. 4:28. STUDY HELPS: "Counsels on Stewardship," pages 77-79, 142, 143; "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 525-529; Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Commandments," pages 135-147; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture refer- ences; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of August 18. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 6-8. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1, 2; begin Wednesday: Questions 9-13. reading from Study Helps. ❑ Thursday: Read Study Helps. Monday: Questions 3-5. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. Lesson Outline: 5. Dishonest practice in weights and measures. Deut. 25:13-16; Amos I. The Right of Ownership 8:5, 6. 1. Ownership safeguarded by eighth III. Repentance and Restoration commandment. Ex. 20:15. 6. Restoration follows repentance. 2. Wealth is reward for diligent Ezek. 33:15, 16; Luke 19:8, 9. effort. Deut, 8 : 18. 7. Giving to needy is antidote for stealing. Eph. 4:28. II. Warnings and Admonitions 8. The Christian will set example of good works. 1 Peter 2:12 ; 2 Cor. 3. Exact only appointed portion. 8:21; 7:2. Luke 3:12, 13. 4. Admonitions to employers and IV. Robbing God employees. Lev. 19:13, 36; Titus 9. We may rob God in tithes and 2:9, 10. offerings. Mal. 3:8. l_22 10. Results of honesty and dishonesty. 12. Exploited ones to be patient. Mal. 3:8-10; Amos 8:5, 7. James 5:7. V. Recompense and Reward 13. God will provide for honest in 11. God will take note in the judgment. heart. Isa. 33:15, 16. James 5:1-5 ; Ezek. 7:19. THE LESSON The Right of Ownership will He vindicate."—Testimonies to Minis- ters, page 360. 1. By what commandment are the "Sin is sin,, whether committed by the legitimate rights of possession safe- possessor of millions or by the beggar in guarded? Ex. 20:15. the streets. Those who secure property by false representations are bringing condem- nation on their souls. All that is obtained by deceit and fraud will be only a curse to NOTE.—"Both public and private sins are the receiver."—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 311. included in this prohibition. The eighth 4. Against what temptation are em- commandment condemns manstealing and ployers warned? What should all slave dealing, and forbids wars of conquest. It condemns theft and robbery. It de- workers render? Lev. 19:13, 36; Ti- mands strict integrity in the minutest de- tus 2:9, 10. tails of the affairs of life. It forbids over- reaching in trade, and requires the payment of just debts or wages. It declares that every attempt to advantage one's self by NOTE.—"Were the principles of God's the ignorance, weakness, or misfortune of laws regarding the distribution of property another is registered as fraud in the books carried out in the world today, how dif- of heaven."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page ferent would be the condition of the people! 309. An observance of these principles would prevent the terrible evils that in all ages • 2. What reward for diligent effort have resulted from the oppression of the does God promise? Deut. 8:18. poor by the rich and the hatred of the rich by the poor. While it might hinder the amassing of great wealth, it would tend to prevent the ignorance and degradation of NoTE.—"There is no sin in being rich if tens of thousands whose ill-paid servitude riches are not acquired by injustice."— is required for the building up of these Christ's Object Lessons, page 266. colossal fortunes. It would aid in bringing "All that we are and all that we have a peaceful solution of problems that now are from God. Consciousness of this fact threaten to fill the world witlY-anarchy and keeps a man humble and enables him to bloodshed."—Education, page 44. view the things of time in their true per- "If a workman in the daily vocations of spective."—The Seventh-day Adventist Bi- life is unfaithful and slights his work, the ble Commentary, on Deut. 8:18. world will not judge incorrectly if they estimate his standard in religion according to his standard in business."—Testimonies, Warnings and Admonitions vol. 4, pp. 310, 311. 3. What counsel was given the tax- 5. What forms of dishonesty have gatherers in Christ's day? Luke 3: been frequently used in the course of 12, 13. buying and selling? Deut. 25:13-16; Amos 8:5, 6. NoTE.—"The great and holy and merciful God will never be in league with dishonest NoTE.—"An honest man, according to practices; not a single touch of injustice Christ's measurement, is one who will f 33 3 "If we have injured others through any unjust business transaction, if we have overreached in trade, or defrauded any man, even though it be within the pale of the law, we should confess our wrong, and make restitution as far as lies in our power. It is right for us to restore not only that which we have taken, but all that it would have accumulated if put to a right and wise use during the time it has been in our pos- session."—The Desire of Ages, page 556. 7. What antidote for stealing is recommended? Eph. 4:28. He who takes a man's character or robs him of his good name is the worst of thieves. NoTE.—"There are many ways besides the outright taking of the property of oth- ers in which we may be guilty of this sin, such as a dishonest or sharp business trans- manifest unbending integrity. Deceitful action. Hence Paul's command may apply weights and false balances, with which to professing Christians. Thieving takes many seek to advance their interests in the many insidious disguises, but in all cases it world, are abomination in the sight of God. is a violation of the basic commandment of Yet many who profess to keep the, com- love to one's neighbor. mandments of God are dealing with false " 'Labour.' It may be debated whether weights and false balances."—Testimonies, the stealing was a cause or a result of idle- vol. 4, p. 310. ness, but certainly work is the remedy. Paul "It is neither the magnitude nor the seem- does not merely forbid an evil. If it is true ing insignificance of a business transaction that 'nature abhors a vacuum,' it is equally that makes it fair or unfair, honest or dis- true that habits given up must be replaced honest. By the least departure from recti- by others. . . . Idleness and theft tend to tude we place ourselves on the enemy's go together, as do labor and honesty. . . . ground, and may go on, step by step, to "The making of money for its own sake any length of injustice. A large proportion is not a Christian activity; the rewards of of the Christian world flivorce religion from honest labor are to be received and dis- their business. Thousaltids of little tricks persed in the spirit of Christian stewardship. and petty dishonesties are practiced in deal- The believer works in order that he may be ing with their fellow men, which reveal the able to help others after having discharged true state of the heart, showing its corrup- his obligation to society by supporting him- tion."—Ibid.7. vol. 4, p. 337. self. Thus he lives in marked contrast with the thief."—The Seventh-day Adventist Bi- ble Commentary, on Eph. 4:28, Repentance and Restoration 8. What example should the Chris- 6. What course of action is re- tian set the unbeliever? 1 Peter 2:12; quired of a repentant thief? Ezek. 33: 2 Cor. 8:21; 7:2. 15, 16; Luke 19:8, 9. NOTE.—"When a man is indeed con- NorE.—"Every converted soul will, like nected with God, and is keeping His law in Zacchaeus, signalize the entrance of Christ truth, his life will reveal the fact; for all into his heart by an abandonment of the his actions will be in harmony with the unrighteous practices that have marked his teachings of Christ. He will not sell his life. Like the chief publican, he will give honor for gain. His principles are built proof of his sincerity by making restitu- upon the sure foundation, and his conduct tion. . . . in worldly matters is a transcript of his f 34 ] principles. Firm integrity shines forth as Recompense and Reward gold amid the dross and rubbish of the world."—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 310. 11. How will sinful exploitation recoil upon the transgressors in the Robbing God last days? James 5:1-5; Ezek. 7:19. 9. In what other way, besides abus- ing the rights of fellow men, is the eighth commandment broken? Mal. 3:8. NcrrE.—"Riches bring with them great responsibilities. To obtain wealth by un- just dealing, by overreaching in trade, by oppressing the widow and the fatherless, or NorE.—"As a man deals with his fellow by hoarding up riches and neglecting the men, so will he deal with God. He that is wants of the needy, will eventually bring unfaithful in the mammon of unrighteous- the just retribution described by the in- ness, will never be entrusted with the true spired apostle: 'Go to now, ye rich men, riches. The children of God should not weep and howl for your miseries that shall fail to remember that in all their business come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, transactions they are being proved, weighed and your garments are moth-eaten. Your in the balances of the sanctuary."—Testi- gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of monies, vol. 4, p. 311. them shall be a witness against you.' "— Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 682. 10. How are the results of honesty and dishonesty in this matter set 12. How does God counsel and en- forth? Mal. 3:8-10; Amos 8:5, 7. courage the exploited ones? James 5:7. NoTE.—"If all who profess to be follow- ers of Christ were truly sanctified, their NorE.—"Belief in the near coming of the means, instead of being spent for needless Son of man in the clouds of heaven will not and even hurtful indulgences, would be cause the true Christian to become neglect- turned into the Lord's treasury, and Chris- ful and careless of the ordinary business of tians would set an example of temperance, life. The waiting ones who look for the self-denial, and self-sacrifice. Then they soon appearing of Christ will not be idle, would be the light of the world."—The but diligent in business. Their work will Great Controversy, page 475. not be done carelessly and dishonestly, but "Those who selfishly spend the Lord's with fidelity, promptness, and thorough- gifts on themselves, leaving their needy ness. . . . Their veracity, faithfulness, and fellow creatures without aid and doing integrity are tested and proved in tem- nothing to advance God's work in the poral things. If they are faithful in that world, dishonor their Maker. Robbery of which is least they will be faithful in much." God is written opposite their names in the —Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 309. books of heaven."—Christ's Object Les- sons, page 266. 13. What are the honest in heart "God has made men his stewards. The and life assured? Isa. 33:15, 16. property which he has placed in their hands is the means that he has provided for the spread of the gospel. To those who prove themselves faithful stewards he will com- NoTE.—"Whatever crosses they have mit greater trusts. Saith the Lord, 'Them been called to bear, whatever losses they that honor me I will honor.' 1 Samuel 2: have sustained, whatever persecution they 30. 'God loveth a cheerful giver,' and when have suffered, even to the loss of their tem- His people, with grateful hearts, bring their poral life, the children of God are amply gifts and offerings to Him, 'not grudgingly, recompensed. 'They shall see His face; or of necessity,' His blessing will attend and His name shall be in their foreheads.' them, as He has promised."—Patriarchs and Rev. 22:4."—Christ's Object Lessons, page Prophets, page 529. 180. [ 35 ] Lesson 11, for September 10, 1960 Truthful Lips MEMORY VERSE: "Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are His delight." Prov. 12:22. STUDY HELPS: Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Commandments," pages 148-161; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of August 25. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 12-14. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-6. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 7-11. ❑ Lesson Outline: III. Lips of the Righteous 7. All lies are evil and an abomination. I. The Use of the Tongue Jer. 9:3 ; Prov. 12 :22. 8. Should keep word even to own 1. The ninth precept forbids misrepre- hurt. Ps. 15:4, last part. sentations. Ex. 20:16. 9. God's children will not lie. Isa. 2. The tongue is to minister grace. 63:8; Ps. 119:163. Eph. 4:29; Ps. 145:5-7, 11, 12; 10. Man unaided cannot keep tongue. 37:30; Job 16:5. James 3:7, 8 ; Ps. 141:3. 3. Uncontrolled tongue capable of 11. Out of abundance of heart the great evil. James 3:5, 6, 9, 10. mouth speaketh. Matt. 12:34, 35; Ps. 51:6. II. Slander and Evilspeaking IV. Deceivers of the Last Days 4. Ninth commandment can be 12. Forms of falsehood prevalent in broken by talebearing. Lev. last days. 2 Tim. 3:3, 13 ; 1 Tim. 19:16; Ex. 23:1. 4:1, 2. 5. Flattery is condemned as false- 13. No guile in mouths of remnant. hood. Ps. 12:2 ; Prov. 26:28. Rev. 14:5. 6. Lies for reasons of self-interest. 14. The prayer of the righteous. Ps. 34:13 ; Jer. 9:5. Ps. 19:14. THE LESSON The Use of the Tongue der or talebearing. Even the intentional suppression of truth, by which injury may 1. Against what sin of the tongue result to others, is a violation of the ninth does the ninth commandment specifi- commandment."-Patriarchs and Prophets, cally warn? Ex. 20:16. page 309. "This commandment may be transgressed in a public manner by untruthful witness borne in a court of law (ch. 23:1). Per- jury has ever been considered a serious of- NoTE.-"This precept forbids every ef- fense against society, and has been punished fort to injure our neighbor's reputation by accordingly. In Athens a false witness was misrepresentation or evil surmising, by slan- heavily fined. If convicted thrice of this [ 36 ] 3. What harm may the tongue work if uncontrolled? James 3:5, 6, 9, 10. NorE.—"In one moment, by the hasty, passionate, careless tongue, may be wrought evil that a whole lifetime's repentance can- not undo. Oh, the hearts that are broken, the friends estranged, the lives wrecked, by the harsh, hasty words of those who might have brought help and healing !"—Educa- tion, pages 236, 237. ILEN E EN ONE Slander and Evilspeaking SHOULD SPEAK 4. In what seemingly innocent way is this commandment often violated? Lev. 19:16; Ex. 23:1. crime, he lost his civil rightS. In Rome a law of the Twelve Tables sentenced the transgressor to be hurled headlong from the Tarpeian Rock. In Egypt the pe'nalty was amputation of the nose and ears. . . . NOTE.—"There are some who, in order to "This commandment may also be broken tear down or injure the reputation of an- by those who remain silent when they hear other, will, from sheer malice, fabricate an innocent man unjustly maligned. It falsehoods concerning them."—Testimonies, can be broken by a shrug of the shoulder vol. 4, p. 335. or by an arching of the eyebrows. Whoever "Closely allied to gossip is the covert in- tampers in any way with the exact truth, sinuation, the sly innuendo, by which the in order to gain personal advantage or for unclean in heart seek to insinuate the evil any other purpose, is guilty of bearing they dare not openly express. Every ap- `false witness.' The suppression of truth proach to these practices the youth should that might result in injury to oneself or, be taught to shun as they would shun the others—this too is bearing. 'false witness.' " lel'irosy."—Education, page 236. —The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Com- mentary, an Ex. 20:16. 5. What other form of falsehood is condemned in the Scriptures? Ps. 12: 2. In what worthy ways should the 2; Prov. 26:28. tongue be employed? Eph. 4:29; Ps. 145:5-7, 11, 12; 37:30; Job. 16:5. NoTE.—"Flattery is also a form of the same sin. To say to another man concern- NOTE.—"The Lord desires us to make ing him things which are not believed to be mention of His goodness and tell of His true, which, indeed, are known to be un- power. He is honored by the expression of true, simply for the sake of pleasing him, praise and thanksgiving."—Christ's Object and paying tribute to his vanity, is to per- Lessons, page 298. jure the soul, and may be to imperil his "Words of cheer and encouragement safety."—G. Campbell Morgan, The Ten spoken when the soul is sick and the pulse Commandments, page 103. of courage is low—these are regarded by.. the Saviour as if spoken to Himself. As 6. To what methods of speaking hearts are cheered, the heavenly angels and: dealing da. some resort for rea- look on in pleased recognition."—The Min- sons of self-interest? Ps.. 34:13; Jer. istry of Healing, page 159. 9:5. E 87 ) NOTE.—"Lies of self-interest are uttered NorE.—"Everything that Christians do in buying and selling goods, cattle, or any should be as transparent as the sunlight. kind of merchandise. Lies of vanity are Truth is of God; deception, in every one uttered by men who love to appear what of its myriad forms, is of Satan; and who- they are not. A story cannot pass through ever in any way departs from the straight their hands without embellishment. Oh, line of truth is betraying himself into the how much is done in the world which the power of the wicked one."—Thoughts From doers will one day wish to undo! But the the Mount of Blessing, 1956 ed., p. 68. record of words and deeds in the books of heaven will tell the sad story of falsehoods 10. Can unaided man hope to keep spoken and acted."—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. his tongue in the ways of truth? What 335. help, therefore, should we ask of the "Falsehood virtually consists in an in- Lord? James 3:7, 8; Ps. 141:3. tention to deceive; and this may be shown by a look or a word. Even facts may be so arranged and stated as to constitute falsehoods."—Ibid. NorE.—"You have a work to do to con- trol the tongue. It is a little member and Lips of the Righteous boasteth great things, but it needs the bridle of grace and the bit of self-control to keep it from running at random."— 7. How does God regard all false- Test/imonies, vol. 2, p. 316. hood of the lips? Jer. 9:3; Prov. 12:22. 11. What ultimately determines the character of our speech? Matt. 12:34, 35; Ps. 51:6. NOTE.—"Falsehood and deception of ev- ery cast is sin against the God of truth and verity. The word of God is plain upon these points. . . . God is a God of sincerity NOTE.—"When the mind is pure and the and truth. The word of God is a book of thoughts ennobled by the truth of God, the truth. Jesus is a faithful and true witness. words will be of the same character, 'like The church is the witness and ground of apples of gold in baskets of silver.'"— the truth. All the precepts of the Most Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, High are true and righteous altogether. page 443. How, then, must prevarication and any "We cannot speak the truth unless our exaggeration or deception appear in His minds are continually guided by Him who sight ?"—Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 336. is truth."—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, page 68. 8. How should the keeping of one's word be regarded even when it ap- Deceivers of the Last Days pears to be disadvantageous? Ps. 15:4, last part. 12. What forms of falsehood will be particularly manifest in the last days? 2 Tim. 3:3, 13; 1 Tim. 4:1, 2. NorE.—"An adherence to the strictest principles of truth will frequently causeNOTE.—"The teachers of deception dis- present inconvenience and may even in- seminate teachings that are inspired by volve temporal loss, but it will increase the Satan and his co-workers. . . . Satan works reward in the future life."—Testimonies, to control the minds of men, hence, the vol. 4, p. 337. importance of a sound intellectual grasp of truth. . . 9. How will the children of God "Teachers of deception (v. I) may pre- not employ their tongues? What will tend loyalty to truth while they 'spread they hate? Isa. 63:8; Ps. 119:163. their 'doctrines of devils' (v. 1). Apostates 1383 often do not sail openly under the flag of pretense, no make-believe, no deceit, no error and treason to the cause of Christ. sin."—The Seventh-day Adventist Bible The teachers of deception trumpet loudly Commentary, on Rev. 14:5. their loyalty to the cause of truth, thus better to delude men."—The Seventh-day 14. What language may well be Adventist Bible Commentary, on 1 Tim. the prayer of the soul? Ps. 19:14. 4:1, 2. 13. What will characterize the lips of the remnant in the last days? Rev. 14:5. NOTE.-" 'Be acceptable.' The psalm closes with a prayer that at once asks ac- ceptance of the words and the thoughts that the psalmist has uttered, and consti- tutes his general petition for purity of word NOTE.-" 'Guile.' Gr. dolos, 'deceit,' and thought in the experiences of every day. `subtlety,' fraud,"guile.' Textual evidence In the general aspect, the prayer is uni- attests . . . the reading pseudos, 'falsehood,' versal and as such is a model for all men." `lie.' The gospel of Jesus Christ changes —The Seventh-day Adventist Bible COM- sinful, erring man into one who has no mentary, on Ps. 19:14. Lesson 12, for September 17, 1960 Holy Contentment MEMORY VERSE: "And He said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possess- eth." Luke 12:15. STUDY HELPS: "Christ's Object Lessons," 1941 ed., 252-259 (1923 ed., pp. 253- 259); Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Commandments," pages 162-173; "The Sev- enth-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of September 1. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 10-13. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-6. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 7-9. ❑ Lesson Outline: and hypocrisy. Jer. 6:13; Acts 5:1-5; James 4:1-3. I. How Covetousness Began II. Covetousness Is Idolatry 1. Command against covetousness. Ex. 20:17. 4. Where treasure is, there will heart be. Matt. 6:19. 2. Covetousness originated with 5. The apostle calls covetousness Lucifer. Isa. 14:12-14; Gen. 3:6. idolatry. Col. 3:5, last part. 3. Covetousness associated with fraud 6. God abhors the covetous. Ps. 10:3. 39 III. True Estimate of Possessions IV. Divine Remedy for Covetousness 10. Covetousness one of last-day sins. 7. Christians to deny self. Matt. 2 Tim. 3:1, 2. 16:24-26. 11. Systematic benevolence, God's 8. We are admonished to mortify remedy for covetousness. Mal. 3 :10. covetousness. Col. 3:5 ; Ps. 119:36. 12. All covetous excluded from heaven. 1. Cor. 6:9, 10. 9. We are to be content with what we 13. Promise to those who apply have. Heb. 13:5. remedy. Matt. 6:20, 21, 33. THE LESSON How Covetousness Began that which they had promised to the Lord, led them into fraud and hypocrisy."-The 1. How comprehensive is the com- Acts of the Apostles, page 74. mand against covetousness? Ex. 20:17. See also Rom. 13:9. Covetousness Is Idolatry 4. What warning did Jesus give concerning treasure? Matt. 6:19. Nora.-"The tenth commandment strikes at the very root of all sins, prohibiting the selfish desire, from which springs the sinful act. He who in obedience to God's law re- NoTE.-"We have before us the fearful frains from indulging even a sinful desire doom of Achan, of Judas, of Ananias and for that which belongs to another will not Sapphira. Back of all these we have that be guilty of an act of wrong toward his of Lucifer, that 'son of the morning,' who, fellow creatures."-Patriarchs and Proph- coveting a higher state, forfeited forever ets, page 309. the brightness and bliss of heaven. And yet, notwithstanding all these warnings, 2. Where and when did covetous- covetousness abounds."-Patriarchs and ness first arise? In what circumstances Prophets, pages 496, 497. did it take root in the human heart? Isa. 14:12-14; Gen. 3:6. 5. What, therefore, does Paul de- clare covetousness to be? Col. 3:5, last part. NOTE.-"Instead of seeking to make God supreme in the affections and allegiance of His creatures, it was Lucifer's endeavor to NOTE.-"The word of God defines covet- win their service and homage to himself. ousness as idolatry. It is impossible for And coveting the honor which the infinite men and women to keep the law of God Father had bestowed upon His Son, this and love money. The heart's affections prince of angels aspired to power which it should be placed upon heavenly things. was the prerogative of Christ alone to Our treasure should be laid up in heaven, wield."-The Great Controversy, page 494. for where our treasure is, there will our heart be also."-Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 130. 3. With what other sins is covet- ousness associated? Jer. 6:13; Acts 5: 6. How does God, therefore, re- 1-5; James 4:1-3. gard the covetous? Ps. 10:3. NOTE.-"It was covetousness that Ana- NoTE.-"There are today close beside us nias and. Sapphira had first cherished. The many who are hungry, naked, and home- desire to retain for themselves a part of less. A neglect to impart of our means to [ 40 ] 8. How does Paul admonish be- lievers? How should we ask God to guide our desires? Col. 3:5; Ps. 119:36. NOTE.—"In proportion as the love of Christ fills our hearts and controls our lives, covetousness, selfishness, and love of ease will be overcome, and it will be our pleasure to do the will of Christ, whose servants we claim to be."—Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 382. 9. With what should we be con- tent, and why? Heb. 13:5. NoTE.—"Open your hearts to receive this these needy, suffering ones places upon us kingdom, and make its service your high- a burden of guilt which we shall one day est interest. Though it is a spiritual king- fear to meet. All covetousness is con- dom, fear not that your needs for this life demned as idolatry. All selfish indulgence will be uncared-for. If you give yourself to is an offense in God's sight."—Christ's Ob- God's service, He who has all power in ject Lessons, page 261. heaven and earth will provide for your needs."—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 1956 ed., p. 99. True Estimate of Possessions Divine Remedy for Covetousness 7. What counsel did Jesus give con- cerning life and material things? 10. How does the apostle Paul in- Matt. 16:24-26. dicate that the violation of the tenth commandment will be one of the sins that characterize men in the last days? 2 Tim. 3:1, 2. NOTE.—"The Saviour saw that men were absorbed in getting gain, and were losing sight of eternal realities. He undertook to NOTE.—The sin of covetousness is one of correct this evil. He sought to break the in- which not only unbelievers are guilty, but fatuating spell that was paralyzing the it is also found among the professed chil- soul. Lifting up His voice He cried, 'What dren of God. is a man profited, if he shall gain the "The selfish, covetous heart will be whole world, and lose his own soul? or tested. Some are not willing to devote to what shall a man give in exchange for his God a very small portion of the increase of soul? Matt. 16:26. He presents before their earthly treasure. They would start fallen humanity the nobler world they have back with horror if you should speak of the lost sight of, that they may behold eternal principal. What have they sacrificed for realities. He takes them to the threshold God? Nothing. They profess to believe of the Infinite, flushed with the indescriba- that Jesus is coming; but their works deny ble glory of God, and shows them the their faith. Every person will live out all treasure there. The value of this treasure the faith he has. Falsehearted professor, is above gold or silver. The riches of Jesus knows thy works. He hates your earth's mines cannot compare with it"— stinted offerings, your lame sacrifices."— Christ's Object Lessons, pages 106, 107. Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 195. [41] 11. What provision has God made their own."—Christ's Object Lessons, page to check covetousness in His people? 372. Mal. 3:10. 13. In contrast to the fate of the covetous, what promise is held out to those who make the kingdom of God NoTE.—"Constant, self-denying benevo- first in their thinking? Matt. 6:20, lence is God's remedy for the cankering 21, 33. sins of selfishness and covetousness. God has arranged systematic benevolence to sustain His cause and relieve the necessi- ties of the suffering and needy. He has NoTE.—"And at the final day, when the ordained that giving should become a wealth of earth shall perish, he who has habit, that it may counteract the danger- laid up treasure in heaven will behold that ous and deceitful sin of covetousness. Con- which his life has gained. If we have given tinual giving starves covetousness to death. heed to the words of Christ, then, as we Systematic benevolence is designed in the gather around the great white throne, we order of God to tear away treasures from shall see souls who have been saved through the covetous as fast as they are gained, and our agency, and shall know that one has to consecrate them to the Lord, to whom saved others, and these still others—a large they belong."—Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 548. company brought into the haven of rest as the result of our labors, there to lay their 12. From what will the covetous crowns at Jesus' feet, and praise Him be forever excluded? 1 Cor. 6:9, 10. through the ceaseless ages of eternity. With what joy will the worker for Christ behold these redeemed ones, who share the glory of the Redeemer! How precious will heaven NoTE.—"In the day of final judgment be to those who have been faithful in the men's hoarded wealth will be worthless to work of saving souls !"—Thoughts From them. They have nothing they can call the Mount of Blessing, 1956 ed., pp. 90, 91. Lesson 13, for September 24, 1960 The Supreme Motive MEMORY VERSE: "Whoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the love of God per- fected: hereby know we that we are in Him." 1 John 2:5. STUDY HELPS: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 539-567; "Christ's Object Les- sons," pages 376-389 (1923 ed., pp. 381-395); Taylor G. Bunch, "The Ten Com- mandments," pages 174-190; "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on Scripture references; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of September 8. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-14; begin Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ reading from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Thursday: Read Study Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8-10. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑ 42 Lesson Outline: III. Love and Our Neighbor 8. To love God we must love our I. Love, the Way of Obedience neighbor. 1 John 4:21; 5 :1 ; 1. Love to God and love to man. John 15:17. Mark 12:28-34. 9. Our neighbor is anyone who needs 2. Jesus amplifies first commandment. help. Luke 10:29-37. Deut. 6:4, 5 ; 2 John 5, 6. 10. We must manifest love in tangible 3. A new concept of old command- form. 1 John 3:16, 18; John 15:12. ment. John 13:34; 15:9, 10. 11. Love is evidence of discipleship. John 13:35; 1 John 2:10; 4:12. 12. Love to man summarizes last six Love Implanted in the Life commandments. Gal. 5:14; James 4. Love comes from God. 1 John 4: 2:8. 7, 8, 16 ; Rom. 5:5. IV. Reward of Loving Obedience 5. Godhead associated in implanting love. 1 John 4:10, 19; John 17:26; 13. Mercy will be manifested to those Gal. 5:22, first part. who love and obey. Ex. 20:6; 6. Obedience is fruit of love. John Deut. 7:9; 30:16. 14:15, 23; 2 John 6. 14. The remnant church will keep the 7. One precept broken violates all. commandments of God. Rev. James 2:10. 14:12. THE LESSON Love, the Way of Obedience and their neighbor as themselves. It is the manifestation of this love that brings glory 1. How does Jesus summarize the to God in the highest, and on earth peace law and explain the secret of con- and good will to men."-Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 139. formity to its requirements? Mark 12:28-34. 2. What ancient command did Je- sus amplify when He designated love as the way of obedience? Deut. 6:4, 5; 2 John 5, 6. NorE.-"The scribe was near to the king- dom of God, in that he recognized deeds of righteousness as more acceptable to God than burnt offerings and sacrifices. But he NOTE.-"He who proclaimed the law needed to recognize the divine character of from Sinai, and delivered to Moses the pre- Christ, and through faith in Him receive cepts of the ritual law, is the same that power to do the works of righteousness. spoke the Sermon on the Mount. The The ritual service was of no value, unless great principles of love to God, which He connected with Christ by living faith. Even set forth as the foundation of the law and the moral law fails of its purpose, unless it the prophets, are only a reiteration of what is understood in its relation to the Saviour. He had spoken through Moses to the He- Christ had repeatedly shown that His Fa- brew people. . . . The Teacher is the same ther's law contained something deeper than in both dispensations. God's claims are the mere authoritative commands. In the law same. The principles of His government is embodied the same principle that is re- are the same. For all proceed from Him vealed in the gospel. The law points out `with whom is no variableness, neither man's duty and shows him his guilt. To shadow of turning.' "-Patriarchs and Christ he must look for pardon and for Prophets, page 373. power to do what the law enjoins."-The Desire of Ages, page 608. 3. In what way, then, was Christ's "God's law is fulfilled only as men love commandment new? John 13:34; 15: Him with heart, mind, soul, and strength, 9, 10. [ 411 NOTE.—"He saw that new ideas and im- possessor above the corrupting influence of pulses must control them; that new princi- the world."—Christ's Object Lessons, page ples must be practiced by them; through 101. His life and death they were to receive a "It is the work of the Holy Spirit from new conception of love. The command to age to age to impart love to human hearts, love one another had a new meaning in for love is the living principle of brother- the light of His self-sacrifice. The whole hood."—Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 139. work of grace is one continual service of love, of self-denying, self-sacrificing effort. 6. How will love implanted in the During every hour of Christ's sojourn upon life inevitably manifest itself? John the earth, the love of God was flowing from 14:15, 23; 2 John 6. Him in irrepressible streams. All who are imbued with His spirit will love as He loved. The very principle that actuated Christ will actuate them in all their dealing NoTE.—"John did not teach that salva- one with another."—The Desire of Ages, tion was to be earned by obedience; but pages 677, 678. that obedience was the fruit of faith and love. . . . If we abide in Christ, if the Love Implanted in the Life love of God dwells in the heart, our feel- ings, our thoughts, our actions, will be in 4. From whence does love, the ful- harmony with the will of God. The sancti- filler of the law, come? How is it com- fied heart is in harmony with the precepts municated to men? 1 John 4:7, 8, 16; of God's law."—The Acts of the Apostles, Rom. 5:5. page 563. 7. In the light of the principle of love, how serious is the breaking of NoTE.—"This love is heaven-born."— one commandment? James 2:10. The Acts of the Apostles, page 520. "If we surrender the will to God, we shall not work in order to earn God's love. His love as a free gift will be received into NOTE.—"Since all the commandments are the soul, and from love to Him we shall summed up in love to God and man, it delight to obey His commandments."— follows that not one precept can be broken Christ's Object Lessons, page 283. without violating this principle. Thus Christ taught His hearers that the law of 5. In what ways are the three Per- God is not so many separate precepts, some sons of the Godhead associated in the of which are of great importance, while impartation of the power of love? others are of small importance, and may 1 John 4:10, 19; John 17:26; Gal. 5: with impunity be ignored. Our Lord pre- sents the first four and the last six com- 22, first part. mandments as a divine whole, and teaches that love to God will be shown by obedi- ence to all His commandments."—The De- sire of Ages, page 607. NoTE.—"In the new birth the heart is "God's law is one living word, man's duty brought into harmony with God, as it is is the response of one central feeling. . . . brought into accord with His law. When Is it not that each sin which the law con- this mighty change has taken place in the demns is a violation of that spirit which sinner, he has passed from death unto life, the law demands? Love violated, the from sin unto holiness, from transgression whole moral life is violated."—W. Senior, and rebellion to obedience and loyalty. The God's Ten Words, pages 352, 354. old life of alienation from God has ended; the new life of reconciliation, of faith and love, has begun."—The Great Controversy, Love and Our Neighbor page 468. "The love of Christ with its redeeming 8. If we love and obey God, whom power has come into the heart. This love else also will we love and serve? 1 masters every other motive, and raises its John 4:21; 5:1; John 15:17. ( 44 NOTE.—"If we love God because He first loved us, we shall love all for whom Christ died. We cannot come in touch with di- vinity without coming in touch with hu- manity; for in Him who sits upon the throne of the universe, divinity and hu- manity are combined. Connected with Christ, we are connected with our fellow men by the golden links of -the chain of love."—Christ's Object Lessons, pages 384, 385. 9. Who is our neighbor? Luke 10: 29-37. All of mares attempts will never put the law into NoTE.—"Christ has shown that our neigh- action.Love is the only motive powerfor keeping bor does not mean merely one of the church 9000 .1f the law. or faith to which we belong. It has no reference to race, color, or class distinction. Our neighbor is every person who needs 11. Of what is love to others thus our help. Our neighbor is every soul who an evidence? John 13:35; 1 John 2: is wounded and bruised by the adversary. 10; 4:12. Our neighbor is everyone who is the prop- erty of God."—The Desire of Ages, page 503. NOTE.—"This love is the evidence of their 10. How will love for our neigh- discipleship. . . . When men are bound to- bor express itself? What will be the gether, not by force or self-interest, but by measure of our love? 1 John 3:16, 18; love, they show the working of an influence John 15:12. that is above every human influence. Where this oneness exists, it is evidence that the image of God is being restored in humanity, that a new principle of life has been im- NoTE.—" 'Let us 'not love in word,' the planted."—The Desire of Ages, page 678. apostle writes, 'but in deed and in truth.' The completeness of Christian character is 12. In what one word does Paul attained when the impulse to help and bless summarize the last six command- others springs constantly from within. It is ments? How does James define the the atmosphere of this love surrounding the royal law respecting our neighbor? soul of the believer that makes him a savor Gal. 5:14; James 2:8. of life unto life and enables God to bless his work."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 551. "The law of love calls for the devotion of NoTE.—"The first four of the Ten Com- body, mind, and soul to the service of God mandments are summed up in the one great and our fellow men."—Education, page 16. precept, 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God "The heart in which love rules will not with all thy heart.' The last six are in- be filled with passion or revenge, by in- cluded in the other, 'Thou shalt love thy juries which pride and self-love would neighbor as thyself.' Both these command- deem unbearable. Love is unsuspecting, ever ments are an expression of the principle of placing the most favorable construction love."—The Desire of Ages, page 607. upon the motives and acts of others. Love will nettgr needlessly expose the faults of Reward of Loving Obedience otherent does not listen eagerly to un- favorable reports, but rather seeks to bring 13. What will be the reward here to mind some good qualities of the one de- and hereafter of loving obedience? famed."—Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 168, 169. Ex. 20:6; Deut. 7:9; 30:16. [ 45.] 14. What will characterize the peo- those who were looking for their Lord and ple who love God and are looking for keeping all His commandments. . the return of Jesus? Rev. 14:12. "Servants of God, endowed with power from on high, with their faces lighted up, and shining with holy consecration, went forth to proclaim the message from heaven. NOTE.—The servant of the Lord describes Souls that were scattered all through the in graphic language the vision given her of religious bodies answered to the call, and conditions in the churches preceding the the precious were hurried out of the coming of Christ: doomed churches, as Lot was hurried out "The light that was shed upon the wait- of Sodom before her destruction. God's ing ones penetrated everywhere, and those people were strengthened by the excellent in the churches who had any light, who glory which rested upon them in rich abun- had not heard and rejected the three mes- dance and prepared them to endure the sages, obeyed the call and left the fallen hour of temptation. I heard everywhere a churches. Many had come to years of ac- multitude of voices saying, 'Here is the countability since these messages had been patience of the saints: here are they that given, and the light shone upon them, and keep the commandments of God, and the they were privileged to choose life or death. faith of Jesus.'"—Early Writings, pages Some chose life and took their stand with 278, 279. [ 46 ] THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING September 24, 1960 The overflow this quarter goes to the Australasian Division and will be used for a new project—a hospital in New Guinea. Up to the present time we have never been able to establish a hospital with a doc- tor in charge in this fascinating mission field. In this land of rugged mountains, beautiful valleys, and many rivers and lakes there are hun- dreds of thousands of primitive people hidden away deep in the valleys and mountains. Thousands of men and women who only a few years ago were cannibals and had never heard the name of Jesus are today rejoicing in the gospel and in Jesus as their personal Saviour. Among this multitude of people there are many sick and afflicted who need to be cared for and who need to be taught how to care for themselves. Our medical work has been the entering wedge in many mission lands of earth, and surely we must answer the call of the people of New Guinea to "come over and help" them. A site has been selected in the Wabag Valley where there are 200,000 people all speak- ing the same language. We solicit the prayers and offerings of our Sabbath school members around the world in behalf of this new hospital in one of the far out- posts of mission endeavor. We know you will do your part on Sep- tember 24. LESSONS FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 1960 Sabbath school members who have failed to receive a senior Lesson Quarterly for the fourth quarter of 1960 will be helped by the following outline in study- ing the first lesson.. The subject of the quarter's lessons is "Christ-Centered Doctrines." The title of the first lesson is "Sound Doctrine." The Memory Verse is Titus 2:1. The texts to be studied are: Ques. 1. 2 Tim. 3:1-5, 13; 4:3, 4. Ques. 8. 2 Peter 3:16; Matt. 4:.6. Ques. 2. Jer. 10:8; 1 Tim. 1:4, 9, 10; Ques. 9. 1 John 2:22, 23; 2 John 7, 9. 6:3-5. Ques. 10. Isa. 8:20. Ques. 3. 1 Tim. 4:6, 13, 16; Ques. 11.2 Tim. 4:3.; Acts 5:28; Titus 1:9; 2:1, 7, 10. Jer. 6:16 ; Ezek. 33:31. Ques. 4. Isa. 28:9, 10 ; 2 Tim. 2:15. Ques. 12. 2 Thess. 2:3-7. Ques. 5. John 7:17. Ques. 13. Rom. 6-:17. Ques. 6. Rom. 16:17. Ques. 14. Acts 2 :42 ; 1 Tim. 4:17. Ques. 7. 2 Tim. 3:15, 16. [47 1 CORAL SEA UNION MISSION (AUSTRALASIAN DIVISION) EQUATOR 0 MANUS LOU NEW IRELAND I• AITABE LONG O UMBODI No. ol CAumb SA. School Union Missions Founlatio Churches Members Members BISMARCK-SOLOMONS U. M. 252,000 107 7,472 15,921 CENTRAL PACIFIC U. M. 787,160 96 5.087 8,594 CORAL SEA U. M. 1,540,250 90 7,786 24,598 TRANS-COMMONWEALTH U. C.4,659,I87 136 10,940 12,574 *THURSDAY ISLAND TRANS-TASMAN U. C. 6,404,380 180 17,218 18,621 DIVISION TOTALS 13,642,977 609 48,503 80.308