D TANK FAITH AND THE PROMISES OF GOD SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON Senior Division, No. 292, Second Quarter, 1968 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. . . . 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 90. 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. Nate Lesson Titles for the Quarter 1. Faith Is Indispensable 2. Faith and a Knowledge of God 3. Faith and God's Promises 4. Faith and the Promise of Reconciliation 5. Faith and the Promise of Pardon 6. Faith and the Promise of .God's Presence 7. Faith and the Promise of God's Love 8. Faith and the Promise of Answered Prayer 9. Faith and God's Promises of Care and Guidance 10. Faith and the Promise of the Holy Spirit 11. Faith and Assurance 12. Faith and the Promise of Victory 13. Faith and the Promise of Christ's Return Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 292, April-June, 1968. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents a year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350 Villa Street, Mountain View, California 94040. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. Form 3579 requested. When a change of address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses. Copyright, 1968, by Pacific Press Publishing Association PRINTED IN U.S.A. Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly FAITH AND THE PROMISES OF GOD GENERAL INTRODUCTION The Bible records the unique experiences ceive the promise, we have the gift. Wori- of men and women of faith who demon- derful thought! strated the dependability of the promises "Faith that enables us to receive God's made by the infinite God. To test the gifts is itself a gift, of which some measure reality of these promises, as these Bible is imparted to every human being. It grows characters tested them, we are enjoined to as exercised in appropriating the Word of exercise faith. "0 taste and see that the God. In order to strengthen faith, we must Lord is good," is the Biblical invitation. often bring it in contact with the Word." But how to exercise faith? This is the —Education, pages 253, 254. urgent consideration, and this should be This series of lessons endeavors to make made very plain. To every promise of God some essential features of Christianity very there are conditions. If we are willing to simple and practical. The promises and do His will, all His strength is ours. What- gifts of God are ours to accept and experi- ever gift He promises is in the promise ence, not merely to admire. Only as God's itself. "The seed is the Word of God." As children appropriate His promises by faith surely as the oak is in the acorn, so surely does the gospel become "the power of God is the gift of God in the promise. If we re- unto salvation." Lesson 1, for April 6, 1968 Faith Is Indispensable MEMORY VERSE: "But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6. STUDY HELPS: "Education," pages 253-261; "Gospel Workers," pages 259-263; "Steps to Christ," chapter, "Faith and Acceptance"; "S.D.A. Bible Commen- tary." STUDY AIM: To gain a greater appreciation and understanding of faith as one of life's imperatives. Lesson Outline: ' 5. The response of faith. Gal. 5:6. Introduction II. Faith, the Imperative Factor I. The Role of Faith in Christian 6. Faith and fellowship with God. Experience Heb. 11:6. 7. Faith and the origin and destiny 1. What faith is. Heb. 11:1. of life. Heb. 11:3 ; 2 Peter 3:13. 2. The object of faith. Mark 11:22; John 3:16. 8. Faith and salvation. Eph. 2:8; 3:17. 3. Faith a way of life. 2 Cor. 5:7. 9. Faith brings joy, peace, hope. 4. How faith is cultivated. Rom. Rom. 15:13. 10:17. 10. Possibilities of faith. Mark 9:23. C3] 11. Faith and spiritual prosperity. Luke 18:8; 2 Peter 3:3, 4. 2 Chron. 20:20. 13. Hold fast to faith. Heb. 10:35-37. III. Warnings and Counsels 14. Faith a shield against temptation. 12. Last days marked by faithlessness. Eph. 6:16. THE LESSON Introduction Nom.—"Faith is not the ground of our salvation, but it is the great blessing—the "God never asks us to believe, without eye that sees, the ear that hears, the feet giving sufficient evidence on which to base that run, the hand that grasps. It is the our faith. His existence, His character, the means, not the end. If Christ gave His life truthfulness of His Word, are all estab- to save sinners, why shall I not take that lished by testimony that appeals to our blessing? My faith grasps it, and thus reason; and this testimony is abundant. my faith is the substance of things hoped Yet God has never removed the possi- for, the •evidence of things unseen. Thus bility of doubt. Our faith must rest upon resting and believing, I have peace with evidence, not demonstration."—Steps to God through the Lord Jesus Christ"— Christ, page 105. Ellen G. White Comments, S.D.A. Bible "There is an evidence that is open to all, Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1073. —the most highly educated, and the most "Faith is the condition upon which God illiterate,—the evidence of experience. God has seen fit to promise pardon to sinners; invites us to prove for ourselves the reality not that there is any virtue in faith of His Word, the truth of His promises." whereby salvation is merited, but because — Ibid., p. 111. faith can lay hold of the merits of Christ, the remedy provided for sin."—Ibid. The Role of Faith in Christian 3. How is faith related to Christian Experience living? 2 Cor. 5:7. 1. How does the Bible define faith? Heb. 11:1. Nora.—Faith results in a distinct way of life. The Christian plans and lives his life with reference to the God "whom having NOTE.—"When we speak of faith, there not seen, ye love." Faith makes God a is a distinction that should be borne in reality, an ever-present Companion; and mind. There is a kind of belief that is thus we "walk by faith, not by sight." wholly distinct from faith. The existence "It is not a conclusive evidence that a and power of God, the truth of His Word, man is a Christian because he manifests are facts that even Satan and his . hosts spiritual ecstasy under extraordinary cir- cannot at heart deny. . . . But this is not cumstances. Holiness is not rapture: it is faith. . . . Where there is not only a belief an entire surrender of the will to God;, it in God's Word, but a submission of the will is living by every word that proceeds from to Him ; where the heart is yielded to Him, the mouth of God; it is doing the will of the affections fixed upon Him, there is our heavenly Father; it is trusting God in faith—faith that works by love and puri- trial, in darkness as well as in the light; it fies the soul. Through this faith the heart is walking by faith and not by sight; it is is renewed in the image of God."—Steps relying on God with unquestioning con- to Christ, page 63. fidence, and resting in His love."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 51. 2. What is the basis of our relation- ship to God and to Christ? Mark 4. How is faith cultivated? Rom. 11:22; John 3:16. 10:17. [4] NoTE.—In order to grow and to be- 7. To what two perplexing ques- come strong and invincible, faith must tions does faith provide the answers? constantly be nourished on its native Heb. 11:3; 2 Peter 3:13. food—the Word of God. To neglect the study of God's Holy Word is to starve faith. It is by faith that the miracle of a transformed life is wrought; it is by faith that our prayers are answered. It is by 8. How only is the grace of God faith that we are to overcome the wicked accessible to the repentant sinner? one; it is by faith that the Holy Spirit is Eph. 2:8; 3:17. to dwell in our hearts. If faith is anemic for want of feeding on the Word of God, every other aspect of the Christian life will be correspondingly weak. NOTE.—"The law demands righteousness, "The truth is to be planted in the heart. and this the sinner owes to the law; but he It is to control the mind and regulate the is incapable of rendering it. The only way affections. The whole character must be in which he can attain to righteousness is stamped with the divine utterances. Every through faith. By faith he can bring to jot and tittle of the Word of God is to God the merits of Christ, and the Lord be brought into the daily practice."— places the obedience of His Son to the Christ's Object Lessons, page 314. See also sinner's account. Christ's righteousness is The Desire of Ages, page 126. accepted in place of man's failure, and God receives, pardons, justifies, the repentant, 5. How will genuine faith mani- believing soul, treats him as though he were righteous, and loves him as He loves fest itself? Gal. 5:6. Compare James His Son. This is how faith is accounted 2:17; Heb. 11:8. righteousness."—Ellen G. White Comments, S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1073. 9. What comes to us as a result of exercising genuine faith? Rom. 15:13. Faith, the Imperative Factor 6. How vital is faith to fellowship with God? Heb. 11:6. NOTE.—Faith must never be based on one's feelings, but on the promises of God; joy and peace come as a result of believing. In other words, faith precedes feeling. "There is peace in believing, and joy in NOTE.—"Jesus says, 'I am the vine, ye the Holy Ghost. Believing brings peace, and are the branches' (John 15:5). Can we trusting in God brings joy. Believe, be- conceive of a more intimate relation than lieve! my soul says, believe. Rest in God." this implies? . .. This spiritual relation be- —Testimonies, Vol. 2, pp. 319, 320. tween Christ and the soul can be estab- lished only through the exercise of personal 10. What is possible for one who faith. 'Without faith it is impossible to exercises faith? Mark 9:23. please Him' (Heb. 11:6) ; for it is faith that connects us with the power of heaven, and brings us strength for coping with the powers of darkness. . . . Faith familiar- 11. How is spiritual prosperity re- izes the soul with the existence and pres- ence of God, and, living with an eye single lated to faith? 2 Chron. 20:20. to the glory of God, more and more we discern the beauty of His character, the excellence of His grace. Our souls become strong in spiritual power; for we are Warnings and Counsels breathing the atmosphere of heaven, and realizing that God is at our right hand, 12. What will characterize the days that we shall not be moved."—Selected preceding Christ's return? Luke 18:8; Messages, Bk. 1, pp. 334, 335. 2 Peter 3:3, 4. [6 ] Norr•..—"This is a time when the ques- NOTE.-"It will not be long till we shall tion with all propriety may be asked, see Him in whom our hopes of eternal `When the Son of man cometh, shall He life are centered. And in His presence, all find faith on the earth ?' (Luke 18:8). the trials and sufferings of this life will be "Spiritual darkness has covered the earth as nothingness. 'Cast not away therefore and gross darkness the people. There are your confidence, which bath great recom- in many churches skepticism and infidelity pense of reward. For ye have need of in the interpretation of the Scriptures. patience, that, after ye have done the will Many, very many, are questioning the of God, ye might receive the promise. . . verity and truth of the Scriptures. Human Look up, look up, and let your faith con- reasoning and the imaginings of the human tinually increase. Let this faith guide you heart are undermining the inspiration of along the narrow path that leads through the Word of God, and that which should the gates of the City of God into the great be received as granted, is surrounded with beyond, the wide, unbounded future of a cloud of mysticism. Nothing stands out glory that is for the redeemed."—Testi- in clear and distinct lines, upon rock bot- monies, Vol. 9, pp. 287, 288. tom. This is one of the marked signs of the last days."—Selected Messages, Bk. 1, p. 15. 13. What counsel is given those 14. What will the shield of faith who await the return of the Lord? enable us to do? Eph. 6:16. Heb. 10:35-37. Lesson 2, for April 13, 1968 Faith and a Knowledge of God MEMORY VERSE: "And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou host sent." John 17:3. STUDY HELPS: "Testimonies," Vol. 8, pp. 263-278; "Steps to Christ," chapter, "A Knowledge of God"; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary." STUDY AIM: A realization that the revelation God has given of Himself is sufficient to inspire faith and confidence in the hearts of all who sincerely seek Him. Lesson Outline: II. God Has Revealed Himself 5. In nature. Rom. 1:19, 20; Ps. 19:1; Introduction Isa. 40:25, 26. 6. Through revelation. Heb. 1:1; I. A Knowledge of God Is Vital 2 Tim. 3:16. 1. Salvation is to know God. 7. In and through Jesus Christ. John 17:3. Heb. 1:2 ; 2 Cor. 4:6. 2. The essential knowledge. Jer. 8. Through His providences. Ps. 34: 9:23, 24. 6-8; 107:43. 3. God has no rivals. Isa. 43:10; III. We Can Approach God 44:6. 9. Seeking and finding God. 4. We believe that God is. Heb. 11:6. Jer. 29:13, 14. [6] 10. We have a Mediator. 1 Tim. 2:5; Matt. 11:27; John 14:6. 1 John 2:1. 13. Father and Son will abide with us. 11. God Himself loves us. John 16:27; John 14:23 ; Isa. 57:15. 3:16. 14. Fellowship the ultimate goal. 12. Access through the Son. 1 John 1:3. THE LESSON Introduction NOTE.—"If men could see for a moment beyond the range of finite vision, if they "We are too faithless. Oh, how I wish could catch a glimpse of the Eternal, every that I could lead our people to have faith mouth would be stopped in its boasting. in God! They need not feel that in order Men living in this little atom of a world to exercise faith they must be wrought up are finite; God has unnumbered worlds into a high state of excitement. All they that are obedient to His laws and are con- have to do is to believe God's Word, just as ducted with reference to His glory. When they believe one another's word. He hath men have gone as far in scientific research said it, and He will perform His Word. as their limited powers will permit, there Calmly rely on His promise, because He is still an infinity beyond what they can means all that He says. Say, He has spoken apprehend."—Counsels to Parents, Teach- to me in His Word, and He will fulfill every ers, and Students, page 66. promise that He has made. Do not become restless. Be trustful. God's Word is true." 3. What is said of the true God as —Selected Messages, Bk. 1, pp. 83, 84. compared with all false gods? Isa. 43:10; 44:6. A Knowledge of God Is Vital 1. What is a knowledge of God 4. What is it essential to believe declared to be? John 17:3. concerning God? Heb. 11:6. NOTE.—"There is no encouragement given for unbelief. The Lord manifests His NOTE.—"In His prayer to the Father, grace and His power over and over again, Christ gave to the world a lesson which and this should teach us that it is always should be graven on mind and soul. 'This profitable under all circumstances to cher- is life eternal,' He said, 'that they might ish faith, to talk faith, to act faith. We know Thee the only true God, and Jesus are not to have our hearts and hands Christ, whom Thou hast sent.' John 17:3. weakened by allowing the suggestions of This is true education. It imparts power. suspicious minds to plant in our hearts the The experimental knowledge of God and seeds of doubt and distrust."—Ellen G. of Jesus Christ whom He has sent, trans- White Comments, S.D.A. Bible Commen- forms man into the image of God. It gives tary, Vol. 7, p. 928. to man the mastery of himself, bringing every impulse and passion of the lower nature under the control of the higher God Has Revealed Himself powers of the mind. It makes its possessor 5. Of what does nature testify? a son of God and an heir of heaven. It Rom. 1:19, 20; Ps. 19:1; Isa. 40:25, 26. brings him into communion with the mind of the Infinite, and opens to him the rich treasures of the universe."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 114. NoTE.—"It is not that they do not know the truth about God: indeed He has 2. In what only should man take made it quite plain to them. For since the pride? Jer. 9:23, 24. beginning of the world the invisible attri- 7 butes of God, for example, His eternal we learn of the personality of God as it is power and divinity, have been plainly dis- revealed in Christ."—Sons and Daughters cernible through things which He has made of God, page 21. and which are commonly seen and known, thus leaving these men without a rag of 8. In what other manner does God excuse. They knew all the time that there reveal Himself? Ps. 34:6-8; 107:43. is a God, yet they refused to acknowledge Him as such." Rom. 1:19-21. (From The New Testament in Modern English, copy- right J. B. Phillips, 1958. Used by permis- NOTE.—"God speaks to us through His sion of The Macmillan Company.) providential workings, and through the in- fluence of His Spirit upon the heart."— 6. Through what means other than Steps to Christ, page 87. nature has God revealed Himself to humanity? Heb. 1:1; 2 Tim. 3:16. We Can Approach God 9. What remarkable assurance has God given? Jer. 29:13, 14. NOTE.—"God speaks to us in His Word. Here we have in clearer lines the revelation of His character, of His dealings with men, and the great work of redemption. Here NOTE.—"The whole heart must be yielded is open before us the history of patriarchs to God, or the change can never be wrought and prophets and other holy men of old. in us by which we are to be restored to They were men 'subject to like passions His likeness. By nature we are alienated as we are.' James 5:17. We see how they from God. . . . God desires to heal us, to struggled through discouragements like our set us free. But since this requires an en- own, how they fell under temptation as tire• transformation, a renewing of our we have done, and yet took heart again whole nature, we must yield ourselves and conquered through the grace of God; wholly to Him."—Steps to Christ, page 43. and, beholding, we are encouraged in our striving after righteousness."—Steps to 10. In what capacity does Jesus now Christ, pages 87, 88. serve His believing children? 1 Tim. 2:5; 1 John 2:1. 7. Through whom did God make the most complete revelation of Him- self? Heb. 1:2; 2 Cor. 4:6. Compare John 14:9. 11. What did Jesus say of God's attitude toward us? John 16:27; 3:16. NOTE.—"Who is Christ?—He is the only- begotten Son of the living God. He is to NOTE.—"Said Jesus: 'The Father Him- the Father as a word that expresses the self loveth you.' If our faith is fixed upon thought,—as a thought made audible. God, through Christ, it will prove 'as an Christ is the Word of God. Christ said to anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, Philip, 'He that bath seen Me, hath seen and which entereth into that within the the Father.' His words were the echo of vail; whither the Forerunner is for us God's words. Christ was the likeness of entered.' It is true that disappointments God, the brightness of His glory, the ex- will come; tribulation we must expect; but press image of His person.. . . we are to commit everything, great and "Christ came to teach human beings small, to God. He does not become per- what God desires them to know. In the plexed by the multiplicity of our griev- heavens above, in the earth, in the broad ances nor overpowered by the weight of waters of the ocean, we see the handiwork our burdens. His watchcare extends to of God. All created things testify to His every household and encircles every in- power, His wisdom, His love. But not from dividual; He is concerned in all our busi- the stars or the ocean or the cataract •can ness and our sorrows. He marks every 18 tear; He is touched with the feeling of our 13. With whom will the Father and infirmities. All the afflictions and trials that the Son make their abode? John 14: befall us here are permitted, to work out 23; Isa. 57:15. His purposes of love toward us, 'that we might be partakers of His holiness' and thus become participants in that fullness of joy which is found in His presence."— Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 742. 14. What is the final goal of all our 12. How only can we approach God spiritual endeavors? 1 John 1:3. Com- the Father? Matt. 11:27; John 14:6. pare John 10:28, 29. NOTE.—"Jehovah did not deem the plan of salvation complete while invested only NorE.—The Infinite God has provided with His love. He has placed at His altar evidence of His existence, His love, and His an Advocate clothed in our nature. As our concern for us sufficient to lead everyone Intercessor, Christ's office work is to in- who is honest in heart into a satisfying and troduce us to God as His sons and daugh- and unbroken fellowship with Him. No ters. He intercedes in behalf of those who one need miss the way. God can re-create receive Him. With His own blood He has the human heart with a capacity for fel- paid their ransom. By virtue of His merits lowship with the divine. All of God's deal- He gives them power to become members ings with human beings are with the in- of the royal family, children of the heav- tent that "they should seek the Lord, if enly King. And the Father demonstrates haply they might feel after Him, and find His infinite love for Christ by receiving Him, though He be not far from every and welcoming Christ's friends as His one of us: for in Him we live, and move, friends."—Testimonies, Vol. 8, p. 177. and have our being." Acts 17:27, 28. Lesson 3, for April 20, 1968 Faith and God's Promises MEMORY VERSE: "Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust." 2 Peter 1:4. STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 621, 622; "Education," pages 253-255; "Selected Messages," Bk. 1, pp. 83-85; Bk. 2, pp. 242-245; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary." STUDY AIM: To appreciate the greatness of God's promises, and to learn how to appropriate them by faith. Lesson Outline: 3. Spiritual blessings supplied. Eph. 1:3 ; 2 Peter 1:3, 4. Introduction 4. Temporal necessities provided. Matt. 6:30-34 ; Acts 14:17. I. The Vastness of God's Promises II. The Nature of God's Promises 1. Exceeding great and precious. 2 Peter 1:4. 5. They are trustworthy. James 1:17; 2. All our needs covered. Phil. Num. 23:19. 4:19; Ps. 84:11. 6. They are unfailing. 2 Cor. 1:20. SABBATH (§8HOOL DEPARTMENT GENERAL CONFERENVR 7. They require man's cooperation. 10. Be fully persuaded God will per- Isa. 1:19, 20. form His word. Rom. 4:20, 21. 8. They are conditional. Deut. 11: 11. Meet conditions of the promises. 26-28; 1 John 1:9; Rev. 3:20. Deut. 28:1, 2, 13, 14; Jer. 18:9, 10. Conditions for Fulfillment of 12. Accept the promises by faith as though fulfilled. 1 John 5:14, 15; God's Promises Mark 11:24. 9. Firmly believe the promises. Luke 13. Express gratitude for the promises. 24:25; 1 'Mess. 2:13. Phil. 4:6; Eph. 5:20. 'THE LESSON Introduction "There are many who,- though striving to obey God's commandments, have little In His plan for the redemption of man, peace or joy. This lack in their experience our heavenly Father has provided for all is the result of a failure to exercise faith. our needs with specific promises. Recorded They walk as it were in a salt land, a in His Holy Word, these promises are "ex- parched wilderness. They claim little, when ceeding great and precious." "In them He they might claim much; for there is no is speaking to us individually, speaking limit to the promises of God. Such ones do as directly as if we could listen to His not correctly represent the sanctification voice. It is in these promises that Christ that comes through obedience to the truth. communicates to us His grace and power. The Lord would have all His sons and They are leaves from that tree which is daughters happy, peaceful, and obedient. `for the healing of the nations.' . . . Re- Through the exercise of faith the believer ceived, assimilated, they are to be the comes into possession of these blessings. strength of the character, the inspiration Through faith, every deficiency of char- and sustenance of the life. Nothing else can acter may be supplied."—The Acts of the have such healing power. Nothing besides Apostles, pages 563, 564. can impart the courage and faith which give vital energy to the whole being."— 2. How comprehensive is God's Tke Ministry of Healing, page 122. In this lesson we shall see how vast are care and provision for His children? God's provisions, and how, by faith and Phil. 4:19; Ps. 84:11. obedience, we can appropriate these prom- ises in our daily lives. God's promises were not meant merely to arouse our interest and admiration; they were intended for our appropriation. God's gifts are in His NoTa.—"Worry is blind and cannot dis- promises—when we accept the promises by cern the future; but Jesus sees the end faith, the gifts are ours also. from the beginning. In every difficulty He has His way prepared to bring relief. 'No The Vastness of God's Promises good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.' Matt. 11:30; Ps. 84: 1. With what words does the apos- 11. tle Peter describe God's promises? "Our heavenly Father has a thousand What are these promises designed to ways to provide for us of which we know do for us? 2 Peter 1:4. nothing. Those who accept the one prin- ciple of making the service of God supreme, will find perplexities vanish and a plain path before their feet."—The Ministry of Healing, page 481. NOTE.—An amazing transformation is as- sured in the lives of those who appropri- ate the promises of God by faith. They 3. What provision has God made may become "partakers of the divine na- for our spiritual growth? Eph. 1:3; ture"! 2 Peter 1:3, 4. C19] 4. What promise is given concern- NoTE.—"In the work of salvation there ing man's temporal needs? Matt. 6: is a cooperation of human and divine agen- 30-34; Acts 14:17. cies. There is much said concerning the inefficiency of human effort, and yet the Lord does nothing for the salvation of the soul without the cooperation of man. The Word of God is clear and distinct on this NorE.—"Christ is the source of all tem- point, and yet when so much depends upon poral, as well as all spiritual blessings.. . our cooperation with the heavenly agen- "How can those who expect to stand cies, men conduct themselves as though around Christ's throne, and to be clothed they could afford to set aside the claims with His righteousness, distrust God, and of God, and let the things of eternal im- fear that He will leave them to come to portance wait their convenience."—Funda- want? Where is their faith? Our heavenly mentals of Christian Education, pages 217, Father feeds the ravens, and will He not 218. much more feed us? . . . If we had a right view of Christ, we would permit nothing 8. What indications do we have to interpose between ourselves and Him." that God's promises are conditional? —Sons and Daughters of God, page 234. Deut. 11:26-28; 1 John 1:9; Rev. 3:20. The Nature of God's Promises 5. What characteristic of God NOTE.-"All His [God's] gifts are prom- , makes His promises trustworthy? ised on condition of obedience. God has James 1:17; Num. 23:19. Compare a heaven full of blessings for those who Joshua 21:45. will cooperate with Him. All who obey Him may with confidence claim the ful- fillment of His promises."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 145. 6. What is said of the reliability of Conditions for Fulfillment of all God's promises made through Je- sus Christ? 2 Cor. 1:20. Compare Ps. God's Promises 37:25. 9. How should we regard the Bible promises? Luke 24:25; 1 Thess. 2:13. NOTE.—" 'Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and NoTE.—"The good-ground hearer re- tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall He ceives the Word ‘notas the word of men. not much more clothe you, 0 ye of little but as it is in truth, the Word of God.' faith?' Can you not trust in your heavenly 1 Thess. 2:13. Only he who receives the Father? Can you not rest upon His gra- Scriptures as the voice of God speaking cious promise? 'Seek ye first the kingdom of to himself is a true learner. He trembles at God, and His righteousness; and all these the Word; for to him it is a living re- things shall be added unto you.' Precious ality."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 59. promise! Can you not rely upon it? Can we not have implicit trust, knowing that 10. Of what must we as individuals He is faithful who hath promised? I en- treat you to let your trembling faith again be fully persuaded in order to exper- grasp the promises of God. Bear your ience the fulfillment of God's prom- whole weight upon them with unwavering ises? Rom. 4:20, 21. Compare Dan. faith; for they will not, they cannot, fail." 3:16-18; Matt. 9:28, 29. —Testimonies, Vol. 2, p. 497. (Emphasis supplied.) 7. To experience the fulfillment of 11. Upon what does the fulfillment God's promises, what must be our at- of such promises depend? Deut. 28:1, titude? Isa. 1:19, 20-. 2, 13, 14; Jer. 18:9, 10. NOTE.—"Those who bring their petitions NOTE.—"Is Jesus true? Does He mean to God, claiming His promise while they what He says? Answer decidedly, Yes, do not comply with the conditions, insult every word. Then if you have settled this, Jehovah. They bring the name of Christ by faith claim every promise that He has as their authority for the fulfillment of the made, and receive the blessing; for this promise, but they do not those things that acceptance by faith gives life to the soul. would show faith in Christ and love for You may believe that Jesus is true to you, Him. even though you feel yourself to be the "Many are forfeiting the conditions of weakest and most unworthy of His chil- acceptance with the Father. We need to dren."—Testimonies to Ministers, page 517. examine closely the deed of trust where- "For any gift He has promised, we may with we approach God. If we are dis- ask; then we are to believe that we re- obedient, we bring to the Lord a note to ceive, and return thanks to God that we be cashed when we have not fulfilled the have received. conditions that would make it payable to "We need look for no outward evidence us. We present to God His promises, and of the blessing. The gift is in the promise, ask Him to fulfill them, when by so doing and we may go about our work assured He would dishonor His own name."— that what God has promised He is able Christ's Object Lessons, page 143. to perform, and that the gift, which we already possess, will be realized when we 12. When we comply with the con- need it most."—Education, page 258. ditions God wisely attaches to His promises, what assurance is ours? 13. What should be mingled with 1 John 5:14, 15; Mark 11:24. all our petitions? Phil. 4:6; Eph. 5:20. Lesson 4, for April 27, 1968 Faith and the Promise of Reconciliation MEMORY VERSE: "For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by His life." Romans 5:10. STUDY HELPS: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 33-70; "The Desire of Ages," pages 19-26, 114-131, 741-764; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "The Great Controversy," pages 675-678. STUDY AIM: To deepen the assurance of acceptance into the family of God. Lesson Outline: II. Love Found a Way 5. God took the initiative. 1 John 4:10; Rom. 5:8. Introduction 6. Christ took man's place. Heb. 2:9. 7. Christ bore man's guilt. 2 Cor. 1. Estranged From God 5:21; Isa. 53:4-6. 8. Reconciliation assured. Rom. 5:10; 1. A happy beginning. Gen. 1:27, 28; Col. 1:21. 2:15. 2. Free moral agents—a choice. III. The Estrangement Ended; Gen. 2:17. Reconciliation Effected .3. Failure and estrangement. 9. From sinners to sons. Matt. 11:28; Gen. 3:6-8, 19, 24. John 12:32 ; 1:12. 4. Man's condition hopeless. 10. The new birth. John 3:3; Eph. 2:12; Rom. 5:12. 1 Cor. 6:9-11. [12] 11. Adopted into the royal family. 13. Heirs to an inheritance. Rom. Gal. 4:4-7; Eph. 2:19. 8:18; Rev. 21:7. 12. Represented before the Father. 14. The return of the redeemed. Heb. 7:25; 1 Tim. 2:5. Isa. 35:10. THE LESSON Introduction 3. What was the result of the un- wise choice made by Adam and Eve? "The sin of Adam and Eve caused a Gen. 3:6-8, 19, 24. fearful separation between God and man. And Christ steps in between fallen man and God, and says to man: 'You may yet come to the Father; there is a plan devised NOTE.—How true are the words of through which God can be reconciled to Isaiah: "For thus saith the Lord, Ye have man, and man to God; through a mediator sold yourselves for nought; and ye shall you can approach God.' And now He be redeemed without money." Isa. 52:3. stands to mediate for you. He is the great All that Adam and Eve were endowed High Priest who is pleading in your be- with they lost through disobedience: in- half; and you are to come and present nocence, Gen. 3:7; life, Gen. 3:19; home, your case to the Father through Jesus Gen. 3:23, 24; dominion, Heb. 2:8. God's Christ. Thus you can find access to God; plan of reconciliation will, through Christ, and though you sin, your case is not hope- restore all that was lost through Adam. less. 'If any man sin, we have an Advocate Acts 3:21. with the Father, Jesus Christ the righ- teous.' "—Testimonies, Vol. 2, p. 591. Faith 4. As a consequence of transgres- makes this experience a reality. sion, what is man's condition? Eph. 2:12; Rom. 5:12. Estranged From God 1. In the beginning, what was the condition of the first family? What Love Found a Way privilege did they enjoy? Gen. 1:27, 28; 2:15. 5. Who took the initiative in bring- ing about a reconciliation? Why did God do this? 1 John 4:10; Rom. 5:8. NOTE.—To man, the crowning work of His creation, God gave three precious pos- sessions: life, Gen. 2:7; a home, Gen. 2: 6. In becoming our Saviour, whose 15 ; dominion, Gen. 1:28. place did Christ take? What was in- volved? Heb. 2:9. 2. With what special capacity did the Creator endow the first pair? Gen. 2:17. NoTE.—"After Christ had condescended to leave His high command, step down from an infinite height and assume hu- NoTE.—With the power to choose be- manity, He could have taken upon Him tween good and evil also came account- any condition of humanity He might ability. Man, who is permitted to choose, choose. But greatness and rank were noth- must also accept the consequences of his ing to Him, and He selected the lowest choices. The consequences were made very and most humble walk of life."—Ellen G. plain. White Comments, S.D.A. Bible Commen- tary, Vol. 7, p. 903. [ 13 ] "In Christ dwelt all the fullness of the provided, what gracious invitation Godhead. But the only way in which He and positive assurance is extended to could reach men was to veil His glory by sinners? Matt. 11:28; John 12:32; a garb of humanity. The angels beheld the hiding of His glory, that divinity might 1:12. touch humanity. Christ ever retained the ut- most hatred for sin, but He loved the pur- chase of His blood. He suffered in the place of sinful men, taking them into union 10. What marvelous transforma- with Himself."—Ibid., p. 904. tion comes to all who by faith em- brace the provisions God has made 7. How closely did Christ identify for our reconciliation? John 3:3; Himself with sinners? 2 Cor. 5:21; 1 Cor. 6:9-11. Isa. 53:4-6. NOTE.—"The Lord Jesus is making ex- NOTE.—"Christ made satisfaction for the periments on human hearts through the guilt of the whole world, and all who will exhibition of His mercy and abundant come to God in faith, will receive the righ- grace. He is effecting transformations so teousness of Christ, 'who His own self bare amazing that Satan, with all his triumph- our sins in His own body on the tree, ant boasting, with all his confederacy of evil that we, being dead to sins, should live united against God and the laws of His unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye government, stands viewing them as a for- were healed' (1 Peter 2:24). Our sin has tress impregnable to his sophistries and been expiated, put away, cast into the delusions. They are to him an incompre- depths of the sea. Through repentance and hensible mystery. The angels of God, sera- faith we are rid of sin, and look unto the phim and cherubim, the powers commis- Lord our righteousness. Jesus suffered, the sioned to cooperate with human agencies, just for the unjust."—Selected Messages, look on with astonishment and joy, that Bk. 1, pp. 392, 393. fallen men, once children of wrath, are through the training of Christ developing 8. As a result of Christ's infinite characters after the divine similitude, to sacrifice, what was assured to sinners? be sons and daughters of God, to act an important part in the occupations and Rom. 5:10; Col. 1:21. pleasures of heaven."—Sons and Daugh- ters of God, page 356. • 11. Into what family are trans- NOTE.—Our reconciliation with the Fa- ther was assured. The way into the pres- formed sinners adopted? Gal. 4:4-7; ence of God was opened. "In Him we Eph. 2:19. have a complete offering, an infinite sacri- fice, a mighty Saviour, who is able to save unto the uttermost all who come unto God by Him. In love He comes to reveal the NoTE.—"The only-begotten Son of God has died that we might live. The Lord has Father, reconcile man to God, to make him accepted this sacrifice in our behalf, as our a new creature renewed after the image of Him who created him. substitute and surety, on the condition that we receive Christ and believe on Him. "Jesus is our atoning sacrifice. We can make no atonement for ourselves; but byThe sinner must come in faith to Christ, faith we can accept the atonement that take hold of His merits, lay his sins upon the Sin Bearer, and receive His pardon. It has been made."—Selected Messages, Bk. 1, pp. 321, 322. was for this cause that Christ came into the world. Thus the righteousness of Christ The Estrangement Ended; is imputed to the repenting, believing sin- ner. He becomes a member of the royal Reconciliation Effected family, a child of the heavenly King, an heir of God, and joint heir with Christ"— 9. In view of the reconciliation Selected Messages, Bk. 1, p. 215. [ 14 ] 12. In what capacity does Christ dren of God look forward? Rom. 8: now serve before the Father? Heb. 18; Rev. 21:7. 7:25; 1 Tim. 2:5. Compare 1 John 2:1. NOTE.-"Language fails to express the NOTE.-"The intercession of Christ in value of the immortal inheritance. The man's behalf in the sanctuary above is as glory, riches, and honor offered by the Son essential to the plan of salvation as was of God are of such infinite value that it is His death upon the cross. By His death beyond the power of men or even angels He began that work which after His res- to give any just idea of their worth, their urrection He ascended to complete in excellence, their magnificence."-Testinto- heaven."-The Great Controversy, page nies, Vol. 2, p. 40. 489. 14. What picture does Isaiah por- 13. By virtue of membership in the tray of the ransomed as they return royal family, to what may the chil- to their eternal home? Isa. 35:10. Lesson 5, for May 4, 1968 Faith and the Promise. of Pardon MEMORY VERSE: "Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon." Isaiah 55:7. STUDY HELPS: "Steps to Christ," chapters, "Repentance" and "Confession"; "Testi- monies," Vol. 5, pp. 635-641. STUDY AIM: To gain a fuller appreciation of the assurance of pardon given to every believing child of God. Lesson Outline: 7. An Advocate provided. Rom. 8:34; Heb. 9:24. Introduction 8. God's invitation to all. Isa. 1:18. I. The Universal Need for Pardon Ili. Conditions of Pardon 1. All have sinned and need pardon. 9. Recognition of our need. Job 42:5, Rom. 3:23; 5:12. 6; Ps. 51:4, 5. 2. The consequences of sin. 10. Confession. 1 John 1:9; Prov. Rom. 6:23 ; Prov. 11:19; Isa. 59:2. 28:13; Ps. 32:5. 3. Sin enslaves. John 8:34 ; Rom. 11. Thorough repentance and reforma- 6:16. tion. Ezek. 18:30; 2 Chron. 7:14; 4. No human remedy. Jer. 2:22; Isa. 55:7. 13:23 ; Rom. 7:18-20, 24. 12. Willingness to forgive others. II. The Promise of Pardon Matt. 6:12, 14, 15; 18:21, 22. 5. God's attitude toward sinners. IV. The Assurance of Pardon Micah 7:18; Ex. 34:6, 7. 13. Sins pardoned and forgotten. 6. The price of our pardon. Jer. 31:34; Heb. 10:22, 23 ; Eph. 1:7; 1 John 4:10. 1 John 5:14, 15. [15 1 THE LESSON Introduction there is not a more fearful warning against trifling with evil than the words of the Every individual has a past as well as wise man that the sinner 'shall be holden a present. That past we cannot ignore, for with the cords of his sins.' Prov. 5:22."— memory keeps us constantly in touch with Steps to Christ, page 34. it. In the past, "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." It is the studied 4. How does the Bible state the im- purpose of Satan, the originator of evil, to possibility of man's freeing himself haunt humanity with the sins of the past. from sin and its effects? Jer. 2:22; 13: The result is frustration and bewilderment. 23; Rom. 7:18-20, 24. Mankind has been offered many self-help remedies for guilt and frustration, but all such remedies have proved futile. Without divine intervention the condition of the human family is hopeless. NOTE.—"As your conscience has been But God has intervened. An incalculable quickened by the Holy Spirit, you have price has been paid for our sins. A foun- seen something of the evil of sin, of its tain has been opened for sin and unclean- power, its guilt, its woe; and you look ness, where we may wash and be clean. upon it with abhorrence. You feel that The promise is explicit and clear: "Though sin has separated you from God, that you your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as are in bondage to the power of evil. The white as snow; though they be red like more you struggle to escape, the more you crimson, they shall be as wool." Isa. 1:18. realize your helplessness. Your motives are May God bring to each heart the assurance impure; your heart is unclean. You see of forgiveness. that your life has been filled with selfish- ness and sin. You long to be forgiven, to be cleansed, to be set free. Harmony with The Universal Need for Pardon God, likeness to Him—what can you do to 1. How many are in need of par- obtain it? "It is peace you need—Heaven's forgive- don? Why? Rom. 3:23; 5:12. ness and peace and love in the soul. Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot procure it, wisdom cannot attain to it; you can never hope, by your own efforts, to secure it."— 2. Unless we repent of our sins Steps to Christ, page 49. and receive pardon, what will be the result? Rom. 6:23; Prov. 11:19; Isa. The Promise of Pardon 59:2. 5. What is God's disposition and attitude toward sinners? Micah 7:18; Ex. 34:6, 7. 3. What is the condition of one who yields to sin? John 8:34; Rom. 6:16. NOTE.—"The Lord is full of compassion for His suffering ones. What sins are too great for His pardon? He is merciful, and as such is infinitely more ready and more NOTE.—"Even one wrong trait of char- pleased to pardon than to condemn. He is acter, one sinful desire, persistently cher- gracious, not looking for wrong in us; He ished, will eventually neutralize all the knoweth our frame; He remembereth that power of the gospel. Every sinful indul- we are but dust. In His boundless com- gence strengthens the soul's aversion to passion and mercy He heals all our back- God. The man who manifests an infidel slidings, loving us freely while we are yet hardihood, or a stolid indifference to divine sinners, withdrawing not His light, but truth, is but reaping the harvest of that shining on us for Christ's sake."—Selected which he has himself sown. In all the Bible Messages, Bk. 2, p. 231. [ 16 ] 6. What action did God's love Conditions of Pardon prompt Him to take for our pardon? 9. What revelation of ourselves will Eph. 1:7; 1 John 4:10. motivate us to seek God's pardon? Job 42:5, 6; Psalm 51:4, 5. Compare Luke 15:17, 18. NOTE.—"All heaven suffered in Christ's agony; but that suffering did not begin or end with His manifestation in humanity. NOTE.—"No deep-seated love for Jesus The cross is a revelation to our dull senses can dwell in the heart that does not realize of the pain that, from its very inception, its own sinfulness.... sin has brought to the heart of God. "The less we see to esteem in ourselves, Every departure from the right, every deed the more we shall see to esteem in the in- of cruelty, every failure of humanity to finite purity and loveliness of our Saviour. reach His ideal, brings grief to Him."— A view of our sinfulness drives us to Him Education, page 263. who can pardon; and when the soul, real- "Without the cross, man could have no izing its helplessness, reaches out after union with the Father. On it depends our Christ, He will reveal Himself in power. every hope. From it shines the light of the The more our sense of need drives us to Saviour's love, and when at the foot of the Him and to the Word of God, the more cross the sinner looks up to the One who exalted views we shall have of His char- died to save him, he may rejoice with full- acter, and the more fully we shall reflect ness of joy, for his sins are pardoned. His image."—Steps to Christ, page 65. Kneeling in faith at the cross, he has reached the highest place to which man can 10. What is required of those who attain."—The Acts of the Apostles, pages seek forgiveness? How definite must 209, 210. our confessions be? 1 John 1:9; Prov. 28:13; Ps. 32:5. 7. How is the Christian's case rep- resented before the Father? Rom. 8: 34; Heb. 9:24. NOTE.—"There is great need today of just such sincere, heartfelt repentance and confession [as that of Daniell. Those who have not humbled• their souls before God in acknowledging their guilt have not yet ful- NOTE.—"Eireryone who will break from filled the first condition of acceptance."— the slavery and service of Satan, and will Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 636. stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel will be kept by Christ's 11. What must accompany confes- intercessions. Christ, as our Mediator, at sion in order that it may be acceptable the right hand of the Father,- ever keeps to God? Ezek. 18:30; 2 Chron. 7:14; us in view, for it is as necessary that He should keep us by His intercessions as Isa. 55:7. Compare Lev. 6:4, 5. that He should redeem us with His blood. If He lets go His hold of us for one mo- ment, Satan stands ready to destroy. Those purchased by His blood, He now keeps by NOTE.—"Confession will not be accept- His intercession."—Ellen G. White Com- able to God without sincere repentance ments, S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, and reformation. There must be decided p. 1078. changes in the life; everything offensive to God must be put away."—Steps to Christ, page 39. 8. What compelling invitation does Note the heartfelt repentance of David God extend to all? Isa. 1:18. recorded in Psalm 51. 17 12. What spirit must we maintain NOTE.—Faith assures us of the fulfill- toward others if we would have our ment of God's promises.. Ellen G. White, sins pardoned? Matt. 6:12, 14, 15; having described the healing of the para- 18:21, 22. lytic at Bethesda, makes the following application: "In like manner you are a sinner. You cannot atone for your past sins; you can- NOTE.—"We are not forgiven because not change your heart and make it holy. we forgive, but as we forgive. The ground But God promises to do all this for you of all forgiveness is found in the unmerited through Christ. You believe that promise. love of God, but by our attitude toward You confess your sins and give yourself to others we show whether we have made God. You will to serve Him. Just as surely that love our own."—Christ's Object Les- as you do this, God will fulfil His word Sons, page 251. to you. If you believe the promise,—believe that you are forgiven and cleansed,—God The Assurance of Pardon supplies the fact; you are made whole, just as Christ gave the paralytic power to walk when the man believed that he was healed. 13. When we believe God's prom- It is so if you believe it. ises and comply with the conditions, "Do not wait to feel that you are made what assurance may we, by faith, ac- whole, but say, 'I believe it; it is so, not cept? Jer. 31:34; Heb. 10:22, 23; because I feel it, but because God has 1 John 5:14, 15. promised.' "—Steps to Christ, page 51. Lesson 6, for May 11, 1968 Faith and the Promise of God's Presence MEMORY VERSE: "And He said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest." Exodus 33:14. STUDY HELPS: "Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 628, 651, 652; "Testimonies to Ministers," pages 387-391; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; Psalm 139. STUDY AIM: To gain a deeper realization of the fact that we are always in the presence of the infinite God. Lesson Outline: II. God Knows Every Detail of Our Lives Introduction 5. His eye sees all. Heb. 4:13; I. The Infinite God Is Everywhere Jer. 23:24; Ps. 139:7-12. 6. He knows all our activities. Present Ps. 139:1-3; Isa. 29:15. 1. He is infinite in power and 7. He knows our words and motives. knowledge. Isa. 40:25-28. Ps. 139:4; Matt. 12:36, 37. 2. His presence fills heaven and earth. Isa. 66:1; Acts 7:48-50. III. Assurance of God's Presence 3. His presence dwells with the and Aid humble. Isa. 57:15 ; 66:2. 8. His presence promised to His 4. He is never far from any one of us. children. Ex. 33:14; John 14:18; Acts 17:26-28. Heb. 13:5. 18 9. He is present in all our trials. 12. Faith makes the promised presence Isa. 43:1, 2 ; 63:9. a reality. Ps. 16:8. 10. Assurance to Israel and Joshua. Deut. 31:6-8; 4:7. 13. The influence of His abiding 11. The secret of Moses' faith. presence. 2 Cor. 3:18. IIeb. 11:27. THE LESSON Introduction NOTE.—"We should cherish gratitude of heart all the days of our life because the A satisfying fellowship with God can be Lord has put on record these words: 'For established only upon an unwavering faith thus saith the high and lofty One that in His reality and His presence. Paul says: inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I "And without faith it is impossible to dwell in the high and holy place, with him please Him. The man who approaches God also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, must have faith in two things, first that to revive the spirit of the humble, and to God exists and secondly that it is worth revive the heart of the contrite ones.' The a man's while to try to find God." Heb. reconciliation of God to man, and man to 11:6. (From The New Testament in Mod- God, is sure when certain conditions are ern English, copyright J. B. Phillips 1958. met."—Fundamentals of Christian Educa- Used by permission of The Macmillan tion, page 370. Company.) "From the soul that feels his need, noth- "As a shield from temptation and an ing is withheld. He has unrestricted access inspiration to purity and truth, no other to Him in whom all fullness dwells."— influence can equal the sense of God's pres- The Desire of Ages, page 300. ence. 'All things are nak-d and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to 4. How closely has God identified do.' . . . This thought was Joseph's shield Himself with humanity? Acts 17:26- amidst the corruptions of Egypt. To the 28. allurements of temptation his answer was steadfast: 'How . . . can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?' Gen. 39:9. Such a shield, faith, if cherished, will bring to every soul."—Education, page 255. NOTE.—"Nature in her work testifies of (Emphasis supplied.) the intelligent presence and active agency of a Being who moves in all His works according to His will. It is not by an orig- The Infinite God Is Everywhere inal power inherent in nature that year Present by year the earth produces its bounties and the world keeps up its continual march 1. What evidence does Isaiah give around the sun. The hand of infinite power of the power and knowledge of God? is perpetually at work guiding this planet. Isa. 40:25-28. It is God's power momentarily exercised that keeps it in position in its rotations. The God of heaven is constantly at work. It is by His power that vegetation is caused 2. How extensive is the presence of to flourish, that every leaf appears and God? Isa. 66:1; Acts 7:48-50. every flower blooms. It is not as the result of a mechanism, that, once set in motion, continues its work, that the pulse beats and breath follows breath. In God we live and move and have our being. Every breath, 3. Although the presence of God every throb of the heart, is the continual fills the heavens and the earth, with evidence of the power of an ever-present whom does He condescend to dwell? God."—Ellen G. White Comments, S.D.A. Isa. 57:15; 66:2. Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1062. [ 19 ] words may not be heard by human ears, God Knows Every Detail but they are heard by the Ruler of the of Our Lives universe. He reads the inward anger of the soul when the will is crossed. He hears the 5. Is it possible for man to with- expression of profanity. In the deepest draw himself from the presence of darkness and solitude He is there. No one God? Heb. 4:13; Jer. 23:24; Ps. 139: can deceive God; none can escape from 7-12. their accountability to Him."—Ellen G. White Comments, S.D.A. Bible Commen- tary,Vol. 3, p. 1153. NOTE.—"If we were to cherish an habit- Assurance of God's Presence ual impression that God sees and hears and Aid all that we do and say and keeps a faith- ful record of our words and actions, and 8. What precious promise has God that we must meet it all, we would fear made to His people? Ex. 33:14; John to sin. Let the young ever remember that 14:18; Heb. 13:5. wherever they are, and whatever they do, they are in the presence of God. No part of our conduct escapes observation. We cannot hide our ways from the Most High."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 217. NOTE.—"The presence of God is guar- anteed to the Christian. This Rock of faith 6. How fully is God acquainted is the living presence of God. The weakest with all our ways? Ps. 139:1-3; Isa. may depend upon it. Those who think 29:15. themselves the strongest may become the weakest unless they depend on Christ as their efficiency, their worthiness. This is the Rock upon which we may build suc- cessfully. God is near in Christ's atoning • NOTE.—"The eye of the Lord is upon sacrifice, in His intercession, His loving, all the work, all the plans, all the imagin- tender ruling power over the church. Seated ings of every mind; He sees beneath the by the eternal throne, He watches them surface of things, discerning the thoughts with intense interest. As long as the mem- and intents of the heart. There is not a bers of the church shall through faith draw deed of darkness, not a plan, not an imag- sap and nourishment from Jesus Christ, ination of the heart, not a thought of the and not from man's opinions and devis- mind, but that He reads it as an open ings, and methods; if having a conviction book. Every act, every word, every mo- of the nearness of God in Christ, they put tive, is faithfully chronicled in the records their entire trust in Him, they will have by the great Heart Searcher, who said, a vital connection with Christ as the `I know thy works.' "—Testimonies to branch has connection with the parent Ministers, pages 463, 464. stock."—Sons and Daughters of God, page 77. 7. With what else besides our ac- tions is God also fully acquainted? 9. How does the living God identify What accounting must eventually be Himself with our trials? Isa. 43:1, 2; made? Ps. 139:4; Matt. 12:36, 37. 63:9. Compare Dan. 6:18-23; 3:21-25; Acts 27:23-25. NOTE.—"We are never alone. We have a Companion, whether we choose Him or NOTE.—"As in the days of Shadrach, not. . . . To your every word and action Meshach, and Abednego, so in the cloSing you have a witness,—the holy, sin-hating period of earth's history the Lord will God. Nothing that is said or done or work mightily in behalf of those who thought can escape His infinite eye. Your stand steadfastly for the right. He who [ 20 1 walked with the Hebrew worthies into the 12. What must we do individually fiery furnace will be with His followers if the presence of God is to be a liv- wherever they are. His abiding presence ing reality to us? Ps. 16:8. will comfort and sustain."—Prophets and Kings, page 513, 10. What wonderful assurance did NoTE.—If we would have an ever deep- Moses give to Joshua and his people? ening sense of the presence of God, then What should they exercise as a result we must cultivate a proper relationship by of This promise? Deut. 31:6-8; 4:7. setting the Lord always before us. This requires constant vigilance and practice. We must: a. Exercise an unwavering faith in the NoTE.—"To His children today the Lord promises of His presence. "God has given declares, 'Be strong, . . . and work: for us Jesus, and in Him is the revelation of I am with you.' The Christian always has a God. Our Redeemer says: 'If a man love strong helper in the Lord. The way of the Me, he will keep My words: and My Fa- Lord's helping we may not know; but ther will love him, and We will come unto this we do know: He will never fail those him, and make Our abode with him.' who put their trust in Him. Could Chris- [John 14:23.] . . . If we know God, and tians realize how many times the Lord Jesus Christ whom He has sent, unspeak- has ordered their way, that the purposes able gladness will come to the soul. Oh, of the enemy concerning them might not how we need the divine presence !"—Testi- be accomplished, they would not stumble monies to Ministers, pages 169, 170. along complainingly. Their faith would be b. Let Christ be real to us. This is what stayed on God, and no trial would have is meant by setting the Lord always before power to move them."—Prophets and us. Our joys, our sorrows, our plans, our Kings, page 576. labors—all must be constantly kept before Him through communion. "We may com- mune with God in our hearts; we may 11. What was the secret of Moses' walk in companionship with Christ. When faith? Heb. 11:27. engaged in our daily labor, we may breathe out our heart's desire, inaudible to any human ear; but that word cannot die away into silence, nor can it be lost. NOTE.—"When God commanded Moses Nothing can drown the soul's desire. It to do anything, he did it without stopping rises above the din of the street, above to consider what the consequences might the noise of machinery. It is God to whom be. He gave God credit for wisdom to we are speaking, and our prayer is heard." know what He meant and firmness of pur- —Gospel Workers, page 258. pose to mean what He said ; and therefore Moses acted as seeing the Invisible."— 13. What effect will a sense of Fundamentals of Christian Education, page God's presence have upon our life 346. and character? 2 Cor. 3:18. Lesson 7, for May 18, 1968 Faith and the Promise of God's Love MEMORY VERSE: "And we have known and believed the love.that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him." 1 John 4:16. 1211 STUDY HELPS: First epistle of John; 1 Corinthians 13; "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 546-551; "Steps to Christ," chapters, "God's Love for Man" and "Test of Discipleship"; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary." STUDY AIM: To understand the need of having the love of God implanted in the heart, and to realize that this can be accomplished only through the exercise of faith in God's promises. Lesson Outline: 7. God shares His love with His children. Rom. 5:5. Introduction 8. Love, the basis of fellowship. 1 John 4:7, 8. I. Human Love Is Not Enough 1. Human love is often selfish. III. Evidences of Divine Love in the Life Luke 6:32, 33; Ezek. 33:31. 2. What God's chosen people lacked. 9. Leads to obedience. 1 John 2:5, 6; John 5:42. 5:3; 2 John 6. 3. The quality of love that is essential. 10. Embraces the brotherhood. John 17:26. John 13:34, 35; 14:15; 1 John 4. Need for all-embracing love. 4:19-21. Matt. 5 :43-47. 11. Motivates to service. 2 Cor. 5:14. 5. Faith also needed. Gal. 5:6. 12. Manifests itself in compassion. II. God Has Promised Us His Love 1 John 3:17, 18; Matt. 9:36. 6. God's love made known. John 13. Leads to endurance. Rom. 8: 3:16; Rom. 5:6-8. 35-39. THE LESSON Introduction NOTE.-"It is true that there may be an outward correctness of deportment with- "Yes; Christ has said it, and He means out the renewing power of Christ. The just what He says. He will honor all our love of influence and the desire for the drafts if we will grasp His promise by liv- esteem of others may produce a well- ing faith, and put our trust in Him. ordered life. Self-respect may lead us to Look to Him, and live. All who obey God avoid the appearance of evil. A selfish heart are embraced in the prayer which Christ may perform generous actions. By what offered to His Father, 'I have declared unto means, then, shall we determine whose side them Thy name, and will declare it: that we are on?"-Steps to Christ., page 58. the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them' (John 17: 2. What did Christ say the people 26). Wonderful truth, too difficult for hu- of His day lacked? John 5:42. manity to comprehend !"-Selected Mes- sages, Bk. 1, p. 300. Divine love is too infinite to compre- hend, but not too difficult to experience if we accept it on God's promises by simply appropriating faith. NOTE.-In Christ's day the professed people of God had made no room in their hearts for His love, therefore they were Human Love Is Not Enough incapable of loving God in return. "In rejecting the love of Christ they re- 1. What does the Bible say of the ject that which alone can impart purity shallowness of what some call "love"? and steadfastness to human love."-Christ's Luke 6:32, 33; Ezek. 33:31. Object Lessons, page 225. (22 7 "The acceptance of the Saviour brings with Christ, and are carrying forward His a glow of perfect peace, pe-fect love, per- mission. . . We are to sit at Christ's feet fect assurance."—Ibid., p. 420. as continual learners, and to work with His gifts of faith and love. We shall then 3. What type of love did Jesus wear Christ's yoke, and lift His burdens, pray for His followers to possess? and Christ will recognize us .as one with John 17:26. Him; in heaven •it will be said, 'Ye arc laborers together with God.'"—Sons and Daughters of God, page 71. NOTE.—"The Lord has made abundant God Has Promised Us His Love provision that His love may be given to us as His free, abundant grace, as our in- 6. How did God make His mar- heritance in this life, to enable us to diffuse velous love known to man? John 3: the same by being yoked up with Christ. 16; Rom. 5:6-8. Jesus conveys the circulating vitality of a pure and sanctified Christlike love through every part of our human nature. When this love is expressed in the character, it reveals to all those with whom we associ- NoTE.—"Not because we first loved Him did Christ love us; but 'while we were yet ate that it is possible for God to be formed sinners' He died for us. He does not within, the hope of glory."—Fundamentals of Christian Education, page 466. treat us according to our desert. Al- though our sins have merited condemna- tion, He does not condemn us. . . . Not- 4. If we desire to be Christlike, withstanding our wanderings, our hardness how all-embracing must our love be- of heart, our neglect of His Holy Word, come? Matt. 5:43-47. His hand is stretched out still. "Grace is an attribute of God exercised toward undeserving human beings. We did not seek for it, but it was sent in NOTE.—"The children of God are those search of us."—The Ministry of Healing, who are partakers of His nature. It is page 161. not earthly rank, nor birth, nor nationality, nor religious privilege, which proves that 7. How did we come into posses- we arc members of the family of God; it sion of God's love? Rom 5:5. is love, a love that embraces all humanity. Even sinners whose hearts are not utterly closed to God's Spirit, will respond to kindness; while they may give hate for hate, they will also give love for love. But NOTE.—"It is the work of the Holy it is only the Spirit of God that gives love Spirit from age to age to impart love to for hatred. To be kind to the unthankful human hearts, for love is the living prin- and to the evil, to do good hoping for ciple of brotherhood."—Testimonies, Vol. nothing again, is the insignia of the roy- 8, p. 139. alty of heaven, the sure token by which "Jesus came to impart to the human the children of the Highest reveal their soul the Holy Spirit, by which the love of high estate."—Thoughts From the Mount God is shed abroad in the heart; but of Blessing, page 75. it is impossible to endow men with the Holy Spirit, who are set in their ideas, 5. What two traits of character are whose doctrines are all stereotyped and unchangeable, who are walking after the mentioned as particularly desirable in traditions and commandments of men, as the Christian life? Gal. 5:6. were the Jews in the time of Christ."— Selected Messages, Bk. 1, p. 386. Since God's love can be implanted in the heart only by the Holy Spirit, it is evi- NorE.—"Faith and love are the essential, dent that this divine love is absent from powerful, working elements of Christian the life only because no room has been character. Those who possess them are one made for the Holy Spirit. ( 231 "The great sin of those who profess to not shape the life? Obedience—the service be Christians is that they do not open the and allegiance of love—is the true sign of heart to receive the Holy Spirit."—Ibid., discipleship."7--Steps to Christ, page 60. Bk. 2, p. 57. 10. What is positive evidence that 8. What intimate relationship does the love of God has been shed abroad love establish? 1 John 4:7, 8. in our hearts? What is the proof of true discipleship? John 13:34, 35; 14: 15; 1 John 4:19-21. NOTE: —"True sanctification comes through the working out of the principle of NOTE.—"Supreme love for God and un- love. 'God is love; and he that dwelleth in selfish love for one another,—this is the love dwelleth in God, and God in him.'"— best' gift our heavenly Father can bestow. The Acts of the Apostles, page 560. This love is not an impulse, but a divine "The love of Christ is a golden chain principle, a permanent power. The un- that binds finite, human beings who be- consecrated heart cannot originate or pro- lieve in Jesus Christ to the Infinite God. duce it. Only in the heart where Jesus The love that the Lord has for His chil- reigns is it found. 'We love Him because dren passeth knowledge. No science can He first loved us.' In the heart renewed by define or explain it. No human wisdom divine grace, love is the ruling principle of can fathom it. The more we feel the in- action. It modifies the character, governs fluence of this love, the more meek and the impulses, controls the passions, and humble shall we be."—Ellen G. White ennobles the affections."—The Acts of the Comments, S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. Apostles, page 551. 5, p. 1141. "Pure love is simple in its operations, 11. What is the compelling mo- and separate from every other principle of action. When combined with earthly tive in service? 2 Cor. 5:14. motives and selfish interests, it ceases to be pure. God considers more with how much love we work, than the amount we do. Love is a heavenly attribute. The nat- NOTE.—" 'The love of Christ,' said Paul, ural heart cannot originate it."—Ibid., Vol. `constraineth us.' 2 Corinthians 5:14. This was the actuating principle of his conduct; 7, p. 952. it was his motive power. If ever his ardor in the path of duty flagged for a Evidences of Divine Love in the Life moment, one glance at the cross caused him to gird up anew the loins of his mind, 9. When the love of God dwells in and press forward in the way of self de- the heart, what will we desire to do? nial. In his labors for his brethren he relied 1 John 2:5, 6; 5:3; 2 John 6. much upon the manifestations of infinite love in the sacrifice of Christ, with its subduing, constraining power."—The Min- istry of Healing, page 500. NOTE.—"But notice here that obedience 12. What attitude, if manifested, is not a mere outward compliance, but the shows that the love of God does not service of love. . . . If our hearts are re- possess us? Contrast this with the at- newed in the likeness of God, if the divine love is implanted in the soul, will not the titude of the Master. 1 John 3:17, 18; law of God be carried out in the life? Matt. 9:36. When the principle of love is implanted in the heart, when man is_ renewed after the image of Him that created him, the new-covenant promise is fulfilled, 'I will NOTE.—"Although the customs of the put My laws into their hearts, and in world are no criterion for us, vet I have their minds will I write them.' . . . And been shown that the pitying sympathy and if the law is written in the heart, will it the benevolence of the world for the unfor- [ 24 ] tunate in many cases shame the professed NOTE.-"When Christ took human na- followers of Christ. Many manifest in- ture upon Him, He bound humanity to difference toward those whom God has Himself by a tie of love that can never thrown among them for the purpose of be broken by any power save the choice testing and proving them, and developing of man himself. Satan will constantly pre- what is in their hearts. God reads. He marks every act of selfishness, every act sent allurements to induce us to break this of indifference toward the afflicted, the tie-to choose to separate ourselves from widows and the fatherless; and He writes Christ. Here is where we need to watch, to against their names, 'Guilty, wanting, law- strive, to pray, that nothing may entice breakers.' We shall be rewarded as our us to choose another master; for we are works have been."-Testimonies, Vol. 3, always free to do this. But let us keep our pp. 524, 525. eyes fixed upon Christ, and He will pre- 13. What assurance is given that serve us. Looking unto Jesus, we are safe. the love of God can sustain us under Nothing can pluck us out of His hand."- all circumstances? Rom. 8:35-39. Steps to Christ, page 72. Lesson 8, for May 25, 1968 Faith and the Promise of Answered Prayer MEMORY VERSE: "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." Matthew 21:22. STUDY HELPS: "Steps to Christ," pages 93-104; "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 139-149; "Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing," pages 102-122; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary." STUDY AIM: To develop a simple, appropriating faith in the assurance that "not one sincere prayer is lost; that "amid the anthems of the celestial choir, God hears the cries of the weakest human being."-"Christ's Object Lessons," page 174. Lesson Outline: 6. Proper spirit in prayer. Phil. 4:4-7. Introduction III. Assurances of Divine Response I. Communication With God 7. An amazing promise. Matt. 21:22; Mark 11:24; John 15:7. 1. Fellowship, a Christian privilege. 8. The answer is assured. 1 John 1 John 1:3. 5:14, 15. 2. We may become sons of God. 9. Prayer made effectual. Rom. 8:26. John 1:12; 1 John 3:1-3; Rom. 8:16. IV. Conditions of Answered Prayer 3. Acquaintance with the Divine. 10. Pray in His name. John 14: John 17:3; Job 22:21; Rev. 3:20. 12-14; 16:23-27. II. Communication, a Privilege and 11. Know the will of God. 1 John 5:14. a Necessity 12. Be willing to obey. 1 John 3: 4. Constant communication necessary. 22; Ps. 66:18. Luke 18:1; Eph. 6:18; 1 Thess. 13. Unselfishly seek God's glory. 5:17. John 14:13. 5. Asking and receiving. 14. Ask in faith. Heb. 11:6; Luke 11:9, 10. James 1:6, 7. 125 1 THE LESSON Introduction divine presence, and as we realize this pres- ence, our thoughts are brought into cap- The very nature of a genuine Christian tivity to Jesus Christ."—Testimonies to experience makes prayer imperative. Chris- Ministers, page 388. (Emphasis supplied.) tianity is not a creed, nor is it a set of truths. It is intensely personal. "Christ is 2. What close relationship exists Christianity."—Gospel Workers, pages 282, between God and those who come to 283. There is no salvation apart from Him in faith? John 1:12; 1 John 3:1- Jesus Christ, and He is ever the same. Heb. 13:8. Hence a Christian experience is 3; Rom. 8:16. fellowship with Jesus, and this fellowship is established by faith. Paul declares: "God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ 3. For what should God's children our Lord." 1 Cor. 1:9. earnestly seek? John 17:3; Job 22:21; Fellowship can be maintained only Rev. 3:20. through unbroken communion. This is true of earthly friendships; it is doubly true of our friendship and fellowship with Christ. Neglect communion, and religion becomes a dry formality. Hence the Master NoTE.—A personal acquaintance with taught that "men ought always to pray, God is not only a Scriptural possibility, it and not to faint." is the essence of Christianity. Many are the "It is now that we are to learn this les- ways in which God reveals Himself— son of prevailing prayer, of unyielding through His Word, through "ature, through faith. The greatest victories to the church His providences, and by His Spirit. How of Christ or to the individual Christian wonderful is the promise: "Jesus answered are not those that are gained by talent or and said unto him, If a man love Me, he education, by wealth or the favor of will keep My words: and My Father will men. They are those victories that are love him, and We will come unto him, and gained in the audience chamber with God, make Our abode with him." John 14:23. when earnest, agonizing faith lays hold The fulfillment of this promise we may not upon the mighty arm of power."—Patri- be able to explain, but we can experience it. archs and Prophets, page 203. Communication, a Privilege and a Necessity Communication With God 4. In order to maintain an un- 1. What is the ultimate purpose of broken fellowship with God, what the gospel? 1 John 1:3. Compare must we do? Luke 18:1; Eph. 6:18; 1 Cor. 1:9. 1 Thess. 5:17. NOTE.—"Never feel that Christ is far NOTE.—"Through nature and revelation, away. He is always near. His loving pres- through His providence, and by the in- ence surrounds you. Seek Him as one who fluence of His Spirit, God speaks to us. desires to be found of you. He desires you But these are not enough; we need also not only to touch His garments, but to to pour out our hearts to Him. In order walk with Him in constant communion."— to have spiritual life and energy, we must The Ministry of Healing, page 85. have actual intercourse with our heavenly "Wherever we go, there is the recollec- Father. Our minds may be drawn out tion of One dear to us. We are abiding in toward Him; we may meditate upon His Christ by a . living faith. He is abiding in works, His mercies, His blessings; but this our hearts by our individual appropriating is not, in the fullest sense, communing with of faith, We have the companionship of the Him. In order to commune with God, we 26 ] must have something to say to Him con- Assurances of Divine Response cerning our actual life. "Prayer is the opening of the heart to 7. What challenging promises of God as to a friend."—Steps to Christ, page answered prayer has Christ made? 93. Matt. 21:22; Mark 11:24; John 15:7. "Unceasing prayer is the unbroken union of the soul with God, so that life from God flows into our life; and from our life, purity and holiness flow back to God."— NOTE.—"Prayer and faith are closely Ibid., p. 98. allied, and they need to be studied to- gether. In the prayer of faith there is a 5. In order to receive God's prom- divine science; it is a science that every- ised gifts and blessings, what are we one who would make his lifework a suc- cess must understand. Christ says, 'What invited to do? Luke 11:9, 10. things soever ye desire, when ye pray, be- lieve that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.' Mark 11:24. He makes it plain that our asking must be according to God's will; we must ask for the things Nora.—"The same compassionate Sav- that He has promised, and whatever we iour lives today, and He is as willing to receive must be used in doing His will. listen to the prayer of faith as when He The conditions met, the promise is un- walked visibly among men. The natural equivocal."—Education, pages 257, 258. cooperates with the supernatural. It is a "Why should the sons and daughters of part of God's plan to grant us, in answer God be reluctant to pray, when prayer is to the prayer of faith, that which He the key in the hand of faith to unlock would not bestow did we not thus ask."— heaven's storehouse, where are treasured The Great Controversy, page 525. the boundless resources of Omnipotence?" —Steps to Christ, pages 94, 95. "Prayer is heaven's ordained means of success in the conflict with sin and the de- 8. With what attitude should we velopment of Christian character. The di- vine influences that come in answer to the approach the Saviour, and what as- prayer of faith will accomplish in the soul surance do we have when we come of the suppliant all for which he pleads. to Him? 1 John 5:14, 15. For the pardon of sin, for the Holy Spirit, for a Christlike temper, for wisdom and strength to do His work, for any gift He has promised, we may ask; and the NoTE.—"When we come to Him in faith, promise is, 'Ye shall receive.' "—The Acts every petition enters the heart of God. of the Apostles, page 564. When we have asked for His blessing, we should believe that we receive it, and 6. In what spirit should God's chil- thank Him that we have received it. Then dren pray? Phil. 4:4-7. we are to go about our duties, assured that the blessing will be realized when we need it most."—The Desire of Ages, page 200. 9. What help may we claim in NoTE.—"Never is one repulsed who making our prayers acceptable and ef- comes to Him with a contrite heart. Not fectual? Rom. 8:26. one sincere prayer is lost. Amid the an- thems of the celestial choir, God hears the cries of the weakest human being. We pour out our heart's desire in our closets, we breathe a prayer as we walk by the NOTE.—"Christ, our Mediator, and the way, and our words reach the throne of Holy Spirit are constantly interceding in the Monarch of the universe."—Christ's man's behalf, but the Spirit pleads not for Object Lessons, page 174. us as does Christ who presents His blood, [ 27 ] shed from the foundation of the world; the will cooperate with Him. All who obey Spirit works upon our hearts, drawing out Him may with confidence claim the ful- prayers and penitence, praise and thanks- fillment of His promises."—Christ's Object giving. The gratitude which flows from Lessons, page 145. our lips is the result of the Spirit striking "Those who bring their petitions to God, the cords of the soul in holy memories, claiming His promise while they do not awakening the music of the heart."—Ellen comply with the conditions, insult Jehovah. G. White Comments, S.D.A. Bible Com- They bring the name of Christ as their mentary, Vol. 6, pp. 1077, 1078. authority for the fulfillment of the prom- ise, but they do not those things that Conditions of Answered Prayer would show faith in Christ and love for Him. 10. What secret of answered prayer "Many are forfeiting the condition of ac- did Jesus mention? John 14:12-14; ceptance with the Father. We need to ex- 16:23-27. amine closely the deed of trust wherewith we approach God. If we are disobedient, we bring to the Lord a note to be cashed when we have not fulfilled the conditions that would make it payable to us."—Ibid., NOTE.—"To pray in Christ's name means p. 143. much. It means that we are to accept His character, manifest His Spirit, and work 13. How does answered prayer af- His works."—The Desire of Ages, page 668. fect men's concept of God? John 14: "To pray in the name of Jesus is some- 13. thing more than a mere mention of that name at the beginning and the ending of a prayer. It is to pray in the mind and spirit of Jesus, while we believe His prom- ises, rely upon His grace, and work His 14. To assure God's favorable re- works."—Steps to Christ, pages 100, 101. sponse to our prayers, what must we When we come in the name of Jesus, we exercise? Heb. 11:6; James 1:6, 7. come not as beggars, but as children. Therefore we may "come boldly [with con- fidence] unto the throne of grace." Heb. 4:16. NOTE.—At times God's answer may be 11. With what must our prayers No instead of Yes. Accordingly our peti- harmonize? 1 John 5:14. tions should ever include the submissive spirit in "If it be Thy will." "Faith is an essential element of pre- vailing prayer. . . . With the persevering faith of Jacob, with the unyielding persist- NoTE.—The will of God can be dis- ence of Elijah, we may present our peti- covered through a diligent study of the tions to the Father, claiming all that He Word of God and the messages of the has promised. The honor of His throne is spirit of prophecy. A submissive will is no staked for the fulfillment of His word."— substitute for a prayerful study of the Prophets and Kings, pages 157, 158. Bible. "Pray in faith. And be sure to bring your lives into harmony with your peti- 12. To claim God's answer to our tions, that you may receive the blessings prayers, what must be our attitude? for which you pray. Let not your faith 1 John 3:22; Ps. 66:18. weaken, for the blessings received are pro- portionate to the faith exercised. . . . Pray, believe, rejoice. Sing praises to God be- cause He has answered your prayers. Take Him at His word. 'He is faithful that NOTE.—"All His [God's] gifts are prom- promised.' Heb. 10:23. Not one sincere sup- ised on condition of obedience. God has plication is lost."—Testimones, Vol. 7, p. a heaven full of blessings for those who 274. [ 28 ] Lesson 9, for June 1, 1968 Faith and God's Promises of Care and Guidance MEMORY VERSE: "Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you." 1 Peter 5:7. STUDY HELPS: "Steps to Christ," pages 85-91; "Messages to Young People," page 156; "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 153, 154; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary." STUDY AIM: To develop greater confidence in God's promises of unfailing care and guidance. Lesson Outline: 6. Temporal necessities provided. Matt. 6:25-32. 7. Spiritual blessings given. Introduction Eph. 1:3 ; 2 Peter 1:3, 4. 8. Man must do his part. I. God's Concern for His Children 1 Thess. 4:11; Prov. 10:4. 1. God loves us. John 16: 26, 27. III. Promises of Guidance 2. God assures us of His care. 1 Peter 5:7. 9. Our need of guidance. 3. We need not be anxious. Jer. 10:23, 24. Phil. 4:6. 10. God guides continually. 4. The peace of God "passeth all Ps. 32:8. understanding." Phil. 4:7. 11. God guides unerringly. Isa. 30:21. 12. We must acknowledge Him. Prov. 3:6. II. Promises of God's Care 13. God guides through His Word 5. All our needs supplied. Ps. 84:11; and His Spirit. Ps. 119:105 ; 34:8-10; Phil. 4:19. John 16:13. THE LESSON Introduction "When we take into our hands the management of things with which we have An adequate concept of the greatness to do, and depend upon our own wisdom and the love of God will banish anxiety for success, we are taking a burden which and worry. God can be trusted to care God has not given us, and are trying to for His own. God will not call to Him- bear it without His aid. We are taking self the helpless and needy only to aban- upon ourselves the responsibility that be- don them. This is not the kind of God the longs to God, and thus are really putting Bible presents. Christianity establishes a ourselves in His place. We may well have parent-child relationship between us and anxiety, and anticipate danger and loss; our heavenly Father. Our heavenly Parent for it is certain to befall us. But when has all the resources; we, His children, we really believe that God loves us, and must maintain an attitude of confidence means to do us good, we shall cease to and trust. worry about the future. We shall trust "He knows each individual by name, God as a child trusts a loving parent. and cares for each as if there were not Then our troubles and torments will dis- another upon the earth for whom He appear; for our will is swallowed up in gave His beloved Son."—The Ministry of the will of God."—Sons and Daughters of Healing, page 229. God, page 119. 129 God's Concern for His Children 3. Since God loves and cares, what should we not do? What should we 1. What assurance did Jesus give do? Phil. 4:6. concerning the Father's love? John 16:26, 27. NOTE.—"You have not faith and love and confidence in God. If you had, you NOTE.—"One who knows, has said, 'The would trust in Him. You worry yourself Father Himself loveth you.' One who has out of the arms of Christ, fearing that He had an experimental knowledge of the will not care for you."—Testimonies, Vol. length, and breadth, and height, and depth 1, p. 697. of that love, has declared unto us this amazing fact. . . . We are to be one with 4. What precious experience will Him as He is one with the Father, and follow implicit trust in God? Phil. then we are beloved by the infinite God as 4:7. members of the body of Christ, as branches of the living Vine."—Fundamentals of Christian Education, page 178. 2. What does the apostle Peter ad- Promises of God's Care monish God's people to do? Why? 5. How completely do the promises 1 Peter 5:7. of God cover all our needs? Ps. 84:11; 34:8-10; Phil. 4:19. NOTE.—"The Elder Brother of our race 6. What temporal necessities has is by the eternal throne. He looks upon God promised to supply? Matt. 6: every soul who is turning his face toward 25-32. Him as the Saviour. He knows by experi- ence what are the weaknesses of humanity, what are our wants, and where lies the strength of our temptations; for He was NOTE.—"The power of God is manifested in all points tempted like as we are, yet in the beating of the heart, in the action without sin. He is watching over you, of the lungs, and in the living currents that trembling child of God. Are you tempted? circulate through the thousand different He will deliver. Are you weak? He will channels of the body. We are indebted to strengthen. Are you ignorant? He will en- Him for every moment of existence, and lighten. Are you wounded? He will heal. for all the comforts of life. . . . He loads The Lord `telleth the number of the stars;' us with His benefits. We are indebted to and yet 'He healeth the broken in heart, Him for the food we eat, the water we and bindeth up their wounds.' Ps. 147:4, drink, the clothes we wear, the air we 3. 'Come unto Me,' is His invitation. breathe. Without His special providence, Whatever your anxieties and trials, spread the air would be filled with pestilence and out your case before the Lord. Your spirit poison. He is a bountiful benefactor and will be braced for endurance. The way preserver. . . . will be opened for you to disentangle "We may state to Him our temporal yourself from embarrassment and diffi- matters, asking Him for bread and raiment culty. The weaker and more helpless you as well as for the bread of life and the know yourself to be, the stronger will you robe of Christ's righteousness. . . . The become in His strength. The heavier your gifts of Him who has all power in heaven burdens, the more blessed the rest in cast- and earth are in store for the children of ing them upon the Burden Bearer. The God."—Sons and Daughters of God, page rest that Christ offers depends upon con- 17. ditions, but these conditions are plainly specified. They are those with which all 7. How completely has our Father can comply."—The Desire of Ages, page provided for our spiritual necessities? 329. Eph. 1:3; 2 Peter 1:3, 4. [$0 1 8. What is our part in God's plan arise to divert and distract the mind, those to provide for our temporal needs? who honestly seek God for wisdom will be 1 Thess. 4:11; Prov. 10:4. guided into the right course."—Testinzonies, Vol. 5, p. 247. 10. How intimate and personal is God's promised guidance? Ps. 32:8. NOTE.—"We are to be vigilant, watch- ing for the coming of the Son of man; and we must also be diligent; working as well as waiting is required; there must be a NOTE.—"Our heavenly Father is our Ru- union of the two. This will balance the ler, and we must submit to His discipline. Christian character, making it well devel- We are members of His family. He has a oped, symmetrical. We should not feel that right to our service. . . . Whatever path we are to neglect everything else, and God chooses for us, whatever way He give ourselves up to meditation, study, or ordains for our feet, . . . with childlike prayer; neither are we to be full of bustle submission as obedient children, we must and hurry and work, to the neglect of look to God, to follow His guidance, and personal piety. Waiting and watching and difficulties will clear away. The promise is, working are to be blended. 'Not slothful in `I will instruct thee and teach thee.'"— business; fervent in spirit; serving the Sons and Daughters of God, page 175. Lord.'"—The Adventist Home, page 23. 11. How specifically does God "If any man will not work, neither shall he eat, applies to the spiritual, religious promise to guide each of His chil- life as well as to the earthly, temporal dren? Isa. 30:21. things. "Paul not only endured the taxation of the physical powers in common labor with- out one feeling of either belittling or de- NorE.—"God desires to bring men into grading himself, and without discontent; direct relation with Himself. In all His but he bore the burden while at the same dealings with human beings He recognizes time exerting the activities of his mind to the principle of personal responsibility. He advance and attain in spiritual knowledge. seeks to encourage a sense of personal de- He taught, and he practiced the lessons he pendence and to impress the need of per- taught. . . . sonal guidance. He desires to bring the "The apostle in his day considered idle- human into association with the divine, ness a sin, and those who indulge this evil that men may be transformed into the today disgrace their profession. . . divine likeness. Satan works to thwart "If a man in good physical health has this purpose. He seeks to encourage de- property, and has no need of entering into pendence upon men. When minds are employment for his own support, he should turned away from God, the tempter can labor to acquire means that he may ad- bring them under his rule. He can control vance the cause and work of God."—Ellen humanity." — The Ministry of Healing, G. White Comments, S.D.A. Bible Com- pages 242, 243. mentary, Vol. 7, pp. 911, 912. 12. In order to experience the con- Promises of God's Guidance stant guidance of God, what attitude must we maintain? Prov. 3:6. 9. How did Jeremiah state man's universal need? For what did he pray? Jer. 10:23, 24. NOTE.—"Christ in His life on earth made no plans for Himself. He accepted God's plans for Him, and day by day the Father unfolded His plans. So should we depend upon God, that our lives may be NOTE.—"God's Word sheds an unerring the simple outworking of His will. As we light upon the pathway of man's life. Not- commit our ways to Him, He will direct withstanding the many influences which our steps. [ 31 ] "Too many, in planning for a brilliant Nom.-"There are three ways in which future, make an utter failure. Let God the Lord reveals His will to us, to guide plan for you. As a little child, trust to the guidance of Him who will 'keep the feet "God reveals His will to us in His Word, of His saints.' 1 Sam. 2:9. God never the Holy Scriptures. leads His children otherwise than they "His voice is also revealed in His provi- would choose to be led, if they could see dential workings; and it will be recognized the end from the beginning and discern if we do not separate our souls from the glory of the purpose which they are Him by walking in our own ways, doing fulfilling as coworkers with Him."-The according to our own wills, and following Ministry of Healing, page 479. the promptings of an unsanctified .heart.... "Another way in which God's voice is heard, is through the appeals of His Holy Spirit, making impressions upon the heart, 13. What specific agencies does which will be wrought out in the char- God employ in guiding His children? acter."-Messages to Young People, page Ps. 119:105; John 16:13. 156. Lesson 10, for June 8, 1968 Faith and the Promise of the Holy Spirit MEMORY VERSE: "Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send Him unto you." John 16:7. STUDY HELPS: "The Desire of Ages," pages 668-672; "Testimonies," Vol. 8, pp. 19-23; "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 47-56; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "The Coming of the Comforter," L. E. Froom. STUDY AIM: To find a full personal acceptance of the promised Spirit as indis- pensable to salvation and to the finishing of God's work. Lesson Outline: III. The Holy Spirit and Victorious Introduction Living I. The Holy Spirit in the Plan of 7. An evidence of sonship. Redemption Rom. 8:9, 14-16. 1. The coming of the Holy Spirit. 8. Power for godly living. Gal. 5:16, John 16:7. 22, 23; Rom. 8:1, 2, 10-13. 2. The Spirit makes Christ's sacrifice 9. All believers are to receive the and work effectual. John 15:26; Spirit. Eph. 5:18; Acts 2:38. 16:12-14. 10. The gift accepted by faith. 3. Specific functions of the Holy Gal. 3:14. Spirit. John 16:8-11. IV. The Holy Spirit and the Finishing II. The Holy Spirit Has Come as Promised of God's Work 4. Inauguration at Pentecost: 11. The task assigned to the church. promise, Acts 1:4, 5; fulfillment, Matt. 28:18-20. Acts 2:1-7, 33. 12. The promised Spirit gives power. 5. The gift assured to all believers. Acts 1:8; Zech. 4:6. Acts 2:36-39. 13. Preparation for the outpouring of 6. Evidences of the Spirit's control the Spirit. Joel 2:12, 13, 28. in the church. Acts 5:3, 9; 14. The Spirit given to those who 13:2, 4; 16:6. ask. Luke 11:13; Zech. 10:1. [ 82 ] THE LESSON Introduction NOTE.—"The Holy Spirit is Christ's rep- resentative, but divested of the person- "From the beginning, God has been ality of humanity, and independent there- working by His Holy Spirit through hu- of. Cumbered with humanity, Christ could man instrumentalities for the accomplish- not be in every place personally. There- ment of His purpose in behalf of the fallen fore it was for their interest that He should race. This was manifest in the lives of the go to the Father, and send the Spirit to patriarchs. To the church in the wilderness be His successor on earth. No one could also, in the time of Moses, God gave His then have any advantage because of his `good Spirit to instruct them.' Nehemiah location or his personal contact with 9:20. And in the days of the apostles He Christ. By the Spirit the Saviour would wrought mightily for His church through be accessible to all. In this sense He would the agency of the Holy Spirit. The same be nearer to them than if He had not power that sustained the patriarchs, that ascended on high."—The Desire of Ages, gave Caleb and Joshua faith and courage, page 669. and that made the work of the apostolic church effective, has upheld God's faithful 2. Whose work would the Holy children in every succeeding age."—The Spirit make effectual? John 15:26; 16: Acts of the Apostles, page 53. 12-14. "The promise of the Holy Spirit is not limited to any age or to any race. Christ declared that the divine influence of His Spirit was to be with His followers unto NoTE.—"The Holy Spirit was the high- the end. From the Day of Pentecost to est of all gifts that He could solicit from the present time, the Comforter has been His Father for the exaltation of His peo- sent to all who have yielded themselves ple. The Spirit was to be given as a re- fully to the Lord and to His service. To generating agent, and without this the sac- all who have accepted Christ as a personal rifice of Christ would have been of no avail. Saviour, the Holy Spirit has come as a . . . Sin could be resisted and overcome only counselor, sanctifier, guide, and witness." —Ibid., p. 49. through the mighty agency of the Third Person of the Godhead, who would come "Christ has promised the gift of the with no modified energy, but in the ful- Holy Spirit to His church, and the promise ness of divine power. It is the Spirit that belongs to us as much as to the first dis- makes effectual what has been wrought ciples. But like every other promise, it is out by the world's Redeemer."—The De- given on conditions. . . . Only to those sire of Ages, page 671. (Emphasis sup- who wait humbly upon God, who watch plied.) for His guidance and grace, is the Spirit given. The power of God awaits their de- 3. What specific work would the mand and reception. This promised bless- Holy Spirit accomplish in the world? ing, claimed by faith, brings all other John 16:8-11. blessings in its train."—The Desire of Ages, page 672. "The great sin of those who profess to be Christians is that they do not open NOTE.—"The preaching of the Word will the heart to receive the Holy Spirit."— be of no avail without the continual pres- Selected Messages, Bk. 2, p. 57. ence and aid of the Holy Spirit. This is the only effectual teacher of divine truth. The Holy Spirit in the Only when the truth is accompanied to the heart by the Spirit will it quicken the Plan of Redemption conscience or transform the life. One might be able to present the letter of the Word 1. Why would it be "expedient" for of God, he might be familiar with all its Christ to go away? John 16:7. commands and promises; but unless the 33 Holy Spirit sets home the truth, no souls divine power to overcome all hereditary will fall on the Rock and be broken. No and cultivated tendencies to evil, and to amount of education, no advantages, how- impress His own character upon His ever great, can make one a channel of light church."—The Desire of Ages, page 671. without the cooperation of the Spirit of "Those who consecrate body, soul, and God."—The Desire of Ages, pages 671, spirit to God, will constantly receive a 672. new endowment of physical, mental, and The Holy Spirit Has Come spiritual power. The inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command. Christ as Promised gives them the breath of His own Spirit, 4. What promise did Christ make? the life of His own life. The Holy Spirit When and how was the promise ful- puts forth His highest energies to work in heart and mind. The grace of God en- filled? Acts 1:4, 5; 2:1-7, 33. larges and multiplies their faculties, and every perfection of the divine nature comes to their assistance in the work of saving souls. Through cooperation with Christ, 5. To whom is the promise of the they are made complete in Him, and in Holy Spirit assured? Acts 2:36-39. their human weakness they are enabled to do the deeds of Omnipotence."—Gospel Workers, pages 112, 113. NOTE.—"To us today, as verily as to the 9. What positive command is given first disciples, the promise of the Spirit be- to the believers? What preparatory longs. God will today endow men and women with power from above, as He en- work must take place? Eph. 5:18; dowed those who on the Day of Pentecost Acts 2:38. heard the word of salvation. At this very hour His Spirit and His grace are for all who need them and will take Him at His word."—Testimonies, Vol. 8, p. 20. NorE.—"To Jesus, who emptied Himself 6. What evidence does the Bible for the salvation of lost humanity, the record of the Spirit's control in the Holy Spirit was given without measure. So early church? Acts 5:3, 9; 13:2, 4; it will be given to every follower of Christ when• the whole heart is surrendered for 16:6. His indwelling. Our Lord Himself has given the command, 'Be filled with the Spirit,' and this command is also a promise of its fulfillment."—Sons and Daughters of God, The Holy Spirit and page 31. Victorious Living 10. How are we to receive this 7. Of what is the indwelling of the precious gift? Gal. 3:14. Holy Spirit an evidence? Rom. 8:9, 14-16. NOTE.—Like every other promised gift, 8. Through what agency alone is the Holy Spirit must be appropriated by godly living possible? What will be faith. There is no other way. Here is where the evidence? Gal. 5:16, 22, 23; Rom. we are prone to fail. Hence, the power of 8:1, 2, 10-13. God continues to await our demand and reception. "This promised blessing, claimed by faith, brings all other blessings in its train."—The Desire of Ages, page 672. NOTE.-"It is by the Spirit that the heart "In the great and measureless gift of the is made pure. Through the Spirit the be- Holy Spirit are contained all of heaven's liever becomes a partaker of the divine resources. It is not because of any restric- nature. Christ has. given His Spirit as a tion on the part of God that the riches of [ 34 ] His grace do not flow earthward to men. Spirit is a matter little thought of, there If all were willing to receive, all would is seen spiritual drought, spiritual dark- become filled with His Spirit."—Christ's ness, spiritual declension and death. When- Object Lessons, page 419. ever minor matters occupy the attention, the divine power which is necessary for the The Holy Spirit and the growth and prosperity of the church, and which would bring all other blessings in Finishing of God's Work its train, is lacking, though offered in in- finite plenitude."—The Acts of the Apostles, 11. What command did Christ give page 50. to His followers before returning to heaven? Matt. 28:18-20. 13. What is to prepare the way for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the latter rain for the finishing of God's work? Joel 2:12, 13, 28. Com- NOTE.—"Christ made full provision for pare Acts 1:14; 2:1. the prosecution of the work entrusted to the disciples, and took upon Himself the responsibility of its success. So long as they obeyed His word, and worked in connec- tion with Him, they could not fail. Go to all nations, He bade them. Go to the far- NOTE.—"A revival of true godliness thest part of the habitable globe, but know. among us is the greatest and most urgent that My presence will be there. . . . of all our needs. To seek this should be our "To us also the promise of Christ's abid- first work."—Selected Messages, Bk. 1, p. ing presence is given. . . . He is with us 121. today as truly as He was with the dis- "If Satan had his way, there would ciples, and He will be with us 'even never be another awakening, great or unto the end.' "—Testimonies, Vol. 8, pp. 16, 17. (Emphasis supplied.) small, to the end of time. But we are not "Where there is no active labor for ignorant of his devices. It is possible to others, love wanes, and faith grows dim." resist his power. When the way is pre- —The Desire of Ages, page 825. pared for the Spirit of God, the blessing will come."—Ibid., p. 124. (See also last 12. What provision did Christ note under question 10.) make for completing the great gospel commission? Acts 1:8; Zech. 4:6. 14. For what should the people of God pray at this time? Luke 11:13; Zech. 10:1. Nom—Human resources, no matter how plentiful, can never meet the demands of the great commission. This is by Christ's design and purpose. He has assumed the NOTE.—"Since this is the means by which responsibility for the successful prosecution we are to receive power, why do we not of His work. He has promised all the re- hunger and thirst for the gift of the Spirit?. sources needed through the gift of His Why do we not talk of it, pray for it, and Spirit. To neglect this provision is to in- preach concerning it? The Lord is more vite failure. willing to give the Holy Spirit to those "The lapse of time has wrought no who serve Him than parents are to give change in Christ's parting promise to send good gifts to their children. For the daily the Holy Spirit as His representative. . . . baptism of the Spirit every worker should If the fulfillment of the promise is not offer his petition to God. Companies of seen as it might be, it is because the prom- Christian workers should gather to ask ise is not appreciated as it should be. If for special help, for heavenly wisdom, that all were willing, all would be filled with they may know how to plan and execute the Spirit. Wherever the need of the Holy wisely."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 50. 35 Lesson 11, for June 15, 1968 Faith and Assurance MEMORY VERSE: "And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever." Isaiah 32:17. STUDY HELPS: "Steps to Christ," chapters, "Consecration," "Faith and Acceptance," and "Growing Up Into Christ"; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary"; "S.D.A. Bible Dictionary." STUDY AIM: To know the necessity and possibility of making our "calling and election sure." Lesson Outline: 6. Willingness to do God's will. John 7:17. Introduction 7. Correct understanding of justi- fication. Rom. 5:1. I. Assurance Taught in the Bible 8. Consistency in Christian living. 1. Counseled to seek assurance. 1 John 2 :6 ; Col. 2:6. 2 Peter 1:10, 11. 2. Experience of the Thessalonians. III. Areas of Absolute Assurance 1 Thess. 1:5. 3. What Paul knew. 2 Tim. 1:12 ; 9. Our sonship. John 1:12 ; Rom. 8:38, 39. Rom. 8:16, 17; 1 John 3:1, 2. 4. What the apostle John knew as- 10. Forgiveness of sin. 1 John 1:9; suredly. 1 John 3:2, 14. Isa. 43:25 ; Ps. 103:12. 11. Grace for the present. Phil. 1:6; II. Steps to Full Assurance 1 John 5:4; 2 Cor. 2:14. 5. Come through faith. Heb. 10:22 ; 12. Heaven at last. 1 John 5:11-13; Rom. 4:19-21. 1 Peter 1:3-5. THE LESSON Introduction Assurance Taught in the Bible No one need doubt his relationship to Christ and his position as a child of God. 1. What urgent counsel does the We can be sure. The Bible holds out, for apostle Peter give believers? 2 Peter all who covet it, an experience of fullest 1:10, 11. assurance. "Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the prom- ise might be sure to all the seed." Rom. 4:16. Had salvation been based on man's NOTE.-"The calling and election are an good works, he never could know full as- act of God (1 Peter 1:2 ; 2:21) ; yet it is surance, for he would never know when possible for one to 'frustrate the grace of his works were equal to God's require- God' (Gal. 2:21). Accordingly, the believer ments. Assurance comes from accepting the needs to 'work out' his 'own salvation with promises, complying with the conditions, fear and trembling' (Phil. 2:12). He will and believing that God will fulfill what He then be making a certainty of what God has promised. "It is so if you believe it." has already desired and made possible."- -Steps to Christ, page 51. S.D.A. Bible Commentary, on 2 Peter 1:10. C 86] 2. When the Thessalonians re- NoTE.—Assurance is generated by faith, ceived the gospel, what effect did it deepened by hope (Heb. 6:11; Rom. 5:5), have upon them? 1 Thess. 1:5. and confirmed by love (1 John 3:14). "Every promise in the Word of God furnishes us with subject matter for prayer, presenting the pledged word of Jehovah as our assurance. Whatever spiritual blessing NoTE.—The Thessalonians witnessed in we need, it is our privilege to claim through the lives of Paul and his companions a Jesus. We may tell the Lord, with the sim- full demonstration of the gospel as the plicity of a child, exactly what we need."— "power of God unto salvation." This dem- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, page onstration brought to the believers "much 133. assurance" and led them into a full partici- pation of the gospel and its power. Hence 6. In order to be fully persuaded they became "ensamples" to all the believ- as to what is truth, what must be our ers in Macedonia and Achaia. attitude? John 7:17. 3. How did the apostle Paul testify to the full assurance in his heart? 2 Tim. 1:12; Rom. 8:38, 39. NOTE.—"Those who humbly and prayer- fully search the Scriptures, to know and to do God's will, will not be in doubt of their obligations to God. For 'if any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.' NOTE.—Paul did not merely hope, de- If you would know the mystery of godli- sire, or guess. He knew. He was persuaded. ness, you must follow the plain word of truth,—feeling or no feeling, emotion or He took no chances where eternal interests were involved. He did not "neglect so great no emotion. Obedience must be rendered from a sense of principle, and the right salvation." What Christ promised, Paul claimed; what Christ required, Paul com- must be pursued under all circumstances. plied with. To be among those who were This is the character that is elected of God unto salvation."—Fundamentals of Chris- "heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ" tian Education, page 125. was to him an intriguing reality. In pursuit of this high calling Paul "Disguise it as they may, the real cause of doubt and skepticism, in most cases, is counted "all things but loss" that he might "know Him and the power of His resur- the love of sin. The teachings and restric- rection, and the fellowship of His suffer- tions of God's Word are not welcome to the proud, sin-loving heart, and those who ings." He staked out his claim in a better land, and nothing could move him from are unwilling to obey its requirements are ready to doubt its authority."—Steps to this settled purpose. His assurance was not Christ, page 111. based on feeling; it rested solidly on the promises of God—promises made a reality by his invincible faith. 7. In order to enjoy full and abid- ing assurance, what wonderful pro- 4. Of what was the apostle John vision of the gospel must we see absolutely certain? What was the evi- clearly? Rom. 5:1. dence? 1 John 3:2, 14. NoTE.—A faulty understanding of the doctrine of justification often results in un- certainty about one's Christian experience. Steps to Full Assurance If we would cherish deep and abiding as- surance in our hearts, then we must see 5. What will the exercise of faith clearly that Christ's work, and His alone, in God's promises and provisions gen- is the ground of our acceptance with God. erate? Heb. 10:22; Rom. 4:19-21. Here, human effort can contribute nothing, t 37 3 either directly or indirectly. For justifica- Areas of Absolute Assurance tion, through which we become the children of God, our essential part is the exercise 9. If we have opened our hearts of faith. Justification is a perfect, finished fully to Jesus, of what may we be work, and admits of no degrees. The Bible sure? John 1:12; Rom. 8:16, 17; uses four expressions in speaking of justi- 1 John 3:1, 2. fication: a. "Being justified freely by His grace." Rom. 3:24. This is the source of our justi- fication. If God were not graciously dis- posed toward sinners there could be no NOTE.—"Divine sonship is not something reconciliation. that we gain of ourselves. Only to those who receive Christ as their Saviour is b. "Much more then, being now justi- given the power to become sons and fied by His blood." Rom. 5:9. The blood is daughters of God. The sinner cannot, by the means by which we are justified. The any power of his own, rid himself of sin.... blood was the purchase price of our re- Christ alone has power to cleanse the heart. demption. . . . But the promise of sonship is made to c. "Therefore being justified by faith." all who 'believe on His name.' "—Sons and Rom. 5:1. Faith is the method of receiving Daughters of God, page 12. justification, which has been graciously pro- "How can we ever be in doubt and un- vided through the blood of the Son of God. certainty, and feel that we are orphans? d. "Ye see then how that by works a It was in behalf of those who had trans- man is justified." James 2:24. Our works, gressed the law that Jesus took upon Him our manner of living, constitute the evi- human nature; He became like unto us, dence of our justification which has been that we might have everlasting peace and freely and solely wrought by God. assurance. We have an Advocate in the Justification depends, not upon us, but heavens, and whoever accepts Him as a per- upon the infinite God, who has promised sonal Saviour is not left an orphan to bear and knows how to perform. "For ye are the burden of his own sins."—Thoughts all the children of God by faith in Christ From the Mount of Blessing, page 104. Jesus." Gal. 3:26. This brings deep and abiding assurance. 10. If we have truly confessed our sins, of what may we be certain? 8. To enjoy continuing assurance, 1 John 1:9; Isa. 43:25; Ps. 103:12. what must the justified believer hence- forth do? 1 John 2:6; Col. 2:6. NOTE.—From the Bible account of Jesus' healing the sick we may learn how to be- lieve in Him for the forgiveness of sins. NoTE.—Nothing will destroy peace of The paralytic of Bethesda was helpless; he conscience and assurance more effectively had not used his limbs for thirty-eight than an inconsistent life. A child of God years. Jesus bade him, "Rise, take up thy must make a clean break with everything bed, and walk." The sick man might have he knows to be out of harmony with God's said, "Lord, if Thou wilt make me whole, will. Failure to do this is to court a I will obey Thy word." But no, he troubled heart and risk ultimate loss. believed Christ's word—believed that he "Now that you have given yourself to was made whole—and he made the effort Jesus, do not draw back, do not take your- at once; he willed to walk, and he did self away from Him, but day by day say, walk. He acted on Christ's word, and God `I am Christ's; I have given myself to gave the power. Him ;' and ask Him to give you His Spirit and keep you by His grace. As it is by 11. If we remain fully surrendered giving yourself to God, and believing Him, to Christ, of what glorious provision that you become His child, so you are to may we be assured? Phil 1:6; 1 John live in Him."—Steps to Christ, page 52. 5:4; 2 Cor. 2:14. I. 38 ] NOTE.—"Let no one despair of gaining the the saving power of Jesus, 'in whom we victory. Victory is sure when self is sur- have redemption through His blood, even rendered to God."—Ellen G. White Com- the forgiveness of sins.' Col. 1:14. It was ments, S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, at the cross that mercy and truth met p. 1095. together, that righteousness and truth "The great Captain of our salvation has kissed each other. . . . Show that the life conquered in our behalf, that through Him of Christ reveals an infinitely perfect char- we might conquer, if we would, in our own acter. Teach that 'as many as received behalf. But Christ saves none against their Him, to them gave He power to become choice; He compels none to obedience. He the sons of God, even to them that be- made the infinite sacrifice that they might lieve on His name.' John 1:12. Tell it overcome in His name and His righteous- over and over again. We may become the ness be imputed unto them."—Testimonies, sons of God, members of the royal family, Vol. 3, p. 457. children of the heavenly King. Let it be known that all who accept Jesus Christ 12. If we accept the provisions and hold the beginning of their confidence God has made for our salvation, of firm to the end will be heirs of God and what may we cherish full assurance? joint heirs with Christ 'to an inheritance 1 John 5:11-13; 1 Peter 1:3-5. incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be NOTE.—"Teach the great practical truths revealed in the last time.' 1 Peter 1:4, 5." that must be stamped upon the soul. Teach —Testimonies, Vol. 6, pp. 59, 60. Lesson 12, for June 22, 1968 Faith and the Promise of Victory MEMORY VERSE: "For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." 1 John 5:4. STUDY HELPS: "Early Writings," pages 145-147; "The Great Controversy," pages 492-504; "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 33-43; "Testimonies to Ministers," pages 516-520. STUDY AIM: To discover the provisions God has made for complete victory over sin. Lesson Outline: 4. The conflict continues. 1 Peter 5:8. Introduction II. Temptation and Trial, the Common I. The Great Controversy Lot of All 1. The conflict began in heaven. 5. All will be tried. 1 Peter 4:12. Rev. 12:7-9. 6. Temptation and sin. James 1:14, 2. Satan deluded the entire human 15; Rom. 6:13, 16. family. Gen. 3:1-8, 23, 24 ; 7. Results of resisting temptation. Rom. 5:12. 1 Peter 1:6, 7; James 1:2-4, 12. 3. Plan of redemption provided through Christ. John 3:16; Eph. III. Victory Assured 1:7. 8. Divine aid promised. 1 Cor. 10:13. f 89 9. Continuous triumph possible. 12. We must offer resistance. 2 Cor. 2:14; John 10:28, 29. 1 Peter 5:9; Eph. 6:10-18; 1 Tim. 6:12. 10. God's gift through Christ. 13. Avoid needless exposure to temp- 1 Cor. 15:57. tation. Ps. 1:1. 11. Victory through faith. 1 John 5: 14. "More than conquerors." 4, 5. Rom. 8:37-39. THE LESSON Introduction glory and showing forth His praise. And while love to God was supreme, love for Every human being is involved in the one another was confiding and unselfish. great controversy between Christ and Sa- There was no note of discord to mar the tan. We are on one side or the other. celestial harmonies. But a change came There is no no-man's-land in this conflict. over this happy estate. There was one who Neither is it possible to give allegiance to perverted the freedom that God had both sides. Jesus declared unequivocally, granted to His creatures. Sin originated "He that is not with Me is against Me." with him who, next to Christ, had been Thus, any who surrender to the claims of most honored of God and was highest in Christ become involved in the bitter con- power and glory among the inhabitants of flict between right and wrong, good and heaven."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page evil, Christ and Satan. This is no sham 35. battle; it is real warfare, because our "adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, 2. What were the devastating re- walketh about, seeking, whom he may sults of Satan's being cast down to devour." 1 Peter 5:8. this earth? Gen. 3:1-8, 23, 24; Rom. But just as conflict with evil is a cer- 5:12. tainty, so also is the promise of victory through the name of our blessed Christ. His strong arm "hath gotten Him the vic- tory." The cross settled the issue. The echo. 3. What great plan for man's re- of His precious promise is heard down demption was immediately available? through the corridors of time: "These John 3:16; Eph. 1:7. things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." John 16:33. In NOTE.—"The Son of God, heaven's glor. His victory we shall discover ours: "Nay, ious Commander, was touched with pity in all these things we are more than con- for the fallen race. His heart was moved querors through Him that loved us." Rom. with infinite compassion as the woes of 8:37. the lost world rose up before Him. But di- vine love had conceived a plan whereby The Great Controversy man might be redeemed. The broken law of God demanded the life of the sinner. In 1. Where and with whom did the all the universe there was but one who great controversy between good and could, in behalf of man, satisfy its claims. evil originate? Rev. 12:7-9. Since the divine law is as sacred as God Himself, only one equal with God could make atonement for its transgression. None but Christ could redeem fallen man from NOTE.—"So long as all created beings the curse of the law and bring him again acknowledged the allegiance of love, there into harmony with Heaven. Christ would was perfect harmony throughout the uni- take upon Himself the guilt and shame of verse of God. It was the joy of the heav- sin—sin so offensive to a holy God that enly host to fulfill the purpose of their it must separate the Father and His Son. Creator. They delighted in reflecting His Christ would reach to the depths of misery [40 ] to rescue the ruined race."—Patriarchs and Jesus is a wall of fire around the soul that Prophets, page 63. clings to Him. Temptations will pour in upon us, for by them we are to be tried 4. What is Satan's attitude toward during our probation upon earth. This is those who have surrendered to Christ? the proving of God, a revelation of our What is the cause of this conflict? own hearts. There is no sin in having 1 Peter 5:8. Compare Eph. 6:11, 12. temptations; but sin comes in when temp- tation is yielded to."—Testimonies, Vol. 4, pp. 357, 358. (Emphasis supplied.) NoTE.—It was when Adam and Eve fell 7. What is the result of successfully that God promised to put enmity between enduring trials? 1 Peter 1:6, 7; James the followers of Christ and Satan. "There 1:2-4, 12. exists naturally no enmity between sinful man and the originator of sin."—The Great Controversy, page 505. "It is the grace that Christ implants in NorE.—The Greek word peirasnsos means the soul which creates in man enmity both "trial" and "temptation." In James against Satan. Without this converting 1:2 and 1 Peter 1:6 the context indicates grace and renewing power, man would con- that trials, rather than temptations, are tinue the captive of Satan, a servant ever intended. The word is so translated in some ready to do his bidding."—Ibid., p. 506. modern versions. Temptation and Trial, Victory Assured the Common Lot of All 8. What assurance is given to all in the hour of temptation? 1 Cor. 5. When confronted with tempta- 10:13. tions and trials, what are we not to conclude? 1 Peter 4:12. NOTE.—"It is not God's purpose to coerce the will. Man was created a free NOTE.—Temptation and trial are the moral agent. Like the inhabitants of all common lot of all. So long as Satan is at other worlds, he must be subjected to the work, just so long will inducements be test of obedience; but he is never brought presented to us to surrender our loyalty into such a position that yielding to evil and devotion to God. While Satan tempts becomes a matter of necessity. No tempta- all mankind to evil, his special attacks are tion or trial is permitted to come to him made on those who are determined to live which he is unable to resist. God made for God. Accordingly, we should not re- such ample provision that man need never gard it a strange experience when we are have been defeated in the conflict with confronted with temptations. Satan."—Patriarchs and Prophets, pages "Children should be so trained and edu- 331, 332. cated that they will expect temptations and "No man can be forced to transgress. calculate to meet difficulties and dangers." His own consent must be first gained; the —Testimonies, Vol. 3, p. 144. soul must purpose the sinful act before pas- sion can dominate over reason or iniquity 6. When does temptation become triumph over conscience. Temptation, how- sin? James 1:14, 15; Rom. 6:13, 16. ever strong, is never an excuse for sin. `The eyes of the Lord are over the righ- teous, and His ears are open unto their prayers.' Cry unto the Lord, tempted soul. NOTE.—"So long as the soul rests with Cast yourself, helpless, unworthy, upon unshaken confidence in the virtue and Jesus, and claim His very promise. The power of the atonement, it will stand firm Lord will hear. He knows how strong are as a rock to principle, and all the powers the inclinations of the natural heart, and of Satan and his angels cannot sway it He will help in every time of temptation." from its integrity. The truth as it is in —Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 177. [ 41 ] 9. For what assurance should we 12. Armed with a firm faith in the constantly thank God? 2 Cor. 2:14; promises of God, how are we to re- John 10:28, 29. late ourselves to the attacks of Satan? 1 Peter 5:9; Eph. 6:10-18; 1 Tim. 6:12. 10. Through whom alone may we hope to be victorious? 1 Cor. 15:57. NOTE.—"The example of Christ shows us that our only hope of victory is in con- tinual resistance of Satan's attacks. He who triumphed over the adversary of souls in NOTE.—`The followers of Christ are to the conflict of temptations understands Sa- become like Him—by the grace of God tan's power over the race, and has con- to form characters in harmony with the quered him in our behalf. As an overcomer, principles of His holy law. This is Bible He has given us the advantage of His sanctification. victory, that in our efforts to resist the "This work can be accomplished only temptations of Satan we may unite our through faith in Christ, by the power of weakness to His strength, our worthless- the indwelling Spirit of God. Paul ad- ness to His merits. And sustained by His monishes believers: 'Work out your own enduring might under the strength of temp- salvation with fear and trembling. For it tation, we may resist in His all-powerful is God which worketh in you both to will name, and overcome as He overcame.". and to do of His good pleasure.' Phil. 2: Messages to Young People, page 50. 12, 13. The Christian will feel the prompt- "Every Christian must stand on guard ings of sin, but he will maintain a constant continually, watching every avenue of the warfare against it."—The Great Contro- soul where Satan might find access. He versy, pages 469, 470. must pray for divine help and at the same time resolutely resist every inclination to 11. By what means do we lay hold sin. By courage, by faith, by persevering of the victory God has promised? toil, he can conquer. But let him remember I John 5:4, 5. that to gain the victory Christ must abide in him and he in Christ."—Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 47. 13. If we would be kept from evil, NOTE.—"How can 'our faith' enable us what must we refuse to do? Ps. 1:1. to overcome the world? John provides the answer in v. 5, where he implies that the faith to which he is referring is that which accepts Jesus as the Son of God. Such a faith appropriates the Saviour's victory NOTE.—"Those who would not fall a over the world and duplicates it in the life prey to Satan's devices, must guard well of the believer. It does not stop at mental the avenues of the soul; they must avoid assent but leads to postive action. Like reading, seeing, or hearing that which will the paralytic who was commanded to rise, suggest impure thoughts. The mind must we attempt what seems impossible (John not be left to dwell at random upon every 5:5-9). As our will chooses to rise from subject that the enemy of souls may sug- the thralldom of sin, the life-giving power gest. The heart must be faithfully senti- of God comes into every moral fiber and neled, or evils without will awaken evils enables us to accomplish what we by faith within, and the soul will wander in dark- have willed. Were we to lie back and wait ness."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 518. for the Lord to lift us up from sin, nothing (Emphasis supplied.) would happen. Our faith must lay hold of His promises, and must desire, choose, and 14. Recalling God's gracious pro- will to act upon them before that strength visions for His children, what as- can aid us."—S.D.A. Bible Commentary, surance does the apostle Paul express? on 1 John 5:4. Rom. 8:37-39. [42 1 Lesson 13, for June 29, 1968 Faith and the Promise of Christ's Return MEMORY VERSE: "So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation." Hebrews 9:28. STUDY HELPS: "The Great Controversy," pages 299-316; "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 405-421; "S. D.A. Bible Commentary." STUDY AIM: To alert our hearts to the reality of Christ's imminent return. Lesson Outline: 7. The promise reiterated by the apostles. Heb. 9:28; Titus 2:11-13. Introduction 8. The manner revealed. Mark 13:36; Acts 1:9-11; Rev. 1:7. I. Last-day Skepticism III. Faith in the Promise of Christ's 1. A pointed question. Luke 18:8. Return 2. General unbelief. 2 Peter 3:3, 4. 3. Dangers confronting the church. 9. Self preparation. 1 John 3:3; Luke 12:45; Heb. 2:3. 2 Peter 3:11, 14. 4. As in the days of Noah and Lot. 10. Hasten the finishing of God's work. Luke 17:26-30. Matt. 24:14; John 9:4. 11. Revive the spirit of urgency: II. The Promise of Christ's Return Rom. 13:11, 12 ; Eph. 5:14-16. 5. The promise made by Jesus. 12. An inspiration to unity. James John 14:1-3; Luke 21:27; 5:8, 9; John 13:35. Rev. 22:12. 13. The joyous response; a crown of 6. The promise confirmed by angels. victory. Isa. 25:9; 2 Tim. 4:8. Acts 1:10, 11. THE LESSON Introduction only half believe the Word of God. A man will act out all the faith he has. Notwith- - No promises in the Bible are more ex- standing that the signs of the times are ful- plicit than those which relate to the second filling all over the world, faith in the Lord's coming of Christ. This is a cardinal teach- coming has been growing feeble."—Selected ing of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Messages, Bk. 1, p. 93. In fact, it is one of the great truths that "The Lord is coming. Let everyone show brought this movement into existence. As a his faith by his works. Faith in Christ's people we have proclaimed throughout the near advent is dying out of the churches, whole world the prophetic truth, the man- and selfishness is causing them to rob God ner, and the signs of the Master's return. to serve their own personal interests. When The statements of Scripture on this vital Christ is abiding in us, we shall be self- truth are clear and positive. But knowledge denying like Him."—Testimonies, Vol. 5, alone does not constitute a preparation for p. 153. this solemn and final event. "Many will be In this lesson we are not so much con- lost while hoping and desiring to be Chris- cerned about the theology of the second tians."—Steps to Christ, page 48. advent as we are about the necessity of "We must have genuine faith. As yet we cultivating a living faith that will grasp scarcely grasp the reality of the truth. We the reality of God's promises concerning it. [ 43 ] Last-day Skepticism NOTE.—"The evil servant says in his heart, 'My Lord delayeth His coming.' He 1. What pointed question did Christ does not say that Christ will not come. He raise concerning faith in our day? does not scoff at the idea of His second Luke 18:8. coming. But in his heart and by his actions and words he declares that the Lord's com- ing is delayed. He banishes from the minds of others the conviction that the Lord is NOTE.—"This is a time when the question coming quickly. His influence leads men to with all propriety may be asked, 'When the presumptuous, careless delay. They are con- Son of man cometh, shall He find faith on firmed in their worldliness and stupor."— the earth?' (Luke 18:8). The Desire of Ages, page 635. "Spiritual darkness has covered the earth and gross darkness the people. There are 4. What parallels between our day in many churches skepticism and infidelity and the days of Noah and Lot indi- in the interpretation of the Scriptures. cate that we are in the last days? Many, very many, are questioning the ver- Luke 17:26-30. ity and truth of the Scriptures. Human reasoning and the imaginings of the human heart are undermining the inspiration of the Word of God, and that which should be The Promise of Christ's Return received as granted, is surrounded with a cloud of mysticism. Nothing stands out in 5. By what specific promises did clear and distinct lines, upon rock bottom. This is one of the marked signs of the last Jesus forever settle the question of days."—Selected Messages, Bk. 1, p. 15. His return? John 14:1-3; Luke 21:27; Rev. 22:12. 2. What attitude on the part of many is foretold as characteristic of the last days? What specific promise would be ridiculed? 2 Peter 3:3, 4. NOTE.—"Long have we waited for our Saviour's return. But nonetheless sure is the promise. Soon we shall be in our promised home. There Jesus will lead us beside the living stream flowing from the throne of NOTE.—"When these things [the signs of God and will explain to us the dark provi- the end] are dwelt upon as they should be, dences through which on this earth He scoffers will be developed who walk after brought us in order to perfect our char- their own lusts, saying, 'Where is the prom- acters. There we shall behold with un- ise of His coming? for since the fathers fell dimmed vision the beauties of Eden re- asleep, all things continue as they were stored. Casting at the feet of the Redeemer from the beginning of the creation.' But the crowns that He has placed on our- `when they shall say, Peace and safety; heads and touching our golden harps, we then sudden destruction cometh upon them.' shall fill all heaven with praise to Him `But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that sitteth on the throne."—The Adventist that day should overtake you as a thief.' Home, pages 544, 545. Thank God, all will not be rocked to sleep in the cradle of carnal security. There will be faithful ones who will discern the signs 6. How specifically did the angels, of the times. While a large number profess- at the time of Christ's ascension, con- ing present truth will deny their faith by firm the Master's promise to return? their works, there will be some who will Acts 1:10, 11. endure unto the end."—Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 10. 3. What special danger confronts 7. Cite the testimony of the apos- the professing people of God today? tles with regard to their faith in the Luke 12:45; Heb. 2:3. second coming of Christ. Heb. 9:28; [44 ] Titus 2:11-13. Compare 2 Peter 3:9- NOTE.—"My heart is often burdened be- 13; 1 John 3:2. cause so many who might work are doing nothing. . . . Every church member who has a knowledge of the truth is expected to work while the day lasts; for the night cometh, wherein no man can work. Ere- 8. What will be the manner of long we shall understand what that night Christ's return? Mark 13:36; Acts 1: means."—Testimonies, Vol. 9, p. 26. 9-11; Rev. 1:7. Compare Matt. 24:27. • 11. What urgent plea does the apostle Paul make to those who know the present truth? Rom. 13:11, 12; Faith in the Promise of Eph. 5:14-16. Christ's Return 9. What effect will genuine faith NOTE.—"We must be more decidedly in in the promise of Christ's return have earnest. We must talk the truth in private upon the life of the believer? 1 John and in public, presenting every argument, 3:3; 2 Peter 3:11, 14. urging every motive of infinite weight, to draw men to the Saviour uplifted on the cruel cross. God desires every man to at- tain unto eternal life. Mark how all through the Word of God there is manifest the Nom—He who truly believes in the spirit of urgency, of imploring men and soon return of Christ will make every women to come to Christ, to deny appetites preparation to meet Him. "When He shall and passions that corrupt the soul. With appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall all our powers we must urge them, to look see Him as He is." "Now is the time to unto Jesus and to accept His life of self- prepare. The seal of God will never be denial and sacrifice."—Testimonies, Vol. 6, placed upon the forehead of an impure p. 65. man or woman."—Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 216. 12. What spirit should prevail "The religion of Christ means more than among the believers who are antici- the forgiveness of sin; it means taking away our sins, and filling the vacuum with pating the coming of the Lord? Of the graces of the Holy Spirit. It means di- what is unity among the brethren an vine illumination, rejoicing in God. It evidence? James 5:8, 9; John 13:35. means a heart emptied of self, and blessed with the abiding presence of Christ. When Christ reigns in the soul, there is purity, freedom from sin. The glory, the fullness, NOTE.—"The unity of the church is the the completeness of the gospel plan is convincing evidence that God has sent Je- fulfilled in the life. The acceptance of the sus into the world as its Redeemer. This Saviour brings a glow of perfect peace, is an argument which worldlings cannot perfect love, perfect assurance. The beauty controvert. Therefore Satan is constantly and fragrance of the character of Christ working to prevent this union and harmony, revealed in the life testifies that God has that unbelievers, by witnessing backsliding, indeed sent His Son into the world to be dissension, and strife among professed its Saviour."—Christ's Object Lessons, pages Christians, may become disgusted with re- 419, 420. ligion and be confirmed in their impeni- "Take the world, but give me Jesus" tence."—Testimonies, Vol. 5, p. 620. should be the prayer of all who look for Christ's return. 13. What will be the joyous re- sponse of those who are ready and 10. If we really believe that Christ waiting for the return of their Lord? is soon to return, what will we pur- What token of triumph will they re- pose to do? Matt. 24:14; John 9:4. ceive? Isa. 25:9; 2 Tim. 4:8. [45] dps for AA holy Fa in the study of ihe SalOath Sehool ERROR Order Through Your Church Missionary Secretary or BOOK and BIBLE HOUSE PERIODICAL DEPARTMENT THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING June 29, 1968 Australasian Division Again this quarter the overflow of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering will go to one specific project; namely the remodeling and enlarging of the Sydney Sanitarium and Hospital at Wahroonga, a suburb of Sydney, Australia. Just before she returned from Australia to the United States at the turn of the century, Mrs. E. G. White made a special visit to Sydney to view the proposed site of the sanitarium which she had been urging the brethren to build. As she viewed for the first time the eighty acres that fell away in gentle slopes from a loo-foot eminence, set in lovely bushland, she ex- claimed, "This is the place!" Within two years the Sydney Sanitarium and Hospital was built with timbers that were imported from the United States. Through the years the "San" has proved a wonderful blessing to the community and to the church in its missionary activities at home and in lands afar. Ninety-six graduates from this medical institution are at present serving in overseas mission fields. Now, however, the central and original section of the Sani- tarium has become antiquated and substandard, and its timbers are a ter- rible fire hazard during the hot Australian summer months. The Nurses' Registration Board now requires that the bed capacity be increased from i8o to 30o in order for the institution to retain its registration as a nurses' training school. Australia needs our graduates; the world field needs them. You can help train them by supporting the rebuilding project with a liberal Thirteenth Sabbath Offering on June 29. Lessons for the Third Quarter, 1968 Sabbath School members who did not receive a senior Lesson Quarterly for the third quarter of 1968 will be helped by the following outline in studying the first lesson. The title of the series is "Studies in the Book of James." The title of the first lesson is "Trials and Character Development." The memory verse is 1 Peter 4:12, 13. The texts to be studied are: Ques. 1. James 1:2-4; Matt. 5:10-12; Matt. 7:7, 8. 1 Peter 4:12, 13. Ques. 8. James 1:6 (first part) ; Ques. 2. James 1:3 ; 1 Peter 1:7. Mark 11:24. Ques. 3. James 1:3 (last part) ; Ques. 9. James 1:6 (last part), 7. Rom. 5:3. Ques. 10. James 1:8. Ques. 4. Rev. 14:12. Ques. 11. James 1:9 ; Matt. 5:3. Ques. 5. James 1:4. Ques. 12. James 1:10, 11. Ques. 6. James 1:5; Prov. 3:5, 6. Ques. 13. James 1:12; Rev. 2:10; Ques. 7. James 1:5 (first part) ; Matt. 24:13. 47 • NEW GUINEA GILBERT AND ELLICE ISLANDS II BISMARCK-SOLOMONS ' 0 UNION MISSION \ RABAUL CENTRAL PACIFIC UNION MISSION i SOLOMON ISLANDS FRENCH POLYNESIA SAMOA NEW HEBRIDES CORAL SEA I UNION MISSION '110) SOCIETY ISLANDS FIJI ISLANDS 49%11..,A 411) PAPEETE £ COOK ISLANDS TONGA WNEVILLE NEW CALEDONIA fRCTOWNWAYILDP1c SYDNEY SANITASIII ,AND HOSPITA1. 0 PITCAIRN BRISBANE •••• UN T IR OANI C CONFERENCE S T NAFS EMR NEWCASTLE 1 Sabbath AUCKLANO Church School Unions Population Churches Members Members ADELAIDE CANBERRA Bismarck-Solomons U.M. 357,454 150 11,384 21,101 Akt I WELLMGTON Central Pacific U.M. 997,589 103 10,423 13,149 MELBOURNE Coral Sea U.M. 1,863,463 175 19,776 58,691 CHRISTC HURCH Trans - Commonwealth U.C. 6,224,073 165 14,559 15,647 TRANS-COMMONWEALTH OBART NEW ZEALAND Trans-Tasman U.C. 7,652,403 210 22,314 22,534 UNION CONFERENCE NET Division Totals 17,094,982 803 78,456 131,112 c4uotraiaoiakt 9IVioi014