First uarter 971 Sabbath uarterly Adult Division, No. 303, First Quarter, 1971 Lesson Titles for the Quarter 1. The Godhead: The Ideal Relationship 2. The Christian's Moral Code Today 3. The Christian and Family Relations 4. Care Enough to Act—Act Like You Care 5. Church Relations 6. Relationship of Church Members to Civil Authorities 7. About Friends and Recreation 8. Who Is My Neighbor? 9. What a Task! 10. The Christian's Relationship to His Neigh- bors of Other Races 11. Equality of Believers 12. The Christian and Divisive Issues 13. Doing Good to All Men Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly (regular edition), No. 303, January-March, 1971. 40 cents a single copy, $1.60 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, Cali- fornia. Form 3579 requested. When a change of address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses. Copyright, 1970, by Pacific Press Publishing Association Cover by Harry Anderson ; © PPPA Drawings by James Converse The Blessing of Daily Study "Every day some portion of time should be appropri- ated to the study of the lessons, not merely in learning to mechanically repeat the words, while the mind does not comprehend the meaning; but to go to the very founda- tion, and become familiar with what is brought out in the lesson."—Counsels on Sabbath School Work, page 53. My 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. (signed) 3 Christian Social Behavior FIRST QUARTER, 1971 Christians cannot behave in a socially acceptable way without a knowledge of certain principles, a moral code. Christians have a moral code in the Ten Commandments (based on love to God and love to our fellowmen), amplified in the admonitions given by God in the Bible, and made plainer in the gift of prophecy writings of our day. "Ethics" are the standards, principles, or laws of conduct that govern the actions of men, or are man's interpretation of a moral code. A man's interpre- tation is affected by such things as his environment, experience, and cultural background. This is why we are not given permission to judge our brethren. This is not our work. Our work is to tell others what Jesus has done for us and to point out a better way of life. Christianity is governed by moral principles. Early in Biblical history (Lev. 19:18) this ideal was revealed: "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." Much of the chapter applies it to specific situations. Jesus stated it briefly: "Treat other people exactly as you would like to be treated by them—this is the essence of all true religion." Matt. 7:12, Phillips. Paul revealed some of the ideals of Christianity in his letter to the Galatians. Gal. 5:22, 23. Peter gave us another list. 2 Peter 1: 3-8. "The fruit of the Spirit," Paul called them. "Against such there is no law." Notice that in both lists many of the items apply to our relations with our fellowmen. Commenting on Gal. 5:22, 23, Ellen White said: "The influence of the Holy Spirit is the life of Christ in the soul. We do not see Christ and speak to Him, but His Holy Spirit is just as near us in one place as in another. It works in and through everyone who receives Christ. Those who know the indwelling of the Spirit reveal the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, long- suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith."—Ellen G. White Comments, SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1112. This quarter it will be our privilege to concentrate on God's desire for proper Christian social behavior. May it be our experience to witness the ful- fillment of this promise in our lives. "As you receive the Spirit of Christ—the Spirit of unselfish love and labor for others—you will grow and bring forth fruit. The graces of the Spirit will ripen in your character."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 68. 4 LESSON 1 January 2 THE GODHEAD: THE IDEAL RELATIONSHIP 1 "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation." 2 Cor. 5:19. From times eternal a mutual, loving re- strated by man, the supreme creature of lationship has existed between the Father God's creation. and the Son. John 17. How fortunate that we mortals, in the very midst of extreme weakness, have been exposed to this fel- LESSON OUTLINE lowship and have been invited to join it. 1. The Eternal Fellowship of the 2 Cor. 5:17-21. Because of our predicament, the love, Godhead concern, and hope of the Godhead has John 17:5, 22 been revealed to the fullest degree. The powers of transforming love have been 2. God's Concern for All Creation manifested fully. Eternal life has been of- Ps. 145:17-20 fered us freely. John 6:47. Freedom from sin has been assured. 1 John 1:7. The 3. God's Concern for Man graces of a Christlike life have been ex- Matt. 7:7-11 tended to us with the assurance that we 4. God Relates to a Person in may demonstrate these heavenly qualities in our lives through the grace of God. And Need—Hagar all this in order that we might become Gen. 21:17-20 "one" with God and might fellowship with the heavenly family. 5. God Relates to a Person in This lesson is intended to make plain to Need—An Adulteress us the attitude of the Godhead in the most John 8:10,11 beautiful relationship in existence. It con- tinues by exploring examples of how this 6. Imitation of Ideal Relationship relationship has been shared and demon- Phil. 1:3-7 5 The Godhead: The Ideal Relationship LESSON I ❑ Sunday December 27 Part 1 "And now, 0 Father, glorify Thou Me with Thine own' THE ETERNAL self with the glory which I had with Thee before the FELLOWSHIP OF world was." THE GODHEAD "And the glory which Thou gayest Me I have given John 17:5, 22 them; that they may be one, even as We are one." How can we mortals comprehend such a relationship except as we recall the ideals of 1 Corinthians 13? A momentary sep- aration in an eternal fellowship is described in John 17. Two Beings commune together. Eternal Partners reviewing Their work in the execution of a plan to help the "neighbor" in need. The greatest neighbor anywhere is the one who cares enough to get involved with us and our needs. If there is anything greater than loving, it is the willingness and the ability to love. Only the members of the Godhead individually have the love, willingness, and capacity to meet all needs. Among themselves Their merciful love is revealed in Their willingness to share all that They possess. They share Their joys, and perhaps most significantly, They share in Their creative work. To us Their relationship is revealed in Their willingness to do anything, without thought of the cost to Themselves, in order to win mankind to the side of right. Phil. 2:5-8; Rom. 5:6-11; John 3:16, 17; 1 John 4:9-11. In what relationship was Christ with His Father before He came to our world? John 17:22. THINK IT THROUGH Let your mind contemplate the harmony, the unity, the equality of the three Members of the Godhead, com- pletely dominated by love, without the slightest expres• sion of jealousy. Can you conceive yourself becoming like this in your relationship with your fellowmen? "The seventeenth chapter of John Thy Son also may glorify Thee.' . . . speaks plainly regarding the personal- Here is personality, and individuality." ity of God and of Christ, and of their re- —Ellen G. White Comments, "SDA Bible lation to each other. 'Father, the hour is Commentary," Vol. 5, p. 1145. come,' Christ said; 'glorify Thy Son, that THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages," pages 19-26. 6 the Godhead: The Ideal Relationship LESSON 1 ❑ Monday December 28 Part 2 "The Lord is righteous in all His ways, and holy in all GOD'S CONCERN His works. The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon FOR ALL CREATION Him, to all that call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of them that fear Him: He also will hear their cry, and will save them. The Lord preserveth all them that Ps. 145:17-20 love Him: but all the wicked will He destroy." "So long as all created beings acknowledged the allegiance of love, there was perfect harmony throughout the universe of God. . . And while love to God was supreme, love for one another was confiding and unselfish.. . "Now the perfect harmony of heaven was broken. Lucifer's disposition to serve himself instead of his Creator aroused a feeling of apprehension when observed by those who considered that the glory of God should be supreme."—Patriarchs and Prophets, pages 35, 36. "He [Lucifer] saw that 'the Lord is righteous in all His ways, and holy in all His works.' "—Ibid., p. 39. In spite of an immediate problem that would bring a blot on the fair universe and would cause long centuries of pain and woe to this planet, the Godhead acted with justice and mercy in seeking to redeem Lucifer from his waywardness. As a parent tries patiently to win back an erring child, so God worked long and patiently to help Lucifer regain his place. See Patriarchs and Prophets, page 39. Even when Lucifer chose not to respond to the appeals of God, he was not destroyed in a sudden fit of rage; rather, his life was preserved in order that time could be allowed for all of God's creatures to witness the difference between good and evil. See Patriarchs and Prophets, pages 42, 43. What attitude does God take toward those who re- spond to His proposals? Verses 18, 19. THINK IT THROUGH Do you think that God dealt fairly with the human family when He allowed Lucifer to live? Are we not the subjects of an "experiment"? See "The Desire of Ages," pages 19-26. "In great mercy, according to His strange, mysterious, unaccountable. ... divine character, God bore long with But such efforts as infinite love and Lucifer. The spirit of discontent and dis- wisdom only could devise, were made affection had never before been known to convince him of his error."—"Patri- in heaven. It was a new element, archs and Prophets," page 39. THE SECOND MILE: "Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 35-43. 7 The Godhead: The Ideal Relationship LESSON 1 ❑ Tuesda) December 2,c.. Part 3 "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall GOD'S CONCERN find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every. FOR MAN one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if hit son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a ser- pent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Matt. 7:7-11 Him?" The Godhead, in dealing with mankind, sought the most direct method in reaching the minds of men. The Godhead is not sparing with the gifts of heaven; the Godhead does not deal with men the way men deal with each other (Matt. 7:1-6), but is gracious and merciful. See SDA Bible Com- mentary, on Matt. 7:7. No fathers in Christ's audience would be so cruel or heartless as to offer their children worthless gifts in response to the children's request for food. How impossible, then, is it to believe that the Godhead will disappoint man in any way. We need not have any hesitation in coming to the Godhead —the Giver of "every good gift and every perfect gift." James 1:17. Promises have been extended to us by the Godhead as "security" in order that we mortals might realize heaven's gifts. See Education, page 253. Let it always be remembered that the Godhead is seeking to save, not to condemn mankind. John 3:16, 17; 2 Cor. 5:17-21. The Godhead has offered every pos- sible gift to save—including life itself. Rom. 5:6-11. What are the conditions for answered prayer? Matt. 7:7, 8. THINK IT THROUGH What evidence has God given in order that I might make an intelligent decision concerning the kind of Per- son that He is? "Jesus did not suppress one word of sensitive soul. He did not censure hu- truth, but He uttered it always in love. man weakness. He spoke the truth, but He exercised the greatest tact and always in love. He denounced hypoc- thoughtful, kind attention in His inter- risy, unbelief, and iniquity; but tears course with the people. He was never were in His voice as He uttered His rude, never needlessly spoke a severe scathing rebukes."—"Steps to Christ," word, never gave needless pain to a page 12. THE SECOND MILE: "Education," pages 253-261. 8 The Godhead: The Ideal Relationship LESSON 1 ❑ Wednesday December 30 Part 4 "And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of GOD RELATES TO God called to Hagar out of heaven, and said unto her, A PERSON IN What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard NEED—HAGAR the voice of the lad where he is. Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him in thine hand; for I will make him a great na- tion. And God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with water, and gave the lad drink. And God was with the lad; and he grew, and dwelt in the wilderness, and became an Gen. 21:17-20 archer." Although the Old Testament is largely historical, it has a wealth of material on relationships. In the book of Genesis alone there are many instances. See, for example, Gen. 3:7-10; 4:9-15; 5:21-24; 6:9; 12:1-4; 22:1-14; 32:24-29. Among these stories is that of Hagar, the bondwoman whom Abraham mar- ried and was forced to reject. Because Abraham and Sarah distrusted the promise of God, another woman was allowed to become Abraham's wife. She bore a son. But when God fulfilled the promise made to Abra- ham years before, the envy and strife became insupportable. See SDA Bible Dictionary, "Ishmael." Hagar and Ishmael found themselves in the dry desert, rejected and with little hope for continued life. But the God of the universe was not so busy that He neglected to hear the faint cry of a dying boy and a deserted and lonely mpther. See SDA Bible Commentary, on Gen. 21:17. It should also be remembered that God was not partial to Isaac. He carefully revealed purposes and plans for both boys. Gen. 21:12, 13, 18; Rom. 9:7. Although Isaac was to be heir to God's royal line by birth, God did not hesitate to reveal a promise concerning Ishmael. "I will make him a great nation." See SDA Bible Dictionary, "Ishmaelites." This is the way the Godhead relates to human need both in times of joy and in times of sorrow. For what reasons were Hagar and her son found in the desert? Gen. 21:9-11. THINK IT THROUGH What is God's attitude toward individuals innocently caught in circumstances in which His commands have been violated? "And the angel gave him [Abraham] should be preserved, and he should be- the consoling promise that though sep- come the father of a great nation." arated from his lather's home, Ishmael —"Patriarchs and Prophets," page 146. should not be forsaken by God; his life THE SECOND MILE: "Patricrchs and Prophets," pages 145-147. 9 2-A1QT71 The Godhead: The Ideal Relationship LESSON 1 ❑ Thursday December 31 Part 5 "When Jesus had lifted up Himself, and saw none but GOD RELATES TO the woman, He said unto her, Woman, where are those A PERSON IN NEED thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, —AN ADULTERESS No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I John 8:10, 11 condemn thee: go, and sin no more." This is a splendid illustration of the ideal relationship that can exist between man and his fellows. We ourselves need to turn away from sin. Acts 2:38, 39; Luke 13:3, 5; The Acts of the Apostles, page 560; Counsels to Teachers, page 361. It is not our task to sit in judgment. Rom. 2:1; Matt. 7:1, 2; John 8:7; John 5:22. It is our work to represent Christ to fallen men in such a way as to bring hope rather than condemnation, joy rather than sorrow. John 3:17. In the story of the woman taken in adultery, "Jesus is not stating a general principle, one that would make absolute sin- lessness the necessary condition of fitness for taking part in the punishment of guilt. This would nullify law, for no one fitted to carry out the execution could be found. He speaks here of a case where men set themselves up as judges of others, whom they ought not to condemn unless they themselves be guilt- less. Jesus abhorred adultery . . . , but He also abhorred self- righteous judging."—SDA Bible Commentary, on John 8:7. What words of assurance did Jesus speak to the woman taken in adultery? John 8:11. One other point should be observed in this story. Jesus might have seemed a bit harsh toward those who pointed the finger of accusation, but He was most anxious to reach them too. In His kindness for them, He wrote in the sand the sins He read on their hearts when He could have shouted them to all in hearing range. This is the God who is concerned for us today, the One who is sensitive to human feelings and needs. See Steps to Christ, page 12. THINK IT THROUGH What do you think of this idea? "Those who are for- ward in accusing others, and zealous in bringing them to justice, are often in their own lives more guilty than they."—"The Desire of Ages," page 462. "In His act of pardoning this woman While He does not palliate sin, nor and encouraging her •to live a better lessen the sense of guilt, He seeks not life, the character of Jesus shines forth to condemn, but to save."—"The Desire in the beauty of perfect righteousness. of Ages," page 462. THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages,' ' pages 460-462. 10 The Godhead: The Ideal Relationship LESSON 1 ❑ Friday January I Part 6 "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, IMITATION always in every prayer of mine for you all making re- OF IDEAL quest with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the RELATIONSHIP first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my Phil. 1:3-7 grace." Paul's strong desire was to communicate the truth about God to any man that would listen. He received added joy whenever he heard or witnessed growth and progress in the lives of his converts (Eph. 1:15, 16), but felt greatly pained and disturbed whenever a group was bogged down with prob- lems. Gal. 1:6; 3:1. So it is with the Godhead. God keeps close supervision over the operation of the church and the growth of each "pillar." See Testimonies to Ministers, page 15. God is not too busy to hold secure each individual committed. Zech. 2:8; Isa. 49:15, 16 ; Matt. 10:30. "The soul that is yielded to Christ becomes His own fortress, which He holds in a revolted world, and He intends that no authority shall be known in it but His own. A soul thus kept in possession by the heavenly agencies is im- pregnable to the assaults of Satan."—The Desire of Ages, page 324. The disciples were secure in their individual relationships with God, and just as the Godhead gave completely, so the disciples gave completely for mankind. Paul's desire for Felix, Agrippa, and Festus (Acts 24:25; 26:29) to know the joy of a heavenly relationship rather than his thinking of himself is one illustration. John and Peter's experience (Acts 3:1-8) in healing a lame man is another. These are only two of many examples of committed men and their desire to share. For what reasons was Paul happy? Phil. 1:6, 7. THINK IT THROUGH How is it possible for fallen man to be like God and share His concern for a fallen world? "They [the people of Philippil prized themselves with wholehearted devo- the precious truths for which the apos- tion to the cause of their Redeemer." ties had sacrificed so much, and gave —"The Acts of the Apostles," page 218. THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 383-388. 11 The Godhead: The Ideal Relationship LESSON 1 January 2 Part 7 0 SUMMARY QUESTIONS 0 A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. Complete: "The chapter of speaks plainly regarding the personality of God and Christ, and of their ,, 2. God was: (a) impatient with Lucifer for his rebelliousness; (b) permissive and winked at Lucifer's movement; (c) patient but firm with Lucifer, giving him time to regain his senses before judgment was made in his case. 3. Underline the correct answer: The attitude of the Godhead toward man is that of (rejection; acceptance; condemnation). 4. God's way of dealing with one who is down and out is illustrated in the story of 5. True or False: God condemns sin but seeks to save the sinner 6. True or False: The Members of the Godhead, like Their human fellow workers on earth, keep close supervision of the work of the church; They ex- press joy when the work is prospering and sorrow when the work lags (The answers are at the bottom of the page.) •anay (9) !anaj, fat2v1.1 (t.) :aauvtdaaav (r) ! (z) !amp° tpua uoputaa `uttof Vuaatuanas (I) :saamsuv 12 LESSON 2 January 9 4, THE CHRISTIAN'S MORAL CODE TODAY "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, good- ness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." Gal. 5:22, 23. God, in His quest to reveal His love and developing a character like His? See Christ's genuine concern for a wayward people, has Object Lessons, page 69. This lesson will not left man in doubt as to a system of attempt to answer that question. values based on a solid moral code. From the beginning of time man was aware of right and wrong (Gen. 2:17; 3: LESSON OUTLINE 1-10; 4:1-15), and in a close relationship with God man was asked to obey God di- 1. Love, Faith, Brotherly Kindness rectly. There is ample evidence for the ex- 1 Cor. 13:4-7 istence of God's moral code before Sinai. Later the commandments given at Sinai 2. Purity were further defined and attitudes and mo- Matt. 5:27, 28 tives were stressed when Jesus came to our world. 3. Patience, Temperance Finally, men like Paul and Peter were James 1:2-4; 1 Cor. 9:25 inspired to enlarge,on such values as love, fidelity, brotherly kindness, purity, patience, 4. Knowledge, Wisdom and godliness. These qualities are based on 2 Chron. 1:10-12 God's great moral code of love to Him and our fellowmen. Deut. 6:5; Matt. 22:37, 38; 5. Joy, Peace, Gentleness Lev. 19:18; Matt. 22:39. John 16:22; Phil. 4:7; 2 Cor. 10:1 Today, Christians have never had such a crucial need for a system of values. What 6. Godliness, Virtue has God revealed that will assist me in 1 Tim. 2:1, 2; 2 Peter 1:5 13 The Christian's Moral Code Today LESSON 2 ❑ Sunday January 3 Part 1 "Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth LOVE, FAITH, not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not BROTHERLY behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not KINDNESS easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all 1 Cor. 13:4-7 things, hopeth all things, endureth all things." Love—a feeling of strong personal attachment induced by that which delights or commands admiration. For Biblical usage see SDA Bible Dictionary, on "Love." Love as a moral value is illustrated in God's devotion to His Old Testament . people in spite of their inconsistent way of life. Jer. 31:3. With God we can expect love to be demon- strated in its most perfect form. But in the history of man there have been some worthy examples of love: Hosea and his steadfast love for his wayward wife; Paul's love and concern for Onesimus and Philemon; and the father in the story of the prodigal son. Faith—belief and trust in and loyalty to God. For Biblical usage see SDA Bible Dictionary, on "Faith." God promised in the Old Testament, speaking to Joshua, "I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee" (Joshua 1:5) ; and in the New Testament this promise was reemphasized in the book of Hebrews: "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." God calls for us today to manifest the same steadfastness in all our relationships. Brotherly Kindness. Read Hebrews 13:1, 2. For Biblical usage see SDA Bible Dictionary, on "Brother"; SDA Bible Commentary, on 2 Peter 1:7. I am to express my love first to God, then to my brother, and then I am to think of myself. The nature of fallen man is selfish. The way back to God begins when man can honestly put his neighbor first—as the Godhead did in giving Jesus. Phil. 2 :5-8 ; John 3:16, 17. What are some of the qualities of charity? THINK IT THROUGH Can we honestly claim we possess real love when we grumble and show reluctance to help people in need? "It is not the opposition of the world most grievous disaster and most surely that most endangers the church of retards the progress of God's cause." Christ. It is the evil cherished in the —"The Acts of the Apostles," page 549. hearts of believers that works their THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 546-556. 14 The Christian's Moral Code Today LESSON 2 ❑ Monday January 4 Part 2 "Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, PURITY Thou shalt not commit adultery: but I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath Matt. 5:27, 28 committed adultery with her already in his heart." Purity—freedom from foulness; faultlessness; guiltlessness; freedom from foreign matter. See 1 Tim. 4:12 ; 5:2, 22. In a day when many choose their own code of morals, how important it is to comprehend the meaning of purity and experience it in our own lives. We find in The Desire of Ages, page 308, this revealing state- ment: "The law is an expression of the thought of God; when received in Christ, it becomes our thought. It lifts us above the power of natural desires and tendencies, above temptations that lead to sin." (Italics supplied.) The seventh command- ment is part of God's law. Why do we allow the devil to harass us with unclean mental pictures? Why do we stand for the uncomfortable, impure feelings that come into mind and cause guilt? Do we excuse ourselves when our emotions are "touched," by saying, "These feelings are only human feelings, and I can't help myself"? Would God ask a man for a pure heart (mind) if it were an impossible task? 1 Tim. 5:2, 22; 2 Cor. 6:6; 1 John 3:1-9; Counsels to Teachers, page 103. The Bible says, "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God." Matt. 5:8. What a privilege it is, by the grace of God, to achieve purity of heart! See SDA Bible Commentary, on Matt. 5:8. What did Jesus say was the same as committing the physical act of adultery? Matt. 5:28. THINK IT THROUGH Do we have a responsibility to each other within the church in accomplishing this attitude of purity? What do you think it is? "But the words of Jesus, 'Blessed are "Only like can appreciate like. Un- the pure in heart,' have a deeper mean- less you accept in your own life the ing—not merely pure in the sense in principle of self-sacrificing love, which which the world understands purity, is the principle of His character, you free from that which is sensual, pure cannot know God. . . . So with the Bi- from lust, but true in the hidden pur- ble. ... The glory of its truths, that are poses and motives of the soul, free as high as heaven and compass eter- from pride and self-seeking, humble, nity, is undiscerned."—"Thoughts From unselfish, childlike. the Mount of Blessing," page 25. THE SECOND MILE: "Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing," pages 24-27, 59, 60. (1943 ed., pages 42-45, 93, 94.) 15 The Christian's Moral Code Today LESSON 2 ❑ Tuesday January 5 Part 3 "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers PATIENCE, temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith TEMPERANCE worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." "And every man that striveth for the mastery is tern- James 1:2-4 perate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corrup- 1 Cor. 9:25 tible crown; but we an incorruptible." Patience—endurance; fortitude; enduring pain and annoy- ances without complaint; self-control under conditions that provoke. For Biblical usage see SDA Bible Dictionary, on "Patience." We have heard a great deal about "the patience of the saints." Rev. 14:12. This is not a quality that will be per- fected in a few hours. While you read this lesson in the midst of your child's play or ponder its principles while standing in the middle of a crisis moment at work, you are developing this quality. And each time that you successfully control the temp- tation to speak scolding words or •threaten your fellows, you are giving patience an opportunity to deepen in your life. Pa- tience is an art. An art develops by practice. Temperance—self-control; ability to check or regulate, to restrain, or •to govern self. For Biblical usage see SDA Bible Dictionary, on "Temperance." This grace makes it possible for one to be patient, to toler- ate, to stand by and see something through to the end. Paul told the church at Corinth that those striving for the mastery would be "temperate in all things." 1 Cor. 9:25. A real test comes when one has lost sleep or is tirod. See Testimonies, Vol. 7, p. 199. Jesus was tired on the night of His trial—yet He gave no thought to His own feelings. He was pushed, kicked, and spat upon; but never an angry word escaped His lips. Matt. 27:26-31. James spoke an eternal truth when he pointed out that the man who controls his tongue is a wise man. James 3:2-8, 13. What does testing do for patience? James 1:3. THINK IT THROUGH Do you think that there are strong and weak Chris- tians, or do you think that all Christians have strong and weak points? Which is best: to "rank" ourselves among other Christians, or to look solely to Christ individually? See Heb. 12:1, 2. "Men will never be truly temperate un- cannot work reform."—"Temperance," til the grace of Christ is an abiding page 102. principle in the heart.... Circumstances THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 529-538. 16 The Christian's Moral Code Today LESSON 2 ❑ Wednesday January 6 Part 4 "Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go KNOWLEDGE, out and come in before this people: for who can judge WISDOM this Thy people, that is so great? And God said to Solo- mon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honor, nor the life of thine ene- mies, neither yet host asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thy self, that thou mayest judge My people, over whom I have made thee king: wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honor, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither 2 Chron. 1:10-12 shall there any after thee have the like." Knowledge—acquaintance with fact; awareness; under- standing. For Biblical usage see SDA Bible Commentary, on Daniel 1:17. Knowledge is necessary for us to become aware, such as the knowledge about our wonderful God and His concern for man- kind. Knowledge is to be "coveted" as long as one gains it for the honor of God. See Messages to Young People, pages 36, 37. The attitude of Solomon in his early years was to be admired. Is our attitude similar? What is the source of our knowledge? Is it from God (Dan. 1:17) or from man? Wisdom—the power of judging rightly and following a sound course of action based on knowledge, experience and understanding. For Biblical usage see SDA Bible Dictionary, on "Wisdom." The Bible states that "the mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom." Ps. 37:30. Wisdom describes how to accomplish something; it is the skill or judgment which makes it possible for an individual to act effectively. In this case, it might be how Christians, by the help of God, realize a continually grow- ing experience with Christ. But not all wisdom is of God (1 Cor. 3:19), and not all "wise" men are in a safe position (1 Cor. 1:26, 27; 3:20). We are wise only when in a relation- ship with God we are growing according to His plan. What was God's answer to Solomon's request? 2 Chron. 1:12. THINK IT THROUGH Am I "wise" because I know good and evil? "God is the source of all wisdom. He ever lived cannot comprehend Him."— is infinitely wise and just and good. "Counsels to Teachers," page 66. Apart from Christ, the wisest man that THE SECOND MILE: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 503-516. 17 3-A1QT71 The Christian's Moral Code Today LESSON 2 ❑ Thursday January 7 Part 5 "And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you JOY, PEACE, again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man GENTLENESS taketh from you." "And the peace of God, which passeth all understand- ing, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." John 16:22 "Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and Phil. 4:7 gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among 2 Cor. 10:1 you, but being absent am bold toward you." Joy—the emotion excited by the expectation of good, well- being, or success. For Biblical usage see SDA Bible Commen- tary, on Rom. 14:17. A fully committed life brings this attribute-into being in the life of the Christian. It makes the personality positive and dynamic. Joy reveals to the outside world the peace that floods the inside. Trial does not discourage this Christian (1 Peter 4:12, 13) ; it only makes him "shine" brighter. Peace—tranquillity, quietness; mental or spiritual state of mind in which there is freedom from disquieting and perturbing fears, passions, or conflicts. For Biblical usage see SDA Bible Commentary, on John 14:27. This attribute is of value to the Christian in two ways: (1) physically and emotionally it allows him to relax and live as God intended, and (2) mentally it allows the mind to be clear so that he can help himself and his fellowmen to know God and His will. John 14:27; 16:33. Gentleness—mildness of manners or disposition. For Bibli- cal usage see SDA Bible Commentary, on Gal. 5:22. Gentleness does not imply that one must become subject to defeat or abuse consistently. It implies a quality of firm kind- ness, strength, and self-control combined with a calm, quiet disposition. Gentleness is considered a "passive" virtue, but very essential. See The Ministry of Healing, page 497. What is the peace that God gives? Phil. 4:7. THINK IT THROUGH Is it essential that I express "joy" always even when I hurt or am sorrowful? "Ask Him to give you the gentleness coming natural and acquired tenden- of Christ; then you will be true to your cies to evil."—"Testimonies to Minis- duty, true to your position of trust, and ters," page 264. true to God, a faithful steward, over- THE SECOND MILE: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 497-502. 18 The Christian's Moral Code Today LESSON 2 ❑ Friday January 8 Part 6 "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, GODLINESS, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for VIRTUE all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." 1 Tim. 2:1, 2 "And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your 2 Peter 1:5 faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge." Godliness—careful observance of, or conformity to, the laws of God. For Biblical usage see SDA Bible Dictionary, on "Godliness." This virtue being associated with a Christian implies that one can live a right life under the direction of God. Paul spoke favorably of this attribute as he wrote to his young minister friends. 1 Tim. 2:2; 6:6; Titus 1:1. But he also warned of a false brand, characterized by "having the form . . . , but denying the power thereof." Concerning this he instructed, "turn away." 2 Tim. 3:5. Note Phillips's translation: "They will maintain a façade of 'religion,' but their conduct will deny its validity." Let no one make fun of you for paying an honest tithe, for keeping all of God's commandments, for going to church on Saturday, for helping the poverty-stricken. Just be certain of your motives for doing these deeds. God will honor your faithfulness, and you will continue to grow more and more like Him. Virtue—strength, courage, moral excellence. For Biblical usage, see SDA Bible Commentary, on 2 Peter 1:3, 5. This ends our discussion on the "elements" that make up the Christian's moral code for today. Let it never be said that Christianity is an easy way of life. Matt. 7:13, 14. Jesus was strong, not weak. He was meek, but He was also courageous and firm. So His followers must be strong, courageous, and morally excellent. This is virtue. And this goal can be accom- plished by a living relationship with God. THINK IT THROUGH Is Christianity a "soft" way of life or does it "soften" one's life? "Christian life is more than many that Christ marks out is a narrow, self- take it to be. It does not consist wholly denying path. To enter that path and in gentleness, patience, meekness, and press on through difficulties and dis- kindliness. These graces are essential; couragements requires men who are but there is need also of courage, force, more than weaklings."—"The Ministry energy, and perseverance. The path of Healing," page 497. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 341-348. 19 The Christian's Moral Code Today LESSON 2 January 9 Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS G A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. Real love and brotherly kindness are expressed when we think of God first, second, and last. 2. True or False: Purity includes being true to one's self and being free from\ pride and self-seeking 3. Underline the correct answer: One (a) can have patience without tem- perance; (h) can have temperance without patience; (c) cannot have pa- tience without temperance—they go together. 4. Complete: " is the beginning of " "For the of this world is with God." 5. True or False: Joy, peace, and gentleness make the Christian the target for rebuke, trickery, and unwholesome mockery 6. Complete: "The path that Christ marks out is a path. To enter that path and press on through difficulties and discouragements 1) requires men who are more than •s2u!pream '2utALlap-mas `mo.uuN (9) ades (5) 61 £ .10 3 T !PT: 6 'void !ssautisHooj ‘tuops!m—ulopsim 'pawl alp auaj atIsL (b) !Jaina2o1 o2 Aatil —aptieJadtual ;notwm Douppud a/tug louuua (f) !Dtisi (g) saniasano 4ualumoriad (r) :siantsuv 20 LESSON 3 oat a 1 04 000 Oat 00t5 On 40,c, dee, 1, THE CHRISTIAN AND FAMILY RELATIONS 3 "Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; while they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wear- ing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price." 1 Peter 3:1-4. Among the important social relationships as to give to the world an object lesson of on earth is that of marriage and family what families who love God and keep His life. Perhaps there is no other relationship commandments may be. Christ will be glori- that Satan would rather destroy in this fied; His peace and grace and love will contemporary generation than the one in- pervade the family circle like a precious volving the home. perfume."—The Adventist Home, page 17. Although God has gone on record as hav- ing predicted the social conditions of the LESSON OUTLINE last days, which include family unrest (Matt. 24:38, 39; 2 Tim. 3:1-7), no Chris- 1. Husband-wife Companionship tian has to allow these conditions to influ- Matt. 19:5, 6 ence him or enter his home. Rather, the Creator has revealed to man- 2. Mutual Love, Honor, and kind the ideal principles which are •to gov- Respect in Marriage ern marriage and family living. And He has Col. 3:18, 19 commanded the family to abide by the Christian moral code in its interpersonal re- 3. The Value of a Virtuous Mate lations inside and outside of the home. For Prov. 12:4; Eph. 5:28, 29 the home that is not united in religious practice God has given specific instructions 4. Relationship of Parents to to assist Christians in these circumstances Children so that they may witness and live in peace. 1 Peter 3:1-4; 1 Cor. 7:12-16. Col. 3:21; Eph. 6:4 God has a large plan in mind for the 5. Relationship of Children to Christian home. Through the pen of in- spiration we read, "God would have our Parents families symbols of the family in heaven. Eph. 6:1-3 Let parents and children bear this in mind every day, relating themselves to one an- 6. Love, Appreciation, and a other as members of •the family of God. Sense of Self-worth Then their lives will be of such a character Eph. 5:28, 33 21 The Christian and Family Relations LESSON 3 ❑ Sunday January 10 Part 1 "For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, HUSBAND-WIFE and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one COMPANIONSHIP flesh. Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man Matt. 19:5, 6 put asunder." "During childhood and youth a person's primary responsi- bility is to his father and mother. This responsibility con- tinues throughout life. . . . However, notwithstanding the importance of this obligation it is subordinate to the marriage law, and where the two may come into conflict—as the result of human weaknesses and mistakes—a man's first responsibility is to his wife."—SDA Bible Commentary, on Matt. 19:5. What change in family relationships and loyalties takes place when one marries? Verse 5. Cf. Eph. 5:31; Gen. 2:24. Marriage calls for oneness in the sense that two people are growing toward a mutual understanding in certain vital areas —attitudes, customs, goals, values, likes and dislikes—and yet individuality is preserved. Concerning individuality, Ellen White says, "Her individuality cannot be merged into that of her husband, for she is the purchase of Christ. It is a mistake to imagine that with blind devotion she is to do exactly as her husband says in all things, when she knows that in so doing, injury would be worked for her body and her spirit, which have been ransomed from the slavery of Satan."—The Ad- ventist Home, page 116. The oneness in marriage comes when husbands and wives treat each other with mutual respect and devotion (Col. 3:18, 19; Eph. 5:22, 23, 25; 1 Peter 3:1, 7) and keep the spirit of the golden rule. Matt. 7:12. These principles are applicable in homes where different religious goals and values are cherished. A devoted believer, in silent witness, attracts to God much more powerfully than a nagging sermonizer. See 1 Peter 3:1-4. THINK IT THROUGH In what ways do the relationships of the home com- pare with the relationship that Christ has with His church? "God Himself gave Adam a com- Adam, signifying that she was not to panion. He provided 'an help meet for control him as the head, nor to be him'—a helper corresponding to him— trampled under his feet as an inferior, one who was fitted to be his compan- but to stand by his side as an equal, to ion, and who could be one with him in be loved and protected by him."— love and sympathy. Eve was created "Patriarchs and Prophets," page 46. from a rib taken from the side of THE SECOND MILE: Shryock, "Happiness for Husbands and Wives," pages 17-28. 22 The Christian and Family Relations LESSON 3 ❑ Monday January 11 Part 2 "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as MUTUAL LOVE, it is fit in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and be HONOR, AND not bitter against them." RESPECT IN MARRIAGE It has been stated that God did not take Eve from man's foot; thus woman is not to be trampled upon. And God did Col. 3:18, 19 not take woman from man's head; thus she is not to rule the man. Instead, she was taken from the region of man's heart —thus mutual love, honor, and respect are to rule in Christian marriage. See Testimonies, Vol. 7, pp. 45-50; Gen. 2:21-24; 1 Peter 3:1, 7. "Submit" in Col. 3:18 (also in Eph. 5:22; Rom. 10:3; James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:5) means "to put oneself under orders," coming from the idea of knowing and willingly ac- cepting one's rank or order. This word needs careful study by both husbands and wives, for it is a command from God. It is quite easy to see what happens when the word "submit" is misunderstood or ignored. "The ethics of Christian relationships within the family are clear when once it is seen that difference and subordination do not in any sense imply inferiority. The submission enjoined upon the wife is of the kind that can be given only between equals, not a servile obedience, but a voluntary submission in the respects in which the man was qualified by his Maker to be head. . . . This principle of submission is permanent, but its specific application may vary from age to age according to custom and social consciousness."—SDA Bible Commentary, on Eph. 5:22. Marriage is a mutual relationship. If it is to reach the ideal, both partners must consent to the principle of the golden rule and concentrate on the development of a character made from the building blocks discovered in Lesson Two. What attitude should the husband have toward his wife? What admonition is given to the wife? Eph. 5:22, 23, 25. THINK IT THROUGH What might be one word that would summarize the ideal relationship between husband and wife? "We must have the Spirit of God, or he will not be arbitrary and exacting. we can never have harmony in the We cannot cherish home affection with home. The wife, if she has the spirit of too much care; for the home, if the Christ, will be careful of her words; she Spirit of the Lord dwells there, is a type will control her spirit, she will be sub- of heaven. . . . If one errs, the other missive, and yet will not feel that she will exercise Christlike forbearance and is a bondslave, but a companion to her not draw coldly away."—"The Advent- husband. If the husband is a servant of ist Home," page 118 God, he will not lord it over his wife; THE SECOND MILE: "The Adventist Home," pages 114-128. 23 The Christian and Family Relations LESSON 3 ❑ Tuesday. January 12 Part 3 "A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she THE VALUE OF A that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones." VIRTUOUS MATE "So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. Prov. 12:4 . . . For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nour- Eph. 5:28, 29 isheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church." In our day the term "compatibility" defines the necessary attitudes and desires for getting along harmoniously together in a marriage relationship. Some of the areas connected with compatibility include the following: (1) Finance. (Who takes care of the money? Does the wife work? What about credit and installment buying, et cetera ?) (2) Children and family life. (Agreements on a mutual, loying relationship between husband and wife, when to have children and how many, et cetera. (3) Likes and dis- likes. (Agreements about likes and dislikes—are they major and impossible to change, or can an understanding be ac- complished?) (4) Self-fulfillment. (Personal goals discussed and agreements reached.) (5) Education. (How much is needed, choice of life's work, wife's education goals and future con- sidered.) (6) Religious and cultural backgrounds. (Are they the same? How -will our marriage succeed if they are not? How can I fulfill 2 Cor. 6:14-16 and still accept difference in this area ?) These are important items for consideration, but God asks us also to consider the importance of the simple virtues found in Prov. 31:10-31. If the husband expects the wife to respect him and treat him as her "king," should he not set an ex- ample of godly living for her? And if the wife expects the hus- band to treat her with admiration and honor, should she not seek to excel in these ideals? In homes where only one is a believer, the role of a virtuous mate has an exceptionally large function. The golden rule can do more to win than a thousand sermons. Love in action is hard to deny. 1 Peter 3:1-4; 1 Cor. 7:12-16; SDA Bible Com- mentary, on 1 Cor. 7:12-16. What is the value of a virtuous woman to a man? How is the man to treat the wife? THINK IT THROUGH Do I allow church activities (Dorcas work, committees, et cetera) or my profession to become an avenue of sel- fishness for my personal gain, thereby cheating my mate of God-ordained attention and devotion? "To gain a proper understanding of school from which they are never in the marriage relation is the work of a this life to be graduated."—"Testimo- lifetime. Those who marry enter a nies," Vol. 7, p. 45. THE SECOND MILE: "The Adventist Home," pages 43-49, 223-228. 24 The Christian and Family Relations LESSON 3 ❑ Wednesday January 13 Part 4 "Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they RELATIONSHIP be discouraged." OF PARENTS "And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: TO CHILDREN but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Col. 3:21 Lord." Eph. 6:4 Much has been written and discussed on the subject of the "generation gap" (communication breakdown between two generations), but God has never intended His creatures to in- terrelate in any other fashion than in terms of understanding and mutual fellowship. This includes the parent-child and parent-teen relationships as well. The message of reformation that came to Malachi (Mal. 4:5, 6) and that was later repeated to the people of Christ's day (Luke 1:17) included the admonition that "the hearts of the fathers" should be turned "to the children." "The declaration of Malachi, here cited by Luke, has . . . been explained literally as applying to parental responsibility in bringing up children in 'the nurture and admonition of the Lord' (Eph. 6:4). . . . The home is certainly included in the work of reform here described as being an important aspect of making 'ready a people prepared for the Lord.' "—SDA Bible Commentary, on Luke 1:17. The word "provoke" in Col. 3:21 means to incite or stir up anger, hostility, or the urge to fight. Patience, firmness, com- munication, and understanding will go farther in dealing with growing children and their problems than authoritarianism and force. See The Adventist Home, pages 292-316; SDA Bible Commentary, on Col. 3:21. What applies to fathers also applies to mothers. Both have the responsibility of encouraging their family toward the kingdom. See The Adventist Home, pages 211, 280. What results when children are provoked? CoI. 3:21. THINK IT THROUGH Is there a "generation gap" in our church? "Actual wrong should be made to mind, but with a degree of courage that appear just as sinful as it is, and a they can improve and gain your con- firm, decided course should be pursued fidence and approval."—"Child Guid- to prevent its recurrence; yet children ance," page 279. should not be left in a hopeless state of THE SECOND MILE: "Child Guidance," pages 279-287, 223-228. 25 4-A1QT71 The Christian and Family Relations LESSON 3 ❑ Thursday January 14 Part 5 "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is RELATIONSHIP right. Honor thy father and mother; which is the first OF CHILDREN commandment with promise; that it may be well with TO PARENTS thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth." Eph. 6:1-3 The word "obey" means •"to accord with another's com- mands or wishes." Parents and teachers have a large part to play in leading and communicating a right way of life to children and teen-agers. Children are commanded to "obey" in the Lord. We are commanded not Ito "provoke" them to anger but to train them according to the admonition of the Lord. Eph. 6:4. The kind of firmness and discipline urged .by the wise man (Prov. 13:24; 23:13) is certainly needed now. But much that is called discipline today is nothing but mis- placed hostility and aggression. See Child Guidance, pages 244- 257. If children and teen-agers are to obey "in the Lord," they will have to be treated always like persons, never like "objects." Even though our day might not be long enough, it must in- clude some time for companionship where children and teen- agers may know that they count, where they feel that someone "reads them" and listens to how they feel rather than to be involved in a heated debate over what they say. See The Ad- ventist Home, pages 220-223. What are children admonished to do? Eph. 6:1. THINK IT THROUGH How do I want to relate to the question, "Where is the flock that was given thee, thy beautiful flock?" Jer. 13:20. "One well-ordered, well-disciplined the instruction received in the home. family tells more in behalf of Christian- The neighborhood in which they live is ity than all the sermons that can be helped, for in it they have become en- preached. Such a family gives evidence riched for time and for eternity. The that the parents have been successful whole family is engaged in the service in following God's directions, and that of the Master; and by their godly ex- their children will serve Him in the ample, others are inspired to be faithful church. Their influence grows; for as and true to God in dealing with His they impart, they receive to impart flock, His beautiful flock."—"The Advent- again. The father and mother find help- ist Home," page 32. ers in their children, who give to others THE SECOND MILE: "Messages to Young People," pages 331,338. 26 The Christian and Family Relations LESSON 3 111 Friday January 15 Part 6 "So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. LOVE, He that loveth his wife loveth himself." APPRECIATION, "Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so AND A SENSE OF love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she SELF-WORTH reverence her husband." Eph. 5:28, 33 To be loved and appreciated and to be in possession of a positive self-concept constitute deep human needs. They give an individual moral and emotional strength, a sense of direc- tion, real purpose and vision, and definite confidence and security. Do we depend solely upon our family for the personal and emotional assurance that we are worth something, or have we also become convinced of this by our knowledge of what the Godhead has invested in us? See Testimonies, Vol. 2, pp. 634, 635. Are we able •to compliment and encourage our mate and family members properly and warmly and honestly, or is it our habit •to downgrade and call attention to their faults? "Let each give love rather than exact it. Cultivate that which is noblest in yourselves, and be quick to recognize the good qualities in each other. The consciousness of being appreciated is a wonderful stimulus and satisfaction. Sympathy and re- spect encourage the striving after excellence, and love itself increases as it stimulates to nobler aims."—The Ministry of Healing, page 361. The sense of love, appreciation, and self-worth are noble aims. They can be yours if you determine, by God's help, to cultivate them in your life. Your family can be among the happiest in the world. Ps. 128. How deep is a man's love to be for his wife? Eph. 5:28. THINK IT THROUGH Do I make it a personal habit to see myself as one that is dearly loved, appreciated, and respected by my family and my God? "The two who unite their interest in 'How shall I make my influence Christ- life, will have distinct characteristics like in my home?' The husband should and individual responsibilities. Each let his wife know that he appreciates one will have his or her work, but her work. women are not to be valued by the "The wife is to respect her husband. amount of work. they can do as are The husband is to love and cherish his beasts of burden. The•wife is to grace wife; and as their marriage vow unites the family circle as a wife and com- them as one, so their belief in Christ panion to a wise husband. At every should make them one in Him."—"The step she should inquire, 'Is this the Adventist Home," page 114. standard of true womanhood?' and, THE SECOND MILE: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 356-362. 27 The Christian and Family Relations LESSON 3 January 16 Part 7 0 SUMMARY QUESTIONS 0 A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. Multiple Choice: When a conflict arises between a man's responsibility to his parents and to his wife, (a) his parents; (b) his wife; (c) both should receive first attention 2. Multiple Choice: "Submit" means: (a) to become a slave to the man; (b) to be equal; (c) to be second in rank on a voluntary basis; (d) to be secondary. 3. Some of the values of a virtuous mate are 4. True or False: Fathers are the only ones who are likely to "provoke" a child; so the principle of Col. 3:21 applies only to them 5. Multiple Choice: If children are to obey "in the Lord," they will have to be treated: (a) like objects; (b) like adults; (c) like persons; (d) according to the way they act 6. Complete: "Let each love rather than it "—The Ministry of Healing, page 361. lauxa `an!2 (9) f (s) !aqua (t) `•(T£- OT:T£ svanoza aas) f (g) q (I) :saamsuv 28 LESSON 4 January 23 CARE ENOUGH TO ACT ACT LIKE YOU CARE 4 "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world." James 1:27. God so loved that while we were yet His character in our daily life. Our influ- enemies He let Jesus die in our place. Rom. ence upon others depends not so much 5:6-11. He gave Himself for His family. upon what we say as upon what we are." God requires that we also provide our fam- —The Desire of Ages, pages 141, 142. ilies with disinterested love. Further, He teaches us by example that we are to care for those in need who are LESSON OUTLINE not members of our immediate family. We must help our friends when they are in 1. Eternal Principle—Love as You trouble even if •they have been the cause Love Yourself of their own problems. We must always do Lev. 19:18 the right—whatever the cost may be to us. Ellen G. White has said, "All who are 2. Begin With Your Family consecrated to God will be channels of 1 Tim. 5:8 light. God makes them His agents to com- municate to others the riches of His grace. 3. Love Your Enemies His promise is, 'I will make them and the Matt. 5:43, 44 places round about My hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in 4. Be Sociable to All People his season; there shall be showers of bless- Matt. 9:10-12 ing.' Ezek. 34:26. "Philip said to Nathanael, 'Come and 5. Those Who Cause Their. Own see.' He did not ask him to accept another's testimony, but to behold Christ for himself. Problems Now that Jesus has ascended to heaven, Matt. 14:24-27 His disciples are His representatives among men, and one of the most effective ways of 6. Samaritan Parable—The Ideal winning souls to Him is in exemplifying Luke 10:33, 34 29 Care Enough to Act—Act Like You Care LESSON 4 -El Sunday January 17 Part 1 "Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against ETERNAL PRINCIPLE the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neigh- —LOVE AS YOU bor as thyself: I am the Lord." LOVE YOURSELF Lev. 19:18 Two questions need to be answered: "Who is my neighbor?" and "What is my duty toward my neighbor?" The first question may be answered by saying that anyone in need is my neighbor, regardless of race, creed, or color. Christ's Object Lessons, page 376. It may be "poverty" of any kind—spiritual, physical, or social. Regardless of the kind, it is my privilege to represent God in this world and to relieve the pain of poverty. Matt. 25:34-40; James 1:27. How does God want me to feel toward my neighbor? Matt. 22:39. Are there those in my church that are "poverty- stricken"? Which is more urgent—to relieve the pain of poverty within the church or outside of the church? The second question is answered by the Scriptural reference —"Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." This includes the unlovables (Matt. 9:10-12), the stranger (Matt. 15:21-28), the enemies (Luke 6:27, 35; 22:50, 51), the gifted (John 3:1-13), those who are the objects of discrimination (John 4:1-26), just to mention a few. My duty as a neighbor is not to judge or criticize, but to be a "light" shining in a "dark,place." Matt. 5:13-16; SDA Bible Commentary, on Lev. 19:18. THINK IT THROUGH In doing Christian works, what is more important, my motive for doing the deed, or doing the deed because other Christians do it? "In His life and lessons, Christ has was given to stand at the head of hu- given a perfect exemplification of the manity, that by His example He might unselfish ministry which has its origin teach what it means to minister. His in God. God does not live for Himself. whole life was under a law of service. By creating the world, and by uphold- He served all, ministered to all. Thus ing all things, He is constantly minister- He lived the law of God, and by His ing for others.... This ideal of ministry example showed how we are to obey God has committed to His Son. Jesus it."—"The Desire of Ages," page 649. THE SECOND MILE: "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 376-389. (192.3 ed., pages 381-395. 30 Care Enough to Act—Act Like You Care LESSON 4 ❑ Monday January 18 Part 2 "If any provide not for his own, and specially for those BEGIN WITH of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse YOUR FAMILY than an infidel." 1. Tim. 5:8 In Testimonies, Vol. 5, pp. 178-182, a story is related con- cerning a man who thought it was proper to take life easy and "'drift." Two counts were charged against him. The first con- cerned his conduct and business habits. They were so deplor- able that he was warned that if he did not change, his example might endanger the reputations of his Christian brethren. The second count was his example and conduct in his home. His sons copied his habit of laziness while the wife toiled unend- ingly to do all the work. The solution that was offered for this problem was self-discipline in the life. Our needs have not changed. The quality of one's life deter- mines the quality of our neighborliness. And the way we achieve quality in the first place is by self-discipline in the life. The Bible writers were concerned that Christians carry their religion with them. They were to be industrious, not idle (slothful) or motionless. Prov. 22:29; 10:4; Rom. 12:11; Matt. 2.5:21. Religion was not to be a mere performance; it was to be real living. This living demonstration was meant for the street, the workshop, the office, the ball game, the home, the social occasion. No shades of difference, no degrees of intensity, were to be witnessed. Simply a consistent, trustworthy example of living communion with God was recommended by our Lord. Matt. 5:13-16; 10:32. See also Rom. 10:9-11. THFNK IT' THROUGH To what is a person likened who neglects family and relatives? In what sequence should the following ideas be grouped: Love to neighbor; love and acceptance of myself; love to God; love to family and relatives? "The many admonitions to diligence necessary in order to a proper develop- found in both the Old and the New ment of all the faculties. While many Testament plainly indicate the intimate are too much engaged in worldly busi- relation existing between our habits of ness, others go to the opposite extreme life and our religious feelings and prac- and do not labor sufficiently to support tices. The human mind and body are so themselves or those dependent upon constituted that plenty of exercise is them."—"Testimonies," Vol. 5, p. 178. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 178-182. 31 Care Enough to Act—Act Like You Care LESSON 4 ❑ Tuesday January. 19 Part 3 "Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love LOVE YOUR thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, ENEMIES Love your enemies." Matt. 5:43, 44 Do you have enemies? Can you see yourself going to them and treating them with kindness? Can you visualize yourself not murmuring when a Christian brother takes advantage of you on a business deal? See The Desire of Ages, page 265, for Christ's example. Your enemies are to be considered as valuable in the sight of God. In fact, we are enemies to God unless we come to God and experience a thorough change in our personal living habits. Rom. 5:6-10; 2 Cor. 5:17. Christ loved His enemies. Luke 23:34. We are to follow His example. God wants us to be examples of reconciliation, not judges or condemnatory or sharp-tongued servants of gossip or backbiting. Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, page 75. It is easy to love the lovely. But it is quite another thing to love the unlovely, the gruff, the contemptuous, the stern, the unkind. Matt. 5:43-47. However, God loves and remembers all men, for He is the Creator and Redeemer of all. And, while He could easily spread the good news of reconciliation, He has chosen His professed disciples as His instruments. How can our message have any force if we hate our enemies? See Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pages 73-75. How are we to treat our enemies? THINK IT THROUGH Who would be the greatest enemy of God—the one who professes to follow Him and hates his enemies, or the one who lives without God? "The children of God are those who give love for love. But it is only the are partakers of His nature. It is not Spirit of God that gives love for hatred. earthly rank, nor birth, nor nationality, To be kind to the unthankful and to the nor religious privilege, which proves evil, to do good hoping for nothing that we are members of the family of again, is the insignia of the royalty of God; it is love, a love that embraces heaven, the sure token by which the all humanity. Even sinners whose hearts children of the Highest reveal their are not utterly closed to God's Spirit, high estate."—"Thoughts From• the will respond to kindness; while they Mount of Blessing," page 75. may give hate for hate, they will also THE SECOND MILE: "Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing," pages 73-75. (1943 ed., pages 113-115.) 32 Care Enough to Act—Act Like You Care LESSON 4 ❑ Wednesday January 20 Part 4 "And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the BE SOCIABLE house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and TO ALL PEOPLE sat down with Him and His disciples. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto His disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? But when Jesus heard that, He said unto them, They that be whole need Matt. 9:1 0-1 2 not a physician, but they that are sick." It is rather easy to befriend those who are accepted by so- ciety. But those who need our help are the ones who are rejected. Jesus chose to sit with the publican, the sinner, the scorned, because they knew their need. Wealth, popularity, and security often tend to make a person feel little need for God. Perhaps this is because man has a habit of viewing himself as one who is fairly well off. Matt. 19:16-26. This state of mind is dangerous because the Bible clearly says that man is lawless and there is nothing good in him. Rom. 3:23; Isa. 64:6. We, as disciples of Christ, are called to minister to all re- gardless of class, creed, or color. God needs men who are not afraid for their reputation to walk as Jesus walked among men in need. We have a source from which we can draw which can make us lovable and loving Christians. 1 Cor. 13. We are to be the lights in a dark world, giving hope and bringing peace to fearful hearts. The Christian should be concerned only that he feed on the Living Bread and grow continually into the fullness of Christ. John 6:48-51. Other than this, the Christian is called upon to be open and friendly to all men just as his Lord so clearly demonstrated at the feast in Matthew's house. See The Desire of Ages, pages 272-280. What was Jesus' reason for eating with the publicans and sinners? Matt. 9:12. THINK IT THROUGH Where do I draw the line between sociability with the world for the cause of God and maintaining a pure Chris- tian life? See John 17:14, 15; "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 467, 468. "Jesus sat as an honored guest at the words fell with blessed, life-giving table of the publicans, by His sympathy power. New impulses were awakened, and social kindliness showing that He and the possibility of a new life opened recognized the dignity of humanity; and to these outcasts of society."—"The De- men longed to become worthy of His sire of Ages," page 274. confidence. Upon their thirsty hearts His THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages," pages 272-280. 33 5-A1QT71 .Care Enough to Act—Act Like You Care LESSON 4 ❑ Thursday January 21 Part • 5 "'But the ship.was now in the midst of the sea, tossed THOSE WHO with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth CAUSE THEIR watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the OWN PROBLEMS sea. And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spoke unto them, Matt. 14:24-27 saying, 'Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid." How often it takes poverty and adversity to gain human at- tention. Trial is a blessing if it is accepted in the right frame of mind. Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, page 10; Heb. 12:6. But often, perhaps unwittingly, we cause our own state of poverty, adversity, or trial. Ellen White suggests several rea- sons why poverty and trial afflict the human race: idleness (Counsels to Teachers, page 275), lack of perseverence (The Ministry of Healing, pages 194, 195), lack of right judgment —wisdom (Ibid., p. 195), love of display (Ibid., page 197), ill- ness and misfortune (Ibid., pp. 190, 195; Patriarchs and Proph- ets, page 531), persecution (The Desire of Ages, page 637), neglecting God's plan (Counsels to Teachers, pages 275, 276), just to mention a few. Because of their stubbornness and unbelief, the disciples ex- perienced a severe and life-threatening storm on Galilee. See The Desire of Ages, page 380. Yet Christ ministered to them with tender compassion. Likewise, though some of those in trouble have caused their own misfortunes, Christ asks us to follow His example in ministering to their needs. Poverty can be a challenge to Christianity. Welfare Ministry, page 177. We are called to assist as Jesus assisted people while He was here on earth. The Desire of Ages, pages 637-641. This is brotherly kindness and love. In what way did the disciples react to Christ's attempt to help them? Matt. 14:26. THINK IT THROUGH How much and for how long am I to help those who are in need? Where does education come into the pic- ture? Can all people be educated to live a better life? "The Saviour's example is to be the dwells in us, we shall reveal His unsel- standard of our service for the tempted fish love toward all with whom we and the erring. The same interest and have to do. As we see men and women tenderness and long-suffering that He in need of sympathy and help, we shall has manifested toward us, we are to not ask, 'Are they worthy?' but 'How manifest toward others. 'As I have can I benefit them?'"—"The Ministry of loved you,' He says, 'that ye also love Healing," page 162. one another.' John 13:34. If Christ THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages," page 377-382. 34 Care Enough to Act—Act Like You Care LESSON 4 ❑ Friday January 22 Part 6 "But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came SAMARITAN where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion PARABLE— on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, THE IDEAL pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, Luke 10:33, 34 and brought him to an inn, and took care of him." Perhaps the ultimate-illustration of neighborliness is found in the parable of the Good Samaritan. Do we no,t find ample opportunity to duplicate this touching scene today? Or are we living in constant fear. that if we stop to assist one in need, we might be attacked or harmed? If-so, see Ellen G. White Com- ments, SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 3, p. 1153 ; Early Writings, page 60. Read 1 John 4:18. "In the story of the Good Samaritan, Jesus gave a picture of Himself and His. mission. Mdn had been deceived,' bruised, robbed, and ruined 'by Satan, and left to perish; but the Saviour had compassion on our helpless condition. He -left His • glory, to come to our. rescue. He found us ready to die, and He undertook our case. He healed our wounds. He covered us with His robe- of righteousness. He opened_to us a .refuge of safety, and made complete provision for us at His own charges. He died to redeem us."—The Desire of Ages,. pages 503, 504. Dangers have always been .present to every generation of Christians. God is always using men with a sense of mission— who throw themselves heart and soul into _the work He has given them to do, without asking what the result will be. "The Saviour is by the side of His tempted and tried ones. With' Him there can -be, no such -thing as failure, loss, impossibility, or defeat; we can do all things through Him who strengthens us."The Desire of Ages, page 490; See also,.Thoughts From- the Mount of Blessing, page 118. What three classes of people are represented in the parable of the Good Samaritan? Luke 10:30-34. THINK IT THROUGH Should we take any thought for our own personal protection when we hear of or see a fellow human in need? "He [the Samaritan] did not question did not consider that he himself might whether the stranger was a Jew or a be in danger of violence by tarrying in Gentile. If a Jew, the Samaritan well the place. It was enough that there knew that, were their condition re- was before him a human being in need versed, the man would spit in his face, and suffering."—"The Desire of Ages," and pass him by with contempt. But he page 503. did not hesitate on account of this. He THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages," pages 497-505. 35 Care Enough to Act—Act Like You Care LESSON 4 January 23 Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS G A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. Anyone who is in is my neighbor. 2. True or False: In 1 Timothy 5:8 we are told that the Christian who for- gets to provide for his family is worse than an infidel 3. Christ's method in dealing with His enemies is to them. 4. Multiple choice: God says: (a) We are to be selective in our choice of "neighbors"; (b) We are to minister to those in our social-economic group only; (c) We are to be "servants" and to help all regardless of creed, class, or color; (d) All are correct 5. True or False: Poverty is a sign of God's disfavor 6. Circle the correct word in each set of parentheses. "He [the Samaritan] (did; did not) question whether the stranger was a Jew or a Gentile. It was enough that there was before him a human in (need; pain) and (suffering; hunger)." .2upalins ‘4ou py (9) fasreA (9) :D (t) `•anol (r) !anii (z) !paati (j) :saamsttv 36 "That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me." John 17:21. As there is unity in heaven, so it was leaders. The members should respect and God's plan that there should be unity in honor their leaders. The leaders, in turn, are the church family as well. A house of wor- to be worthy of that respect. Only thus ship divided cannot stand. can the church have a real influence on its "The unity of the church is the convinc- neighbors. ing evidence that God has sent Jesus into the world as its Redeemer. This is an argu- ment which worldings cannot controvert. LESSON OUTLINE Therefore Satan is constantly working to 1. The Church as God's Organiza- prevent this union and harmony, that un- believers, by witnessing backsliding, dis- tion sension, and strife among professed Chris- 1 Cor. 12:12-14 tians, may become disgusted with religion and be confirmed in their impenitence. God 2. Harmony Begins With Each is dishonored by those who profess the Member truth while they are at variance and en- 1 John 4:7, 19, 20 mity with one another. Satan is the great accuser of the brethren, and all who engage 3. Jesus' Prayer in this work are enlisted in his service. John 17:20, 21 "We profess to have more truth than other denominations; yet if this does not 4. Responding to Leadership lead to greater consecration, to purer, holier 1 Thess. 5:12, 13 lives, of what benefit is it to us? It would be better for us never to have seen the 5. Right Kind of Leader light of truth than to profess to accept it Matt. 20:25-28 and not be sanctified through it."—Testi- monies, Vol. 5, p. 620. 6. Unity Brings Action This statement includes members and Acts 2:46, 47 37 Church Relations LESSON 5 ❑ Sunday January 24 Part 1 "For as the body is one, and hath many members, and THE CHURCH all the members of that one body, being many, are one AS GOD'S body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all bap- ORGANIZATION tized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, 1 Cor. 12:12-14 but many." God desires order and design. This is evident in all of His creation. From the innocent beauty of the rose to the complex systems of the galaxies observed by telescope, God consistently gives evidence of His desire to have all things "done decently and in order" (1 Cor. 14:40) ; and the operation of His church is included. The Old Testament people knew this system of orderliness. Ex. 25:10 to 31:18. And it was not neglected in the New Tes- tament. Paul speaks of this subject and refers to the church as a body with many members. In the SDA Bible Commentary, on 1 Cor. 12:12, we read: "The human body is one organism, but it is composed of various members and parts, each having its own indispensable function, and all uniting harmoniously in one whole. Though the different parts of the body are separ- ate and distinct in their shape, size, and functions, they are all essential, and all unite in making up the entire body, and are all under the same guiding power, the head. "The apostle represents the church as the body of Christ, signifying that it is one united body, with Christ as its head (see 1 Cor. 12:27; Eph. 1:22, 23; Col. 1:18-24). By a figure of speech a part is here made to represent the whole. Christ, the head of the church, stands for the entire church. All the members of the church are separate individuals, having vary- ing offices and responsibilities in the church. For these tasks they receive gifts from God appropriate to their individual needs, but they all are answerable to Christ and are united in Him." What is the church likened to? THINK IT THROUGH How can the church be organized and still act in a spontaneous fashion as in the days of the apostles? "I testify to my brethren and sisters object on earth on which He bestows that the church of Christ, enfeebled His supreme regard."—"Testimonies to and defective as it may be, is the only Ministers," page 15. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies to Ministers," pages 24-32. ("The Remnant Church," pages 15-22.) 38 Church Relcitions LESSON 5 ❑ Monday January 25: Part 2 ' "Beloved, let us love one another:: for love is of God; HARMONY and everyone that loveth is born of God, and.knoweth BEGINS WITH God." EACH MEMBER "We love Him, because He first, loved us. IC a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how.•. 1 John 4:7, 19, 20 can he love God whom he hath not.seen?" Can men and women sit in the same church and hate each other and still be useful to God? How effectively we could work for God if we knew the art of love ! 1 Corinthians 13. Unity within the church begins within the mind and heart of every member. The moral values of patience, self-control, brotherly kindness, gentleness, purity, just to name a few, are equally as essential in the church today as they were in apostolic times. Harmony does not destroy individuality. Ellen G. White says, "The religion of Christ does not require us to lose our identity of character, but merely to adapt ourselves, in some measure, to the feelings and ways of others. Many people may be brought together in a unity of religious faith whose opinions, habits, and tastes in temporal matters are not in harmony; but if they have the love of Christ glowing in their bosoms, and are looking forward to the same heaven as their eternal home, they may have the sweetest and most intelligent communion together, and a unity the most wonder ful."—Testimonies, Vol. 4, p. 65. Can a man love God and hate his brother? 1 John 4:20. THINK IT THROUGH Discuss what would happen in your church if all of the members turned Worn their differences and applied the principle of love. "Satan well knows that success can ently. They will not• take any man's only attend order and harmonious ac- say-so. They are amenable to no man. tion. He well knows that everything I was shown that it is Satan's special connected with heaven is in perfect work to lead men to feel that it is God's order, that subjection and perfect dis- order for them to strike out for them- cipline mark the movements of the selves and choose their own course in- angelic host. . . . These devoted souls dependent of their brethren."—"Testi- consider it a virtue to boast of their monies to Ministers," page 29. freedom to think and act independ- THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 1; pp. 323-325. 39 Church Relations LESSON 5 ❑ Tuesday January 26 Part 3 "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also JESUS' PRAYER which shall believe on Me through their word; that they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world John 17:20, 21 may believe that Thou bast sent Me." How thoughtful of Jesus to remember His disciples in every generation. It was His wish, and it still is, that we might be "one" as He and His Father are one. The SDA Bible Commen- tary, on John 17:21, makes this comment: "There would be diversities of gifts (1 Cor. 12), but there was to be unity of spirit, objectives, and beliefs. There were to be no strivings for supremacy such as had recently plagued the Twelve (Luke 22:24-30). The unity springing from the blended lives of Christians would impress the world of the divine origin of the Christian church." What does it mean to become "one"? Do I have to sur- render my individuality or live as another person? Not at all. We have learned that God has created each of us to be a dif- ferent and distinct person. See Lesson 3, Part 1; Testimonies, Vol. 3, p. 484; Education, page 17; Counsels on Health, pages 243, 244. God is concerned that we be "one" in mind, purpose, and character, but not in person. See The Ministry of Healing, page 422 ; Ellen G. White Comments, SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, p. 1148. Perhaps mind means to present an honest, united front which would convince the world that Christ is the only Saviour of mankind; purpose, to proclaim and clarify the plan whereby fallen men may become the sons of God; character, to reveal the "building blocks" essential for every man in his quest to become like God and depart from law- lessness and rebellion. All this must be in cooperation with the Godhead, and yet within the framework of our own person- alities. What freedom! A freedom of heavenly origin that we are allowed to experience while we remain in this world. Why is unity so important? John 17:21. THINK IT THROUGH What do you think is meant by the statement: "They are one in purpose, in mind, in character, but not in person"?—"The Ministry of Healing," page 422. "What kind of unity is spoken of in workers of varied capabilities are these words [John 17:20, 21]?—Unity needed. If our hearts are humble, if in diversity. Our minds do not all run we have learned in the school of Christ in the same channel, and we have not to be meek and lowly, we may all all been given the same work. God has press together in the narrow path given to every man his work according marked out for us."—Ellen G. White to his several ability. There are differ- Comments, "SDA Bible Commentary," ent kinds of work to be done, and Vol. 5, p. 1148. THE SECOND MILE: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 409-426. 40 Church Relations LESSON 5 ❑ Wednesday January 27 Part 4 "And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which RESPONDING TO labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and LEADERSHIP admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love 1 Thess. 5:12, 13 for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves." As members of the church who were baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, we have the solemn but joyful responsibility of proclaiming the "good news" to all mankind. But another spot within the church that needs our atten- tion is that area dealing with our attitude toward church lead- ers. In a time of self-proclaimed "freedom," a time of rebel- lion, it is not unusual to hear church members debating over the rightness or wrongness of a decision made by the local church board. Or some may question the reason for one mem- ber's being placed in leadership when someone else "more capable" was omitted or rejected. Rather than sitting in judg- ment, we are asked to pray for and encourage our church leaders and show an active concern in the operation of the church. 1 Thess. 5:25; 2 Thess. 3:1; 2 Cor. 7:6, 7, 13. Perhaps we can learn a vital lesson of respect for church leaders from David, who refused to touch "the Lord's an- nointed" when he could have taken the life of Saul, his enemy. 1 Sam. 26:5-25; Patriarchs and Prophets, pages 668-671. Do we have what we consider weak leaders in church office today? Do we wonder why they are there? Let us remember that God is still at the helm of His church. 1 Cor. 12:28; Acts 5:39. Let us, then, do our work well, respect and reverence our church leaders (1 Tim. 5:17; Heb. 13:7, 17), and pray that we may develop in our lives the fruits of the Spirit. Gal. 5:22, 23; 2 Peter 1:5-8. See also Lesson 2. How well are we to know our church leaders? THINK IT THROUGH Discuss: It is human to criticize, but it is godly to work toward unity. "There have ever been in the church ment of his brethren, especially of those those who are constantly inclined in the offices that God has appointed toward individual independence. They for the leadership of His people. God seem unable to realize that indepen- has invested His church with special dence of spirit is liable to lead the authority and power which no one can human agent to have too much confi- be justified in disregarding and despis- dence in himself and to trust in his ing, for he who does this despises the own judgment rather than to respect voice of God."—"The Acts of the Apos- the counsel and highly esteem the judg- tles," pages 163, 164. THE SECOND MILE: "Gospel Workers," pages 483-497. 41 6-A1QT71 Church Relations LESSON 5 El Thursday January 28 Part 5 "But Jesus called them unto Him, and said, Ye know RIGHT KIND that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over OF LEADER them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; and whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: even as the Son of man came not to be minis- tered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom Matt. 20:25-28 for many." "In His life and lessons, Christ has given a perfect exempli- fication of the unselfish ministry which has its origin in God. God does not live for Himself. By creating the world, and by upholding all things, He is constantly ministering for others. . . . This ideal of ministry God has committed to His Son. Jesus was given to stand at the head of humanity, that by His example He might teach what it means to minister. His whole life was under a law of service. He served all, ministered to all. Thus He lived the law of God, and by His example showed how we are to obey it. "Again and again Jesus had tried to establish this principle among His disciples. When James and John made their request for pre-eminence, He had said, 'Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister.' Matt. 20:26. In My kingdom the principle of preference and supremacy has no place. The only greatness is the greatness of humility. The only distinction is found in devotion to the service of others."—The Desire of Ages, pages 649, 650. This description of leadership is quite foreign to our world. Worldly leaders must rule by power and force, but church leaders are to minister to others. They are "servants," looking for ways to help and please their fellowmen. James 1:27. The qualifications for church leaders are carefully revealed. 1 Tim. 3:1-10; Titus 1:6-9; 1 Peter 5:2. Above all, church leaders must be responsible and trustworthy, growing in the Christian graces. Acts 20:28. See also Lesson 2. THINK IT THROUGH Contrast church leaders and the leaders of the world. "Lucifer desired God's power, but the same. Thus alienation, discord, and not His character. He sought for him- strife will be inevitable."—"The Desire self the highest place, and every being of Ages," pages 435, 436. who is actuated by his spirit will do THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages," pages 642-651. 42 Church Relations LESSON 5 ❑ Friday January 29 Part 6 "And they, continuing daily with one accord in the UNITY BRINGS temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat ACTION their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, prais- ing God, and having favor with all the people. And the Acts 2:46, 47 Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved." What is the secret of a spiritual revival in God's church? Could it be money or public relations or energetic leadership? All of these are important. But the Scripture says, "And they, continuing daily with one accord . . . , did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart." What is the meaning of "one accord"? In Acts 1:14 and 2:46 it means "persevered with one mind." Note the following comment: "What a contrast to the competitive spirit shown at the time of the Last Supper (Luke 22:24). How different in its calm, solemn joy was this period of waiting. Here is the commencement of the 'accord' that bore such dynamic results a few days later (Acts 2:1, 41)."—SDA Bible Commentary, on Acts 1:14. Have the requirements changed today? Isn't the need the same? We are told, "The lapse of time has wrought no change in Christ's parting promise to send the Holy Spirit as His rep- resentative. It is not because of any restriction on the part of God that the riches of His grace do not flow earthward to men. If the fulfillment of the promise is not seen as it might be, it is because the promise is not appreciated as it should be. If all were willing, all would be filled with the Spirit." —The Acts of the Apostles, page 50. Action that is motivated by men is man-sized, but action that is stimulated by God cannot be measured by human cal- culations. Zech. 4:6. Perhaps we need to comprehend more fully the word "wait," and in the meantime personally and collectively invite the Spirit to take up residence in our church. What two words testify to the disciples' unity of spirit? THINK IT THROUGH How do we go about inviting the Holy Spirit? Do we demand that He come, or do we surrender our lives to Him as an invitation for a visit? "Wherever the need of the Holy necessary for the growth and prosper- Spirit is a matter little thought of, there ity of the church, and which would is seen spiritual drought, spiritual dark- bring all other blessings in its train, is ness, spiritual declension and death. lacking, though offered in infinite plen- Whenever minor matters occupy the titude."—"The Acts of the Apostles," attention, the divine power which is page 50. THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 47-56. 43 Church Relations LESSON 5 January 30 Part 7 0 SUMMARY QUESTIONS 0 A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. The apostle Paul likens the church to a with many 2. Circle the correct word: (Love; Money; Force) can settle man's problems in the church and help bring unity. 3. "Oneness" means that we are one in and , but not in 4. What did David refuse to do when he had an opportunity? 1 Sam. 26:9. 5. Real church leaders will be " ," not authoritarian tyrants who resort to force. 6. Multiple choice: The Holy Spirit comes only: (a) when we submit our lives to Him and show a willingness to have Him in our presence; (b) when we order Him to come; (c) when we seem indifferent and "wait." (d) None of the answers are correct. .1.! (9) sprenns (5) !palupuu s‘pioa alp 4su!u2e puvti siq ipaoj ipp.ns (q) ! uoszad `aalourelp `asoclind `puul (E) !amyl (3) f siactuniu 'Apog (I) :slantsuy 44 LESSON 6 February 6 RELATIONSHIP OF CHURCH MEMBERS TO CIVIL AUTHORITIES "Then saith He unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's." Matt. 22:21. All authority derives from God. He re- moves kings and sets up kings. Since God LESSON OUTLINE is the supreme authority, His claims remain superior. When rulers yield to a power other 1. All Power Comes From God than the divine, "God's Word must be rec- ognized as above all human legislation." Rom. 13:1, 2 —The Acts of the Apostles, page 69. The 2. Two Worlds: Civil and Spiritual first allegiance is to God. There are two distinct areas of obligation, civil and reli- Matt. 22:21 gious. The two should remain separate so 3. Relation of Civil Authorities that each individual may properly fulfill his duties in each area. to God A man derives security and protection Jer. 27:4, 5 from the state. Without the state and its laws life would be ruled by the law of the 4. Relation of a Christian to jungle, and the weaker would be exploited. Civil Authorities It is the Christian's duty to help the state 1 Tim. 2:1, 2 preserve the world from chaos. The child of God will pray for all rulers. 5. A Christian's Civic Duties A Christian is a citizen of heaven. Titus 3:1, 2 Though living in an alien land and obeying its laws, the heavenly citizen's way of life 6. A Christian's Citizenship and influence will make heaven attractive Eph. 2:19 and desirable •to his neighbors. 45 Relationship of Church Members to Civil Authorities ❑ Sunday LESSON 6 January 31 Part 1 "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For ALL POWER COMES there is no power but of God: the powers that be are FROM GOD ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that re- Rom. 13:1, 2 sist shall receive to themselves damnation." Nero was the emperor who ordered Paul's execution, yet Paul counsels obedience to civil power. Paul argues for gov- ernment and order, not for the divine right of kings or any special form of government. He opposes all lawlessness and disorder. He emphasizes that Christianity and good citizenship go hand in hand. God has ordained human government and law. Without them there would be no order, security, or progress among men. What action of the Christian will win the approval of governing powers? Rom. 13:3, last part. Pharaoh was placed on the throne by God that through him the power of God could be revealed. Pharaoh would be used to declare the name and glory and power of God to all the earth. Ex. 9:16. He could do this willingly or unwillingly. Willingly he would be the hero, unwillingly the villian. Nebu- chadnezzar was humbled before he was willing to declare the power and glory of God. See Daniel 4. Pharaoh was given every opportunity to serve God and so glorify the name of God, but he would not yield. He hardened his heart. Where do authorities, good and bad, receive power to govern? Rom. 13:1. Where did Jesus say Pilate received his power? John 19:10, 11. Who is in control of earthly affairs? Ps. 22:28; 75:6, 7. THINK IT THROUGH If all power comes from God, why are there persecut- ing rulers? Why is there ever a conflict between the au- thorities and God? How can I maintain allegiance to God and to civil authority if they should be in conflict? "We are to recognize human govern- sphere. But when its claims conflict ment as an ordinance of divine ap- with the claims of God, we must obey pointment, and teach obedience to it God rather than men."—"The Acts of as a sacred duty, within its legitimate the Apostles," page 69. THE SECOND MILE: "Patriarchs and Prophets," page 719, paragraph 3. 46 Relationship of Church Members to Civil Authorities ❑ Monday LESSON 6 February 1 Part 2 "Then saith He unto them, Render therefore unto TWO WORLDS: Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the CIVIL AND things that are God's." SPIRITUAL Matt. 22:21 With a simple illustration Christ showed the duties we should render to both civil and religious authorities. This illus- tration could not be misunderstood. Caesar had his part to perform, and within his area he was in command. The ques- tioners of Jesus desired to be released from their responsibility to Caesar. By His reply Christ emphasized their duty to civil government. At the same time He made it clear that there was an allegiance to God that commanded obedience. Who is declared to be the ruler of the heathen na- tions? Ps. 47:7, 8. "Amidst the strife and tumult of nations He that sitteth above the cherubim still guides the affairs of this earth."— Prophets and Kings, page 536. The power to rule the material world is given state authori- ties by God. Rom. 13:1. God has reserved to Himself final allegiance. Political and civil responsibilities are given by Him through the agencies He has ordained for that purpose. The state should not ask anything from a Christian that he cannot give within the terms of his commitment to God. The state should recognize the higher obligation. What is the condition of a nation that acknowledges God as Lord? Ps. 33:12. What is the fate of a nation that ignores God? Isa. 60:12. THINK IT THROUGH Why is it essential that civil and religious authority be separate? "He [Christ] declared that since they God."—"The Desire of Ages," page 602. were living under the protection of the "The world is not without a ruler. Roman power, they should render to The program of coming events is in the that power the support it claimed, so hands of the Lord. The Majesty of long as this did not conflict with a heaven has the destiny of nations, as higher duty. But while peaceably sub- well as the concerns of His church, in ject to the laws of the land, they should His own charge."—"Testimonies," Vol. at all times give their first allegiance to 5, p. 753. THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages,' ' pages 601-603. 47 Relationship of Church Members to Civil Authorities ❑ Tuesday LESSON 6 February 2 Part 3 "Thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel; Thus RELATION OF shall ye say unto your masters; I have made the earth, CIVIL AUTHORITIES the man and the beast that are upon the ground, by My TO GOD great power and by My outstretched arm, and have Jer. 27:4, 5 given it unto whom it seemed meet unto Me." Divine power overrules in the affairs of governments. Dan. 2:21. The state is an instrument in the hand of God. It can be used to preserve the world from chaos. The officer of the state is doing God's will when he promotes law and order and makes it possible for men to live harmoniously together. No law-abid- ing citizen need fear a government that promotes peace and encourages well doing. Rom. 13:3. What explanation did Daniel give for the humilia- tion of Nebuchadnezzar? Dan. 5:20, 21. See also Dan. 4:30, 31. What does God require of a ruler? 2 Sam. 23:3, 4; 2 Chron. 19:6, 7. Some of the best-loved rulers have been those who realized their dependence on God. For example, David was honored by Israel when he walked humbly before God; but when he be- came self-indulgent, he no longer held the love of his people and was beset by opposition and rebellion. THINK IT THROUGH What are the characteristics of a government that ful- fills God's plan? "Should representative men keep the counsel, and'strong to work steadfastly way of the Lord, they would point men in opposition`to all wrong, and to ad- to a high and holy standard. Those in vance that which is right and just and positions of trust would be strictly true. The Word of God would be their temperate. Magistrates, senators, and guide, and all oppression would be judges would have a clear understand- discarded. Lawmakers and administra- ing, and their judgment would be tors would abide by every good and sound and unperverted. The fear of the just law, ever teaching the way of the Lord would ever be before them, and Lord to do justice and judgment. God they would depend upon a higher wis- is the head of all good and just gov- dom than their own. The heavenly ernments and laws."—"Temperance," Teacher would make them wise in page 48. THE SECOND MILE: "Temperance," pages 46, 47. 48 Relationship of Church Members to Civil Authorities ❑ Wednesday LESSON 6 February 3 Part 4 "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, RELATION OF A prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for CHRISTIAN TO all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that CIVIL AUTHORITIES we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness 1 Tim. 2:1, 2 and honesty." The church is urged to pray for certain definite things. The Christian citizen's prayer for his country is for a life that is tranquil and undisturbed, for a time of peace, free from war, free from rebellion, free from anything which would disturb the peace of the realm. Paul admonished Christians to pray for non-Christian rulers, some of whom were enemies of the church. Even in times of bitterest persecution the Church brought her' persecutors before the throne of grace. Why does the Christian recognize no man as an enemy? Rom. 13:8. "No matter how high the profession, he whose heart is not filled with love for God and his fellowmen is not a true disciple of Christ."—The Acts of the Apostles, page 318. How is a Christian to relate himself to the laws of the land? 1 Peter 2:13, 14; Eccl. 8:2. "It is not our work to attack individuals or institutions. We should exercise great care lest we be understood as putting ourselves in opposition to the civil authorities."—Testimonies, Vol. 6, p. 394. THINK IT THROUGH Why should a child of God pray for a ruler who is determined to do the work of Satan? "Except where principle would be ishment, but because of the precept and violated the Christian is to cooperate example of his Lord while on earth. heartily with the written and unwritten Jesus complied with civil regulations, laws of the society in which he lives. even submitting to injustice rather than . . . The Christian will not use force rebel against established authority." against established authority. . . . —"SDA Bible Commentary," on 1 Peter "The Christian is to discharge his 2:13. civic obligations not from fear of pun- THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 6, pp. 394-397. 49 7-A1QT71 Relationship of Church Members to Civil Authorities ❑ Thursday LESSON 6 February 4 Part 5 "Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and A CHRISTIAN'S powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good CIVIC DUTIES work, to speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but Titus 3:1, 2 gentle, showing all meekness unto all men." The New Testament never advocates anarchy. Life should be an ordered business; the state is appointed to provide and maintain that order. Submission to duly constituted authority and law is required of the good citizen. Rom. 13:5. Cooperation, a voice in the ruling, is a part of our duty. Participation by vote, by the payment of taxes, and by service are part of our Christian obligation. Why should a Christian pay taxes to the state? Rom. 13:6, 7. Every citizen is responsible for bearing his share of the ex- pense for the common good. In what way will the participation of Christians benefit government? Matt. 5:13. "God has declared to us, 'Ye are the salt of the earth.' The preserving influence that we may exert in the world, is be- stowed upon us by the Lord."—Ellen G. White Comments, SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 1164. How did Nebuchadnezzar and Darius react when the Hebrew captives obeyed God rather than their com- mands? Daniel 3; 6. (Notice particularly their final re- actions. Dan. 3:28-30; 6:25-27.) THINK IT THROUGH What .are we doing to bring the message of a soon- coming Saviour to world leaders? "In general, rulers are not to be those who are virtuous have nothing to dreaded except when wrong is done. fear from civil authorities. Governments In actuality, of course, not all rulers be- as such are not a terror to good works. long to this class, for many of them have On the contrary, they exist for a benefi- persecuted the good; for example, Nero, cent purpose, and generally speaking the Roman emperor at the time Paul it is to the Christian's advantage to sub- wrote this epistle [Romans], who was mit to their requirements."—"SDA Bible later responsible for Paul's martyrdom. Commentary," on Rom. 13:3. Nevertheless, it is generally true that THE SECOND MILE: "Evangelism," page 173; "Patriarchs and Prophets," page 311. 50 Relationship of Church Members to Civil Authorities ❑ Friday LESSON 6 February 5 Part 6 "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and for- A CHRISTIAN'S eigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the CITIZENSHIP household of God." Eph. 2:19 Where is our true citizenship? Phil. 3:20. "The Christian needs a constant awareness of the fact that he is a citizen of heaven. Attachment to one's country leads him to be loyal to it. Wherever he may be living he will con- duct himself in a way that will honor the good name of his country. Keeping in mind the kind of life we expect to live in heaven, serves to guide us in our life on earth."—SDA Bible Commentary, on Phil. 3 :20. As far as this world is concerned, how should a Chris- tian regard himself? Heb. 11:13. The Christian should ever remember that he is but a pil- grim on earth. While in this world he will endeavor to leave the best impression with his neighbors for heaven, his home- land. Citizenship in one country does not release one from responsibility in the country in which he resides. Rather, as an alien he expects to be more closely watched. So the citizen of heaven can expect the close scrutiny of the world to see what his belief does for him. THINK IT THROUGH How could God accept, as a citizen of heaven, one who spurned law and authority in the world? How can my way of life reveal that I am a citizen of heaven? "The Christian's life will testify that in our life of self-denial. We are to give he is governed by other laws than those evidence that we are influenced and which the world obeys—laws of a controlled by unselfish principles. All higher order than those that control the our purposes and pursuits should stand lovers of the world. The will of God, in distinct contrast to the selfishness of our Creator, is to be made manifest in the world."—"Welfare Ministry," page us, not only in the name we bear, but 296. THE SECOND MILE: "Gospel Workers," pages 393-396. 51 Relationship of Church Members to Civil Authorities February 6 Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS G A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. When a person resists the civil power, whom is he really resisting) 2. True or False: Christ examined a Roman coin and declared that this proved that Caesar had the principal claim on the allegiance of the Jews. 3. Why did God humble Nebuchadnezzar) 4. True or False: Paul urged that prayers be offered for all rulers, unless they were ungodly men 5. Complete: "Put them in mind to be to principalities and powers, to magistrates." 6. Complete: "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and but with the saints, and of the household of God." •suazgca Atop; `siau2pioj (9) !Aaqo `pa(cins (s) !aqua (17 ) !appd (c) !aslvd (z) !po9 (I) : saanisuy 52 LESSON 7 ABOUT FRIENDS AND RECREATION 7 "A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother." Prov. 18:24. Friendships between Christians hold lim- itless possibilities for spiritual development. LESSON OUTLINE "Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord heark- 1. You Can't Escape People ened, and heard it, and a book of remem- John 17:15-17 brance was written." Mal. 3:16. Such friends build faith, strengthen loyalties, 2. Friends and Friendliness brighten hope, encourage confidence. 1 Sam. 18:1-3 But at the same time friendships may lead to disaster. Outside of the home noth- 3. Keep the Initiative ing affects our lives more than the com- 1 Cor. 13:1-3 panionship we seek. "Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with 4. Christians Should Have Fun God? whosoever therefore will be a friend John 2:1, 2, 11 of the world is the enemy of God." James 4:4. 5. Need for Relaxation Inextricably involved with our friend- Mark 6:30-32 ships are the problems of Christian recrea- tion. In an age of increasing leisure, intelli- 6. Guide and Guidelines gent insights are needed to ensure that 1 Peter 2:9 nothing erodes or destroys our faith in God. 53 About Friends and Recreation LESSON 7 ❑ Sunday February 7 Part 1 "I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the YOU CAN'T world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil. ESCAPE PEOPLE They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. John 17:15-17 Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy Word is truth." "Religion should dictate and guide you in all your pursuits, and should hold absolute control over your affections. If you yield yourselves unreservedly into the hands of Christ, making His power your strength, then will your moral vision be clear to discern quality of character that you may not be deceived by appearances and make great mistakes in your friendship. Your moral power must be keen and sensitive, that it may bear severe tests and not be marred. Your integrity of soul should be so firm that vanity, display, or flattery will not move you."—Testimonies, Vol. 3, p. 47. What did Christ mean by the "world"? See 1 John 5:19. God never intended that Christians should be isolated in a spiritual enclave. They are to be "in" but not "of." Matt. 5:13-16. In a world of obvious iniquity the Christian may escape the taint of association with sin and sinners. 1 John 2:15-17. Early Christianity experienced a sudden flush of monasticism. Even today many seek complete isolation from worldly in- fluences. Does isolation offer a satisfactory solution to contami- nation from sin? Matt. 15:18-20. THINK IT THROUGH What about my "world"? What is the nature of the people who inhabit it? Am I being kept from the evil that is in the world? Or is it diminishing my faith in Christ? "It is natural to seek companionship. harm. We should never give sanction to Everyone will find companions or make sin by our words or our deeds, our si- them. And just in proportion to the lence or our presence. . . . But those strength of the friendship, will be the who try to preserve their religion by amount of influence which friends will hiding it within stone walls lose pre- exert over one another for good or for cious opportunities of doing good. evil. All will have associates, and will Through the social relations, Christian- influence and be influenced in their ity comes in contact with the world. turn."—"Testimonies," Vol. 4, p. 587. Everyone who has received the divine "As disciples of Christ we shall not illumination is to brighten the pathway mingle with the world from a mere love of those who know not the Light of of pleasure, to unite with them in folly. life."—"Messages to Young People," Such associations can result only in page 403. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 2, pp. 491-495. 54 About Friends and Recreation LESSON 7 ❑ Monday February 8 Part 2 "And it came to pass, when he had made an end of FRIENDS AND speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit FRIENDLINESS with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father's house. Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as 1 Sam. 18:1-3 his own soul." Do not confuse friendship with friendliness. A warm, friendly attitude to all is part of Christian grace. Christ had compas- sion on the multitude. Matt. 15:32. He moved with friendliness and soul-seeking love among sinners and publicans. But when it comes to deep associations, lasting friendships, we cannot show too much care. Friendship is based on a measure of common interest, time spent in communion and communication, mutual attraction and choice. How did Ruth express the need for deep friendships to have a spiritual basis? Ruth 1:16-18. Is it possible to maintain a deep friendship with a non-Christian without risk? Amos 3:3. How does Christ speak of His choice of friends? John 15:14-16. THINK IT THROUGH How do I react to Christians of other faiths? to worldly people? Do I show compassion and friendliness, or do I have the "insider-outsider" attitude? "You should get rid of your cold, tion should be exercised lest an inti- frozen formality as soon as possible. macy be contracted with one whose You need to cultivate feelings of tender- example it would not be safe to imi- ness and friendliness in your everyday tate; for the effect of such an intimacy life. You should exhibit true courtesy is to lead away from God, from devo- and Christian politeness. The heart that tion, and the love of the truth. It is really loves Jesus loves those for whom positively dangerous for you to be inti- He died. Just as truly as the needle mate with friends who have not a reli- points to the pole, so will the true fol- gious experience. If . . . you . . . value lower of Christ, with a spirit of earnest your soul's salvation, you will not labor, seek to save souls for whom choose as your . . . intimate triends Christ has given His life."—"Testimo- those who do not maintain a serious nies," Vol. 3, p. 466. regard for religious things."—"Ibid.," "In forming friendship, great cau- p. 42. THE SECOND MILE: "Messages to Young People," pages 403-406. 55 About Friends and Recreation LESSON 7 ❑ Tuesday February 9 Part 3 "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of an- KEEP THE gels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding INITIATIVE brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowl- edge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not char- 1 Cor. 13:1-3 ity, it profiteth me nothing." Protected by this love, a Christian may move safely in his social world, fulfilling the duties of witnessing and aiding with- out risking his soul. Friendliness wins souls. Our great evangelists repeatedly remind us that much of their success depends on the attitude of the members to their neighbors. "Social power, sanctified by the grace of Christ, must be improved in winning souls to the Saviour."—Messages to Young. People, pages 403, 404. What is the meaning of the word "charity" ("love" in some versions) in this passage? 1 Cor. 13:4-8. How did God demonstrate the ultimate of this prin- ciple of love? John 3:16. How does God embrace all of man's needs? Rom. 5:6-10. THINK IT THROUGH Can I be "social to save" without risking my princi- ples? Is my exclusiveness hindering my Christian initia- tive? Am I as friendly as I ought to be to those not of my faith? How wide should I extend the circle of my social life? "Those who are themselves 'com- grasp the Unseen; but a friend whom passed with infirmity' should be able they can see, coming to them in Christ's to 'have compassion on the ignorant, stead, can be a connecting link to fasten and on them that are out of the way.' their trembling faith upon Christ."— Heb. 5:2. Having been in peril them- "The Desire of Ages," page 297. selves, they are acquainted with the "We are not to renounce social com- dangers and difficulties of the way, and munion. We should not seclude our- for this reason are called to reach out selves from others. In order to reach for others in like peril. There are souls all classes, we must meet them where perplexed with doubt, burdened with they are."—"Messages to Young Peo- infirmities, weak in faith, and unable to ple," page 403. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 3, pp. 521-524. 56 About Friends and Recreation LESSON 7 ❑ Wednesday February 10 Part 4 There was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the CHRISTIANS mother of Jesus was there: and both Jesus was called, SHOULD and His disciples, to the marriage." HAVE FUN "This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Gali- lee, and manifested forth His glory; and His disciples John 2:1, 2, 11 believed on Him." "We should never give to the world the false impression that Christians are a gloomy, unhappy people. If our eyes are fixed on Jesus, we shall see a compassionate Redeemer, and shall catch light from His countenance. Wherever His spirit reigns, there peace abides. And there will be joy also, for there is a calm, holy trust in God."—Messages to Young People, page 404. Why do most non-Christians look upon Christianity as a life of deprivation and negation? 1 Cor. 2:12-14. Are there some social activities in which a Christian may not indulge? Social activities with our business associates per- haps? Where self-gratification is the goal? Where the love of the world makes it impossible for the Christian to let his light shine? Eccl. 11:9, 10; 12:1. THINK IT THROUGH What kind of social situations must I avoid? Where may I safely go to make friends for Christ? "Individually we are connected with "Some are closing their probation; our fellowmen, a part of God's great and is it well with them? have they ob- whole, and we stand under mutual ob- tained a fitness for the future life? Will ligations. No man can be independent not their record show wasted opportu- of his fellowmen; for the well-being of nities, neglected privileges, a life of each affects others. It is God's purpose selfishness and worldliness that has that each shall feel himself necessary borne no fruit to the glory of God? And to others' welfare, and seek to promote how much of the work which the Mas- their happiness."—"Christ's Object Les- ter has left for us to do has been left sons," page 339. undone?"—"Testimonies," Vol. 5, p. 18. THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages,' ' pages 144-153. 57 About Friends and Recreation LESSON 7 ❑ Thursday February II Part 5 "And the apostles gathered themselves together unto NEED FOR Jesus, and told Him all things, both what they had done, RELAXATION and what they had taught. And He said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest awhile: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. And they departed into a desert Mark 6:30-32 place by ship privately." "Recreation is needful to those who are engaged in physical labor and is still more essential for those whose labor is prin- cipally mental."—The Adventist Home, page 494. Finding a balance between relaxation, recreation, and work presents difficulty. Only forty hours a week is needed for many to earn their living. Relaxation, rest, leisure, describe a pas- sive state. Recreation shows how we use our time in activity to rebuild our energies both physical and mental. What was it that brought upon the disciples the need for rest? Mark 6:30, 31. Do you think this was the only time Jesus offered them opportunity of recreation? What did they lack? Verse 31. Could our example in recreation be harmless to us but hurtful to the spiritual experience of others? What must we remember in our search for recreation? Rom. 14:7. THINK IT THROUGH Are my hobbies, my sports, my entertainments all of a nature that heaven can approve? Do they banish Christ from my mind? What criteria would I list for my own per- sonal guidance and that of my family? "Exercise in the open air for those "The true Christian will not desire to whose employment has been within- enter any place of amusement or en- doors and sendentary will be beneficial gage in any diversion upon which he to health. All who can, should feel it a cannot ask the blessing of God. He will duty to pursue this course. Nothing will not be found at the theater, the billiard be lost, but much gained. They can re- hall, or the bowling saloon. He will not turn to their occupations with new life unite with the gay waltzers, or in- and new courage to engage in their dulge in any other betwitching plea- labor with zeal, and they are better sure that will banish Christ from the prepared to resist disease."—"Testimo- mind."—"Messages to Young People," nies," Vol. 1, p. 515. page 398. THE SECOND MILE: "Messages to Young People," pages 385-391. 58 About Friends and Recreation LESSON 7 ❑ Friday February /2 Part 6 "Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an GUIDE AND holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth GUIDELINES the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness 1 Peter 2:9 into His marvelous light." Ellen G. White says, "Exercise in the open air."—Messages to Young People, page 393. "Let several families living in a city or village unite and leave the occupations which have taxed them physically and mentally, and make an excursion into the country."—Page 392. How shall we relate counsel such as this to modern urban societies? Would a backyard barbecue or a block party be a satisfactory substitute? A spiritual work of re-creation stems from the sacrifice on the cross. Just as this changes our spiritual lives, physical recreation changes our physical lives. The spiritual is linked with the physical. 1 Cor. 6:19, 20. What goal should recreation have? Many things that are not evil in themselves do have the potential of abuse. How should the Christian relate to such sources of enter- tainment as books, radio, television, films, music? When are they amusement? When recreation? Is there a pos- sibility that sports like skiing, water-skiing, tennis, for example, may be a spiritual pitfall? How? What about spectator sports? THINK IT THROUGH Am I more interested in the excitement of recreation than its true purpose? Could it be that escapism is my motive for watching television or indulging in entertain- ments? Consider the recreation of heaven. new truths to comprehend, fresh objects "There will be music there, and song, to call forth the powers of body and such music and song as, save in the mind and soul. visions of God, no mortal ear has heard "All the treasures of the universe will or mind conceived. . . . be open to the study of God's children. "There every power will be devel- With unutterable delight we shall enter oped, every capability increased. The into the joy and the wisdom of unfallen grandest enterprises will be carried for- beings. We shall share the treasures ward, the loftiest aspirations will be gained through ages upon ages spent reached, the highest ambitions realized. in contemplation of God's handiwork." And still there will arise new heights —"Education," page 307. to surmount, new wonders to admire, THE SECOND MILE: "Education" pages 301-309. 59 About Friends and Recreation LESSON 7 February 13 Part 7 O SUMMARY QUESTIONS O A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. What does the Bible mean by the "world"? (Think out your own answer.) We are to be the world, not the world. 2. True or False : A Christian should form no close association with non- Christians 3. Complete " , sanctified by the grace of Christ, must be improved in winning souls to the Saviour."—Messages to Young Peo- ple, page 403. 4. Cite one example of how Jesus used social activity to save souls 5. Complete : "He said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place and a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no so much as to eat." 6. List the four descriptions of God's people given in 1 Peter 2:9. •aicload lutinoad `uottuu Slog `pootitsatad 'ELI)/ 'uoReiaua.8 uasoto (9) !aanstai (E) snaureri 'ettlauw 'AtatillEN `snatiaauz (t) taaAtod moos (E) :asiud (E) :Jo 'ut (1) :siantsuy 60 LESSON 8 WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR? "And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; that they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after Him, and find Him, though He be not far from every one of us." Acts 17:25, 27. Modern man avoids personal involve- for all the human family."—The Desire of ment with others. People make a studied Ages, page 823. point to ignore the existence of others. Often people in neighboring apartments LESSON OUTLINE will not even recognize those who live next door when they pass in the hall. 1. One God, One Race, One Need To salve our consciences we give to Rom. 3:9, 22, 23 charity when disaster strikes. Distant trage- dies may affect more than the gnawing 2. Concern—The Christian loneliness next door—and the risk of per- Essential sonal involvement is remote. Luke 10:30-33 Yet this is not the way for the Chris- tian. Humanity is one. It is sin that puts 3. The Responsibility of Privilege up walls of separation. Prejudice, pride, Deut. 10:17-19 class consciousness, selfishness, indifference enlarge the gulf between neighbors, com- 4. What Can I Do? munities, and nations. A simple act of con- Rom. 10:13-15 cern, of friendship, will span the indiffer- ence gap and unite seemingly diverse beings 5. Money, Material, Self in Christ. 2 Cor. 8:2, 3, 5 Our responsibility is clear. "Christ tears away the wall of partition, the dividing 6. Love, the Motive prejudice of nationality, and teaches a love John 15:12, 13 61 Who Is My Neighbor? LESSON 8 ❑ Sunday February 14 Part 1 "What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: ONE GOD, ONE for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that RACE, ONE NEED they are all under sin." "For there is no difference: for all have sinned, and Rom. 3:9, 22, 23 come short of the glory of God." The Christian teaching that all men are. equal before God placed Christian reformers in the forefront of the battle against slavery and race prejudice. We dare not consider another in- ferior to ourselves. Otherwise our feelings of superiority may lead to spiritual complacency. God sees men as individuals as well as en masse. Acts 17:24-26. He is one God; we are one creation. Gen. 1:26, 27. What is the royal law? How do we break this law? James 2:8, 9. Why is the word "royal" applied to this particular command? A king or ruler must have impartiality toward his subjects. God's love is impartial; so should ours be. What did Jesus say about our attitude to those who hate us? Matt. 5:43-45. THINK IT THROUGH Is there any justification for me to despise or hate anyone—within the church, or without? "All men are of one family by crea- free."—"Prophets and Kings," page tion, and all are one through redemp- 370. tion. Christ came to demolish every "Men may have both hereditary and wall of partition, to throw open every cultivated prejudices, but when the love compartment of the temple courts, that of Jesus fills the heart, and they become every soul may have free access to one with Christ, they will have the God. His love is so broad, so deep, so same spirit that He had. If a colored full, that it penetrates everywhere. It brother sits by their side, they will not lifts out of Satan's influence those who be offended or despise him. They are have been deluded by his deceptions, journeying to the same heaven, and and places them within reach of the will be seated at the same table to eat throne of God. . . . In Christ there bread in the kingdom of God."—"The is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor Southern Work," page 14. THE SECOND MILE: "Prophets and Kings," pages 367-378. 62 Who Is My Neighbor? LESSON 8 ❑ Monday February 15 Part 2 "And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down CONCERN—THE from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which CHRISTIAN stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and de- ESSENTIAL parted, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he Luke 10:30-33 had compassion on him." "He [the Samaritan] did not question whether the stranger was a Jew or a Gentile. If a Jew, the Samaritan well knew that, were their condition reversed, the man would spit in his face, and pass him by with contempt. But he did not hesitate on account of this. He did not consider that he himself might be in danger of violence by tarrying in the place. It was enough that there was before him a human being in need and suffer- ing."—The Desire of Ages, page 503. God taught Peter a lesson through the vision of the sheet full of differing animals. What was this lesson? Acts 10:34, 35. Does this mean that all men are equally acceptable to God? Christ showed His concern by dying—the Father by suffering with the Son. How does the Christian show his concern? Should all our good deeds be directed toward the salvation of others? Can a Christian ever be completely disinterested? 1 Cor. 9:19-23. THINK IT THROUGH How can the church maintain its separation from the world and still meet such problems as the ghetto, unem- ployment, hunger, poverty? • "At all times and in all places He whose good deeds had made her [Christ] manifested a loving interest in greatly beloved. She was a worthy dis- men, and shed about Him the light of ciple of Jesus, and her life was filled a cheerful piety. All this was a rebuke with acts of kindness. She knew who to the Pharisees. It showed that religion needed comfortable clothing and who does not consist in selfishness, and that needed sympathy, and she freely min- their morbid devotion to personal inter- istered to the poor and the sorrowful. est was far from being true godliness." Her skillful fingers were more active —"The Desire of Ages," page 86. than her tongue."—"The Acts of the "At Joppa, which was near Lydda, Apostles," page 131. there lived a woman named Dorcas, THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages,' ' pages 497-505. 63 Who Is My Neighbor? LESSON 8 ❑ Tuesday February 16 Part 3 "For the Lord your God is God of gods, and Lord of THE RESPONSI- lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which re- BILITY OF gardeth not persons, nor taketh reward: He doth execute PRIVILEGE the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land Deut. 10:17-19 of Egypt." God's good-neighbor policy is all-inclusive. The people next door, the folk in the next street, in the apartment complexes, in the racial or language ghetto, across the sea—all are our neighbors. Don't leave out your own relatives or fellow church members. Privilege carries responsibility. Responsibility includes all of God's children. "In the human brotherhood it takes all kinds of talents to make a perfect whole; and the church of Christ is composed of men and women of varied talents, and of all ranks and all classes. . . . There should be no depreciat- ing of any part of God's great work, whether the agencies are high or lowly. All have their part to act in diffusing light in different degrees."—Gospel Workers, page 331. What privilege is given God's people? Gal. 3:28, 29. What are the responsibilities that come with this privilege of being God's chosen people? Pure religion is included. James 1:27. We have a responsibility to live peaceably with all men and to respect government. Rom. 13:1-7. We are to be servants to all men. 1 Cor. 9:19. Do the underprivileged have respon- sibilities before God? THINK IT THROUGH This responsibility that comes with being a part of the church of Christ—is it something that I am seeking to avoid? How may I use my talents to reach my neighbors? "The religion of Christ uplifts the re- self-denial, the condescension, the in- ceiver to a higher plane of thought and finite compassion of Him who was action, while at the same time it pre- highly exalted in heaven, puts to shame sents the whole human race as alike human pride, self-esteem, and social the objects of the love of God, being caste. Pure, undefiled religion mani- purchased by the sacrifice of His Son. At fests its heaven-born principles in bring- the feet of Jesus, the rich and the poor, ing into oneness all who are sanctified the learned and the ignorant, meet to- through the truth. All meet as blood- gether, with no thought of caste or bought souls, alike dependent upon worldly preeminence. All earthly dis- Him who has redeemed them to God." tinctions are forgotten as we look upon —"Gospel Workers," page 330. Him whom our sins have pierced. The THE SECOND MILE: "Gospel Workers," pages 330-336. 64 Who Is My Neighbor? LESSON 8 ❑ Wednesday February 17 Part 4 "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord WHAT CAN I DO? shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and Rom. 10:13-15 bring glad tidings of good things!" Deliverance for our friends and neighbors lies in the good tidings God's people bear. To the members of the remnant church bearing these tidings this includes a knowledge of Scrip- ture. It means sending the message through every available means. It means utilizing individual talents. It means letting the witness of the church as a whole shine undimmed by the wrong acts or wrong relationships of its members. What name is given to the group that bears this mes- sage of deliverance? Joel 2:32. Consider the setting of Joel 2:28-31. Peter applied this to Pentecost. Acts 2:16-21. What evidence indicates that it still remains to be completely realized in the end of time? Compare Joel 2:28-32 and Matt. 24:29, 30. Remember that you are part of a unit with a great work to do. What does the Bible call that unit? 1 Cor. 12:20-27. THINK IT THROUGH Have I let self diminish the effectiveness of the church's witness in my community? Am I doing all I should to utilize and increase the talents the Lord has given me? "Christians should not appeal to civil God that widows and orphans, the tribunals to settle differences that may blind, the deaf, the lame, and persons arise among church members. Such dif- afflicted in a variety of ways, have ferences should be settled among them- been placed in close Christian relation- selves, or by the church, in harmony ship to His church; it is to prove His with Christ's instruction. Even though people and develop their true char- injustice may have been done, the fol- acter. Angels of God are watching to lower of the meek and lowly Jesus will see how we treat these persons who suffer himself 'to be defrauded' rather need our sympathy, love, and disinter- than open before the world the sins of ested benevolence. This is God's test of his brethren in the church."—"The Acts our character."—"Testimonies/' Vol. 3, of the Apostles," pages 305, 306. p. 511. "I saw that it is in the providence of THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 593-602. 65 Who Is My Neighbor? LESSON 8 ❑ Thursday February 18 Part 5 "How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance MONEY, of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the MATERIAL, riches of their liberality. For to their power, I bear rec- SELF ord, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves." "And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of 2 Cor. 8:2, 3, 5 God." Our good works have a definite effect on the salvation of others. 1 Peter 2:12. Note the personal involvement that Christ calls for in His "inasmuch" admonition. Matt. 25:35-40. God needs our means, our welfare centers and relief vans. He must have our hospitals, our medical launches and mercy planes, but above all He needs us—involved, committed. And just as much as He needs us to finish His work, we also need this personal involvement. What pleases God in the religion of His people? Isa. 58:6, 7. Note that this applies to a commandment-keeping people. Verses 13, 14. Needs exist at home and abroad that would overwhelm the resources of the church without God's help. What did Paul say of the financial condition of the churches in Macedonia? 2 Cor. 8:1, 2. What was it that compensated for their material pov- erty? Verse 5. THINK IT THROUGH Is it easier for me to write a check than to visit a lonely or sick neighbor? Should I be content with a sedentary Christianity? Am I salving my conscience by using my means when there should also be a total com- mitment of myself? "Christ tears away the wall of par- the world as our field."—"The Desire of tition, the dividing prejudice of nation- Ages," page 823. ality, and teaches a love for all the "He who drinks of the living water human family. He lifts men from the becomes a fountain of life. The receiver narrow circle which their selfishness becomes a giver. The grace of Christ in prescribes; He abolishes all territorial the soul is like a spring in the desert, lines and artificial distinctions of so- welling up to refresh all, and making ciety. He makes no difference between those who are ready to perish eager to neighbors and strangers, friends and drink of the water of life."—"Ibid.," enemies. He teaches us to look upon page 195. every needy soul as our brother, and THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 341-345. 66 Who Is My Neighbor? LESSON 8 ❑ Friday February 19 Part 6 "This is My commandment, That ye love one another, LOVE, THE as I have loved you. Greater love bath no man than this, MOTIVE that a man lay down his life for his friends." John 15:12, 13 For the Christian, right acts begin with love. Laying down our lives is not alone dying in an act of bravery or martyrdom. It includes a continuous offering of ourselves for the benefit and salvation of others. This is what Christ did. Love is not just a warm feeling. It includes benevolent acts (James 1:27) ; seizing opportunity to do good to others (Gal. 6:10) ; loving those who hate us (Matt. 5:44-47). Love, then, is Christ in action through us. How may we increase this love? Where does it be- gin? 1 John 4:17, 19. Consider the Biblical description of love. 1 Cor. 13:4-8. How would we apply love to the practical needs of helping our neighbors? Think about "not easily provoked," "rejoiceth in truth," "hopeth all things," "charity never faileth" as guiding principles for our relationships with others. What false motives sometime prompt benevolence? Matt. 6:2-4. THINK IT THROUGH What "image" am I projecting? How may the church which I attend best help the needy in my community? Do I love God enough to care? Do I care enough to act? "In His life and lessons, Christ has ample showed how we are to obey it." given a perfect exemplification of the —"The Desire of Ages," page 649. unselfish ministry which has its origin "The service rendered in sincerity of in God. God does not live for Himself. heart has great recompense. . . . The By creating the world, and by uphold- faces of men and women who walk ing all things, He is constantly minister- and work with God express the peace ing for others.... This ideal of ministry of heaven. They are surrounded with God has committed to His Son. Jesus the atmosphere of heaven. For these was given to stand at the head of hu- souls the kingdom of God has begun. manity, that by His example He might They have Christ's joy, the joy of being teach what it means to minister. His a blessing to humanity. They have the whole life was under a law of service. honor of being accepted for the Mas- He served all, ministered to all. Thus ter's use; they are trusted to do His He lived the law of God, and by His ex- work in His name."—"Ibid.," p. 312. THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages, " pages 399-403. 67 Who Is My Neighbor? LESSON 8 February 20 Part 7 <> SUMMARY QUESTIONS 0 A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. Complete this Scripture: "Are we than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both and , that they are all under sin." "For there is 2. Concern, compassion, commitment. Which of these caused the Samaritan to aid the fallen traveler? 3. What priority would you give in ministering in the following situations? Assess carefully your own answer on the basis of personal motivation, your commitment, and the self-sacrifice involved: (a) A wealthy friend whom you hope to influence through a social gathering; (b) A welfare need from a tragic hurricane: (c) An unwed mother who needs sympathy and love; (d) A Bible course enrollment drive; (e) A church appeal for mission funds. 4. Whom does Ellen G. White say the providence of God has placed in close relationship to His church) 5. True or False: Our good works have a definite effect on the salvation of others 6. True or False: Laying down our lives includes a continuous offering of ourselves for the benefit and salvation of others. •anal (9) :Quay (5) :aunt 'pap ay; `punq `suelici.to `smopuk (t) :papaau aam.suu inoA (r) !oa5,11 ilV (Z) :aoualalpp ou 'sallwao 'smaf `Jaipq (I) : siamsuy 68 LESSON 9 February 27 .. __-- --_.------ 41 '110L iirA4' --- ..-----,- Iwo - WHAT A TASK! 9 "And He said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15. To the church is given the task of preach- commission, the whole world will soon be ing the gospel. The results are not our re- warned and the Lord Jesus will return to sponsibility, but God's. Our responsibility this earth with power and great glory." is to carry the gospel to every creature. —The Acts of the Apostles, page 111. Some will believe; some will not. Beyond this primary result there is the promise that LESSON OUTLINE when the task of preaching is complete the end will come. Evangelism is both a doc- 1. Go Ye trine and a goal for the church; it is also Matt. 28:18-20 a means to an end. We must evangelize the world; our, goal is to preach Christ to 2. Who? Me? every creature. A successful worldwide wit- 2 Cor. 5:18-20 ness is the only Biblical condition, for which the church is responsible, upon which 3. "One Thing Thou Lackest" the return of Christ depends. But much Matt. 6:20, 21 must be done in spiritual preparation in order that we may accomplish this goal. 4. Where Is Today's Mission Feld? "Long has God waited for the spirit of Rev. 7:9 service to take possession of the whole church so that everyone shall be working 5. Heaven to the Rescue! for Him according to his ability. When the Dan. 12:3, 4 members of the church of God do their appointed work in the needy fields at home 6. Now What? and abroad, in fulfillment of the gospel Hosea 6:3 69 What a Task! LESSON 9 ❑ Sunday February 21 Part 1 "Jesus came and spoke unto them, saying, All power GO YE! is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye there- fore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even Matt. 28:18-20 unto the end of the world." Jesus' command to evangelize is as direct as any other He gave. Though evangelism is implied as part of the work of the Jewish theocracy in the Old Testament, Christ's concept of individual active evangelism is new. It is more than volun- tarily coming to the church because it looks holy and good. It is going into the highways and byways to compel others to come in. What attitude on the part of God does this commis- sion reflect? 2 Peter 3:9. Christ's name is the only one that saves. Acts 4:12. When the world has received the message of Christ's saving love, when all have had the opportunity to consider truth and de- cide, God can justly conclude earth's probation. Would it be enough to preach the gospel without actively seeking out lost individuals? Mark 16:15. THINK IT THROUGH Have I accepted the challenge of worldwide evan- gelism? How should I expect this to affect my life? "Christian motives demand that we others he is a living epistle, known and work with a steady purpose, an un- read of all men. His life shows that he dying interest, and ever-increasing im- has been converted to Christ and has portunity, for the souls whom Satan is become a colaborer with Him."—"Tes- seeking to destroy. Nothing is to chill timonies," Vol. 5, p. 386. the earnest, yearning energy for the "Why is it that many more do not salvation of the lost."—"The Ministry respond to the call? Is it because they of Healing," page 164. think themselves excused in that they "Just as soon as a person is really do not stand in the pulpit? Let them converted to the truth there springs up understand that there is a large work in his heart an earnest desire to go and to be done outside the pulpit by thou- tell some friend or neighbor of the pre- sands of consecrated lay members."— cious light shining forth from the sacred "The Acts of the Apostles," page 111. pages. In his unselfish labor to save THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 9-16. 70 What a Task! LESSON 9 ❑ Monday February 22 Part 2 "And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us WHO? ME? to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the min- istry of reconciliation; to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray 2 Cor. 5:18-20 you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God." The "new creature" of verse 17 recognizes a responsibility for others. Note the reference to "any man." Paul excludes no one from the effect of conversion. It does not isolate us from the world; it impels us to involve ourselves with the world's needs. What is the "word of reconciliation"? For Paul, evangelism was a divine compulsion. After Da- mascus he was never the same. He looked for Christ to reveal Himself in his life. Gal. 1:15, 16. What should we expect to happen when Christ fills the life? 1 Cor. 2:2. Paul subordinated his scholarly learning to the purpose of evangelism. 1 Cor. 2:4, 5. Is it possible for a housewife, a uni- versity professor, a computer programmer, a tradesman, to regard his training in the same way as Paul did his? THINK IT THROUGH "No man liveth unto himself." As I survey my circle of influence, how can I operate for the salvation of souls within these limits? Will training for service help? Should I seek a wider sphere? "Hundreds, yea, thousands, who lighten the woe of suffering humanity. have heard the message of salvation As we engage in this work we shall be are still idlers in the marketplace, when greatly blessed. Its influence is irresis• they might be engaged in some line of tible. By it souls are won to the Re- active service. To these Christ is saying, deemer. The practical carrying out of 'Why stand ye here all the day idle?' the Saviour's commission demonstrates and He adds, 'Go ye also into the the power of the gospel. This work calls vineyard.'"—"The Acts of the Apos- for laborious effort, but it pays; for by tles," pages 110, 111. it perishing souls are saved. Through "In sympathy and compassion we its influence men and women of talent are to minister to those in need of help, are to be brought to the cross of Christ." seeking with unselfish earnestness to —"Welfare Ministry," page 117. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 386-389. 71 What a Task! LESSON 9 ❑ Tuesday February 23 Part 3 "But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where "ONE THING neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do THOU LACKEST" not break through nor steal: for where your treasure is, Matt. 6:20, 21 there will your heart be also." "Some, I saw, who profess to be the followers of Jesus, are so ambitious to obtain earthly treasures that they lose their love for heaven, act like the world, and are accounted of God as of the world. They profess to be seeking an immortal crown, a treasure in the heavens; but their interest and principal study is to acquire earthly treasures."—Testimonies, Vol. 1, p. 350. The rich young ruler could not part with his riches to en- gage in a life of ministry. To deny the gospel to others because of our selfishness is to prefer earth to heaven. What about the source of our prosperity? Deut. 8:18. How has God ordained that the gospel work should be sustained? Mal. 3:8-10. What does the prophet mean by the "meat in Mine house"? It means sustaining the services that pointed to Christ. It means maintaining the witness of truth among the nations surrounding Israel. Today providing "meat in Mine house" includes supporting a sustained witness in all the world. THINK IT THROUGH What forms of selfishness inhibit service? Am I selfish with my time, my money, my talents? "He that gives to the needy blesses the spirit of the Master Worker labor others, and is blessed himself in a untiringly for the conversion of souls, still greater degree. God could have the angels of God will prepare the way reached His object in saving sinners before them, and the means necessary without the aid of man; but He knew for the carrying forward of the work that man could not be happy without will be provided. Those who are en• acting a part in the great work in lightened will . . . respond liberally to which he would be cultivating self- every call for help, and the Spirit of denial and benevolence."—"Testimo- God will move upon their hearts to sus- nies," Vol. 3, p. 382. tain the Lord's cause not only in the "When God's messengers recognize home fields, but in the regions beyond." their responsibilities toward the needy —"The Acts of the Apostles," pages portions of the Lord's vineyard, and in 357, 358. THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 335-341. 72 What a Task! LESSON 9 ❑ Wednesday February 24 Part 4 "After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which WHERE IS TODAY'S no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and MISSION FIELD? people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their Rev. 7:9 hands." After the disappointment of 1844 some of the early pioneers had a very limited vision. They felt that •the door of mercy had been shut. Counsel through the spirit of prophecy and from the Bible lifted the vision of the young church. Within months they accepted a widening responsibility that eventually included the world. Today almost the entire world has access to the message in one form or another. Self-sacrifice at home and abroad has built this mighty work for God. How does the first angel describe the scope of his message? Rev. 14:6 Would the presence of the church in a country mean that the work was done there? Note the scope of the gospel mes- sage: nation, kindred, tongue, people. How widespread will Satan's control of mankind be in the end of time? Rev. 13:8, 16. What is God doing to enable us to reach out to a needy world? Rev. 7:1-3. THINK IT THROUGH What is the quality of my belief? Am I preparing to be a part of the great multitude? Am I doing the work of the remnant? "'Go out into the highways and "The mission of the church of Christ hedges, and compel them to come in,' is to save perishing sinners. It is to Christ bids us, 'that My house may be make known the love of God to men filled.' In obedience to this word we and to win them to Christ by the effi- must go to the heathen who are near cacy of that love. The truth for this time us, and to those who are afar off. The must be carried into the dark corners 'publicans and the harlots' must hear of the earth, and this work may begin the Saviour's invitation. Through the at home. The followers of Christ should kindness and long-suffering of His mes- not live selfish lives; but, imbued with sengers the invitation becomes a com- the Spirit of Christ, they should work pelling power to uplift those who are in harmony with Him."—"Testimonies," sunken in the lowest depths of sin." Vol. 3, p. 381. —"The Ministry of Healing," page 164. THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 25-34. 73 What a Task! LESSON 9 ❑ Thursday February 25 Part 5 "They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the HEAVEN TO firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as THE RESCUE! the stars forever and ever. But thou, 0 Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall Dan. 12:3, 4 be increased." World population increases at the rate of better than two each second of every day. Vast forces of indifference and preju- dice seem to stifle our best endeavors. But God speaks of those who will turn many to righteousness. A knowledge of prophecy, and particularly the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation, has made us a people. God is aiding us in making the predictions of prophecy plain. Modern mass media, such as radio, television, and the press, aid in the task of finishing the work. When the early church faced the task of taking the gospel out to the world, what did God do? Acts 2:2-4. The gift of languages was the answer to their need. Our needs are different. What will answer our need today? Daniel 12:4 is a prediction of the kind of help heaven will give. What will be the result of increased searching in the last days? In what area of knowledge are we to expect an increase? What desperate endeavors is Satan making in these last days? Rev. 12:12, 17. How will God aid His people in the face of these assaults? Rev. 18:1-4. THINK IT THROUGH What relationship is there between the mass media and personal testimony? Can either be eliminated? Will preaching ever be outmoded? "The Lord designs that the presenta- —"Evangelism," page 707. tion of this message shall be the high- "By giving the gospel to the world est, greatest work carried on in the it is in our power to hasten . . . the world at this time."—"Testimonies," Vol. coming of the day of God. 2 Peter 3:12, 6, p. 11. margin. Had the church of Christ done "Our watchword is to be, Onward, her appointed work as the Lord or- ever onward! Angels of heaven will go dained, the whole world would before before us to prepare the way. Our this have been warned, and the Lord burden for the regions beyond can Jesus would have come to our earth in never be laid down till the whole earth power and great glory."—"The Desire is lightened with the glory of the Lord." of Ages," pages 633, 634. THE SECOND MILE: "The Great Controversy," pages 603-612. 74 What a Task! LESSON 9 ❑ Friday February 26 Part 6 "Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the NOW WHAT? Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former Hosea 6:3 rain unto the earth." God assures us that He will answer the cry of people for spiritual infilling. Upon the parched ground of our souls He will spill out the abundance of His Spirit. How did the disciples prepare for the gifts of Pentecost? Acts 2:1-4. Their major burden, the outcry of their hearts, was to know how to answer the challenge Christ left them. See The Acts of the Apostles, page 37. How does individual witnessing share in the plan of God? Acts 8:26-38. The servant of the Lord speaks of the people of God as going from "door to door, with their faces lighted." She says it is our responsibility to take the message "to every man's door." Alongside heart preparation stands service. Our preparation is honed in the clashes of the battle for souls. How does heaven regard our best endeavors to extend the kingdom of God? Luke 15:7. What reward comes to the faithful servant? Ps. 126:5, 6. (Joy in heaven, joy on earth.) "While the great final reward is given at Christ's coming, truehearted service for God brings a reward even in this life." —Welfare Ministry, page 311. THINK IT THROUGH Am I wasting my time wondering how God can carry the gospel to all the world, and meanwhile failing to do my part? "When the redeemed stand before the work. But did God make them so God, precious souls will respond to incapable? No, never. This inability their names who are there because of has been produced by their own inac- the faithful, patient efforts put forth tivity and perpetuated by their deliber- in their behalf, the entreaties and ear- ate choice. Already, in their own char- nest persuasions to flee to the Strong- acters, they are realizing the result of hold. Thus those who in this world have the sentence, 'Take the talent from him.' been laborers together with God will The continual misuse of their talents receive their reward."—"Testimonies," will effectually quench for them the Vol. 8, pp. 196, 197. Holy Spirit, which is the only light." "Many who excuse themselves from —"Christ's Object Lessons," page 365. Christian effort plead their inability for THE SECOND MILE: "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 325-333. 75 91 Answers: (1) Everyone; (2) ambassadors for Christ, Christ's, reconciled to God; (3) False; (4) No; (5) The presentation of this message; (6) The outpouring of God's Spirit in the last days. .4,111ez iamb, alp Aq puelszapun am op 4uqm .9 .‘‘atup sup ae ppom alp ut uo pal.1.1UD Tom lsa1uaz2 ‘lsa04„ aqi s! leqm .s ..qazn.qa Cep-lsel alp u! szanalpq Jo (zapunu) Alpuunia aqi o1 zap.' „lueuluaz„ pzom alp saou .t sSupaBo pue saqip inglinej in° s! Izom sq4 qs!uu 01 sn Jo saz!nbaz pop iiv :asied SO anzi, •E It a/C aq 'peals ut noA AEA am. :sn Aq noA qaaasaq pp pop Ow se alE aM nay moN„ 'amidpos sup alatchnop 7 uqof Jo „oAaosoqm„ alp ui papnpul Si oqm •I 213MOd AafllS dflOA AO IS3.1. V <> SN01.133110 Ativwwns o I Pod fiamalad 6 NOSS31 P/svi THE CHRISTIAN'S RELATIONSHIP TO HIS 10 NEIGHBORS OF OTHER RACES "I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." Rom. 1:14-16. Satan considers it his special work to It is impossible to fulfill the great com- hinder the progress of the gospel in the mission and at the same time bow at the earth. One of his most potent weapons is shrine of racism. The work will not be fin- racism. It is a most successful deterrent to ished until the people of God are ready to righteousness because it appeals to the carry the good news to every creature. flesh and to carnal emotions in a most spectacular way. Since selfishness is a grievous sin in the church, racism and na- LESSON OUTLINE tionalism are most effective in destroying 1. Charged to Love and Save love for others and rebuilding the divisions that Christ sought to remove when He died All Men on the cross. Matt. 28:19, 20 The great commission which Christ gave to His beloved church makes a dogma of 2. Brothers Twice love and disallows all racial and national Gen. 1:27; Acts 17:26 hatreds. "Go ye," is His command. Go ye to all nations, all races, all peoples! 3. The Great Example "No distinction on account of national- John 4:9, 10 ity, race, or caste, is recognized by God. He is the Maker of all mankind. All men are 4. Human Relations in the Early ca _one family by creation, and all are one Church through redemption. Christ came to demol- Acts 10:25-28 ish every wall of partition, to throw open every compartment of the temple, that 5. Responsibility of the Remnant every soul may have free access to God. Matt. 24:14 . . . In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor free."—Christ's Object 6. Unity Among Many Lessons, page 386. Rev. 7:9 77 The Christian's Relationship to His Neighbors of Other Races LESSON 10 ❑ Sunday February 28 Part 1 "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing CHARGED TO them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of LOVE AND the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things what- SAVE ALL MEN soever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you Matt. 28:19, 20 alway, even unto the end of the world." Can an unconverted man obey Christ in spreading the mes- sage of hope to every creature? This is utterly impossible. The great commission was given only to converted men and women. Only as one is converted is he equipped to go out in Jesus' name and summon others for Christ. All who are converted are •to do just this. The Holy Spirit fills a man who is con- verted that the man might be sanctified himself and that he might have power to win others by his witness. When one is converted, selfishness and pride surrender to the great principle of love. John 13:35. When the Holy Spirit enters a man's heart, he loves as God loves. Rom. 5:5. Many would seek to make excuses for weakness rather than recognize it for what it is and claim victory over it. "When the Holy Spirit is poured out, there will be a triumph of hu- manity over prejudice in seeking the salvation of the souls of human beings. God will control minds. Human hearts will love as Christ loved ."—T estimonies, Vol. 9, p. 209. The point is that hatreds and prejudices are demon-inspired and must be surrendered as any other sin. Christ does not say that we should wait for years to rid the soul of these sins. He offers victory over all evil now. "We should be careful not to strengthen prejudices that ought to have died just as soon as Christ redeemed the soul from the bondage of sin."—The Southern Work, page 15. What evidence does the prejudiced or hate-filled soul present by his example? 1 John 4:20, 21. THINK IT THROUGH Are there conflicts between patriotism and nationalism as relating to the great commission? "Christ sought to teach the disciples God are children of the wicked one, the truth that in God's kingdom there and have all his passions, his preju- are no territorial lines, no caste, no dices, his evil spirit, his unlovely traits aristocracy; that they must go to all of character. But the soul that is indeed nations, bearing to them the message transformed will not despise anyone of a Saviour's love."—"The Acts of the whom Christ has purchased with His Apostles," page 20. own blood."—"The Southern Work," "Many who claim to be children of pages 13, 14. THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages," pages 818-828. 78 The Christian's Relationship to His Neighbors of Other Races LESSON 10 ❑ Monday March I Part 2 "So God created man in His own image, in the image BROTHERS TWICE of God created He him; male and female created He Gen. 1:27; them." "And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath deter- mined the times before appointed, and the bounds of Acts 17:26 their habitation." Many have searched the records of history and anthropology in the vain hope that some hidden key to the differences in races could be found. But all theories, philosophies, and "isms" remain confounded by the Word of God. "Speaking to His disciples the Saviour said, 'All ye are brethren.' God is our common Father, and each one of us is our brother's keeper."— Ellen G. White, The Review and Herald, Jan. 21, 1896. All men are descendants of Adam and Eve, and more re- cently of Shem, Ham, and Japheth—three brothers, the sons of Noah. "Have we not all one father? bath not one God created us? why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother?" Mal. 2:10. What does faith in Christ make of all men? Gal. 3:26-29. THINK IT THROUGH Paul counseled Philemon to receive his former slave as a brother. Philemon 15, 16. Why? "By nature all men are brothers in places with the humblest African who the flesh. When we become Christians, has laid hold on the hope of the gos- we become brothers in the Lord. There pel."—"The Southern Work," pages is a tendency in this twentieth century 12, 13. to stress the phrase 'brothers in the "When the sinner is converted he Lord,' but to neglect the phrase 'broth- receives the Holy Spirit, that makes ers in the flesh.' They both go together him a child of God, and fits him for and are an integral part of the gospel the society of the redeemed and the message."—E. E. Cleveland, "The Mid- angelic host. He is made a joint heir dle Wall," page 32. with Christ. Whoever of the human "The character makes the man. If family give themselves to Christ, who- a red man, a Chinese, or an African ever hear the truth and obey it, be- gives his heart to God, in obedience come children of one family. The igno- and faith, Jesus loves him nonetheless rant and the wise, the rich and the for his color. He calls him His well- poor, the heathen and the slave, white beloved brother. The day is coming or black—Jesus paid the purchase when the kings and the lordly men of money for their souls. . . . All are one the earth would be glad to exchange in Christ."—"Ibid.," page 12. THE SECOND MILE: "Prophets and Kings, " pages 367-370. 79 The Christian's Relationship to His Neighbors of Other Races LESSON 10 ❑ Tuesday March 2 Part 3 "Then saith the woman of Samaria unto Him, How is THE GREAT it that Thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am EXAMPLE a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give Me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of John 4:9, 10 Him, and He would have given thee living water." Although Jesus left the Jordan area to avoid unnecessary controversy about baptism, He did not permit the existing prejudices to keep Him from ministering to the Samaritans. There were two routes from Judea to Galilee. The shorter one went through Samaria. The strict Jews took the longer jour- ney to avoid contact with the Samaritans. But Jesus selected the route through Samaria. He refused to permit racial bar- riers to hinder His work. "Jesus had begun to break down the partition wall between Jew and Gentile, and to preach salvation to .the world. Though He was a Jew, He mingled freely with the Samaritans, setting at nought the Pharisaic customs of His nation. In face of their prejudices He accepted the hospitality of this despised people. He slept under their roofs, ate with them at their tables,—par- taking of the food prepared and served by their hands,—taught in their streets, and treated them with the utmost kindness and courtesy."—The Desire of Ages, page 193. How did Christ treat one of the "hated" Romans? Luke 7:1-10. What did Jesus teach by His story of the Good Samar- itan? Luke 10:30-37. When Jesus told the Canaanite woman, "'I am not sent but, unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel,' .. . He was fulfilling His commission. This woman was one of the lost sheep that Israel should have rescued. It was their appointed work, the work which they had neglected, that Christ was doing."—The Desire of Ages, page 402. THINK IT THROUGH What, indeed, is a Christian? "Many who claim to be Christians verted, and were not, by looking unto have accomplished little in the world Jesus, transformed in character. They because they have not kept their eyes did not make God their strength, and upon Jesus, and have permitted iniq- so made crooked paths for their feet. uity to overcome them. Many who have They could not bring the poor, igno- gone forth as missionaries have fallen rant souls who were debased by sin into sin, and Satan has exulted be- into a new life . . . because their own cause men who claimed to be workers life was not hid with Christ in God." together with God were not daily con- —"The Southern Work," page 28. THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages," pages 183-195. 80 The Christian's Relationship to His Neighbors of Other Races LESSON 10 ❑ Wednesday March 3 Part 4 "And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and HUMAN RELATIONS fell down at his feet, and worshiped him. But Peter took IN THE him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man. And EARLY CHURCH as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath showed me that I should not call any man Acts 10:25-28 common or unclean." "From Peter's experience it is clear that a man may become a Christian while racially prejudiced. If he is sincerely Chris- tian, however, he cannot remain so in the face of a divine en- lightenment. This, like every other sin, must be overcome." —The Middle Wall, page 14. How did the other believers accept the news of Peter's visit with Cornelius? Acts 11:1-3. What was the outcome? Verse 18. What was Paul's attitude after conversion? Eph. 2:14. How did Paul react when Peter compromised on the question of separatism? Gal. 2:11. Peter claimed Cornelius, Philip won the Ethiopian, Paul carried the evangel to nation after nation because they knew that in Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor free, but all are one. How thoroughly was ^he Pharisee Paul converted on the principle of unity in Christ? Rom. 1:14-16; Eph. 2:14. THINK IT THROUGH Will the work of Christ ever be finished until it is finished among all people? "The cure for fear lies partly in elimi- begets fear. Most of the tensions be- nating external threats to the security tween classes and races in society are of the self; but it lies more in eliminat- basically rooted in fear, and only love ing excessive consciousness of the self. expressed in imaginative sympathy, Love supremely does this. . . . fair-mindedness, and goodwill can cast "In man's social life, in relations be- out fear."—"The Interpreter's Bible," tween groups and classes and nations on 1 John 4:18. —as between individuals—love casts out "By this shall all men know that ye fear. Want of love, evident in suspi- are My disciples, if ye have love one cion, duplicity, hatred, and aggression, to another." John 13:35. THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 132-142. 81 The Christian's Relationship to His Neighbors of Other Races LESSON 10 ❑ Thursday March 4 Part 5 "And this gospel of the kingdom. shall, be preached' RESPONSIBILITY in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then OF THE REMNANT shall the end come." Matt. 24:14 The urgent messages of the three angels are needed in all quarters of the earth. God has called us to preach to, every nation and kindred' and' tongue and' people. No, serect group - is to hear alone. The work will not be finished until all have received the warning and the message of hope contained in Rev. 14:6-12. The call to decision of Rev. 18:4 must be voiced everywhere. The end will not come until this work is finished. The following is the action of the Executive Committee of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in its Au- tumn Council session, October, 1961: "The Seventh-day Adventist Church is a world church. The task that Seventh-day Adventists have assumed is the preaching of the gospel to every tongue and nation. They believe that all men are of one blood and are equally destined for eternity in the heavenly kingdom." Thank God that, though men may quibble and faint, the objectives and principles of Christ's church through the ages have been .the same. Apart from these principles the work can never be finished. What will love do? 1 Cor. 13:7, 8. What motivates us to obey the commission? John 14:15. What if prejudice causes us to neglect any man or people? Eze. 33:6. THINK IT THROUGH Am I willing to take Christ to any man? Every man? "In calling God our Father, we rec- interest. It will be your joy to recog- ognize all His children as our brethren. nize and honor your relation to your We are all a part of the great web of Father and to every member of His humanity, all members of one fam- family. You will rejoice to do any act, ily.... however humble, that will tend to His "As children of God, you will hold glory or to the well-being of your kin- His honor, His character, His family, His dred."—"Thoughts From the Mount of work, as the objects of your highest Blessing," pages 105, 106. THE SECOND MILE: "Education," page 264. 82 The Christian's Relationship to His Neighbors of Other Races LESSON 10 ❑ Friday March 5 Part 6 "After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which UNITY AMONG no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and MANY people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their Rev. 7:9 hands." Opposing views evaporate in a flash! Opposing guns are hushed! Discordant voices are mute ! Epithets and insults die in the land! One voice is heard, and one people arise to that voice. One people from among many. From the four quarters of the earth the triumphant tread of the redeemed is heard as they together meet the Lord. Together black and white, yellow and red! Together from the Arctic wastes and the bleached deserts. Together from the steaming jungles of verdant green and the seething jungles of concrete and glass—one people! One people from every nation and kindred and tongue, to live together in a flawless land because their lives were brought into harmony here. They loved here. Out of chaos and hatred they were drawn together by the gospel of love and a mutual hope. Who shall inherit the earth? Matt. 5:5. Who shall reign in righteousness? Zech. 14:4, 5, 9. Who alone is worshiped, and by whom? Rev. 15:4. With hope of heavenly unity, what should be our attitude here? 1 Peter 1:22, 23. THINK IT 'THROUGH Is it possible to be saved without giving up every sin —even the sin of prejudice? "Satan's work of ruin is forever forth into singing.' Isaiah 14:7. And a ended. For six thousand years he has shout of praise and triumph ascends wrought his will, filling the earth with from the whole loyal universe. 'The woe and causing grief throughout the voice of a great multitude,' as the universe. The whole creation has voice of many waters, and as the voice groaned and travailed together in pain. of mighty thunderings,' is heard, say- Now God's creatures are forever de- ing: 'Alleluia: for the Lord God omnip- livered from his presence and tempta- otent reigneth.'"—"The Great Contro- tions. 'The whole earth is at rest, and versy," page 673. is quiet: they [the righteous] break THE SECOND MILE: "Selected Messages," Bk. 1, pp. 259-261. 83 The Christian's Relationship to His Neighbors of Other Races LESSON 10 March 6 Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS G A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. How can the world tell if we are Christ's disciples? John 13:35. 2. What thought in Galatians 3:28 places all men on equality before God? 3. What was the most striking disregard of racial prejudice in the life and work of Jesus) 4. To what would you attribute Peter's victory over racial barriers) 5. "In calling God our Father, we recognize His children as 6. When will human division and discord be entirely eliminated from the earth) •q4.rea Mau aq4 III (9) fuanilaaq ano Ire (5) !snllamoD tiwn aaua!Jadxa puu uo!sy. ata (v) !nnapkaalui uemom uulpuums aqy ( c ) tii puo Ite aae aA (g) auo QA01 QM 3I (I) :uannsuV 84 EQUALITY OF BELIEVERS 11 "For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus." Gal. 3:26. That God is no respecter of persons is in character and will be raised up from his a source of consolation and strength in a condition of guilt, degradation, and wretch- world cold with indifference. Men are edness. . . . The frailest human being may judged by men according to wealth and be elevated, ennobled, refined, and sancti- position and race. In human minds might fied by the grace of God."—The Southern makes right. Not so with God. His stan- Work, page 31. This equality before God dard of flawless morality is His law, and is the hope of His children everywhere. by His grace He gives power to those who aspire to reach His standard. LESSON OUTLINE Whenever a man reaches out to God by faith, confesses his sins, and claims God's 1. All Men Are Created Equal grace, that man becomes God's son, equal James 2:9 to all other sons. Of His commandments Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, 2. Pride and the Evangel "Whosoever shall do and teach them, the Rom. 12:3 same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." It matters not where and under 3. Fellowship in Faith what circumstances that man is born— Gal. 3:26-29 whether rich or poor or of what nationality or race—if he is an obedient Christian, 4. Unequal Gifts and Talents Heaven regards him as "great." 1 Cor. 12:4-6 "Man is of value with God in propor- tion as he permits the divine image to be 5. Greater Opportunity— retraced upon his soul. However misshapen Greater Responsibility has been his character, although he may Rom. 15:1 have been counted as an outcast among men, the man who permits the grace of 6. Christ and the Lowly Christ to enter his soul will be reformed 2 Cor. 8:9 85 Equality of Believers LESSON 11 ❑ Sunday March 7 Part 1 "But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and ALL MEN are convinced of the law as transgressors." ARE CREATED EQUAL Sin is the curse of the world. Its wage is death. All men are James 2:9 created equal and are equal in what they might become through Christ. All possessions might not •be equal, nor all opportuni- ties and talents; but in God's sight all men are. Christ saw in all men, even those of lowest estate, the heritage of God; and He would have died for any one of them as verily as He would for all of them. He was not bothered at all by race, caste, nationalism. He was the hope of the whole race, the Desire of all ages. "Caste is hateful to God. He ignores everything of this character. In His sight the souls of all men are of equal value." —The Desire of Ages, page 403. Does the Bible or the spirit of prophecy support preju- dice—race prejudice or any other kind? What do we become when we are partial? James 2:1-4. How should we esteem others? Phil. 2:3. Superiority and inferiority feelings serve Satan's purpose well. He is the fountain from which these pollutions flow. Both poison the soul and can shut out the saving light of God. The man who feels inferior will not understand the worth of his own soul nor the marvelous grace of God. He may even question the justice of God and abhor Him. The man with a superiority complex can never love as Christ loves. Pride, ar- rogance, and selfishness are his bedfellows. He wears a curse. He will not understand the urgency of extending himself on behalf of the masses of downtrodden and degraded souls for whom Christ died. What is Paul's counsel to those tempted with pride and prejudice? Rom. 12:16. THINK IT THROUGH Can one make a correct appraisal of himself by any other means than by the light from Calvary? Will any- thing else keep him from thinking either too highly or too little of himself for his own soul's good? "It was never God's purpose that so- learned. . . . Those who center every- ciety should be separated into classes, thing upon themselves misinterpret the that there should be an alienation be- character- of God."—"The Southern tween the rich and the poor, the high Work," page 37.. and the low, the learned and the un- THE SECOND MILE: "The Desire of Ages," pages 399-403. 86 Equality of Believers LESSON 11 ❑ Monday March 8 Part 2 "For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every PRIDE AND THE man that is among you, not to think of himself more EVANGEL highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, ac- cording as God hath dealt to every man the measure of Rom. 12:3 faith." The human ego is a formidable enemy. Its work is manifest in all the conflicts of life. It is the guardian of self. It intrudes itself into all the plans of God. It is critical and cold to others unless others pay homage and bow at its feet with flattery and praise. It demeans men and nullifies the urge to go and save :men. It stands condemned! Luke 14:11. It does not love. '1 Cor.,13:5. "We have no enemy without that we need to fear. Our great conflict is with unconsecrated self. When we conquer self, we are more than ,conquerors through. Him who has loved us."— Counsels on Stewardship, pages 21, 22. "Christ recognized no 'distinction of nationality or rank or creed. The scribes and Pharisees desired to make a local and a national benefit of the gifts of heaven and to exclude the rest of God's family in the world. But Christ came to' break down every wall of partition. He came to show that His gift of mercy and love is as unconfined as the air, the light, or the showers of rain that refresh the earth."—The Ministry of Heal- ing, page 25. What indicates that we are to work for the souls of all classes of society? Luke 14:23. What will be the ulti- mate result? Matt. 24:14. THINK IT THROUGH Am I prepared to carry Christ to any man, regardless of race or station in life? Could I work easily with the downtrodden? If not, why not? What can be done to change my attitude? Read Rom. 12:16. "Every man who praises himself other."—"Evangelism," page 355. brushes the luster 'from his best ef- "God's love in the heart would melt forts."—"Testimonies," Vol. 4, p. 607. away the barriers of race and caste "He who is truly converted will work and would remove the obstacles with to save others who are in darkness. which men have barred others away One truly converted soul will reach out from the truth as it is in Jesus."—"The in faith to save another and still an- Southern Work," page 39. "THE-SECOND MILE: "Selected Messages," Bk. 1, pp. 312, 313. 87 Equality of Believers LESSON 11 ❑ Tuesday March 9 Part 3 "For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ FELLOWSHIP Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into IN FAITH Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs accord- Gal. 3:26-29 ing to the promise." It suits Satan's purpose to promote division among the peoples of the earth. Out of division come contentions, hatreds, racism, discrimination, oppression, suppression, exploitation, and war. Satan hates a spirit of love and unity among church members. Christ demands this very spirit; and when we are truly converted, we are born into His family, and all in His family are brethren. "Now are we the sons of God." 1 John 3:2. "Honor all men. Love the brotherhood." 1 Peter 2:17. The brotherhood of saints is bound by the mystical tie of divine love which is stronger than the tie of blood relationship. Paul said, "Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another." Rom. 12:10. "All ye are brethren," said Christ. Now read 1 John 3:14: "We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death." See 1 Thess. 4:9. What is a test of discipleship? John 13:35. What was the yearning desire of Christ's heart? John 17:21. Christ commands us to love one another. John 15:17. What is to be our attitude if we are offended by one who is a brother in the Lord? 1 Cor. 6:1-6. THINK IT THROUGH What are some of the things we can do to make the weak and the outcast feel more secure in the church? "The attributes of the enemy of God brother's soul, with a heart full of and man too often find expression in compassion, with bowels of mercy, tell their spirit and attitude toward one him the wrong, then leave the matter another. They hurt one another, be- with him and the Lord. You have dis- cause they are not partakers of the charged your duty. You are not to pass divine nature; and thus they work sentence."—"Testimonies," Vol. 1, p. against the perfection of their own 165. character."—"Evangelism," page 635. See "The Acts of the Apostles," page "If sin is plain in a brother, breathe 550. it not to another, but with love for the THE SECOND MILE: "Selected Messages," Bk. 1, pp. 257-259. 88 Equality of Believers LESSON 11 ❑ Wednesday March 10 Part 4 "Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. UNEQUAL GIFTS And there are differences of administrations, but the AND TALENTS same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but 1 Cor. 12:4-6 it is the same God which worketh all in all." We are all equal before God, but we may not all have equal abilities. Man has no right to take honor to himself for gifts that God or parents or environment have given him. His great- ness or littleness is measured by God according to how he uses and develops the talents given him. One who has only one talent and uses it to the full for the glory of God is greater in God's sight than one with many talents who does not use and develop them in unselfish service. Our equality is based on what we do with what we have. How we use the gifts we have will affect •the difference of reward in heaven. The one with only one talent in the parable was not cast out because he had only one talent but because he did not use it properly. See Rom. 12:3-8. What is the source of all our abilities and possessions? 1 Chron. 29:14. By what measure will we have to give account? Luke 12:48. A serious mistake is made when one is lifted up in his own sight by pride in things and talents which he might possess. Pride in the heart always makes one feel exalted above his brethren. Pride is an evil which God hates. It creates schism, division. It hinders the fulfillment of Jesus' prayer for unity among His people. Pride is sin. Pride is the food of selfishness. From Christ's own words, what ideal is set before us? Matt. 5:3. THINK IT THROUGH What indictment of Laodicea would we do well to ponder? Rev. 3:14-18. "We are in God's world, and are those who are suffering around us, we handling His goods, and we shall be shall be charged as guilty of embez- called upon to render a strict account zling God's goods. The cries of suffering of the use that we have made of His humanity go up to God, and He hears entrusted riches. If we have hoarded their complaints of hunger, of igno- God's gifts for our own advantage, if rance, and of darkness. He will surely we have indulged in luxury, if we have judge those who neglect His purchased heaped up treasure for ourselves, and possession."—"The Southern Work," have been indifferent to the wants of pages 37, 38. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 9, pp. 144-146. 89 Equality of Believers LESSON 11 ❑ Thursday March 11 Part 5 "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities GREATER OPPOR- of the weak, and not to please ourselves." TUNITY—GREATER RESPONSIBILITY All men are equal in God's sight. The differences in men's Rom. 15:1 lives have nothing to do with "inferior" and "superior" classes of human beings. This whole fallacious concept has its roots in evolution. The difference in men is often the difference in opportunities—opportunities for light and, culture and posses- sions, and above all for saving •truth. Those especially favored are blessed of God and should take no personal pride for their talents. Instead, a constant awareness that God is the "giver of every good and perfect gift" should produce in them a goodly humility and a real spirit of gratitude to •the heavenly Father. It should also make them tenderhearted and pitiful toward their less fortunate or more disadvantaged brethren. No man chooses his place of birth, his parents, his race. How foolish to hold him responsible for the disadvantages these "accidents" may bring. Instead we must realize that in God's sight all men are equal and that the poor about us, the dis- advantaged peoples of earth, the heathen, and the wicked are all a test of our character and stewardship. If it were not for the grace of God, we might certainly be in worse state than they. For how much are we held accountable? Matt. 25: 21-27. Will neglect of the poor and downtrodden be taken lightly in the judgment? Matt. 25:45. THINK IT THROUGH Is God pleased when we spend vast sums on personal luxuries while the poor in our midst—even in our own churches—suffer for want of necessities? "Selfishness is the essence of deprav- self-love."—"Counsels on Stewardship," ity. . . . Nations, families, and individ- page 24. uals are filled with a desire to make "Selfishness is the strongest and most self a center. Man longs to rule over general of human impulses . . . ; for his fellowmen. Separating himself in while selfishness is the strongest pas- his egotism from God and his fellow sion, love and benevolence are too beings, he follows his unrestrained in- often the weakest, and as a rule the clinations. . . . Selfishness has brought evil gains the victory. Therefore in our discord into the church, filling it with labors and gifts for God's cause, it is unholy ambition. . . . Selfishness de- unsafe to be controlled by feeling or stroys Christlikeness, filling man with impulse."—"Ibid.," p. 25. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 2, pp. 76, 77. 90 Equality of Believers LESSON 11 ❑ Friday March 12 Part 6 "For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, CHRIST AND though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, THE LOWLY that ye through His poverty might be rich." 2 Cor. 8:9 Christ was and is the flawless example of unselfishness. Can we approach His example? We must! See Philippians 2:5-8. What condescension! Who can contemplate it ! The great God of creation humbled Himself in order to save. His regard for the lepers, the poor, the outcasts, the adulterers, the beg- gars, the publicans, the Canaanite woman, the Roman cen- turion, the hated Samaritans—all show us that He felt the most lowly were worth saving. He would have come for any one of these or anyone else. All men were equal in His sight, and as soon as one was won to Himself, He elevated and ennobled and declared that one to be His son. To His followers He declared, "All ye are brethren." "The common people heard Him gladly" because He was empty of pride and arrogance and racism and self-importance. He made all men feel wanted and worthwhile. When He gave the great commission to His disciples, He ordered them to go into all the world. He would not overlook a single country, or region, or jungle, or desert. Into all the world! Win all men. After Christ's ascension the conquest of the gospel over the Gentile world began with the black man from Ethiopia, and it spread across the world. It reached all classes and all kinds. It proclaimed liberty and brotherhood. It lifted men! It de- clared that in Christ there is neither "Jew nor Greek, bond nor free." All are one. The life of Christ becomes the life of the believer, and the mind of Christ becomes the mind of the believer. He will think and act as Jesus did, and humble himself as Jesus did. What counsel did Christ give to those of high estate? Matt. 23:11, 12. Everything Christ lived and taught and did was diamet- rically opposed to selfishness, racism, ostracism, discrimination, and feelings of superiority. He delights in taking "nothing" and producing "something." He takes the lowliest being, the most downtrodden and degraded, the unwanted and unloved, and makes of him a trophy, an example of the power of His grace. THINK IT THROUGH Do I measure myself by others or by the flawless ex- ample of Christ? Am I like Him? Or am I controlled by the diseased laws of society? See "The Desire of Ages," page 649. "No one was so exalted as Christ, ens by self-serving, Christ Himself set and yet He stooped to the humblest the example of humility. He would not duty. That His people might not be leave this great subject in man's misled by the selfishness which dwells charge."—"The Desire of Ages," page in the natural heart, and which strength- 649. THE SECOND MILE: "The Acts of the Apostles," pages 332-334. 91 Equality of Believers LESSON 11 March 13 Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS G A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER I. "In lowliness of mind let each other than PI 2. By what power did Paul undertake to counsel Christians on human rela- tions) 3. Why do so-called Christians often "hurt one another") 4. Does the use of our gifts mean that we must be prominent in some church office) 5. How is the character of our Christianity tested) 6. What great word is used in 2 Corinthians 8:9 to indicate the power that enabled Christ to come from heaven) •33¢19 (9) :SE punoiu axe otim sauo ivapuadap ani Ag (3) !oN (q) •axnieu 3u!AT am Jo saaNu4.red 1011 is AMU, (r) :aauzo (z) !saniastuam 6.1apaq quaaisa (I) : siaAtsuV 92 LESSON 12 March 20 THE CHRISTIAN AND DIVISIVE ISSUES 12 "I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil." John 17:15. The world today is facing many social Most High, and they shall take the king- problems that were formerly ignored. dom and possess the kingdom forever and Among these are poverty, education, hun- ever."—Testimonies, Vol. 9, p. 219. ger, racism, overpopulation, distribution of land, distribution of food resources, and LESSON OUTLINE unemployment. The Christian asks, "What can I do 1. The Christian—God's Possession about these things? What is the solution 1 Cor. 6:20 to these problems?" This lesson emphasizes that a Christian 2. In the World, but Not of the is a child of God. In this world the be- World liever is to reflect the image of Christ. In John 17:15 so doing he will rela-re—fiiagelf-fo—all—prob- lems as Christ would. He will endeavor to 3. Ambassadors for Christ serve as God's ambassador to deal wisely 2 Cor. 5:20 W"Ttli the world's needs. "The great work before us all, as Chris- 4. Active Reformers tians, is to extend Christ's kingdom as Isa. 58:12 rapidly as possible, in accordance with the divine commission. The gospel is to ad- 5. Christian Methods of Reform vance from conquest to conquest, from 2 Cor. 10:4 victory to victory. The greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven shall be 6. The Blessed Hope given to the people of the saints of the Titus 2:12, 13 93 The Christian and Divisive Issues LESSON 12 ❑ Sunday March 14 Part I "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God THE CHRISTIAN— in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." GOD'S POSSESSION "0 that we might comprehend more fully the infinite price 1 Cor. 6:20 that has been paid for our redemption! Paul declares, 'Ye are bought with a price' . . . ; and it is true; for the price paid is nothing less than the life of the only-begotten Son of God. Let us all consider this. We may refuse .the invitations that Christ sends to us; we may neglect His offer of pardon and peace; but still it remains a fact that every one of us has been bought with a price, even with the precious blood of the Son of God."—Selected Messages, Bk. 1, p. 100. Why did God pay such a price for sinners? John 3:16. Because the Christian was bought at such a price, what did Paul expect him to do? 1 Cor. 6:20. Those purchased by the blood of Christ will glorify God by working for the good of their fellowmen. They will daily ask, "What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me?" Ps. 116:12. What will the good works of the Christian cause the Gentile to do? 1 Peter 2:12; cf. Matt. 5:16. "The revelation of His own glory in the form of humanity will bring heaven so near to men that the beauty adorning the inner temple will be seen in every soul in whom the Saviour dwells. Men will be captivated by the glory of an abiding Christ. And in currents of praise and thanksgiving from the many souls thus won to God, glory will flow back to the great Giver."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 420. "The greatest work that can be done in our world is to glorify God by living the character of Christ."—Testimonies, Vol. 6, p. 439. THINK IT THROUGH What type of activities can a Christian participate in that will cause unbelievers to glorify God? "It is not fitful service that God ac- glory, He will be revealed in the char- cepts; it is not emotional spasms of acter, it will be Christlike. We are to piety that make us children of God. He represent Christ to the world, as Christ calls upon us to work for principles represented' the Father."—"Welfare that are true, firm, and abiding. If Ministry," pages 38, 39. Christ is formed within, the hope of THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 7, pp. 9-12. 94 The Christian. and Divisive Issues LESSON 12 ❑ Monday March 15 Part 2 "I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the IN THE WORLD, world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil." BUT NOT OF THE WORLD Throughout the history of man God has required that His followers should maintain standards different from those of John 17:15 nonbelievers. This meant that in many instances the believer had to disassociate himself from the activities of his neighbors. People of the world often engage in some things with which the Christian cannot and dare not associate himself. What does the apostle Paul say should be our relation to the world? 2 Cor. 6:17. "The followers of Christ are to be separate from the world in principles and interests, but they are not to isolate them- selves from the world. The Saviour mingled constantly with men, not to encourage them in anything that was not in ac- cordance with God's will, but to uplift and ennoble them. . . . So the Christian is to abide among men, that the savor of divine love may be as •salt to preserve the world from cor- ruption."—Counsels to Teachers, page 323. What is the choice God urges upon every believer? Deut. 30:15, 19, 20. "Those who follow the Lord are to be firm and straight- forward in obeying His directions. Any deviation to follow human devising or planning disqualifies them for being trust- worthy. Even if they have to walk as did Enoch,—with God alone,—His children must separate from •those who do not obey Him, who show that they are not in vital connection with Him."—Ellen G. White Comments, SD A Bible Com- mentary, Vol. 2, p. 1037. THINK IT THROUGH How can a Christian remain separate from the world and yet wield an influence for good? "The directions laid down in the of God. His children must follow where Word of God leave no room for com- He has led the way; at whatever sacri- promise with evil. The Son of God was fice of ease or selfish indulgence, at manifested that He might draw all men whatever cost of labor or suffering, unto Himself. He came not to lull the they must maintain a constant battle world to sleep, but to point out the with self."—"The Acts of the Apostles," narrow path in which all must travel page 565. who reach at last the gates of the City THE SECOND MILE: "Selected Messages," Bk. 1, pp. 89, 90. 95 The Christian and Divisive Issues LESSON 12 ❑ Tuesday March 16 Part 3 "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though AMBASSADORS God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, FOR CHRIST be ye reconciled to God." 2 Cor. 5:20 An ambassador is sent to a foreign country. The people he deals with are different from him. They have a different cul- ture, different traditions, usually a different language and a different way of life. The ambassador lives in this foreign country and shares the life of the people there, but he is a citizen of another country. So it is with the Christian. He lives in the world, but he is not of the world; he is a citizen of heaven. An ambassador speaks for his own country. People listen to him to know what his country wants them to do. The ambassador for Christ speaks for heaven. He wants to have people think of Christ in the most favorable light. One hasty action or impulsive word can spoil his representation of his Saviour. After depicting the love of worldlings for material things, what is Paul's advice to the Christian? 1 Tim. 6:11, 12. "Christ calls upon the members of His church to cherish the true, genuine hope of the gospel. He points them upward, dis- tinctly assuring them that the riches that endure are above, not below. Their hope is in heaven, not on the earth. 'Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness,' He says; `and all these things'—all that is essential for your good— `shall be added unto you.' "With many, the things of this world obscure the glorious view of the eternal weight of glory that awaits the saints of the Most High."—Counsels on Stewardship, page 218. THINK IT THROUGH Why do the Scriptures teach us "to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God"? Micah 6:8. "Worldly policy and the undeviating night. And only those who live the life principles of righteousness do not blend of Christ are His co-workers. If one sin into each other imperceptibly, like the is cherished in the soul, or one wrong colors of the rainbow. Between the two practice retained in the life, the whole a broad, clear line is drawn by the being is contaminated. The man be- eternal God. The likeness of Christ comes an instrument of unrighteous- stands out as distinct from that of ness."—"The Desire of Ages," page 313. Satan as midday in contrast with mid- THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 393-395. 96 The Christian and Divisive Issues LESSON 12 El Wednesday March 17 Part 4 "And they that shall be of thee shall build the old ACTIVE REFORMERS waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the Isa. 58:12 breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in." "Reformers are not destroyers. They will never seek to ruin those who do not harmonize with their plans and assimilate to them. Reformers must advance, not retreat. They must be decided, firm, resolute, unflinching; but firmness must not degenerate into a domineering spirit. God desires to have all who serve Him firm as a rock where principle is concerned, but meek and lowly of heart, as was Christ. Then, abiding in Christ, they can do the work He would do ikreTe—HeThith-elf." place. A rude, condemnatory spirit is not essential to heroism in the reforms for this time. All selfish methods in the service of God are an abomination in His sight."—Testimonies, Vol. 6, p. 151. What characteristics will a true servant of God have' 2 Tim. 2:24. The Christian will not be distracted into controversy that will prevent him from doing his work as an ambassador of Christ. He will be kind and gentle even when pointing out a fault. He will be patient as was his Master; if he is cursed or insulted, he will accept these as Christ did. "He must melt the frigidity of opposition with the warmth of love." What command does Paul give concerning being linked with unbelievers? 2 Cor. 6:14-18. THINK IT THROUGH How should a Christian seek to remedy the injustices prevalent in the world today? "We should have a spirit of progress. become dwarfed . . because of inac- We must guard continually against be- tion."—"Testimonies/' Vol. 3, p. 540. ing fixed in our views, feelings, and "We have a great work to carry for- actions. The work of God is onward. ward, and we must carry it in a sensi- Reforms must be carried on, and we ble way. Let us never get excited or must take hold and help move on the allow evil feelings to arise. Christ did car of reform. Energy, tempered with not do this, and He is our example in patience and ambition, and balanced all things. For the work given us to do by wisdom, is now needed by every we need much more of heavenly, sanc- Christian. The work of saving souls is tified, humble wisdom, and much less yet left to us, the disciples of Christ. of self. We need to lay hold firmly on Not one of us is excused. Many have divine power."—"Ibid.," Vol. 9, p. 148. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 337-341. 97 The Christian and Divisive Issues LESSON 12 ❑ Thursday March 18 Part 5 "For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but CHRISTIAN mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds." METHODS "Mild measures, soft answers, and pleasant words are much OF REFORM better fitted to reform and save, than severity and harshness. 2 Cor. 10:4 A little too much unkindness may place persons beyond your reach, while a conciliatory spirit would be the means of bind- ing them to you, and you might then establish them in the right way."—Testimonies, Vol. 4, p. 65. As Christ instructed the disciples in methods of work, what figure did He use to illustrate wisdom and meek- ness? Matt. 10:16, last part. "If anyone shall seek to draw the workers into debate or controversy on political or other questions, take no heed to either persuasion or challenge. Carry forward the work of God firmly and strongly, but in the meekness of Christ and as quietly as possible. Let no human boasting be heard. Let no sign of self-sufficiency be made. Let it be seen that God has called us to handle sacred trusts; preach the Word, be diligent, earnest, and fervent."—Testimonies, Vol. 6, p. 122. What are the weapons a Christian uses? Eph. 6:13-17; 2 Cor. 10:4, 5. "Now, as in Christ's day, the work of God's kingdom lies not with those who are clamoring for recognition and support by earthly rulers and human laws, but with those who are declaring to the people in His name those spiritual truths that will work in the receivers the experience of Paul: 'I am cruci- fied with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.'"—The Desire of Ages, page 510. THINK IT THROUGH Why should a Christian refuse to be drawn into con- troversial movements? "The government under which Jesus power. He who was our example kept lived was corrupt and oppressive; on aloof from earthly governments. Not every hand were crying abuses,—ex- because He was indifferent to the woes tortion, intolerance, and grinding cru- of men, but because the remedy did not elty. Yet the Saviour attempted no civil lie in merely human and external mea- reforms. He attacked no national sures. To be efficient, the cure must abuses, nor condemned the national reach men individually, and must re- enemies. He did not interfere with the _99=-ate the heart."—"The Desire of authority or administration of those in Ages," page 509. THE SECOND MILE: "Selected Messages,'' Bk. 2, pp. 406-408. 98 The Christian and Divisive Issues LESSON 12 ❑ Friday March 19 Part 6 "Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly THE BLESSED HOPE lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Titus 2:12, 13 Jesus Christ." "As a people we are to prepare the way of the Lord. Every iota of ability God has given us must be put to use in prepar- ing the people after God's fashion, after His spiritual mold, to stand in this great day of God's preparation."—Fundamentals of Christian Education, page 311. What assurance does Christ give that injustice will be avenged? Luke 18:7, 8. "A faithful record is kept of the words and deeds of the children of men. Every act of cruelty or injustice toward God's people, all they are caused to suffer through the power of evil workers, is registered in heaven."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 177. What does James say should be our attitude as we wait for the coming of the Lord? James 5:7, 8. "The disciples of Christ are set as light bearers on the way to heaven; through them the Father's mercy and goodness are made manifest to a world enshrouded in the darkness of mis- apprehension of God. By seeing their good works, others are led to glorify the Father who is above; for it is made manifest that there is a God on the throne of the universe whose char- acter is worthy of praise and imitation."—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, page 41. THINK IT THROUGH In view of the nearness of our Lord's return, how in- volved can a Christian become in divisive issues of a political or social nature? "There is a great work to be done, "Christ is waiting with longing de- and every effort possible must be made sire for the manifestation of Himself in to reveal Christ as the sin-pardoning His church. When the character of Christ Saviour, Christ as the Sin Bearer, Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His as the bright and morning Star; and the people, then He will come to claim Lord will give us favor before the world them as His own."—"Christ's Object Les- until our work is done."—"Testimonies," sons," page 69. Vol. 6, pp. 20, 21. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 1, pp. 383, 386, 387. 99 The Christian and Divisive Issues LESSON 12 March 20 Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS 0 A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. Complete: "For ye are with a price: therefore God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's." 2. When Christ prayed that His disciples should not be taken out of the world, what did He pray they should be kept from) 3. What title does Paul give to Christians who represent Christ before the world? 4. Complete: "And they that shall be of thee shall the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The of the breach, The of paths to dwell in." 5. True or False : Paul advised the use of carnal weapons because of their effectiveness in destroying worldly strongholds 6. Which of the following reasons did Paul give to Titus for living righ- teously in the present world? (a) Honesty is the best policy; (b) Jesus is re- turning soon; (c) A righteous life will bring a man worldly prosperity (9) `•aqua (5) !iaao4sax ‘Ja.r!tdai `ppng (fr) •sxopussugtuv (c) :[peg (g) !Alpop `lipnoq (I) :siantsuv 100 LESSON 13 March 27 ,===< DOING GOOD TO ALL MEN 13 "That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, will- ing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." 1 Tim. 6:18, 19. A true Christian will manifest brotherly God who does not reflect this attribute." love and charity toward all mankind. His —Sons and Daughters of God, page 148. love and respect for his fellowmen will be shown in all his dealings with them. He LESSON OUTLINE will so relate himself to his neighbors that they will be attracted to the gospel he 1. The Source of Good Works professes to believe. One of the tests of James 1:17 true Christianity is how the believer re- lates himself to the needs of the world. 2. A Good Heart Does Good Works Obedience to correctdoctriiie will'iii-Zduce Luke 6:45 friendly, loving, helpful people. The life and work of the true Christian is but a re- 3. Love and Mercy flection of Christ as He related Himself to Micah 6:8 the needs of mankind. Christ identified Himself with suffering 4. An Acceptable Service humanity. "It is impossible to grow up into Isa. 58:6, 7, 10 Christ our living head, unless we practice the lesson He has given us of sympathy, 5. The Essential Ingredient compassion, and love. It is impossible to Mark 10:21 reflect the image of Christ unless this love, which is of heavenly birth, is in the soul. 6. Rewards of Service No one will pass the portals of the City of Matt. 25:34 101 Doing Good to All Men LESSON 13 ❑ Sunday March 21 Part 1 "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, THE SOURCE OF and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom GOOD WORKS is no variableness, neither shadow of turning." James 1:17 "God is the source of life and light and joy to the universe. Like rays of light from the sun, like the streams of water bursting from a living spring, blessings flow out from Him to all His creatures. And wherever the life of God is in the hearts of men, it will flow out to others in love and blessing."—Steps to Christ, page 77. From whence comes the inspiration to do good? 3 John 11; Phil. 2:13. "Gospel religion is Christ in the life—a living, active prin- ciple. It is the grace of Christ revealed in character and wrought out in good works. The principles of the gospel cannot be dis- connected from any department of practical life. . . . "We cannot come in touch with divinity without coming in touch with humanity; for in Him who sits upon the throne of the universe, divinity and humanity are combined. Connected with Christ, we are connected with our fellowmen by the golden links of the chain of love."—Christ's Object Lessons, pages 384, 385. How much can we do without Christ? John 15:5. "He says, 'Without Me ye can do nothing.' John 15:5. We need to look to Jesus constantly in order that He may impress upon us His own lovely image. We are to behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. Then we shall reveal Christ to our fellowmen." — Testimonies, Vol. 9, p. 203. THINK IT THROUGH As a follower of Christ how will I relate to the needs of my less fortunate neighbors? "All around us are heard the wails "All power to do good is God-given. of a world's sorrow. On every hand . . . To God belongs all the glory for are the needy and distressed. It is ours the wise and good deeds of human to aid in relieving and softening life's agents."—"My Life Today," page 118. hardships and misery. The wants of the "Religion does not consist in works, soul only the love of Christ can satisfy. but religion works; it is not dor- If Christ is abiding in us, our hearts will mant. The pure religion of Jesus is the be full of divine sympathy. The sealed fountain from which flow streams of fountains of earnest, Christlike love will charity, love, self-sacrifice."—"Sons and be unsealed."—"Prophets and Kings," Daughters of God," page 271. page 719. THE SECOND MILE: "Testimonies," Vol. 2, p. 31. 102 Doing Good to All Men LESSON 13 ❑ Monday March 22 Part 2 "A good man out of the good treasure of his heart A GOOD HEART bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out DOES GOOD WORKS of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth Luke 6:45 speaketh." A man in whose heart Christ dwells will live a good life and shrink from all evil. Character will be revealed in conduct. Speech will betray the secrets of the soul. "The attributes of the character of Christ can be imparted to those only who distrust themselves. The highest scientific education cannot in itself develop a Christlike character. The fruits of true wisdom come from Christ alone."—Testimonies to Ministers, page 259 What is avoidance of known duty called? James 4:17. "Those who are 'hearers' only and not 'doers' show that their religion is 'vain.' . . . A perverted faith trusts in knowl- edge only and proves its falsity when it avoids deeds that sin- cere faith would gladly do. . . . "Deliberate evasion of known duty is forthright rebellion against the will of God."—SDA Bible Commentary, on James 4:17. A knowledge of duty carries with it the responsibility of obedience. The sincere Christian acquires knowledge in order to do the will of God more perfectly. The mere acquisition of knowledge does not constitute genuine Christianity. THINK IT THROUGH In what ways does my life reveal that Christ dwells in my heart? "None but a wholehearted Christian overflowing for God, reaching out to can be a perfect gentleman; but if all fellow creatures, showing that it is Christ is abiding in the soul His spirit a privilege to serve and to minister. The will be revealed in the manner, the hope for reward or the fear of punish- words, and the actions. Gentleness and ment are forgotten; he is motivated en- love cherished in the heart will appear tirely by love to furnish the universe in self-denial, in true courtesy."—"Tes- with a holy life such as God intended timonies to Ministers," page 264. life should be from creation."—W. R. "His [the true Christian's] ethic will Beach, "Dimensions in Salvation," page be that of charity—a transformed heart 282. THE SECOND MILE: "Steps to Christ," pages 77-83 ("The Work and the Life"). 103 Doing Good to All Men LESSON 13 El Tuesday March 23 Part 3 "He hath showed thee, 0 man, what is good; and what LOVE AND MERCY doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love Micah 6:8 mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?" God has outlined His most essential requirements for a full spiritual life. These attributes will also guarantee real happi- ness. They are not material things nor are they outward observ- ances or forms. These virtues dwell in the surrendered, obedient heart. True piety covers the whole range of human duty—to God and to man. To love mercy means to have compassion, to show sym- pathy. To love mercy brings us nearer to God. What will cause the love of God to be perfected in the heart? 1 John 4:12. "The early Christian church was set on fire by Christ's example. . . . In word and deed they showed that love was their ruling principle. The heathen took notice, amazed at Christian joy in doing for others. No pagan people had ever produced a way of life equal to it. The Christian's love for humanity was not only more voluminous but also more in- tense. They seemed to forget themselves while helping their fellowmen who needed them. Their love did not end with solitary contemplation. It was a love of clothing the naked and feeding the hungry."—Dimensions in Salvation, pages 279, 280. How are we to love our neighbors? Gal. 5:14. THINK IT THROUGH Does the practice of justice and mercy develop a Chris- tian life, or does the Christian life result in acts of jus- tice and mercy? "It should be written upon the con- "Thoughtless Christians manifest by science as with a pen of iron upon a their neglect of others that they are not rock, that he who disregards mercy, in union with Christ. It is impossible to compassion, and righteousness, he who be in union with Christ and yet be un- neglects the poor, who ignores the kind to others and forgetful of their needs of suffering humanity, who is rights. . . . Our lives should be conse- not kind and courteous, is so conduct- crated to the good and happiness of ing himself that God cannot cooperate others, as was our Saviour's."—"Ibid.," with him in the development of char- Vol. 3, p. 539. acter."—"TeAmonies," Vol. 6, p. 262. THE SECOND MILE: "Prophets and Kings," pages 326, 327. 104 Doing Good to All Men LESSON 13 ❑ Wednesday March 24 Part 4 "Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the AN ACCEPTABLE bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and SERVICE to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?" "And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in ob- Isa. 58:6, 7, 10 scurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday." A religion which is not practical is not genuine. True con- version will be demonstrated in unselfish service. The working of God's Holy Spirit will be revealed in the heart which reaches out-tfible-s-cand help others. "We may claim to be followers of Christ, we may claim to believe every truth in the Word of God; but this will do our neighbor no good unless our belief is carried into our daily life. Our profession may be as high as heaven, but it will save neither ourselves nor our fellowmen unless we are Christians. A right example will do more to benefit the world than all our profession."—Christ's Object Lessons, page 383. How does James describe pure religion? James 1:27. "In placing among them the helpless and the poor, to be dependent upon their care, Christ tests His professed followers. By our love and service for His needy children we prove the genuineness of our love to Him. To neglect them is to declare ourselves false disciples, strangers to Christ and His love."— The Ministry of Healing, page 205. What blessings are promised to those who minister to the needy? Isa. 58:8, 11. THINK IT THROUGH What is my reaction when told of the needy all about us? Would I prefer not to know? "The work of the gospel is to be car- will be working in lines of Christ's min- ried by means of our liberality as well istry. The Master's holy work was a as by our labors. When you meet suf- benevolent work. Let our people every- fering souls who need help, give it to where be encouraged to have a part in them. When you find those who are it."—"Welfare Ministry," page 29. hungry, feed them. In doing this you THE SECOND MILE: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 147-149. 105 Doing Good to All Men LESSON 13 ❑ Thursday March 25 Part 5 "Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto THE ESSENTIAL him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever INGREDIENT thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and Mark 10:21 follow Me." "Christ read the ruler's heart. Only one thing he lacked, but that was a vital principle. He needed the love of God in the soul. This lack, unless supplied, would prove fatal to him; his whole nature would become corrupted. By indulgence, selfish- ness would strengthen. That he might receive the love of God, his supreme love of self must be surrendered."—The Desire of Ages, page 519. How ineffective does Paul say good works are without charity or love? 1 Cor. 13:1-3. In the parable of the Good Samaritan how did Christ illustrate the nature of true religion? Luke 10:30-37. "Never should we pass by one Suffering soul without seek- ing to impart to him of the comfort wherewith we are com- forted of God. All this is but a fulfillment of the principle of the law,—the principle that is illustrated in the story of the Good Samaritan, and made manifest in the life of Jesus. His character reveals that true significance of the law, and shows what is meant by loving our neighbor as ourselves. . . . For the spirit we manifest toward our brethren declares what is our spirit toward God. The love of God in the heart is •the only spring of love toward our neighbor."—The Desire of Ages, page 505. THINK IT THROUGH How can I as a Christian react constructively to the needs of the underprivileged in my community? "Love to man is the earthward mani- another, as I have loved you' (John festation of the love of God. It was to 15:12); when we love the world as He implant this love, to make us children loved it, then for us His mission is ac- of one family, that the King of glory complished. We are fitted for heaven; became one with us. And when His for we have heaven in our hearts." parting words are fulfilled, 'Love one —"The Desire of Ages," page 641. THE SECOND MILE: "The. Desire of Ages,' ' pages 518-523. 106 Doing Good to All Men LESSON 13 ❑ Friday March 26 Part 6 "Then shall the King say unto them on His right hand, THE REWARDS Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom pre- OF SERVICE pared for you from the foundation of the world." Matt. 25:34 "We are not to think of reward, but of service; yet kindness shown in this spirit will not fail of its recompense. 'Thy Father which seeth in secret Himself shall reward thee openly.' While it is true that God Himself is the great Reward, that embraces every other, the soul receives and enjoys Him only as it be- comes assimilated to Him in character. Only like can appre- ciate like. It is as we give ourselves to God for the service of humanity that He gives Himself to us."—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, page 81. What is the assurance of the psalmist on the results of duty faithfully performed? Ps. 126:5, 6. "The effort to bless others will react in blessings upon our- selves. This was the purpose of God in giving us a part to act in the plan of redemption. He has granted men the privilege of becoming partakers of the divine nature and, in their turn, of diffusing blessings to their fellowmen. This is the highest honor, the greatest joy, that it is possible for God to bestow upon men. Those who thus become participants in labors of love are brought nearest to their Creator."—Steps to Christ, page 79. Who is actually benefited by every act of kindness done to one in need? Matt. 25:40. "Every merciful act done to the needy, the suffering, is counted as though it were done to Jesus Himself. When you succor the poor, sympathize with the afflicted and oppressed, and befriend the orphan, you bring yourselves into a closer relationship to Jesus."—That I May Know Him, page 335. THINK IT THROUGH What forms of selfishness prevent me from receiving the rewards promised to those who serve their fellow- men? "It is the faithfulness, the loyalty to "What we shall be in heaven is the God, the loving service, that wins the reflection of what we are now in char- divine approval. Every impulse of the acter and holy service.... Our reward Holy Spirit leading men to goodness for working with Christ in this world is and to God, is noted in the books of the greater power and wider privilege heaven, and in the day of God the of working with Him in the world to workers through whom He has wrought come."—"Christ's Object Lessons," page will be commended. . . . 361. THE SECOND MILE: "Steps to Christ," pages 124-126 (last three pages). 107 Doing Good to All Men LESSON 13 March 27 Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS G A TEST OF YOUR STUDY POWER 1. From whence did James say every good and perfect gift comes) 2. Complete: "A good man out of the treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is 3. In judging a Christian, God considers most important: (a) The donations he makes to the church; (b) The talents he has; (c) The love he has for God and man 4. Which Old Testament prophet defines the fast the Lord desired as giving bread to the hungry) 5. True or False: The "one thing" which the rich young ruler lacked was secure investments in financial securities 6. Is it wrong for a Christian to keep in mind the rewards offered for faithful service) 'ON (9) DS11! (5) :111.113SI (t) J (1;) p002 4 1/002 (Z,- )• JA0(11: MOJA : SJDAASIJV 108 DISCOVER THE WORLD DAYBREAK IN KOREA By Robert L Sheldon Korea today is a land of sharp contrasts. No longer is it the "Land of the Morning Calm," although the attributes sug- gested in that title ore still ex- pressed in the lives of a noble and determined people. This book reveals Christian concern, Christian action, and a Chris- tian message in word and picture. UNDER THE SOUTHERN CROSS By Arthur S. Maxwell A picture-text treatment of the Seventh-day Adventist story in the South Pacific. This book traces with historical accuracy the era of adventure and dar- ing that brought the Advent Message to this part of the world. And it pictures the thriving, dedicated program of UNDER T the Australasian church today. , HER SOUT ARTILI 5:44 RELIGION IN RUSSIA TODAY By Alonzo Baker The Soviet government would like to get rid of religion in that country by 1984. In spite of re- strictions, however, the num- ber of believers in some faith has been estimated at more than 47,000,000-20 percent of the total population. Read the word-and-picture story of current religious conditions be- hind the Iron Curtain. THESE BOOKS WERE ORIGINALLY $5.95 EACH-NOW $3.50 EACH, OR GET ALL THREE FOR JUST $9.95. FOR LESS THAN $10.00 48 Three-Color Picture 30 Stillhouette New ) \ j1 ACTIVITY PICTURES are printed in three colors, showing boys and girls performing acts of kindness and de- veloping helpful traits of character. Now available in two sets of twenty- four pictures each and printed on sheets 11 x 14 inches. When ordering, please specify set desired, No. 1 or ONLY $2.25 per set, plus tax. No. 2. Miscellaneous SILHOUETTE PIC- Suggestion for Vacation Bible School: TURES are printed on sheets 171/2 x Order a three-month subscription to 23 inches. There are thirty silhou- OUR LITTLE FRIEND or PRIMARY ettes in the set and an instruction TREASURE for each non-Adventist sheet is included. who attends. The special rate of $1.00 ONLY $2.50 per set, plus tax. is available. Order from your church missionary secretary or your Book and Bible House. Pacific Press Publishing Association, Mountain View, California. Thirteenth Sabbath Offering MARCH 27, 1971 • AUSTRALASIAN DIVISION Much has been said about the world population explosion in recent times. The mission fields of the South Pacific are under- going a different kind of explosion. Our baptisms are growing in frequency and numbers. For every soul won in Australia and New Zealand during the past ten years, two have been won in the nearby islands designated as Australasia's mission territory. In the great island of New Guinea alone more than 2,000 were baptized last year. Our educational work is spiraling in the islands. Thousands of young people, sensing as never before their need of education, are pleading with our educators to admit them to our classrooms. Our space is too small, and facilities too limited, to care for all who clamor for a Christian education. In an endeavor to increase the effective- ness of the mission program, the educational work must be given greater emphasis, since it has been found that this program has been responsible for the greater percentage of the baptisms over the years. The first quarter's Thirteenth Sabbath Offering overflow for 1971 is allocated to the Coral Sea Union for two special projects: (1) rebuilding and relocating the Central School of the Central Papuan Mission at Mount Diamond, a few miles from its present location, and upgrading it to a high school, and (2) adding needed facilities in the way of buildings and equipment at the Omaura Bible Workers' School in the eastern highlands of New Guinea. Lessons for the Second Quarter of 1971 Sabbath School members who have not received a senior "Lesson Quarterly" for the second quarter of 1971 will be helped by the following outline in studying for the first lesson. The title of the series is "Studies in the Epistle to the Ephesians." The title of the first lesson is "Challenging Truths for All Times." The memory verse is Ephesians 1:7. The outline is as follows: 1. Salutation of the Apostle Paul. Eph. 1:1-3. 2. Chosen for Salvation by God. Eph. 1:4-6. 3. Redemption Through Christ's Blood. Eph. 1:7, 8. 4. Amaz- ing Plan Made Known. Eph. 1:9, 10. 5. Believer's Inheritance Secure. Eph. 1:11, 12. 6. Sealed With the Spirit of Promise. Eph. 1:13, 14. Litho in U.S.A. Sabbath GILBERT AND ELLICE ISLANDS Church School NEW GUINEA Unions Population Churches Members Members \ \ BISMARCK-SOLOMONS , Bismarck-Solomons U. M. 416,626 163 14,289 21,828 UNION MISSION \ Central Pacific U. M. 1,094,565 124 12,860 14,933 Coral Sea U. M. 2,013,398 186 23,874 40,601 RABAUL Trans-Commonwealth U. C. 6,739,834 168 15,452 16,533 \ Trans-Tasman U. C. 8,928,080 216 24,245 24,852 SOLOMON ISLANDS Division Totals 19,192,503 857 90,720 118,747 - -r CORAL SEA NEW HEBRIDES VMOA CENTRAL PACIFIC SOCIETY ISLANDS UNION MISSION F,IJI ISLANDS UNION MISSION o VA OPEETE TOWNSVILLE NEW CALEDONIA TONGA 4 COOK ISLANDS -11 AUSTRALIA PITCAIRN EIRMBANE uN TIR OANNC SO-T NAFS ER MEAN NCE PERTH NEWCASTLE r- SYDNEY AUCKLAND ADDITIONS TO OMAURA BIBLE WORKERS' TRAINING SCHOOL ADELAIDE CANBERRA I vfLONOTON MELBOURNE CHRISTCHURCH TRANS-COMMONWEALTH HOBART NEW ZEALAND UNION CONFERENCE -U PORT MORESBY AUSTRALASIAN DIVISION .43U1L'D A CENTRAL SCHOOL '-CENTRAL PAPUA' MISSION::