Bible Study Guides

Babel and Babel Builders

by

April 19 – 25, 2026

Key Text

“And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting.” Romans 1:28

Study Help: The Story of Redemption, 72–74; Patriarchs and Prophets, 117–124

Introduction

“As men turned away from God, the divine attributes—justice, purity, and love—were supplanted by oppression, violence, and brutality.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 123

Sunday

1 APOSTASY AFTER THE FLOOD

1.a. How was history repeated in the attitude taken by the descendants of Noah toward God and the truth? Romans 1:28

 

Note: “Noah, the faithful preacher of righteousness, lived for three hundred and fifty years after the Flood, Shem for five hundred years, and thus their descendants had an opportunity to become acquainted with the requirements of God and the history of His dealings with their fathers. But they were unwilling to listen to these unpalatable truths; they had no desire to retain God in their knowledge.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 120

“No sooner was the earth repeopled than men resumed their hostility to God and heaven. They transmitted their enmity to their posterity, as though the art and device of misleading men, and causing them to continue the unnatural warfare, was a sacred legacy.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1091

1.b.      What occurred among the descendants of Noah and why? Genesis 11:1–4

 

Note: “For a time the descendants of Noah continued to dwell among the mountains where the ark had rested. As their numbers increased, apostasy soon led to division. Those who desired to forget their Creator and to cast off the restraint of His law felt a constant annoyance from the teaching and example of their God-fearing associates, and after a time they decided to separate from the worshipers of God. Accordingly, they journeyed to the plain of Shinar, on the banks of the river Euphrates.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 118

Monday

2 A CONFEDERACY OF REBELLION

2 a Instead of being thankful to God, what attitudes did the apostatized majority take? Romans 1:21, 22

 

Note: “The Babel builders had indulged the spirit of murmuring against God. Instead of gratefully remembering His mercy to Adam and His gracious covenant with Noah, they had complained of His severity in expelling the first pair from Eden and destroying the world by a flood. But while they murmured against God as arbitrary and severe, they were accepting the rule of the cruelest of tyrants. Satan was seeking to bring contempt upon the sacrificial offerings that prefigured the death of Christ; and as the minds of the people were darkened by idolatry, he led them to counterfeit these offerings and sacrifice their own children upon the altars of their gods. As men turned away from God, the divine attributes—justice, purity, and love—were supplanted by oppression, violence, and brutality.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 120–123

2.b.      How and why did God intervene to stop the confederacy? Genesis 11:6, 7

 

Note: “This confederacy was born of rebellion against God. The dwellers on the plain of Shinar established their kingdom for self-exaltation, not for the glory of God. Had they succeeded, a mighty power would have borne sway, banishing righteousness, and inaugurating a new religion. The world would have been demoralized. The mixture of religious ideas with erroneous theories would have resulted in closing the door to peace, happiness, and security. These suppositions, erroneous theories, carried out and perfected, would have directed minds from allegiance to the divine statutes, and the law of Jehovah would have been ignored and forgotten. Determined men, inspired and urged on by the first great rebel, would have resisted any interference with their plans or their evil course. In the place of the divine precepts they would have substituted laws framed in accordance with the desires of their selfish hearts, in order that they might carry out their purposes.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1092

Tuesday

3 ANCIENT AND MODERN BABEL

3.a. What name was given to the place of the tower, and why? Genesis 11:8, 9

 

Note: “The schemes of the Babel builders ended in shame and defeat. The monument to their pride became the memorial of their folly. Yet men are continually pursuing the same course—depending upon self, and rejecting God’s law. It is the principle that Satan tried to carry out in heaven; the same that governed Cain in presenting his offering.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 123

“The term ‘Babylon’ is derived from ‘Babel,’ and signifies confusion.” The Great Controversy, 381

3.b.      Name some of the various ways in which people today are following the example of the Babel builders? Titus 1:16

 

Note: “There are tower builders in our time. Infidels construct their theories from the supposed deductions of science, and reject the revealed word of God. They presume to pass sentence upon God’s moral government; they despise His law and boast of the sufficiency of human reason. …

“In the professedly Christian world many turn away from the plain teachings of the Bible and build up a creed from human speculations and pleasing fables, and they point to their tower as a way to climb up to heaven. Men hang with admiration upon the lips of eloquence while it teaches that the transgressor shall not die, that salvation may be secured without obedience to the law of God. If the professed followers of Christ would accept God’s standard, it would bring them into unity; but so long as human wisdom is exalted above His holy word, there will be divisions and dissension.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 123, 124

Wednesday

4 APOSTASY TODAY

4.a. How does Satan use doctrinal confusion to bring confederacies among professed believers today? Acts 20:29, 30; 2 Timothy 3:13

 

Note: “Through apostasy, fallen men and fallen angels are in the same confederacy, leagued to work against good. They are united in a desperate companionship. Through his evil angels, Satan contrives to form an alliance with professedly pious men, and thus he leavens the church of God. He knows that if he can induce men, as he induced the angels, to join in rebellion, under the guise of servants of God, he will have in them his most successful allies in his enterprise against heaven.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, 1142

4.b.      What similar danger can exist even where doctrines are pure? 1 Corinthians 10:10–12

 

Note: “I beseech all who engage in the work of murmuring and complaining because something has been said or done that does not suit them, and that does not, as they think, give them due consideration, to remember that they are carrying on the very work begun in heaven by Satan. They are following in his track, sowing unbelief, discord, and disloyalty; for no one can entertain feelings of disaffection, and keep them to himself. He must tell others that he is not treated as he should be. Thus they are led to murmur and complain. This is the root of bitterness springing up, whereby many are defiled.

“Thus Satan works today through his evil angels. He confederates with men who claim to be in the faith; and those who are trying to carry forward the work of God with fidelity, having no man’s person in admiration, working without hypocrisy and partiality, will have just as severe trials brought against them as Satan can bring through those who claim to love God. Proportionate to the light and knowledge these opposers have is Satan’s success.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, 1142

Thursday

5 THE COUNTERFEIT AND THE GENUINE

5.a. What facts are modern Babel builders apparently overlooking? Psalm 33:13, 14. How does the Spirit of Prophecy define confederacies in our day?

 

Note: “The time of God’s investigation is at hand. The Most High will come down to see that which the children of men have builded. His sovereign power will be revealed; the works of human pride will be laid low.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 124

“The question has been asked, What do you mean by a confederacy? Who have formed confederacies? You know what a confederacy is—a union of men in a work that does not bear the stamp of pure, straightforward, unswerving integrity.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, 1142

5.b.      In contrast to Satan’s confederacy, what is God’s prescription for unity among the faithful believers? John 17:17–21; 1 John 1:7

 

Note: “We are to unify, but not on a platform of error.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 15, 259

“Our only hope of reaching heaven is to be one with Christ, and then, in and through Christ, we shall be one with one another.” The Upward Look, 141

“We are now in a time when we are to stand steadfast for the truth. We are to cherish love for souls, but never, never are we to surrender the least vital point of truth, for it is by maintaining truth, pure, unadulterated truth, that we can at this time bring honor and glory to Jesus Christ our Prince.” Sons and Daughters of God, 196

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. How is the Babel builders’ initial separation a warning to us?
  2. What motivated the building of the tower, and why did God stop it?
  3. Name some ways in which Babel tower-building is repeated today.
  4. How can this syndrome creep even into faithful churches?
  5. What distinguishes a false confederacy from true unity?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Apostasy Reaches a Climax

by

April 12 – 18, 2026

Key Text

“Then the Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” Genesis 6:5

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 90–104; Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 361–368

Introduction

“Fifteen centuries after the sentence pronounced upon Cain, the Universe witnessed the fruition of his influence and example, in the crime and pollution that flooded the earth.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 78

Sunday

1 WICKEDNESS AMONG THE ANTEDILUVIANS

1.a. How did God and the inhabitants of other worlds view the situation existing on earth shortly before the flood? Genesis 6:5

 

Note: “The holy inhabitants of other worlds were watching with the deepest interest the events taking place on the earth. In the condition of the world that existed before the Flood they saw illustrated the results of the administration which Lucifer had endeavored to establish in heaven, in rejecting the authority of Christ and casting aside the law of God. In those highhanded sinners of the antediluvian world they saw the subjects over whom Satan held sway. The thoughts of men’s hearts were only evil continually. Genesis 6:5. Every emotion, every impulse and imagination, was at war with the divine principles of purity and peace and love. It was an example of the awful depravity resulting from Satan’s policy to remove from God’s creatures the restraint of His holy law.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 78, 79

1.b. How long did God mercifully strive with the antediluvians before sending the threatened destruction? Genesis 6:3. What should we learn from the way the majority responded to Noah’s appeals?

 

Note: “Noah preached to the people of his time that God would give them one hundred and twenty years in which to repent of their sins and find refuge in the ark, but they refused the gracious invitation. Abundant time was given them to turn from their sins, overcome their bad habits, and develop righteous characters. But inclination to sin, though weak at first with many, strengthened through repeated indulgence and hurried them on to irretrievable ruin. The merciful warning of God was rejected with sneers, with mockery and derision; and they were left in darkness to follow the course that their sinful hearts had chosen. But their unbelief did not hinder the predicted event. It came, and great was the wrath of God which was seen in the general ruin.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 308

“ ‘As it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man’ (Luke 17:26). Men will reject the solemn message of warning in our day, as they did in Noah’s time. They will refer to those false teachers who have predicted the event and set the definite time, and will say that they have no more faith in our warning than in theirs. This is the attitude of the world today. Unbelief is widespread, and the preaching of Christ’s coming is mocked at and derided. This makes it all the more essential that those who believe present truth should show their faith by their works.” Ibid.

Monday

2 “MARRYING AND GIVING IN MARRIAGE”

2.a. What restriction regarding the marriage institution did the sons of God disobey? Genesis 6:1, 2; 2 Corinthians 6:14–17

 

Note: “The race of Cain, spreading from the place of their first settlement, dispersed over the plains and valleys where the children of Seth had dwelt; and the latter, in order to escape from their contaminating influence, withdrew to the mountains, and there made their home. So long as this separation continued, they maintained the worship of God in its purity. But in the lapse of time they ventured, little by little, to mingle with the inhabitants of the valleys. This association was productive of the worst results. ‘The sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair.’ The children of Seth, attracted by the beauty of the daughters of Cain’s descendants, displeased the Lord by intermarrying with them. Many of the worshipers of God were beguiled into sin by the allurements that were now constantly before them, and they lost their peculiar, holy character. Mingling with the depraved, they became like them in spirit and in deeds; the restrictions of the seventh commandment were disregarded, ‘and they took them wives of all which they chose’ (Genesis 6:2). The children of Seth went ‘in the way of Cain’ (Jude 11); they fixed their minds upon worldly prosperity and enjoyment and neglected the commandments of the Lord.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 81, 82

2.b. What perverted practice was introduced before the Flood? Give an example. Genesis 4:19

 

Note: “Polygamy was practiced at an early date. It was one of the sins that brought the wrath of God upon the antediluvian world.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 338

Tuesday

3 EVIL UPON EVIL

3.a. As a result of rejecting God’s law, what additional abominations filled the earth? Genesis 6:11, 12

 

Note: “Polygamy had been early introduced, contrary to the divine arrangement at the beginning. The Lord gave to Adam one wife, showing His order in that respect. But after the Fall, men chose to follow their own sinful desires; and as the result, crime and wretchedness rapidly increased. Neither the marriage relation nor the rights of property were respected. Whoever coveted the wives or the possessions of his neighbor, took them by force, and men exulted in their deeds of violence. They delighted in destroying the life of animals; and the use of flesh for food rendered them still more cruel and bloodthirsty, until they came to regard human life with astonishing indifference.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 91, 92

3.b. Give an example of how men boasted of their spirit of violence. Genesis 4:23, 24. What will be the result of the defiant depravity present in our day? Isaiah 28:21

 

Note: “At this time, when great light is shining forth from the word of God, making dark mysteries plain as day, is the day of mercy, of hope, of joy and assurance to all who will be benefited thereby, to all who will open their minds and hearts to the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. But there is an opposite class to this—those who will not come to the light, who despise the truth because it exposes error, and transgression, and sin; and as a result, depravity and boldness in transgression are becoming all-pervading.” The Review and Herald, June 15, 1897

“The forbearance that God has exercised toward the wicked has emboldened men in transgression; but their punishment will be none the less certain and terrible for being long delayed. ‘The Lord shall rise up as in Mount Perazim, He shall be wroth as in the valley of Gibeon, that He may do His work, His strange work; and bring to pass His act, His strange act. To our merciful God the act of punishment is a strange act. Yet He will ‘by no means clear the guilty.’ By terrible things in righteousness He will vindicate the authority of His downtrodden law. The very fact of His reluctance to execute justice, testifies to the enormity of the sins that call forth His judgments, and to the severity of the retribution awaiting the transgressor.” The Signs of the Times, January 25, 1910

Wednesday

4 IDOLATRY AND ANARCHY

4.a. What kinds of worship did man introduce, and what are the results, even now? Psalm 115:4–8; Romans 1:22–25

Note: “They [the antediluvians] put God out of their knowledge and worshiped the creatures of their own imagination; and as the result, they became more and more debased. The psalmist describes the effect produced upon the worshiper by the adoration of idols. He says, ‘They that make them are like unto them; so is every one that trusteth in them’ (Psalm 115:8). It is a law of the human mind that by beholding we become changed. Man will rise no higher than his conceptions of truth, purity, and holiness. If the mind is never exalted above the level of humanity, if it is not uplifted by faith to contemplate infinite wisdom and love, the man will be constantly sinking lower and lower.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 91

4.b. What similarities can be observed between our day and Noah’s? Matthew 24:37; 2 Peter 3:3, 4

Note: “The picture which Inspiration has given of the antediluvian world represents too truly the condition to which modern society is fast hastening. Even now, in the present century, and in professedly Christian lands, there are crimes daily perpetrated as black and terrible as those for which the old-world sinners were destroyed.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 102

Thursday

5 AS IN THE DAYS OF NOAH

5.a. What should we learn from the defiant attitude of the antediluvians? 2 Peter 3:6, 7, 11, 12; Malachi 4:1

 

Note: “Water will never destroy the earth again, but the weapons of God are concealed in the bowels of the earth which He will draw forth to unite with the fire from heaven to accomplish His purpose in the destruction of all those who would not receive the message of warning and purify their souls in obeying the truth and being obedient to the laws of God.” The Signs of the Times, January 3, 1878

5.b. As the rainbow was a token of God’s covenant with Noah, what covenant does the Lord make with His faithful few in the last days? Genesis 9:12–15; Psalm 27:5

 

Note: “We may rejoice in hope, for the bow of God’s covenant is over us. He never will forget the children of His care. How difficult for the mind of finite man to take in the peculiar love and tenderness of God, and His matchless condescension when He said, ‘I will look upon the bow in the cloud, and remember thee.’ ” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1091

“There will be mighty earthquakes and great destruction of human life. But as in the days of the great Deluge Noah was preserved in the ark that God had prepared for him, so in these days of destruction and calamity, God will be the refuge of His believing ones.” Ibid., Vol. 7, 946

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. Describe life before the Flood, and the steps God took in mercy.
  2. How is the apostasy of the children of Seth a warning to us?
  3. Why is depravity increasing today, and what will be the result?
  4. What are the causes and results of idolatry?
  5. How does God offer hope even when apostasy reaches a climax?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Error Rapidly Gains Ground

by

April 5 – 11, 2026

Key Text

“Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.” Ephesians 5:6

Study Help: Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 11–18; Christ’s Object Lessons, 152–163

Introduction

“Those who are swept off their feet by the waves of temptation, imagine, as did Eve, that they are becoming wonderfully wise, outgrowing their ignorance and narrow conscientiousness; but, like her, they will find themselves sadly deceived.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 584

Sunday

1 “LET NO MAN DECEIVE YOU”

1.a. How may we be in danger of repeating the mistake of Eve? 1 Timothy 2:14; 2 Corinthians 11:3

 

Note: “He [Satan] is constantly seeking to excite a spirit of irreverent curiosity, a restless, inquisitive desire to penetrate the secrets of divine wisdom and power. In their efforts to search out what God has been pleased to withhold, multitudes overlook the truths which He has revealed, and which are essential to salvation. Satan tempts men to disobedience by leading them to believe they are entering a wonderful field of knowledge. But this is all a deception. Elated with their ideas of progression, they are, by trampling on God’s requirements, setting their feet in the path that leads to degradation and death.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 54, 55

1.b.      Name some ways in which we may be tempted to eat of the forbidden fruit. Colossians 2:4. What warnings should be taken to heart by every God-fearing family? Ephesians 5:6

 

Note: “Human ambition seeks for knowledge that will bring to them glory, and self-exaltation, and supremacy. Thus, Adam and Eve were influenced by Satan until God’s restraint was snapped asunder, and their education under the teacher of lies began. They gained the knowledge which God had refused them—to know the consequences of transgression.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 12

“If you see that students are in danger of becoming engrossed in their studies to such an extent as to neglect the study of that Book which gives them information as to how to secure the future welfare of their souls, then do not present the temptation of going deeper, of protracting the time for educational discipline. In this way all that will make the student’s education of value to the world will be sunk out of sight.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 357

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. This is heart education, and is of more importance than the education gained merely from books. It is well and essential to obtain a knowledge of the world in which we live, but if we leave eternity out of our reckoning, we shall make a failure from which we can never recover. It will be as the knowledge gained by eating of the fruit of the forbidden tree.” In Heavenly Places, 137

Monday

2 SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS

2.a. How may we be trying to cover our “nakedness” with “fig leaves” or “filthy rags”? Isaiah 64:6; Revelation 3:17

 

Note: “Naked and ashamed, they [our first parents] tried to supply the place of the heavenly garments by sewing together fig leaves for a covering.

“This is what the transgressors of God’s law have done ever since the day of Adam and Eve’s disobedience. They have sewed together fig leaves to cover the nakedness caused by transgression. They have worn the garments of their own devising, by works of their own they have tried to cover their sins, and make themselves acceptable with God.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 311

2.b.      Even after we have accepted Christ, how does He warn us against the peril of self-righteousness? Matthew 12:43–45

 

Note: “The garnished house represents the self-righteous soul. Satan is driven out by Christ. But he returned, in the hope of finding entrance. He finds the house empty, swept, and garnished. Only self-righteousness is abiding there. ‘Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.’

“Self-righteousness is a curse, a human embellishment, which Satan uses for his glory. Those who garnish the soul with self-praise and flattery prepare the way for the seven other spirits more wicked than the first. In their very reception of the truth these souls deceive themselves. They are building upon a foundation of self-righteousness.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, 1093

Tuesday

3 SELF-JUSTIFICATION

3.a. After their disobedience, how did Adam and Eve try to justify themselves? Genesis 3:12, 13

 

Note: “Adam could neither deny nor excuse his sin; but instead of manifesting penitence, he endeavored to cast the blame upon his wife, and thus upon God Himself: ‘The woman whom Thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.’ He who, from love to Eve, had deliberately chosen to forfeit the approval of God, his home in Paradise, and an eternal life of joy, could now, after his fall, endeavor to make his companion, and even the Creator Himself, responsible for the transgression. So terrible is the power of sin.

“When the woman was asked, ‘What is this that thou hast done?’ she answered, ‘The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.’ ‘Why didst Thou create the serpent? Why didst Thou suffer him to enter Eden?’—these were the questions implied in her excuse for her sin. Thus, like Adam, she charged God with the responsibility of their fall.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 57, 58 [Author’s italics.]

3.b.      How are we in danger of following the example of Adam and Eve in self-justification? Proverbs 12:15; Luke 16:15

 

Note: “The spirit of self-justification originated in the father of lies; it was indulged by our first parents as soon as they yielded to the influence of Satan, and has been exhibited by all the sons and daughters of Adam. Instead of humbly confessing their sins, they try to shield themselves by casting the blame upon others, upon circumstances, or upon God—making even His blessings an occasion of murmuring against Him.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 58

Wednesday

4 SELF-SUFFICIENCY

4.a. How did Cain choose a course of self-sufficiency in his worship? Genesis 4:3

 

Note: “Cain came before God with murmuring and infidelity in his heart in regard to the promised sacrifice and the necessity of the sacrificial offerings. His gift expressed no penitence for sin. He felt, as many now feel, that it would be an acknowledgment of weakness to follow the exact plan marked out by God, of trusting his salvation wholly to the atonement of the promised Saviour. He chose the course of self-dependence. He would come in his own merits. He would not bring the lamb, and mingle its blood with his offering, but would present his fruits, the products of his labor. He presented his offering as a favor done to God, through which he expected to secure the divine approval. Cain obeyed in building an altar, obeyed in bringing a sacrifice; but he rendered only a partial obedience. The essential part, the recognition of the need of a Redeemer, was left out.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 72 [Author’s italics.]

4.b.      Discuss ways in which we may be in danger of following the example of Cain. Matthew 15:9; Jude 10, 11

 

Note: “The class of worshipers who follow the example of Cain includes by far the greater portion of the world; for nearly every false religion has been based on the same principle—that man can depend upon his own efforts for salvation. It is claimed by some that the human race is in need, not of redemption, but of development—that it can refine, elevate, and regenerate itself. As Cain thought to secure the divine favor by an offering that lacked the blood of a sacrifice, so do these expect to exalt humanity to the divine standard, independent of the atonement. The history of Cain shows what must be the result. It shows what man will become apart from Christ. Humanity has no power to regenerate itself. It does not tend upward, toward the divine, but downward, toward the satanic.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 73

Thursday

5 PERSECUTION

5.a. How did Cain develop a spirit of domination, intolerance, and hatred toward his brother? Genesis 4:4–8; 1 John 3:12

 

Note: “Reason and conscience told him [Cain] that Abel was in the right; but he was enraged that one who had been wont to heed his counsel should now presume to disagree with him, and that he could gain no sympathy in his rebellion.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 74

“When Cain, moved by the spirit of the wicked one, saw that he could not control Abel, he was so enraged that he destroyed his life.” Ibid., 77

5.b.  In what manner has the spirit of Cain been rekindled against God’s faithful throughout the ages? 2 Timothy 3:12; 1 John 3:13. Why should this sad fact still bring us hope today? Matthew 5:10–12

 

Note: “Any man, be he minister or layman, who seeks to compel or control the reason of any other man, becomes an agent of Satan, to do his work, and in the sight of the heavenly universe he bears the mark of Cain.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1087

“Wherever there are any who will stand in vindication of the righteousness of the law of God, the same spirit will be manifested against them. It is the spirit that through all the ages has set up the stake and kindled the burning pile for the disciples of Christ. But the cruelties heaped upon the follower of Jesus are instigated by Satan and his hosts because they cannot force him to submit to their control. It is the rage of a vanquished foe.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 77

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. What are some common deceptions to which we could fall prey?
  2. How is Matthew 12:43–45 a serious warning to each of us?
  3. Into what specific evil did Adam and Eve plunge after their fall?
  4. How may we be in danger of cultivating the spirit of Cain?
  5. What is the most common cause of persecution against true Christians?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

In the Garden of Eden

by

The Second Angel’s Message

March 29 – April 4, 2026

Key Text

“Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned.” Romans 5:12

Study Help: Education, 20–27; The Great Controversy, 531–550

Introduction

“In consequence of Adam’s sin, death passed upon the whole human race. All alike go down into the grave.” The Great Controversy, 544

Sunday

1 THE CREATION OF MAN

1.a. Why was man created? Isaiah 43:7. What place of honor was assigned to man when he came forth from the hands of his Creator? Psalms 100:3; 8:4–6

 

Note: “God created man for His own glory, that after test and trial the human family might become one with the heavenly family.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1082

“Adam was crowned king in Eden. To him was given dominion over every living thing that God had created. The Lord blessed Adam and Eve with intelligence such as He had not given to any other creature. He made Adam the rightful sovereign over all the works of His hands.” Ibid.

1.b.      What reveals that man is mortal, having no innate immortality? Genesis 2:17, last part; Job 4:17

 

Note: “The warning given to our first parents—‘In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die’ (Genesis 2:17)—did not imply that they were to die on the very day when they partook of the forbidden fruit. But on that day the irrevocable sentence would be pronounced. Immortality was promised them on condition of obedience; by transgression they would forfeit eternal life. That very day they would be doomed to death.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 60

Monday

2 “IN HIS OWN IMAGE”

2.a. What do we understand by the declaration that “God created man in His own image” (Genesis 1:27)? Ecclesiastes 7:29

 

Note: “Man was to bear God’s image, both in outward resemblance and in character. Christ alone is ‘the express image’ (Hebrews 1:3) of the Father; but man was formed in the likeness of God. His nature was in harmony with the will of God. His mind was capable of comprehending divine things. His affections were pure; his appetites and passions were under the control of reason. He was holy and happy in bearing the image of God and in perfect obedience to His will.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 45

2.b. On what condition only could our first parents have remained in Paradise forever? 1 John 2:17, last part

 

Note: “God placed man under law, as an indispensable condition of his very existence. He was a subject of the divine government, and there can be no government without law. God might have created man without the power to transgress His law; He might have withheld the hand of Adam from touching the forbidden fruit; but in that case man would have been, not a free moral agent, but a mere automaton. Without freedom of choice, his obedience would not have been voluntary, but forced. There could have been no development of character. Such a course would have been contrary to God’s plan in dealing with the inhabitants of other worlds. It would have been unworthy of man as an intelligent being, and would have sustained Satan’s charge of God’s arbitrary rule.

“God made man upright; He gave him noble traits of character, with no bias toward evil. He endowed him with high intellectual powers, and presented before him the strongest possible inducements to be true to his allegiance. Obedience, perfect and perpetual, was the condition of eternal happiness. On this condition he was to have access to the tree of life.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 49

Tuesday

3 TEMPTATION AND FALL

3.a. After having revealed His will to Adam and Eve, what simple means did God choose to test their obedience? Genesis 2:16, 17

 

Note: “The tree of knowledge had been made a test of their obedience and their love to God. The Lord had seen fit to lay upon them but one prohibition as to the use of all that was in the garden; but if they should disregard His will in this particular, they would incur the guilt of transgression. Satan was not to follow them with continual temptations; he could have access to them only at the forbidden tree. Should they attempt to investigate its nature, they would be exposed to his wiles. They were admonished to give careful heed to the warning which God had sent them and to be content with the instruction which He had seen fit to impart.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 53

3.b.      What warnings should we heed from the way Satan was able to entice our first parents into sin? Genesis 3:1–6

 

Note: “Eve really believed the words of Satan, but her belief did not save her from the penalty of sin. She disbelieved the words of God, and this was what led to her fall. In the judgment men will not be condemned because they conscientiously believed a lie, but because they did not believe the truth, because they neglected the opportunity of learning what is truth. Notwithstanding the sophistry of Satan to the contrary, it is always disastrous to disobey God. We must set our hearts to know what is truth. All the lessons which God has caused to be placed on record in His word are for our warning and instruction. They are given to save us from deception. Their neglect will result in ruin to ourselves. Whatever contradicts God’s word, we may be sure proceeds from Satan.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 55

Wednesday

4 BARRED FROM THE TREE OF LIFE

4.a. What was special about the tree of life, and why was it made inaccessible to man after the Fall? Genesis 2:9; 3:22–24

 

Note: “In order to possess an endless existence, man must continue to partake of the tree of life. Deprived of this, his vitality would gradually diminish until life should become extinct. It was Satan’s plan that Adam and Eve should by disobedience incur God’s displeasure; and then, if they failed to obtain forgiveness, he hoped that they would eat of the tree of life, and thus perpetuate an existence of sin and misery.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 60

“Had man after his fall been allowed free access to the tree of life, he would have lived forever, and thus sin would have been immortalized. But cherubim and a flaming sword kept ‘the way of the tree of life’ (Genesis 3:24), and not one of the family of Adam has been permitted to pass that barrier and partake of the life-giving fruit. Therefore, there is not an immortal sinner.” The Great Controversy, 533, 534

4.b.      Who only has immortality, and why is this important for us to always bear in mind? 1 Timothy 6:14–16; Genesis 3:4

 

Note: “Had Adam remained obedient to God, he would have continued to enjoy free access to this tree and would have lived forever. But when he sinned he was cut off from partaking of the tree of life, and he became subject to death. …

“The only one who promised Adam life in disobedience was the great deceiver. And the declaration of the serpent to Eve in Eden—‘Ye shall not surely die’—was the first sermon ever preached upon the immortality of the soul. Yet this declaration, resting solely upon the authority of Satan, is echoed from the pulpits of Christendom and is received by the majority of mankind as readily as it was received by our first parents. The divine sentence, ‘The soul that sinneth, it shall die’ (Ezekiel 18:20), is made to mean: The soul that sinneth, it shall not die, but live eternally. We cannot but wonder at the strange infatuation which renders men so credulous concerning the words of Satan and so unbelieving in regard to the words of God.” The Great Controversy, 532, 533

Thursday

5 SUBJECT TO GOD’S WILL

5.a. What must we do to be recognized as members of the family of heaven? John 15:14

 

Note: “ ‘Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you’ (John 15:14). This is the condition imposed; this is the test that proves men’s characters. Feelings are often deceiving, emotions are no sure safeguard; for they are variable and subject to external circumstances. Many are deluded by relying on sensational impressions. The test is: What are you doing for Christ? What sacrifices are you making? What victories are you gaining? A selfish spirit overcome, a temptation to neglect duty resisted, passion subdued, and willing, cheerful obedience rendered to the will of Christ are far greater evidences that you are a child of God than spasmodic piety and emotional religion.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 188 [Author’s italics.]

 5.b.      How only can peace and harmony exist in our hearts, in society, and in the whole universe? Isaiah 48:18; 32:17

 

Note: “The harmony of creation depends upon the perfect conformity of all beings, of everything, animate and inanimate, to the law of the Creator. God has ordained laws for the government, not only of living beings, but of all the operations of nature. Everything is under fixed laws, which cannot be disregarded. But while everything in nature is governed by natural laws, man alone, of all that inhabits the earth, is amenable to moral law. To man, the crowning work of creation, God has given power to understand His requirements, to comprehend the justice and beneficence of His law, and its sacred claims upon him; and of man unswerving obedience is required.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 52

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. Why has God given us life?
  2. Why are we permitted to be exposed to temptation?
  3. What caused Eve to fall prey to the tempter?
  4. What must we understand about the question of immortality?
  5. What gives evidence that one has become a child of God?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Wedding Garment

by

March 22 – 28, 2026

Key Text

“But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man there who did not have on a wedding garment.” Matthew 22:11

Study Help: Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 217–223; Christ’s Object Lessons, 307–319

Introduction

“In the parable of Matthew 22 … the investigative judgment is clearly represented as taking place before the marriage.” The Great Controversy, 428

Sunday

1 A SYMBOLIC WEDDING

1.a. What does the marriage in the parable represent? Matthew 22:2

 

Note: “By the marriage is represented the union of humanity with divinity; the wedding garment represents the character which all must possess who shall be accounted fit guests for the wedding.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 307

“At an infinite cost to heaven, provision has been made for all, that they may receive grace and sanctification of the Spirit, and be numbered with the blood-washed throng.” The Review and Herald, March 28, 1899

1.b. What other lessons do we need to learn from this symbolic marriage? Daniel 7:13, 14; Revelation 11:15; 21:2

 

Note: “The marriage represents the reception by Christ of His kingdom.” The Great Controversy, 426

“God has made every provision whereby our thoughts may become purified, elevated, refined, and ennobled. He has not only promised to cleanse us from all unrighteousness, but He has made an actual provision for the supply of grace that will lift our thoughts toward Him and enable us to appreciate His holiness. We may realize that we are Christ’s possession and that we are to manifest His character to the world. Prepared by heavenly grace, we become clothed with the righteousness of Christ in the wedding garment and are fitted to sit down at the marriage supper. We become one with Christ, partakers of the divine nature, purified, refined, elevated, and acknowledged to be the children of God—heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ.” Mind, Character, and Personality, Vol. 2, 660

Monday

2 AN EXAMINATION BEFORE THE WEDDING

2.a. What must take place before the wedding, and how does this affect us? Matthew 22:11

 

Note: “Previous to the wedding the king comes in to see the guests, to see if all are attired in the wedding garment, the spotless robe of character washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. Matthew 22:11; Revelation 7:14. He who is found wanting is cast out, but all who upon examination are seen to have the wedding garment on are accepted of God and accounted worthy of a share in His kingdom and a seat upon His throne. This work of examination of character, of determining who are prepared for the kingdom of God, is that of the investigative judgment, the closing work in the sanctuary above.” The Great Controversy, 428

“Read carefully and critically the parable of the wedding garment and make a personal application of the lessons it teaches. There are those who, having heard the truth, assent to it, yet are not transformed by it. The truth has not been received into the soul, and therefore it cannot carry forward its work of purification in the life. Their family, their neighbors, do not see in them the marked change which they have a right to expect. Those who make a profession of faith, and yet remain unchanged in habit and practice, are represented in the parable by the man who came to the feast without a wedding garment.” The Review and Herald, February 26, 1901

2.b. How does the righteousness of Christ become the righteousness of the saints? Revelation 3:18; 19:8

 

Note: “By the wedding garment in the parable is represented the pure, spotless character which Christ’s true followers will possess. … It is the righteousness of Christ, His own unblemished character, that through faith is imparted to all who receive Him as their personal Saviour.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 310

“By His perfect obedience, He [Christ] has made it possible for every human being to obey God’s commandments. When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness.” Ibid., 312

“Are you ready? Have you the wedding garment on? That garment will never cover deceit, impurity, corruption, or hypocrisy. The eye of God is upon you. It is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. We may conceal our sins from the eyes of men, but we can hide nothing from our Maker.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 220, 221

Tuesday

3 WHILE PROBATION LINGERS

3.a. What condition must we be reaching now, while Christ is still mediating in our behalf? John 14:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:23

 

Note: “Jesus did not allow the enemy to pull Him into the mire of unbelief, or crowd Him into the mire of despondency and despair. But many poor souls are feeble in moral power because they do not do the words of Christ.

“Christ in the weakness of humanity was to meet the temptations of one possessing the powers of the higher nature that God had bestowed on the angelic family. But Christ’s humanity was united with divinity, and in this strength,  He would bear all the temptations that Satan could bring against Him, and yet keep His soul untainted by sin. And this power to overcome He would give to every son and daughter of Adam who would accept by faith the righteous attributes of His character.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 927

“Now, while our great High Priest is making the atonement for us, we should seek to become perfect in Christ. Not even by a thought could our Saviour be brought to yield to the power of temptation. Satan finds in human hearts some point where he can gain a foothold; some sinful desire is cherished, by means of which his temptations assert their power. But Christ declared of Himself, ‘The prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in Me.’ John 14:30. Satan could find nothing in the Son of God that would enable him to gain the victory. He had kept His Father’s commandments, and there was no sin in Him that Satan could use to his advantage. This is the condition in which those must be found who shall stand in the time of trouble.

“It is in this life that we are to separate sin from us, through faith in the atoning blood of Christ.” The Great Controversy, 623

3.b. While a work of purification is going on in the heavenly sanctuary (Hebrews 9:23), what is to be taking place among the followers of Christ on earth? Malachi 3:2, 3

 

Note: “Those who are living upon the earth when the intercession of Christ shall cease in the sanctuary above are to stand in the sight of a holy God without a mediator. Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and their own diligent effort they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. While the investigative judgment is going forward in heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the sanctuary, there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God’s people upon earth. This work is more clearly presented in the messages of Revelation 14.” The Great Controversy, 425

Wednesday

4 A BLESSING OR A DISAPPOINTMENT

4.a. What blessing is offered to those whose sins will be blotted out? Zechariah 10:1; Acts 3:19, 20 [compare RSV].

 

Note: “The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Here are ‘the times of refreshing’ to which the apostle Peter looked forward when he said, ‘Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out [in the Investigative Judgment], when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and he shall send Jesus.’ [Acts 3:19, 20.]” The Great Controversy (1888), 611

4.b. On the other hand, what disappointment comes to those who know the present truth, yet neglect the opportunity to obtain the needed preparation? Jeremiah 8:20

 

Note: “All who endeavor to excuse or conceal their sins and permit them to remain upon the books of heaven, unconfessed and unforgiven, will be overcome by Satan. The more exalted their profession and the more honorable the position which they hold, the more grievous is their course in the sight of God and the more sure the triumph of their great adversary. Those who delay a preparation for the day of God cannot obtain it in the time of trouble or at any subsequent time. The case of all such is hopeless.” The Great Controversy, 620

“I saw that many were neglecting the preparation so needful and were looking to the time of ‘refreshing’ and the ‘latter rain’ to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord and to live in His sight. Oh, how many I saw in the time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful preparation; therefore, they could not receive the refreshing… .” Early Writings, 71

Thursday

5 READY TO MEET CHRIST

5.a. When the work of purification is completed, and the investigative judgment is over, for what event will Christ’s followers be prepared? 2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 5:27

 

Note: “When this work shall have been accomplished, the followers of Christ will be ready for His appearing. ‘Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the Lord, as in the days of old, and as in former years.’ Malachi 3:4. Then the church which our Lord at His coming is to receive to Himself will be a ‘glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing.’ Ephesians 5:27.” The Great Controversy, 425

5.b. What contrast will be seen between those who are unready and those who are ready for Christ’s second advent? Revelation 6:14–17; Isaiah 25:9

 

Note: “When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as His own.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 69

“The voice of God is heard from heaven, declaring the day and hour of Jesus’ coming, and delivering the everlasting covenant to His people. Like peals of loudest thunder, His words roll through the earth. The Israel of God stand listening, with their eyes fixed upward. Their countenances are lighted up with His glory, and shine as did the face of Moses when he came down from Sinai. The wicked cannot look upon them. And when the blessing is pronounced on those who have honored God by keeping His Sabbath holy, there is a mighty shout of victory.

“Soon there appears in the east a small black cloud, about half the size of a man’s hand. It is the cloud which surrounds the Saviour and which seems in the distance to be shrouded in darkness. The people of God know this to be the sign of the Son of man. …

“Before His presence ‘all faces are turned into paleness’; upon the rejecters of God’s mercy falls the terror of eternal despair. ‘The heart melteth, and the knees smite together, … and the faces of them all gather blackness.’ Jeremiah 30:6; Nahum 2:10. The righteous cry with trembling: ‘Who shall be able to stand?’ The angels’ song is hushed, and there is a period of awful silence. Then the voice of Jesus is heard, saying: ‘My grace is sufficient for you.’ The faces of the righteous are lighted up, and joy fills every heart.” The Great Controversy, 640, 641

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. How only can we partake of the marriage supper of the Lamb?
  2. What is our responsibility before the supper takes place?
  3. How is the wedding garment obtained?
  4. Why is confession and forsaking of sin vital to our salvation?
  5. When will Christ return?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

“The Hour of His Judgment Is Come”

by

March 15 – 21, 2026

Key Text

“Fear God … for the hour of His judgment has come.” Revelation 14:7

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 486–491; Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 384–387

Introduction

“The announcement, ‘The hour of His judgment is come,’ points to the closing work of Christ’s ministration for the salvation of men.” The Great Controversy, 435

Sunday

1 THE INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT

1.a. What evidence proves that there is an investigative judgment? Revelation 11:18; 22:11, 12

 

Note: “Before the final reward is given, it must be decided who are fitted to share the inheritance of the righteous. This decision must be made prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven; for when He comes, His reward is with Him, ‘to give every man according as his work shall be.’ Revelation 22:12. Before His coming, then, the character of every man’s work will have been determined, and to every one of Christ’s followers the reward will have been apportioned according to his deeds.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 310

1.b. Why is the investigative judgment necessary? Ezekiel 18:24. How only can we be accounted worthy? Matthew 24:13

 

Note: “All who have truly repented of sin and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life.” The Great Controversy, 483

Monday

2 PURITY NEEDED

2.a. What proves that the life and character of all must be judged before the coming of Christ? Matthew 16:27. What should this fact inspire in our hearts? Haggai 1:5

 

Note: “The grand judgment is taking place, and has been going on for some time. Now the Lord says, Measure the temple and the worshipers thereof. Remember when you are walking the streets about your business, God is measuring you; when you are attending your household duties, when you engage in conversation, God is measuring you. Remember that your words and actions are being daguerreotyped [photographed] in the books of heaven, as the face is reproduced by the artist on the polished plate. …

“Here is the work going on, measuring the temple and its worshipers to see who will stand in the last day. Those who stand fast shall have an abundant entrance into the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. When we are doing our work, remember there is One that is watching the spirit in which we are doing it. Shall we not bring the Saviour into our everyday lives, into our secular work and domestic duties? Then in the name of God we want to leave behind everything that is not necessary, all gossiping or unprofitable visiting, and present ourselves as servants of the living God.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 972

2.b. What is our responsibility in preparing to meet our Lord in peace? 1 John 3:2, 3

 

Note: “Many do not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of the Lord without a high priest in the sanctuary through the time of trouble. Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the image of Jesus fully.

“Their robes must be spotless; their characters must be purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and their own diligent effort, they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. While the investigative judgment is going forward in heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the sanctuary, there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God’s people upon earth.” The Faith I Live By, 337

Tuesday

3 THE HOUSEHOLD OF GOD

3.a. With whom does the judgment begin? 1 Peter 4:17. What else should we realize about this fact? Ezekiel 33:12, 13, 18

 

Note: “In the great day of final atonement and investigative judgment, the only cases considered are those of the professed people of God. The judgment of the wicked is a distinct and separate work, and takes place at a later period.” The Great Controversy, 480

“Angels keep a faithful record of every man’s work, and as judgment passes upon the house of God, the sentence of each is recorded by his name, and the angel is commissioned to spare not the unfaithful servants, but to cut them down at the time of slaughter. And that which was committed to their trust is taken from them. Their earthly treasure is then swept away, and they have lost all. And the crowns they might have worn, had they been faithful, are put upon the heads of those saved by the faithful servants whose means was constantly in use for God. And everyone they have been the means of saving adds stars to their crown in glory and increases their eternal reward.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, 198

3.b. As we do not know when the judgment will pass from the cases of the dead to the cases of the living, what warning of Christ should we take to heart, and why? Mark 13:33; Revelation 3:3

 

Note: “Solemn are the scenes connected with the closing work of the atonement. Momentous are the interests involved therein. The judgment is now passing in the sanctuary above. For many years this work has been in progress. Soon—none know how soon—it will pass to the cases of the living. In the awful presence of God our lives are to come up in review. At this time above all others, it behooves every soul to heed the Saviour’s admonition: ‘Watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.’ Mark 13:33. ‘If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.’ Revelation 3:3.” The Great Controversy, 490

“There is no command for anyone to search the Scripture in order to ascertain, if possible, when probation will close. God has no such message for any mortal lips. He would have no mortal tongue declare that which He has hidden in His secret councils.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 192

“You are each living your probationary time day by day, obtaining your experience as the days pass; but you can go over the ground only once. Then let every precious moment be employed as you will wish it had been when the judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened. Our Lord will judge us according to the opportunities and privileges that we have had.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 13, 156

Wednesday

4 WHILE THE DOOR IS OPEN

4.a. By what standard are our characters and lives tested in the judgment? Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14; Romans 2:12; James 2:12

 

Note: “The law of God is the standard by which the characters and the lives of men will be tested in the judgment.” The Great Controversy, 482

“The life of Christ on earth was a perfect expression of God’s law, and when those who claim to be children of God become Christlike in character, they will be obedient to God’s commandments. Then the Lord can trust them to be of the number who shall compose the family of heaven.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 315

“Only that which is in accord with the principles of God’s law will stand in the judgment.” Ibid., 316

4.b. What is Christ doing in our behalf while the door of probation is still open? 1 John 2:1; Hebrews 7:25. How only will we be benefited by our Saviour’s intercession? 2 Corinthians 13:5, 6

 

Note: “The intercession of Christ in man’s behalf in the sanctuary above is as essential to the plan of salvation as was His death upon the cross.” The Great Controversy, 489

“All who would have their names retained in the book of life should now, in the few remaining days of their probation, afflict their souls before God by sorrow for sin and true repentance. There must be deep, faithful searching of heart.” Ibid., 490

Thursday

5 A WARNING AND A PROMISE

5.a. To what warning should we give serious consideration? Proverbs 28:13

 

Note: “Individuals are tested and proved a length of time to see if they will sacrifice their idols and heed the counsel of the True Witness. If any will not be purified through obeying the truth and overcome their selfishness, their pride, and evil passions, the angels of God have the charge: ‘They are joined to their idols, let them alone,’ and they pass on to their work, leaving these with their sinful traits unsubdued, to the control of evil angels.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, 187

5.b. What promises should encourage those who are truly interested in their salvation? 1 John 1:9; 2 Corinthians 12:9, first part; Revelation 3:5

 

Note: “None need abandon themselves to discouragement and despair. Satan may come to you with the cruel suggestion, ‘Yours is a hopeless case. You are irredeemable.’ But there is hope for you in Christ. God does not bid us overcome in our own strength. He asks us to come close to His side. Whatever difficulties we labor under which weigh down soul and body, He waits to make us free.” The Ministry of Healing, 249

“Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith and grace to overcome them.” The Great Controversy, 489

“Those who come up to every point and stand every test and overcome, be the price what it may, have heeded the counsel of the True Witness, and they will receive the latter rain, and thus be fitted for translation.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, 187

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. What is the investigative judgment, and why is it needed?
  2. In what way should a knowledge of the investigative judgment affect our daily lives?
  3. Where does the investigative judgment begin—and why?
  4. What is our duty in seeking the benefits of Christ’s intercession?
  5. How does the judgment message offer hope as well as warning?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Cleansing of the Sanctuary

by

March 8 – 14, 2026

Key Text

“And he said to me, ‘For two thousand three hundred days, then the sanctuary shall be cleansed.’ ” Daniel 8:14

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 409–422; Patriarchs and Prophets, 355–358

Introduction

“The subject of the sanctuary was the key which unlocked the mystery of the disappointment of 1844. It opened to view a complete system of truth.” The Great Controversy, 423

Sunday

1 THE PILLAR OF THE ADVENT FAITH

1.a. What scripture was the central pillar of the early Adventists’ faith, and how did they interpret it at first? Daniel 8:14

 

Note: “The scripture which above all others had been both the foundation and the central pillar of the advent faith was the declaration: ‘Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed.’ Daniel 8:14. These had been familiar words to all believers in the Lord’s soon coming. By the lips of thousands was this prophecy repeated as the watchword of their faith. All felt that upon the events therein foretold depended their brightest expectations and most cherished hopes. These prophetic days had been shown to terminate in the autumn of 1844. In common with the rest of the Christian world, Adventists then held that the earth, or some portion of it, was the sanctuary. They understood that the cleansing of the sanctuary was the purification of the earth by the fires of the last great day, and that this would take place at the second advent. Hence the conclusion that Christ would return to the earth in 1844.” The Great Controversy, 409

1.b.        What did the Advent pioneers realize after the great disappointment of 1844? Hebrews 8:3–5; 9:1–5, 8

 

Note: “With earnest prayer they reviewed their position and studied the Scriptures to discover their mistake. As they could see no error in their reckoning of the prophetic periods, they were led to examine more closely the subject of the sanctuary.

“In their investigation they learned that there is no Scripture evidence sustaining the popular view that the earth is the sanctuary; but they found in the Bible a full explanation of the subject of the sanctuary, its nature, location, and services; the testimony of the sacred writers being so clear and ample as to place the matter beyond all question.” The Great Controversy, 411

“The sanctuary in heaven, in which Jesus ministers in our behalf, is the great original, of which the sanctuary built by Moses was a copy.” Ibid., 414

Monday

2 THE NEW TESTAMENT SANCTUARY

2.a. How did the Scriptures further confirm to the Advent believers that the New Testament sanctuary is in heaven? Revelation 11:19; 4:2, 5; 8:3

 

Note: “Those who were studying the subject found indisputable proof of the existence of a sanctuary in heaven. Moses made the earthly sanctuary after a pattern which was shown him. Paul teaches that that pattern was the true sanctuary which is in heaven. And John testifies that he saw it in heaven.” The Great Controversy, 415

“And as the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 is fulfilled in this dispensation, the sanctuary to which it refers must be the sanctuary of the new covenant.” Ibid., 417

2.b. What else must we understand about the heavenly sanctuary? Hebrews 9:22, 23; 12:24

 

Note: “The cleansing, both in the typical and in the real service, must be accomplished with blood: in the former, with the blood of animals; in the latter, with the blood of Christ. Paul states, as the reason why this cleansing must be performed with blood, that without shedding of blood is no remission. Remission, or putting away of sin, is the work to be accomplished.” The Great Controversy, 417, 418. [Author’s italics.]

Tuesday

3 IN THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY

3.a. Of what did the daily service consist? Numbers 28:1–6. How were sins transferred to the sanctuary? Leviticus 4:4–6, 14–17

 

Note: “The daily service consisted of the morning and evening burnt offering, the offering of sweet incense on the golden altar, and the special offerings for individual sins.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 352

“Day by day the repentant sinner brought his offering to the door of the tabernacle and, placing his hand upon the victim’s head, confessed his sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the innocent sacrifice. The animal was then slain. … The blood, representing the forfeited life of the sinner, whose guilt the victim bore, was carried by the priest into the holy place and sprinkled before the veil, behind which was the ark containing the law that the sinner had transgressed. By this ceremony the sin was, through the blood, transferred in figure to the sanctuary.” The Great Controversy, 418

3.b. What service was performed once a year, and for what purpose? Leviticus 16:8, 15–22

 

Note: “The sins of Israel being … transferred to the sanctuary, the holy places were defiled, and a special work became necessary for the removal of the sins. God commanded that an atonement be made for each of the sacred apartments, as for the altar, to ‘cleanse it, and hallow it from the uncleanness of the children of Israel.’ Leviticus 16:19.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 355

“Once a year, on the great Day of Atonement, the priest entered the most holy place for the cleansing of the sanctuary. The work there performed completed the yearly round of ministration. On the Day of Atonement, two kids of the goats were brought to the door of the tabernacle, and lots were cast upon them, ‘one lot for the Lord, and the other lot for the scapegoat.’ Leviticus 16:8. The goat upon which fell the lot for the Lord was to be slain as a sin offering for the people. And the priest was to bring his blood within the veil and sprinkle it upon the mercy seat and before the mercy seat. The blood was also to be sprinkled upon the altar of incense that was before the veil.” The Great Controversy, 419

Wednesday

4 IN THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY

4.a. Where did Christ exercise His priestly ministry for eighteen centuries after His ascension? Hebrews 9:11, 12, 24

 

Note: “For eighteen centuries this work of ministration continued in the first apartment of the sanctuary. The blood of Christ, pleaded in behalf of penitent believers, secured their pardon and acceptance with the Father, yet their sins still remained upon the books of record.” The Great Controversy, 421

“The blood of Christ, while it was to release the repentant sinner from the condemnation of the law, was not to cancel the sin; it would stand on record in the sanctuary until the final atonement; so in the type, the blood of the sin offering removed the sin from the penitent, but it rested in the sanctuary until the Day of Atonement.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 357

4.b. As there was a work of atonement in the typical service, once a year, what work began in the antitypical service, at the end of the 2,300 prophetic days (or literal years)? Hebrews 9:7

 

Note: “As in the typical service there was a work of atonement at the close of the year, so before Christ’s work for the redemption of men is completed, there is a work of atonement for the removal of sin from the sanctuary. This is the service which began when the 2300 days ended. At that time, as foretold by Daniel the prophet, our High Priest entered the most holy, to perform the last division of His solemn work—to cleanse the sanctuary.” The Great Controversy, 421

“In the great day of final award, the dead are to be ‘judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.’ Revelation 20:12. Then by virtue of the atoning blood of Christ, the sins of all the truly penitent will be blotted from the books of heaven. Thus, the sanctuary will be freed, or cleansed, from the record of sin.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 357, 358

Thursday

5 THE BLOTTING OUT OF SINS

5.a. How can our sins contaminate the heavenly sanctuary? What is recorded in heaven? Isaiah 65:6, 7; Revelation 20:12

 

Note: “Opposite each name in the books of heaven is entered with terrible exactness every wrong word, every selfish act, every unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin, with every artful dissembling. Heaven-sent warnings or reproofs neglected, wasted moments, unimproved opportunities, the influence exerted for good or for evil, with its far-reaching results, all are chronicled by the recording angel.” The Great Controversy, 482

“We must not only cease to do evil, but we must learn to do well. God has given us powers to be exercised in good works; and if these powers are not put to use, we shall certainly be set down as wicked and slothful servants.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 220

5.b. How is the heavenly sanctuary to be cleansed? Isaiah 43:25; Acts 3:19. Why is this so important for us to understand?

 

Note: “As the typical cleansing of the earthly was accomplished by the removal of the sins by which it had been polluted, so the actual cleansing of the heavenly is to be accomplished by the removal, or blotting out, of the sins which are there recorded. But before this can be accomplished, there must be an examination of the books of record to determine who, through repentance of sin and faith in Christ, are entitled to the benefits of His atonement. The cleansing of the sanctuary therefore involves a work of investigation—a work of judgment.” The Great Controversy, 421, 422

“Many are deceiving themselves, for the principle of love does not dwell in their hearts. They may close eyes to their own errors and defects, but they cannot deceive God. There must be a reformation. The plowshare of truth must plow deep furrows in our proud hearts and tear up the sod of our unsanctified natures, that the Spirit and love of Jesus may be planted in our hearts. Time is fast hastening on, and every work will soon be brought into judgment, and either our sins or our names will be blotted out of the Book of Life.” Sons and Daughters of God, 49

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. Which texts of Scripture enable us to gain a correct understanding of Daniel 8:14?
  2. What do the apostles teach us about the heavenly sanctuary?
  3. Name some points from the earthly sanctuary service which help us understand the heavenly service.
  4. What work began at the close of the 2300 days’ prophecy?
  5. Why is it essential that our sins be blotted out?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Worship Him – Revelation 14

by

The First Angel of Revelation 14

March 1 – 7, 2026

Key Text

“Worship Him that made heaven and earth, and the sea and springs of waters.” Revelation 14:7, last part

Study Help: The Ministry of Healing, 409–418; Prophets and Kings, 183–189

Introduction

“In Revelation 14, men are called upon to worship the Creator; and the prophecy brings to view a class that, as the result of the threefold message, are keeping the commandments of God. One of these commandments points directly to God as the Creator.” The Great Controversy, 437

Sunday

1 A CRISIS OVER TRUE WORSHIP

1.a. What distinct characteristic of God is the basis of true worship according to the first angel’s message? Revelation 14:7, last part. How does this message parallel the message of Elijah’s time? 1 Kings 18:21

 

Note: “History is being repeated. The world today has its Ahabs and its Jezebels. The present age is one of idolatry, as verily as was that in which Elijah lived. No outward shrine may be visible; there may be no image for the eye to rest upon; yet thousands are following after the gods of this world—after riches, fame, pleasure, and the pleasing fables that permit man to follow the inclinations of the unregenerate heart. Multitudes have a wrong conception of God and His attributes and are as truly serving a false god as were the worshipers of Baal. Many even of those who claim to be Christians have allied themselves with influences that are unalterably opposed to God and His truth. Thus, they are led to turn away from the divine and to exalt the human.” Prophets and Kings, 177, 178

1.b.        How may the subtlety of popular philosophy seduce us away from the worship of the true God? 2 Timothy 4:3, 4

 

Note: “In rejecting the truth, men reject its Author. In trampling upon the law of God, they deny the authority of the Lawgiver. It is as easy to make an idol of false doctrines and theories as to fashion an idol of wood or stone. By misrepresenting the attributes of God, Satan leads men to conceive of Him in a false character. With many, a philosophical idol is enthroned in the place of Jehovah; while the living God, as He is revealed in His Word, in Christ, and in the works of creation, is worshipped by but few. Thousands deify nature while they deny the God of nature. Though in a different form, idolatry exists in the Christian world today as verily as it existed among ancient Israel in the days of Elijah. The god of many professedly wise men, of philosophers, poets, politicians, journalists—the god of polished fashionable circles, of many colleges and universities, even of some theological institutions—is little better than Baal, the sun-god of Phoenicia.” The Great Controversy, 583

Monday

2 IN THE NEW TESTAMENT DAYS

2.a. Why did Christ face opposition in seeking to elevate true worship? John 3:19, 20; 8:44, 45, 47

Note: “Truth looked down from heaven and saw not the reflection of her image; for dense clouds of moral darkness and gloom enveloped the world, and the Lord Jesus alone was able to roll back the clouds; for He was the Light of the world. By His presence He could dissipate the gloomy shadow that Satan had cast between man and God. Darkness covered the earth, and gross darkness the people. Through the accumulated misrepresentations of the enemy, many were so deceived that they worshiped a false god, clothed with the attributes of the satanic character.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 176, 177

2.b. How did the apostle Paul face the problem of false worship? Acts 24:14; 28:17. How was he accused by the Jews? Acts 18:13. And by the Romans? Acts 16:20, 21. And by the Greeks? Acts 19:26–28

 

Note: “Ephesus was a popular center for the worship of Diana. The fame of the magnificent temple of ‘Diana of the Ephesians’ extended throughout all Asia and the world. Its surpassing splendor made it the pride, not only of the city, but of the nation. The idol within the temple was declared by tradition to have fallen from the sky. Upon it were inscribed symbolic characters which were believed to possess great power. Books had been written by the Ephesians to explain the meaning and use of these symbols.

“Among those who gave close study to these costly books were many magicians who wielded a powerful influence over the minds of the superstitious worshipers of the image within the temple.” The Acts of the Apostles, 286

Tuesday

3 DIVINE TACT NEEDED

3.a. How tactful was Paul among the Athenians and the Corinthians? Acts 17:22–31; 18:4

 

Note: “When the apostle [Paul] took up his work in Corinth, he realized that he must introduce most carefully the great truths he wished to teach. He knew that among his hearers would be proud believers in human theories, and exponents of false systems of worship who were groping with blind eyes, hoping to find in the book of nature theories that would contradict the reality of the spiritual and immortal life as revealed in the Scriptures. He also knew that critics would endeavor to controvert the Christian interpretation of the revealed word, and that skeptics would treat the gospel of Christ with scoffing and derision.

“As he endeavored to lead souls to the foot of the cross, Paul did not venture to rebuke, directly, those who were licentious, or to show how heinous was their sin in the sight of a holy God. Rather he set before them the true object of life and tried to impress upon their minds the lessons of the divine Teacher, which, if received, would lift them from worldliness and sin to purity and righteousness. He dwelt especially upon practical godliness and the holiness to which those must attain who shall be accounted worthy of a place in God’s kingdom.” The Acts of the Apostles, 272

3.b. How careful should we be in our efforts to emphasize true worship? 1 Peter 3:15, 16

 

Note: “God has jewels in all the churches, and it is not for us to make sweeping denunciation of the professed religious world, but in humility and love, present to all the truth as it is in Jesus. Let men see piety and devotion, let them behold Christlikeness of character, and they will be drawn to the truth.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, 1184

“The truth should be presented with divine tact, gentleness, and tenderness. It should come from a heart that has been softened and made sympathetic. We need to have close communion with God, lest self rise up, as it did in Jehu, and we pour forth a torrent of words that are unbefitting, that are not as dew or as the still showers that revive the withering plants. Let our words be gentle as we seek to win souls. …

“God’s plan is first to get at the heart. Speak the truth, and let Him carry forward the reformatory power and principle. Make no reference to what opponents say, but let the truth alone be advanced. The truth can cut to the quick.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, 400

Wednesday

4 THE BASIS OF THE EXISTING CONFLICT

4.a. What are the fundamentals of true worship as proclaimed by the first angel? Psalm 100:3; Ecclesiastes 12:13

 

Note: “God’s claim to reverence and worship, above the gods of the heathen, is based upon the fact that He is the Creator and that to Him all other beings owe their existence.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 336

“By the first angel, men are called upon to ‘fear God, and give glory to Him’ and to worship Him as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. In order to do this, they must obey His law. Says the wise man: ‘Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.’ Ecclesiastes 12:13

“Without obedience to His commandments no worship can be pleasing to God.” The Great Controversy, 436

4.b. What are the fundamentals of all false worship, even among professed Christians? Isaiah 29:13, 14; Matthew 15:3, 9

 

Note: “In seeking to cast contempt upon the divine statutes, Satan has perverted the doctrines of the Bible, and errors have thus become incorporated into the faith of thousands who profess to believe the Scriptures. The last great conflict between truth and error is but the final struggle of the long-standing controversy concerning the law of God. Upon this battle we are now entering—a battle between the laws of men and the precepts of Jehovah, between the religion of the Bible and the religion of fable and tradition.” The Great Controversy, 582

“No misfortune is so great as to become the worshiper of a false god. No man is in such miserable darkness as he who has lost his way to heaven.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 435

Thursday

5 THE CLIMAX OF THE CONFLICT

5.a. What test will soon be brought between true and false worship? Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15

 

Note: “We are nearing the close of this earth’s history. Satan is making desperate efforts to make himself god, to speak and act like God, to appear as one who has a right to control the consciences of men. He strives with all his power to place a human institution in the position of God’s holy rest day.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 980, 981

5.b.  What is soon to distinguish the worshipers of God from the worshipers of the beast? Exodus 31:16, 17; 1 John 5:2

 

Note: “The keeping of God’s law, on the one hand, and its violation, on the other, will make the distinction between the worshipers of God and the worshipers of the beast.” The Great Controversy, 445, 446

“Thus, the distinction is drawn between the loyal and the disloyal. Those who desire to have the seal of God in their foreheads must keep the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. Thus, they are distinguished from the disloyal, who have accepted a man-made institution in place of the true Sabbath. The observance of God’s rest day is a mark of distinction between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 981

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. How is false worship practiced today, even among professed believers?
  2. Name some obstacles encountered by the apostle Paul in his labors.
  3. What is essential for us to be able to witness successfully for Christ?
  4. By what points can we distinguish between true and false worship?
  5. How are the vast majority of people soon to promote false worship?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Give Glory to Him

by

February 22 – 28, 2026

Key Text

“That you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:6

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 327–330; Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 38–44

Introduction

“By implanting in [the] hearts [of Christ’s followers] the principles of His word, the Holy Spirit develops in men the attributes of God. The light of His glory—His character—is to shine forth in His followers. Thus, they are to glorify God.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 414

Sunday

1 CALLED TO GLORIFY GOD

1.a. How do we glorify God? Psalm 50:2, 3

 

Note: “There are many who claim that Jesus has cleansed them from the leprosy of sin. But how few continue to offer a tribute of praise, ascribing glory to God! The great gift that God has bestowed upon the world in His only-begotten Son calls for as hearty a response of love and gratitude as that which fell from the lips of the Samaritan who returned to give God glory. When our human friends bestow upon us gifts and favors, we feel an inclination to manifest gratitude and to return gifts and favors to them. But how indifferent and careless, how unappreciative, are the hearts of men of the love of God! How little men seem to think of the blessings that are showered upon them by our kind heavenly Father!” The Signs of the Times, July 2, 1896

1.b. How can we glorify the name of God? Revelation 15:4; Matthew 5:16; John 15:5–8

 

Note: “To give glory to God is to reveal His character in our own, and thus make Him known. And in whatever way we make known the Father or the Son, we glorify God.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 979

Monday

2 GOD’S GLORY REVEALED

2.a. What should we learn from the way God revealed His glory to Moses? Exodus 33:18–22; 34:6–8

 

Note: “False views of God, and hence of Christ, are largely entertained today. Well may we offer the prayer of Moses, ‘Shew me Thy glory.’ What did the Lord answer?—‘I will make all My goodness pass before thee.’ God might have answered Moses: ‘Why do you ask this question? Have I not revealed to you My glory in the deliverance of My people from Egyptian bondage? Did I not deliver you by the right arm of My power, and lead you dry shod through the midst of the Red Sea? Did I not reveal My glory in giving you bread from heaven? Did I not bring you water out of the flinty rock? Have you not looked upon My glory in the pillar of fire by night, and the cloud by day?’ Moses might have answered that all this only kindled his desire for greater manifestations of God’s power. The Lord granted the prayer of Moses, and He desires to answer us in the same way. We need to have our perceptions quickened, our hearts enlarged, that we may comprehend His glory—His goodness, His forgiveness, His forbearance, His inexpressible love.” The Signs of the Times, October 17, 1892

“The perfection of God’s goodness, His image, His excellency and glory had been revealed to him [Moses]. He saw the suffering, self-denial and self-sacrifice of Him who was one with the Father, to save fallen man. It had been revealed to Moses that the glory enshrouded in the pillar of cloud was the Son of the infinite God, whom the sacrificial offerings typified. In answer to his most earnest pleadings, ‘Show me thy way,’ the future had been opened before him when the type would meet antitype in the death of Christ. He saw mercy and justice blended in harmony and love expressed without a parallel.” Ibid., June 17, 1880

2.b. Following the example of Moses, how can we catch glimpses of the glory of God? 2 Corinthians 4:6

 

Note: “Moses was hid in the cleft of the rock when the glory of the Lord was revealed to him; and it is when we are hid in Christ that we behold the love of God.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 26

“It is sin that darkens our minds and dims our perceptions. As sin is purged from our hearts, the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ, illuminating His word and reflected from the face of nature, more and more fully will declare Him ‘merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.’

“In His light shall we see light, until mind and heart and soul are transformed into the image of His holiness.” Sons and Daughters of God, 339

Tuesday

3 TRUTH ALLIED TO GOD’S GLORY

3.a. What summarizes that which we are to learn from Christ’s life on earth? John 1:14

 

Note: “The burning bush in which Christ appeared to Moses revealed God. The symbol chosen for the representation of the Deity was a lowly shrub that seemingly had no attractions. This enshrined the Infinite. The all-merciful God shrouded His glory in a most humble type, that Moses could look upon it and live. So, in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, God communicated with Israel, revealing to men His will, and imparting to them His grace. God’s glory was subdued and His majesty veiled, that the weak vision of finite men might behold it. So Christ was to come in ‘the body of our humiliation’ (Philippians 3:21, R. V.), ‘in the likeness of men.’ In the eyes of the world He possessed no beauty that they should desire Him; yet He was the incarnate God, the light of heaven and earth. His glory was veiled, His greatness and majesty were hidden, that He might draw near to sorrowful, tempted men.” The Desire of Ages, 23

“The glory of God is His character. … This character was revealed in the life of Christ. That He might by His own example condemn sin in the flesh, He took upon Himself the likeness of sinful flesh. Constantly He beheld the character of God; constantly He revealed this character to the world. Christ desires His followers to reveal in their lives this same character.”
That I May Know Him, 131

3.b. Since the truth and the glory of God go together, under what condition, only, can we glorify God? John 8:31, 32; 16:13, first part

 

Note: “The truth and the glory of God are inseparable; it is impossible for us, with the Bible within our reach, to honor God by erroneous opinions. Many claim that it matters not what one believes if his life is only right. But the life is molded by the faith. If light and truth is within our reach and we neglect to improve the privilege of hearing and seeing it, we virtually reject it; we are choosing darkness rather than light.” The Great Controversy, 597

Wednesday

4 A DAILY TRANSFORMATION

4.a What transformation do we experience by beholding Christ continually? 2 Corinthians 3:18

 

Note: “By beholding Christ, by talking of Him, by beholding the loveliness of His character, we become changed. Changed from glory to glory. And what is glory? Character—and he becomes changed from character to character. Thus, we see that there is a work of purification that goes on by beholding Jesus.” Sons and Daughters of God, 337

4.b. What is the revelation of the glory of God to the world? Habakkuk 2:14

 

Note: “When Christ reigns in the soul, there is purity, freedom from sin. The glory, the fullness, the completeness of the gospel plan is fulfilled in the life. The acceptance of the Saviour brings a glow of perfect peace, perfect love, perfect assurance. The beauty and fragrance of the character of Christ revealed in the life testifies that God has indeed sent His Son into the world to be its Saviour. …

“The revelation of His own glory in the form of humanity will bring heaven so near to man 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, 420

Thursday

5 OUR DUTY BEFORE THE WORLD

5.a. What is our present responsibility, and why? Isaiah 60:1, 2

 

Note: “It is the darkness of misapprehension of God that is enshrouding the world. Men are losing their knowledge of His character. It has been misunderstood and misinterpreted. At this time a message from God is to be proclaimed, a message illuminating in its influence and saving in its power. His character is to be made known. Into the darkness of the world is to be shed the light of His glory, the light of His goodness, mercy and truth.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 415

5.b. What harvest of souls will then be brought in? John 10:16

 

Note: “Among earth’s inhabitants, scattered in every land, there are those who have not bowed the knee to Baal. Like the stars of heaven, which appear only at night, these faithful ones will shine forth when darkness covers the earth and gross darkness the people. In heathen Africa, in the Catholic lands of Europe and of South America, in China, in India, in the islands or the sea, and in all the dark corners of the earth, God has in reserve a firmament of chosen ones that will yet shine forth amidst the darkness, revealing clearly to an apostate world the transforming power of obedience to His law.” Prophets and Kings, 188, 189

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. In what sense is God’s glory eclipsed today, and how are we to reveal it?
  2. What can we learn from the result of Moses’ request to see God’s glory?
  3. How did Christ glorify God—and how are we to glorify Christ?
  4. What will be seen in every soul in whom the Saviour dwells?
  5. How will the world be enlightened by God’s glory?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Fear God

by

February 15 – 21, 2026

Key Text

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10

Study Help: Early Writings, 56–58; Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 182, 183

Introduction

“You can never enter heaven unless you enjoy the communion of God here below, for this is our fitting-up place for heaven. God should be the object of the soul’s highest reverence, love, and fear.” In Heavenly Places, 161

Sunday

1 APPROACHING OUR MAKER

1.a. What should we realize about God, and how is it to affect our attitude in approaching Him? Psalms 31:19; 89:6, 7

 

Note: “Instead of coming in contrition before God, men come without reverence in the family circle and in the congregation of the people. How many come to the season of prayer full of self-importance, and their prayers sound more as if they thought they must give the Lord information than as if they expected to receive something from His hand. They do not approach God as humble suppliants, realizing that they are dependent upon Him for life and health, for food and clothing, and for every temporal and spiritual blessing.” The Review and Herald, May 28, 1895

1.b. What should we understand about the fear of God? Proverbs 9:10

 

Note: “How few realize how solemn a thing it is to approach the throne of God. Angels bow before that throne with veiled faces, yet men who are stained by sin rush heedlessly into the divine presence. Let us remember that the holy angels approach the throne of God in reverence and holy fear.” The Review and Herald, May 28, 1895

“The Lord would have His people trust in Him and abide in His love, but that does not mean that we shall have no fear or misgivings. Some seem to think that if a man has a wholesome fear of the judgments of God, it is a proof that he is destitute of faith; but this is not so.

“A proper fear of God in believing His threatenings works the peaceable fruits of righteousness by causing the trembling soul to flee to Jesus. Many ought to have this spirit today and turn to the Lord with humble contrition, for the Lord has not given so many terrible threatenings, pronounced so severe judgments in His word, simply to have them recorded, but He means what He says.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, 1100

Monday

2 GODLY FEAR

2.a. Why are we given special admonition to fear God in these last days? 2 Timothy 3:1–5

 

Note: “The great danger of this age and one which brings much unhappiness to individuals and families is an intense and increasing worldliness. The love and fear of God, reverence for His name, and thoughts of heavenly things, are banished through busy, anxious seeking for the things of the world. God has made His claims known, but men pay no heed to them. Religious principle becomes extinct in the family.” The Review and Herald, February 24, 1885

“Christ’s followers today should guard against the tendency to lose the spirit of reverence and godly fear. The Scriptures teach men how they should approach their Maker—with humility and awe through faith in a divine Mediator.” Prophets and Kings, 48

2.b. Describe the type of godly fear which the Lord would have us develop. Philippians 2:12, 13

 

Note: “With the peace and joy of those who thus serve God, there is always seen a godly fear, ‘lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.’ This sanctified fear is entirely proper. It is not a servile, cowardly fear; it is a dread to do anything that Christ will not approve. This fear regulates the Christian experience. Those who feel it sanctify the Lord in their hearts. They regard God with a reverence and love that leads to self-abasement. But their fear is very different from the terror of a slave, who lives in expectation of the lash. This genuine fear leads to firm reliance on God.” The Signs of the Times, September 22, 1898

Tuesday

3 UNGODLY FEAR

3.a. If we do not cultivate godly fear, what type of fear will we eventually experience? Daniel 5:1–6

 

Note: “Hushed was the boisterous mirth, while men and women, seized with nameless terror, watched the hand slowly tracing the mysterious characters. Before them passed, as in panoramic view, the deeds of their evil lives; they seemed to be arraigned before the judgment bar of the eternal God, whose power they had just defied. Where but a few moments before had been hilarity and blasphemous witticism, were pallid faces and cries of fear. When God makes men fear, they cannot hide the intensity of their terror.

“Belshazzar was the most terrified of them all. … [He] had impiously lifted himself up against the God of heaven and had trusted in his own might, not supposing that any would dare say, ‘Why doest thou thus?’ but now he realized that he must render an account of the stewardship entrusted him, and that for his wasted opportunities and his defiant attitude he could offer no excuse.” Prophets and Kings, 524–527

3.b. The destruction of Jerusalem is a symbol of what? Luke 21:25, 26; Matthew 24:3

 

Note: “The Saviour’s prophecy concerning the visitation of judgments upon Jerusalem is to have another fulfillment, of which that terrible desolation was but a faint shadow. In the fate of the chosen city we may behold the doom of a world that has rejected God’s mercy and trampled upon His law. … The records of the past—the long procession of tumults, conflicts, and revolutions, the ‘battle of the warrior … with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood’ (Isaiah 9:5)—what are these, in contrast with the terrors of that day when the restraining Spirit of God shall be wholly withdrawn from the wicked, no longer to hold in check the outburst of human passion and satanic wrath! The world will then behold, as never before, the results of Satan’s rule.” The Great Controversy, 36, 37

Wednesday

4 PREPARING FOR FUTURE PROTECTION

4.a. What is the experience of those who fear the Lord and how does the Lord respond? Malachi 3:16, 17

 

Note: “Do not gratify the enemy by dwelling upon the dark side of your experience; trust Jesus more fully for help to resist temptation. If we thought and talked more of Jesus and less of ourselves, we should have much more of His presence. If we abide in Him, we shall be so filled with peace, faith, and courage, and shall have so victorious an experience to relate when we come to meeting, that others will be refreshed by our clear, strong testimony for God. These precious acknowledgments to the praise of the glory of His grace, when supported by a Christlike life, have an irresistible power which works for the salvation of souls.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, 1183

4.b. What does God say brings peace? Isaiah 48:18. Where will we find refuge? Isaiah 26:20, 21; 33:16

 

Note: “The Lord has shown me repeatedly that it is contrary to the Bible to make any provision for our temporal wants in the time of trouble. I saw that if the saints had food laid up by them or in the field in the time of trouble, when sword, famine, and pestilence are in the land, it would be taken from them by violent hands and strangers would reap their fields. Then will be the time for us to trust wholly in God, and He will sustain us.” Early Writings, 56

“The people of God will not be free from suffering; but while persecuted and distressed, while they endure privation and suffer for want of food, they will not be left to perish.” The Great Controversy, 629

“ ‘Come, My people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.’ What are the chambers in which they are to hide?—They are the protection of Christ and holy angels. The people of God are not at this time all in one place. They are in different companies, and in all parts of the earth; and they will be tried singly, not in groups. Everyone must stand the test for himself.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, 1143

Thursday

5 OUR ONLY HOPE

5. Where can our hope be confidently placed in any circumstance, and what assurances are given to those who do put their entire trust in the Lord? Psalm 46:1, 2; 91:1–10

 

Note: “Keep your wants, your joys, your sorrows, your cares, and your fears before God. You cannot burden Him; you cannot weary Him. He who numbers the hairs of your head is not indifferent to the wants of His children.” Steps to Christ, 100

“In the ninety-first psalm is a most wonderful description of the coming of the Lord to bring the wickedness of the wicked to an end, and to give to those who have chosen Him as their Redeemer the assurance of His love and protecting care. …”

“In the time when God’s judgments are falling without mercy, oh, how enviable to the wicked will be the position of those who abide ‘in the secret place of the Most High’—the pavilion in which the Lord hides all who have loved Him and have obeyed His commandments!” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 3, 1150

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. What characteristic is essential for us to develop and why?
  2. How can we best describe “godly fear”?
  3. What causes “ungodly fear” and how can it be avoided?
  4. What are the special chambers in which God’s people can hide?
  5. How will the faithful be comforted in the time of God’s destructive judgments?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.