Bible Study Guides

A Lesson for Today

by

November 24 – 30, 2024

Key Text

“I will clothe you with rich robes.” Zechariah 3:4

Study Help: Prophets and Kings, 582–589

Introduction

“All that have put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness will stand before Him as chosen and faithful and true.” Lift Him Up, 234

Sunday

1 A DISCOURAGING SITUATION

1.a. After the Babylonian captivity, what was the main source of discouragement to the little remnant of Israel who had returned to their homeland? Zechariah 1:12

Note: “The people [of Israel] were awakened to see their guilt, they humbled themselves before God, and returned to Him with true repentance. Then the Lord sent them messages of encouragement, declaring that He would deliver them from their captivity and restore them to His favor. It was this that Satan was determined to prevent. A remnant of Israel had already returned to their own land, and Satan was seeking to move upon the heathen nations, who were his agents, to utterly destroy them.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 468

1.b. As He saw their affliction, how did the Lord warn them through the prophet not to repeat the errors of their forefathers? Zechariah 1:4–6

Note: “The steady advancement made by the builders of the temple greatly discomfited and alarmed the hosts of evil. Satan determined to put forth still further effort to weaken and discourage God’s people by holding before them their imperfections of character. If those who had long suffered because of transgression could again be induced to disregard God’s commandments, they would be brought once more under the bondage of sin.” Prophets and Kings, 582

Monday

2 ENCOURAGEMENT FROM THE LORD

2.a. How did the Lord comfort the little remnant with a prophetic message? Zechariah 2:10, 11. To what future event did the Lord refer? Isaiah 60:1–5; Revelation 21:24–26

2.b. Through what vision did the Lord encourage Zerubbabel, their leader? Zechariah 4:1–6, 9

2.c. How did the Lord seek to encourage Joshua the high priest and the people, giving them the spiritual assurance that they needed? Zechariah 3:1, 2

Note: “In vision, the prophet beholds ‘Joshua the high priest,’ ‘clothed with filthy garments’ (Zechariah 3:1, 3), standing before the Angel of the Lord, entreating God’s mercy in behalf of his afflicted people. As he pleads for the fulfillment of God’s promises, Satan stands up boldly to resist him. He points to the transgressions of Israel as a reason why they should not be restored to the favor of God. He claims them as his prey, and demands that they be given into his hands.” Prophets and Kings, 583

2.d. What was the only thing that Joshua the high priest could do in the presence of Satan’s accusations? What is our only hope since we are in a similar predicament? Proverbs 28:13

Note: “The high priest cannot defend himself or his people from Satan’s accusations. He does not claim that Israel is free from fault. In filthy garments, symbolizing the sins of the people, which he bears as their representative, he stands before the Angel, confessing their guilt, yet pointing to their repentance and humiliation, and relying upon the mercy of a sin-pardoning Redeemer. In faith, he claims the promises of God.” Prophets and Kings, 583, 584

Tuesday

3 OUR GREAT NEED: A CHANGE OF RAIMENT

3.a. How did Joshua, the representative of the people, stand before the Angel (who was Christ)? Zechariah 3:3. How do we stand before the Lord in our own righteousness? Isaiah 64:6; Revelation 3:17

Note: “Today human beings stand before God with defiled garments. All their righteousness is ‘as filthy rags’ (Isaiah 64:6). Satan uses against them his masterly accusing power, pointing to their imperfections as evidence of their weakness. He points scornfully at the mistakes of those who claim to be doing God service. They have been deceived by him, and he begs for permission to destroy them.

“But they trust in Christ, and Christ will not forsake them.” This Day With God, 226

3.b. How did Joshua become qualified to minister before the Lord? Zechariah 3:4, 5. What must we do before we can be approved? Revelation 3:18, 19

Note: “As the intercession of Joshua is accepted, the command is given, ‘Take away the filthy garments from him;’ and to Joshua the Angel says, ‘Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.’ ‘So they set a fair miter upon his head, and clothed him with garments.’ Zechariah 3:4, 5. His own sins and those of his people were pardoned. Israel was clothed with ‘change of raiment’—the righteousness of Christ imputed to them. The miter placed upon Joshua’s head was such as was worn by the priests, and bore the inscription, ‘Holiness to the Lord’ (Exodus 28:36), signifying that notwithstanding his former transgressions, he was now qualified to minister before God in His sanctuary.” Prophets and Kings, 584

3.c. After investing him with the dignity of the priesthood, what did Christ declare to Joshua? What are we to do? Zechariah 3:7

Note: “If obedient, [he, Joshua] should be honored as the judge, or ruler, over the temple and all its services; he should walk among attending angels, even in this life; and at last he should join the glorified throng around the throne of God.” Prophets and Kings, 585

Wednesday

4 A TRYING HOUR

4.a. How does Zechariah’s vision apply today? Revelation 12:10, last part

Note: “Zechariah’s vision of Joshua and the Angel applies with peculiar force to the experience of God’s people in the closing scenes of the great day of atonement. The remnant church will then be brought into great trial and distress. Those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts. Satan numbers the world as his subjects; he has gained control even of many professing Christians. But here is a little company who are resisting his supremacy. …

“Those who are true to God will be menaced, denounced, proscribed. They will be ‘betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends,’ even unto death. Luke 21:16. Their only hope is in the mercy of God; their only defense will be prayer. As Joshua pleaded before the Angel, so the remnant church, with brokenness of heart and unfaltering faith, will plead for pardon and deliverance through Jesus, their Advocate.” Prophets and Kings, 587, 588

4.b. For what should we be pleading while the door of probation is still open? Psalm 51:1, 7, 10; Joel 2:16, 17 Only on what condition can our Advocate defend us?

Note: “While the followers of Christ have sinned, they have not given themselves up to be controlled by the satanic agencies. They have repented of their sins and have sought the Lord in humility and contrition, and the divine Advocate pleads in their behalf. He who has been most abused by their ingratitude, who knows their sin and also their penitence, declares: ‘The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan. I gave My life for these souls. They are graven upon the palms of My hands. They may have imperfections of character; they may have failed in their endeavors; but they have repented, and I have forgiven and accepted them.’

“The assaults of Satan are strong, his delusions are subtle; but the Lord’s eye is upon His people. Their affliction is great, the flames of the furnace seem about to consume them; but Jesus will bring them forth as gold tried in the fire. Their earthliness will be removed, that through them the image of Christ may be perfectly revealed.” Prophets and Kings, 589

Thursday

5 INIQUITY REMOVED IN ONE DAY

5.a. How will the confessed sins of repentant Israel be removed “in one day” in the investigative judgment? Zechariah 3:9, last part; Acts 3:19

Note: “As the people of God afflict their souls before Him, pleading for purity of heart, the command is given, ‘Take away the filthy garments.’ Zechariah 3:4.” Prophets and Kings, 591

5.b. What mark will be placed on God’s faithful servants after their sins have been blotted out, and how can we prepare for that hour? Ezekiel 9:4; 1 John 3:2, 3

Note: “It is now that our hearts should be pure and holy. We have no promise that we shall be transformed in character when Christ appears. If we would offer an offering unto the Lord in righteousness, we should put away everything that is sinful in thought, in word, and in deed. …

“What we need is purity of heart; and God can give us this as a free gift of His grace. Many blame circumstances for their defective characters. They say, ‘I could do so much better if things were only different; but this one tries me, and that one vexes me, and that is the reason that I am not a better Christian.’ But this is a deception. There is grace with God to enable you to serve Him just where you are, and excuses of this order have no weight with Him. Do not charge your circumstances with your failure. The Lord knows where you are, and He would have you practice those things which make for godliness.” The Youth’s Instructor, January 9, 1896

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          Describe the work of Joshua, Zechariah, and Zerubbabel.

2          What encouragement did the Lord send to Zerubbabel and the people?

3          How did the Angel (who was Christ) put the accuser to silence?

4          How did God respond to Joshua’s confession and prayer?

5          The experience of Joshua and the Angel is an object lesson for us today. Explain.

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Investigative Judgment

by

November 17 – 23, 2024

Key Text

“… And books were opened. … And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.” Revelation 20:12

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 479–482

Introduction

“Beginning with those who first lived upon the earth, our Advocate presents the cases of each successive generation and closes with the living.” The Faith I Live By, 212

Sunday

1 THE TIME TO JUDGE THE DEAD

1.a. When is the appointed time for God to judge the saints that are in the tomb? Will they be judged while dead, or will it be after they have been raised to life? Revelation 11:18

1.b. When will the sleeping saints be “accounted worthy” to attain the resurrection of life? Acts 3:19, 20; Luke 20:35

Note: “The work of the investigative judgment and the blotting out of sins is to be accomplished before the second advent of the Lord. Since the dead are to be judged out of the things written in the books, it is impossible that the sins of men should be blotted out until after the judgment at which their cases are to be investigated. But the apostle Peter distinctly states that the sins of believers will be blotted out ‘when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send Jesus Christ.’ Acts 3:19, 20.” The Great Controversy, 485

1.c. At Christ’s return, would the righteous dead be called forth in the resurrection of life if they had not previously been accepted in the judgment? John 5:28, 29; 1 Corinthians 15:52; 1 Thessalonians 4:14–16

Monday

2 THE TIMING OF KEY EVENTS

2.a. When will the living saints be “accounted worthy to escape” all the end-time snares and calamities—at Christ’s coming or before? Luke 21:36

Note: “When the work of investigation shall be ended, when the cases of those who in all ages have professed to be followers of Christ have been examined and decided, then, and not till then, probation will close, and the door of mercy will be shut. Thus in the one short sentence, ‘They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage: and the door was shut,’ we are carried down through the Saviour’s final ministration, to the time when the great work for man’s salvation shall be completed.” The Great Controversy, 428

2.b. What will Christ bring with Him when He comes? Isaiah 62:11; Revelation 22:12. When will He receive the kingdom—before the judgment or at the end of the judgment, when His work of mediation comes to a close? Daniel 7:9, 10, 13, 14, 18

Note: “[Those who follow] Christ by faith as He enters in before God to perform the last work of mediation, and at its close to receive His kingdom—all these are represented as going in to the marriage.” The Great Controversy, 428

2.c. After the symbolic “wedding” (Luke 12:36)—after receiving the kingdom (Luke 19:12; Revelation 11:15)—Christ will come. Matthew 25:31, 34. When will the “wedding guests” stand before the Judge to be examined—after or before the symbolic “marriage”? Matthew 22:10–14

Note: “In the parable of Matthew 22, the same figure of the marriage is introduced, and the investigative judgment is clearly represented as taking place before the marriage. 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

Tuesday

3 THE RIGHT TIME FOR THE JUDGMENT MESSAGE

3.a. Since God has appointed a time to “judge the world in righteousness” (Acts 17:31), what message did He promise to send to every nation, and people, and tongue when that time should arrive? Revelation 14:6, 7

Note: “… this message [of the first angel of Revelation 14] is a part of the gospel which could be proclaimed only in the last days, for only then would it be true that the hour of judgment had come.” The Great Controversy, 356

3.b. Does this solemn message place the investigative judgment after or before the coming of Christ? Revelation 14:7–14

Note: “The coming of Christ as our high priest to the most holy place, for the cleansing of the sanctuary, brought to view in Daniel 8:14; the coming of the Son of man to the Ancient of Days, as presented in Daniel 7:13; and the coming of the Lord to His temple, foretold by Malachi, are descriptions of the same event; and this is also represented by the coming of the bridegroom to the marriage, described by Christ in the parable of the ten virgins, of Matthew 25.” The Great Controversy, 426

3.c. Whose cause does our Advocate (1 John 2:1, 2) plead, and whose cause does He not plead before the judgment seat of God? Matthew 10:32, 33

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. By His death He began that work which after His resurrection He ascended to complete in heaven. We must by faith enter within the veil, ‘whither the forerunner is for us entered.’ Hebrews 6:20. There the light from the cross of Calvary is reflected. There we may gain a clearer insight into the mysteries of redemption.” The Great Controversy, 489

3.d. What will happen after the symbolic “wedding”? Luke 12:36, 37, 40

Wednesday

4 OUR MOST URGENT NEED

4.a. What is our most urgent need while the investigative judgment is going on? Isaiah 55:6, 7; 1 John 1:9

Note: “If those who hide and excuse their faults could see how Satan exults over them, how he taunts Christ and holy angels with their course, they would make haste to confess their sins and to put them away.” The Great Controversy, 489

4.b. While Christ is pleading for us before the judgment seat, what does He expect from us? Mark 13:35–37; Hebrews 3:13, 14

Note: “We are now living in the great day of atonement. In the typical service, while the high priest was making the atonement for Israel, all were required to afflict their souls by repentance of sin and humiliation before the Lord, lest they be cut off from among the people. In like manner, 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.” The Great Controversy, 489, 490

“Christ came that He might open to the comprehension of men and women the principles that underlie the great plan of redemption, that they might be led to cooperate with Him in His work of sacrifice for the salvation of mankind. But the want of fervor, the lack of self-denial, on the part of many who bear Christ’s name, hinder the doing of the very work for which His church on earth was organized. The selfishness and indifference manifested by professing Christians soothes the consciences of many who would be aroused from their unbelief, had they before them in the lives of professing Christians, a living witness to the power of the gospel to transform the character.” The Review and Herald, September 28, 1911

“Because we know not the exact time of His coming, we are commanded to watch. ‘Blessed are those servants, whom the Lord when He cometh shall find watching.’ Luke 12:37. Those who watch for the Lord’s coming are not waiting in idle expectancy. The expectation of Christ’s coming is to make men fear the Lord, and fear His judgments upon transgression. It is to awaken them to the great sin of rejecting His offers of mercy. Those who are watching for the Lord are purifying their souls by obedience to the truth.” The Desire of Ages, 634

Thursday

5 THOUGHTS FOR US TO PONDER

5.a. What illustrates how some will pass the test of the investigative judgment and others will not? Luke 17:34–36

Note: “The righteous and the wicked will still be living upon the earth in their mortal state—men will be planting and building, eating and drinking, all unconscious that the final, irrevocable decision has been pronounced in the sanctuary above.” The Great Controversy, 491

5.b. How can we have hope in the day of judgment? Psalm 130:3–8

Note: “He who is to be our judge knows our works. He understands every temptation and trial, and I am glad of it. He knows the circumstances that surround every soul. He knows our weaknesses and is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. ‘If any man sin,’ says John, ‘we have an advocate with the Father! Jesus Christ the righteous.’ Oh, how precious is the name of Jesus, and how precious every name that He confesses before the Father! When our gracious Redeemer says of the poor penitent, ‘He is mine; I have graven his name on the palms of My hands,’ the answer comes, ‘I will not blot his name from the book of life, but his sins shall be remembered against him no more.’ ” The Signs of the Times, August 6, 1885

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          Explain why Acts 3:19, 20 proves that the investigative judgment must be accomplished before the second coming of Christ.

2          If the living righteous are “accounted worthy to escape” the end-time “snares” to come upon the world, when must they be judged to be “accounted worthy” (Luke 21:36)—at Christ’s return or before it?

3          Why is it evident, also from Matthew 22:10–14, that the investigative judgment must take place before the return of Jesus in glory?

4          When does the first angel of Revelation 14 announce “the hour of His judgment is come”—at Christ’s coming or before it? Read Revelation 14:6, 7, 15, 16.

5          What is our most urgent need in preparing to face the investigative judgment?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

God Has Appointed a Day

by

November 10 – 16, 2024

Key text

“Because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness … .” Acts 17:31

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 486–489

Introduction

“Though all nations are to pass in judgment before God, yet He will examine the case of each individual with as close and searching scrutiny as if there were not another being upon the earth.” Lift Him Up, 330

Sunday

1 DEATH AND JUDGMENT: TWO INESCAPABLE EVENTS

1.a. What does the Bible teach about the great day of judgment? Ecclesiastes 12:14; Hebrews 9:27

Note: “When we become children of God, our names are written in the Lamb’s book of life, and they remain there until the time of the investigative judgment. Then the name of every individual will be called, and his record examined by Him who declares, ‘I know thy works.’ If in that day it shall appear that all our wicked deeds have not been fully repented of, our names will be blotted from the book of life, and our sins will stand against us. If the professed believer becomes self-confident, if in word or spirit he breaks the least precept of God’s holy law, he misrepresents Jesus, and in the judgment the awful words will be spoken, ‘Blot out his name from the book of life; he is a worker of iniquity.’ But the Father pities the self-distrustful, God-fearing soul, harassed though he may be with doubts and temptations. Jesus pleads for him, and confesses his name before the Father and His holy angels.” The Signs of the Times, August 6, 1885

1.b. Will anyone be able to escape the judgment of God? Romans 2:1–3; 14:12

Note: “Everyone must be tested and found without spot or wrinkle or any such thing.” The Great Controversy, (1888), 490

Monday

2 THE GUILT OF THE WHOLE WORLD

2.a. Why must the entire world be judged? Romans 3:9, 10, 19, 20, 23; 5:16, 18, 20

2.b. Is there an exception for faithful Christians, or will they also be judged? Romans 14:10, 12; 2 Corinthians 5:10

2.c. What pitfall of the Jewish nation must we carefully avoid? Romans 11:13, 17–21

Note: “To a people in whose hearts His law is written, the favor of God is assured. They are one with Him. But the Jews had separated themselves from God. … Their minds were darkened by transgression, and because in times past the Lord had shown them so great favor, they excused their sins. They flattered themselves that they were better than other men, and entitled to His blessings.

“These things ‘are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.’ 1 Corinthians 10:11. How often we misinterpret God’s blessings, and flatter ourselves that we are favored on account of some goodness in us! God cannot do for us that which He longs to do. His gifts are used to increase our self-satisfaction, and to harden our hearts in unbelief and sin.” The Desire of Ages, 106

“Every soul is accountable for the talents entrusted. As a church, as individuals, we are to stand upon the elevated, holy ground where the truth has placed us. We are to represent to the world in character and unity the accumulated light which shines upon us in these last days.” The Review and Herald, April 25, 1893

2.d. Who will be judged first—the righteous or the ungodly? 1 Peter 4:17, 18

Note: “In the typical service, only those who had come before God with confession and repentance, and whose sins, through the blood of the sin offering, were transferred to the sanctuary, had a part in the service of the Day of Atonement. So 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

Tuesday

3 OUR NAMES IN THE BOOK OF LIFE

3.a. Why should all true Christians rejoice? Luke 10:20; Philippians 4:3

Note: “The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God.” The Great Controversy, 480

“While Jesus is pleading for the subjects of His grace, Satan accuses them before God as transgressors. The great deceiver has sought to lead them into skepticism, to cause them to lose confidence in God, to separate themselves from His love, and to break His law. Now he points to the record of their lives, to the defects of character, the unlikeness to Christ, which has dishonored their Redeemer, to all the sins that he has tempted them to commit, and because of these he claims them as his subjects.

“Jesus does not excuse their sins, but shows their penitence and faith, and, claiming for them forgiveness, He lifts His wounded hands before the Father and the holy angels, saying: I know them by name. I have graven them on the palms of My hands. ‘The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.’ Psalm 51:17.” Ibid., 484

3.b. What assurance does Christ give to His faithful followers? Matthew 24:13; Revelation 2:10

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

3.c. What will be the fate of professed Christians who think they can be saved in their sins? Exodus 32:33; Ezekiel 18:24; Matthew 7:21–23

Note: “Every name is mentioned, every case closely investigated. Names are accepted, names rejected. When any have sins remaining upon the books of record, unrepented of and unforgiven, their names will be blotted out of the book of life, and the record of their good deeds will be erased from the book of God’s remembrance.” The Great Controversy, 483

Wednesday

4 “RESERVED … UNTO THE JUDGMENT OF THE GREAT DAY”

4.a. What do we read about the specific time—at the end of the world—that God has appointed for the work of judgment? Acts 17:31; Revelation 11:18. Describe the solemnity of that hour. Matthew 7:13, 14

Note: “The righteous judgments of God will not spare the trifler. The people who have had great light will not be excused if they neglect to give, by a godly example, the light of truth to those with whom they associate.

“Not to unbelievers only, but to church members the words are spoken, ‘Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near.’ With the light that has come to him, the believer has serious responsibilities placed upon him. He must not allow trifles to lead him to neglect the religion of Christ.

“It is dangerous for us to subordinate matters of eternal interest to the common affairs of life. …

“What can I say to you, my brethren and sisters, that will arouse you to the importance of the times in which we live, and lead you to a faithful examination of heart and life? Are your lives in harmony with the life of sacrifice that Christ lived on the earth? In giving His Son to the human race, the Father gave to His church a wonderful example of self-forgetting love.” The Review and Herald, September 28, 1911

4.b. Daniel chapter 7 confirms the teaching of the Bible that the judgment takes place, not at death, but at the end of the world. Summarize: Daniel 7:9, 10, 22, 26

4.c. What does Jude say about that time? Jude 6

4.d. How do we know that the patriarchs (Hebrews 11:13–16), the prophets (Daniel 12:13; Acts 2:34; Hebrews 11:39, 40), the apostles (John 14:1–3), and those that are dead in Christ are not in heaven? 1 Thessalonians 4:13–17

4.e. In what words does the Bible teach that the ungodly are not burning in a lake of fire? What must take place before they can meet the fate they have chosen? 2 Peter 2:9; John 5:28, 29, last part

Thursday

5 THE JUDGMENT SEAT IN ZION

5.a. Where is the judgment to take place at the end of the world? Psalm 9:7, 8

Note: “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.” The Great Controversy, 490

5.b. Where does God have His throne in heaven? Psalm 9:11; Isaiah 6:1; Revelation 7:15; 14:1, 2

5.c. Since we must know God in the interest of our salvation (John 17:3), what does this knowledge include? Psalms 9:16; 77:13. What event will take place after the judgment of God’s people? Hebrews 9:27, 28; Colossians 3:4

Note: “The subject of the sanctuary and the investigative judgment should be clearly understood by the people of God. All need a knowledge for themselves of the position and work of their great High Priest. Otherwise it will be impossible for them to exercise the faith which is essential at this time or to occupy the position which God designs them to fill.” The Great Controversy, 488

“In the typical service the high priest, having made the atonement for Israel, came forth and blessed the congregation. So Christ, at the close of His work as mediator, will appear, ‘without sin unto salvation’ (Hebrews 9:28), to bless His waiting people with eternal life.” Ibid., 485

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          What does the Bible say about the judgment day?

2          Will Christians be judged—and if so, when?

3          In what assurance should all Christians rejoice?

4          What do we know about the specific time of the judgment?

5          What will Christ do at the close of His mediatorial work in the sanctuary?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Everyone Is Accountable

by

November 3 – 9, 2024

Key Text

“So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” Romans 14:12

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 483–485

Introduction

“Every man’s work passes in review before God and is registered for faithfulness or unfaithfulness.” Lift Him Up, 327

Sunday

1 ONLY TWO CLASSES OF PEOPLE

1.a. In light of the plan of redemption, specify the two classes of people in the world. Romans 2:6–10; 1 Peter 4:18

Note: “Rapidly are men ranging themselves under the banner they have chosen. … There are those who are watching and waiting and working for our Lord’s appearing; while the other party are rapidly falling into line under the generalship of the first great apostate. …

“There are but two parties.” Testimonies for Ministers and Gospel Workers, 364, 365

1.b. Since God sees all (Hebrews 4:13), and each individual is accountable for his or her actions before the divine tribunal (Psalm 62:12; Romans 14:12), where does the Almighty keep exact records of every human being? Jeremiah 2:22; 17:1

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 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

Monday

2 EXACT RECORDS

2.a. What is written about the book of life and the book of death? Psalm 90:8; Revelation 20:12

Note: “The books are opened—the book of life and the book of death. The book of life contains the good deeds of the saints; and the book of death contains the evil deeds of the wicked. These books are compared with the statute book, the Bible, and according to that men are judged.” Early Writings, 52

2.b. What does the book of remembrance contain, and why is it important to us? Malachi 3:16; Psalm 56:8

Note: “ ‘A book of remembrance’ is written before God, in which are recorded the good deeds of ‘them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name.’ [Malachi 3:16]. Their words of faith, their acts of love, are registered in heaven. Nehemiah refers to this when he says: ‘Remember me, O my God … and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God.’ [Nehemiah 13:14]. In the book of God’s remembrance, every deed of righteousness is immortalized. There every temptation resisted, every evil overcome, every word of tender pity expressed, is faithfully chronicled. And every act of sacrifice, every suffering and sorrow endured for Christ’s sake, is recorded.” The Great Controversy, 481

“A book of remembrance is written of those who do not forsake the assembling of themselves together, but speak often one to another. The remnant are to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. Some expect to overcome alone by the blood of the Lamb, without making any special effort of their own. I saw that God has been merciful in giving us the power of speech. He has given us a tongue, and we are accountable to Him for its use. We should glorify God with our mouth, speaking in honor of the truth and of His unbounded mercy, and overcome by the word of our testimony through the blood of the Lamb.

“We should not come together to remain silent; those only are remembered of the Lord who assemble to speak of His honor and glory and tell of His power; upon such the blessing of God will rest, and they will be refreshed.” Early Writings, 114, 115

Tuesday

3 WARNING AGAINST A FALSE DOCTRINE

3.a. How can you prove that the doctrine “once saved, always saved” conflicts with the Bible? 2 Peter 1:10, 11; Matthew 24:13. After Christ has saved a person from the control of evil spirits, what may happen? Luke 11:24–26

Note: “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.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, 1093

3.b. After Paul had been saved from the control of Satan (2 Timothy 1:9), what danger did he keep in mind? 1 Corinthians 9:26, 27. How did he warn the Hebrew Christians against the “once saved always saved” doctrine? Hebrews 6:4–6

3.c. What hope, based on Christ’s promise, should be held by those who accept Christ as their personal Saviour? Romans 8:24, 25; Titus 3:7. What warning should we take from Peter’s fall?

Note: “Peter’s fall was not instantaneous, but gradual. Self-confidence led him to the belief that he was saved, and step after step was taken in the downward path, until he could deny his Master. Never can we safely put confidence in self or feel, this side of heaven, that we are secure against temptation. Those who accept the Saviour, however sincere their conversion, should never be taught to say or to feel that they are saved. This is misleading. Everyone should be taught to cherish hope and faith; but even when we give ourselves to Christ and know that He accepts us, we are not beyond the reach of temptation.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 155

“We are never to rest in a satisfied condition and cease to make advancement, saying, ‘I am saved.’ When this idea is entertained, the motives for watchfulness, for prayers, for earnest endeavor to press onward to higher attainments, cease to exist. No sanctified tongue will be found uttering these words till Christ shall come, and we enter in through the gates into the city of God.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 314

Wednesday

4 THE DANGER OF A LAX, CASUAL SPIRIT

4.a. What warnings are given to the Christian about the danger of going back into the worldly lifestyle? 2 Peter 2:20–22; Hebrews 10:26–31

Note: “Man’s great danger is in being self-deceived, indulging self-sufficiency, and thus separating from God, the source of his strength. Our natural tendencies, unless corrected by the Holy Spirit of God, have in them the seeds of moral death. Unless we become vitally connected with God, we cannot resist the unhallowed effects of self-love, self-indulgence, and temptation to sin. …

“Only as we see our utter helplessness and renounce all self-trust, shall we lay hold on divine power.” Testimonies, Vol. 8, 315, 316

4.b. What admonitions should we take into serious consideration every day? 1 Corinthians 10:12; 2 Corinthians 13:5, 6

Note: “As long as life shall last, there is need of guarding the affections and the passions with a firm purpose. There is inward corruption, there are outward temptations, and wherever the work of God shall be advanced, Satan plans so to arrange circumstances that temptation shall come with overpowering force upon the soul. Not one moment can we be secure only as we are relying upon God, the life hid with Christ in God.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 2, 1032

4.c. How can we avoid a lax attitude in worship? 1 Corinthians 14:40. What worship style does Ellen White describe that will take place shortly before the close of probation?

Note: “There will be shouting, with drums, music, and dancing. The senses of rational beings will become so confused that they cannot be trusted to make right decisions. And this is called the moving of the Holy Spirit.

“The Holy Spirit never reveals itself in such methods, in such a bedlam of noise. This is an invention of Satan to cover up his ingenious methods for making of none effect the pure, sincere, elevating, ennobling, sanctifying truth for this time. …

“The Lord desires to have in His service order and discipline, not excitement and confusion.” Maranatha, 234

Thursday

5 OUR MAIN CONCERN

5.a. Why will many names be removed from the book of life in the investigative judgment? Exodus 32:33; Ezekiel 18:20, 24

Note: “The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God. If any of these depart from Him, and by stubborn persistence in sin become finally hardened against the influences of His Holy Spirit, their names will in the judgment be blotted from the book of life, and they themselves will be devoted to destruction.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 326

5.b. As we wish to have a place in the kingdom of glory, what assurance should we have concerning our names? Revelation 3:5; 21:27

Note: “The names of all those who have once given themselves to God are written in the book of life, and their characters are now passing in review before Him. Angels of God are weighing moral worth. They are watching the development of character in those now living, to see if their names can be retained in the book of life. A probation is granted us in which to wash our robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. Who is doing this work? Who is separating from himself sin and selfishness?” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 960

“If we find no pleasure now in the contemplation of heavenly things; if we have no interest in seeking the knowledge of God, no delight in beholding the character of Christ; if holiness has no attractions for us—then we may be sure that our hope of heaven is vain. Perfect conformity to the will of God is the high aim to be constantly before the Christian.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 45

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          Define the two classes of people in light of the plan of redemption.

2          What do you know about the book of life and the book of death?

3          What scriptures disprove the “once-saved, always-saved” doctrine?

4          Explain Hebrews 10:26–31.

5          Explain Revelation 3:5.

 

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The New Covenant Sanctuary and Its Court

by

The Sanctuary In the Christian Dispensation

October 27 – November 2, 2024

Key Text

“The Lord is in His holy temple, the Lord’s throne is in heaven: His eyes behold, His eyelids test the sons of men.” Psalm 11:4

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 414–416

Introduction

“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.” The Story of Redemption, 377

Sunday

1 THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY

1.a. The sanctuary in heaven—mentioned by Paul (Hebrews, chapters 8, 9, 10) and John (Revelation)—was spoken of by the prophets. By what names did they call it?

  • David in Psalm 11:4
  • Isaiah 6:1
  • Jeremiah 25:30
  • Habakkuk 2:20
  • Zechariah 2:13

1.b. When Aaron was anointed high priest, what did he have to do? Leviticus 8:12; 9:2, 7; Hebrews 5:1–3. What did Christ have to offer before starting to minister as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary? Hebrews 7:26–28; 8:3

Note: “As in the typical service the high priest laid aside his pontifical robes and officiated in the white linen dress of an ordinary priest; so Christ laid aside His royal robes and garbed Himself with humanity and offered sacrifice, Himself the priest, Himself the victim.” The Acts of the Apostles, 33

Monday

2 THE COURT

2.a. What comparison does Paul make between the sacrifices under the old covenant and the Great Sacrifice under the new covenant? Hebrews 13:11, 12

Note: “Our great High Priest completed the sacrificial offering of Himself when He suffered without the gate. Then a perfect atonement was made for the sins of the people.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 913

“Christ suffered without the gates of Jerusalem, for Calvary was outside the city walls. This was to show that He died, not for the Hebrews alone, but for all mankind.” Ibid., 934

2.b. Under the old covenant, where did the people stand at the hour of incense (Exodus 30:7, 8)? Luke 1:10. How important is the hour of incense for us today?

Note: “If ever there was a time when every house should be a house of prayer, it is now; and yet in this time of fearful peril, some who profess to be Christians have no family altar. I know of nothing that causes me so great sadness as a prayerless home. The children show the result of this neglect, for the fear of God is not before them. Parents should make a hedge about their children by prayer; they should pray with full faith that God will abide with them, and that holy angels will guard themselves and their children from Satan’s cruel power.

“There are homes where these principles are carried out—homes where God is worshiped and truest love reigns. From these homes, morning and evening, prayer ascends to God as sweet incense, and His mercies and blessings descend upon the suppliants like the evening dew.

“God has promised to give wisdom to those who ask in faith, and He will do just as He said He would. … And if Christian parents seek Him earnestly, He will fill their mouths with arguments, and for His name’s sake, will work mightily in their behalf in the conversion of their children.” The Home Missionary, June 1, 1889

2.c. Under the new covenant, what is our work in the “outer court” while awaiting the blessed promise? Matthew 24:44; Luke 12:35–38; 21:36

Tuesday

3 THE ALTAR

3.a. While we are in “the outer court,” what “living sacrifices” are we required to offer on the “altar”? Hebrews 13:10, 15, 16; Romans 12:1, 2

Note: “In the time of ancient Israel, every offering brought as a sacrifice to God was carefully examined. If any defect was discovered in the animal presented, it was refused; for God had commanded that the offering be ‘without blemish.’ So Christians are bidden to present their bodies, ‘a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.’ Romans 12:1. In order to do this, all their powers must be preserved in the best possible condition. Every practice that weakens physical or mental strength unfits man for the service of his Creator.” The Great Controversy, 473

3.b. What did Jesus say about the necessity of cross-bearing? Matthew 16:24–26; Luke 9:23

Note: “Christ has given us no assurance that to attain to perfection of character is an easy matter. It is a conflict, a battle and a march, day by day. It is through much tribulation that we enter the kingdom of heaven. In order to share with Christ in His glory, we must share in His suffering. … He has overcome for us. Shall we, then, be timid and cowardly because of the trials that we meet as we advance?” Sons and Daughters of God, 198

3.c. What did our forefathers in the faith (millions of them) offer on the “altar” during the Inquisition? Revelation 6:9–11. In what sense is their blood crying for justice? Genesis 4:10; Habakkuk 2:11

Note: “In their secret councils, Satan and his angels controlled the minds of evil men, while unseen in the midst stood an angel of God, taking the fearful record of their iniquitous decrees and writing the history of deeds too horrible to appear to human eyes. ‘Babylon the great’ was ‘drunken with the blood of the saints.’ The mangled forms of millions of martyrs cried to God for vengeance upon that apostate power.” The Great Controversy, 59, 60

Wednesday

4 THE BLESSING

4.a. What did Aaron as high priest do at the end of the ceremony of his inauguration? Leviticus 9:23, 24

4.b. What did Christ do when He sat on the throne? How did He bless His people? Acts 1:8, 9; 2:1–4, 16, 17

Note: “When Christ passed within the heavenly gates, He was enthroned amidst the adoration of the angels. As soon as this ceremony was completed, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples in rich currents, and Christ was indeed glorified, even with the glory which He had with the Father from all eternity. The Pentecostal outpouring was Heaven’s communication that the Redeemer’s inauguration was accomplished. According to His promise He had sent the Holy Spirit from heaven to His followers as a token that He had, as priest and king, received all authority in heaven and on earth, and was the Anointed One over His people.” The Acts of the Apostles, 38, 39

4.c. What promise did Jesus fulfill by sending the Comforter, the Holy Spirit? John 14:16–18; 16:7. Describe how this blessing comes to us. Acts 5:32

Note: “What is the Holy Spirit? It is the representative of Jesus Christ, it is our Advocate that stands by our side and places our petitions before the Father all fragrant with His merits. There He accepts the petition of the humblest saint. He doesn’t ask you how much money you have, or how heavy you are loaded with property, but the very humblest saint that brings his petition to God, and [his] thank offering is made fragrant with the riches of His grace, and the Father accepts it as your offering, and the blessing comes to you, grace for grace.” Reflecting Christ, 285

“This representative [the Comforter] is by our side wherever we may be—a watcher and a witness to all that is said and done—standing ready to protect us from the assaults of the enemy if we will but place ourselves under His protection. But we must act our part, and then God will act His part. When we are brought into trial and affliction for His sake, the Comforter will stand by our side, bringing to our remembrance the words and teachings of Christ.” The Youth’s Instructor, August 20, 1896

Thursday

5 THE NEEDED PREPARATION

5.a. What preparation was done by the disciples to receive the promised blessing? Acts 1:13, 14

Note: “The disciples prayed with intense earnestness for a fitness to meet men and in their daily intercourse to speak words that would lead sinners to Christ. Putting away all differences, all desire for the supremacy, they came close together in Christian fellowship. They drew nearer and nearer to God. …

“These days of preparation were days of deep heart searching. The disciples felt their spiritual need and cried to the Lord for the holy unction that was to fit them for the work of soul saving. They did not ask for a blessing for themselves merely. They were weighted with the burden of the salvation of souls. They realized that the gospel was to be carried to the world, and they claimed the power that Christ had promised.” The Acts of the Apostles, 37

5.b. How will history be repeated concerning the coming of the Holy Spirit in fullness? Zechariah 10:1; Acts 3:19

Note: “Let Christians put away all dissension and give themselves to God for the saving of the lost. Let them ask in faith for the promised blessing, and it will come.” Testimonies, Vol. 8, 21

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          By what names did the prophets call the heavenly sanctuary?

2          In ancient Israel, the people of Jerusalem were praying outside, in the outer court, at the time of offering incense. What should we be doing at this time?

3          What did Aaron do at the ceremony of his inauguration? What did Christ do when He ascended to heaven?

4          What did the disciples need to do before receiving the promised blessing?

5          When, and on what condition, will the promised blessing be poured out again?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Having Confidence to Enter the Sanctuary

by

October 20 – 26, 2024

Key Text

“There, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith … .” Hebrews 10:19–22, first part

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 409–413, 428, 429

Introduction

“It [the faith of God’s people] will go with Him [Christ] into the sanctuary, and the worshipers on earth will be carefully reviewing their lives and comparing their characters with the great standard of righteousness.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 575

Sunday

1 MOUNT ZION

1.a. What did Mount Zion designate in the days of Isaiah the prophet? Isaiah 8:18; 18:7; 24:23

1.b. What is the name of the place of God’s throne in heaven? Joel 3:17; Micah 4:7; Revelation 14:1–3

1.c. As King David lifted up his eyes to God’s sanctuary, what was his great concern? Psalms 14:7; 15:1. What should be ours?

Note: “We need to study God’s word, to meditate and pray. Then we shall have spiritual eyesight to discern the inner courts of the celestial temple. We shall catch the notes of thanksgiving sung by the heavenly choir around the throne. When Zion shall arise and shine, her light will be most penetrating, and songs of praise and thanksgiving will be heard in the assembly of the saints. Little disappointments and difficulties will be lost sight of.” Sons and Daughters of God, 198

Monday

2 THE TABERNACLE OF THE TESTIMONY

2.a. What name was given to the earthly tabernacle? Numbers 1:50, 53; 9:15; 10:11. Why? What was the most important object in it? Exodus 31:18; 32:15; 40:20

Note: “The ark was merely a receptacle for the tables of the law, and the presence of these divine precepts gave to it its value and sacredness.” The Great Controversy, 433

2.b. In view of the conflict waging over our souls and our Saviour’s present work in the most Holy Place in our behalf, what should we pledge? Hebrews 10:23; Psalm 119:109, 113

Note: “Satan is now using every device in this sealing time to keep the minds of God’s people from the present, sealing truth; and to cause them to waver. I saw a covering that God was drawing over His people, to protect them in the time of trouble; and every soul that was decided on the truth and was pure in heart was to be covered with the covering of Almighty God.

“Satan knew this and he was at work in mighty power to keep the minds of as many as he possibly could unsettled and wavering on the truth.” The Review and Herald, August 1, 1849

“In every soul two powers are struggling earnestly for the victory. Unbelief marshals its forces, led by Satan, to cut us off from the Source of our strength. Faith marshals its forces, led by Christ, the author and finisher of our faith. Hour by hour, in the sight of the heavenly universe, the conflict goes forward.” Sons and Daughters of God, 328

Tuesday

3 THE MEASURING OF CHRISTIAN STATURE

3.a. What is the measuring rod to measure those that worship God in His sanctuary by faith? Revelation 11:1, 19

Note: “Every case is coming in review before God; He is measuring the temple and the worshipers therein.” Testimonies, Vol. 7, 219

“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.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 972

3.b. Why must the altar of incense also be examined? Isn’t it to test our prayers which are symbolized by the incense that is offered upon the altar? Revelation 5:8; 8:3 (Compare Isaiah 1:13, 15; Proverbs 28:9.)

Note: “The religious services, the prayers, the praise, the penitent confession of sin ascend from true believers as incense to the heavenly sanctuary, but passing through the corrupt channels of humanity, they are so defiled that unless purified by blood, they can never be of value with God. They ascend not in spotless purity, and unless the Intercessor, who is at God’s right hand, presents and purifies all by His righteousness, it is not acceptable to God. All incense from earthly tabernacles must be moist with the cleansing drops of the blood of Christ. He holds before the Father the censer of His own merits, in which there is no taint of earthly corruption. He gathers into this censer the prayers, the praise, and the confessions of His people, and with these He puts His own spotless righteousness. Then, perfumed with the merits of Christ’s propitiation, the incense comes up before God wholly and entirely acceptable. Then gracious answers are returned.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 344

Wednesday

4 SPIRITUAL ISRAELITES AND SPIRITUAL GENTILES 

4.a. What is the name of the capital city of the kingdom where the faithful have their citizenship? Ephesians 2:19; Galatians 4:26. On what condition can we be accepted into this kingdom? Matthew 5:20; John 3:35; 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18

Note: “The condition of being received into the Lord’s family is coming out from the world, separating from all its contaminating influences. The people of God are to have no connection with idolatry in any of its forms. They are to reach a higher standard. We are to be distinguished from the world, and then God says, ‘I will receive you as members of My royal family, children of the heavenly King.’ As believers in the truth we are to be distinct in practice from sin and sinners. Our citizenship is in heaven.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 481

4.b. In what sense do we have access to the heavenly Jerusalem and to the sanctuary on Mount Zion? Hebrews 10:19, 20

Note: “By faith we may stand on the threshold of the eternal city.” The Acts of the Apostles, 601

4.c. What is God’s provision for those who are not “the children of Abraham” by faith (Galatians 3:7), but honestly desire to learn the truth? Revelation 11:2 first part

Note: “Among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, He [the Lord] sees men and women who are praying for light and knowledge. Their souls are unsatisfied; long have they fed on ashes. See Isaiah 44:20. The enemy of all righteousness has turned them aside, and they grope as blind men. But they are honest in heart and desire to learn a better way.” Prophets and Kings, 376

Thursday

5 THE REDEEMED WILL BE THERE IN PERSON

 5.a. What does the Bible call those who understand the sanctuary doctrine and by faith worship God in His temple? Revelation 7:4; Romans 2:28, 29

 5.b. Describe the complete victory we must obtain to be sealed. Revelation 15:2, 3

 Note: “To follow Christ is not freedom from conflict. It is not child’s play. It is not spiritual idleness. All the enjoyment in Christ’s service means sacred obligations in meeting oft stern conflicts. To follow Christ means stern battles, active labor, warfare against the world, the flesh, and the devil. Our enjoyment is the victories gained for Christ in earnest, hard warfare. Think of this.” The Upward Look, 217

5.c. Where did John the Revelator see the victors, and how many were there? Revelation 14:1–3. What privileges will they enjoy? Revelation 7:15–17; John 14:1–3

Note: “Every heavenly intelligence is interested in the assemblies of the saints who on earth meet to worship God. In the inner court of heaven they listen to the testimony of the witnesses for Christ in the outer court on earth, and the praise and thanksgiving from the worshipers below is taken up in the heavenly anthem, and praise and rejoicing sound through the heavenly courts because Christ has not died in vain for the fallen sons of Adam. While angels drink from the fountainhead, the saints on earth drink of the pure streams flowing from the throne, the streams that make glad the city of our God.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 366

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          What name is shared by both the earthly temple and the heavenly?

2          By what name was the earthly tabernacle called, and why is the heavenly sanctuary called “the tabernacle of the testimony”?

3          Why must the heavenly temple and its worshipers be measured?

4          How can we become citizens of the kingdom of heaven?

5          Explain the victories and the seal to be gained for admittance there.

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

“That They Might Know Thee”

by

October 13 – 19, 2024

Key Text

“And this is life eternal, that they may know You the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.” John 17:3

Study Help: Christ’s Object Lessons, 103–114

Introduction

“The experimental knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He has sent transforms man into the image of God.” Reflecting Christ, 117

Sunday

1 THIS IS LIFE ETERNAL

 1.a. What is the central theme of the plan of salvation? John 17:3; 1 John 5:20

Note: “In His prayer to the Father, Christ gave to the world a lesson which should be graven on mind and soul. ‘This is life eternal,’ He said, ‘that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.’ ” John 17:3. This is true education. It imparts power.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 114

1.b. Through whom do we know God the Father? John 14:8–10; 10:30

1.c. Through whom does Christ teach us? John 14:26; 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:12, 13

1.d. Where do the Father and the Son reveal themselves? Luke 11:28; John 5:39. Where else does God show His ways? Psalm 77:13

Note: “God designed the Bible to be a lesson book to all mankind, in childhood, youth, and manhood, and to be studied through all time. He gave His word to men as a revelation of Himself. Every new truth discerned is a fresh disclosure of the character of its Author. The study of the Scriptures is the means divinely ordained to bring men into closer connection with their Creator and to give them a clearer knowledge of His will. It is the medium of communication between God and man.” The Great Controversy, 69

Monday

2 A DISTINCT POSITION

2.a. What position does Christ occupy in relation to the Father? Psalm 110:1; Hebrews 1:3; 10:12

2.b. It is understood that, in biblical language, the “right hand” does not point to a geographical place, but to a position of authority (Exodus 15:6). What power was vested in Christ? 1 Peter 3:22

2.c. How does Christ extend His power also to the believer, providing help in daily life? Ephesians 1:17–22

Note: “Christ laid aside His royal robe, His kingly crown, and His high command, and stepped down, down, down, to the lowest depths of humiliation. Bearing human nature, He met all the temptations of humanity and in our behalf defeated the enemy on every point.

“All this He did that He might bring men power by which they might be overcomers. ‘All power,’ He says, ‘is given unto Me.’ Matthew 28:18. And this He gives to all who will follow Him. They may demonstrate to the world the power that there is in the religion of Christ for the conquest of self.” Testimonies, Vol. 9, 190

“Were it not for the power received through Christ, we would have no strength. But Christ has all power. ‘Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world’ Matthew 28:18–20.

“Here is our power, our comfort. Of ourselves, we have no strength. But He says, ‘I am with you alway,’ helping you to perform your duty, guiding, comforting, sanctifying, and sustaining you, giving you success in speaking words that will draw the attention of others to Christ, and awaken in their minds the desire to understand the hope and meaning of the truth, turning them from darkness to light and from the power of sin to God.” This Day With God, 329

2.d. What authority is behind the law of ten commandments written on two tables of stone? Exodus 34:1; Deuteronomy 10:4; 33:2

Note: “The law of God in the sanctuary in heaven is the great original, of which the precepts inscribed upon the tables of stone and recorded by Moses in the Pentateuch were an unerring transcript.” The Great Controversy, 434

Tuesday

3 IN THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY

3.a. Where, in heaven, does Christ officiate as our High Priest? Hebrews 8:1, 2; 9:11, 24

Note: “When Jesus at His ascension entered by His own blood into the heavenly sanctuary to shed upon His disciples the blessings of His mediation, the Jews were left in total darkness to continue their useless sacrifices and offerings. The ministration of types and shadows had ceased.” The Great Controversy, 430

3.b. What is Christ doing in our behalf in the presence of the Father? 1 John 2:1, 2; Matthew 10:32, 33. Why should this bring us courage?

Note: “The divine Intercessor presents the plea that all who have overcome through faith in His blood be forgiven their transgressions, that they be restored to their Eden home. … He asks for His people not only pardon and justification, full and complete, but a share in His glory and a seat upon His throne.” The Great Controversy, 484

“Jesus knows the circumstances of every soul. You may say, I am sinful, very sinful. You may be; but the worse you are, the more you need Jesus. He turns no weeping, contrite one away. He does not tell to any all that He might reveal, but He bids every trembling soul take courage. Freely will He pardon all who come to Him for forgiveness and restoration. …

“He is today standing at the altar of incense, presenting before God the prayers of those who desire His help.” The Desire of Ages, 568

“Christ steps in between fallen man and God, and says to man: ‘You may yet come to the Father; there is a plan devised through which God can be reconciled to man, and man to God; through a mediator you can approach God.’ And now He stands to mediate for you. He is the great High Priest who is pleading in your behalf; and you are to come and present your case to the Father through Jesus Christ. Thus you can find access to God; and though you sin, your case is not hopeless. …

“Be not discouraged; be not fainthearted. Although you may have temptations, although you may be beset by the wily foe, yet if you have the fear of God before you, angels that excel in strength will be sent to your help, and you can be more than a match for the powers of darkness. Jesus lives. He died to make a way of escape for the fallen race, and He lives today to make intercession for us, that we may be exalted to His own right hand.” Testimonies, Vol. 2, 591, 592

Wednesday

4 SEVEN CHURCHES, SEVEN CANDLESTICKS, SEVEN STARS

4.a. How did the apostle John describe the vision in which he saw Christ in the heavenly sanctuary? Revelation 1:12–16, 20

Note: “The names of the seven churches are symbolic of the church in different periods of the Christian Era. The number seven indicates completeness, and is symbolic of the fact that the messages extend to the end of time, while the symbols used reveal the condition of the church at different periods in the history of the world.” The Acts of the Apostles, 585

4.b. What is the symbolic meaning of the seven candlesticks? Revelation 1:20

Note: “Christ is spoken of as walking in the midst of the golden candlesticks. Thus is symbolized His relation to the churches. He is in constant communication with His people. He knows their true state. He observes their order, their piety, their devotion. Although He is high priest and mediator in the sanctuary above, yet He is represented as walking up and down in the midst of His churches on the earth. With untiring wakefulness and unremitting vigilance, He watches to see whether the light of any of His sentinels is burning dim or going out. If the candlesticks were left to mere human care, the flickering flame would languish and die; but He is the true watchman in the Lord’s house, the true warden of the temple courts. His continued care and sustaining grace are the source of life and light.” The Acts of the Apostles, 586

4.c. What do the seven stars symbolize? Revelation 1:16, first part, 20

Note: “Christ is represented as holding the seven stars in His right hand. This assures us that no church faithful to its trust need fear coming to nought, for not a star that has the protection of Omnipotence can be plucked out of the hand of Christ.

“ ‘These things saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand.’ Revelation 2:1. These words are spoken to the teachers in the church—those entrusted by God with weighty responsibilities. … He fills them with light. He guides and directs their movements. If He did not do this, they would become fallen stars. So with His ministers. They are but instruments in His hands, and all the good they accomplish is done through His power. Through them His light is to shine forth.” The Acts of the Apostles, 586, 587

Thursday

5 A “NEW AND LIVING WAY” OPENED BEFORE US

5.a. What does the symbolic sword represent (Revelation 1:16, last part; 19:15, 21)? Ephesians 6:17; Hebrews 4:12. How can this help us walk in the path of godliness?

Note: “God is not unmindful of your struggles, of your conflicts to maintain the truth and obtain a personal daily experience in walking in the ways of truth. When you appreciate every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God, as revealed in His word, higher than worldly policy, you will be guided into every good and holy way.” Loma Linda Messages, 248

5.b. What way was opened to us by the death of Christ on the cross? Hebrews 9:8; 10:19, 20

Note: “Type has met antitype in the death of God’s Son. The great sacrifice has been made. The way into the holiest is laid open. A new and living way is prepared for all. No longer need sinful, sorrowing humanity await the coming of the high priest. Henceforth the Saviour was to officiate as priest and advocate in the heaven of heavens. It was as if a living voice had spoken to the worshipers: There is now an end to all sacrifices and offerings for sin.” The Desire of Ages, 757

5.c. Since the way has been opened for us, what are we advised to do? Hebrews 4:14–16

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          What is true education? How is it obtained? And what result does it bring?

2          How should we understand Christ’s position at the right hand of God?

3          Where is Christ now, and what work is He doing?

4          What is the symbolic meaning of the seven candlesticks, the seven stars, and the sharp two-edged sword?

5          What is the “new and living way” opened by the death of Christ?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Our High Priest

by

October 6 – 12, 2024

Key Text

“Therefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our confession, Christ Jesus.” Hebrews 3:1

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 430–432

Introduction

“After His ascension, our Saviour began His work as our high priest.” Maranatha, 248

Sunday

1 VICTORY!

1.  When Christ accomplished His work on earth, what did He exclaim from the cross? John 19:30. What did these words signify? Ephesians 2:16–18; Revelation 12:10

Note: “All heaven triumphed in the Saviour’s victory. Satan was defeated, and knew that his kingdom was lost.

“To the angels and the unfallen worlds the cry, ‘It is finished,’ had a deep significance. It was for them as well as for us that the great work of redemption had been accomplished. They with us share the fruits of Christ’s victory.

“Not until the death of Christ was the character of Satan clearly revealed to the angels or to the unfallen worlds. The archapostate had so clothed himself with deception that even holy beings had not understood his principles. They had not clearly seen the nature of his rebellion. …

“It was God’s purpose to place things on an eternal basis of security, and in the councils of heaven it was decided that time must be given for Satan to develop the principles which were the foundation of his system of government. He had claimed that these were superior to God’s principles. Time was given for the working of Satan’s principles, that they might be seen by the heavenly universe.

“Satan led men into sin, and the plan of redemption was put in operation. For four thousand years, Christ was working for man’s uplifting, and Satan for his ruin and degradation. And the heavenly universe beheld it all.” The Desire of Ages, 758, 759

Monday

2 RECONCILIATION IN HEAVEN AND ON EARTH

2.a. What took place in heaven through Christ’s death on the cross? Colossians 1:20. What provision was made for reconciliation on earth? 2 Corinthians 5:18–21

Note: “Satan saw that his disguise was torn away. His administration was laid open before the unfallen angels and before the heavenly universe. He had revealed himself as a murderer. By shedding the blood of the Son of God, he had uprooted himself from the sympathies of the heavenly beings. Henceforth his work was restricted. Whatever attitude he might assume, he could no longer await the angels as they came from the heavenly courts, and before them accuse Christ’s brethren of being clothed with the garments of blackness and the defilement of sin. The last link of sympathy between Satan and the heavenly world was broken.” The Desire of Ages, 761

2.b. What decision was then confirmed about Satan? Hebrews 2:14. Why wasn’t he destroyed at that time?

Note: “[At Christ’s death on the cross,] Satan was not then destroyed. The angels did not even then understand all that was involved in the great controversy. The principles at stake were to be more fully revealed. And for the sake of man, Satan’s existence must be continued. Man as well as angels must see the contrast between the Prince of light and the prince of darkness. He must choose whom he will serve.” The Desire of Ages, 761

2.c. Why can the merciful and just King of the universe rightly offer hope to us but no longer to Satan? Revelation 12:9; 20:10

Note: “Lucifer in heaven had sinned in the light of God’s glory. To him as to no other created being was given a revelation of God’s love. Understanding the character of God, knowing His goodness, Satan chose to follow his own selfish, independent will. This choice was final. There was no more that God could do to save him. But man was deceived; his mind was darkened by Satan’s sophistry. The height and depth of the love of God he did not know. For him there was hope in a knowledge of God’s love. By beholding His character he might be drawn back to God.” The Desire of Ages, 761, 762

Tuesday

3 CHRIST AND THE GOVERNMENT OF GOD

3.a. What two principles actively operate together in the plan of redemption? Psalm 85:10

Note: “God’s love has been expressed in His justice no less than in His mercy. Justice is the foundation of His throne, and the fruit of His love. It had been Satan’s purpose to divorce mercy from truth and justice. He sought to prove that the righteousness of God’s law is an enemy to peace. But Christ shows that in God’s plan they are indissolubly joined together; the one cannot exist without the other. …

“Satan declared that mercy destroyed justice, that the death of Christ abrogated the Father’s law. Had it been possible for the law to be changed or abrogated, then Christ need not have died. But to abrogate the law would be to immortalize transgression, and place the world under Satan’s control. It was because the law was changeless, because man could be saved only through obedience to its precepts, that Jesus was lifted up on the cross.” The Desire of Ages, 762, 763

3.b. Explain Christ’s position in heaven. Hebrews 3:1

Note: “The sacrificial service that had pointed to Christ passed away; but the eyes of men were turned to the true sacrifice for the sins of the world. The earthly priesthood ceased; but we look to Jesus, the minister of the new covenant. …

“Though the ministration was to be removed from the earthly to the heavenly temple; though the sanctuary and our great high priest would be invisible to human sight, yet the disciples were to suffer no loss thereby. They would realize no break in their communion, and no diminution of power because of the Saviour’s absence. While Jesus ministers in the sanctuary above, He is still by His Spirit the minister of the church on earth.” The Desire of Ages, 166

3.c. How did Christ become our High Priest after the order of Melchizedek—by law or by oath? Hebrews 7:12–21, 28

3.d. When and how did Abraham and even the tribe of Levi pay tithes to Melchizedek? Hebrews 7:1, 2, 9, 10. How and through whom does our High Priest receive our tithes? Hebrews 7:8

Wednesday

4 BLESSED BY OUR HIGH PRIEST

 4.a. Under the old covenant, what compassion was expected of the high priest toward the people? Why? Hebrews 5:1, 2

 4.b. Under the new covenant, what attention, help, and love do we receive from our High Priest? Hebrews 2:14–18; Matthew 28:20

Note: “Though apparent impossibilities obstruct their way, by His grace they [Christ’s followers] are to go forward. Instead of deploring difficulties, they are called upon to surmount them. They are to despair of nothing, and to hope for everything. With the golden chain of His matchless love Christ has bound them to the throne of God. It is His purpose that the highest influence in the universe, emanating from the source of all power, shall be theirs. They are to have power to resist evil, power that neither earth, nor death, nor hell can master, power that will enable them to overcome as Christ overcame. …

“In the language of One who has divine authority, Christ gives His elect church into the Father’s arms. As a consecrated high priest He intercedes for His people. As a faithful shepherd He gathers His flock under the shadow of the Almighty, in the strong and sure refuge. …” The Desire of Ages, 679, 680

4.c. What assurance offers us comfort and stability in our daily life? Hebrews 13:6, 8

Note: “Jesus is always the same in His human tenderness combined with His divinity; always touched with the feeling of our infirmities, using His divine ministering attributes to do us good; always encouraging, guiding, leading us on step by step. He is unchangeable. What He is to us today, a faithful High Priest touched with the feeling of our infirmities, this He will be tomorrow, and tomorrow forever more. He is a Guide to lead, a Teacher to instruct, a Friend to counsel, a Donor to bestow His blessings upon His church in response to their faith.

“Said Jesus to His believing disciples, ‘Abide in Me.’ This means continual faith on the part of the believer. ‘Abide in Me.’ This means, listen to the instruction of Christ. We must do His will. Christ makes us at home with Him, and we enjoy the favors of His home, enjoy His peace. All human frictions, all ill-temper, all irritation cease in His home.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 21, 422, 423

Thursday

5 WHILE THE DOOR OF PROBATION IS STILL OPEN …

 5.a. Ever since His ascension, what has been the main work of our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary? Hebrews 7:24–26; 9:12

 Note: “Christ Jesus is represented as continually standing at the altar, momentarily offering up the sacrifice for the sins of the world. He is a minister of the true tabernacle which the Lord pitched and not man. … Jesus is officiating in the presence of God, offering up His shed blood, as it had been a lamb slain.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 343, 344

5.b. Describe how effective are the merits of Christ’s blood while the door of probation is still open. Revelation 1:5; Hebrews 9:14; 1 John 1:9

Note: “Jesus presents the oblation offered for every offense and every shortcoming of the sinner.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 344

“The relations between God and each soul are as distinct and full as though there were not another soul upon the earth to share His watchcare, nor another soul for whom He gave His beloved Son.” Steps to Christ, 100

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          How was Christ’s exclamation, “It is finished,” interpreted by the angelic host?

2          Why was reconciliation in heaven needed, and when did it take place?

3          Explain how mercy and righteousness go together in God’s plan. Give examples.

4          While Jesus ministers as our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary, how is He, at the same time, present with His earthly church?

5          Explain how Christ, while officiating on our behalf in the presence of the Father, is offering up His blood (Hebrews 9:14; 1 John 1:7) shed 2,000 years before.

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Lamb of God

by

The Sanctuary In the Christian Dispensation

September 29 – October 5, 2024

Key Text

“Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 136–143

Introduction

“The sacrificial lamb represents ‘the Lamb of God,’ in whom is our only hope of salvation.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 277

Sunday

1 “BEHOLD, THY KING COMETH”

1.a. What had Zechariah prophesied about Christ 500 years before His birth? Zechariah 9:9

1.b. Describe the fulfillment of this prophecy. Matthew 21:1–11; Luke 19:37, 38

Note: “No sooner was He [Christ] seated upon the colt than a loud shout of triumph rent the air. The multitude hailed Him as Messiah, their King. Jesus now accepted the homage which He had never before permitted, and the disciples received this as proof that their glad hopes were to be realized by seeing Him established on the throne.” The Desire of Ages, 570

“About the Saviour were the glorious trophies of His labors of love for sinful man. …

“Many Pharisees witnessed the scene, and, burning with envy and malice, sought to turn the current of popular feeling … They declared that such noisy demonstrations were unlawful, and would not be permitted by the authorities. But they were silenced by the reply of Jesus, ‘I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.’ That scene of triumph was of God’s own appointing. It had been foretold by the prophet, and man was powerless to turn aside God’s purpose. Had men failed to carry out His plan, He would have given a voice to the inanimate stones, and they would have hailed His Son with acclamations of praise. As the silenced Pharisees drew back, the words of Zechariah were taken up by hundreds of voices: ‘Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: He is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass.’ ” Ibid., 572–575

Monday

2 CHRIST, THE PROMISED DELIVERER

2.a. What kind of deliverance did the Jews expect? Acts 1:6, last part

Note: “The multitude were convinced that the hour of their emancipation was at hand. In imagination, they saw the Roman armies driven from Jerusalem, and Israel once more an independent nation.” The Desire of Ages, 570

“Their dissatisfied hearts queried why, if Jesus could perform so many wondrous works as they had witnessed, could He not give health, strength, and riches to all His people, free them from their oppressors, and exalt them to power and honor?” Ibid., 385

2.b. Did Christ come to deliver Israel from bondage under the Romans or from slavery of sin? Isaiah 61:1; John 8:32–36

Note: “The period of Christ’s personal ministry among men was the time of greatest activity for the forces of the kingdom of darkness. For ages Satan with his evil angels had been seeking to control the bodies and the souls of men, to bring upon them sin and suffering; then he had charged all this misery upon God. Jesus was revealing to men the character of God. He was breaking Satan’s power, and setting his captives free.” The Desire of Ages, 257

2.c. The veil was removed from our eyes (2 Corinthians 3:16, 17) when we grasped the truth (John 8:32), which bids us seek the right kind of deliverance. Does Christ set us free from obedience to the law or from disobedience, which is sin? Psalm 40:7, 8; Romans 8:6–13

Note: “Speaking of the law, Jesus said, ‘I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.’ He here used the word ‘fulfill’ in the same sense as when He declared to John the Baptist His purpose to ‘fulfill all righteousness’ (Matthew 3:15); that is, to fill up the measure of the law’s requirement, to give an example of perfect conformity to the will of God.

“His mission was to ‘magnify the law, and make it honorable.’ Isaiah 42:21. He was to show the spiritual nature of the law, to present its far-reaching principles, and to make plain its eternal obligation.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 48, 49

2.d. How might we summarize the truth in Christ? Psalm 119:142; John 17:17

Tuesday

3 THE DISAPPOINTMENT

3.a. Instead of seeing Christ crowned king, what did the people see? Luke 19:45, 46. What did Christ want to teach by the cleansing of the temple? Malachi 3:3

Note: “The courts of the temple at Jerusalem, filled with the tumult of unholy traffic, represented all too truly the temple of the heart, defiled by the presence of sensual passion and unholy thoughts. In cleansing the temple from the world’s buyers and sellers, Jesus announced His mission to cleanse the heart from the defilement of sin—from the earthly desires, the selfish lusts, the evil habits, that corrupt the soul.” The Desire of Ages, 161

3.b. What prophecy did the Jews overlook in connection with the Passover lamb? Isaiah 53:2–7

Note: “The Jews had become familiar with the offering of blood, and had almost lost sight of the fact that it was sin which made necessary all this shedding of the blood of beasts. They did not discern that it prefigured the blood of God’s dear Son, which was to be shed for the life of the world, and that by the offering of sacrifices men were to be directed to a crucified Redeemer.” The Desire of Ages, 589, 590

3.c. Since the Jews misunderstood the prophecy about the promised deliverance (Isaiah 61:1), were they able to discern the meaning of the Passover lamb? What did they say as they could not see that the lamb represented Christ? John 6:52

Note: “The Jews were about to celebrate the Passover at Jerusalem, in commemoration of the night of Israel’s deliverance, when the destroying angel smote the homes of Egypt. In the paschal lamb, God desired them to behold the Lamb of God, and through the symbol receive Him who gave Himself for the life of the world. But the Jews had come to make the symbol all-important, while its significance was unnoticed. They discerned not the Lord’s body. The same truth that was symbolized in the paschal service was taught in the words of Christ. But it was still undiscerned.” The Desire of Ages, 388, 389

Wednesday

4 DISAPPOINTED HOPES, MENTAL CONFUSION

4.a. What did Christ mean when He said that we have life eternal by eating His flesh and drinking His blood? John 6:51

Note: “To eat the flesh and drink the blood of Christ is to receive Him as a personal Saviour, believing that He forgives our sins, and that we are complete in Him. It is by beholding His love, by dwelling upon it, by drinking it in, that we are to become partakers of His nature. What food is to the body, Christ must be to the soul. Food cannot benefit us unless we eat it, unless it becomes a part of our being. So Christ is of no value to us if we do not know Him as a personal Saviour. A theoretical knowledge will do us no good. We must feed upon Him, receive Him into the heart, so that His life becomes our life. His love, His grace, must be assimilated.” The Desire of Ages, 389

4.b. How are we to avoid the pitfall of those who were offended by Christ’s reference to the bread of life? John 6:52–60

Note: “That which was plain to those who had true faith, became a stumbling block to those who lacked spiritual discernment. They [many of Christ’s disciples] were offended because He spoke words to them that the natural heart could not comprehend and receive, and they refused to walk any more with Jesus.

“Are there not among the believers some who love the world and whose affections are so absorbed in their relatives and friends who obey not the truth, that they are confused in mind, and through the temptations of Satan take their stand on his side, instead of on the Lord’s side? … [John 6:54, 55 quoted.] These were the words over which some of the disciples stumbled, but Jesus removed everything that might constitute a stumbling block, and said to them: ‘Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.’ It is the word of God abiding in the heart that will quicken the spiritual faculties.” The Youth’s Instructor, January 10, 1895

4.c. As Christ was standing before the judgment seat of Pilate, what shout was heard from the multitude? Matthew 27:22–25

 Thursday

5 HOPE FOR THE WORLD

5.a. Just before Christ was to die for the sins of the world, what ordinance did He institute, and what was it to commemorate? 1 Corinthians 11:23–26; 1 Peter 3:18

Note: “He [Christ], the spotless Lamb of God, was about to present Himself as a sin offering, that He would thus bring to an end the system of types and ceremonies that for four thousand years had pointed to His death. As He ate the Passover with His disciples, He instituted in its place the service that was to be the memorial of His great sacrifice. …

“The Passover was ordained as a commemoration of the deliverance of Israel from Egyptian bondage. … The ordinance of the Lord’s Supper was given to commemorate the great deliverance wrought out as the result of the death of Christ.” The Desire of Ages, 652, 653

5.b. What door was opened to the world by the sacrifice of the Lamb of God on the cross of Calvary? Romans 11:11, 15; 2 Timothy 1:9, 10; 1 Peter 1:18–20

Note: “In stooping to take upon Himself humanity, Christ revealed a character the opposite of the character of Satan. But He stepped still lower in the path of humiliation. ‘Being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.’ Philippians 2:8. As the high priest laid aside his gorgeous pontifical robes, and officiated in the white linen dress of the common priest, so Christ took the form of a servant, and offered sacrifice, Himself the priest, Himself the victim.” The Desire of Ages, 25

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          How was the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9 fulfilled?

2          Describe the mistaken idea the Jews had about the expected Messiah.

3          Explain what led them to shout, “Crucify Him! Crucify Him!”

4          What is the symbolic meaning of Christ’s body and blood?

5          What ordinance commemorated the deliverance of Israel from Egyptian bondage, and what deliverance does the Lord’s Supper commemorate?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Christ in His Sanctuary

by

September 22 – 28, 2024

Key Text

“We have such a High Priest, … a Minister of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man.” Hebrews 8:1, 2

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 50–60, 479–491

Introduction

“Christ has made one sufficient sacrifice, and has become the only Mediator and sole Priest between God and man. Let every man stand out of the way, and occupy his own place as wearing Christ’s yoke.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 9, 184

Sunday

1 CHRIST, A MINISTER OF THE SANCTUARY

1.a. In Old Testament times, what was the purpose of the daily atonement? Leviticus 4:13, 20, 26, 31, 35. Although the sins of the people were forgiven in the daily atonement, what was the purpose of the yearly atonement? Leviticus 16:16, 30, 33

 

Note: “Under the Mosaic system the cleansing of the sanctuary, or the great Day of Atonement, occurred on the tenth day of the seventh Jewish month (Leviticus 16:29–34), when the high priest, having made an atonement for all Israel, and thus removed their sins from the sanctuary, came forth and blessed the people.” The Great Controversy, 400

1.b. When the sins accumulated in the sanctuary were removed and put on the head of the live goat (who was sent away “unto a land not inhabited” “by the hand of a fit man” Leviticus 16:21, 22), what did this man have to do before entering the camp? Leviticus 16:26

 

1.c. When could the people know for sure that they were cleansed—exonerated from the sins they had confessed and that had been forgiven in the daily atonement? Leviticus 16:29, 30, 33, 34

 

Monday

2 THE THRONE OF GRACE—WHERE?

2.a. What was done in the earthly sanctuary to “serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things” (Hebrews 8:5)? Therefore, where do we have a High Priest, and what is He doing for us? Hebrews 9:11, 12; 1 John 2:1, 2

 

2.b. Where is the throne of grace to which we are invited to come with our prayers? Hebrews 4:16; Revelation 8:3

 

2.c. When our sins are confessed and forgiven in answer to our daily prayers (1 John 1:9; Matthew 6:12), are they blotted out immediately? If not, where do they go and for what purpose? 1 Timothy 5:24

 

Note: “Some men’s sins are open beforehand, confessed in penitence, and forsaken, and they go beforehand to judgment. Pardon is written over against the names of these men. But other men’s sins follow after, and are not put away by repentance and confession, and these sins will stand registered against them in the books of heaven.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 916

“Be ready and anxious to confess your faults and forsake them, that your mistakes and sins may go beforehand to judgment and be blotted out.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 331

2.d. Concerning our duty to eradicate sin in the church, what warning should we always bear in mind? Matthew 13:27–30

 

Note: “God has precious ones in His church; there are also men and women who are as tares among the wheat. But the Lord does not give you or anyone else the office of saying who are tares and who are wheat. We may see and condemn the faults of others, while we have greater faults which we have never realized, but which are distinctly seen by others.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 333, 334

Tuesday

3 OUR ONLY MEDIATOR

3.a. What was taught to God’s people from the beginning of the world? Hebrews 9:22 last part; John 1:29; Revelation 13:8

 

Note: “There is only one channel and that is accessible to all, and through that channel a rich and abundant forgiveness awaits the penitent, contrite soul and the darkest sins are forgiven.

“These lessons were taught to the chosen people of God thousands of years ago, and repeated in various symbols and figures, that the work of truth might be riveted in every heart, that without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins. The great lesson embodied in the sacrifice of every bleeding victim, impressed in every ceremony, inculcated by God Himself, was that through the blood of Christ alone is forgiveness of sins.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 913

3.b. Who is our only Mediator and Saviour, and how did He obtain our redemption? John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 9:12

 

3.c. Since access to Him has been opened in the sanctuary, what are we advised to do? Hebrews 10:19–22. Where are God’s people worshiping by faith in the time of the end—and what do they see? Revelation 11:1, 19

 

3.d. What else do they see by faith? Daniel 7:9, 10. What do they understand? Revelation 14:7; Acts 3:19

 

Note: “The work of the investigative judgment and the blotting out of sins is to be accomplished before the second advent of the Lord. Since the dead are to be judged out of the things written in the books, it is impossible that the sins of men should be blotted out until after the judgment at which their cases are to be investigated. But the apostle Peter distinctly states that the sins of believers will be blotted out ‘when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send Jesus Christ.’ Acts 3:19, 20. When the investigative judgment closes, Christ will come, and His reward will be with Him to give to every man as his work shall be.” The Great Controversy, 485

Wednesday

4 IN THE END OF THE WORLD

4.a. When the work of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary is understood, what deception clearly stands out? Daniel 8:13

 

Note: “The so-called intercession of the saints is the greatest falsehood that can be invented. Priests and rulers have no right to interpose between Christ and the souls for whom He has died, as though invested with the Saviour’s attributes, and able to pardon transgression and sin.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 913

“The church’s claim to the right to pardon leads the Romanist to feel at liberty to sin; and the ordinance of confession, without which her pardon is not granted, tends also to give license to evil.” The Great Controversy, 567

4.b. How can we become “complete” in Christ? Colossians 2:10; 4:12

 

Note: “Through His [Christ’s] sacrifice, human beings may reach the high ideal set before them, and hear at last the words, ‘Ye are complete in Him,’ not having your own righteousness, but the righteousness that He wrought out for you.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 907

4.c. How does Paul refer to the cleansing of the heavenly sanctuary at “the end of the world,” just before Christ’s return? Hebrews 9:23–28

 

Note: “In the typical service the high priest, having made the atonement for Israel, came forth and blessed the congregation. So Christ, at the close of His work as mediator, will appear, ‘without sin unto salvation’ (Hebrews 9:28), to bless His waiting people with eternal life. As the priest, in removing the sins from the sanctuary, confessed them upon the head of the scapegoat, so Christ will place all these sins upon Satan, the originator and instigator of sin. The scapegoat, bearing the sins of Israel, was sent away ‘unto a land not inhabited’ (Leviticus 16:22); so Satan, bearing the guilt of all the sins which he has caused God’s people to commit, will be for a thousand years confined to the earth, which will then be desolate, without inhabitant, and he will at last suffer the full penalty of sin in the fires that shall destroy all the wicked.” The Great Controversy, 485, 486

Thursday

5 VICTORY STILL POSSIBLE!

5.a. In view of the shortness of time remaining for our sins to be blotted out, what should be our most urgent priority? 2 Corinthians 4:5–7; 6:2; Philippians 2:5

 

Note: “Satan triumphs when he hears the professed follower of Christ offering excuses for his defects of character. Sin unrepented of, unconfessed, can never be blotted from the books of God’s record. Through faithful, thorough confession of sin, the heart is cleansed from its moral impurity. There must be a forsaking of the sins the Lord has reproved before the soul can stand acquitted before God. …

“It is Satan’s work to tempt; it is man’s work to resist, and, in the name and strength of Jesus, to say, ‘It is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve.’ ” The Signs of the Times, December 13, 1899

“Life, with its marvelous privileges and opportunities, will soon be ended. The time for improvement in character will be past. Unless our sins are now repented of, and blotted out by the blood of the Lamb, they will stand in the ledger of heaven to confront us in the coming day. Then let us earnestly examine ourselves in the light of God’s word, seeking to discover every defect of character, that we may wash our robes and make them white in the blood of the Lamb.” The Review and Herald, April 21, 1910

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          Explain the difference between the daily and the yearly atonements.

2          What way was opened before us by the death of Christ? For what purpose, and how, do we enter the heavenly sanctuary?

3          After our sins have been confessed and pardoned, day by day, where do they go before they can be blotted out?

4          On the basis of Hebrews 9:23–28, explain the cleansing of the heavenly sanctuary in the time of the end, before Christ’s return.

5          What opportunity, which is still available to us, will soon pass away?

Copyright 2010, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.