Bible Study Guides

Bible Study Guides – God’s Order Extended

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July 31, 2011 – August 6, 2011

Families for Christ

Key Text

“Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.” Psalm 128:1, 2.

Study Help: The Adventist Home, 114–120.

Introduction

“The cause of division and discord in families and in the church is separation from Christ. To come near to Christ is to come near to one another.” The Adventist Home, 179.

1 THE CHURCH FAMILY

  • Describe God’s plan both for individual families and for the church? Ephesians 3:14, 15; 2:19–22.

Note: “The secret of true unity in the church and in the family is not diplomacy, not management, not a superhuman effort to overcome difficulties—though there will be much of this to do—but union with Christ.

“Picture a large circle, from the edge of which are many lines all running to the center. The nearer these lines approach the center, the nearer they are to one another.

“Thus it is in the Christian life. The closer we come to Christ, the nearer we shall be to one another. God is glorified as His people unite in harmonious action.” The Adventist Home, 179.

“When religion is manifested in the home, its influence will be felt in the church and in the neighborhood.” Ibid., 38.

  • What is one purpose of the church family? Ephesians 4:12, 13.

Note: “God has appointed the church as a watchman. …

“The church has a special work to do in educating and training its children that they may not, in attending school, or in any other association, be influenced by those of corrupt habits.” Child Guidance, 312.

2 THE GREATEST DUTY

  • Who is described as a person of great importance? Proverbs 31:10.

Note: “Woman should fill the position which God originally designed for her, as her husband’s equal. The world needs mothers who are mothers not merely in name but in every sense of the word. We may safely say that the distinctive duties of woman are more sacred, more holy, than those of man. Let woman realize the sacredness of her work and in the strength and fear of God take up her life mission.” The Adventist Home, 231.

  • What is the mother’s role and why is it so important? Titus 2:4, 5.

Note: “The king upon his throne has no higher work than has the mother. The mother is the queen of her household. She has in her power the molding of her children’s characters, that they may be fitted for the higher, immortal life. An angel could not ask for a higher mission; for in doing this work she is doing service for God. Let her only realize the high character of her task, and it will inspire her with courage.” The Adventist Home, 231.

  • Describe how the enemy seeks to weaken the family.

Note: “If you ignore your duty as a wife and mother and hold out your hands for the Lord to put another class of work in them, be sure that He will not contradict Himself; He points you to the duty you have to do at home. If you have the idea that some work greater and holier than this has been entrusted to you, you are under a deception. By faithfulness in your own home, working for the souls of those who are nearest to you, you may be gaining a fitness to work for Christ in a wider field. But be sure that those who are neglectful of their duty in the home circle are not prepared to work for other souls.

“The Lord has not called you to neglect your home and your husband and children. He never works in this way; and He never will. … Never for a moment suppose that God has given you a work that will necessitate a separation from your precious little flock.” The Adventist Home, 245, 246.

3 SUBMISSION—WHAT IS IT?

  • In these days of frequent preoccupation with “women’s rights,” what is Christ’s injunction to wives? Colossians 3:18; Ephesians 5:22–24.

Note: “In the creation, God had made her [Eve] the equal of Adam. Had they remained obedient to God—in harmony with His great law of love—they would ever have been in harmony with each other. …

“Eve had been perfectly happy by her husband’s side in her Eden home; but, like restless modern Eves, she was flattered with the hope of entering a higher sphere than that which God had assigned her. In attempting to rise above her original position, she fell far below it. A similar result will be reached by all who are unwilling to take up cheerfully their life duties in accordance with God’s plan.” The Adventist Home, 115.

  • Is this counsel of submission only for wives? Ephesians 5:21. Are there any conditions as to when is it right to submit and when is it wrong? Colossians 3:18; Acts 5:29.

Note: “God requires that the wife shall keep the fear and glory of God ever before her. Entire submission is to be made only to the Lord Jesus Christ, who has purchased her as His own child by the infinite price of His life. God has given her a conscience, which she cannot violate with impunity. Her individuality cannot be merged into that of her husband, for she is the purchase of Christ. It is a mistake to imagine that with blind devotion she is to do exactly as her husband says in all things, when she knows that in so doing, injury would be worked for her body and her spirit, which have been ransomed from the slavery of Satan. There is One who stands higher than the husband to the wife; it is her Redeemer, and her submission to her husband is to be rendered as God has directed—‘as it is fit in the Lord’ [Colossians 3:18].” The Adventist Home, 116.

  • Explain the purpose and meaning of submission. I Peter 3:8.

Note: “The wife, if she has the spirit of Christ, will be careful of her words; she will control her spirit, she will be submissive, and yet will not feel that she is a bondslave, but a companion to her husband.” The Adventist Home, 118.

4 MORE LOVE

  • What else is needed in the marriage, and in the church relationship? I Peter 3:1–4; Proverbs 31:26.

Note: “Let each give love rather than exact it. Cultivate that which is noblest in yourselves, and be quick to recognize the good qualities in each other. The consciousness of being appreciated is a wonderful stimulus and satisfaction. Sympathy and respect encourage the striving after excellence, and love itself increases as it stimulates to nobler aims. …

“Neither the husband nor the wife should attempt to exercise over the other an arbitrary control. Do not try to compel each other to yield to your wishes. You cannot do this and retain each other’s love. Be kind, patient, and forbearing, considerate, and courteous. By the grace of God you can succeed in making each other happy, as in your marriage vow you promised to do.” The Ministry of Healing, 361.

“Pray for the sweet, molding influence of the Holy Spirit. Let your lips be governed by the law of kindness. Refuse to be sour, uncourteous, unkind. …

“Do not serve the enemy of God by exhibiting a harsh, unkind spirit.” This Day With God, 111.

  • How should her daily duties be viewed by the wife and by others? Proverbs 31:10–31.

Note: “The mother seldom appreciates her own work and frequently sets so low an estimate upon her labor that she regards it as domestic drudgery. She goes through the same round day after day, week after week, with no special marked results. She cannot tell at the close of the day the many little things she has accomplished. Placed beside her husband’s achievement, she feels that she has done nothing worth mentioning. …

“While the father has been dealing with the things which must perish and pass away, the mother has been dealing with developing minds and character, working not only for time but for eternity. …

“There are opportunities of inestimable worth, interests infinitely precious, committed to every mother. The humble round of duties which women have come to regard as a wearisome task should be looked upon as a grand and noble work. It is the mother’s privilege to bless the world by her influence, and in doing this she will bring joy to her own heart.” The Adventist Home, 232–234.

5 UNITY IN ACTION

  • What do all of us need in our relationships both in the family and in the church? Psalm 133:1; Ephesians 4:2, 3.

Note: “Parents are to work together as a unit. There must be no division. … It sometimes happens that, of the mother and father, one is too indulgent and the other too severe. This difference works against good results in the formation of the characters of their children. …

“If fathers and mothers are at variance, one working against the other to counteract each other’s influence, the family will be in a demoralized condition, and neither the father nor the mother will receive the respect and confidence that are essential to a well-governed family. … Children are quick to discern anything that will cast a reflection upon the rules and regulations of a household, especially those regulations that restrict their actions.” The Adventist Home, 312.

  • What are the results of disunity? Mark 3:25.

Note: “In these first disciples was presented marked diversity. They were to be the world’s teachers, and they represented widely varied types of character. In order successfully to carry forward the work to which they had been called, these men, differing in natural characteristics and in habits of life, needed to come into unity of feeling, thought, and action. This unity it was Christ’s object to secure. To this end He sought to bring them into unity with Himself.” The Acts of the Apostles, 20.

  • In what are we to be united? I Peter 1:22; I John 2:4, 5; 3:18.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Why does God give us family relationships?

2 What is the most important duty for the wife?

3 What is submission and how do you accomplish it?

4 What are some of the wonderful challenges given to the wife and mother?

5 How can we achieve the unity needed in the family and in the church?

Copyright © 2002 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Twin Institutions

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September 18, 2011 – September 24, 2011

Key Text

“Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.” Hebrews 4:11.

Study Help: Child Guidance, 527–537; Testimonies, vol. 6, 349–368.

Introduction

“To those who keep holy the Sabbath day it is the sign of sanctification. True sanctification is harmony with God, oneness with Him in character.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 350.

1 THE FIRST GIFTS

  • What blessed gifts did God give at creation? Genesis 1:26, 27; 2:2, 3.

Note: “He [Jesus] referred them [His hearers] to the blessed days of Eden, when God pronounced all things ‘very good.’ Then marriage and the Sabbath had their origin, twin institutions for the glory of God in the benefit of humanity.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 63.

  • What does God desire in these last days? Acts 3:19–21.

Note: “In both the Old and the New Testament the marriage relation is employed to represent the tender and sacred union that exists between Christ and His people, the redeemed ones whom He has purchased at the cost of Calvary.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 64.

“In the time of the end every divine institution is to be restored. … God’s remnant people, standing before the world as reformers, are to show that the law of God is the foundation of all enduring reform and that the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is to stand as a memorial of creation, a constant reminder of the power of God. In clear, distinct lines they are to present the necessity of obedience to all the precepts of the Decalogue.” Prophets and Kings, 678.

2 THE CONNECTION

  • What is the connection between the family and the Sabbath? Exodus 31:13–17; Deuteronomy 11:19.

Note: “The Sabbath and the family were alike instituted in Eden, and in God’s purpose they are indissolubly linked together. On this day more than on any other, it is possible for us to live the life of Eden. It was God’s plan for the members of the family to be associated in work and study, in worship and recreation, the father as priest of his household, and both father and mother as teachers and companions of their children.” Education, 250, 251.

  • How does our Sabbath preparation parallel with the preparation for the Lord’s coming? Will we be ready or unprepared? Amos 4:12.

Note: “I saw that we should not put off the coming of the Lord. Said the angel: ‘Prepare, prepare, for what is coming upon the earth. Let your works correspond with your faith.’ ” Testimonies, vol. 1, 123.

“On Friday let the preparation for the Sabbath be completed. See that all the clothing is in readiness and that all the cooking is done. Let the boots be blacked and the baths be taken. It is possible to do this. If you make it a rule you can do it. The Sabbath is not to be given to the repairing of garments, to the cooking of food, to pleasure seeking, or to any other worldly employment. Before the setting of the sun let all secular … papers be put out of sight. …

“We should jealously guard the edges of the Sabbath. Remember that every moment is consecrated, holy time. Whenever it is possible, employers should give their workers the hours from Friday noon until the beginning of the Sabbath. Give them time for preparation, that they may welcome the Lord’s day with quietness of mind. …

“There is another work that should receive attention on the preparation day. On this day all differences between brethren, whether in the family or in the church should be put away. …

“Before the Sabbath begins, the mind as well as the body should be withdrawn from worldly business. God has set His Sabbath at the end of the six working days, that men may stop and consider what they have gained during the week in preparation for the pure kingdom which admits no transgressor. We should each Sabbath reckon with our souls to see whether the week that has ended has brought spiritual gain or loss.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 355, 356.

3 A SPECIAL TIME—DON’T WASTE IT

  • How should we spend the precious hours of the Sabbath? Psalm 95:1–11; Exodus 20:8–11.

Note: “Before the setting of the sun, let the members of the family assemble to read God’s Word, to sing and pray. … We need to confess to God and to one another. …

“This should be a day of blessing to us—a day when we should lay aside all our secular matters and center our thoughts upon God and heaven.” Child Guidance, 529.

“The Sabbath school and the meeting for worship occupy only a part of the Sabbath. The portion remaining to the family may be made the most sacred and precious season of all the Sabbath hours. Much of this time parents should spend with their children.” Ibid., 532.

  • What should we not allow on the Sabbath day? Isaiah 58:13.

Note: “None should permit themselves, through the week, to become so absorbed in their temporal interests, and so exhausted by their efforts for worldly gain, that on the Sabbath they have no strength or energy to give to the service of God. We are robbing the Lord when we unfit ourselves to worship Him upon His holy day. …

“Let not the precious hours of the Sabbath be wasted in bed. On Sabbath morning the family should be astir early.” Child Guidance, 530.

“We should not provide for the Sabbath a more liberal supply or a greater variety of food than for other days. Instead of this the food should be more simple, and less should be eaten, in order that the mind may be clear and vigorous to comprehend spiritual things. Overeating befogs the brain. The most precious words may be heard and not appreciated, because the mind is confused by an improper diet. By overeating on the Sabbath, many have done more than they think to dishonor God.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 357.

“In order to keep the Sabbath holy, it is not necessary that we enclose ourselves in walls, shut away from the beautiful scenes of nature and from the free, invigorating air of heaven. … The mind cannot be refreshed, enlivened, and elevated by being confined nearly all the Sabbath hours within walls, listening to long sermons and tedious, formal prayers. The Sabbath of the Lord is put to a wrong use if thus celebrated.” Ibid., vol. 2, 583.

4 ACTIVITIES TOGETHER

  • What are some special things to do on the Sabbath? Job 12:7–9; Psalm 150:1, 6.

Note: “Since the Sabbath is the memorial of creative power, it is the day above all others when we should acquaint ourselves with God through His works. In the minds of the children the very thought of the Sabbath should be bound up with the beauty of natural things. Happy is the family who can go to the place of worship on the Sabbath as Jesus and His disciples went to the synagogue—across the fields, along the shores of the lake, or through the groves. Happy the father and mother who can teach their children God’s written word with illustrations from the open pages of the book of nature; who can gather under the green trees, in the fresh, pure air, to study the word and to sing the praise of the Father above.

“By such associations parents may bind their children to their hearts, and thus to God, by ties that can never be broken.” Education, 251.

“In pleasant weather let parents walk with their children in the fields and groves. Amid the beautiful things of nature tell them the reason for the institution of the Sabbath. Describe to them God’s great work of creation. …

“Tell them of the way of salvation. … Let the sweet story of Bethlehem be repeated. Present before the children Jesus, as a child obedient to His parents, as a youth faithful and industrious, helping to support the family. … From time to time read with them the interesting stories in Bible history. Question as to what they have learned in the Sabbath school, and study with them the next Sabbath’s lesson.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 358, 359.

  • What else must we include in our Sabbath activities? Hebrews 10:24, 25.

Note: “The necessities of life must be attended to, the sick must be cared for, the wants of the needy must be supplied. He will not be held guiltless who neglects to relieve suffering on the Sabbath. God’s holy rest day was made for man, and acts of mercy are in perfect harmony with its intent. …

“The Sabbath is not intended to be a period of useless inactivity. … Man is to leave the occupations of his daily life, and devote those sacred hours to healthful rest, to worship, and to holy deeds.” The Desire of Ages, 207.

5 PREPARING FOR ETERNITY

  • What does the Sabbath foreshadow now? Hebrews 4:8–11; Isaiah 66:22, 23; Revelation 21:1.

Note: “There [in the city of God] the redeemed shall ‘know, even as also they are known’ [I Corinthians 13:12]. The loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul shall there find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, the sacred ties that bind together ‘the whole family in heaven and earth’ [Ephesians 3:15]—these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed. …

“The family of heaven and the family of earth are one.” The Adventist Home, 544.

  • Unto what words of instruction should we take heed in order to be prepared for the great day of God? II Peter 3:11–14.

Note: “ ‘Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else’ [Isaiah 45:22]. This is the message written in nature, which the Sabbath is appointed to keep in memory. …

“God designed that its observance should designate them as His worshipers. It was to be a token of their separation from idolatry, and their connection with the true God. But in order to keep the Sabbath holy, men must themselves be holy. Through faith they must become partakers of the righteousness of Christ.” The Desire of Ages, 283.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What are the twin institutions which were given at creation and what are their purposes?

2 What is the connection between the family and the Sabbath?

3 How should you spend your time on the Sabbath day?

4 Describe some special activities to do together.

Copyright © 2002 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Is It Easy?

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September 11, 2011 – September 17, 2011

Key Text

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” Ephesians 6:10.

Study Help: Steps to Christ, 67–76; Patriarchs and Prophets, 453–461.

Introduction

“Rest in God. He is able to keep that which you have committed to Him. If you will leave yourself in His hands, He will bring you off more than conqueror through Him that has loved you.” Steps to Christ, 72.

1 THE ENEMY’S ATTACK

  • Who are we fighting if we are seeking to do God’s will? Ephesians 6:12.

Note: “There is little enmity against Satan and his works, because there is so great ignorance concerning his power and malice, and the vast extent of his warfare against Christ and His church.” The Great Controversy, 507.

  • Who is the enemy seeking to destroy and how does he propose to do this? Numbers 25:1, 2. What warning should we heed? I Corinthians 10:11, 12.

Note: “Satan is continually seeking to overcome the people of God by breaking down the barriers which separate them from the world. … All who are not decided followers of Christ are servants of Satan. In the unregenerate heart there is love of sin and a disposition to cherish and excuse it. In the renewed heart there is hatred of sin and a determined resistance against it.” The Great Controversy, 508.

“It was by associating with idolaters and joining in their festivities that the Hebrews were led to transgress God’s law and bring His judgments upon the nation. So now it is by leading the followers of Christ to associate with the ungodly and unite in their amusements that Satan is most successful in alluring them into sin.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 458.

2 PERSEVERE!

  • In this warfare, what must we remember? Luke 18:1.

Note: “Christian life is more than many take it to be. It does not consist wholly in gentleness, patience, meekness, and kindliness. These graces are essential; but there is need also of courage, force, energy, and perseverance. The path that Christ marks out is a narrow, self-denying path. To enter that path and press on through difficulties and discouragements, requires men who are more than weaklings.” Evangelism, 479.

  • What will enable us to endure in this warfare and develop perseverance? II Peter 1:4; John 14:14.

Note: “The Scriptures are to be received as God’s word to us, not written merely, but spoken. …

“So with all the promises of God’s word. In them He is speaking to us individually, speaking as directly as if we could listen to His voice. It is in these promises that Christ communicates to us His grace and power. They are leaves from that tree which is ‘for the healing of the nations’ Revelation 22:2. Received, assimilated, they are to be the strength of the character, the inspiration and sustenance of the life. Nothing else can have such healing power. Nothing besides can impart the courage and faith which give vital energy to the whole being.” The Ministry of Healing, 122.

“If we live according to His word, every precious promise He has given will be fulfilled to us. …

“But only as we live in obedience to His word can we claim the fulfillment of His promises. The psalmist says, ‘If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me’ Psalm 66:18. If we render to Him only a partial, halfhearted obedience, His promises will not be fulfilled to us.” Ibid., 226, 227.

  • What promises does our Father give us as we seek to develop families that will honor His name? Psalm 32:8.

Note: “Not only are the best beloved to receive particular attention, but also the restless, wayward children, who need careful training and tender guidance.” The Adventist Home, 276.

3 GOD’S GRACE

  • As we see our weakness and insufficiency, what promise is especially important to us? II Corinthians 12:9.
  • What is God’s grace? I Corinthians 1:4, 5; II Corinthians 9:8.

Note: “Grace is an attribute of God exercised toward undeserving human beings.” The Ministry of Healing, 161.

“To learn of Christ means to receive His grace, which is His character.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 271.

  • What other promises are there for the partakers of His grace? Colossians 1:11; Philippians 1:6; Ephesians 1:19.

Note: “You are to give all—your heart, your will, your service—give yourself to Him to obey all His requirements; and you must take all—Christ, the fullness of all blessing, to abide in your heart, to be your strength, your righteousness, your everlasting helper—to give you power to obey.” Steps to Christ, 70. [Emphasis author’s.]

  • What circumstances, if any, are very difficult and seemingly impossible to change? Philippians 4:13.

Note: “Men and women can reach God’s ideal for them if they will take Christ as their helper. What human wisdom cannot do, His grace will accomplish for those who give themselves to Him in loving trust. His providence can unite hearts in bonds that are of heavenly origin.” The Ministry of Healing, 362.

“The power of the love of Christ wrought a transformation of character. This is the sure result of union with Jesus. When Christ abides in the heart, the whole nature is transformed. Christ’s Spirit, His love, softens the heart, subdues the soul, and raises the thoughts and desires toward God and heaven.” Steps to Christ, 73.

4 HOW CAN I HAVE THIS HELP?

  • How can I, my family, and my church have this experience with Jesus Christ? John 15:4, 5.

Note: “Do you ask, ‘How am I to abide in Christ?’ In the same way as you received Him at first. ‘As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him’ (Colossians 2:6). …

“Consecrate yourself to God in the morning; make this your very first work. Let your prayer be, ‘Take me, O Lord, as wholly Thine. I lay all my plans at Thy feet. Use me today in Thy service. Abide with me, and let all my work be wrought in Thee.’ This is a daily matter. Each morning consecrate yourself to God for that day. Surrender all your plans to Him, to be carried out or given up as His providence shall indicate. Thus day by day you may be giving your life into the hands of God, and thus your life will be molded more and more after the life of Christ.” Steps to Christ, 69, 70.

  • What must be our attitude? Acts 9:6.

Note: “Many who are really conscientious, and who desire to live for God, he [Satan] too often leads to dwell upon their own faults and weaknesses, and thus by separating them from Christ he hopes to gain the victory. We should not make self the center and indulge anxiety and fear as to whether we shall be saved. All this turns the soul away from the Source of our strength. Commit the keeping of your soul to God, and trust in Him. Talk and think of Jesus. Let self be lost in Him. Put away all doubt; dismiss your fears. … Rest in God. He is able to keep that which you have committed to Him. If you will leave yourself in His hands, He will bring you off more than conqueror through Him that has loved you.” Steps to Christ, 71, 72.

“Then if Christ is dwelling in our hearts, He will work in us ‘both to will and to do of His good pleasure’ Philippians 2:13. We shall work as He worked; we shall manifest the same spirit. And thus, loving Him and abiding in Him, we shall ‘grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ’ Ephesians 4:15.” Ibid., 75.

“At times the heart may be ready to faint; but a living sense of the dangers threatening the present and future happiness of their loved ones should lead Christian parents to seek more earnestly for help from the source of strength and wisdom.” Child Guidance, 64.

5 CONSISTENCY

  • What commands are given to us who have received such great light and blessing? Ephesians 5:1–8.

Note: “It is the privilege of all to give to the world in their home life, in their customs and practices and order, an evidence of what the gospel can do for those who obey it. Christ came to our world to give us an example of what we may become. He expects His followers to be models of correctness in all the relations of life. He desires the divine touch to be seen upon outward things.

“Our own homes and surroundings should be object lessons, teaching ways of improvement, so that industry, cleanliness, taste, and refinement may take the place of idleness, uncleanness, coarseness, and disorder. By our lives and example we can help others to discern that which is repulsive in their character or their surroundings, and with Christian courtesy we may encourage improvement.” The Ministry of Healing, 196.

“The Lord’s workers cannot be too careful that their actions do not contradict their words; for a consistent life alone can command respect. If our practice harmonizes with our teaching, our words will have effect; but a piety which is not based upon conscientious principles is as salt without savor. To speak, and do not, is as a sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal. It is of no use for us to strive to inculcate principles which we do not conscientiously practice.” Counsels on Health, 559, 560.

“The consistent life, the patient forbearance, the spirit unruffled under provocation, is always the most conclusive argument and the most solemn appeal.” The Ministry of Healing, 494.

“The pure influence of truth will elevate the whole man. … He will carry the sanctifying influence of the truth into his family and let his light so shine before them that they by seeing his good works may glorify God.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 415, 416.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What makes the upward walk difficult?

2 How can you persevere and endure unto the end?

3 What is God’s grace and what will it do for you?

4 How can you have a changed life?

5 What will be the result of converted members of the family?

Copyright © 2002 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – How Shall We Worship?

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September 4, 2011 – September 10, 2011

Key Text

“O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.” Psalm 96:9.

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 436–438; Testimonies, vol. 5, 491–500.

Introduction

“In order to serve Him aright, we must be born of the divine Spirit. This will purify the heart and renew the mind, giving us a new capacity for knowing and loving God. It will give us a willing obedience to all His requirements. This is true worship.” The Desire of Ages, 189.

1 WHAT IS TRUE WORSHIP?

  • Define true worship. Psalm 24:3, 4; John 4:23, 24; I Chronicles 16:29.

Note: “Although God dwells not in temples made with hands, yet He honors with His presence the assemblies of His people. He has promised that when they come together to seek Him, to acknowledge their sins, and to pray for one another, He will meet with them by His Spirit. But those who assemble to worship Him should put away every evil thing. Unless they worship Him in spirit and truth and in the beauty of holiness, their coming together will be of no avail. Of such the Lord declares, ‘This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoreth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me.’ Matthew 15:8, 9.” Prophets and Kings, 50.

“Religious instruction means … that you are to show in your life that Jesus is everything to you, and that His love makes you patient, kind, forbearing, and yet firm in commanding your children after you, as did Abraham.

“Just as you conduct yourself in your home life, you are registered in the books of heaven. He who would become a saint in heaven must first become a saint in his own family.” The Adventist Home, 317.

  • How serious a matter is it to ignore or neglect God’s requirements? Matthew 15:8, 9; 7:21–23.

2 WHEN SHALL WE WORSHIP?

  • What should be the practice of every individual and family? Psalm 29:2.

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 worship. They do not honor God in the home; they do not teach their children to love and fear Him.” Child Guidance, 517.

“In many cases the morning and evening worship is little more than a mere form, a dull, monotonous repetition of set phrases in which the spirit of gratitude or the sense of need finds no expression. The Lord accepts not such service. But the petitions of a humble heart and contrite spirit He will not despise. The opening of our hearts to our heavenly Father, the acknowledgment of our entire dependence, the expressions of our wants, the homage of grateful love—this is true prayer.” Ibid., 518.

“In every family there should be a fixed time for morning and evening worship. How appropriate it is for parents to gather their children about them before the fast is broken, to thank the heavenly Father for His protection during the night, and to ask Him for His help and guidance and watch care during the day! How fitting, also, when evening comes, for parents and children to gather once more before Him and thank Him for the blessings of the day that is past!” Ibid., 520.

  • What other time of worship is so important to us? Psalm 19:14.

Note: “When the Sabbath commences, we should place a guard upon ourselves, upon our acts and our words, lest we rob God by appropriating to our own use that time which is strictly the Lord’s. We should not do ourselves, nor suffer our children to do, any manner of our own work for a livelihood or anything which could have been done on the six working days. … God requires not only that we refrain from physical labor upon the Sabbath, but that the mind be disciplined to dwell upon sacred themes. The Fourth Commandment is virtually transgressed by conversing upon worldly things or by engaging in light and trifling conversation. …

“Fathers and mothers should make it a rule that their children attend public worship on the Sabbath, and should enforce the rule by their own example.” Child Guidance, 529, 530.

3 WHERE SHALL WE WORSHIP?

  • In Leviticus 23:3, what distinct phrase does God use to describe His seventh day, the Sabbath of rest?
  • What can we learn from the Scriptures as to where we should worship? Matthew 18:20; Acts 2:46.
  • What should we remember about the place in which we worship our Creator? Psalm 111:9; Genesis 28:17, last part.

Note: “True reverence for God is inspired by a sense of His infinite greatness and a realization of His presence. … The hour and place of prayer are sacred, because God is there. …

“Well would it be for old and young to ponder those words of Scripture that show how the place marked by God’s special presence should be regarded. ‘Put off thy shoes from off thy feet,’ He commanded Moses at the burning bush, ‘for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground’ Exodus 3:5. …

“The God of heaven is not, like the gods of the heathen, confined to temples made with hands; yet He would meet with His people by His Spirit when they should assemble at the house dedicated to His worship.” Prophets and Kings, 48, 49.

“The house is the sanctuary for the family, and the closet or the grove the most retired place for individual worship; but the church is the sanctuary for the congregation. There should be rules in regard to the time, the place, and the manner of worshiping. …

“Do not have so little reverence for the house and worship of God as to communicate with one another during the sermon. …

“There should be a sacred spot, like the sanctuary of old, where God is to meet with His people. That place should not be used as a lunchroom or as a business room, but simply for the worship of God.” Child Guidance, 541–543.

4 HOW SHALL WE WORSHIP?

  • What instructions are given to us regarding the manner of worshiping our Lord? Hebrews 12:28; I Peter 1:15, 16; Exodus 19:10.

Note: “Unless correct ideas of true worship and true reverence are impressed upon the people, there will be a growing tendency to place the sacred and eternal on a level with common things, and those professing the truth will be an offense to God and a disgrace to religion. They can never, with their uncultivated ideas, appreciate a pure and holy heaven, and be prepared to join with the worshipers in the heavenly courts above, where all is purity and perfection, where every being has perfect reverence for God and His holiness. …

“When the worshipers enter the place of meeting, they should do so with decorum, passing quietly to their seats. … Common talking, whispering, and laughing should not be permitted in the house of worship, either before or after the service. Ardent, active piety should characterize the worshipers.” My Life Today, 285, 286.

“Do not have so little reverence for the house and worship of God as to communicate with one another during the sermon. …

“When the word of life is spoken, you should remember that you are listening to the voice of God through His delegated servant. Do not lose these words through inattention; if heeded, they may keep your feet from straying into wrong paths.” Messages to Young People, 266.

  • Along with having a correct state of mind and action as we come before our God, what else is necessary? Exodus 19:14.

Note: “All should be taught to be neat, clean, and orderly in their dress, but not to indulge in that external adorning which is wholly inappropriate for the sanctuary. There should be no display of the apparel; for this encourages irreverence. The attention of the people is often called to this or that fine article of dress, and thus thoughts are intruded that should have no place in the hearts of the worshipers. … The parading of bows and ribbons, ruffles and feathers, and gold and silver ornaments is a species of idolatry and is wholly inappropriate for the sacred service of God. … All matters of dress should be strictly guarded, following closely the Bible rule. Fashion has been the goddess who has ruled the outside world, and she often insinuates herself into the church. The church should make the word of God her standard, and parents should think intelligently upon this subject.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 499.

5 WHY SHOULD WE WORSHIP?

  • Who is blessed in the act of worship? Psalms 29:1, 2, 11; 138:1–3, 7, 8; Isaiah 57:15; Psalm 22:3.

Note: “Our God is a tender, merciful Father. His service should not be looked upon as a heart-saddening, distressing exercise. It should be a pleasure to worship the Lord and to take part in His work. … He is their best friend; and when they worship Him, He expects to be with them, to bless and comfort them, filling their hearts with joy and love. … He desires that those who come to worship Him shall carry away with them precious thoughts of His care and love, that they may be cheered in all the employments of daily life, that they may have grace to deal honestly and faithfully in all things.” Steps to Christ, 103.

“The hour and place of prayer and the services of public worship the child should be taught to regard as sacred because God is there. And as reverence is manifested in attitude and demeanor, the feeling that inspires it will be deepened.” Child Guidance, 539.

  • Who else joins us in our worship? Hebrews 1:6; Revelation 4:8, 11; 5:11, 12; 7:9–17.

Note: “There are invisible agencies observing every word and deed of human beings. In every assembly for business or pleasure, in every gathering for worship, there are more listeners than can be seen with the natural sight.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 176.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 How is worship to be much more than simply a form that you repeat?

2 How often should you worship?

3 Is worship confined to only certain areas?

4 Can you come before God in any way you like?

5 What does worship do?

Copyright © 2002 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Caring for the Flock

by

August 28, 2011 – September 3, 2011

Families for Christ

Key Text

“Feed the flock of God which is among you.” I Peter 5:2.

Study Help: The Adventist Home, 181–186.

Introduction

“Satan is marshalling his hosts; and are we individually prepared for the fearful conflict that is just before us? Are we preparing our children for the great crisis? Are we preparing ourselves and our households to understand the position of our adversaries and their modes of warfare?” The Adventist Home, 186.

1 GUARDING OUR FLOCK

  • Where did God place Adam and Eve and why? Genesis 2:8, 9, 15. After sin, what did God want Adam and Eve to do and to learn? Genesis 3:19, 23.

Note: “The home of our first parents was to be a pattern for other homes as their children should go forth to occupy the earth. … In the surroundings of the holy pair was a lesson for all time—that true happiness is found, not in the indulgence of pride and luxury, but in communion with God through His created works.” The Adventist Home, 132.

“Although the earth was blighted with the curse, nature was still to be man’s lesson book. It could not now represent goodness only. … From nature, which now revealed the knowledge of good and evil, man was continually to receive warning as to the results of sin.” Education, 26.

  • Where is the best place to raise our family and why? Isaiah 32:18.

Note: “Be not controlled by the desire for wealth, the dictates of fashion, or the customs of society. Consider what will tend most to simplicity, purity, health, and real worth. …

“Instead of dwelling where only the works of men can be seen, where the sights and sounds frequently suggest thoughts of evil, where turmoil and confusion bring weariness and disquietude, go where you can look upon the works of God. Find rest of spirit in the beauty and quietude and peace of nature.” The Adventist Home, 131, 132.

2 BEWARE OF INFLUENCE

  • In choosing our home and associations, what counsel does our Lord give us? I John 2:15.

Note: “Life in the cities is false and artificial. The intense passion for money getting, the whirl of excitement and pleasure seeking, the thirst for display, the luxury and extravagance—all are forces that, with the great masses of mankind, are turning the mind from life’s true purpose. They are opening the door to a thousand evils. Upon the youth they have almost irresistible power.” The Adventist Home, 135.

“In choosing a home, God would have us consider, first of all, the moral and religious influences that will surround us and our families.

“We should choose the society most favorable to our spiritual advancement, and avail ourselves of every help within our reach; for Satan will oppose many hindrances to make our progress toward heaven as difficult as possible. We may be placed in trying positions, for many cannot have their surroundings what they would; but we should not voluntarily expose ourselves to influences that are unfavorable to the formation of Christian character.” Ibid., 131.

“The physical surroundings in the cities are often a peril to health.” Ibid., 135.

“To parents He [the Lord] sends the warning cry: Gather your children into your own houses; gather them away from those who are disregarding the commandments of God, who are teaching and practicing evil.” Ibid., 139.

  • What is a more subtle danger that we need to guard against? II Timothy 3:5.

Note: “If we place ourselves among associates whose influence has a tendency to make us forgetful of the high claims the Lord has upon us, we invite temptation and become too weak in moral power to resist it.” The Adventist Home, 459.

“We must not center our affections on worldly relatives, who have no desire to learn the truth. We may seek in every way, while associated with them, to let our light shine; but our words, our deportment, our customs and practices, should not in any sense be molded by their ideas and customs. We are to show forth the truth in all our intercourse with them. If we cannot do this, the less association we have with them the better it will be for our spirituality.” Ibid., 462.

3 TRAINING OUR FLOCK

  • What vocation has God often given His people? Why? Proverbs 27:18; Ecclesiastes 3:13.

Note: “God provided the conditions most favorable for the development of character. The people who were under His direction still pursued the plan of life that He had appointed in the beginning. Those who departed from God built for themselves cities. … But the men who held fast God’s principles of life dwelt among the fields and hills. They were tillers of the soil and keepers of flocks and herds; and in this free, independent life, with its opportunities for labor and study and meditation, they learned of God and taught their children of His works and ways.” The Adventist Home, 181.

  • What does God still desire us to teach our children? Proverbs 12:11; 28:19.

Note: “Working the soil is one of the best kinds of employment, calling the muscles into action and resting the mind. Study in agricultural lines should be the A, B, and C of the education given in our schools. This is the very first work that should be entered upon.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 179.

“Had this course been followed, … the students would have secured an all round education, which would have prepared them, not only for practical work in various trades, but for a place on the Lords’ farm in the earth made new.” Ibid., 177.

  • What kinds of educational facilities are necessary to accomplish this type of education? Psalm 128:3, 4; II Timothy 1:5; 3:14, 15.

Note: “In His wisdom the Lord has decreed that the family shall be the greatest of all educational agencies. It is in the home that the education of the child is to begin. …

“One great reason why there is so much evil in the world today is that parents occupy their minds with other things than that which is all important—how to adapt themselves to the work of patiently and kindly teaching their children the way of the Lord. …

“It is in the home school that our boys and girls are to be prepared to attend the church school.” The Adventist Home, 182, 183, 185.

4 ATTITUDES OF THE TIMES

  • What must we also guard against in our thinking and behavior? I Timothy 6:3–5.
  • What did Jesus warn us about, and how does this apply to today? Matthew 24:37, 38.

Note: “What of the marriage relation today? Is it not perverted and defiled, made even as it was in Noah’s day? Divorce after divorce is recorded in the daily papers. This is the marriage of which Christ speaks when He says that before the flood they were ‘marrying and giving in marriage’ [Matthew 24:38].” Manuscript Releases, vol. 7, 56.

“As it was in the days of Noah, every kind of evil is on the increase. Divorce and marriage is the order of the time.” Ibid., vol. 10, 261.

“Jesus came to our world to rectify mistakes and to restore the moral image of God in man. Wrong sentiments in regard to marriage had found a place in the minds of the teachers of Israel. They were making of none effect the sacred institution of marriage.” The Adventist Home, 341.

  • What should we keep in mind as we face the many varying attitudes of the times in which we live? Matthew 7:13–21; II Corinthians 11:13–15.
  • Who only will be found entering the gates of heaven? Revelation 14:12.

Note: “By beholding we become changed. By the indulgence of impure thoughts man can so educate his mind that sin which he once loathed will become pleasant to him.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 459.

“Those who would not fall a prey to Satan’s devices must guard well the avenues of the soul; they must avoid reading, seeing, or hearing that which will suggest impure thoughts. … ‘Girding up the loins of your mind,’ says the apostle Peter, ‘Be sober, … not fashioning yourselves according to your former lusts in … your ignorance: but like as He which called you is holy, be ye yourselves also holy in all manner of living.’ I Peter 1:13–15, R.V.” Ibid., 460.

5 THE REWARD

  • What is necessary to gain the reward? Joshua 24:15.
  • If we follow God’s counsels, what are the promised results? Galatians 6:9.

Note: “If parents give their children the proper education, they themselves will be made happy by seeing the fruit of their careful training in the Christlike character of their children.” The Adventist Home, 533.

“With joy unutterable, parents see the crown, the robe, the harp, given to their children. The days of hope and fear are ended. The seed sown with tears and prayers may have seemed to be sown in vain, but their harvest is reaped with joy at last. Their children have been redeemed. Fathers, mothers, shall the voices of your children swell the song of gladness in that day?” Child Guidance, 569.

  • What is the other solemn warning concerning the day of reckoning? Jeremiah 2:4, 5, 9.

Note: “ ‘Weighed in the balance, and found wanting’ [Daniel 5:27]. To many parents the Judge will say in that day, ‘You had My Word, plainly setting forth your duty. Why have you not obeyed its teachings? Knew ye not that it was the voice of God? Did I not bid you search the Scriptures, that you might not go astray? You have not only ruined your own souls, but by your pretensions to godliness you have misled many others. You have no part with Me. Depart; depart.’ ” Child Guidance, 569.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What dwelling will give the best place of safety to our flock?

2 From what influences should you separate?

3 What are the ABCs of God’s educational plan?

4 As reformers, what attitudes must your influence work to correct?

5 What is the reward ahead for you?

Copyright © 2002 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Joseph

by

October 23, 2011 – October 29, 2011

Key Text

“Hate the evil, and love the good, and establish judgment in the gate: it may be that the Lord God of hosts will be gracious unto the remnant of Joseph.” Amos 5:15.

Study Help: The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, 126–160; Education, 51–53.

Introduction

“Although surrounded with idolatry, which was most repulsive to his principles, Joseph preserved his simplicity, his purity, and his God-fearing fidelity.” The Signs of the Times, January 8, 1880.

1 A YOUTH WITH MORAL INTEGRITY

  • What bright spot arose in Jacob’s family, even amidst the evil results of his grave mistake of fathering children by four women? Genesis 30:22–24; 37:3.

Note: “The jealousy of the several mothers had embittered the family relation, the children had grown up contentious and impatient of control, and the father’s life was darkened with anxiety and grief.

“There was one, however, of a widely different character—the elder son of Rachel, Joseph, whose rare personal beauty seemed but to reflect an inward beauty of mind and heart. Pure, active, and joyous, the lad gave evidence also of moral earnestness and firmness. He listened to his father’s instructions, and loved to obey God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 208, 209.

  • What was Satan’s plan to extinguish the light of Heaven? Genesis 37:4, 23–28. Why was it doomed to fail? Acts 7:8, 9.

Note: “Joseph was faithful to God, and his fidelity was a constant testimony to the true faith. It was to quench this light that Satan worked through the envy of Joseph’s brothers to cause him to be sold as a slave in a heathen land. God overruled events, however, so that the knowledge of Himself should be given to the people of Egypt.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 332.

2 RESISTING TEMPTATION

  • What reveals Joseph’s fidelity to God, even in the face of injustice from people? Genesis 39:3–10, 14, 20–23; Psalm 105:17–19.

Note: “Few temptations are more dangerous or more fatal to young men than the temptation to sensuality and none if yielded to will prove so decidedly ruinous to soul and body for time and eternity. The welfare of his entire future is suspended upon the decision of a moment. Joseph calmly casts his eyes to heaven for help, slips off his loose outer garment, leaving it in the hand of his tempter and while his eye is lighted with determined resolve in the place of unholy passion, he exclaims, ‘How can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?’ [Genesis 39:9]. The victory is gained; he flees from the enchanter; he is saved.” Sons and Daughters of God, 187.

“When he [Joseph] was accused, and a base crime was falsely laid to his charge, he did not sink in despair. In the consciousness of innocence and right, he still trusted in God. And God, who had hitherto supported him, did not forsake him. He was bound with fetters, and kept in a gloomy prison. Yet God turned even this misfortune into a blessing. He gave him favor with the keeper of the prison, and to Joseph was soon committed the charge of all the prisoners.

“Here is an example to all generations who should live upon the earth. Although they may be exposed to temptations, yet they should ever realize that there is a defense at hand, and it will be their own fault if they are not preserved. God will be a present help, and His Spirit a shield. Although surrounded with the severest temptations, there is a source of strength to which they can apply and resist them. How fierce was the assault upon Joseph’s morals. It came from one of influence, the most likely to lead astray. Yet how promptly and firmly was it resisted. He suffered for his virtue and integrity; for she who would lead him astray, revenged herself upon the virtue she could not subvert, and by her influence caused him to be cast into prison, by charging him with a foul wrong. Here Joseph suffered because he would not yield his integrity. He had placed his reputation and interest in the hands of God. And although he was suffered to be afflicted for a time, to prepare him to fill an important position, yet God safely guarded that reputation that was blackened by a wicked accuser, and afterward, in his own good time, caused it to shine. God made even the prison the way to his elevation. Virtue will in time bring its own reward. The shield which covered Joseph’s heart, was the fear of God, which caused him to be faithful and just to his master, and true to God.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, 131, 132.

3 AN ADMINISTRATOR DURING FAMINE

  • What did God intend for Egypt in bringing Joseph there? Psalm 105:20–22.

Note: “Both in the house of Potiphar and in the prison Joseph received an education and training that, with the fear of God, prepared him for his high position as prime minister of the nation. From the palace of the Pharaohs his influence was felt throughout the land, and the knowledge of God spread far and wide.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 332.

“Wonderful is the work which God designs to accomplish through His servants, that His name may be glorified. God made Joseph a fountain of life to the Egyptian nation. Through Joseph the life of that whole people was preserved.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 227.

  • How did the Lord shower His abundant mercy upon the repentant brothers of Joseph, who were eventually threatened with starvation? Acts 7:11–14; Genesis 50:19–21; Romans 8:28.

Note: “During the years since Joseph had been separated from his brothers, these sons of Jacob had changed in character. Envious, turbulent, deceptive, cruel, and revengeful they had been; but now, when tested by adversity, they were shown to be unselfish, true to one another, devoted to their father, and, themselves middle-aged men, subject to his authority.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 225.

“The people of Egypt, in order to supply themselves with food during the famine, had sold to the crown their cattle and lands, and had finally bound themselves to perpetual serfdom. Joseph wisely provided for their release; he permitted them to become royal tenants, holding their lands of the king, and paying an annual tribute of one fifth of the products of their labor.

“But the children of Jacob were not under the necessity of making such conditions. On account of the service that Joseph had rendered the Egyptian nation, they were not only granted a part of the country as a home, but were exempted from taxation, and liberally supplied with food during the continuance of the famine. The king publicly acknowledged that it was through the merciful interposition of the God of Joseph that Egypt enjoyed plenty while other nations were perishing from famine. He saw, too, that Joseph’s management had greatly enriched the kingdom, and his gratitude surrounded the family of Jacob with royal favor.” Ibid., 241.

4 JOSEPH’S FIRST AFFECTION REVEALED

  • What was the earnest desire of Joseph in behalf of his children? Hebrews 11:21.

Note: “Joseph, coming for a last interview with his father, brought with him Ephraim and Manasseh. These youths were connected, through their mother, with the highest order of the Egyptian priesthood; and the position of their father opened to them the avenues to wealth and distinction, should they choose to connect themselves with the Egyptians. It was Joseph’s desire, however, that they should unite with their own people. He manifested his faith in the covenant promise, in behalf of his sons renouncing all the honors that the court of Egypt offered, for a place among the despised shepherd tribes, to whom had been entrusted the oracles of God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 234.

  • What final request of Joseph revealed that, despite his success in Egypt, his heart was not really based there? Genesis 50:24–26; Hebrews 11:22; Joshua 24:32.

Note: “He [Joseph] witnessed the increase and prosperity of his people, and through all the years his faith in God’s restoration of Israel to the Land of Promise was unshaken.

“When he saw that his end was near, he summoned his kinsmen about him. Honored as he had been in the land of the Pharaohs, Egypt was to him but the place of his exile; his last act was to signify that his lot was cast with Israel. … And through the centuries of toil which followed, that coffin, a reminder of the dying words of Joseph, testified to Israel that they were only sojourners in Egypt, and bade them keep their hopes fixed upon the Land of Promise, for the time of deliverance would surely come.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 240.

“The example of Joseph, shining with heaven’s brightness, did not shine in vain among this people for whom Christ had pledged Himself to become an offering—a people whom God had taken under His guardianship, and upon whom He was bestowing not only temporal but spiritual blessings, in order to attract them to Himself.” The Youth’s Instructor, March 11, 1897.

5 A BEAUTIFUL ILLUSTRATION

  • What are we to consider in studying the life of Joseph? Amos 5:14, 15.

Note: “The life of Joseph illustrates the life of Christ. It was envy that moved the brothers of Joseph to sell him as a slave; they hoped to prevent him from becoming greater than themselves. And when he was carried to Egypt, they flattered themselves that they were to be no more troubled with his dreams, that they had removed all possibility of their fulfillment. But their own course was overruled by God to bring about the very event that they designed to hinder. So the Jewish priests and elders were jealous of Christ, fearing that He would attract the attention of the people from them. They put Him to death, to prevent Him from becoming king, but they were thus bringing about this very result.

“Joseph, through his bondage in Egypt, became a savior to his father’s family; yet this fact did not lessen the guilt of his brothers. So the crucifixion of Christ by His enemies made Him the Redeemer of mankind, the Saviour of the fallen race, and Ruler over the whole world; but the crime of His murderers was just as heinous as though God’s providential hand had not controlled events for His own glory and the good of man.

“As Joseph was sold to the heathen by his own brothers, so Christ was sold to His bitterest enemies by one of His disciples. Joseph was falsely accused and thrust into prison because of his virtue; so Christ was despised and rejected because His righteous, self-denying life was a rebuke to sin; and though guilty of no wrong, He was condemned upon the testimony of false witnesses.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 239, 240.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What character qualities did Joseph display even in his youth?

2 Why was God able to thwart Satan’s plans to ruin, or at least discourage, Joseph?

3 How can I apply Joseph’s management of the Egyptian food supply in my life?

4 In what ways should my priorities be more like Joseph’s?

5 How can my life be in closer parallel to that of Christ’s, as Joseph’s was?

© 2005 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Isaac and Jacob

by

October 16, 2011 – October 22, 2011

Key Text

“By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.” Hebrews 11:20.

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 195–203; The Great Controversy, 615–622, 634.

Introduction

“Let us urge our petitions as did Jacob; and we shall find that importunate prayer will bring us precious victories.” The Review and Herald, May 27, 1884.

1 THE OBEDIENT LOVE OF ISAAC

  • When Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac, what was the son’s response? Genesis 22:9.

Note: “The patriarch assured Isaac that his affection for him was not diminished, and that he would gladly give his own life to save that of his son. But God had chosen Isaac, and His requirement must be fulfilled to the letter. Abraham told his son that the Lord had miraculously given him to his parents, and now He had required him again. He assured him that the divine promise, ‘In Isaac shall thy seed be called’ [Genesis 21:12], would be fulfilled; that doubtless God would raise him to life again from the dead.

“Isaac at first heard the purpose of God with amazement amounting to terror. But he considered the matter fully. He was the child of a miracle. If God had accepted him as a worthy sacrifice, he would cheerfully submit. Life was dear, life was precious, but God had appointed him, Isaac, to be offered up as a sacrifice. He comforted his father, by assuring him that God had conferred honor upon him, in accepting him as an offering; that in this requirement he saw not the wrath and displeasure of God, but special tokens that the Lord loved him, in that he required him to be consecrated to himself in sacrifice.

“He encouraged the almost nerveless hands of his father to bind the cords which confined him to the altar. …

“Isaac felt that it was a privilege to yield his life as an offering to God. If the Lord could accept him, he felt that he was honored.” The Signs of the Times, April 3, 1879.

2 THE MARRIAGE OF ISAAC

  • What lessons are to be learned from Isaac’s faith exercised in the choice of his wife? Genesis 24:1–4, 10–19, 63, 66, 67.

Note: “Evil associates include more than the immoral and profane. Connection with one who is known to be irreligious is contrary to God’s order, and cannot fail to draw the soul away from Him. Those who have not the fear of God before them, who are not seeking to live in obedience to him, although they may be moral, intellectual, apparently refined, fashionable, wealthy, are not the ones for Christians to form a marriage alliance with. Howe–ver agreeable their society may be, however entertaining their conversation, the word of God is plain upon the point; the Christian should not connect with them.

“Those who enter the marriage relation while unconverted should not after conversion leave their unbelieving companions. Whatever their religious character may be, they must remain faithful, kind, and true toward them; yet they should acknowledge the claims of God above any earthly relationship, serving him with fidelity, even though inconvenience, trials, and persecutions may arise for the sake of Christ and the truth. His persevering fidelity to truth and duty may be a sanctifying influence upon the unbelieving companion. But marriages formed understandingly with unbelievers are forbidden by the word of God. … Satan has the victory; temptation has not been resisted, and in nine cases out of ten both parties are lost to Christ. …

“Young men and women sometimes manifest great independence upon the subject of marriage, as though the Lord had nothing to do with them, or they with the Lord, in that matter. They seem to think that it is purely a matter of their own, which neither God nor their parents should in any wise control, that the bestowal of their affections is a matter in which self alone should be consulted. Such make a serious mistake; and a few years of marriage experience generally teaches them that it is a miserable mistake. …

“Isaac had been trained in the fear of God to a life of obedience. And when he was forty years old, he submitted to have the God-fearing, experienced servant of his father choose for him. He believed that God would direct in regard to his obtaining a wife. …

“Isaac’s case is left on record, as an example for children in after generations, especially those who profess to fear God.” The Signs of the Times, April 10, 1879.

3 CONTRASTING TWINS

  • How was Isaac’s faith tested, then rewarded, after his marriage? Genesis 25:20–26.
  • Describe the contrast between Esau and Jacob. Genesis 25:27–34. How and why are we to avoid the example of Esau? Hebrews 12:14–17.

Note: “The circumstances of Esau’s selling his birthright represents the unrighteous, who consider that the redemption purchased for them by Christ of little value, and sacrifice their heirship to Heaven for perishable treasures. Many are controlled by their appetite, and rather than to deny an unhealthy appetite, will sacrifice high and valuable considerations. If one must be yielded, the gratification of a depraved appetite, or the high and heavenly blessings which God promises only to the self-denying and God-fearing, the clamors of appetite, as in the case of Esau, will generally prevail, and for self-gratification, God and Heaven will be virtually despised. Even professed Christians will use tea, coffee, snuff, tobacco and spirits, all of which benumb the finer sensibilities of the soul. If you tell them they cannot have Heaven, and these hurtful indulgences, and that they should deny their appetites, and cleanse themselves from all filthiness of the flesh, and the spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord, they are offended, look sorrowful, and conclude that if the way is so strait that they cannot indulge in their gross appetites, they will not walk any longer in it.

“Especially will the corrupt passions control the mind of those who value heaven of so little worth. Health will be sacrificed, the mental faculties enfeebled, and heaven will be sold for these pleasures, as Esau sold his birthright. Esau was a reckless person. He made a solemn oath that Jacob should have his birthright. This case is left on record as a warning to others.” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3, 116, 117.

  • Give examples of the way Scripture refers to Jacob. Psalms 22:23; 47:4; 78:5–8; 105:6–12. Though he failed to recognize it before, what was Isaac eventually to realize about Jacob? Hebrews 11:20, 21.

Note: “Isaac lived many years after he gave Jacob the blessing, and was convinced by the course of his two sons, that the blessing rightly belongs to Jacob.” The Signs of the Times, April 17, 1879.

4 A VICTORIOUS MAN

  • Though serious flaws marred Jacob’s record, what significant events did cause him to shine brightly nonetheless, to be a victorious father of faith? Genesis 32:24–30; 35:1–5.

Note: “Jacob had chosen the inheritance of faith. He had endeavored to obtain it by craft, treachery, and falsehood; but God had permitted his sin to work out its correction. Yet through all the bitter experience of his later years, Jacob had never swerved from his purpose or renounced his choice. He had learned that in resorting to human skill and craft to secure the blessing, he had been warring against God. From that night of wrestling beside the Jabbok, Jacob had come forth a different man. Self-confidence had been uprooted. Henceforth the early cunning was no longer seen. In place of craft and deception, his life was marked by simplicity and truth. He had learned the lesson of simple reliance upon the Almighty Arm, and amid trial and affliction he bowed in humble submission to the will of God. The baser elements of character were consumed in the furnace fire, the true gold was refined, until the faith of Abraham and Isaac appeared undimmed in Jacob.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 208.

  • Why was Jacob’s name changed? Genesis 35:9, 10. What opportunity is before us for such a change to be ours? Revelation 2:17; 3:12.

Note: “Jacob’s persevering faith prevailed. He held fast the angel until he obtained the blessing he desired, and the assurance of the pardon of his sins. His name was then changed from Jacob, the supplanter, to Israel, which signifies a prince of God.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, 119.

“His [Jacob’s] name was changed from one that was a reminder of his sin, to one that commemorated his victory.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 198.

“His [Jacob’s] name was changed, to correspond to the change in his character.” The Review and Herald, March 28, 1899.

“You each need a new and living experience in the divine life in order to do the will of God. No amount of past experience will suffice for the present nor strengthen us to overcome the difficulties in our path. We must have new grace and fresh strength daily in order to be victorious.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 541.

5 AN EXAMPLE FOR US

  • How are we to follow in the footsteps of Jacob? Psalm 84:8.

Note: “We do not know what faith really is until we try to exercise it. We all need more of that firm, persevering faith that Jacob manifested while wrestling with the angel on that eventful night. Few realize how severely his faith was tested at that time. He had separated himself from all earthly friends, that he might be alone with God. All who made life dear to him were exposed to danger and death. The bitterest drop in his cup of anguish was the thought that his own sin had brought this great peril upon his wives and children, who were innocent of the sin of which he was guilty. He had decided to spend the night in humiliation and prayer. God could soften the heart of his brother. God was his only refuge and strength. In a desolate place, infested by robbers and murderers, he bowed in deep distress upon the earth. His soul was rent with anguish, and with earnest cries mingled with tears he made his prayer before God.” Historical Sketches, 131.

“It was through faith and prayer that Jacob, from being a man of feebleness and sin, became a prince with God. It is thus that you may become men and women of high and holy purpose, of noble life, men and women who will not for any consideration be swayed from truth, right, and justice. All are pressed with urgent cares, burdens, and duties, but the more difficult your position and the heavier your burdens, the more you need Jesus.” The Ministry of Healing, 511.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What qualities of Isaac should we be eager to cultivate?

2 How can a marriage be more successful even before it is contracted?

3 Most are familiar with the method by which Jacob got his birthright from his father (see Genesis, chapter 27). What would have happened if he and his mother had not been so quick to snatch up what they thought of as their only chance?

4 In what ways should our prayer life reflect that of Jacob’s?

© 2005 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Abraham

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October 9, 2011 – October 15, 2011

Key Text

“Hearken to me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the Lord: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged. Look unto Abraham your father, and unto Sarah that bare you: for I called him alone, and blessed him, and increased him.” Isaiah 51:1, 2.

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 4, 523, 524; Patriarchs and Prophets, 125–131.

Introduction

“Abraham’s unquestioning obedience is one of the most striking evidences of faith to be found in all the Bible.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 126.

1 A MAN WHOM GOD COULD TRUST

  • Describe Abraham’s background and what distinguished him. Genesis 11:26–32.

Note: “Although his [Abraham’s] own father was vacillating between the true and the false worship, and with his knowledge of the truth false theories and idolatrous practices were mingled, Abraham kept free from this infatuation. He was not ashamed of his faith, and made no effort to hide the fact that he made God his trust.” The Youth’s Instructor, March 4, 1897.

  • How was God eventually to describe the trust He placed in this patriarch? Genesis 18:17–19.

Note: “God designed that Abraham should be a channel of light and blessing, that he should have a gathering influence, and that God should have a people on the earth. Abraham was to be in the world, reflecting in his life the character of Jesus. When he received the divine call, Abraham was not a man of renown, neither a lawgiver, nor a conqueror. He was a simple herdsman, dwelling in tents, but employing a large number of workmen to carry on his humble employment. And the honor which he received was because of his faithfulness to God, his strict integrity and just dealing.” The Youth’s Instructor, March 4, 1897.

2 FATHER OF A PECULIAR NATION

  • What was the first major step of faith that Abraham was called to perform, and why? Genesis 12:1–7; II Corinthians 6:14–18.

Note: “God selected Abraham as His messenger, through whom to communicate light to the world. The word of God came to him, not with the presentation of flattering prospects in this life, of large salary, of great appreciation and worldly honor. … He forsook his country, his home, his relatives, and all pleasant associations connected with his early life, to become a pilgrim and a stranger. …

“Before God can use him, Abraham must be separated from his former associations, that he may not be controlled by human influence, or rely upon human aid. Now that he has become connected with God, this man must henceforth dwell among strangers. His character must be peculiar, differing from all the world.” Gospel Workers (1892), 23, 24.

  • What was Abraham seeking? Hebrews 11:8–10. How are we to follow his example?

Note: “With only the naked promise that his [Abraham’s] descendants should possess Canaan, without the least outward evidence, he followed on where God should lead, fully and sincerely complying with the conditions on his part, and confident that the Lord would faithfully perform His word. The patriarch went wherever God indicated his duty; he passed through wildernesses without terror; he went among idolatrous nations with the one thought, ‘God has spoken; I am obeying His voice; He will guide, He will protect me.’

“Just such faith and confidence as Abraham had, the messengers of God need today. But many whom the Lord could use will not move onward, hearing and obeying the one voice above all others. The connection with kindred and friends, the former habits and associations, too often have so great an influence upon God’s servants that He can give them but little instruction, can communicate to them but little knowledge of His purposes; and often after a time he sets them aside, and calls others in their place, whom He tests in the same manner. The Lord would do much more for His servants if they were wholly consecrated to Him, esteeming His service above the ties of kindred and all other earthly associations.” Gospel Workers (1892), 24.

3 A FAMILY’S FAITH TESTED

  • Why were the names of both Abram and Sarai changed? Genesis 17:1–8, 15, 16.
  • What reveals the tremendous spiritual growth of Sarah? Genesis 18:1, 10–14; 21:1, 2, 6, 7; Hebrews 11:11, 12.
  • What was the greatest test ever to befall Abraham? Genesis 22:1–3, 10–14.

Note: “Isaac had been a comfort, a sunbeam, a blessing to Abraham in his old age, and although this gift of God seemed so precious, so dear to him, he was now commanded to return it to the Giver.” The Signs of the Times, April 3, 1879.

  • Why was this test given to Abraham? John 8:56.

Note: “This terrible ordeal was imposed upon Abraham that he might see the day of Christ, and realize the great love of God for the world, so great that to raise it from its degradation, He gave His only-begotten Son to a most shameful death.

“Abraham learned of God the greatest lesson ever given to mortal. His prayer that he might see Christ before he should die was answered. He saw Christ; he saw all that mortal can see, and live. By making an entire surrender, he was able to understand the vision of Christ, which had been given him. He was shown that in giving His only-begotten Son to save sinners from eternal ruin, God was making a greater and more wonderful sacrifice than ever man could make.” The Desire of Ages, 469.

“Abraham’s test was the most severe that could come to a human being. Had he failed under it, he would never have been registered as the father of the faithful. Had he deviated from God’s command, the world would have lost an inspiring example of unquestioning faith and obedience.” The Youth’s Instructor, June 6, 1901.

4 LESSONS FROM ABRAHAM’S TEST

  • What enabled Abraham to pass his greatest test victoriously? Hebrews 11:17.
  • Why should we be inspired by all that Abraham actually believed about the creative power of God? Hebrews 11:18, 19.

Note: “The lesson was given to shine down through the ages, that we may learn that there is nothing too precious to be given to God. It is when we look upon every gift as the Lord’s, to be used in His service, that we secure the heavenly benediction. Give back to God your intrusted possessions, and more will be intrusted to you. Keep your possessions to yourself, and you will receive no reward in this life, and will lose the reward of the life to come.

“God tries His people today to test their faith and obedience. There are many who have never made an unreserved surrender of themselves to God. They have not a right idea of the infinite sacrifice made by God to save a ruined world. If God should speak to them as He did to Abraham, they would not be sufficiently acquainted with His voice to know that He was calling upon them to make a sacrifice, in order to test the depth of their love and the sincerity of their faith.” The Youth’s Instructor, June 6, 1901.

“God has a right to every one of us, and it is not for anyone to question whether it is right, whether God should take this course or that course with us. Those who have perfect confidence in the Lord God of heaven will never question any of His dealings with His children. He has important experiences to give His children and He gives them this experience in His own way. Now Abraham verily believed and made the sacrifice to all intents and purposes in his heart. And that very faith was counted to him for righteousness. He thought and taught Isaac that God was able to raise him up from the dead and could see the end from the beginning. This is the very faith that we should have, every one of us, in the Lord God of heaven. We have the history of Abraham, and the ground the Lord brought him over, in order to give us strength and courage and faith. The Lord wants every one of us to believe that He is the very best friend we have. Abraham trusted God at every step and his faith was perfect.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 10, 119, 120.

5 ABRAHAM—AND US

  • Whom does Heaven view as the true children of Abraham—and therefore the actual heirs of the Divine promises given to him? John 8:39; Galatians 3:8, 9, 14.

Note: “Heart union with Christ makes believers heirs of God, and laborers together with Him. At home, at church, and in the world, the believer is to show forth the praises of Him who has called him out of darkness into His marvelous light.” The Review and Herald, March 14, 1893.

  • What qualities are we to reflect from this father of the faithful? Isaiah 51:1, 2.

Note: “Abraham’s unselfish life made him indeed a ‘spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men’ [1 Corinthians 4:9]. And the Lord declared He would bless those who blessed Abraham, and that He would punish those who misused or injured him. Through Abraham’s experience in his religious life a correct knowledge of Jehovah has been communicated to thousands; and his light will shed its beams all along the path of those who practise [sic] the piety, the faith, the devotion, and the obedience of Abraham. …

“As Abraham and other holy men of old were a light in their generation, so must God’s people be a light in the world. The beams of heaven’s attractive loveliness are to shine forth from us, showing the only good and right way, and ever showing the superiority of God’s law above every human enactment.” The Youth’s Instructor, March 4, 1897.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What made Abraham different from his forebears?

2 In what aspects of my life do I need to follow Abraham’s example of separation?

3 Why does the greatest trial of one’s life often turn out to be the greatest blessing?

4 Why was Abraham so successful in his spiritual life?

5 How can the spiritual blessings we receive from heaven be more far-reaching as Abraham’s were?

© 2005 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Abel, Enoch, Noah

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October 2, 2011 – October 8, 2011

Key Text

“The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

Study Help: The Faith I Live By, 350; Testimonies, vol. 4, 306–309.

Introduction

“The patriarchs, prophets, and all the holy martyrs from righteous Abel, looked forward to a coming Saviour, in whom they showed their faith by sacrificial offerings.” The Signs of the Times, August 7, 1879.

1 THE FAITH OF ABEL

  • What are we to learn from the offering of Abel compared to Cain’s? Genesis 4:1–7.

Note: “Abel, by faith in a future Redeemer, offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain. His offering the blood of beasts signified that he was a sinner and had sins to wash away, and that he was penitent and believed in the efficacy of the blood of the future great offering. Satan is the parent of unbelief, murmuring, and rebellion. He filled Cain with doubt and with madness against his innocent brother and against God, because his sacrifice was refused and Abel’s accepted. …

“That which made Cain’s offering offensive to God was his lack of submission and obedience to the ordinance of His appointment. He thought that his own plan, in offering to God merely the fruit of the ground, was nobler, and not as humiliating as the offering of the blood of beasts, which showed dependence upon another, thus expressing his own weakness and sinfulness. Cain slighted the blood of the atonement.” Confrontation, 24.

“The matter was plainly laid open before Cain; but his combativeness was aroused because his course was questioned, and he was not permitted to follow his own independent ideas.” The Signs of the Times, December 16, 1886.

“The offering of Cain was an offense to God, because it was a Christless offering. The burden of our message is not only the commandments of God, but the faith of Jesus.” Gospel Workers, 162.

2 THE FIRST MARTYRDOM

  • What was Cain’s attitude, and why must we avoid it? Genesis 4:8; I John 3:10–12.

Note: “Cain invites Abel to walk with him in the fields, and he there gives utterance to his unbelief and his murmuring against God. He claims that he was doing well in presenting his offering; and the more he talks against God, and impeaches his justice and mercy in rejecting his own offering and accepting that of his brother Abel, the more bitter are his feelings of anger and resentment.

“Abel defends the goodness and impartiality of God, and places before Cain the simple reason why God did not accept his offering.

“The fact that Abel ventured to disagree with him and even went so far as to point out his errors astonished Cain. It was a new experience; for Abel had hitherto submitted to the judgment of his elder brother; and Cain was enraged to the highest degree that Abel did not sympathize with him in his disaffection. Abel would yield when conscience was not concerned; but when the course of the God of Heaven was brought in question, and Cain spoke derisively of the sacrifice of faith, Abel was courageous to defend the truth. Cain’s reason told him that Abel was right when he spoke of the necessity of presenting the blood of a slain victim if he would have his sacrifice accepted; but Satan presented the matter in a different light. He urged Cain on to a furious madness, till he slew his brother.” The Signs of the Times, December 16, 1886.

  • What great truths did Abel understand? Hebrews 9:22; 11:4; Romans 6:23.

Note: “There are multitudes who have no desire to come to God’s terms, but who make terms for themselves, and expect God to accept them. Such a religion is of the same character as that of Cain. The great question should be, What can I do to meet the approval of God? not, How can I best please myself?” The Signs of the Times, February 6, 1879.

“Those who feel that they can be moral without divine help, who feel no need of the blood of Christ, are betrayed into grievous sins. If they do not gladly, gratefully, accept the cleansing blood, they are under condemnation. There is no other provision made whereby they can be released from sin’s terrible thralldom.” Ibid., September 11, 1884.

3 ENOCH

  • What is written of Enoch, the seventh from Adam? Hebrews 11:5; Genesis 5:24.
  • In what ways is the experience of Enoch to be repeated in the life of God’s remnant preparing for the second coming of Christ? Jude 14, 15; I Thessalonians 4:15–18.

Note: “Enoch became a preacher of righteousness, bearing God’s message to all who would hear the words of warning. In the land where Cain had sought to flee from the divine presence, the prophet of God made known the wonderful scenes that had passed before his vision. …

“The power of God that wrought with His servant was felt by those who heard. Some gave heed to the warning and renounced their sins; but the multitudes mocked at the solemn message. The servants of God are to bear a similar message to the world in the last days, and it also will be received by the majority with unbelief and mockery.

“As year after year passed, deeper and deeper grew the tide of human guilt, darker and darker gathered the clouds of divine judgment. Yet Enoch, the witness of faith, held on his way, warning, pleading, and teaching, striving to turn back the tide of guilt and to stay the bolts of vengeance.

“The men of that generation mocked the folly of him who sought not to gather gold or silver, or to build up possessions here. But Enoch’s heart was upon eternal treasures. He had looked upon the celestial city. He had seen the King in His glory in the midst of Zion. The greater the existing iniquity, the more earnest was his longing for the home of God. While still on earth, he dwelt by faith in the realms of light.

“ ‘Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God’ [Matthew 5:8]. For three hundred years Enoch had been seeking purity of heart, that he might be in harmony with heaven. For three centuries he had walked with God. Day by day he had longed for a closer union; nearer and nearer had grown the communion, until God took him to Himself. He had stood at the threshold of the eternal world, only a step between him and the land of the blest; and now the portals opened, the walk with God, so long pursued on earth, continued, and he passed through the gates of the holy city. …

“To such communion God is calling us. As was Enoch’s, so must be their holiness of character who shall be redeemed from among men at the Lord’s second coming.” Gospel Workers, 52–54.

4 THE DAYS OF NOAH

  • How had the moral condition of the world deteriorated even further by the time Noah came along? Genesis 6:5–7, 13.
  • What are some of the various ways in which our society today is similar to that of Noah’s time? Matthew 24:37–39.

Note: “The inhabitants of the antediluvian world turned from Jehovah, refusing to do His holy will. They followed their own unholy imagination and perverted ideas. It was because of their wickedness that they were destroyed; and today the world is following the same way. It presents no flattering signs of millennial glory. The transgressors of God’s law are filling the earth with wickedness. Their betting, their horse racing, their gambling, their dissipation, their lustful practices, their untamable passions, are fast filling the world with violence.” The Desire of Ages, 633.

“Every emotion, every impulse and imagination, was at war with the divine principles of purity and peace and love. It was an example of the awful depravity resulting from Satan’s policy to remove from God’s creatures the restraint of His holy law.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 79.

“Very plainly Christ saw what the condition of society would be in the future. He saw that self-indulgence would control men and women. What of the marriage relation today? Is it not perverted and defiled, made even as it was in Noah’s day? Divorce after divorce is recorded in the daily papers. This is the marriage of which Christ speaks when He says that before the flood they were ‘marrying and giving in marriage’ [Matthew 24:38].

“Before the flood there was violence in the land—heart-sickening violence. What is acted out constantly in our cities today? Men are killing women and women are killing men.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 7, 56, 57.

5 THE FAITH OF NOAH

  • How was Noah very distinct among the people of his day? Genesis 6:9, 13; 7:1, 5.

Note: “While Noah was giving his warning message to the world, his works testified of his sincerity. It was thus that his faith was perfected and made evident. He gave the world an example of believing just what God says.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 95.

  • Why are we to be inspired by Noah’s faith? Hebrews 11:7; I Peter 3:17–22.

Note: “The world is fast becoming as it was in the days of Noah. Satan is working with intensity of effort, knowing that he has but a short time. Wickedness prevails to an appalling extent. God’s people are but a handful, compared with the ungodly, and we can gain success only as we co-operate with the heavenly angels, who will go before all who press forward to do that which God has said should be done.” The Review and Herald, June 15, 1905.

“God will have a people zealous of good works, standing firm amid the pollutions of this degenerate age. There will be a people who hold so fast to the divine strength that they will be proof against every temptation. Evil communications in flaming handbills may seek to speak to their senses and corrupt their minds; yet they will be so united to God and angels that they will be as those who see not and hear not. They have a work to do which no one can do for them, which is to fight the good fight of faith, and lay hold on eternal life.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 472.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What are some of the various ways in which the attitude of Cain is manifested today?

2 How can I cultivate the spirit of Abel?

3 What characteristics of Enoch are essential for us to have?

4 What are some of the most compelling evidences that Christ will return soon?

5 Why does the life of Noah provide such a prime example of righteousness by faith?

© 2005 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Genuine Faith

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September 25, 2011 – October 1, 2011

Faith of Our Fathers

Key Text

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1.

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 8, 255–264; Patriarchs and Prophets, 44, 45, 112–116.

Introduction

“To depend upon what we can see is not faith. Faith depends upon God’s promises.” Sabbath-School Worker, July 1, 1895.

1 LIVING BY THE INVISIBLE

  • What simple definition does the Bible give for faith? Hebrews 11:1. How is faith in God to affect us in a practical way?

Note: “Faith is trusting God—believing that He loves us and knows best what is for our good. Thus, instead of our own, it leads us to choose His way.” Education, 253.

“All things are possible with God, and by faith we may lay hold on His power. But faith is not sight; faith is not feeling; faith is not reality. ‘Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen’ [Hebrews 11:1]. To abide in faith is to put aside feeling and selfish desires, to walk humbly with the Lord, to appropriate His promises, and apply them to all occasions, believing that God will work out His own plans and purposes in your heart and life by the sanctification of your character; it is to rely entirely, to trust implicitly, upon the faithfulness of God.” Special Testimonies on Education, 115. (Emphasis author’s.)

  • Why can we be inspired by the faith of our forefathers? Hebrews 11:2.

Note: “Although the patriarchs and apostles were subject to human frailties, yet through faith they obtained a good report, fought their battles in the strength of the Lord, and conquered gloriously. Thus may we trust in the virtue of the atoning sacrifice and be overcomers in the name of Jesus.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 15.

2 MARVELS OF GOD’S CREATION

  • Describe the marvelous way by which our God both creates and sustains. Hebrews 11:3; Psalm 33:8, 9; Acts 17:28, first part.

Note: “God is perpetually at work in nature. She is His servant, directed as He pleases. Nature in her work testifies of the intelligent presence and active agency of a being who moves in all His works according to His will. It is not by an original power inherent in nature that year by year the earth yields its bounties and continues its march around the sun. The hand of infinite power is perpetually at work guiding this planet. It is God’s power momentarily exercised that keeps it in position in its rotation.

“The God of heaven is constantly at work. It is by His power that vegetation is caused to flourish, that every leaf appears and every flower blooms. Every drop of rain or flake of snow, every spire of grass, every leaf and flower and shrub, testifies of God. These little things so common around us teach the lesson that nothing is beneath the notice of the infinite God, nothing is too small for His attention.

“The mechanism of the human body cannot be fully understood; it presents mysteries that baffle the most intelligent. It is not as the result of a mechanism, which, once set in motion, continues its work, that the pulse beats and breath follows breath. In God we live and move and have our being. Every breath, every throb of the heart, is a continual evidence of the power of an ever-present God.” Testimonies, vol. 8, 259, 260.

  • How can God’s creative power change our lives? Psalm 51:10; Ezekiel 36:26, 27.

Note: “One of the most earnest prayers recorded in the Word of God is that of David when he pleaded, ‘Create in me a clean heart, O God’ [Psalm 51:10]. God’s response to such a prayer is, A new heart will I give you. This is a work that no finite man can do. Men and women are to begin at the beginning, seeking God most earnestly for a true Christian experience. They are to feel the creative power of the Holy Spirit. They are to receive the new heart, that is kept soft and tender by the grace of heaven.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, 1165.

3 SEEK IN ORDER TO FIND

  • What is needed in order to please God, and how only can we be truly blessed in seeking Him? Hebrews 11:6.

Note: “Should you become alarmed for your own souls, should you seek God diligently, He will be found of you; but He will accept no halfhearted repentance. If you will forsake your sins, He is ever ready to forgive. Will you just now surrender to Him? Will you look to Calvary and inquire: ‘Did Jesus make this sacrifice for me? Did He endure humiliation, shame, and reproach, and suffer the cruel death of the cross because He desired to save me from the sufferings of guilt and the horror of despair, and make me unspeakably happy in His kingdom?’ Look upon Him whom your sins have pierced, and resolve: ‘The Lord shall have the service of my life. I will no longer unite with His enemies; I will no longer lend my influence to the rebels against His government. All I have and am is too little to devote to Him who so loved me that He gave His life for me—His whole divine self for one so sinful and erring.’ Separate from the world, be wholly on the Lord’s side, press the battle to the gates, and you will win glorious victories.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 438, 439.

  • Describe the way we are to seek God. Psalm 119:2, 145; 1 Chronicles 16:10–13.

Note: “Let the soul be drawn out and upward, that God may grant us a breath of His heavenly atmosphere. Let the spirit groan after God, and mingle faith with fervent desire. We should encourage gratitude and praise, and always be found warring against every unholy impulse, crushing out of the soul every unclean lust. This is the warfare that must be accomplished. We may keep so near to God that in every unexpected trial our thoughts may turn to God as naturally as the flower turns to the sun. The sunflower keeps its face sunward. If it is turned from the light, it will twist itself on the stem, until it lifts up its petals to the bright beams of the sun. So let everyone who has given his heart to God, turn to the Sun of Righteousness, and eagerly look up to receive the bright beams of the glory that shine in the face of Jesus.” The Signs of the Times, December 16, 1889.

4 INTO A NEW REALM OF LIFE

  • How does the faithful person stand in contrast to the proud one? Habakkuk 2:4.

Note: “When the sinner, in view of all his transgressions, exercises faith in God, and believes that he is pardoned because Christ has died as his sacrifice, he will be filled with gratitude to God, and will have tender sympathy toward those who, like himself, have sinned and are in need of pardon. Pride will find no place in his heart. Such faith as this will be a death-blow to a revengeful spirit. How is it possible for one who finds forgiveness, and who is daily dependent upon the grace of Christ, to turn away in coldness from those who have been overtaken in a fault and to display to the sinner an unforgiving spirit? Every one who has real faith in God will crush pride under his feet. A view of the goodness and the mercy of God will lead to repentance, and will create a desire to possess the same spirit. He who receives the Spirit of God will have clear discernment to see the good there is in the characters of others, and will love those who need the tender, pitying sympathy of forgiveness. The repenting sinner sees in Christ a sin-pardoning Saviour, and contemplates with hope and confidence the pardon written over against his sin. He wants the same work to be done for his associates; for true faith brings the soul into sympathy with God.” The Review and Herald, May 7, 1895.

  • How is faith closely linked together with God’s law, a turning away from sin, and deliverance from it? Romans 14:23, last part; 1 John 3:4–6.

Note: “There must be a revival of the strait testimony. The path to heaven is no smoother now than in the days of our Saviour. All our sins must be put away. Every darling indulgence that hinders our religious life must be cut off. The right eye or the right hand must be sacrificed if it cause us to offend. Are we willing to renounce our own wisdom and to receive the kingdom of heaven as a little child? Are we willing to part with self-righteousness? Are we willing to give up our chosen worldly associates? Are we willing to sacrifice the approbation of men? The prize of eternal life is of infinite value. Will we put forth efforts and make sacrifices proportionate to the worth of the object to be attained?” Testimonies, vol. 5, 222.

5 A STREAM THAT NEVER RUNS DRY

  • How does the Lord explain the far-reaching extent to which our faith can be exercised? Mark 11:22–24; Luke 17:5, 6.

Note: “Faith takes God at His word, with or without feeling.” The Signs of the Times, May 15, 1884.

“If men will endure the necessary discipline, without complaining or fainting by the way, God will teach them hour by hour, and day by day. He longs to reveal His grace. If His people will remove the obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through the human channels.” The Desire of Ages, 251.

“There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. All who consecrate body, soul, and spirit to His service will be constantly receiving a new endowment of physical, mental, and spiritual power. The inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command. Christ gives them the breath of His own Spirit, the life of His own life. The Holy Spirit puts forth its highest energies to work in mind and heart. Through the grace given us we may achieve victories that because of our own erroneous and preconceived opinions, our defects of character, our smallness of faith, have seemed impossible.

“To everyone who offers himself to the Lord for service, withholding nothing, is given power for the attainment of measureless results. For these God will do great things. He will work upon the minds of men so that, even in this world, there shall be seen in their lives a fulfillment of the promise of the future state.” The Ministry of Healing, 159, 160.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What is faith?

2 How do doubts, which often can arise in conjunction with the theory of evolution, hinder one’s spiritual potential?

3 What are some key elements needed in order to search out God successfully?

4 In what ways should my life come more into harmony with genuine faith?

5 What are the secrets to victorious Christian life at its fullest?

© 2005 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.