March 24 – 30, 2024

Key Text

“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust.’ ” Psalm 91:1, 2

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 9–16

Introduction

“The cities of refuge appointed for God’s ancient people were a symbol of the refuge provided in Christ.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 516

Sunday

1 CONSTANT REFUGE

1.a. Whom do we desperately need as we flee from the evil avenger? Deuteronomy 33:27, 28; 2 Samuel 22:1–4. How did David recognize this after his own personal deliverance? Psalm 9:10

Note: “The sinner is exposed to eternal death, until he finds a hiding place in Christ; and as loitering and carelessness might rob the fugitive of his only chance for life, so delays and indifference may prove the ruin of the soul. Satan, the great adversary, is on the track of every transgressor of God’s holy law, and he who is not sensible of his danger, and does not earnestly seek shelter in the eternal refuge, will fall a prey to the destroyer.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 517

1.b.        When we truly realize the faithfulness and surety of our refuge in Christ, what situations will cause us to be afraid? Psalms 46:1–3; 62:1–8. What kind of relationship with Him is needed? Psalm 91:1, 2

1.c. Why does the understanding of the sanctuary truth enable us to have a deeper connection with Jesus as our refuge? Hebrews 6:18, 19

Monday

2 PURE, UNADULTERATED TRUTH

2.a. In what kind of refuge have those who believe lies placed their trust, and what is the result? Isaiah 28:14–21; 34:1–4, 8

Note: “To our merciful God the act of punishment is a strange act. Yet He will ‘by no means clear the guilty.’ … The very fact of His reluctance to execute justice, testifies to the enormity of the sins that call forth His judgments, and to the severity of the retribution awaiting the transgressor.

“All the inhabitants of earth are soon to meet the great Lawgiver over His broken law. There are many, many in the popular churches who know little of the real meaning of the message for this time.” The Signs of the Times, January 25, 1910

2.b.        Do truth and a lie have anything in common? 1 John 2:21. What steps should be taken when truth is neglected?

Note: “As the light and life of men was rejected by the ecclesiastical authorities in the days of Christ, so it has been rejected in every succeeding generation. Again and again the history of Christ’s withdrawal from Judea has been repeated. When the Reformers preached the word of God, they had no thought of separating themselves from the established church; but the religious leaders would not tolerate the light, and those that bore it were forced to seek another class, who were longing for the truth. In our day few of the professed followers of the Reformers are actuated by their spirit. Few are listening for the voice of God, and ready to accept truth in whatever guise it may be presented. Often those who follow in the steps of the Reformers are forced to turn away from the churches they love, in order to declare the plain teaching of the word of God. And many times those who are seeking for light are by the same teaching obliged to leave the church of their fathers, that they may render obedience.” The Desire of Ages, 232

2.c. What is pure truth, and why must it be unadulterated and preserved? John 14:6; 17:3; 1 Timothy 3:15; Isaiah 28:9–13

Note: “We are to stand upon the platform of eternal truth, pure, unadulterated truth. In this we may be considered singular, but this is the lot of all who make Christ their portion.” Medical Ministry, 161

Tuesday

3 IN NAME ONLY

3.a. What prophecy shows that the majority of churches will not accept the pure, unadulterated truth in these last days? Isaiah 4:1

Note: “Many feel that they must make some concessions to please their irreligious relatives and friends. As it is not always easy to draw the line, one concession prepares the way for another, until those who were once true followers of Christ, are in life and character conformed to the customs of the world. The connection with God is broken. They are Christians in name only. When the test hour comes, then their hope is seen to be without foundation. They have sold themselves and their children to the enemy.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 2, 1001

3.b.        How do we know that this prophecy refers to the time of the investigative judgment? Isaiah 4:2–4

3.c. How will those be treated who only want the name of Christ but not His character? Matthew 7:21–23

Note: “There are those in the church who, unless thoroughly converted, will crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put Him to an open shame. I appeal to every church member to inquire, Am I doing all I can to honor my Redeemer? Truth held in unrighteousness is the greatest curse that can come to our world. But the truth as it is in Jesus is a savor of life unto life. It is worth possessing, worth living, worth defending. Christ calls upon us to enter the narrow pathway, where every step means a denial of self. He calls upon us to stand upon the platform of eternal truth, and contend, yes, contend earnestly, for the faith once delivered to the saints.” The Review and Herald, December 4, 1900

3.d.        In light of this, how dangerous is willful sin? Hebrews 10:26, 27

Note: “If Christians are such in name only, they are like the salt that has lost its savor. They have no influence for good in the world. Through their misrepresentation of God they are worse than unbelievers.” The Desire of Ages, 306

Wednesday

4 THE CITY OF REFUGE ON EARTH

4.a. What is the result of walking with Jesus in pure truth? 1 John 1:7

Note: “A union of believers with Christ will as a natural result lead to a union with one another, which bond of union is the most enduring upon earth.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 47

4.b.        What relationship does the church of God on earth have with heaven, and what hope does this bring us? Ephesians 3:15; Hebrews 12:22, 23

Note: “In order that the church may be an educating power in the world, she must cooperate with the church in heaven. Her members must represent Christ. Their hearts must be open to receive every ray of light that God may see fit to impart.” The Review and Herald, December 4, 1900

4.c. Why do we need to join the church? Ephesians 4:4, 11–16; 5:23; 1 Corinthians 12:12–14; Acts 2:46, 47

Note: “The church is God’s fortress, His city of refuge, which He holds in a revolted world. Any betrayal of the church is treachery to Him who has bought mankind with the blood of His only begotten Son. From the beginning, faithful souls have constituted the church on earth. In every age the Lord has had His watchmen, who have borne a faithful testimony to the generation in which they lived. These sentinels gave the message of warning; and when they were called to lay off their armor, others took up the work. God brought these witnesses into covenant relation with Himself, uniting the church on earth with the church in heaven. He has sent forth His angels to minister to His church, and the gates of hell have not been able to prevail against His people.” The Acts of the Apostles, 11

“[An] obligation, too often lightly regarded—one that the youth awakened to the claims of Christ needs to be made plain—is the obligation of church relationship.

“Very close and sacred is the relation between Christ and His church—He the bridegroom, and the church the bride; He the head, and the church the body. Connection with Christ, then, involves connection with His church.” Education, 268

Thursday

5 RESIDING IN THE CITY OF REFUGE

5.a. How does God intend to reveal His love to the world? John 13:34, 35; 17:20, 21. What is our privilege in relationship with the church? Hebrews 10:25; Psalm 27:4

Note: “The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest, … the final and full display of the love of God.” The Acts of the Apostles, 9

“The church of Christ, enfeebled, defective as she may appear, is the one object on earth upon which He bestows in a special sense His love and His regard. The church is the theater of His grace, in which He delights in making experiments of His mercy on human hearts. The Holy Spirit is His representative, and it works to effect transformations so wonderful that angels look upon them with astonishment and joy. Heaven is full of rejoicing when the members of the human family are seen to be full of compassion for one another, loving one another as Christ has loved them. The church is God’s fortress, His city of refuge, which He holds in a revolted world. Any betrayal of her sacred trust is treachery to Him who has bought her with the precious blood of His only begotten Son.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 1554

5.b.        Since the church is to represent Christ on earth, what must we reveal to all? 2 Corinthians 5:20; 1 Peter 2:9

Note: “The church today needs men who, like Enoch, walk with God, revealing Christ to the world. Church members need to reach a higher standard. Heavenly messengers are waiting to communicate with those who have sunk self out of sight. … Christ is crucified afresh by many who through self-indulgence allow Satan to gain control over them. The church needs men of devotion to bear to the world the message of salvation, pointing sinners to the Lamb of God—men who, by their works of righteousness and their pure, true words, can lift their fellow men out of the pit of degradation.” The Review and Herald, December 4, 1900

“It is Satan’s work to mingle evil with good, and to remove the distinction between good and evil. Christ would have a church that labors to separate the evil from the good, whose members will not willingly tolerate wrongdoing, but will expel it from the heart and life.” Ibid.

“Sin may be called by false names, and glossed over by plausible excuses and pretended good motives, but this does not lessen its guilt in the sight of God.” The Signs of the Times, January 20, 1881

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     Where does the sin-sick soul find true lasting refuge?

2     Why is it so important to seek after and find pure, unadulterated truth?

3     In what dangers does willful sin place us?

4     What has God instituted on earth to provide peace and safety for the believer?

5     Through His church, what is God trying to reveal to the entire world?

Copyright 2008, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

March 17 – 23, 2024

Key Text

“Whoever kills a person, the murderer shall be put to death on the testimony of witnesses; but one witness is not sufficient testimony against a person for the death penalty.” Numbers 35:30

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 515–517

Introduction

“In a trial for murder the accused was not to be condemned on the testimony of one witness, even though circumstantial evidence might be strong against him.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 516

Sunday

1 RETALIATION

1.a. After Adam and Eve were expelled from the beautiful garden, what controversy erupted between two brothers? Genesis 4:3–7

1.b. How did Cain decide to resolve the issue between them, and what curse was placed upon him? Genesis 4:8–15

Note: “In sparing the life of the first murderer, God presented before the whole universe a lesson bearing upon the great controversy. The dark history of Cain and his descendants was an illustration of what would have been the result of permitting the sinner to live on forever, to carry out his rebellion against God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 78

1.c. How was the next murder viewed? Genesis 4:16–18, 23, 24

Note: “To the crime of murder, in which Cain had led the way, Lamech, the fifth in descent, added polygamy, and, boastfully defiant, he acknowledged God, only to draw from the avenging of Cain an assurance of his own safety.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 81

1.d. After the Flood, what principle was established? Genesis 9:6

Monday

2 A SAFETY PRECAUTION

2.a. What unique provision did God give Israel for those who were innocent of intentional killing? Joshua 20:1–3

Note: “This merciful provision [of appointing cities of refuge] was rendered necessary by the ancient custom of private vengeance, by which the punishment of the murderer devolved on the nearest relative or the next heir of the deceased. In cases where guilt was clearly evident it was not necessary to wait for a trial by the magistrates. The avenger might pursue the criminal anywhere and put him to death wherever he should be found. The Lord did not see fit to abolish this custom at that time, but He made provision to ensure the safety of those who should take life unintentionally.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 515

2.b. When a person’s body was found and there was no suspect, what steps were promptly taken to find the slayer? Deuteronomy 21:1–9

Note: “To increase the horrors of murder, and aid in the detection of the criminal, the Lord ordained that when the body of a murdered person was found in the land, the most solemn and public ceremony should be held, under the direction of the magistrates and elders in connection with the priests.” The Signs of the Times, January 20, 1881

2.c. How many cities in Israel were set aside for this purpose, and how were they distributed? Numbers 35:6, 9–14; Joshua 20:7–9

Note: “The cities of refuge were so distributed as to be within a half day’s journey of every part of the land. The roads leading to them were always to be kept in good repair; all along the way signposts were to be erected bearing the word ‘Refuge’ in plain, bold characters, that the fleeing one might not be delayed for a moment. Any person—Hebrew, stranger, or sojourner—might avail himself of this provision. But while the guiltless were not to be rashly slain, neither were the guilty to escape punishment. The case of the fugitive was to be fairly tried by the proper authorities, and only when found innocent of intentional murder was he to be protected in the city of refuge. The guilty were given up to the avenger. And those who were entitled to protection could receive it only on condition of remaining within the appointed refuge.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 515, 516

Tuesday

3 DECLARED INTENT

3.a. Who was able to make use of these cities of refuge, and how urgent was their arrival there? Numbers 35:15, 22–24; Deuteronomy 19:4, 5. If the fugitive would escape with his life, what must he do?

Note: “He who fled to the city of refuge could make no delay. Family and employment were left behind. There was no time to say farewell to loved ones. His life was at stake, and every other interest must be sacrificed to the one purpose—to reach the place of safety. Weariness was forgotten, difficulties were unheeded. The fugitive dared not for one moment slacken his pace until he was within the wall of the city.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 517

3.b.  What were those who had fled required to publicly declare upon entrance into a city of refuge? Joshua 20:4, 5; Numbers 35:12

3.c. Once a person found shelter, how long was he or she to remain in that city of refuge? Numbers 35:25, 32; Joshua 20:6

3.d.  What if the prisoner decided to leave his place of security before he was legally released? Numbers 35:26–28

Note: “The prisoner who at any time went outside the city of refuge was abandoned to the avenger of blood. Thus the people were taught to adhere to the methods which infinite wisdom appointed for their security.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 517

3.e.  Since the cities of refuge were provided only for those who had accidentally killed a person, what happened to an individual who was convicted for deliberate murder? Numbers 35:16, 21, 31

Note: “If the one tried for murder were proved guilty, no atonement or ransom could rescue him.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 516

Wednesday

4 THE JUST PENALTY

4.a. Why were the Israelites required to put the murderer to death? Exodus 21:14; Numbers 35:33, 34

Note: “The safety and purity of the nation demanded that the sin of murder be severely punished. Human life, which God alone could give, must be sacredly guarded.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 516

“God regards as His enemies those who will by any act of negligence shield the guilty. They are in His sight partakers in the evil deeds of the sinner.” The Signs of the Times, January 20, 1881

4.b.  In symbolic language, for what does the blood of a murdered victim cry? Who was to execute the judgment on the convicted murderer? Genesis 4:10; Revelation 6:9, 10; Numbers 35:19

Note: “Whosoever—be it individual or city—will excuse the crime of the murderer, when convinced of his guilt, is a partaker of his sin, and will surely suffer the wrath of God.” The Signs of the Times, January 20, 1881

4.c. What was one of the main crimes of the antediluvian world, and why is this bringing modern society to the same point of destruction? Genesis 6:11; Luke 17:26; Isaiah 59:14

Note: “Licentiousness, robbery, and murder, continually on the increase, are deluging our world, and preparing it to receive the unmingled wrath of God.” The Signs of the Times, January 20, 188

4.d. What are some of the strict guidelines in determining innocence or guilt, and why? Numbers 35:30; Matthew 18:16

Note: “The provision that none should be condemned on the testimony of one witness. was both just and necessary. One man might be controlled by prejudice, selfishness, or malice. But it was not likely that two or more persons would be so perverted as to unite in bearing false witness; and even should they do so, a separate examination would lead to a discovery of the truth.” The Signs of the Times, January 20, 1881

Thursday

5 PERFECT WISDOM AND BALANCE

5. Explain how God’s judicial system was based on mercy and justice. Psalm 89:14

Note: “While the Lord would have the crime of murder regarded with great abhorrence, He would carefully guard the innocent. Hence, without entirely destroying the custom of private vengeance, He makes the most thorough provision that the guiltless be not rashly slain without trial, nor the guilty escape punishment.” The Signs of the Times, January 20, 1881

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     How did the concept of retaliation find an early foothold on earth?

2     To protect those who accidentally killed someone, what unique plan did God introduce among His people?

3     How long was a person, found innocent of intentional murder, to remain in his or her city of refuge?

4     How does toleration of intentional murders affect the entire land?

5     Why were two or more witnesses required in order to convict a person of intentional murder?

Copyright 2008, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

March 10 – 16, 2024

Key Text

“Now the apostles and elders came together to consider this matter [the Gentile converts and circumcision].” Acts 15:6

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 187–200

Introduction

“Not until you feel that you could sacrifice your own self-dignity, and even lay down your life in order to save an erring brother, have you cast the beam out of your own eye so that you are prepared to help your brother.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 128

Sunday

1 RESOLVING PERSONAL OFFENSES

1.a. How are personal conflicts or private offenses between church members to be settled? Matthew 18:15, 20

Note: “No church officer should advise, no committee should recommend, nor should any church vote, that the name of a wrongdoer shall be removed from the church books, until the instruction given by Christ has been faithfully followed. When this has been done, the church has cleared herself before God. The evil must then be made to appear as it is, and must be removed, that it may not become more and more widespread. The health and purity of the church must be preserved, that she may stand before God unsullied, clad in the robes of Christ’s righteousness.” Gospel Workers, 501

1.b.        How does God view those who resolve difficulties by His method? James 5:19, 20

Note: “No one has ever been reclaimed from a wrong position by censure and reproach; but many have thus been driven from Christ and led to seal their hearts against conviction. A tender spirit, a gentle, winning deportment, may save the erring and hide a multitude of sins.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 12

Monday

2 OPEN SIN AND DOUBT

2.a. How may a private sin become open and require church discipline? Matthew 18:16–18. What action may be needed on special occasions? 1 Timothy 5:20

Note: “In dealing with erring church members, God’s people are carefully to follow the instruction given by the Saviour in the eighteenth chapter of Matthew.” Gospel Workers, 498

2.b.        How are church members to resolve personal issues that do not require disciplinary action? 1 Corinthians 6:1–4

Note: “Christians should not appeal to civil tribunals to settle differences that may arise among church members. Such differences should be settled among themselves, or by the church, in harmony with Christ’s instruction. Even though injustice may have been done, the follower of the meek and lowly Jesus will suffer himself ‘to be defrauded’ rather than open before the world the sins of his brethren in the church.

“Lawsuits between brethren are a reproach to the cause of truth. Christians who go to law with one another expose the church to the ridicule of her enemies and cause the powers of darkness to triumph. They are wounding Christ afresh and putting Him to open shame. By ignoring the authority of the church, they show contempt for God, who gave to the church its authority.” The Acts of the Apostles, 305, 306

“Those church members who appeal to the courts of the world show that they have chosen the world as their judge, and their names are registered in heaven as one with unbelievers.” Selected Messages, Book 3, 302, 303

2.c. As we near the end of the great controversy, what can we often expect to see? Matthew 15:14; Acts 20:28–31; 2 Timothy 4:3, 4

Note: “It has been the continual endeavor of the enemy to introduce into the church persons who assent to much that is truth, but who are not converted. Professed Christians who are false to their trust are channels through whom Satan works. He can use unconverted church members to advance his own ideas and retard the work of God. Their influence is always on the side of wrong. They place criticism and doubt as stumbling blocks in the way of reform.” Selected Messages, Book 2, 159

“Evil angels in the form of believers will work in our ranks to bring in a strong spirit of unbelief.” Ibid., Book 3, 410

Tuesday

3 DIVISIONS

3.a. What is one of the greatest evidences that Jesus is the one and only true Messiah? John 17:17–21; 13:34, 35; 1 Corinthians 1:13

Note: “Jesus knew that [the jealous priests and rabbis] would spare no effort to create a division between His own disciples and those of John [the Baptist]. … Wishing to avoid all occasion for misunderstanding or dissension, He quietly ceased His labors, and withdrew to Galilee. We also, while loyal to truth, should try to avoid all that may lead to discord and misapprehension. For whenever these arise, they result in the loss of souls. Whenever circumstances occur that threaten to cause division, we should follow the example of Jesus and of John the Baptist.” The Desire of Ages, 181

“The followers of Christ … should take every proper precaution to avoid disagreement; for in every division of interest, resulting in disputation and unhappy differences in the church, souls are lost that might have been saved in the kingdom of Heaven. In the occurrence of a religious crisis, leading men who profess to be God’s instruments should follow the example of the great Master and that of the noble prophet John. They should stand firm and united in defense of the truth, while they carefully labor to avoid all injurious dissensions.” The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 2, 139, 140

3.b.        What creates divisions in the church? 1 Corinthians 11:18, 19

Note: “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 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

3.c. What should be done with the one who creates such divisions? Romans 16:17, 18

Wednesday

4 THREATENED DIVISION IN ANTIOCH

4.a. What serious problem developed in the church at Antioch that could have hurt the church as a whole? Acts 15:1, 5

Note: “They [certain Jews from Judea] asserted, with great assurance, that none could be saved without being circumcised, and keeping the entire ceremonial law.

“This was an important question, and one which affected the church in a very great degree. Paul and Barnabas met it with promptness, and opposed introducing the subject to the Gentiles. They were opposed in this by the believing Jews of Antioch, who favored the position of those from Judea. The matter resulted in much discussion and want of harmony in the church, until finally the church at Antioch, apprehending that a division among them would occur from any further discussion of the question, decided to send Paul and Barnabas, together with some responsible men of Antioch, to Jerusalem, and lay the matter before the apostles and elders.” The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 3, 369

4.b. What resolution was proposed to settle the division in the church? Who attended this general council? Acts 15:2, 6–20

Note: “The council which decided this case [of the new Gentile believers] was composed of the founders of the Jewish and Gentile Christian churches. Elders from Jerusalem and deputies from Antioch were present, and the most influential churches were represented. The council did not claim infallibility in their deliberations, but moved from the dictates of enlightened judgment, and with the dignity of a church established by the divine will. They saw that God Himself had decided this question by favoring the Gentiles with the Holy Ghost; and it was left for them to follow the guidance of the Spirit.” The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 3, 376

“There [at Jerusalem] they [Paul and Barnabas and other responsible men of Antioch] were to meet delegates from the different churches, and those who had come to attend the approaching annual festivals. Meanwhile all controversy was to cease, until a final decision should be made by the responsible men of the church. This decision was then to be universally accepted by the various churches throughout the country.” Ibid., 369

4.c. Why did this conference also inspire great rejoicing? Acts 15:3, 4

Thursday

5 SETTLING DOCTRINAL ISSUES

5.a. How did the early Christians settle matters that threatened to create divisions? Acts 15:22

Note: “When dissension arose in a local church, as later it did arise in Antioch and elsewhere, and the believers were unable to come to an agreement among themselves, such matters were not permitted to create a division in the church, but were referred to a general council of the entire body of believers, made up of appointed delegates from the various local churches, with the apostles and elders in positions of leading responsibility.” The Acts of the Apostles, 96

“At times, when a small group of men entrusted with the general management of the work have, in the name of the General Conference, sought to carry out unwise plans and to restrict God’s work, I have said that I could no longer regard the voice of the General Conference, represented by these few men, as the voice of God. But this is not saying that the decisions of a General Conference composed of an assembly of duly appointed, representative men from all parts of the field, should not be respected. God has ordained that the representatives of His church from all parts of the earth, when assembled in a General Conference, shall have authority.” Gospel Workers, 490

5.b.        How was the whole body informed about the decision of the general council? Acts 15:19–23. Who heeded the resolution? Acts 15:30–33

Note: “The entire body of Christians were not called to vote upon the question [that had been raised at Antioch]. The apostles and elders—men of influence and judgment—framed and issued the decree, which was thereupon generally accepted by the Christian churches. All were not pleased, however, with this decision; there was a faction of false brethren who assumed to engage in a work on their own responsibility. They indulged in murmuring and faultfinding, proposing new plans and seeking to pull down the work of the experienced men whom God had ordained to teach the doctrine of Christ. The church has had such obstacles to meet from the first and will ever have them to the close of time.” The Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 3, 376

“Unless the advice and counsel of the church can be respected, it is indeed powerless. God has placed a voice in the church which must control its members.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 108

5.c. What results followed this method? Acts 15:24–28, 34, 35; 16:4, 5

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     How are we to deal with problems among members of the church?

2     What type of influence is Satan trying to exert in our churches? How can we be sure not to be sidetracked from the message given us?

3     What is the major cause of divisions among God’s professed people?

4     In the early church, who was sent to Jerusalem from different parts of the world to settle divisive issues?

5     What type of authority has God given to this type of worldwide representative body?

Copyright 2008, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

March 3 – 9, 2024

Key Text

“Who [our Saviour Jesus Christ] gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.” Titus 2:14

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 359–371

Introduction

“A reformation is needed among the people, but it should first begin its purifying work with the ministers.” Testimonies, Vol. 1, 469

Sunday

1 RAISING THE STANDARD

1.a. How should one regard the responsibilities of an ordained office? 1 Timothy 3:1

Note: “Men who are chosen of God to labor in this cause will give proof of their high calling and will consider it their highest duty to grow and improve until they shall become able workmen. Then, as they manifest an earnestness to improve upon the talent which God has entrusted to them, they should be helped judiciously. But the encouragement given them should not savor of flattery, for Satan himself will do enough of that kind of work. Men who think that they have a duty to preach should not be sustained in throwing themselves and their families at once upon the brethren for support. They are not entitled to this until they can show good fruits of their labor.” Testimonies, Vol. 1, 446

“In the home, in the school, in the church, men, women, and youth are to prepare to give the message to the world.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 548

1.b.        Why should we encourage more individuals to accept the call to the ministry as their life work? Matthew 9:38; Luke 10:2

Monday

2 EVALUATION

2. Name some qualifications a candidate for ordination and for leadership should have. Exodus 18:21; Deuteronomy 1:16, 17; Ezekiel 44:23

Note: “In his [Moses’] charge to … elders at the time of their ordination, he outlined some of the qualifications that fit a man to be a wise ruler in the church. …

“In the work of setting things in order in all the churches, and ordaining suitable men to act as officers, the apostles held to the high standards of leadership outlined in the Old Testament Scriptures.” The Acts of the Apostles, 94, 95

“Those who claim to keep and teach the holy law of God, and yet are continually transgressing that law, are stumbling blocks both to sinners and to believers in the truth. The loose, lax way in which many regard the law of Jehovah and the gift of His Son, is an insult to God. The only way in which we can correct this widespread evil, is to examine closely everyone who would become a teacher of the word. Those upon whom this responsibility rests, should acquaint themselves with his history since he professed to believe the truth. His Christian experience and his knowledge of the Scriptures, the way in which he holds present truth, should all be understood.” Gospel Workers, 437, 438

“These sisters are closely connected with the work of God if He has called their husbands to preach the present truth. These servants, if truly called of God, will feel the importance of the truth.” Testimonies, Vol. 1, 138

“An unsanctified wife is the greatest curse that a minister can have.” Ibid., 139

“God will not entrust the care of His precious flock to men whose mind and judgment have been weakened by former errors that they have cherished, such as so-called perfectionism and Spiritualism. … Although they may now feel free from error and competent to go forth and to teach this last message, God will not accept them. He will not entrust precious souls to their care; for their judgment was perverted while in error, and is now weakened.” Early Writings, 101, 102

Tuesday

3 THE SEVENTH COMMANDMENT

3.a. What sin is one of the most serious impediments to ordination? 1 Corinthians 6:18; Proverbs 6:32, 33

Note: “Immorality abounds everywhere. Licentiousness is the special sin of this age.” Testimonies, Vol. 2, 346

“Never was this sin [breaking the seventh commandment] regarded by God as being so exceedingly sinful as at the present time. Why? Because God is purifying unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce, 249

3.b.        Name some abuses or misuses that will bring eternal loss. Matthew 25:14–30

Note: “If we dwarf our capabilities by inaction, if we deteriorate our talents, which are susceptible of the highest cultivation, we cannot in the better world redeem that past neglect of self-culture, that great loss.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 9, 21

“Every time one of the glorious faculties with which God has enriched man is abused or misused, that faculty loses forever a portion of its vigor and will never be as it was before the abuse it suffered. Every abuse inflicted upon our moral nature in this life is felt not only for time but for eternity. Though God may forgive the sinner, yet eternity will not make up that voluntary loss sustained in this life. …

“The capacities of enjoyment will be less in the future life for the misdemeanors and abuse of moral powers in this life.” This Day With God, 350

3.c. Name some moral issues to be examined in an ordination candidate and his wife, and even their children. Leviticus 21:1, 5–7, 13, 14; Ezekiel 44:22; 1 Timothy 3:2–7; Titus 1:6–8

Note: “You excuse yourself by saying that your children are now beyond your control, too old for you to command. In this you mistake. None of your children are too old to respect your authority and obey your commands while they have the shelter of your roof. How old were Eli’s sons? They were married men; and Eli, as a father and a priest of God, was required to restrain them.” Testimonies, Vol. 2, 623, 624

Wednesday

4 MAJOR QUALIFICATIONS

4.a. In our eagerness to ordain more laborers to enter the great harvest field, of what should we be careful in order to preserve the integrity of God’s work? Ezekiel 34:2, 10; Revelation 2:2

4.b. Why do we need to look at the experience of an individual? 1 Timothy 3:6. How should persons be tested and selected for responsible positions?

Note: “One man may be appointed to lead [a little company accepting the truth] for a week or a month, then another for a few weeks; and thus different persons may be enlisted in the work, and after a suitable trial someone should be selected by the voice of the church to be the acknowledged leader, never, however, to be chosen for more than one year. Then another may be selected, or the same one may be re-elected, if his service has proved a blessing to the church. The same principle should be followed in selecting men for other responsible positions, as in the offices of the conference. Untried men should not be elected as presidents of conferences.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 61

4.c. What other qualities must be considered in candidates for offices in the church? Titus 1:7–11; 2 Timothy 2:24, 25

Note: “Some who enter the field are mere novices in the Scriptures. In other things also they are incompetent and inefficient. They cannot read the Scriptures without hesitating, miscalling words, and jumbling them together in such a manner that the word of God is abused. Those who are not qualified to present the truth in a proper manner need not be perplexed with regard to their duty. Their place is that of learners, not teachers. …

“Those who cannot read correctly should learn, and they should become apt to teach before they attempt to stand before the public. …

“Ministers should be examined especially to see if they have an intelligent understanding of the truth for this time, so that they can give a connected discourse upon the prophecies or upon practical subjects. If they cannot clearly present Bible subjects they need to be hearers and learners still. They should earnestly and prayerfully search the Scriptures, and become conversant with them, in order to be teachers of Bible truth to others. All these things should be carefully and prayerfully considered before men are hurried into the field of labor.” Testimonies, Vol. 4, 405–407

Thursday

5 APPEARANCE

5.a. How do we know that the Old Testament statutes and judgments explaining the ten commandments still apply today? Malachi 4:4, 5; Matthew 22:36–40

Note: “Christ gave to Moses religious precepts which were to govern everyday life. These statutes were explicitly given to guard the ten commandments. They were not shadowy types to pass away with the death of Christ. They were to be binding upon men in every age as long as time should last.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1104

5.b.        In Old Testament times, what disqualified men for ordination? Leviticus 21:16–24

Note: “I was pointed back to the children of Israel anciently and saw how pure and holy the ministers of the sanctuary had to be, because they were brought by their work into a close connection with God. They that minister must be holy, pure, and without blemish, or God will destroy them. God has not changed. He is just as holy and pure, just as particular, as He ever was.” Early Writings, 103

5.c. How are ordained men to consider their manner of dress? Exodus 19:10, 11

Note: “God … has given us evidence that He may be honored or dishonored by the apparel of those who officiate before Him. He gave special directions to Moses in regard to everything connected with His service. He gave instruction even in regard to the arrangement of their houses and specified the dress which those should wear who were to minister in His service. They were to maintain order in everything and especially to preserve cleanliness. …

“There was to be nothing slack and untidy about those who appeared before Him when they came into His holy presence. And why was this? What was the object of all this carefulness? Was it merely to recommend the people to God? Was it merely to gain His approbation? The reason that was given me was this, that a right impression might be made upon the people. If those who ministered in sacred office should fail to manifest care, and reverence for God, in their apparel and their deportment, the people would lose their awe and their reverence for God and His sacred service.” Testimonies, Vol. 2, 611, 612

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     Considering the power of the gospel as revealed in the New Testament, are the qualifications for the ordained ministry to be higher or lower than in the Old Testament?

2     To what extent are we to evaluate the life of the candidate and his wife?

3     Why is it essential to consider the character of a candidate’s children?

4     Since an elder’s responsibilities are of a local nature, how long of an experience is necessary in order to evaluate him? How thorough should the evaluation of a minister be?

5     How does one’s outward appearance affect the ministry?

Copyright 2008, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The City of Refuge

February 25 – March 2, 2024

Key Text

“For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you.” Titus 1:5

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 812–815

Introduction

“The number of workers in the ministry is not to be lessened, but greatly increased. Where there is now one minister in the field, twenty are to be added; and if the Spirit of God controls them, these twenty will so present the truth that twenty more will be added.” Gospel Workers, 65, 66

Sunday

1 CHURCH RESPONSIBILITIES

1.a. When we join the church, how are we interdependent? Ephesians 4:15, 16

1.b.        Who is the originator of all gifts in the church, and how will understanding this help us honor each other? 1 Corinthians 12:11; Romans 12:10

Note: “The Lord desires His church to respect every gift that He has bestowed on the different members.” Pacific Union Recorder, December 29, 1904

1.c. Although all are brethren and sisters, what are some of the more important responsibilities in the organizational structure of the church? 1 Corinthians 12:28; Revelation 1:20; 2:1

Note: “God’s ministers are symbolized by the seven stars, which He who is the first and the last has under His special care and protection. The sweet influences that are to be abundant in the church are bound up with these ministers of God, who are to represent the love of Christ.” Gospel Workers, 13, 14

Monday

2 THE WORK OF THE APOSTLES/MINISTERS

2.a. What are the main duties of an apostle? How does Paul show he took this work seriously? John 21:15–17; 2 Corinthians 11:28

2.b.        How does the care of Paul for the believers show the extent of an apostle’s (minister’s) work? 1 Corinthians 4:17; Colossians 4:15, 16

Note: “Our ministers should plan wisely, as faithful stewards. They should feel that it is not their duty to hover over the churches already raised up, but that they should be doing aggressive evangelistic work, preaching the Word and doing house-to-house work in places that have not yet heard the truth. … They will find that nothing is so encouraging as doing evangelistic work in new fields.” Evangelism, 382

“Our ministers must not think that God has appointed them to hover over believers, or to tie themselves down to a business office. Let business men attend to the business, and let ministers be left free to labor in the camp meetings.” The Review and Herald, September 16, 1902

“God has no use for those who seek a safe and easy place. By an unreserved consecration we are to prepare ourselves for God’s service. Our ministers are not to hover over the churches, regarding the churches in some particular territory as their special care. Believers are to have root in themselves, striking firm root in Christ, that they may bear fruit to His glory. As one man, they are to strive to attain one object—the saving of souls.” Pacific Union Recorder, August 28, 1902

2.c. In the days of the early church, who would send forth the apostles? Acts 11:22, 23; 15:22, 25

Note: “God foresaw the difficulties that His servants would be called to meet, and, in order that their work should be above challenge, He instructed the church by revelation to set them apart publicly to the work of the ministry. Their ordination was a public recognition of their divine appointment to bear to the Gentiles the glad tidings of the gospel.” The Acts of the Apostles, 161

“Paul regarded the occasion of his formal ordination as marking the beginning of a new and important epoch in his lifework. It was from this time that he afterward dated the beginning of his apostleship in the Christian church.” Ibid., 164, 165

Tuesday

3 RESPONSIBILITIES OF LOCAL ELDERS

3.a. Aside from evangelism, nurturing churches, and other responsibilities in administration, what other work is highly important for an apostle to accomplish? Titus 1:5

Note: “Christ is about to ordain His disciples for their work. By these feeble agencies, through His Word and Spirit, He designs to place salvation within the reach of all.

“God and the holy angels beheld this scene with interest and with great gladness. The Father knew that from these men divine light would shine forth, that the words spoken by them as they witnessed for the truth would echo from generation to generation.” The Signs of the Times, July 18, 1900

3.b.        What are the duties of a local elder? Acts 20:28–31; 1 Peter 5:1–6

Note: “ ‘Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.’

“But this does not authorize any one man to undertake the work of ordering his brethren arbitrarily to do as he thinks advisable, irrespective of their own personal convictions of duty. Nor are God’s chosen laborers to feel that at every step they must wait to ask some officer in authority whether they may do this or that. While cooperating heartily with their brethren in carrying out general plans that have been laid for the prosecution of the work, they are constantly to look to the God of Israel for personal guidance.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 491

3.c. How versed should an elder be in the word of God? 2 Timothy 2:15

Note: “The cause of God needs efficient men; it needs men who are trained to do service as teachers and preachers.” Gospel Workers, 9

3.d.        Because the work of the elders is so important to the growth of the church, with what respect should we regard them? Hebrews 13:17, 18; 1 Peter 5:5. Why? 1 Corinthians 11:1

Wednesday

4 PROCEDURES IN ORDINATION I

4.a. How were candidates for ordination chosen in the days of the apostles? Acts 6:1–4; Titus 1:5–9

Note: “Let not our young men be deterred from entering the ministry. There is danger that through glowing representations some will be drawn away from the path where God bids them walk. … The Lord calls for more ministers to labor in His vineyard. The words were spoken, ‘Strengthen the outposts; have faithful sentinels in every part of the world.’ God calls for you, young men. He calls for whole armies of young men who are large-hearted and large-minded, and who have a deep love for Christ and the truth.” Gospel Workers, 63

“It is entirely wrong for teachers, by suggesting other occupations, to discourage young men who might be qualified to do acceptable work in the ministry. … There is among us more than an average of men of ability. If their capabilities were brought into use, we should have twenty ministers where we now have one.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 135

“None but God can decide who shall engage in the solemn work [of laboring for souls]. There were good men in the apostles’ days, men who could pray with power and talk to the point; yet the apostles, who had power over unclean spirits and could heal the sick, dared not with merely their wisdom set one apart for the holy work of being mouthpiece for God. They waited unmistakable evidence of the manifestation of the Holy Spirit. … If it should be left to a few individuals here and there to decide who was sufficient for this great work, confusion and distraction everywhere would be the fruit.” Ibid., Vol. 1, 208, 209

4.b.        What preparation was required of the church, together with the apostles, before the ordination of Paul and Barnabas? Acts 13:1–3

Note: “Jesus, when preparing for some great trial or some important work, would resort to the solitude of the mountains and spend the night in prayer to His Father. A night of prayer preceded the ordination of the apostles.” The Ministry of Healing, 509

“Before being sent forth as missionaries to the heathen world, these apostles [Paul and Barnabas] were solemnly dedicated to God by fasting and prayer and the laying on of hands. Thus they were authorized by the church, not only to teach the truth, but to perform the rite of baptism and to organize churches.” The Acts of the Apostles, 161

Thursday

5 PROCEDURES IN ORDINATION II

5.a. How is an ordination performed? Acts 6:5, 6; 1 Timothy 4:14. Who does the actual ordaining? Acts 14:23

Note: “The apostles were led by the Holy Spirit to outline a plan for the better organization of all the working forces of the church. The time had come, the apostles stated, when the spiritual leaders having the oversight of the church should be relieved from the task of distributing to the poor and from similar burdens, so that they might be free to carry forward the work of preaching the gospel. ‘Wherefore, brethren,’ they said, ‘look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.’ This advice was followed, and by prayer and the laying on of hands, seven chosen men were solemnly set apart for their duties as deacons.” The Acts of the Apostles, 89

“God foresaw the difficulties that His servants would be called to meet, and, in order that their work should be above challenge, He instructed the church by revelation to set them apart publicly to the work of the ministry. Their ordination was a public recognition of their divine appointment to bear to the Gentiles the glad tidings of the gospel.

“Both Paul and Barnabas had already received their commission from God Himself, and the ceremony of the laying on of hands added no new grace or virtual qualification. It was an acknowledged form of designation to an appointed office and a recognition of one’s authority in that office. By it the seal of the church was set upon the work of God.

“To the Jew this form was a significant one. When a Jewish father blessed his children, he laid his hands reverently upon their heads. When an animal was devoted to sacrifice, the hand of the one invested with priestly authority was laid upon the head of the victim. And when the ministers of the church of believers in Antioch laid their hands upon Paul and Barnabas, they, by that action, asked God to bestow His blessing upon the chosen apostles in their devotion to the specific work to which they had been appointed.” Ibid., 161, 162

5.b.        Whenever the apostles visited a place and needed to speak to a church, with whom did they consult? Acts 20:17. How did the deacons’ ordination impact the church? Acts 6:1–7

Note: “That this step [the ordination of the seven deacons] was in the order of God, is revealed in the immediate results for good that were seen.” The Acts of the Apostles, 89

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     Why is the work of the apostles so important to the church?

2     Why are ministers to spend little time in established churches?

3     How does living by example inspire respect for the ministerial office?

4     What qualifications should be considered in the examination of a candidate for ordination?

5     What is the meaning of the laying on of hands?

Copyright 2008, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.