Bible Study Guides

Bible Study Guides – The Blind Man

by

July 16 – 22, 2017

Key Text

“I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind” (John 9:39).

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 470–475.

Introduction

“It is not God that blinds the eyes of men or hardens their hearts. He sends them light to correct their errors, and to lead them in safe paths; it is by the rejection of this light that the eyes are blinded and the heart hardened.” The Desire of Ages, 322.

Sunday

 1   FOR THE GLORY OF GOD

  •  What question did the disciples ask Jesus when they saw the man who was born blind? John 9:1, 2.
  • How did Satan profit from the erroneous idea that the Jews maintained concerning affliction? Job 9:34.

Note: “It was generally believed by the Jews that sin is punished in this life. Every affliction was regarded as the penalty of some wrongdoing, either of the sufferer himself or of his parents. It is true that all suffering results from the transgression of God’s law, but this truth had become perverted. Satan, the author of sin and all its results, had led men to look upon disease and death as proceeding from God—as punishment arbitrarily inflicted on account of sin. Hence one upon whom some great affliction or calamity had fallen had the additional burden of being regarded as a great sinner.” The Desire of Ages, 471.

  • What answer of Jesus shed light on this erroneous idea? John 9:3–5.
  • What did Christ do to illustrate His point, and how did the blind man cooperate with Him? John 9:6, 7.

Monday

 2   REACTIONS

  •  What were the varied reactions of the blind man’s neighbors? John 9:8–12.
  • To whom did the men take the blind man, and why? Upon which day was he cured? John 9:13, 14.
  • Describe the reaction of the Pharisees. John 9:15, 16.

Note: “ ‘Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because He keepeth not the Sabbath day’ (John 9:16). The Pharisees hoped to make Jesus out to be a sinner, and therefore not the Messiah. They knew not that it was He who had made the Sabbath and knew all its obligation, who had healed the blind man. They appeared wonderfully zealous for the observance of the Sabbath, yet were planning murder on that very day.” The Desire of Ages, 472.

  • When the blind man’s parents were called before the council, how did they answer the question put to them? John 9:18–23.

Note: “The Pharisees had one hope left, and that was to intimidate the man’s parents. With apparent sincerity they asked, ‘How then doth he now see’ (John 9:19)? The parents feared to compromise themselves; for it had been declared that whoever should acknowledge Jesus as the Christ should be ‘put out of the synagogue;’ that is, should be excluded from the synagogue for thirty days. During this time no child could be circumcised nor dead be lamented in the offender’s home. The sentence was regarded as a great calamity; and if it failed to produce repentance, a far heavier penalty followed. The great work wrought for their son had brought conviction to the parents, yet they answered, ‘We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind: but by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself’ (verses 20, 21). Thus they shifted all responsibility from themselves to their son; for they dared not confess Christ.” The Desire of Ages, 472, 473.

Tuesday

 3   RENEWED INTERROGATION

  •  Upon summoning the young man for the second time, what did the Pharisees try to force him to do? John 9:24.

Note: “The Pharisees saw that they were giving publicity to the work done by Jesus. They could not deny the miracle. The blind man was filled with joy and gratitude; he beheld the wondrous things of nature, and was filled with delight at the beauty of earth and sky.” The Desire of Ages, 473.

  • What irrefutable argument did the young man present? John 9:25.
  • What did the Pharisees again ask the young man? John 9:26. What did they really intend to do with the young man?

Note: “Then they questioned again, ‘What did He to thee? how opened He thine eyes’ (John 9:26)? With many words they tried to confuse him, so that he might think himself deluded. Satan and his evil angels were on the side of the Pharisees, and united their energies and subtlety with man’s reasoning in order to counteract the influence of Christ. They blunted the convictions that were deepening in many minds.” The Desire of Ages, 473.

  • How did the young man answer them, and who stood by his side to thus inspire him? John 9:27.

Note: “Angels of God were also on the ground to strengthen the man who had had his sight restored.

“The Pharisees did not realize that they had to deal with any other than the uneducated man who had been born blind; they knew not Him with whom they were in controversy. Divine light shone into the chambers of the blind man’s soul. As these hypocrites tried to make him disbelieve, God helped him to show, by the vigor and pointedness of his replies, that he was not to be ensnared.” The Desire of Ages, 473, 474.

Wednesday

 4   CONSCIOUS BLINDNESS

  •  As they were unable to deceive the young man, how did the Pharisees treat him? John 9:28.
  • What ignorance did they manifest? John 9:29.
  • What else did the formerly blind man say? John 9:30–33.
  • Since they were unwilling to accept the evidences, what did the angry Pharisees do with the young man? John 9:34.

Note: “The man had met his inquisitors on their own ground. His reasoning was unanswerable. The Pharisees were astonished, and they held their peace—spellbound before his pointed, determined words. For a few moments there was silence. Then the frowning priests and rabbis gathered about them their robes, as though they feared contamination from contact with him; they shook off the dust from their feet, and hurled denunciations against him—‘Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us’ (John 9:34)? And they excommunicated him.” The Desire of Ages, 474. [Emphasis author’s.]

  • What words did the young man and Christ exchange following his excommunication? John 9:35–38.

Note: “To the Saviour’s question, ‘Dost thou believe on the Son of God?’ the blind man replied by asking, ‘Who is He, Lord, that I might believe on Him?’ And Jesus said, ‘Thou hast both seen Him, and it is He that talketh with thee’ (John 9:35–37). The man cast himself at the Saviour’s feet in worship. Not only had his natural sight been restored, but the eyes of his understanding had been opened. Christ had been revealed to his soul, and he received Him as the Sent of God.” The Desire of Ages, 475.

Thursday

 5   JUDGED BY THE LIGHT

  •  What did Jesus say concerning the results of His work? John 9:39.

Note: “A group of Pharisees had gathered near, and the sight of them brought to the mind of Jesus the contrast ever manifest in the effect of His words and works. … Christ had come to open the blind eyes, to give light to them that sit in darkness. He had declared Himself to be the light of the world, and the miracle just performed was in attestation of His mission. The people who beheld the Saviour at His advent were favored with a fuller manifestation of the divine presence than the world had ever enjoyed before. The knowledge of God was revealed more perfectly. But in this very revelation, judgment was passing upon men. Their character was tested, their destiny determined.” The Desire of Ages, 475.

  • How did the Pharisees react to that declaration of Jesus? John 9:40. Why were they guilty of their own blindness? John 9:41.

Note: “The manifestation of divine power that had given to the blind man both natural and spiritual sight had left the Pharisees in yet deeper darkness. Some of His hearers, feeling that Christ’s words applied to them, inquired, ‘Are we blind also?’ Jesus answered, ‘If ye were blind, ye should have no sin.’ If God had made it impossible for you to see the truth, your ignorance would involve no guilt. ‘But now ye say, We see.’ You believe yourselves able to see, and reject the means through which alone you could receive sight. To all who realized their need, Christ came with infinite help. But the Pharisees would confess no need; they refused to come to Christ, and hence they were left in blindness—a blindness for which they were themselves guilty. Jesus said, ‘Your sin remaineth’ (John 9:40, 41).” The Desire of Ages, 475.

Friday

 PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

 1      Of what did the Pharisees try to convince the formerly blind man?

2      Who was using the unbelieving Pharisees?

3      Who helped the young man give explicit and convincing answers?

4      What is the worst form of blindness?

Copyright © 2004 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – The Light of the World

by

July 9 – 15, 2017

Key Text

“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1).

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 463–470.

Introduction

“As through Christ every human being has life, so also through Him every soul receives some ray of divine light.” Education, 29.

Sunday

 1   THE LIGHT PROPHESIED

  • What reveals Christ’s work in the creation of the world? Genesis 1:1, 2; John 1:1–3.
  • How did the Holy Spirit refer to Jesus through the prophet Isaiah? Isaiah 49:6.
  • How did Simeon identify Jesus when He was brought to the Temple for dedication? Luke 2:25–33.

Note: “[Luke 2:32 quoted.] In these words he [Simeon] was applying to Him [Christ] a prophecy familiar to all Israel. By the prophet Isaiah, the Holy Spirit had declared ‘It is too light a thing that Thou shouldest be My servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give Thee for a light to the Gentiles, that Thou mayest be My salvation unto the end of the earth’ (Isaiah 49:6, R.V.).”  The Desire of Ages, 465.

Monday

 2   THE LIGHT IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

  •  How were the children of Israel guided in the desert? Exodus 13:21, 22.

Note: “In the manifestation of God to His people, light had ever been a symbol of His presence. At the creative word in the beginning, light had shone out of darkness. Light had been enshrouded in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, leading the vast armies of Israel.” The Desire of Ages, 464.

  • How did God show that He protects His own? Psalm 105:39; Isaiah 4:5, 6.

Note: “In one of the most beautiful and comforting passages of Isaiah’s prophecy, reference is made to the pillar of cloud and of fire to represent God’s care for His people in the great final struggle with the powers of evil.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 283.

  • How did Moses and the people react to the divine light of Christ upon Mt. Sinai? Exodus 19:16–18; 20:18, 19; Hebrews 12:21.

Note: “So terrible were the tokens of Jehovah’s presence that the hosts of Israel shook with fear, and fell upon their faces before the Lord. Even Moses exclaimed, ‘I exceedingly fear and quake’ (Hebrews 12:21).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 304.

  • How did Christ manifest His presence in the tabernacle? Exodus 40:3, 4, 34, 35.
  • What happened at the dedication of the Temple constructed by Solomon? 2Chronicles 7:1.

Tuesday

 3   THE LIGHT REJECTED

  •  When the Light of the world did come, what was the reaction of the Jews? John 1:11; 8:12, 13.

Note: “To the Pharisees and rulers this claim [‘I am the light of the world’] seemed an arrogant assumption. That a man like themselves should make such pretensions they could not tolerate.” The Desire of Ages, 465.

  • What comprehensive declaration did Jesus make to the unbelieving Pharisees? John 8:14–18.
  • What marked contrast existed between Christ and the unbelieving Pharisees? John 8:19–23.
  • What was to be the fatal consequence of the Jewish rulers’ rejection of Christ? John 8:24; Matthew 23:38.
  • What other question did the Pharisees ask Jesus? John 8:25, first part. With what intention did they ask the question?

Note: “Seeming to ignore His words, they demanded, ‘Who art Thou’ (John 8:25, first part)? They were bent upon forcing Him to declare Himself the Christ. His appearance and His work were so at variance with the expectations of the people, that, as His wily enemies believed, a direct announcement of Himself as the Messiah would cause Him to be rejected as an impostor.” The Desire of Ages, 465.

  • How did the Saviour answer them, and what was the effect of His answer upon the sincere listeners? John 8:25, last part, 26–30.

Wednesday

 4   BONDAGE vs. LIBERTY

  •  What did Christ say to the Jews who accepted Him? John 8:31, 32. How did the unbelievers react to His words? John 8:33.

 Note: “Among His hearers many were drawn to Him in faith, and to them He said, ‘If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free’ (John 8:31, 32).

“These words offended the Pharisees. The nation’s long subjection to a foreign yoke, they disregarded, and angrily exclaimed, ‘We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest Thou, Ye shall be made free?’ Jesus looked upon these men, the slaves of malice, whose thoughts were bent upon revenge, and sadly answered, ‘Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin’ (verses 33, 34). They were in the worst kind of bondage—ruled by the spirit of evil.

“Every soul that refuses to give himself to God is under the control of another power. He is not his own. He may talk of freedom, but he is in the most abject slavery. He is not allowed to see the beauty of truth, for his mind is under the control of Satan. While he flatters himself that he is following the dictates of his own judgment, he obeys the will of the prince of darkness.” The Desire of Ages, 466.

  • Describe the only process by which we can be made free from sin? John 8:36.

Note: “Christ came to break the shackles of sin-slavery from the soul. ‘If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed’ (John 8:36). ‘The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus’ sets us ‘free from the law of sin and death’ (Romans 8:2). …

“The only condition upon which the freedom of man is possible is that of becoming one with Christ. ‘The truth shall make you free’ (John 8:32); and Christ is the truth. Sin can triumph only by enfeebling the mind, and destroying the liberty of the soul. Subjection to God is restoration to one’s self—to the true glory and dignity of man. The divine law, to which we are brought into subjection, is ‘the law of liberty’ (James 2:12).” The Desire of Ages, 466.

Thursday

 5   THE LIGHT OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST

  •  What do the words of Christ in John 8:12 mean?

Note: “God is light; and in the words, ‘I am the light of the world’ (John 8:12, first part), Christ declared His oneness with God, and His relation to the whole human family. It was He who at the beginning had caused ‘the light to shine out of darkness’ (2 Corinthians 4:6). He is the light of sun and moon and star. He was the spiritual light that in symbol and type and prophecy had shone upon Israel. But not to the Jewish nation alone was the light given.” The Desire of Ages, 464.

  • What did Paul write about the light? 2 Corinthians 4:6.

Note: “As the sunbeams penetrate to the remotest corners of the earth, so does the light of the Sun of Righteousness shine upon every soul.

“ ‘That was the true light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world’ (John 1:9). The world has had its great teachers, men of giant intellect and wonderful research, men whose utterances have stimulated thought, and opened to view vast fields of knowledge; and these men have been honored as guides and benefactors of their race. But there is One who stands higher than they. ‘As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God’ (verse 12).” The Desire of Ages, 464.

Friday

 PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

 1      How did Jesus manifest Himself to His people in the desert?

2      Who proclaimed the law at Sinai?

3      How did Jesus manifest Himself at the dedication of the Temple built by Solomon?

4      What did Simeon say about Jesus?

5      How do the sincere react to Christ’s message?

Copyright © 2004 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – The Bread of Life

by

July 2 – 8, 2017

Key Text

“And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst” (John 6:35).

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 383–394.

Introduction

“As from that [miraculous] bread they [the great multitude] had received physical strength and refreshment, so from Christ they [His hearers in the synagogue] might receive spiritual strength unto eternal life.” The Desire of Ages, 386.

Sunday

 1   JESUS, THE BREAD OF LIFE

  •  What sign did the Jews want to see and what historical fact did they mention in connection with their question? John 6:30, 31.
  • What did Jesus say concerning the bread from heaven? John 6:32, 33.
  • Having their minds fixed merely upon the natural, physical bread, what request did they make to Christ? John 6:34. What explanation did Jesus give them? John 6:35, 36.
  • What two intimately related promises are given to those who identify themselves with Christ? John 6:37–40.

Note: “Again Christ appealed to those stubborn hearts. ‘Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out’ (John 6:37). All who received Him in faith, He said, should have eternal life. Not one could be lost. No need for Pharisees and Sadducees to dispute concerning the future life. No longer need men mourn in hopeless grief over their dead.” The Desire of Ages, 386, 387.

Monday

 2   THE CRISIS IN GALILEE

  •  What effect did the words of Christ have on the Jews, and what explanation did Jesus give them concerning His flesh and blood? John 6:52–55.
  • What does it mean to eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God? John 6:56, 57; 1John 3:24; 5:12.

Note: “To eat the flesh and drink the blood of Christ is to receive Him as a personal Saviour, believing that He forgives our sins, and that we are complete in Him. It is by beholding His love, by dwelling upon it, by drinking it in, that we are to become partakers of His nature.” The Desire of Ages, 389.

  • What did Christ’s words provoke among His own disciples? John 6:60, 61, 65, 66.
  • After many disciples had left Him, what did Christ ask the twelve, and what did Peter answer Him? John 6:67–69.
  • What position did the renegades then take? 1John 2:19.

Note: “As those disaffected disciples turned away from Christ, a different spirit took control of them. They could see nothing attractive in Him whom they had once found so interesting. They sought out His enemies, for they were in harmony with their spirit and work. They misinterpreted His words, falsified His statements, and impugned His motives. They sustained their course by gathering up every item that could be turned against Him; and such indignation was stirred up by these false reports that His life was in danger.” The Desire of Ages, 392, 393.

Tuesday

 3   AT THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES

  •  After members of Jesus’ family tried to influence Him towards the rabbis (John 7:3–8), what question did He put to those rabbis? John 7:19.

Note: “His [Christ’s] brothers, as the sons of Joseph were called, sided with the rabbis. They insisted that the traditions must be heeded, as if they were the requirements of God.” The Desire of Ages, 86.

“Jesus gave the rabbis an evidence of His divinity by showing that He read their hearts. Ever since the healing at Bethesda they had been plotting His death. Thus they were themselves breaking the law which they professed to be defending. ‘Did not Moses give you the law,’ He said, ‘and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why go ye about to kill Me?’ (John 7:19).” Ibid., 456.

  • What did the rabbis answer Christ and of what did they accuse Him? John 7:20.
  • How did Jesus respond to the mean insinuations of His enemies? John 7:21–23.

Note: “To this insinuation [that His wonderful works were instigated by an evil spirit] Christ gave no heed. He went on to show that His work of healing at Bethesda was in harmony with the Sabbath law, and that it was justified by the interpretation which the Jews themselves put upon the law. He said, ‘Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; … and ye on the Sabbath day circumcise a man’ (John 7:22). According to the law, every child must be circumcised on the eighth day. Should the appointed time fall upon the Sabbath, the rite must then be performed. How much more must it be in harmony with the spirit of the law to make a man ‘every whit whole on the Sabbath day’ (verse 23).” The Desire of Ages, 456, 457.

  • What warning did Christ give them? John 7:24.

Wednesday

 4   NO ONE SPOKE AS THIS MAN

  •  Upon hearing and seeing Jesus preach openly, what did some of the people ask? John 7:25, 26.

Note: “Many among Christ’s hearers … were dwellers at Jerusalem, and … conviction pressed upon them that He was the Son of God.” The Desire of Ages, 457.

  • With what words did many express their faith in Jesus? John 7:31, 40; Deuteronomy 18:15.
  • What did Jesus declare on the last day of the feast, and what did these words mean? John 7:37–39.
  • When told to arrest Christ (John 7:45), why did the officers not comply? John 7:46.

Note: “On the last day of the feast, the officers sent out by the priests and rulers to arrest Jesus, returned without Him. They were angrily questioned, ‘Why have ye not brought Him?’ With solemn countenance they answered, ‘Never man spake like this Man’ (John 7:45, 46).

“Hardened as were their hearts, they were melted by His words. While He was speaking in the temple court, they had lingered near, to catch something that might be turned against Him. But as they listened, the purpose for which they had been sent was forgotten. They stood as men entranced. Christ revealed Himself to their souls. They saw that which priests and rulers would not see—humanity flooded with the glory of divinity. They returned, so filled with this thought, so impressed by His words, that to the inquiry, ‘Why have ye not brought Him?’ they could only reply, ‘Never man spake like this Man.’ ” The Desire of Ages, 459.

“The spirit which actuated those priests and rulers is still manifested by many who make a high profession of piety. They refuse to examine the testimony of the Scriptures concerning the special truths for this time. They point to their own numbers, wealth, and popularity, and look with contempt upon the advocates of truth as few, poor, and unpopular, having a faith that separates them from the world.” The Great Controversy, 596.

Thursday

 5   “NEITHER DO I CONDEMN THEE”

  •  After trying to set a legal trap for Christ (John 8:1–5), how did Jesus react before the falsehood of the Pharisees? John 8:6.
  • What did Jesus do while the Pharisees were waiting for His verdict? John 8:8, 9.
  • How did Jesus deal with the woman after her accusers had left? John 8:10, 11.

Note: “The accusers had been defeated. Now, their robe of pretended holiness torn from them, they stood, guilty and condemned, in the presence of Infinite Purity. They trembled lest the hidden iniquity of their lives should be laid open to the multitude; and one by one, with bowed heads and downcast eyes, they stole away, leaving their victim with the pitying Saviour.” The Desire of Ages, 461.

  • How will true believers act when a Christian falls into sin? Galatians 6:1, 2. What will false-hearted believers often do?

Note: “It is not Christ’s follower that, with averted eyes, turns from the erring, leaving them unhindered to pursue their downward course. Those who are forward in accusing others, and zealous in bringing them to justice, are often in their own lives more guilty than they. Men hate the sinner, while they love the sin. Christ hates the sin, but loves the sinner. This will be the spirit of all who follow Him. Christian love is slow to censure, quick to discern penitence, ready to forgive, to encourage, to set the wanderer in the path of holiness, and to stay his feet therein.” The Desire of Ages, 462.

Friday

 PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

 1      How was the prejudice of the Jews against Christ manifested?

2      What does it mean to look to Jesus?

3      What spirit did the rabbis manifest towards Jesus?

4      Why did Jesus attract the attention and respect of the people?

5      How does Jesus deal with erring souls?

 

Copyright © 2004 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Feeding the Multitude

by

June 25 – July 1, 2017

Key Text

“Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give ye them to eat” (Matthew 14:16).

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 364–371.

Introduction

“Often we hesitate, unwilling to give all that we have, fearing to spend and to be spent for others. But Jesus has bidden us, ‘Give ye them to eat’ (Matthew 14:16). His command is a promise; and behind it is the same power that fed the multitude beside the sea.” The Desire of Ages, 369. [Emphasis author’s.]

Sunday

 1   THE HUNGERING MULTITUDE

  •  Besides the disciples, who else accompanied Jesus? John 6:1, 2.

Note: “Christ had retired to a secluded place with His disciples, but this rare season of peaceful quietude was soon broken. The disciples thought they had retired where they would not be disturbed; but as soon as the multitude missed the divine Teacher, they inquired, ‘Where is He?’ Some among them had noticed the direction in which Christ and His disciples had gone. Many went by land to meet them, while others followed in their boats across the water. The Passover was at hand, and, from far and near, bands of pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem gathered to see Jesus. Additions were made to their number, until there were assembled five thousand men besides women and children. Before Christ reached the shore, a multitude were waiting for Him.” The Desire of Ages, 364.

  • What was the spiritual condition of the people? Mark 6:34.

Note: “He [Christ] ‘was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd’ (Mark 6:34). Leaving His retreat, He found a convenient place where He could minister to them. They received no help from the priests and rulers; but the healing waters of life flowed from Christ as He taught the multitude the way of salvation.” The Desire of Ages, 364, 365.

Monday

 2   TEMPORAL NUTRITION

  •  Besides satisfying the spiritual needs of the people, with what else did Jesus concern Himself? John 6:3–5.

Note: “He who taught the people the way to secure peace and happiness was just as thoughtful of their temporal necessities as of their spiritual need. The people were weary and faint. There were mothers with babes in their arms, and little children clinging to their skirts. Many had been standing for hours. They had been so intensely interested in Christ’s words that they had not once thought of sitting down, and the crowd was so great that there was danger of their trampling on one another. Jesus would give them a chance to rest, and He bade them sit down. There was much grass in the place, and all could rest in comfort.” The Desire of Ages, 365, 366.

  • What did Jesus say to Philip and with what intention? John 6:5, 6.
  • What did Philip answer Jesus? John 6:7.

Note: “The day seemed to them [the people] like heaven upon earth, and they were utterly unconscious of how long it had been since they had eaten anything.

“At length the day was far spent. The sun was sinking in the west, and yet the people lingered. Jesus had labored all day without food or rest. He was pale from weariness and hunger, and the disciples besought Him to cease from His toil. But He could not withdraw Himself from the multitude that pressed upon Him.

“The disciples finally came to Him, urging that for their own sake the people should be sent away. Many had come from far, and had eaten nothing since morning. In the surrounding towns and villages they might be able to buy food. But Jesus said, ‘Give ye them to eat’ (Luke 9:13), and then, turning to Philip, questioned, ‘Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?’ (John 6:5). This He said to test the faith of the disciple. Philip looked over the sea of heads, and thought how impossible it would be to provide food to satisfy the wants of such a crowd. He answered that two hundred pennyworth of bread would not be nearly enough to divide among them, so that each might have a little.” The Desire of Ages, 365.

Tuesday

 3   AVAILABLE PROVISION

  •  What information did Andrew give to Jesus? John 6:8, 9.

Note: “Jesus inquired how much food could be found among the company. ‘There is a lad here,’ said Andrew, ‘which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?’ (John 6:9).” The Desire of Ages, 365.

  • What plan did Jesus suggest to keep order among the hungry multitude? John 6:10.

Note: “Jesus directed that these [the five barley loaves and two fishes] be brought to Him. Then He bade the disciples seat the people on the grass in parties of fifty or a hundred, to preserve order, and that all might witness what He was about to do.” The Desire of Ages, 365.

  • Explain the sequence of actions Christ took in multiplying the food. John 6:11; Matthew 14:19.

Note: “When this [order] was accomplished, Jesus took the food, ‘and looking up to heaven, He blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to His disciples, and the disciples to the multitude’ (Matthew 14:19). ‘And they did all eat, and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes’ (Mark 6:42, 43). …

“Christ never worked a miracle except to supply a genuine necessity, and every miracle was of a character to lead the people to the tree of life, whose leaves are for the healing of the nations. The simple food passed round by the hands of the disciples contained a whole treasure of lessons. It was humble fare that had been provided; the fishes and barley loaves were the daily food of the fisher folk about the Sea of Galilee. Christ could have spread before the people a rich repast, but food prepared merely for the gratification of appetite would have conveyed no lesson for their good. Christ taught them in this lesson that the natural provisions of God for man had been perverted. And never did people enjoy the luxurious feasts prepared for the gratification of perverted taste as this people enjoyed the rest and the simple food which Christ provided so far from human habitations. …

“Selfishness and the indulgence of unnatural taste have brought sin and misery into the world, from excess on the one hand, and from want on the other.” The Desire of Ages, 365–367.

Wednesday

 4   SPIRITUAL LESSONS (I)

  •  What lesson did Jesus teach the disciples after feeding the multitude? John 6:12, 13.

 Note: “After the multitude had been fed, there was an abundance of food left. But He who had all the resources of infinite power at His command said, ‘Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost’ (John 6:12). These words meant more than putting the bread into the baskets. The lesson was twofold. Nothing is to be wasted. We are to let slip no temporal advantage. We should neglect nothing that will tend to benefit a human being. Let everything be gathered up that will relieve the necessity of earth’s hungry ones. And there should be the same carefulness in spiritual things. When the baskets of fragments were collected, the people thought of their friends at home. They wanted them to share in the bread that Christ had blessed. The contents of the baskets were distributed among the eager throng, and were carried away into all the region round about. So those who were at the feast were to give to others the bread that comes down from heaven, to satisfy the hunger of the soul. They were to repeat what they had learned of the wonderful things of God. Nothing was to be lost. Not one word that concerned their eternal salvation was to fall useless to the ground.” The Desire of Ages, 368.

  • What lessons of cooperation can we learn from this experience? Mark 6:37–40; Luke 6:38; Galatians 6:6, 10.

Note: “In Christ’s act of supplying the temporal necessities of a hungry multitude is wrapped up a deep spiritual lesson for all His workers. Christ received from the Father; He imparted to the disciples; they imparted to the multitude; and the people to one another. So all who are united to Christ will receive from Him the bread of life, the heavenly food, and impart it to others. …

“Christ is the great center, the source of all strength. His disciples are to receive their supplies from Him. The most intelligent, the most spiritually minded, can bestow only as they receive. Of themselves they can supply nothing for the needs of the soul. We can impart only that which we receive from Christ; and we can receive only as we impart to others. As we continue imparting, we continue to receive; and the more we impart, the more we shall receive. Thus we may be constantly believing, trusting, receiving, and imparting.” The Desire of Ages, 369, 370.

Thursday

 5   SPIRITUAL LESSONS (II)

  •  What additional spiritual lessons can we learn from the multiplication of the food? Mark 4:26–28.

Note: “In feeding the five thousand, Jesus lifts the veil from the world of nature, and reveals the power that is constantly exercised for our good. In the production of earth’s harvests God is working a miracle every day. Through natural agencies the same work is accomplished that was wrought in the feeding of the multitude. Men prepare the soil and sow the seed, but it is the life from God that causes the seed to germinate. It is God’s rain and air and sunshine that cause it to put forth, ‘first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear’ (Mark 4:28). It is God who is every day feeding millions from earth’s harvest fields. Men are called upon to co-operate with God in the care of the grain and the preparation of the loaf, and because of this they lose sight of the divine agency. They do not give God the glory due unto His holy name. The working of His power is ascribed to natural causes or to human instrumentality. …

“The miracle of the loaves teaches a lesson of dependence upon God. When Christ fed the five thousand, the food was not nigh at hand. Apparently He had no means at His command. Here He was, with five thousand men, besides women and children, in the wilderness. He had not invited the large multitude to follow Him; they came without invitation or command; but He knew that after they had listened so long to His instruction, they would feel hungry and faint; for He was one with them in their need of food. They were far from home, and the night was close at hand. Many of them were without means to purchase food. He who for their sake had fasted forty days in the wilderness would not suffer them to return fasting to their homes. The providence of God had placed Jesus where He was; and He depended on His heavenly Father for the means to relieve the necessity.” The Desire of Ages, 367, 368.

Friday

 PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

 1      What was Christ’s main interest in the people?

2      Why did Jesus supply the physical necessities of the people?

3      Explain Christ’s method to maintain the hungry multitude in order.

4      How did Jesus include the disciples in the work of feeding the people?

5      After feeding the people, what other important lesson did Jesus teach?

Copyright © 2004 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – The Authority of the Son

by

June 18, 2017 – June 24, 2017

Key Text

“For as the Father hath life in Himself; so hath He given to the Son to have life in Himself; and hath given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of man” (John 5:26, 27).

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 206–213.

Introduction

“My authority, He said, for doing the work of which you accuse Me, is that I am the Son of God, one with Him in nature, in will, and in purpose. In all His works of creation and providence, I cooperate with God.” The Desire of Ages, 208.

Sunday

1          EQUAL WITH GOD

  •         Besides the healing of the paralytic on the Sabbath, for what other reason did the Jews hate Jesus? John 5:17, 18.

Note: “Jesus claimed equal rights with God. …

“The whole nation of the Jews called God their Father, therefore they would not have been so enraged if Christ had represented Himself as standing in the same relation to God. But they accused Him of blasphemy, showing that they understood Him as making this claim in the highest sense.” The Desire of Ages, 207, 208.

  •         How did Christ vindicate the authority of God’s commandments above human traditions? Matthew 15:1–9, 13.

Note: “These adversaries of Christ had no arguments with which to meet the truths He brought home to their consciences. They could only cite their customs and traditions, and these seemed weak and vapid when compared with the arguments Jesus had drawn from the word of God and the unceasing round of nature.” The Desire of Ages, 208.

Monday

2          UNITY WITH THE FATHER

  •         How did Jesus explain His relationship with the Father? John 5:19, 20.
  •         What authority and power pertaining to the Father did Christ declare He also possessed? John 5:21–23.

 Note: “The humble Nazarene asserts His real nobility. He rises above humanity, throws off the guise of sin and shame, and stands revealed, the Honored of the angels, the Son of God, One with the Creator of the universe. His hearers are spellbound. No man has ever spoken words like His, or borne himself with such a kingly majesty. His utterances are clear and plain, fully declaring His mission, and the duty of the world. ‘For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: that all men should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. He that honoreth not the Son honoreth not the Father which hath sent Him. … For as the Father hath life in Himself; so hath He given to the Son to have life in Himself; and hath given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of man’ (John 5:22, 23, 26, 27).

“The priests and rulers had set themselves up as judges to condemn Christ’s work, but He declared Himself their judge, and the judge of all the earth. The world has been committed to Christ, and through Him has come every blessing from God to the fallen race. He was the Redeemer before as after His incarnation. As soon as there was sin, there was a Saviour. He has given light and life to all, and according to the measure of light given, each is to be judged. And He who has given the light, He who has followed the soul with tenderest entreaty, seeking to win it from sin to holiness, is in one its advocate and judge. From the opening of the great controversy in heaven, Satan has maintained his cause through deception; and Christ has been working to unveil his schemes and to break his power. It is He who has encountered the deceiver, and who through all the ages has been seeking to wrest the captives from his grasp, who will pass judgment upon every soul.” The Desire of Ages, 210.

“Christ is the only true standard of character, and he who sets himself up as a standard for others is putting himself in the place of Christ. And since the Father ‘hath committed all judgment unto the Son’ (John 5:22), whoever presumes to judge the motives of others is again usurping the prerogative of the Son of God. These would-be judges and critics are placing themselves on the side of antichrist.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 125, 126.

Tuesday

3          ASSURANCE OF ETERNAL LIFE

  •         What assurance is given to every true believer? John 5:24.
  •         What other divine prerogative did Christ assert He possessed? John 5:25–29.

Note: “And God ‘hath given Him authority to execute judgment also, because He is the Son of man’ (John 5:27). Because He has tasted the very dregs of human affliction and temptation, and understands the frailties and sins of men; because in our behalf He has victoriously withstood the temptations of Satan, and will deal justly and tenderly with the souls that His own blood has been poured out to save—because of this, the Son of man is appointed to execute the judgment.

“But Christ’s mission was not for judgment, but for salvation. ‘God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved’ (John 3:17). And before the Sanhedrin Jesus declared, ‘He that heareth My word, and believeth Him that sent Me, hath eternal life, and cometh not into judgment, but hath passed out of death into life’ (John 5:24, R.V.).

“Bidding His hearers marvel not, Christ opened before them, in still wider view, the mystery of the future. [John 5:28, 29, R.V. quoted.]

“This assurance of the future life was that for which Israel had so long waited, and which they had hoped to receive at the Messiah’s advent. The only light that can lighten the gloom of the grave was shining upon them. But self-will is blind. Jesus had violated the traditions of the rabbis, and disregarded their authority, and they would not believe.

“The time, the place, the occasion, the intensity of feeling that pervaded the assembly, all combined to make the words of Jesus before the Sanhedrin the more impressive. The highest religious authorities of the nation were seeking the life of Him who declared Himself the restorer of Israel. The Lord of the Sabbath was arraigned before an earthly tribunal to answer the charge of breaking the Sabbath law. When He so fearlessly declared His mission, His judges looked upon Him with astonishment and rage; but His words were unanswerable. They could not condemn Him. He denied the right of the priests and rabbis to question Him, or to interfere with His work. They were invested with no such authority. Their claims were based upon their own pride and arrogance. He refused to plead guilty of their charges, or to be catechized by them.” The Desire of Ages, 210, 211.

Wednesday

4          JESUS, THE CENTRAL THEME OF THE SCRIPTURES

  •         How did Jesus explain the cause of the Jews’ unbelief? John 5:37, 38.

Note: “Instead of apologizing for the act of which they complained, or explaining His purpose in doing it, Jesus turned upon the rulers, and the accused became the accuser. He rebuked them for the hardness of their hearts, and their ignorance of the Scriptures. He declared that they had rejected the word of God, inasmuch as they had rejected Him whom God had sent. ‘Ye search the Scriptures, because ye think that in them ye have eternal life; and these are they which bear witness of Me’ (John 5:39, R.V.).” The Desire of Ages, 211.

  •         Why did the Jews fail to understand the Scriptures? John 5:39, 40.

Note: “In every page, whether history, or precept, or prophecy, the Old Testament Scriptures are irradiated with the glory of the Son of God. So far as it was of divine institution, the entire system of Judaism was a compacted prophecy of the gospel. To Christ ‘give all the prophets witness’ (Acts 10:43). From the promise given to Adam, down through the patriarchal line and the legal economy, heaven’s glorious light made plain the footsteps of the Redeemer. Seers beheld the Star of Bethlehem, the Shiloh to come, as future things swept before them in mysterious procession. In every sacrifice Christ’s death was shown. In every cloud of incense His righteousness ascended. By every jubilee trumpet His name was sounded. In the awful mystery of the holy of holies His glory dwelt.

“The Jews had the Scriptures in their possession, and supposed that in their mere outward knowledge of the word they had eternal life. But Jesus said, ‘Ye have not His word abiding in you.’ Having rejected Christ in His word, they rejected Him in person. ‘Ye will not come to Me,’ He said, ‘that ye might have life’ (John 5:38, 40).” The Desire of Ages, 211, 212.

“The word of God, spoken to the heart, has an animating power, and those who will frame any excuse for neglecting to become acquainted with it will neglect the claims of God in many respects. The character will be deformed, the words and acts a reproach to the truth. … As the mind dwells upon the virtue and piety of holy men of old, the spirit which inspired them will kindle a flame of love and holy fervor in the hearts of those who would be like them in character.” Counsels on Sabbath School Work, 17, 18.

Thursday

5          THE GLORY OF GOD

  •         What other cause of unbelief among the Jews was pointed out by Jesus? John 5:41, 42.

Note: “The Jewish leaders had studied the teachings of the prophets concerning the kingdom of the Messiah; but they had done this, not with a sincere desire to know the truth, but with the purpose of finding evidence to sustain their ambitious hopes. When Christ came in a manner contrary to their expectations, they would not receive Him; and in order to justify themselves, they tried to prove Him a deceiver. When once they had set their feet in this path, it was easy for Satan to strengthen their opposition to Christ. The very words that should have been received as evidence of His divinity were interpreted against Him. Thus they turned the truth of God into a lie, and the more directly the Saviour spoke to them in His works of mercy, the more determined they were in resisting the light.” The Desire of Ages, 212.

  •         What led the Jews to reject Jesus and welcome false teachers? John 5:43, 44.

Note: “ ‘I am come in My Father’s name, and ye receive Me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive’ (John 5:43). Jesus came by the authority of God, bearing His image, fulfilling His word, and seeking His glory; yet He was not accepted by the leaders in Israel; but when others should come, assuming the character of Christ, but actuated by their own will and seeking their own glory, they would be received. And why? Because he who is seeking his own glory appeals to the desire for self-exaltation in others. To such appeals the Jews could respond. They would receive the false teacher because he flattered their pride by sanctioning their cherished opinions and traditions.” The Desire of Ages, 212, 213.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          What authority and rights did Christ claim?

2          What relationship has always existed between Jesus and the Father?

3          What power does Christ possess?

4          Explain John 5:39, 40.

5          What was the result of the Jews’ rejection of Jesus as the Messiah?

Copyright © 2004 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – The Paralytic of Bethesda

by

June 11, 2017 – June 17, 2017

Key Text

“Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work” (John 5:17).

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 201–206.

Introduction

“The work of Christ in healing the sick was in perfect accord with the law. It honored the Sabbath.” The Desire of Ages, 207.

Sunday

1          THE HEALING WATERS

  •         For what purpose did many disabled people go to Jerusalem? John 5:2, 3.
  •         What belief did the people have about the pool of Bethesda? John 5:4.

Note: “ ‘Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches. In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water’ (John 5:2, 3).

“At certain seasons the waters of this pool were agitated, and it was commonly believed that this was the result of supernatural power, and that whoever first after the troubling of the pool stepped into the waters, would be healed of whatever disease he had. Hundreds of sufferers visited the place; but so great was the crowd when the water was troubled that they rushed forward, trampling underfoot men, women, and children, weaker than themselves. Many could not get near the pool. Many who had succeeded in reaching it died upon its brink. Shelters had been erected about the place, that the sick might be protected from the heat by day and the chilliness of the night. There were some who spent the night in these porches, creeping to the edge of the pool day after day, in the vain hope of relief.” The Desire of Ages, 201.

Monday

2          THE PARALYTIC

  •         Whom did Jesus see beside the pool? John 5:5.

Note: “Jesus was again at Jerusalem. Walking alone, in apparent meditation and prayer, He came to the pool. He saw the wretched sufferers watching for that which they supposed to be their only chance of cure. He longed to exercise His healing power, and make every sufferer whole. But it was the Sabbath day. Multitudes were going to the temple for worship, and He knew that such an act of healing would so excite the prejudice of the Jews as to cut short His work.

“But the Saviour saw one case of supreme wretchedness. It was that of a man who had been a helpless cripple for thirty-eight years. His disease was in a great degree the result of his own sin, and was looked upon as a judgment from God. Alone and friendless, feeling that he was shut out from God’s mercy, the sufferer had passed long years of misery. At the time when it was expected that the waters would be troubled, those who pitied his helplessness would bear him to the porches. But at the favored moment he had no one to help him in. He had seen the rippling of the water, but had never been able to get farther than the edge of the pool. Others stronger than he would plunge in before him. He could not contend successfully with the selfish, scrambling crowd. His persistent efforts toward the one object, and his anxiety and continual disappointment, were fast wearing away the remnant of his strength.” The Desire of Ages, 201, 202.

  •         What did Jesus ask him and what was his answer? John 5:6, 7.
  •         What did Jesus tell the paralytic to do? John 5:8.

Note: “Jesus does not ask this sufferer to exercise faith in Him. He simply says, ‘Rise, take up thy bed, and walk’ (John 5:8). But the man’s faith takes hold upon that word. Every nerve and muscle thrills with new life, and healthful action comes to his crippled limbs. Without question he sets his will to obey the command of Christ, and all his muscles respond to his will. Springing to his feet, he finds himself an active man.

“Jesus had given him no assurance of divine help. The man might have stopped to doubt, and lost his one chance of healing. But he believed Christ’s word, and in acting upon it he received strength.” The Desire of Ages, 202, 203.

Tuesday

3          SPIRITUAL PARALYSIS

  •         In what condition do people who are separated from Christ find themselves? Isaiah 1:5, 6; Ephesians 2:1–3.

Note: “Through the same faith we may receive spiritual healing. By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking.” The Desire of Ages, 203.

“The branch which does not derive its nourishment from the vine, is unable to bear fruit. Having no real, vital connection with the vine, not receiving the sap which flows through the parent stock, it is fruitless. So it is with those who are not truly united to Christ. They may claim to know Him, their names may be on the church roll, but unless they are living branches of the True Vine, this is of no value. There is a union with the church that avails nothing with God. Their profession will not save them, for their want of faith, their lack of fruit, proves that they are false branches. They are hearers, and not doers, of the word of God, and their future is shown in this parable [of the vine and the branches]. Their separation from Christ involves a ruin as complete as that represented by the dead branch. ‘If a man abide not in me,’ said Christ, ‘he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned’ (John 15:6).” The Signs of the Times, December 10, 1896.

  •         What is the only remedy for such a condition? Acts 9:34.

Note: “There are many who realize their helplessness, and who long for that spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God; they are vainly striving to obtain it. In despair they cry, ‘O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?’ (Romans 7:24, margin). Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with inexpressible tenderness and pity, ‘Wilt thou be made whole?’ (John 5:6). He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole. Believe His word, and it will be fulfilled. Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver. He will impart life to the soul that is ‘dead in trespasses’ (Ephesians 2:1). He will set free the captive that is held by weakness and misfortune and the chains of sin.” The Desire of Ages, 203.

Wednesday

4          THE WRATH OF THE PHARISEES

  •         Ignoring the blessing bestowed upon the paralytic, why did the Pharisees become irritated? John 5:9, last part, 10.

Note: “The restored paralytic stooped to take up his bed, which was only a rug and a blanket, and as he straightened himself again with a sense of delight, he looked around for his Deliverer; but Jesus was lost in the crowd. The man feared that he would not know Him if he should see Him again. As he hurried on his way with firm, free step, praising God and rejoicing in his new-found strength, he met several of the Pharisees, and immediately told them of his cure. He was surprised at the coldness with which they listened to his story.

“With lowering brows they interrupted him, asking why he was carrying his bed on the Sabbath day. They sternly reminded him that it was not lawful to bear burdens on the Lord’s day. In his joy the man had forgotten that it was the Sabbath; yet he felt no condemnation for obeying the command of One who had such power from God. He answered boldly, ‘He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk’ (John 5:11). They asked who it was that had done this, but he could not tell. These rulers knew well that only One had shown Himself able to perform this miracle; but they wished for direct proof that it was Jesus, that they might condemn Him as a Sabbath-breaker. In their judgment He had not only broken the law in healing the sick man on the Sabbath, but had committed sacrilege in bidding him bear away his bed.” The Desire of Ages, 203, 204.

  •         What had the Jews made of the Sabbath? Matthew 23:4.

Note: “The Jews had so perverted the law that they made it a yoke of bondage. Their meaningless requirements had become a byword among other nations. Especially was the Sabbath hedged in by all manner of senseless restrictions. It was not to them a delight, the holy of the Lord, and honorable. The scribes and Pharisees had made its observance an intolerable burden. A Jew was not allowed to kindle a fire nor even to light a candle on the Sabbath. As a consequence the people were dependent upon the Gentiles for many services which their rules forbade them to do for themselves.” The Desire of Ages, 204.

Thursday

5          THE SABBATH AND ITS OBJECTIVE

  •         How did Jesus relate to the law of God and to the Sabbath? Isaiah 42:21.

Note: “Jesus had come to ‘magnify the law, and make it honorable.’ He was not to lessen its dignity, but to exalt it. The scripture says, ‘He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till He have set judgment in the earth’ (Isaiah 42:21, 4). He had come to free the Sabbath from those burdensome requirements that had made it a curse instead of a blessing.” The Desire of Ages, 206.

  •         What should and should not be done on the Sabbath? Exodus 20:8–11.

Note: “A wise purpose underlay every act of Christ’s life on earth. Everything He did was important in itself and in its teaching. Among the afflicted ones at the pool He selected the worst case upon whom to exercise His healing power, and bade the man carry his bed through the city in order to publish the great work that had been wrought upon him. This would raise the question of what it was lawful to do on the Sabbath, and would open the way for Him to denounce the restrictions of the Jews in regard to the Lord’s day, and to declare their traditions void. …

“And man also has a work to perform on this day. 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. God does not desire His creatures to suffer an hour’s pain that may be relieved upon the Sabbath or any other day.” The Desire of Ages, 206, 207.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          What belief was prevalent among the Jews concerning the pool of Bethesda?

2          What special case attracted Christ’s attention?

3          Who is the only Physician that can cure our spiritual paralysis?

4          What action of Jesus greatly irritated the Jews?

5          What works are in harmony with the Sabbath commandment?

Copyright © 2004 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – The Nobleman’s Son

by

June 4, 2017 – June 10, 2017

Key Text

“Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20, 21).

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 196–200.

Introduction

“When we come to Him in faith, every petition enters the heart of God. When we have asked for His blessing, we should believe that we receive it, and thank Him that we have received it.” The Desire of Ages, 200. [Emphasis author’s.]

Sunday

1          JESUS IN GALILEE

  •         After spending two days with the Samaritans, to what city of Galilee did Jesus journey? John 4:43–46, first part.

Note: “The news of Christ’s return to Cana soon spread throughout Galilee, bringing hope to the suffering and distressed.” The Desire of Ages, 196.

  •         Who came to meet Jesus in Galilee? John 4:46, last part, 47, first part.

Note: “In Capernaum the tidings attracted the attention of a Jewish nobleman who was an officer in the king’s service. A son of the officer was suffering from what seemed to be an incurable disease. Physicians had given him up to die; but when the father heard of Jesus, he determined to seek help from Him. The child was very low, and, it was feared, might not live till his return; yet the nobleman felt that he must present the case in person. He hoped that a father’s prayers might awaken the sympathy of the Great Physician.” The Desire of Ages, 196, 197.

Monday

2          THE NOBLEMAN’S UNBELIEF

  •         What was the nobleman’s request? John 4:47, last part.

Note: “On reaching Cana he found a throng surrounding Jesus. With an anxious heart he pressed through to the Saviour’s presence. His faith faltered when he saw only a plainly dressed man, dusty and worn with travel. He doubted that this Person could do what he had come to ask of Him; yet he secured an interview with Jesus, told his errand, and besought the Saviour to accompany him to his home. But already his sorrow was known to Jesus. Before the officer had left his home, the Saviour had beheld his affliction.” The Desire of Ages, 197, 198.

  •         In what words did Jesus reveal His knowledge of the nobleman’s unbelief? John 4:48.

Note: “But He knew also that the father had, in his own mind, made conditions concerning his belief in Jesus. Unless his petition should be granted, he would not receive Him as the Messiah. While the officer waited in an agony of suspense, Jesus said, ‘Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe’ (John 4:48).

“Notwithstanding all the evidence that Jesus was the Christ, the petitioner had determined to make his belief in Him conditional on the granting of his own request.” The Desire of Ages, 198.

“Christ had said to the nobleman whose son He healed, ‘Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe’ (John 4:48). He was grieved that His own nation should require these outward signs of His Messiahship. Again and again He had marveled at their unbelief.” Ibid., 315.

“Many who refuse the message which the Lord sends them are seeking to find pegs on which to hang doubts, to find some excuse for rejecting the light of heaven. In the face of clear evidence they say, as did the Jews, ‘Show us a miracle, and we will believe. If these messengers have the truth, why do they not heal the sick?’ …

“Could their eyes be opened, they would see evil angels exulting around them and triumphing in their power to deceive them. The day is just before us when Satan will answer the demand of these doubters and present numerous miracles to confirm the faith of all those who are seeking this kind of evidence. How terrible will be the situation of those who close their eyes to the light of truth and ask for miracles to establish them in deception!” Evangelism, 594.

Tuesday

3          SEEING AND BELIEVING

  •         How did Christ reveal sadness at the unbelief of His own people? Matthew 12:38, 39.

Note: “Christ was pained that His own people, to whom the Sacred Oracles had been committed, should fail to hear the voice of God speaking to them in His Son.” The Desire of Ages, 198.

  •         What difference existed between Jews and Samaritans in regard to their belief in Jesus? Mark 6:2–6; John 4:40–42.

Note: “The Saviour contrasted this questioning unbelief with the simple faith of the Samaritans, who asked for no miracle or sign. His word, the ever-present evidence of His divinity, had a convincing power that reached their hearts.” The Desire of Ages, 198.

  •         To whom should our own faith be revealed today? Romans 16:26.

Note: “However short our service or humble our work, if in simple faith we follow Christ, we shall not be disappointed of the reward. That which even the greatest and wisest cannot earn, the weakest and most humble may receive. Heaven’s golden gate opens not to the selfexalted. It is not lifted up to the proud in spirit. But the everlasting portals will open wide to the trembling touch of a little child. Blessed will be the recompense of grace to those who have wrought for God in the simplicity of faith and love.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 404.

“Of all professing Christians, Seventh-day Adventists should be foremost in uplifting Christ before the world. The proclamation of the third angel’s message calls for the presentation of the Sabbath truth. This truth, with others included in the message, is to be proclaimed; but the great center of attraction, Christ Jesus, must not be left out. It is at the cross of Christ that mercy and truth meet together, and righteousness and peace kiss each other. The sinner must be led to look to Calvary; with the simple faith of a little child he must trust in the merits of the Saviour, accepting His righteousness, believing in His mercy.” Gospel Workers, 156, 157.

Wednesday

4          FAITH REWARDED

  •         When the nobleman’s faith took hold of Christ, how did he reiterate his plea? John 4:49.

Note: “Yet the nobleman had a degree of faith; for he had come to ask what seemed to him the most precious of all blessings. …

“Like a flash of light, the Saviour’s words to the nobleman laid bare his heart. He saw that his motives in seeking Jesus were selfish. His vacillating faith appeared to him in its true character. In deep distress he realized that his doubt might cost the life of his son. He knew that he was in the presence of One who could read the thoughts, and to whom all things were possible. In an agony of supplication he cried, ‘Sir, come down ere my child die’ (John 4:49). His faith took hold upon Christ as did Jacob, when, wrestling with the Angel, he cried, ‘I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me’ (Genesis 32:26).” The Desire of Ages, 198.

  •         What did Jesus do instead of going to the nobleman’s home? John 4:50.

Note: “Jesus had a greater gift to bestow. He desired, not only to heal the child, but to make the officer and his household sharers in the blessings of salvation, and to kindle a light in Capernaum, which was so soon to be the field of His own labors. But the nobleman must realize his need before he would desire the grace of Christ. This courtier represented many of his nation. They were interested in Jesus from selfish motives. They hoped to receive some special benefit through His power, and they staked their faith on the granting of this temporal favor; but they were ignorant as to their spiritual disease, and saw not their need of divine grace. …

“Like Jacob he prevailed. The Saviour cannot withdraw from the soul that clings to Him, pleading its great need. ‘Go thy way,’ He said; ‘thy son liveth’ (John 4:50). The nobleman left the Saviour’s presence with a peace and joy he had never known before. Not only did he believe that his son would be restored, but with strong confidence he trusted in Christ as the Redeemer.” The Desire of Ages, 198, 199.

“If we make an entire surrender to Him, leave our life of sin and passion and pride, and cling to Christ and His merits, He will fulfill to us that He has promised. He says that He will give liberally to all who ask Him. Cannot we believe it? I have tested Him on this point, and know that He is faithful to fulfill all His promises.” The Signs of the Times, September 29, 1887.

Thursday

5          CURE AND SALVATION

  •         In what manner did Jesus heal the nobleman’s son? John 4:51–53.

Note: “At the same hour the watchers beside the dying child in the home at Capernaum beheld a sudden and mysterious change. The shadow of death was lifted from the sufferer’s face. The flush of fever gave place to the soft glow of returning health. The dim eyes brightened with intelligence, and strength returned to the feeble, emaciated frame. No signs of his malady lingered about the child. His burning flesh had become soft and moist, and he sank into a quiet sleep. The fever had left him in the very heat of the day. The family were amazed, and great was the rejoicing.

“Cana was not so far from Capernaum but that the officer might have reached his home on the evening after his interview with Jesus; but he did not hasten on the homeward journey. It was not until the next morning that he reached Capernaum. What a homecoming was that! When he went to find Jesus, his heart was heavy with sorrow. The sunshine seemed cruel to him, the songs of the birds a mockery. How different his feelings now! All nature wears a new aspect. He sees with new eyes. As he journeys in the quiet of the early morning, all nature seems to be praising God with him. While he is still some distance from his own dwelling, servants come out to meet him, anxious to relieve the suspense they are sure he must feel. He shows no surprise at the news they bring, but with a depth of interest they cannot know he asks at what hour the child began to mend. They answer, ‘Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him’ (John 4:52). At the very moment when the father’s faith grasped the assurance, ‘Thy son liveth’ (verse 51), divine love touched the dying child.” The Desire of Ages, 199.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          Why are prophets generally not well received in their own lands?

2          What words of the nobleman revealed his unbelief?

3          How did Christ react to the unbelief of His people?

4          What does Jesus promise to all who accept His invitation?

5          How does Jesus act towards any person who pleads for help?

Copyright © 2004 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Lesson 27 – God’s Treasurers

money dollarsIntroduction: Human beings were created loving and trustworthy, but sin has made us self-centered, greedy, and dishonest. Therefore, out of love, God has created ways to help us develop love and trust again so that we can be comfortable in heaven, and in harmony with its unselfish spirit. Today we will study this part of God’s plan of redemption.

1. Who is the owner of the earth and everything in it? Ps. 50:10-14 [The Further-study verse is Deut. 10:14.]

2. Money can be a great blessing, but what happens when we covet it and love it instead of the Giver? 1 Tim. 6:6-10 [Matt. 19:23, 24]

3. Who gives us the skill and strength to acquire money? Deut. 8:18 [Acts 17:28; Ecc. 5:19]

4. In one sense, we own nothing; everything we have is only loaned to us. When must we give an account of the goods entrusted to us? Luke 12:16-21 [Ps. 49:10, 16, 17]

5. Since everything comes from God, and He has promised to provide for us, what attitude should we have about our daily needs? Matt. 6:25, 26 [Isa. 33:16]

6. Because God has promised to provide for us and we are not to worry, should we then be lazy and expect Him to make up for our lack of industry, planning, and frugality? 2 Thess. 3:7-10 [Gen. 3:19; 1 Thess. 4:11, 12; 1 Tim. 5:8]

7. What portion of our wealth does God claim for Himself? Lev. 27:30 [Note: Tithe is from a Hebrew word which means ‘tenth’. While all we have comes from the Lord; He permits us to use 9/l0ths and asks us to return 1/10 to test our faithfulness. “All the tithe . . . IS the Lord’s.” When we pay our tithe, we are but returning to God what is already His. Gen. 14:18-20; Gen. 28:18-22]

8. What was the tithe used for in Israel? Heb. 7:5 [Note: The Levites were the tribe especially set apart for ministry to the Lord. Today the tithe is to be used for the support of God’s ministry throughout the world. 1 Cor. 9:13, 14; Matt. 10:9, 10; Heb. 7:6, 9; Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, pp. 245-251]

9. Did Jesus recognize the principle of tithing? Luke 11:42 [Note: Tithe does little good for the giver when given for show or to earn favor with God. Jesus said the Pharisees did right in giving their tithe, but they did it from a wrong motive, and were neglecting essential virtues, such as love, mercy, and faith. They needed a change of heart. Matt. 23:23]

10. Beside the tithe, what else did the children of Israel give to further the work of the Lord? Ex. 35:4, 5; 36:3-5 [Note: The tithe is not an offering. We cannot offer God something He already owns! If we want to give something to the Lord, we must go beyond the tithe as did the children of Israel. In the Second Advent Movement, while the tithe supports the ministry, offerings support church schools, welfare work, various mission projects around the world, and local church programs. 1 Cor. 16:2]

11. What does God call those who withhold their tithes and offerings, and what does He promise those who are faithful with their tithes? Mal. 3:8-10 [Note: If robbing man is bad, how much more serious it is to rob God! Luke 6:38; Prov. 11:24, 25]

12. What factors besides the amount of money are important when we give to God? Luke 21:1-4 [Ps. 50:5; 2 Cor. 8:12]

13. In what spirit should we give our offerings? 2 Cor. 9:7 [2 Cor. 8:9; Rom. 12:8; Matt. 6:1-4]

14. Besides giving tithes and offerings to support God’s work and workers, in what other kinds of giving should we become involved? Matt. 25:34-40 [Ps. 41:1-3]

15. Where only is our money secure? Matt. 6:19, 20 [Luke 12:33, 34]

16. In what way are we affected by our giving habits? Matt. 6:21 [Matt. 19:21]

Commitment: In the Second Advent Movement, the pastors encourage and lead the members into self-sacrifice and giving–not for themselves, but to help each one develop character and get ready for heaven. God does not need our money-He could rain down gold from heaven–but He is helping us to learn to trust Him, and to become loving and self-sacrificing, as Jesus was. Jesus gave His life; what can we give in comparison with that?

STEP 3 (Lessons 21-30): Becoming Part of Christ’s Remnant People

Prayer and Bible StudyReturn to the Bible study lesson contents.

Sign up for FREE Steps to Life Bible Studies.

Lesson S4 – New Covenant Ceremonies

bread communionIntroduction: In Old Testament times righteousness by faith was illustrated through the sacrificial system. In the New Testament it is illustrated through the communion service.

1. In the sacrificial system of ancient Israel, what two elements had special significance? Ex. 24:6-8; Lev. 3:16, 17 [Ans: Blood and fat. The Further-study verses are Eze. 44:7, 15]

2. What spiritual reality did the blood represent? Rom. 3:23-26 [Ans: It pointed forward to Jesus’ blood, which was shed for the forgiveness of our sins. Forgiveness is also called justification. Lev. 17:10-14]

3. What special meaning was associated with the fat? 1 Sam. 15:22 [Note: As the blood pointed forward to Christ’s blood and represented forgiveness, so the fat represented Christ’s body, and obedience, or sanctification. King Saul sacrificed the fat of animals, but he had not obeyed the Lord, therefore his offering was unacceptable. Gen. 4:4. Compare Lev. 17:6 and Num. 18:17 with Eph. 5:1,2; and 1 Peter 1:22]

4. What two symbols did Christ include in the new-covenant communion service? Luke 22:19, 20 [1 Cor. 10:16-18]

5. What did the wine, or grape juice, represent? Matt. 26:26-29; 1 Peter 1:18-20 [Ans: As the blood of the animal sacrifice pointed to Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, so the wine represented Jesus’ blood that was shed for “the remission of sins.” The “fruit of the vine” Jesus used was “new” and untainted. Yeast, which causes fermentation, was a symbol of sin, hence its use was prohibited at the Passover feast. Rom. 3:24-26; Rev. 13:8; Ex. 34:7]

6. As the fat of the sacrifices anciently represented Jesus’ body, so the bread in the communion service is a symbol of Christ’s body. What was accomplished by the death of Christ on the cross for us? Heb. 10:10 [Note: As the blood and fat of the Old Testament sacrifices were symbols of justification and sanctification, so the grape juice and bread of the new covenant may be viewed as symbols of this two-fold work of grace. Justification and sanctification must always go together, for Jesus died not merely to forgive sin, and thus account us righteous, but to free us from the dominion of sin, and thus make us righteous. 1 Peter 1:2; and 1 Peter 2:24; Matt. 1:21; 1 John 2:1-6; 1 John 3:3-6]

7. What great gift do we receive through partaking of the “bread of life”? John 6:47, 48, 51 [John 6:33-35]

8. What did Christ mean when He said we should eat of His flesh? John 6:51, 63 [Note: When we read the Bible with the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, our lives are changed. Jesus’ life, as manifested in the Bible, becomes our life. We should partake of this spiritual food just as regularly as we partake of physical food. When we partake of the bread of the communion service, we pledge to partake of His Word. John 1:1, 14, 18; 17:14, 17]

9. In the new-covenant service, what order is followed in partaking of the grape juice and the bread? 1 Cor. 11:23-26 [Note: Sanctification begins simultaneously with justification when we surrender ourselves totally to Christ. As soon as we surrender, Christ offers us free and complete forgiveness. But while sanctification begins at the time of justification, it must continue as long as we live. Both justification and sanctification are the work of grace. 1 Cor. 6:11; and 1 Peter 1:2; and 2 Thess. 2:13; and Heb. 10:14]

10. What warning does Paul give to us about partaking of the new-covenant service “in an unworthy manner,” without discerning its sacred character? 1 Cor. 11:27-30 [2 Cor. 13:5; Heb. 10:29]

11. In order to prepare the disciples’ hearts for the communion ceremony, what service did Jesus perform for them? John 13:3-5 [Mark 10:43-45]

12. How important was it for Jesus to wash the disciples’ feet? John 13:6-8 [1 Cor. 6:11]

13. After Jesus had washed their feet, were the disciples spiritually clean? John 13:9, 10 [Note: The disciples had already been washed in baptism, hence did not need a rebaptism. They had not apostatized. But they had harbored jealousy and unbelief, and needed to be cleansed from these sins. Eph. 5:26, 27]

14. After washing their feet, what did Jesus say to His disciples? How do we know that He was establishing a ceremony that He wants us to follow today? John 13:12-15 [Matt. 20:27, 28]

15. Some, like Peter, hesitate to have their feet washed, or to wash another’s feet. But what promise is given to those who follow Jesus’ example? John 13:15-17 [Matt. 23:11, 12; John 15:11]

16. While the communion service reminds us of Christ’s death, toward what future event does it point? Matt. 26:29 [1 Cor. 11:26]

Commitment: Jesus said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you” (John 6:53). Will you pledge to partake of Christ’s body, both in the communion service and through the study of His Word, so that you may become more like Jesus? As you drink the grape juice, will you accept Christ’s forgiveness, give thanks for His atoning blood, and determine to be among those who shall be with Jesus when He drinks the fruit of the vine in heaven? And will you follow Jesus’ example in the foot-washing ceremony, giving thanks that through Jesus your sins are washed away?

SUPPLEMENTAL LESSONS (Sl-S4): Studies for Further Knowledge

Prayer and Bible StudyReturn to the Bible study lesson contents.

Sign up for FREE Steps to Life Bible Studies.

Lesson 30 – So Send I You

kids sharingIntroduction: This is our final lesson. I hope these lessons have indeed been steps to eternal life for you. Yet we are not through, for it is God’s plan that each person who obtains truth shall share it with others.

1. After Jesus had finished His work on earth, what plan did He have for carrying His work forward? John 17:18 [The Further-study verse is Matt. 16:24]

2. Jesus came to save sinners. How did He do this? John 17:3, 4 [John 14:6, 7, 10]

3. Jesus’ first work was to reveal His Father’s character. This is to be our first work. What character traits (“fruits”) are we to develop? Gal. 5:22, 23 [Note: “By the power of His grace manifested in the transformation of character the world is to be convinced that God has sent His Son as its Redeemer. No other influence that can surround the human soul has such power as the influence of an unselfish life.” MH 470. “The last message of mercy to be given to the world, is a revelation of His [God’s] character of love…. In their own life and character they [the children of God] are to reveal what the grace of God has done for them.” COL 415, 416. Isa. 29:17-19; 32:15

4. What character “fruits” does Peter say we should develop? Are all these developed at once? 2 Peter 1:5-11 [Eph. 2:19-22]

5. What will God do to those who do not bear this fruit? What will He do to those who do? John 15:1, 2 [Note: “The strongest argument in favor of the gospel is a loving and lovable Christian. To live such a life . . . costs at every step effort, self-sacrifice, discipline. It is because they do not understand this that many are so easily discouraged …. They pray for Christlikeness of character . . . and they are . . . placed in circumstances that seem to call forth all the evil of their nature…. Trials and obstacles are the Lord’s chosen methods of discipline and His appointed conditions of success…. He permits the fires of affliction . . . that they may be purified.” MH 470, 471. James 1:2-4]

6. What connection must be maintained if one is to bear fruit to God’s glory? John 15:4-8 [Eph. 3:17-21]

7. How can we abide in Christ and grow in grace? 2 Peter 1:2-4 [Ans: Through daily (1) study of the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, (2) prayer, (3) keeping Christ in our thoughts, and (4) praising God even in the midst of trials. John 6:56, 63; 17:17-19; Col. 1:9, 10; 1 Thess. 5:16-18; Isa. 55:7; 1 Peter 1:6, 7; James 1:2-4; Phil. 4:6-8]

8. Beyond setting the example of a good life, Jesus sought opportunities to tell about salvation. What was His final commission to His disciples? Matt. 28:18-20 [Mark 16:15, 16; Isa. 43:10; Matt. 24:14]

9. What will Jesus do for us if we share our faith? Matt. 10:32, 33 [Eze. 33:8, 9]

10. Is it possible to have a “neutral” influence for Jesus? Matt. 12:30 [Matt. 6:24]

11. Who did Jesus promise to send to give power to our witness? Acts 1:8 [John 14:12, 16-18]

12. After Christ’s ascension, what condition among the disciples made it possible for God to give them the Holy Spirit? Acts 2:1 [Acts 4:32-35; Eph 4:3]

13. What results were produced by the Holy Spirit’s influence? Acts 2:37-41 [Acts 4:4; 5:14; 6:7]

14. The Spirit works to convict and convert everyone, but after conversion He gives various gifts for witnessing. How many receive these gifts from the Spirit, and are the gifts the same? 1 Cor. 12:4-7 [1 Cor. 12:14-27]

15. Who decides what gifts a person receives? 1 Cor. 12:11, 18 [Eph. 4:11-13]

16. What gifts does Paul list in his letter to the Romans, and how should they be used? Rom. 12:4-12 [Note: We might call some of these gifts “natural talents,” but even natural talents have been entrusted to us to be used for God, and when the Holy Spirit takes control of these talents they become effective for winning souls to Jesus. 1 Cor. 12:7-10]

17. What abilities do you have that the Holy Spirit could use to win souls? [Suggestions: The ability to use the telephone for Christ, visiting, giving these same Bible studies to someone else, encouraging the discouraged, hospitality that witness, giving out literature, sharing your testimony, writing letters that witness, praying for others, musical abilities, raising children for Christ, bringing others to church, financially supporting God’s work, gospel medical missionary abilities. . . . Matt. 25:14-30]

Commitment: We are all saved for service, and only through service can we maintain a living, growing relationship with Christ. Won’t you make it a lifelong goal to work and witness for Christ, starting today?

STEP 3 (Lessons 21-30): Becoming Part of Christ’s Remnant People

Prayer and Bible StudyReturn to the Bible study lesson contents.

Sign up for FREE Steps to Life Bible Studies.