Bible Study Guides

The Twelve Tribes of Israel

by

October 12 – 18, 2025

Key Text

“When the Most High divided their inheritance to the nations, when He separated the sons of Adam, He set the boundaries of the peoples according to the number of the children of Israel.” Deuteronomy 32:8

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 106, 465–469

Introduction

“The true children of Abraham would live, as he did, a life of obedience to God. … A mere lineal descent from Abraham was of no value. Without a spiritual connection with him, which would be manifested in possessing the same spirit, and doing the same works, they were not his children.” The Desire of Ages, 466, 467

Sunday

1 THE GOSPEL PROMISE

1.a. What was the first promise given to Abraham, and how does that promise depict the gospel? Genesis 12:1–3; 15:6; 22:18; Galatians 3:8, 9

 

Note: “He [Abraham] trusted in Christ for the forgiveness of sins. It was this faith that was accounted unto him for righteousness. The covenant with Abraham also maintained the authority of God’s law.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 370

1.b.      What is the gospel? Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 1:17, 18; Colossians 1:20. How was Calvary illustrated to Abraham in a practical way? Genesis 22:2–13; John 8:56–58

 

Note: “The offering of Isaac was designed by God to prefigure the sacrifice of His Son. … All the agony that Abraham endured during that dark and fearful trial was for the purpose of deeply impressing upon his understanding the plan of redemption for fallen man.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1094

Monday

2 CHRIST—THE MAIN PROMISED BLESSING

2.a. Did Abraham understand the blessings that were to come through faith in the cross of Christ? Galatians 3:13, 14; 2 Corinthians 5:21

 

Note: “When to Isaac’s question, ‘Where is the lamb for a burnt offering?’ Abraham made answer, ‘God will provide Himself a lamb;’ and when the father’s hand was stayed as he was about to slay his son, and the ram which God had provided was offered in the place of Isaac—then light was shed upon the mystery of redemption, and even the angels understood more clearly the wonderful provision that God had made for man’s salvation. 1 Peter 1:12.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 155

2.b.      How does Paul explain the important promise made to Abraham? Galatians 3:16, 27–29; Colossians 2:10–13. What blessings do we receive through Christ, the Seed of Abraham? Romans 3:23–25; Titus 2:11–14

 

Note: “Though they [the people of Israel ‘according to the flesh’] had despised God’s mercy and forfeited their blessings as His chosen people—yet God had not cast off the seed of Abraham; the glorious purposes which He had undertaken to accomplish through Israel were to be fulfilled. All who through Christ should become the children of faith were to be counted as Abraham’s seed; they were inheritors of the covenant promises; like Abraham, they were called to guard and to make known to the world the law of God and the gospel of His Son.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 476

“Descent from Abraham was proved, not by name and lineage, but by likeness of character. So, the apostolic succession rests not upon the transmission of ecclesiastical authority, but upon spiritual relationship. A life actuated by the apostles’ spirit, the belief and teaching of the truth they taught, this is the true evidence of apostolic succession. This is what constitutes men the successors of the first teachers of the gospel.” The Desire of Ages, 467

“No one will be entitled to the heavenly inheritance who has not been purified, refined, ennobled, and sanctified. Then let us be diligent to make our calling and election sure.” The Messenger, May 10, 1893

Tuesday

3 HEAVENLY CANAAN

3.a. What did the inheritance promised to Abraham include? Genesis 17:8; Romans 4:13. Why couldn’t he inherit immediately the land of Canaan? Genesis 15:16

 

Note: “The heritage that God has promised to His people is not in this world. Abraham had no possession in the earth, ‘no, not so much as to set his foot on,’ Acts 7:5. He possessed great substance, and he used it to the glory of God and the good of his fellow men; but he did not look upon this world as his home. The Lord had called him to leave his idolatrous countrymen, with the promise of the land of Canaan as an everlasting possession; yet neither he nor his son nor his son’s son received it. When Abraham desired a burial place for his dead, he had to buy it of the Canaanites. His sole possession in the Land of Promise was that rock-hewn tomb in the cave of Machpelah.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 169

3.b.      What was Abraham’s hope, based on God’s promise—a hope that is shared by all the faithful? Hebrews 11:8–10; Daniel 7:27; 2 Peter 3:13. How did he consider himself in this world? Hebrews 11:13–16

 

Note: “The word of God had not failed; neither did it meet its final accomplishment in the occupation of Canaan by the Jewish people. … The gift to Abraham and his seed included not merely the land of Canaan, but the whole earth. So, says the apostle, ‘The promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.’ Romans 4:13. And the Bible plainly teaches that the promises made to Abraham are to be fulfilled through Christ. All that are Christ’s are ‘Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise’—heirs to ‘an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away’—the earth freed from the curse of sin. Galatians 3:29; 1 Peter 1:4. For ‘the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High,’ ” Patriarchs and Prophets, 169, 170

Wednesday

4 HEIRS OF THE KINGDOM

4.a. What are the people like who will inherit the heavenly Canaan? Matthew 5:5; 1 John 3:2, 3; Isaiah 60:21

 

Note: “A title to a possession in this world must be without flaw, or it is valueless, and the right of inheritance is not given. And will heaven be given to those who have a faulty title? The apostle reveals the line through which the heavenly inheritance is to come. He says: ‘If ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.’ If we are Christ’s, our title to the heavenly inheritance is without flaw, for we are then under the only saving covenant, the covenant of grace; and through grace we shall be able to make our calling and election sure by putting on the excellency of Christ in faith, in spirit, in character; for no one will be entitled to the heavenly inheritance who has not been purified, refined, ennobled, elevated, and wholly sanctified. Those whose lives are hid with Christ in God, who have been clothed upon with His righteousness, will have a right to the inheritance, incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away.” The Signs of the Times, May 2, 1892

4.b.      What target regarding character is set before us to be reached before we can receive the seal of God’s approval? Ephesians 3:19; 4:13; Colossians 1:26–28; 2:10. When the people of God have attained to the stature of complete men and women in Christ, what declaration will be made concerning the work of the gospel? Revelation 10:7

 

Note: “We may talk of the blessings of the Holy Spirit, but unless we prepare ourselves for its reception, of what avail are our works? Are we striving with all our power to attain to the stature of men and women in Christ? Are we seeking for His fullness, ever pressing toward the mark set before us—the perfection of His character? When the Lord’s people reach this mark, they will be sealed in their foreheads. Filled with the Spirit, they will be complete in Christ, and the recording angel will declare, ‘It is finished.’ ” Our High Calling, 150

Thursday

5 ENTRANCE INTO THE HOLY CITY

5.a. How many gates are there in the New Jerusalem, whose names point to distinct character traits, and which are open to the redeemed? Revelation 21:10–12

 

5.b.      Mention some of the characters that will find no open gate and that will be debarred from entering the Holy City. Revelation 21:27; 22:15; 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10

 

Note: “Amid the ransomed throng are the apostles of Christ, the heroic Paul, the ardent Peter, the loved and loving John, and their truehearted brethren, and with them the vast host of martyrs; while outside the walls, with every vile and abominable thing, are those by whom they were persecuted, imprisoned, and slain. There is Nero, that monster of cruelty and vice, beholding the joy and exaltation of those whom he once tortured, and in whose extremest anguish he found satanic delight.” The Great Controversy, 667

“Into the city of God there will enter nothing that defiles. All who are to be dwellers there will here have become pure in heart. In one who is learning of Jesus, there will be manifest a growing distaste for careless manners, unseemly language, and coarse thought. When Christ abides in the heart, there will be purity and refinement of thought and manner.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 24, 25

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    In essence, what is the gospel, and how was it preached to Abraham?

2    Who is Abraham’s seed? How is it possible to be a part of that seed?

3    What inheritance was promised to Abraham?

4    Describe the character required to receive the promised inheritance.

5    What are the conditions of admittance into the Holy City? Who will be kept out?

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

The Special Resurrection

by

October 5 – 11, 2025

Key Text

“And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake. Some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt.” Daniel 12:2

Study Help: Early Writings, 285

Introduction

“Let us strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundred and forty-four thousand.” The Review and Herald, March 9, 1905

Sunday

1 TWO CLASSES

1.a. What event will announce the imminent deliverance of the saints? Joel 3:16; Hebrews 12:26; Revelation 16:17, last part, 18

 

Note: “Dark, heavy clouds come up and clash against each other. In the midst of the angry heavens is one clear space of indescribable glory, whence comes the voice of God like the sound of many waters. …

“That voice shakes the heavens and the earth. There is a mighty earthquake.” The Great Controversy, 636, 637

1.b.      Who are resurrected when God’s voice resounds before Christ’s return? Daniel 12:1, 2; Matthew 26:63, 64; Revelation 1:7. Will those raised to everlasting life be among those who will hear God’s covenant?

 

Note: “Graves are opened, and ‘many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth … awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt’ (Daniel 12:2). All who have died in the faith of the third angel’s message come forth from the tomb glorified, to hear God’s covenant of peace with those who have kept His law. ‘They also which pierced Him’ (Revelation 1:7), those that mocked and derided Christ’s dying agonies, and the most violent opposers of His truth and His people, are raised to behold Him in His glory and to see the honor placed upon the loyal and obedient.” The Great Controversy, 637

Monday

2 ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY FOUR THOUSAND IN NUMBER

  1. When will God deliver the everlasting covenant to His people and give the day and hour of Christ’s coming? Daniel 12:2

 

Note: “When Jesus leaves the sanctuary, then they who are holy and righteous will be holy and righteous still; for all their sins will then be blotted out, and they will be sealed with the seal of the living God. But those that are unjust and filthy will be unjust and filthy still; for then there will be no Priest in the sanctuary to offer their sacrifices, their confessions, and their prayers before the Father’s throne. Therefore, what is done to rescue souls from the coming storm of wrath must be done before Jesus leaves the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary.” Early Writings, 48

“Soon we heard the voice of God like many waters, which gave us the day and hour of Jesus’ coming. The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. When God spoke the time, He poured upon us the Holy Ghost, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God, as Moses’ did when he came down from Mount Sinai.

“The 144,000 were all sealed and perfectly united. On their foreheads was written, God, New Jerusalem, and a glorious star containing Jesus’ new name. At our happy, holy state the wicked were enraged, and would rush violently up to lay hands on us to thrust us into prison, when we would stretch forth the hand in the name of the Lord, and they would fall helpless to the ground.” Ibid., 15

Tuesday

3 ADDITION OR INCLUSION?

  1. Did the early Advent people believe that those who have died in the faith of the third angel’s message are included in the number of the sealed saints? Revelation 14:12, 13

 

Note: “As he [John] looked with intense interest he beheld the company of God’s commandment-keeping people. They had upon their foreheads the seal of the living God, and he said: ‘Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth.’ … ” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, 15

“Let us strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundred and forty-four thousand.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 970

Wednesday

4 ADDITION OR INCLUSION? (CONTINUED)

4.a. What should be our goal under the third angel’s message? Matthew 24:13; Hebrews 4:14

 

Note: “The Lord manifests His grace and His power over and over again, and this should teach us that it is always profitable under all circumstances to cherish faith, to talk faith, to act faith.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 928

4.b.      What scriptures show the ultimate triumph of God’s remnant church? Philippians 1:6

 

Note: “In holy vision the prophet saw the ultimate triumph of God’s remnant church. He writes: ‘I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory … stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints.’ Revelation 15:2, 3. ‘And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with Him a hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads.’ Revelation 14:1.’ In this world their minds were consecrated to God; they served Him with the intellect and with the heart; and now He can place His name ‘in their foreheads.’ ” The Acts of the Apostles, 590, 591

Thursday

5 TWO DISTINCT RESURRECTIONS

5.a. Who will be resurrected at the second coming of Jesus? John 5:28, 29, first part; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–17. What will the righteous receive at this resurrection? Revelation 22:12; 1 Corinthians 15:51–55; 2 Timothy 4:7, 8

 

5.b. What will be the main occupation of the righteous during the millennium? 1 Corinthians 6:1–3; Revelation 20:4–6

 

5.c. Who are resurrected after the 1,000 years are over and the wicked have been judged? John 5:28, 29, last part; Revelation 20:5, 7–10

 

Note: “At the end of one thousand years, Jesus, the king of glory, descends. … The city of God comes down and settles upon the mighty plain prepared for it. Then Jesus leaves the city surrounded by the redeemed host and is escorted on His way by the angelic throng. In fearful majesty He calls forth the wicked dead. They are wakened from their long sleep. What a dreadful waking!” Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 3, 83, 84

“At the close of the thousand years the second resurrection will take place. Then the wicked will be raised from the dead and appear before God for the execution of ‘the judgment written.’ ” The Great Controversy, 661

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Describe the special resurrection when two groups will be raised from the tomb at the voice of God, just before the coming of Christ.

2    With what Bible verses does the Spirit of Prophecy identify the last remnant church that will be ready to meet Christ?

3    Describe the two general resurrections to take place, one at the coming of Christ and the other one thousand years later.

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

The Sabbath as a Test

by

Sealed for Eternity

September 28, 2025 – October 4, 2025

Key Text

“And I heard the number of those who were sealed. One hundred and forty-four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel were sealed … .” Revelation 7:4

Study Help: Early Writings, 36–38, 42–44, 280–282

Introduction

“I then saw the third angel. Said my accompanying angel, ‘Fearful is his work. Awful is his mission. He is the angel that is to select the wheat from the tares, and seal, or bind, the wheat for the heavenly garner. These things should engross the whole mind, the whole attention.’ ” Early Writings, 118

Sunday

1 THE SEALING WORK

1.a. What must be done before the winds of contention are allowed to blow? Revelation 7:1, 3 (compare Daniel 7:2; Jeremiah 25:32). What will happen when these “winds” are released? 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 3

 

Note: “John sees the elements of nature—earthquake, tempest, and political strife—represented as being held by four angels. These winds are under control until God gives the word to let them go. … [The] mightiest of angels has in his hand the seal of the living God, or of Him who alone can give life, who can inscribe upon the foreheads the mark or inscription, to whom shall be granted immortality, eternal life.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 444, 445

1.b.      How do we know that the time of probation, in which sinners are invited to turn to the Lord, will not be extended forever? Luke 13:23–25; 17:28–30; Jeremiah 8:20. What evidence shows that the sealing work must be completed before the plagues begin to fall at the final close of probation? Revelation 22:11

Monday

2 AN OPENED DOOR

2.a. When was the door of the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary opened? Revelation 3:7, 8; 11:19; Daniel 8:14

 

Note: “The time for the commandments of God to shine out with all their importance, and for God’s people to be tried on the Sabbath truth, was when the door was opened in the most holy place in the heavenly sanctuary, where the ark is, in which are contained the ten commandments. This door was not opened until the mediation of Jesus was finished in the holy place of the sanctuary in 1844. Then Jesus rose up and shut the door of the holy place, and opened the door into the most holy, and passed within the second veil, where He now stands by the ark, and where the faith of Israel now reaches.” Early Writings, 42

2.b.      Since the Sabbath has been revealed as a part of the law of God, and since the Day of Atonement clearly identifies obedience to that selfsame law, has the Sabbath been a test since 1844, or are we to wait for a future Sabbath test? Acts 17:30; John 15:22

 

Note: “The present test on the Sabbath could not come until the mediation of Jesus in the holy place was finished and He had passed within the second veil; therefore Christians who fell asleep before the door was opened into the most holy, when the midnight cry was finished, at the seventh month, 1844, and who had not kept the true Sabbath, now rest in hope; for they had not the light and the test on the Sabbath which we now have since that door was opened. I saw that Satan was tempting some of God’s people on this point. Because so many good Christians have fallen asleep in the triumphs of faith and have not kept the true Sabbath, [some] were doubting about its being a test for us now.” Early Writings, 42, 43

“Satan was trying his every art to hold [these] where they were, until the sealing was past, until the covering was drawn over God’s people, and they left without a shelter from the burning wrath of God, in the seven last plagues. God has begun to draw this covering over His people, and it will soon be drawn over all who are to have a shelter in the day of slaughter.” Ibid., 44

Tuesday

3 THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE

3.a. How does prophecy describe the restoration of the Lord’s Sabbath and the work of the sealing angel? Isaiah 56:1, 2, 6; 58:12, 13; Ezekiel 9:1–11; Revelation 14:9–12. What will be their attitude toward sin in the congregation for those who are preparing to receive the seal of God?

 

Note: “This sealing of the servants of God is the same that was shown to Ezekiel in vision.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 445

“Who are standing in the counsel of God at this time? Is it those who virtually excuse wrongs among the professed people of God and who murmur in their hearts, if not openly, against those who would reprove sin? Is it those who take their stand against them and sympathize with those who commit wrong? No, indeed! Unless they repent, and leave the work of Satan in oppressing those who have the burden of the work and in holding up the hands of sinners in Zion, they will never receive the mark of God’s sealing approval.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, 267

“The true people of God, who have the spirit of the work of the Lord and the salvation of souls at heart, will ever view sin in its real, sinful character. They will always be on the side of faithful and plain dealing with sins which easily beset the people of God. Especially in the closing work for the church, in the sealing time of the one hundred and forty-four thousand who are to stand without fault before the throne of God, will they feel most deeply the wrongs of God’s professed people.” Ibid., 266

3.b.      Although many will be saved without the knowledge of the Sabbath truth, can believers in the third angel’s message be sealed without being tested on the commandments of God and the Sabbath? Ezekiel 20:12, 16, 19, 20; Revelation 12:17; 14:12

 

Note: “Those who would have the seal of God in their foreheads must keep the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. This is what distinguishes them from the disloyal, who have accepted a man-made institution in the place of the true Sabbath. The observance of God’s rest day is the mark of distinction between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 970

Wednesday

4 THE FINAL ISSUE

4.a. Since the light of present truth began to shine, focusing the attention of God’s people on the heavenly sanctuary, the law of God, and the Sabbath (Revelation 11:19), can we as believers in the three angels’ message be saved without having the seal of God? James 4:17

 

Note: “Only those who receive the seal of the living God will have the passport through the gates of the Holy City.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 970

“Those who reveal the meek and lowly spirit of Christ are tenderly regarded by God. They may be looked upon with scorn by the world, but they are of great value in His sight. Not only the wise, the great, the beneficent, will gain a passport to the heavenly courts; not only the busy worker, full of zeal and restless activity. No; the poor in spirit, who crave the presence of an abiding Christ, the humble in heart, whose highest ambition is to do God’s will—these will gain an abundant entrance. They will be among that number who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” The Desire of Ages, 301, 302

4.b.      What question will become quite clear under the final conflict regarding the Sabbath issue? Malachi 3:18

 

Note: “The final issue on the Sabbath question has not yet come, and by imprudent actions we may bring on a crisis before the time. … We must work cautiously, presenting the truth by degrees, as the hearers can bear it, but keep close to the word.” The Southern Work, 71

“The worshipers of God will be especially distinguished by their regard for the fourth commandment, since this is the sign of God’s creative power and the witness to His claim upon man’s reverence and homage.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 16

“The world can only be warned by seeing those who believe the truth sanctified through the truth, acting upon high and holy principles, showing in a high, elevated sense, the line of demarcation between those who keep the commandments of God and those who trample them under their feet.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 980

Thursday

5 THE FINAL ISSUE (CONTINUED)

5.a. How many are to be sealed in the time of the end? Revelation 7:4; 14:1–3

 

Note: “The decree is to go forth that all who will not receive the mark of the beast shall neither buy nor sell, and, finally, that they shall be put to death. But the saints of God do not receive this mark. …

“To every soul will come the searching test, Shall I obey God rather than men? … Who are prepared to stand firmly under the banner on which is inscribed, ‘The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus’?” The Signs of the Times, November 8, 1899

5.b.      Describe the troublous times that are coming upon the world, according to prophecy. Luke 21:26; Isaiah 24:1–6; 33:16

 

Note: “The time will come when men will not only forbid Sunday work, but they will try to force men to labor on the Sabbath.” The Southern Work, 69

“It requires moral courage to take a position to keep the commandments of the Lord. … It takes moral courage, firmness, decision, perseverance, and very much prayer to step out on the unpopular side. … You may have to suffer distress, you may go hungry sometimes; but God will not forsake you in your suffering. He will test your faith. We are not to live to please ourselves. We are here to manifest Christ to the world, to represent Him and His power to mankind.” The Review and Herald, September 3, 1895

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    What are the four winds that are being held back, and why are they held in check?

2    What door was opened before the servants of God in 1844?

3    What is the work of the third angel of Revelation 14?

4    Why was the Lord’s Sabbath not a test for God’s people before 1844—and why has it been a test ever since?

5    What question will be clear to all under the final test?

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

Our Last Opportunity!

by

September 21 – 27, 2025

Key Text

“I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work.” John 9:4

Study Help: Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 476–485; Ibid., Vol. 6, 445–453

Introduction

“We are nearing the end of this earth’s history, and the different departments of God’s work are to be carried forward with much more self-sacrifice than has yet been practiced.” The Review and Herald, November 18, 1902

Sunday

1 BEFORE LIFE EXPIRES

1.a. To what realities are we all subject? Hebrews 9:27. What should this make each of us consider—whether old, young, sick, or healthy? Romans 12:11

 

Note: “It often happens that an active businessman is cut down without a moment’s warning and on examination his business is found to be in a most perplexing condition. In the effort to settle his estate the lawyers’ fees eat up a large share, if not all, of the property, while his wife and children and the cause of Christ are robbed. Those who are faithful stewards of the Lord’s means will know just how their business stands, and, like wise men, they will be prepared for any emergency. Should their probation close suddenly, they would not leave such great perplexity upon those who are called to settle their estate.

“Many are not exercised upon the subject of making their wills while they are in apparent health. But this precaution should be taken by our brethren. They should know their financial standing and should not allow their business to become entangled. They should arrange their property in such a manner that they may leave it at any time.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 482

1.b.      In preparing for our life to conclude, what should we consider? Isaiah 38:1

 

Note: “Wills should be made in a manner to stand the test of law. After they are drawn they may remain for years and do no harm, if donations continue to be made from time to time as the cause has need. Death will not come one day sooner, brethren, because you have made your will. In disposing of your property by will to your relatives, be sure that you do not forget God’s cause. You are His agents, holding His property; and His claims should have your first consideration. Your wife and children, of course, should not be left destitute; provision should be made for them if they are needy. But do not, simply because it is customary, bring into your will a long line of relatives who are not needy.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 482

Monday

2 PREPARING FOR THE END

2.a. Why should we speak clearly about the importance of each one of us having a proper will? 1 Corinthians 4:2

 

Note: “Some wills are made in so loose a manner that they will not stand the test of the law, and thus thousands of dollars have been lost to the cause. Our brethren should feel that a responsibility rests upon them, as faithful servants in the cause of God, to exercise their intellect in regard to this matter, and secure to the Lord His own.

“Many manifest a needless delicacy on this point. They feel that they are stepping upon forbidden ground when they introduce the subject of property to the aged or to invalids in order to learn what disposition they design to make of it. But this duty is just as sacred as the duty to preach the word to save souls. Here is a man with God’s money or property in his hands. He is about to change his stewardship. Will he place the means which God has lent him to be used in His cause, in the hands of wicked men, just because they are his relatives? Should not Christian men feel interested and anxious for that man’s future good as well as for the interest of God’s cause, that he shall make a right disposition of his Lord’s money, the talents lent him for wise improvement? Will his brethren stand by and see him losing his hold on this life and at the same time robbing the treasury of God? This would be a fearful loss to himself and to the cause; for, by placing his talent of means in the hands of those who have no regard for the truth of God, he would, to all intents and purposes, be wrapping it in a napkin and hiding it in the earth.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 479

2.b.      Whether we live or die, what does God expect each of us to remember? Romans 14:8, 12

 

Note: “God calls for men to give the warning to the world that is asleep, dead in trespasses and sins. He calls for freewill offerings from those whose hearts are in the work, who have a burden for souls, that they shall not perish, but have everlasting life.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, 446

Tuesday

3 THE FINAL WORK

3.a. What is our responsibility in these last days? 1 Thessalonians 5:1–6; Zechariah 10:1. How only can we receive the latter rain or “refreshing”? Acts 3:19–21

 

Note: “The great outpouring of the Spirit of God, which lightens the whole earth with His glory, will not come until we have an enlightened people, that know by experience what it means to be laborers together with God. When we have entire, wholehearted consecration to the service of Christ, God will recognize the fact by an outpouring of His Spirit without measure; but this will not be while the largest portion of the church are not laborers together with God. God cannot pour out His Spirit when selfishness and self-indulgence are so manifest; when a spirit prevails that, if put into words, would express that answer of Cain—‘Am I my brother’s keeper?’ ” Counsels on Stewardship, 52

3.b.      In regard to financial management, what should be foremost in our minds today, both as individuals and as a church organization? Ecclesiastes 8:5; John 9:4

 

Note: “We ought now to be heeding the injunction of our Saviour: ‘Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not.’ It is now that our brethren should be cutting down their possessions instead of increasing them. We are about to move to a better country, even a heavenly. Then let us not be dwellers upon the earth, but be getting things into as compact a compass as possible.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 152

“For what shall we hoard up treasures? To be swept away by the flames of the last day? Shall we lay up gold and silver, to be a witness against us in the Judgment—to eat our flesh as it were fire? Shall we cling to our possessions till they fall into the hands of our enemies? The time is coming when commandment keepers can neither buy nor sell. Of what use will houses and lands, bank stock and merchandise, be to us then? Now is the time to place our treasures where they will be eternally secure.” The Review and Herald, December 6, 1887

Wednesday

4 PRACTICAL PREPARATION

4.a. Why hasn’t the Lord returned yet? 2 Peter 3:9. What will help us avoid losing all our means in the woeful prophecy of Isaiah soon to be fulfilled? Isaiah 2:20; Psalm 96:2–8

 

Note: “The work of God is to become more extensive, and if His people follow His counsel, there will not be much means in their possession to be consumed in the final conflagration. All will have laid up their treasure where moth and rust cannot corrupt; and the heart will not have a cord to bind it to earth.” Counsels on Stewardship, 60

4.b.      What does Christ promise to all who through faithful sacrifice are seriously preparing for His return? James 1:5; Isaiah 33:14–17

 

Note: “It is contrary to the Bible to make any provision for our temporal wants in the time of trouble. I saw that if the saints had food laid up by them or in the field in the time of trouble, when sword, famine, and pestilence are in the land, it would be taken from them by violent hands and strangers would reap their fields. Then will be the time for us to trust wholly in God, and He will sustain us. I saw that our bread and water will be sure at that time, and that we shall not lack or suffer hunger; for God is able to spread a table for us in the wilderness. If necessary He would send ravens to feed us, as He did to feed Elijah, or rain manna from heaven, as He did for the Israelites.

“Houses and lands will be of no use to the saints in the time of trouble, for they will then have to flee before infuriated mobs, and at that time their possessions cannot be disposed of to advance the cause of present truth. I was shown that it is the will of God that the saints should cut loose from every encumbrance before the time of trouble comes, and make a covenant with God through sacrifice. If they have their property on the altar and earnestly inquire of God for duty, He will teach them when to dispose of these things. Then they will be free in the time of trouble and have no clogs to weigh them down.” Early Writings, 56, 57

Thursday

5 A HIGH-YIELD INVESTMENT

5.a. Where is the best investment available today, and why? Luke 12:32–34

 

Note: “Let us be honest with the Lord. All the blessings that we enjoy come from Him; and if He has entrusted us with the talent of means, that we may help to do His work, shall we hold back? Shall we say, No, Lord; my children would not be pleased, and therefore I shall venture to disobey God, burying His talent in the earth?

“There should be no delay. The cause of God demands your assistance. We ask you, as the Lord’s stewards, to put His means into circulation, to provide facilities by which many will have the opportunity of learning what is truth.” Counsels on Stewardship, 44, 45

5.b.      What declaration will the Lord make at the end of time? Psalm 50:3–5. How will all who make a covenant by sacrifice be richly rewarded?

 

Note: “There is reward for the wholehearted, unselfish workers who enter this field, and also for those who contribute willingly for their support. Those engaged in active service in the field, and those who give of their means to sustain these workers, will share the reward of the faithful. …

“The self-denial they have practiced in order to support the work, is remembered no more. As they look upon the souls they sought to win to Jesus, and see them saved, eternally saved—monuments of God’s mercy and of a Redeemer’s love—there ring through the arches of heaven shouts of praise and thanksgiving.” Counsels on Stewardship, 348, 349

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    What superstition about making wills is detrimental to God’s cause?

2    Why should we not neglect to speak about making wills?

3    What is one reason why many will fail to receive the latter rain?

4    What should we realize before the approaching time of trouble?

5    How and when is the interest paid on treasure laid up in heaven?

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

Enlightening the Whole World

by

September 14 – 20, 2025

Key Text

“And He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.’ ” Mark 16:15

Study Help: Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 51–60; Ibid., Vol. 3, 382–385

Introduction

“Those who rejoice in the precious light of truth should feel a burning desire to have it sent everywhere.” Counsels on Stewardship, 42

Sunday

1 ANSWERING THE MACEDONIAN CRY

1.a. Although literature is a powerful missionary tool, what step must follow in order to complete the gospel commission? Matthew 28:18–20. How only can this need for diligent gospel workers be fulfilled?

 

Note: “This work of faithfully bringing in all the tithes, that there may be meat in the house of God, would supply laborers for both home and foreign fields. Although books and publications upon present truth are pouring out their treasures of knowledge to all parts of the world, yet missionary posts must be established at different points. The living preacher must proclaim the words of life and salvation. There are open fields inviting workers to enter. The harvest is ripe, and the earnest Macedonian cry for laborers is heard from every part of the world.” Counsels on Stewardship, 39

1.b.      What urgent work needs to be done? Mark 16:15

 

Note: “The magnitude of our work calls for willing liberality on the part of the people of God. In Africa, in China, in India, there are thousands, yes, millions, who have not heard the message of the truth for this time. They must be warned. The islands of the sea are waiting for a knowledge of God.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 51

Monday

2 HOW IMPORTANT IS GOD’S TITHE

2.a. How does Inspiration emphasize the personal, human element in soul-saving? Romans 10:13–15. How can we all be involved?

 

Note: “The preaching of the gospel is God’s appointed way for converting the souls of men. Men must hear in order to be saved. They cannot hear without a preacher, and the preacher must be sent. This makes it necessary to have funds in the treasury in order to provide means whereby the missionary may reach destitute fields. In the light of this fact, how can those who profess to follow Christ, rob God of His own intrusted talents in tithes and offerings? Is it not refusing bread to starving souls? To withhold the means which God has claimed as His own, whereby He has made provision that souls shall be saved, will surely bring a curse upon those who thus rob God. Souls for whom Christ has died, are denied the privilege of hearing the truth, because men refuse to carry out the measures which God has provided for the enlightenment of the lost.” The Home Missionary, April 1, 1905

2.b.      What does God require if we neglect to return His tithe on time? Leviticus 27:31. What experience of a local church in the year 1889 can encourage all today?

 

Note: “Some of those who had not been dealing justly with God, and consequently had been separating themselves from Him, began to restore that which they had withheld. One brother had not paid tithes for two years. He gave his note to the secretary of the conference for the tithe he had withheld and the interest on it, amounting to $571.50. I thank the Lord that he had the courage to do this. Another gave his note for $300. Another man who had backslidden from God so far that but little hope was cherished that he would ever turn his feet into the path of righteousness again, gave his note for $1,000. It was proposed that these long-withheld tithes and offerings be devoted to the Central European Mission; so with these and the Christmas donations, nearly $6,000 has come into the treasury from this church to be applied to the missionary cause.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 643, 644

Tuesday

3 LEARNING FAITHFUL FORESIGHT

3.a. What objection was made against Mary’s generosity towards Jesus? John 12:3–6. How did Christ commend Mary, and how are we warned against making similar objections today? Mark 14:6–9

 

Note: “We make progressive movements; but at every step prejudice and false ideas must be removed. This has been the case with every reformatory movement the world has ever seen. To some of small faith and selfish, money-loving disposition, each advance move has portended general disaster and an extravagant outlay of means. They have felt as did that poor man Judas when the ointment was poured upon the head of Jesus. Why this great waste? said he; this ought to have been sold, and the money given to the poor. Again and again, when some advance step has been taken, the selfish, cautious ones have thought that everything was going to ruin; but when the battle has been fought against all odds, they have hailed the victory as a token that God was in the movement. … Do those men who blocked the way realize the work they have done? Do they see that the addition of their money, their strength, their faith, and courage, might have made the work stronger and more influential, and that their neglect to do what they could is sin?” The Review and Herald, February 5, 1884

3.b.      To what realities should we now awaken? John 4:35, 36

 

Note: “Money is not to be furnished for the carrying out of the work of the gospel in some mysterious way, and through unseen, mysterious agencies. God will not shower money from the windows of heaven to do His appointed work, to spread the truth in our world, and to save souls unto eternal life. He has made His people stewards of His means to be used for His glory in blessing humanity.” The Home Missionary, April 1, 1905

Wednesday

4 SAVORY SALT

4.a. What exhortations come to those who are seeking to honor Christ? Matthew 5:13

 

Note: “How much more eager will every faithful steward be to enlarge the proportion of gifts to be placed in the Lord’s treasure house, than to decrease his offering one jot or tittle. Whom is he serving? For whom is he preparing an offering?—For the One upon whom he is dependent for every good thing which he enjoys. Then let not one of us who is receiving the grace of Christ, give occasion for the angels to be ashamed of us, and for Jesus to be ashamed to call us brethren. …

“Those who are recipients of His grace, who contemplate the cross of Calvary, will not question concerning the proportion to be given, but will feel that the richest offering is all too meager, all disproportionate to the great gift of the only-begotten Son of the infinite God. Through self-denial, the poorest will find ways of obtaining something to give back to God.” Counsels on Stewardship, 200

4.b.      How is the “salt” of present truth to be sprinkled throughout the earth? Ecclesiastes 11:1, 6

 

Note: “The waste places of the earth are to be cultivated. In humble dependence upon God, families are to go forth and settle in the unworked places of His vineyard. As the reward of their self-sacrifice in order to sow the seeds of truth, they will reap a rich harvest.” The Review and Herald, August 26, 1902

Thursday

5 ENLIGHTENING EVERY CORNER

5.a. What is the most urgent call of today, and why? Matthew 9:36–38

 

Note: “Who is to blame for the loss of the souls who know not God, and who have had no opportunity for hearing the reasons of our faith? What obligation rests upon the church in reference to a world that is perishing without the gospel? Unless there is more decided self-denial on the part of those who claim to believe the truth, unless there is more decided faithfulness in bringing all the tithes and offerings into the treasury, unless broader plans are laid than have yet been carried into execution, we shall not fulfill the gospel commission to go into all the world, and preach Christ to every creature.” The Home Missionary, April 1, 1905

5.b.      How is the spread of the gospel illustrated, and what was the result? Revelation 18:1

 

Note: “All heaven is looking with intense interest upon the church, to see what her individual members are doing to enlighten those who are in darkness. The field is the world, and the openings are so many, the work has so enlarged, that it is beyond the proportion of the means on hand to supply the necessary demands. For years the Lord has been warning His people to bind about their wants, to incur no needless outlay of means. But notwithstanding the counsel of Him who knows the end from the beginning, how needlessly has money been expended. The cautions given have been lightly esteemed, and the minds of men have misinterpreted, turned aside, or wrested the counsel of God, in order that they might follow their own ambitious projects, although by so doing, the very means by which God might have been glorified and honored in extending His truth, is lost to the cause. The Lord has graciously honored man, employing him as the human agent to cooperate with heavenly intelligences, that the light of truth may shine in all parts of the earth. The Lord has His agents who will act a part in the mightiest conflict which the world has ever seen. If the workers remain humble, learning daily, in the school of Christ, meekness and lowliness of heart, the Lord Jesus will work with them. He who is a coworker with Christ will realize that in conferring heavenly benefits on others, he himself will be benefited. He will know that ‘he that watereth shall be watered also himself.’ ” The Review and Herald, February 27, 1894

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    In what sense is literature limited in its soul-saving ability?

2    What reveals the importance of punctuality in tithing?

3    How may we be in danger of repeating the sin of Judas?

4    What should we consider when deciding how much to give for Christ?

5    How will the world be enlightened—with us or without us?

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

Biblical Principles of Finance

by

September 7 – 13, 2025

Key Text

“And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God.” Deuteronomy 28:2

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 70–76; Education, 135–145

Introduction

“No man can lay up treasure in heaven without finding his life on earth thereby enriched and ennobled.” Education, 145

Sunday

1 PERSONAL FINANCES

1.a. How does God plan to financially sustain His people if they follow His directions? Haggai 1:5–11

 

Note: “Those who are selfishly withholding their means need not be surprised if God’s hand scatters. That which should have been devoted to the advancement of the work and cause of God, but which has been withheld, may be entrusted to a reckless son, and he may squander it. A fine horse, the pride of a vain heart, may be found dead in the stable. Occasionally a cow may die. Losses of fruit or other crops may come. God can scatter the means He has lent to His stewards, if they refuse to use it to His glory. Some, I saw, may have none of these losses to remind them of their remissness in duty, but their cases may be the more hopeless.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, 661, 662

“The neglect to confess Christ in your account books cuts you off from the great privilege of having your name registered in the Lamb’s book of life.” Our High Calling, 192

1.b.      What should be considered by all who habitually tend to ask for help, instead of offering it? Deuteronomy 28:12, 13; Proverbs 13:23

 

Note: “If those who have not made life a success were willing to be instructed, they could train themselves to habits of self-denial and strict economy, and have the satisfaction of being distributors, rather than receivers, of charity. There are many slothful servants. If they would do what it is in their power to do they would experience so great a blessing in helping others that they would indeed realize that ‘it is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, 400, 401

Monday

2 CONDITIONAL PROMISES

2.a. What does God desire for His people even today? Deuteronomy 28:1–6

 

Note: “It is not God’s purpose that Christians, whose privileges far exceed those of the Jewish nation, shall give less freely than they gave. ‘Unto whomsoever much is given,’ the Saviour declared, ‘of him shall be much required.’ Luke 12:48. The liberality required of the Hebrews was largely to benefit their own nation; today the work of God extends over all the earth. In the hands of His followers, Christ has placed the treasures of the gospel, and upon them He has laid the responsibility of giving the glad tidings of salvation to the world. Surely our obligations are much greater than were those of ancient Israel.” The Acts of the Apostles, 337, 338

2.b.      What promises are assured to all who follow God’s financial plan? Malachi 3:11, 12

 

Note: “All may feel that they can act a part in carrying forward the precious work of salvation. Every man, woman and youth may become a treasurer for the Lord, and may be an agent to meet the demands upon the treasury. Says the apostle, ‘Let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.’

“Great objects are accomplished by this system. If one and all would accept it, each would be made a vigilant and faithful treasurer for God; and there would be no want of means with which to carry forward the great work of sounding the last message of warning to the world. The treasury will be full if all adopt this system, and the contributors will not be left the poorer. Through every investment made, they will become more wedded to the cause of present truth.” Messages to Young People, 304, 305

Tuesday

3 LESSONS FROM THE DAYS OF CHRIST

3.a. How did the wise men respond to the birth of Jesus? Matthew 2:1, 2, 11

 

Note: “The magi had been among the first to welcome the Redeemer. Their gift was the first that was laid at His feet. And through that gift, what privilege of ministry was theirs! The offering from the heart that loves, God delights to honor, giving it highest efficiency in service for Him. If we have given our hearts to Jesus, we also shall bring our gifts to Him. Our gold and silver, our most precious earthly possessions, our highest mental and spiritual endowments, will be freely devoted to Him who loved us, and gave Himself for us.” The Desire of Ages, 65

3.b.      What should we learn from Mary’s anointing of Jesus? Mark 14:3

 

Note: “In determining the proportion to be given to the cause of God, be sure to exceed, rather than fall short, of the requirements of duty. Consider for whom the offering is to be made. This recollection will put covetousness to flight. Only consider the great love wherewith Christ has loved us, and our richest offerings will seem unworthy of His acceptance. When Christ is the object of our affections, those who have received His pardoning love will not stop to calculate the value of the alabaster box of precious ointment. Covetous Judas could do this; but the receiver of the gift of salvation will only regret that the offering has not a richer perfume and greater value.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 485

Wednesday

4 IN THE TIME OF THE APOSTLES

4.a. In proclaiming the gospel, what example was shown by the early Christians? Acts 4:32–37

 

Note: “The record declares, ‘Neither was there any among them that lacked,’ and it tells how the need was filled. Those among the believers who had money and possessions cheerfully sacrificed them to meet the emergency. Selling their houses or their lands, they brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet, ‘and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.’

This liberality on the part of the believers was the result of the outpouring of the Spirit. The converts to the gospel were ‘of one heart and of one soul.’ One common interest controlled them—the success of the mission entrusted to them; and covetousness had no place in their lives. Their love for their brethren and the cause they had espoused, was greater than their love of money and possessions. Their works testified that they accounted the souls of men of higher value than earthly wealth.

“Thus it will ever be when the Spirit of God takes possession of the life. Those whose hearts are filled with the love of Christ, will follow the example of Him who for our sake became poor, that through His poverty we might be made rich. Money, time, influence—all the gifts they have received from God’s hand, they will value only as a means of advancing the work of the gospel. Thus it was in the early church; and when in the church of today it is seen that by the power of the Spirit the members have taken their affections from the things of the world, and that they are willing to make sacrifices in order that their fellowmen may hear the gospel, the truths proclaimed will have a powerful influence upon the hearers.” The Acts of the Apostles, 70, 71

4.b.      What can we learn from the death of Ananias and Sapphira? Acts 5:1–11

 

Note: “Desiring to gain a reputation for self-sacrifice, liberality, and devotion to the Christian faith, Ananias and Sapphira sold their property, and laid part of the proceeds at the feet of the apostles, pretending they had given it all. They had not been urged to give all they had to the cause. God would have accepted part. But they desired it to be thought that they had given all. Thus they thought to gain the reputation they coveted, and at the same time keep back part of their money. They thought they had been successful in their scheme; but they were cheating the Lord, and He dealt summarily with this, the first case of deception and falsehood in the newly formed church. He slew them both, as a warning to all of the danger of sacrificing truth to gain favor.” Medical Ministry, 126, 127

Thursday

5 SYSTEMATIC SELF-DENIAL AND FINANCIAL PLANNING

5.a. What must we realize in the operation and financial sustenance of the church? 1 Corinthians 14:33

 

Note: “He [God] requires that order and system be observed in the conduct of church affairs today no less than in the days of old. He desires His work to be carried forward with thoroughness and exactness so that He may place upon it the seal of His approval. Christian is to be united with Christian, church with church, the human instrumentality cooperating with the divine, every agency subordinate to the Holy Spirit, and all combined in giving to the world the good tidings of the grace of God.” The Acts of the Apostles, 96

5.b.      What must we learn from the ways in which faithful men of God have exemplified self-denial?
Hebrews 11:8–10, 24–26, 37–40

 

Note: “There was a time when there were but few who listened to and embraced the truth, and they had not much of this world’s goods. Then it was necessary for some to sell their houses and lands, and obtain cheaper, while their means were freely lent to the Lord to publish the truth, and otherwise aid in advancing the cause of God. These self-sacrificing ones endured privations; but if they endure unto the end, great will be their reward.

“God has been moving upon many hearts. The truth for which a few sacrificed so much has triumphed, and multitudes have laid hold of it. In the providence of God, those who have means have been brought into the truth, that, as the work increases, the wants of His cause may be met. God does not now call for the houses His people need to live in; but if those who have an abundance do not hear His voice, cut loose from the world, and sacrifice for God, He will pass them by, and will call for those who are willing to do anything for Jesus, even to sell their homes to meet the wants of the cause. God will have freewill offerings. Those who give must esteem it a privilege to do so.” Counsels on Stewardship, 215

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    How can a receiver of charity change into a distributor of it?

2    How should our benevolence compare to that of the ancient Jews?

3    What examples of generosity in Christ’s day should inspire us?

4    What can we learn from the spirit of the early Christian church?

5    Why should the self-denial of the pioneers of present truth be revived among God’s people today?

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

God’s Plan to Finance His Work

by

Treasure in Heaven

August 31 – September 6, 2025

Key Text

“For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building.” 1 Corinthians 3:9

Study Help: Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 571–575, 645, 646; The Review and Herald, May 9, 1893

Introduction

“God has made men His stewards. The property which He has placed in their hands is the means that He has provided for the spread of the gospel.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 529

Sunday

1 A WORK FOR EVERYONE

1.a. What is God’s method of perfecting and uniting His scattered sheep? Ephesians 4:11–16. How does this involve a duty and privilege for every believer? 1 Corinthians 3:7, 8

 

Note: “In sending forth His ministers our Saviour gave gifts unto men, for through them He communicates to the world the words of eternal life. This is the means which God has ordained for the perfecting of the saints in knowledge and true holiness.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 237

“The Lord has made the proclamation of the gospel dependent on the consecrated ability and the voluntary gifts and offerings of His people. While He has called men to preach the word, He has made it the privilege of the whole church to share in the work by contributing of their means to its support.” In Heavenly Places, 303

1.b.      In what way do the “Macedonian cries” of today require something from each of us, and how are we thus blessed? Acts 16:9, 10

 

Note: “Each one should strive to do for Jesus all that it is possible for him to do, by personal effort, by gifts, by sacrifices. There should be meat in the house of the Lord, and that means a full treasury, that responses may be made to Macedonian cries coming from every land. How pitiful it is that we are obliged to say to these who cry for help, ‘We cannot send you men or money. We have an empty treasury.’ ” Counsels on Stewardship, 298

“We are to place in the Lord’s treasury all the means that we can spare. For this means, needy, unworked fields are calling. From many lands is sounding the cry, ‘Come over … and help us.’ Our church members should feel a deep interest in home and foreign missions. Great blessings will come to them as they make self-sacrificing efforts to plant the standard of truth in new territory. The money invested in this work will bring rich returns.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 49

Monday

2 LEARNING GOD’S WAY

2.a. What sin did Nadab and Abihu commit that resulted in their instant deaths by a fiery judgment? Leviticus 10:1–3, 9

 

Note: “Where, in God’s directions for the support of His work, do we find any mention of bazaars, concerts, fancy fairs, and similar entertainments? Must the Lord’s cause be dependent upon the very things He has forbidden in His word—upon those things that turn the mind away from God, from sobriety, from piety and holiness? And what impression is made upon the minds of unbelievers? The holy standard of the word of God is lowered into the dust. Contempt is cast upon God and upon the Christian name. The most corrupt principles are strengthened by this un-Scriptural way of raising means. And this is as Satan would have it. Men are repeating the sin of Nadab and Abihu. They are using common instead of sacred fire in the service of God. The Lord accepts no such offerings.” The Review and Herald, December 8, 1896

2.b.      What can we learn from the way Moses raised funds—and from the Israelites’ response?
Exodus 35:4, 5, 21, 29; 36:3–7

 

Note: “The plan of Moses to raise means for the building of the tabernacle was highly successful. No urging was necessary. Nor did he employ any of the devices to which churches in our day so often resort. He made no grand feast. He did not invite the people to scenes of gaiety, dancing, and general amusement; neither did he institute lotteries, nor anything of this profane order, to obtain means to erect the tabernacle for God. The Lord directed Moses to invite the children of Israel to bring their offerings. He was to accept gifts from everyone that gave willingly, from his heart. And the offerings came in so great abundance that Moses bade the people cease bringing, for they had supplied more than could be used.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 529

Tuesday

3 PRACTICAL COUNSEL

3.a. How may we be in danger of receiving the curse placed on the town of Meroz? Judges 5:23

 

Note: “ ‘Curse ye Meroz, said the angel of the Lord, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty.’ What had Meroz done? Nothing. This was their sin. The curse of God came upon them for what they had not done.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, 284

“The fruits of selfishness always reveal themselves in a neglect of duty, and in a failure to use God’s entrusted gifts for the advancement of His work.” Counsels on Stewardship, 26

“Only a small amount of means flows into the Lord’s treasury to be appropriated to the saving of souls, and it is with hard labor that even this is obtained. If the eyes of all could be opened to see how prevailing covetousness has hindered the advancement of the work of God, and how much more might have been done had all acted up to God’s plan in tithes and offerings, there would be a decided reform on the part of many; for they would not dare to hinder the work of advancing the cause of God as they have done.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 483

3.b.      What does Inspiration teach us about economy? Proverbs 21:20; John 6:12

 

Note: “The word comes to every believer, ‘Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.’ Economize in your expenditure of means upon yourself. The first step of self-denial is generally the most difficult, but begin without delay. Your self-denying offerings shall be used in this field to supply workers to give the last message of mercy to a fallen world.” General Conference Bulletin, April 1, 1899

Wednesday

4 OUR PART IN GOD’S PLAN

4.a How is tithe to be used? 1 Timothy 5:17, 18

 

Note: “The tithe is the Lord’s, and those who meddle with it will be punished with the loss of their heavenly treasure, unless they repent. Let the work no longer be hedged up because the tithe has been diverted into various channels other than the one to which the Lord has said it should go. Provision is to be made for these other lines of work. They are to be sustained, but not from the tithe. God has not changed; the tithe is still to be used for the support of the ministry. The opening of new fields requires more ministerial efficiency than we now have, and there must be means in the treasury.” Gospel Workers, 227, 228

4.b.      How does David encourage us in liberality? 1 Chronicles 29:10–14

 

Note: “It is God who blesses men with property, and He does this that they may be able to give toward the advancement of His cause. He sends the sunshine and the rain. He causes vegetation to flourish. He gives health and the ability to acquire means. All our blessings come from His bountiful hand. In turn, He would have men and women show their gratitude by returning Him a portion in tithes and offerings—in thank offerings, in freewill offerings, in trespass offerings. Should means flow into the treasury in accordance with this divinely appointed plan—a tenth of all the increase, and liberal offerings—there would be an abundance for the advancement of the Lord’s work.” The Acts of the Apostles, 75

“Had God’s plan been followed, means would now be flowing into His treasury; and funds to enable ministers to enter new fields, and workers to unite with ministers in lifting up the standard of truth in the dark places of the earth, would be abundant.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, 386

Thursday

5 A RESPONSIBILITY AND PRIVILEGE

5.a. How can God’s people hasten Christ’s coming? 2 Peter 3:11, 12

 

Note: “By giving the gospel to the world it is in our power to hasten our Lord’s return. We are not only to look for but to hasten the coming of the day of God. 2 Peter 3:12, margin. Had the church of Christ done her appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would before this have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to our earth in power and great glory.” The Desire of Ages, 633, 634

“The work of God, which should be going forward with tenfold its present strength and efficiency, is kept back, like a spring season held by the chilling blast of winter, because some of God’s professed people are appropriating to themselves the means that should be dedicated to His service. Because Christ’s self-sacrificing love is not interwoven in the life practices, the church is weak where it should be strong. By its own course it has put out its light, and robbed millions of the gospel of Christ.” Counsels on Stewardship, 54

5.b.      What privilege is extended to every believer? 1 Corinthians 3:9

 

Note: “God is not dependent upon men for the advancement of His cause. He might have made angels the ambassadors of His truth. He might have made known His will, as He proclaimed the law from Sinai with His own voice. But in order to cultivate a spirit of benevolence in us, He has chosen to employ men to do this work.” Counsels on Stewardship, 20

“God has made men His almoners [an officer responsible for distributing alms to the poor], copartners with Himself in the great work of advancing His kingdom on the earth; but they may pursue the course pursued by the unfaithful servant, and by so doing lose the most precious privileges ever granted to men. For thousands of years God has worked through human agencies, but at His will He can drop out the selfish, the money-loving, and the covetous. He is not dependent upon our means, and He will not be restricted by the human agent. He can carry on His own work though we act no part in it. But who among us would be pleased to have the Lord do this?” Ibid., 198, 199

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    What is one way we can help to perfect and unite God’s people?

2    How do wrong methods of raising funds contrast with God’s way?

3    How can little personal expenditures hinder God’s work?

4    What would happen if all cultivated the magnanimity of David?

5    How may we be hastening or delaying our Lord’s return?

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

God’s Storehouse: His Church

by

August 24 – 30, 2025

Key Text

“You also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:5

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 9–16; Testimonies, Vol. 4, 16–20

Introduction

“The church of Christ is very precious in His sight. It is the case which contains His jewels, the fold which encloses His flock.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, 1118

Sunday

1 A FOLD FOR CHRIST’S FLOCK

1.a. Why does God have a church on earth? 1 Peter 2:5, 9

Note: “The church is God’s appointed agency for the salvation of men. It was organized for service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. From the beginning it has been God’s plan that through His church shall be reflected to the world His fullness and His sufficiency. The members of the church, those whom He has called out of darkness into His marvelous light, are to show forth His glory. The church is the repository of the riches of the grace of Christ; and through the church will eventually be made manifest, even to ‘the principalities and powers in heavenly places,’ the final and full display of the love of God. Ephesians 3:10.” The Acts of the Apostles, 9

1.b.      What characteristics are essential in God’s true church? Revelation 14:12; Ephesians 4:4–6. How did Christ lead His disciples to achieve this goal?

Note: “They [the twelve apostles] were brought together, with their different faults, all with inherited and cultivated tendencies to evil; but in and through Christ they were to dwell in the family of God, learning to become one in faith, in doctrine, in spirit. They would have their tests, their grievances, their differences of opinion; but while Christ was abiding in the heart, there could be no dissension. His love would lead to love for one another; the lessons of the Master would lead to the harmonizing of all differences, bringing the disciples into unity, till they would be of one mind and one judgment.” The Desire of Ages, 296

Monday

2 A SAFE HAVEN

2.a. What responsibility comes to each one of us when we commit our lives to Christ? Philippians 1:20; 1 Timothy 3:15

Note: “[An] obligation, too often lightly regarded—one that to 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.

“The church is organized for service; and in a life of service to Christ, connection with the church is one of the first steps. Loyalty to Christ demands the faithful performance of church duties. This is an important part of one’s training; and in a church imbued with the Master’s life, it will lead directly to effort for the world without.” Education, 268, 269

2.b.      What privilege is extended to every member of God’s true church? 1 John 1:7; Hebrews 10:25

Note: “Preaching is a small part of the work to be done for the salvation of souls. God’s Spirit convicts sinners of the truth, and He places them in the arms of the church. The ministers may do their part, but they can never perform the work that the church should do. God requires His church to nurse those who are young in faith and experience, to go to them, not for the purpose of gossiping with them, but to pray, to speak unto them words that are ‘like apples of gold in pictures of silver.’ ” Evangelism, 352

Tuesday

3 CALLED TO SERVE

3.a. What did the psalmist acknowledge about God, affirming the duty of His people? Psalm 60:4. How is this duty often neglected?

Note: “In many of our organized churches the banner of truth is trailing in the dust because the members are not doing service to God, but are serving their own pleasure. They work through the influences that surround the soul. By precept and example, in self-indulgence, in their worldly habits of dress, in their words and actions, they testify against the truth, against self-denial, against the meekness of Christ. They are cold spiritually, and far separated from Christ. If they followed in the footsteps of Christ, they would be partakers of His self-denial, of His self-sacrifice, that they might lift up and save the souls that are ready to perish.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 19, 173

3.b.      What is the calling of every follower of Christ? 2 Timothy 2:1–4

Note: “The church of Christ is organized for service. Its watchword is ministry. Its members are soldiers, to be trained for conflict under the Captain of their salvation. Christian ministers, physicians, teachers, have a broader work than many have recognized. They are not only to minister to the people, but to teach them to minister. They should not only give instruction in right principles, but educate their hearers to impart these principles. Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Its blessing can be retained only as it is shared.” The Ministry of Healing, 148, 149

Wednesday

4 GROWING AND DEVELOPING

4.a. What promotes both unity and strength in God’s church? Galatians 6:2; Ephesians 4:1–3

Note: “Never can the church reach the position that God desires it to reach until it is bound up in sympathy with its missionary workers. Never can the unity for which Christ prayed exist until spirituality is brought into missionary service, and until the church becomes an agency for the support of missions. The efforts of the missionaries will not accomplish what they should until the church members in the home field show, not only in word, but in deed, that they realize the obligation resting on them to give these missionaries their hearty support.” Counsels on Stewardship, 47, 48

4.b.      How does Inspiration depict the spiritual growth of the believer and his work for God? Ephesians 2:19–22; 1 Corinthians 3:9–13

Note: “God is testing every soul that claims to believe in Him. All are entrusted with talents. The Lord has given men His goods upon which to trade. He has made them His stewards, and has placed in their possession money, houses, and lands. All these are to be regarded as the Lord’s goods and used to advance His work, to build up His kingdom in the world. In trading with the Lord’s goods, we are to seek Him for wisdom, that we may not use His sacred trust to glorify ourselves or to indulge selfish impulses. The amount entrusted varies, but those who have the smallest gifts must not feel that because their talent of means is small, they can do nothing with it.” Testimonies, Vol. 9, 245, 246

Thursday

5 OPTIMUM SERVICE

5.a. What enables talents and funds to be utilized most efficiently? 1 Corinthians 1:10; 12:20; 14:40. On the other hand, what causes much to be lost among many Sabbathkeepers?

Note: “ ‘The church must flee to God’s Word and become established upon gospel order, which has been overlooked and neglected.’ This is indispensably necessary in order to bring the church into the unity of the faith.” Early Writings, 100

“Oh, how Satan would rejoice to get in among this people and disorganize the work at a time when thorough organization is essential and will be the greatest power to keep out spurious uprisings and to refute claims not endorsed by the word of God! We want to hold the lines evenly, that there shall be no breaking down of the system of regulation and order. In this way license shall not be given to disorderly elements to control the work at this time. We are living in a time when order, system, and unity of action are most essential.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 228

5.b.      What condition should exist among Christ’s followers to ensure success in our missionary endeavors? John 10:16; 13:35; 17:18–23

Note: The unity, the harmony, that should exist among the disciples of Christ, is described in these words: ‘That they may be one, as We are.’ But how many there are who draw off, and seem to think that they have learned all they need to learn. Brethren, where is your burden for these? Have you been to them to invite them to come and seek God, and hear the word that has been precious to you? Are you enjoying light, and still willing to let others remain in darkness? We want all our brethren to have the same blessing that we have. Those who choose to stand on the outskirts of the camp, cannot know what is going on in the inner circle. They must come right into the inner courts, for as a people we must be united in faith and purpose. Jesus has prayed that His disciples all might be one— ‘As Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.’ (John 17:21). It is through this unity that we are to convince the world of the mission of Christ, and bear our divine credentials to the world. ‘And the glory which Thou gavest Me I have given them; that they may be one, even as We are One’ (John 17:22). This is what we want. This is what we are waiting for—more of the glory of Christ to lighten our pathway, that we may go forth with that glory shining in our countenances, that we may make an impression upon those with whom we shall come in contact.” The Review and Herald, March 11, 1890

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    How can we identify God’s true church?

2    Why is church membership important for the individual believer?

3    In what way may we be in danger of testifying against the truth?

4    Name one factor which fosters unity in the church.

5    How are we to bear our divine credentials to the world?

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

Offerings

by

August 17 – 23, 2025

Key Text

“What shall I render to the Lord for all His benefits toward me?” Psalm 116:12

Study Help: Testimonies, Vol. 3, 390–399; Ibid., Vol. 4, 462–476

Introduction

“Our self-denying benevolence, our willing offerings, are to give evidence that the truth has been doing its work upon our hearts.” The Review and Herald, July 14, 1904

Sunday

1 FIRST FRUITS

1.a. What declaration was made to God’s people early in their history? Exodus 22:29

Note: “God has laid His hand upon all things, both man and his possessions; for all belong to Him. He says, I am the owner of the world; the universe is Mine, and I require you to consecrate to My service the first fruits of all that I, through My blessing, have caused to come into your hands. God’s word declares, ‘Thou shalt not delay to offer the first of thy ripe fruits.’ ‘Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first fruits of all thine increase.’ This tribute He demands as a token of our loyalty to Him.” Counsels on Stewardship, 72

1.b. What practice was restored in the reformation of Nehemiah and is also needed among us today? Nehemiah 10:34–37

Note: “Besides the tithe the Lord demands the first fruits of all our increase. These He has reserved in order that His work in the earth may be amply sustained. The Lord’s servants are not to be limited to a meager supply. His messengers should not be handicapped in their work of holding forth the word of life. As they teach the truth they should have means to invest for the advancement of the work, which must be done at the right time in order to have the best and most saving influence. Deeds of mercy must be done; the poor and suffering must be aided. Gifts and offerings should be appropriated for this purpose. Especially in new fields, where the standard of truth has never yet been uplifted, this work must be done. If all the professed people of God, both old and young, would do their duty, there would be no dearth in the treasury. If all would pay a faithful tithe and devote to the Lord the first fruits of their increase, there would be a full supply of funds for His work. But the law of God is not respected or obeyed, and this has brought a pressure of want.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 384, 385

Monday

2 THANK, FREEWILL, AND TRESPASS OFFERINGS

2.a. What can we learn from the exemplary attitude of the patriarchs? Psalms 50:14; 116:12

Note: “Jacob felt that God had claims upon him which he must acknowledge, and that the special tokens of divine favor granted him demanded a return. So does every blessing bestowed upon us call for a response to the Author of all our mercies.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 187

“Our time, our talents, our property, should be sacredly devoted to Him who has given us these blessings in trust. Whenever a special deliverance is wrought in our behalf, or new and unexpected favors are granted us, we should acknowledge God’s goodness, not only by expressing our gratitude in words, but, like Jacob, by gifts and offerings to His cause. As we are continually receiving the blessings of God, so we are to be continually giving.” Ibid., 187, 188

2.b. Why did Hezekiah see a need for reformation in Judah? 2 Chronicles 29:1–7. What reformation do we also need today? 2 Chronicles 29:27–33

Note: “There has been a great neglect of duty. Many have withheld means which God claims as His, and in so doing they have committed robbery toward God. Their selfish hearts have not given the tenth of all their increase, which God claims. Neither have they come up to the yearly gatherings with their freewill offerings, their thank offerings, and their trespass offerings. Many have come before the Lord empty-handed. ‘Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed Me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed Thee? In tithes and offerings.’ ” Testimonies, Vol. 3, 510

“Bring in your trespass-offerings, your thank-offerings, and your freewill-offerings; humble your hearts before the Lord, and He will be found ever ready to receive and pardon.” The Review and Herald, July 8, 1880

Tuesday

3 LEVITICAL LIBERALITY

3.a. How has God combined duty and blessing? Proverbs 11:24, 25

Note: “The Levitical dispensation was distinguished in a remarkable manner by the sanctification of property. When we speak of the tithe as the standard of the Jewish contributions to religious purposes, we do not speak understandingly. The Lord kept His claims paramount, and in almost every article they were reminded of the Giver by being required to make returns to Him. …

“A conscientious few made returns to God of about one third of all their income for the benefit of religious interests and for the poor. These exactions were not from a particular class of the people, but from all, the requirement being proportioned according to the amount possessed.” Testimonies, Vol. 4, 467 [Author’s emphasis.]

“Whenever God’s people, in any period of the world, have cheerfully and willingly carried out His plan in systematic benevolence and in gifts and offerings, they have realized the standing promise that prosperity should attend all their labors just in proportion as they obeyed His requirements.” Ibid., Vol. 3, 395

3.b. In making monetary pledges and vows, what must we never forget? Ecclesiastes 5:4–7; Psalm 66:13, 14

Note: “God would have the members of His church consider their obligations to Him as binding as their indebtedness to the merchant or the market. Let everyone review his past life and see if any unpaid, unredeemed pledges have been neglected, and then make extra exertions to pay the ‘uttermost farthing,’ for we must all meet and abide the final issue of a tribunal where nothing will stand the test but integrity and veracity.” Testimonies, Vol. 4, 476

Wednesday

4 THE SECOND TITHE

4.a. In the Hebrew economy, what was the second tithe, and what was its purpose? Deuteronomy 14:22, 23, 27–29; 26:12, 13

Note: “This [second] tithe, or its equivalent in money, [the Israelites] were for two years to bring to the place where the sanctuary was established. After presenting a thank offering to God, and a specified portion to the priest, the offerers were to use the remainder for a religious feast, in which the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow should participate. Thus, provision was made for the thank offerings and feasts at the yearly festivals, and the people were drawn to the society of the priests and Levites, that they might receive instruction and encouragement in the service of God.

“Every third year, however, this second tithe was to be used at home, in entertaining the Levite and the poor, as Moses said, ‘That they may eat within thy gates, and be filled.’ Deuteronomy 26:12. This tithe would provide a fund for the uses of charity and hospitality.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 530

4.b.      How did the second tithe benefit the giver in a spiritual sense, and in what ways can it be a blessing today? Proverbs 19:17

Note: “The consecration to God of a tithe of all increase, whether of the orchard and harvest field, the flocks and herds, or the labor of brain or hand, the devotion of a second tithe for the relief of the poor and other benevolent uses, tended to keep fresh before the people the truth of God’s ownership of all, and of their opportunity to be channels of His blessings. It was a training adapted to kill out all narrowing selfishness, and to cultivate breadth and nobility of character.” Education, 44

“There will be an abundance of places to use the second tithe in doing earnest missionary work in new places.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 7, 139

Thursday

5 GIVING IN THE RIGHT SPIRIT

5.a. What should we realize in giving to God’s cause? Mark 12:41–44. What principle should we use in determining the amount of our first fruits and other offerings? James 1:5

Note: “ ‘How much owest thou unto my lord?’ Luke 16:5. It is impossible to tell. All that we have is from God. He lays His hand upon our possessions, saying: ‘I am the rightful owner of the whole universe; these are My goods. Consecrate to Me the tithes and offerings. As you bring these specified goods as a token of your loyalty and your submission to My sovereignty, My blessing shall increase your substance, and you will have abundance.’ ” Testimonies, Vol. 9, 245

“The contributions required of the Hebrews for religious and charitable purposes amounted to fully one fourth of their income. So heavy a tax upon the resources of the people might be expected to reduce them to poverty; but, on the contrary, the faithful observance of these regulations was one of the conditions of their prosperity.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 527

5.b.      What attitude would the Lord have each of us manifest? 2 Corinthians 9:6, 7; Matthew 6:1–4

Note: “The Lord does not need our offerings. We cannot enrich Him by our gifts. Says the psalmist: ‘All things come of Thee, and of Thine own have we given Thee.’ Yet God permits us to show our appreciation of His mercies by self-sacrificing efforts to extend the same to others. This is the only way in which it is possible for us to manifest our gratitude and love to God. He has provided no other.” Counsels on Stewardship, 18, 19

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    Why does the Lord require us to render our first fruits unto Him?

2    What types of offerings does the Lord still specify for us today?

3    What can we learn from the Hebrews’ example in giving?

4    For what purposes might the second tithe be used in our days?

5    How is the value of a gift measured in God’s sight?

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

The Tithe

by

August 10 – 16, 2025

Key Text

“The tenth shall be holy to the Lord.” Leviticus 27:32, last part

Study Help: The Review and Herald, May 16, 1882; Gospel Workers, 222–228

Introduction

“The tithe is sacred, reserved by God for Himself.” Gospel Workers, 226

Sunday

1 FROM THE DAYS OF GENESIS

1.a. By what means did God reserve for Himself a portion of the garden of Eden? Genesis 2:16, 17. How does this compare to the tithe?

Note: “The Lord created every tree in Eden pleasant to the eyes and good for food, and He bade Adam and Eve freely enjoy His bounties. But He made one exception. Of the tree of knowledge of good and evil they were not to eat. This tree God reserved as a constant reminder of His ownership of all. Thus, He gave them opportunity to demonstrate their faith and trust in Him by their perfect obedience to His requirements.

“So it is with God’s claims upon us. He places His treasures in the hands of men, but requires that one tenth shall be faithfully laid aside for His work. He requires this portion to be placed in His treasury. It is to be rendered to Him as His own; it is sacred and is to be used for sacred purposes, for the support of those who carry the message of salvation to all parts of the world. He reserves this portion, that means may ever be flowing into His treasure house and that the light of truth may be carried to those who are nigh and those who are afar off. By faithfully obeying this requirement we acknowledge that all belongs to God.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 386

1.b.      What was the practice of the early patriarchs? Genesis 14:18–20; 28:20–22

Note: “The tithing system did not originate with the Hebrews. From the earliest times the Lord claimed a tithe as His, and this claim was recognized and honored.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 525

Monday

2 IN THE HEBREW ECONOMY

2.a. What specific instruction was given to the early Hebrew nation? Leviticus 27:30, 32. How does the Lord emphasize this principle in all ages?

Note: “In the Hebrew economy one tenth of the income of the people was set apart to support the public worship of God. …

“As the Israelites were about to be established as a nation, the law of tithing was reaffirmed as one of the divinely ordained statutes upon obedience to which their prosperity depended.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 525

“ ‘The tithe … is the Lord’s.’ Here the same form of expression is employed as in the law of the Sabbath. ‘The seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God’ (Exodus 20:10). God reserved to Himself a specified portion of man’s time and of his means, and no man could, without guilt, appropriate either for his own interests.” Ibid., 525, 526. [Author’s emphasis.

2.b.      What was required before the tithe could be reserved? Exodus 34:26, first part; 2 Chronicles 31:5, 6

Note: “Even before the tithe could be reserved there had been an acknowledgment of the claims of God. The first that ripened of every product of the land was consecrated to Him. The first of the wool when the sheep were shorn, of the grain when the wheat was threshed, the first of the oil and the wine, was set apart for God. So also, were the first-born of all animals; and a redemption price was paid for the first-born son. The first fruits were to be presented before the Lord at the sanctuary, and were then devoted to the use of the priests.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 526

Tuesday

3 A TIMELESS PRINCIPLE

3.a. What was included among the reformations made in the days of Nehemiah? Nehemiah 10:37; 12:44

3.b.      What practice of the Pharisees met with Christ’s approval? Matthew 23:23. Why does the tithing principle apply also in the New Testament era? Hebrews 7:1–5, 8, 20, 21

Note: “The New Testament does not reenact the law of the tithe, as it does not that of the Sabbath; for the validity of both is assumed, and their deep spiritual import explained. … While we as a people are seeking faithfully to give to God the time which He has reserved as His own, shall we not also render to Him that portion of our means which He claims?” Counsels on Stewardship, 66

“A tithe of all our increase is the Lord’s. He has reserved it to Himself to be employed for religious purposes. It is holy. Nothing less than this has He accepted in any dispensation. A neglect or postponement of this duty, will provoke the divine displeasure. If all professed Christians would faithfully bring their tithes to God, His treasury would be full.” The Review and Herald, May 16, 1882

Wednesday

4 WARNINGS FOR US

4.a. How does the tithing principle relate to the eighth commandment? Exodus 20:15; Malachi 3:7–9

Note: “God lays His hand upon all man’s possessions, saying: I am the owner of the universe, and these goods are Mine. The tithe you have withheld I reserve for the support of My servants in their work of opening the Scriptures to those who are in the regions of darkness, who do not understand My law. In using My reserve fund to gratify your own desires you have robbed souls of the light which I made provision for them to receive. You have had opportunity to show loyalty to Me, but you have not done this. You have robbed Me; you have stolen My reserve fund. ‘Ye are cursed with a curse’ (Malachi 3:9).” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 387

4.b.      What must we never forget about the tithe? 1 Corinthians 9:13, 14

Note: “The tithe is set apart for a special use. It is not to be regarded as a poor fund. It is to be especially devoted to the support of those who are bearing God’s message to the world; and it should not be diverted from this purpose.” Counsels on Stewardship, 103

“Let none feel at liberty to retain their tithe, to use according to their own judgment. They are not to use it for themselves in an emergency, nor to apply it as they see fit, even in what they may regard as the Lord’s work.” Gospel Workers, 225

“A very plain, definite message has been given to me for our people. I am bidden to tell them that they are making a mistake in applying the tithe to various objects which, though good in themselves, are not the object to which the Lord has said that the tithe should be applied. Those who make this use of the tithe are departing from the Lord’s arrangement. God will judge for these things.

“One reasons that the tithe may be applied to school purposes. Still others reason that canvassers and colporteurs should be supported from the tithe. But a great mistake is made when the tithe is drawn from the object for which it is to be used—the support of the ministers. There should be today in the field one hundred well-qualified laborers where now there is but one.” Ibid., 226

Thursday

5 OUR FIRST FINANCIAL PRIORITY

5.a. What is the key to spiritual blessing and temporal prosperity? Matthew 6:33

Note: “Not only does the Lord claim the tithe as His own, but He tells us how it should be reserved for Him. He says, ‘Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first fruits of all thine increase.’ This does not teach that we are to spend our means on ourselves, and bring to the Lord the remnant, even though it should be otherwise an honest tithe. Let God’s portion be first set apart. The directions given by the Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul in regard to gifts, present a principle that applies also to tithing: ‘On the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.’ Parents and children are here included. Not only the rich, but the poor, are addressed.” The Review and Herald, February 4, 1902. [Author’s emphasis.]

“The tithe should be consecrated to God. His requirements come first. We are not doing His will if we consecrate to Him what is left after all our wants have been supplied. Before any part of our income is consumed, we should take out and present to Him that portion which He claims as His. When this is done, the remainder will be sanctified and blessed to our own use. But when we withhold that which He says is His, the curse rests upon the whole, and we are recorded in the books of heaven as guilty of robbery. God gives man nine-tenths, but the one-tenth He claims for sacred purposes—as He has given man six days for his own work, and has reserved the seventh day to Himself.” Pacific Union Recorder, October 10, 1901

5.b.      What does God declare to each of us about that which is His? Malachi 3:10

Note: “Let the Lord’s people pay a faithful tithe, and let them, also, from parents to children, lay aside for the Lord the money that is so often spent for self-gratification. The Lord has made us His stewards. He has placed His means in our hands for faithful distribution. He asks us to render to Him His own. He has reserved the tithe as His portion, to be used in sending the gospel to all parts of the world. My brethren and sisters, confess and forsake your selfishness, and bring to the Lord your gifts and offerings. Bring Him also the tithe that you have withheld. Come confessing your neglect. Prove the Lord as He has invited you to do.” The Review and Herald, November 23, 1905

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    What object lesson from Eden illustrates the tithing principle?

2    How were the Hebrews to acknowledge God’s claims before returning their tithe to God’s storehouse?

3    Why is the tithing system applicable in the New Testament era?

4    What would happen if every Christian paid a faithful tithe?

5    How does faithful tithing benefit each one of us?

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