Bible Study Guides

March 20 – 26, 2022

Laodicea – Judgment of the People (A.D. 1844–the End)

Key Text

“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.” Revelation 3:19

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 593–602; The Great Controversy, 662–678

Introduction

“The message to the Laodicean church is applicable to all who have had great light and many opportunities, and yet have not appreciated them.” The Faith I Live By, 306

Sunday

1 JESUS SPEAKS TO THE CHURCH

1.a. How does Jesus address the angel of the Laodicean church? Revelation 3:14

 Note: “Some will not receive the testimony that God has given us to bear, flattering themselves that we may be deceived and that they may be right. They think that the people of God are not in need of plain dealing and of reproof, but that God is with them. These tempted ones, whose souls have ever been at war with the faithful reproving of sin, would cry: Speak unto us smooth things. What disposition will these make of the message of the True Witness to the Laodiceans? There can be no deception here. This message must be borne to a lukewarm church by God’s servants.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 259

1.b. What startling message does Jesus give about the condition of the angel of the church? Why is this condition unacceptable? Revelation 3:15, 16

Note: “Halfhearted Christians are worse than infidels; for their deceptive words and noncommittal position lead many astray. The infidel shows his colors. The lukewarm Christian deceives both parties. He is neither a good worldling nor a good Christian. Satan uses him to do a work that no one else can do.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 963

Monday

2 DIAMETRICALLY OPPOSED

2.a. What do the angel and the people of the Laodicean church think of and state about their own condition, and what is Christ’s answer? Revelation 3:17

 Note: “ ‘And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and True Witness, the beginning of the creation of God. I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable and poor, and blind, and naked.’

“The Lord here shows us that the message to be borne to His people by ministers whom He has called to warn the people is not a peace-and-safety message. It is not merely theoretical, but practical in every particular. …

“What greater deception can come upon human minds than a confidence that they are right when they are all wrong! The message of the True Witness finds the people of God in a sad deception, yet honest in that deception. They know not that their condition is deplorable in the sight of God. While those addressed are flattering themselves that they are in an exalted spiritual condition, the message of the True Witness breaks their security by the startling denunciation of their true condition of spiritual blindness, poverty, and wretchedness. The testimony, so cutting and severe, cannot be a mistake, for it is the True Witness who speaks, and His testimony must be correct.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 252, 253

2.b. What is it about the condition of “thou knowest not” that is the most dangerous? John 9:40, 41

Note: “The Pharisees were spiritually blind, and were leaders of the blind. The physical blindness that Jesus had healed in the man born blind, was not as dangerous as the moral blindness of those who had evidence piled upon evidence in regard to the divine character of the world’s Redeemer, and yet who closed the eyes of their understanding, and refused to see, because they were too self-exalted to be instructed by Christ. They claimed to be learned in the Scriptures, to have spiritual eyesight, yet they made the plainest specifications concerning Christ a different matter from that which the records testified. ‘The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the gentiles; the people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.’ The light of the world was shining amid the moral darkness, and the darkness comprehended it not.” The Signs of the Times, November 6, 1893

Tuesday

3 A GENEROUS OFFER

3.a. Before a complete rejection takes place, what wonderful goods does Jesus offer to Laodicea? Revelation 3:18

 Note: “As I have of late looked around to find the humble followers of the meek and lowly Jesus, my mind has been much exercised. Many who profess to be looking for the speedy coming of Christ are becoming conformed to this world and seek more earnestly the applause of those around them than the approbation of God. They are cold and formal, like the nominal churches from which they but a short time since separated. The words addressed to the Laodicean church describe their present condition perfectly. They are ‘neither cold nor hot,’ but ‘lukewarm.’ And unless they heed the counsel of the ‘faithful and True Witness,’ and zealously repent and obtain ‘gold tried in the fire,’ ‘white raiment,’ and ‘eyesalve,’ He will spew them out of His mouth.” Early Writings, 107, 108

“The deadly lethargy of the world is paralyzing your senses. Sin no longer appears repulsive because you are blinded by Satan. The judgments of God are soon to be poured out upon the earth. ‘Escape for thy life’ is the warning from the angels of God. Other voices are heard saying: ‘Do not become excited; there is no cause for special alarm.’ Those who are at ease in Zion cry ‘Peace and safety,’ while heaven declares that swift destruction is about to come upon the transgressor.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 233

3.b. What heavenly virtues are represented by the “gold,” the “white raiment,” and the “eyesalve”? 1 Peter 1:7; Revelation 19:8; Revelation 3:5; 19:8

 Note: “Again and again has the voice from heaven addressed you. Will you obey this voice? Will you heed the counsel of the True Witness to seek the gold tried in the fire, the white raiment, and the eyesalve? The gold is faith and love, the white raiment is the righteousness of Christ, the eyesalve is that spiritual discernment which will enable you to see the wiles of Satan and shun them, to detect sin and abhor it, to see truth and obey it.

“The deadly lethargy of the world is paralyzing your senses. Sin no longer appears repulsive because you are blinded by Satan.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 233

Wednesday

4 BE ZEALOUS AND REPENT

4.a. Since the destiny of the church hangs on the acceptance of the counsel of the True Witness, what strong appeal does Jesus make to the angel? Revelation 3:19

Note: “I saw that the testimony of the True Witness has not been half heeded. The solemn testimony upon which the destiny of the church hangs has been lightly esteemed, if not entirely disregarded. This testimony must work deep repentance; all who truly receive it will obey it and be purified.” Early Writings, 270

“The displeasure and judgments of God are against those who persist in walking in their own ways, loving self, loving the praise of men. They will certainly be swept into the satanic delusions of these last days, because they received not the love of the truth. Because the Lord has, in former days, blessed and honored them, they flatter themselves that they are chosen and true, and do not need warning and instruction and reproof. The True Witness says, ‘As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.’ The professed people of God have the charge against them, ‘Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.’ ” The Review and Herald, December 23, 1890

4.b. What is the proof of true and genuine repentance? Ezekiel 33:14–16; Luke 19:8, 9

 Note: “There is no evidence of genuine repentance unless it works reformation. If he restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, confess his sins, and love God and his fellow men, the sinner may be sure that he has found peace with God. Such were the effects that in former years followed seasons of religious awakening.” The Great Controversy, 462, 463

“There are many who fail to understand the true nature of repentance. Multitudes sorrow that they have sinned and even make an outward reformation because they fear that their wrongdoing will bring suffering upon themselves. … Balaam, terrified by the angel standing in his pathway with drawn sword, acknowledged his guilt lest he should lose his life; but there was no genuine repentance for sin, no conversion of purpose, no abhorrence of evil.” Steps to Christ, 23

Thursday

5 STANDING AT THE DOOR AND KNOCKING

5.a. Since there was no evidence of repentance of the angel, to whom is Jesus now addressing His words? Revelation 3:20. How does Christ knock at the door?

Note: “Christ waits at the door of the heart, saying, Open to Me; but He will not force Himself upon any one. Are we listening for His voice? Is our pride humbled and subdued by His divine compassion and pitying love? Open the door of the heart; for Christ is waiting to enter.” The Signs of the Times, February 3, 1898

“Says the True Witness, ‘Behold, I stand at the door and knock.’ Every warning, reproof, and entreaty in the word of God, or through His delegated messengers, is a knock at the door of the heart; it is the voice of Jesus, asking for entrance. With every knock unheeded, your determination to open becomes weaker and weaker. If the voice of Jesus is not heeded at once, it becomes confused in the mind with a multitude of other voices, the world’s care and business engross the attention, and conviction dies away. The heart becomes less impressible, and lapses into a perilous unconsciousness of the shortness of time, and of the great eternity beyond.” The Review and Herald, November 2, 1886

5.b. What special blessing is pronounced upon the overcomer in the period of Laodicea? Revelation 3:21, 22

Note: “ ‘To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne.’ We can overcome. Yes; fully, entirely. Jesus died to make a way of escape for us, that we might overcome every evil temper, every sin, every temptation, and sit down at last with Him.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 144

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    What work does the lukewarm Christian do?

2    What is the true state of Laodicea?

3    How can we obtain the gold, white raiment, and eyesalve?

4    How only can the true believer overcome?

5    What is granted to the Laodicean overcomer?

Copyright 2000, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

March 13 – 19, 2022

Philadelphia – Brotherly Love (A.D. 1833–1844)

Key Text

“We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren.” 1 John 3:14

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 317–330; Maranatha, 247

Introduction

“Christians are to cultivate self-restraint, love, forbearance, and unity one to another by the cords of brotherly love.” The Review and Herald, November 27, 1894

Sunday

1 THE KEYS OF DAVID

1.a. What was foretold in prophecy concerning the keys of David? Isaiah 22:20–22

 Note: “But clearer light came with the investigation of the sanctuary question. They [the early Adventist believers] now saw that they were correct in believing that the end of the 2300 days in 1844 marked an important crisis.” The Great Controversy, 429

1.b. In 1844, what door was shut and what door was opened? Revelation 3:7, 8

 Note: “Then I was shown that the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ relating to the shut door could not be separated, and that 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.” Early Writings, 42

Monday

2 WORSHIPING AT THE SAINTS’ FEET

2.a. How is the synagogue of Satan described, and what do they say? Revelation 3:9, first part

 Note: “Satan has a large confederacy, his church. Christ calls them the synagogue of Satan because the members are the children of sin. The members of Satan’s church have been constantly working to cast off the divine law, and confuse the distinction between good and evil. Satan is working with great power in and through the children of disobedience to exalt treason and apostasy as truth and loyalty.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 16

“Satan has a church upon the earth which outnumbers the church of Christ. Christ calls it the ‘synagogue of Satan,’ because its members are the children of sin and transgression. They have ceased to honor God, they have cast His divine law aside, they have confounded the distinction between good and evil. But the world’s Redeemer will have a church in which these essential differences will be made apparent, where the character of God will be represented.” The General Conference Bulletin, April 1, 1897

2.b. Who are the members of the synagogue of Satan and what will they do? Revelation 3:9, last part

 Note: “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. Then it was that the synagogue of Satan knew that God had loved us who could wash one another’s feet and salute the brethren with a holy kiss, and they worshiped at our feet.” Early Writings, 15

“You think, that those who worship before the saint’s feet, (Revelation 3:9), will at last be saved. Here I must differ with you; for God shew me that this class were professed Adventists, who had fallen away, and ‘crucified to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put Him to an open shame.’ And in the ‘hour of temptation,’ which is yet to come, to show out everyone’s true character, they will know that they are forever lost; and overwhelmed with anguish of spirit, they will bow at the saint’s feet.” A Word to the Little Flock, 12

Tuesday

3 THE HOUR OF TEMPTATION

3.a. What encouraging promise is given to them that trust wholly in God? 1 Corinthians 10:13

 Note: “God sometimes allows Satan to tempt His children, that they may be proved and tested. If they rely on their own strength, they will fail in the trial, but if they realize their inability to help themselves, and trust wholly in God, He will provide a way of escape. There are times when it is necessary for men to be exposed to danger, and to be placed among corrupting influences, but a sense of their dependence on God will lead them to keep their hearts uplifted to Him in prayer every hour, for strength to resist and grace to overcome. The experience gained in these fierce conflicts fortifies the soul to pass unscathed through more trying ordeals.” The Signs of the Times, March 29, 1905

“At times the masterly power of temptation seems to tax our will power to the uttermost, and to exercise faith seems utterly contrary to all the evidences of sense or emotion; but our will must be kept on God’s side. We must believe that in Jesus Christ is everlasting strength and efficiency.” Our High Calling, 124

3.b. In order to be delivered from Satan’s temptations, what should we do? Revelation 3:10; James 4:7

3.c. Especially when will this experience be a reality? Psalm 91:14, 15

 Note: “Do not think that you can safely drift with the current. If you do, you will surely become the helpless prey of Satan’s devices. By diligent searching of the Scriptures and earnest prayer for divine help prepare the soul to resist temptation. The Lord will hear the sincere prayer of the contrite soul and will lift up a standard for you against the enemy. But you will be tried; your faith, your love, your patience, your constancy will be tested.” In Heavenly Places, 184

“The hour of temptation is to come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth; and although we do not wish to make a time of trouble for ourselves, nor do we wish to groan over trials in the future, still we should be so closely connected with God that we shall not fall under the temptation when it does come.” The Review and Herald, April 15, 1890.

Wednesday

4 STEADFAST TO THE END

4.a. What promise of Jesus should encourage us all along our Christian race? Revelation 3:11 first part; 22:12

Note: “ ‘This same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven.’ Precious, indeed, was this promise to those sorrowing disciples, that they should again see Jesus who was greatly beloved by them all. Precious also is this promise to every true follower of Christ. None who truly love Jesus will be sorry that He is coming again. And as they approach nearer to the coming of the Son of man, the true lovers of Jesus will look forward with joyous hope, and will seek to get all ready to behold Him whom their souls loveth, who died to redeem them.” The Youth’s Instructor, April 1, 1854

“We are pilgrims and strangers on the earth. Our sojourn here is as it were the Christian’s winter. But our faith and hope reach forward and upward to the better life, to the home that Christ has gone to prepare for those that love Him. …

“There are many things to be overcome. Day by day the battle goes on. The struggle is lifelong; for Satan watches every opportunity to take advantage of us, that he may ensnare us to our ruin.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 18, 138

4.b. To whom will the crown of life be given, and when? Revelation 3:11, last part; Matthew 24:13; 2 Timothy 4:7, 8

Note: “ ‘Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.’ Here again we are admonished to faithfulness, in view of the conflict. We must not yield any point that we have already gained. … We are seeking for a crown, a crown of glory that fadeth not away. As overcomers we are to reign with Christ in the heavenly courts; and we are to overcome through the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.” The Review and Herald, July 9, 1908

“If it were possible for us to be admitted into heaven as we are, how many of us would be able to look upon God? How many of us have on the wedding garment? How many of us are without spot or wrinkle or any such thing? How many of us are worthy to receive the crown of life?” Maranatha, 98

Thursday

5 THE REMNANT OF PHILADELPHIA

5.a. What promise is given to the overcomers of Philadelphia, and who are they? Revelation 3:12, 13

Note: “While I was praying at the family altar, the Holy Ghost fell upon me, and I seemed to be rising higher and higher, far above the dark world. I turned to look for the Advent people in the world, but could not find them, when a voice said to me, ‘Look again, and look a little higher.’ At this I raised my eyes, and saw a straight and narrow path, cast up high above the world. On this path the Advent people were traveling to the city, which was at the farther end of the path. … 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.” Early Writings, 14, 15

5.b. Following the example of the Philadelphian church, what should we cultivate if we want to be overcomers? John 13:34, 35

 Note: “God wants us to love one another. He says, ‘By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another,’ ‘as I have loved you; that ye also love one another.’ This is the new commandment. It was new because Christ had not, before it was spoken, given the evidence of how much He loves us.” The General Conference Bulletin, April 3, 1901

“They [the disciples] were to love one another as Christ had loved them. These were their credentials that Christ was formed within, the hope of glory.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1141

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    What event would close the Philadelphian period?

2    Who constitutes the synagogue of Satan?

3    How are we to deal with temptation?

4    Who will receive the crown of life?

5    What is the promise given to Philadelphia?

Copyright 2000, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

March 6 – 12, 2022

Sardis – That Which Remains [a Remnant] (A.D. 1798–1833)

Key Text

“And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead.” Revelation 3:1

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 289–298; Maranatha, 238

Introduction

“In the message to the church at Sardis two parties are presented—those who have a name to live, but are dead; and those who are striving to overcome. Study this message, found in the third chapter of Revelation.” The Review and Herald, August 20, 1903

Sunday

1 ALIVE BUT DEAD

1.a. What words were spoken by Jesus to assure us of His tender care for His church? Revelation 3:1, middle part

Note: “God’s promise to His church will stand fast forever. He will make her an eternal excellence, a joy of many generations. There is no limit to His power. Our covenant-keeping Saviour unites with the omnipotence of the King of kings the tender care of a faithful shepherd. He who has chosen Christ has joined Himself to a power that no array of human wisdom or strength can overthrow.” The Review and Herald, October 8, 1903

1.b. What contrast exists between the profession of the church of Sardis and her real condition? Revelation 3:1, last part; James 2:17

Note: “Faith and works go hand in hand; they act harmoniously in the work of overcoming. Works without faith are dead, and faith without works is dead. Works will never save us; it is the merit of Christ that will avail in our behalf. Through faith in Him, Christ will make all our imperfect efforts acceptable to God.” Faith and Works, 48, 49

Monday

2 SEEKING FOR STRENGTH

2.a. What counsel is given in the word of God for those who are tempted to be discouraged? Revelation 3:2 first part; Hebrews 12:12, 13

 Note: “There are times when under adversity and sorrow, the servants of God become discouraged and despondent. They brood over their circumstances, and, contrasting their condition with the prosperity of those who have no thought or care for eternal things, they feel aggrieved.” The Signs of the Times, February 3, 1888

“Often He met those who had drifted under Satan’s control, and who had no power to break from his snare. To such a one, discouraged, sick, tempted, fallen, Jesus would speak words of tenderest pity, words that were needed and could be understood. Others He met who were fighting a hand-to-hand battle with the adversary of souls. These He encouraged to persevere, assuring them that they would win; for angels of God were on their side, and would give them the victory.

“At the table of the publicans He sat as an honored guest, by His sympathy and social kindliness showing that He recognized the dignity of humanity; and men longed to become worthy of His confidence.” Gospel Workers, 47

2.b. What was the charge given against the church of Sardis regarding her works? Revelation 3:2

 Note: “Faith is made perfect by works. The cry will come to us from the servers of Mammon: You are too exacting; we cannot be saved by works. Was Christ exacting? He placed the salvation of man, not upon his believing, not upon his profession, but upon his faith made perfect by his works. Doing, and not saying merely, was required of the followers of Christ. Principle is always exacting. …

“That religion which leads its subjects to enclose themselves in monastic walls, excluding themselves from their fellow men, and not doing the good they might, cannot be the light of the world. The world is no better for their living in it, because they shed no beams of light in good works. These live for themselves, and bring no glory to the Master, for they hide away from man as though ashamed of the light which they claim to have.” The Signs of the Times, January 15, 1880

Tuesday

3 AS A THIEF IN THE NIGHT

3.a. What would happen if those in Sardis would not repent and obey the truth they had heard? Revelation 3:3, first part

 Note: “ ‘Hold fast.’ This does not mean, Hold fast to your sins; but, Hold fast to the comfort, the faith, the hope, that God has given you in His word. Never be discouraged. A discouraged man can do nothing. Satan is seeking to discourage you, telling you it is of no use to serve God, that it does not pay, and that it is just as well to have pleasure and enjoyment in this world.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 959

“ ‘Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.’ Here is the work which every son and daughter of God must do. But to adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour, we must have the mind that was in Christ. Our likes and dislikes, our desire to be first, to favor self to the disadvantage of others, must be overcome. The peace of God must rule in our hearts. Christ must be in us a living, working principle.” The Review and Herald, August 24, 1897

“Why repent? Because there have come in faults in the form of theories so subtle that by the influence of mind upon mind—through the agency of those who have departed from the faith—the wily foe will cause you imperceptibly to be imbued with the spirit that will draw you away from the faith.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 12, 126

3.b. What is the meaning of the words “I will come on thee as a thief”? Revelation 3:3, last part; 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 4

 Note: “Let every soul be on the alert. The adversary is on your track. Be vigilant, watching diligently lest some carefully concealed and masterly snare shall take you unawares. Let the careless and indifferent beware lest the day of the Lord come upon them as a thief in the night. Many will wander from the path of humility, and, casting aside the yoke of Christ, will walk in strange paths. Blinded and bewildered, they will leave the narrow path that leads to the city of God.

“A man cannot be a happy Christian unless he is a watchful Christian. He who overcomes must watch; for, with worldly entanglements, error, and superstition, Satan strives to win Christ’s followers from Him.” Testimonies, vol. 8, 99, 100

Wednesday

4 WHITE RAIMENT

4.a. What does the Lord promise to those who do not defile their garments? Revelation 3:4, 5, first part; Zechariah 3:4, 5

 Note: “Every defect in character, every point in which they fail to meet the divine standard, is an open door by which Satan can enter to tempt and destroy them. … We are to exert every energy of the soul in the work of overcoming, and to look to Jesus for strength to do what we cannot do of ourselves. No sin can be tolerated in those who shall walk with Christ in white. The filthy garments are to be removed, and Christ’s robe of righteousness is to be placed upon us. By repentance and faith we are enabled to render obedience to all the commandments of God, and are found without blame before Him. Those who shall meet the approval of God are now afflicting their souls, confessing their sins, and earnestly pleading for pardon through Jesus their Advocate. Their attention is fixed upon Him, their hopes, their faith, are centered on Him, and when the command is given, ‘Take away the filthy garments, and clothe him with change of raiment, and set a fair miter upon his head,’ they are prepared to give Him all the glory of their salvation.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 472

4.b. Why is it necessary to be clothed with white raiment, and what does it symbolize? Matthew 22:11–14; Revelation 19:8

 Note: “We should consider the great sacrifice that was made in our behalf, to purchase for us the robe of righteousness, woven in the loom of heaven.” The Youth’s Instructor, January 30, 1896

“Christ’s white robe of righteousness will never cover any soul that is found in sin unrepented of and unforsaken. ‘Sin is the transgression of the law.’ Therefore those who are trampling upon the law of God, and teaching others to disregard its precepts, will not be clothed with the righteousness of Christ. Jesus came not to save people in their sins, but from their sins. ‘And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in Him.’ ” The Review and Herald, August 28, 1894

Thursday

5 CONFESSING CHRIST

5.a. What did Jesus say should be a reason for great satisfaction and rejoicing, and why? Luke 10:20; Revelation 20:15; 21:27

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

5.b. In what way may we confess Christ or deny Him, and what will be the ultimate result? Revelation 3:5, last part; Matthew 10:32, 33; Romans 10:9

 Note: “He who would confess Christ must have Christ abiding in him. He cannot communicate that which he has not received. The disciples might speak fluently on doctrines, they might repeat the words of Christ Himself; but unless they possessed Christlike meekness and love, they were not confessing Him. A spirit contrary to the spirit of Christ would deny Him, whatever the profession. Men may deny Christ by evilspeaking, by foolish talking, by words that are untruthful or unkind. They may deny Him by shunning life’s burdens, by the pursuit of sinful pleasure.” The Desire of Ages, 357

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    How is true faith demonstrated?

2    How is faith made perfect by works?

3    Why is repentance an important work?

4    What is the white raiment?

5    How can we confess Christ?

Copyright 2000, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Book of Revelation, Chapters 1-3

February 27 – March 5, 2022

Thyatira – Sacrifice of Contrition (A.D. 538–1798)

Key Text

“And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; ‘These things saith the Son of God, who hath His eyes like unto a flame of fire, and His feet are like fine brass.’ ” Revelation 2:18

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 61–78; Maranatha, 175

Introduction

“The 1260 years of papal supremacy began in A.D. 538, and would therefore terminate in 1798.” The Great Controversy, 266

Sunday

1 THE SON OF GOD

1.a. How did Jesus identify Himself to the church of Thyatira? Revelation 2:18

1.b. What unmistakable evidence do we have that Jesus Christ is God, and is to be worshiped? John 1:1–4, 14, 20:28; Hebrews 1:5, 6, 8; John 20:28; Matthew 28:16–20

1.c. In contrast, what was foretold in prophecy concerning the “son of perdition”? 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 4

Note: “The apostle Paul, in his second letter to the Thessalonians, foretold the great apostasy which would result in the establishment of the papal power. … Even at that early date he saw, creeping into the church, errors that would prepare the way for the development of the papacy.” The Great Controversy, 49

“The ‘man of sin,’ which is also styled the ‘mystery of iniquity,’ ‘the son of perdition,’ and ‘that wicked,’ represents the papacy, which, as foretold in prophecy, was to maintain its supremacy for 1260 years. This period ended in 1798.” Ibid., 356

Monday

2 COMMENDATION AND REBUKE

2.a. What positive characteristics of the church existed even under persecution? Revelation 2:19

Note: “Notwithstanding all the persecution of the saints, living witnesses for God’s truth were raised up on every hand. Angels of the Lord were doing the work committed to their trust. They were searching in the darkest places and selecting out of the darkness men who were honest in heart.” Early Writings, 222

2.b. What false worship was introduced into the Christian church? Revelation 2:20

Note: “All false worship is spiritual adultery. The second precept, which forbids false worship, is also a command to worship God, and Him only serve. The Lord is a jealous God. He will not be trifled with. He has spoken concerning the manner in which He should be worshiped. He has a hatred of idolatry; for its influence is corrupting.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1106

“The man of sin was to arise, and do his work of exaltation and blasphemy, before the brethren could look for the coming of Christ. That great event was to be preceded by a falling away. There would be revealed a form of antichrist, and the leaven of apostasy was to work with increasing power to the end of time.” The Review and Herald, July 31, 1888

2.c. What were the works of Jezebel? 1 Kings 16:31; 18:4; 21:5–14

 Note: “I was carried back to the time of Ahab. God would have been with Ahab if he had walked in the counsel of heaven. But Ahab did not do this. He married a woman given to idolatry. Jezebel had more power over the king than God had. She led him into idolatry, and with him the people.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 2, 1033

“Jezebel then decided, as she could not make Elijah feel her murderous power, that she would be revenged by destroying the prophets of God in Israel. No one who professed to be a prophet of God should live.” The Review and Herald, September 23, 1873

Tuesday

3 MOTHER AND DAUGHTERS

3.a. The “woman Jezebel” is represented in chapter 17 as Babylon the great. Explain what made her drunk. Revelation 17:3–6

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

3.b. What are the characteristics of spiritual Jezebel, “Babylon the great,” and who are her daughters? Ezekiel 16:44

 Note: “Babylon is said to be ‘the mother of harlots.’ By her daughters must be symbolized churches that cling to her doctrines and traditions, and follow her example of sacrificing the truth and the approval of God, in order to form an unlawful alliance with the world. The message of Revelation 14, announcing the fall of Babylon must apply to religious bodies that were once pure and have become corrupt. Since this message follows the warning of the judgment, it must be given in the last days; therefore it cannot refer to the Roman Church alone, for that church has been in a fallen condition for many centuries. … ‘Thou didst trust in thine own beauty, and playedst the harlot because of thy renown’ (Ezekiel 16:14, 15).” The Great Controversy, 382, 383

“In Revelation 17 Babylon is represented as a woman, a figure which is used in the Scriptures as the symbol of a church. A virtuous woman represents a pure church, a vile woman an apostate church. Babylon is said to be a harlot; and the prophet beheld her drunken with the blood of saints and martyrs. The Babylon thus described represents Rome, that apostate church which has so cruelly persecuted the followers of Christ. But Babylon the harlot is the mother of daughters who follow her example of corruption.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, 233

Wednesday

4 A TIME OF TRIBULATION

4.a. What did Christ predict about that terrible time of persecution, and what hope was given to the believers? Matthew 24:21, 22

Note: “Amid the gloom that settled upon the earth during the long period of papal supremacy, the light of truth could not be wholly extinguished. In every age there were witnesses for God—men who cherished faith in Christ as the only mediator between God and man, who held the Bible as the only rule of life, and who hallowed the true Sabbath.” The Great Controversy, 61

“In the Saviour’s conversation with His disciples upon Olivet, after describing the long period of trial for the church—the 1260 years of papal persecution, concerning which He had promised that the tribulation should be shortened—He thus mentioned certain events to precede His coming, and fixed the time when the first of these should be witnessed: ‘In those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light.’ Mark 13:24. The 1260 days, or years, terminated in 1798. A quarter of a century earlier, persecution had almost wholly ceased.” Ibid., 306

4.b. What words of the apostle Paul were fulfilled by the faithful Waldenses? 2 Timothy 2:19

Note: “But of those who resisted the encroachments of the papal power, the Waldenses stood foremost. In the very land where popery had fixed its seat, there its falsehood and corruption were most steadfastly resisted. For centuries the churches of Piedmont maintained their independence; but the time came at last when Rome insisted upon their submission. After ineffectual struggles against her tyranny, the leaders of these churches reluctantly acknowledged the supremacy of the power to which the whole world seemed to pay homage. There were some, however, who refused to yield to the authority of pope or prelate. They were determined to maintain their allegiance to God and to preserve the purity and simplicity of their faith. A separation took place. Those who adhered to the ancient faith now withdrew; some, forsaking their native Alps, raised the banner of truth in foreign lands; others retreated to the secluded glens and rocky fastnesses of the mountains, and there preserved their freedom to worship God.” The Great Controversy, 64

Thursday

5 THE OVERCOMERS OF THYATIRA

5.a. Because of the fierce persecution during the period of Thyatira, what assurance was given to the faithful? Revelation 2:24, 25

Note: “While, under the pressure of long-continued persecution, some compromised their faith, little by little yielding its distinctive principles, others held fast the truth. Through ages of darkness and apostasy there were Waldenses who denied the supremacy of Rome, who rejected image worship as idolatry, and who kept the true Sabbath. Under the fiercest tempests of opposition they maintained their faith. Though gashed by the Savoyard spear, and scorched by the Romish fagot, they stood unflinchingly for God’s word and His honor.” The Great Controversy, 65

5.b. What wonderful promise was given to the church that remained faithful in the time of the Dark Ages? Revelation 2:26–29

Note: “Except among the Waldenses, the word of God had for ages been locked up in languages known only to the learned; but the time had come for the Scriptures to be translated and given to the people of different lands in their native tongue. The world had passed its midnight. The hours of darkness were wearing away, and in many lands appeared tokens of the coming dawn.

“In the fourteenth century arose in England the ‘morning star of the Reformation.’ John Wycliffe was the herald of reform, not for England alone, but for all Christendom. The great protest against Rome which it was permitted him to utter was never to be silenced.” The Great Controversy, 79, 80

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Who has attempted to take the place of Christ?

2    What errors crept into the church of Thyatira?

3    Who are the daughters of Babylon?

4    What are the results of tribulation on the church?

5    What is promised to those who overcome tribulation?

Copyright 2000, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.