Bible Study Guides

Bible Study Guides – Departing from Sinai

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January 24 – 30, 2021

Key text

“Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come” (1 Corinthians 10:11).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 374–386.

Introduction

“The repeated murmurings of the Israelites, and the visitations of God’s wrath because of their transgressions, are recorded in sacred history for the benefit of God’s people who should afterward live upon the earth, but more especially to prove a warning to those who should live near the close of time.” The Story of Redemption, 152.

Sunday

1 TRAVELING THROUGH THE WILDERNESS

1.a. Why did Moses invite Hobab to accompany the people of Israel? Did he accept the invitation? Numbers 10:29–31; Judges 1:16; 4:11.

Note: “Of this tribe [the Kenites] was the brother-in-law of Moses, Hobab, who had accompanied the Israelites in their travels through the wilderness, and by his knowledge of the country had rendered them valuable assistance.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 628.

1.b.      What prayers did Moses offer when the cloud lifted and the ark [of the covenant] set forward and when it rested again? Numbers 10:35, 36.

Note: “God Himself directed the Israelites in all their travels. The place of their encampment was indicated by the descent of the pillar of cloud; and so long as they were to remain in camp, the cloud rested over the tabernacle. When they were to continue their journey it was lifted high above the sacred tent. A solemn invocation marked both the halt and the departure.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 376.

Monday

2 COMPLAINING AGAIN 

2.a. Through what sort of land did the people of Israel travel after they left Sinai? Why? Deuteronomy 8:15, 16; Jeremiah 2:6.

Note: “As they advanced, the way became more difficult. Their route lay through stony ravine and barren waste. All around them was the great wilderness—‘a land of deserts and of pits,’ ‘a land of drought, and of the shadow of death,’ ‘a land that no man passed through, and where no man dwelt’ (Jeremiah 2:6). The rocky gorges, far and near, were thronged with men, women, and children, with beasts and wagons, and long lines of flocks and herds. Their progress was necessarily slow and toilsome; and the multitudes, after their long encampment, were not prepared to endure the perils and discomforts of the way.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 377.

2.b.      When the people began complaining about the discomforts along the way, what happened? Numbers 11:1–3.

Note: “After three days’ journey open complaints were heard. These originated with the mixed multitude, many of whom were not fully united with Israel, and were continually watching for some cause of censure. The complainers were not pleased with the direction of the march, and they were continually finding fault with the way in which Moses was leading them, though they well knew that he, as well as they, was following the guiding cloud. Dissatisfaction is contagious, and it soon spread in the encampment.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 377.

“They [the people of Israel] had received great light, as they had been witnesses to the majesty, the power, and the mercy of God; and their unbelief and discontent incurred the greater guilt. Furthermore, they had covenanted to accept Jehovah as their king and to obey His authority. Their murmuring was now rebellion, and as such it must receive prompt and signal punishment, if Israel was to be preserved from anarchy and ruin. ‘The fire of Jehovah burnt among them, and consumed them that were in the uttermost parts of the camp’ (Numbers 11:1). The most guilty of the complainers were slain by lightning from the cloud.” Ibid., 379.

Tuesday

3 LUSTING FOR FLESH

3.a. What did the Israelites complain about next, and with whom did the murmuring begin? Numbers 11:4–6; Psalm 78:18–20.

Note: “The Israelites, during their bondage in Egypt, had been compelled to subsist on the plainest and simplest food; but the keen appetite induced by privation and hard labor had made it palatable. Many of the Egyptians, however, who were now among them, had been accustomed to a luxurious diet; and these were the first to complain. At the giving of the manna, just before Israel reached Sinai, the Lord had granted them flesh in answer to their clamors; but it was furnished them for only one day.

“God might as easily have provided them with flesh as with manna, but a restriction was placed upon them for their good. It was His purpose to supply them with food better suited to their wants than the feverish diet to which many had become accustomed in Egypt. The perverted appetite was to be brought into a more healthy state, that they might enjoy the food originally provided for man—the fruits of the earth, which God gave to Adam and Eve in Eden. It was for this reason that the Israelites had been deprived, in a great measure, of animal food.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 377, 378.

“The state of the mind has largely to do with the health of the body, and especially with the health of the digestive organs. As a general thing, the Lord did not provide His people with flesh meat in the desert, because He knew that the use of this diet would create disease and insubordination. In order to modify the disposition, and bring the higher powers of the mind into active exercise, He removed from them the flesh of dead animals. He gave them angels’ food, manna from heaven.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1112, 1113.

3.b.      How was their demand for flesh food granted, and what were the results? Numbers 11:31–34; Psalm 78:26–32.

Note: “God gave the people that which was not for their highest good, because they persisted in desiring it; they would not be satisfied with those things that would prove a benefit to them. Their rebellious desires were gratified, but they were left to suffer the result. They feasted without restraint, and their excesses were speedily punished.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 382.

Wednesday

4 A LESSON FOR US 

4.a. As the Israelites were already used to plain, simple food, what prior warning did they ignore? Exodus 23:2, first part. When tempted to murmur and complain about God’s ways, what should we do? Psalm 107:21, 22; Philippians 4:6, 7.

4.b.      What other lesson should we learn from the rebellious behavior of Israel in the wilderness? 1 Corinthians 10:5, 6.

Note “God brought the Israelites from Egypt, that He might establish them in the land of Canaan, a pure, holy, and happy people. In the accomplishment of this object He subjected them to a course of discipline, both for their own good and for the good of their posterity. Had they been willing to deny appetite, in obedience to His wise restrictions, feebleness and disease would have been unknown among them. Their descendants would have possessed both physical and mental strength. They would have had clear perceptions of truth and duty, keen discrimination, and sound judgment. But their unwillingness to submit to the restrictions and requirements of God, prevented them, to a great extent, from reaching the high standard which He desired them to attain, and from receiving the blessings which He was ready to bestow upon them.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 378.

4.c. What do we need to do first to ensure that we do not lust after evil things? Romans 13:14.

Note: “We must fight against the sins that war against the soul. You cannot in your own strength do this work, but come to Jesus in faith. He will help you and strengthen you to put away evil tendencies, and will array you in the true beauty of His character. We are exhorted to put on the Lord Jesus. Simple faith and obedience go hand in hand. Your faith without obedience to God’s holy law is of no value, but obedience to God and faith in the Great Sacrifice offered—that His blood was shed for you, and you will accept the righteousness of Christ—will make you an overcomer. Put your trust in Jesus Christ, and He will bring you off more than conqueror.” The Youth’s Instructor, August 18, 1886.

Thursday

5 THE POISON OF ENVY

5.a. What happened at Hazeroth, which revealed the characters of Aaron and Miriam in contrast to that of Moses? Numbers 12:1–9.

Note: “God had chosen Moses, and had put His Spirit upon him; and Miriam and Aaron, by their murmurings, were guilty of disloyalty, not only to their appointed leader, but to God Himself. The seditious whisperers were summoned to the tabernacle, and brought face to face with Moses. … Their claim to the prophetic gift was not denied; God might have spoken to them in visions and dreams. But to Moses, whom the Lord Himself declared ‘faithful in all Mine house’ (Numbers 12:7), a nearer communion had been granted. With him God spake mouth to mouth.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 384, 385. [Emphasis author’s.]

5.b.      How did the Lord show His displeasure, and how was Miriam’s punishment mitigated when Moses pleaded for her? Numbers 12:10–16.

Note: “Envy is one of the most satanic traits that can exist in the human heart, and it is one of the most baleful in its effects. Says the wise man, ‘Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy’ (Proverbs 27:4)? …

“It should not be regarded as a light thing to speak evil of others or to make ourselves judges of their motives or actions. …

“We are to honor those whom God has honored. The judgment visited upon Miriam should be a rebuke to all who yield to jealousy, and murmur against those upon whom God lays the burden of His work.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 385, 386.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS 

1    How did God lead His people in their travels? How does He lead us today?

2    Why was it so sinful for the Israelites to complain about how Moses was leading them?

3    Why does God want us to follow a simple, vegetarian diet today?

4    What blessings come from self-denial in appetite?

5    How are we sometimes envious in a similar way to Miriam?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – Unfaithful Priests

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January 17 – 23, 2021

Key Text

“And they shall teach My people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean” (Ezekiel 44:23).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 359–362.

Introduction

“We must abstain from any practice which will blunt the conscience or encourage temptation. We must open no door that will give Satan access to the mind of one human being formed in the image of God.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 360.

Sunday

1 THE CONSECRATION OF AARON AND HIS SONS

1.a. Describe briefly the ceremony of consecration of Aaron and his sons for the service of the sanctuary. Leviticus 8:1–9, 12, 13, 24, 30, 33.

Note: “All had been done as God commanded, and He accepted the sacrifice, and revealed His glory in a remarkable manner; fire came from the Lord and consumed the offering upon the altar. The people looked upon this wonderful manifestation of divine power with awe and intense interest. They saw in it a token of God’s glory and favor, and they raised a universal shout of praise and adoration and fell on their faces as if in the immediate presence of Jehovah.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 359.

1.b.      What was required of those who were called to service in the presence of the Lord? Exodus 19:22. What disqualifies men for sacred responsibilities?

Note: “If one has not a vital connection with God, his own spirit and sentiments will prevail. These may be well represented as strange fire offered in the place of the sacred.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 371.

Monday

2 NADAB AND ABIHU ARE SLAIN

2.a. What action on the part of Nadab and Abihu showed that they were not qualified for the sacred office that was given them? Leviticus 10:1. How do professed Christians use “strange fire” in our days?

Note: “The converting power of God must come upon men who handle sacred things, yet who are unable, through some cause best known to God, to distinguish between the sacred fire of God’s own kindling and the strange fire which they offer. That strange fire is as dishonoring to God as was that presented by Nadab and Abihu. The sacred fire of God’s love would make men tender and kind and sympathetic toward those in peril. Those who indulge in sharp, overbearing words, are really saying: I am holier than thou. Do you not see my exalted position?” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 356.

“Converted men are needed—men who will love and honor God, fearing to move in their own wisdom, and realizing that their efforts can prove successful only as recognized by Him without whose blessing there is no prosperity. Every moment divine power must be combined with human effort, else strange fire will be offered instead of the sacred. …

“To handle sacred things as we would common matters is an offense to God; for that which God has set apart to do His service in giving light to this world is holy. Those who have any connection with the work of God are not to walk in the vanity of their own wisdom, but in the wisdom of God, or they will be in danger of placing sacred and common things on the same level, and thus separate themselves from God.” The Review and Herald, September 8, 1896.

2.b.      How was their profane behavior punished? Leviticus 10:2.

Note: “At the hour of worship, as the prayers and praise of the people were ascending to God, two of the sons of Aaron took each his censer and burned fragrant incense thereon, to rise as a sweet odor before the Lord. But they transgressed His command by the use of ‘strange fire.’ For burning the incense they took common instead of the sacred fire which God Himself had kindled, and which He had commanded to be used for this purpose. For this sin a fire went out from the Lord and devoured them in the sight of the people.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 359.

Tuesday

3  THE RESULTS OF FAULTY TRAINING

3.a. As Moses immediately saw the cause of the trouble, what did he say to Aaron? Leviticus 10:3. What made the sin of Nadab and Abihu all the more grievous in the eyes of God?

Note: “Next to Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu had stood highest in Israel. They had been especially honored by the Lord, having been permitted with the seventy elders to behold His glory in the mount. But their transgression was not therefore to be excused or lightly regarded. All this rendered their sin more grievous.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 359.

3.b.      What principles should Aaron have known in the training of his sons? Proverbs 22:6; 29:21. In what area did he fail?

Note: “Nadab and Abihu had not in their youth been trained to habits of self-control. The father’s yielding disposition, his lack of firmness for right, had led him to neglect the discipline of his children. His sons had been permitted to follow inclination. Habits of self-indulgence, long cherished, obtained a hold upon them which even the responsibility of the most sacred office had not power to break. They had not been taught to respect the authority of their father, and they did not realize the necessity of exact obedience to the requirements of God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 360.

“Too much importance cannot be placed upon the early training of children. The lessons learned, the habits formed, during the years of infancy and childhood, have more to do with the formation of the character and the direction of the life than have all the instruction and training of after years.” The Ministry of Healing, 380.

3.c. What instruction and warning did Moses give to Aaron and his surviving sons? Why? Leviticus 10:6, 7.

Note: “By no manifestation of grief must he [Aaron] seem to sympathize with sin. The congregation must not be led to murmur against God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 361.

Wednesday

4 A WARNING TO US TODAY 

4.a. What warning did the Lord give against the use of alcoholic beverages? Leviticus 10:8–11. Does this warning extend to us today? Exodus 19:5, 6.

Note: “The use of spirituous liquors has the effect to weaken the body, confuse the mind, and debase the morals. It prevents men from realizing the sacredness of holy things or the binding force of God’s requirements. All who occupied positions of sacred responsibility were to be men of strict temperance, that their minds might be clear to discriminate between right and wrong, that they might possess firmness of principle, and wisdom to administer justice and to show mercy.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 362.

4.b.      What biblical principles show us that the wine provided by Jesus at the marriage feast was unfermented grape juice? Proverbs 20:1; 23:32.

Note: “It has been declared by some that Christ favored the moderate use of fermented wine, in witness whereof they refer to His miracle of changing water into wine. But we protest that Christ never made intoxicating wine; such an act would have been contrary to all the teachings and example of His life.” The Health Reformer, July 1, 1878.

4.c. What will those do who are striving for the mastery in the Christian life? 1 Corinthians 9:25.

Note: “True temperance teaches us to dispense entirely with everything hurtful, and to use judiciously that which is healthful.” Temperance, 138.

“The only safe course is to touch not, taste not, handle not, tea, coffee, wines, tobacco, opium, and alcoholic drinks. …

“Let us never partake of a glass of alcoholic liquor. Let us never touch it.” Ibid., 163.

“The youth and children should understand the effect of alcohol, tobacco, and other like poisons in breaking down the body, beclouding the mind, and sensualizing the soul. It should be made plain that no one who uses these things can long possess the full strength of his physical, mental, or moral faculties.” Education, 202.

Thursday

5 “HOLY AND REVEREND IS HIS NAME”

5.a. Why was the sin of Nadab and Abihu recorded? Romans 15:4. What can we learn from this incident?

Note: “God designed to teach the people that they must approach Him with reverence and awe, and in His own appointed manner. He cannot accept partial obedience. It was not enough that in this solemn season of worship nearly everything was done as He had directed. God has pronounced a curse upon those who depart from His commandments, and put no difference between common and holy things.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 360.

5.b.      What kinds of men does the Lord call to occupy positions of sacred responsibility? Titus 1:5–9.

Note: “A minister of Christ should be pure in conversation and in actions. He should ever bear in mind that he is handling words of inspiration, words of a holy God. He must also bear in mind that the flock is entrusted to his care, and that he is to bear their cases to Jesus, and plead for them as Jesus pleads for us with the Father. I was pointed back to the children of Israel anciently and saw how pure and holy the ministers of the sanctuary had to be, because they were brought by their work into a close connection with God. They that minister must be holy, pure, and without blemish, or God will destroy them. God has not changed.” Early Writings, 103.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS 

1    Why is it that we sometimes bring our own opinions and selfish ideas into the work of God?

2    What is necessary in order to avoid placing sacred and common things on the same level?

3    When is self-control to be learned? Why?

4    Why does God want me to be strictly temperate today?

5    Why is reverence so important? Where does this begin? How?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – The Covenant Restored

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January 10 – 16, 2021

Key Text

“And the Lord said unto Moses, Write thou these words: for after the tenor of these words I have made a covenant with thee and with Israel” (Exodus 34:27).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 319–330.

Introduction

“At God’s command he [Moses] had prepared two tables of stone, and had taken them with him to the summit; and again the Lord ‘wrote upon the tables the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments’ (Exodus 34:28).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 329.

Sunday

1 MOSES BREAKS THE TABLES OF STONE

1.a. What did Moses bring with him when he came down from the mount, and how did Joshua and Moses each interpret the noise that they heard in the camp? Exodus 32:15, 17, 18.

1.b.      Describe the reaction of Moses to the idolatry in the camp and Aaron’s vain attempt at self-justification. Exodus 32:19–24.

Note: “When Moses, on returning to the camp, confronted the rebels, his severe rebukes and the indignation he displayed in breaking the sacred tables of the law were contrasted by the people with his brother’s pleasant speech and dignified demeanor, and their sympathies were with Aaron. To justify himself, Aaron endeavored to make the people responsible for his weakness in yielding to their demand; but notwithstanding this, they were filled with admiration of his gentleness and patience. But God seeth not as man sees. Aaron’s yielding spirit and his desire to please had blinded his eyes to the enormity of the crime he was sanctioning. His course in giving his influence to sin in Israel cost the life of thousands.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 323.

Monday

2 JUDGMENT AGAINST THE OFFENDERS

2.a. How offensive was the attitude of Aaron in the eyes of God? Deuteronomy 9:20.

Note: “If Aaron had had courage to stand for the right, irrespective of consequences, he could have prevented that apostasy.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 323.

2.b.      What appeal did Moses make after he had rebuked his brother, and what was the result? Exodus 32:26–29.

Note: “It was necessary that this sin should be punished, as a testimony to surrounding nations of God’s displeasure against idolatry. By executing justice upon the guilty, Moses, as God’s instrument, must leave on record a solemn and public protest against their crime. As the Israelites should hereafter condemn the idolatry of the neighboring tribes, their enemies would throw back upon them the charge that the people who claimed Jehovah as their God had made a calf and worshiped it in Horeb. Then though compelled to acknowledge the disgraceful truth, Israel could point to the terrible fate of the transgressors, as evidence that their sin had not been sanctioned or excused.

“Love no less than justice demanded that for this sin judgment should be inflicted. God is the guardian as well as the sovereign of His people. He cuts off those who are determined upon rebellion, that they may not lead others to ruin.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 325.

2.c. What did Moses communicate to those who were sorry for their sin, and how did he later communicate with God in their behalf? Exodus 32:30–35.

Note: “Moses realized how dreadful would be the fate of the sinner; yet if the people of Israel were to be rejected by the Lord, he desired his name to be blotted out with theirs; he could not endure to see the judgments of God fall upon those who had been so graciously delivered. The intercession of Moses in behalf of Israel illustrates the mediation of Christ for sinful men. But the Lord did not permit Moses to bear, as did Christ, the guilt of the transgressor. ‘Whosoever hath sinned against Me,’ He said, ‘him will I blot out of My book’ (Exodus 32:33).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 326, 327.

Tuesday

3 GOD ACCEPTS THE PENITENT

3.a. How did the people react when they heard that the Lord would not lead them to Canaan because of their sin? Exodus 33:1–6.

3.b.      Where did Moses pitch the tabernacle after this dreadful experience? What token revealed hope for those who sought the Lord? Exodus 33:7–10.

Note: “The tent was pitched without the encampment, but Moses called it ‘the tabernacle of the congregation’ (Exodus 33:7). All who were truly penitent, and desired to return to the Lord, were directed to repair thither to confess their sins and seek His mercy. When they returned to their tents Moses entered the tabernacle. With agonizing interest the people watched for some token that his intercessions in their behalf were accepted. If God should condescend to meet with him, they might hope that they were not to be utterly consumed. When the cloudy pillar descended, and stood at the entrance of the tabernacle, the people wept for joy, and they ‘rose up and worshiped, every man in his tent door’ (verse 10).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 327.

3.c. What assurance did Moses obtain from the Lord? Exodus 33:11–17. How can we obtain the same assurance?

Note: “This experience—above all else the promise that the divine Presence would attend him—was to Moses an assurance of success in the work before him; and he counted it of infinitely greater worth than all the learning of Egypt or all his attainments as a statesman or a military leader. No earthly power or skill or learning can supply the place of God’s abiding presence.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 328.

“Go to God and tell Him as did Moses, ‘I cannot lead this people unless Thy presence shall go with me.’ And then ask still more; pray with Moses, ‘Show me Thy glory.’ What is this glory?—the character of God. That is what He proclaimed to Moses. Let the soul, in living faith, fasten upon God. Let the tongue speak His praise. When you associate together, let the mind be reverently turned to the contemplation of eternal realities. Thus you will be helping one another to be spiritually minded. When your will is in harmony with the divine will, you will be in harmony with one another; you will have Christ by your side as a counselor.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 499.

Wednesday

4 A GLIMPSE OF GOD’S CHARACTER 

4.a. What further request did Moses make, and what was the Lord’s answer? Exodus 33:18, 19. How did the Lord proclaim His name to Moses? Exodus 34:5–7.

Note: “It is our privilege to reach higher and still higher for clearer revealings of the character of God. When Moses prayed, ‘I beseech Thee, show me Thy glory,’ the Lord did not rebuke him, but He granted his prayer. God declared to His servant, ‘I will make all My goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before thee’ (Exodus 33:18, 19).

“It is sin that darkens our minds and dims our perceptions. As sin is purged from our hearts, the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ, illuminating His word and reflected from the face of nature, more and more fully will declare Him ‘merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth’ (Exodus 34:6).” The Ministry of Healing, 464, 465.

4.b.      After God revealed His glory to Moses, what did Moses pray for, and how did God answer? Exodus 34:8–17, 27.

Note: “Moses was full of confidence in God because he had appropriating faith. He needed help, and he prayed for it, grasped it by faith, and wove into his experience the belief that God cared for him. He believed that God ruled his life in particular. He saw and acknowledged God in every detail of his life and felt that he was under the eye of the All-seeing One, who weighs motives, who tries the heart. He looked to God and trusted in Him for strength to carry him uncorrupted through every form of temptation. … The presence of God was sufficient to carry him through the most trying situations in which a man could be placed.

“Moses did not merely think of God; he saw Him. God was the constant vision before him; he never lost sight of His face. He saw Jesus as his Saviour, and he believed that the Saviour’s merits would be imputed to him. This faith was to Moses no guesswork; it was a reality. This is the kind of faith we need, faith that will endure the test.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 651, 652.

Thursday

5 ENTERING THE COVENANT OF GRACE

5.a. What were the children of Israel now able to appreciate about the blessings offered under the Abrahamic covenant in contrast to their first covenant with God? Psalm 103:8; Hebrews 7:19; Jeremiah 31:33, 34.

Note: “They [the children of Israel] had witnessed the proclamation of the law in awful majesty, and had trembled with terror before the mount; and yet only a few weeks passed before they broke their covenant with God, and bowed down to worship a graven image. They could not hope for the favor of God through a covenant which they had broken; and now, seeing their sinfulness and their need of pardon, they were brought to feel their need of the Saviour revealed in the Abrahamic covenant and shadowed forth in the sacrificial offerings. Now by faith and love they were bound to God as their deliverer from the bondage of sin. Now they were prepared to appreciate the blessings of the new covenant.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 372.

5.b.      What did Moses bring down from the mount after forty days, and how did the people feel when they saw him? Exodus 34:28–30, 33.

Note: “The glory reflected in the countenance of Moses illustrates the blessings to be received by God’s commandment-keeping people through the mediation of Christ. It testifies that the closer our communion with God, and the clearer our knowledge of His requirements, the more fully shall we be conformed to the divine image, and the more readily do we become partakers of the divine nature.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 330.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS 

1    Why do we often despise the one who rebukes sin and admire the gentle, yielding ones?

2    Why was the sin of worshiping the golden calf so great?

3    What was of more value to Moses than his skill as a statesman or a military leader? Why?

4    As Jesus cleanses the heart from sin, what will we see shining from His word and reflected in nature?

5    What two things will lead me to become more fully conformed to God’s image? How?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – The Covenant Broken

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January 3 – 9, 2021

Key Text

“And the Lord said unto Moses, Go, get thee down; for thy people, which thou broughtest out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves” (Exodus 32:7).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 315–319.

Introduction

“Feeling their helplessness in the absence of their leader, they returned to their old superstitions. The ‘mixed multitude’ had been the first to indulge murmuring and impatience, and they were the leaders in the apostasy that followed.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 315, 316.

Sunday

1 THE PEOPLE PROMISE OBEDIENCE

1.a. After the proclamation of the law, who were called up into the mountain, and who only was told to come near to the Lord? Exodus 24:1, 2.

1.b.      As the people heard all the words of the Lord as related by Moses, what did they answer with one voice? What did Moses then do? Exodus 24:3, 4.

Note: “The minds of the people, blinded and debased by slavery and heathenism, were not prepared to appreciate fully the far-reaching principles of God’s ten precepts. That the obligations of the Decalogue might be more fully understood and enforced, additional precepts were given, illustrating and applying the principles of the Ten Commandments. These laws were called judgments, both because they were framed in infinite wisdom and equity and because the magistrates were to give judgment according to them. Unlike the Ten Commandments, they were delivered privately to Moses, who was to communicate them to the people.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 310.

“[Exodus 24:3 quoted.] This pledge, together with the words of the Lord which it bound them to obey, was written by Moses in a book.” Ibid., 312.

Monday

2 ISRAEL ENTERS INTO A COVENANT WITH GOD

2.a. When Moses took the book of the covenant and read it in the ears of the people, what did they again promise? Exodus 24:7.

Note: “If the Israelites had obeyed God’s requirements, they would have been practical Christians. They would have been happy; for they would have been keeping God’s ways, and not following the inclinations of their own natural hearts. Moses did not leave them to misconstrue the words of the Lord or to misapply His requirements. He wrote all the words of the Lord in a book, that they might be referred to afterward. In the mount he had written them as Christ Himself dictated them.

“Bravely did the Israelites speak the words promising obedience to the Lord, after hearing His covenant read in the audience of the people. They said, ‘All that the Lord hath said will we do, and be obedient.’ Then the people were set apart and sealed to God. A sacrifice was offered to the Lord. A portion of the blood of the sacrifice was sprinkled upon the altar. This signified that the people had consecrated themselves—body, mind, and soul—to God. A portion was sprinkled upon the people. This signified that through the sprinkled blood of Christ, God graciously accepted them as His special treasure. Thus the Israelites entered into a solemn covenant with God.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1107.

2.b.      What did the Israelites fail to realize in their decision to enter into a covenant with God? Romans 7:18; John 15:5.

Note: “God … gave them [Israel] His law, with the promise of great blessings on condition of obedience: ‘If ye will obey My voice indeed, and keep My covenant, then … ye shall be unto Me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation’ (Exodus 19:5, 6). The people did not realize the sinfulness of their own hearts, and that without Christ it was impossible for them to keep God’s law; and they readily entered into covenant with God. Feeling that they were able to establish their own righteousness, they declared, ‘All that the Lord hath said will we do, and be obedient’ (Exodus 24:7).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 371, 372.

2.c. What was used by Moses to ratify the covenant made at Sinai? Exodus 24:8.

Tuesday

3 MOSES IN THE MOUNT 

3.a. For what purpose was Moses again called into the mount? Exodus 24:12; 25:8, 9, 40.

Note: “During his stay in the mount, Moses received directions for the building of a sanctuary in which the divine presence would be specially manifested. ‘Let them make Me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them’ (Exodus 25:8), was the command of God. …

“Henceforth the people were to be honored with the abiding presence of their King. ‘I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will be their God,’ ‘and the tabernacle shall be sanctified by My glory’ (Exodus 29:45, 43), was the assurance given to Moses. As the symbol of God’s authority and the embodiment of His will, there was delivered to Moses a copy of the Decalogue engraved by the finger of God Himself upon two tables of stone (Deuteronomy 9:10; Exodus 32:15, 16), to be sacredly enshrined in the sanctuary, which, when made, was to be the visible center of the nation’s worship.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 313, 314.

3.b.      What was seen on Mount Sinai? Exodus 24:15–17.

3.c. How long was Moses upon the mount with God? Exodus 24:18. How did the Lord want to enlighten the world through Israel? How does this apply to us today?

Note: “From a race of slaves the Israelites had been exalted above all peoples to be the peculiar treasure of the King of kings. God had separated them from the world, that He might commit to them a sacred trust. He had made them the depositaries of His law, and He purposed, through them, to preserve among men the knowledge of Himself. Thus the light of heaven was to shine out to a world enshrouded in darkness, and a voice was to be heard appealing to all peoples to turn from their idolatry to serve the living God. If the Israelites would be true to their trust, they would become a power in the world. God would be their defense, and He would exalt them above all other nations. His light and truth would be revealed through them, and they would stand forth under His wise and holy rule as an example of the superiority of His worship over every form of idolatry.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 314.

Wednesday

4 THE GOLDEN CALF

4.a. When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, what did they say as they gathered around Aaron? Exodus 32:1.

Note: “During this period of waiting, there was time for them to meditate upon the law of God which they had heard, and to prepare their hearts to receive the further revelations that He might make to them. They had none too much time for this work; and had they been thus seeking a clearer understanding of God’s requirements, and humbling their hearts before Him, they would have been shielded from temptation. But they did not do this, and they soon became careless, inattentive, and lawless. Especially was this the case with the mixed multitude. … There were some who suggested a return to Egypt, but whether forward to Canaan or backward to Egypt, the masses of the people were determined to wait no longer for Moses.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 315.

4.b.      How did Aaron reveal his weakness? What did the people do? Exodus 32:2–6; Psalm 106:19, 20.

Note: “A few who ventured to denounce the proposed image making as idolatry, were set upon and roughly treated, and in the confusion and excitement they finally lost their lives.

“Aaron feared for his own safety; and instead of nobly standing up for the honor of God, he yielded to the demands of the multitude.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 316, 317.

4.c. What warning does this experience contain for us? 1 Corinthians 10:7.

Note: “We repeat the sin of Aaron, pacifying, when the eyesight should be clear to discern evil and state it plainly, even if it places us in an unpleasant position, because our motives may be misapprehended. We must not suffer wrong upon a brother or any soul with whom we are connected. This neglect to stand up firmly for truth was the sin of Aaron. Had he spoken the truth plainly, that golden calf would never have been made.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1109.

Thursday

5 MOSES PLEADS FOR THE PEOPLE

5.a. Relate the discussion between the Lord and Moses regarding the apostasy in the camp. Exodus 32:7–14. 

Note: “As Moses interceded for Israel, his timidity was lost in his deep interest and love for those for whom he had, in the hands of God, been the means of doing so much. The Lord listened to his pleadings, and granted his unselfish prayer. God had proved His servant; He had tested his faithfulness and his love for that erring, ungrateful people, and nobly had Moses endured the trial. His interest in Israel sprang from no selfish motive. The prosperity of God’s chosen people was dearer to him than personal honor.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 319.

5.b.      What does God want us to do when we meet apostasy today? 2 Timothy 4:2, 3.

Note “Of all the sins that God will punish, none are more grievous in His sight than those that encourage others to do evil. God would have His servants prove their loyalty by faithfully rebuking transgression, however painful the act may be. Those who are honored with a divine commission are not to be weak, pliant time-servers. They are not to aim at self-exaltation, or to shun disagreeable duties, but to perform God’s work with unswerving fidelity.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 323, 324.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    How did the additional precepts given to the Israelites relate to the Ten Commandments?

2    How can I be a “practical Christian”? Will this make me unhappy?

3    How can I help to preserve a knowledge of God in this world?

4    Why do we sometimes fail to stand up for what is right? What repercussions can this have?

5    What can I learn from Moses’ attitude toward those who were outright disobedient and others who were inconsistent in their faith?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – A Covenant of Grace

by

Wilderness Wanderings

December 27 – January 2, 2021

Key Text

“For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put My laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to Me a people” (Hebrews 8:10).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 363–373.

Introduction

“The ‘new covenant’ was established upon ‘better promises’—the promise of forgiveness of sins and of the grace of God to renew the heart and bring it into harmony with the principles of God’s law.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 372.

Sunday

1 AN ETERNAL MYSTERY 

1.a. For how long has God’s covenant of grace existed? Romans 16:25.

Note: “The covenant of grace is not a new truth, for it existed in the mind of God from all eternity. This is why it is called the everlasting covenant.” The Faith I Live By, 77.

1.b.      When was the covenant of grace confirmed to humanity by promise? Genesis 3:15. When was it fully established? John 19:30; Romans 3:25.

Note: “The kingdom of grace was instituted immediately after the fall of man, when a plan was devised for the redemption of the guilty race. It then existed in the purpose and by the promise of God; and through faith, men could become its subjects. Yet it was not actually established until the death of Christ. … When the Saviour yielded up His life, and with His expiring breath cried out, ‘It is finished,’ then the fulfillment of the plan of redemption was assured. The promise of salvation made to the sinful pair in Eden was ratified. The kingdom of grace, which had before existed by the promise of God, was then established.” The Great Controversy, 347, 348.

Monday

2 THE COVENANT BLESSING FOR ALL NATIONS 

2.a. What blessing did God promise to Abraham under the covenant of grace? Genesis 12:1–3. Who is the promised “Seed”? Galatians 3:16.

Note: “Christ was not alone in making His great sacrifice. It was the fulfillment of the covenant made between Him and His Father before the foundation of the world was laid. With clasped hands They had entered into the solemn pledge that Christ would become the surety for the human race if they were overcome by Satan’s sophistry.” The Youth’s Instructor, June 14, 1900.

2.b.      What does God do under this covenant for all who believe in Christ alone for salvation? Galatians 3:8; Romans 5:1.

Note: “The covenant made with Abraham four hundred and thirty years before the law was spoken on Sinai was a covenant confirmed by God in Christ, the very same gospel which is preached to us.” The Signs of the Times, August 24, 1891.

2.c. What promise did God’s covenant with Abraham also include, and what will receiving it do for the believer in Christ? Galatians 3:14; Ezekiel 36:26, 27.

Note: “The same law that was engraved upon the tables of stone is written by the Holy Spirit upon the tables of the heart. Instead of going about to establish our own righteousness we accept the righteousness of Christ. His blood atones for our sins. His obedience is accepted for us. Then the heart renewed by the Holy Spirit will bring forth ‘the fruits of the Spirit.’ Through the grace of Christ we shall live in obedience to the law of God written upon our hearts. Having the Spirit of Christ, we shall walk even as He walked. Through the prophet He declared of Himself, ‘I delight to do Thy will, O My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart’ (Psalm 40:8). And when among men He said, ‘The Father hath not left Me alone; for I do always those things that please Him’ (John 8:29).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 372.

Tuesday

3 GRACE FOR OBEDIENCE

3.a. Why did God confirm His everlasting covenant to Abraham by an oath? Genesis 22:16–18; Hebrews 6:13–18.

Note: “This promise [Genesis 22:18] pointed to Christ. So Abraham understood it (see Galatians 3:8, 16), and he trusted in Christ for the forgiveness of sins. It was this faith that was accounted unto him for righteousness.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 370.

“On Mount Moriah, God again renewed His covenant, confirming with a solemn oath the blessing to Abraham and to his seed through all coming generations. …

“Abraham was human; his passions and attachments were like ours; but he did not stop to question how the promise could be fulfilled if Isaac should be slain. He did not stay to reason with his aching heart. He knew that God is just and righteous in all His requirements, and he obeyed the command to the very letter.” Ibid., 153.

3.b.      What shows that obedience to God’s law will always be seen in the life of those under the covenant of grace? Genesis 26:5.

Note: “The covenant with Abraham also maintained the authority of God’s law. The Lord appeared unto Abraham, and said, ‘I am the Almighty God; walk before Me, and be thou perfect’ (Genesis 17:1). The testimony of God concerning His faithful servant was, ‘Abraham obeyed My voice, and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes, and My laws’ (Genesis 26:5). And the Lord declared to him, ‘I will establish My covenant between Me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations, for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto thee and to thy seed after thee’ (Genesis 17:7).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 370. [Emphasis author’s.]

“The apostle Paul clearly presents the relation between faith and the law under the new covenant. He says: ‘Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.’ ‘Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.’ ‘For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh’—it could not justify man, because in his sinful nature he could not keep the law—‘God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit’ (Romans 5:1; 3:31; 8:3, 4).” Ibid., 373. [Emphasis author’s.]

Wednesday

4 THE COVENANT AT SINAI 

4.a. Why was another covenant formed at Sinai and what was its purpose? Deuteronomy 4:35–37.

Note: “In their bondage the people had to a great extent lost the knowledge of God and of the principles of the Abrahamic covenant. In delivering them from Egypt, God sought to reveal to them His power and His mercy, that they might be led to love and trust Him. He brought them down to the Red Sea—where, pursued by the Egyptians, escape seemed impossible—that they might realize their utter helplessness, their need of divine aid; and then He wrought deliverance for them. Thus they were filled with love and gratitude to God and with confidence in His power to help them. He had bound them to Himself as their deliverer from temporal bondage.

“But there was a still greater truth to be impressed upon their minds. Living in the midst of idolatry and corruption, they had no true conception of the holiness of God, of the exceeding sinfulness of their own hearts, their utter inability, in themselves, to render obedience to God’s law, and their need of a Saviour. All this they must be taught.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 371.

4.b.      Why is the covenant made with Abraham called a “new” covenant even though it was made before the one at Sinai? Hebrews 9:16–20.

Note: “Though this covenant was made with Adam and renewed to Abraham, it could not be ratified until the death of Christ. It had existed by the promise of God since the first intimation of redemption had been given; it had been accepted by faith; yet when ratified by Christ, it is called a new covenant. The law of God was the basis of this covenant, which was simply an arrangement for bringing men again into harmony with the divine will, placing them where they could obey God’s law.

“Another compact—called in Scripture the ‘old’ covenant—was formed between God and Israel at Sinai, and was then ratified by the blood of a sacrifice. The Abrahamic covenant was ratified by the blood of Christ, and it is called the ‘second,’ or ‘new,’ covenant, because the blood by which it was sealed was shed after the blood of the first covenant.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 370, 371.

Thursday

5 DELIVERANCE FROM THE SPIRIT OF BONDAGE 

5.a. What did the Israelites fail to understand when they entered into the covenant at Sinai? Exodus 24:7; Romans 10:2, 3; John 15:5.

Note: “The people did not realize … that without Christ it was impossible for them to keep God’s law; and they readily entered into covenant with God. Feeling that they were able to establish their own righteousness, they declared, ‘All that the Lord hath said will we do, and be obedient’ (Exodus 24:7).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 371, 372.

5.b.      How can we be in danger today of making the same mistake the children of Israel made at Sinai? Romans 8:15.

Note: “The spirit of bondage is engendered by seeking to live in accordance with legal religion, through striving to fulfill the claims of the law in our own strength. There is hope for us only as we come under the Abrahamic covenant, which is the covenant of grace by faith in Christ Jesus.” The Youth’s Instructor, September 22, 1892.

“All religious service, however attractive and costly, that endeavors to merit the favor of God, all mortification of the flesh, all penance and laborious work to procure the forgiveness of sin and the divine favor—whatever prevents us from making Christ our entire dependence, is abomination in the sight of God. There is no hope for man but to cease his rebellion, his resistance of God’s will, and own himself a sinner ready to perish, and cast himself upon the mercy of God. We can be saved only through Christ.” The Signs of the Times, August 24, 1891.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS 

1    Why is the covenant of grace called an everlasting covenant?

2    How am I blessed today by the covenant made with Abraham?

3    What does God promise to do for me under the covenant of grace?

4    Why is the covenant of grace called a “new” covenant?

5    How can I ensure today that I am under the covenant of grace?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – A Wall of Protection

by

December 20 – 26, 2020

Key Text

“Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord” (Psalm 119:1).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 305–310.

Introduction

“He who has an understanding of the far-reaching claims of God’s law can understand something of the heinousness of sin. And the more exalted his ideas of God’s requirements, the greater will be his gratitude of the pardon granted him.” Our High Calling, 137.

Sunday

  1. ACKNOWLEDGING THE CREATOR

1.a. When was the Sabbath given to mankind? What was the purpose of the Sabbath? Genesis 2:1–3.

Note: “The Sabbath … is to be remembered and observed as the memorial of the Creator’s work. Pointing to God as the Maker of the heavens and the earth, it distinguishes the true God from all false gods.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 307.

1.b.      What are some general guidelines in true Sabbath keeping? Isaiah 58:13.

1.c. Why do we often fail to guard our words upon the Sabbath? Matthew 12:34.

Note: “To keep the Sabbath holy, we should not even allow our minds to dwell upon things of a worldly character.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 307.

“But in order to keep the Sabbath holy, men must themselves be holy. Through faith they must become partakers of the righteousness of Christ.” The Desire of Ages, 283.

  1. PUTTING GOD FIRST

2.a. What does God express right at the beginning of the law, showing its importance? Exodus 20:3. How do we show that we have given something first preference in our life? What types of other gods do we sometimes serve?

Note: “Jehovah, the eternal, self-existent, uncreated One, Himself the Source and Sustainer of all, is alone entitled to supreme reverence and worship. Man is forbidden to give to any other object the first place in his affections or his service. Whatever we cherish that tends to lessen our love for God or to interfere with the service due Him, of that do we make a god.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 305.

2.b.      What should our attitude be toward God? Mark 12:30; Deuteronomy 10:12.

Note: “Christ’s service requires the whole man—the heart, the mind, the soul, the strength. He will not accept a divided heart. He expects us to do our best.” This Day With God, 161.

2.c.       Which attribute is vital if we are to enter into a relationship with God where He holds first place? Galatians 5:6.

Note: “The faith which avails to bring us in vital contact with Christ expresses on our part supreme preference, perfect reliance, entire consecration. … It works in the life of the follower of Christ true obedience to God’s commandments, for love to God and love to man will be the result of vital connection with Christ.” In Heavenly Places, 108.

“He [the true believer] abides in Christ, and draws his nourishment from Him.

“This spiritual relation can be established only by the exercise of personal faith. This faith must express on our part supreme preference, perfect reliance, entire consecration. Our will must be wholly yielded to the divine will; our feelings, desires, interests, and honor, identified with the prosperity of Christ’s kingdom and the honor of His cause, we constantly receiving grace from Him, and Christ accepting gratitude from us.” My Life Today, 11.

Tuesday

  1. PUTTING AWAY SELFISH DESIRES

3.a.       Where does the sinful desire originate which leads to grave sins such as covetousness and adultery? Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 15:19; 22:37.

Note: “The tempter can never compel us to do evil. He cannot control minds unless they are yielded to his control. The will must consent, faith must let go its hold upon Christ, before Satan can exercise his power upon us. But every sinful desire we cherish affords him a foothold. Every point in which we fail of meeting the divine standard is an open door by which he can enter to tempt and destroy us. And every failure or defeat on our part gives occasion for him to reproach Christ.” The Desire of Ages, 125.

“The tenth commandment strikes at the very root of all sins, prohibiting the selfish desire, from which springs the sinful act. He who in obedience to God’s law refrains from indulging even a sinful desire for that which belongs to another will not be guilty of an act of wrong toward his fellow creatures.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 309.

3.b.      As we realize that the battleground is within the mind, what should we do? Philippians 3:5–8; Revelation 3:20.

Note: “Jesus became a man that He might mediate between man and God … that He might restore to man the original mind which he lost in Eden through Satan’s alluring temptation.” That I May Know Him, 291.

“By conversion and transformation men are to receive the mind of Christ.” Ibid., 134.

3.c. How far-reaching is obedience to the seventh commandment? Matthew 5:27, 28.

Note: “This commandment forbids not only acts of impurity, but sensual thoughts and desires, or any practice that tends to excite them. Purity is demanded not only in the outward life but in the secret intents and emotions of the heart. Christ, who taught the far-reaching obligation of the law of God, declared the evil thought or look to be as truly sin as is the unlawful deed.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 308.

  1. REJECTING DESTRUCTIVE THOUGHTS

4.a. What is the root from which murder springs? 1 John 3:15. What else is involved in keeping the sixth commandment?

Note: “All acts of injustice that tend to shorten life; the spirit of hatred and revenge, or the indulgence of any passion that leads to injurious acts toward others, or causes us even to wish them harm (for ‘whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer’ [1 John 3:15]); a selfish neglect of caring for the needy or suffering; all self-indulgence or unnecessary deprivation or excessive labor that tends to injure health—all these are, to a greater or less degree, violations of the sixth commandment.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 308.

4.b.      What characteristic of the carnal heart leads to hatred, and how does this evil trait affect those who harbor it? 1 Corinthians 3:3; Proverbs 14:30.

Note: “Envy is the offspring of pride, and if it is entertained in the heart, it will lead to hatred, and eventually to revenge and murder.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 651.

“Envy is one of the most despicable traits of Satanic character. It is constantly seeking the lifting up of self, by casting slurs upon others. A man who is envious will belittle his neighbor, thinking to exalt himself.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, 1159.

“Envy, jealousy, and evil surmising is a hellish shadow by which Satan seeks to intercept your views of the character of Christ, so that by beholding the evil you may be fully changed into its likeness.” Ibid., 1163.

4.c.       How far should our honesty extend, if we truly desire to keep the eighth commandment? 2 Corinthians 8:21; Romans 12:17.

Note: “It [the eighth commandment] condemns theft and robbery. It demands strict integrity in the minutest details of the affairs of life. It forbids overreaching in trade, and requires the payment of just debts or wages. It declares that every attempt to advantage oneself by the ignorance, weakness, or misfortune of another is registered as fraud in the books of heaven.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 309.

  1. THE HIGHEST EARTHLY HONOR

5a.     What is special about the fifth commandment? Ephesians 6:2; Exodus 20:12.

Note: “Parents are entitled to a degree of love and respect which is due to no other person. God Himself, who has placed upon them a responsibility for the souls committed to their charge, has ordained that during the earlier years of life, parents shall stand in the place of God to their children. And he who rejects the rightful authority of his parents is rejecting the authority of God. The fifth commandment requires children not only to yield respect, submission, and obedience to their parents, but also to give them love and tenderness, to lighten their cares, to guard their reputation, and to succor and comfort them in old age. It also enjoins respect for ministers and rulers and for all others to whom God has delegated authority.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 308.

“Our obligation to our parents never ceases. Our love for them, and theirs for us, is not measured by years or distance, and our responsibility can never be set aside.” My Life Today, 278.

“Those who would truly follow Christ must let Him abide in the heart, and enthrone Him there as supreme. They must represent His spirit and character in their home life, and show courtesy and kindness to those with whom they come in contact. There are many children who profess to know the truth, who do not render to their parents the honor and affection that are due to them, who manifest but little love to father and mother, and fail to honor them in deferring to their wishes, or in seeking to relieve them of anxiety.” Sons and Daughters of God, 60.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    How only can I keep the Sabbath holy? What will my words and actions reveal?

2    If I have a vital connection with Christ, what will be the result?

3    What happens when a sinful desire is cherished, a sinful thought dwelt upon?

4    What is envy? What is the result of cherishing this sinful trait?

5    Why are parents entitled to love and respect more than any other person?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – God Speaks to His People

by

December 13 – 19, 2002

Key Text

“The Lord talked with you face to face in the mount of the midst of the fire” (Deuteronomy 5:4).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 301–305.

Introduction

“When the law was spoken, the Lord, the Creator of heaven and earth, stood by the side of His Son, enshrouded in the fire and the smoke on the mount.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1103.

Sunday

  1. ARRIVING AT SINAI

 1.a. How long after they had left Egypt did the Israelites come to Mount Sinai? Exodus 19:1, 2. What revelation was God about to make to them?

Note: “On every hand vast, rugged heights seemed in their solitary grandeur to speak of eternal endurance and majesty. Here the mind was impressed with solemnity and awe. Man was made to feel his ignorance and weakness in the presence of Him who ‘weighed the mountains in scales, and the hills in a balance’ (Isaiah 40:12). Here Israel was to receive the most wonderful revelation ever made by God to men. Here the Lord had gathered His people that He might impress upon them the sacredness of His requirements by declaring with His own voice His holy law. Great and radical changes were to be wrought in them; for the degrading influences of servitude and a long-continued association with idolatry had left their mark upon habits and character. God was working to lift them to a higher moral level by giving them a knowledge of Himself.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 302.

1.b.      What beautiful words did God speak to Moses in the Mount, sharing His desire for the Israelites as well as His people in all ages? Exodus 19:3–6.

Monday

  1. PREPARING TO MEET GOD

2.a. After Moses shared with the people what God had spoken to him, how did the people respond? Exodus 19:7–9.

Note: “Moses returned to the camp, and having summoned the elders of Israel, he repeated to them the divine message. Their answer was, ‘All that the Lord hath spoken we will do’ (Exodus 19:8). Thus they entered into a solemn covenant with God, pledging themselves to accept Him as their ruler, by which they became, in a special sense, the subjects of His authority.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 303.

“This is the pledge that God’s people are to make in these last days. Their acceptance with God depends on a faithful fulfilment of the terms of their agreement with Him. God includes in His covenant all who will obey Him.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1103.

2.b.      What preparation was required of the people in order to appear in God’s presence when He presented His law? Exodus 19:10–15. What care should we take before we appear in the presence of God at church?

Note: “That great and mighty God who created the beautiful Eden and everything lovely in it is a God of order, and He wants order and cleanliness with His people. …

“There was to be nothing slack and untidy about those who appeared before Him when they came into His holy presence. And why was this? What was the object of all this carefulness? Was it merely to recommend the people to God? Was it merely to gain His approbation? The reason that was given me was this, that a right impression might be made upon the people. If those who ministered in sacred office should fail to manifest care, and reverence for God, in their apparel and their deportment, the people would lose their awe and their reverence for God and His sacred service. If the priests showed great reverence for God by being very careful and very particular as they came into His presence, it gave the people an exalted idea of God and His requirements. It showed them that God was holy, that His work was sacred, and that everything in connection with His work must be holy; that it must be free from everything like impurity and uncleanness; and that all defilement must be put away from those who approach nigh to God.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 611, 612.

Tuesday

  1. IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD

3.a. Describe the majesty and solemnity of the scene when God descended from heaven to speak to His people. Exodus 19:16–20; Deuteronomy 33:2, 3.

Note: “On the morning of the third day, as the eyes of all the people were turned toward the mount, its summit was covered with a thick cloud, which grew more black and dense, sweeping downward until the entire mountain was wrapped in darkness and awful mystery. Then a sound as of a trumpet was heard, summoning the people to meet with God; and Moses led them forth to the base of the mountain. From the thick darkness flashed vivid lightnings, while peals of thunder echoed and re-echoed among the surrounding heights. …

“And now the thunders ceased; the trumpet was no longer heard; the earth was still. There was a period of solemn silence, and then the voice of God was heard. Speaking out of the thick darkness that enshrouded Him, as He stood upon the mount, surrounded by a retinue of angels, the Lord made known His law.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 304.

“By proclaiming the Ten Commandments to the children of Israel with His own voice, God demonstrated their importance. In awful grandeur He made known His majesty and authority as Ruler of the world. This He did to impress the people with the sacredness of His law and the importance of obeying it.” Testimonies, vol. 8, 198.

3.b.      When Moses was again called to the top of the mountain, what did the Lord say to him? Exodus 19:21–25.

Note: “When the divine Presence was manifested upon Sinai, the glory of the Lord was like devouring fire in the sight of all Israel.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 339.

“God is a being of infinite love and compassion, but He also declares Himself to be a ‘consuming fire, even a jealous God’ (Deuteronomy 4:24).” The Review and Herald, August 14, 1900.

“To sin, wherever found, ‘our God is a consuming fire’ (Hebrews 12:29). In all who submit to His power the Spirit of God will consume sin. But if men cling to sin, they become identified with it. Then the glory of God, which destroys sin, must destroy them.” The Desire of Ages, 107.

Wednesday

  1. THE LAW OF LOVE

4.a. Who spoke the law on Mount Sinai? What did He later do with the law? Deuteronomy 5:4, 5; 9:10.

Note: “The law, which is the transcript of His character, no one need fail to understand. The words written by the finger of God on tables of stone so perfectly reveal His will concerning His people that none need make any mistake.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 225.

4.b. What is the basic principle behind the law? Matthew 22:37–39.

Note: “The ten commandments, Thou shalt, and Thou shalt not, are ten promises, assured to us if we render obedience to the law governing the universe. ‘If ye love me, keep my commandments’ (John 14:15). Here is the sum and substance of the law of God. The terms of salvation for every son and daughter of Adam are here outlined.

“The ten holy precepts spoken by Christ upon Sinai’s mount were the revelation of the character of God, and made known to the world the fact that He had jurisdiction over the whole human heritage. That law of ten precepts of the greatest love that can be presented to man is the voice of God from heaven speaking to the soul in promise, ‘This do, and you will not come under the dominion and control of Satan.’ There is not a negative in that law, although it may appear thus. It is DO, and Live.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1105.

4.c. How do genuine Christians show that they have the love of God in their hearts? 1 John 5:2, 3; Romans 13:10.

Note: “The love of Jesus in the soul will banish all hatred, selfishness, and envy; for the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul. There is health in obedience to God’s law. The affections of the obedient are drawn out after God. Looking unto the Lord Jesus, we may encourage and serve one another. The love of Christ is shed abroad in our souls, and there is no dissension and strife among us.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1105.

“The law of love calls for the devotion of body, mind, and soul to the service of God and our fellow men. And this service, while making us a blessing to others, brings the greatest blessing to ourselves.” Education, 16.

Thursday

  1. AN UNCHANGING LAW

5.a. What effect did the proclamation of the law have upon the people? Exodus 20:18–20. What effect did it have upon Moses? Hebrews 12:20, 21.

Note: “The people of Israel were overwhelmed with terror. The awful power of God’s utterances seemed more than their trembling hearts could bear. For as God’s great rule of right was presented before them, they realized as never before the offensive character of sin, and their own guilt in the sight of a holy God. They shrank away from the mountain in fear and awe.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 309, 310.

5.b.      Was there a need to change this law? Did Jesus change it? Psalm 111:7, 8; Matthew 5:17–19.

Note: “The law of God in the sanctuary in heaven is the great original, of which the precepts inscribed upon the tables of stone and recorded by Moses in the Pentateuch were an unerring transcript. … The law of God, being a revelation of His will, a transcript of His character, must forever endure, ‘as a faithful witness in heaven’ (Psalm 89:37). Not one command has been annulled; not a jot or tittle has been changed. Says the psalmist: ‘Forever, O Lord, Thy word is settled in heaven.’ ‘All His commandments are sure. They stand fast for ever and ever’ (Psalm 119:89; 111:7, 8).” The Great Controversy, 434.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    How did the natural beauty surrounding Mount Sinai affect the Israelites? Why is it so important to regularly spend time in nature?

2    What pledge does God want me to make with Him daily?

3    Why did God speak with His own voice when proclaiming the Ten Commandments to the children of Israel?

4    What is the result of having the law of love, the love of Jesus, in the soul?

5    Explain why the law is unchanging.

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – The Visit of Jethro

by

December 6 – 12, 2002

Key Text

“And Moses’ father in law said unto him, … Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens” (Exodus 18:17, 21).

Study Help: Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 13–18.

Introduction

“In His instruction to Moses the Lord very plainly set forth the character of those who were to fill important positions as counselors.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 341.

Sunday

  1. A HAPPY REUNION

1.a. After the battle with the Amalekites, who came to visit Moses, and whom did he bring with him? Exodus 18:1–5.

Note: “Not far distant from where the Israelites were now encamped was the home of Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses. Jethro had heard of the deliverance of the Hebrews, and he now set out to visit them, and restore to Moses his wife and two sons.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 300.

1.b.      When Jethro sent word to Moses that he was coming, what did Moses do at once? Exodus 18:6, 7.

Note: “The great leader was informed by messengers of their approach, and he went out with joy to meet them, and, the first greetings over, conducted them to his tent. He had sent back his family when on his way to the perils of leading Israel from Egypt, but now he could again enjoy the relief and comfort of their society.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 300.

Monday

  1. SHARING THE GOOD NEWS

2.a. What did Moses tell his father-in-law? Exodus 18:8.

2.b.      How did Jethro react to the good news? Exodus 18:9–12.

Note: “To Jethro he [Moses] recounted the wonderful dealings of God with Israel, and the patriarch rejoiced and blessed the Lord, and with Moses and the elders he united in offering sacrifice and holding a solemn feast in commemoration of God’s mercy.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 300.

2.c. What should we remember as we come in contact with others both within and without the church? Psalm 105:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

Note: “The dealings of God with His people should be often repeated. How frequently were the waymarks set up by the Lord in His dealings with ancient Israel! Lest they should forget the history of the past, He commanded Moses to frame these events into song, that parents might teach them to their children. They were to gather up memorials and to lay them up in sight. Special pains were taken to preserve them, that when the children should inquire concerning these things, the whole story might be repeated. Thus the providential dealings and the marked goodness and mercy of God in His care and deliverance of His people were kept in mind. … For His people in this generation the Lord has wrought as a wonder-working God. … We need often to recount God’s goodness and to praise Him for His wonderful works. …

“Let us look to the monumental pillars, reminders of what the Lord has done to comfort us and to save us from the hand of the destroyer. Let us keep fresh in our memory all the tender mercies that God has shown us—the tears He has wiped away, the pains He has soothed, the anxieties removed, the fears dispelled, the wants supplied, the blessings bestowed—thus strengthening ourselves for all that is before us through the remainder of our pilgrimage.” Conflict and Courage, 364.

“We are the constant recipients of God’s mercies, and yet how little gratitude we express, how little we praise Him for what He has done for us.” Steps to Christ, 103.

Tuesday

  1. JETHRO GIVES ADVICE

3.a. What did Jethro observe concerning the judicial work of Moses, and what was Moses’ response? Exodus 18:13–16.

Note: “As Jethro remained in the camp, he soon saw how heavy were the burdens that rested upon Moses. To maintain order and discipline among that vast, ignorant, and untrained multitude was indeed a stupendous task. Moses was their recognized leader and magistrate, and not only the general interests and duties of the people, but the controversies that arose among them, were referred to him. He had permitted this, for it gave him an opportunity to instruct them; as he said, ‘I do make them know the statutes of God, and His laws’ (Exodus 18:16). But Jethro remonstrated against this.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 300, 301.

3.b.      What advice did the godly priest then give to his son-in-law? Exodus 18:17–23.

 3.c. What were the four main qualifications that the visitor emphasized in the selections of the men who were to share Moses’ burdens? Exodus 18:21, first part. What counsel, given to those selecting managers for schools, is just as applicable in the various departments of the work today?

Note: “Wherever schools are established, wise managers must be provided, ‘able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness’ (Exodus 18:21) men who will do their very best in the various responsibilities of their positions. Business ability they should have, but it is of still greater importance that they walk humbly with God and are guided by the Holy Spirit. Such men will be taught of God, and they will seek counsel of their brethren who are men of prayer.

“The managers of our schools must labor with pure motives. In their unselfishness they will remember that other parts of the great harvest field will require the same facilities that are provided for the school under their care.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 215.

Wednesday

  1. FOLLOWING THE ADVICE

4.a. How did Moses respond to the wise counsel of his father-in-law? Exodus 18:24, 25.

Note: “The Lord had greatly honored Moses, and had wrought wonders by His hand; but the fact that he had been chosen to instruct others did not lead him to conclude that he himself needed no instruction. The chosen leader of Israel listened gladly to the suggestions of the godly priest of Midian, and adopted his plan as a wise arrangement.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 301.

4.b.      What does this teach us about how we should treat those who are older and more experienced than we are? What makes their advice valuable? Leviticus 19:32; Proverbs 16:31.

 Note: “Reverence should be shown for God’s representatives—for ministers, teachers, and parents who are called to speak and act in His stead. In the respect shown to them He is honored.

“And God has especially enjoined tender respect toward the aged. He says, ‘The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness’ (Proverbs 16:31). It tells of battles fought, and victories gained; of burdens borne, and temptations resisted. It tells of weary feet nearing their rest, of places soon to be vacant. Help the children to think of this, and they will smooth the path of the aged by their courtesy and respect, and will bring grace and beauty into their young lives as they heed the command to ‘rise up before the hoary head, and honor the face of the old man’ (Leviticus 19:32).” Education, 244.

4.c. What was the result of the recommended delegation of authority? Exodus 18:26.

Note: “This counsel was accepted, and it not only brought relief to Moses, but resulted in establishing more perfect order among the people.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 301.

Thursday

  1. MOSES’ QUALIFICATION FOR LEADERSHIP

5.a. Just as God required those under Moses to have certain qualities, what were Moses’ special qualifications? What important attribute did he possess? Numbers 12:3.

Note: “Moses was a humble man; God called him the meekest man on earth. He was generous, noble, well-balanced; he was not defective, and his qualities were not merely half developed. He could successfully exhort his fellow-men, because his life itself was a living representation of what man can become and accomplish with God as his helper, of what he taught to others, of what he desired them to be, and of what God required of him. He spoke from the heart and it reached the heart. He was accomplished in knowledge and yet simple as a child in the manifestation of his deep sympathies. Endowed with a remarkable instinct, he could judge instantly of the needs of all who surrounded him, and of the things which were in bad condition and required attention, and he did not neglect them.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1113.

5.b.      What special promise was given by Jesus to the meek? Matthew 5:5.

Note: “Meekness is a precious, Christian attribute. The meekness and lowliness of Christ are only learned by wearing Christ’s yoke. … That yoke signifies entire submission.” In Heavenly Places, 236.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    What qualities should we look for in choosing leaders in the work today? Should those who lack these qualities be chosen?

2    What is of greater importance than business ability when choosing men for responsible positions?

3    What should we often speak about in our contact with others? Why?

4    How should we treat our ministers, parents, and teachers in the faith?

5    Why were Moses’ exhortations so powerful? What does this teach me?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – God Provides for His People

by

Wilderness Wanderings

November 29 – December 5, 2020

Key Text

“But Moses’ hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun” (Exodus 17:12).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 297–300.

Introduction

“Happy the minister who has a faithful Aaron and Hur to strengthen his hands when they become weary and to hold them up by faith and prayer. Such a support is a powerful aid to the servant of Christ in his work and will often make the cause of truth to triumph gloriously.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 531.

Sunday

  1. THE PEOPLE MURMUR AGAIN

1a. How did the children of Israel murmur against Moses when they arrived at Rephidim?

Note: “The Lord directed their course where there was no water, to prove them, to see if, after receiving so many evidences of His power, they had learned to turn to Him in their affliction, and had repented of their past rebellious murmurings against Him. They had charged Moses and Aaron with selfish motives in bringing them from Egypt to kill them and their children with hunger, that they might be enriched with their possessions. In doing this the Israelites ascribed to man that which they had received unmistakable evidence was from God alone, whose power is unlimited. These wonderful manifestations of the power of God He would have them ascribe to Him alone, and magnify His name upon the earth. … If they would not glorify God in their trials and adversity, in their travels through the wilderness to the Canaan in prospect, while God was continually giving them unmistakable evidence of His power and glory, and His care for them, they would not magnify His name and glorify Him when established in the land of Canaan, surrounded with blessings and prosperity.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 107.

Monday

  1. GOD PROVIDES

2.a. What did Moses do after he had heard their complaints? Exodus 17:4; Jeremiah 29:12.

Note: “The Lord says, ‘Call upon Me in the day of trouble’ (Psalm 50:15). He invites us to present to Him our perplexities and necessities, and our need of divine help. He bids us be instant in prayer. As soon as difficulties arise, we are to offer to Him our sincere, earnest petitions. By our importunate prayers we give evidence of our strong confidence in God. The sense of our need leads us to pray earnestly, and our heavenly Father is moved by our supplications.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 172.

2.b.      To what place, and with what specific instructions, did God send Moses for water? How was water miraculously provided? Exodus 17:5, 6.

Note: “In distress Moses cried to the Lord, ‘What shall I do unto this people’ (Exodus 17:4)? He was directed to take the elders of Israel and the rod wherewith he had wrought wonders in Egypt, and to go on before the people. And the Lord said unto him, ‘Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink’ (verse 6). He obeyed, and the waters burst forth in a living stream that abundantly supplied the encampment. Instead of commanding Moses to lift up his rod and call down some terrible plague, like those on Egypt, upon the leaders in this wicked murmuring, the Lord in His great mercy made the rod His instrument to work their deliverance.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 298.

2.c. What other names did Moses give to that place, and why did he rename it? Exodus 17:7, margin.

Note: “In their thirst the people had tempted God, saying, ‘Is the Lord among us, or not?’ (Exodus 17:7, last part). ‘If God has brought us here, why does He not give us water as well as bread?’ The unbelief thus manifested was criminal, and Moses feared that the judgments of God would rest upon them. And he called the name of the place Massah, ‘temptation,’ and Meribah, ‘chiding,’ as a memorial of their sin.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 298.

Tuesday

  1. SYMBOLS OF CHRIST

3.a. Of whom is the smitten rock a type? 1 Corinthians 10:4.

Note: “Moses smote the rock, but it was the Son of God who, veiled in the cloudy pillar, stood beside Moses, and caused the life-giving water to flow. Not only Moses and the elders, but all the congregation who stood at a distance, beheld the glory of the Lord; but had the cloud been removed, they would have been slain by the terrible brightness of Him who abode therein.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 298.

3.b.      In what other sense is Jesus referred to as a rock? Psalm 94:22; Mark 12:10.

Note: “In infinite wisdom, God chose the foundation stone, and laid it Himself. He called it ‘a sure foundation’ (Isaiah 28:16, last part). The entire world may lay upon it their burdens and griefs; it can endure them all. With perfect safety they may build upon it. Christ is a ‘tried stone’ (Isaiah 28:16, second part). Those who trust in Him, He never disappoints. He has borne every test. He has endured the pressure of Adam’s guilt, and the guilt of his posterity, and has come off more than conqueror of the powers of evil. He has borne the burdens cast upon Him by every repenting sinner. In Christ the guilty heart has found relief. He is the sure foundation. All who make Him their dependence rest in perfect security. …

“By connection with Christ, the living stone, all who build upon this foundation become living stones. Many persons are by their own endeavors hewn, polished, and beautified; but they cannot become ‘living stones,’ because they are not connected with Christ. Without this connection, no man can be saved. Without the life of Christ in us, we cannot withstand the storms of temptation.” The Desire of Ages, 598, 599.

3.c. What symbolized the water that flowed from the smitten rock? John 4:10:10–14; 7:37–39.

Note: “He who drinks of the living water becomes a fountain of life. The receiver becomes a giver. The grace of Christ in the soul is like a spring in the desert, welling up to refresh all, and making those who are ready to perish eager to drink of the water of life.” The Desire of Ages, 195.

Wednesday

  1. THE BATTLE WITH AMALEK

4.a. What danger next threatened the people of Israel? Exodus 17:8.

Note: “Because of Israel’s disobedience and departure from God, they were allowed to be brought into close places and to suffer adversity; their enemies were permitted to make war with them, to humble them and lead them to seek God in their trouble and distress. ‘Then came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim’ (Exodus 17:8). This took place immediately after the children of Israel had given themselves up to their rebellious murmurings and to unjust, unreasonable complaints against their leaders whom God had qualified and appointed to lead them through the wilderness to the land of Canaan.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 106, 107.

4.b.      How did God defeat the Amalekites? Exodus 17:9–12.

Note: “When the Amalekites came to attack the camp of Israel in the wilderness, Moses knew that his people were not prepared for the encounter. He sent Joshua with a band of soldiers to meet the enemy, while he himself, with Aaron and Hur, took his position on a hill overlooking the battlefield. There the man of God laid the case before Him who alone was able to give them the victory. With hands outstretched toward heaven, Moses prayed earnestly for the success of the armies of Israel. It was observed that while his hands were reaching upward, Israel prevailed against the foe; but when through fatigue they were allowed to fall, Amalek prevailed. Aaron and Hur stayed up the hands of Moses until victory, full and complete, turned upon the side of Israel and their enemies were driven from the field.

“This instance was to be a lesson to all Israel to the close of time that God is the strength of His people. When Israel triumphed, Moses was reaching his hands toward heaven and interceding in their behalf; so when all the Israel of God prevail, it is because the Mighty One undertakes their case and fights their battles for them. Moses did not ask or believe that God would overcome their foes while Israel remained inactive. He marshals all his forces and sends them out as well prepared as their facilities can make them, and then he takes the whole matter to God in prayer. Moses on the mount is pleading with the Lord, while Joshua with his brave followers is below, doing his best to meet and repulse the enemies of Israel and of God.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 530, 531.

Thursday

  1. AMALEK IS OVERCOME

5.a. After the Amalekites had been defeated, what sentence was pronounced upon them? Exodus 17:14; Deuteronomy 25:17–19.

Note: “The wonders wrought by Moses before the Egyptians were made a subject of mockery by the people of Amalek, and the fears of surrounding nations were ridiculed. They had taken oath by their gods that they would destroy the Hebrews, so that not one should escape, and they boasted that Israel’s God would be powerless to resist them. They had not been injured or threatened by the Israelites. Their assault was wholly unprovoked. It was to manifest their hatred and defiance of God that they sought to destroy His people. … When the men of Amalek fell upon the wearied and defenseless ranks of Israel, they sealed their nation’s doom. The care of God is over the weakest of His children. No act of cruelty or oppression toward them is unmarked by Heaven. Over all who love and fear Him, His hand extends as a shield; let men beware that they smite not that hand; for it wields the sword of justice.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 300.

5.b.      What should we remember when we are persecuted in a similar manner today as was Israel by the Amalekites? Matthew 5:11,12. How does God regard those who persecute their own brethren?

Note: “If God thus punished the cruelty of a heathen nation, how must He regard those who, professing to be His people, will make war upon their own brethren who are worn and wearied laborers in His cause?” Testimonies, vol. 5, 245.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    How is trial and adversity a test for us today, as it was for the Israelites?

2    When we pray earnestly in difficult situations, what does this reveal?

3    What is the key to becoming a living stone?

4    What is sometimes the cause of us being brought into difficult places?

5    What sin sealed Amalek’s doom? How are we sometimes guilty of the same sin?

Copyright 2019, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – Bread from Heaven

by

November 22 – 28, 2020

Key Text

“And the children of Israel did eat manna forty years, until they came to a land inhabited; they did eat manna, until they came unto the borders of the land of Canaan” (Exodus 16:35).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 294–297.

Introduction

“For forty years they [the Israelites] were daily reminded by this miraculous provision, of God’s unfailing care and tender love. In the words of the psalmist, God gave them ‘of the corn of heaven. Man did eat angels’ food’ (Psalm 78:24, 25)—that is, food provided for them by the angels.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 297.

Sunday

  1. MURMURING AND COMPLAINING AGAIN

1.a. Why did the Israelites again murmur when they came to the wilderness of Sin? Exodus 16:1–3.

Note: “They had not as yet suffered from hunger; their present wants were supplied, but they feared for the future. They could not understand how these vast multitudes were to subsist in their travels through the wilderness, and in imagination they saw their children famishing. The Lord permitted difficulties to surround them, and their supply of food to be cut short, that their hearts might turn to Him who had hitherto been their Deliverer. If in their want they would call upon Him, He would still grant them manifest tokens of His love and care. He had promised that if they would obey His commandments, no disease should come upon them, and it was sinful unbelief on their part to anticipate that they or their children might die of hunger. …

“They saw and felt only their present inconveniences and trials; and instead of saying, ‘God has done great things for us; whereas we were slaves, He is making of us a great nation,’ they talked of the hardness of the way, and wondered when their weary pilgrimage would end.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 292, 293.

Monday

  1. REBUKING THE MURMURERS

2.a. What did the Lord provide, and how did He test the people in the supply of their daily provisions? Exodus 16:4, 5.

2.b. What was the response of Moses and Aaron to the unreasonable murmurings of the people? Exodus 16:6–10.

Note: “Moses assured the congregation that their wants were to be supplied: ‘The Lord shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in the morning bread to the full’ (Exodus 16:8). And he added, ‘What are we? your murmurings are not against us, but against the Lord.’ He further bade Aaron say to them, ‘Come near before the Lord: for He hath heard your murmurings’ (verse 9). While Aaron was speaking, ‘they looked toward the wilderness, and, behold, the glory of the Lord appeared in the cloud’ (verse 10). A splendor such as they had never witnessed symbolized the divine Presence. Through manifestations addressed to their senses, they were to obtain a knowledge of God. They must be taught that the Most High, and not merely the man Moses, was their leader, that they might fear His name and obey His voice.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 294, 295.

2.c. What promises do we have regarding our provisions of food today? Philippians 4:19; Psalm 37:25. How can we be like the murmuring children of Israel in this regard?

Note: “Though their present needs are supplied, many are unwilling to trust God for the future, and they are in constant anxiety lest poverty shall come upon them, and their children shall be left to suffer. Some are always anticipating evil or magnifying the difficulties that really exist, so that their eyes are blinded to the many blessings which demand their gratitude. The obstacles they encounter, instead of leading them to seek help from God, the only Source of strength, separate them from Him, because they awaken unrest and repining.

“No place should be given to that distrust of God which leads us to make a preparation against future want the chief pursuit of life, as though our happiness consisted in these earthly things. It is not the will of God that His people should be weighed down with care.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 293, 294.

Tuesday

  1. GOD PROVIDES FOR HIS PEOPLE

3.a. What kind of food did the Lord supply to the Israelites in the evening and in the morning on one occasion and later for one month? Exodus 16:11–15. Why was God so particular in the type of food He supplied for them?

Note: “If the Israelites had been given the diet to which they had been accustomed while in Egypt, they would have exhibited the unmanageable spirit that the world is exhibiting today. In the diet of men and women in this age there are included many things that the Lord would not have permitted the children of Israel to eat. The human family as it is today is an illustration of what the children of Israel would have been if God had allowed them to eat the food and follow the habits and customs of the Egyptians.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1102.

“In Egypt their taste had become perverted. God designed to restore their appetite to a pure, healthy state, in order that they might enjoy the simple fruits that were given to Adam and Eve in Eden. He was about to establish them in a second Eden, a goodly land, where they might enjoy the fruits and grains that He would provide for them. He purposed to remove the feverish diet upon which they had subsisted in Egypt; for He wished them to be in perfect health and soundness when they entered the goodly land to which He was leading them, so that the surrounding heathen nations might be constrained to glorify the God of Israel, the God who had done so wonderful a work for His people. Unless the people who acknowledged Him as the God of heaven were in perfect soundness of health, His name could not be glorified.” Ibid.

3.b.      Describe the manna and how it was to be prepared. Exodus 16:31; Numbers 11:7, 8.

Note: “In the morning there lay upon the surface of the ground ‘a small round thing, as small as the hoarfrost’ (Exodus 16:14). ‘It was like coriander seed, white’ (verse 31). The people called it ‘manna.’ Moses said, ‘This is the bread which the Lord hath given you to eat’ (verse 15, last part). The people gathered the manna, and found that there was an abundant supply for all. They ‘ground it in mills, or beat it in a mortar, and baked it in pans, and made cakes of it’ (Numbers 11:8). ‘And the taste of it was like wafers made with honey’ (Exodus 16:31).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 295.

Wednesday

  1. GATHERING THE MANNA

4.a. What directions did the people receive for gathering manna? Exodus 16:16–26. How did the manna illustrate the necessity of Sabbath observance before the giving of the law at Sinai?

Note: “Every week during their long sojourn in the wilderness the Israelites witnessed a threefold miracle, designed to impress their minds with the sacredness of the Sabbath: a double quantity of manna fell on the sixth day, none on the seventh, and the portion needed for the Sabbath was preserved sweet and pure, when if any were kept over at any other time it became unfit for use.

“In the circumstances connected with the giving of the manna, we have conclusive evidence that the Sabbath was not instituted, as many claim, when the law was given at Sinai. Before the Israelites came to Sinai they understood the Sabbath to be obligatory upon them. In being obliged to gather every Friday a double portion of manna in preparation for the Sabbath, when none would fall, the sacred nature of the day of rest was continually impressed upon them.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 296.

4.b.      How long did the daily supply of manna last? Exodus 16:35. Why did God remove it?

Note: “ ‘On the fourteenth day of the month at even’ (Exodus 12:18), the Passover was celebrated on the plains of Jericho. ‘And they did eat of the old corn of the land on the morrow after the Passover, unleavened cakes, and parched corn in the selfsame day. And the manna ceased on the morrow after they had eaten of the old corn of the land; neither had the children of Israel manna any more; but they did eat of the fruit of the land of Canaan’ (Joshua 5:11, 12). The long years of their desert wanderings were ended. The feet of Israel were at last treading the Promised Land.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 486.

4.c. Why was a pot of manna kept in the ark of the covenant? Exodus 16:32, 33; Hebrews 9:4.

Thursday

  1. EATING MANNA TODAY

5.a. What is the manna that we are to gather and eat today? Jeremiah 15:16; John 6:63, second part. How often do we need to do this?

Note: “His [God’s] words are the manna from heaven for the soul to feed upon and receive spiritual strength. The Bible is the great standard of right and wrong, clearly defining sin and holiness. Its living principles, running through our lives like threads of gold, are our only safeguard in trial and temptation.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 422.

“Each must come to Christ with his own soul hunger, each must have his own convictions, feel his own soul’s need, and learn of Christ for himself.

“Filled with the Bread of Life, we cannot hunger for earthly attractions, worldly excitements, and earthly grandeur. Our religious experience will be of the same order as the food upon which we feed.

“The food we eat at one meal does not satisfy us forever. We must daily partake of food. So we must daily eat the Word of God that the life of the soul may be renewed. In those who feed constantly upon the Word, Christ is formed, the hope of glory. A neglect to read and study the Bible brings spiritual starvation.” Our High Calling, 209.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. What kinds of things did the children of Israel complain about? How did this reveal a lack of faith?
  2. What am I forgetting when I focus on the difficulties and the evil around me?
  3. What happens when I eat the food and follow the customs of Egypt? Why should I be so concerned about being healthy?
  4. How did the supply of manna impress upon God’s people the sacredness of the Sabbath?
  5. As I fill myself with the Bread of Life, through the study of the Word, what will happen to me? Why is it so important for me to eat this Bread every day?

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