Bible Study Guides

Bible Study Guides – Testing the Prophet’s Claims

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November 4, 2007 – November 10, 2007

Key Text

“Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21.

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 5, 671–676; Selected Messages, Book 2, 63–100.

Introduction

“Christ warned His disciples: ‘Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.’ [Matthew 7:15-20.] Here is a test, and all can apply it if they will. Those who really desire to know the truth will find sufficient evidence for belief.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 671, 672.

1 By what unerring standards must the teachings of any who lay claim to the gift of prophecy be measured? Isaiah 8:20.

note: “In these days of peril we are not to accept everything that men bring to us as truth. As professed teachers from God come to us declaring that they have a message from God, it is proper to inquire carefully, How do we know that this is truth? Jesus has told us that ‘false prophets shall arise and shall deceive many.’ [Matthew 24:11.] But we need not be deceived; for the Word of God gives us a test whereby we may know what is truth. The prophet says, ‘To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.’ [Isaiah 8:20.]” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 951.

2 Did Ellen White’s work call people to God or away from God?

note: “While conflicting doctrines and theories abound, the law of God is the one unerring rule by which all opinions, doctrines, and theories are to be tested.” The Great Controversy, 452.

“I [Ellen White] recommend to you, dear reader, the Word of God as the rule of your faith and practice. By that Word we are to be judged. God has, in that Word, promised to give visions in the ‘last days’; not for a new rule of faith, but for the comfort of His people, and to correct those who err from Bible truth.” Early Writings, 78.

“Even the work of the Holy Spirit upon the heart is to be tested by the Word of God. The Spirit which inspired the Scriptures, always leads to the Scriptures.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 43.

3 By what standard or test do some oppose the truth? 1 Timothy 6:20.

note: “When a man feels so very wise that he dares to dissect God’s Word, his wisdom is, with God, counted foolishness. When he knows more, he will feel that he has everything to learn. And his very first lesson is to become teachable.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 42.

4 What is another crucial test of a prophet’s work? Deuteronomy 18:20-22; Jeremiah 28:9. See also 1 Samuel 9:6; Lamentations 3:37.

note: “Jeremiah . . . cited the men of Judah to the prophecies of Hosea, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, and others whose messages of reproof and warning had been similar to his own. He referred them to events which had taken place in fulfillment of prophecies of retribution for unrepented sin. In the past the judgments of God had been visited upon the impenitent in exact fulfillment of His purpose as revealed through His messengers.” Prophets and Kings, 445.

Although Ellen White’s work was not basically that of a forecaster of future events, yet in some instances she predicted conditions and events the fulfillments of which give evidence of her prophetic gift. For example, in 1904 she wrote: “The time is fast coming when the controlling power of the labor unions will be very oppressive.” Country Living, 9. In 1906, she wrote thus of calamities: “I am bidden to declare the message that cities full of transgression, and sinful in the extreme, will be destroyed by earthquakes, by fire, by flood.” Evangelism, 27.

In other instances, the predictive nature of her statements is not so evident, but she stated insights into the society of her day that have become increasingly descriptive of present-day society: (1) Decadence―Testimonies, vol. 9, 13; (2) Anarchy―Education, 228; (3) Urban problems―Testimonies, vol. 7, 82; (4) Youth dissipation―Temperance, 274.

5 In applying the test of fulfilled predictions, what must be taken into consideration? Jeremiah 18:9, 10.

note: “[Jeremiah 18:1-10 quoted.] This presents before us God’s way of dealing with His people. He sends warnings. He pleads with them to cease to do evil and learn to do well. Hear the words of Christ, for they are spoken to all who claim to be His people. Blessings are promised to all who follow the Lord to do righteousness, but those who walk in their own ways show that under the trying circumstances liable to occur anywhere, they will prove unfaithful, and God cannot bless them.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, 1156.

“The angels of God in their messages to men represent time as very short. Thus it has always been presented to me [Ellen White]. It is true that time has continued longer than we expected in the early days of this message. Our Saviour did not appear as soon as we hoped. But has the word of the Lord failed? Never! It should be remembered that the promises and threatenings of God are alike conditional.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 67.

6 What does John state as another mark of a true prophet? 1 John 4:1, 2.

note: “In this age of the world we see every grade and degree of skepticism. There are rank infidels, those who believe in the lying wonders of Spiritualism, and those who reject the claims of divine truth. All these are placed among the class that John has written of, and are controlled by the spirit of antichrist. Ignorance of the character of God, pride of understanding, and the love of sin, are the source of infidelity. Men deny the divinity of Christ, cast away the Bible, and thus seek to free themselves from personal accountability to God. They bring the Bible into conflict with ‘science, falsely so called.’ [1 Timothy 6:20.] These doubters can start inquiries which the most humble and pious Christian would be perplexed to know how to answer. But because their queries cannot be answered, is no evidence that the Bible is not true. A little child has asked questions in regard to God, the soul, and the future, that the most learned could not answer. The truth of God’s word will be revealed to those who are of a lowly heart, who will comprehend its duties and obey its precepts. It is pride of opinion that leads to skepticism, and to the denial of the divinity of Jesus Christ.” The Signs of the Times, September 3, 1894.

“The Word of God is solid rock, and we may plant our feet securely upon it. Every soul must needs be tested, every faith and doctrine must needs be tried by the law and the testimony. Take heed that no man deceive you. The warnings of Christ on this matter are needed at this time; for delusions and deceptions will come in among us, and will multiply as we near the end.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 952.

7 What reasonable test should be applied to anyone professing to exercise the prophetic gift? Matthew 7:15-20.

note: “Christ warned His disciples: [Matthew 7:15-20 quoted]. Here is a test, and . . . you can apply it if you will. You need not go in uncertainty and doubt. Satan is at hand to suggest a variety of doubts, but if you will open your eyes in faith you will find sufficient evidence for belief. But God will never remove from any man all causes for doubts. Those who love to dwell in the atmosphere of doubt and questioning unbelief can have the unenviable privilege. God gives sufficient evidence for the candid mind to believe; but he who turns from the weight of evidence because there are a few things which he cannot make plain to his finite understanding will be left in the cold, chilling atmosphere of unbelief and questioning doubts, and will make shipwreck of faith. You have seemed to consider it a virtue to be on the side of the doubting rather than on the side of the believing. Jesus never praised unbelief; He never commended doubts. He gave to His nation evidences of His Messiahship in the miracles He wrought, but there were some who considered it a virtue to doubt and who would reason these evidences away and find something in every good work to question and censure.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 232, 233.

8 What invitation did Ellen White give to investigators who sought to examine the fruitage of her prophetic visions?

note: “Let the Testimonies be judged by their fruits. What is the spirit of their teaching? What has been the result of their influence? ‘All who desire to do so can acquaint themselves with the fruits of these visions.’ . . .

“ ‘God is either teaching His church, reproving their wrongs and strengthening their faith, or He is not. This work is of God, or it is not. God does nothing in partnership with Satan. My work . . . bears the stamp of God or the stamp of the enemy. There is no halfway work in the matter. The Testimonies are of the Spirit of God, or of the devil.’ ” Testimonies, vol. 5, 671.

9 How did Mrs. White explain her experience as God’s messenger?

note: “As the Lord has manifested Himself through the spirit of prophecy, ‘past, present, and future have passed before me [Ellen White]. I have been shown faces that I had never seen, and years afterward I knew them when I saw them. I have been aroused from my sleep with a vivid sense of subjects previously presented to my mind; and I have written, at midnight, letters that have gone across the continent and, arriving at a crisis, have saved great disaster to the cause of God. This has been my work for many years. A power has impelled me to reprove and rebuke wrongs that I had not thought of. Is this work of the last thirty-six years from above or from beneath?’ ” Testimonies, vol. 5, 671.

10 What warning does John sound to guard the church from deception? 1 John 4:1. See also Matthew 7:15.

note: “There will be false dreams and false visions, which have some truth, but lead away from the original faith. The Lord has given men a rule by which to detect them: ‘To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.’ [Isaiah 8:20.] If they belittle the law of God, if they pay no heed to his will as revealed in the testimonies of his Spirit, they are deceivers. They are controlled by impulse and impressions, which they believe to be from the Holy Spirit, and consider more reliable than the inspired word. They claim that every thought and feeling is an impression of the Spirit; and when they are reasoned with out of the Scriptures, they declare that they have something more reliable. But while they think that they are led by the Spirit of God, they are in reality following an imagination wrought upon by Satan.” The Signs of the Times, March 27, 1884.

11 Are we justified in testing those who claim divine enlightenment by the messages given through the spirit of prophecy?

note: “In these days of peril we are not to accept everything that men bring to us as truth. As professed teachers from God come to us declaring that they have a message from God, it is proper to inquire carefully, How do we know that this is truth? Jesus has told us that ‘false prophets shall arise and shall deceive many.’ [Matthew 24:11.] But we need not be deceived; for the Word of God gives us a test whereby we may know what is truth. The prophet says, ‘To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.’ [Isaiah 8:20.]” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 951.

12 What does Paul admonish Christians to do? 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21.

note: “The Lord does not want us to have a blind credulity, and call that the faith that sanctifies. The truth is the principle that sanctifies, and therefore it becomes us to know what is truth. We must compare spiritual things with spiritual. We must prove all things, but hold fast only that which is good, that which bears the divine credentials, which lays before us the true motives and principles which should prompt us to action.” Selected Messages, Book 2, 56.

Bible Study Guides – Delivering God’s Message

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October 28, 2007 – November 3, 2007

Key Text

“I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send [it] unto the seven churches.” Revelation 1:10, 11, first part.

Study Help: Selected Messages, Book 1, 49–58; Testimonies, vol. 5, 654–660.

Introduction

“The Bible is written by inspired men, but it is not God’s mode of thought and expression. It is that of humanity. God, as a writer, is not represented. Men will often say such an expression is not like God. But God has not put Himself in words, in logic, in rhetoric, on trial in the Bible. The writers of the Bible were God’s penmen, not His pen. Look at the different writers.

“It is not the words of the Bible that are inspired, but the men that were inspired. Inspiration acts not on the man’s words or his expressions but on the man himself, who, under the influence of the Holy Ghost, is imbued with thoughts. But the words receive the impress of the individual mind. The divine mind is diffused. The divine mind and will is combined with the human mind and will; thus the utterances of the man are the word of God.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 21.

Ellen White’s experience in receiving and delivering God’s messages was parallel with the prophets of God in past ages. She was another prophet through whom God gave His messages. The following passage illustrates how God spoke through the spirit of prophecy in establishing the Seventh-day Adventist doctrines upon the Bible:

“We are to be established in the faith, in the light of the truth given us in our early experience. At that time one error after another pressed in upon us; ministers and doctors brought in new doctrines. We would search the Scriptures with much prayer, and the Holy Spirit would bring the truth to our minds. Sometimes whole nights would be devoted to searching the Scriptures, and earnestly asking God for guidance. Companies of devoted men and women assembled for this purpose. The power of God would come upon me [Ellen White], and I was enabled clearly to define what is truth and what is error.

“As the points of our faith were thus established, our feet were placed upon a solid foundation. We accepted the truth point by point, under the demonstration of the Holy Spirit. I would be taken off in vision, and explanations would be given me. I was given illustrations of heavenly things, and of the sanctuary, so that we were placed where light was shining on us in clear, distinct rays.” Gospel Workers, 302.

1 What command came to the youthful prophet Jeremiah regarding the message God would impart to him? Jeremiah 1:17. See also Ezekiel 11:25.

note: “For forty years Jeremiah was to stand before the nation as a witness for truth and righteousness. In a time of unparalleled apostasy he was to exemplify in life and character the worship of the only true God. During the terrible sieges of Jerusalem he was to be the mouthpiece of Jehovah. He was to predict the downfall of the house of David and the destruction of the beautiful temple built by Solomon. And when imprisoned because of his fearless utterances, he was still to speak plainly against sin in high places.” Prophets and Kings, 408.

2 What was one means by which the prophets delivered the prophetic message to the people? Jeremiah 26:2, 4, first part; Zechariah 1:3. Compare 1 Kings 11:29–40.

note: “Jeremiah was commanded by the Lord to stand in the court of the temple and speak to all the people of Judah who might pass in and out. From the messages given him he must diminish not a word, that sinners in Zion might have the fullest possible opportunity to hearken and to turn from their evil ways.” Prophets and Kings, 412, 413.

“The prophets Haggai and Zechariah were raised up to meet the crisis. In stirring testimonies these appointed messengers revealed to the people the cause of their troubles. The lack of temporal prosperity was the result of a neglect to put God’s interests first, the prophets declared.” Ibid., 573.

3 What were prophets at times bidden to do with the messages they received? Isaiah 30:8; Jeremiah 36:2; Revelation 21:1, 2, 5.

note: “The Lord commanded Jeremiah to commit to writing the messages he desired to bear to those for whose salvation his heart of pity was continually yearning.” Prophets and Kings, 432.

“Early in my public labors I [Ellen White] was bidden by the Lord, ‘Write, write the things that are revealed to you.’ At the time this message came to me, I could not hold my hand steady. My physical condition made it impossible for me to write. But again came the word, ‘Write the things that are revealed to you.’ I obeyed; and as the result it was not long before I could write page after page with comparative ease. Who told me what to write? Who steadied my right hand, and made it possible for me to use a pen?—It was the Lord.” Review and Herald, June 14, 1906.

4 How was a message often conveyed to an individual or church? Colossians 4:16; 11 Thessalonians 3:14, 17. Compare 11 Chronicles 21:12–14.

note: “As Paul’s epistle was opened and read, great joy and consolation was brought to the church by the words . . . .” The Acts of the Apostles, 258.

“Point after point Paul lingered over, in order that those who should read his epistle might fully comprehend the wonderful condescension of the Saviour in their behalf.” Ibid., 333.

“The prophet Elijah had not yet been translated, and he could not remain silent while the kingdom of Judah was pursuing the same course that had brought the northern kingdom to the verge of ruin. The prophet sent to Jehoram of Judah a written communication.” Prophets and Kings, 213.

“In these letters which I [Ellen White] write, in the testimonies I bear, I am presenting to you that which the Lord has presented to me.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 67.

5 At times, what help did the prophets employ? Jeremiah 36:4, 17, 18; Romans 16:22.

note: “The Lord commanded Jeremiah to commit to writing the messages he desired to bear to those for whose salvation his heart of pity was continually yearning. ‘Take thee a roll of a book,’ the Lord bade His servant, ‘and write therein all the words that I have spoken unto thee against Israel, and against Judah, and against all the nations, from the day I spake unto thee, from the days of Josiah, even unto this day. It may be that the house of Judah will hear all the evil which I purpose to do unto them; that they may return every man from his evil way; that I may forgive their iniquity and their sin.’ Jeremiah 36:2, 3.

“In obedience to this command, Jeremiah called to his aid a faithful friend, Baruch the scribe, and dictated ‘all the words of the Lord, which He had spoken unto him.’ Verse 4. These were carefully written out on a roll of parchment and constituted a solemn reproof for sin, a warning of the sure result of continual apostasy, and an earnest appeal for the renunciation of all evil.

“When the writing was completed, Jeremiah, who was still a prisoner, sent Baruch to read the roll to the multitudes who were assembling at the temple on the occasion of a national fast day.” Prophets and Kings, 432, 433.

“While my husband [James White] lived, he acted as a helper and counselor in the sending out of the messages that were given to me [Ellen White]. We traveled extensively. Sometimes light would be given to me in the night season, sometimes in the daytime before large congregations. The instruction I received in vision was faithfully written out by me, as I had time and strength for the work. Afterward we examined the matter together, my husband correcting grammatical errors and eliminating needless repetition. Then it was carefully copied for the persons addressed, or for the printer.

“As the work grew, others assisted me in the preparation of matter for publication. After my husband’s death, faithful helpers joined me, who labored untiringly in the work of copying the testimonies and preparing articles for publication.

“But the reports that are circulated, that any of my helpers are permitted to add matter or change the meaning of the messages I write out, are not true.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 50.

6 What instructions were given to Ezekiel in connection with his vision of the temple? Ezekiel 40:4.

note: “The Bible points to God as its author; yet it was written by human hands; and in the varied style of its different books it presents the characteristics of the several writers. The truths revealed are all ‘given by inspiration of God’ (11 Timothy 3:16); yet they are expressed in the words of men. The Infinite One by His Holy Spirit has shed light into the minds and hearts of His servants. He has given dreams and visions, symbols and figures; and those to whom the truth was thus revealed have themselves embodied the thought in human language.

“The Ten Commandments were spoken by God Himself, and were written by His own hand. They are of divine, and not of human composition. But the Bible, with its God-given truths expressed in the language of men, presents a union of the divine and the human.” The Great Controversy, v, vi.

“Although I [Ellen White] am as dependent upon the Spirit of the Lord in writing my views as I am in receiving them, yet the words I employ in describing what I have seen are my own, unless they be those spoken to me by an angel, which I always enclose in marks of quotation.” Review and Herald, October 8, 1867.

7 Through which of his senses did the apostle John, while in vision, receive information and instruction? Revelation 1:10, 11.

note: “We have been given a message exceeding in importance any other message ever entrusted to mortals. This message Christ came in person to the Isle of Patmos to present to John. He told him to write down what he saw and heard during his vision, that the churches might know what was to come upon the earth. Do our medical workers realize the importance of the message of Revelation? . . .” Medical Ministry, 37.

“As God has shown me [Ellen White] in holy vision . . . .” The Day Star, January 24, 1846. [Emphasis added.]

“The Spirit fell upon me [Ellen White], and I was taken off in vision. I saw . . . .” The Present Truth, August 1, 1849. [Emphasis added.]

8 What prompted the apostle Paul to write his letter, known as 1 Corinthians, to the church at Corinth? 1 Corinthians 1:11.

note: “Paul was an inspired apostle, yet the Lord did not reveal to him at all times just the condition of His people. Those who were interested in the prosperity of the church, and saw evils creeping in, presented the matter before him, and from the light which he had previously received he was prepared to judge of the true character of these developments. Because the Lord had not given him a new revelation for that special time, those who were really seeking light did not cast his message aside as only a common letter. No, indeed. The Lord had shown him the difficulties and dangers which would arise in the churches, that when they should develop he might know just how to treat them. . . .

“The reproof he sent them was written just as much under the inspiration of the Spirit of God as were any of his epistles.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 66.

9 In what way was God’s message of rebuke delivered to King David? 11 Samuel 12:1–7.

note: “Since the warning and instruction given in testimony for individual cases applied with equal force to many others who had not been specially pointed out in this manner, it seemed to be my [Ellen White] duty to publish the personal testimonies for the benefit of the church. In Testimony 15, speaking of the necessity for doing this, I said: ‘I know of no better way to present my views of general dangers and errors, and the duty of all who love God and keep His commandments, than by giving these testimonies. Perhaps there is no more direct and forcible way of presenting what the Lord has shown me.’ [vol. 2, p. 9 (1868).] . . .

“In rebuking the wrongs of one, He designs to correct many.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 658, 659.

10 In what firm manner did Peter bear testimony to a deceived believer? Acts 8:18–23.

note: “In a view given me [Ellen White] about twenty years ago, ‘I was then directed to bring out general principles, in speaking and in writing, and at the same time specify the dangers, errors, and sins of some individuals, that all might be warned, reproved, and counseled. I saw that all should search their own hearts and lives closely to see if they had not made the same mistakes for which others were corrected and if the warnings given for others did not apply to their own cases. If so, they should feel that the counsel and reproofs were given especially for them and should make as practical an application of them as though they were especially addressed to themselves.’ ” Testimonies, vol. 5, 660.

11 Upon what divine power was the agent of prophecy dependent? 11 Peter 1:20, 21.

note: “After I [Ellen White] come out of vision I do not at once remember all that I have seen, and the matter is not so clear before me until I write, then the scene rises before me as was presented in vision, and I can write with freedom. Sometimes the things which I have seen are hid from me after I come out of vision, and I cannot call them to mind until I am brought before a company where that vision applies, then the things which I have seen come to my mind with force. I am just as dependent upon the Spirit of the Lord in relating or writing a vision, as in having the vision. It is impossible for me to call up things which have been shown me unless the Lord brings them before me at the time that he is pleased to have me relate or write them.” Spiritual Gifts (1860), vol. 2, 292, 293.

12 With what solemn words were the prophets at times enjoined to be faithful in delivering God’s messages? Jeremiah 26:2; Ezekiel 2:5–7.

note: “The Lord commanded Jeremiah to stand in the court of the Lord’s house and speak unto all the people of Judah who came there to worship, those things which He would give him to speak, diminishing not a word, that they might hearken and turn from their evil ways.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 165.

13 Whom did Israel reject when they asked Samuel for a king? 1 Samuel 8:1–10.

note: “Those who despise and reject the faithful servant of God, not merely show contempt for the man, but for the Master who sent him. It is God’s words, his reproofs and counsel, that are set at naught; his authority that is rejected.” Signs of the Times, July 13, 1882.

“I [Ellen White] saw the state of some who stood on present truth, but disregarded the visions—the way God had chosen to teach in some cases, those who erred from Bible truth. I saw that in striking against the visions they did not strike against the worm—the feeble instrument that God spake through—but against the Holy Ghost. I saw it was a small thing to speak against the instrument, but it was dangerous to slight the words of God. I saw if they were in error and God chose to show them their errors through visions, and they disregarded the teachings of God through visions, they would be left to take their own way, and run in the way of error, and think they were right, until they would find it out too late. Then in the time of trouble I heard them cry to God in agony, ‘Why didst Thou not show us our wrong, that we might have got right and been ready for this time?’ Then an angel pointed to them and said, ‘My Father taught, but you would not be taught. He spoke through visions, but you disregarded His voice, and He gave you up to your own ways, to be filled with your own doings.’ ” Selected Messages, Book 1, 40.

Bible Study Guide – Confidence in the Spirit of Prophecy

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December 23, 2007 – December 29, 2007

Key Text

“Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision.” Acts 26:19.

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 5, 668–670; Selected Messages, Book 1, 40–48.

Introduction

“It is the responsibility of each individual to apply the Bible tests of a prophet to the life and ministry of Ellen White in order to be assured of the validity of her claim to be the messenger of the Lord… The inspiration of the messenger, the Scriptural nature of the instruction, the value and contribution of the messages, have been recognized and accepted since the beginnings of the [Seventh-day Adventist] church, even before there was denominational organization. Time has vindicated the confidence of the pioneers and the present believers and leaders of the advent cause in the guidance of God through the ministry and writings of Ellen White” T Housel Jemison, A Prophet Among You,< www.WhiteEstate.org> August 2007, 464.

1 By what figurative language did God describe the work of the ancient prophets? Hosea 6:5.

Note: “The people of God in these last days could not be safe in trusting in men, and making flesh their arm. The mighty cleaver of truth has taken them out of the world as rough stones that are to be hewed and squared and polished for the heavenly building. They must be hewed by the prophets with reproof, warning, admonition, and advice, that they may be fashioned after the divine Pattern; this is the specified work of the Comforter, to transform heart and character, that men may keep the way of the Lord.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 464.

2 What purpose did the Lord have in sending prophets to His straying people in days of old? What was the response? II Chronicles 24:19.

Note: “The question to be settled … is: Shall I deny myself and receive as of God the Testimonies which reprove my sins, or shall I reject the Testimonies because they reprove my sins?

“In many cases the Testimonies are fully received, the sin and indulgence broken off, and reformation at once commences in harmony with the light God has given. In other instances sinful indulgences are cherished, the Testimonies are rejected, and many excuses which are untrue are offered to others as the reason for refusing to receive them. The true reason is not given. It is a lack of moral courage—a will, strengthened and controlled by the Spirit of God, to renounce hurtful habits.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 32.

3 What messages did rebellious Judah ask the prophets to give? Isaiah 30:10. Compare Ezekiel 33:30–33.

Note: “There are some in these last days who will cry: ‘Speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits.’ [Isaiah 30:10.] But this is not my work. God has set me as a reprover of His people; and just so surely as He has laid upon me the heavy burden, He will make those to whom this message is given responsible for the manner in which they treat it. God will not be trifled with, and those who despise His work will receive according to their deeds.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 679.

4 What was Ahab’s attitude toward the true prophet of God? I Kings 22:8. To what did such an attitude often lead? Acts 7:52.

Note: “’It is Satan’s plan to weaken the faith of God’s people in the Testimonies.’ ‘Satan knows how to make his attacks. He works upon minds to excite jealousy and dissatisfaction toward those at the head of the work. The gifts are next questioned; then, of course, they have but little weight, and instruction given through vision is disregarded.’ ‘Next follows skepticism in regard to the vital points of our faith, the pillars of our position, then doubt as to the Holy Scriptures, and then the downward march to perdition. When the Testimonies, which were once believed, are doubted and given up, Satan knows the deceived ones will not stop at this; and he redoubles his efforts till he launches them into open rebellion, which becomes incurable and ends in destruction.’ [vol. 4, 211; vol. 1, 236.] ‘By giving place to doubts and unbelief in regard to the work of God, and by cherishing feelings of distrust and cruel jealousies, they are preparing themselves for complete deception.’ [vol. 3, 328.]” Testimonies, vol. 5, 672.

5 In contrast to the above, what was David’s attitude toward the message that came to him from the prophet Nathan? II Samuel 12:7–9, 13.

Note: Reporting on the work of Ellen White at a general gathering of workers in Europe, D. T. Bordeau wrote: “Not only does this gift reprove sin without dissimulation and partiality, as did Nathan when he said to David, ‘Thou art the man;’ but it deals in words of encouragement to help those reproved to overcome, and to inspire hope, faith, and courage to the desponding. It not only probes the wound, but it also pours in the oil, binds the wound, and hastens the process of restoration. It brings the receiver to the Bible, and earnestly endeavors to carry out the instructions it enjoins, exemplifying in a marked degree the rare graces of modesty, true humility, and self-denial. It identifies itself with those for whom it labors, bearing their burdens in earnest, persevering prayer, forgetful of self and ease, and keeping the glory of God and the salvation of souls in view, aiming to secure these at any sacrifice.” Review and Herald, November 20, 1885.

6 As Paul recounted his experience before King Agrippa, what did he declare had been his personal relationship to heavenly visions? Acts 26:19.

Note: “Paul declared that his change of faith had not been prompted by impulse or fanaticism, but had been brought about by overwhelming evidence.” The Acts of the Apostles, 125.

7 What principle is given to help the honest seeker in his study of revealed truth? I Corinthians 2:12, 13.

Note: “The Bible is its own expositor. Scripture is to be compared with scripture. The student should learn to view the word as a whole and to see the relation of its parts. He should gain a knowledge of its grand central theme—of God’s original purpose for the world, of the rise of the great controversy, and of the work of redemption.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 462.

“The testimonies themselves will be the key that will explain the messages given, as scripture is explained by scripture.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 42.

8 What need often arises even among those who have known the present truth? Hebrews 5:12. Compare II Peter 1:1–15.

Note: “We are not always to remain children in our knowledge and experience in spiritual things….

“God has given us many advantages and opportunities, and when the last great day shall be ushered in, and we shall see what we might have attained, had we taken advantage of the helps that Heaven vouchsafed to us; when we see how we might have grown in grace, and look upon these things as God looks upon them, seeing what we have lost by failing to grow up into the full stature of men and women in Christ, we shall wish that we had been more in earnest.” Sons and Daughters of God, 330.

“I [Ellen White] was then directed to bring out general principles, in speaking and in writing, and at the same time specify the dangers, errors, and sins of some individuals, that all might be warned, reproved, and counseled. I saw that all should search their own hearts and lives closely to see if they had not made the same mistakes for which others were corrected and if the warnings given for others did not apply to their own cases. If so, they should feel that the counsel and reproofs were given especially for them and should make as practical an application of them as though they were especially addressed to themselves.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 660.

9 What must we consider when we study certain specific counsels in the Bible and in the Testimonies?

Note: “Regarding the testimonies, nothing is ignored; nothing is cast aside; but time and place must be considered.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 57.

10 Against what misuses of the writings of Ellen White are we warned?

Note:

  • Not to be used as an iron rule or club. The following principle addressed to ministers applies to each individual: “They profess to believe the testimony borne, and some do harm by making them an iron rule for those who have had no experience in reference to them, but they fail to carry them out themselves.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 369.
  • Not to be used as proof for unbelievers. “Some have taken an injudicious course; when they have talked their faith to unbelievers, and the proof has been asked for, they have read a vision, instead of going to the Bible for proof. I [Ellen White] saw that this course was inconsistent, and prejudiced unbelievers against the truth. The visions can have no weight with those who have never seen them and know nothing of their spirit. They should not be referred to in such cases.” Ibid., 119, 120.
  • Not to select brief excerpts and use them out of context. “There are those who pick out from the Word of God, and also from the Testimonies, detached paragraphs or sentences that may be interpreted to suit their ideas, and they dwell upon these, and build themselves up in their own positions, when God is not leading them.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 179.

11 Have the passage of the years and the circumstances of modern times made the prophetic writings obsolete?

Note: “I [Ellen White] have been shown that the principles that were given us in the early days of the message are as important and should be regarded just as conscientiously today as they were then.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 158.

“Through His Holy Spirit the voice of God has come to us continually in warning and instruction, to confirm the faith of the believers in the spirit of prophecy…. Time and trial have not made void the instruction given…. The instruction that was given in the early days of the message is to be held as safe instruction to follow in these its closing days.” Review and Herald, July 18, 1907.

12 In Paul’s appeal to Agrippa, what pertinent question did he ask? Acts 26:27.

Note: “My brethren, beware of the evil heart of unbelief. The word of God is plain and close in its restrictions; it interferes with your selfish indulgence; therefore you do not obey it. The testimonies of His Spirit call your attention to the Scriptures, point out your defects of character, and rebuke your sins; therefore you do not heed them. And to justify your carnal, ease-loving course you begin to doubt whether the testimonies are from God. If you would obey their teachings you would be assured of their divine origin.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 234.

13 When there is no prophetic vision, what dire consequences result? Proverbs 29:18. Compare I Samuel 3:1.

Note: “Satan is … constantly pressing in the spurious—to lead away from the truth. The very last deception of Satan will be to make of none effect the testimony of the Spirit of God. ‘Where there is no vision, the people perish’ (Proverbs 29:18). Satan will work ingeniously, in different ways and through different agencies, to unsettle the confidence of God’s remnant people in the true testimony.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 48.

14 With what words did Jehoshaphat encourage the people as they followed the Lord’s direction given through the prophet? II Chronicles 20:20.

Note: “Some will yield their faith, and will deny the truth of the messages, pointing to them as falsehoods.

“Some will hold them up to ridicule, working against the light that God has been giving for years, and some who are weak in the faith will thus be led astray.

“But others will be greatly helped by the messages. Though not personally addressed, they will be corrected, and will be led to shun the evils specified…. The Spirit of the Lord will be in the instruction, and doubts existing in many minds will be swept away. The testimonies themselves will be the key that will explain the messages given, as scripture is explained by scripture. Many will read with eagerness the messages reproving wrong, that they may learn what they may do to be saved…. Light will dawn upon the understanding, and the Spirit will make an impression on minds, as Bible truth is clearly and simply presented in the messages that since 1846 God has been sending His people. These messages are to find their place in hearts, and transformations will take place.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 41, 42.

Bible Study Guides – Prophecy, a Guiding Light

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December 16, 2007 – December 22, 2007

Key Text

“And it shall come to pass, [that] whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the Lord hath said, and in the remnant whom the Lord shall call.” Joel 2:32.

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 5, 467–476; Prophets and Kings, 582–592; Testimonies, vol. 1, 179–184; Early Writings, 269–273.

Introduction

Jesus forewarned and forearmed the disciples and reminded them, “And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.” John 14:29. Ellen White comments, “They [the disciples] would say to one another: ‘He told us that this would come, and what we must do to meet it’” Testimonies, vol. 9, 235.

God has again spoken through the spirit of prophecy, and in so doing He has given to us in more minute detail a picture of the events of the last days. And the inspired message confirms the word of the Bible prophets and aids in a fuller and more complete understanding.

1 What experience will come, at the end of the time of trouble, to many of God’s people who sleep in their graves? Daniel 12:1, 2.

Note: “It is at midnight that God manifests His power for the deliverance of His people. The sun appears, shining in its strength. Signs and wonders follow in quick succession…. In the midst of the angry heavens is one clear space of indescribable glory, whence comes the voice of God like the sound of many waters, saying: ‘It is done.’ Revelation 16:17.

“That voice shakes the heavens and the earth. There is a mighty earthquake…

“Graves are opened, and ‘many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth . . . awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.’ Daniel 12:2. All who have died in the faith of the third angel’s message come forth from the tomb glorified, to hear God’s covenant of peace with those who have kept His law.” The Great Controversy, 636, 637.

2 What do the New Testament writers foretell concerning the deceptive power of Satanic agencies? II Thessalonians 2:9, 10; II Corinthians 11:13–15; Revelation 16:13, 14.

Note: “Satan ‘works with all deceivableness of unrighteousness’ [II Thessalonians 2:10] to gain control of the children of men, and his deceptions will continually increase. …

“Satan has long been preparing for his final effort to deceive the world. The foundation of his work was laid by the assurance given to Eve in Eden: ‘Ye shall not surely die.’ [Genesis 3:4.] … Little by little he has prepared the way for his masterpiece of deception in the development of spiritualism. He has not yet reached the full accomplishment of his designs; but it will be reached in the last remnant of time. … Except those who are kept by the power of God, through faith in His word, the whole world will be swept into the ranks of this delusion. The people are fast being lulled to a fatal security, to be awakened only by the outpouring of the wrath of God.” The Great Controversy, 560–562.

3 What astounding development did the apostle Paul predict would take place in the religious world before the end? II Thessalonians 2:3, 4. Compare Revelation 13:3, 4, 8, 9.

Note: “The apostle Paul, in his second letter to the Thessalonians, foretold the great apostasy which would result in the establishment of the papal power. He declared that the day of Christ should not come, ‘except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed.’ [II Thessalonians 2:3.]” The Great Controversy, 49.

“God’s word has given warning of the impending danger; let this be unheeded, and the Protestant world will learn what the purposes of Rome really are, only when it is too late to escape the snare. She is silently growing into power. Her doctrines are exerting their influence in legislative halls, in the churches, and in the hearts of men… We shall soon see and shall feel what the purpose of the Roman element is. Whoever shall believe and obey the word of God will thereby incur reproach and persecution.” Ibid., 581.

4 What somber experience lies ahead for all of God’s faithful people? Revelation 3:10.

Note: “Just before us is ‘the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.’ Revelation 3:10. All whose faith is not firmly established upon the word of God will be deceived and overcome.” The Great Controversy, 560.

“We are living in the time of the end. The fast-fulfilling signs of the times declare that the coming of Christ is near at hand. The days in which we live are solemn and important. The Spirit of God is gradually but surely being withdrawn from the earth. Plagues and judgments are already falling upon the despisers of the grace of God. The calamities by land and sea, the unsettled state of society, the alarms of war, are portentous. They forecast approaching events of the greatest magnitude.

“The agencies of evil are combining their forces and consolidating. They are strengthening for the last great crisis. Great changes are soon to take place in our world, and the final movements will be rapid ones.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 11.

5 What view is given of distressing troubles in the economic world? James 5:3–6.

Note: “There are not many, even among educators and statesmen, who comprehend the causes that underlie the present state of society. Those who hold the reins of government are not able to solve the problem of moral corruption, poverty, pauperism, and increasing crime. They are struggling in vain to place business operations on a more secure basis. If men would give more heed to the teaching of God’s word, they would find a solution of the problems that perplex them.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 13.

6 What warning should restrain the child of God from entering into any confederacy with unbelievers? II Corinthians 6:14–18. Compare Isaiah 8:12.

Note: “Men have confederated to oppose the Lord of hosts. These confederacies will continue until Christ shall leave His place of intercession before the mercy seat and shall put on the garments of vengeance. Satanic agencies are in every city, busily organizing into parties those opposed to the law of God.” Testimonies, vol. 8, 42.

“The trades unions and confederacies of the world are a snare. Keep out of them, and away from them, brethren. Have nothing to do with them. Because of these unions and confederacies, it will soon be very difficult for our institutions to carry on their work in the cities. My warning is: Keep out of the cities. Build no sanitariums in the cities. Educate our people to get out of the cities into the country, where they can obtain a small piece of land, and make a home for themselves and their children. …

“Erelong there will be such strife and confusion in the cities, that those who wish to leave them will not be able. We must be preparing for these issues. This is the light that is given me.” Selected Messages, Book 2, 142.

7 What counsel was given to the mother of Samson before the birth of the child? Judges 13:13, 7.

Note: “The effect of prenatal influences is by many parents looked upon as a matter of little moment; but heaven does not so regard it. The message sent by an angel of God, and twice given in the most solemn manner, shows it to be deserving of our most careful thought.” The Ministry of Healing, 372.

8 What far-reaching effects follow right dietary practices? Ecclesiastes 10:17.

Note: Of the nearly 2,000 pages comprising the five spirit of prophecy books devoted to health, a large proportion is devoted to diet, conveying to the reader the instruction given by God to Ellen White.

“The same sins that brought judgments upon the world in the days of Noah, exist in our day. Men and women now carry their eating and drinking so far that it ends in gluttony and drunkenness. This prevailing sin, the indulgence of perverted appetite, inflamed the passions of men in the days of Noah, and led to wide-spread corruption. Violence and sin reached to heaven. This moral pollution was finally swept from the earth by means of the flood. The same sins of gluttony and drunkenness benumbed the moral sensibilities of the inhabitants of Sodom, so that crime seemed to be the delight of the men and women of that wicked city. Christ thus warns the world: ‘Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; but the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.’ [Luke 17:28–30.]” Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 11.

9 In Zechariah’s vision of Joshua and the angel, what did Satan do? What did the change of raiment signify? What promise was made to Joshua, the high priest? Zechariah 3:1–7.

Note: “Zechariah’s vision of Joshua and the Angel applies with peculiar force to the experience of God’s people in the closing up of the great day of atonement. The remnant church will be brought into great trial and distress. Those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts…

“Satan urges before God his accusations against them, declaring that they have by their sins forfeited the divine protection, and claiming the right to destroy them as transgressors. He pronounces them just as deserving as himself of exclusion from the favor of God.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 472, 473.

“All that have put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness will stand before Him as chosen and faithful and true. Satan has no power to pluck them out of the hand of Christ.” Ibid., 471.

“While Satan was urging his accusations and seeking to destroy this company, holy angels, unseen, were passing to and fro, placing upon them the seal of the living God. These are they that stand upon Mount Zion with the Lamb.” Ibid., 475.

10 What question asked by Jesus suggests a condition that will exist in earth’s last days? Luke 18:8.

Note: “I [Ellen White] was shown the people of God, and saw them mightily shaken. Some, with strong faith and agonizing cries, were pleading with God. …

“Some, I saw, did not participate in this work of agonizing and pleading. They seemed indifferent and careless. They were not resisting the darkness around them, and it shut them in like a thick cloud. …

“I asked the meaning of the shaking I had seen, and was shown that it would be caused by the straight testimony called forth by the counsel of the True Witness to the Laodiceans. This will have its effect upon the heart of the receiver, and will lead him to exalt the standard and pour forth the straight truth. Some will not bear this straight testimony. They will rise up against it, and this will cause a shaking among God’s people.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 179–181.

11 What work will be finished before Christ comes? Matthew 24:14. Compare Matthew 28:19, 20.

Note: “The vineyard includes the whole world, and every part of it is to be worked. There are places which are now a moral wilderness, and these are to become as the garden of the Lord. The waste places of the earth are to be cultivated, that they may bud and blossom as the rose. New territories are to be worked by men inspired by the Holy Spirit. New churches must be established, new congregations organized. At this time there should be representatives of present truth in every city and in the remote parts of the earth. The whole earth is to be illuminated with the glory of God’s truth. The light is to shine to all lands and all peoples.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 24.

12 What words of the prophets apply to the church triumphant? Song of Solomon 6:10; Isaiah 60:1–5; Joel 2:32.

Note: “The church is to increase in activity and to enlarge her bounds. Our missionary efforts are to be expansive; we must enlarge our borders. . . . While there have been fierce contentions in the effort to maintain our distinctive character, yet we have as Bible Christians ever been on gaining ground.” Selected Messages, Book 2, 396, 397.

The Lord will bring His church through triumphantly:

“There is no need to doubt, to be fearful that the work will not succeed. God is at the head of the work, and He will set everything in order. If matters need adjusting at the head of the work, God will attend to that, and work to right every wrong. Let us have faith that God is going to carry the noble ship which bears the people of God safely into port…

“When you think that the work is in danger, pray, ‘Lord, stand at the wheel. Carry us through the perplexity. Bring us safely into port.’ Have we not reason to believe that the Lord will bring us through triumphantly?” Ibid., 390, 391.

God will continue with His church even to the end:

“When in the night season I [Ellen White] am unable to sleep, I lift my heart in prayer to God, and He strengthens me and gives me the assurance that He is with His ministering servants in the home field and in distant lands. I am encouraged and blessed as I realize that the God of Israel is still guiding His people, and that He will continue to be with them, even to the end.” Ibid., 406.

Bible Study Guides – A Gift That Guides and Guards

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December 9, 2007 – December 15, 2007

Key Text

“I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” Psalm 32:8.

Study Help: Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 24–62.

Introduction

During the 70 years of her ministry (1845–1915), Ellen White was used as God’s instrument to bring prophetic guidance to His people, often in times of crisis. A review of the guiding and guarding influences of the spirit of prophecy through the years of the church’s work gives clear, convincing ground for confidence in God’s leadership. Speaking of the early days of the movement when error and fanaticism threatened the leaders, she wrote:

“Those who passed over the ground step by step in the past history of our experience, seeing the chain of truth in the prophecies, were prepared to accept and obey every ray of light. They were praying, fasting, searching, digging for the truth as for hidden treasures, and the Holy Spirit, we know, was teaching and guiding us. Many theories were advanced, bearing a semblance of truth, but so mingled with misinterpreted and misapplied scriptures, that they led to dangerous errors. Very well do we know how every point of truth was established, and the seal set upon it by the Holy Spirit of God. And all the time voices were heard, ‘Here is the truth,’ ‘I have the truth; follow me.’ But the warnings came, ‘Go not ye after them. I have not sent them, but they ran.’ (See Jeremiah 23:21.)

“The leadings of the Lord were marked, and most wonderful were His revelations of what is truth. Point after point was established by the Lord God of heaven. That which was truth then, is truth today.” Selected Messages, Book 2, 103, 104.

Ellen White was not the leader of the advent movement as Moses was of the Exodus movement. She did not serve in a kingly capacity as David did over Israel. Her work was more like the work of Samuel, who was a teacher in Israel. But as the Israel of old “from Dan to Beersheba” recognized in Samuel the work of a true prophet of God, so have Seventh-day Adventists recognized in the work of Ellen White an instrumentality of God’s Holy Spirit sent to give guidance, spiritual aid, and comfort to His people. Her messages have been a guarding, preserving influence.

1 What were the prophets in olden times frequently called? I Samuel 9:9.

Note: In one of her earliest books, Spiritual Gifts, Book 1, Ellen White described the many scenes of the great controversy vision given to her at Lovett’s Grove, Ohio, in the spring of 1858. In writing out her views, she prepared a book of 219 pages. Over 200 times she wrote, “I was shown”; “I was pointed back”; “I saw”; “I was told”; “It was presented before me”; and other such phraseology. These same phrases are repeatedly used in other of her writings. Thus she described scenes past and future as an “eyewitness.”

The prophetic work of Ellen White from the earliest days of the advent movement, offered:

  • Protection against danger from within the church. (See Testimonies, vol. 1, 113–115; 311–323; 356, 357; 409–419.)
  • Protection against danger from without the church. (See Early Writings, 59, 60; 262–266.)
  • Guidance in the understanding of basic Christian truths. (See Early Writings, 145–295.)

2 How does the prophet Isaiah describe those who publish peace and salvation? Isaiah 52:7.

Note: At a conference held in the home of Otis Nichols at Dorchester, Massachusetts, in November 1848, the pioneers sought God for special guidance. Heaven seemed near, and to Ellen White was given a vision. After the vision, she said to her husband:

“I have a message for you. You must begin to print a little paper and send it out to the people. Let it be small at first; but as the people read, they will send you means with which to print, and it will be a success from the first. From this small beginning it was shown to me to be like streams of light that went clear round the world.” Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, 125. Thus Present Truth, the first periodical of the Advent movement, was begun.

3 What experience in the New Testament church demonstrated the value of church order and organization? Acts 6:1–6. Compare Acts 15:1–32.

Note: “I [Ellen White] saw that this door at which the enemy comes in to perplex and trouble the flock can be shut. I inquired of the angel how it could be closed. He said, ‘The church must flee to God’s Word and become established upon gospel order, which has been overlooked and neglected.’ This is indispensably necessary in order to bring the church into the unity of the faith. I saw that in the apostles’ day the church was in danger of being deceived and imposed upon by false teachers. Therefore the brethren chose men who had given good evidence that they were capable of ruling well their own house and preserving order in their own families, and who could enlighten those who were in darkness. Inquiry was made of God concerning these, and then, according to the mind of the church and the Holy Ghost, they were set apart by the laying on of hands. Having received their commission from God and having the approbation of the church, they went forth baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, and administering the ordinances of the Lord’s house, often waiting upon the saints by presenting them the emblems of the broken body and spilt blood of the crucified Saviour, to keep fresh in the memory of God’s beloved children His sufferings and death.

“I [Ellen White] saw that we are no more secure from false teachers now than they were in the apostles’ days; and, if we do no more, we should take as special measures as they did to secure the peace, harmony, and union of the flock. We have their example, and should follow it.” Early Writings, 100, 101.

4 What experience came to the apostle Paul that led him to carry the gospel to Europe? Acts 16:9, 10.

Note: “From all countries the Macedonian cry is sounding: ‘Come over, . . . and help us.’ [Acts 16:9.] God has opened fields before us, and if human agencies would but co-operate with divine agencies, many, many souls would be won to the truth.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 46.

“The instruction the Lord has given me [Ellen White] is that a field should not be shunned because it has objectionable features. This world was seared and marred by the curse, but still Christ came to it.” Medical Ministry, 321.

5 In the days of Hezekiah, what remarkable instance of divine guidance and protection is recorded? 11 Chronicles 32:22. Compare Isaiah 37:1, 2, 6, 7, 33–37.

Note: As Hezekiah, the God-fearing king, and the prophet Isaiah sought the deliverance of Judah from threatened annihilation at the hand of the boastful king of Assyria, God “guided them on every side.” (11 Chronicles 32:22.)

God has also guided His present-day people “on every side” through the spirit of prophecy. For example:

  • Health reform. “The health work began with the establishment of a sanitarium in 1866.” Arthur L. White, Ellen G. White: The Early Elmshaven Years, vol. 5, 1900–1905, Review and Herald Publishing Association, Washington, D.C., 71. (See Testimonies, vol. 1, 485–494.)
  • Education. “Educational work was started with the opening of Battle Creek College in 1874.” Ibid.
  • Organization. “It has been a necessity to organize union conferences, that the General Conference shall not exercise dictation over all the separate conferences. The power vested in the Conference is not to be centered in one man, or two men, or six men; there is to be a council of men over the separate divisions.” Last Day Events, 55.

6 In addition to leading the nation of Israel, what other work is Moses said to have done? Hosea 12:13.

Note: God miraculously delivered Israel, by the hand of Moses, out of slavery and led them to the borders of the Promised Land. A review of God’s present-day people discloses how, by the hand of the prophetess Ellen White, they have been “preserved” by the divine instruction and protected from Satan’s many attacks.

For instance, one of the first burdens laid upon Ellen White was to erect a wall about the church and protect it from fanatics who taught extreme views such as holy flesh and instantaneous sanctification. Others attempted to set specific times for the Lord to come. (See Selected Messages, Book 2, 31–38; Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, 83–89; Testimonies, vol. 1, 72.) These dangerous views were squarely met by Ellen White.

The church will face fanatics again, and the experiences of the past will be repeated. Though extreme views will be taught and practiced, Goxd’s true people will not be misled.

“The principles of truth that God has revealed to us are our only true foundation. They have made us what we are. The lapse of time has not lessened their value. It is the constant effort of the enemy to remove these truths from their setting, and to put in their place spurious theories. He will bring in everything that he possibly can to carry out his deceptive designs. But the Lord will raise up men of keen perception, who will give these truths their proper place in the plan of God.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 201.

7 What may God’s commandment-keeping church, having the “testimony of Jesus,” expect at the hand of the dragon, Satan? Revelation 12:17.

Note: “Through deceptive means and unseen channels, Satan is working to strengthen his authority and to place obstacles in the way of God’s people, that souls may not be freed from his power and gathered under the banner of Christ. By his deceptions he is seeking to allure souls from Christ, and those who are not established upon the truth will surely be taken in his snare. And those whom he cannot lead into sin he will persecute, as the Jews did Christ.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 295.

8 For what purpose did Christ place the gifts in the church? Ephesians 4:11, 13.

Note: “I [Ellen White] have been shown that just such phases of error as I was compelled to meet among Advent believers after the passing of the time in 1844, will be repeated in these last days. In our early experience, I had to go from place to place and bear message after message to disappointed companies of believers. The evidences accompanying my messages were so great that the honest in heart received as truth the words that were spoken. The power of God was revealed in a marked manner, and men and women were freed from the baleful influence of fanaticism and disorder, and were brought into the unity of the faith.” Selected Messages, Book 3, 376.

9 What did the messages of the prophet Elisha do for Israel? 11 Kings 6:8–12.

Note: The attacks upon God’s people today may not be in the form of physical violence, yet they are no less real and perilous. One form in which the archenemy brings his attacks is from within, as misguided and overzealous souls misuse the spirit of prophecy counsels that were given to reform. Ellen White wrote:

“Although there are evils existing in the church, and will be until the end of the world, the church in these last days is to be the light of the world that is polluted and demoralized by sin. The church, enfeebled and defective, needing to be reproved, warned, and counseled, is the only object upon earth upon which Christ bestows His supreme regard.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 49.

10 At a time of crisis in the experience of Israel, through what means did the Lord lead to deliverance and bring about that deliverance? 11 Chronicles 20:14–20. Compare Judges 4:1–7, 14.

Note: Just as Jahaziel and Deborah proclaimed turning points for God’s people, so Ellen White gave messages that were turning points. The prophetic message she presented on a Sabbath afternoon in 1868 in Bushnell, Michigan, was the turning point in the life of the Bushnell church. The preceding Sabbath the members had decided to disband, but the providential appearance of Ellen White and her husband, Elder James White, turned the tide.

“An appointment had been made through a notice on the back page of the Review published on Tuesday, July 16. Neither [Ellen and James White] had ever been to Bushnell [Michigan], but the elder of the Greenville church, A. W. Maynard, and the elder of the Orleans church, S. H. King, had suggested a grove meeting at Bushnell, where there was a struggling group of believers. …

“As the dwindling company of discouraged Sabbathkeepers at Bushnell had met the previous Sabbath morning, July 13, only seven were present, and they had decided to hold no more meetings (The Signs of the Times, August 29, 1878). But the notice in the Review led them to get word around for at least one more meeting. …

“All the Sabbathkeepers were on the grounds Sabbath morning. After James White had spoken, Ellen, Bible in hand, began to speak from a text of Scripture and then paused. Laying her Bible aside, she began to address those who had accepted the Sabbath in that place. She was not acquainted with them and did not know their names, but she addressed a number of persons. …

“She described each peculiar case, stating that the Lord had shown her their cases two years previous [most likely in the vision at Rochester], and that, while she was just then speaking from the Bible, that view had flashed over her mind, like sudden lightning in a dark night distinctly revealing every object. …

“Sunday morning there was a baptism, and the Bushnell church was organized and officers chosen. In the years that followed, several workers in the cause came from that church.” Arthur L. White, Ellen G. White: The Progressive Years, vol. 2, 1862–1876, Review and Herald Publishing Association, Washington, D.C., 189–191.

Bible Study Guides – Marks of the Remnant Church

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December 2, 2007 – December 8, 2007

Key Text

“And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” Revelation 12:17.

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 3, 446-449; Prophets and Kings, 605, 606.

Introduction

“God is leading a people out from the world upon the exalted platform of eternal truth, the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. He will discipline and fit up His people. They will not be at variance, one believing one thing, and another having faith and views entirely opposite, each moving independently of the body. Through the diversity of the gifts and governments that He has placed in the church, they will all come to the unity of the faith…

“He has given His people a straight chain of Bible truth, clear and connected. This truth is of heavenly origin and has been searched for as for hidden treasure. It has been dug out through careful searching of the Scriptures and through much prayer.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 446, 447.

“Let none seek to tear away the foundations of our faith—the foundations that were laid at the beginning of our work by prayerful study of the word and by revelation. Upon these foundations we have been building … Men may suppose that they have found a new way and that they can lay a stronger foundation than that which has been laid. But this is a great deception. Other foundation can no man lay than that which has been laid.

“In the past many have undertaken the building of a new faith, the establishment of new principles. But how long did their building stand? It soon fell, for it was not founded upon the Rock….

“So we are to hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end. Words of power have been sent by God and by Christ to this people, bringing them out from the world, point by point, into the clear light of present truth. With lips touched with holy fire, God’s servants have proclaimed the message. The divine utterance has set its seal to the genuineness of the truth proclaimed.” Ibid., vol. 8, 297.

“Let all be careful not to make an outcry against the only people who are fulfilling the description given of the remnant people who keep the commandments of God and have faith in Jesus, who are exalting the standard of righteousness in these last days.

“God has a distinct people, a church on earth, second to none, but superior to all in their facilities to teach the truth, to vindicate the law of God. God has divinely appointed agencies—men whom He is leading, who have borne the heat and burden of the day, who are cooperating with heavenly instrumentalities to advance the kingdom of Christ in our world. Let all unite with these chosen agents, and be found at last among those who have the patience of the saints, who keep the commandments of God, and have the faith of Jesus.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 58.

1 What far-reaching truth was given in response to Peter’s confession of faith in Christ? Matthew 16:13–19. Compare Ephesians 2:19–22.

Note: “To those who believe, Christ is a sure foundation. Upon this living stone, Jews and Gentiles alike may build. It is broad enough for all and strong enough to sustain the weight and burden of the whole world.” The Acts of the Apostles, 175.

2 How did Christ begin to lay the foundation of His church? John 1:36–51.

Note: “With the calling of John and Andrew and Simon, of Philip and Nathanael, began the foundation of the Christian church.” The Desire of Ages, 141.

3 After Christ’s ascension to heaven, who was to be His representative in this world? John 14:16–18.

Note: “When Christ gave His disciples the promise of the Spirit, He was nearing the close of His earthly ministry. He was standing in the shadow of the cross, with a full realization of the load of guilt that was to rest upon Him as the Sin Bearer. Before offering Himself as the sacrificial victim, He instructed His disciples regarding a most essential and com-
plete gift which He was to bestow upon His followers—the gift that would bring within their reach the boundless resources of His grace. [John 14:16, 17 quoted.] The Saviour was pointing forward to the time when the Holy Spirit should come to do a mighty work as His representative.” The Acts of the Apostles, 47.

4 What rich endowments were promised to the church with the coming of the Spirit? I Corinthians 12:7–11. Compare John 14:16, 17, 26; 15:26.

Note: “These gifts are said to be ‘set in the church,’ and if a gift is bestowed upon even one member of the church, it may be said that that gift is ‘in the church,’ or that the church ‘has’ it. So the last generation was to have, and it is believed does now have, the testimony of Jesus, or the gift of prophecy.” Uriah Smith, “Introduction,” Patriarchs and Prophets, 28.

“We call upon you to take your stand on the Lord’s side, and act your part as a loyal subject of the kingdom. Acknowledge the gift that has been placed in the church for the guidance of God’s people in the closing days of earth’s history. From the beginning the church of God has had the gift of prophecy in her midst as a living voice to counsel, admonish, and instruct.” Selected Messages, Book 3, 83.

“The talents that Christ entrusts to His church represent especially the gifts and blessings imparted by the Holy Spirit. [I Corinthians 12:8–11 quoted.] All men do not receive the same gifts, but to every servant of the Master some gift of the Spirit is promised.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 327.

5 What assurance of His continuing presence did Christ give to His disciples? Matthew 28:20, last part.

Note: “Christ’s visible presence was about to be withdrawn from the disciples, but a new endowment of power was to be theirs. The Holy Spirit was to be given them in its fullness, sealing them for their work. ‘Behold,’ the Saviour said, ‘I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.’ Luke 24:49.” The Acts of the Apostles, 30.

6 What symbol did Christ use to represent the church to John? Revelation 12:1.

Note: “…a woman, a figure which is used in the Scriptures as the symbol of a church. A virtuous woman represents a pure church, a vile woman an apostate church.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, 233.

7 What action did Satan take against the woman and her children? Revelation 12:17, first part.

Note: “The dignitaries of church and state will unite to bribe, persuade, or compel all classes to honor the Sunday. The lack of divine authority will be supplied by oppressive enactments. Political corruption is destroying love of justice and regard for truth; and even in free America, rulers and legislators, in order to secure public favor, will yield to the popular demand for a law enforcing Sunday observance. Liberty of conscience, which has cost so great a sacrifice, will no longer be respected. In the soon-coming conflict we shall see exemplified the prophet’s words: ‘The dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.’ Revelation 12:17.” The Great Controversy, 592.

8 What marks of identity are provided to distinguish the remnant church? Revelation 12:17, last part; 19:10, last part.

Note: “Those who are living amid the perils of the last days, days which are characterized by the masses turning from the truth of God to fables, will have close work to turn from the fables which are prepared for them on every hand, and have an appetite to feast upon unpopular truth. Those who turn from these fables to truth are despised, hated, and persecuted by those who are presenting fables to the people for their reception. Satan is at war with the remnant who are endeavoring to keep the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 105.

9 What did the angel declare that John’s brethren, the prophets, possessed? Revelation 19:10; 22:9.

Note: “Revelation 19:10 and 22:9 quoted.] … The thought expressed is the same in both these passages. In one, however, John’s ‘brethren’ are said to have ‘the testimony of Jesus’; in the other these ‘brethren’ are called ‘the prophets.’

“Therefore it is the prophets who have ‘the testimony of Jesus.’” R. W. Munson, “The Prophetic Gift,” “Appendix,” Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White, 243.

10 What further marks of identity does the remnant church possess? Revelation 14:12, 13.

Note: “This is the people that are repairing the breach in the law of God. They see that the Sabbath of the fourth commandment has been supplanted by a spurious sabbath, a day that has no sanction in the Word of God. Amid great opposition they become loyal to their God, and take their position under the standard of the third angel.

“As the end approaches, the testimonies of God’s servants will become more decided and more powerful, flashing the light of truth upon the systems of error and oppression that have so long held the supremacy. The Lord has sent us messages for this time to establish Christianity upon an eternal basis, and all who believe present truth must stand, not in their own wisdom, but in God; and raise up the foundation of many generations. These will be registered in the books of heaven as repairers of the breach, the restorers of paths to dwell in. We are to maintain the truth because it is truth, in the face of the bitterest opposition.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, 1152.

11 In what Christian movement of these times have the gift of prophecy and the other marks of prophetic identity been manifest?

Note: “Seventh-day Adventists believe in the gifts of the Spirit. They believe that the varied operations of the Spirit of God, having been expressly set in the church (I Corinthians 12; Ephesians 4), were designed to continue therein to the end, because they are not limited, and God has never withdrawn them from the church; just as they believed that the original blessing placed in the beginning upon the seventh day, is there still, because God never has withdrawn it, nor placed it upon any other day. …

“They believe that they have in their midst a special manifestation, answering to one at least of these gifts which have been placed in the Christian church. This is found in the visions [of Ellen White], as published. . . . Every test which can be brought to bear upon such manifestations, proves these genuine. The evidence which supports them, internal and external, is conclusive. They agree with the word of God and with themselves.” Uriah Smith, “The Visions—Objections Answered,” Review and Herald, June 12, 1866.

12 What message had been entrusted to the advent people? Revelation 14:6–13. Compare Matthew 24:14.

Note: “God has a church on earth who are lifting up the downtrodden law, and presenting to the world the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world. The church is the depositary of the wealth of the riches of the grace of Christ, and through the church eventually will be made manifest the final and full display of the love of God to the world that is to be lightened with its glory. The prayer of Christ that His church may be one as He was one with His Father will finally be answered. The rich dowry of the Holy Spirit will be given, and through its constant supply to the people of God they will become witnesses in the world of the power of God unto salvation.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 50.

13 What did Jesus say concerning the triumph of His church? Matthew 16:18, last part. Compare Joel 2:32.

Note: “I [Ellen White] warn the Seventh-day Adventist Church to be careful how you receive every new notion and those who claim to have great light. The character of their work seems to be to accuse and to tear down. . . .

“Let the believers heed the voice of the angel who has said to the church, ‘Press together.’ In unity is your strength. Love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous. God hath a church, and Christ hath declared, ‘The gates of hell shall not prevail against it’ (Matthew 16:18). The messengers the Lord sends bear the divine credentials. I [Ellen White] have tender feelings toward you, but come to the light, I beseech of you.” Selected Messages, Book 2, 69.

“Messages of every order and kind have been urged upon Seventh-day Adventists, to take the place of the truth which, point by point, has been sought out by prayerful study, and testified to by the miracle-working power of the Lord. But the waymarks which have made us what we are, are to be preserved, and they will be preserved, as God has signified through His word and the testimony of His Spirit. He calls upon us to hold firmly, with the grip of faith, to the fundamental principles that are based upon unquestionable authority.” Counsels to Writers and Editors, 52.

Bible Study Guides – The Last Judge of Israel

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June 23, 2019 – June 29, 2019

Key Text

“And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams” (1 Samuel 15:22).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 592‚ 615.

Introduction

“Samuel … wielded a more powerful influence than he [Saul], because his record was one of faithfulness, obedience, and devotion.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 663.

Sunday

SECRETS FOR VICTORY

  • What insights can we learn from Israel’s experience during the time that Samuel judged the nation? 1 Samuel 7:12‚ 17.

Note: “There is need today of such a revival of true heart-religion as was experienced by ancient Israel. We need, like them, to bring forth fruit meet for repentance—to put away our sins, cleansing the defiled temple of the heart that Jesus may reign within. …

“Repentance is the first step which must be taken by all who would return to God. No one can do this work for us. We must individually humble our souls before God, and put away our idols. When we have done all that we can do, the Lord will manifest to us His salvation.

“And when the light of Heaven dispels our darkness, let us, like Samuel, evince our gratitude by making a memorial to God.” The Signs of the Times, January 26, 1882.

  • Why must there be earnest appeals to God’s professed people until the end of time? Isaiah 2:17–22.

Monday

AN ESSENTIAL STEP

  • What caused the downfall of God’s people? Hosea 4:6. What did Samuel do to bring about enduring spiritual growth among the people?

Note: “Provision was made for the instruction of the young, by the establishment of the schools of the prophets. If a youth desired to search deeper into the truths of the word of God and to seek wisdom from above, that he might become a teacher in Israel, these schools were open to him. The schools of the prophets were founded by Samuel to serve as a barrier against the widespread corruption, to provide for the moral and spiritual welfare of the youth, and to promote the future prosperity of the nation by furnishing it with men qualified to act in the fear of God as leaders and counselors. In the accomplishment of this object Samuel gathered companies of young men who were pious, intelligent, and studious. These were called the sons of the prophets. As they communed with God and studied His word and His works, wisdom from above was added to their natural endowments. The instructors were men not only well versed in divine truth, but those who had themselves enjoyed communion with God and had received the special endowment of His Spirit. They enjoyed the respect and confidence of the people, both for learning and piety.

“In Samuel’s day there were two of these schools—one at Ramah, the home of the prophet, and the other at Kirjath-jearim, where the ark then was. Others were established in later times.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 593.

Tuesday

SAMUEL DISAPPOINTED

  • What disappointment did Samuel face in his old age? 1 Samuel 8:1–3. To some extent, how was he treated a bit unfairly?

Note: “Divinely invested with the threefold office of judge, prophet, and priest, he [Samuel] had labored with untiring and disinterested zeal for the welfare of his people, and the nation had prospered under his wise control. Order had been restored, and godliness promoted, and the spirit of discontent was checked for the time. But with advancing years the prophet was forced to share with others the cares of government, and he appointed his two sons to act as his assistants. While Samuel continued the duties of his office at Ramah, the young men were stationed at Beersheba, to administer justice among the people near the southern border of the land.

“It was with the full assent of the nation that Samuel had appointed his sons to office.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 604.

“The people saw that his [Samuel’s] sons did not follow his footsteps. Although they were not vile, like the children of Eli, yet they were dishonest and double-minded. While they aided their father in his laborious work, their love of reward led them to favor the cause of the unrighteous.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, 353.

“The cases of abuse among the people had not been referred to Samuel. Had the evil course of his sons been known to him, he would have removed them without delay; but this was not what the petitioners desired. Samuel saw that their real motive was discontent and pride.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 604.

  • Instead of requesting for the wrongs to be corrected, what did the people demand from Samuel? What did he do in response? 1 Samuel 8:4–6.

Note: “The aged prophet looked upon the request as a censure upon himself, and a direct effort to set him aside. He did not, however, reveal his feelings; he uttered no reproach, but carried the matter to the Lord in prayer and sought counsel from Him alone.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 604, 605.

Wednesday

WHO IS TO BE OUR KING?

  • How did the Lord bid Samuel respond to the people’s demand for a king? Why? 1 Samuel 8:7‚ 18.

Note: “Those who despise and reject the faithful servant of God show contempt, not merely for the man, but for the Master who sent him. It is God’s words, His reproofs and counsel, that are set at nought; it is His authority that is rejected.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 605.

  • What timeless principle does God want us to glean from this experience, as explained through later prophets? Hosea 13:11; Ezekiel 14:3‚ 8.

Note: “The Lord had, through His prophets, foretold that Israel would be governed by a king; but it does not follow that this form of government was best for them or according to His will. …  When men choose to have their own way, without seeking counsel from God, or in opposition to His revealed will, He often grants their desires, in order that, through the bitter experience that follows, they may be led to realize their folly and to repent of their sin. Human pride and wisdom will prove a dangerous guide. That which the heart desires contrary to the will of God will in the end be found a curse rather than a blessing.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 605, 606.

  • After Saul, the first king, was instated, how did God mercifully seek to make the best of the situation? 1 Samuel 10:1, 6, 9; 15:17.
  • What was God finally constrained to do to the first king? Why? 1 Samuel 13:14; 15:22, 23; Acts 13:20‚ 22. How does He govern His people today? Ephesians 4:11‚ 16.

Note: “God has not set any kingly power in the Seventh-day Adventist Church to control the whole body or to control any branch of the work. He has not provided that the burden of leadership shall rest upon a few men. Responsibilities are distributed among a large number of competent men.” Testimonies, vol. 8, 236.

Thursday

A GODLY LEGACY

  • Name one of the saddest days in the history of Israel and why it was so heartrending. 1 Samuel 25:1; Psalm 116:15.

Note: “The death of Samuel was regarded as an irreparable loss by the nation of Israel. A great and good prophet and an eminent judge had fallen in death, and the grief of the people was deep and heartfelt. …

“As the people contrasted the course of Saul with that of Samuel, they saw what a mistake they had made in desiring a king that they might not be different from the nations around them. Many looked with alarm at the condition of society, fast becoming leavened with irreligion and godlessness. …

“The nation had lost the founder and president of its sacred schools, but that was not all. It had lost him to whom the people had been accustomed to go with their great troubles—lost one who had constantly interceded with God in behalf of the best interests of its people. The intercession of Samuel had given a feeling of security; for ‘the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much’ (James 5:16). …

“It was when the nation was racked with internal strife, when the calm, God-fearing counsel of Samuel seemed to be most needed, that God gave His aged servant rest. Bitter were the reflections of the people as they looked upon his quiet resting place, and remembered their folly in rejecting him as their ruler; for he had had so close a connection with Heaven that he seemed to bind all Israel to the throne of Jehovah. It was Samuel who had taught them to love and obey God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 663, 664.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     How did Samuel wisely begin his period as judge of Israel?

2    What revealed his foresight to brighten the future of God’s nation?

3    Both Eli and Samuel had troublesome sons, but what was the difference?

4    Why is it so important to fully surrender to God’s will when we pray?

5    Why should we have a deeper appreciation for leaders like Samuel?

 

© 2018, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study Guides – From Ichabod to Ebenezer

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June 16, 2019 – June 22, 2019

Key Text

“Samuel cried unto the Lord for Israel; and the Lord heard him” (1 Samuel 7:9, last part).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 581‚ 591; Testimonies, vol. 4, 516, 517.

Introduction

“Samuel endeavored to impress upon Israel the fact that they themselves had something to do to secure the divine favor. They must repent of their sins, and put away their idols.” The Signs of the Times, January 26, 1882.

Sunday

IMPENDING WOE UPON THE NATION

  • For what gift did faithful Samuel become renowned? 1 Samuel 3:19‚ 21.
  • Meanwhile, although Eli had bowed in humble submission to the rebuke against his household, how did God view the situation? Ecclesiastes 8:11.

Note: “Eli did not manifest the fruits of true repentance. He confessed his guilt, but failed to renounce the sin. Year after year the Lord delayed His threatened judgments. Much might have been done in those years to redeem the failures of the past, but the aged priest took no effective measures to correct the evils that were polluting the sanctuary of the Lord. … The warnings were disregarded by the people, as they had been by the priests. The people of surrounding nations also, who were not ignorant of the iniquities openly practiced in Israel, became still bolder in their idolatry and crime. They felt no sense of guilt for their sins, as they would have felt had the Israelites preserved their integrity. But a day of retribution was approaching. God’s authority had been set aside, and His worship neglected and despised, and it became necessary for Him to interpose, that the honor of His name might be maintained.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 582, 583.

Monday

SUMMONING A SYMBOL

  • What foolish decision did Israel make when in a weak spiritual state, and who was responsible for this decision? 1 Samuel 4:2‚ 4.

Note: “This expedition [of going out against the Philistines to battle] was undertaken by the Israelites without counsel from God, without the concurrence of high priest or prophet. [1 Samuel 4:2 quoted.] As the shattered and disheartened force returned to their encampment, ‘the elders of Israel said, Wherefore hath the Lord smitten us today before the Philistines?’ (1 Samuel 4:3). The nation was ripe for the judgment of God, yet they did not see that their own sins had been the cause of this terrible disaster.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 583.

“Instead of confessing and forsaking the sins that had brought defeat upon them [the Israelites], they now set about devising some other means by which to obtain the victory. Then they thought of the ark of God. What wonders had been wrought when the priests bore it before the people into Jordan! How its waters parted, leaving a safe path for that vast company! They remembered also how it was borne about the city of Jericho seven days in solemn silence, and then as the trumpets pealed, and the people gave a great shout, the massive walls fell flat upon the earth.

“The recollection of these glorious triumphs inspired all Israel with fresh hope and courage.” The Signs of the Times, December 22, 1881.

  • What shows the misunderstanding the people had about the ark, and how might we fall into the same trap today? 1 Samuel 4:5.

Note: “They [Israel] did not consider that it was the law of God which alone gave to the ark its sacredness, and that its presence would bring them prosperity only as they obeyed that law. …

“Yet we see a similar blindness and inattention on the part of many at the present day. … God has given to modern Israel warnings, counsel, and reproof, to bring them to repentance and reformation of life. But too often these produce but a momentary impression. The persons warned soon return to their own ways. … It is one thing to acknowledge the claims of God’s law, and quite another thing to render faithful and willing obedience to all its requirements.” The Signs of the Times, December 22, 1881.

Tuesday

MISGUIDED CONFIDENCE

  • With what regard did the Philistines hold the ark? What was the outcome of the battle? 1 Samuel 4:6‚ 10. Why did the ark not help Israel?

Note: “They [Israel] overlooked the distinction between the divine presence vouchsafed to an obedient and believing people, and the ark, which was but a symbol of that presence. Hence they confidently looked to the ark for those blessings which God alone could bestow. They saw not the wide contrast between the condition of Israel when the Lord wrought so mightily in their behalf, and their present state.

“They were then walking in obedience to God. The ark was borne by holy men in accordance with His express command, and the Captain of the Lord’s host went before the repository of His law. Then His arm brought deliverance for them. But they were now following their own plans, in opposition to the divine counsel and authority. The ark was borne by sons of Belial who were doomed to destruction. Yet the people were so infatuated by Satan as to imagine they could induce God to fight for them, when the law under the mercy-seat condemned them to defeat, disaster, and death!” The Signs of the Times, December 22, 1881.

“God permitted His ark to be taken by their enemies to show Israel how vain it was to trust in the ark, the symbol of His presence, while they were profaning the commandments contained in the ark. God would humble them by removing from them that sacred ark, their boasted strength and confidence.” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4a, 106.

  • What tragedies highlighted the woe of this defeat? 1 Samuel 4:11, 15–22.

Note: “The Lord sorely chastised His people Israel, revealing their hypocrisy and rebuking their presumption, and thus left upon the pages of history the testimony for all future ages, that the iniquities of His professed people will not go unpunished. The greater the knowledge of God’s will, the greater the sin of those who disregard it. God is not dependent upon men to cause His name to be feared and honored in the earth. He accepts the labors of those who walk in faithfulness and humility before Him, but He will reject all who profess to serve Him, and yet follow in the course of the unrighteous.” The Signs of the Times, December 22, 1881.

Wednesday

ACCOUNTABILITY BEFORE GOD

  • In the judgment that befell the house of Eli, what solemn warning should we heed from the way history repeats itself? Matthew 7:19, 23; Isaiah 58:1.

Note: “Eli was gentle, loving, and kind, and had a true interest in the service of God and the prosperity of His cause. He was a man who had power in prayer. He never rose up in rebellion against the words of God. But he was wanting; he did not have firmness of character to reprove sin and execute justice against the sinner so that God could depend upon him to keep Israel pure. He did not add to his faith the courage and power to say No at the right time and in the right place. Sin is sin; righteousness is righteousness. The trumpet note of warning must be sounded. We are living in a fearfully wicked age. The worship of God will become corrupted unless there are wide-awake men at every post of duty. It is no time now for any to be absorbed in selfish ease. Not one of the words which God has spoken must be allowed to fall to the ground.

“While some in Battle Creek have professedly believed the Testimonies, they have been trampling them under their feet. But few have read them with interest; but few have heeded them. The indulgence of self, pride, fashion, and display are mingled with the worship of God. He wants brave men for action, who will not regard the setting up of idols and the coming in of abominations without lifting up the voice like a trumpet, showing the people their transgressions and the house of Jacob their sins.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 517.

“Warnings and reproofs are not given to the erring among Seventh-day Adventists because their lives are more blameworthy than are the lives of professed Christians of the nominal churches, nor because their example or their acts are worse than those of the Adventists who will not yield obedience to the claims of God’s law, but because they have great light, and have by their profession taken their position as God’s special, chosen people, having the law of God written in their hearts.” Ibid., vol. 2, 452.

  • As the Philistines were cursed by stealing the symbol of a God they did not worship, how long was it before they returned the ark? How long was it before Israel would value again the sacred symbol? 1 Samuel 6:1; 7:1, 2.

Thursday

A MIRACLE OF MERCY

  • What earnest appeal did Samuel bring to the people of Israel and with what beautiful results? 1 Samuel 7:3‚ 6.

Note: “As soon as Samuel began to judge Israel, even in his youth, he called an assembly of the people for fasting and prayer, and deep humiliation before God. He bore his solemn testimony from the mouth of God. The people then began to learn where their strength was.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 517.

  • What should we learn from how God was gracious to humbled Israel? Why should we search our hearts as they did? 1 Samuel 7:7‚ 10, 12.

Note: “The condition of God’s people at the present day is similar to that of idolatrous Israel. Many who bear the name of Christians are serving other gods besides the Lord. Our Creator demands our supreme devotion, our first allegiance. Anything which tends to abate our love for God, or to interfere with the service due Him, becomes thereby an idol. With some their lands, their houses, their merchandize [sic], are the idols. Business enterprises are prosecuted with zeal and energy, while the service of God is made a secondary consideration. Family worship is neglected, secret prayer forgotten. Many claim to deal justly with their fellow-men, and seem to feel that in so doing they discharge their whole duty. But it is not enough to keep the last six commandments of the decalogue. We are to love the Lord our God with all the heart. Nothing short of obedience to every precept—nothing less than supreme love to God as well as equal love to our fellow-men—can satisfy the claims of the divine law.” The Signs of the Times, January 26, 1882.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     Why is it not enough to submit to reproof?

2    Why wasn’t the presence of the ark helpful on the battlefield?

3    What was the significance of the word “Ichabod” in Israel’s history?

4    Eli was a man of prayer, but what was lacking in his spirituality?

5    How are we—like Israel—in need of a “Mizpeh” experience today?

Bible Study Guides – A Consecrated Child

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June 9, 2019 – June 15, 2019

Key Text

“Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right” (Proverbs 20:11).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 575–580.

Introduction

“The Lord accepted Samuel from his very childhood, because his heart was pure. He was given to God, a consecrated offering, and the Lord made him a channel of light.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 537.

Sunday

CALLED TO SERVICE

  • What did Samuel do in his new life in the temple? 1 Samuel 2:11, 18. What did Hannah do for Samuel, and how did God bless Hannah? 1 Samuel 2:19–21.

 Note: “It was not customary for the Levites to enter upon their peculiar services until they were twenty-five years of age, but Samuel had been an exception to this rule. Every year saw more important trusts committed to him; and while he was yet a child, a linen ephod was placed upon him as a token of his consecration to the work of the sanctuary. Young as he was when brought to minister in the tabernacle, Samuel had even then duties to perform in the service of God, according to his capacity. These were at first very humble, and not always pleasant; but they were performed to the best of his ability, and with a willing heart.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 573.

“When separated from her child, the faithful mother’s solicitude did not cease. He was the subject of her prayers. Every year she made him a little coat, and when she came with her husband to the yearly sacrifice, she presented it to the child as a token of her love. With every stitch of that coat she had breathed a prayer that he might be pure, noble, and true. She did not ask that he might be great, but earnestly pleaded that he might be good.” The Signs of the Times, November 3, 1881.

Monday

WITH ELI AND HIS FAMILY

  • What is written about Samuel in his youth? 1 Samuel 2:26. What was the relationship between the child Samuel and Eli, the high priest?

 Note: “Samuel had been placed under the care of Eli, and the loveliness of his character drew forth the warm affection of the aged priest. He was kind, generous, obedient, and respectful. Eli, pained by the waywardness of his own sons, found rest and comfort and blessing in the presence of his charge. Samuel was helpful and affectionate, and no father ever loved his child more tenderly than did Eli this youth. It was a singular thing that between the chief magistrate of the nation and the simple child so warm an affection should exist. As the infirmities of age came upon Eli, and he was filled with anxiety and remorse by the profligate course of his own sons, he turned to Samuel for comfort.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 573.

  • Although young Samuel was living on the premises of the high priest, what should we realize about the environment there? What serious warning was given to Eli? 1 Samuel 2:12, 22, 27–31.

 Note: “Samuel’s youth was passed in the tabernacle solemnly devoted to the worship of God; yet even here he was not free from evil influences or sinful example. The sons of Eli are described in the sacred word as ‘sons of Belial.’ They feared not God, nor honored their father; but Samuel did not seek their company nor follow their evil ways. It was his constant effort to make himself what God would have him to become. This is the privilege of every youth. God is pleased when even little children devote themselves to His service; they should not be discouraged in their efforts to become Christians. …

“The youngest child that loves and fears God, is greater in His sight than the most talented and learned man who neglects the great salvation.” The Signs of the Times, November 3, 1881.

“Despite the many sovereigns to whom men profess allegiance, all mankind are serving one of two masters—the Prince of light or the Prince of darkness. Samuel served the former, the sons of Eli the latter.” Ibid.

Tuesday

OBEDIENCE AS A MERE OPTION?

  • What was the problem of Eli and how might we be guilty of repeating the same mistake today? 1 Samuel 2:22–25; Isaiah 3:12, first part.

 Note: “Eli was quick to see and rebuke the sins and errors of the people, sometimes, as in the case of Hannah, even administering unjust reproof; but the sins of his own sons seemed to him less offensive than the sins of others. In his undue affection he was ever ready to find excuses for their perverse course.” The Signs of the Times, November 24, 1881.

“Eli had instructed his children in the law of God, and had given them a good example in his own life; but this was not his whole duty. God required him, both as a father and as a priest, to restrain them from following their own perverse will. This he had failed to do.” Ibid., November 10, 1881.

“The father [Eli] did not enforce obedience.” The Review and Herald, August 30, 1881.

  • What do we need to realize when we see spiritual weakness in our children? Proverbs 26:2; Deuteronomy 6:6, 7.

Note: “In every earnest Christian heart the question rises, ‘Why, oh, why, in a land of Bibles and Christian teaching, can the adversary of souls exert over our youth a power so mighty, so unrestrained?’ The reason is apparent. Parents are neglecting their solemn responsibility. They are not earnest, persevering, and faithful in the work of training their children for God, restraining their evil desires and enforcing obedience to parental authority, even in infancy.” The Signs of the Times, November 3, 1881.

“The mother should not allow her child to gain an advantage over her in a single instance; and, in order to maintain this authority, it is not necessary to resort to harsh measures; a firm, steady hand and a kindness which convinces the child of your love will accomplish the purpose. …

“Never should they [the children] be allowed to show their parents disrespect. Self-will should never be permitted to go unrebuked. The future well-being of the child requires kindly, loving, but firm discipline.” Child Guidance, 83.

Wednesday

WORTHY OF A HIGH CALLING

  • In contrast to Eli’s sons, what can every child learn from the experience of little Samuel at the temple? Proverbs 20:11; Psalm 71:17.

Note: “If children were taught to regard the humble round of everyday duties as the course marked out for them by the Lord, as a school in which they were to be trained to render faithful and efficient service, how much more pleasant and honorable would their work appear. To perform every duty as unto the Lord, throws a charm around the humblest employment and links the workers on earth with the holy beings who do God’s will in heaven.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 574.

  • How was Samuel a tremendous witness to the aged Eli, and how only was this possible? 2 Corinthians 2:14–17.

Note: “While Eli’s heart was filled with anxiety and remorse by the evil course of his sons, he found relief and comfort in the integrity and devotion of the youthful Samuel. His ready helpfulness and unvarying fidelity lightened the burdens of the careworn priest. Eli loved Samuel; for he saw that the grace and love of God rested upon him. …

“As Samuel grew older, the anxiety of his parents in his behalf became more intense. Many were the petitions offered that he might not be contaminated by the wickedness reported concerning the sons of Eli.” The Signs of the Times, December 15, 1881.

  • Relate the amazing story of God’s call to Samuel. 1 Samuel 3:1–10.

Note: “When but twelve years old, the son of Hannah received his special commission from the Most High. … Three times Samuel was called, and thrice he responded in like manner; and then Eli was convinced that the mysterious call was the voice of God. What feelings must have stirred the heart of the high priest at that hour! God had passed by his chosen servant, the man of hoary hairs, to commune with a child.” The Signs of the Times, December 15, 1881.

Thursday

A MESSAGE TO MAKE EARS TINGLE

  • What message did God give to Samuel and how did the boy feel about delivering it? 1 Samuel 3:12–15.

Note: “Samuel had not been ignorant of the wicked course pursued by the sons of Eli, but he was filled with fear and amazement that the Lord should commit to him so terrible a message. He arose in the morning and went about his duties as usual, but with a heavy burden on his young heart. How earnestly did he long for the sympathy and counsel of his parents in that trying hour! The Lord had not commanded him to reveal the fearful denunciation to the priest or to his sons; hence he remained silent, avoiding as far as possible the presence of Eli. He trembled, lest some question would compel him to declare the divine judgments against one whom he so loved and reverenced.” The Signs of the Times, December 15, 1881.

  • Respectful and obedient as ever, what did Samuel soon have to do? What should we consider as we reflect on the message given? 1 Samuel 3:18.

Note: “In every age, God’s judgments have been visited upon the earth because men transgressed His law. What, then, have we to expect as we behold the wickedness which prevails at the present day? … Many of the acknowledged leaders in the church and in the nation, break, and teach others to break that law, as sacred to God as His own throne and name. It is time for the Lord Himself to assert His authority in the earth. … He removes His protecting, providential care, and visits His judgments upon the children of men.” The Signs of the Times, December 15, 1881.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     Although left alone at the temple without his parents, why was Samuel safe?

2    Why was Eli able to appreciate Samuel so much?

3    How can parents be like Eli today?

4    Name some of the keys to Samuel’s purity in the corrupt temple court.

5    What shows the accountability that God expects in all ages?

Bible Study Guides – Asked of the Lord

by

June 2, 2019 – June 8, 2019

Key Text

“Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the Lord” (1 Samuel 1:20).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 569–574.

Introduction

“The mother’s daily influence upon her children is preparing them for everlasting life or eternal death. She exercises in her home a power more decisive than the minister in the desk, or even the king upon his throne. The day of God will reveal how much the world owes to godly mothers for men who have been unflinching advocates of truth and reform.” Reflecting Christ, 195.

Sunday

BARREN AND BETRAYED

  • What brought sadness to Hannah, the wife of Elkanah? 1 Samuel 1:1, 2.

 Note: “Elkanah’s love for his chosen companion was deep and unchanging; yet a cloud shadowed their domestic happiness. The home was not made joyful by the voice of childhood. At length the strong desire to perpetuate his name led the husband, as it had led many others, to adopt a course which God did not sanction—that of introducing into the family a second wife, to be subordinate to the first. This act was prompted by a lack of faith in God, and was attended with evil results. The peace of the hitherto united and harmonious family was broken. Upon Hannah the blow fell with crushing weight. All happiness seemed forever swept away from her life. She bore her trials uncomplainingly, yet her grief was none the less keen and bitter.

“Penninah, the new wife, was a woman of inferior mind, and of envious and jealous disposition. As the years passed on, and sons and daughters were added to the household, she became proud and self-important, and treated her rival with contempt and insolence.” The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.

Monday

MISJUDGED AND MISUNDERSTOOD

  • At the time of worship at Shiloh, how did Elkanah relate to his two wives? 1 Samuel 1:3–5.

 Note: “Even amid the sacred festivities connected with the worship of God, the evil spirit that had cursed his [Elkanah’s] home intruded. After the other sacrifices had been made, it was customary for the peace-offering to be presented. A specified portion of this was given to the priest, and then the offerer, after distributing to each member of his family a share of the remainder, united with them in a solemn yet joyous feast. Upon these occasions Elkanah gave the mother of his children a portion for herself and for each of her sons and daughters, and then as a token of regard for Hannah, his first and best-loved wife, he gave her a double portion. This excited the envy and jealousy of the second wife, and she boldly asserted her claims to superiority as one highly favored of God; and she tauntingly pointed to the fact that Hannah had no children, as proof of the Lord’s displeasure toward her.” The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.

  • What was the bitter extent of Hannah’s suffering? 1 Samuel 1:6, 7.

 Note: “This scene was enacted again and again, not only at the yearly gatherings, but whenever circumstances furnished an opportunity for Peninnah to exalt herself at the expense of her rival. The course of this woman seemed to Hannah, a trial almost beyond endurance. Satan employed her as his agent to harass, and if possible exasperate and destroy one of God’s faithful children. At last, as her enemy’s taunts were repeated at one of the yearly feasts, Hannah’s courage and fortitude gave way. Unable longer to conceal her feelings, she wept without restraint. The expressions of joy on every hand seemed mockery to her. She could not partake of the feast.” The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.

  • How did Elkanah try to comfort his dear wife, but in vain? 1 Samuel 1:8.

 Note: “It was impossible for Elkanah fully to understand her [Hannah’s] feelings or to appreciate the cause.” The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.

Tuesday

FAITHFUL AND GRACIOUS

  • What was Hannah’s solution to the problem that confronted her? 1 Samuel 1:9–11; Psalm 50:15.

 Note: “Humility, conscientiousness, and a firm reliance upon God, were ruling traits in her [Hannah’s] character.” The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.

“Hannah brought no reproach against her husband for his unwise marriage. The grief which she could share with no earthly friend, she carried to her Heavenly Father, and sought consolation from Him alone. … There is a mighty power in prayer. Our great adversary is constantly seeking to keep the troubled soul away from God. An appeal to Heaven by the humblest saint is more to be dreaded by Satan than the decrees of cabinets or the mandates of kings.

“Hannah’s prayer was unheard by mortal ear, but entered the ear of the Lord of hosts.” Ibid.

  • After being misjudged through the malice of her rival, how was Hannah now misjudged by the high priest in the house of God? 1 Samuel 1:12–14.

 Note: “Feasting revelry had well-nigh supplanted true godliness among the people of Israel. Instances of intemperance, even among women, were of frequent occurrence, and now Eli determined to administer what he considered a deserved rebuke.” The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.

  • How does Hannah’s noble response reveal the abundant grace of a Christlike character? 1 Samuel 1:15, 16.

 Note: “Hannah had been communing with God. She believed that her prayer had been heard, and the peace of Christ filled her heart. Hers was a gentle, sensitive nature, yet she yielded neither to grief nor to indignation at the unjust charge of drunkenness in the house of God. With due reverence for the anointed of the Lord, she calmly repelled the accusation and stated the cause of her emotion.” The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.

Wednesday

SAMUEL’S FIRST THREE YEARS

  • What miracle did the Lord grant in answer to Hannah’s prayer? 1 Samuel 1:17–20.
  • What should we learn from the thoroughness of Hannah’s instruction of young Samuel? Proverbs 22:6.

Note: “During the first three years of the life of Samuel the prophet, his mother carefully taught him to distinguish between good and evil. By every familiar object surrounding him she sought to lead his thoughts up to the Creator.” Child Guidance, 197.

“The first three years is the time in which to bend the tiny twig. Mothers should understand the importance attaching to this period. It is then that the foundation is laid.” Ibid., 194.

“It was Hannah, the woman of prayer and self-sacrifice and heavenly inspiration, who gave birth to Samuel, the heaven-instructed child, the incorruptible judge, the founder of Israel’s sacred schools.” The Ministry of Healing, 372.

  • What should we learn from Hannah about the seriousness of vows made to God? 1 Samuel 1:11, 21–28; Ecclesiastes 5:4, 5.

 Note: “As soon as the little one was old enough to be separated from his mother, she fulfilled her vow. She loved her child with all the devotion of a mother’s heart; day by day, as she watched his expanding powers and listened to his childish prattle, her affections entwined about him more closely. He was her only son, the special gift of Heaven; but she had received him as a treasure consecrated to God, and she would not withhold from the Giver His own.

“Once more Hannah journeyed with her husband to Shiloh and presented to the priest, in the name of God, her precious gift.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 570, 571.

Thursday

A SONG OF PRAISE AND PROPHECY

  • What was Hannah led to publicly declare with power? 1 Samuel 2:1.

 Note: “She [Hannah] felt that she could do no less in token of her gratitude than to make a public acknowledgment of the divine mercy and loving-kindness. The spirit of inspiration came upon her, and although a retiring and timid woman, her voice was now heard in the assembly of the people, sounding forth the praise of God. …

“The horn is in some animals the weapon of attack and defense; by the use of this figure, Hannah would acknowledge that her deliverance had come from God. In her exultation, there is no vain triumph of self. She rejoices not in Samuel, not in her own prosperity, but in the Lord.” The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.

  • How do Hannah’s words bring us comfort and wisdom? 1 Samuel 2:2–10.

 Note: “[1 Samuel 2:3 quoted.] While here referring to Peninnah’s boastful and insolent conduct, Hannah seems also to speak to all the enemies of true godliness, who glory in themselves, and insult and despise the children of faith. Pride and boasting cannot deceive God. He is acquainted with the hearts and the lives of all. By Him actions are weighed. He distinguishes men’s characters, and weighs their motives in the balance. When He sees that it will be for the good of man and for His own glory, He will interpose in behalf of His people. In due time He will reward the righteous and punish the wicked.” The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     How do many too often repeat the same type of mistake as Elkanah did?

2    What should we do about the “Penninah’s” in our life?

3    In what ways might I be guilty of misjudging someone I know?

4    Explain the work of parents during the first three years of a child’s life.

5    What prompted Hannah to make the public declaration that she did?