Bible Study Guides

The Nurturing Family

by

January 5 – 11, 2025

Key Text

“Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the very heart of your house, your children like olive plants all around your table.” Psalm 128:3

Study Help: Testimonies, Vol. 3, 230–232

Introduction

“God would have our families symbols of the family in heaven.” The Adventist Home, 17

Sunday

1 OUR FIRST HUMAN RELATIONSHIP

1.a.      How does God use the unique relationship of parents to child to illustrate the tenderness of His great love for us? Psalm 103:13; Isaiah 66:13

1.b.     Which commandment does this call to mind? Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:2-3

1.c.      Why should faithfulness to this commandment spring forth in spontaneous gratitude from the truly converted soul? Proverbs 4:1–4

Note: “Children should feel that they are indebted to their parents, who have watched over them in their infancy, and nursed them in sickness. They should realize that their parents have suffered much anxiety on their account. Especially have conscientious, godly parents felt the deepest interest that their children should take a right course. As they have seen faults in their children, how heavy have been their hearts. If the children who caused those hearts to ache could see the effect of their course, they would certainly relent. If they could see their mother’s tears, and hear her prayers to God in their behalf, if they could listen to her suppressed and broken sighs, their hearts would feel, and they would speedily confess their wrongs and ask to be forgiven.” Spiritual Gifts, Vol 4b, 138

Monday

2 A SAD DETERIORATION

2.a.      What widespread characteristic of people is especially plaguing the families in these last days? Proverbs 30:11–14; 2Timothy 3:1-2

Note: “The sin which exists in this generation among children is that they are ‘disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God.’ And this state of things exists to such an extent that it is made a subject of prophecy as one of the signs that we are living in the last days of time.” Letters to Young Lovers, 53

“Rebellion and apostasy are in the very air we breathe. We shall be affected by it unless we by faith hang our helpless souls upon Christ.” The Seventh–day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1114

2.b.     What solemn warnings should we keep in mind, particularly as we see the conditions existing in today’s society? Proverbs 1:8; 19:26; 20:20

2.c.      What attitude can we glean from Isaac’s marriage? Genesis 24:1–4, 66, 67

Note: “In ancient times, marriage engagements were generally made by the parents, and this was the custom among those who worshiped God. None were required to marry those whom they could not love; but in the bestowal of their affections the youth were guided by the judgment of their experienced, God-fearing parents. It was regarded as a dishonor to parents, and even a crime, to pursue a course contrary to this.

“Isaac, trusting to his father’s wisdom and affection, was satisfied to commit the matter to him, believing also that God Himself would direct in the choice made.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 171

“What a contrast between the course of Isaac and that pursued by the youth of our time, even among professed Christians! Young people too often feel that the bestowal of their affections is a matter in which self alone should be consulted—a matter that neither God nor their parents should in any wise control.” Ibid., 175

Tuesday

3 ELDERLY PARENTS

3.a.      Why does God’s voice in the fifth commandment continue to echo through the ages with deep resonance when our parents become aged? Proverbs 23:22

Note: “There is no time when children should withhold respect and love from their father and mother. While the parents live, it should be the children’s joy to honor and respect them. They should bring all the cheerfulness and sunshine into the life of the aged parents, that they possibly can. They should smooth their pathway to the grave. There is no better recommendation in this world than that a child has honored his parents, no better record in the books of heaven than that he has loved and honored father and mother.

“Let children carefully remember that at the best the aged parents have but little joy and comfort. What can bring greater sorrow to their hearts than manifest neglect on the part of their children? What sin can be worse in children than to bring grief to an aged, helpless father or mother? Those who grieve their aged parents are written in the books of heaven as commandment breakers, as those who do not reverence the God of heaven, and unless they repent and forsake their evil ways, they will not be found worthy of a place in the saints’ inheritance.

“Is it possible that children can become so dead to the claims of father and mother that they will not willingly remove all causes of sorrow in their power, watching over them with unwearying care and devotion? Can it be possible that they will not regard it a pleasure to make the last days of their parents their best days? How can a son or daughter be willing to leave father or mother on the hands of strangers for them to care for! Even were the mother an unbeliever and disagreeable, it would not release the child from the obligation that God has placed upon him to care for his parent. Would that there were but few who would utterly ignore the duty that is due from a child to his mother. Alas! that there are so many who never bestow a thought upon their parents, except it be that they may gain some advantage from them. … But how bitter will be the close of the life of such children! They can have no happy reflection in their old age; for they will reap as they have sown.” The Review and Herald, November 15, 1892

3.b.     How did Jesus disclose the Pharisees’ disregard of the fifth commandment? Mark 7:9–13. How did His own behavior stand in clear contrast to their gross hypocrisy? John 19:25–27

Wednesday

4 CHRIST, THE GREAT CENTER

4.a.      As revealed from the time of ancient Israel, why is morning and evening worship essential? 2Chronicles 13:10–12 How should family worship be conducted in our days? 

Note: “It should be the special object of the heads of the family to make the hour of worship intensely interesting. By a little thought and careful preparation for this season, when we come into the presence of God, family worship can be made pleasant and will be fraught with results that eternity alone will reveal. Let the father select a portion of Scripture that is interesting and easily understood; a few verses will be sufficient to furnish a lesson which may be studied and practiced through the day. Questions may be asked, a few earnest, interesting remarks made, or incident, short and to the point, may be brought in by way of illustration. At least a few verses of spirited song may be sung, and the prayer offered should be short and pointed. The one who leads in prayer should not pray about everything, but should express his needs in simple words and praise God with thanksgiving.” The Signs of the Times, August 7, 1884

4.b.     What is the keynote of life to be learned whether the family be large or small? Philippians 2:1–4

Note: “God would have our families symbols of the family in heaven. Let parents and children bear this in mind every day, relating themselves to one another as members of the family of God. Then their lives will be of such a character as to give to the world an object lesson of what families who love God and keep His commandments may be. Christ will be glorified; His peace and grace and love will pervade the family circle like a precious perfume.” The Review and Herald, November 17, 1896

4.c.      How are children to reflect the childhood of Jesus? Luke 2:52

Note: “Very early the lesson of helpfulness should be taught the child. As soon as strength and reasoning power are sufficiently developed, he should be given duties to perform in the home.” The Ministry of Healing, 401

Thursday

5 A TRAINING GROUND FOR SERVICE

5.a.      What is God’s plan for our families? Psalm 128:1–6

Note: “All heaven is interested in your home. … Set your own heart in order. An unreserved surrender to God will sweep away the barriers that have so long defied the approaches of heavenly grace.” The Signs of the Times, November 11, 1903

5.b.     How is victory assured even to those who themselves may not have grown up under the best of circumstances? Philippians 3:13, 14

Note: “Notwithstanding children may not have had the right instruction, and their characters not have been properly molded, God proposes to connect them with Himself as He did Nadab and Abihu, if they will heed His commands. If they will with faith and courage bring their will in submission to the will of God, He will teach them, and their lives may be like the pure white lily, full of fragrance on the stagnant waters. They must resolve in the strength of Jesus to control inclination and passion, and every day win victories over Satan’s temptations.” The Signs of the Times, July 8, 1880

5.c.      What are the best character traits we can bequeath to help our children obtain a mature Christian character? Micah 6:8; Colossians 1:10; Colossians 2:6

Note: “The more fully the spirit of true ministry pervades the home, the more fully it will be developed in the lives of the children. They will learn to find joy in service and sacrifice for the good of others.” The Ministry of Healing, 401

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          What are some good ways by which we can brighten the life of our parents?

2          What was Christ’s example with regard to His parents?

3          How can we encourage more Christ-centered homes?

4          Why has God ordained the family unit to nurture human beings?

Copyright 2006, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

In Our Father’s Image

by

Preparing for Eternity Together

December 29, 2024 – January 4, 2025

Key Text

“So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” Genesis 1:27

Study Help: Sons and Daughters of God, 15, 230

Introduction

“The value of man is to be estimated at the price paid for his redemption.” The Review and Herald, December 18, 1894

Sunday

1 A PRIVILEGED PART OF CREATION

1.a.      Describe our high calling as human beings, and the relationship our Creator has designed to enjoy with us. Isaiah 13:12; Jeremiah 29:11

Note: “When Adam came from the Creator’s hand, he bore, in his physical, mental, and spiritual nature, a likeness to his Maker. ‘God created man in His own image’ (Genesis 1:27), and it was His purpose that the longer man lived the more fully he should reveal this image—the more fully reflect the glory of the Creator. All his faculties were capable of development; their capacity and vigor were continually to increase. Vast was the scope offered for their exercise, glorious the field opened to their research. The mysteries of the visible universe—the ‘wondrous works of Him which is perfect in knowledge’ (Job 37:16)—invited man’s study. Face-to-face, heart-to-heart communion with his Maker was his high privilege. Had he remained loyal to God, all this would have been his forever. Throughout eternal ages he would have continued to gain new treasures of knowledge, to discover fresh springs of happiness, and to obtain clearer and yet clearer conceptions of the wisdom, the power, and the love of God. More and more fully would he have fulfilled the object of his creation, more and more fully have reflected the Creator’s glory.” Education, 15

1.b.     Why should we be inspired by the wonderful level of trust, honor, and confidence which God has bestowed upon humanity? Psalm 8:3–9

Monday

2 AN INTRUDING INTERFERENCE

2.a.      What tragic mistake scarred the life of our first parents, causing them to forfeit their home in paradise? Genesis 3:1–12, 17–19, 23, 24. What spiritual consequences followed?

Note: “Through sin the divine likeness was marred, and well-nigh obliterated. Man’s physical powers were weakened, his mental capacity was lessened, his spiritual vision dimmed. He had become subject to death.” Education, 15

2.b.     How is sin defined, and what does it cause? 1John 3:4; Romans 6:23, first part

2.c.      Out of love for the human race, what would be accomplished by the mission of Christ in coming to earth? 1Corinthians 15:21–23; Romans 6:23, second part. How soon could humanity reap the benefits of His life, death, resurrection, and ascension?

Note: “As soon as there was sin, there was a Saviour. Christ knew what He would have to suffer, yet He became man’s substitute. As soon as Adam sinned, the Son of God presented Himself as surety for the human race, with just as much power to avert the doom pronounced upon the guilty as when He died upon the cross of Calvary.” The Review and Herald, March 12, 1901

2.d.     By the time Christ came to earth, how advanced had the sin problem become in separating humanity—both Jews and Gentiles—from their heavenly Father? Genesis 1:1–3; John 1:1–5, 10, 11

Note: “Men had well-nigh ceased to discern God in His works. The sinfulness of humanity had cast a pall over the fair face of creation; and instead of manifesting God, His works became a barrier that concealed Him. Men ‘worshiped and served the creature more than the Creator.’ Thus the heathen ‘became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.’ Romans 1:25, 21. So in Israel, man’s teaching had been put in the place of God’s. Not only the things of nature, but the sacrificial service and the Scriptures themselves—all given to reveal God—were so perverted that they became the means of concealing Him.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 18

Tuesday

3 THE DIVINE—HUMAN SAVIOUR

3.a.      What reveals God’s mercy in sending Christ? Job 33:23–30; Luke 1:26–35

Note: “When Adam’s sin plunged the race into hopeless misery, God might have cut Himself loose from fallen beings. He might have treated them as sinners deserve to be treated. He might have commanded the angels of heaven to pour out upon our world the vials of His wrath. He might have removed this dark blot from His universe. But He did not do this. Instead of banishing them from His presence, He came still nearer to the fallen race. He gave His Son to become bone of our bone, and flesh of our flesh. ‘The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father), full of grace and truth.’ Christ by His human relationship to men drew them close to God. He clothed His divine nature with the garb of humanity, and demonstrated before the heavenly universe, before the unfallen worlds, how much God loves the children of men.” The Australasian Union Conference Record, June 1, 1900

3.b.     Why can we be assured that the great Judge of all humanity will be fair with His erring creatures? John 5:26, 27; Hebrews 4:14-15; Hebrews 7:25

3.c.      How is Christ’s humiliating death an important key in teaching us how to live, and how to relate to our fellow human beings? Isaiah 53:6–8; Philippians 2:5–11

Note: “Christ in His humiliation was glorified. He who in all other eyes appeared to be conquered was a Conqueror. He was acknowledged as the Sin Bearer. Men may exercise power over His human body. They may pierce the holy temples with the crown of thorns. They may strip from Him His raiment, and quarrel over its division. But they cannot rob Him of His power to forgive sins. In dying He bears testimony to His own divinity and to the glory of the Father. His ear is not heavy that it cannot hear, neither His arm shortened that it cannot save. It is His royal right to save unto the uttermost all who come unto God by Him.” The Desire of Ages, 751

Wednesday

4 RESTORED AS SONS AND DAUGHTERS

4.a.      What reality must each of us face? Romans 3:23 and 1John 1:10

4.b.     How has this caused prayers to be unanswered? Isaiah 59:1, 2

4.c.      What can the good news of salvation through Christ do for us? Ezekiel 16:3–6; Galatians 4:1–7

4.d.     What must be our focus to maintain victory? John 1:12–14; Romans 8:10–17

4.e.      How can the study of nature help to reinforce our connection with its Author? Psalm 19:1–3; Romans 1:20

Note: “As divine truth is revealed in Holy Writ, so it is reflected, as from a mirror, in the face of nature; and through His creation we become acquainted with the Creator. And so the book of nature becomes a great lesson book, which instructors who are wise can use, in connection with the Scriptures, to guide lost sheep back to the fold of God. As the works of God are studied, the Holy Spirit flashes conviction into the mind. It is not the conviction which logical reasoning produces; but unless the mind has become too dark to know God, the eye too dim to see Him, the ear too dull to hear His voice, a deeper meaning is grasped, and the sublime, spiritual truths of the written word are impressed on the heart.” Special Testimonies on Education, 59

4.f.       How does the Sabbath serve as a connecting link to acquaint us more fully with our divine—human Saviour on a regular basis? Exodus 31:12–17; Ezekiel 20:12–20; Jeremiah 31:33, 34

Note: “The Sabbath calls our thoughts to nature, and brings us into communion with the Creator. In the song of the bird, the sighing of the trees, and the music of the sea, we still may hear His voice who talked with Adam in Eden in the cool of the day. And as we behold His power in nature we find comfort, for the word that created all things is that which speaks life to the soul.” The Desire of Ages, 281, 282

Thursday

5 THE CROSS POINTS TO HEAVEN WITH ARMS OUTSTRETCHED

5.a.      What beautiful assurance does Christ give us, and how does He intend that we respond to it? John 15:14–17

Note: “In the New Testament the world’s Redeemer has specified what constitutes pure religion in our dealings with our fellowmen. Obeying the first four commandments with the whole soul causes us to render supreme love to God, and to become coworkers with God in carrying out the will of God toward our fellowmen. Keeping the first four commandments makes us one with Christ, who gave His life as a ransom to deliver all from the thralldom of sin, and to make us free men and women in Him. The value of man is to be estimated at the price paid for his redemption.

“The last six precepts of the decalogue reveal the duty of man to his fellowmen; and those who render obedience to the first four commandments will also carry out the injunctions of the last six. We are commanded to love our neighbors as ourselves.” The Review and Herald, December 18, 1894

5.b.     In view of all that Christ has done for us (vertically pointing us to heaven), what should we keep in mind as we study this quarterly on how to relate to our fellow humans (depicted horizontally)? Jude 1:21 and 1Corinthians 16:14

Note: “We can receive light only as we come to the cross and present ourselves at the altar of sacrifice. Here man’s weakness is made manifest; here His strength is revealed. Here men see there is power in Christ to save to the uttermost all that come unto God by Him.” Christian Education, 82

 Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          What has always been our Father’s plan in creating us?

2          How does sin destroy relationships?

3          Why must Christ—“the Son of God”—also be revealed as “the Son of man”?

4          Once we are adopted into our Father’s family, what makes us feel at home?

5          What is to be the inevitable result of a solid (vertical) relationship with God?

Copyright 2006, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Reunion of God’s Family

by

December 22 – 28, 2024

Key Text

“And it will be said in that da: Behold, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us.” Isaiah 25:9

Study Help: Testimonies, Vol. 6, 308–312

Introduction

“Christ takes His people to the city of God, and the earth is emptied of its inhabitants.” The Great Controversy, 657

Sunday

1 CHRIST’S RETURN

1.a. Three events—(1) genuine repentance and conversion is seen among Christ’s followers, (2) their confessed sins are blotted out in the investigative judgment, (3) they receive the “latter rain” in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in fullness—are to take place in these last days. What will be the fourth and most important event? Acts 3:19, 20; Psalm 50:3

Note: “The King of kings descends upon the cloud, wrapped in flaming fire. The heavens are rolled together as a scroll, the earth trembles before Him, and every mountain and island is moved out of its place.” The Great Controversy, 641, 642

1.b. What will then happen to those who have died in Christ and have been approved in the investigative judgment? John 5:28, 29 first part; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–16

Note: “Amid the reeling of the earth, the flash of lightning, and the roar of thunder, the voice of the Son of God calls forth the sleeping saints. He looks upon the graves of the righteous, then, raising His hands to heaven, He cries: ‘Awake, awake, awake, ye that sleep in the dust, and arise!’ Throughout the length and breadth of the earth the dead shall hear that voice, and they that hear shall live.” The Great Controversy, 644

Monday

2 “RECOMPENSED AT THE RESURRECTION OF THE JUST”

2.a. What is written about the reward reserved for the patriarchs? Hebrews 11:13, 39, 40. When will the righteous be rewarded? Luke 14:14. What will they hear from many lips?

Note: “The redeemed will meet and recognize those whose attention they have directed to the uplifted Saviour. What blessed converse they have with these souls! ‘I was a sinner,’ it will be said, ‘without God and without hope in the world, and you came to me, and drew my attention to the precious Saviour as my only hope. And I believed in Him. I repented of my sins, and was made to sit together with His saints in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.’ Others will say: ‘I was a heathen in heathen lands. You left your friends and comfortable home, and came to teach me how to find Jesus and believe in Him as the only true God. I demolished my idols and worshiped God, and now I see Him face to face. I am saved, eternally saved, ever to behold Him whom I love. I then saw Him only with the eye of faith, but now I see Him as He is. I can now express my gratitude for His redeeming mercy to Him who loved me and washed me from my sins in His own blood.’

“Others will express their gratitude to those who fed the hungry and clothed the naked.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 311

2.b. What did Christ say about Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? When will they be rewarded? Luke 20:37, 38. And what about the prophet Daniel? Daniel 12:13. And King David? Acts 2:34, 35. Is there any proof in the Bible that they are already in heaven?

Note: “The fact that David remains in the grave until the resurrection proves that the righteous do not go to heaven at death. It is only through the resurrection, and by virtue of the fact that Christ has risen, that David can at last sit at the right hand of God.” The Great Controversy, 546

2.c. There are three exceptional cases mentioned in the Bible. Genesis 5:24 (Hebrews 11:5); Jude 9; 2 Kings 2:11 (Matthew 17:1–5). Explain.

Tuesday

3 NEW BODIES, NEW HOMES

3.a. Where are the saints who were raised at the resurrection of Christ? Matthew 27:52, 53; Ephesians 4:8; Revelation 4:4; 5:8, 9

Note: “As Christ arose, He brought from the grave a multitude of captives. The earthquake at His death had rent open their graves, and when He arose, they came forth with Him. They were those who had been colaborers with God, and who at the cost of their lives had borne testimony to the truth. Now they were to be witnesses for Him who had raised them from the dead. …

“They ascended with Him as trophies of His victory over death and the grave. These, said Christ, are no longer the captives of Satan; I have redeemed them. I have brought them from the grave as the first fruits of My power, to be with Me where I am, nevermore to see death or experience sorrow.” The Desire of Ages, 786

3.b. What is the evidence that the apostles are not in heaven? What is Christ preparing for them and for us? John 14:1–3. When will they, together with us, receive the promised reward? 2 Timothy 4:7, 8 

3.c. What do we know about the new bodies that the saints will have? 1 Corinthians 15:35, 38, 42–44; Philippians 3:21

Note: “Our personal identity is preserved in the resurrection, though not the same particles of matter or material substance as went into the grave. The wondrous works of God are a mystery to man. The spirit, the character of man, is returned to God, there to be preserved. In the resurrection, every man will have his own character. God in His own time will call forth the dead, giving again the breath of life, and bidding the dry bones live. The same form will come forth, but it will be free from disease and every defect. It lives again bearing the same individuality of features, so that friend will recognize friend. There is no law of God in nature which shows that God gives back the same identical particles of matter which composed the body before death. God shall give the righteous dead a body that will please Him.” Maranatha, 301

Wednesday

4 CHRIST COMES TO “EXECUTE JUDGMENT”

4.a. Christ comes “to execute judgment.” John 5:27; 2 Timothy 4:1; Jude 14, 15. What destiny will be given to the two classes of people at the executive judgment? Matthew 25:31–46; 13:41–43

Note: “Christ on the Mount of Olives pictured to His disciples the scene of the great judgment day. And He represented its decision as turning upon one point. When the nations are gathered before Him, there will be but two classes, and their eternal destiny will be determined by what they have done or have neglected to do for Him in the person of the poor and the suffering.” The Desire of Ages, 637

4.b. What will the wicked, filled with terror, do on that great day? Isaiah 2:19–21; Revelation 6:15–17

Note: “At the coming of Christ the wicked are blotted from the face of the whole earth—consumed with the spirit of His mouth and destroyed by the brightness of His glory. Christ takes His people to the city of God, and the earth is emptied of its inhabitants. … ‘The land shall be utterly emptied, and utterly spoiled; for the Lord hath spoken this word.’ ‘Because they have transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore hath the curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell therein are desolate; therefore the inhabitants of the earth are burned.’ [Isaiah 24:3, 5, 6.]

“The whole earth appears like a desolate wilderness.” The Great Controversy, 657

4.c. How will the saints rejoice—and how soon? Isaiah 25:9

Note: “I have also been pronounced a deceiver because I have said, ‘The Lord will soon come; get ready, get ready, that ye may be found waiting, watching, and loving His appearing.’ But in the Revelation, I read this statement, ‘Behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be.’ ‘Behold, I come quickly: Blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.’ ‘Behold, I come quickly: Hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.’ Was the One who bore this testimony a deceiver, because the ‘quickly’ has been protracted longer than our finite minds could anticipate? It is the faithful and true Witness that speaks. His words are verity and truth.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 16, 179

Thursday

5 CHRIST’S GLORY, A CONSUMING FIRE

5.a. What will become of the living saints at the coming of Christ? 1 Corinthians 15:51–53

Note: “The living righteous are changed ‘in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.’ At the voice of God they were glorified; now they are made immortal and with the risen saints are caught up to meet their Lord in the air. Angels ‘gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.’ Little children are borne by holy angels to their mothers’ arms. Friends long separated by death are united, nevermore to part, and with songs of gladness ascend together to the city of God.” The Great Controversy, 645

5.b. What will happen to all others? Isaiah 66:15–18; 2 Thessalonians 1:6–8; 2 Peter 3:7, 10–12; Luke 17:28–30. Is there any proof that they will have a second chance to be saved?

5.c. What effect will the coming of Christ have on the saints? Philippians 3:18–21

5.d. Where will the resurrected saints and the living righteous meet Christ? 1 Thessalonians 4:17 Where are their new homes? Psalm 15:1; Hebrews 12:22, 23; Revelation 21:2–4

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. Describe in the right sequence the four events mentioned in Acts 3:19, 20.
  2. When will the patriarchs and prophets receive their reward? What evidence shows that they are not yet in heaven?
  3. Specify the exceptional cases found in the Bible.
  4. What will be preserved in the resurrection, and what will not be preserved? Explain.
  5. Explain why the glory of Christ’s coming will destroy the wicked but not the saints.

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

A Comparison Between Type and Antitype

by

December 15 – 21, 2024

Key Text

“For yet a little while, and He who is coming will come and will not tarry.” Hebrews 10:37

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 343–358

Introduction

“The solemn scenes of the judgment, the great day of atonement, should be kept before the people and urged upon their consciences with earnestness and power.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 421

Sunday

1 THE DAY OF ATONEMENT IN TYPES AND SYMBOLS

1.a. On the great day of atonement, what procedure symbolized the removal of the confessed sins from the sanctuary and from the people? Leviticus 16:7–10

1.b. What did the high priest do with the blood of the goat? Leviticus 16:15, 16

1.c. After which act was the yearly atonement (reconciliation) for the people and for the sanctuary considered “completed”—after the sacrificial goat had been killed, or after its blood had been applied? Leviticus 16:15–20

Note: “As anciently the sins of the people were by faith placed upon the sin offering and through its blood transferred, in figure, to the earthly sanctuary, so in the new covenant the sins of the repentant are by faith placed upon Christ and transferred, in fact, to the heavenly sanctuary. And as the typical cleansing of the earthly was accomplished by the removal of the sins by which it had been polluted, so the actual cleansing of the heavenly is to be accomplished by the removal, or blotting out, of the sins which are there recorded.” The Great Controversy, 421, 422

Monday

2 “WHEN HE HAD MADE AN END …”

2. What does the cleansing of the earthly sanctuary teach about the cleansing of the heavenly? Daniel 8:14; Hebrews 8:3–6

Note: “The cleansing, both in the typical and in the real service, must be accomplished with blood: in the former, with the blood of animals; in the latter, with the blood of Christ.” The Great Controversy, 417, 418

Tuesday

3 THE SCAPEGOAT

3.a. After “he hath made an end of reconciling” the tabernacle and the people, what did the high priest do? Leviticus 16:20–22

Note: “In his character of mediator, he [the high priest] took the sins upon himself and bore them from the sanctuary. Placing his hands upon the head of the scapegoat, he confessed over him all these sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the goat. The goat then bore them away, and they were regarded as forever separated from the people.” The Great Controversy, 420

3.b. By bearing the iniquities of the people from the sanctuary into the court, and by laying both his hands on the head of the live goat, the high priest was in contact with sin. He was defiled. Therefore, what did he have to do? Leviticus 16:24

3.c. For the same reason, what was required of the man who led the goat away? Leviticus 16:26

3.d. Since the scapegoat defiled the person that was in contact with it (Leviticus 16:26), could this goat represent the unblemished Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world? John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:19. What were the Adventist pioneers able to see?

Note: “It was seen, also, that while the sin offering pointed to Christ as a sacrifice, and the high priest represented Christ as a mediator, the scapegoat typified Satan, the author of sin, upon whom the sins of the truly penitent will finally be placed. When the high priest, by virtue of the blood of the sin offering, removed the sins from the sanctuary, he placed them upon the scapegoat. When Christ, by virtue of His own blood, removes the sins of His people from the heavenly sanctuary at the close of His ministration, He will place them upon Satan, who, in the execution of the judgment, must bear the final penalty.” The Great Controversy, 422

Wednesday

4 THE COMPLETION OF THE ATONEMENT

4.a. How did the final procedures of the atonement reveal the events at the end of the great controversy? Leviticus 16:10, 26

Note: “So in the typical service, the yearly round of ministration closed with the purification of the sanctuary, and the confessing of the sins on the head of the scapegoat.

“Since Satan is the originator of sin, the direct instigator of all the sins that caused the death of the Son of God, justice demands that Satan shall suffer the final punishment. Christ’s work for the redemption of men and the purification of the universe from sin will be closed by the removal of sin from the heavenly sanctuary and the placing of these sins upon Satan, who will bear the final penalty.

“Thus in the ministration of the tabernacle, and of the temple that afterward took its place, the people were taught each day the great truths relative to Christ’s death and ministration, and once each year their minds were carried forward to the closing events of the great controversy between Christ and Satan, the final purification of the universe from sin and sinners.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 358

4.b. After the atonement, what direction will Christ take? Hebrews 9:28; 10:37

Note: “In the typical service, the high priest, having made the atonement for Israel, came forth and blessed the congregation. So Christ, at the close of His work as mediator, will appear, ‘without sin unto salvation’ (Hebrews 9:28), to bless His waiting people with eternal life.” The Great Controversy, 485

4.c. What does Paul mean when he says that, when Christ comes the second time, He will appear “without sin” (Hebrews 9:28)? Hebrews 10:17, 18

Note: “So Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.” Hebrews 9:28

Thursday

5 THE SCAPEGOAT BOUND

5.a. Will a special privilege be extended to those who are not ready to receive Christ at His coming? Matthew 7:22, 23; Luke 13:23–27; Isaiah 55:6. Why will it be too late for those who are not ready? Matthew 25:10–12

5.b. Where will Satan (symbolized by the scapegoat) and his angels be isolated and for how long, before they are destroyed? Isaiah 14:12–20; 24:20–22; Jeremiah 4:20–26; Revelation 20:1–3

Note: “Here is to be the home of Satan with his evil angels for a thousand years. Limited to the earth, he will not have access to other worlds to tempt and annoy those who have never fallen. It is in this sense that he is bound: there are none remaining, upon whom he can exercise his power. He is wholly cut off from the work of deception and ruin which for so many centuries has been his sole delight.” The Great Controversy, 659

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. How were the confessed sins removed from the sanctuary and from the people on the great Day of Atonement?
  2. After which act was the yearly atonement completed?
  3. After the sins were removed from the sanctuary and from the people, how were the sins borne away?
  4. Give one of the reasons why the live goat for Azazel could not represent Christ. Whom did he symbolize?
  5. How can you prove that, when Christ comes again, He will complete the last step in the plan of salvation?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Antitypical Day of Atonement

by

December 8 – 14, 2024

Key Text

“For two thousand and three hundred days, then the sanctuary shall be cleansed.” Daniel 8:14

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 417–422

Introduction

“The prophecy of Daniel 8:14 … [points] to Christ’s ministration in the most holy place, to the investigative judgment.” The Great Controversy (1888), 423, 424

Sunday

1 THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY MUST ALSO BE PURIFIED

1.a. Why did the high priest enter the most holy place once a year? Hebrews 9:7, 23; Leviticus 16:16. What was the name of that day?

Note: “In the typical system, which was a shadow of the sacrifice and priesthood of Christ, the cleansing of the sanctuary was the last service performed by the high priest in the yearly round of ministration. It was the closing work of the atonement—a removal or putting away of sin from Israel.” The Great Controversy, 352

1.b. When were the people considered “clean from all [their] sins before the Lord”—when they were “forgiven” in the daily service (Leviticus 4:20, 26, 31, 35), or only after their sins had been removed on the day of atonement? Leviticus 16:29, 30

 1.c. What is continually contaminating the heavenly sanctuary? 1 Timothy 5:24. “The heavenly things,” i.e., the heavenly sanctuary, must therefore be purified “with better sacrifices” (Hebrews 9:23, last part) on the antitypical day of atonement. What is meant by the “better sacrifices” required for the cleansing of the sanctuary in heaven? Hebrews 9:12, 26

Monday

2 THE APPOINTED TIME

2.a. In the plan of God, what time was appointed for the cleansing of the heavenly sanctuary? Daniel 8:14. According to the Bible method of measuring prophetic days (Ezekiel 4:6), what period of time is represented by the 2300 days? How did the Advent pioneers understand this prophecy?

Note: “The 2300 days had been found to begin when the commandment of Artaxerxes for the restoration and building of Jerusalem went into effect, in the autumn of 457 B.C. Taking this as the starting point, there was perfect harmony in the application of all the events foretold in the explanation of that period in Daniel 9:25–27. Sixty-nine weeks, the first 483 of the 2300 years, were to reach to the Messiah, the Anointed One; and Christ’s baptism and anointing by the Holy Spirit, A.D. 27, exactly fulfilled the specification. In the midst of the seventieth week, Messiah was to be cut off. Three and a half years after His baptism, Christ was crucified, in the spring of A.D. 31. The seventy weeks, or 490 years, were to pertain especially to the Jews. At the expiration of this period the nation sealed its rejection of Christ by the persecution of His disciples, and the apostles turned to the Gentiles, A.D. 34. The first 490 years of the 2300 having then ended, 1810 years would remain. From A.D. 34, 1810 years extend to 1844. ‘Then,’ said the angel, ‘shall the sanctuary be cleansed.’ ” The Great Controversy, 410

2.b. Why is it that the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 (2300 prophetic days or 2300 literal years)—the first part of which was explained by the angel Gabriel in Daniel 9:24–27—can only refer to the heavenly sanctuary?

Note: “At the death of Christ the typical service ended. The ‘true tabernacle’ in heaven is the sanctuary of the new covenant. And as the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 is fulfilled in this dispensation, the sanctuary to which it refers must be the sanctuary of the new covenant. At the termination of the 2300 days, in 1844, there had been no sanctuary on earth for many centuries. Thus the prophecy, ‘Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed,’ unquestionably points to the sanctuary in heaven.” The Great Controversy, 417

Tuesday

3 THE MOST HOLY PLACE OPENED

3.a. What did John see when the first apartment of the sanctuary was opened in the year A.D. 31? Revelation 4:1, 2, 5. And what did he see when the second apartment was opened in 1844? Revelation 11:19

Note: “As in vision the apostle John was granted a view of the temple of God in heaven, he beheld there ‘seven lamps of fire burning before the throne.’ Revelation 4:5. He saw an angel ‘having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne.’ Revelation 8:3. Here the prophet was permitted to behold the first apartment of the sanctuary in heaven; and he saw there the ‘seven lamps of fire’ and ‘the golden altar,’ represented by the golden candlestick and the altar of incense in the sanctuary on earth. Again, ‘the temple of God was opened’ (Revelation 11:19), and he looked within the inner veil, upon the holy of holies. Here he beheld ‘the ark of His testament,’ represented by the sacred chest constructed by Moses to contain the law of God.” The Great Controversy, 414, 415

3.b. What change took place in the ministry of Christ in 1844? Revelation 3:7, 8. Where were the thrones set up for the work of judgment? Daniel 7:9, 10

Note: “The door was opened in the most holy place in the heavenly sanctuary, where the ark is, in which are contained the ten commandments. This door was not opened until the mediation of Jesus was finished in the holy place of the sanctuary in 1844. Then Jesus rose up and shut the door of the holy place, and opened the door into the most holy, and passed within the second veil, where He now stands by the ark, and where the faith of Israel now reaches.” Early Writings, 42

3.c. How did God, through the prophet Isaiah, predict this great day which began in 1844? Isaiah 22:20–22. While the atonement is going on, God is calling us to afflict our souls. But, instead of turning to the Lord with repentant hearts, what are many people doing? Isaiah 22:12–14; Revelation 3:14–17

3.d. What opportunity, still open before us, will not last much longer? Revelation 3:18–20; 2 Peter 3:9, 14

Wednesday

4 SINS REMOVED FROM THE RECORD

4.a. What is Christ our High Priest to “blot out,” or “put away,” or remove from our hearts and from the records in the sanctuary? Isaiah 43:25

Note: “It [the cleansing of the earthly sanctuary] prefigured the closing work in the ministration of our High Priest in heaven, in the removal or blotting out of the sins of His people, which are registered in the heavenly records. This service involves a work of investigation, a work of judgment; and it immediately precedes the coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory; for when He comes, every case has been decided.” The Great Controversy, 352

4.b. Why should the “blotting out” of our sins bring us hope and courage? Isaiah 44:22, 23

Note: “God does not deal with us as finite men deal with one another. His thoughts are thoughts of mercy, love, and tenderest compassion. ‘He will abundantly pardon.’ He says, ‘I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins.’ Let us trust in the word of the Lord, and by our cheerful obedience testify our gratitude for His pardoning love.

“Brethren and sisters, look up; you who are tried, tempted, and discouraged, look up. Let no weary, halting, sin-oppressed soul become faint-hearted. The promises of God that come down along the lines to our times assure you that heaven can be reached if you will continue to climb.” The Review and Herald, February 17, 1885

4.c. What declaration will be made by Christ at the end of the investigative judgment when He ceases His ministry as our High Priest? Revelation 22:11, 12

Note: “When the work of the investigative judgment closes, the destiny of all will have been decided for life or death. Probation is ended a short time before the appearing of the Lord in the clouds of heaven.” The Great Controversy, 490

Thursday

5 AN IRREVOCABLE SENTENCE

5.a. When Christ’s mediation is done, what will the Angel do with the censer? Revelation 8:4, 5. What is the meaning of this symbolic act? Will there still be another chance to repent?

Note: “I saw angels hurrying to and fro in heaven. An angel with a writer’s inkhorn by his side returned from the earth and reported to Jesus that his work was done, and the saints were numbered and sealed. Then I saw Jesus, who had been ministering before the ark containing the ten commandments, throw down the censer. He raised His hands, and with a loud voice said, ‘It is done.’ And all the angelic host laid off their crowns as Jesus made the solemn declaration, ‘He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.’

“Every case had been decided for life or death. While Jesus had been ministering in the sanctuary, the judgment had been going on for the righteous dead, and then for the righteous living. Christ had received His kingdom, having made the atonement for His people and blotted out their sins.” Early Writings, 279, 280

5.b. What sentence should arouse our attention while probation is still open? Why? Daniel 5:27. What warning should we consider? Mark 13:35–37

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. 1. Under the old covenant, when were the people declared “clean from all [their] sins before the Lord”—at the end of the daily service or at the yearly service?
  2. From what must the heavenly sanctuary be purified?
  3. The Advent pioneers realized that the investigative judgment was the cleansing of the heavenly sanctuary—the blotting out of the record of sins. When did this work begin?
  4. What declaration will be made in heaven once our sins are removed (blotted out) from the records? What occurs next? When Christ comes, can the merits of His blood still wash away sins? Read Hebrews 9:28.
  5. What warning of Jesus has a special application in these last days?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

“That Your Sins May Be Blotted Out”

by

The Sanctuary In the Christian Dispensation

December 1 – 7, 2024

Key Text

“Repent … and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that He may send Jesus Christ.” Acts 3:19, 20

Study Help: Prophets and Kings, 590–592; The Great Controversy, 489–491

Introduction

“The work of the investigative judgment and the blotting out of sins is to be accomplished before the second advent of the Lord.” The Great Controversy, 485

Sunday

1 SINS CONFESSED, FORGIVEN, TRANSFERRED

1.a. Under the old covenant, when sins were forgiven in the daily atonement (Leviticus 4:20), were they also eliminated at the same time? Hebrews 10:1–4

 1.b. Under the new covenant, the price of our redemption was paid at the cross, and our sins are forgiven in answer to our daily prayers (1 Peter 1:18, 19; Hebrews 8:11; Matthew 6:12). When will they be blotted out? Acts 3:19

 1.c. As the high priest entered the most holy place once every year, for what purpose would Christ enter behind the second veil “once in the end of the world” by the merits of “the sacrifice of Himself”? Hebrews 9:23–26

Note: “In the typical service, while the high priest was making the atonement for Israel, all were required to afflict their souls. … In like manner, all who would have their names retained in the book of life should now … afflict their souls before God by sorrow for sin and true repentance.” The Great Controversy, 489, 490

Monday

2 SINS CONFESSED, FORGIVEN, TRANSFERRED (CONTINUED)

2.a. Under the old covenant, how was sin transferred from the sinner to the sanctuary? Leviticus 4:16–18, 33–35; Hebrews 13:11

Note: “The most important part of the daily ministration was the service performed in behalf of individuals. The repentant sinner brought his offering to the door of the tabernacle, and, placing his hand upon the victim’s head, confessed his sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the innocent sacrifice. By his own hand the animal was then slain, and the blood was carried by the priest into the holy place and sprinkled before the veil, behind which was the ark containing the law that the sinner had transgressed. By this ceremony the sin was, through the blood, transferred in figure to the sanctuary.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 354

2.b. Under the new covenant, how is sin transferred from the individual to the heavenly sanctuary? 1 John 1:9; Hebrews 9:11, 12, 28; 10:12

Note: “As anciently the sins of the people were by faith placed upon the sin offering and through its blood transferred, in figure, to the earthly sanctuary, so in the new covenant the sins of the repentant are by faith placed upon Christ and transferred, in fact, to the heavenly sanctuary.” The Great Controversy, 421

2.c. What is represented by the censer and the altar of incense in the heavenly sanctuary? Revelation 8:3, 4; Hebrews 4:14–16

Note: “All who come to Christ today are to remember that His merit is the incense that mingles with the prayers of those who repent of their sins and receive pardon and mercy and grace.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, 1078

“Today He [Jesus] is standing at the altar of mercy, presenting before God the prayers of those who desire His help.” The Ministry of Healing, 90

“His [Christ’s] offering is complete, and as our Intercessor He executes His self-appointed work, holding before God the censer containing His own spotless merits and the prayers, confessions, and thanksgiving of His people. Perfumed with the fragrance of His righteousness, these ascend to God as a sweet savor. The offering is wholly acceptable, and pardon covers all transgression.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 156

Tuesday

3 TWIN SISTERS IN PERFECT BALANCE

3.a. On what two basic principles was the plan of redemption established? Psalms 85:9–11; 89:14. Where do we have a clear definition of God’s righteousness? Psalm 119:142, 172; Romans 8:4

Note: “Justice has a twin sister that should ever stand by her side, which is Mercy and Love.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 3, 1149

3.b. Under the old covenant, the sacrificial offering was to satisfy symbolically (Hebrews 10:1) the law behind the veil in the most holy place (Hebrews 9:3, 4). What does the law demand of the offender, and what should it cause us to consider? Romans 6:23; 7:8–11; 2 Corinthians 3:6

Note: “Man was a criminal under the sentence of death for transgression of the law of God, as a traitor, a rebel; hence a substitute for man must die as a malefactor, because He stood in the place of the traitors, with all their treasured sins upon His divine soul. It was not enough that Jesus should die in order to fully meet the demands of the broken law, but He died a shameful death. The prophet gives to the world His words, ‘I hid not my face from shame and spitting.’

“In consideration of this, can men have one particle of exaltation? As they trace down the life and sufferings and humiliation of Christ, can they lift their proud heads as if they were to bear no trials, no shame, no humiliation? I say to the followers of Christ, Look to Calvary, and blush for shame at your self-important ideas. All this humiliation of the Majesty of heaven was for guilty, condemned man. He went lower and lower in His humiliation, until there were no lower depths that He could reach, in order to lift man up from his moral defilement. All this was for you who are striving for the supremacy—striving for human praise, for human exaltation; you who are afraid you will not receive all that deference, that respect from human minds, that you think is your due. Is this Christlike?” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, 1127, 1128

3.c. When the demands of the violated law were met, symbolically, through the blood of the substitute (Leviticus 17:11), what was the new status of the repentant sinner before God? Leviticus 4:20; 5:17, 18; Numbers 15:22–26

Wednesday

4 MERCY AND JUSTICE

4.a. Under the new covenant, how can you show that Christ had to die for our sins because the demands of God’s law in the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary (Revelation 11:19; Hebrews 9:4; 8:5; Revelation 15:5) still have to be met? Romans 4:15; 7:7; 1 Corinthians 15:56; James 2:8–11

Note: “The claim that Christ by His death abolished His Father’s law is without foundation. Had it been possible for the law to be changed or set aside, then Christ need not have died to save man from the penalty of sin. The death of Christ, so far from abolishing the law, proves that it is immutable.” The Great Controversy, 466

4.b. How can you show that the grace of God by which we are justified (Titus 3:7) and saved (Ephesians 2:8) is not a license for anyone to continue breaking the law (Romans 6:1, 2; John 8:10, 11) but a power for the repentant sinner to render obedience to the Almighty? Romans 6:14; Titus 2:11, 12

4.c. By what standard will God judge all those who have been acquainted with His will? Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14; James 2:8–12

Note: “God’s law is spiritual. It takes cognizance of our most secret thoughts, purposes, and motives. The judgment, the will, and the affections must be controlled by its precepts. Its principles require love to God and to man; without this love, external compliance will not be accepted. This law is the standard of Christian character. Like a faithful mirror, it reveals to the children of men the defects in their moral character. It makes them watchful against temptation. It teaches them to be exact in judgment, and correct in spiritual discernment. The law of God is holy, just, and good. When our lives conform to this standard we are happy.” The Signs of the Times, June 9, 1881

4.d. What distinction will be made in the judgment between two classes of people as far as their knowledge of the law of God is concerned? Romans 2:12

Thursday

5 SINS BLOTTED OUT IN THE JUDGMENT

5.a. Why must our sins, though conditionally forgiven, enter in the heavenly records? Why can’t they be forgiven and blotted out at the same time?
Ezekiel 18:24; Matthew 18:23–35

5.b. Though Christ came to free us from sin, “it is appointed” for every man to die and to stand before the “judgment” seat of God. Hebrews 9:26, 27. How does the apostle Paul repeat this in other words? 1 Timothy 5:24

5.c. Before what great event and on what condition will our sins be blotted out in the judgment? Isaiah 43:25; Acts 3:19, 20

Note: “As the books of record are opened in the judgment, the lives of all who have believed on Jesus come in review before God. …

“All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life.” The Great Controversy, 483

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. Under the old covenant, how were sins transferred to the earthly sanctuary? Under the new covenant, how are sins transferred to the heavenly sanctuary?
  2. What is the meaning of the censer and of the altar of incense in heaven?
  3. How can you prove that God’s grace is not a license for any to continue in sin?
  4. How do we know that, when our sins are forgiven, they are not automatically cancelled at the same time?
  5. When and on what condition will our sins be blotted out in the judgment?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

A Lesson for Today

by

November 24 – 30, 2024

Key Text

“I will clothe you with rich robes.” Zechariah 3:4

Study Help: Prophets and Kings, 582–589

Introduction

“All that have put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness will stand before Him as chosen and faithful and true.” Lift Him Up, 234

Sunday

1 A DISCOURAGING SITUATION

1.a. After the Babylonian captivity, what was the main source of discouragement to the little remnant of Israel who had returned to their homeland? Zechariah 1:12

Note: “The people [of Israel] were awakened to see their guilt, they humbled themselves before God, and returned to Him with true repentance. Then the Lord sent them messages of encouragement, declaring that He would deliver them from their captivity and restore them to His favor. It was this that Satan was determined to prevent. A remnant of Israel had already returned to their own land, and Satan was seeking to move upon the heathen nations, who were his agents, to utterly destroy them.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 468

1.b. As He saw their affliction, how did the Lord warn them through the prophet not to repeat the errors of their forefathers? Zechariah 1:4–6

Note: “The steady advancement made by the builders of the temple greatly discomfited and alarmed the hosts of evil. Satan determined to put forth still further effort to weaken and discourage God’s people by holding before them their imperfections of character. If those who had long suffered because of transgression could again be induced to disregard God’s commandments, they would be brought once more under the bondage of sin.” Prophets and Kings, 582

Monday

2 ENCOURAGEMENT FROM THE LORD

2.a. How did the Lord comfort the little remnant with a prophetic message? Zechariah 2:10, 11. To what future event did the Lord refer? Isaiah 60:1–5; Revelation 21:24–26

2.b. Through what vision did the Lord encourage Zerubbabel, their leader? Zechariah 4:1–6, 9

2.c. How did the Lord seek to encourage Joshua the high priest and the people, giving them the spiritual assurance that they needed? Zechariah 3:1, 2

Note: “In vision, the prophet beholds ‘Joshua the high priest,’ ‘clothed with filthy garments’ (Zechariah 3:1, 3), standing before the Angel of the Lord, entreating God’s mercy in behalf of his afflicted people. As he pleads for the fulfillment of God’s promises, Satan stands up boldly to resist him. He points to the transgressions of Israel as a reason why they should not be restored to the favor of God. He claims them as his prey, and demands that they be given into his hands.” Prophets and Kings, 583

2.d. What was the only thing that Joshua the high priest could do in the presence of Satan’s accusations? What is our only hope since we are in a similar predicament? Proverbs 28:13

Note: “The high priest cannot defend himself or his people from Satan’s accusations. He does not claim that Israel is free from fault. In filthy garments, symbolizing the sins of the people, which he bears as their representative, he stands before the Angel, confessing their guilt, yet pointing to their repentance and humiliation, and relying upon the mercy of a sin-pardoning Redeemer. In faith, he claims the promises of God.” Prophets and Kings, 583, 584

Tuesday

3 OUR GREAT NEED: A CHANGE OF RAIMENT

3.a. How did Joshua, the representative of the people, stand before the Angel (who was Christ)? Zechariah 3:3. How do we stand before the Lord in our own righteousness? Isaiah 64:6; Revelation 3:17

Note: “Today human beings stand before God with defiled garments. All their righteousness is ‘as filthy rags’ (Isaiah 64:6). Satan uses against them his masterly accusing power, pointing to their imperfections as evidence of their weakness. He points scornfully at the mistakes of those who claim to be doing God service. They have been deceived by him, and he begs for permission to destroy them.

“But they trust in Christ, and Christ will not forsake them.” This Day With God, 226

3.b. How did Joshua become qualified to minister before the Lord? Zechariah 3:4, 5. What must we do before we can be approved? Revelation 3:18, 19

Note: “As the intercession of Joshua is accepted, the command is given, ‘Take away the filthy garments from him;’ and to Joshua the Angel says, ‘Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.’ ‘So they set a fair miter upon his head, and clothed him with garments.’ Zechariah 3:4, 5. His own sins and those of his people were pardoned. Israel was clothed with ‘change of raiment’—the righteousness of Christ imputed to them. The miter placed upon Joshua’s head was such as was worn by the priests, and bore the inscription, ‘Holiness to the Lord’ (Exodus 28:36), signifying that notwithstanding his former transgressions, he was now qualified to minister before God in His sanctuary.” Prophets and Kings, 584

3.c. After investing him with the dignity of the priesthood, what did Christ declare to Joshua? What are we to do? Zechariah 3:7

Note: “If obedient, [he, Joshua] should be honored as the judge, or ruler, over the temple and all its services; he should walk among attending angels, even in this life; and at last he should join the glorified throng around the throne of God.” Prophets and Kings, 585

Wednesday

4 A TRYING HOUR

4.a. How does Zechariah’s vision apply today? Revelation 12:10, last part

Note: “Zechariah’s vision of Joshua and the Angel applies with peculiar force to the experience of God’s people in the closing scenes of the great day of atonement. The remnant church will then 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 numbers the world as his subjects; he has gained control even of many professing Christians. But here is a little company who are resisting his supremacy. …

“Those who are true to God will be menaced, denounced, proscribed. They will be ‘betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends,’ even unto death. Luke 21:16. Their only hope is in the mercy of God; their only defense will be prayer. As Joshua pleaded before the Angel, so the remnant church, with brokenness of heart and unfaltering faith, will plead for pardon and deliverance through Jesus, their Advocate.” Prophets and Kings, 587, 588

4.b. For what should we be pleading while the door of probation is still open? Psalm 51:1, 7, 10; Joel 2:16, 17 Only on what condition can our Advocate defend us?

Note: “While the followers of Christ have sinned, they have not given themselves up to be controlled by the satanic agencies. They have repented of their sins and have sought the Lord in humility and contrition, and the divine Advocate pleads in their behalf. He who has been most abused by their ingratitude, who knows their sin and also their penitence, declares: ‘The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan. I gave My life for these souls. They are graven upon the palms of My hands. They may have imperfections of character; they may have failed in their endeavors; but they have repented, and I have forgiven and accepted them.’

“The assaults of Satan are strong, his delusions are subtle; but the Lord’s eye is upon His people. Their affliction is great, the flames of the furnace seem about to consume them; but Jesus will bring them forth as gold tried in the fire. Their earthliness will be removed, that through them the image of Christ may be perfectly revealed.” Prophets and Kings, 589

Thursday

5 INIQUITY REMOVED IN ONE DAY

5.a. How will the confessed sins of repentant Israel be removed “in one day” in the investigative judgment? Zechariah 3:9, last part; Acts 3:19

Note: “As the people of God afflict their souls before Him, pleading for purity of heart, the command is given, ‘Take away the filthy garments.’ Zechariah 3:4.” Prophets and Kings, 591

5.b. What mark will be placed on God’s faithful servants after their sins have been blotted out, and how can we prepare for that hour? Ezekiel 9:4; 1 John 3:2, 3

Note: “It is now that our hearts should be pure and holy. We have no promise that we shall be transformed in character when Christ appears. If we would offer an offering unto the Lord in righteousness, we should put away everything that is sinful in thought, in word, and in deed. …

“What we need is purity of heart; and God can give us this as a free gift of His grace. Many blame circumstances for their defective characters. They say, ‘I could do so much better if things were only different; but this one tries me, and that one vexes me, and that is the reason that I am not a better Christian.’ But this is a deception. There is grace with God to enable you to serve Him just where you are, and excuses of this order have no weight with Him. Do not charge your circumstances with your failure. The Lord knows where you are, and He would have you practice those things which make for godliness.” The Youth’s Instructor, January 9, 1896

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          Describe the work of Joshua, Zechariah, and Zerubbabel.

2          What encouragement did the Lord send to Zerubbabel and the people?

3          How did the Angel (who was Christ) put the accuser to silence?

4          How did God respond to Joshua’s confession and prayer?

5          The experience of Joshua and the Angel is an object lesson for us today. Explain.

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Investigative Judgment

by

November 17 – 23, 2024

Key Text

“… And books were opened. … And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.” Revelation 20:12

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 479–482

Introduction

“Beginning with those who first lived upon the earth, our Advocate presents the cases of each successive generation and closes with the living.” The Faith I Live By, 212

Sunday

1 THE TIME TO JUDGE THE DEAD

1.a. When is the appointed time for God to judge the saints that are in the tomb? Will they be judged while dead, or will it be after they have been raised to life? Revelation 11:18

1.b. When will the sleeping saints be “accounted worthy” to attain the resurrection of life? Acts 3:19, 20; Luke 20:35

Note: “The work of the investigative judgment and the blotting out of sins is to be accomplished before the second advent of the Lord. Since the dead are to be judged out of the things written in the books, it is impossible that the sins of men should be blotted out until after the judgment at which their cases are to be investigated. But the apostle Peter distinctly states that the sins of believers will be blotted out ‘when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send Jesus Christ.’ Acts 3:19, 20.” The Great Controversy, 485

1.c. At Christ’s return, would the righteous dead be called forth in the resurrection of life if they had not previously been accepted in the judgment? John 5:28, 29; 1 Corinthians 15:52; 1 Thessalonians 4:14–16

Monday

2 THE TIMING OF KEY EVENTS

2.a. When will the living saints be “accounted worthy to escape” all the end-time snares and calamities—at Christ’s coming or before? Luke 21:36

Note: “When the work of investigation shall be ended, when the cases of those who in all ages have professed to be followers of Christ have been examined and decided, then, and not till then, probation will close, and the door of mercy will be shut. Thus in the one short sentence, ‘They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage: and the door was shut,’ we are carried down through the Saviour’s final ministration, to the time when the great work for man’s salvation shall be completed.” The Great Controversy, 428

2.b. What will Christ bring with Him when He comes? Isaiah 62:11; Revelation 22:12. When will He receive the kingdom—before the judgment or at the end of the judgment, when His work of mediation comes to a close? Daniel 7:9, 10, 13, 14, 18

Note: “[Those who follow] Christ by faith as He enters in before God to perform the last work of mediation, and at its close to receive His kingdom—all these are represented as going in to the marriage.” The Great Controversy, 428

2.c. After the symbolic “wedding” (Luke 12:36)—after receiving the kingdom (Luke 19:12; Revelation 11:15)—Christ will come. Matthew 25:31, 34. When will the “wedding guests” stand before the Judge to be examined—after or before the symbolic “marriage”? Matthew 22:10–14

Note: “In the parable of Matthew 22, the same figure of the marriage is introduced, and the investigative judgment is clearly represented as taking place before the marriage. Previous to the wedding the king comes in to see the guests, to see if all are attired in the wedding garment, the spotless robe of character washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. Matthew 22:11; Revelation 7:14. He who is found wanting is cast out, but all who upon examination are seen to have the wedding garment on are accepted of God and accounted worthy of a share in His kingdom and a seat upon His throne. This work of examination of character, of determining who are prepared for the kingdom of God, is that of the investigative judgment, the closing work in the sanctuary above.” The Great Controversy, 428

Tuesday

3 THE RIGHT TIME FOR THE JUDGMENT MESSAGE

3.a. Since God has appointed a time to “judge the world in righteousness” (Acts 17:31), what message did He promise to send to every nation, and people, and tongue when that time should arrive? Revelation 14:6, 7

Note: “… this message [of the first angel of Revelation 14] is a part of the gospel which could be proclaimed only in the last days, for only then would it be true that the hour of judgment had come.” The Great Controversy, 356

3.b. Does this solemn message place the investigative judgment after or before the coming of Christ? Revelation 14:7–14

Note: “The coming of Christ as our high priest to the most holy place, for the cleansing of the sanctuary, brought to view in Daniel 8:14; the coming of the Son of man to the Ancient of Days, as presented in Daniel 7:13; and the coming of the Lord to His temple, foretold by Malachi, are descriptions of the same event; and this is also represented by the coming of the bridegroom to the marriage, described by Christ in the parable of the ten virgins, of Matthew 25.” The Great Controversy, 426

3.c. Whose cause does our Advocate (1 John 2:1, 2) plead, and whose cause does He not plead before the judgment seat of God? Matthew 10:32, 33

Note: “The intercession of Christ in man’s behalf in the sanctuary above is as essential to the plan of salvation as was His death upon the cross. By His death He began that work which after His resurrection He ascended to complete in heaven. We must by faith enter within the veil, ‘whither the forerunner is for us entered.’ Hebrews 6:20. There the light from the cross of Calvary is reflected. There we may gain a clearer insight into the mysteries of redemption.” The Great Controversy, 489

3.d. What will happen after the symbolic “wedding”? Luke 12:36, 37, 40

Wednesday

4 OUR MOST URGENT NEED

4.a. What is our most urgent need while the investigative judgment is going on? Isaiah 55:6, 7; 1 John 1:9

Note: “If those who hide and excuse their faults could see how Satan exults over them, how he taunts Christ and holy angels with their course, they would make haste to confess their sins and to put them away.” The Great Controversy, 489

4.b. While Christ is pleading for us before the judgment seat, what does He expect from us? Mark 13:35–37; Hebrews 3:13, 14

Note: “We are now living in the great day of atonement. In the typical service, while the high priest was making the atonement for Israel, all were required to afflict their souls by repentance of sin and humiliation before the Lord, lest they be cut off from among the people. In like manner, all who would have their names retained in the book of life should now, in the few remaining days of their probation, afflict their souls before God by sorrow for sin and true repentance.” The Great Controversy, 489, 490

“Christ came that He might open to the comprehension of men and women the principles that underlie the great plan of redemption, that they might be led to cooperate with Him in His work of sacrifice for the salvation of mankind. But the want of fervor, the lack of self-denial, on the part of many who bear Christ’s name, hinder the doing of the very work for which His church on earth was organized. The selfishness and indifference manifested by professing Christians soothes the consciences of many who would be aroused from their unbelief, had they before them in the lives of professing Christians, a living witness to the power of the gospel to transform the character.” The Review and Herald, September 28, 1911

“Because we know not the exact time of His coming, we are commanded to watch. ‘Blessed are those servants, whom the Lord when He cometh shall find watching.’ Luke 12:37. Those who watch for the Lord’s coming are not waiting in idle expectancy. The expectation of Christ’s coming is to make men fear the Lord, and fear His judgments upon transgression. It is to awaken them to the great sin of rejecting His offers of mercy. Those who are watching for the Lord are purifying their souls by obedience to the truth.” The Desire of Ages, 634

Thursday

5 THOUGHTS FOR US TO PONDER

5.a. What illustrates how some will pass the test of the investigative judgment and others will not? Luke 17:34–36

Note: “The righteous and the wicked will still be living upon the earth in their mortal state—men will be planting and building, eating and drinking, all unconscious that the final, irrevocable decision has been pronounced in the sanctuary above.” The Great Controversy, 491

5.b. How can we have hope in the day of judgment? Psalm 130:3–8

Note: “He who is to be our judge knows our works. He understands every temptation and trial, and I am glad of it. He knows the circumstances that surround every soul. He knows our weaknesses and is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. ‘If any man sin,’ says John, ‘we have an advocate with the Father! Jesus Christ the righteous.’ Oh, how precious is the name of Jesus, and how precious every name that He confesses before the Father! When our gracious Redeemer says of the poor penitent, ‘He is mine; I have graven his name on the palms of My hands,’ the answer comes, ‘I will not blot his name from the book of life, but his sins shall be remembered against him no more.’ ” The Signs of the Times, August 6, 1885

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          Explain why Acts 3:19, 20 proves that the investigative judgment must be accomplished before the second coming of Christ.

2          If the living righteous are “accounted worthy to escape” the end-time “snares” to come upon the world, when must they be judged to be “accounted worthy” (Luke 21:36)—at Christ’s return or before it?

3          Why is it evident, also from Matthew 22:10–14, that the investigative judgment must take place before the return of Jesus in glory?

4          When does the first angel of Revelation 14 announce “the hour of His judgment is come”—at Christ’s coming or before it? Read Revelation 14:6, 7, 15, 16.

5          What is our most urgent need in preparing to face the investigative judgment?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

God Has Appointed a Day

by

November 10 – 16, 2024

Key text

“Because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness … .” Acts 17:31

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 486–489

Introduction

“Though all nations are to pass in judgment before God, yet He will examine the case of each individual with as close and searching scrutiny as if there were not another being upon the earth.” Lift Him Up, 330

Sunday

1 DEATH AND JUDGMENT: TWO INESCAPABLE EVENTS

1.a. What does the Bible teach about the great day of judgment? Ecclesiastes 12:14; Hebrews 9:27

Note: “When we become children of God, our names are written in the Lamb’s book of life, and they remain there until the time of the investigative judgment. Then the name of every individual will be called, and his record examined by Him who declares, ‘I know thy works.’ If in that day it shall appear that all our wicked deeds have not been fully repented of, our names will be blotted from the book of life, and our sins will stand against us. If the professed believer becomes self-confident, if in word or spirit he breaks the least precept of God’s holy law, he misrepresents Jesus, and in the judgment the awful words will be spoken, ‘Blot out his name from the book of life; he is a worker of iniquity.’ But the Father pities the self-distrustful, God-fearing soul, harassed though he may be with doubts and temptations. Jesus pleads for him, and confesses his name before the Father and His holy angels.” The Signs of the Times, August 6, 1885

1.b. Will anyone be able to escape the judgment of God? Romans 2:1–3; 14:12

Note: “Everyone must be tested and found without spot or wrinkle or any such thing.” The Great Controversy, (1888), 490

Monday

2 THE GUILT OF THE WHOLE WORLD

2.a. Why must the entire world be judged? Romans 3:9, 10, 19, 20, 23; 5:16, 18, 20

2.b. Is there an exception for faithful Christians, or will they also be judged? Romans 14:10, 12; 2 Corinthians 5:10

2.c. What pitfall of the Jewish nation must we carefully avoid? Romans 11:13, 17–21

Note: “To a people in whose hearts His law is written, the favor of God is assured. They are one with Him. But the Jews had separated themselves from God. … Their minds were darkened by transgression, and because in times past the Lord had shown them so great favor, they excused their sins. They flattered themselves that they were better than other men, and entitled to His blessings.

“These things ‘are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.’ 1 Corinthians 10:11. How often we misinterpret God’s blessings, and flatter ourselves that we are favored on account of some goodness in us! God cannot do for us that which He longs to do. His gifts are used to increase our self-satisfaction, and to harden our hearts in unbelief and sin.” The Desire of Ages, 106

“Every soul is accountable for the talents entrusted. As a church, as individuals, we are to stand upon the elevated, holy ground where the truth has placed us. We are to represent to the world in character and unity the accumulated light which shines upon us in these last days.” The Review and Herald, April 25, 1893

2.d. Who will be judged first—the righteous or the ungodly? 1 Peter 4:17, 18

Note: “In the typical service, only those who had come before God with confession and repentance, and whose sins, through the blood of the sin offering, were transferred to the sanctuary, had a part in the service of the Day of Atonement. So in the great day of final atonement and investigative judgment the only cases considered are those of the professed people of God. The judgment of the wicked is a distinct and separate work and takes place at a later period.” The Great Controversy, 480

Tuesday

3 OUR NAMES IN THE BOOK OF LIFE

3.a. Why should all true Christians rejoice? Luke 10:20; Philippians 4:3

Note: “The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God.” The Great Controversy, 480

“While Jesus is pleading for the subjects of His grace, Satan accuses them before God as transgressors. The great deceiver has sought to lead them into skepticism, to cause them to lose confidence in God, to separate themselves from His love, and to break His law. Now he points to the record of their lives, to the defects of character, the unlikeness to Christ, which has dishonored their Redeemer, to all the sins that he has tempted them to commit, and because of these he claims them as his subjects.

“Jesus does not excuse their sins, but shows their penitence and faith, and, claiming for them forgiveness, He lifts His wounded hands before the Father and the holy angels, saying: I know them by name. I have graven them on the palms of My hands. ‘The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise.’ Psalm 51:17.” Ibid., 484

3.b. What assurance does Christ give to His faithful followers? Matthew 24:13; Revelation 2:10

Note: “All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life.” The Great Controversy, 483

3.c. What will be the fate of professed Christians who think they can be saved in their sins? Exodus 32:33; Ezekiel 18:24; Matthew 7:21–23

Note: “Every name is mentioned, every case closely investigated. Names are accepted, names rejected. When any have sins remaining upon the books of record, unrepented of and unforgiven, their names will be blotted out of the book of life, and the record of their good deeds will be erased from the book of God’s remembrance.” The Great Controversy, 483

Wednesday

4 “RESERVED … UNTO THE JUDGMENT OF THE GREAT DAY”

4.a. What do we read about the specific time—at the end of the world—that God has appointed for the work of judgment? Acts 17:31; Revelation 11:18. Describe the solemnity of that hour. Matthew 7:13, 14

Note: “The righteous judgments of God will not spare the trifler. The people who have had great light will not be excused if they neglect to give, by a godly example, the light of truth to those with whom they associate.

“Not to unbelievers only, but to church members the words are spoken, ‘Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near.’ With the light that has come to him, the believer has serious responsibilities placed upon him. He must not allow trifles to lead him to neglect the religion of Christ.

“It is dangerous for us to subordinate matters of eternal interest to the common affairs of life. …

“What can I say to you, my brethren and sisters, that will arouse you to the importance of the times in which we live, and lead you to a faithful examination of heart and life? Are your lives in harmony with the life of sacrifice that Christ lived on the earth? In giving His Son to the human race, the Father gave to His church a wonderful example of self-forgetting love.” The Review and Herald, September 28, 1911

4.b. Daniel chapter 7 confirms the teaching of the Bible that the judgment takes place, not at death, but at the end of the world. Summarize: Daniel 7:9, 10, 22, 26

4.c. What does Jude say about that time? Jude 6

4.d. How do we know that the patriarchs (Hebrews 11:13–16), the prophets (Daniel 12:13; Acts 2:34; Hebrews 11:39, 40), the apostles (John 14:1–3), and those that are dead in Christ are not in heaven? 1 Thessalonians 4:13–17

4.e. In what words does the Bible teach that the ungodly are not burning in a lake of fire? What must take place before they can meet the fate they have chosen? 2 Peter 2:9; John 5:28, 29, last part

Thursday

5 THE JUDGMENT SEAT IN ZION

5.a. Where is the judgment to take place at the end of the world? Psalm 9:7, 8

Note: “The judgment is now passing in the sanctuary above. For many years this work has been in progress. Soon—none know how soon—it will pass to the cases of the living. In the awful presence of God, our lives are to come up in review.” The Great Controversy, 490

5.b. Where does God have His throne in heaven? Psalm 9:11; Isaiah 6:1; Revelation 7:15; 14:1, 2

5.c. Since we must know God in the interest of our salvation (John 17:3), what does this knowledge include? Psalms 9:16; 77:13. What event will take place after the judgment of God’s people? Hebrews 9:27, 28; Colossians 3:4

Note: “The subject of the sanctuary and the investigative judgment should be clearly understood by the people of God. All need a knowledge for themselves of the position and work of their great High Priest. Otherwise it will be impossible for them to exercise the faith which is essential at this time or to occupy the position which God designs them to fill.” The Great Controversy, 488

“In the typical service the high priest, having made the atonement for Israel, came forth and blessed the congregation. So Christ, at the close of His work as mediator, will appear, ‘without sin unto salvation’ (Hebrews 9:28), to bless His waiting people with eternal life.” Ibid., 485

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          What does the Bible say about the judgment day?

2          Will Christians be judged—and if so, when?

3          In what assurance should all Christians rejoice?

4          What do we know about the specific time of the judgment?

5          What will Christ do at the close of His mediatorial work in the sanctuary?

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Everyone Is Accountable

by

November 3 – 9, 2024

Key Text

“So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” Romans 14:12

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 483–485

Introduction

“Every man’s work passes in review before God and is registered for faithfulness or unfaithfulness.” Lift Him Up, 327

Sunday

1 ONLY TWO CLASSES OF PEOPLE

1.a. In light of the plan of redemption, specify the two classes of people in the world. Romans 2:6–10; 1 Peter 4:18

Note: “Rapidly are men ranging themselves under the banner they have chosen. … There are those who are watching and waiting and working for our Lord’s appearing; while the other party are rapidly falling into line under the generalship of the first great apostate. …

“There are but two parties.” Testimonies for Ministers and Gospel Workers, 364, 365

1.b. Since God sees all (Hebrews 4:13), and each individual is accountable for his or her actions before the divine tribunal (Psalm 62:12; Romans 14:12), where does the Almighty keep exact records of every human being? Jeremiah 2:22; 17:1

Note: “Opposite each name in the books of heaven is entered with terrible exactness every wrong word, every selfish act, every unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin, with every artful dissembling. Heaven-sent warnings or reproofs neglected, wasted moments, unimproved opportunities, the influence exerted for good or for evil, with its far-reaching results, all are chronicled by the recording angel.

“The law of God is the standard by which the characters and the lives of men will be tested in the judgment.” The Great Controversy, 482

Monday

2 EXACT RECORDS

2.a. What is written about the book of life and the book of death? Psalm 90:8; Revelation 20:12

Note: “The books are opened—the book of life and the book of death. The book of life contains the good deeds of the saints; and the book of death contains the evil deeds of the wicked. These books are compared with the statute book, the Bible, and according to that men are judged.” Early Writings, 52

2.b. What does the book of remembrance contain, and why is it important to us? Malachi 3:16; Psalm 56:8

Note: “ ‘A book of remembrance’ is written before God, in which are recorded the good deeds of ‘them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name.’ [Malachi 3:16]. Their words of faith, their acts of love, are registered in heaven. Nehemiah refers to this when he says: ‘Remember me, O my God … and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God.’ [Nehemiah 13:14]. In the book of God’s remembrance, every deed of righteousness is immortalized. There every temptation resisted, every evil overcome, every word of tender pity expressed, is faithfully chronicled. And every act of sacrifice, every suffering and sorrow endured for Christ’s sake, is recorded.” The Great Controversy, 481

“A book of remembrance is written of those who do not forsake the assembling of themselves together, but speak often one to another. The remnant are to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. Some expect to overcome alone by the blood of the Lamb, without making any special effort of their own. I saw that God has been merciful in giving us the power of speech. He has given us a tongue, and we are accountable to Him for its use. We should glorify God with our mouth, speaking in honor of the truth and of His unbounded mercy, and overcome by the word of our testimony through the blood of the Lamb.

“We should not come together to remain silent; those only are remembered of the Lord who assemble to speak of His honor and glory and tell of His power; upon such the blessing of God will rest, and they will be refreshed.” Early Writings, 114, 115

Tuesday

3 WARNING AGAINST A FALSE DOCTRINE

3.a. How can you prove that the doctrine “once saved, always saved” conflicts with the Bible? 2 Peter 1:10, 11; Matthew 24:13. After Christ has saved a person from the control of evil spirits, what may happen? Luke 11:24–26

Note: “Self-righteousness is a curse, a human embellishment, which Satan uses for his glory. Those who garnish the soul with self-praise and flattery prepare the way for the seven other spirits more wicked than the first. In their very reception of the truth, these souls deceive themselves. They are building upon a foundation of self-righteousness.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, 1093

3.b. After Paul had been saved from the control of Satan (2 Timothy 1:9), what danger did he keep in mind? 1 Corinthians 9:26, 27. How did he warn the Hebrew Christians against the “once saved always saved” doctrine? Hebrews 6:4–6

3.c. What hope, based on Christ’s promise, should be held by those who accept Christ as their personal Saviour? Romans 8:24, 25; Titus 3:7. What warning should we take from Peter’s fall?

Note: “Peter’s fall was not instantaneous, but gradual. Self-confidence led him to the belief that he was saved, and step after step was taken in the downward path, until he could deny his Master. Never can we safely put confidence in self or feel, this side of heaven, that we are secure against temptation. Those who accept the Saviour, however sincere their conversion, should never be taught to say or to feel that they are saved. This is misleading. Everyone should be taught to cherish hope and faith; but even when we give ourselves to Christ and know that He accepts us, we are not beyond the reach of temptation.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 155

“We are never to rest in a satisfied condition and cease to make advancement, saying, ‘I am saved.’ When this idea is entertained, the motives for watchfulness, for prayers, for earnest endeavor to press onward to higher attainments, cease to exist. No sanctified tongue will be found uttering these words till Christ shall come, and we enter in through the gates into the city of God.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 314

Wednesday

4 THE DANGER OF A LAX, CASUAL SPIRIT

4.a. What warnings are given to the Christian about the danger of going back into the worldly lifestyle? 2 Peter 2:20–22; Hebrews 10:26–31

Note: “Man’s great danger is in being self-deceived, indulging self-sufficiency, and thus separating from God, the source of his strength. Our natural tendencies, unless corrected by the Holy Spirit of God, have in them the seeds of moral death. Unless we become vitally connected with God, we cannot resist the unhallowed effects of self-love, self-indulgence, and temptation to sin. …

“Only as we see our utter helplessness and renounce all self-trust, shall we lay hold on divine power.” Testimonies, Vol. 8, 315, 316

4.b. What admonitions should we take into serious consideration every day? 1 Corinthians 10:12; 2 Corinthians 13:5, 6

Note: “As long as life shall last, there is need of guarding the affections and the passions with a firm purpose. There is inward corruption, there are outward temptations, and wherever the work of God shall be advanced, Satan plans so to arrange circumstances that temptation shall come with overpowering force upon the soul. Not one moment can we be secure only as we are relying upon God, the life hid with Christ in God.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 2, 1032

4.c. How can we avoid a lax attitude in worship? 1 Corinthians 14:40. What worship style does Ellen White describe that will take place shortly before the close of probation?

Note: “There will be shouting, with drums, music, and dancing. The senses of rational beings will become so confused that they cannot be trusted to make right decisions. And this is called the moving of the Holy Spirit.

“The Holy Spirit never reveals itself in such methods, in such a bedlam of noise. This is an invention of Satan to cover up his ingenious methods for making of none effect the pure, sincere, elevating, ennobling, sanctifying truth for this time. …

“The Lord desires to have in His service order and discipline, not excitement and confusion.” Maranatha, 234

Thursday

5 OUR MAIN CONCERN

5.a. Why will many names be removed from the book of life in the investigative judgment? Exodus 32:33; Ezekiel 18:20, 24

Note: “The book of life contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God. If any of these depart from Him, and by stubborn persistence in sin become finally hardened against the influences of His Holy Spirit, their names will in the judgment be blotted from the book of life, and they themselves will be devoted to destruction.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 326

5.b. As we wish to have a place in the kingdom of glory, what assurance should we have concerning our names? Revelation 3:5; 21:27

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

“If we find no pleasure now in the contemplation of heavenly things; if we have no interest in seeking the knowledge of God, no delight in beholding the character of Christ; if holiness has no attractions for us—then we may be sure that our hope of heaven is vain. Perfect conformity to the will of God is the high aim to be constantly before the Christian.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 45

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1          Define the two classes of people in light of the plan of redemption.

2          What do you know about the book of life and the book of death?

3          What scriptures disprove the “once-saved, always-saved” doctrine?

4          Explain Hebrews 10:26–31.

5          Explain Revelation 3:5.

 

Copyright 2011, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.