Bible Study Guides

Bible Study Guides – The Time of Trouble, Part 1

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July 10, 2005 – July 16, 2005

Memory Verse

“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. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward [is] with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Revelation 22:11, 12.

Suggested Reading: Revelation 15:1–8; The Great Controversy, 613, 614; 490, 491.

Introduction

The Bible has provided, through centuries, a brief outline of the last day events for the people of God. But in the second advent movement, the Lord, through the Spirit of Prophecy, has given His people a very detailed account of the closing scenes. Because these lessons are focusing very strongly on these closing events as presented to us in the Spirit of Prophecy, there may not be a Scripture reference for every question.

1 When Michael stands up, there will be the worst time of trouble that has ever happened in the history of the world. When does this time of trouble begin? Daniel 12:1; Matthew 24:21.

note: “ ‘At the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the Holy Ghost as we went forth and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully.’ . . .

“ ‘The commencement of that time of trouble,’ here mentioned does not refer to the time when the plagues shall begin to be poured out, but to a short period just before they are poured out, while Christ is in the sanctuary.” Early Writings, 85.

2 From the reference below, list three other events that are associated with the beginning of the time of trouble. For Old Testament type, see Deuteronomy 11:14; Jeremiah 5:24; Hosea 6:3; Joel 2:23; Zechariah 10:1. See also Acts 3:19; James 5:7; Revelation 18:1, 2.

note: “At that time, while the work of salvation is closing, trouble will be coming on the earth, and the nations will be angry, yet held in check so as not to prevent the work of the third angel. At that time the ‘latter rain,’ or refreshing from the presence of the Lord, will come, to give power to the loud voice of the third angel, and prepare the saints to stand in the period when the seven last plagues shall be poured out.” Early Writings, 85, 86.

3 What does Daniel say will end the time of trouble? Daniel 12:1.

4 When are God’s people delivered as mentioned in Daniel 12:1? Isaiah 26:20, 21.

note: “When the protection of human laws shall be withdrawn from those who honor the law of God, there will be, in different lands, a simultaneous movement for their destruction. As the time appointed in the decree draws near, the people will conspire to root out the hated sect. It will be determined to strike in one night a decisive blow, which shall utterly silence the voice of dissent and reproof.” The Great Controversy, 635.

“It was at midnight that God chose to deliver His people. As the wicked were mocking around them, suddenly the sun appeared, shining in his strength . . . . The wicked looked upon the scene with amazement, while the saints beheld with solemn joy the tokens of their deliverance.” Early Writings, 285.

5 What is the portion of the time of trouble called that follows the time when Michael stands up? Jeremiah 30:7.

note: “This argument will appear conclusive; and a decree will finally be issued against those who hallow the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, denouncing them as deserving of the severest punishment and giving the people liberty, after a certain time, to put them to death. . . .

“The people of God will then be plunged into those scenes of affliction and distress described by the prophet as the time of Jacob’s trouble.” The Great Controversy, 615, 616.

6 Identify 14 items in the paragraph below that are connected with the close of probation. (Revelation 22:11, 12.)

note: “When the third angel’s message closes, mercy no longer pleads for the guilty inhabitants of the earth. The people of God have accomplished their work. They have received ‘the latter rain,’ ‘the refreshing from the presence of the Lord,’ and they are prepared for the trying hour before them. Angels are hastening to and fro in heaven. An angel returning from the earth announces that his work is done; the final test has been brought upon the world, and all who have proved themselves loyal to the divine precepts have received ‘the seal of the living God.’ Then Jesus ceases His intercession in the sanctuary above. He lifts His hands and with a loud voice says, ‘It is done;’ and all the angelic host lay off their crowns as He makes the solemn announcement: ‘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.’ Revelation 22:11. Every case has been decided for life or death. Christ has made the atonement for His people and blotted out their sins.” The Great Controversy, 613, 614.

7 Find 12 more items in the following quotation that occur when Jesus leaves the sanctuary at the close of probation. (Daniel 12:1; Jeremiah 30:7.)

note: “When He leaves the sanctuary, darkness covers the inhabitants of the earth. In that fearful time the righteous must live in the sight of a holy God without an intercessor. The restraint which has been upon the wicked is removed, and Satan has entire control of the finally impenitent. God’s long-suffering has ended. The world has rejected His mercy, despised His love, and trampled upon His law. The wicked have passed the boundary of their probation; the Spirit of God, persistently resisted, has been at last withdrawn. Unsheltered by divine grace, they have no protection from the wicked one. Satan will then plunge the inhabitants of the earth into one great, final trouble. As the angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce winds of human passion, all the elements of strife will be let loose. The whole world will be involved in ruin more terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of old.” The Great Controversy, 614.

8 What forces are now ready and waiting for God’s permission to spread desolation everywhere? For Old Testament type, see Job 1:6–12; 2:1–7.

note: “A single angel destroyed all the first-born of the Egyptians and filled the land with mourning. When David offended against God by numbering the people, one angel caused that terrible destruction by which his sin was punished. The same destructive power exercised by holy angels when God commands, will be exercised by evil angels when He permits. There are forces now ready, and only waiting the divine permission, to spread desolation everywhere.” The Great Controversy, 614.

Bible Study Guides – The Final Warning, Part 111

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July 3, 2005 – July 9, 2005

Memory Verse

“Though Noah, Daniel, and Job, [were] in it, [as] I live, saith the Lord God, they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall [but] deliver their own souls by their righteousness.” Ezekiel 14:20.

Suggested Reading: The Great Controversy, 622–625, 479–490.

Introduction

In this lesson, we will study pages 622 to 625 of The Great Controversy. Although these pages are found in the chapter entitled “The Time of Trouble,” which explains the events associated with the close of probation and following, these few pages are also about events and issues that occur before probation closes.

exercise: See how many words or phrases you can find in these pages that refer to events or issues before the close of probation. There are at least 18.

1 What test is referred to in the following statement? Exodus 20:8–11; Revelation 14:9–12. See The Great Controversy, 602, 605, 608, 613.

note: “Those who exercise but little faith now, are in the greatest danger of falling under the power of satanic delusions and the decree to compel the conscience. And even if they endure the test they will be plunged into deeper distress and anguish in the time of trouble, because they have never made it a habit to trust in God. The lessons of faith which they have neglected they will be forced to learn under a terrible pressure of discouragement.” The Great Controversy, 622.

2 What are the people of God to do at the present time, and what are they not to do? For biblical counsel, see Job 22:21; Ephesians 6:18; Philippians 4:6; 1 John 2:15–17.

note: “We should now acquaint ourselves with God by proving His promises. Angels record every prayer that is earnest and sincere. We should rather dispense with selfish gratifications than neglect communion with God. The deepest poverty, the greatest self-denial, with His approval, is better than riches, honors, ease, and friendship without it. We must take time to pray. If we allow our minds to be absorbed by worldly interests, the Lord may give us time by removing from us our idols of gold, of houses, or of fertile lands.

“The young would not be seduced into sin if they would refuse to enter any path save that upon which they could ask God’s blessing. If the messengers who bear the last solemn warning to the world would pray for the blessing of God, not in a cold, listless, lazy manner, but fervently and in faith, as did Jacob, they would find many places where they could say: ‘I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.’ Genesis 32:30.” The Great Controversy, 622.

3 What period of time is still before us? What will each one have to do during that time? Daniel 12:1; Ezekiel 14:14, 20.

note: “The ‘time of trouble, such as never was’ [Daniel 12:1], is soon to open upon us; and we shall need an experience which we do not now possess and which many are too indolent to obtain. It is often the case that trouble is greater in anticipation than in reality; but this is not true of the crisis before us. The most vivid presentation cannot reach the magnitude of the ordeal. In that time of trial, every soul must stand for himself before God.” The Great Controversy, 622.

4 While Christ is still making atonement for us in the heavenly sanctuary, what are God’s people to do? Colossians 1:28.

note: “Now, while our great High Priest is making the atonement for us, we should seek to become perfect in Christ. Not even by a thought could our Saviour be brought to yield to the power of temptation. . . . Satan could find nothing in the Son of God that would enable him to gain the victory. He had kept His Father’s commandments, and there was no sin in Him that Satan could use to his advantage. This is the condition in which those must be found who shall stand in the time of trouble.” The Great Controversy, 623.

5 What are the people of God to do in their lives while the sanctuary is still open? For New Testament teaching, see Hebrews 4:14–16.

note: “It is in this life that we are to separate sin from us, through faith in the atoning blood of Christ. Our precious Saviour invites us to join ourselves to Him, to unite our weakness to His strength, our ignorance to His wisdom, our unworthiness to His merits. God’s providence is the school in which we are to learn the meekness and lowliness of Jesus. . . . It rests with us to co-operate with the agencies which Heaven employs in the work of conforming our characters to the divine model. None can neglect or defer this work but at the most fearful peril to their souls.” The Great Controversy, 623.

6 What will reach its culmination in the time of trouble? Revelation 12:12.

note: “The apostle John in vision heard a loud voice in heaven exclaiming: ‘Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.’ Revelation 12:12. Fearful are the scenes which call forth this exclamation from the heavenly voice. The wrath of Satan increases as his time grows short, and his work of deceit and destruction will reach its culmination in the time of trouble.” The Great Controversy, 623.

7 Who will go forth to the kings of the earth, and what two things will they do? Revelation 16:13, 14, 16.

note: “The spirits of devils will go forth to the kings of the earth and to the whole world, to fasten them in deception, and urge them on to unite with Satan in his last struggle against the government of heaven. By these agencies, rulers and subjects will be alike deceived. Persons will arise pretending to be Christ Himself, and claiming the title and worship which belong to the world’s Redeemer. They will perform wonderful miracles of healing and will profess to have revelations from heaven contradicting the testimony of the Scriptures.” The Great Controversy, 624.

8 What will be the crowning act in Satan’s drama of deception? 11 Corinthians 11:14.

note: “In the last days he will appear in such a manner as to make men believe him to be Christ come the second time into the world. He will indeed transform himself into an angel of light. But while he will bear the appearance of Christ in every particular, so far as mere appearance goes, it will deceive none but those who, like Pharaoh, are seeking to resist the truth.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 698.

“As the crowning act in the great drama of deception, Satan himself will personate Christ. . . . Now the great deceiver will make it appear that Christ has come. In different parts of the earth, Satan will manifest himself among men as a majestic being of dazzling brightness, resembling the description of the Son of God given by John in the Revelation. Revelation 1:13–15.” The Great Controversy, 624.

9 Describe the strong, almost overmastering delusion that takes place under the crowning act of Satan. Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22.

note: “The glory that surrounds him is unsurpassed by anything that mortal eyes have yet beheld. The shout of triumph rings out upon the air: ‘Christ has come! Christ has come!’ The people prostrate themselves in adoration before him, while he lifts up his hands and pronounces a blessing upon them, as Christ blessed His disciples when He was upon the earth. His voice is soft and subdued, yet full of melody. In gentle, compassionate tones he presents some of the same gracious, heavenly truths which the Saviour uttered; he heals the diseases of the people, and then, in his assumed character of Christ, he claims to have changed the Sabbath to Sunday, and commands all to hallow the day which he has blessed. He declares that those who persist in keeping holy the seventh day are blaspheming his name by refusing to listen to his angels sent to them with light and truth. This is the strong, almost overmastering delusion.” The Great Controversy, 624.

10 Why will the true people of God not be misled by the appearance of Satan as Christ? Revelation 12:17; 14:12; 19:10.

note: “But the people of God will not be misled. The teachings of this false christ are not in accordance with the Scriptures. His blessing is pronounced upon the worshipers of the beast and his image, the very class upon whom the Bible declares that God’s unmingled wrath shall be poured out.” The Great Controversy, 625.

11 What Scriptural instruction is given that all may be able to discern between the appearance of Satan as Christ and the true coming of Jesus? Matthew 24:26, 27, 31; 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17; Revelation 19:11–16.

note: “And, furthermore, Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s advent. The Saviour has warned His people against deception upon this point, and has clearly foretold the manner of His second coming. ‘There shall arise false christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. . . . Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, He is in the desert; go not forth: behold, He is in the secret chambers; believe it not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth even unto the west; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.’ Matthew 24:24–27, 31; 25:31; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17. This coming there is no possibility of counterfeiting. It will be universally known—witnessed by the whole world.” The Great Controversy, 625.

12 Who only will be shielded from this powerful delusion that takes the world captive? See New Testament instruction in Ephesians 1:13; 4:15, 16; 11 Timothy 3:16, 17.

note: “Only those who have been diligent students of the Scriptures and who have received the love of the truth will be shielded from the powerful delusion that takes the world captive. By the Bible testimony these will detect the deceiver in his disguise. To all the testing time will come. By the sifting of temptation the genuine Christian will be revealed.” The Great Controversy, 625.

Bible Study Guides – The Final Warning, Part 11

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June 26, 2005 – July 2, 2005

Memory Verse

“Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you.” Acts 3:19, 20.

Suggested Reading: The Great Controversy, 563–581.

1 How will faithful Sabbath keepers be treated during the final warning? 11 Timothy 3:12.

note: “As the defenders of truth refuse to honor the Sunday-sabbath, some of them will be thrust into prison, some will be exiled, some will be treated as slaves. To human wisdom all this now seems impossible; but as the restraining Spirit of God shall be withdrawn from men, and they shall be under the control of Satan, who hates the divine precepts, there will be strange developments.” The Great Controversy, 608.

“She [Rome] is piling up her lofty and massive structures in the secret recesses of which her former persecutions will be repeated. Stealthily and unsuspectedly she is strengthening her forces to further her own ends when the time shall come for her to strike. All that she desires is vantage ground, and this is already being given her. We shall soon see and shall feel what the purpose of the Roman element is. Whoever shall believe and obey the word of God will thereby incur reproach and persecution.” Ibid., 581.

2 When the final warning approaches, what will a large class do who have professed faith in the third angel’s message? For New Testament type, see 1 John 2:18, 19.

note: “As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third angel’s message, but have not been sanctified through obedience to the truth, abandon their position and join the ranks of the opposition.” The Great Controversy, 608.

3 What is the test that is brought that causes this large apostasy of once faithful advent believers? Revelation 14:7, 9–11.

note: “By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, they have come to view matters in nearly the same light; and when the test is brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side.” The Great Controversy, 608.

“The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty, for it is the point of truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be brought to bear upon men, then the line of distinction will be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve Him not. While the observance of the false sabbath in compliance with the law of the state, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the true Sabbath, in obedience to God’s law, is an evidence of loyalty to the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, receive the mark of the beast, the other choosing the token of allegiance to divine authority, receive the seal of God.” Ibid., 605.

4 During the final warning, who become the worst enemies of the faithful Adventist Sabbath keepers? Matthew 24:9–11; Luke 21:12–17; 1 John 2:18, 19.

note: “Men of talent and pleasing address, who once rejoiced in the truth, employ their powers to deceive and mislead souls. They become the most bitter enemies of their former brethren. When Sabbathkeepers are brought before the courts to answer for their faith, these apostates are the most efficient agents of Satan to misrepresent and accuse them, and by false reports and insinuations to stir up the rulers against them.” The Great Controversy, 608.

5 What kind of storm will the Lord’s servants face during the final warning? Isaiah 51:7; Jeremiah 15:15; Luke 11:53, 54; 1 Thessalonians 2:2; Revelation 13:15–17.

note: “In this time of persecution the faith of the Lord’s servants will be tried. They have faithfully given the warning, looking to God and to His word alone. God’s Spirit, moving upon their hearts, has constrained them to speak. Stimulated with holy zeal, and with the divine impulse strong upon them, they entered upon the performance of their duties without coldly calculating the consequences of speaking to the people the word which the Lord had given them. They have not consulted their temporal interests, nor sought to preserve their reputation or their lives. Yet when the storm of opposition and reproach bursts upon them, some, overwhelmed with consternation, will be ready to exclaim: ‘Had we foreseen the consequences of our words, we would have held our peace.’ ” The Great Controversy, 608, 609.

6 What does the Lord give for the emergency during the final warning? Isaiah 30:20, 21; Matthew 10:18–20; Luke 21:14–19.

note: “Different periods in the history of the church have each been marked by the development of some special truth, adapted to the necessities of God’s people at that time. Every new truth has made its way against hatred and opposition; those who were blessed with its light were tempted and tried. The Lord gives a special truth for the people in an emergency. Who dare refuse to publish it?” The Great Controversy, 609.

7 What is required of Christ’s ambassadors during the final warning? Revelation 14:6–12; 18:1, 2, 4.

note: “He commands His servants to present the last invitation of mercy to the world. They cannot remain silent, except at the peril of their souls. Christ’s ambassadors have nothing to do with consequences. They must perform their duty and leave results with God.” The Great Controversy, 609, 610.

“Those who walk in the light will see signs of the approaching peril; but they are not to sit in quiet, unconcerned expectancy of the ruin, comforting themselves with the belief that God will shelter His people in the day of visitation. Far from it. They should realize that it is their duty to labor diligently to save others, looking with strong faith to God for help. ‘The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.’ ” Testimonies, vol. 5, 209.

8 What principle will exist as long as Satan is around and Christianity has vital power? Matthew 5:10–12.

note: “Persecution in its varied forms is the development of a principle which will exist as long as Satan exists and Christianity has vital power. No man can serve God without enlisting against himself the opposition of the hosts of darkness. Evil angels will assail him, alarmed that his influence is taking the prey from their hands. Evil men, rebuked by his example, will unite with them in seeking to separate him from God by alluring temptations. When these do not succeed, then a compelling power is employed to force the conscience.” The Great Controversy, 610.

9 How long will the restraining influence of the Holy Spirit be felt by rulers and people? Genesis 6:3; Amos 8:11, 12; Revelation 22:11.

note: “But so long as Jesus remains man’s intercessor in the sanctuary above, the restraining influence of the Holy Spirit is felt by rulers and people. It still controls to some extent the laws of the land. Were it not for these laws, the condition of the world would be much worse than it now is. While many of our rulers are active agents of Satan, God also has His agents among the leading men of the nation. The enemy moves upon his servants to propose measures that would greatly impede the work of God; but statesmen who fear the Lord are influenced by holy angels to oppose such propositions with unanswerable arguments.” The Great Controversy, 610.

10 What mighty movement will take place during the final warning of the third angel? Hosea 6:3; Joel 2:23, 28, 29; Acts 2:17, 21; 3:19, 20; Revelation 18:1–4.

note: “The advent movement of 1840–44 was a glorious manifestation of the power of God; the first angel’s message was carried to every missionary station in the world, and in some countries there was the greatest religious interest which has been witnessed in any land since the Reformation of the sixteenth century; but these are to be exceeded by the mighty movement under the last warning of the third angel.

“The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the ‘former rain’ was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the ‘latter rain’ will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest.” The Great Controversy, 611.

11 How far-reaching will be the message of the final warning? Matthew 24:14; Revelation 14:6.

note: “Servants of God, with their faces lighted up and shining with holy consecration, will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from heaven. By thousands of voices, all over the earth, the warning will be given. Miracles will be wrought, the sick will be healed, and signs and wonders will follow the believers. Satan also works, with lying wonders, even bringing down fire from heaven in the sight of men. Revelation 13:13. Thus the inhabitants of the earth will be brought to take their stand.” The Great Controversy, 612.

“It is God’s purpose that the truth for this time shall be made known to every kindred and nation and tongue and people.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 24.

12 What great blessing will result from the power of the final warning? For New Testament type, see Acts 2:41; 11:21, 14.

note: “Now the rays of light penetrate everywhere, the truth is seen in its clearness, and the honest children of God sever the bands which have held them. Family connections, church relations, are powerless to stay them now. Truth is more precious than all besides. Notwithstanding the agencies combined against the truth, a large number take their stand upon the Lord’s side.” The Great Controversy, 612.

 

Bible Study Guide — At the Time of The End Shall Be the Vision

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February 27 — March 4

Memory Verse: “I have sent also unto you all My servants the prophets, rising up early and sending them, saying, Return ye now every man from his evil way, and amend your doings, and go not after other gods to serve them, and ye shall dwell in the land which I have given to you and to your fathers: but ye have not inclined your ear, nor hearkened unto Me.” Jeremiah 35: 15.

Study Help: Early Writings, pages 229 – 258.

Introduction: “Preachers and people have looked upon the book of Revelation as mysterious and of less importance than other portions of the Sacred Scriptures. But I saw that this book is indeed a revelation given for the especial benefit of those who should live in the last days, to guide them in ascertaining their true position and their duty.” Early Writings, 231.

“We are on our way to the city of God, and the perils of the last days are all about us. The path we are climbing is narrow and dangerous, and we do not want to make any false steps. At such a time as this, a faithful guide is as necessary to us as to the mountain-climbers, and such a guide is provided for us in the word of God.” Signs of the Times, December 10,1885.

“My brethren and sisters, do not allow trifling things to absorb your time and attention. Keep your mind on the glorious themes of the Word of God. A study of these themes will give you a strength that will carry you through the trials and difficulties of the last days, and bring you to where you will walk with Christ in white, because you are worthy. In the Word of God, studied and obeyed, we possess a spiritual guide and instructor by which the worst forms of evil in ourselves may be brought under the discipline of His law. If the teachings of this Word were made the controlling influence in our lives, if mind and heart were brought under its restraining power, the evils that now exist in churches and in families would find no place. Upon converted households the purest blessings would descend, and from these households an influence would go forth that would make God’s people a power on the side of truth.” Review and Herald, November 24, 1904.

 

1. THE FOUNDATION ON A ROCK

  • What is to be the foundation of the Christian’s faith? Luke 6: 47 – 48

 

NOTE: “The time has come when we must know for ourselves why we believe as we do. We must stand for God and for the truth, against a reckless, unbelieving generation. The man who has once known the way of life, and has turned from the convictions of his own heart to the sophistry of Satan, will be more inaccessible and more unimpressible than he who has never tasted the love of Christ. He will be wise to do evil. He has bound himself to Satan, even against light and knowledge. I say to my brethren: Your only hope is in God. We must be clothed with Christ’s righteousness if we would withstand the prevailing impiety. We must show our faith by our works. Let us lay up for ourselves a good foundation against the time to come, that we may lay hold on eternal life.” Testimonies Volume 4, 596, 597.

“Our hope is to be constantly strengthened by the knowledge that Christ is our righteousness. Let our faith rest upon this foundation, for it will stand fast forever. Instead of dwelling upon the darkness of Satan and fearing his power, we should open our hearts to receive light from Christ and to let it shine forth to the world, declaring that He is above all the power of Satan, that His sustaining arm will support all who trust in Him.” Testimonies Volume 5, 742.

“God’s Word should be received as the foundation and the finisher of our faith. It is to be received with the understanding and with the whole heart; it is life and is to be incorporated into our very existence. Thus received, the Word of God will humble man at the footstool of mercy and separate him from every corrupting influence.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers and Students, 374.

 

  • What will be the fate of those who are merely hearers of God’s Word but do not put into practice the things they have heard? Luke 6: 49

 

NOTE: “The reason why our people have not more power is that they profess the truth, but do not practice it. They have but little faith and trust in God. There are but few who bear the burdens connected with His work. The Lord claims the strength of brain, bone, and muscle; but it is too often withheld from Him and given to the world. The service of God is made a secondary matter, while worldly interests receive prompt attention. Thus things of minor consequence are made important, while the requirements of God, things spiritual and eternal, are treated in an indifferent manner, as something which may be taken up at will and let alone at pleasure. If the mind were stayed upon God and the truth exerted a sanctifying influence upon the heart, self would be hid in Christ. If we realize the importance of the truth which we profess to believe we should feel that we have a sacred mission to fulfil, a responsibility involving eternal results. All temporal interests would yield to this.” Testimonies Volume 4, 613, 614.

 

2. THE PROPHETS HAVE INQUIRED AND SEARCHED DILIGENTLY

  • How are we shown that the prophets themselves did not always fully understand the things revealed to them? 1 Peter 1: 10 – 12

 

NOTE: “The prophets to whom these great scenes were revealed longed to understand their import. They ‘inquired and searched diligently: . . searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify. . . . Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you; . . . which things the angels desire to look into.’ 1 Peter 1:10-12. To us who are standing on the very verge of their fulfillment, of what deep moment, what living interest, are these delineations of the things to come.” Education, 183.

“Yet while it was not given to the prophets to understand fully the things revealed to them, they earnestly sought to obtain all the light which God had been pleased to make manifest. They ‘inquired and searched diligently,’ ‘searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify.’ What a lesson to the people of God in the Christian age, for whose benefit these prophecies were given to His servants! ‘Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister.’ Witness those holy men of God as they ‘inquired and searched diligently’ concerning revelations given them for generations that were yet unborn. Contrast their holy zeal with the listless unconcern with which the favored ones of later ages treat this gift of Heaven. What a rebuke to the ease-loving, world-loving indifference which is content to declare that the prophecies cannot be understood!” Great Controversy, 344.

 

  • What example are we given of a prophet who did not fully understand the things revealed to him and his search for enlightenment? Daniel 8: 13 – 14, 27, 9: 2 – 3, 17

 

NOTE: “Not all was made clear to the prophet. ‘My cogitations much troubled me,’ he wrote of his experience at the time, ‘and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart.’ Daniel 7:28. Through another vision further light was thrown upon the events of the future; and it was at the close of this vision that Daniel heard ‘one saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain saint which spake, How long shall be the vision?’ Daniel 8:13. The answer that was given, ‘Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed’ (verse 14), filled him with perplexity. Earnestly he sought for the meaning of the vision. He could not understand the relation sustained by the seventy years’ captivity, as foretold through Jeremiah, to the twenty-three hundred years that in vision he heard the heavenly visitant declare should elapse before the cleansing of God’s sanctuary. The angel Gabriel gave him a partial interpretation; yet when the prophet heard the words, ‘The vision . . . shall be for many days,’ he fainted away. ‘I Daniel fainted,’ he records of his experience, ‘and was sick certain days; afterward I rose up, and did the king’s business; and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood it.’ Verses 26, 27. Still burdened in behalf of Israel, Daniel studied anew the prophecies of Jeremiah. They were very plain, so plain that he understood by these testimonies recorded in books ‘the number of the years, whereof the word of the Lord came to Jeremiah the prophet, that He would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem.’ Daniel 9:2. With faith founded on the sure word of prophecy, Daniel pleaded with the Lord for the speedy fulfillment of these promises. He pleaded for the honor of God to be preserved. In his petition he identified himself fully with those who had fallen short of the divine purpose, confessing their sins as his own. ‘I set my face unto the Lord God,’ the prophet declared, ‘to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes: and I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession.’ Verses 3, 4. Though Daniel had long been in the service of God, and had been spoken of by heaven as ‘greatly beloved,’ yet he now appeared before God as a sinner, urging the great need of the people he loved. His prayer was eloquent in its simplicity, and intensely earnest.” Prophets and Kings, 553-555.

 

3. WHILES I WAS SPEAKING IN PRAYER

  • How did God answer his prayer? Daniel 9: 20 – 23

 

NOTE: “As Daniel’s prayer is going forth, the angel Gabriel comes sweeping down from the heavenly courts to tell him that his petitions are heard and answered. This mighty angel has been commissioned to give him skill and understanding, to open before him the mysteries of future ages. Thus, while earnestly seeking to know and understand the truth, Daniel was brought into communion with Heaven’s delegated messenger. In answer to his petition, Daniel received not only the light and truth which he and his people most needed, but a view of the great events of the future, even to the advent of the world’s Redeemer. Those who claim to be sanctified, while they have no desire to search the Scriptures or to wrestle with God in prayer for a clearer understanding of Bible truth, know not what true sanctification is. Daniel talked with God. Heaven was opened before him. But the high honors granted him were the result of humiliation and earnest seeking. All who believe with the heart the Word of God will hunger and thirst for a knowledge of His will. God is the author of truth. He enlightens the darkened understanding and gives to the human mind power to grasp and comprehend the truths which He has revealed.” The Sanctified Life, 48 – 49.

 

  • Until what time were the things revealed to Daniel sealed up? Daniel 12: 4, 9

 

NOTE: “Honored by men with the responsibilities of state and with the secrets of kingdoms bearing universal sway, Daniel was honored by God as His ambassador, and was given many revelations of the mysteries of ages to come. His wonderful prophecies, as recorded by him in chapters 7 to 12 of the book bearing his name, were not fully understood even by the prophet himself; but before his life labors closed, he was given the blessed assurance that ‘at the end of the days’, in the closing period of this world’s history, he would again be permitted to stand in his lot and place. It was not given him to understand all that God had revealed of the divine purpose. ‘Shut up the words, and seal the book,’ he was directed concerning his prophetic writings; these were to be sealed ‘even to the time of the end.’ ” Prophets and Kings, 547.

 

  • How was the apostle John shown the unsealing of Daniel’s prophecies at the time of the end? Revelation 10: 1 – 11

 

NOTE: “After the seven thunders uttered their voices, the injunction comes to John as to Daniel in regard to the little book, ‘Seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered.’ Those relate to future events which will be disclosed in their order. Daniel shall stand in his lot at the end of the days. John sees the little book unsealed. Then Daniel’s prophecies have their proper place in the First, Second and Third Angels’ Messages to be given to the world. The unsealing of the little book was the message in relation to time. The books of Daniel and Revelation are one. One is a prophecy, the other a revelation; the one a book sealed, the other a book opened.” Manuscript 59, 1900. (See Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7A, 971.)

 

4. NO PRIVATE INTERPRETATION

  • In trying to understand Bible prophecy, what error are we first warned against? 2 Peter 1: 20

 

NOTE: “While exalting the ‘sure word of prophecy’ as a safe guide in times of peril, the apostle solemnly warned the church against the torch of false prophecy, which would be uplifted by ‘false teachers,’ who would privily bring in ‘damnable heresies, even denying the Lord.’ These false teachers arising in the church are accounted true by many of their brethren in the faith, but the apostle compared them to ‘wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved forever.’ ‘The latter end is worse with them,’ he declared, ‘than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.’ ” Review and Herald, September 26, 1912.

 

  • What solemn denunciation given to the Jews should be a warning to those who look to Israel as the focus of end-time prophecy? Matthew 21:43

 

NOTE: “Let the mind be educated to look to Jesus. Let an effort be made to become doers of His word. The curse of God is upon Jerusalem and its surroundings, and the land is defiled under the inhabitants thereof. There is no real foundation for feelings of awe in looking upon the land of Palestine. In revering these earthly things, men clothe them with a false glory.” Review and Herald, February 25,1896.

 

  • What counsel is given to those who desire rightly to divide the Word of truth? 2 Timothy 2: 15

 

NOTE: The word “study” in this verse means “show diligence.” This verse should not be understood simply as an exhortation to Bible study. This diligence should be exhibited in every aspect of the Christian’s life. “You must experience a death to self, and must live unto God. ‘If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.’ Self is not to be consulted. Pride, self-love, selfishness, avarice, covetousness, love of the world, hatred, suspicion, jealousy, evil surmisings, must all be subdued and sacrificed forever. When Christ shall appear, it will not be to correct these evils and then give a moral fitness for His coming. This preparation must all be made before He comes. It should be a subject of thought, of study, and earnest inquiry, What shall we do to be saved? What shall be our conduct that we may show ourselves approved unto God?” Testimonies, Volume 1, 705.

 

5. A LIGHT TO OUR PATH

  • What promise is given to those who open their hearts to the Word of God? Psalm 119: 130

 

NOTE: “The work which the Lord has laid out before me especially is to urge young and old, learned and unlearned, to search the Scriptures for themselves; to impress upon all that the study of God’s Word will expand the mind and strengthen every faculty, fitting the intellect to wrestle with problems of truth, deep and far-reaching; to assure all that the clear knowledge of the Bible outdoes all other knowledge in making man what God designed he should be. ‘The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.’ With the light communicated through the study of His word, with the special knowledge given of individual cases among His people under all circumstances and in every phase of experience, can I now be in the same ignorance, the same mental uncertainty and spiritual blindness, as at the beginning of this experience?” Testimonies, Volume 5, 686.

 

  • What promise of guidance is given to those who come to God, repenting of their sins? Psalm 32: 5 – 8

 

NOTE: “Let every child of God make Him their Counselor, and firmly believe that He is at their right hand to help them, trusting the promise, ‘I will guide thee with Mine eye.’ So many mistakes would not be made if all would make God their dependence, believing that He who never makes a mistake will prepare their way before them. We must believe in Christ as a personal, sympathizing Savior, who doeth all things well. Our path, however rugged it may be, is marked out for us by the Lord; but He will walk with us, for we are to be co-laborers with Him, guided by the Holy Spirit. ‘And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and to the left.’ ” Pacific Union Recorder, November 7, 1901.

“Do not be afraid to trust God. Rely upon His sure promise, ‘Ask, and ye shall receive.’ Do not let go of the promise, even though you do not see an immediate answer to your prayers. God is too wise to err, and too good to withhold any good thing from them that walk uprightly. Man is erring, and although his petitions may be sent up from an honest heart, he does not always ask for the things that are good for him or that will glorify God. When this is so, our wise and good Father hears our prayers, and answers, sometimes immediately; but He gives us the things that are for our good and His own glory. If we could look into His plan, we should clearly see that our prayers are answered in wisdom and love. And through the temptations and trials of life the promise will be fulfilled, ‘I will guide thee with mine eye.’ ” Southern Watchman, March 24, 1908.

” ‘Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.’ These are they who are repairing the breach in the Law of God. In the face of bitter opposition, they take their stand under the banner of Prince Immanuel, proclaiming, bravely and fearlessly, the message He has given them. God watches over these faithful witnesses, and abundantly rewards their confidence. The way to His throne is always open to them. He sees and supplies their wants. They find their safety in looking to Him. When Jehovah gives them His protection, and says of them, Ye are laborers together with Me, they are safe in the midst of the greatest danger. Satan tries to deceive them, but God lifts up for them a standard against the enemy. Those who work righteousness have an ever-present help in time of trouble. In every time of need He is near. When they are tempted, He stands as their defense, saying, ‘I will guide thee with mine eye.’ I will deliver thee from perplexity, and be a covert for thee against the strife of tongues. The cause is the Lord’s. He is on board the ship as commander-in-chief. He will guide us safely into port. He can command the winds and the waves, and they will obey Him. If we follow His directions, we have no need to be anxious or troubled. In Him we may trust. He bestows His richest endowments upon those who love Him and keep His commandments. He will never forsake those who work in His lines.” Review and Herald, July 16, 1901.

“Do not say, ‘It is impossible for me to overcome.’ Do not say, ‘It is my nature to do thus and so, and I can not do otherwise. I have inherited weaknesses that make me powerless before temptation.’ In your own strength, you can not overcome, but help has been laid upon One that is mighty. Breathe the prayer, ‘Show me Thy ways, O Lord; teach me Thy paths.’ Then believe the promise, ‘The meek will He guide in judgement: and the meek will He teach His way.’ Yes, the Lord says, ‘I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with Mine eye.’ In order to receive the virtue of the blood of Christ, even the forgiveness of your sins, you must consent to the conditions He imposes. ‘If any man will come after Me,’ He says, ‘let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.’ Seeking pardon of sin from His cross, you will seek direction from His throne. Looking to and believing in Christ as your personal Savior, is your only hope of salvation. Receiving Christ in all His completeness, you are in truth able to sing: ‘I will follow Thee, my Savior, wheresoe’er my lot may be. Where Thou goest, I will follow; Yes, my Lord, I’ll follow Thee.’ ” Youth’s Instructor, October 2, 1902.

 

Bible Study Guide — Holy Men Of God Spake

by

February 20—26

Memory Verse: “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1: 21.

Study Help: Testimonies Volume 5, pages 62 – 83.

Introduction: “The light of present truth is a precious talent lent to God’s people by Him who is truth. It is not to be hoarded, but constantly imparted. The Lord desires that His professed people shall themselves profit by the truths received. It is given, first for their own development, of heart and mind and affections; then for the help and enlightenment of those in the darkness of unbelief. In this age the Lord is sending His servants with no ordinary message, but with special truths that must come before believers of every rank and tongue. Many of our church members have never studied fully into the more sure word of prophecy, and do not understand the facts that have made us what we are. All should bring into exercise the powers of the intellect, that they may clearly understand the different phases of present truth, and especially the subjects of prophecy which were opened to us when the message of Christ’s soon coming was first heralded.” Review and Herald, April 2, 1908.

 

1. BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

  • What important counsel did Jehoshaphat give to God’s people? 2 Chronicles 20: 20

 

NOTE: “2 Chron. 20:20. ‘Believe in the Lord your God, so shall ye be established; believe His prophets, so shall ye prosper.’ Isa. 8:20. ‘To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.’ Two texts are here set before God’s people: two conditions for success. The law spoken by Jehovah Himself, and the Spirit of Prophecy, are the two sources of wisdom to guide His people in every experience. Deuteronomy 4: 6. ‘This is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, who shall say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ The law of God and the Spirit of Prophecy go hand in hand to guide and counsel the church, and whenever the church has recognized this by obeying His law, the Spirit of Prophecy has been sent to guide her in the way of truth. Revelation 12: 17. [Compare Revelation 19: 10 & 22: 8 – 9]”Loma Linda Messages, 33.

 

  • How must the Law of God and the testimony of the prophets be used to test those who claim to speak for God? Isaiah 8: 20

 

NOTE: “Our watchword is to be: ‘To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.’ Isaiah 8:20. We have a Bible full of the most precious truth. It contains the alpha and omega of knowledge. The Scriptures, given by inspiration of God, are ‘profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.’ 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. Take the Bible as your study book. All can understand its instruction.” Testimonies Volume 8, 299.

“Those who have entered upon the work of teaching, or who have been called to any position of responsibility, should not be satisfied to take the product of the researches of other minds, but they should investigate truth for themselves. If they do not form the habit of investigating themes of truth for themselves, they will become superficial in their life and acquirements. The opinions of your associates may be of value to you, but you should not rely upon them and have no definite ideas of your own. You should examine the truths you have been led to believe, until you know that they are without a flaw. You lose much when you do not bring every point of faith you hold to the law and to the testimony, for you do not see or appreciate the truth as it is.” Testimonies on Sabbath School Work, 61.

“We are thankful that we have a sure word of prophecy, so that none of us need be deceived. We know that there are heresies and fables in our world at the present time, and we want to know what is truth. It becomes us to search carefully for ourselves that we may gain this knowledge. We cannot do this with a mere reading of the Scriptures, but we must compare scripture with scripture. We must search the Scriptures for ourselves, so that we shall not be led astray; and while many may be led astray because there are all kinds of doctrines in our world, there is one truth. Many may come to you and tell you that they have the truth, but it is your privilege to search the Scriptures for yourself. ‘To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.’ We must be acquainted with the Scriptures ourselves, that we may understand the true reason of the hope that is within us.” Review and Herald, April 3, 1888.

 

2. DESPISE NOT PROPHESYINGS

  • What was the response of some who heard God’s prophets in former times? Jeremiah 20: 7 – 8, Ezekiel 2: 3 – 7

 

NOTE: ” ‘If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.’ These words were proved true in the history of the Jewish nation. Christ’s last and crowning miracle was the raising of Lazarus of Bethany, after he had been dead four days. The Jews were given this wonderful evidence of the Savior’s divinity, but they rejected it. Lazarus rose from the dead and bore his testimony before them, but they hardened their hearts against all evidence, and even sought to take his life. (John 12: 9 – 11.) The law and the prophets are God’s appointed agencies for the salvation of men. Christ said, Let them give heed to these evidences. If they do not listen to the voice of God in His word, the testimony of a witness raised from the dead would not be heeded. Those who heed Moses and the prophets will require no greater light than God has given; but if men reject the light, and fail to appreciate the opportunities granted them, they would not hear if one from the dead should come to them with a message. They would not be convinced even by this evidence; for those who reject the law and the prophets so harden their hearts that they will reject all light.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 265.

 

  • What counsel did Paul give to the Thessalonian believers concerning prophecy? 1 Thessalonians 5: 19 – 21

 

NOTE: “The apostle cautioned the Thessalonians not to despise the gift of prophecy, and in the words, ‘Quench not the Spirit; despise not prophesyings; prove all things; hold fast that which is good,’ he enjoined a careful discrimination in distinguishing the false from the true.” Acts of the Apostles, 263.

 

3. THE REMNANT OF HER SEED

  • How is the remnant of the church to be recognized in the final struggle with the power of Satan? Revelation 12: 17

 

NOTE: “It was Christ that spoke to His people through the prophets. The apostle Peter, writing to the Christian church, says that the prophets ‘prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glory that should follow.’ 1 Peter 1: 10, 11. It is the voice of Christ that speaks to us through the Old Testament. ‘The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.’ Revelation 19: 10.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 366, 367.

“This prophecy points out clearly that the remnant church will acknowledge God in His law and will have the prophetic gift. Obedience to the law of God, and the spirit of prophecy has always distinguished the true people of God, and the test is usually given on present manifestations. In Jeremiah’s day the people had no question about the message of Moses, Elijah, or Elisha, but they did question and put aside the message sent of God to Jeremiah until its force and power was wasted and there was no remedy but for God to carry them away into captivity. Likewise in the days of Christ, the people had learned that Jeremiah’s message was true, and they persuaded themselves to believe that if they had lived in the days of their fathers they would have accepted his message, but at the same time they were rejecting Christ’s message, of whom all the prophets had written. As the third angel’s message arose in the world, which is to reveal the law of God to the church in its fullness and power, the prophetic gift was also immediately restored. This gift has acted a very prominent part in the development and carrying forward of this message.” Loma Linda Messages, 33.

 

  • What warnings are given about Satan also having prophets in the last days? Matthew 24: 4 – 5, 11, 23 – 26, Ephesians 4: 14

 

NOTE: “False prophets arose to sow confusion among the people by turning them away from obeying the divine commands given through Jeremiah, but God’s judgments were pronounced against them in consequence of their grievous sin of bringing rebellion against Him. Just such men arise in these days and breed confusion and rebellion among the people who profess to obey the law of God. But just as certainly as divine judgement was visited upon the false prophets, just so surely will these evil workers receive their full measure of retribution; for the Lord has not changed. Those who prophesy lies encourage men to look upon sin as a small matter. When the terrible results of their crimes are made manifest, they seek, if possible, to make the one who has faithfully warned them responsible for their difficulties, even as the Jews charged Jeremiah with t heir evil fortunes. Those who pursue a course of rebellion against the Lord can always find false prophets who will justify them in their acts and flatter them to their destruction. Lying words often make many friends, as in the case of Ahab and Zedekiah. These false prophets, in their pretended zeal for God, found many more believers and followers than the true prophet, who delivered the simple message of the Lord.” Testimonies Volume 4, 173, 174.

 

4. PROVE ALL THINGS

  • What test may be used to distinguish a false prophet? Deuteronomy 18: 21 – 22, Jeremiah 28: 9, Isaiah 41: 21 – 23

 

NOTE: ” ‘The prophet which prophesieth of peace,’ Jeremiah proposed in conclusion, ‘when the word of the prophet shall come to pass, then shall the prophet be known, that the Lord hath truly sent him.’ If Israel chose to run the risk, future developments would effectually decide which was the true prophet. The words of Jeremiah counseling submission aroused Hananiah to a daring challenge of the reliability of the message delivered. Taking the symbolic yoke from Jeremiah’s neck, Hananiah broke it, saying, ‘Thus saith the Lord; Even so will I break the yoke of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon from the neck of all nations within the space of two full years. ‘And the prophet Jeremiah went his way.’ Verse 11. Apparently, he could do nothing more than to retire from the scene of conflict. But Jeremiah was given another message. ‘Go and tell Hananiah,’ he was bidden, ‘Thus saith the Lord; Thou hast broken the yokes of wood; but thou shalt make for them yokes of iron. For thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel; I have put a yoke of iron upon the neck of all these nations, that they may serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; and they shall serve him. . . . ‘Then said the prophet Jeremiah unto Hananiah the prophet, Hear now, Hananiah; The Lord hath not sent thee; but thou makest this people to trust in a lie. Therefore thus saith the Lord; Behold, I will cast thee from off the face of the earth: this year thou shalt die, because thou hast taught rebellion against the Lord. So Hananiah the prophet died the same year in the seventh month.’ Verses 13-17. The false prophet had strengthened the unbelief of the people in Jeremiah and his message. He had wickedly declared himself the Lord’s messenger, and he suffered death in consequence. In the fifth month, Jeremiah prophesied the death of Hananiah, and in the seventh month, his words were proved true by their fulfillment.” Prophets and Kings, 445 – 446.

 

  • What further test did the apostle John give for proving whether a prophet is inspired by the Spirit of God or another spirit? 1 John 4: 1 – 3

 

NOTE: “Letters have been coming in to me, affirming that Christ could not have had the same nature as man, for if He had, He would have fallen under similar temptations. If He did not have man’s nature, He could not be our example. If He was not a partaker of our nature, He could not have been tempted as man has been. If it were not possible for Him to yield to temptation, He could not be our helper. It was a solemn reality that Christ came to fight the battles as man, in man’s behalf. His temptation and victory tell us that humanity must copy the Pattern; man must become a partaker of the divine nature.” Selected Messages Book 1, 408.

 

5. BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM

  • What straightforward test did Jesus give us to identify false prophets? Matthew 7: 15 – 20

 

NOTE: “Here is a test which all may apply if they will. None need be left in uncertainty and doubt. There is always sufficient evidence upon which to base an intelligent faith. But God will never remove from any man all occasion for doubts. Those who love to dwell in the atmosphere of doubt and questioning unbelief can have the unenviable privilege. He who turns from the weight of evidence because there are a few things that he cannot make plain to his finite understanding, will be left to the cold, chilling atmosphere of unbelief and skepticism, and will make shipwreck of faith. It should not be considered a virtue to be on the side of the doubting rather than on the side of the believing. Jesus never praised unbelief, never commended a doubting, questioning spirit. He gave to His nation evidence of His Messiahship in the miracles He wrought; but there were some who reasoned these evidences away, and in every good work found something to question and censure.” Signs of the Times, December 30, 1886.

“Many are changed by every current. They wait to hear what someone else thinks, and his opinion is accepted as altogether true. If they would lean wholly upon God, they would grow strong in His strength; but they do not say to the Lord, I can not make any decision until I know Thy will. Their natural inclination is to allow another to be conscience for them; and they speak after he has spoken, saying what he says, and acting as he acts. When these persons are placed in circumstances where they must think and act for themselves, they dare not express any decided opinion. Yet often, like Aaron, they have much ability. God pity such weaklings.” Review and Herald, May 9, 1899.

 

  • What are some of the fruits of a true prophet’s ministry? 1 Corinthians 14: 3

 

NOTE: “Early in my youth I was asked several times, ‘Are you a prophet?’ I have ever responded, I am the Lord’s messenger. I know that many have called me a prophet, but I have made no claim to this title. My Savior declared me to be His messenger. ‘Your work,’ He instructed me, ‘is to bear My Word. Strange things will arise, and in your youth I set you apart to bear the message to the erring ones, to carry the Word before unbelievers, and with pen and voice to reprove from the Word actions that are not right. Exhort from the Word. I will make My Word open to you. It shall not be as a strange language. In the true eloquence of simplicity, with voice and pen, the messages that I give shall be heard from one who has never learned in the schools. My Spirit and My power shall be with you. Be not afraid of man, for My shield shall protect you. It is not you that speaketh; it is the Lord that giveth the messages of warning and reproof. Never deviate from the truth under any circumstances. Give the light I shall give you. The messages for these last days shall be written in books, and shall stand immortalized, to testify against those who have once rejoiced in the light, but who have been led to give it up because of the seductive influences of evil.’ Why have I not claimed to be a prophet? Because in these days many who boldly claim that they are prophets, are a reproach to the cause of Christ; and because my work includes much more than the word ‘prophet’ signifies. When this work was first given me, I begged the Lord to lay the burden on some one else. The work was so large and broad and deep that I feared I could not do it. But by His Holy Spirit the Lord has enabled me to perform the work which He gave me to do.” Spalding-Magan Collection, 481.

 

6. A LIGHT THAT SHINETH IN A DARK PLACE UNTIL THE DAY DAWN

  • What function does prophecy fulfil for God’s people in the darkness of this world? 2 Peter 1: 19, Revelation 1: 3

 

NOTE: “Brethren, to whom the truths of God’s Word have been opened, what part will you act in the closing scenes of this world’s history? Are you awake to these solemn realities? Do you realize the grand work of preparation that is going on in heaven and on earth? Let all who have received the light, who have had the opportunity of reading and hearing the prophecy, take heed to those things that are written therein; ‘for the time is at hand.’ Let none now tamper with sin, the source of every misery in our world. No longer remain in lethargy and stupid indifference. Let not the destiny of your soul hang upon an uncertainty. Know that you are fully on the Lord’s side. Let the inquiry go forth from sincere hearts and trembling lips, ‘Who shall be able to stand?’ Have you, in these last precious hours of probation, been putting the very best material into your character building? Have you been purifying your souls from every stain? Have you followed the light? Have you works corresponding to your profession of faith? Is the softening, subduing influence of the grace of God working upon you? Have you hearts that can feel, eyes that can see, ears that can hear? Is it in vain that the declaration of eternal truth has been made concerning the nations of the earth? They are under condemnation, preparing for the judgments of God; and in this day which is big with eternal results, the people chosen to be the depositories of momentous truth ought to be abiding in Christ. Are you letting your light shine to illumine the nations that are perishing in their sins? Do you realize that you are to stand in defense of God’s commandments before those who are treading them underfoot?” Testimonies Volume 6, 404, 405.

 

  • 12.When will prophecy be no longer needed? 1 Corinthians 13: 8 – 10

 

NOTE: “This text does foretell the cessation of spiritual gifts, also of faith and hope. But when were they to cease? We still look forward to the time when ‘hope shall change to glad fruition, faith to sight, and prayer to praise.’ They are to cease when that which is perfect is come, when we shall no longer see through a glass darkly, but face to face. The perfect day, when the just are made perfect and see as they are seen, is yet in the future. It is true that the Man of Sin, when arrived at manhood, had put away such ‘childish things’ as prophecies, tongues, and knowledge, and also the faith, hope and charity of the primitive Christians. But there is nothing in the text to show that God designed to take away the gifts which He had set in the church, till the consummation of her faith and hope, till the surpassing glory of the immortal state should eclipse the most brilliant displays of spiritual power and knowledge ever manifested in this mortal state.” Early Writings, 136. (Spiritual Gifts Volume One, Introduction by Roswell F. Cottrell.)

 

Bible Study Guide — Thy Word Is A Lamp Unto My Feet

by

February 13 —19

Memory Verse: “And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3: 15.

Study Help: Great Controversy, pages 518 – 523

Introduction: “When you search the Scriptures with an earnest desire to learn the truth, God will breathe His Spirit into your heart and impress your mind with the light of His Word. The Bible is its own interpreter, one passage explaining another. By comparing Scriptures referring to the same subjects, you will see beauty and harmony of which you have never dreamed. There is no other book whose perusal strengthens and enlarges, elevates and ennobles the mind, as does the perusal of this Book of books. Its study imparts new vigor to the mind, which is thus brought in contact with subjects requiring earnest thought, and is drawn out in prayer to God for power to comprehend the truths revealed.” Testimonies Volume 4, 499.

 

1. WISE UNTO SALVATION

  • What are the Scriptures able to do for the one who places his faith in Jesus Christ? 2 Timothy 3: 15

 

NOTE: “What other book will teach men to love, fear, and obey God as does the Bible? What other book presents to students more ennobling science, more wonderful history? It clearly portrays righteousness, and foretells the consequence of disloyalty to the law of Jehovah. No one is left in darkness as to that which God approves or disapproves. In studying the Scriptures we become acquainted with God, and are led to understand our relation to Christ, who is the sin-bearer, the surety, the substitute, for our fallen race. These truths concern our present and eternal interests. The Bible stands the highest among books, and its study is valuable above the study of other literature in giving strength and expansion to the mind.” Special Testimonies on Education, 18.

 

  • What aspect of God’s Word should especially occupy our minds? With what result? Psalm 1: 1 – 3; Psalm 119: 9 – 16

 

NOTE: ” ‘The prince of this world cometh,’ said Jesus, ‘and hath nothing in Me.” John 14: 30. There was in Him nothing that responded to Satan’s sophistry. He did not consent to sin. Not even by a thought did He yield to temptation. So it may be with us. Christ’s humanity was united with divinity; He was fitted for the conflict by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. And He came to make us partakers of the divine nature. So long as we are united to Him by faith, sin has no more dominion over us. God reaches for the hand of faith in us to direct it to lay fast hold upon the divinity of Christ, that we may attain to perfection of character. And how this is accomplished, Christ has shown us. By what means did He overcome in the conflict with Satan? By the Word of God. Only by the Word could He resist temptation. ‘It is written,’ He said. . . . Every promise in God’s Word is ours. ‘By every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God’ are we to live. When assailed by temptation, look not to circumstances or to the weakness of self, but to the power of the Word. All its strength is yours. ‘Thy word,’ says the psalmist, ‘have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.’ ‘By the word of Thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer.’ Ps. 119: 11; 17: 4.” Desire of Ages, 123.

 

2. HE WILL GUIDE YOU INTO ALL TRUTH

  • What precious promises may we claim as we study the Scriptures? John 14: 26, 16: 13

 

NOTE: See Testimonies Volume 5, 703.

 

  • What prayer of David’s should be ours whenever we study the Scriptures? Psalm 119: 18

 

NOTE: “Never should the Bible be studied without prayer. Before opening its pages, we should ask for the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, and it will be given. When Nathanael came to Jesus, the Savior exclaimed, ‘Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile.’ [John 1: 47.] Nathanael said, ‘Whence knowest Thou me?’ Jesus answered, ‘Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig-tree, I saw thee.’ And Jesus will see us also in the secret places of prayer, if we will seek Him for light, that we may know what is truth. Angels from the world of light will be with those who in humility of heart seek for divine guidance.” Christian Education, 59.

 

3. AT THE END IT SHALL SPEAK

  • Which people will understand the Scriptures and which will not? Daniel 12: 9 – 10. How does the Bible define wisdom? Psalm 111: 10

 

NOTE: See Great Controversy, 132.

 

  • Against what misuse of the Scriptures did Peter warn? 2 Peter 3: 16

 

NOTE: “In order to sustain erroneous doctrines or unchristian practices, some will seize upon passages of Scripture separated from the context, perhaps quoting half of a single verse as proving their point, when the remaining portion would show the meaning to be quite the opposite. With the cunning of the serpent, they entrench themselves behind disconnected utterances construed to suit their carnal desires. Thus do many willfully pervert the Word of God. Others, who have an active imagination, seize upon the figures and symbols of Holy Writ, interpret them to suit their fancy, with little regard to the testimony of Scripture as its own interpreter, and then they present their vagaries as the teachings of the Bible. Whenever the study of the Scriptures is entered upon without a prayerful, humble, teachable spirit, the plainest and simplest as well as the most difficult passages will be wrested from their true meaning.” Great Controversy, 521.

 

4. BY EVERY WORD

  • How did Jesus describe the importance of His words? John 6: 63, last part

 

NOTE: “Though inestimable treasures are in the Bible, and it is like a mine full of precious ore, it is not valued, it is not searched, and its riches are not discovered. Mercy and truth and love are valuable beyond our power to calculate; we cannot have too great a supply of these treasures, and it is in the Word of God we find out how we may become possessors of these heavenly riches, and yet why is it that the word of God is uninteresting to many professed Christians? Is it because the Word of God is not spirit and is not life? Has Jesus put upon us an uninteresting task, when He commands us to ‘search the Scriptures’? John 5: 39. Jesus says, ‘The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.’ John 6: 63. But spiritual things are spiritually discerned, and the reason of your lack of interest is that you lack the Spirit of God. When the heart is brought into harmony with the Word, a new life will spring up within you, a new light will shine upon every line of the Word, and it will become the voice of God to your soul. In this way you will take celestial observations, and know whither you are going, and be able to make the most of your privileges today.” Christian Education, 80.

 

  • How did Jesus teach us to value the treasures of His Word? Matthew 13: 44

 

NOTE: “It is proper and right to read the Bible; but your duty does not end there; for you are to search its pages for yourselves. The knowledge of God is not to be gained without mental effort, without prayer for wisdom in order that you may separate from the pure grain of truth the chaff with which men and Satan have misrepresented the doctrines of truth. Satan and his confederacy of human agents have endeavored to mix the chaff of error with the wheat of truth. We should diligently search for the hidden treasure, and seek wisdom from heaven in order to separate human inventions from the divine commands. The Holy Spirit will aid the seeker for great and precious truths which relate to the plan of redemption. I would impress upon all the fact that a casual reading of the Scriptures is not enough. We must search, and this means the doing of all the word implies. As the miner eagerly explores the earth to discover its veins of gold, so you are to explore the word of God for the hidden treasure that Satan has so long sought to hide from man.” Review and Herald, September 11, 1894.

 

5. COMPARING SPIRITUAL THINGS WITH SPIRITUAL

  • What principle of discovering the meaning of the Scriptures is given us in the Word? Isaiah 28: 9 – 10

 

NOTE: “Perilous times are before us. Everyone who has a knowledge of the truth should awake and place himself, body, soul, and spirit, under the discipline of God. The enemy is on our track. We must be wide-awake, on our guard against him. We must put on the whole armor of God. We must follow the directions given through the spirit of prophecy. We must love and obey the truth for this time. This will save us from accepting strong delusions. God has spoken to us through His word. He has spoken to us through the testimonies to the church and through the books that have helped to make plain our present duty and the position that we should now occupy. The warnings that have been given, line upon line, precept upon precept, should be heeded. If we disregard them, what excuse can we offer?” Testimonies Volume 8, 298.

 

  • What important principle does Paul give for those seeking to understand spiritual things? 1 Corinthians 2: 13 – 14

 

NOTE: “We should not take the testimony of any man as to what the Scriptures teach, but should study the Word of God ourselves. If we allow others to do our thinking, we shall have crippled energies and contracted abilities. The noble powers of the mind may be so dwarfed by lack of exercise on themes worthy of their concentration as to lose their ability to grasp the deep meaning of the Word of God. The mind will enlarge if it is employed in tracing out the subjects of the Bible, comparing scripture with scripture, and spiritual things with spiritual. There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the study of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If God’s Word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of mind, a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose that is rarely seen in these times. But there is but little benefit derived from a hasty reading of the Scriptures. One may read the whole Bible through, and yet fail to see its beauty or comprehend its deep and hidden meaning. One passage studied until its significance is clear to the mind, and its relation to the plan of salvation is evident, is of more value than the perusal of many chapters with no definite purpose in view and no positive instruction gained. Keep your Bible with you. As you have opportunity, read it; fix the texts in your memory.” Christian Education, 58.

 

6. SEEK AND YE SHALL FIND

  • What promise is given to those who diligently search for truth? Matthew 7: 7, Proverbs 8: 17

 

NOTE: “Our heavenly Father has a pure and inexhaustible fountain of knowledge from which we may draw, and there is no limit to His gifts to those who earnestly seek for truth. The capacities of those who add to their faith virtue will be enlarged to receive still greater virtues. There are undeveloped faculties lying dormant that will spring into life and activity when the human is united with the divine. Those who make the most of that which God has given them in this life will find their powers developed to as much greater degree in the future life as they have by wise improvement increased them in this life.” Sabbath School Worker, July 1, 1889.

 

  • What condition is needed if we are to understand the Bible’s teachings? John 7: 17

 

NOTE: “Satan can present a counterfeit so closely resembling the truth that it deceives those who are willing to be deceived, who desire to shun the self-denial and sacrifice demanded by the truth; but it is impossible for him to hold under his power one soul who honestly desires, at whatever cost, to know the truth. Christ is the Truth and the “Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.” John 1: 9. The Spirit of truth has been sent to guide men into all truth. And upon the authority of the Son of God it is declared: ‘Seek, and ye shall find.’ ‘If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.’ Matthew 7: 7; John 7: 17.” Great Controversy, 528.

 

  • How will this obedience to God’s will be manifested? John 14: 15, 1 John 2: 3 – 5, 4: 20, 5: 2 –3

 

NOTE: See Acts of the Apostles, 562 –56 3.

 

Bible Study Guide — The Lord Our God Spake Unto Us

by

February 6 — 12

General Introduction

I dreamed that the Spirit of the Lord came upon me, and I arose amid cries and prayers, and said: The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me. I feel urged to say to you that you must commence to work individually for yourselves. You are looking to God and desiring Him to do the work for you which He has left for you to do. If you will do the work for yourselves which you know that you ought to do, then God will help you when you need help. You have left undone the very things which God has left for you to do. You have been calling upon God to do your work. Had you followed the light which He has given you, then He would cause more light to shine upon you; but while you neglect the counsels, warnings, and reproofs that have been given, how can you expect God to give you more light and blessings to neglect and despise? God is not as man; He will not be trifled with.

I took the precious Bible and surrounded it with the several Testimonies for the Church, given for the people of God. Here, said I, the cases of nearly all are met. The sins they are to shun are pointed out. The counsel that they desire can be found here, given for other cases situated similarly to themselves. God has been pleased to give you line upon line and precept upon precept. But there are not many of you that really know what is contained in the Testimonies. You are not familiar with the Scriptures. If you had made God’s word your study, with a desire to reach the Bible standard and attain to Christian perfection, you would not have needed the Testimonies. It is because you have neglected to acquaint yourselves with God’s inspired Book that He has sought to reach you by simple, direct testimonies, calling your attention to the words of inspiration which you had neglected to obey, and urging you to fashion your lives in accordance with its pure and elevated teachings.

The Lord designs to warn you, to reprove, to counsel, through the testimonies given, and to impress your minds with the importance of the truth of His word. The written testimonies are not to give new light, but to impress vividly upon the heart the truths of inspiration already revealed. Man’s duty to God and to his fellow man has been distinctly specified in God’s Word; yet but few of you are obedient to the light given. Additional truth is not brought out; but God has through the Testimonies simplified the great truths already given and in His own chosen way brought them before the people to awaken and impress the mind with them, that all may be left without excuse.

Pride, self-love, selfishness, hatred, envy, and jealousy have beclouded the perceptive powers, and the truth, which would make you wise unto salvation, has lost its power to charm and control the mind. The very essential principles of godliness are not understood because there is not a hungering and thirsting for Bible knowledge, purity of heart, and holiness of life. The Testimonies are not to belittle the Word of God, but to exalt it and attract minds to it, that the beautiful simplicity of truth may impress all.

I said further: As the Word of God is walled in with these books and pamphlets, so has God walled you in with reproofs, counsel, warnings, and encouragements. Here you are crying before God, in the anguish of your souls, for more light. I am authorized from God to tell you that not another ray of light through the Testimonies will shine upon your pathway until you make a practical use of the light already given. The Lord has walled you about with light; but you have not appreciated the light; you have trampled upon it. While some have despised the light, others have neglected it, or followed it but indifferently. A few have set their hearts to obey the light which God has been pleased to give them.

Some that have received special warnings through testimony have forgotten in a few weeks the reproof given. The Testimonies to some have been several times repeated, but they have not thought them of sufficient importance to be carefully heeded. They have been to them like idle tales. Had they regarded the light given they would have avoided losses and trials which they think are hard and severe. They have only themselves to censure. They have placed upon their own necks a yoke which they find grievous to be borne. It is not the yoke which Christ has bound upon them. God’s care and love were exercised in their behalf; but their selfish, evil, unbelieving souls could not discern His goodness and mercy. They rush on in their own wisdom until, overwhelmed with trials and confused with perplexity, they are ensnared by Satan. When you gather up the rays of light which God has given in the past, then will He give an increase of light. Testimonies, Volume 2, pages 604 – 606.

Memory Verse: “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” Revelation 22: 18 –19.

Introduction: During the last several decades there has been a proliferation of new English translations and paraphrases of the Bible. In Ellen White’s day, this work was already beginning. The English Revised Version appeared in 1885 and the American Standard Version followed in 1901. Neither gained any great popularity among Christians. Ellen White’s son, William, wrote: “When the first version [the English Revised Version] was published, I purchased a good copy for Mother. She referred to it occasionally but never used it in preaching. Later on as manuscripts were being prepared for new books and for revised editions of books already in print, Sister White’s attention was called from time to time by myself and Sister Marion Davis to the fact that she was using texts which were much more clearly translated in the RV. Sister White studied each one carefully and in some cases instructed us to use the RV.” Problems in Translation, page 72.

 

1. THE LANGUAGES AND TRANSLATION OF THE BIBLE.

  • In which languages was the Bible originally written?

 

The greater part of the Old Testament is written in Hebrew. A few passages were written in Aramaic, especially several passages in Ezra and Daniel. Though Aramaic appears to have been the language of Jesus and the people of Judea and Galilee, the New Testament books are written in the common colloquial [koine] Greek spoken throughout the Roman empire. This dialect was, until recently, only known in the New Testament writings. Since the 1880s, however, large numbers of letters and other ordinary documents from the time of Christ, written in this form of Greek, have been discovered.

 

  • Into which languages was the Bible first translated?

 

After the captivity in Babylon, Aramaic became increasingly the language of the general population. In Nehemiah 8: 1 – 8, when Ezra read the book of the law aloud, it would appear from verse 8, that the book had to be translated so that the people unable to speak Hebrew could understand. In the third and second centuries BC, the Alexandrian Jews made a translation of the Old Testament into Greek. This translation became known as the Septuagint, from the tradition that it was produced by seventy-two elders. This was the Bible in popular use in New Testament times and the Old Testament quotations by the New Testament writers are often taken from this version.

 

  • What evidence do we have that the Old Testament Scriptures have been accurately preserved?

 

Until the last fifty years, the oldest Hebrew manuscripts available were no more than 1000 years old. (This was because of the custom of making new copies of old manuscripts that were dilapidated through use and then destroying the old manuscripts by burning.) Sceptical scholars argued that it was unlikely that the surviving manuscripts represented a reliable version of the Old Testament Scriptures, since they dated 1400 years after the final old Testament books were written. The discovery of the Dead Sea scrolls in 1947, a number of which were Bible books or commentaries on Old Testament passages, written no later than the second century A.D.(see SDA Bible Commentary, Volume 8, 786), revealed that most differences were of such a minor nature as not even to show up in translation. (e.g. spelling variations) It is clear that the scribes who copied the Old Testament Scriptures were meticulous in their work, even counting the number of individual letters to ensure accuracy. Imperfect copies were destroyed as a matter of course.

 

2. THE EARLIEST ENGLISH BIBLES

  • When was the Bible first translated into English?

 

Parts of the Bible, including the gospels and psalms, were translated into Old English over 1000 years ago. But, as Roman Christianity became dominant and knowledge of the Bible was discouraged, no complete translation of the Bible into English was made until the time of Wycliffe in the 14th century. “Wycliffe’s Bible had been translated from the Latin text [the Vulgate of Jerome], which contained many errors. It had never been printed, and the cost of manuscript copies was so great that few but wealthy men or nobles could procure it; and, furthermore, being strictly proscribed by the church, it had had a comparatively narrow circulation.” Great Controversy, 245. “The Waldenses were among the first of the peoples of Europe to obtain a translation of the Holy Scriptures. Hundreds of years before the Reformation they possessed the Bible in manuscript in their native tongue. They had the truth unadulterated, and this rendered them the special objects of hatred and persecution.” Great Controversy, 65. But this Waldensian Bible had never been translated into English.

  • When did the English people first receive an accurate translation of the Scriptures?

See Great Controversy, 245.

 

3.THE KING JAMES BIBLE AND ITS ORIGINS

  • How was the King James Bible produced?

 

Several English Bible translations or revisions were made after Tyndale’s translation. Examples of these are the “Great Bible,” the “Bishop’s Bible,” and the “Geneva Bible.” Notes in the margins of these Bibles explain who the antichrist was, etc. During this time countries were ruled by kings who believed in the “divine right” of the kings. King James wanted to eliminate Bibles containing explanatory notes. To do this he had a new translation made which he called the The Authorized Version. It was his purpose to prohibit all other versions from being read in church. Just as Constantine did in the fourth century so King James in the seventeenth century attempted to bring a forced uniformity into religion. But in spite of these motives the Lord overruled it for ood—at this time the English language had reached a high point of development. The King James Bible has exercised a profound effect on the English language and culture ever since. Much of the language of the King James Bible is actually a revision of Tyndale’s translation. The King James Version of the Bible, published in 1611, was translated by 47 of the most learned men in the land. They were divided into six companies and a portion was assigned to each group. Everyone in each company translated the whole portion before they met to compare their results and agree upon the final form. They then transmitted their draft to each of the other companies for their comment and consent. A select committee then went carefully through the whole work again, and at last, two of the members were responsible for the final checking. Advocates of modern versions often assume that they are the product of scholarship far superior to that of the translators of the King James Version of 1611, but this assumption is not supported by the facts. The learned men who laboured on the King James Version of the Bible were men of exceptional ability and they approached the task with a reverent regard for the Divine inspiration, authority and inerrancy of the Holy Scriptures. To them it was “God’s sacred Truth” and demanded the exercise of their utmost care and fidelity in its translation.

 

  • Is the translation of the King James Bible inspired?

 

“Some…have been so bold as to assert that the King James Version of the Scripture is a divinely inspired translation. Such a claim must be doubtful. Every evidence we have indicates that, though the King James Version is an excellent translation, it is not a perfect translation, which presumably is what an inspired translation would be. Yet we do not doubt the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the work of these translators.” Modern Bible Translations Unmasked, Standish and Standish, 24.

 

3. THE WORK OF REVISION

  • Why was it felt necessary to revise the King James Version?

 

The King James Version was periodically revised during the 17th and 18th centuries to modernize the spelling, and correct misprints. This work of periodic updating appears to have ceased in 1769. In 1870 a committee was appointed to again consider the passages of the King James Bible that required amendment.

 

  • What men were involved in this revision?

 

The leading influences in the work of revision were two Cambridge professors, Brooke Foss Westcott and Fenton John Hort. These two men had produced a radically different Greek version of the New Testament, based on two recently published manuscripts which showed marked variations from the vast majority of existing Greek manuscripts and differed even more widely from each other. One, Codex Vaticanus, had been known at the time of the translation of the King James Bible but had been rejected as worthless. The other, Codex Sinaiaticus, had been retrieved from the rubbish bin at St Catherine’s Monastery in Egypt by a visiting German scholar. This second manuscript had also long been recognized as worthless, since the incomplete manuscript, now in the British Museum, contains 14,800 corrections by nine separate early correctors in its 389.5 pages or approximately 38 corrections per page! These two manuscripts resemble the discredited Latin Vulgate version, which was the standard text of the Catholic Church. Westcott and Hort were concerned to promote their new version of the New Testament. While the Revisers made few significant changes to the Old Testament, the New Testament was extensively altered. Westcott and Hort’s new version of the Greek New Testament forms the basis of nearly every modern version.

 

  • Were Westcott and Hort Protestant Reformers?

 

Both were followers of the “Higher Criticism” and were skeptical about much Christian doctrine, including the atonement and the authority of the Bible. Westcott denied the historicity of the opening chapters of Genesis. Hort was a believer in Darwinism and both men were devotees of Mary. They were Anglo-Catholics, believing that Protestantism was ‘only parenthetical and temporary.’ They both were deeply involved in the occult from nearly thirty years before the Revision was published. In 1851 they founded the “Ghostly Guild” [now known as the Society for Psychical Research], the year Westcott was ordained as an Anglican priest. In the following year, Westcott spoke of being ‘most anxious to replace’ the traditional Greek text of the New Testament. Both expressed a deep hatred for the Received Text of the New Testament.

 

5. TWO TYPES OF PROBLEMS

  • 11.What kinds of problems arise from the use of Bible versions based on the work of Westcott and Hort?

 

In setting aside the testimony of more than 5000 Greek manuscripts of the New Testament and accepting as authoritative the Vaticanus and Sinaiaticus manuscripts, the modern versions present a significantly different New Testament. It has been estimated that 36,000 changes were made in the Revised Version. The most common and noticeable of the changes in versions based on these two corrupt manuscripts are passages, verses, phrases and words omitted or questioned. These may be omitted entirely or attract footnotes seriously questioning their authenticity. Examples of passages thus treated include: Mark 16: 9 – 20 and John 7: 53 – 8: 11. Examples of verses omitted or questioned include: Matthew 17: 21, 18: 11, 21: 44, 23: 14, Mark 7: 16, 9: 44 and 46, 11: 26, 15: 28, Luke 17: 36, 22: 43 – 44, 23; 17, 23: 34, 24; 12 and 40, John 5: 4, Acts 8: 37, 15: 34, 24: 6 –8, 28: 29, Romans 16: 24.

 

  • What further problem has arisen since the appearance of the Revised Version?

 

“The King James translators were committed to producing an English Bible that would be a precise translation and by no means a paraphrase or a broadly approximate rendering. On the one hand, the scholars were almost as familiar with the original languages of the Bible as with their native English. On the other hand, their reverence for the divine Author and His Word assured a translation of the Scriptures in which only a principle of utmost accuracy could be accepted.” New King James Bible, Preface. Perhaps the greatest problem with modern versions is their extreme laxity in rendering faithfully the sense of even their own Greek original. The King James translators, when supplying words required by the sense, placed such words in italics. Such scruples are notably absent from most more recent versions. Their translation principle, called “Dynamic Equivalence,” does not require a faithful rendering of the original words but an attempt to convey what the translator thinks the writer meant.

 

6. SPECIFIC PROBLEMS

  • Do these changes make any difference to the teaching of the Bible?

 

Those who have attempted to use modern versions to teach the 70 weeks of Daniel 9 have found it impossible. Versions like the NIV, the Living Bible, the New English Bible, the Revised Standard Version and the Good News have the Messiah appearing only 7 prophetic weeks into the prophecy and then being killed 62 prophetic weeks later. Several of these versions, which were written by those believing in the appearance of the antichrist after the secret rapture, transfer the work of Christ in Daniel 9: 27 to the antichrist! They fail to distinguish between the work of the Messiah and the destruction wrought by the Romans, “the people of the prince that shall come.” It has not proved possible for these people to provide a sound historical fulfillment of these alternative versions of the prophecy and they tend instead to cast doubt on the accuracy of the prophecy itself! It is not without significance that the RSV, NIV, Good News et al. omit the reference to Daniel the prophet in Mark 13: 14, where Christ applies this prophecy to the destruction of Jerusalem. The diligent reader will discover similar tampering with the longer time prophecy of Daniel 8: 14, of which the 70 weeks is a part.

 

  • How are Bible teachings affected by the readings of modern Bible versions?

 

The inferior Egyptian manustripts (Sinaiaticus and Vaticanus) as explained already contain significant omissions and varient readings from the vast majority of extant Greek manuscripts of the New Testement. It was argued that these Egyptian manuscripts were older but as Professor Hodges (one of the leading New Testament scholars today) has pointed out, “The text which results from dependence on such manuscripts as these may fairly be described as Egyptian . . . . In contrast to this kind of text stands the form of text found in the vast majority of remaining documents. This text is recognizably different from the Egyptian Text and has been appropriately designated the Majority Text. It is true that the documents that contain it are on the whole substantially later than the earliest Egyptian witnesses. But this is hardly surpising. Egypt almost alone, offers climactic conditions highly favorable to the preservation of very ancient manuscripts. On the other hand, the witnesses to the majority text come from all over the ancient world. Their very number suggests that they represent a long and wide-spread chain of manuscript tradition. It is necessary therefore to postulate that the surviving documents are decended from non-extant ancestral documents of the highest antiquity. These must have been in their own time as old or older than the surviving witnesses from Egypt.

“It follows from this that the majority text deserves the attention of the Christian world. When all the issues are properly weighed it has a higher claim to represent the original text than does the Egyptian type. The latter is probably a local text which never had any significant currency except in that part of the ancient world. By contrast the majority of manuscripts were widely diffused and their ancestral roots must reach back to the autographs themselves.” Introduction to the Greek New Testement According to the Majority Text, Second Edition.

Versions which are translated from the Egyptian text can actually cast doubt on the divinity of Christ—one of the most central doctrines of the Christian faith. For example, in the Egyptian Text the word “God” is left out in 1Timothy 3:16, which is one of the plainest texts In the New Testement testifying to the divinity of Christ. In addition, obedience to the Commandments being a requirement to enter the Holy City is changed to simply being “forgiven” in the Egyptian Text. See Revelation 22:14. So the faulty Egyptian manuscripts are the cause of faulty teachings appearing in translations coming from them. But there is a second type of problem that is much more serious than this. This is the manipulation of the translation so that the Bible can be used to teach doctrines contrary to what the writer wrote. An example of this is when some modern translations change the phrase in Daniel 7:25 which indicates that the antichrist will think to change times and laws and make it read that the antichrist power will simply change the time of the feast days. This is a total prevarication and prostitution of the Hebrew Text.

 

  • What is Satan’s unceasing attitude to God’s Word?

 

See Early Writings, page 214.

 

Endnote: “Now that Satan can no longer keep the world under his control by withholding the Scriptures, he resorts to other means to accomplish the same object. To destroy faith in the Bible serves his purpose as well as to destroy the Bible itself.” Great Controversy, 586. Satan’s hatred of the Bible is no less than it ever was. The fact that he has changed his tactics to destroy God’s Word should not blind God’s people. Since man is to live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God, Christians should be careful to ensure that those words are not being tampered with or corrupted by those who, “having a form of godliness but denying the power thereof,” “received not the love of the truth that they might be saved.” Not all Bibles are equal in value and the diligent lover of truth will seek to ensure that his Bible is the uncorrupted Word of God. The New Testament portion of the King James Version, we know today, was translated from a superior Greek text (a Byzantine text). And most modern translations are translated from the inferior Egyptian manuscripts. Versions available today in which the New Testament is translated from the Received Text include: the King James Version, the King James II Version, and the New King James Version.

 

Bible Study Guide — My Word Shall Not Pass Away

by

January 30 — February 6

Memory Verse: “For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.” 1 Thessalonians 2: 13.

Study Help: Great Controversy, pages 61 – 78.

Introduction: “The Bible is the most ancient and the most comprehensive history that men possess. It came fresh from the Fountain of eternal truth, and throughout the ages a divine hand has preserved its purity. It lights up the far-distant past, where human research seeks in vain to penetrate. In God’s word only do we behold the power that laid the foundations of the earth and that stretched out the heavens. Here only do we find an authentic account of the origin of nations. Here only is given a history of our race unsullied by human pride or prejudice. In the word of God the mind finds subjects for the deepest thought, the loftiest aspirations. Here we may hold communion with patriarchs and prophets, and listen to the voice of the Eternal as He speaks with men. Here we behold the Majesty of heaven as He humbled Himself to become our substitute and surety, to cope single-handed with the powers of darkness and to gain the victory in our behalf. A reverent contemplation of such themes as these cannot fail to soften, purify, and ennoble the heart, and at the same time to inspire the mind with new strength and vigor.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers and Students, 52-53.

 

  1. MY WORDS SHALL NOT PASS AWAY
  • What assurance are we given that God’s Word will not pass away? Matthew 5: 18, Matthew 24: 35, Luke 16: 17.

 

NOTE: “The law of God in the sanctuary in heaven is the great original, of which the precepts inscribed upon the tables of stone and recorded by Moses in the Pentateuch were an unerring transcript. Those who arrived at an understanding of this important point were thus led to see the sacred, unchanging character of the divine law. They saw, as never before, the force of the Saviour’s words: ‘Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law.’ Matthew 5: 18. The law of God, being a revelation of His will, a transcript of His character, must forever endure, ‘as a faithful witness in heaven.’ Not one command has been annulled; not a jot or tittle has been changed. Says the psalmist: ‘Forever, O Lord, Thy word is settled in heaven.’ ‘All His commandments are sure. They stand fast for ever and ever.’ Psalms 119: 89; 111: 7 – 8.” Great Controversy, 434.

 

  • How does Jesus describe those who both hear and do the things found in the Word of God? Matthew 7: 24 – 27.

 

NOTE: “The law of God will be satisfied with nothing short of perfection, of perfect and entire obedience to all its claims. To come halfway to its requirements, and not render perfect and thorough obedience, will avail nothing. The worldling and the infidel admire consistency and have ever been powerfully convicted that God was of a truth with His people when their works correspond with their faith. ‘By their fruits ye shall know them.’ Every tree is known by its own fruits. Our words, our actions, are the fruit we bear. There are many who hear the sayings of Christ, but do them not. They make a profession, but their fruits are such as to disgust unbelievers. . . Their words and acts are wrong, and yet they seem to be blinded to their destitute, wretched condition. I was shown that the following Scripture is applicable to those who are under such a deception: ‘Not everyone that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have not we prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.’ Here is the greatest deception that can affect the human mind; these persons believe that they are right when they are wrong. They think that they are doing a great work in their religious life, but Jesus finally tears off their self-righteous covering and vividly presents before them the true picture of themselves in all their wrongs and deformity of religious character. They are found wanting when it is forever too late to have their wants supplied.” Testimonies Volume 1, 416 – 417.

 

  • How were the things that God revealed to Moses passed on to future generations? Deuteronomy 31: 24 – 26.

 

NOTE: “As the years rolled on, and he [Moses] wandered with his flocks in solitary places, pondering upon the oppressed condition of his people, he recounted the dealings of God with his fathers and the promises that were the heritage of the chosen nation, and his prayers for Israel ascended by day and by night. Heavenly angels shed their light around him. Here, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he wrote the book of Genesis. The long years spent amid the desert solitudes were rich in blessing, not alone to Moses and his people, but to the world in all succeeding ages.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 251.

“Not only was Moses gaining a preparation for the great work before him, but during this time, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he wrote the book of Genesis and also the book of Job, which would be read with the deepest interest by the people of God until the close of time.” Sings of the Times, February 19,1880.

See also Spiritual Gifts Volume 4A, 65 and Review & Sabbath Herald, December 18, 1894.

 

  • How were the messages of other prophets handed down to future generations? Isaiah 30: 8, Jeremiah 30: 2.

 

NOTE: “The Lord directed Jeremiah, saying: ‘Take thee a roll of a book, and write therein all the words that I have spoken unto thee against Israel, and against Judah, and against all the nations, from the day I spake unto thee, from the days of Josiah, even unto this day. It may be that the house of Judah will hear all the evil which I purpose to do unto them; that they may return every man from his evil way, that I may forgive their iniquity and their sin.’ ” Testimonies Volume 4, 176.

See also Prophets and Kings, 52.

 

  • What example has been given to show that God has preserved His law? 2 Chronicles 34: 14 – 16.

 

NOTE: “It was the observance of the statutes recorded by Moses, especially those given in the book of the covenant, which forms a part of Deuteronomy, that had made the reign of Hezekiah so prosperous. But Manasseh had dared set aside these statutes; and during his reign the temple copy of the book of the law, through careless neglect, had become lost. Thus for many years the people generally were deprived of its instruction. The long-lost manuscript was found in the temple by Hilkiah, the high priest, while the building was undergoing extensive repairs in harmony with King Josiah’s plan for the preservation of the sacred structure. The high priest handed the precious volume to Shaphan, a learned scribe, who read it and then took it to the king with the story of its discovery. Josiah was deeply stirred as he heard read for the first time the exhortations and warnings recorded in this ancient manuscript. Never before had he realised so fully the plainness with which God had set before Israel ‘life and death, blessing and cursing’ (Deuteronomy 30:19): and how repeatedly they had been urged to choose the way of life, that they might become a praise in the earth, a blessing to all nations…The encouragements offered as the reward of obedience were accompanied by prophecies of judgments against the disobedient; and as the king heard the inspired words, he recognised, in the picture set before him, conditions that were similar to those actually existing in his kingdom. In connection with these prophetic portrayals of departure from God, he was startled to find plain statements to the effect that the day of calamity would follow swiftly and that there would be no remedy. The language was plain; there could be no mistaking the meaning of the words.” Prophets and Kings, 392-393.

 

  • How did the Lord preserve the messages given through Jeremiah? Jeremiah 36: 10 – 28.

 

NOTE: “The burning of the roll was not the end of the matter. The written words were more easily disposed of than the reproof and warning they contained and the swift-coming punishment God had pronounced against rebellious Israel. But even the written roll was reproduced. ‘Take thee again another roll,’ the Lord commanded His servant, ‘and write in it all the former words that were in the first roll, which Jehoiakim the king of Judah hath burned.’ The record of the prophecies concerning Judah and Jerusalem had been reduced to ashes; but the words were still living in the heart of Jeremiah, ‘as a burning fire,’ and the prophet was permitted to reproduce that which the wrath of man would fain have destroyed. Taking another roll, Jeremiah gave it to Baruch, ‘who wrote therein from the mouth of Jeremiah all the words of the book which Jehoiakim king of Judah had burned in the fire: and there were added besides unto them many like words.’ Verses 28,32. The wrath of man had sought to prevent the labours of the prophet of God; but the very means by which Jehoiakim had endeavoured to limit the influence of the servant of Jehovah, gave further opportunity for making plain the divine requirements.” Prophets and Kings, 436- 437.

 

  • What insights have we been given about the production of the New Testament? Luke 1: 1 – 4.

 

NOTE: “Why do we need a Matthew, a Mark, a Luke, a John, a Paul, and all the writers who have borne testimony in regard to the life and ministry of the Saviour? Why could not one of the disciples have written a complete record and thus have given us a connected account of Christ’s earthly life? Why does one writer bring in points that another does not mention? Why, if these points are essential, did not all these writers mention them? It is because the minds of men differ. Not all comprehend things in exactly the same way. Certain Scripture truths appeal much more strongly to the minds of some than of others. . . . The Gospels differ, but the records of all blend in one harmonious whole. So today the Lord does not impress all minds in the same way. Often through unusual experiences, under special circumstances, He gives to some Bible students views of truth that others do not grasp.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers and Students, 432.

 

  • How does Peter describe the writings of Paul and their source? 2 Peter 3: 15.

 

NOTE: “In order to accomplish the work which God requires of them, ministers need to be qualified for their position. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, speaks thus concerning his ministry: ‘Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to His saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: whereunto I also labour, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily.’ No less sacred appreciation of and devotion to the work of the ministry does God require of His servants who are living so near the end of all things.” Testimonies Volume 2, 501- 502.

 

  • How were the inspired counsels of Paul circulated among the churches? Colossians 4: 16.

 

NOTE: “The absence of Paul from the churches of his care was partially supplied by communications weighty and powerful, which were received generally as the word of God to them through His obedient servant. These epistles were read in the churches.” Spirit of Prophecy Volume 3, 415. See also Sketches from the Life of Paul, 153.

 

  • With what strong warning against tampering with God’s Word does the Bible close? Revelation 22: 18 – 19.

 

NOTE: See Great Controversy, page 268.

 

  • What prophecy foretold that God’s Word would continue to bear its witness even during the Great Tribulation of the Dark Ages? Revelation 11: 3.

 

NOTE: See Great Controversy, 267-268. (Read pages 265 – 288.)

 

  • What was the purpose for preserving these accounts of the history of God’s people? 1 Corinthians 10: 11.

 

NOTE: “I was pointed back to ancient Israel. But two of the adults of the vast army that left Egypt entered the land of Canaan. Their dead bodies were strewn in the wilderness because of their transgressions. Modern Israel are in greater danger of forgetting God and being led into idolatry than were His ancient people. . . . The sins and iniquities of rebellious Israel are recorded and the picture presented before us as a warning that if we imitate their example of transgression and depart from God we shall fall as surely as did they. “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.’ ” Testimonies Volume 1, 609.

 

  • What counsel are we given in the light of the example of the saints of old? Hebrews 12: 1 – 2.

 

NOTE: “Their example should quicken our zeal and increase our faith.” Advent Review & Sabbath Herald, October 18, 1881.

 

Bible Study Guide — These That Testify of Me

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January 24—30

Memory Verse: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: And they are they which testify of Me, and ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” John 5: 39–40. (KJV bible)

Study Help: Christian Education, 115–121.

Introduction: “In the Bible we have the unerring counsel of God. Its teachings, practically carried out, will fit men for any position of duty. It is the voice of God speaking every day to the soul. How carefully should the young study the word of God and treasure up its sentiments in the heart, that its precepts may be made to govern the whole conduct. Our young ministers, and those who have been some time preaching, show a marked deficiency in their understanding of the Scriptures. The work of the Holy Spirit is to enlighten the darkened understanding, to melt the selfish, stony heart, to subdue the rebellious transgressor, and save him from the corrupting influences of the world. The prayer of Christ for His disciples was: ‘Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.’ The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, pierces the heart of the sinner and cuts it in pieces. When the theory of the truth is repeated without its sacred influence being felt upon the soul of the speaker, it has no force upon the hearers, but is rejected as error, the speaker making himself responsible for the loss of souls. We must be sure that our ministers are converted men, humble, meek, and lowly of heart.” Testimonies Volume 4, 441.

 

  1. THESE THAT TESTIFY OF ME
  • What warning does God give to those who seek to add to or take away from His Word? Deuteronomy 4: 2, Revelation 22: 18 – 19.

 

NOTE: “Such are the warnings which God has given to guard men against changing in any manner that which He has revealed or commanded. These solemn denunciations apply to all who by their influence lead men to regard lightly the law of God. They should cause those to fear and tremble who flippantly declare it a matter of little consequence whether we obey God’s law or not. All who exalt their own opinions above divine revelation, all who would change the plain meaning of Scripture to suit their own convenience, or for the sake of conforming to the world, are taking upon themselves a fearful responsibility. The written word, the law of God, will measure the character of every man and condemn all whom this unerring test shall declare wanting.” Great Controversy, 268.

 

  • How may we be certain that the Law of God is complete and unchangeable? Deuteronomy 5: 22.

 

NOTE: “There is no such thing as weakening or strengthening the law of Jehovah. As it has been, so it is. It always has been, and always will be, holy, just, and good, complete in itself. It cannot be repealed or changed. To ‘honour’ or ‘dishonour’ it is but the speech of men.” Prophets and Kings, 625.

 

  • How did Jesus use the Old Testament Scriptures to show the truth about Himself? Luke 24: 27.

 

NOTE: “In our day there is…danger of closing the Bible to the people through misinterpretation of the word of God. Many are casting contempt upon the Old Testament Scriptures, but these are not to lose their sacredness; throughout all time they are not to be dropped out of our instruction.” Signs of the Times, April 2,1896. See also Christ’s Object Lessons, 126.

 

  • How may we be certain that the writings of the New Testament are also inspired scripture? 2 Peter 3: 15 – 16.

 

NOTE: “God gives us sufficient evidence to enable us to accept the truth understandingly; but He does not propose to remove all occasion for doubt and unbelief. Should He do this, there would no longer be a necessity for the exercise of faith; for we would be able to walk by sight. All who with a teachable spirit study the word of God, may learn there from the way of salvation; yet they may not be able to understand every portion of the Sacred Record. The apostle Peter declares that in the epistles of Paul, written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, there are ‘some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable, wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.’ . . . Those who are continually looking for something to find fault with, something to strengthen unbelief in the word of God, will soon find themselves so completely under the power of doubt and unbelief that nothing will seem sure to them; they will find no solid foundation anywhere.” Signs of the Times, June 23, 1887.

 

  • What was the burden of the prophets’ message and how were they guided in their search? 1 Peter 1: 10 – 11.

 

NOTE: “Yet while it was not given to the prophets to understand fully the things revealed to them, they earnestly sought to obtain all the light which God had been pleased to make manifest. They ‘inquired and searched diligently,’ ‘searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify.’ What a lesson to the people of God in the Christian age, for whose benefit these prophecies were given to His servants! ‘Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister.’ Witness those holy men of God as they ‘inquired and searched diligently’ concerning revelations given them for generations that were yet unborn. Contrast their holy zeal with the listless unconcern with which the favoured ones of later ages treat this gift of Heaven. What a rebuke to the ease-loving, world-loving indifference which is content to declare that the prophecies cannot be understood!” Great Controversy, 344.

 

  • How did Peter emphasise the importance of studying the messages of the prophets? 2 Peter 1: 19. (Compare Psalm 119: 105.)

 

NOTE: “The apostle was well qualified to speak of the purposes of God concerning the human race; for during the earthly ministry of Christ he had seen and heard much that pertained to the kingdom of God. ‘We have not followed cunningly devised fables,’ he reminded the believers, ‘when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eye-witnesses of His majesty’… Convincing as was this evidence of the certainty of the believers’ hope, there was yet another still more convincing in the witness of prophecy, through which the faith of all might be confirmed and securely anchored. ‘We have also,’ Peter declared, ‘a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day-star arise in your hearts.” Advent Review & Sabbath Herald, September 26,1912.

See also Advent Review & Sabbath Herald, April 2,1908.

 

  • What principle of Bible study is recommended to the one who seeks wisdom? Isaiah 28: 9 – 10.

 

NOTE: “Whenever practicable, every important discourse should be followed by a Bible study. Here the points that have been presented can be applied, questions can be asked, and right ideas inculcated. More time should be devoted to patiently educating the people, giving them opportunity to express themselves. It is instruction that men need, line upon line, and precept upon precept. Special meetings also should be held for those who are becoming interested in the truths presented and who need instruction. To these meetings, the people should be invited, and all, both believers and unbelievers, should have an opportunity to ask questions on points not fully understood. Give all an opportunity to speak of their perplexities, for they will have them. In all the sermons and in all the Bible studies, let the people see that on every point a plain ‘Thus saith the Lord’ is given for the faith and doctrines which we advocate. This was the method of Christ’s teaching. As He spoke to the people, they would question as to His meaning. To those who were humbly seeking for light, He was always ready to explain His words. But Christ did not encourage criticism or cavilling, nor should we. When men try to provoke a discussion of controverted points of doctrine, tell them that the meeting was not appointed for that purpose. When you do answer a question, be sure to have the hearers see and acknowledge that it is answered. Do not let a question drop, telling them to ask it again. Feel your way step by step, and know how much you have gained.” Testimonies Volume 6, 68-69.

 

  • What testimony is to be found throughout the Scriptures? How only can this testimony be revealed to us? John 5: 38 – 40.

 

NOTE: “There is not always perfect order or apparent unity in the Scriptures. The miracles of Christ are not given in exact order, but are given just as the circumstances occurred, which called for this divine revealing of the power of Christ. The truths of the Bible are as pearls hidden. They must be searched, dug out by painstaking effort. Those who take only a surface view of the Scriptures will, with their superficial knowledge, which they think is very deep, talk of the contradictions of the Bible, and question the authority of the Scriptures. But those whose hearts are in harmony with truth and duty will search the Scriptures with a heart prepared to receive divine impressions. The illuminated soul sees a spiritual unity, one grand golden thread running through the whole, but it requires patience, thought, and prayer to trace out the precious golden thread. Sharp contentions over the Bible have led to investigation and revealed the precious jewels of truth. Many tears have been shed, many prayers offered, that the Lord would open the understanding to His Word.” Selected Messages Book 1, 20.

 

  • How does prophecy reveal the inspiration of the Bible? Isaiah 46: 9 – 10.

 

NOTE: “No truth is more clearly taught in the Bible than that God by His Holy Spirit especially directs His servants on earth in the great movements for the carrying forward of the work of salvation. Men are instruments in the hand of God, employed by Him to accomplish His purposes of grace and mercy. Each has his part to act; to each is granted a measure of light, adapted to the necessities of his time, and sufficient to enable him to perform the work which God has given him to do. But no man, however honoured of Heaven, has ever attained to a full understanding of the great plan of redemption, or even to a perfect appreciation of the divine purpose in the work for his own time. Men do not fully understand what God would accomplish by the work which He gives them to do; they do not comprehend, in all its bearings, the message which they utter in His name. ‘Canst thou by searching find out God? Canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?’ ‘My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

‘I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done.’ Job 11:7; Isaiah 55:8, 9; 46:9, 10.” Great Controversy, 343.

 

  • What is one of the strongest evidences of the Bible’s inspiration? Numbers 11: 23.

 

NOTE: “He that ruleth in the heavens is the One who sees the end from the beginning—the One before whom the mysteries of the past and the future are alike outspread, and who, beyond the woe and darkness and ruin that sin has wrought, beholds the accomplishment of His own purposes of love and blessing.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 43. See also Acts of the Apostles, 11.

 

  • Of what great truth did Solomon assure the people of Israel? 1 Kings 8:56, Luke 21:33.

 

NOTE: “Can you not trust in your heavenly Father? Can you not rest upon His gracious promise? ‘Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ Precious promise! Can we not rely upon it? Can we not have implicit trust, knowing that He is faithful who hath promised? I entreat you to let your trembling faith again grasp the promises of God. Bear your whole weight upon them with unwavering faith; for they will not, they cannot, fail.” Testimonies Volume 2, 496-497.

 

  • Amid the passing things of earth, of what are we assured? Isaiah 40:6 – 8.

 

NOTE: “Like the builders of these houses on the rock, said Jesus, is he who shall receive the words that I have spoken to you, and make them the foundation of his character and life. Centuries before, the prophet Isaiah had written, ‘The word of our God shall stand forever’ (Isaiah 40:8); and Peter, long after the Sermon on the Mount was given, quoting these words of Isaiah added, ‘This is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you’ (1 Peter 1:25). The word of God is the only steadfast thing our world knows. It is the sure foundation. ‘Heaven and earth shall pass away,’ said Jesus, ‘but My words shall not pass away.’ Matthew 24:35.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 148.

 

Bible Study Guide — All Scripture Is Given By Inspiration Of God

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January 17—23

Memory Verse: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Timothy 3:16 – 17 STUDY HELP: Great Controversy, Introduction pages v – xii.

Introduction “In the Bible, we have the unerring counsel of God. Its teachings, practically carried out, will fit men for any position of duty. It is the voice of God speaking every day to the soul. How carefully should the young study the word of God and treasure up its sentiments in the heart, that its precepts may be made to govern the whole conduct. Our young ministers, and those who have been some time preaching, show a marked deficiency in their understanding of the Scriptures. The work of the Holy Spirit is to enlighten the darkened understanding, to melt the selfish, stony heart, to subdue the rebellious transgressor, and save him from the corrupting influences of the world. The prayer of Christ for His disciples was: ‘Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.’ The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, pierces the heart of the sinner and cuts it in pieces. When the theory of the truth is repeated without its sacred influence being felt upon the soul of the speaker, it has no force upon the hearers, but is rejected as error, the speaker making himself responsible for the loss of souls. We must be sure that our ministers are converted men, humble, meek, and lowly of heart.” Testimonies Volume 4, 442.

  1. ALL SCRIPTURE IS GIVEN BY INSPIRATION OF GOD
  • How did the Scriptures come to be written? 2 Timothy 3: 16

 

NOTE: ” ‘Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.’ The word and will of God are expressed in the Scriptures by inspired penmen. We should bind them as frontlets between our eyes and walk according to their precepts; then we shall walk safely. Every chapter and every verse is a communication of God to man. In studying the word, the soul that hungers and thirsts for righteousness will be impressed by the divine utterances. Scepticism can have no power over a soul that with humility searches the Scriptures.” Testimonies Volume 4, 449.

 

  • What part did the Holy Spirit play in the writings of the prophets? Micah 3: 8, 2 Peter 1: 21.

 

NOTE: “Before the entrance of sin, Adam enjoyed open communion with his Maker; but since man separated himself from God by transgression, the human race has been cut off from this high privilege. By the plan of redemption, however, a way has been opened whereby the inhabitants of the earth may still have connection with heaven. God has communicated with men by His Spirit, and divine light has been imparted to the world by revelations to His chosen servants.” Great Controversy, Introduction page 1.

 

  • How did Paul describe the source of his knowledge of Christ? Ephesians 3: 3 – 6.

 

NOTE: “The Lord had given Paul his commission to enter the broad missionary field of the Gentile world. To prepare him for this extensive and difficult work, God had brought him into close connection with Himself and had opened before his enraptured vision views of the beauty and glory of heaven. To him had been given the ministry of making known ‘the mystery’ which had been ‘kept secret since the world began’ (Romans 16:25), ‘the mystery of His will’ (Ephesians 1:9), ‘which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto His holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.’ ” Acts of the Apostles, 159.

 

  • Why could the Scriptures not have been written without the Holy Spirit’s guidance? 2 Corinthians 2: 9 – 11.

 

NOTE: “If it were possible for created beings to attain to a full understanding of God and His works, then, having reached this point, there would be for them no further discovery of truth, no growth in knowledge, no further development of mind or heart. God would no longer be supreme; and men, having reached the limit of knowledge and attainment, would cease to advance. Let us thank God that it is not so. God is infinite; in Him are ‘all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.’ And to all eternity men may be ever searching, ever learning, and yet they can never exhaust the treasures of His wisdom, His goodness, and His power. God intends that, even in this life, truth shall be ever unfolding to His people. There is only one way in which this knowledge can be obtained. We can attain to an understanding of God’s word only through the illumination of that Spirit by which the word was given.” Testimonies Volume 5, 703.

 

  • How did God communicate His will to His people Israel? 2 Kings 17: 13.

 

NOTE: “In giving the word, ‘holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.’ The word was not given at the option of men, and the use to be made of it is not left to their option. Men may not dissect or pronounce upon, wrest or misinterpret, take from or cast aside, any portion of that word according to their own judgement. Although its compilation, preservation, and transmission have been committed to men, it is wholly divine in its origin and in the thoughts expressed. It may not be demerited and pronounced upon by finite minds, because of its transmission through human agents.” Bible Echo, August 26, 1895.

 

  • How did the prophets show the origin of their messages? Jeremiah 1: 1–2, 7, 9; Ezekiel 1: 3, Malachi 1: 1, Micah 1: 1.

 

NOTE: ‘The Bible is God’s word, and is for His people. It was communicated by men; but ‘they spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.’ It was given at different periods, and the men called to express the divine will and diffuse the light of truth, were chosen from all stations, from the humblest to the most exalted. The wonderful thing about it is the harmony there is in the divine word, coming to us, as it does, through these different channels and such widely separated periods. Each wrote in his own natural style, giving utterance, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to his own personal impressions, relating the events and scenes opened before him, or made to pass before his eyes; yet link is connected with link in the chain of precious truth given us in the word of God. The plan of redemption, and the will and character of God, are revealed to meet the necessities of man in every age; for these human instrumentalities were under divine control, and are not false witnesses of what they saw and heard.” Bible Echo, August 19, 1895.

 

  • How did Paul’s hearers regard the things that he preached to them? 1 Thessalonians 2: 13.

 

NOTE: “The disciples were men who knew how to speak and pray sincerely, men who could take hold of the might of the Strength of Israel. How closely they stood by the side of God, and bound their personal honour to His throne! Jehovah was their God. His honour was their honour. His truth was their truth. Any attack made upon the gospel was as if cutting deep into their souls, and with every power of their being they battled for the cause of Christ. They could hold forth the word of life because they had received the heavenly anointing. They expected much, and therefore they attempted much. Christ had revealed Himself to them, and to Him they looked for guidance. Their understanding of truth and their power to withstand opposition were proportionate to their conformity to God’s will. Jesus Christ, the wisdom and power of God, was the theme of every discourse. His name—the only name given under heaven whereby men can be saved, was by them exalted. As they proclaimed the completeness of Christ, the risen Saviour, their words moved hearts, and men and women were won to the gospel. Multitudes who had reviled the Saviour’s name and despised His power now confessed themselves disciples of the Crucified.” Acts of the Apostles, 594.

 

  • How did Paul indicate that the counsel He was sharing was from the Lord? 1 Corinthians 7: 10; 11: 23.

 

NOTE: “Patriarchs, prophets, and apostles spoke as they were moved upon by the Holy Ghost, and they plainly stated that they spoke not by their own power, nor in their own name. They desired that no credit might be ascribed to them, that no one might regard them as the originators of anything whereof they might glory. They were jealous for the honour of God, to whom all praise belongs. They declared that their ability and the messages they brought, were given them as delegates of the power of God. God was their authority and sufficiency. Jesus had imparted a knowledge of God to patriarchs, prophets, and apostles. The revelations of the Old Testament were emphatically the unfoldings of the gospel, the unveiling of the purpose and will of the infinite Father. Through the holy men of old, Christ laboured for the salvation of fallen humanity. And when He came to the world it was with the same message of redemption from sin, and restoration to the favour of God.” Advent Review & Sabbath Herald, January 7, 1890.

 

  • How did Paul distinguish between the Word of the Lord and his own counsel? 1 Corinthians 7: 12, 25, 40.

 

NOTE: “The Lord has one path of safety for His people, and that is the path of obedience to His word. That word is given to us as our guide. God is its Author; but the Scriptures were written by human hands, and they bear marks of the individuality of the different writers. In every book of the Bible, the stamp of the mind and character of the writer is manifest. And this is just as God designed it should be. He does nothing in the plan of redemption without human cooperation.” Bible Echo, August 19, 1895.

 

  • How did John describe the source of his writings? Revelation 1:1 – 3.

 

NOTE: “Christ’s aged representative was exiled, that his testimony might no longer be heard; for it was a living power on the side of right. But though separated from his brethren, he was visited by Christ, whom he had not seen since the ascension. ‘I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day,’ he writes, ‘and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last. . . . I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore.’ Christ knew just where to find John; and there, on the lonely island, He gave him a view of the closing scenes of this earth’s history. This has been recorded for us. The record is ‘the revelation of Jesus Christ.’ The Revealer is the Revealed. The living God is shown, superintending, day by day, the events connected with His church.” Advent Review & Sabbath Herald, May 16, 1899.

 

  • What was the response of the people to the teaching of Jesus? Matthew 7: 28 – 29.

 

NOTE: “When Jesus spoke to the people, they were astonished at His doctrine; for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. The scribes had laboured to establish their theories, and they had to labour to sustain them, and to keep their influence over the minds of the people, by endless repetition of fables and childish traditions. The loftiest models of public instruction consisted largely in going through heartless rounds of unmeaning ceremonies, and in the repetition of frivolous opinions. The teaching of Jesus inculcated the weightiest ideas and the most sublime truths in the most comprehensible and simple manner, and ‘the common people heard Him gladly.’ This is the kind of instruction that should be given in our Sabbath-schools.” Testimonies on Sabbath School Work, 40. See also, Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 46-47 and Desire of Ages, 253.

 

  • What was the source of Christ’s teaching? John 7: 16.

 

NOTE: “His discourse showed that he was well acquainted with the law in all its bearings, and was a clear interpreter of the Scriptures. The question passes from one to another, ‘How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?’ Some, less acquainted with His former life, inquire among themselves in what school He has been instructed. Finally, the rulers recover their presence of mind sufficiently to demand by what authority He stands so boldly teaching the people. They seek to turn the attention of the multitude from Jesus to the question of His right to teach, and to their own importance and authority. But the voice of Jesus answers their queries with thrilling power: ‘My doctrine is not Mine, but His that sent me. If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of Myself. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory; but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.’ Jesus here declares that His Heavenly Father is the source of all strength, and the foundation of all wisdom. No natural talent nor acquired learning can supply the place of a knowledge of the will of God. A willingness to obey the requirements of the Lord opens the mind and heart to candid inquiry, and diligent searching for the doctrine of truth. He declares that, with a mind thus open, men can discern between him who speaks in the cause of God and him who speaks for his own glory for selfish purposes.” Spirit of Prophecy Volume 2, 339.