Christian Life

Are You a Stable Christian?

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Let him [who lacks wisdom] ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man [is] unstable in all his ways.” James 1:6– 8.

It is important that we become stable Christians. Our experience really is not a Christian experience, if we are being tossed to and fro, being controlled by the circumstances around us, or conforming ourselves to fit whatever situation in which we are found. A person who seeks to follow his own will, while professing to follow the will of God, is a double-minded man. A double-minded person knows the claims and the promises of God, yet fails to do them. He knows what God says, but he refuses to do it. James says such a person is unstable in all of his ways, and he is not going to receive anything from the Lord. James says, “let him ask in faith.” Faith is the necessary element we need to keep ourselves stable. In this article, we will look at a couple of other things that will also help us keep stable.

“For ye have need of patience [endurance], that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.” Hebrews 10:36. Are you going to receive the promise if you refuse to do the will of God? No! “The just shall live by faith: but if [any man] draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.” Verse 38. We need to be stable. We must become stable Christians, so no matter what situation we are in, we will act like a Christian. As I was thinking about this, I realized an example in my daily life. I battle with allergies. Like Paul’s thorn in the flesh (11 Corinthians 12:7), I feel like allergies are a thorn in my flesh. Sometimes they get so bad that I have to lie down with a cool washcloth on my face. But that is no excuse for me to not have a smile on my face. Nothing should keep us from having a smile on our face; we should not be gloomy Christians at any time. There are some times to be solemn, but not when we are under the infirmities of our bodies.

Conforming

If I were to take a pitcher of water and pour some of it into a round glass and pour the remaining into a square container, what would happen to that water? It would be conformed to the shape of the container. Remember what James said. A man who is unstable in all of his ways is like a wave of the sea— tossed to and fro. In its liquid form, water is unstable. Jacob told his son, Reuben, “Thou [art] my firstborn, my might, and the beginning of my strength, the excellency of dignity, and the excellency of power: Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel.” Genesis 49:3, 4.

Do you ever find yourself being conformed to the circumstances in which you find yourself? If someone gets angry with you, do you immediately want to lash out at them? If some of your friends are telling jokes around you, will you soon be doing the same thing? We become unstable as water, conforming, just like water, to the shape that is around us. We become like the people with whom we associate. God does not want us to remain in that condition. He wants us to be stable in every circumstance. In every way He wants us to show forth that we are Christians, not in profession only, but in living faith in Christ.

God tells us what His ideal is for each one of us: that “we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ: That we [henceforth] be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, [and] cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.” Ephesians 4:13, 14. God’s will for us is to be the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. When we obtain that goal, we will be like Christ in character. Jesus never once compromised in difficult situations while He was here on this earth. Even when He knew that the people were going to try to kill Him, to stone Him, He did not compromise His principles. ( John 10:31–39.) Never once! He never conformed to the situation around Him; He was stable; He was solid as a rock in every situation, and friends, that is the way you and I have to be. That is what the Lord wants to make of us, if we are willing to be made willing. Never once did Jesus compromise one principle in a given situation, even though it cost Him His life.

Broaden the Path

Notice what the Lord is going to provide for us, so we can be stable: “Thou hast broadened my path beneath me; so that my feet do not slip.” 11 Samuel 22:37 (Hebrew text). If I were to walk on top of the back of a church pew, how stable would I be? How about if I step down and walk on the pew seat, which is going to be more stable? God said He was going to broaden the path beneath our feet that our feet do not slip. We want to find out how the Lord is going to do that.

When hiking in the Grand Canyon in Arizona, I discovered that you sometimes must walk along sheer cliffs, and sometimes the path gets very narrow. At those times, you find yourself being more careful about where you put your feet. You slow your pace down. As the path broadens, you pick up your pace again. This is what the Lord wants to do for us.

God wants us to have stability; He wants us to be stable Christians. He wants to enlarge the path beneath us, so we are on solid ground—not on shaky ground, not on narrow ground, but on solid ground. “Hold up my goings in thy paths, [that] my footsteps slip not.” Psalm 17:5. Do you want to have an experience where you never slip in your personal experience? That is what God has promised us in Jude 24. He is able to keep us faultless and present us blameless before the throne of God. That is what He is able to do for us, if we are willing to be made willing. He will broaden our path beneath us, so we are on solid ground, not wavering, not tossed to and fro, not conformed into whatever situation we are in, and not compromising, and no matter what our situation, we will be faithful Christians just as Jesus was.

“It is a perilous thing to allow an unchristian trait to live in the heart. One cherished sin will, little by little, debase the character, bringing all its nobler powers into subjection to the evil desire.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 452. That is powerful. Just one sin cherished will debase the entire character. Friends, we have to be searching our hearts. Is there one sin that we are refusing to give up, one defect of character that we refuse to change? If we continue to refuse to surrender these things to the Lord, we will become unstable and our whole character will be debased. “The removal of one safeguard from the conscience, the indulgence of one evil habit, one neglect of the high claims of duty, breaks down the defenses of the soul and opens the way for Satan to come in and lead us astray.” Ibid. All of a sudden we are going to find ourselves on shaky ground, on a narrow path, becoming as unstable as water. There is a safeguard, a way for the Lord to enlarge our path: “The only safe course is to let our prayers go forth daily from a sincere heart, as did David.” Ibid. Prayer is going to broaden the path beneath us; it is going to give us stability, and it is going to give us solid ground upon which to walk.

Power of Prayer

How many of us have learned how to pray? The disciples had been with Jesus for almost three years when they came to Him and asked Him to teach them to pray. How many of us spend time in prayer—not just in formal, five minute prayers, but down on our knees agonizing with God? The Bible tells us we are supposed to pray without ceasing. (See Luke 18.) If our heart is not lifted up in an attitude of prayer all day long, the devil is going to find an entrance into our heart. Friends, how many of us have learned, in our closets, in that secret place where we go to meet with the Lord every morning, how to overcome sin?

Jesus gave us an example of prayer. After the disciples asked Him to teach them to pray (see Luke 11) He gave an example of a man who kept coming to his neighbor’s door asking for food for some people he needed to feed. Did that man go away after the first time? No, it says that he kept coming back again and again. He was persistent. How many of us pray and agonize for the Holy Spirit every day? Without the Holy Spirit, we are not going to be saved. How many of us do not get off our knees until we have the strength that we desire of the Lord? As Christians, I think that we get off our knees too soon. We go through our normal routine, praying for people and situations, which is good, but how many of us stop and ask ourselves, Am I strengthened by this prayer? Do I have His Spirit living within my heart? Do you stay on your knees until that happens? Most of us do not, and we are not strengthened by the Lord; we do not have the blessing that we desire. Jacob did not give up. He said, I will not give up until I receive your blessing. (See Genesis 32.) We need to keep agonizing and agonizing until the break of day, until that light shines into our hearts just as it did for Jacob.

Sin is not to have dominion over us, friends. The only way that we are going to keep from sin is to have our minds lifted up to the Lord in prayer. That will broaden our path and give us stability, because God will continually guide us.

In the Bible, we are given the example of Christ spending all night in prayer. (See Luke 6:12.) The reason He was braced for conflict and did not become unstable or compromise His principles is because He often spent whole nights in prayer. He was not going to get off His knees until He had the desired strength to meet the conflicts for the next day. That was Christ’s strength, and since He is our example in all things, we should pray more than we do. I am not suggesting that we spend every night in prayer, for I know that we have to sleep, but if there is a crisis in our lives or some sin in our lives “The only safe course is to let our prayers go forth daily from a sincere heart . . .” that we need to get rid of in order to be ready for heaven, it might be a needful thing to do. “The strength of Christ was in prayer. . . . As Christ is our example in all things, if we imitate His example in earnest, importunate prayer to God that we may have strength in His name who never yielded to the temptations of Satan to resist the devices of the wily foe, we shall not be overcome by him.” Sons and Daughters of God, 136. How is it going to be? We need to learn to spend time in importunate prayer, agonizing with the Lord, pleading, Lord give me Your blessings; give me the strength that I need so I can meet the temptations of the day. When the disciples came to Jesus asking Him to teach them to pray, they had been watching the Pharisees pray for years and years. What was the difference between Jesus’ prayer and the Pharisees’ prayers? When Jesus prayed, things happened! They saw how He reacted in certain situations, and it was His prayer life that made Him stable and kept Him from being tossed to and fro. God’s Word What else does the Lord give us to keep us stable? “Order [or direct] my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.” Psalm 119:133. How does it say that we are to be directed?

By God’s Word

David said, Lord, direct me by Your Word so that sin will not have dominion over me. How many of us are spending time in study? Someone once told me that they spent an hour a day in study, not counting their prayer time, so I decided that I was going to do that. My resolve was strengthened by the following statement: “Your success as a minister depends upon your keeping your own heart. You will receive more strength by spending one hour each day in meditation, and in mourning over your failings and heart corruptions and pleading for God’s pardoning love and the assurance of sins forgiven, than you would by spending many hours and days in studying the most able authors, and making yourself acquainted with every objection to our faith, and with the most powerful evidences in its favor.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 433, 434.

We do not know for ourselves what the Bible says. As a result, our minister can tell us anything he wants; he can lead us in the path of destruction, and we will never know it. Why? Because we are not spending time in Bible study. I always tell my congregations, Do not take my word for anything. You go home and check it out for yourself. I do not want anyone taking my word, because I am fallible, just like everyone else. But I could hoodwink every one of you, if you are not spending time in study. The devil is a wily foe, cunning, crafty. He knows just the deception for each one of us, but God’s Word exposes the deception. The reason that we are deceived and tricked into sin is because we are not studying God’s Word as we should.

Make a commitment today to spend at least one hour each day studying God’s Word. It would be well worth it, and I guarantee you will receive a blessing. David says, Direct my steps by Thy Word— not by the minister, not by the deacon, or the Sabbath School teacher—but by Your Word! We need to know what God’s Word says. Before we read anyone else’s material we better be spending time in God’s Word first. We can read the different ministries’ magazines, and we can say, Praise God, that was an inspiring article, but by spending time in God’s Word, the light of God’s truth will continually get broader and broader. It will never cease. Do not ever think that you have everything figured out in God’s Word. You may have the 27 fundamental doctrines all stored up in your mind, but friends, we have not even scratched the surface. We should be digging through God’s Word as for treasure hidden in a mine, comparing Scripture with Scripture, studying out things. We cannot allow study and prayer to be neglected. It is not something to do occasionally when we have a spare moment. This is something that we must plan for every day, something that we schedule into our day. We may have to bump some other activity off the schedule, but we better not be neglecting God’s Word, and we better not be neglecting prayer. It is better to deny ourselves of the other responsibilities, while we spend time in God’s Word. We are weak because we have not spent this time, and we have allowed our ministers to do our studying for us.

“The Bible is our guide in the safe paths that lead to eternal life. . . . The minds of all who make the Word of God their study will enlarge.” Mind, Character and Personality, vol. 1, 98. God promises He will enlarge our paths beneath us; He is going to give us stability of mind so we will not be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine. There are so many winds of doctrine, but Ellen White tells us, “Those who are close students of the Word, following Christ in humility of soul, will not go to extremes.” Gospel Workers, 317. Never! Whether it is in diet, dress, or theological issues, never will we go to extremes if we are close students of God’s Word. We must follow Jesus in humility of soul.

Memorize Scripture

When I open up God’s Word, I am stepping into the audience chamber of God. His Word should be opened prayerfully. We should not just flip it open and begin reading. We need to have a plan when we study God’s Word. What are we going to study? If we are trying to overcome a habit or some defect in our character, we should stop and pray for victory over that defect and then continue studying God’s Word until we have the victory. If we are continuing to cherish some sin in our life, Psalm 66:18 tells us, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear [me].” We need to battle with the Lord. We need to ask Him for all the strength that we need so that we can overcome.

“Thy word [is] a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105. As we approach the Second Coming of Jesus, that light will become brighter and brighter. Think with me for a second. If you are up in the woods and it is completely dark and you are trying to follow a trail with the help of a little candle, how good of a job will you be able to do? But what if that candle is a flashlight? How about a spotlight? You would then be able to see everything around you, and that is what God’s Word is going to do. If we are continuing to follow Jesus in humility of soul, continuing to follow His Word, accepting the light as it comes to us, conforming our lives to the Word, our path will get broader and broader and broader, and we will have a safe path on which to walk.

“When thou goest [or when you walk] thy steps [or your Christian experience] shall not be straitened [hindered]; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.” Proverbs 4:12. Why? Because you have a broad path beneath your feet and a bright light will help you see the pitfalls of Satan; you will see his temptations coming, and you will know how to resist him.

How did Jesus resist temptation? By the Word of God. Remember when the devil came to Jesus in the wilderness after He had fasted for 40 days? Put yourself in Jesus’ place—you have fasted; you have had nothing to eat for six weeks. How do you think you would feel? How do you think your mind would be? You would not be in good shape. But Jesus had ingrained God’s Words in His mind. The Bible says, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” Psalm 119:11. Jesus hid those words so deep in His heart that no matter what the situation, He had a “Thus saith the Lord” to say to the devil. We must be spending time in prayer, Bible study, and memorizing Scripture. We must do this, if we are going to be stable Christians.

Light of the World

Jesus says, “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt has lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:13–16. Christ has not bid His followers, strive to shine. Does any one of us have anything within us that can shine out? No, we have nothing. All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags, or as a leaf that fades away. (Isaiah 64:6.) He says, Let your light shine. If we have received the grace of God, the light is in us. God’s grace transforms our character; it transforms our thoughts, our affections, our pursuits, and our aims. It transforms the entire being, and when that is operating in our lives, the only thing we can do is to let the light shine.

Here are a few ways that we can let our light shine:

“Let your light shine forth in pleasant words, in soothing tones of voice.” Child Guidance, 240.

Are you letting your light shine, or are  you hiding it under a bushel?

“In no better way can you let your light shine to others than in your simplicity of dress and deportment.” Ibid., 417.

“Wherever you are, let your light shine forth. Hand out papers and pamphlets to those with whom you associate.” Counsels on Health, 435.

We know that without the grace of God there is nothing within us to shine, but we need to ask for the grace of God to operate in our lives so that we are able to shine. It becomes something that we want to do, rather than something that we have to do.

“Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present [you] faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy.” Jude 24. Do you want to have that experience? Do you want the Lord to present you faultless before His throne? God wants to give us a path to walk upon so that we are not just wobbling around in our Christian experience, so that we are not compromising, even in difficult situations. When we are being pressed, He wants us to be stable. God has given us prayer; He has given us Bible study; we can memorize His Word, and as that light shines brighter and brighter, our path is going to grow wider and wider. If we daily participate in these activities, we soon will have that experience where Jesus presents us faultless, without one defect, without one spot or wrinkle. How exceedingly joyful we will be then.

Mike Bauler pastors the Historic Message Church in Portland, Oregon. He may be contacted by e-mail at mbauler@molalla.net.

Be A Man

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Surely many of you fathers have watched your young sons put on your shoes and try to walk. They walked clumsily and uncertainly. Were they a man when they did this? Were they a man when they could really wear your shoes? How do you measure a man? Most boys are raised with the idea that someday they will be a man. They are even encouraged to grow up and be a man. But what constitutes the changing of a boy to a man?

When in junior high you may have been considered a man if you had side burns! Certainly if you had a mustache, too, you were really a man!

In high school there were several measures of a man. For instance, when you finally got that long awaited driver’s license and no longer had to walk home or ride the school bus, but were able to drive the family sports car—usually a Ford Fairlane, Chevy Nova or some other exotic brand—you were a man!

How about today? What measures you as a man? Is it money? Is it social status in life? Is it your profession? Is it toughness? Just what measures a man today? The world offers many measures of being a man, none of which are biblical. Let’s look to God’s Word for the measure of a man.

CALLED TO BE A MAN

King David, the greatest king Israel had known, was close to dying. The next King of Israel would be David’s son, Solomon. David, understanding the significance of the matter, called his son to his side and offered him a true measure of a man: “I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man; And keep the charge of the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whither-soever thou turnest thyself.” 1 Kings 2:2, 3.

There is a point in the life of a boy when he must accept the role of being a man, the filling of a man’s shoes. For Solomon, this was his time. With his father dying, he would be next to step into the shoes of becoming a man. David’s advice was to be strong and walk in the ways of God.

BE STRONG

The world promotes a strong dad as someone whose muscles bulge. In David’s fatherly advice to Solomon, he was saying more than just be a physically strong man. Physical strength alone does not prove one to be a man. David was calling for Solomon to be strong in the Lord, to aquire from the Lord his strength for life’s trials.

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” Ephesians 6:10. Ellen White wrote: “To everyone He [God] grants power according to the need. In his own strength man is strengthless; but in the might of God he may be strong to overcome evil and to help others to overcome. Satan can never gain advantage of him who makes God his defense. ‘Surely, shall one say, in the Lord have I righteousness and strength.’ Isaiah 45:24.” Prophets and Kings, 175.

Solomon, in 1 Kings 3:9, asked God not for strength or riches, but for understanding (wisdom) to lead the people. “Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so great a people?” A real man is not measured from the outside, but from the inside, where God’s strength resides.

WALK IN THE WAYS OF GOD

Solomon was charged with the act of proving himself to be a man by keeping the charge of the Lord and walking in His ways. A true man is a man of God who walks with God.

  • Keep His Statutes

The statutes of God are ordinances to live by, ordinances that give life a sense of stability. “Strength of character is to be honored by those who claim to keep the commandments and statutes of God.—Manuscript 154, 1902, p. 12.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 9, 172. “If they [the people of God] would be faithful to obey all the statutes of God they would have a power which would carry conviction to the hearts of the unbelieving.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 446.

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6, 7.

  • Keep His Commandments

The commandments are the Law of God. A true man will strive to keep the commandments of God. “Make them know the statutes of God, and his laws.” Exodus 18:16. “Children should be taught that they are only probationers here, and educated to become inhabitants of the mansions which Christ is preparing for those who love Him and keep His commandments. This is the highest duty which parents have to perform.” The Adventist Home, 146.

The greatest commandment is to love God then one another. “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 22:37–39. “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.” 1 John 4:20, 21. To keep this commandment, men, you will find yourself being a real man.

  • Keep His Judgments

“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.” Zephaniah 2:3. “These are the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which the Lord your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go to possess it: that thou mightest fear the Lord thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee . . . all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged.” Deuteronomy 6:1, 2.

“The Lord gave his people commandments, in order that by obeying them they might preserve their physical, mental, and moral health.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 414.

  • Keep His Testimonies

“Blessed [are] they that keep his testimonies, [and that] seek him with the whole heart.” Psalm 119:2.

Men, “Let us take this [Psalm 119:1-6] for our lesson. Study every word attentively. Upright principles and pure sentiments, cultivated and practiced, form a character after the divine similitude. A conscience void of offense toward God and man, a heart that feels the tenderest sympathy for human beings, especially that they may be won for Christ, will have the attributes that Christ had. All such will be imbued with His Spirit. They will have a reservoir of persuasion and a storehouse of simple eloquence.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 120.

The testimonies of God speak of His statutes, commandments, and judgments. The man of God will prove himself and prosper by walking in the ways of God.

PASS THE MANTLE

David was passing the mantle to Solomon. David had sinned and suffered the consequences, and now he was instructing his son to keep the ways of God rather than the ways of man. “That the Lord may continue his word which he spake concerning me, saying, If thy children take heed to their way, to walk before me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall not fail thee (said he) a man on the throne of Israel.” 1 Kings 2:4.

Men, there must be a passing of the mantle from your lives to the lives of your children. What will you pass to them? Will they look to your lives to see the value of walking in the ways of God?

There is a reciprocal law working in your life as well as your children’s lives. “Children live what they learn!” This is perhaps best illustrated by the story of a young pastor who supplemented the income from his first pastorate by mixing feed for livestock. Each day when he came home from work his two boys, ages two and three, would look at him and say, “Boy, Daddy, you sure are dusty.” He would agree with them, then go to take a shower and put on clean clothes.

He did not think too much of this daily exchange until one day when he was working in the garden and noticed his oldest son picking up gravel and stones from the driveway and rubbing them into his pants. “What are you doing?” he asked the little man.

“I want to be dusty like you, Daddy!” came the childish reply.

If a small child would look up to his father for being dusty and want to copy him, a child could look up to his father and follow him in any way. Have your children experienced the truth of God in you? Do your children understand, through your life, what it means to give heart and soul to Christ?

It is not enough to be a man who lets his children decide for themselves. You must show them the way of God through your lives.

Be a man! A real man that is not afraid to let his family and the world know that he stands for Christ and walks in the way of God. A relay coach says that the relay race is won by a successful pass of the baton. In the race of life to reach the goal of heaven, how are you passing on the baton to your children?

A member of the LandMarks’ editorial staff, Anna writes from her home near Sedalia, Colorado. She may be contacted by e-mail at JSchu67410@aol.com.

He That Hath an Ear . . . , Part II

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In Part I, we looked at the necessity for our speech to consist of “pure words, clean words, words full of sympathy, tenderness, and love.” Testimonies, vol. 7, 155. We also learned that “Haphazard words, hasty, common words, talking for the sake of talking, when silence would be better, is a sin.” The Voice in Speech and Song, 30, 31. Saying we want to be just like Jesus does not mean, however, that we will not have force and passion in our speech. Part II continues with a look at times when Jesus displayed strong passion as He rebuked wrong in the church.

“Overpowered with terror, the priests and rulers had fled from the temple court . . . .

“And why did the priests flee from the temple? Why did they not stand their ground? He who commanded them to go was a carpenter’s son, a poor Galilean, without earthly rank or power. Why did they not resist Him? Why did they leave the gain so ill acquired, and flee at the command of One whose outward appearance was so humble?

“Christ spoke with the authority of a king, and in His appearance, and in the tones of His voice, there was that which they had no power to resist. At the word of command they realized, as they had never realized before, their true position as hypocrites and robbers. When divinity flashed through humanity, not only did they see indignation on Christ’s countenance; they realized the import of His words.” The Desire of Ages, 162.

Weak is not a word that could be used to describe Jesus, His words, or His actions. Strong, powerful, and decisive would be more accurate. Balance that with sympathy, compassion, and tenderness. Justice, mercy, and grace—characteristics of which we so often fall short.

Public Rebuke

“But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.” Matthew 5:37.

Coincidentally, all three of the denunciations by Christ were done publicly. The woes upon the scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 23 were spoken to the multitude and to His disciples. (Read it for yourself in verse one.) Both times He cleared the temple—probably His most dramatic display of passion and anger—there were other people present.

In The Desire of Ages we are told exactly why He did this publicly: “In the parables which Christ had spoken, it was His purpose both to warn the rulers and to instruct the people who were willing to be taught. But there was need to speak yet more plainly. Through their reverence for tradition and their blind faith in a corrupt priesthood, the people were enslaved. These chains Christ must break. The character of the priests, rulers, and Pharisees must be more fully exposed.” Ibid., 611, 612.

The Voice of Stern Rebuke

When studying His rebukes, we see that Jesus never sought to protect or defend “self” (humanity). His life on this earth was to do the will of His Father, not to promote an earthen vessel, earthly temple, or kingdom. His “self” was hidden in His Father. (See Luke 2:49; Matthew 12:50.) “Self” did not rise to retaliate when He was treated cruelly, mocked and scourged, or when His beard was being pulled out and He was spit upon.

It is my belief that this is where we, as humans, have a hard time. It is our tendency to look out for number one.

“Many, so many, who assume the name of Christ are unsanctified and unholy. They have been baptized, but they were buried alive. Self did not die, and therefore they did not rise to newness of life in Christ (Manuscript 148, 1897).” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 6, 1075.

Because we are thus motivated, when we see or hear someone (and it does have to come from a person) sounding the voice of stern rebuke, we assign our motives to that person. I further believe that if we had been sitting with the multitude on the hillside in Matthew 23:1 when Jesus began to rebuke the leaders, or if we had been in the temple either time He turned it upside down, we would not have said “Amen!” Rather, our response would most probably have been a little more indignant—“Who does He think He is?” And He was God! He did it perfectly. And they nailed Him on a cross.

Mere Mortals

Here on the brink of eternity, God in His all-knowing, all-understanding wisdom, has seen fit, rather than send a heavenly messenger to do the work of rebuke, to use human beings. Throughout the Bible, we find evidence of human beings having been used to do this work. In fact, the first few chapters of The Great Controversy have some fascinating stories about human beings that God used to bring His people out of darkness through a period of time we now, in retrospect, refer to as The Dark Ages. Those human beings we now refer to as Reformers. Our heroes! Mighty men like Wycliffe, Huss and Jerome, and Luther, to name just a few. These men were just men. Imperfect human beings. They knew themselves that they were mere mortals. And in their neighborhoods and communities, their countrymen knew their imperfections as well, and that caused their message to be received by the people with prejudice.

“The messengers God has seen fit to send have not been infallible. They have been weak, erring human beings; but the Lord wrought through them as they gave themselves up to his service. The word spoken was adapted to the necessities of God’s people; the evidence of truth was clearly and distinctly presented. The reason the word did not have the desired effect on the hearers was not that there was a lack of evidence; for link after link was produced until the chain was complete; but the minds of the hearers were filled with prejudice. They were not willing to accept evidence, and tried to make the Bible sustain their ideas, instead of changing their ideas to meet the Bible.” Review and Herald, June 3, 1902.

But when God moved upon their hearts, they could not hold their peace. Can you imagine what would have happened if any of the Reformers through the ages had refused God’s orders? Sure there were those who worked at cross purposes with God, but are we not thankful these men did not succumb to such pressure?

“It is the greatest presumption for man to assume the right of dictation and control over his fellow men. God is the owner of man. To his Maker, man stands or falls. To God he is responsible, not to his fellow men. Every man has an individuality of his own, which is not to be submerged in any other human being. The life of each one must be hid with Christ in God. Men are under God’s control, not under the control of weak, erring human beings. They are to be left free to be guided by the Holy Spirit, not by the fitful, perverse spirit of unsanctified men.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 18, 225.

That Certain Sound

“I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at my mouth, and warn them from me.” Ezekiel 33:7.

Why is it that we so seldom hear the voice of stern rebuke today? God says that it will be heard in these last days, for when it ceases, it is all over. Those who are called to do so must be sure of their calling, and they must walk worthy of their calling. They certainly need our prayers.

“Today there is need of the voice of stern rebuke; for grievous sins have separated the people from God. Infidelity is fast becoming fashionable. . . . The smooth sermons so often preached make no lasting impression; the trumpet does not give a certain sound. Men are not cut to the heart by the plain, sharp truths of God’s word.” Prophets and Kings, 140.

“All have not the same form of work to do. Let the workers lift the voice of rebuke against presumptuous rulership over God’s heritage. We are safe only when we individually commit ourselves fully to works of righteousness.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 7, 404.

“In every age there is given to men their day of light and privilege, a probationary time in which they may become reconciled to God. But there is a limit to this grace. Mercy may plead for years and be slighted and rejected; but there comes a time when mercy makes her last plea. The heart becomes so hardened that it ceases to respond to the Spirit of God. Then the sweet, winning voice entreats the sinner no longer, and reproofs and warnings cease.” The Desire of Ages, 587.

Intoxicating Words

“The words are more than an indication of character; they have power to react on the character. Men are influenced by their own words. Often under a momentary impulse, prompted by Satan, they give utterance to jealousy or evil surmising, expressing that which they do not really believe; but the expression reacts on the thoughts. They are deceived by their words and come to believe that true which was spoken at Satan’s instigation. Having once expressed an opinion or decision, they are often too proud to retract it, and try to prove themselves in the right, until they come to believe that they are.” Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, 575.

“Say nothing that you would not be willing to say in the presence of Jesus and the angels. . . . However provoked you may feel, restrain the hasty word. . . .

“Many, many times I have wished that there might be circulated a pledge containing a solemn promise to speak only those words that are pleasing to God. There is as great need for such a pledge as there is for one against the use of intoxicating liquor. Let us begin to discipline the tongue, remembering always that we can do this only by disciplining the mind, for ‘out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh’ [Matthew 12:34].

“Through the help that Christ can give, we shall be able to learn to bridle the tongue. Sorely as He was tried on the point of hasty and angry speech, He never once sinned with His lips. With patient calmness He met the sneers, the taunts, and the ridicule of His fellow workers at the carpenter’s bench. Instead of retorting angrily, He would begin to sing one of David’s beautiful psalms; and His companions, before realizing what they were doing, would unite with Him in the hymn. What a transformation would be wrought in this world if men and women today would follow Christ’s example in the use of words!” Our High Calling, 291.

Having Ears to Hear

“Hear my words, O ye wise [men]; and give ear unto me, ye that have knowledge. . . . Let us choose to us judgment: let us know among ourselves what [is] good.” Job 34:2, 4.

On the other hand, all of us are called to listen. Yes, even those who are called to speak, are also called to listen. But who wants to be reproved? Who wants to get their toes stepped on?

Did you know that God has told us: “Reproof is more to be prized than flattery.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 338.

In our “if it feels good, do it” generation, we more closely fit the description found in 11 Timothy 4:3: “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.”

“There is nothing which will please the people better than to be praised and flattered when they are in darkness and wrong, and deserve reproof.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 345.

“To whom shall I speak, and give warning, that they may hear? behold, their ear [is] uncircumcised, and they cannot harken: behold, the word of the Lord is unto them a reproach; they have no delight in it.” Jeremiah 6:10.

“But they obeyed not, neither inclined their ear, but made their neck stiff, that they might not hear, nor receive instruction.” Jeremiah 17:23.

We have indeed become a generation of stiff-necked people who do not want to listen. And there are good and bad reasons for that. The bad reason is that we have become content with our condition. Remember that we are, all of us, Laodicean. But those who continue in the lukewarm condition will not make it. God has made provision for us to overcome, to become “red-hot” instead of being “lukewarm”: “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.” Revelation 3:19. He rebukes and chastens as part of the cure.

Growing Weary

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9.

The other reason, the good reason, is that today, with every wind of doctrine flying around us, to whom can we safely listen? We certainly do not want to fall into the category of those who will hear only smooth things, but if we are not careful, that is all we will hear. The problem, once again, is our condition. Now I know there are some honest Bible students today, but for the most part, we are lazy. As Revelation 3:17 says, “Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing . . . .” Leave me alone and let me sleep. I’m tired. I don’t want to have to “test” everything (see Isaiah 8:20).

Friends, we have been in the wilderness too long. We have been going around and around too long. It is time we put ourselves to the test. Ask yourself these questions:

Do I really want to be an overcomer?

Do I want my words, my thoughts, and my actions to reflect that I really am a Christian?

Do I want to go all the way with the Lord?

These may seem to be rhetorical questions, but I assure you, if we do not clean up our words, thoughts, and actions, one day very soon it will be too late. If we do not start paying attention to the places we go, the things we hear, the words we say, the things we see, without knowing it, we will end up on the wrong side of the great controversy. God has made ample provision for us to be overcomers. Let us not grow weary from the battle.

Blessed Assurance

“But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:57, 58.

“Those who choose to become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King, must reveal their choice by bringing their words and actions into harmony with the principles they advocate.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 18, 105.

“Christianity means more than making good resolutions, more than having a fitful, spasmodic experience. Our thoughts must be brought into captivity to Christ. There must be a steady, persevering cultivation of Christ-like thoughts. There must be earnest prayer. Weaken the hands of the enemy by wrestling with God in prayer. Pray in the name of Christ for what you need, and then in His strength answer your prayer by bringing your actions into harmony with it. Remember that unless you follow Christ in self-denial, your prayers will not reach the throne of God. Christ points you to the path of self-denial, saying, ‘If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.’ [Matthew 16:24.] He has made abundant provision for the sufficiency of those who will to do His requirements. As soon as He sees a child of His in contrite, persevering prayer, He comes to him with the words, ‘Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me, and he shall make peace with Me.’ [Isaiah 27:5.]” Pacific Union Recorder, June 5, 1902.

Kill the Spider

“To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, . . . He that hath an ear, let him hear . . . .” Revelation 3:21, 22.

I hope this will challenge you to study this topic for yourself and to cooperate with our Saviour to make whatever changes are appropriate in your life. Let each one of us do what we must do to clear away the cobwebs—kill the spider!

“Let us double our diligence to make our calling and election sure. Victory, victory, will be ours if we endure a little longer.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 8, 223.

“We are to realize that the divine Presence is constantly by our side. Christ has said, ‘Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.’ [Matthew 28:20.] He hears every unkind word, every harsh, cutting expression. Could we see Him standing by our side, would we speak such words?” The Signs of the Times, February 18, 1903.

[All emphasis supplied.]

Cathy Summers Timmons, a member of LandMarks’ editorial staff, writes from her home in Wichita, Kansas. She may be contacted by e-mail at cathytimmons@stepstolife.org.

Unity Among God’s End-Time People

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From the beginning of time, it has been God’s ideal for His people to be united. It is one of the most important teachings of the Scriptures, being the paramount concern of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, even as He shrank from the horrors of the cross, just moments away. (See John 17.) But as we near the close of time, unity assumes more critical significance because of the perils confronting God’s true church. Here is how Inspiration states it: “As we approach the last crisis, it is of vital moment that harmony and unity exist among the Lord’s instrumentalities. The world is filled with storm and war and variance. Yet under one head—the papal power—the people will unite to oppose God in the person of His witnesses. This union is cemented by the great apostate.” Testimonies, vol. 7, 182.

It is therefore clearly essential for all who claim to be God’s children to earnestly consider how they might achieve the unity for which Jesus prayed. This is the purpose of this study. It is not designed to be exhaustive by any means but merely to stimulate thought and, hopefully, action in the right direction.

They May Be One

The first point we must consider, as we look at this topic, is what exactly is comprehended in the prayer of Jesus. What did He have in mind for His disciples when He prayed “that they may be one, even as we are one”? John 17:22. The Holy Spirit offers a clue through Ellen White: “In these first disciples was presented marked diversity. They were to be the world’s teachers, and they represented widely varied types of character. In order successfully to carry forward the work to which they had been called, these men, differing in natural characteristics and in habits of life, needed to come into unity of feeling, thought, and action. This unity it was Christ’s object to secure. To this end He sought to bring them into unity with Himself.” The Acts of the Apostles, 20.

Here we have a brief, yet profound, insight into God’s mind. All three levels of one’s character are comprehended in Jesus’ prayer for His people! He desired that they be united at the deepest level of thought and feeling, so they could demonstrate genuine outward unity of action. Anything short of this would be a counterfeit from the workshop of the enemy. It is alluded to in the first quote from volume 7 of the Testimonies above and is sometimes referred to as “confederacy,” which is a forced, superficial alliance binding otherwise incompatible parties, often for a very narrow objective. Once the objective is attained, the alliance usually breaks down. Commonly the domain of the political arena, such leagues are also seen in every apostate system of religion as well.

With Christian unity encompassing the very thoughts and feelings of individuals, it is not surprising that it is unattainable without perfection of character. This is why we are told:

“Unity is the sure result of Christian perfection.” The Sanctified Life, 85.

Now we have an explanation for the chaos we observe among God’s professed people. Perfection of character is still a distant, elusive goal for most of us! The reason for this sorry state is suggested in The Acts of the Apostles quote on the previous page—we are not united to Christ! No matter how spiritual we may appear to others, our separation from one another is an undeniable indicator of our separation from Jesus!

Unity not Uniformity

This excerpt also refers to another important point: Unity of thought, feeling, and action does not mean uniformity in every respect, as if we were clones of one another. The disciples of Jesus “presented marked diversity . . . [and] represented widely varied types of character.” The Acts of the Apostles, 20. Their unity was to be in spite of their differences. This may seem paradoxical, but it is in the study of this seeming inconsistency that we will find the solution to our own unity here at the end of time. Inspiration explains: “The unity that exists between Christ and His disciples does not destroy the personality of either. In mind, in purpose, in character, they are one, but not in person.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1148.

“The branches in the True Vine are the believers who are brought into oneness by connection with the Vine.

“The connection of the branches with one another and with the Vine constitutes them a unity, but this does not mean uniformity in everything. Unity in diversity is a principle that pervades the whole creation. While there is an individuality and variety in nature, there is a oneness in their diversity; for all things receive their usefulness and beauty from the same Source.” Ibid., 1143.

Now we must try and answer the difficult question, Where is the line where diversity becomes incompatible with unity? We turn again to the words of Inspiration. “Our minds do not all run in the same channel, and we have not all been given the same work. God has given to every man his work according to his several ability. There are different kinds of work to be done, and workers of varied capabilities are needed. If our hearts are humble, if we have learned in the school of Christ to be meek and lowly, we may all press together in the narrow path marked out for us.” Ibid., 1148.

“There is altogether too little of the love of Christ in the hearts of those who claim to believe the truth. While all their hopes are centered in Jesus Christ, while His Spirit pervades the soul, then there will be unity, although every idea may not be exactly the same on all points.” Counsels to Writers and Editors, 82.

These passages indicate that legitimate diversity may exist not only in the realm of responsibilities, abilities and talents, but in ideas as well. Unfortunately it is in accepting another person’s ideas that many Christians balk. They feel their own ideas superior, and if things are not according to their liking, they would rather not participate at all. For such individuals the Lord has strong counsel: “The spasmodic, fitful movements of some who claim to be Christians are well represented by the work of strong but untrained horses. When one pulls forward, another pulls back, and at the voice of their master one plunges ahead and the other stands immovable. If men will not move in concert in the great and grand work for this time, there will be confusion. It is not a good sign when men refuse to unite with their brethren and prefer to act alone. Let laborers take into their confidence the brethren who are free to point out every departure from right principles. If men wear the yoke of Christ, they can not pull apart; they will draw with Christ.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 258.

Unity Not Possible

However, we have not yet defined the line where diversity is so great that true unity is impossible. Again we must turn to the words of Divine Inspiration for counsel in this sensitive area. We find help in the history of the church of The Dark Ages. “There is no union between the Prince of light and the prince of darkness, and there can be no union between their followers. When Christians consented to unite with those who were but half converted from paganism, they entered upon a path which led further and further from the truth. . . . None understood so well how to oppose the true Christian faith as did those who had once been its defenders; and these apostate Christians, uniting with their half-pagan companions, directed their warfare against the most essential features of the doctrines of Christ.

“It required a desperate struggle for those who would be faithful to stand firm against the deceptions and abominations which were disguised in sacerdotal garments and introduced into the church. The Bible was not accepted as the standard of faith. The doctrine of religious freedom was termed heresy, and its upholders were hated and proscribed.

“After a long and severe conflict, the faithful few decided to dissolve all union with the apostate church if she still refused to free herself from falsehood and idolatry. They saw that separation was an absolute necessity if they would obey the word of God. They dared not tolerate errors fatal to their own souls, and set an example which would imperil the faith of their children and children’s children. To secure peace and unity they were ready to make any concession consistent with fidelity to God; but they felt that even peace would be too dearly purchased at the sacrifice of principle. If unity could be secured only by the compromise of truth and righteousness, then let there be difference, and even war.” The Great Controversy, 45.

Here we have an example of legitimate separation due to incompatible diversity. The church in the wilderness found it impossible to unite with those who were seeking to overthrow “the most essential features of the doctrines of Christ.” This is where they drew the line, and defended their stand with their blood. What is the lesson for us here? We must determine again “the most essential features of the doctrines” that define us as Seventh-day Adventists and be willing to die in their defense if necessary.

Essential Features

It is in the area of “the most essential features of our doctrines” that the wily devil has a trap laid out for the unwary. This trap explains the chaotic landscape of historic Adventism to date. It lies in the understanding of “the most essential features” of our faith. Each little group has its own list of doctrines, which it considers non-negotiable. Having convinced themselves that they are in the center of God’s will, they are smug in their isolationism. Numerous examples of deceptive reasoning may be cited that result in driving a wedge between brethren, creating division and discord. Clearly, this cannot be from God.

The question now is, How shall we solve the dilemma of this unfortunate standoff between members of the same faith? With each party claiming Spirit of Prophecy support, and refusing to budge, the task is daunting. It is the opinion of this author that harmony will never come about until two necessary criteria are fulfilled.

United With Christ

First, and most importantly, we must all be united with Jesus, as the following quote emphasizes:

“The secret of true unity in the church and in the family is not diplomacy, not management, not a superhuman effort to overcome difficulties—though there will be much of this to do—but union with Christ.” The Adventist Home, 179.

The need for this vertical union with Jesus all would readily agree to and even fervently pray for. But somehow horizontal unity still proves elusive, because consciously or otherwise, the blame for the lack of unity always seems to lie with those who happen to be outside an arbitrarily drawn circle. Rightly or wrongly, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” provides the universal justification for every separation. Amos 3:3.

Clearly, then, we need a more objective method of delineating the proper sized circle. This is the second criterion that must be fulfilled before God’s people can come into harmony. The circle must include everybody whom God, from His infallible perspective, would consider His true son or daughter, and exclude everyone else.

Elevated Importance

Where can we look for help in this regard? Surprisingly, to the experience of the church in 1888. Here, hidden beneath the surface, we find the divine solution to our dilemma. It will be recalled that the law in Galatians was at the heart of a contentious debate between A. T. Jones and E. J. Waggoner on the one hand, and the senior leadership of the church on the other. The leadership was decidedly of the opinion that if the new views were adopted, it would mean the end of the doctrinal orthodoxy of our faith. The old landmarks, they demurred, were in jeopardy. Fortunately, however, there was a living prophet around to give heaven’s assessment of the matter. The remark was made, about that famous dispute, “ ‘If our views of Galatians are not correct, then we have not the third angel’s message, and our position goes by the board; there is nothing to our faith.’

“I [Ellen White] said, ‘Brethren, here is the very thing I have been telling you. This statement is not true. It is an extravagant, exaggerated statement. If it is made in the discussion of this question I shall feel it my duty to set this matter before all that are assembled, and whether they hear or forbear tell them the statement is incorrect.

“The question at issue is not a vital question and should not be treated as such. The wonderful importance and magnitude of this subject has been exaggerated, and for this reason—through misconception and perverted ideas—we see the spirit that prevails at this meeting, which is unchristlike, and which we should never see exhibited among brethren. There has been a spirit of Pharisaism coming in among us which I shall lift my voice against wherever it may be revealed.’ ” Selected Messages, Book 3, 174, 175.

Notice that the leading brethren had elevated the importance of their views on Galatians to that of a “most essential feature” of our faith, even tying them with the third angel’s message. They had in effect constructed a circle so tightly that Jones and Waggoner, and Mrs. White too, were excluded. A major crisis was in the offing, threatening to split the church down the middle. But the Lord, speaking through His prophet, dismissed their fretting as mere hyperbole. They had seriously erred, not only in their understanding of Galatians, but as well in defining the old landmarks. These alone could properly constitute the line of separation.

Most Essential Features

Mrs. White then enumerated for us “the most essential features” of our faith, which were to demarcate true Adventism till the end of time. Here is that most important passage: “In Minneapolis God gave precious gems of truth to His people in new settings. This light from heaven by some was rejected with all the stubbornness the Jews manifested in rejecting Christ, and there was much talk about standing by the old landmarks. But there was evidence they knew not what the old landmarks were. There was evidence and there was reasoning from the word that commended itself to the conscience; but the minds of men were fixed, sealed against the entrance of light, because they had decided it was a dangerous error removing the old landmarks when it was not moving a peg of the old landmarks, but they had perverted ideas of what constituted the old landmarks.

“The passing of the time in 1844 was a period of great events, opening to our astonished eyes the cleansing of the sanctuary transpiring in heaven, and having decided relation to God’s people upon the earth, [also] the first and second angels’ messages and the third, unfurling the banner on which was inscribed, ‘The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.’ One of the landmarks under this message was the temple of God, seen by His truth-loving people in heaven, and the ark containing the law of God. The light of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment flashed its strong rays in the pathway of the transgressors of God’s law. The nonimmortality of the wicked is an old landmark. I can call to mind nothing more that can come under the head of the old landmarks. All this cry about changing the old landmarks is all imaginary.” Counsels to Writers and Editors, 30.

The lesson for us is unmistakable: Not even an understanding of the law in Galatians, important as it may be, is to separate brother from brother, so long as each stays within the bounds circumscribed by the landmarks of our faith, of Adventism. The corollary is likewise equally clear: Not one peg of the landmark truths God has given us as a people, “the most essential features” of our faith, is to be moved or altered. This would constitute treason against heaven and provide legitimate grounds for separation.

God has thus spoken in language that we can understand. Woe to us, therefore, who are separating over the most trivial of matters. Matters that pose no threat whatsoever to the landmarks of our faith. We have been deceived by the enemy—a disgrace to God, and a laughing stock of the devil. How shall we stand in the judgment, and defend our decision to hold at arm’s length brethren who differ from us merely on a nonessential point?

Doing Satan’s Work

We might call to mind many points of difference, which have all been blown out of proportion to divide brothers. Each, boldly willing to battle and die for the same Advent message, is yet strangely unwilling to embrace the other. God forgive our hard spirits. Our frigid Pharasaism must be a stench in His nostrils. Notice how precisely we have fulfilled the following description of the work of Satan, who must surely be exulting in his unqualified success: “By our unity we are to bear strong, indisputable evidence that Christ came to this world to save sinners. Satan works with all his ingenuity to prevent human beings from bearing this evidence. He wants them to develop an unsanctified individuality so that they shall not love one another. Too often professing Christians yield to him, and then the merest trifle causes a difference to spring up among them. Men and women professing godliness build walls of separation between them and their fellow workers, because not all think in exactly the same way, or follow exactly the same methods. Those who stand apart, refusing to harmonize, dishonor God before the world.” The Upward Look, 271.

The challenge before us is inarguable: Shall we set aside our self-made differences, come into line and unite on the foundation God has laid for true Seventh-day Adventists? Or will we remain the pawns of Satan, and go our separate ways? How much greater would be the glory to God if we came together now, voluntarily, in times of relative quiet, than later when we are forced by circumstances to link arms for our very survival! From the perspective of the time of trouble it is hard to imagine that there will be a seperate cave for each group and their nonessential points! Assuredly, this is when only “the most essential features” of our faith will matter. Every other consideration will be swept aside as a nonessential. Let us today adopt the mindset of the time of trouble to aid us in rightly applying Amos 3:3. For too long we have dishonored God by loosely using this text to build unwarranted barriers. God grant us grace to this end for His own name’s sake! Amen.

[All emphasis supplied.]

Sudhir K. Pandit is a full-time physician in Hot Springs, Arkansas, specializing in internal medicine and cardiology. He is also leader of a home church in Bismarck, Arkansas, and with the help of faithful believers, operates the Madison-style “Green Pastures Home School and Orphanage” in India under the ministry name “Salute Ministries.” He may be contacted by e-mail at sudpan@earthlink.net.

Gospel of Liberty

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We are told, in the book of Revelation, that someday soon, just before Jesus returns, religious intolerance will once again bear sway—not only in this country, but throughout the world. Liberty will be gone. The only liberty that will be left on the face of this earth is the liberty that God has put in the hearts of His people.

How does God liberate us? God wants to give us the liberty of the eagle. There is nothing more free than a bird flying, and God wants to help us experience that spiritually. Jeremiah 13:23 asks the question, “Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? [then] may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil.” The answer to that question is inferred—No! If the leopard cannot change his spots, nor the Ethiopian his skin, neither can we become good of ourselves. We see here the predicament of all humanity.

David illustrates the predicament that we see in Jeremiah 13. He illustrates it with a solution. Praise God, there is a solution! The Bible says, “I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, [and] established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, [even] praise unto our God: many shall see [it], and fear, and shall trust in the Lord.” Psalm 40:1–3.

The predicament, in which we find ourselves, is sin. It is illustrated here as a horrible pit. There is no hope for us without some outside help. Does this illustration bring to view the solution to the predicament? Oh, yes. “He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay and set my feet upon a rock, [and] established my goings.” In these verses, who is doing all of the work? God is! But before we are through with our study, we will see that a cooperation needs to take place before we are lifted out of the horrible pit.

Crying out for Help

The psalmist says that he “waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.” He was seeking deliverance, and he took the first step—crying out for help.

The Bible gives us a true-life experience depicting the predicament that man is in and from which he cannot, in and of himself, help himself. This is an experience of Jesus: “And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught. And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes. And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, Saying, Let [us] alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God. And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him. And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine [is] this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.” Mark 1:21–27. This situation was taking place right in the church! Here was a man in the church, crying out to Jesus, saying, Let us alone! It was really an unclean spirit crying out.

What a predicament! This man could not help himself; he was demon possessed. There was no way he could help himself, but outside help from Jesus relieved him from the demon. Praise God!

Self-possession

“The demoniac partially comprehended that he was in the presence of One who could set him free [he wanted to be un-possessed, and he recognized in Jesus someone who was able to help him]; but when he tried to come within reach of that mighty hand, another’s will held him, another’s words found utterance through him.

“The conflict between the power of Satan and his own desire for freedom was terrible. It seemed that the tortured man must lose his life in the struggle with the foe that had been the ruin of his manhood. But the Saviour spoke with authority and set the captive free. The man who had been possessed stood before the wondering people in the freedom of self-possession.” The Ministry of Healing, 91, 92.

Self-possession is self-control. That is what God wants to give to all of us. Prophecy tells us what the Messiah would do when He came, and what we have just seen in Capernaum tells us that Jesus was doing everything that prophecy foretold He would do. Jesus is the Son of the living God. He fulfilled the prophecy: “The Spirit of the Lord God [is] upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison [to them that are] bound.” Isaiah 61:1. This same message is recorded in Luke 4:18: “The Spirit of the Lord [is] upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor . . . .” It is only the meek, the poor, those who sense their need, that are going to receive the help of the gospel of Christ to set them free.

Greatest Obstacle

What is one of the greatest obstacles that Jesus had to meet here in this world, while seeking to save humanity from the predicament they were in regarding sin? “Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, [then] are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?” John 8:31–33. It is an amazing thing that humanity finds itself in this horrible, miry pit of sin, yet the majority of humanity does not sense their need. They do not recognize that they are in bondage. “He came unto his own, and his own received him not.” John 1:11. Why? Because they did not recognize that they had a need. The greatest obstacle is that humanity is not aware of the predicament which they are in and from which they cannot, of themselves, get out.

Jesus tells the people what causes the bondage from which He came to deliver them: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.” John 8:34. Sin brings us into bondage and keeps us from doing what God intends for us to do. It is as simple as that.

Awaken to Righteousness

God wants to awaken us to righteousness, as Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:34, that we might not sin. The apostle Peter says, “While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.” 11 Peter 2:19. Being overcome by sin brings us into bondage and keeps us from doing God’s will.

Let us look at what Jesus wants to do for us and what He is able to do for us. “Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: [but] the Son abideth ever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:34–36. What a wonderful promise! There is a solution for the predicament, and it is found in One person by the name of Jesus Christ.

Jesus Christ, the creator of this world, has become the Saviour of this world for those who are willing to wake up to their needs and choose to be saved in the manner that He has devised. He wants to save us from sin. He says the servant does not abide in the house forever. That is a warning. If we are only servants, servants to sin, God is telling us that we will not abide forever, but the Son abides forever. That is why God wants to make us His sons and daughters. He wants us to live through eternal ages with Him. That is why He created us. He loves us that much! He loves us so much that He gave us His Son to stand in our place and pay the penalty for our sins. Marvelous love!

“None have fallen so low, none are so vile, but that they may find deliverance in Christ.” The Ministry of Healing, 93. That is a marvelous, wondrous promise. No matter what your case is, no matter how bad you perceive yourself, and no matter how bad you really are, God wants to lift you out of that horrible pit. He wants to establish your feet on a Rock—Himself. Is He able to do it? Yes! He says, If the Son shall make you free, you will be free indeed! That word indeed means truly! You will truly be set free. God wants to help us fly spiritually; He wants us to be lifted up to His glory, honor, and praise.

Truth = Freedom

What is one of the means that Jesus uses to set His people free from sin? Jesus said, “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32. This is only one means by which Jesus sets us free, because truth needs a catalyst, if it is going to work in our heart. We can receive the truth of God in our mind, but that is not where God wants it to end. He wants the truth in our hearts. Jesus is talking more than theoretical truth, when He says we will know the truth, and that truth will make us free. God wants to set us free from sin so we will not be in bondage that keeps us from doing God’s will.

Our Choice

Upon what is our freedom from bondage ultimately dependent? The Bible says, “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” Romans 6:16. Ultimately, friends, for us to be set free from the bondage of sin, it is by our choice. If we do not make the choice, it will not happen. It has to be a constant, determined choice—it cannot be an occasional choice—to allow God to do the work that will set us free.

“In the work of redemption there is no compulsion, no external force is employed. Under the influence of the Spirit of God, man is left free to choose whom he will serve. In the change that takes place when the soul surrenders to Christ, there is the highest sense of freedom. The expulsion of sin is the act of the soul itself. True, we have no power to free ourselves from Satan’s control; but when we desire to be set free from sin, and in our great need cry out for a power out of and above ourselves, the powers of the soul are imbued with the divine energy of the Holy Spirit, and they obey the dictates of the will in fulfilling the will of God.” The Desire of Ages, 466.

Paul said it well, in Philippians 2:13: “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.” It is up to us to submit to His will and His doing. When we submit, the expulsion of sin from our lives will take place. We will no longer be in bondage; we will be set free.

Law of Liberty

Being set free from sin is the same thing as being brought into obedience to God’s will. Obedience is what we see in Romans 6:16: “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?”

We saw, in John 8:32, where Jesus said, “Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free.” We noticed that if we choose to have sin expelled from us, it is only going to happen by way of obedience to God. Psalm 119:142 says, “Thy righteousness [is] an everlasting righteousness, and thy law [is] the truth.” So what is truth? It is the Law of God. When we refer to God’s Law, we are talking about the Ten Commandments found in Exodus 20, upon which God runs His whole universe.

Jesus compressed the Ten Commandments into two commandments. (See Matthew 22:37–40.) Likewise, He can take the complexities of our lives and make them simple, if we are willing. If we allow Him to take the sin out of our lives, our lives will be much simpler than they are in the complexity of sin.

“But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth [therein], he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.” James 1:25. God calls His Law a law of liberty, but it is only a law of liberty to those who choose to obey it. To all who choose to dis-obey, it is a law of condemnation. It is the same with our civil laws. If we abide by the law, we have freedom, but if we break the law, then we are under the law of penalty and condemnation. It is no different with God’s Law.

Perfect Law

God calls His Law the law of liberty, but He also uses an adjective to describe it. It is a perfect law of liberty! There is nothing we can do to improve upon God’s Law. We cannot add; we cannot subtract; we cannot make it any better, because it is perfect. The psalmist says, “The law of the Lord [is] perfect, converting the soul.” Psalm 19:7.

God wants to change us by His Law. Liberty from sin is found only in obedience to God’s will. “When one surrenders to Christ, the mind is brought under the control of the law; but it is the royal law, which proclaims liberty to every captive. [Satan has the majority of the Christian world believing that the Law of God is a law of bondage.] By becoming one with Christ, man is made free. Subjection to the will of Christ means restoration to perfect manhood.

“Obedience to God is liberty from the thralldom of sin, deliverance from human passion and impulse. Man may stand conqueror of himself, conqueror of his own inclinations, conqueror of principalities and powers, and of ‘the rulers of the darkness of this world,’ and of ‘spiritual wickedness in high places.’ Ephesians 6:12.” The Ministry of Healing, 131. Do you have any trouble with your passions? Do you have any impulsive desires that are contrary to God’s will? We are all tempted in that direction, but God is able to deliver us.

God wants to deliver us from the power of sin in this world. He is able; He is willing; He is waiting for us to make the decision to cooperate with Him. Liberty is found only in obedience to God’s Law. Nowhere else will you find liberty.

Two Ways

What are the two great objects in the center of the way that leads to life and liberty? In Matthew 7:13, 14, Jesus talks about two ways that we can choose to go. One way is broad, and everything that we want to do we can do in that broad way. Then there is a narrow way. We are talking about the narrow way that leads to eternal life, and we are asking the question, What are the two great central objects in the way that lead to life and liberty? Jesus tells us, in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” Jesus says He is truth, but we read, in Psalm 119:142, that God’s Law is the truth. God places the two great truths of Jesus and His Law in the way that leads to eternal life.

The Law of God is the center of the issue in the plan of salvation. In fact, it is the basis of the controversy between good and evil in which we are involved. Jesus died on Calvary to uphold the Law of God. If the Law of God could have been changed, Jesus need not have died on Calvary. But God’s Law is as changeless as is He, so Jesus came and died for us, making a way by which we can experience the truth that will set us free from the bondage of sin.

Law in our Hearts

It is not enough to have God’s Law in our minds; God wants to put it in our hearts. “For this [is] the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts . . . .” Hebrews 8:10. The law must first be in our minds. We must have an intelligent knowledge of God’s Word and of His Law before they are written in our hearts. When that happens, He says, “I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people.” Ibid. Friends, we will never be the people of God until we choose to allow Him to write His Law upon our hearts.

The Catalyst

We have all sensed ourselves, at one time or another, as being out of sorts with God, of being in that pit from which we cannot extricate ourselves. Jesus is the solution.

Truth is one of the great parts by which God will set us free, but there is a catalyst that is needed for truth to get from our minds to our hearts. We find it in the life of Jesus: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” John 1:14.

There is the catalyst—grace! God wants us to walk in the light that proceeds from His Word that has been there for centuries, waiting for us to make a choice. Grace is the catalyst that will send God’s truth to our hearts. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8, 9. We can never merit or earn this grace that is so much needed.

Gifts of God

The gifts of God are two-fold. James 1:17 tells us, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” God has good and perfect gifts that He bestows upon His children in this world. Those good gifts are the physical gifts, the blessings that all humanity receives.

Do we merit the sun that shines upon us today? Do we earn the right to breathe the breath of air? No, those are gifts of God. Have we earned the right to eat the food that gives us strength? No, we have not earned that. God gives the blessings and good gifts to us, not because we have earned them or that we merit them, but because of His goodness. Jesus said that our Father sends the rain upon the just and the unjust. (See Matthew 5:45.)

Is God any different with His spiritual gifts, His perfect gifts? Can we merit a spiritual gift? Can we merit God’s grace? Can we earn God’s favor and His Holy Spirit? No, we cannot. We access the spiritual gifts by faith, by trusting and believing what God says. It is not by works; it is by faith. Works will not produce grace, but grace will produce works. Ephesians 2:10 tells us, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”

Many in Christendom today are trying to manufacture something in their own experience to get out of their bondage state. But no amount of works that we can do will manufacture God’s grace or merit it. None! We must come to God as He has ordained for us to come. There is a way, but if we do not follow the sequential order that God has laid out for us in the plan of salvation—faith and works, not works and faith—we are stuck in the pit. When we follow God’s order, we are going to experience the blessing, and we will be able to fly like the eagles.

Bottom Line

What is the bottom line? God wants to save us from sin, but He is not going to give us His grace when we are trying to work out our own salvation. He will honor us with His grace only when we choose to access the plan of salvation in the order in which He has designed it. When we come into harmony with the two great center truths of the plan of salvation, Jesus and God’s Law, we will receive the gift of grace and experience true liberty.

Craig Meeker directs the Bible correspondence school for Steps to Life Ministry. 

The Easy Yoke

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“Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after Me, let Him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.”

Matthew 16:24

Ellen G. White makes an interesting comment on Matthew 11:28. She says, “The yoke and the cross are symbols representing the same thing—the giving up of the will to God.” Our High Calling, 100. Christ says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me … and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28–30). Here we find the yoke and the cross are symbols representing the same thing: the giving up of the will to God.

“Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after Me, let Him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me” (Matthew 16:24). Taking the yoke and taking up the cross represent the same thing: entering into fellowship with Christ in His life of self-sacrifice and self-denial.

Now the question is, How in the world could that truth be called an easy yoke? Luke records the Savior’s words nearly the same as how Matthew wrote them but in Luke there is an additional word: “And He said to them all, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). The extra word is daily. That means every day. It means Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and each of the remaining days. It does not mean the first day of the month or once a year, but daily. The easy yoke then is not a life of ease. Let me make that clear. The easy yoke that Christ offers us is not a life of ease; it is a life of self-denial.

You may ask How could that be an easy yoke? That is one of the paradoxes of the Bible. It is a paradox but it is the truth. The fact is that this is not one of many ways to be free from worry and fear and anxiety, and useless burdens; it is the only way. Since sin entered this world there is no way to live a life free from the worries and the cares and the heavy burdens that afflict the people in life in general unless you accept the life that Jesus offers in fellowship with Him, and that is the life of the cross.

So Paul says, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless, I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren” (1 John 3:16). A life of ease? No. An easy yoke? Yes.

Now this is like many other things – it is known only by those who experience it. There are many things in life that way. Do you know what a watermelon tastes like? If you do it is because you have experienced it. If you have never tasted a watermelon you do not know what it tastes like. You may have read books, you may have studied seed catalogs, you may have looked at the pictures, you may have heard other people talk about its sweetness, but you do not know what it tastes like. So it is with this experience. The easy yoke that Jesus offers is understood and known only by those who experience it.

Few people really enter with Jesus into this easy life. The majority of the people in this world are not even interested in Christ’s yoke at all; they’re just carrying their own program, wanting to live their own life, do their own thing. But even among those who have chosen to follow Christ, few there are who enter fully into this experience. They are either afraid of the cross or they are afraid to trust themselves with Jesus.

In The Ministry of Healing, 480, 481, we find these inspiring words: “Many who profess to be Christ’s followers have an anxious, troubled heart because they are afraid to trust themselves with God. They do not make a complete surrender to Him, for they shrink from the consequences that such a surrender may involve. Unless they do make this surrender they cannot find peace.”

Here is a man who is trying to quit cigarettes and we say to him, Friend, why do you want to quit cigarettes? Well, I’m afraid I might get lung cancer. Or I’m afraid I might have a heart attack. Or I’m afraid I might get an ulcer of the stomach. A dozen other reasons could be given. But he says, it seems so hard to quit cigarettes. As far as a man’s feelings are concerned who, day by day, is in the grip of a cigarette habit, is it easier to quit or easier to go on? It’s easier to go on for most people and that is why most people do it. There are millions of people who would quit tonight if it wasn’t so hard. But tell me, is that the yoke of Christ? Is that what makes it hard? Why, no. The hard part is getting away from the yoke of sin, the yoke of slavery to that evil habit.

Christians who never smoked cigarettes do not feel that not smoking is a heavy burden. They do not feel sorry for themselves because they don’t smoke. It is not a burden or a load to carry – it is easy. But the poor fellow who is in the grip of the tobacco habit, tell him that, and he may say, Yes, I wish I had never started, but believe me, it’s hard to get out. Now Christ is willing to help him. But the way out is the way of self-denial. The way out is the way where the man by faith in Jesus chooses to say no to that craving. “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and every selfish, sinful lust and craving. Let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.” There is no other way. Is it worth it?

Smoking cigarettes is just an example of a hundred things that are troubling people, things that keep people from having real peace, things people are hanging on to. Christians, you saints of God, what is it that is keeping you from having abundant life, abounding peace and joy in the Lord? The Holy Spirit will talk to your heart about it while using this example of the cigarette habit.

Now here’s our man. He’s been smoking three packs a day and he says, I do want to quit but this is so hard. I think I’ll cut down tomorrow to two and a half packs. I’ll try that for a week. If I can make it with that then I think I’ll try just two packs a day, and maybe a year from now I’ll be only smoking one cigarette a day and finally I’ll come to the day when I’ve smoked my last one. Is that a good program? Will it work?

My friends, don’t miss the next point. Even if this method would work, it is not the easiest way to overcome this habit but instead it is the painful way. Some people try to cut sin out of their lives a little at a time. So, they have to go through the pain and the agony and the struggle over and over and over and over again.

Your problem may be something else. When the Spirit of God begins to deal with your soul, when the pruning knife of God’s word is applied, do you cry out, Oh, would you take that out of my life? Why, I have a hard enough time as it is, and if you take that out, what will I do? I’ve got to have a few cigarettes or else I can’t live with myself and the family can’t live with me. I’ve got to have something. That is not the easy yoke, friends—that’s the hard way.

It is the same with every other sin, every other indulgence, every other form of turning away from Heaven’s best program. You apply it to your problems. Why not give yourself soul and body for life or death to Jesus to be everything, all for Him without any reserve of any kind? Put everything on the altar, not holding back anything, not trying to do it on the installment plan. Right now. Everything for God.

When you make that surrender you may not know all that it involves. Tomorrow or six months from now God may bring to your mind something that He wants to come out of your life that you don’t even know about today. But you’ve made the decision now and everything is on the altar. After all, Jesus gave everything for you so that you might be redeemed. The cross of Calvary represents a sacrifice made so that others may be redeemed. Jesus took that cross for you and as you take that cross for Him it means that you link up with Him in giving your life in service for others.

Concerning John the Baptist, Jesus said, “He was a burning and a shining light” (John 5:35). If a candle shines, it burns, and what happens to the candle? In Westminster Abbey where one of the saints of God lies buried is a candlestick, and the candle is burned clear down. There in the granite are chiseled these words: “Burned out.” Would you burn out for God? Would you give your life in service for Him? Or would you seek to consider your desires, your whims, your ambitions, your plans, your purposes, the things that please you? But somebody says, Didn’t you say that God wants to please us? Yes, hence the paradox. The only way you can ever be pleased yourself is to forget all about yourself.

“For whosoever will save his life shall lose it” (Luke 9:24). If you are just trying to look after your desires, your plans, what you like, you will never even satisfy yourself. But if you will forget about yourself, put your all on the altar and let Jesus link you in service with Him, taking His yoke, then you will find the real joy and meaning of life.

Paul did it. On the Damascus road he met Christ and from that moment on there was just one thing for him. He summed it all up in those immortal words, “For to me to live is Christ” (Philippians 1:21, first part). “For me to live is Christ.” That’s all I have to live for, just Jesus. If He wants me to suffer, if He sees that is the best way to advance His cause, that’s all right. If He wants me to die, that’s all right. When Paul appeared before Nero, that cruel monster on the throne of the world’s greatest empire, he wasn’t afraid. He knew that his life was on the altar and if the time had come for the sword to cut his head off, it was all right. He knew that his life was hid with Christ in God and that “When Christ who is our life, shall appear, he would appear with Him in glory” (Colossians 3:4). Friends, a Christian cannot lose. “… to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21, last part). This makes a Christian fearless.

One of the early Christian witnesses for God was taken before a Roman provincial governor. It was a time of persecution, and the governor said to this Christian, “Listen, if you don’t give up this Christian religion we are going to take all your goods.” He said, “I have no goods; I gave them all to Christ.” The governor looked at him and said, “If you don’t give this up we’ll take your life!” He said, “I have no life; I gave it all to Christ.”

Oh friends, what is your answer? Is there anything too precious to withhold from Jesus? It is this half and half business that makes people miserable. Too good for hell but not good enough for heaven. One hand with Christ, the other hand with the world and the devil. Why go that way?

Somebody says, Well, I don’t want to go to extremes. What do you mean, extremes? An extremist is someone who goes to the right or to the left farther than God said. You can never be an extremist doing what God said. If you try to do more than He said that’s being extreme. If you do what He says, there’s nothing extreme about that. That is what He expects. “If ye love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15).

People talk about the middle of the road. The question is, Which road? There is a road that’s broad and leads to death and nearly everybody is going on it. The middle of that road will only take you to hell just like the right hand or the left of it will. There’s only one place to be in the middle of the road and that’s the narrow road and that road is just as wide as one man, the man Christ Jesus. The only way you can get extremes on that road is to get off the road. There’s a ditch on either side and that’s extremes. Do not worry about being an extremist if you just do what Jesus says. That will keep you busy. There’s plenty to do just to do what He says. You don’t have to invent things. We are warned not to invent crosses of our own. We’re not to deny ourselves of nourishing food. There’s no call to get off a comfortable bed and lie down on the floor or on spikes in order to prove we can take it. There are plenty of things that the devil would like to get us into to show that we are sacrificial, but Christ has not called for it.

“Many who profess to be Christ’s followers have an anxious, troubled heart because they are afraid to trust themselves with God. They do not make a complete surrender to Him, for they shrink from the consequences that such a surrender may involve. Unless they do make this surrender they cannot find peace.” The Ministry of Healing, 480, 481.

I said to somebody one day, “Will you do something for me?” They responded, “That depends on what it is.” That’s all right to treat me that way but that is not the way to treat God. I might make a mistake. I might ask you to do something you couldn’t do or didn’t want to do. But when God says, Will you do something for Me, there is only one right answer — YES. God appreciates that.

“There are many whose hearts are aching under a load of care because they seek to reach the world’s standard. They have chosen its service, accepted its perplexities, adopted its customs. Thus their character is marred and their life made a weariness. The continual worry is wearing out the life forces.” Ibid., 481.

The family next door just got a boat. Well, I better get a boat too. If they have a boat, then we’ve got to get a boat. People up at the corner, they just bought a brand new car. They already have two others but now they have another one. Daddy had better get busy. Somebody had better get busy. Mother may have to go out and work, take a job along with Father to bring in more money to keep up with the neighbors. There are a thousand variations on that same tune. There are a thousand ways to wear your life out just by trying to keep up with what other people are doing.

Take the matter of dress. The idolatry of dress is costing the professed people of God millions of dollars every year – millions of dollars – and at the Judgment somebody will have to give an account. Somebody starts some new fad and the daughters and sons of Zion have to follow along. Some follow right up close; some follow at a respectable distance. But oh to be so linked with Jesus that we don’t have to spend time and money with the shifting fashions, some of which are immodest, some of which are positively indecent, some simply vain, shallow, and unnatural. That is not the way to wear the yoke of Christ. It will wear you out. The men and women who plan the fashions are in it for money and money demands a change of model frequently. The automobile folks know that. So, no matter how bad a fashion is, that fashion won’t last. No matter how good a style may be, it won’t last always, if the fashion makers can have their way. And back of the fashion makers is the devil.

What is the devil trying to do with fashion? He is trying to promote immodesty, indecency, and immorality. He has succeeded. He is trying to promote disease by bringing in all kinds of unhealthful fashions. He is trying to promote vanity and pride. People show themselves off like vain peacocks. They do all kinds of things from the hair on their head to the shoes on their feet just to show off. But underneath it all there is another purpose of the enemy. He wants to wear people out. He wants their minds to be filled with “What shall we eat?” or, “What shall we drink?” or “Wherewithal shall we be clothed” (Matthew 6:31)? Jesus advises that we study the lilies of the field. “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; … even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these” (Matthew 6:28, 29).

If you want the yoke of Christ, which is easy, do not study the fashion plates of this world. Do not try to keep up with Paris or New York or Hollywood or anything else. Try to keep up with Jesus. This doesn’t mean being sloppy; it doesn’t mean being careless. For Christ’s sake, whose witnesses we are, we should seek to make the best of our appearance but that doesn’t take a lot of wearing toil. It doesn’t take a lot of unnecessary expenditure either of money or of time or of thought. Natural simplicity is the way of true beauty. It is the easy yoke that Christ is talking about. So it is with every other phase of life.

Take the matter of food—how people today are spending money and time and thought to create some new sensation to tempt the appetite. Why? Not because they are hungry. Their appetites have been so perverted that they do not know what natural hunger is. Many of them eat all day and into the night. They come to the table with very little genuine appetite so somebody has to be busy thinking up concoctions, all sorts of things to tempt the appetite. This calls for time and money and thought that could be devoted to something better. And again, as on dress, so on diet, the answer is not to be sloppy and slovenly. Just throw the food on the table and let people eat like the cattle from the manger. No, no. God wants us to present the food in a beautiful and attractive way. This reminds me of the Eden that was and the Eden that is to be. And the food that God gave our first parents is still the most delicious, the most palatable and the most nutritious. Do you notice, friends, that the nearer we get to that program, the more time and thought we have to devote to the spiritual side of life? The food itself contributes to that and it doesn’t call for those hours and hours of toil in preparation that the worldly program does.

Someone may say, today we don’t have to spend much time in preparation. We just run down and buy these TV dinners and just sit at the TV and eat. Mother doesn’t have to cook. I believe that is also a heavy yoke.

What was that word Luke used in Luke 9:23? Daily. What a wonderful experience it can be to be alone with God to settle this question. All on the altar. He has got a blessing for you in fellowship with Him. He wants you to be all alone when you enter into this because He has some things to tell you He won’t tell anyone else. “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him; and He will show them His covenant” (Psalm 25:14).

Lord, tell us what to cut out of our lives so that we’ll have more time, more money, more thought, more love for the things that are worth the most. Teach us how to sense our privileges, to lay aside the yokes of bondage, to accept Thy yoke which is easy and Thy burden which is light.

 

Elder W.D. Frazee studied the Medical Missionary Course at the College of Medical Evangelists in Loma Linda, California. He was called to Utah as a gospel medical evangelist. During the Great Depression, when the church could not afford to hire any assistants, Elder Frazee began inviting professionals to join him as volunteers. This began a faith ministry that would become the foundation for the establishment of the Wildwood Medical Missionary Institute in 1942. He believed that each person is unique, specially designed by the Lord, of infinite value, and has a special place and mission in this world which only he can fill. His life followed this principle and he encouraged others to do the same.

Watching Unto Prayer

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I believe one of the things that keeps us confined to this earth is our lack of understanding as to who our Bible heroes really were and why they did what they did. In Hebrews 11, we can read by faith Abel . . . , by faith Enoch . . . , by faith Noah . . . , by faith Abraham . . . , also Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and so on. Despite their great feats of faith, their stories reveal they were all mere mortals, as are we. Only one “had this testimony, that he pleased God.” Hebrews 11:5.

We have read the stories of Daniel, Gideon, and David. How exciting they are. What encouragement! Foxe’s Book of Martyrs (by W. B. Forbush (Editor), Zondervan, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1978) is full of accounts of God’s people living their faith to the death. Have you ever asked yourself how they did it?

Faith, you say. And you would be right. Verse six of Hebrews 11 says, “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.”

Clearly, without faith we cannot please God. But in the accounts of the lives of most of these great men, the Bible records not only their great acts of faith, but also a few of their failures.

Remember David? What courage he displayed when he picked up those small stones in the face of the giant. Because he early learned to trust in the Lord, this fearless young boy grew to be a mighty warrior for the cause of right, displaying wisdom and humility. Despite his valiant demonstration of faith, David had his apparent weaknesses. But through it all, David was honest with God about his sins. His eloquent, heartfelt pleadings for mercy and forgiveness are among the most favored passages in the Bible. Perhaps that is because humanity so readily identifies with his struggle.

But did God not call David a man after His own heart? Indeed, He did. From the Pen of Inspiration we read, “I was shown that it was when David was pure, and walking in the counsel of God, that God called him a man after His own heart. When David departed from God, and stained his virtuous character by his crimes, he was no longer a man after God’s own heart. . . . When the righteous turn from their righteousness and do evil, their past righteousness will not save them from the wrath of a just and holy God.” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4a, 87.

Remember Moses? Being provoked by the continual murmuring of the people, Moses spoke hastily in anger. Despite the marvelous account of his fearless leadership and his interactions with God on behalf of the rebellious people, that unfortunate act of humanity prevented him from the fulfillment of the long awaited entry into the Promised Land. (See Review and Herald, December 9, 1909.)

Remember Elijah? After such a magnificent display of faith on Mount Carmel, do you remember what he did shortly thereafter? “It would seem that after showing courage so undaunted, after triumphing so completely over king and priests and people, Elijah could never afterward have given way to despondency nor been awed into timidity. But he who had been blessed with so many evidences of God’s loving care was not above the frailties of mankind, and in this dark hour his faith and courage forsook him. . . . Forgetting that three years before, God had directed his course to a place of refuge from the hatred of Jezebel and the search of Ahab, the prophet now fled for his life. . . .” Prophets and Kings, 159, 160.

Humanity could probably sympathize with David’s weaknesses and might try to justify Moses’ hasty reaction. After all, those people had nagged him for 40 years. And as for Elijah, I am sure there are many men today who would not think twice about fleeing from a woman’s wrath. But taking a step back from the situation, it is easy for us to see that it was at the time when these men were dedicated to a purpose, diligent in prayer and unyielding in their faith, that they accomplished their great acts of faith. It was the time when they were plugged into the True Source of Power. And their actions proved that they wholeheartedly believed that faith in their God would prevail over human weakness and circumstance.

But at some point, humanity let go of the hand of Omnipotence and their faith failed.

Watch and Pray

“Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Matthew 26:41.

In the upper room during the Last Supper, it was a presumptuous, impetuous Peter who declared that he would never deny his Lord. (Matthew 26:33, 35.) He was offended that Jesus told him that before the cock would crow twice the next morning, Peter would deny Him three times. (Mark 14:30.)

From the upper room, the still-confident Peter went with Jesus and the two sons of Zebedee to the garden. Jesus knew that His time was at hand and keenly felt the need to commune with His Father.

Three times (see Matthew 26:38, 41, 44) Jesus admonished His disciples to watch as He left them in the garden to pray. Three times He returned and found them asleep (verses 40, 43, 45).

We know the story. The disciples were noted for the purity of their language, but in the judgment hall Peter flew into a rage with cursing and swearing. While the degrading oaths were fresh on his lips, and the shrill crowing of the cock was still ringing in his ears, Jesus turned and looked full upon Peter. He realized with bitter grief how well his Lord knew him, and how accurately He had read his heart, the falseness of which was unknown even to himself.

Peter recalled Jesus’ words of caution “Simon, behold Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not.” Luke 22:31, 32. Heartbroken, in horror he rushed from the scene. At last he found himself in Gethsemane. The scene of a few hours earlier came vividly to his mind. He remembered with bitter remorse that Jesus had wept and agonized in prayer alone, while those who should have united with Him in that trying hour were sleeping.

He remembered Jesus’ solemn charge, “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.”

“It was in sleeping when Jesus bade him watch and pray that Peter had prepared the way for his great sin. All the disciples, by sleeping in that critical hour, sustained a great loss. Christ knew the fiery ordeal through which they were to pass. He knew how Satan would work to paralyze their senses that they might be unready for the trial. Therefore it was that He gave them warning. Had those hours in the garden been spent in watching and prayer, Peter would not have been left to depend upon his own feeble strength. He would not have denied his Lord.” The Desire of Ages, 713, 714.

Peter was not the only disciple to deny his Lord. Every single one of them did. We all remember that upon leaving the garden, Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss. But it was at this same point that Peter, in his anger, rashly drew his sword and cut off the servant’s ear. (Matthew 26:51, 52.) The disciples were offended by Jesus’ conduct, and at Peter’s proposal that they save themselves (see The Desire of Ages, 697), “they all forsook him and fled.” Mark 14:50.

Despite his earlier emphatic claims, “I will never be offended, I would die with thee, yet will I not deny thee,” to which all the disciples agreed (Matthew 26:33, 35), despite his best intentions, Peter was not ready for the test for which Jesus was trying to prepare him.

Indeed, the flesh is weak.

Just One Hour

I believe this story has even more to offer than the powerful lesson of watching and praying. Three times Jesus admonished His disciples to watch. Three times He found them asleep. “What, could ye not watch with Me one hour?” (Verse 40.)

Just one hour.

Ever notice how difficult it is to spend a thoughtful hour in prayer or study?

Ever notice how easy it is to become distracted or interrupted by tangent thoughts?

Ever notice that no matter how alert you are when you pick up your Bible, how quickly your eyelids begin to get heavy—especially during evening worship.

Ever notice on the nights when sleep evades you, how quickly you become sleepy when you try to pray or read your Bible?

Ever wonder why?

How many times have you really persevered, broken out of the fog and gained a rich blessing?

Ever wonder why you do not do it more often?

A Sleeping Church

God through His last-day prophet tells us, “In this fearful hour of trial Christ’s human nature longed even for the sympathy of His disciples. A second time He rose from the earth and went to them and found them sleeping. This was not a deep sleep. They were in a drowse. They had a limited sense of their Lord’s suffering and anguish.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1104.

This condition is also described as a “strange stupor” that over-powered them. The Desire of Ages, 694.

Ellen White further explains: “They did not intend to forsake their Lord, but they seemed paralyzed by a stupor which they might have shaken off if they had continued pleading with God.” Ibid., 688.

Clearly, if Peter and the disciples had heeded the warning and been diligently watching unto prayer, they need not have been lulled to sleep by the enemy. The condition is the same with His disciples today.

“In tenderness Jesus stood for a moment bending over them, and regarding them with mingled feelings of love and pity. In these sleeping disciples He sees a representation of a sleeping church. When they should be watching, they are asleep.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1104.

“Because of their drowsiness and stupor they failed of receiving the evidence that would have strengthened their souls for the terrible scenes before them. Thus today the very ones who most need divine instruction often fail of receiving it, because they do not place themselves in communion with heaven.” The Ministry of Healing, 509.

Sleepy Virgins

In the first part of Matthew 25, the parable is told of ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Although we know that all ten virgins had oil in their lamps at first, only five kept their lamps trimmed, while the five foolish virgins allowed their lamps to go out. But they all fell asleep.

“While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.” (Verse 5.) At the cry, “Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him,” all ten of the virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. (Verse 6.) It was at this point that the foolish virgins discovered they had no oil, and quickly urged those with oil to share theirs with them.

“The state of the Church represented by the foolish virgins, is also spoken of as the Laodicean state.” Review and Herald, August 19, 1890. That is us, today.

“All who wait for the heavenly Bridegroom are represented in the parable as slumbering because their Lord delayed His coming; but the wise roused themselves at the message of His approach, and responded to the message, and their spiritual discernment was not all gone, and they sprang into line. As they took hold of the grace of Christ, their religious experience became vigorous and abundant, and their affections were set upon things above.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1099.

Of this same condition that exists today, we read: “The great controversy is nearing its end. Every report of calamity by sea or land is a testimony to the fact that the end of all things is at hand. Wars and rumors of wars declare it. Is there a Christian whose pulse does not beat with quickened action as he anticipates the great events opening before us? The Lord is coming. We hear the footsteps of an approaching God.

“This knowledge of the nearness of Christ’s coming should not be allowed to lose its force, and we become careless and inattentive, and fall into slumber—into an insensibility and indifference to realities. In slumber we are in an unreal world, and not sensible of the things which are taking place around us. . . .

“There are those who have the blazing light of truth shining all around them, and yet are insensible to it. They are enchanted by the enemy, held under a spell by his bewitching power. They are not preparing for that great day which is soon to come to our world. . . .

“As long as there are many asleep, many sporting away the precious hours in careless indifference, as it were, upon the very brink of the eternal world, those who do believe must be sober, must be awake, must be earnest and diligent, and watch unto prayer. . . .

“Have you . . . your lamps trimmed and burning?” Our High Calling, 346.

Half a Chance

“In the parable of the virgins, five were found wise, and five foolish. Can it be possible that half of us will be found without the oil of grace in our lamps? Shall we come to the marriage feast too late. We have slept too long; shall we sleep on, and be lost at last? Are there those here who have been sinning and repenting, sinning and repenting, and will they continue to do so till Christ shall come? May God help us that we may be truly united to Christ, the living vine, and bear fruit to the glory of God!” Review and Herald, April 21, 1891.

Like the disciples in the garden, God has given His church today ample admonition and warning.

“The people of God are not half awake. A stupor seems to be paralyzing their sensibilities.” Review and Herald, October 13, 1885.

“I have seen that a fearful stupor is upon nearly all. It is almost impossible to arouse the very ones who should be awakened, so as to have any just sense of the power which Satan holds over minds. They are not aware of the corruption teeming all around them. Satan has blinded their minds and lulled them to carnal security.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 478.

“We should be vigilant, lest He come and find us sleeping; and hence the admonition, ‘Watch.’ ‘Watch; . . . lest coming suddenly He find you sleeping.’ [Mark 13:34–36.] There is no safety in a state of stupor or calm indifference.” Review and Herald, August 18, 1885.

“Some in [the church] are in constant danger because the cares of this life and worldly thoughts so occupy the mind that they do not think upon God or heaven and the needs of their own souls. They rouse from their stupor now and then, but fall back again in deeper slumber. Unless they shall fully rouse from their slumbers, God will remove the light and blessings He has given them. He will in His anger remove the candlestick out of its place.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 286.

God meant for His people to be far in advance of the position they now occupy. Now, when the time has come for God’s people to spring into action because the national reformers are urging measures to resist religious liberty issues, Mrs. White says that instead of being ready, we now have the getting ready to do (see Testimonies, vol. 5, 715). “Now is the time for the careless to arouse from their slumber.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 233.

Vital Connection

Just as was the case with the Bible heroes mentioned at the beginning of this article, the danger comes when humanity turns away from Omnipotence. When that vital connection with Christ is gone, humanity is fueled by human strength, and failure will be the sure result.

We too easily excuse our transgressions by reasoning that our actions are not as bad as someone else’s; I am not an evil person, we think. But as David, Moses, and a host of others along the way, discovered, that does not meet the heavenly criteria.

“It is not necessary for us deliberately to choose the service of the kingdom of darkness in order to come under its dominion. We have only to neglect to ally ourselves with the kingdom of light. If we do not co-operate with the heavenly agencies, Satan will take possession of the heart and will make it his abiding place. The only defense against evil is the indwelling of Christ in the heart through faith in His righteousness. Unless we become vitally connected with God, we can never resist the unhallowed effects of self-love, self-indulgence, and temptation to sin. We may leave off many bad habits, for the time we may part company with Satan; but without a vital connection with God, through the surrender of ourselves to Him moment by moment, we shall be overcome. Without a personal acquaintance with Christ, and a continual communion, we are at the mercy of the enemy and shall do his bidding in the end.” The Desire of Ages, 324.

Read that again. And then, read it again.

It does not say we have to hold membership in the church of Satan in order to come under his dominion. All our good intentions will not keep us safe. If we, like Peter, fail to watch and pray, we will lose our connection with Christ and be overcome by evil.

“The reason why so many are left to themselves in places of temptation is that they do not set the Lord always before them. When we permit our communion with God to be broken, our defense is departed from us. Not all your good purposes and good intentions will enable you to withstand evil.” The Ministry of Healing, 510, 511.

Blessed Hope

“Jesus came into the world to save sinners, not in their sins but from their sins, and to sanctify them through the truth; and in order that He may become a perfect Saviour to us, we must enter into union with Him by a personal act of faith. Christ has chosen us, we have chosen Him, and by this choice we become united to Him and are to live from henceforth, not unto ourselves, but unto Him who has died for us. But this union can only be preserved by constant watchfulness, lest we fall into temptation and make a different choice, for we are free always to take another master if we so desire. Union with Christ means an unfailing preference for Him in every act and thought. . . .

“We want to become so sensitive to holy influences that the lightest whisper of Jesus will move our souls. . . . If we constantly seek to follow Jesus, the blessed hope is ours of standing before the throne of God without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing, complete in Christ, robed in His righteousness and perfection.” That I May Know Him, 361. [Emphasis supplied.]

Can you imagine, becoming so sensitive to the holy influence that the lightest whisper of Jesus will move your soul? Sometimes in our daily comings and goings, we become so caught up in the cares of the world, making a living, and all that, it seems it would take a brick to the side of the head to get our attention.

Secret of Success

As we read earlier, when we permit our communion with God to be broken, our defense is departed. We need to be sensitive to holy influences. That comes only by watching and praying.

“If you will only watch, continually watch unto prayer, if you will do everything as if you were in the immediate presence of God, you will be saved from yielding to temptation, and may hope to be kept pure, spotless, and undefiled till the last.” Gospel Workers, 128.

We must be men and women of prayer, doing everything as if we are in the immediate presence of God. In The Desire of Ages chapter “Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled,” we can read of that intimate connection.

“The secret of their success would be in asking for strength and grace. . . . Every sincere prayer is heard in heaven. It may not be fluently expressed; but if the heart is in it, it will ascend to the sanctuary where Jesus ministers, and He will present it to the Father without one awkward, stammering word, beautiful and fragrant with the incense of His own perfection. . . .

“If we consent, He will so identify Himself with our thoughts and aims, so blend our hearts and minds into conformity to His will, that when obeying Him we shall be but carrying out our own impulses. The will, refined and sanctified, will find its highest delight in doing His service. When we know God as it is our privilege to know Him, our life will be a life of continual obedience. Through an appreciation of the character of Christ, through communion with God, sin will become hateful to us. . . .

“If we come to Him in faith, He will speak His mysteries to us personally. Our hearts will often burn within us as One draws nigh to commune with us as He did with Enoch. Those who decide to do nothing in any line that will displease God, will know, after presenting their case before Him, just what course to pursue.” Ibid., 667, 668.

This One Thing I Do

Jesus lived a perfect life as an example for us. He has given us ample evidence that it is possible to live such a life. We can start afresh right now. “Whatever the mistakes or failures of the past, we may, with the help of God, rise above them. With the apostle we may say: ‘This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.’ Philippians 3:13, 14.” The Ministry of Healing, 516. Today He is waiting to commission angels from heaven in response to our cry for help.

Let us consider the offer. Shall we, like David, admit our weaknesses and like Peter, fall upon the Rock and be broken? Shall we, like our Saviour, establish and maintain that unbroken communion with our Heavenly Father and accept His strength to overcome on all points? And shall we, like Enoch, have the testimony that we pleased God and live in readiness here that we might live with Him in heaven throughout eternity?

Prize Before Us

“I have seen the tender love that God has for His people, and it is very great. I saw angels over the saints with their wings spread about them. Each saint had an attending angel. If the saints wept through discouragement, or were in danger, the angels that ever attended them would fly quickly upward to carry the tidings, and the angels in the city would cease to sing. Then Jesus would commission another angel to descend to encourage, watch over, and try to keep them from going out of the narrow path; but if they did not take heed to the watchful care of these angels, and would not be comforted by them, but continued to go astray, the angels would look sad and weep. They would bear the tidings upward, and all the angels in the city would weep, and then with a loud voice say, ‘Amen.’ But if the saints fixed their eyes upon the prize before them and glorified God by praising Him, then the angels would bear the glad tidings to the city, and the angels in the city would touch their golden harps and sing with a loud voice, ‘Alleluia!’ and the heavenly arches would ring with their lovely songs.” Early Writings, 39.

Cathy Summers-Timmons, a Steps to Life staff member and a member of LandMarks’ editorial staff, writes from her home in Wichita, Kansas. She may be contacted by e-mail at: cathytimmons@stepstolife.org.

Why Has the Latter Rain Not Fallen?

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The church of Ephesus (Revelation 2:1, 2), when it first began, really labored for the Lord. They were filled with the Holy Spirit, and thousands were being converted to the truth. But the devil entered that church and started meddling with things, and slowly their focus began to shift. At first they were zealous for advocating the truth; they hated false doctrine, but a change took place in this church. Jesus said they had lost their first love. (Verse 4.) He told them, If you do not repent, I am going to uproot your candlestick, and it is going to go out in darkness. (Verse 5.) They lost their love for one another, and they lost their burden for souls.

Focus Lost

Have we lost our burden for souls? When our eyes are not fixed upon those outside of the fold, our focus shifts. We start turning on one another, and we begin bickering and fighting among ourselves. We have lost our focus, our goal; we have lost our aim; and we become a self-centered people. We become more zealous as selfishness arises in our hearts. We become more zealous for the truth every single day, but the Jews were very zealous for their truth, too. (See John 8.) They could explain the truth inside and out, but Jesus really did not care about their theology. Jesus wanted to know one thing only, and that was, Do you love Me? He said, If you had loved the Father, you would love Me too, because I proceeded from the Father, but you are seeking to kill Me. (Verses 42, 40.) Jesus was saying, Yes, you are very zealous for your work; you encompass land and sea to make one convert (See Matthew 23:15), but do you love Me? Do you love Me enough to accept what I say?

What made the church of Ephesus so successful at the first? What made Jesus’ witness so successful? The Bible says, “The Spirit of the Lord [is] upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” Luke 4:18. The Spirit of the Lord was upon Jesus. Did He go about saying, I will just be an example; that is how I will do My witnessing? No! When the Spirit of the Lord was upon Him, He did not just sit and let people go by Him who were perishing in darkness—He did something about it. He witnessed to them; He preached to them; He healed the brokenhearted; He released those who were in bondage to sin.

Bottled Up Truth

What are we doing? We have a lot of truth bottled up in our minds; truth that, if shared, will save lives. But it will not do any good if it is just bottled up in our minds. We might be zealous about getting some truth out and sharing it with others within our own church; we want to make sure that they know exactly what we know; but what about the people who are perishing in darkness?

Jesus did not witness through His own power but through the power of the Holy Spirit. He utilized no other power than we may possess. Jesus wants to give us the Holy Spirit; He wants to fill our hearts with the Holy Spirit, but our focus must be right.

In John 4, the story is given about Jesus as He sat beside Jacob’s well, waiting for someone to give Him a cup of cool water. There He met a woman, and after dialoging with her, she came to realize that this was not just an ordinary person with whom she was talking—it was the Messiah. Because the Spirit of the Lord was upon Jesus, it had an influence upon her. It brought conviction upon her mind; there was power in what Jesus was saying. As a result, she went back into the city and brought the whole city out to see the Messiah. “She proved herself a more effective missionary than His own disciples.” The Ministry of Healing, 102. Did she have any training? No, but she yielded to the conviction of the Holy Spirit, and she became a powerful medium to bring souls to Christ.

“The disciples saw nothing in Samaria to indicate that it was an encouraging field. Their thoughts were fixed upon a great work to be done in the future.” Ibid. Is that what we are doing? Are we waiting on some big work to be done sometime in the future when the latter rain is poured out?—Oh, we are going to become soul winners then! Let us not make the mistake that the disciples made, because they did not see that right around them was a harvest to be gathered. That same thing is happening all around us right now. There are many people to be won to Christ, but what are we doing about it? “Through the woman whom they despised a whole cityful were brought to hear Jesus. She carried the light at once to her countrymen.” Ibid.

Can We Be Filled?

Can we have this experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit? Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit. (See Luke 4:1.) We have examples of others, such as Stephen, who were also filled with the Holy Spirit. (See Acts 7:55.) The Bible says, “A great number [in Antioch] believed, and turned unto the Lord. Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.” Acts 11:21–24. Each one of us can be filled with the Holy Spirit, but we will not be filled with the Holy Spirit, if our focus is wrong.

What will the Holy Spirit do for our witnessing? “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Acts 1:8. The believers assembled in Jerusalem needed the Holy Spirit to help them witness. They needed the Holy Spirit, because they were to take the gospel to the entire world. This group of people who received the early rain power went out and started churches. That church became full of the Holy Spirit, and like fire, it went around the world. Every single person heard the gospel in his lifetime. There are five billion more people on this planet now than there was then. Do you think it is important that we receive the Holy Spirit?

We are not going to go to heaven unless we receive the Holy Spirit. Here is our greatest need! Why have we not received the Holy Spirit? The Bible tells us, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater [works] than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do [it].” John 14:12–14.

Jesus said that if we believe on Him and His works, we will do them also. What were the works of Jesus? He was preaching to the poor in heart; He was delivering those who were captive in sin. The same works that He did, we will do also, if we are filled with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of Prophecy comments on this promise: “Christ did not mean that the disciples would make more exalted exertions than He had made, but that their work would have greater magnitude. He did not refer merely to miracle working, but to all that would take place under the agency of the Holy Spirit. . . .

“Wonderfully were these words fulfilled. After the descent of the Holy Spirit, the disciples were so filled with love for Him and for those for whom He died, that hearts were melted by the words they spoke and the prayers they offered. They spoke in the power of the Spirit; and under the influence of that power, thousands were converted.” The Acts of the Apostles, 22.

How important it is that we receive heaven’s greatest gift for us! When the early church was filled with the Holy Spirit, they were filled with love for Him and for those for whom He died. We may think we love the Lord, but that love is only superficial, if we do not have a love for those who are perishing in darkness. The same works that Jesus did, we can do also, with the power of the Holy Spirit.

A Willing Giver

How willing is God to give us the Holy Spirit? “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall [your] heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?” Luke 11:13. If He is so willing to give, why have we not received this gift? Ellen White tells us, “The lapse of time has wrought no change in Christ’s parting promise to send the Holy Spirit as His representative. It is not because of any restriction on the part of God that the riches of His grace do not flow earthward to men. If the fulfillment of the promise is not seen as it might be, it is because the promise is not appreciated as it should be. If all were willing, all would be filled with the Spirit. Wherever the need of the Holy Spirit is a matter little thought of, there is seen spiritual drought, spiritual darkness, spiritual declension and death. Whenever minor matters occupy the attention, the divine power which is necessary for the growth and prosperity of the church, and which would bring all other blessings in its train, is lacking, though offered in infinite plenitude.” The Acts of the Apostles, 50.

Friends, we are talking about life and death issues here. We are talking about either going to heaven or hell—one way or the other. We have to get serious about eternal life and about what God wants to give us. He is willing, but we are not ready to receive it.

Be Willing

Christ’s favorite theme was the gift of the Holy Spirit. “Christ, the Great Teacher, had an infinite variety of subjects from which to choose, but the one upon which He dwelt most largely was the endowment of the Holy Spirit.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 156. What is our focus? Upon what are we dwelling? Do we have one favorite subject on which we just keep hammering? If Christ is our example, we can receive the Holy Spirit, and we can finish the work that God has given us to do. Christ’s favorite theme was the endowment of the Holy Spirit, and that is where our focus should be, so we can receive the Holy Spirit. We are not going to heaven without it.

We must be willing to be led by the Spirit. Mark 1:12 says that the Holy Spirit came upon Christ and drove Him into the wilderness. He was out there with the beasts of the field in a wilderness area. How desirable would that be? But that was where the Spirit led Him, and that is where He was going to remain until He was told otherwise. Jesus could have died out there in the wilderness, on His fast. Do you realize that? He was right where the Holy Spirit led Him, and He would have stayed right there until the Holy Spirit led Him some where else. Are we willing to be led by the Spirit of God in any place, in any direction? “If all were willing, all would be filled with the Spirit.” Are we willing to be led by the Spirit of God? When we pray for the Holy Spirit, we better expect that things are going to happen in our lives. We better be ready to be convicted of sin; we better be ready to be led wherever the Holy Spirit leads us and to do what He impresses us through His Word to do.

Occupied with Minors

So what is the problem? The heart is not completely surrendered; the will has not been merged in God’s will; therefore, we are not filled. “Wherever the need of the Holy Spirit is a matter little thought of, there is seen spiritual drought, spiritual darkness, spiritual declension and death. Whenever minor matters occupy the attention, the divine power which is necessary for the growth and prosperity of the church, and which would bring all other blessings in its train, is lacking, though offered in infinite plentitude.”

Are we in spiritual drought, darkness, declension and death? Do minor matters occupy our minds, or do we have the eternal reality of what is ahead of us? If minor matters are occupying our minds, the Holy Spirit cannot enter.

Persistently Pray

We must be praying. Ellen White wrote, “Why do we not hunger and thirst for the gift of the Spirit?” The Acts of the Apostles, 50. “For the baptism of the Spirit every worker should be pleading with God. Companies should be gathered together to ask for special help, for heavenly wisdom, that they may know how to plan and execute wisely.” Testimonies, vol. 8, 22. Is not the Spirit of God to come today in answer to earnest, persevering prayer and fill men with power for service? Why then is the church so weak? Because we are not asking, pleading, persevering for the Holy Spirit. If we want to be led by the Spirit, we must persistently ask. (See Luke 11:1–13.) We have to stay upon our knees until we receive the promised blessing. We are not going to receive the Holy Spirit if we are spending two minutes on our knees then getting up and going about our duties. We have to spend quality time with the Lord.

“By your fervent prayers of faith you can move the arm that moves the world.” The Adventist Home, 264. That is a wonderful promise. “We should pray as earnestly for the descent of the Holy Spirit as the disciples prayed on the day of Pentecost. If they needed it at that time, we need it more today.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 158. We must be persistent in our asking.

We Must Gain Victory

Self must be laid aside. In Steps to Christ, 43, we are told that the fight against self will be our greatest battle, but it must be overcome. “There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, putting self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his heart and lives a life wholly consecrated to God.” The Ministry of Healing, 159. Have we set self aside? Self must be dead.

“I am crucified with Christ.” Galatians 2:20. We must be crucified, cleansed from sin and selfishness. “I saw that none could share the ‘refreshing’ unless they obtain the victory over every besetment, over pride, selfishness, love of the world, and over every wrong word and action. We should, therefore, be drawing nearer and nearer to the Lord and be earnestly seeking that preparation necessary to enable us to stand in the battle in the day of the Lord. Let all remember that God is holy and that none but holy beings can ever dwell in His presence.” Early Writings, 71. Are we gaining the victory over self, over our besetting sins? We will never know that we have a besetting sin if we do not take time to examine ourselves.

We do not really know ourselves, and the Bible says that we need to examine ourselves (11 Corinthians 5), and if we do not find anything, then we are to go to the Lord, like David said in Psalm 139:23, 24: “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if [there be any] wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” We need to ask the Lord to show us the defects in our characters to which we may be blind. We have to gain the victory over every besetment of sin through God’s grace and power.

Is our pride dead? We fight with our pride all of the time. We get offended; we do not like what someone says to us; they look a little odd at us—and our pride wells up. When pride gets control of our lives, there can only be strife, dissension, and every evil work. We need to start claiming the promise that says, “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.” Psalm 119:165. Our pride and selfishness, our love of the world must be dead.

David prayed, Lord, guard the door of my lips. (Psalm 141:3.) We must ask the Lord to guard the door of our lips and give us pure motives. When evil-speaking happens, it occurs in the mind first, and we have to ask the Lord to help us with that.

If money-making is our main goal in this life, if the things of this world are eclipsing our view of Christ, we better come back to the cross, pick it up, and deny ourselves and follow Him. (See Matthew 16:24; Mark 8:34; Luke 9:23.) If we are not spending time in prayer and Bible study and self-examination, if we are getting up in the morning and all we have on our minds is what the day holds as far as worldly attainments for us, we have lost our focus. We better ask the Lord to help us get our focus on His Word every morning, seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, then everything else will be added unto us. (See Matthew 6:33.) That is the promise. We must take the time; we must have victory over every wrong word, motive, and action.

Active Witnesses

We must be active witnesses if we are going to receive the Holy Spirit. Do not think that when the latter rain power comes that you will then automatically know how to win souls for Christ. That will not happen, because you have already proved yourself unfaithful and have not qualified yourself for the duty that God has given.

When we have an entire, whole-hearted consecration for the service of Christ, God will recognize the fact by an out-pouring of His Spirit without measure. But this will not occur while the largest portion of the church are not laborers together with God. (See Review and Herald, July 21, 1896.) Yes, we can hold our banner high, stating that we are the commandment-keeping people of God. We can go to church every single Sabbath and think that we are in harmony with God, but nothing will ever happen. We will die within the church.

Qualify for Service

We must qualify ourselves. “How few have qualified themselves in the science of saving souls! How few understand the work that should be done in building up the church, in communicating light to those who sit in darkness.” Review and Herald, February 14, 1893.

How do we qualify ourselves? We get trained, and then we use the training we have learned. If we are not using it, it is slowly dying. All vain thoughts must be put away. In 11 Corinthians 10:5, 6, we are told, “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.” “The soul of the prophet [John the Baptist], emptied of self, was filled with the light of the divine. . . . Christ could say, ‘I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me.’ John 5:30. To Him it is declared, ‘Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even Thy God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows.’ Hebrews 1:9. The Father ‘giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him.’ [John 3:34.] So with the followers of Christ. We can receive of heaven’s light only as we are willing to be emptied of self. We cannot discern the character of God, or accept Christ by faith, unless we consent to the bringing into captivity of every thought to the obedience of Christ. To all who do this the Holy Spirit is given without measure.” The Desire of Ages, 180. We may have all of our theology right, but unless we consent to be under the direction of the Holy Spirit and bring every thought into captivity to Him, we cannot even discern the character of God.

“The descent of the Holy Spirit upon the church is looked forward to as in the future; but it is the privilege of the church to have it now. Seek for it, pray for it, believe for it. We must have it, and Heaven is waiting to bestow it.” Review and Herald, March 19, 1895.

Mike Bauler pastors the Historic Message Church in Portland, Oregon. He may be contacted by e-mail at: mbauler@molalla.net.

Converted By The World

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The Lord has laid upon my heart a deep concern about the deadly trend of compromise that is paralyzing God’s people. While we praise God for the thousands that are still coming to Christ, we can not at the same time ignore this subtle but deadly conversion of the church to the world!

Losing Our Song

I heard about a canary that sang an unusually beautiful song. During the summer, its owner hung the cage in a nearby tree so the bird could enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. Eventually, sparrows began to frequent the tree. At first, the canary was frightened, but soon he began enjoying his new companions. Yet through the steady exposure to the sparrows, he gradually lost the sweetness of his song as he began mimicking the dull twitter of his new “friends.”

I truly fear what happened to the canary’s song is happening to the church. Through a long series of seemingly minor compromises and constant association with the world, I believe the church is losing its distinctive message and being slowly converted to the world!

World Conversion?

When we hear the phrase “world conversion,” most Christians immediately picture a great moving of the Holy Spirit that brings a global acceptance of Christ. But there is another spirit out there that is involved in a different form of evangelism. The devil is ever working to counteract the soul-winning efforts of God by sowing tares among the wheat.

And instead of the church converting the world to Christ, I believe there is frightening evidence that in many areas the church is gradually being converted to the world!

This subtle shift from service to Christ to serving the enemy is happening so slowly many Christians are unconscious they have changed teams. This drifting trend can be lethal to our souls. Remember, Jesus said when He returns most professed Christians will be astonished that they are excluded from heaven.

“Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not 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.” Matthew 7:22, 23.

Spiritual Disorientation

Do you remember when John F. Kennedy Jr.’s single-engine aircraft crashed into the Atlantic Ocean, killing him and two others? Investigators have come to believe that while flying over the blackened ocean on a nearly moonless night, he gazed out the window for reference instead of consulting his instruments. He believed he was flying straight and level, while in reality the plane was making a wide arch downward into the dark sea. He trusted his feelings and neglected to trust his instruments.

I fear this is what the church is doing now! Instead of looking to the compass of God’s unchanging Word for guidance, we are becoming spiritually disoriented from gazing out the window at the world. And many Christians are unaware that they’re flying upside down!

Converted by Comparison

“For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” 11 Corinthians 10:12.

Historically, the church continually makes the mistake of determining how holy it is by comparing itself to the world. But as the standards of the world continue to plummet, the standards of the church tend to follow close behind—retaining just enough distance to maintain the illusion of holiness.

For one example, when I was growing up in New York City, a girlfriend of mine was sent home from school for wearing immodest clothes. (Mind you, this was a public school in New York!) But what was unacceptable then is readily accepted in most Christian schools today! We cannot afford to deceive ourselves by thinking that as long as we are holier than the world, we must be pleasing God! Jesus said in Luke 16:15, “For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.”

Converted by Compromise

Another common strategy of the devil is to market Christianity to the world by making a few subtle compromises. For instance, some people attach Christian words to devilish music so the lost will be more attracted to the church and feel at home. But music is not a neutral medium. Sensual music does not become holy by simply rewriting a few words. And this door swings both ways, as thousands of our Christian youth develop an appetite for worldly music they eventually lose respect for the holiness of God—and end up leaving the church!

Another example of compromise is the new trend of “dressing down” for church on Sabbath morning to create a more relaxed and familiar environment. People argue that going casual makes visitors feel less pressure to change for church. In reality, the sense of reverence and sanctity for the Lord, His sanctuary, and the occasion of Sabbath worship, is greatly diminished. Obviously some can not afford formal clothing but it seems a little strange to me that some church members will dress up for their employer, but would dress down for the Almighty.

Catatonic Conversions

Did you know that roughly 60 percent of church members rarely make it to Sabbath School because they need to “sleep in” for some reason? Just like the five foolish virgins in Matthew 25, much of God’s church is sleeping without oil reserves for their lamps. And like the apostles in Gethsemane, many are spiritually snoring when we should be watching and praying.

“Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning—lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!” Mark 13:35–37.

The World: A Love/Hate Relationship

Jesus was very clear! We are not of the world, and we should make no attempt to be like the world or make peace with the enemy. Remember Delilah had to lull Samson to sleep before she could neutralize his power. Likewise the devil is trying to sedate God’s people with the pleasures of this life.

“Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” James 4:4. [Emphasis supplied.]

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” 1 John 2:15.

I could cite many more examples, but I think you see the principle. This was the philosophy that brought on the great apostasy of the Dark Ages. The liberals in the church argued, “Let’s reach the pagans by making a few minor compromises.” Soon they were praying to statues, observing pagan holidays, believing pagan doctrines, and idolizing Mary and the priests! Did the church grow? Absolutely! When the church lowers its standards to reach the world to create an illusion of salvation without self-denial, the lost will always come in droves. But how likely is it that these new nominal members will be saved?

A Self Examination

Paul said, “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith.” 11 Corinthians 13:5.

Here are a few clues to know if a church is gradually being converted to the world: If minds go blank when someone asks for scriptural reasons for our faith . . . If members can find little time for devotions, study, and prayer but always have time for TV . . . If members don’t see anything wrong with dining out, shopping, or attending sporting events on Sabbath . . . When leaders can’t detect anything wrong with “Christian Rap” and “Christian Rock” music and prefer the shallow “7/11” songs (where you sing the same seven words eleven times) . . . If non-Christian friends don’t notice a distinct difference in the congregation’s dress, diet, or conversation . . . this church is most likely being converted to the world.

It’s important in these last days that we carefully examine all aspects of our lives, or we may be caught unaware when Jesus comes. Friend, I urge you to stand with me as I do the same and work toward allowing God to purify our hearts and His church.

So What Can We Do?

For starters we desperately need a revival, but that can only come after heartfelt repentance.

James 4:7–10: “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Lament and mourn and weep! . . . Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.”

We need to look to the Word and away from the world! We need to pray for revival!

Pastor Doug Batchelor is President and Speaker for Amazing Facts Ministries. He may be contacted by telephone at: 916-434-3880 or by mail at: P. O. Box 1058, Roseville, California 95678. This article is reprinted with permission from Pastor Batchelor’s August 2003 letter.

Power of the Gospel

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[Editor’s Note: This sermon was given at the Steps to Life Camp Meeting, July 2003. The conversational style of the speaker has been preserved.]

I read a little sign that I want you to think about. It got my attention when I drove by it recently: “Exposure to the Son will Prevent Burning.” Now think about that. It’s true! We all say don’t get in the sun or you’ll get burned, but this sign is talking about our need of exposure to Jesus Christ. Our exposure to Him will make sure that we don’t burn! So, friend, let’s contemplate that a little bit. We need some more exposure to the Son.

I would like to focus on the power of the gospel. I know I need it in my life, day by day. The church, God’s last-day people, needs power. Jesus is coming, and great signs and wonders will take place that will almost addle the mind. Yet we look for something inside of us. Lord, what is it that we need? What must we do to be saved? Where is this power of the gospel? What is it? How can we have this power? I look at the life of Christ and the disciples, and wherever they went, things happened. I want to be around things that are happening, manifestations of the power of God.

In 1904, Ellen White wrote something that you would think that we didn’t need to hear again, as Seventh-day Adventists. After all, we have the information, don’t we? We have it on the printed page, and we’ve read a lot of it, but friends, where is it finding place to lodge? We need not just the head knowledge but the heart knowledge. “The theme of redemption will employ the minds and tongues of the redeemed through everlasting ages.” Lift Him Up, 76. Notice the theme of redemption. If this theme of redemption is what we are going to think about through these ceaseless ages, don’t you think we need to be contemplating it now? Yes, if this is going to occupy our minds there, it needs to occupy our minds now, or we won’t be there for it to occupy our minds!

We think we know all of the answers to all the problems in the world, but what about this thing of redemption, the power of the gospel?

Why Hasn’t Jesus Come?

A very familiar paragraph in The Desire of Ages, on page 671, says, “The very image of God is to be reproduced in humanity.” I’ve asked myself the question, “Why hasn’t Jesus come back?” Has anyone asked that lately? And then I happen to stand in front of the mirror, and maybe it answers the question. Isn’t that right? I can say that about myself, but you need to say it about yourself today. Right?

There has got to be a reason why He hasn’t come, because we know that He could have come shortly after 1844. [“Had Adventists, after the great disappointment in 1844, held fast their faith and followed on unitedly in the opening providence of God, receiving the message of the third angel and in the power of the Holy Spirit proclaiming it to the world, they would have seen the salvation of God, the Lord would have wrought mightily with their efforts, the work would have been completed, and Christ would have come ere this to receive His people to their reward. But in the period of doubt and uncertainty that followed the disappointment, many of the advent believers yielded their faith. . . . Thus the work was hindered, and the world was left in darkness. Had the whole Adventist body united upon the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, how widely different would have been our history!” Evangelism, 695, 696.]

So there must be something wrong. We can’t just say everything is fine, pat it, and keep going.

The Image of God

I am looking at what inspiration says: “The very image of God is to be reproduced in humanity.” That’s awesome to me; how about you? It is an awesome thought to think that the very image of God is going to be reproduced in you and in me. How is this going to be accomplished? I know that it is going to be, but maybe when you look at your life today and when I look at my life, we see some of the weaknesses and characteristics that we are not so happy with, and ask, “Is this the very image of God?”

Why is it so important for the image of God to be reproduced in humanity? And really, who’s on trial here, anyway? Is it really you; is it really me? Who is really challenged in the very beginning—you, me, or God?

“The honor of God, the honor of Christ, is involved in the perfection of the character of His people.” The Desire of Ages, 671. Think about it. The honor of God! God is being challenged. Jesus is being challenged. After all, there is going to be a people who are like Jesus. So God, as it were, is on trial. The enemy, Satan, says it is not going to happen, and you know what? He is going about making sure it is not happening, in a lot of cases. We say that we want to be like Jesus, and yet our lives show differently, in the way we talk, in the way we act, and in the way we conduct ourselves. Just looking at our own character today, is it the character of Jesus? Do you really have the mind of Christ today?

Friend, if not, then that is one of the reasons He has not come back. He is coming back after a people that is like Him.

Ignorant of Salvation

When we think about the theme of redemption all through the ceaseless ages, what do we need as a people now to better prepare us? What kind of instructions? What should we be dwelling on? What should we be spending our time on?

Testimonies, vol. 4, 394, puts it this way: “The people [of God] are more ignorant in regard to the plan of salvation and need more instruction upon this all-important subject than upon any other.” That is awesome to me. I thought, surely not Seventh-day Adventists, surely not you and me—we say we’ve been born-again and have a relationship with Jesus Christ; He is our Lord and our Saviour; He is our Friend; He is our Redeemer. We say we have the connection, but Ellen White says, “The people are more ignorant in regard to the plan of salvation.” You and I realize there is no excuse, because there is so much material right in God’s Word that talks about the plan of salvation. We think we know it, yet as a people, we ought to be studying it as we study the sanctuary.

The sanctuary is the heart of Adventism, is it not? In studying the earthly sanctuary and the message, we should better understand the plan of salvation. Somehow, God’s servant says, we have become ignorant on this subject. When I read that, I said, This is the servant of God, and we need to know more about it, because there is power in what we learn about salvation—power of the gospel.

Why would God’s servant say we were ignorant of these things? Why do we need to study more about it? Romans 10:2 says, “For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.” Zeal is not going to do it! Now let me tell you, I like to see a zealous Christian, a happy Christian, an excited Christian. Do you think a Christian should be a little excited? Do you think a Christian should have a little zeal about them? There should be some excitement, some zeal, but it says here, “I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.”

Verse 3 says, “For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.” Friend, I wonder today; have we really submitted ourselves unto the righteousness of God, or are we tiptoeing around, thinking that we have our own righteousness and that we are doing so well and that we have got everything where it should be? There is a problem with that, because the Bible tells us that we need to be ready, “for in such an hour as ye think not” the Son of man is going to come. Matthew 24:44.

In society today, you hear a lot of news about the belief that everything is going to be all right. The economy is getting better. Right now we [the United States] are going to police the whole world. We are hearing that we are going to have peace in the world. The Bible says, “. . . then sudden destruction cometh.” 1 Thessalonians 5:3. When everything seems to be stabilizing, look out! We live in that time of earth’s history. I understand more and more, day by day what God’s servant and what His Word mean, “Kenny, you just need to occupy for today, son. Do not get too excited about tomorrow, because you don’t have it yet.” After all, the Lord has those things in control; He is going to take care of our needs; we need to just occupy for today. (See Luke 19:13.)

Have we really submitted to Jesus Christ today in such a way in our hearts and our lives that if something should happen today, we are ready to meet Him? Friend, we need some more exposure to the Son! I am determined, by the grace of God, not to continue to be ignorant in regard to the plan of salvation, to not only know but also experience what it means to know Jesus. The more we preach the gospel and live the gospel, we are going to have the power of the gospel! “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18.

Knowledge of Salvation

I’m wondering today if we, as Seventh-day Adventist Christians, sometimes think, maybe, that it is foolish. We’ve got it; we understand it; we’ve read about it; we’ve experienced it; so just let’s leave it. Hosea 4:6 says that there is a people who is going to perish for a lack of knowledge. How could Seventh-day Adventists be lost because of a lack of knowledge, with all the things that we have? We have a wealth, a world of information. But are we using it? Are we utilizing it?

Luke 1: 77 says, “To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins.” So part of the knowledge of salvation is experiencing the remission of sins in our lives. That’s important! If we have no sin, we are not going to worry so much, or we may think about salvation or the blood, and it is not important to us, because we feel we are so good. Verse 78 says, “Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us.” We are here today by the mercy of God!

I have often asked myself the question, What is so wrong about feeling good about your relationship with Christ? Is there anything really wrong with feeling content? Could it be dangerous? Should we be striving for a better relationship? Or does there come a time where it plateaus, and we don’t need anything anymore; we’re all right; we have it all together?

Reasonably Good

We need to know we have a relationship with Jesus Christ, don’t we? If we don’t know if we have that connection, there is something wrong. But if we compare that relationship to somebody else’s, or we don’t feel we need any more, there can be trouble. Sometimes I think we have that problem, especially those that have been in Adventism for a lot of years. We can grow a little lukewarm. We think it is enough to be “reasonably good.” It is easier to be “reasonably good” than it is to be perfect.

But the Bible says we are to be perfect. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Matthew 5:48. It doesn’t say be “reasonably good.” The person, who feels and thinks that “he is reasonably good, and is contented with his condition, does not seek to become a partaker of the grace and righteousness of Christ.” Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 7. Is there anyone today that thinks they are “reasonably good”? Have you become content with that condition?

Walk in Faith

Chapters 8 through 10 of Ephesians talk about the gift of grace. Abraham is spoken of in Genesis 15:6: “He believed in the Lord; and he counted it to him for righteousness.” If I were to ask you today if you believe, how would you answer? If you really believe, it is counted to you for righteousness. How we need Christ’s righteousness today! We have nothing to offer, but when we come to Christ with that belief, He can do something with us.

When was the last time you really walked in faith—not the pocket-book talking, not the savings account talking, not all that stuff in the world talking, but really walked in faith? God wants us to walk in faith. “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:17. “Without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” Hebrews 11:6. Without faith it is impossible to please God, and yet how many of us really walk in faith, believing God will take care of our needs? It is so important, in Adventism today, that we learn to trust God—trust that He can turn bad things around and make something good come out of them; trust Him when there is no money in the bank to pay the house payment, the car payment, the insurance, the taxes.

If we are going to be co-laborers with Him, we are going to have to have faith. The Bible also says, in Matthew 5:6, that we need to hunger and thirst after righteousness. Think about the things we hunger and thirst for in this life, and how much more important are the things of eternity.

Earthly Nature

I got to thinking a little about the earthly nature. People say that when they were baptized the old man was killed. That is what is supposed to happen. When you give your life to Jesus, and you go down into that watery grave, that’s where the old man stays. But how often we’ve looked and the old man has come back again. The old nature has come back, and what a struggle that is for every child of God. We need Jesus to keep the old man, the earthly nature, away. We need to understand the plan of salvation, the importance of His grace and strength, the power of the gospel.

The earthly nature is something we fight day by day. We fight it, because we are not totally surrendered to Christ. After baptism, we are still going to be tested and tried. Some want to know how big the battle is going to be. It depends on the kind of fight that you put up or whether you turn it over to Christ.

No Acceptable Excuses

I’ve heard people say, “I am impatient. I have been impatient all my life, and I guess I will be impatient until the Lord comes.” Well, look out now. I have heard some say, “I have a temper.” I have had Seventh-day Adventist Christians say, “You know I can’t control my tongue, I am a cusser. I’ve cussed all my life; I can’t seem to gain the victory, and I know the Lord understands.” Others have said, regarding a bad habit, “It is just something I was kind of born with, and I can’t really help it.” All these things are dealing with earthly nature. These things are part of the old man that is coming back. That is not of Jesus. Bitter and sweet water is not going to come out of the same mouth, out of the same stream. It has to be one way or the other. As long as we keep thinking it is okay, that we are “reasonably good,” we somehow convince ourselves that these things are natural, and we think everything is going to be all right. No! We have to be transformed. Christ’s character must be fully reproduced in us.

No excuses are acceptable. If you say you cannot change because this is the way you were born, heaven is not going to be your home. You are going to have to be born again.

In The Desire of Ages, 391, we read: “By looking constantly to Jesus with the eye of faith, we shall be strengthened. God will make the most precious revelations to His hungering, thirsting people. They will find that Christ is a personal Saviour. As they feed upon His word, they find that it is spirit and life. The word destroys the natural, earthly nature, and imparts a new life in Christ Jesus. The Holy Spirit comes to the soul as a Comforter. By the transforming agency of His grace, the image of God is reproduced in the disciple; he becomes a new creature. Love takes the place of hatred, and the heart receives the divine similitude.” [Emphasis supplied.]

The Word destroys the natural earthly nature. Friend, if the earthly nature has a hold on you today, there is nothing that you can do without the Holy Spirit. I don’t care how you were raised; I don’t care what happened to you. People say, “I am an abuser, because I was abused.” Come off of it! My Bible tells me that when you have been born again, all things become new. (11 Corinthians 5:17.) It doesn’t say some of them; it says, all things become new. Then when you give your life to Christ, it is no longer your mind but His. You can’t think the way you were thinking before. You can’t even respond the way you used to respond. You realize, if you have the mind of Christ, you can’t hate anybody. You can’t even dislike anybody. There are people I choose not to be around, but I have yet to meet an individual, and I think most of you would say the same thing, that I don’t want in heaven.

Get It Together

The Bible tells us, in Ephesians 6:17, that the sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. I like to think about the two-edged sword. Whichever way you swing it, it begins to cut and divide and to separate. Sometimes it separates you from family and friends in a way that you don’t understand, but the big challenge is to just accept it. Walking in the will of God and wanting to do what Jesus wants you to do, you just say, “Lord, I trust you. I have faith in you.”

God, in the last days, is going to use men and women and children to finish His work. I believe He may divide and separate them from their families. We’re going to have to cut loose of these earthly things, these things that slow us down.

“For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.” Acts 22:15. The Word of God makes us a witness. Matthew 4:4 says, “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” We need to be listening to every Word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. But we have to do more than listen. Luke 11:28 says, “Blessed [are] they that hear the word of God, and keep it.” We have to hear and keep the sayings—not just doers only or just hearers only. We have got to get the whole thing together. We have to realize that as the Spirit comes into us it imparts life.

There is power in the gospel. There is power in the blood. They are powerful today. I don’t want to hear us say, “We don’t have power. We are just this little group over here.” The work will never be finished that way. I can guarantee the work is going to be finished, with or without you, with or without me. We are told, “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” James 1:22. Colossians 3:16, 17 says that the Word needs to dwell in us. When the Word of God is dwelling and living inside of us, this old earthly nature is going to be destroyed.

A Living Force

How are we to present this gospel? God wants us to have zeal. He wants some of us who have never said “Amen” before to say “Amen.” Have you ever been so excited you couldn’t be quiet? If there is something in the world that you like, that you enjoy, you let everyone else know about it. This is what is needed. We need to have this zeal, this excitement for God!

Ellen White said it like this: “The gospel is to be presented, not as a lifeless theory, but as a living force to change the life. God would have His servants bear testimony to the fact that through His grace men may possess Christlikeness of character and may rejoice in the assurance of His great love. He would have us bear testimony to the fact that He cannot be satisfied until all who will accept salvation are reclaimed and reinstated in their holy privileges as His sons and daughters.” The Ministry of Healing, 99. How many lifeless sermons and theories do we hear from the pulpit nowadays?

The gospel of Christ I present to you today is the power of God unto salvation. It is the righteousness of Jesus Christ. It’s a cross; it’s a glory; it’s the blood. I am thankful for it today. Without His promises, what could we do? What will we do in the hour of crisis, in the hour of test and trial? We need to hide the Word of God in our hearts that we might not sin against Him. (See Psalm 119:11.) The devil is going to bring every possible thing he can against God’s people in the last days. Friend, where will you stand? Where will I stand? I want heaven to be my home, how about you? I don’t want to have gone this far and somehow miss out on heaven, how about you?

You can make a difference, if you let the Spirit of God come in. He says to “Behold the Lamb.” John 1:29. Friend, please do it. Don’t behold individuals; don’t look to others today. Look to Jesus Christ, who is the Author and Finisher of your faith. Experience the power of the gospel. Remain faithful until Jesus comes.

Pastor Kenny Shelton is speaker for the television ministry of Behold the Lamb in Herrin, Illinois. He may be contacted by e-mail at: BTLM@GTE.net or by telephone at: 1-800-238-2856.