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Story – The Brown Towel

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“One who has nothing can give nothing,” said Mrs. Sayers, the sexton’s wife, as the ladies of the sewing society were busily engaged in packing the contents of a large box, destined for a Western missionary.

“A person who has nothing to give must be poor, indeed,” said Mrs. Bell, as she deposited a pair of warm blankets in the already well-filled box.

Mrs. Sayers looked at the last-named speaker with a glance which seemed to say, “You who have never known self-denial cannot feel for me,” and remarked, “You surely think one can be too poor to give?”

“I once thought so, but have learned from experience that no better investment can be made, even from the depths of poverty, than lending to the Lord.”

Seeing the ladies listening attentively to the conversation, Mrs. Bell continued: “Perhaps, as our work is finished, I can do no better than to give you my experience on the subject. It may be the means of showing you that God will reward the cheerful giver.

“During the first twenty-eight years of my life, I was surrounded with wealth; and not until I had been married nine years did I know a want which money could satisfy, or feel the necessity of exertion. Reverses came with fearful suddenness, and before I had recovered from the blow, I found myself the wife of a poor man, with five little children dependent upon our exertions.

“From that hour I lost all thought of anything but the care of my family. Late hours and hard work were my portion, and to my unskilled hands it seemed at first a bitter lot. My husband strove anxiously to gain a subsistence, and barely succeeded. We changed our place of residence several times, hoping to do better, but without improvement.

“Everything seemed against us. Our well-stocked wardrobe had become so exhausted that I felt justified in absenting myself from the house of God, with my children, for want of suitable apparel. While in this low condition, I went to church one evening, when my poverty-stricken appearance would escape notice, and took my seat near the door. An agent from the West preached, and begged contributions to the home missionary cause. His appeal brought tears to my eyes, and painfully reminded me of my past days of prosperity, when I could give of my abundance to all who called upon me. It never entered my mind that the appeal for assistance in any way concerned me, with my poor children banished from the house of God by poverty, while I could only venture out under the friendly protection of darkness.

“I left the church more submissive to my lot, with a prayer in my heart that those whose consciences had been addressed might respond. I tried in vain to sleep that night. The words of the text, ‘Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom,’ seemed continually sounding in my ears. The eloquent entreaty of the speaker to all, however poor, to give a mite to the Lord, and receive the promised blessing, seemed addressed to me. I rose early the next morning, and looked over all my worldly goods in search of something worth bestowing, but in vain; the promised blessing seemed beyond my reach.

“Hearing that the ladies of the church had filled a box for the missionary’s family, I made one more effort to spare something. All was poor and threadbare. What should I do? At last I thought of my towels. I had six, of coarse brown linen, but little worn. They seemed a scanty supply for a family of seven; and yet I took one from the number, and, putting it into my pocket, hastened to the house where the box was kept, and quietly slipped it in. I returned home with a light heart, feeling that my Saviour’s eye had seen my sacrifice, and would bless my effort.

“From that day success attended all my husband’s efforts in business. In a few months our means increased so that we were able to attend church and send our children to Sabbath school, and before ten years had passed, our former prosperity had returned fourfold. ‘Good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over,’ had been given us.

“It may seem superstitious to you, my dear friends, but we date all our success in life to God’s blessing, following that humble gift out of deep poverty. He may not always think best to reward so signally those who give to Him, but He is never unmindful of the humblest gift or giver. Wonder not that from that day I deem few too poor to give, and that I am a firm believer in God’s promise that He will repay with interest, even in this life, all we lend to Him.”

Glances of deep interest, unmixed with envy, were cast from the windows at Mrs. Bell, as, after bidding the ladies adieu, she stepped into her carriage. Her consistent benevolence had proved to all that in her prosperity she retained the same Christian spirit which, in her days of poverty, had led to the bestowal of the brown towel.

“Well,” exclaimed Mrs. Sayers, “if we all had such a self-denying spirit, we might fill another box at once. I will never again think that I am too poor to give.”

Stories Worth Re-reading, Our Young Folks, ©1913, 175–177

Words of Comfort

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In the last scenes of this earth’s history, war will rage. There will be pestilence, plague, and famine. The waters of the deep will overflow their boundaries. Property and life will be destroyed by fire and flood. This should show us that the souls for whom Christ has died should be fitting up for the mansions Christ has gone to prepare for them. There is a rest from earth’s conflict. Where is it?—“That where I am, there ye may be also.” Heaven is where Christ is. Heaven would not be heaven to those who love Christ if He were not there. Are we individually fitting up characters which will be meet for the society of Christ and the heavenly angels?

Philip said to Christ, “Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known Me, Philip? he that hath seen Me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.”

Philip’s doubt was answered by words of reproof. He wished Christ to reveal the Father in bodily form; but in Christ, God had already revealed Himself. Is it possible, Christ said, that after walking with Me, hearing My words, seeing My miracles of feeding the five thousand, of healing the sick of the dread disease leprosy, of bringing the dead to life, of raising Lazarus, who was a prey to death, whose body had indeed seen corruption, you do not know Me? Is it possible that you do not discern the Father in the works that He does by Me? Do you not believe that I came to testify of the Father? “How sayest thou then, Show us the Father?” “He that hath seen Me hath seen the Father.” I am “the brightness of His glory,” “the express image of His person.” “How sayest thou then, Show us the Father?” “Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? the words that I speak unto you, I speak not of Myself: but the Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.” “Believe Me that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me: or else believe Me for the very works’ sake.”

Christ emphatically impressed upon them the fact that they could see the Father by faith alone. God cannot be seen in external form by any human being. Christ alone can represent the Father to humanity. This representation the disciples had been privileged to behold for over three years.

As Christ was speaking these words, the glory of God was shining from His countenance, and all present felt a sacred awe as they listened with wrapt attention to His words. They felt their hearts more decidedly drawn to Him, and as they were drawn to Christ in greater love, they were drawn to one another. They felt that heaven was very near them, that the words to which they listened were a message to them from their Heavenly Father.

The wonderful works which Christ had done, which were so full of convincing power, ought to have removed prejudice, unbelief, and malice from the hearts of the Jews. Christ had given a convincing proof of His divinity in raising Lazarus from the dead. Through Christ the Father had been revealed to believers and unbelievers. If the disciples believed this vital connection between the Father and the Son, their faith would not forsake them when they beheld Christ’s suffering and death to save a perishing world. He desired them to see that their faith must lead up to God, and be anchored there.

… Their faith might safely rest upon the evidence given by Christ’s works—works that no man had ever done or ever could do. They could reason that humanity alone could not do these wondrous works. Christ was seeking to lead them up from their low state of faith to the experience they might have received by seeing what He had done in giving a higher education, and in imparting a knowledge of what He was—God in human flesh. …

Before He left them, Christ gave His followers a positive promise that after His ascension He would send them the Holy Spirit. “Go ye therefore,” He said, “and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father [a personal God], and of the Son [a personal Prince and Saviour], and of the Holy Ghost [sent from heaven to represent Christ]: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” …

The influence of the Holy Spirit is the life of Christ in the soul. We do not now see Christ and speak to Him, but His Holy Spirit is just as near us in one place as another. It works in and through everyone who receives Christ. Those who know the indwelling of the Spirit reveal the fruits of the Spirit—“love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.” “Ye have an unction from the Holy One,” writes John, “and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. … Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.”

“At that day,” said Christ, “ye shall know that I am in My Father, and ye in Me, and I in you.” Christ sought to impress the minds of the disciples with the distinction between those who are of the world, and those who are of Christ. He was about to die, but He would imprint on their minds the fact that He would live again. And although after His ascension He would be absent from them, yet by faith they might know and see Him. And He would have the same loving interest in them that He had.

Christ assured His disciples that after His resurrection, He would show Himself alive to them. Then every mist of doubt, every cloud of darkness, would be rolled away. They would then understand that which they had not understood—that there is a complete union between Christ and His Father, a union which will always exist.

“He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me; and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him.” Again Christ repeated the condition of union with Him. This promise is made to every sincere Christian. Our Saviour speaks so plainly that no one need fail to understand that true love will always produce obedience. The religion of Jesus Christ is love. Obedience is the sign of true love. Christ and the Father are One, and those who in truth receive Christ, will love God, as the great center of their adoration, and will also love one another. The Home Missionary, July 1, 1897

Prophecy Fulfilling

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We are living in an age of the world when there is a great lack of real devotion to God and His truth. The Spirit of God is being withdrawn from the earth, and another spirit is fast gaining control of the hearts and minds of men. Yet there is no lack of form in religious work. Large and costly churches are still being erected; bells are pealing, morning, noon, and evening, summoning the worshipers to the temple of prayer. Neither are large congregations infrequent. But to the observant, there is a decided lack of the fruits of the Spirit of God, which gives little encouragement to those who expect to see their pre-millennium hopes realized in the near future.

With this condition of things confronting the religious world, and the fact that prophecy applies where the conditions prevail, would it not encourage the hearts of the faithful to examine anew the prophetic utterances of the past?

To the writer, a prophecy in the book of Ezekiel seems to find a fitting application to the present conditions: “And as for thee, son of man, the children of thy people talk of thee by the walls and in the doors of the houses, and speak one to another, everyone to his brother, saying, Come, I pray you, and hear what is the word that cometh forth from the Lord. And, they come unto thee as the people cometh, and they sit before thee as My people, and they hear thy words, but do them not: for with their mouth they show much love, but their heart goeth after their gain. And, lo, thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument: for they hear thy words, but they do them not. And when this cometh to pass (behold it cometh), then shall they know that a prophet hath been among them.” Ezekiel 33:30–33, R. V.

Perhaps many of our workers could at this time, like our Saviour in His days while in the flesh, say to the people: “This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.” Luke 4:21

While this may be true, it should be most encouraging to every worker; for it is but the logical outcome of another prophecy found in Paul’s exhortation to Timothy: “But know this, that in the last days grievous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, haughty, railers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, implacable, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, no lovers of good, traitors, headstrong, puffed up, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God; holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power thereof: from these also turn away.” 2 Timothy 3:1–5, R. V.

Where and when this condition prevails, Ezekiel 30:31–33 will surely find a fulfillment.

But he whose heart is filled with longing desire to meet his Lord in peace, will find in this condition of things encouragement to labor for souls; for amid all this Babylon, there are precious souls who sigh and cry for the abominations of Israel. “O thou that tellest good tidings to Zion, get thee up into the high mountain, O thou that tellest good tidings to Jerusalem, lift up thy voice with strength lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold, your God! Behold, the Lord God will come as a mighty One, and His arm shall rule for Him: behold, His reward is with Him, and His recompense before Him. He shall feed His flock like a shepherd, He shall gather the lambs in His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and shall gently lead those that give suck.” Isaiah 40:9–12, R. V.

Without doubt the prophet Isaiah is here looking down through the ages, to the coming of the Lord to reward His faithful flock. But the feeding of that flock is intrusted to His under-shepherds. The apostle Paul in his instruction to the elders of the church at Ephesus realized this important trust, which he sets forth in the following words: “Take heed unto yourselves, and to all the flock, in the which the Holy Ghost hath made you bishops, to feed the church of God, which He purchased with His own blood.” Acts 20:28, R. V.

The apostle Peter also sensed the solemn work: to which God called him. The elders of the church in general, he exhorts to “tend the flock of God which is among you, exercising the over sight, not of constraint, but willingly, according unto God; nor yet for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as lording it over the charge allotted to you, but making yourselves ensamples to the flock.” 1 Peter 5:2, 3, R. V.

In that noted prophecy of Jeremiah concerning the restoration of the scattered remnant, it is recorded: “And I will gather the remnant of My flock out of all the countries whither I have driven them, and will bring them again to their folds; and they shall be fruitful and multiply. And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall any be lacking, saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 23:3, 4, R. V.

Brethren and sisters, the remnant work is intrusted to our hands. Are we feeding the flock? Are we bringing them to the fold? Are we fruitful? Do we fear? The love of God casteth out all fear. Are we dismayed? “Fear thou not; … for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of My righteousness.” Isaiah 41:10. Are we lacking? “My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19

While true devotion to God and the principles, of righteousness are fast departing, the gathering call is being sounded through the earth: “Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.” Revelation 18:4

“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” Isaiah 58:1. A little longer, and the message will have done its sealing work, and the faithful will have been gathered into the fold.

Let us praise God for a place and part among His workers.

Published in the The Review and Herald, September 10, 1901

Stubborn Belief

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I was recently thinking about how we hold on so tightly to things we’ve always said or done, things we’ve strongly believed in, even in the face of evidence that proves we are wrong.

As an adult child of an alcoholic, in my mid-20s, I participated for a time in group therapy sessions with others who had grown up with alcohol- and/or drug-addicted parents or caregivers.

I remember well the first session. I sat and listened to each person in the group tell their personal story, amazed to discover that every single one of these young people, all younger than I, had grown up having endured terrible experiences in their homes as a result of addiction. Yet, I was the only one in the group who was not a next-generation alcoholic or drug addict.

These young people grew up under some of the most debilitating conditions that logic suggests should have compelled them to live a different life. Yet, instead of determinedly grabbing for that better life, they repeated in their adult lives what they had endured during their childhood. You might say, “Well, they were in therapy. They wanted to get better.” Yes, I think they did, but most of them didn’t. They relapsed repeatedly, and few jumped off that manic addiction merry-go-round.

The same can be applied to spiritual matters. Many Seventh-day Adventists believe that as long as their names are on the church rolls, that they attend church every Sabbath, faithfully pay tithe, and do many other things that tend to be found on the good side of the checklist, they are ensured of being model Christians, and their reservation on the express train to heaven is secure. Don’t get me wrong, these are all things that as God’s people we are required to do, but without a personal relationship with Jesus, they mean nothing. Making checkmarks on a list does not reserve a spot in heaven. If you want to be with Jesus for eternity, then you must develop a personal relationship with Him here and now.

A few years ago, I became involved in a conversation regarding the nature of Christ. It didn’t take long for me to realize that I believed the opposite of many Adventists. I was stubbornly committed to what I believed, so I gathered material that supported my belief about Christ’s nature. It took me three months of in-depth study to “confirm” what I believed was right and what they said was wrong. I presented my defense and provided copies of all the materials I had used. In the end, however, I didn’t change their belief, and they didn’t change mine.

More recently, I was confronted again with a different perspective on the nature of Christ. Listening to Pastor Grosboll present the evidence during his The Mystery of Godliness sermon series (see the 2023 and 2024 LandMarks sermon series), I couldn’t imagine it was true. I had a settled belief, didn’t I? But rather than rejecting it out of hand, I asked the Lord to keep my mind open so that I could see the truth He wanted to show me, whatever it might be, and then help me to accept it, even if it wasn’t what I had always thought was the truth. I continued to take in the evidence. I studied for myself. I asked questions. God answered my prayer. And now I have a peace in my mind and heart that believing as I did before had never provided.

By the time I was born, all of my grandparents had passed away except my maternal grandfather and my paternal great-grandmother. I was very young when my dad’s mother died, so I remember nothing about her, but my mother told me that she was a very stubborn German woman. She would say something was so, and no one could change her mind. During a discussion about the name of a particular street, she was adamant that the street name was Maple (I have changed the street name because I don’t remember what she thought it was, nor what the actual name was). My parents assured her it had a different name, but she would not believe it. So, they took a little drive and went to Maple Street, and there it was, plain to see, the street name wasn’t Maple. My grandmother never admitted she was wrong. She adopted the new belief that someone must have changed it.

Psychology has asked, “How can someone cling to a belief even after objective facts show it to be inaccurate?”

Adventists can ask that question about the Sabbath. I would suggest that it is possible to say that a good bit of the Sunday-keeping world knows that the seventh day is the Sabbath, blessed and made holy by God at Creation. They could tell you that they know, but they keep Sunday because of the resurrection, because their parents did, all their friends go to church on Sunday, Saturday is the Jewish Sabbath, or for any number of other reasons. They know the truth but choose to live contrary to it.

We see the same in politics. Too often, politicians promise and don’t deliver. They lie, sometimes so plainly that you know it’s a lie the moment it leaves their mouth. And yet, people continue to believe that these individuals have the best interests of the citizenry at heart.

Psychologists call this process cognitive immunization. We make our beliefs impervious to facts, and those beliefs become stronger when challenged, even in the face of the most overwhelming contradictory evidence. These “immune” beliefs are almost impossible to challenge with reasoning and structured arguments.

The Guarded Flower

There are at least two versions of this story, with minor differences. However, the version I am sharing here involves Otto von Bismarck, a German statesman and diplomat, so this might be the most accurate account. History describes Bismarck as not the most popular fellow, but he was an “excellent witness,” as one source described him.

In the early 1860s, Bismarck was the Prussian ambassador to the Court of Alexander II, Czar of Russia. One morning, while visiting the Czar, he looked out a window of the Peterhof Palace and saw a sentry on duty in the middle of the lawn. He asked the Czar why the man was there. The Czar did not know and asked his aide-de-camp, who also did not know. So, the sentry’s commanding general was summoned.

“General,” asked the Czar, “why is that soldier stationed in that isolated place?”

“I beg leave to inform your Majesty that it is by ancient custom,” was the reply.

“What is the origin of this custom?” asked Bismarck.

“I do not recollect at present,” answered the general.

“Investigate and report the result,” ordered Alexander.

Three days later, the general reported that the sentry was posted there because of an 80-year-old Imperial order. Records showed that one morning in the spring of 1780, Catherine the Great, Russia’s ruler at that time, looked out on the lawn and saw the first spring flower thrusting above the frozen soil. She ordered that a sentry be posted to prevent anyone from picking the flower. And every day in 1860, there was still a sentry on the lawn because no one had ever rescinded the order—a memorial to habit, custom, or just “because we’ve always done it that way.”

Sources: alexanderpalace.org/palace/blog.php/a Romanov passion for flowers; inspiring-facts.com/daily inspiration/world of wonders/guarding a dead rosebush

Ready!!

This story has not been independently verified, but the originator has stated that it did happen as related.

In the late 1970s, the NATO army in Germany conducted numerous competitions to keep its troops constantly ready and prepared for a potential Soviet assault over the border from East Germany into West Germany. One such competition was to determine who was the best artillery crew. Monitored by the US Army’s 5th Corps training desk, each NATO country nominated its best artillery section, which underwent a series of exercises. Everything was rated by accuracy and time. Surprisingly, the British army, one of the great innovators of armaments with a long tradition of excellence in their artillery, regularly came in last.

The evaluators took video of the entire competition to better understand why some teams were more proficient than others. As usual, the British came in last, even behind the Belgians and Dutch, who fielded only part-time soldiers. On checking the film, they noticed a quirk in the British drill. After the gun was loaded and aimed, one of the loaders suddenly ran twenty yards back, about-faced, came to attention, and yelled, “Ready.” After firing, he would run back to the crew and assist in loading before repeating the maneuver when the gun was once again loaded and ready to fire. No one could figure out what this fellow was doing.

A quick check of the British drill manual revealed that this was a requirement, but it did not explain why. The British readily accepted that this part of the official drill held them back but couldn’t change the rules. It might have lingered there, but the staff did have the objective of better preparing to meet the feared Soviet assault. If this maneuver was affecting the efficiency of the British team, then it needed to be changed. After many letters and calls, the staff finally spoke with an aged sergeant major in the British Defense Ministry. Explaining their findings, they asked why the loader would run to the rear and wait from that position for the weapon to be fired. His response? “Aow, ‘e’s ‘oldin’ the ’orses!” The following year, the British won the competition.

Another version states that a US general observed the artillery drills during World War II. The gun was unhitched from the Jeep that had pulled it onto the field, then pulled by hand to the firing range and loaded. Once the gun was ready to fire, two soldiers took ten steps back and stood at attention for the entire live-fire exercise. There was no explanation for this action until an old soldier said, “They are there to hold the horses so they don’t get spooked and run off.”

Source: strangehistory.net/2013/08/17/the-longest-sentry-duty

Traditions of faith can be valuable. They may help preserve special experiences or ideals handed down by family or culture. However, we should be careful what we guard. Many religions zealously defend doctrines that have lost their original meaning or have become mere rituals. Sadly, people may faithfully adhere to traditions, all the while remaining unaware of their origins, unwilling to seek the truth and follow it.

Jesus has warned us of a more serious concern regarding traditions. If a custom or traditions conflicts with the law of God, it should be thrown out. Christ has told us that holding onto such traditions makes “the word of God of no effect” (Mark 7:13). It’s a good idea to reflect on the traditions we keep. Do they conflict with God’s law? If so, we are straying from the Bible. It’s like standing guard over a long-dead-and-gone flower.

Other sources: psychologytoday.com/us/blog/true-believers/201603/5-reasons-why-people-stick-to-their-beliefs-no-matter-what

Judy Rebarchek is the managing editor of LandMarks magazine. She can be reached at judyrebarchek@stepstolife.org or by phone at 316-788-5559.

Does the Universe Have Meaning?

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The existence of the world—the reality that surrounds us—may seem completely pointless and self-evident to some. For others, it remains a deep and unsettling mystery. While the existence of the universe may provoke a cascade of profound questions in some, others deem such questions meaningless and try to ignore them. Yet to ignore the question of the origin of existence may reveal intellectual apathy—or, in the case of radical atheists, a fear of facing the most obvious explanation: God.

Suppose that the search for the cause of the world could lead to God, and but one categorically rejects the very possibility of God’s existence. In this case, the simplest and most comfortable solution is to assume that the universe exists—because it always has—and thus requires no explanation. Or one might concede that the universe had a beginning, arising at some point from absolute nothingness.

However, materialists and atheists have no satisfying explanation for the origin of the cosmos. Such an intellectual stance amounts to a deliberate evasion of accepting God as the transcendent cause of the universe.

In truth, this approach to the enigma of existence represents a kind of intellectual surrender. From this perspective, the situation of atheists is indeed tragic: they live in a world that, according to their worldview, has no ultimate purpose, no inherent meaning, and no explanation.1  For those who categorically reject the existence of God, there are only two alternatives:

  1. The assumption is that the universe has always existed, thereby eliminating the need for any transcendent cause.
  2. The assumption is that the universe emerged from absolute nothingness.

However, the gap between absolute nothingness and something is insurmountable for science. By denying God, atheists are left with two options:

  1. Making the universe eternal, elevates it to a divine status (like God). In doing so, they essentially embrace pantheism—the belief that nature or the cosmos is divine. What an irony—they reject the existence of God yet deify His creation!
  2. The universe is not eternal and had its beginning somewhere, and at some point, it emerged from nothing. The universe emerged from absolute nothingness—from zero. Something from nothing is pure magic. What an irony—they reject the existence of God yet believe in magic!

If the existence of the world fills us with awe, it is only natural that we begin to ask the most profound and fundamental questions about the mystery of the world and our existence. And for believers—especially those who base their views on a biblical worldview—these questions point to God.

Intellectual shortcut?

Some critics might argue that believers are no better off than atheists by appealing to the existence of God as an easy answer. If some atheists claim that the universe is eternal and self-sufficient, Christians claim the same about God. Isn’t that a similar intellectual shortcut? Someone might say that such an intellectual stance is, of course, an avoidance of accepting reality as the cause of itself (the world as the cause of itself).

The universe had a beginning

The key distinction lies in the evidence. Science has shown that the universe had a beginning. “Albert Einstein was convinced not only that the universe was eternal but also that it was—as a whole—static. So, when in 1917 he applied the general theory of relativity to the entire spacetime, he was astonished to find that the equation he discovered suggested something quite the opposite: the universe must be either expanding or contracting. This seemed absurd to him, so he introduced what is known as the cosmological constant into his theory, which allowed him to explain the universe as eternal and unchanging.”2

However, the scientific theory that the universe is expanding was confirmed in the late 1920s by the renowned astronomer Edwin Hubble, who studied galaxies using the new 100-inch telescope on Mount Wilson in California. He observed that the farther away a galaxy is, the faster it is moving away from us. This principle became known as Hubble’s Law. This discovery led Einstein to admit that the universe is indeed expanding and that his cosmological constant was his greatest scientific blunder.

The scientifically-confirmed evidence that all the galaxies around us are moving away from each other—and thus that the universe is expanding and doing so rapidly—had profound implications. If the universe is expanding, it means it was once smaller and, before that, even smaller until we reach the point where we begin to consider the universe’s origin. This means the universe is not eternal.3

The beginning of the universe is known as the Big Bang. “In 1965, two scientists from Bell Labs in New Jersey accidentally discovered a microwave background noise filling the entire universe, which turned out to be the echo of the Big Bang. (…) When you turn on your television and start flipping through channels, about ten percent of the black-and-white static you see on the screen is caused by photons left over from the birth of the universe. That may be the best evidence for the truth of the Big Bang theory—you can see it on your television screen.”4 These scientific discoveries opened the door to investigations into how the universe began and whether a masterful mind like God could have given rise to its existence. And if not, then how did it all begin?5

The Ultimate Justification of the Universe

We, people who believe in God, do not shy away from this question; we embrace it with open arms. We do not run from the truth about the world, nor the truth about God as the explanation for the existence of the universe. On the contrary, with faith, we run toward the existence of God and are not ashamed to proclaim our belief. We are not afraid to seek—and to find—the answer to the cause of the world in God.

The existence of God explains the existence of the universe. While God Himself does not require any explanation, for He is the ultimate explanation and cause of the universe, the universe did not happen by accident. It required a Creator. Thus, the existence of everything points to a cause (the Creator) that itself has no cause: God.

The question of who created God is fundamentally flawed, for it misunderstands the nature of God. If God needed a creator, He would not be God. That would lead to an infinite regress of creator-designers. Instead, God is the ultimate, necessary being—the source of all things, life, and love.6

God is the One Who Is

Therefore, we do not need to seek an answer to the question of how God exists if we understand the nature of God. And the nature of God is His existence. In other words, His existence requires no explanation. God is existence itself.7

Still, the fact that our world does exist necessarily requires the existence of someone who is not subject to chance but must exist (cannot not exist) for our world to exist. That someone is a personal God. As a personal, almighty, and loving Creator, God Himself makes the existence of the universe understandable.

A Matter of Faith

Does the search for the cause and meaning of the world’s existence lead us to God? And if so, should we, as people who believe in God, attempt to rationally justify our faith? Should we concern ourselves with reasoned or argumentative defenses of belief in God? First and foremost, if our faith in God were based solely on rational and philosophical premises—or even scientific evidence—it would not be genuine faith in God. Our faith in God goes far beyond rational, scientific, or philosophical arguments.

However, this does not mean that true faith in God must be entirely independent of any rational or scientific support. Our faith in God is rooted in Jesus Christ—God who, in His love for fallen humanity, became a man and revealed, both in human history and on the pages of the Bible, the true character of God. And this eternal God, who is absolute love, is—through the person of Jesus Christ—the God with whom we have a living relationship. We experience the love of Jesus, His power, and His presence in our daily lives. At the same time, reason and sensory perception can support and strengthen our faith.

The Glory of God Revealed in the Cosmos

“Could God have used a process similar to the Big Bang when creating the universe? We don’t know. Our faith in God does not depend on the Big Bang.”8 However, the biblical account is quite close to what the scientific view describes—that the universe came into existence suddenly at a particular moment and has been expanding ever since.

“He alone spreads out the heavens, and treads on the waves of the sea; He made the Bear, Orion, and the Pleiades, and the chambers of the south; He does great things past finding out, yes, wonders without number.” Job 9:8–10

“Who cover Yourself with light as with a garment, Who stretch out the heavens like a curtain.” Psalm 104:2

These poetic comparisons reflect both God’s majesty and the dynamic nature of the created universe.

Two Paradigms of Thought

In the context of the discussion on the cause of the universe and the existence of God, it is worth noting and recognizing that we are navigating the boundary between the world of biblical revelation and the world of rational and scientific argumentation—one whose roots trace back to Greek philosophy. Western philosophy and science, deeply rooted in Greek thought, place a strong emphasis on causality and explanation.9

However, the world of the Bible—Hebrew thought—starts from different assumptions. I am convinced that these two modes of thinking are not, from our Adventist perspective, inherently hostile or mutually exclusive. There are indeed aspects of Greek thought that conflict with biblical thinking. One example is the Greek (Platonic) dualism of a good and immortal soul versus an evil and mortal body. This idea contradicts the biblical understanding of the human being as a holistic unity of body, mind, and spirit.

Similarly, the Greek view of the material world as a form of degradation or something inferior to the spiritual realm also stands in contrast to the biblical worldview, which presents the creation of diverse beings as an overwhelmingly positive event: “Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good.” Genesis 1:31

Nonetheless, the Greek approach to seeking rational causes and explanations is not in conflict with biblical thinking—and certainly not mutually exclusive. As Abraham Heschel insightfully observed: “Hebrew thought operates with categories different from those of Plato or Aristotle. The distinctiveness of its teaching lies not merely in a different way of expressing ideas, but in a fundamentally different way of thinking.”10

Let us consider how the fundamental difference between Greek—scientific—thinking and the biblical account of creation reveals itself: “The Book of Genesis does not attempt to explain anything; the mystery of the world being called into existence is in no way made more understandable by the statement: ‘In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.’ The Bible and science are not addressing the same question. A scientific theory asks: What is the cause of the universe? It thus operates within the framework of causality, which assumes a relationship between cause and effect as part of a continuous process … .

“The Bible, on the other hand, introduces a relationship between the Creator and the universe as one between two essentially different and incomparable beings. It treats the act of creation more as an event than a process. Creation, therefore, is a concept that transcends causality … . The Bible does not so much explain the world in categories derived from nature as it points to that which made nature possible in the first place—namely, the act of God’s free will.”11

Biblical Cosmogony

So yes, it is true that the biblical authors do not engage in rational justifications of faith in God—at least not in the way rationality is commonly understood today. The Bible shows no interest in the question of whether God exists or why; if He does exist, we should believe in Him. Nowhere in the entire Bible is there formal proof of God’s existence, although it does contain arguments against pagan gods, such as those found in the Psalms: “For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the Lord made the heavens.” Psalm 96:5

For the biblical authors, God’s existence is simply self-evident. This stems from a different way of thinking—one distinct from the scientific mode of thought that seeks causes and explanations for reality. However, this should not mean that we dismiss any efforts to ground faith in God through reasoning or argumentation. After all, the Bible does not condemn attempts to formulate arguments or proofs for God’s existence.12

The Apostle Paul himself appealed to human rational thinking and observation of the created world through the senses, stating: “Because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world, His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.” Romans 1:19–21. Paul thus asserts that people have no excuse for not knowing God because everyone, through the senses (“are clearly seen”) and reason (“being understood”)—what today we might call through science and philosophical reflection—can perceive that God exists. This knowledge comes from the very reality that surrounds us.

Conclusions and Connections

God exists. He revealed Himself to humanity in the most perfect way by becoming a human—coming into this world and entering human history to show mankind and the entire inhabited universe who God truly is, to reveal the true character of God in the person of Jesus Christ. Through His substitutionary death on the cross of Calvary, Christ reopened for us the possibility of coming to God, of encounter, dialogue, relationship, and eternal life filled with happiness and love—a life that has meaning, purpose, and explanation. At the same time, God reveals Himself through the created reality around us, which, through reason and the senses, guides humanity toward Him. As Abraham Heschel observed: “We think with reason because we aspire to spirit. We think through reason because we are certain that there is some meaning. Reason withers when deprived of spirit and the truth about the wholeness of life.”13

We can be certain that, ultimately, both reason and revelation come from the same source. At the same time, it is essential to remember that our trust cannot be placed solely in reason itself—after all, our intelligence has its limitations and is not infallible. However, our faith goes far beyond rational reflection. It seems that without reason, faith becomes blind. The worship of reason is arrogance, but the rejection of reason is cowardice and reveals a lack of faith.14

How does all this connect with our Adventist biblical worldview? The key linking element is the Sabbath. How should this be understood? On the Sabbath, our biblical protological (the study of origins, as in the origins of our world) and eschatological (relating to the end of the world) perspectives come together. According to the message of the first angel in Revelation 14, the Sabbath is the seal of God and a remembrance of Creation. Thus, the eschatological role of the Sabbath is directly connected to its protological significance as a commemoration of the biblical truth that God “made heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water” (Revelation 14:7) and that the world and everything in it was created “in six days” (Exodus 20:11). Moreover, the Sabbath is a sign of the rest given by faith in Christ and the anticipation of rest during the millennium of peace in God’s kingdom after Christ’s second coming and the defeat of evil.

Therefore, in the prophetic context of the end times, the Sabbath emerges as a unifying element of a belief system and worldview that stands in opposition to the currently prevailing scientific worldview—namely, the theory of evolution and the worldview that rejects the existence of God.15

It is, therefore, critical that our faith be grounded not only in the revelation of God in the person of Jesus Christ, and not only in a relationship with the living God whose presence and love we experience in our lives but also that our faith rests on rational and scientific foundations. Both reason and scientific evidence lead us to God and confirm our faith. I plan to explore these topics in more detail in a future issue of the magazine.

Marcin Watras lives with his wife and two children in Katowice, Poland. He is interested in the philosophy of religion and trends in society.

Endnotes:

  1. Jim Holt, Krótka historia niczego, publishing house PWN 2014, p. 14
  2. Ibiden, pp. 36, 37
  3. Ariel A. Roth, Nauka odkrywa Boga, publishing house Znaki Czasu 2020, pp. 55, 56
  4. Jim Holt, Krótka historia niczego, publishing house PWN 2014, p. 38
  5. Ariel A. Roth, Nauka odkrywa Boga, publishing house Znaki Czasu 2020, p. 56
  6. Ibiden, p. 233
  7. Jim Holt, Krótka historia niczego, publishing house PWN 2014, p. 11
  8. Ariel A. Roth, Nauka odkrywa Boga, publishing house Znaki Czasu 2020, p. 58
  9. Abraham J. Heschel, Bóg szukający człowieka, publishing house Esprit 2015, p. 22
  10. Ibiden, p. 23
  11. Ibiden, pp. 23, 24
  12. Brian Davies, Wprowadzenie do filozofii religii, publishing house Prószyński i S-ka 1993, p. 27
  13. Abraham J. Heschel, Bóg szukający człowieka, publishing house Esprit 2015, p. 27
  14. Ibiden, pp. 28, 29
  15. Vanderlei Dorneles, Ostatnie imperium, publishing house Znaki Czasu 2018, p. 147

Policy versus Principle

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“And one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said to them, ‘You know nothing at all, nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.’ Now this he did not say on his own authority; but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, and not for that nation only, but also that He would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad.”
John 11:49–52

Many different factors influence our actions. In psychology, there is a concept known as Maslow’s Hierarchy, which was the result of an attempt to categories these influences. Abraham Maslow proposed what is now called “Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs” in the early 1940s, asserting that human motivation stems from a hierarchy of five fundamental categories: physiological, safety, love, esteem, and self-actualization.

In effect, our actions are motivated by the five fundamental categories in this hierarchy. Once the basic physiological needs of air, food, and water are satisfied—which in the lives of most of us are easily met—we move on to the next step in the hierarchy: the need for safety, such as personal security, employment, health, and property. Then comes love and belonging. Once those needs are met, we move on to concerns such as self-esteem, status, respect, and freedom. At the top of the hierarchy is self-actualization—the desire to reach one’s fullest potential.

Note that in this pyramid of basic human needs, Maslow does not mention developing a Christ-like character based on biblical principles. While intellectually this proposal may seem logical in worldly terms, it is seriously lacking in spiritual terms. Thus, this, like a lot of psychological theories, is a contrived invention of the corrupt human mind and not the result of the promptings of an all-wise Creator.

While psychology suggests that our life decisions are based on meeting our basic physical and mental needs, the Bible and inspired writings tell us that life decisions should be based on the principles clearly laid out in God’s word—the books of Proverbs and Psalms being excellent sources, in addition to the revelation of events in the lives of the patriarchs of God’s children, beginning with Adam himself and continuing through the record of Paul’s work given us in his epistles and larger works.

Augmenting the biblical record is the vast body of work of Ellen G. White. A study of these two sources would not only produce a well-rounded Christian character, but would also ensure a safe passage across the Jordan into the kingdom of eternal bliss and happiness.

Ultimately, what this comes down to today is whether we base our decisions on divine principles or worldly policy. Inspiration has much to say about both principle and policy.

Policy can be defined as a set of ideas or a plan of action for particular situations that has been agreed upon by a group of people. Thus, in one sense, Maslow’s Hierarchy is a policy for the conduct of daily life. However, it is completely lacking in Christian principles.

“The natural mind leans toward pleasure and self-gratification. It is Satan’s policy to manufacture an abundance of this.” The Adventist Home, 521. “This” means pleasure and self-gratification—the top element in Maslow’s hierarchy, which might be considered an attempt by Satan to counterfeit Peter’s ladder.

Inspiration provides an interesting example that illustrates a decision based on principle versus policy.

“In the joy of his new discipleship, Matthew longed to bring his former associates to Jesus. Accordingly, he made a feast at his own house, and called together his relatives and friends. …

“The entertainment was given in honor of Jesus, and He did not hesitate to accept the courtesy. He well knew that this would give offense to the Pharisaic party, and would also compromise Him in the eyes of the people. But no question of policy could influence His movements. With Him external distinctions weighed nothing. That which appealed to His heart was a soul thirsting for the water of life.” The Desire of Ages, 273, 274

In other words, Christ’s decision to attend the feast at Matthew’s home was based entirely on principle and not on policy.

Inspiration often uses the word policy, whereas we would use the word politics. Thus, when reading Inspiration and encountering the word policy, it is usually helpful to mentally substitute it with politics. Although that substitution doesn’t always work to clarify the passage, it often does. Like many words, the complete understanding depends on the context.

Back to our subject of policy versus principle in contrast with the high principles that influenced Christ’s life. We have this statement concerning the basis for the actions of the Jewish leaders in their deliberations about Jesus’ attendance at Matthew’s feast:

“When the rabbis learned of the presence of Jesus at Matthew’s feast, they seized the opportunity of accusing Him. But they chose to work through the disciples. By arousing their prejudices, they hoped to alienate them from their Master. It was their policy [their plan about what to do in this particular situation] to accuse Christ to the disciples, and the disciples to Christ, aiming their arrows where they would be most likely to wound. This is the way in which Satan has worked ever since the disaffection in heaven; and all who try to cause discord and alienation are actuated by his spirit.” Ibid., 275

The distinction between actions guided by policy versus principle is clearly expressed in Inspiration.

“Worldly policy and the undeviating principles of righteousness do not blend into each other imperceptibly, like the colors of the rainbow. Between the two, a broad, clear line is drawn by the eternal God. The likeness of Christ stands out as distinct from that of Satan as midday in contrast with midnight. And only those who live the life of Christ are His co-workers. If one sin is cherished in the soul, or one wrong practice is retained in the life, the whole being is contaminated. The man becomes an instrument of unrighteousness.” Ibid., 313

That’s a pretty scary thought. If our actions are based on worldly policy rather than on the undeviating principles of righteousness, we become instruments of unrighteousness.

The value of basing our decisions on principles versus policies depends on the principles we use as the basis for our decisions.

In determining the fate of Christ, the Jewish leaders based their decision on principle, just not the right one.

“In declaring that one man should die for the nation, Caiaphas indicated that he had some knowledge of the prophecies, although it was very limited. But John, in his account of this scene [this scene in which the Jewish leaders are plotting the death of Christ], takes up the prophecy, and shows its broad and deep significance. He says, ‘And not for that nation only, but that also He should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad.’ How blindly did the haughty Caiaphas acknowledge the Saviour’s mission!

“On the lips of Caiaphas this most precious truth [that one man should die for the nation] was turned into a lie. The policy he advocated was based on a principle borrowed from heathenism. Among the heathen, the dim consciousness that one was to die for the human race had led to the offering of human sacrifices. So Caiaphas proposed by the sacrifice of Jesus to save the guilty nation, not from transgression, but in transgression, that they might continue in sin. And by his reasoning he thought to silence the remonstrances of those who might dare to say that as yet nothing worthy of death had been found in Jesus.” Ibid., 540

Thus, we have seen that the foundation on which we base life’s decisions should not be policy or politics but rather principles. And even then, the principles we use have to be the right ones.

May the Holy Spirit give us the guidance we need to make decisions based on righteous principles, decisions that will be approved in the courts of heaven.

John R. Pearson is the office manager and Steps to Life board member. He can be reached by email at johnpearson@stepstolife.org or by phone at 316-788-5559.

Serious Questions

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The time is coming when we will have to give an account of our life (Luke 16:2). Take this ten-question test below to prepare for this.

  1. “At this time, … shall we become so like the world in practice that men may look in vain to find God’s denominated people?
  2. “Shall any man sell our peculiar characteristics as God’s chosen people for any advantage the world has to give?
  3. “Shall the favor of those who transgress the law of God be looked upon as of great value?
  4. “Shall those whom the Lord has named His people suppose that there is any power higher than the great I AM?
  5. “Shall we endeavor to blot out the distinguishing points of faith that have made us Seventh-day Adventists?” Evangelism, 121
  6. “How do I meet the inspecting eye of God?
  7. “Is my heart cleansed from its defilement?” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 423
  8. Am I cleansed from all impurity?

“The heart must be cleansed from its impurity, self-will must be exchanged for God’s will; God’s ways must be chosen before our own ways. Many names are registered on the church books that have no place in the Lamb’s book of life. Let the question be asked with deepest concern, ‘Is my name written there?’ ” The Signs of the Times, December 15, 1887

  1. Have I overcome my secret faults?

“There is great need that our brethren overcome secret faults. … Selfishness, uncharitableness, covetousness, envy, evil-surmising, falsehood, theft, robbery, sensuality, licentiousness, and adultery, stand registered against some who claim to believe the solemn, sacred truth for this time. How can these accursed things be cleansed out of the camp, when men who claim to be Christians are practicing them constantly?” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 146

“The unconverted heart is the habitation of the evil one, and it is filled with unholy thoughts, with evil surmisings, envy, jealousy, falsehood, and uncontrolled passions, with strife and confusion and every evil work.” PH152 – Special Testimonies Concerning the Work and Workers in the Pacific Press (1897)

  1. Is my heart free from all these?

“Let each one closely examine himself to see whether he is in the faith, whether the truth which he professes to believe has been kept in the outer court, or brought into the inner sanctuary of the soul, that he may be sanctified thereby.” Ibid.

Our Last Opportunity!

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September 21 – 27, 2025

Key Text

“I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work.” John 9:4

Study Help: Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 476–485; Ibid., Vol. 6, 445–453

Introduction

“We are nearing the end of this earth’s history, and the different departments of God’s work are to be carried forward with much more self-sacrifice than has yet been practiced.” The Review and Herald, November 18, 1902

Sunday

1 BEFORE LIFE EXPIRES

1.a. To what realities are we all subject? Hebrews 9:27. What should this make each of us consider—whether old, young, sick, or healthy? Romans 12:11

 

Note: “It often happens that an active businessman is cut down without a moment’s warning and on examination his business is found to be in a most perplexing condition. In the effort to settle his estate the lawyers’ fees eat up a large share, if not all, of the property, while his wife and children and the cause of Christ are robbed. Those who are faithful stewards of the Lord’s means will know just how their business stands, and, like wise men, they will be prepared for any emergency. Should their probation close suddenly, they would not leave such great perplexity upon those who are called to settle their estate.

“Many are not exercised upon the subject of making their wills while they are in apparent health. But this precaution should be taken by our brethren. They should know their financial standing and should not allow their business to become entangled. They should arrange their property in such a manner that they may leave it at any time.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 482

1.b.      In preparing for our life to conclude, what should we consider? Isaiah 38:1

 

Note: “Wills should be made in a manner to stand the test of law. After they are drawn they may remain for years and do no harm, if donations continue to be made from time to time as the cause has need. Death will not come one day sooner, brethren, because you have made your will. In disposing of your property by will to your relatives, be sure that you do not forget God’s cause. You are His agents, holding His property; and His claims should have your first consideration. Your wife and children, of course, should not be left destitute; provision should be made for them if they are needy. But do not, simply because it is customary, bring into your will a long line of relatives who are not needy.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 482

Monday

2 PREPARING FOR THE END

2.a. Why should we speak clearly about the importance of each one of us having a proper will? 1 Corinthians 4:2

 

Note: “Some wills are made in so loose a manner that they will not stand the test of the law, and thus thousands of dollars have been lost to the cause. Our brethren should feel that a responsibility rests upon them, as faithful servants in the cause of God, to exercise their intellect in regard to this matter, and secure to the Lord His own.

“Many manifest a needless delicacy on this point. They feel that they are stepping upon forbidden ground when they introduce the subject of property to the aged or to invalids in order to learn what disposition they design to make of it. But this duty is just as sacred as the duty to preach the word to save souls. Here is a man with God’s money or property in his hands. He is about to change his stewardship. Will he place the means which God has lent him to be used in His cause, in the hands of wicked men, just because they are his relatives? Should not Christian men feel interested and anxious for that man’s future good as well as for the interest of God’s cause, that he shall make a right disposition of his Lord’s money, the talents lent him for wise improvement? Will his brethren stand by and see him losing his hold on this life and at the same time robbing the treasury of God? This would be a fearful loss to himself and to the cause; for, by placing his talent of means in the hands of those who have no regard for the truth of God, he would, to all intents and purposes, be wrapping it in a napkin and hiding it in the earth.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 479

2.b.      Whether we live or die, what does God expect each of us to remember? Romans 14:8, 12

 

Note: “God calls for men to give the warning to the world that is asleep, dead in trespasses and sins. He calls for freewill offerings from those whose hearts are in the work, who have a burden for souls, that they shall not perish, but have everlasting life.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, 446

Tuesday

3 THE FINAL WORK

3.a. What is our responsibility in these last days? 1 Thessalonians 5:1–6; Zechariah 10:1. How only can we receive the latter rain or “refreshing”? Acts 3:19–21

 

Note: “The great outpouring of the Spirit of God, which lightens the whole earth with His glory, will not come until we have an enlightened people, that know by experience what it means to be laborers together with God. When we have entire, wholehearted consecration to the service of Christ, God will recognize the fact by an outpouring of His Spirit without measure; but this will not be while the largest portion of the church are not laborers together with God. God cannot pour out His Spirit when selfishness and self-indulgence are so manifest; when a spirit prevails that, if put into words, would express that answer of Cain—‘Am I my brother’s keeper?’ ” Counsels on Stewardship, 52

3.b.      In regard to financial management, what should be foremost in our minds today, both as individuals and as a church organization? Ecclesiastes 8:5; John 9:4

 

Note: “We ought now to be heeding the injunction of our Saviour: ‘Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not.’ It is now that our brethren should be cutting down their possessions instead of increasing them. We are about to move to a better country, even a heavenly. Then let us not be dwellers upon the earth, but be getting things into as compact a compass as possible.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 152

“For what shall we hoard up treasures? To be swept away by the flames of the last day? Shall we lay up gold and silver, to be a witness against us in the Judgment—to eat our flesh as it were fire? Shall we cling to our possessions till they fall into the hands of our enemies? The time is coming when commandment keepers can neither buy nor sell. Of what use will houses and lands, bank stock and merchandise, be to us then? Now is the time to place our treasures where they will be eternally secure.” The Review and Herald, December 6, 1887

Wednesday

4 PRACTICAL PREPARATION

4.a. Why hasn’t the Lord returned yet? 2 Peter 3:9. What will help us avoid losing all our means in the woeful prophecy of Isaiah soon to be fulfilled? Isaiah 2:20; Psalm 96:2–8

 

Note: “The work of God is to become more extensive, and if His people follow His counsel, there will not be much means in their possession to be consumed in the final conflagration. All will have laid up their treasure where moth and rust cannot corrupt; and the heart will not have a cord to bind it to earth.” Counsels on Stewardship, 60

4.b.      What does Christ promise to all who through faithful sacrifice are seriously preparing for His return? James 1:5; Isaiah 33:14–17

 

Note: “It is contrary to the Bible to make any provision for our temporal wants in the time of trouble. I saw that if the saints had food laid up by them or in the field in the time of trouble, when sword, famine, and pestilence are in the land, it would be taken from them by violent hands and strangers would reap their fields. Then will be the time for us to trust wholly in God, and He will sustain us. I saw that our bread and water will be sure at that time, and that we shall not lack or suffer hunger; for God is able to spread a table for us in the wilderness. If necessary He would send ravens to feed us, as He did to feed Elijah, or rain manna from heaven, as He did for the Israelites.

“Houses and lands will be of no use to the saints in the time of trouble, for they will then have to flee before infuriated mobs, and at that time their possessions cannot be disposed of to advance the cause of present truth. I was shown that it is the will of God that the saints should cut loose from every encumbrance before the time of trouble comes, and make a covenant with God through sacrifice. If they have their property on the altar and earnestly inquire of God for duty, He will teach them when to dispose of these things. Then they will be free in the time of trouble and have no clogs to weigh them down.” Early Writings, 56, 57

Thursday

5 A HIGH-YIELD INVESTMENT

5.a. Where is the best investment available today, and why? Luke 12:32–34

 

Note: “Let us be honest with the Lord. All the blessings that we enjoy come from Him; and if He has entrusted us with the talent of means, that we may help to do His work, shall we hold back? Shall we say, No, Lord; my children would not be pleased, and therefore I shall venture to disobey God, burying His talent in the earth?

“There should be no delay. The cause of God demands your assistance. We ask you, as the Lord’s stewards, to put His means into circulation, to provide facilities by which many will have the opportunity of learning what is truth.” Counsels on Stewardship, 44, 45

5.b.      What declaration will the Lord make at the end of time? Psalm 50:3–5. How will all who make a covenant by sacrifice be richly rewarded?

 

Note: “There is reward for the wholehearted, unselfish workers who enter this field, and also for those who contribute willingly for their support. Those engaged in active service in the field, and those who give of their means to sustain these workers, will share the reward of the faithful. …

“The self-denial they have practiced in order to support the work, is remembered no more. As they look upon the souls they sought to win to Jesus, and see them saved, eternally saved—monuments of God’s mercy and of a Redeemer’s love—there ring through the arches of heaven shouts of praise and thanksgiving.” Counsels on Stewardship, 348, 349

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    What superstition about making wills is detrimental to God’s cause?

2    Why should we not neglect to speak about making wills?

3    What is one reason why many will fail to receive the latter rain?

4    What should we realize before the approaching time of trouble?

5    How and when is the interest paid on treasure laid up in heaven?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Enlightening the Whole World

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September 14 – 20, 2025

Key Text

“And He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.’ ” Mark 16:15

Study Help: Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 51–60; Ibid., Vol. 3, 382–385

Introduction

“Those who rejoice in the precious light of truth should feel a burning desire to have it sent everywhere.” Counsels on Stewardship, 42

Sunday

1 ANSWERING THE MACEDONIAN CRY

1.a. Although literature is a powerful missionary tool, what step must follow in order to complete the gospel commission? Matthew 28:18–20. How only can this need for diligent gospel workers be fulfilled?

 

Note: “This work of faithfully bringing in all the tithes, that there may be meat in the house of God, would supply laborers for both home and foreign fields. Although books and publications upon present truth are pouring out their treasures of knowledge to all parts of the world, yet missionary posts must be established at different points. The living preacher must proclaim the words of life and salvation. There are open fields inviting workers to enter. The harvest is ripe, and the earnest Macedonian cry for laborers is heard from every part of the world.” Counsels on Stewardship, 39

1.b.      What urgent work needs to be done? Mark 16:15

 

Note: “The magnitude of our work calls for willing liberality on the part of the people of God. In Africa, in China, in India, there are thousands, yes, millions, who have not heard the message of the truth for this time. They must be warned. The islands of the sea are waiting for a knowledge of God.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 51

Monday

2 HOW IMPORTANT IS GOD’S TITHE

2.a. How does Inspiration emphasize the personal, human element in soul-saving? Romans 10:13–15. How can we all be involved?

 

Note: “The preaching of the gospel is God’s appointed way for converting the souls of men. Men must hear in order to be saved. They cannot hear without a preacher, and the preacher must be sent. This makes it necessary to have funds in the treasury in order to provide means whereby the missionary may reach destitute fields. In the light of this fact, how can those who profess to follow Christ, rob God of His own intrusted talents in tithes and offerings? Is it not refusing bread to starving souls? To withhold the means which God has claimed as His own, whereby He has made provision that souls shall be saved, will surely bring a curse upon those who thus rob God. Souls for whom Christ has died, are denied the privilege of hearing the truth, because men refuse to carry out the measures which God has provided for the enlightenment of the lost.” The Home Missionary, April 1, 1905

2.b.      What does God require if we neglect to return His tithe on time? Leviticus 27:31. What experience of a local church in the year 1889 can encourage all today?

 

Note: “Some of those who had not been dealing justly with God, and consequently had been separating themselves from Him, began to restore that which they had withheld. One brother had not paid tithes for two years. He gave his note to the secretary of the conference for the tithe he had withheld and the interest on it, amounting to $571.50. I thank the Lord that he had the courage to do this. Another gave his note for $300. Another man who had backslidden from God so far that but little hope was cherished that he would ever turn his feet into the path of righteousness again, gave his note for $1,000. It was proposed that these long-withheld tithes and offerings be devoted to the Central European Mission; so with these and the Christmas donations, nearly $6,000 has come into the treasury from this church to be applied to the missionary cause.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 643, 644

Tuesday

3 LEARNING FAITHFUL FORESIGHT

3.a. What objection was made against Mary’s generosity towards Jesus? John 12:3–6. How did Christ commend Mary, and how are we warned against making similar objections today? Mark 14:6–9

 

Note: “We make progressive movements; but at every step prejudice and false ideas must be removed. This has been the case with every reformatory movement the world has ever seen. To some of small faith and selfish, money-loving disposition, each advance move has portended general disaster and an extravagant outlay of means. They have felt as did that poor man Judas when the ointment was poured upon the head of Jesus. Why this great waste? said he; this ought to have been sold, and the money given to the poor. Again and again, when some advance step has been taken, the selfish, cautious ones have thought that everything was going to ruin; but when the battle has been fought against all odds, they have hailed the victory as a token that God was in the movement. … Do those men who blocked the way realize the work they have done? Do they see that the addition of their money, their strength, their faith, and courage, might have made the work stronger and more influential, and that their neglect to do what they could is sin?” The Review and Herald, February 5, 1884

3.b.      To what realities should we now awaken? John 4:35, 36

 

Note: “Money is not to be furnished for the carrying out of the work of the gospel in some mysterious way, and through unseen, mysterious agencies. God will not shower money from the windows of heaven to do His appointed work, to spread the truth in our world, and to save souls unto eternal life. He has made His people stewards of His means to be used for His glory in blessing humanity.” The Home Missionary, April 1, 1905

Wednesday

4 SAVORY SALT

4.a. What exhortations come to those who are seeking to honor Christ? Matthew 5:13

 

Note: “How much more eager will every faithful steward be to enlarge the proportion of gifts to be placed in the Lord’s treasure house, than to decrease his offering one jot or tittle. Whom is he serving? For whom is he preparing an offering?—For the One upon whom he is dependent for every good thing which he enjoys. Then let not one of us who is receiving the grace of Christ, give occasion for the angels to be ashamed of us, and for Jesus to be ashamed to call us brethren. …

“Those who are recipients of His grace, who contemplate the cross of Calvary, will not question concerning the proportion to be given, but will feel that the richest offering is all too meager, all disproportionate to the great gift of the only-begotten Son of the infinite God. Through self-denial, the poorest will find ways of obtaining something to give back to God.” Counsels on Stewardship, 200

4.b.      How is the “salt” of present truth to be sprinkled throughout the earth? Ecclesiastes 11:1, 6

 

Note: “The waste places of the earth are to be cultivated. In humble dependence upon God, families are to go forth and settle in the unworked places of His vineyard. As the reward of their self-sacrifice in order to sow the seeds of truth, they will reap a rich harvest.” The Review and Herald, August 26, 1902

Thursday

5 ENLIGHTENING EVERY CORNER

5.a. What is the most urgent call of today, and why? Matthew 9:36–38

 

Note: “Who is to blame for the loss of the souls who know not God, and who have had no opportunity for hearing the reasons of our faith? What obligation rests upon the church in reference to a world that is perishing without the gospel? Unless there is more decided self-denial on the part of those who claim to believe the truth, unless there is more decided faithfulness in bringing all the tithes and offerings into the treasury, unless broader plans are laid than have yet been carried into execution, we shall not fulfill the gospel commission to go into all the world, and preach Christ to every creature.” The Home Missionary, April 1, 1905

5.b.      How is the spread of the gospel illustrated, and what was the result? Revelation 18:1

 

Note: “All heaven is looking with intense interest upon the church, to see what her individual members are doing to enlighten those who are in darkness. The field is the world, and the openings are so many, the work has so enlarged, that it is beyond the proportion of the means on hand to supply the necessary demands. For years the Lord has been warning His people to bind about their wants, to incur no needless outlay of means. But notwithstanding the counsel of Him who knows the end from the beginning, how needlessly has money been expended. The cautions given have been lightly esteemed, and the minds of men have misinterpreted, turned aside, or wrested the counsel of God, in order that they might follow their own ambitious projects, although by so doing, the very means by which God might have been glorified and honored in extending His truth, is lost to the cause. The Lord has graciously honored man, employing him as the human agent to cooperate with heavenly intelligences, that the light of truth may shine in all parts of the earth. The Lord has His agents who will act a part in the mightiest conflict which the world has ever seen. If the workers remain humble, learning daily, in the school of Christ, meekness and lowliness of heart, the Lord Jesus will work with them. He who is a coworker with Christ will realize that in conferring heavenly benefits on others, he himself will be benefited. He will know that ‘he that watereth shall be watered also himself.’ ” The Review and Herald, February 27, 1894

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    In what sense is literature limited in its soul-saving ability?

2    What reveals the importance of punctuality in tithing?

3    How may we be in danger of repeating the sin of Judas?

4    What should we consider when deciding how much to give for Christ?

5    How will the world be enlightened—with us or without us?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Biblical Principles of Finance

by

September 7 – 13, 2025

Key Text

“And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God.” Deuteronomy 28:2

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 70–76; Education, 135–145

Introduction

“No man can lay up treasure in heaven without finding his life on earth thereby enriched and ennobled.” Education, 145

Sunday

1 PERSONAL FINANCES

1.a. How does God plan to financially sustain His people if they follow His directions? Haggai 1:5–11

 

Note: “Those who are selfishly withholding their means need not be surprised if God’s hand scatters. That which should have been devoted to the advancement of the work and cause of God, but which has been withheld, may be entrusted to a reckless son, and he may squander it. A fine horse, the pride of a vain heart, may be found dead in the stable. Occasionally a cow may die. Losses of fruit or other crops may come. God can scatter the means He has lent to His stewards, if they refuse to use it to His glory. Some, I saw, may have none of these losses to remind them of their remissness in duty, but their cases may be the more hopeless.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, 661, 662

“The neglect to confess Christ in your account books cuts you off from the great privilege of having your name registered in the Lamb’s book of life.” Our High Calling, 192

1.b.      What should be considered by all who habitually tend to ask for help, instead of offering it? Deuteronomy 28:12, 13; Proverbs 13:23

 

Note: “If those who have not made life a success were willing to be instructed, they could train themselves to habits of self-denial and strict economy, and have the satisfaction of being distributors, rather than receivers, of charity. There are many slothful servants. If they would do what it is in their power to do they would experience so great a blessing in helping others that they would indeed realize that ‘it is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, 400, 401

Monday

2 CONDITIONAL PROMISES

2.a. What does God desire for His people even today? Deuteronomy 28:1–6

 

Note: “It is not God’s purpose that Christians, whose privileges far exceed those of the Jewish nation, shall give less freely than they gave. ‘Unto whomsoever much is given,’ the Saviour declared, ‘of him shall be much required.’ Luke 12:48. The liberality required of the Hebrews was largely to benefit their own nation; today the work of God extends over all the earth. In the hands of His followers, Christ has placed the treasures of the gospel, and upon them He has laid the responsibility of giving the glad tidings of salvation to the world. Surely our obligations are much greater than were those of ancient Israel.” The Acts of the Apostles, 337, 338

2.b.      What promises are assured to all who follow God’s financial plan? Malachi 3:11, 12

 

Note: “All may feel that they can act a part in carrying forward the precious work of salvation. Every man, woman and youth may become a treasurer for the Lord, and may be an agent to meet the demands upon the treasury. Says the apostle, ‘Let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.’

“Great objects are accomplished by this system. If one and all would accept it, each would be made a vigilant and faithful treasurer for God; and there would be no want of means with which to carry forward the great work of sounding the last message of warning to the world. The treasury will be full if all adopt this system, and the contributors will not be left the poorer. Through every investment made, they will become more wedded to the cause of present truth.” Messages to Young People, 304, 305

Tuesday

3 LESSONS FROM THE DAYS OF CHRIST

3.a. How did the wise men respond to the birth of Jesus? Matthew 2:1, 2, 11

 

Note: “The magi had been among the first to welcome the Redeemer. Their gift was the first that was laid at His feet. And through that gift, what privilege of ministry was theirs! The offering from the heart that loves, God delights to honor, giving it highest efficiency in service for Him. If we have given our hearts to Jesus, we also shall bring our gifts to Him. Our gold and silver, our most precious earthly possessions, our highest mental and spiritual endowments, will be freely devoted to Him who loved us, and gave Himself for us.” The Desire of Ages, 65

3.b.      What should we learn from Mary’s anointing of Jesus? Mark 14:3

 

Note: “In determining the proportion to be given to the cause of God, be sure to exceed, rather than fall short, of the requirements of duty. Consider for whom the offering is to be made. This recollection will put covetousness to flight. Only consider the great love wherewith Christ has loved us, and our richest offerings will seem unworthy of His acceptance. When Christ is the object of our affections, those who have received His pardoning love will not stop to calculate the value of the alabaster box of precious ointment. Covetous Judas could do this; but the receiver of the gift of salvation will only regret that the offering has not a richer perfume and greater value.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, 485

Wednesday

4 IN THE TIME OF THE APOSTLES

4.a. In proclaiming the gospel, what example was shown by the early Christians? Acts 4:32–37

 

Note: “The record declares, ‘Neither was there any among them that lacked,’ and it tells how the need was filled. Those among the believers who had money and possessions cheerfully sacrificed them to meet the emergency. Selling their houses or their lands, they brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet, ‘and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.’

This liberality on the part of the believers was the result of the outpouring of the Spirit. The converts to the gospel were ‘of one heart and of one soul.’ One common interest controlled them—the success of the mission entrusted to them; and covetousness had no place in their lives. Their love for their brethren and the cause they had espoused, was greater than their love of money and possessions. Their works testified that they accounted the souls of men of higher value than earthly wealth.

“Thus it will ever be when the Spirit of God takes possession of the life. Those whose hearts are filled with the love of Christ, will follow the example of Him who for our sake became poor, that through His poverty we might be made rich. Money, time, influence—all the gifts they have received from God’s hand, they will value only as a means of advancing the work of the gospel. Thus it was in the early church; and when in the church of today it is seen that by the power of the Spirit the members have taken their affections from the things of the world, and that they are willing to make sacrifices in order that their fellowmen may hear the gospel, the truths proclaimed will have a powerful influence upon the hearers.” The Acts of the Apostles, 70, 71

4.b.      What can we learn from the death of Ananias and Sapphira? Acts 5:1–11

 

Note: “Desiring to gain a reputation for self-sacrifice, liberality, and devotion to the Christian faith, Ananias and Sapphira sold their property, and laid part of the proceeds at the feet of the apostles, pretending they had given it all. They had not been urged to give all they had to the cause. God would have accepted part. But they desired it to be thought that they had given all. Thus they thought to gain the reputation they coveted, and at the same time keep back part of their money. They thought they had been successful in their scheme; but they were cheating the Lord, and He dealt summarily with this, the first case of deception and falsehood in the newly formed church. He slew them both, as a warning to all of the danger of sacrificing truth to gain favor.” Medical Ministry, 126, 127

Thursday

5 SYSTEMATIC SELF-DENIAL AND FINANCIAL PLANNING

5.a. What must we realize in the operation and financial sustenance of the church? 1 Corinthians 14:33

 

Note: “He [God] requires that order and system be observed in the conduct of church affairs today no less than in the days of old. He desires His work to be carried forward with thoroughness and exactness so that He may place upon it the seal of His approval. Christian is to be united with Christian, church with church, the human instrumentality cooperating with the divine, every agency subordinate to the Holy Spirit, and all combined in giving to the world the good tidings of the grace of God.” The Acts of the Apostles, 96

5.b.      What must we learn from the ways in which faithful men of God have exemplified self-denial?
Hebrews 11:8–10, 24–26, 37–40

 

Note: “There was a time when there were but few who listened to and embraced the truth, and they had not much of this world’s goods. Then it was necessary for some to sell their houses and lands, and obtain cheaper, while their means were freely lent to the Lord to publish the truth, and otherwise aid in advancing the cause of God. These self-sacrificing ones endured privations; but if they endure unto the end, great will be their reward.

“God has been moving upon many hearts. The truth for which a few sacrificed so much has triumphed, and multitudes have laid hold of it. In the providence of God, those who have means have been brought into the truth, that, as the work increases, the wants of His cause may be met. God does not now call for the houses His people need to live in; but if those who have an abundance do not hear His voice, cut loose from the world, and sacrifice for God, He will pass them by, and will call for those who are willing to do anything for Jesus, even to sell their homes to meet the wants of the cause. God will have freewill offerings. Those who give must esteem it a privilege to do so.” Counsels on Stewardship, 215

Friday

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1    How can a receiver of charity change into a distributor of it?

2    How should our benevolence compare to that of the ancient Jews?

3    What examples of generosity in Christ’s day should inspire us?

4    What can we learn from the spirit of the early Christian church?

5    Why should the self-denial of the pioneers of present truth be revived among God’s people today?

Copyright 1997, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.