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Are Opiates Affecting Your Walk on the Narrow Way?

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“This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart; who, being past feeling, have given themselves over to lewdness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But you have not so learned Christ, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts, and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness.”

Ephesians 4:17–24

Opiates have been in the news quite a bit in the last few years. The first dictionary definition of the word is “a drug derived from opium that induces sedation or sleep, depresses respiration, and produces calmness or euphoria, and is associated with physiological tolerance, physical and psychological dependence, and addiction upon repeated or prolonged use.” A second definition is “something likened to a drug that induces rest or inaction or quiets uneasiness.” Synonyms for the effect of opiates include tranquilizing, deadening, stupefying.

However, opiate is used in inspired writings in an unusual and completely different way.

Let’s begin with a passage from Inspiration. “ ‘Put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; and be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.’ Once they [the Ephesians] were corrupt, degraded, enslaved by lustful passions; they were drugged by worldly opiates, blinded, bewildered, and betrayed by Satan’s devices. Now that they had been taught the truth as it is in Jesus, there must be a decided change in their life and character.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 172

What are worldly opiates? If being drugged by them, it seems critical that we know what they are to avoid being in the condition that Paul attributes to the Ephesians.

We have already defined an opiate as a drug that induces rest or inaction or quiets uneasiness. So, we ask, What is it in the world that has that effect on us? What is it that induces inaction or quiets uneasiness?

There is one easy answer: anything that takes our minds off eternal realities. This would include such things as television, movies, fictional literature, amusements and amusement parks, the internet, social media in all its forms. When you stop to think about it, the list is really long. Satan has mastered the art of creating diversions that take the mind into territories that prevent his subjects from being ever mindful of eternal realities.

According to worldly sources, which often speak more truth than they realize, opiates induce rest. Inspiration confirms that.

“If the watchmen sleep under an opiate of Satan’s and do not recognize the voice of the true Shepherd, and do not take up the warning, I tell you in the fear of God, they will be charged with the blood of souls. The watchmen must be wide awake, men who will not slumber at their post of duty, day nor night. They must give the trumpet a certain sound, that the people may shun the evil and choose the good. Stupidity and careless indifference cannot be excused. On every side of us there are breakers and hidden rocks which will dash our bark in pieces, and leave us helpless wrecks, unless we make God our refuge and help.” The Review and Herald, December 24, 1889

Clearly, the effects of opiates can have eternal consequences.

“Those who neglect to search the Scriptures, choosing rather to read books of skeptical writers, or of writers who are frivolous or worldly, will be tempted to neglect prayer, to withdraw from religious meetings, to invest money in cheap literature, and will so educate themselves that all taste for the sacred oracles will be erased from the mind. Thus, will they be led to refuse to hear, to refuse to incline the heart to seek God while He may be found, to call upon Him while He is near, while He is still sending messages of reproof, warning, and entreaty.

“They say to all the tender entreaties of God’s Spirit, ‘Not now; I will go into another city, and buy and sell and get gain; and after that I will begin a new life.’ O do not be deceived by this suggestion of the enemy to wait, and that after a time you will repent. The longer you put it off, the less will be your inclination to turn to God and obey the invitations of mercy. The most discouraging development in your case is the very fact that you say, ‘Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.’ This is an evidence that conscience has become aroused, and then put to sleep again with an opiate. But think of this: conscience may never wake again! While God grants you life, while you are sure of probation, embrace your day of opportunity and privilege.” The Youth’s Instructor, December 7, 1893

It is a common practice, following surgery, to prescribe opiates as part of pain management. What I have discovered is that the drugs don’t necessarily alleviate the pain; they just induce a euphoria that overrides the painfulness of pain. The mind becomes beclouded to the pain. He is still in pain, but just doesn’t care. And that is the objective of Satan’s opiates.

“The enemies of truth are working with all their unconsecrated powers to hinder the advance of the message. The churches of the world are being drugged with the opiates of error. The great deceiver is making determined efforts to becloud the understanding of the people.” Spalding and Magan, 436

What are some of the opiates of error that Satan is drugging his victims with?

One of the most common, I think, is the power of the clergy. How many times do we hear from those we are witnessing to, “My pastor says … ,” or “My priest says … .”

It seems that for many people, it is easier to ask supposed ecclesiastical experts than it is to investigate for themselves. We often encounter this reaction after explaining the seventh-day Sabbath to an associate. They will come back after a day or two stating they asked their pastor and he explained that they observe Sunday as the Sabbath in honor of Christ’s resurrection, thus receiving the opiate needed to quiet their uneasiness.

Closely related to that is the power of loved ones. How many do we know who are bound by their spouses, parents, sons, or daughters, and fail to do what they know to be right, just to maintain peace in the family while their hearts are at war with the truth?

Another opiate of error is tradition. We all know how Christ addressed teaching for doctrine the tradition of men.

“Then the scribes and Pharisees who were from Jerusalem came to Jesus, saying, ‘Why do Your disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread.’ He answered and said to them, ‘Why do you also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition? For God commanded, saying, “Honor your father and your mother”; and, “He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.” But you say, “Whoever says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever profit you might have received from me is a gift to God’—then he need not honor his father or mother.” Thus you have made the commandment of God of no effect by your tradition. Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying: “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.” ’ ” Matthew 15:1–9

Another opiate of error is inertia. It might be difficult to understand inertia as an opiate, but in the broadest definition of an opiate as something that induces inaction, inertia certainly qualifies. Inertia is defined as a tendency to do nothing or to remain unchanged. It is often far easier to continue doing what you always have done than it is to initiate a change in behavior. I’m sure we all have experienced this at some point in our lives.

I was raised a Sundaykeeper and for 50 years, observed Sunday as the Sabbath. Thankfully, the Lord opened my eyes to the error of my ways, but I still occasionally slip and call the Sabbath Sunday, or use the term “Sunday school.” They say “Old habits die hard,” and the truth of that leads me to a fifth opiate of error.

My seventh grade English teacher once wrote the word “HABIT” on the blackboard in all capital letters. She erased the H, explaining that after working hard to overcome a bad habit, we still had “A-BIT.” Working harder, we still had “BIT.” Working even harder we still had “IT.”

There is a passage in Inspiration that we’ve all read or heard more than once acknowledging the effects of failing to overcome our wrong habits.

“There are some who seem to be always seeking for the heavenly pearl. But they do not make an entire surrender of their wrong habits. They do not die to self that Christ may live in them. [Clearly, living for self is a wrong habit!] Therefore they do not find the precious pearl. They have not overcome unholy ambition and their love for worldly attractions. They do not take up the cross and follow Christ in the path of self-denial and sacrifice. Almost Christians, yet not fully Christians, they seem near the kingdom of heaven, but they cannot enter there. Almost but not wholly saved means to be not almost but wholly lost.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 118

We see from this passage that Inspiration recognizes wrong habits and worldly attractions as opiates—tranquilizing, deadening, stupefying “drugs”—that, if we do not break free, will prevent us from entering the kingdom of heaven.

“Who will turn away from every worldly attraction, from earthly enterprises that promise great gain and selfish gratification, and count all things but loss if he may win Christ? Winning Christ, we win everything. Jesus says He will be in us ‘a well of water springing up into everlasting life.’

“ … ‘Choose ye this day whom ye will serve.’ There is a necessity for a decided choice; for Jesus said, ‘Ye cannot serve God and mammon.’ ‘No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other.’

“He who is mighty in counsel speaks to you; will you hear His voice, will you obey His words? Jesus says, ‘Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.’ He invites you to step upon new and higher ground than that which you have occupied in the past. If your heart is filled with love to Christ, it will be demonstrated that He is stronger than the passions which have ruled you, whose indulgence have undermined noble impulses, and left the soul to the mercy of Satan’s temptations.

“ ‘Ye are not your own. For ye are bought with a price.’ The world is under the most solemn obligation to render to the Lord Jesus His purchased possession,—soul, body, and spirit. But because the people of the world ignore their responsibility to God, and refuse to accept the great gift of salvation, they are not excused from their obligation to be faithful servants of Christ. In serving their own lust, they make it manifest that they are not subject to the rule of Christ, but day by day are robbing God of that which is His due. They refuse to be the children of Christ, and choose rather to be the slaves of Satan. In astonishment at their blindness, we reiterate the words of the apostle, ‘Who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth?’

“Christ invites the sinner to come to Him. With what loving entreaties He follows the sinner! When the heart of the sinner is touched, he yields his will to God’s will, and selfish inclination is no longer the controlling power; for the slavery of Satan is broken, and the soul brought into subjection to Christ. Impressed with the sense of the Saviour’s long-suffering, forbearance, compassion, and measureless love, the repenting soul is deeply conscious of his own unworthiness and guilt. He yields his will to the will of God, and longs to reveal his loyalty to Christ, watching for opportunities to speak forth His goodness and love. He sees in Jesus matchless charms, and his heart is captivated. He has tasted of the love of Christ, and the gratitude of his heart is expressed in speaking to those who do not know the goodness of the Lord. He becomes a partaker of the divine nature.” The Youth’s Instructor, October 27, 1892

May the Lord give us reason, grace, and moral strength to overcome the effect these opiates have on our spiritual journey and that Satan uses so effectively to thwart us in our efforts to walk the narrow way successfully.

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.

Appeal on Immortality

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Men of reason and common sense, give your serious attention to the following points. Read your Bibles again. Read carefully, read prayerfully. See if these things be true or not. Dare to think for yourselves. Do not trust to commentaries. Do not build your faith on bodies of divinity. Go to the fountain head of truth. “The words of the Lord are tried words.” “The law of the Lord is perfect.” This cannot be said of the writings or opinions of any man, or number of men, however wise or holy they may be. To err is human. God and His truth alone are infallible. Show yourselves true Protestants, and cast away the “traditions of men.” You have the Bible. The wisest and holiest of the “fathers” had no more. Your ministers have nothing else to guide them—at least they ought not. “The Bible, and the Bible alone, is the book for Protestants.” Go then to your Bibles, and see if the God-dishonoring doctrines to which I am directing your attention are found there or not. Excuse me if I tell you, that, however full of these doctrines human books and sermons may be, God’s Bible does not contain them.

Rather, believe that man is mortal and condemned to die, but Christ is “come that they [mankind] may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10

“The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23

Is It Reasonable

… to suppose that God created man an immortal being, and yet never once in His holy word informed us of the fact?

… to suppose that if man naturally possessed immortality, God’s word would recommend us to seek for it, as it does in Romans 2:7?

… to suppose, that if men were naturally immortal, God’s word would so plainly assure us that “God only hath immortality?” 1 Timothy 6:16

… to suppose that words, when found in the Bible, must have a meaning attached to them, which no man in his senses would ever think of attaching to them in any other book? For instance, the words life and death, when found in the Bible, must (as theologians tell us) mean “happiness” and “misery”; but, if found in any other book in the world, they would simply mean “existence” and “cessation of existence.”

… to suppose that in all the vast multitude of passages in which Christ promised eternal life to His followers, He did not literally mean what He said? This He could not, if all men have immortal life by nature. In that case, the wicked would live with the righteous throughout eternity.

… to suppose, in all the vast multitude of passages in which death is threatened as the punishment of the sinner, that loss of happiness is all that is meant? An unhappy man is as truly alive as the most happy being in existence; and if he be immortal by nature, will continue alive through all eternity. In no plain, common-sense language can any immortal being be said to suffer death.

… to suppose that infinite wisdom would invariably use language which was only calculated to mislead mankind, or which none but doctors of divinity could unravel? Would God speak in riddles to men in the great matters which concern their salvation?

… and more in accordance with the wisdom and love of God to suppose that He would give His creatures such a revelation, as plain, common-sense people could easily understand? He has done so; if men would use their reason in reading the Bible, as they would do in reading any other book.

… to believe that men go to heaven or hell immediately at death, and then hundreds or thousands of years afterward are taken out to be judged, and to see to which they deserve to be sent? Should we deem it right to send a man to a state’s prison for ten years, and then bring him out for trial to see if he deserved such a punishment? And “shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?”

… that such prominence should be given in Scripture to the doctrine of the resurrection from the dead, if that event only means a “reunion” of a lump of clay, with the conscious thinking and real man—the soul; and which is said by theologians to be as capable of happiness or misery, without the body as with it?

… to talk about a “death that never dies,” when there is not a word in Scripture to sanction such a contradictory phrase? Would it not be equally reasonable to speak of the reward of the righteous as a “life that never lives?” Is there not as much common sense in the one as in the other?

… to be so constantly, both in sermons and prayers, talking about “immortal souls,” “never-dying souls,” “deathless spirits,” and other such expressions, when there is not from Genesis to Revelation one single passage to warrant the use of such language?

… to say that eternal death and eternal torment are synonymous expressions (as theologians tell us)—for how then can it be said in Revelation 21:4, “There shall be no more death?”

… to believe that a hell of fiery torment and ceaseless misery is to exist forever, when God says, “Behold, I make all things new?” Revelation 21:5

… to believe in the eternal torment of the wicked, when more than two hundred passages of Scripture plainly affirm that they shall “die,” be “consumed,” “devoured,” “destroyed,” “burnt up,” “be as though they had not been?”

… to believe that the righteous in their glorified state can be indifferent to, and unaffected by, the endless sufferings of countless millions of their fellow beings; among whom would probably be found parents, children, husbands, and wives? Is it possible that they will be destitute or deprived of qualities which are considered most lovely and godlike in this life (piety, sympathy, compassion, commiseration for others’ woes)? Will insensibility to the woes of the wretched ever become a virtue? Will that which is a vice in this life, become a grace in the glorious future life? Is the standard of virtue thus variable, that what is vicious here, is to be gracious hereafter?

… to believe that a God of infinite rectitude will punish with eternal torment the heathen who have never heard of Christ, and who therefore could not reject Him? Is it possible that God can cast into one indiscriminate mass of fiery torment, the least wicked among the heathen, together with the most guilty in this Christian land, for such must be the case if their souls are immortal, and if their torment is to be eternal? There can be no degrees in that which is infinite. Is it not far more reasonable to believe the apostle’s words literally, “For as many as have sinned without the law, shall also perish without law?” Romans 2:12

… to believe that God is such a vindictive Being, that His justice cannot be satisfied with the death of the offender? To believe that He must be constantly pouring floods of fiery wrath upon the wretched being through the ever-rolling cycles of eternity?

Is it not far more reasonable to believe that immortality is the gift of God through Jesus Christ our Lord? Romans 6:23

Forty Questions on Immortality

  1. Who is immortal? “Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.” 1Timothy 1:17
  2. Are not all men possessed of immortality? “He who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords: who only hath immortality.” 1Timothy 6:15
  3. Are not all men created immortal? God “alone has immortality.” 1Timothy 6:16
  4. Is there any way by which men may obtain immortality? “By which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” 2Peter 1:4
  5. Is this immortality revealed by Plato or Socrates, or by familiar rapping spirits, or in nature—or is it through Jesus Christ and His gospel? “By the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” 2Timothy 1:10
  6. Who has power to bestow immortality upon man? “… the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23
  7. Will God give this gift to all persons whatever their works may be? God “will render to every man according to his deeds.” Romans 2:6
  8. What will be the portion of those who are contentious and obey not the truth? “But to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil.” Romans 2:8, 9, first part
  9. To whom will God impart immortality? “To those who by patient continuance in doing good, seek for glory, honor, and immortality.” Romans 2:7
  10. What shall be their reward? “Eternal life.” Romans 2:7
  11. Upon what conditions may we obtain this blessing? “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life.” 1Timothy 6:12, first part
  12. When do men obtain immortality? Is it at death or at the resurrection? “And the dead will be raised incorruptible.” 1Corinthians 15:52, last part
  13. How shall those who are not dead become incorruptible? “We shall be changed.” 1Corinthians 15:52
  14. When will this change take place? “At the last trump.” 1Corinthians 15:52
  15. How suddenly will the change occur? “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump.” 1Corinthians 15:52
  16. Will this change be a change of the internal, or the external and physical, corruptible man? “For this corruptible must put on incorruption.” 1Corinthians 15:53, first part
  17. What, then, becomes immortal? “This mortal must put on immortality.” 1Corinthians 15:53, last part
  18. What scripture will be fulfilled when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality? “Then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.” 1Corinthians 15:54, last part
  19. Who will be raised from the dead? “All that are in their graves shall hear His voice, and shall come forth.” John 5:28, 29, first part
  20. Will the unburied arise? “The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades [the grave] delivered up the dead which were in them.” Revelation 20:13
  21. Will different classes of characters arise in the resurrection? “There will be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and the unjust.” Acts 24:15
  22. For what are the good raised? “They that have done good unto the resurrection of life.” John 5:29, first part
  23. To what will all others be raised? “They that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.” John 5:29, last part
  24. Will a man’s destiny at last be in accordance with his previous life? “Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” Galatians 6:7, last part
  25. What will be the portion of the ungodly? “For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption.” Galatians 6:8, first part
  26. What will be the reward of the saint? “He who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.” Galatians 6:8, last part
  27. Where now is the Christian’s life? “Your life is hid with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:3
  28. How, then, should we live? “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not lose heart.” Galatians 6:9
  29. What will be the fate of those who sow to the flesh? “They will utterly perish in their own corruption.” 2Peter 2:12, last part
  30. Is it possible for man to be utterly destroyed? “Fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28, last part
  31. What is the wages of sin? “For the wages of sin is death.” Romans 6:23
  32. Is this death merely a bodily death? “The soul who sins shall die.” Ezekiel 18:20, first part
  33. If the wicked turn away from his wickedness and do right, what then? “He preserves himself alive.” Ezekiel 18:27, last part
  34. When a righteous man turns away from his righteousness and commits sin, what will be his fate? “Because of the iniquity which he has done that he dies.” Ezekiel 18:26, last part
  35. As he first dies in his iniquity, and then dies for his iniquity, what must this last death be called? “The second death.” Revelation 21:8
  36. What is the result attained by the man who converts a sinner from the error of his ways? “He will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.” James 5:20, last part
  37. What has God placed before us to excite us to action? “I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing.” Deuteronomy 30:19, first part
  38. How does God manifest His love to men? “God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16
  39. What is our Saviour’s complaint concerning mankind? “But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.” John 5:40
  40. What is the command of God to all? “Cast away from you all the transgressions which you have committed, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. For why should you die, O house of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death of one who dies, says the Lord God. ‘Therefore, turn and live.’ ” Ezekiel 18:31, 32

Source: adventbeliefs.com/assets/BBR/17/Appeal-on-Immortality-James-White

Representatives of Christ

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“But you shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and you shall be witnesses to Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”
Acts 1:8

These words, spoken by Jesus just before His ascension, clearly states that as Christians we are to be representatives of Christ. “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20.

“What fruit does Christ expect from His disciples? The exerting of an influence like the influence exerted by the Redeemer. He expects us to follow His example of perfect goodness, living in obedience to all His commandments. Thus it is that we become Christlike. …

“Justification is the reward of faith in the righteousness of Christ. His imputed righteousness brings everyone who accepts Him as a personal Saviour into conformity to the will of God. … He who follows Christ must live in obedience to the law of God. Sin and holiness cannot unite.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 18, 96

“No yoke that Christ has not framed is to be bound upon the necks of God’s people. Let those who have been wearing yokes of human devising cast them aside at any cost, and take the yoke of Christ. This is the instruction that God has been given me for the past years and has been repeating the past few days.

“Our heavenly Father knows how weak we are. He understands our necessities and our capacities. He has not left us to be guided or controlled by any human  will. We are to follow the word, ‘It is written.’ We gain purity of soul through the blood of Jesus, which is efficacious to cleanse us from all sin.”

“ … The work is to be done that will cause the earth to be filled with the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. This work can be done only by the whole church acting their part under the guidance and in the power of Christ.” Ibid., 98-100 (All emphasis supplied.)

Prepared for the Seal

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October 19 – 25, 2025

Key Text

“And in their [the hundred and forty and four thousand] mouth was found no guile, for they are without fault before the throne of God.” Revelation 14:5

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 648, 649

Introduction

“Those who have learned of Christ will ‘have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness.’ Ephesians 5:11. In speech, as in life, they will be simple, straightforward, and true; for they are preparing for the fellowship of those holy ones in whose mouth ‘was found no guile.’ ” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 69

Sunday

1 NAME AND CHARACTER

1.a. What does it mean to pray in the name of Jesus and to have the Father’s name written in the forehead? John 14:13–15; 15:16; 16:23, 24

 

Note: “To pray in Christ’s name means much. It means that we are to accept His character, manifest His spirit, and work His works.” The Desire of Ages, 668

“The seal of the living God will be placed upon those only who bear a likeness to Christ in character.” The Faith I Live By, 287

“In every act of life, you are to make manifest the name of God. This petition calls upon you to possess His character. You cannot hallow His name, you cannot represent Him to the world, unless in life and character you represent the very life and character of God. This you can do only through the acceptance of the grace and righteousness of Christ.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 107

1.b.  How important was a name in Old Testament times, and what did a name reveal? 1 Samuel 25:25; Genesis 27:36; 32:27, 28 When a person’s character changed, what happened to his or her name? Genesis 17:5, 15, 16; 32:28

 

Monday

2 CHURCH ASSOCIATION

2.a. What does a woman symbolize in the Scriptures, and what does it mean not to be defiled with women as a condition to be sealed? Isaiah 4:1; Hosea 2:2, 20; 2 Corinthians 11:2; Revelation 14:4, first part. What does the term “Babylon” mean? Revelation 17:4, 5

 

Note: “The term ‘Babylon’ is derived from ‘Babel,’ and signifies confusion. It is employed in Scripture to designate the various forms of false or apostate religion. In Revelation 17, Babylon is represented as a woman—a figure which is used in the Bible as the symbol of a church, a virtuous woman representing a pure church, a vile woman an apostate church.” The Great Controversy, 381

 

2.b. Can we say that anyone connected with a false church is defiled? 2 Corinthians 6:14–18. At what point does defilement begin? Revelation 18:4

 

Note: “[In the early centuries,] 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.” The Great Controversy, 45

“He [God] would teach His people that disobedience and sin are exceedingly offensive to Him and are not to be lightly regarded. He shows us that when His people are found in sin they should at once take decided measures to put that sin from them, that His frown may not rest upon them all. But if the sins of the people are passed over by those in responsible positions, His frown will be upon them, and the people of God, as a body, will be held responsible for those sins. In His dealings with His people in the past the Lord shows the necessity of purifying the church from wrongs. One sinner may diffuse darkness that will exclude the light of God from the entire congregation. When the people realize that darkness is settling upon them, and they do not know the cause, they should seek God earnestly, in great humility and self-abasement, until the wrongs which grieve His Spirit are searched out and put away.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, 265

Tuesday

3 FOLLOWING THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS

3.a. What does “in their mouth was found no guile” mean? Revelation 14:5; James 3:2; Matthew 5:37; 12:36, 37. How does the Sabbath become a sign of sanctification? Exodus 31:13; Isaiah 58:13

 

Note: “My brethren and sisters, how are you employing the gift of speech? Have you learned so to control the tongue that it shall ever obey the dictates of an enlightened conscience and holy affections? Is your conversation free from levity, pride and malice, deceit and impurity? Are you without guile before God? Words exert a telling power. Satan will, if possible, keep the tongue active in his service. Of ourselves we cannot control the unruly member. Divine grace is our only hope.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 175

“The seal of God will never be placed upon the forehead of … men or women of false tongues or deceitful hearts. All who receive the seal must be without spot before God—candidates for heaven.” Ibid., 216

3.b.  How do the sealed believers follow the Lamb here on earth? Revelation 14:4, middle part; 1 Peter 2:21, 22; 1 John 2:6; 3:3–7

 

Note: “In the midst of a world by its iniquity doomed to destruction, Enoch lived a life of such close communion with God that he was not permitted to fall under the power of death. The godly character of this prophet represents the state of holiness which must be attained by those who shall be ‘redeemed from the earth’ (Revelation 14:3) at the time of Christ’s second advent. Then, as in the world before the Flood, iniquity will prevail. Following the promptings of their corrupt hearts and the teachings of a deceptive philosophy, men will rebel against the authority of Heaven. But like Enoch, God’s people will seek for purity of heart and conformity to His will, until they shall reflect the likeness of Christ. Like Enoch, they will warn the world of the Lord’s second coming and of the judgments to be visited upon transgression, and by their holy conversation and example they will condemn the sins of the ungodly. As Enoch was translated to heaven before the destruction of the world by water, so the living righteous will be translated from the earth before its destruction by fire.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 88, 89

Wednesday

4 EXHORTING ONE ANOTHER

4.a. What is shown by the fact that the sealed believers sigh and cry for all the abominations which are done both in the land and in the church? Ezekiel 9:4; Hebrews 10:24–26

 

Note: “The day of God’s vengeance is just upon us. The seal of God will be placed upon the foreheads of those only who sigh and cry for the abominations done in the land.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 212

“The leaven of godliness has not entirely lost its power. At the time when the danger and depression of the church are greatest, the little company who are standing in the light will be sighing and crying for the abominations that are done in the land. But more especially will their prayers arise in behalf of the church because its members are doing after the manner of the world. …

“In the time when [God’s] wrath shall go forth in judgments, … humble, devoted followers of Christ will be distinguished from the rest of the world by their soul anguish, which is expressed in lamentation and weeping, reproofs and warnings. While others try to throw a cloak over the existing evil, and excuse the great wickedness everywhere prevalent, those who have a zeal for God’s honor and a love for souls will not hold their peace to obtain favor of any.” Ibid., 209, 210

4.b.  Will anyone be saved if one does not show concern for the souls of fellow believers as well as of those living around him or her? Ezekiel 33:7–11

 

Note: “The Lord seeks to save, not to destroy. He delights in the rescue of sinners. ‘As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked.’ Ezekiel 33:11. By warnings and entreaties, He calls the wayward to cease from their evil-doing and to turn to Him and live. He gives His chosen messengers a holy boldness, that those who hear may fear and be brought to repentance.” Prophets and Kings, 105

“If wrongs are apparent among [God’s] people, and if the servants of God pass on indifferent to them, they virtually sustain and justify the sinner, and are alike guilty.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, 265, 266

Thursday

5 ABSOLUTE VICTORY

5.a. In order to obtain perfect victory and be sealed, what are some of the prerequisites? John 15:5; Revelation 14:12; 2 Peter 1:5–11

 

Note: “God demands that the appetites be cleansed, and that self-denial be practiced in regard to those things which are not good. This is a work that will have to be done before His people can stand before Him a perfected people.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 153, 154

“He [Satan] fell for the same reason that thousands are falling today, because of an ambition to be first, an unwillingness to be under restraint. The Lord would teach man the lesson that, though united in church capacity, he is not saved until the seal of God is placed upon him.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 969

5.b.  What is the song that the 144,000 learn which no one else can learn? Revelation 14:2, 3. What must be their specific victory? Revelation 15:2, 3

 

Note: “Although church and state will unite their power to compel ‘all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond’ (Revelation 13:16), to receive ‘the mark of the beast,’ yet the people of God will not receive it.” The Great Controversy, 450

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    How important is it to have the Father’s name in our foreheads, and what does that mean?

2    How does one get defiled with women in a prophetic sense?

3    What does it mean to be without guile?

4    Why do we need to have a concern for the spirituality of other members as well as of those around us?

5    What role does our diet have on perfect victory?

Copyright 2010, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Twelve Tribes of Israel

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October 12 – 18, 2025

Key Text

“When the Most High divided their inheritance to the nations, when He separated the sons of Adam, He set the boundaries of the peoples according to the number of the children of Israel.” Deuteronomy 32:8

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 106, 465–469

Introduction

“The true children of Abraham would live, as he did, a life of obedience to God. … A mere lineal descent from Abraham was of no value. Without a spiritual connection with him, which would be manifested in possessing the same spirit, and doing the same works, they were not his children.” The Desire of Ages, 466, 467

Sunday

1 THE GOSPEL PROMISE

1.a. What was the first promise given to Abraham, and how does that promise depict the gospel? Genesis 12:1–3; 15:6; 22:18; Galatians 3:8, 9

 

Note: “He [Abraham] trusted in Christ for the forgiveness of sins. It was this faith that was accounted unto him for righteousness. The covenant with Abraham also maintained the authority of God’s law.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 370

1.b.      What is the gospel? Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 1:17, 18; Colossians 1:20. How was Calvary illustrated to Abraham in a practical way? Genesis 22:2–13; John 8:56–58

 

Note: “The offering of Isaac was designed by God to prefigure the sacrifice of His Son. … All the agony that Abraham endured during that dark and fearful trial was for the purpose of deeply impressing upon his understanding the plan of redemption for fallen man.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1094

Monday

2 CHRIST—THE MAIN PROMISED BLESSING

2.a. Did Abraham understand the blessings that were to come through faith in the cross of Christ? Galatians 3:13, 14; 2 Corinthians 5:21

 

Note: “When to Isaac’s question, ‘Where is the lamb for a burnt offering?’ Abraham made answer, ‘God will provide Himself a lamb;’ and when the father’s hand was stayed as he was about to slay his son, and the ram which God had provided was offered in the place of Isaac—then light was shed upon the mystery of redemption, and even the angels understood more clearly the wonderful provision that God had made for man’s salvation. 1 Peter 1:12.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 155

2.b.      How does Paul explain the important promise made to Abraham? Galatians 3:16, 27–29; Colossians 2:10–13. What blessings do we receive through Christ, the Seed of Abraham? Romans 3:23–25; Titus 2:11–14

 

Note: “Though they [the people of Israel ‘according to the flesh’] had despised God’s mercy and forfeited their blessings as His chosen people—yet God had not cast off the seed of Abraham; the glorious purposes which He had undertaken to accomplish through Israel were to be fulfilled. All who through Christ should become the children of faith were to be counted as Abraham’s seed; they were inheritors of the covenant promises; like Abraham, they were called to guard and to make known to the world the law of God and the gospel of His Son.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 476

“Descent from Abraham was proved, not by name and lineage, but by likeness of character. So, the apostolic succession rests not upon the transmission of ecclesiastical authority, but upon spiritual relationship. A life actuated by the apostles’ spirit, the belief and teaching of the truth they taught, this is the true evidence of apostolic succession. This is what constitutes men the successors of the first teachers of the gospel.” The Desire of Ages, 467

“No one will be entitled to the heavenly inheritance who has not been purified, refined, ennobled, and sanctified. Then let us be diligent to make our calling and election sure.” The Messenger, May 10, 1893

Tuesday

3 HEAVENLY CANAAN

3.a. What did the inheritance promised to Abraham include? Genesis 17:8; Romans 4:13. Why couldn’t he inherit immediately the land of Canaan? Genesis 15:16

 

Note: “The heritage that God has promised to His people is not in this world. Abraham had no possession in the earth, ‘no, not so much as to set his foot on,’ Acts 7:5. He possessed great substance, and he used it to the glory of God and the good of his fellow men; but he did not look upon this world as his home. The Lord had called him to leave his idolatrous countrymen, with the promise of the land of Canaan as an everlasting possession; yet neither he nor his son nor his son’s son received it. When Abraham desired a burial place for his dead, he had to buy it of the Canaanites. His sole possession in the Land of Promise was that rock-hewn tomb in the cave of Machpelah.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 169

3.b.      What was Abraham’s hope, based on God’s promise—a hope that is shared by all the faithful? Hebrews 11:8–10; Daniel 7:27; 2 Peter 3:13. How did he consider himself in this world? Hebrews 11:13–16

 

Note: “The word of God had not failed; neither did it meet its final accomplishment in the occupation of Canaan by the Jewish people. … The gift to Abraham and his seed included not merely the land of Canaan, but the whole earth. So, says the apostle, ‘The promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.’ Romans 4:13. And the Bible plainly teaches that the promises made to Abraham are to be fulfilled through Christ. All that are Christ’s are ‘Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise’—heirs to ‘an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away’—the earth freed from the curse of sin. Galatians 3:29; 1 Peter 1:4. For ‘the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High,’ ” Patriarchs and Prophets, 169, 170

Wednesday

4 HEIRS OF THE KINGDOM

4.a. What are the people like who will inherit the heavenly Canaan? Matthew 5:5; 1 John 3:2, 3; Isaiah 60:21

 

Note: “A title to a possession in this world must be without flaw, or it is valueless, and the right of inheritance is not given. And will heaven be given to those who have a faulty title? The apostle reveals the line through which the heavenly inheritance is to come. He says: ‘If ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.’ If we are Christ’s, our title to the heavenly inheritance is without flaw, for we are then under the only saving covenant, the covenant of grace; and through grace we shall be able to make our calling and election sure by putting on the excellency of Christ in faith, in spirit, in character; for no one will be entitled to the heavenly inheritance who has not been purified, refined, ennobled, elevated, and wholly sanctified. Those whose lives are hid with Christ in God, who have been clothed upon with His righteousness, will have a right to the inheritance, incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away.” The Signs of the Times, May 2, 1892

4.b.      What target regarding character is set before us to be reached before we can receive the seal of God’s approval? Ephesians 3:19; 4:13; Colossians 1:26–28; 2:10. When the people of God have attained to the stature of complete men and women in Christ, what declaration will be made concerning the work of the gospel? Revelation 10:7

 

Note: “We may talk of the blessings of the Holy Spirit, but unless we prepare ourselves for its reception, of what avail are our works? Are we striving with all our power to attain to the stature of men and women in Christ? Are we seeking for His fullness, ever pressing toward the mark set before us—the perfection of His character? When the Lord’s people reach this mark, they will be sealed in their foreheads. Filled with the Spirit, they will be complete in Christ, and the recording angel will declare, ‘It is finished.’ ” Our High Calling, 150

Thursday

5 ENTRANCE INTO THE HOLY CITY

5.a. How many gates are there in the New Jerusalem, whose names point to distinct character traits, and which are open to the redeemed? Revelation 21:10–12

 

5.b.      Mention some of the characters that will find no open gate and that will be debarred from entering the Holy City. Revelation 21:27; 22:15; 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10

 

Note: “Amid the ransomed throng are the apostles of Christ, the heroic Paul, the ardent Peter, the loved and loving John, and their truehearted brethren, and with them the vast host of martyrs; while outside the walls, with every vile and abominable thing, are those by whom they were persecuted, imprisoned, and slain. There is Nero, that monster of cruelty and vice, beholding the joy and exaltation of those whom he once tortured, and in whose extremest anguish he found satanic delight.” The Great Controversy, 667

“Into the city of God there will enter nothing that defiles. All who are to be dwellers there will here have become pure in heart. In one who is learning of Jesus, there will be manifest a growing distaste for careless manners, unseemly language, and coarse thought. When Christ abides in the heart, there will be purity and refinement of thought and manner.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 24, 25

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    In essence, what is the gospel, and how was it preached to Abraham?

2    Who is Abraham’s seed? How is it possible to be a part of that seed?

3    What inheritance was promised to Abraham?

4    Describe the character required to receive the promised inheritance.

5    What are the conditions of admittance into the Holy City? Who will be kept out?

Copyright 2010, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Special Resurrection

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October 5 – 11, 2025

Key Text

“And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake. Some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt.” Daniel 12:2

Study Help: Early Writings, 285

Introduction

“Let us strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundred and forty-four thousand.” The Review and Herald, March 9, 1905

Sunday

1 TWO CLASSES

1.a. What event will announce the imminent deliverance of the saints? Joel 3:16; Hebrews 12:26; Revelation 16:17, last part, 18

 

Note: “Dark, heavy clouds come up and clash against each other. In the midst of the angry heavens is one clear space of indescribable glory, whence comes the voice of God like the sound of many waters. …

“That voice shakes the heavens and the earth. There is a mighty earthquake.” The Great Controversy, 636, 637

1.b.      Who are resurrected when God’s voice resounds before Christ’s return? Daniel 12:1, 2; Matthew 26:63, 64; Revelation 1:7. Will those raised to everlasting life be among those who will hear God’s covenant?

 

Note: “Graves are opened, and ‘many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth … awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt’ (Daniel 12:2). All who have died in the faith of the third angel’s message come forth from the tomb glorified, to hear God’s covenant of peace with those who have kept His law. ‘They also which pierced Him’ (Revelation 1:7), those that mocked and derided Christ’s dying agonies, and the most violent opposers of His truth and His people, are raised to behold Him in His glory and to see the honor placed upon the loyal and obedient.” The Great Controversy, 637

Monday

2 ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY FOUR THOUSAND IN NUMBER

  1. When will God deliver the everlasting covenant to His people and give the day and hour of Christ’s coming? Daniel 12:2

 

Note: “When Jesus leaves the sanctuary, then they who are holy and righteous will be holy and righteous still; for all their sins will then be blotted out, and they will be sealed with the seal of the living God. But those that are unjust and filthy will be unjust and filthy still; for then there will be no Priest in the sanctuary to offer their sacrifices, their confessions, and their prayers before the Father’s throne. Therefore, what is done to rescue souls from the coming storm of wrath must be done before Jesus leaves the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary.” Early Writings, 48

“Soon we heard the voice of God like many waters, which gave us the day and hour of Jesus’ coming. The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake. When God spoke the time, He poured upon us the Holy Ghost, and our faces began to light up and shine with the glory of God, as Moses’ did when he came down from Mount Sinai.

“The 144,000 were all sealed and perfectly united. On their foreheads was written, God, New Jerusalem, and a glorious star containing Jesus’ new name. At our happy, holy state the wicked were enraged, and would rush violently up to lay hands on us to thrust us into prison, when we would stretch forth the hand in the name of the Lord, and they would fall helpless to the ground.” Ibid., 15

Tuesday

3 ADDITION OR INCLUSION?

  1. Did the early Advent people believe that those who have died in the faith of the third angel’s message are included in the number of the sealed saints? Revelation 14:12, 13

 

Note: “As he [John] looked with intense interest he beheld the company of God’s commandment-keeping people. They had upon their foreheads the seal of the living God, and he said: ‘Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth.’ … ” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, 15

“Let us strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundred and forty-four thousand.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 970

Wednesday

4 ADDITION OR INCLUSION? (CONTINUED)

4.a. What should be our goal under the third angel’s message? Matthew 24:13; Hebrews 4:14

 

Note: “The Lord manifests His grace and His power over and over again, and this should teach us that it is always profitable under all circumstances to cherish faith, to talk faith, to act faith.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 928

4.b.      What scriptures show the ultimate triumph of God’s remnant church? Philippians 1:6

 

Note: “In holy vision the prophet saw the ultimate triumph of God’s remnant church. He writes: ‘I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory … stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints.’ Revelation 15:2, 3. ‘And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with Him a hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads.’ Revelation 14:1.’ In this world their minds were consecrated to God; they served Him with the intellect and with the heart; and now He can place His name ‘in their foreheads.’ ” The Acts of the Apostles, 590, 591

Thursday

5 TWO DISTINCT RESURRECTIONS

5.a. Who will be resurrected at the second coming of Jesus? John 5:28, 29, first part; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–17. What will the righteous receive at this resurrection? Revelation 22:12; 1 Corinthians 15:51–55; 2 Timothy 4:7, 8

 

5.b. What will be the main occupation of the righteous during the millennium? 1 Corinthians 6:1–3; Revelation 20:4–6

 

5.c. Who are resurrected after the 1,000 years are over and the wicked have been judged? John 5:28, 29, last part; Revelation 20:5, 7–10

 

Note: “At the end of one thousand years, Jesus, the king of glory, descends. … The city of God comes down and settles upon the mighty plain prepared for it. Then Jesus leaves the city surrounded by the redeemed host and is escorted on His way by the angelic throng. In fearful majesty He calls forth the wicked dead. They are wakened from their long sleep. What a dreadful waking!” Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 3, 83, 84

“At the close of the thousand years the second resurrection will take place. Then the wicked will be raised from the dead and appear before God for the execution of ‘the judgment written.’ ” The Great Controversy, 661

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Describe the special resurrection when two groups will be raised from the tomb at the voice of God, just before the coming of Christ.

2    With what Bible verses does the Spirit of Prophecy identify the last remnant church that will be ready to meet Christ?

3    Describe the two general resurrections to take place, one at the coming of Christ and the other one thousand years later.

Copyright 2010, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

The Sabbath as a Test

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Sealed for Eternity

September 28, 2025 – October 4, 2025

Key Text

“And I heard the number of those who were sealed. One hundred and forty-four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel were sealed … .” Revelation 7:4

Study Help: Early Writings, 36–38, 42–44, 280–282

Introduction

“I then saw the third angel. Said my accompanying angel, ‘Fearful is his work. Awful is his mission. He is the angel that is to select the wheat from the tares, and seal, or bind, the wheat for the heavenly garner. These things should engross the whole mind, the whole attention.’ ” Early Writings, 118

Sunday

1 THE SEALING WORK

1.a. What must be done before the winds of contention are allowed to blow? Revelation 7:1, 3 (compare Daniel 7:2; Jeremiah 25:32). What will happen when these “winds” are released? 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 3

 

Note: “John sees the elements of nature—earthquake, tempest, and political strife—represented as being held by four angels. These winds are under control until God gives the word to let them go. … [The] mightiest of angels has in his hand the seal of the living God, or of Him who alone can give life, who can inscribe upon the foreheads the mark or inscription, to whom shall be granted immortality, eternal life.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 444, 445

1.b.      How do we know that the time of probation, in which sinners are invited to turn to the Lord, will not be extended forever? Luke 13:23–25; 17:28–30; Jeremiah 8:20. What evidence shows that the sealing work must be completed before the plagues begin to fall at the final close of probation? Revelation 22:11

Monday

2 AN OPENED DOOR

2.a. When was the door of the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary opened? Revelation 3:7, 8; 11:19; Daniel 8:14

 

Note: “The time for the commandments of God to shine out with all their importance, and for God’s people to be tried on the Sabbath truth, was when the door was opened in the most holy place in the heavenly sanctuary, where the ark is, in which are contained the ten commandments. This door was not opened until the mediation of Jesus was finished in the holy place of the sanctuary in 1844. Then Jesus rose up and shut the door of the holy place, and opened the door into the most holy, and passed within the second veil, where He now stands by the ark, and where the faith of Israel now reaches.” Early Writings, 42

2.b.      Since the Sabbath has been revealed as a part of the law of God, and since the Day of Atonement clearly identifies obedience to that selfsame law, has the Sabbath been a test since 1844, or are we to wait for a future Sabbath test? Acts 17:30; John 15:22

 

Note: “The present test on the Sabbath could not come until the mediation of Jesus in the holy place was finished and He had passed within the second veil; therefore Christians who fell asleep before the door was opened into the most holy, when the midnight cry was finished, at the seventh month, 1844, and who had not kept the true Sabbath, now rest in hope; for they had not the light and the test on the Sabbath which we now have since that door was opened. I saw that Satan was tempting some of God’s people on this point. Because so many good Christians have fallen asleep in the triumphs of faith and have not kept the true Sabbath, [some] were doubting about its being a test for us now.” Early Writings, 42, 43

“Satan was trying his every art to hold [these] where they were, until the sealing was past, until the covering was drawn over God’s people, and they left without a shelter from the burning wrath of God, in the seven last plagues. God has begun to draw this covering over His people, and it will soon be drawn over all who are to have a shelter in the day of slaughter.” Ibid., 44

Tuesday

3 THE THIRD ANGEL’S MESSAGE

3.a. How does prophecy describe the restoration of the Lord’s Sabbath and the work of the sealing angel? Isaiah 56:1, 2, 6; 58:12, 13; Ezekiel 9:1–11; Revelation 14:9–12. What will be their attitude toward sin in the congregation for those who are preparing to receive the seal of God?

 

Note: “This sealing of the servants of God is the same that was shown to Ezekiel in vision.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 445

“Who are standing in the counsel of God at this time? Is it those who virtually excuse wrongs among the professed people of God and who murmur in their hearts, if not openly, against those who would reprove sin? Is it those who take their stand against them and sympathize with those who commit wrong? No, indeed! Unless they repent, and leave the work of Satan in oppressing those who have the burden of the work and in holding up the hands of sinners in Zion, they will never receive the mark of God’s sealing approval.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, 267

“The true people of God, who have the spirit of the work of the Lord and the salvation of souls at heart, will ever view sin in its real, sinful character. They will always be on the side of faithful and plain dealing with sins which easily beset the people of God. Especially in the closing work for the church, in the sealing time of the one hundred and forty-four thousand who are to stand without fault before the throne of God, will they feel most deeply the wrongs of God’s professed people.” Ibid., 266

3.b.      Although many will be saved without the knowledge of the Sabbath truth, can believers in the third angel’s message be sealed without being tested on the commandments of God and the Sabbath? Ezekiel 20:12, 16, 19, 20; Revelation 12:17; 14:12

 

Note: “Those who would have the seal of God in their foreheads must keep the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. This is what distinguishes them from the disloyal, who have accepted a man-made institution in the place of the true Sabbath. The observance of God’s rest day is the mark of distinction between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 970

Wednesday

4 THE FINAL ISSUE

4.a. Since the light of present truth began to shine, focusing the attention of God’s people on the heavenly sanctuary, the law of God, and the Sabbath (Revelation 11:19), can we as believers in the three angels’ message be saved without having the seal of God? James 4:17

 

Note: “Only those who receive the seal of the living God will have the passport through the gates of the Holy City.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 970

“Those who reveal the meek and lowly spirit of Christ are tenderly regarded by God. They may be looked upon with scorn by the world, but they are of great value in His sight. Not only the wise, the great, the beneficent, will gain a passport to the heavenly courts; not only the busy worker, full of zeal and restless activity. No; the poor in spirit, who crave the presence of an abiding Christ, the humble in heart, whose highest ambition is to do God’s will—these will gain an abundant entrance. They will be among that number who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” The Desire of Ages, 301, 302

4.b.      What question will become quite clear under the final conflict regarding the Sabbath issue? Malachi 3:18

 

Note: “The final issue on the Sabbath question has not yet come, and by imprudent actions we may bring on a crisis before the time. … We must work cautiously, presenting the truth by degrees, as the hearers can bear it, but keep close to the word.” The Southern Work, 71

“The worshipers of God will be especially distinguished by their regard for the fourth commandment, since this is the sign of God’s creative power and the witness to His claim upon man’s reverence and homage.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 9, 16

“The world can only be warned by seeing those who believe the truth sanctified through the truth, acting upon high and holy principles, showing in a high, elevated sense, the line of demarcation between those who keep the commandments of God and those who trample them under their feet.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 980

Thursday

5 THE FINAL ISSUE (CONTINUED)

5.a. How many are to be sealed in the time of the end? Revelation 7:4; 14:1–3

 

Note: “The decree is to go forth that all who will not receive the mark of the beast shall neither buy nor sell, and, finally, that they shall be put to death. But the saints of God do not receive this mark. …

“To every soul will come the searching test, Shall I obey God rather than men? … Who are prepared to stand firmly under the banner on which is inscribed, ‘The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus’?” The Signs of the Times, November 8, 1899

5.b.      Describe the troublous times that are coming upon the world, according to prophecy. Luke 21:26; Isaiah 24:1–6; 33:16

 

Note: “The time will come when men will not only forbid Sunday work, but they will try to force men to labor on the Sabbath.” The Southern Work, 69

“It requires moral courage to take a position to keep the commandments of the Lord. … It takes moral courage, firmness, decision, perseverance, and very much prayer to step out on the unpopular side. … You may have to suffer distress, you may go hungry sometimes; but God will not forsake you in your suffering. He will test your faith. We are not to live to please ourselves. We are here to manifest Christ to the world, to represent Him and His power to mankind.” The Review and Herald, September 3, 1895

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    What are the four winds that are being held back, and why are they held in check?

2    What door was opened before the servants of God in 1844?

3    What is the work of the third angel of Revelation 14?

4    Why was the Lord’s Sabbath not a test for God’s people before 1844—and why has it been a test ever since?

5    What question will be clear to all under the final test?

Copyright 2010, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Recipe – Lentil and Kale Stew

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Lentils

When combined with a whole grain, lentils provide the same quality protein as meat. A 1/2-cup serving of cooked lentils provides about 12 grams of protein. With such high protein content, you are sure to be fueled up all day.

Just 1/2 cup of cooked green lentils packs in 32% of a day’s required amount of fiber. Lentils are an excellent source of fiber. In addition to gut mobility, a high intake of fiber is associated with lower blood cholesterol levels and protection against developing colon cancer and Type 2 diabetes.

Just 1/2 cup of cooked lentils has 366 mg of potassium. Getting enough potassium is just as important as reducing salt. Potassium can counteract the damaging effect of sodium and has been shown to lower blood pressure.

Out of all plant-based foods, lentils contain the most folate. A type of B-vitamin, folate helps support red blood cell formation and proper nerve functions. It also plays an important role in lowering artery-damaging homocysteine. It may help prevent anemia and protect against developing heart disease, cancer, and dementia. Folate is particularly important for women of childbearing age, as it is needed to support increasing maternal blood volume.

Just 1/2 cup of cooked lentils provides 15% of your daily iron needs. Iron plays an integral role in the formation of hemoglobin in blood and myoglobin in the muscles, both of which carry oxygen to the cells. Regularly including lentils in the diet can help boost your iron intake.

Source: lentils.org/health-nutrition/nutritional-information

Recipe – Lentil and Kale Stew

Ingredients

1 Tbs. olive oil

1 medium red onion, finely diced

1 medium green bell pepper, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

5 cups vegetable broth

1 bay leaf

1 ¼ cups brown or green lentils, rinsed

1 medium carrot, chopped

1 medium sweet potato, cubed

1 15-oz. can diced tomatoes, or home canned

1 ½ tsp. smoked paprika

1 tsp. ground rosemary

¼ tsp. cayenne pepper

2 cups kale, chopped

½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

salt, to taste

Process

To a large pot, add olive oil, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until softened, 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, 2-3 minutes. Add the broth, bay leaf, lentils, carrot, sweet potato, tomatoes, paprika, rosemary, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, cover, and let simmer until lentils and vegetables are tender, 25-30 minutes. Add the kale, parsley, and salt. Continue cooking for 10 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and serve.

He Who Soweth Discord Among the Brethren

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“These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, an heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, a false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.”
Proverbs 6:16–19

In previous articles, we examined six of the seven deadly sins found in Proverbs 6. Now we will examine the final one, “… he that soweth discord among brethren.” Verse 19

There seems to be something particularly serious about this seventh deadly sin simply because it is often seen in Scripture in negative ways, resulting in very serious consequences.

For instance, Korah and his two friends rebelled against Moses, causing discord within the camp of Israel. Their end was frightening! Judas continually caused discord among the disciples of Christ. He hanged himself! The interesting thing about those who stir up strife is that they may tell no lies, yet they produce as much commotion and disharmony as does a liar.

The word discord, used by King Solomon, appears only twice in the Bible, and it means “strife.” Webster’s Dictionary defines discord as “a lack of agreement or harmony, dissension, conflict.” Webster’s Dictionary also defines the word strife as “conflict, fight, struggle.” Synonyms are discord, contention, and dissension.

According to Biblical Leadership, “The 14,000-congregation Faith Communities Today (FACT) study in 2015 found that 75 percent of congregations have experienced conflict in the past, 20 percent at any one time. Sixty percent of congregations had some kind of conflict during the past five years. A 2001 Hartford Institute study discovered that 79 percent had had a conflict in the past five years.”

Church Conflict Forum, January 2, 2008, “Staggering Statistics” reported that, “More than 19,000 congregations experience major conflict every year. Twenty-five percent of the churches in one survey reported conflict in the previous five years that was serious enough to have a lasting impact on congregational life. Only 2% of church conflict involves doctrinal issues. Ninety-eight percent of church conflict involves interpersonal issues. Control issues ranked as the most common cause of conflict (85%). About 40% of church members who leave their churches do so because of conflict. Very small numbers (16%) of churches report positive outcomes from conflict.”

Sources: churchconflictforum.blogspot.com/200801/staggering-statistics; faithcommunitiestoday.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/American-Congregations-2015

What is the Toll that Church Conflicts have on the Pastor?

“The average pastoral career lasts only 14 years” due to conflict. “1,500 pastors leave their assignments every month in the United States because of conflict, burnout, or moral failure. Thirty-four percent of all pastors presently serve congregations that forced their previous pastor to resign.” Ibid.

So, we are beginning to understand the awful effects that the work of the person or persons who sow strife or discord have on the life of the church. This is the reason why God hates this type of conduct. The contemplated motive of such individuals is to destroy the harmony and unity of those who are striving to live together in love and unity in the church. Their actions are not limited to the church; they extend to the family circle, the community, the workplace, and even the world at large.

However, the emphasis of this seventh deadly sin pertains to God’s church, and that the evil-doer is used by Satan to deliberately destroy the love and unity that exist among the followers of Jesus. Those who carry out such work are doing Satan’s bidding because he hates to see God’s people united and living in love and peace.

“Satan works to make the prayer of Christ of none effect. He makes continual efforts to create bitterness and discord; for where there is unity there is strength, a oneness which all the powers of hell cannot break. All who shall aid the enemies of God by bringing weakness and sorrow and discouragement upon any of God’s people, through their own perverse ways and tempers, are working directly against the prayer of Christ.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, 152

“Discord and strife are the work of Satan and the fruit of sin.” Ibid., Vol. 5, 169

The Holy Scriptures inform us that the spirit of discord and self-exaltation are the evil traits that caused the problem in heaven. Lucifer came to cherish this selfish desire to be above his Maker, and consequently, discord erupted in the residence of God.

“All heaven had rejoiced to reflect the Creator’s glory and to show forth His praise. And while God was thus honored, all had been peace and gladness. But a note of discord now marred the celestial harmonies. The service and exaltation of self, contrary to the Creator’s plan, awakened forebodings of evil in minds to whom God’s glory was supreme.” The Great Controversy, 494

While in heaven, Lucifer went from angel to angel, sowing seeds of strife to create division among the heavenly host and thereby redirect the angels’ loyalty from God to himself. Because of who he was, the angels did not suspect his evil purpose; they trusted him as their commander. This diabolical scheme sowed seeds of doubt that germinated in the minds of many of the angels, leading them to question the character of their Maker. Sadly, because of the bewitching power of this operation, one-third of heaven’s angels will be eternally lost, and heaven was changed forever! Angels who once lived in love and unity will be forever separated because of the evil spirit of discord.

This is the very work that is being carried out in God’s church today by those who have sold themselves to the devil. Paul dealt with this problem during his ministry. The church in Corinth was especially plagued with this divisive element. In his first letter to them, he stated:

“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.

“Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?” 1 Corinthians 1:10–13

The True Reason for Discord.

“And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?

“For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.

“Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor.

“For we are laborers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 3:1–11

This discord motif was uppermost in Paul’s discourse to the Corinthians to the extent that he highlighted their attitude even when they were gathered together for church services. He said:

“Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse. For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it.” 1 Corinthians 11:17, 18

We need to understand what motivates a church member to cause strife within the church. Let’s look at a few texts of Scripture to find the answer to this important question.

“He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife … .” Proverbs 28:25

“Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.” Romans 13:13

“For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?” 1 Corinthians. 3:3

“Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife … .” Philippians 1:15

“He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings.” 1 Timothy 6:4

“But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. … For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” James 3:14, 16

Notice that two words appear to go together and are repeated in these verses—envy and strife. Solomon used the word pride, which stems from envy. Mrs. White tells us, “Envy is the offspring of pride.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 651

It is not by chance that these Bible writers put these two words together in these passages because envy is the root cause of discord or strife.

“Envy is one of the most satanic traits that can exist in the human heart, and it is one of the most baleful in its effects. Says the wise man, ‘Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy?’ Proverbs 27:4. It was envy that first caused discord in heaven, and its indulgence has wrought untold evil among men. ‘Where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.’ James 3:16.” Ibid., 385

So, we see the reason—the root cause—behind church members going about the church and sowing seeds of discord and strife is envy. Wherever there is discord and strife, we can be sure that it is the devil working through human instrumentalities to accomplish his destructive purposes.

“In the rebellion of Korah is seen the working out, upon a narrower stage, of the same spirit that led to the rebellion of Satan in heaven. It was pride and ambition that prompted Lucifer to complain of the government of God, and to seek the overthrow of the order which had been established in heaven. Since his fall it has been his object to infuse the same spirit of envy and discontent, the same ambition for position and honor, into the minds of men.” Ibid., 403

What is envy? According to Wikipedia, “Envy is an emotion which occurs when a person lacks another’s quality, skill, achievement, or possession and either desires it or wishes that the other lacked it.”

“Envy is not merely a perverseness of temper, but a distemper, which disorders all the faculties. It began with Satan. He desired to be first in heaven, and because he could not have all the power and glory he sought, he rebelled against the government of God. He envied our first parents and tempted them to sin and thus ruined them and all the human race.

“The envious man shuts his eyes to the good qualities and noble deeds of others. He is always ready to disparage and misrepresent that which is excellent. Men often confess and forsake other faults, but there is little to be hoped for from the envious man. Since to envy a person is to admit that he is a superior, pride will not permit any concession. If an attempt be made to convince the envious person of his sin, he becomes even more bitter against the object of his passion, and too often he remains incurable.

“The envious man diffuses poison wherever he goes, alienating friends and stirring up hatred and rebellion against God and man. He seeks to be thought best and greatest, not by putting forth heroic, self-denying efforts to reach the goal of excellence himself, but by standing where he is and diminishing the merit due to the efforts of others.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, 56

What are the Seeds of Discord?

“There are men who are ever talking and gossiping and bearing false witness, who sow the seeds of discord and engender strife. Heaven looks upon this class as Satan’s most efficient servants.” Ibid., 607

“A person who will allow any degree of suspicion or censure to rest upon his fellow workers, while he neither rebukes the complainers nor faithfully presents the matter before the one condemned, is doing the work of the enemy. He is watering the seeds of discord and of strife, the fruit of which he will have to meet in the day of God … .” Counsels on Health, 297

What Should be Our Attitude?

“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions (disunion, dissension) and offences (skandalon [“scandal”] or stumbling block; occasion to fall; things that offend) contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid (shun, go out of the way) them.” Romans 16:17

“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:1–3

[All scripture is from the King James Version]

Pastor Ivan Plummer ministers through the Emmanuel Seventh Day Church Ministries in Bronx, New York. He may be contacted by telephone at 718-882-3900.

What’s in a Sneeze?

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Reasons for Sneezing

  • Allergies
  • Viral infections
  • Breathing in certain medications like nasal sprays
  • Eating spicy foods
  • Stress and strong emotions
  • Temperature change
  • Bright lights

Sneeze Droplets Can Carry

  • Common cold
  • Flu
  • Strep throat
  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
  • Pneumonia
  • Meningococcal disease

“Sneezing … is a sudden and forceful expulsion of air through the nose and mouth. It is the body’s natural reflex to clear the nasal passages of irritants and harmful particles.” (medicoverhospitals.in/symptoms/sneezing)

A sneeze sends 40,000 droplets of moisture into the air and on nearby surfaces. These droplets carry viruses and bacteria that can be inhaled by others.

What happens to these droplets once they are sneezed out depends on their size. The bigger they are, the quicker they fall and end up on the floor or some other surface—although movement in the room can cause them to become airborne again. For instance, opening a door can change the airflow and pull viruses up from the floor. Smaller and lighter droplets can stay airborne almost indefinitely.

Sneezing is a symptom of many different conditions, so to treat sneezing, healthcare providers treat the underlying issue. For instance, if the underlying condition is a bacterial infection, a doctor might prescribe antibiotics.

If sneezing is the only symptom you are experiencing, you likely won’t need to contact your doctor. However, if the sneezing is combined with a fever, nausea and vomiting, shortness of breath, hives, diarrhea, and itchy, watery eyes, then you probably have severe allergies or an infection.

While sneezing is most often spontaneous, it is possible to make yourself sneeze.

  • Wiggle tissue or a Q-tip around in your nose
  • Sniff pepper
  • Rub the roof of your mouth with your tongue
  • Massage the bridge of your nose
  • Pluck your eyebrow or nose hair

Interestingly, one in three people can make themselves sneeze by looking at a bright light. This ability is hereditary and called photic sneezing. We don’t really know how bright light causes the sneeze, but maybe the light stimulates a branch of our parasympathetic nervous system, which is part of the autonomic nervous system which is responsible for the body’s rest-and-digest activities such as digestion, salivation, and urination when the body is at rest. Or the light source may stimulate the optic nerve, which stimulates the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions like biting and chewing) and that makes you sneeze.

Trying to hold back a sneeze can be bad for your health. It can damage blood vessels, cause vertigo, rupture ear drums, and even cause hearing loss.

The nasal cavity—our nose—is part of the upper respiratory tract because we breath in and out through it (inspiration and exhalation). Noses are big, small, and all sizes in between. But when you consider how much is contained in the nasal cavity, it will shock you. In it we find bones, cartilage, tissues, blood vessels, and nerves all of which extend to the back of the upper part of the throat (the nasopharynx).

The anterior or front of the nose, known as the vestibule, is lined with tissue and short, coarse hair. This nose hair is a natural air filter.

Nose hair …

  • Protects your respiratory system by trapping airborne particles like dust, pollen, and other particles and pathogens, like viruses and bacteria from reaching your respiratory tract.
  • Retains water which keeps your mucus membranes moist. They don’t function well when dry.
  • Is coated with a thin layer of mucus that traps smaller particles that may try to sneak past the coarse hairs in front.
  • Cilia (tiny, hair-like structures) work with the mucus to move the trapped particles into the throat where they can be swallowed or expelled.

And here is a plus: Studies have shown that the denser the nose hair, there is a reduced risk of developing asthma, especially if you have allergies. Of course, some people prefer to trim or even remove these hairs for cosmetic reasons, but removing too many can lead to a greater risk of respiratory illnesses. Nose hairs won’t make you sneeze, but stimulation of the nerves inside the nose and the gathering of debris, particles, and unfamiliar materials in the nose hairs can cause you to sneeze.

Since sneezing clears the nose and throat of irritants and things that make us sick, and can also spread viruses and bacteria to those around us, here are some common-sense ways to protect not only ourselves, but others as well, from the bad stuff contained in the 40,000 moisture droplets in each sneeze.

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue
  • Sneeze in your upper sleeve, not your hands
  • Wash your hands after sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose
  • Avoid contact with sick people

Strange Cases

In 2023, Katelyn, a young 12-year-old girl began to sneeze for reasons unknown. She would sneeze 12,000 times per day, 20 sneezes per minute for up to 15 minutes at a time, affecting every aspect of her life. Her father told of one instance when she sneezed for 45 minutes straight. Doctors said it was a tic. She would experience a funny feeling in her nose and then the sneezing would begin. They say that this funny feeling is very common for tics. She would find some relief in listening to The Beatles, which stopped the sneezing temporarily, but no one could say why.

Another young girl, Lauren, also sneezed constantly over a four-month period. She was diagnosed with an extremely rare condition known as PANDAS—a pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder believed to be the result of cross-reactive antibodies that cause an inflammatory response in the basal ganglia (a topic for another issue). This condition is linked to streptococcal infections when the body has a hyper-reaction to a bacterial infection like strep, tics, even OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder).

Sneezing is even mentioned in a strange case in the Bible. After Elisha “stretched himself out” on the Shunammite woman’s dead son, the boy sneezed seven times and opened his eyes. (See 2 Kings 4:18-37.)

Sources: my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/sneezing; my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23266-parasympathetic-nervous-system-psns; tyla.com/health/girl-sneezes-12000-times-day-775774-20230118; urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/What the Inside of Your Nose Reveals; nosetrimmer.club/nose-hair-cause-sneezing; healthfully.com/The Function of Nose Hairs; aspire.care/families-caregivers-pandas-is-autoimmune-encephalitis; livescience.com/3686-gross-science-cough-sneeze

Did You Know?

During a sneeze, some of those moisture droplets are propelled out of the nose at ≥200 miles per hour.

You cannot sneeze once you are in deep REM sleep because the associated muscles are inactive.

It’s not true that your heart stops when you sneeze. It can slow it down for a short period of time, but it doesn’t stop it.