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Christ’s Preexistence

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June 23 – 29, 2024

Key Text
“And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.” John 17:5

Study Help: Evangelism, 615, 616; Selected Messages, Book 1, 247; The Acts of the Apostles, 38, 39

Introduction
“Christ was indeed glorified, even with the glory which He had with the Father from all eternity.” The Acts of the Apostles, 38, 39

Sunday

1 HE WAS BEFORE ALL THINGS

1.a. How does the Bible refute the claim that Christ did not exist before His birth in Bethlehem? John 8:58; 17:5, 24

Note: “While God’s word speaks of the humanity of Christ when upon this earth, it also speaks decidedly regarding His preexistence. The Word existed as a divine being, even as the eternal Son of God, in union and oneness with His Father.” Lift Him Up, 16

1.b. Who was the Creator of all things? John 1:1–3; Colossians 1:13–17; Hebrews 1:2, 8–10

Note: “If Christ made all things, He existed before all things. The words spoken in regard to this are so decisive that no one need be left in doubt. Christ was God essentially, and in the highest sense. He was with God from all eternity, God over all, blessed forevermore.” Lift Him Up, 16

“Christ is the preexistent, self-existent Son of God. … In speaking of His preexistence, Christ carries the mind back through dateless ages. He assures us that there never was a time when He was not in close fellowship with the eternal God.” The Faith I Live By, 46

Monday

2 HE WROUGHT THE DELIVERANCE FROM EGYPT

2.a. What deeply influential relationship did Christ have with Moses? Exodus 3:2–8; Hebrews 11:24–27

Note: “The burning bush, in which God appeared to Moses, revealed Christ. There is living truth in this spectacle. In mercy, God was about to deliver His people from Egyptian bondage; and He appeared to Moses, telling him that he had been selected as the visible leader of God’s people. … “He who sees the end from the beginning, watched over and guarded His servant. God transferred Moses from the courts of luxury, where his every wish was gratified, to a more private school. Here the Lord could commune with Moses, and so educate him that he would obtain a knowledge of the hardships, trials, and perils of the wilderness. He gave him sheep to care for, that he might become qualified to be the shepherd of God’s people.” The Youth’s Instructor, December 13, 1900

2.b. Who was the Angel from whom Moses received the moral law (Exodus 20:3–17) to be given to the Hebrews and to us? Malachi 3:1; Acts 7:37, 38

Note: “Christ was not only the leader of the Hebrews in the wilderness—the Angel in whom was the name of Jehovah, and who, veiled in the cloudy pillar, went before the host—but it was He who gave the law to Israel. Amid the awful glory of Sinai, Christ declared in the hearing of all the people the ten precepts of His Father’s law. It was He who gave to Moses the law engraved upon the tables of stone.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 366

“When the law was spoken, the Lord, the Creator of heaven and earth, stood by the side of His Son, enshrouded in the fire and the smoke on the mount. It was not here that the law was first given; but it was proclaimed, that the children of Israel, whose ideas had become confused in their association with idolaters in Egypt, might be reminded of its terms, and understand what constitutes the true worship of Jehovah.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1103, 1104

“The ten holy precepts spoken by Christ upon Sinai’s mount were the revelation of the character of God, and made known to the world the fact that He had jurisdiction over the whole human heritage.” Ibid., 1105

Tuesday

3 HE LED ISRAEL THROUGH THE DESERT

3.a. How was Christ involved in leading the people of Israel through the desert? Exodus 23:20–23; 32:34; 1 Corinthians 10:4

Note: “Shrouded in the pillar of cloud, the world’s Redeemer held communion with Israel. Let us not say, then, that they had not Christ. When the people thirsted in the wilderness and gave themselves up to murmuring and complaint, Christ was to them what He is to us—a Saviour full of tender compassion,
the Mediator between them and God.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, 1061

3.b. Whom did the Israelites tempt and provoke during the wilderness pilgrimage? Psalm 78:18, 56;
1 Corinthians 10:9

Note: “Moses smote the rock, but it was Christ who stood by him and caused the water to flow from the flinty rock. The people tempted the Lord in their thirst, and said, If God has brought us out here, why does He not give us water, as well as bread. That if showed criminal unbelief and made Moses afraid that God would punish them for their wicked murmurings. The Lord tested the faith of His people, but they did not endure the trial. They murmured for food and for water, and complained of Moses. Because of their unbelief, God suffered their enemies to make war with them, that He might manifest to His people from whence cometh their strength.” The Story of Redemption, 132, 133

“One equal with God, His only begotten Son, carried out His Father’s mind in the deliverance of the Israelites. God had promised Moses, ‘My presence shall go with thee,’ and He fulfilled this promise by giving Christ to be the invisible Leader of His people, while Moses was chosen to be their visible general. Christ guided them in their travels through the wilderness, indicating where they should encamp. Through Moses He communicated His will and purpose to more than a million people. Through 40 years of wilderness-wandering He was their instructor.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 13, 185, 186

Wednesday

4 HE SPOKE THROUGH THE PROPHETS

4.a. Describe Christ’s relationship with Noah, a mouthpiece who preached the gospel to the “spirits in prison” that were “dead” in trespasses and sins. 1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6

Note: “ ‘For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.’ Christ was engaged in this warfare in Noah’s day. It was His voice that spoke to the inhabitants of the old world in messages of warning, reproof, and invitation.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1088, 1089

4.b. Describe Christ’s relationship with other Old Testament prophets, such as David (Psalms 22:7, 8; 40:6–8; 110:1), Isaiah (chapter 53), and Jeremiah (31:33, 34). 1 Peter 1:9–11

Note: “Since the sin of our first parents there has been no direct communication between God and man. The Father has given the world into the hands of Christ, that through His mediatorial work He may redeem man and vindicate the authority and holiness of the law of God. All the communion between heaven and the fallen race has been through Christ. It was the Son of God that gave to our first parents the promise of redemption. It was He who revealed Himself to the patriarchs. Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Moses understood the gospel. They looked for salvation through man’s Substitute and Surety. These holy men of old held communion with the Saviour who was to come to our world in human flesh; and some of them talked with Christ and heavenly angels face to face. …

“It was Christ that spoke to His people through the prophets.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 366“

The ceremonial law was given by Christ. …

“Jesus was the light of His people—the Light of the world—before He came to earth in the form of humanity. The first gleam of light that pierced the gloom in which sin had wrapped the world came from Christ. And from Him has come every ray of heaven’s brightness that has fallen upon the inhabitants of the earth. In the plan of redemption Christ is the Alpha and the Omega—the First and the Last.” Ibid., 367

Thursday

5 HE IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE

5.a. Describe the experience of Simeon as he held the infant Jesus in his arms. Luke 2:25–33

Note: “Simeon had lived in the atmosphere of heaven. The bright beams of the Sun of righteousness gave him spiritual discernment.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, 1116

5.b. Why were the other priests unable to recognize Jesus as the promised Saviour? John 9:40, 41

Note: “God could not manifest His glory and power to His people through a corrupt priesthood. The set time to favor His people had come. The faith of the Jews had become clouded, in consequence of their departure from God. Many of the leaders of the people brought in their own traditions, and enforced them upon the Jews, as the commandments of God.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, 1116

5.c. How does the Bible describe the Son of God as the source of life? John 1:4; 10:10, last part

5.d. What assurance is given to all who die as faithful followers of Christ? John 11:25

Note: “In Christ is life, original, unborrowed, underived. … The divinity of Christ is the believer’s assurance of eternal life.” The Desire of Ages, 530

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Quote at least one verse that says Christ made all things.
2 How can you show that the law of ten commandments, given “unto us” (Acts 7:38), was received from the hands of Christ?
3 Describe Christ’s leading the Israelites in the wilderness.
4 Give examples showing that Christ spoke through the prophets.
5 Why did only a few in number recognize Jesus as the promised Messiah?

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

The Gospel in the Sanctuary Service

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June 16 – 22, 2024

Key Text
“And they shall attend to … the needs of the whole congregation before the tabernacle of meeting, to do the work of the tabernacle.” Numbers 3:7

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 352–358

Introduction

“Not only the sanctuary itself, but the ministration of the priests, was to ‘serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things.’ Hebrews 8:5.” The Faith I Live By, 195

Sunday

1 THE DEDICATION

1.a. Describe the dedication of the sanctuary and of the priests. Leviticus 8:10–12, 30, 33. What should we learn from this solemn procedure?

Note: “The God of heaven, whose arm moves the world, who sustains us and gives us life and health, has given us evidence that He may be honored or dishonored by the apparel of those who officiate before Him. He gave special directions to Moses in regard to everything connected with His service. He gave instruction even in regard to the arrangement of their houses and specified the dress which those should wear who were to minister in His service. They were to maintain order in everything and especially to preserve cleanliness.” Testimonies, Vol. 2, 610, 611

1.b. Explain the two divisions of the sanctuary service. Leviticus 4:1–12; 16:29–34

Note: “The ministration of the sanctuary consisted of two divisions, a daily and a yearly service. The daily service was performed at the altar of burnt offering in the court of the tabernacle and in the holy place; while the yearly service was in the most holy.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 352

“Once a year the high priest performed a special work of atonement in the most holy, for the cleansing of the sanctuary.” The Great Controversy, 418

Monday

2 THE DAILY SERVICE

2.a. Describe the regular daily services in behalf of the nation. Exodus 29:38–42; Numbers 28:3–6

Note: “The daily service consisted of the morning and evening burnt offering, the offering of sweet incense on the golden altar, and the special offerings for individual sins. …

“Every morning and evening a lamb of a year old was burned upon the altar … thus symbolizing the daily consecration of the nation to Jehovah, and their constant dependence upon the atoning blood of Christ.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 352

2.b. How did the priests choose the animals to be sacrificed? Exodus 12:5. Who was symbolized by the offering “without blemish”? 1 Peter 1:19

Note: “The priests were to examine all animals brought as a sacrifice and were to reject everyone in which a defect was discovered. Only an offering ‘without blemish’ could be a symbol of His perfect purity who was to offer Himself as ‘a lamb without blemish and without spot.’ 1 Peter 1:19.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 352

2.c. What else should the perfect offering cause us to consider? Romans 12:14

Note: “We are to give ourselves to the service of God, and we should seek to make the offering as nearly perfect as possible. God will not be pleased with anything less than the best we can offer. Those who love Him with all the heart will desire to give Him the best service of the life, and they will be constantly seeking to bring every power of their being into harmony with the laws that will promote their ability to do His will.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 352, 353

“The realization of the sacrifice made in our behalf is ever to be fresh in our minds and is ever to exert an influence on our thoughts and plans. Christ is to be indeed as one crucified among us. …

“What a price has been paid for us! Behold the cross, and the Victim uplifted upon it. Look at those hands, pierced with the cruel nails. Look at His feet, fastened with spikes to the tree. Christ bore our sins in His own body. That suffering, that agony, is the price of your redemption.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 479

Tuesday

3 INDIVIDUAL OFFERINGS

3.a. In the ancient Hebrew system, when an individual sinned, what was he or she required to do? Leviticus 4:2, 3, 22, 23, 27–30

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

3.b. Specify the five classes of offerings. What should these cause us to ponder?

    • • Burnt offerings – Leviticus 1:2, 3
    • • Grain offerings – Leviticus 2:1–3
    • • Peace offerings – Leviticus 3:1, 2
    • • Sin offerings – Leviticus 4:2
    • • Trespass offerings – Leviticus 5:1–6

Note: “Day by day the repentant sinner brought his offering to the door of the tabernacle and, placing his hand upon the victim’s head, confessed his sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the innocent sacrifice. The animal was then slain. ‘Without shedding of blood,’ says the apostle, there is no remission of sin. ‘The life of the flesh is in the blood.’ Leviticus 17:11. The broken law of God demanded the life of the transgressor. The blood, representing the forfeited life of the sinner, whose guilt the victim bore, was carried by the priest into the holy place and sprinkled before the veil, behind which was the ark containing the law that the sinner had transgressed.” The Great Controversy, 418

“Will you not hate sin, and pray most earnestly that you may have a sense of its exceeding sinfulness? Will you not hate that which caused the death of the Majesty of heaven, the Son of God? Always bear in mind the fact that there is one thing which God hates with a perfect hatred, and that is sin.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 14, 73

Wednesday

4 THE OFFERING OF INCENSE

4.a. Describe the offering of incense. Exodus 30:1, 6–8; 40:5

Note: “In the offering of incense, the priest was brought more directly into the presence of God than in any other act of the daily ministration. As the inner veil of the sanctuary did not extend to the top of the building, the glory of God, which was manifested above the mercy seat, was partially visible from the first apartment. When the priest offered incense before the Lord, he looked toward the ark; and as the cloud of incense arose, the divine glory descended upon the mercy seat and filled the most holy place, and often so filled both apartments that the priest was obliged to retire to the door of the tabernacle.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 353

4.b. What did the offering of incense represent? Revelation 8:3, 4

Note: “The incense, ascending with the prayers of Israel, represents the merits and intercession of Christ, His perfect righteousness, which through faith is imputed to His people, and which can alone make the worship of sinful beings acceptable to God. Before the veil of the most holy place was an altar of perpetual intercession, before the holy, an altar of continual atonement. By blood and by incense God was to be approached—symbols pointing to the great Mediator, through whom sinners may approach Jehovah, and through whom alone mercy and salvation can be granted to the repentant, believing soul.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 353

“As we acknowledge before God our appreciation of Christ’s merits, fragrance is given to our intercessions. As we approach God through the virtue of the Redeemer’s merits, Christ places us close by His side, encircling us with His human arm, while with His divine arm He grasps the throne of the Infinite. He puts His merits, as sweet incense, in the censer in our hands, in order to encourage our petitions. He promises to hear and answer our supplications.

“Yes, Christ has become the medium of prayer between man and God. He has also become the medium of blessing between God and man. He has united divinity with humanity. Men are to cooperate with Him for the salvation of their own souls, and then make earnest, persevering efforts to save those who are
ready to die.” Testimonies, Vol. 8, 178

Thursday

5 A TIME OF HEART-SEARCHING

5.a. What did the assembled worshippers do, morning and evening, at the time of daily sacrifice and offering of incense? Luke 1:10

Note: “As the priests morning and evening entered the holy place at the time of incense, the daily sacrifice was ready to be offered upon the altar in the court without. This was a time of intense interest to the worshipers who assembled at the tabernacle. Before entering into the presence of God through the ministration of the priest, they were to engage in earnest searching of heart and confession of sin. They united in silent prayer, with their faces toward the holy place. Thus their petitions ascended with the cloud of incense, while faith laid hold upon the merits of the promised Saviour prefigured by the atoning sacrifice. The hours appointed for the morning and the evening sacrifice were regarded as sacred, and they came to be observed as the set time for worship throughout the Jewish nation.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 353, 354

5.b. How should we imitate the worship of the pious Jews—especially before partaking of the Lord’s
Supper? 2 Corinthians 13:5, 6; 1 Corinthians 11:28

Note: “In this custom [of the Jewish hour of sacrifice], Christians have an example for morning and evening prayer. While God condemns a mere round of ceremonies, without the spirit of worship, He looks with great pleasure upon those who love Him, bowing morning and evening to seek pardon for sins committed and to present their requests for needed blessings.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 354

5.c. What should be our main concern today? Romans 13:11–14

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Describe the ministration of the sanctuary.
2 What was the significance of the offering “without blemish”?
3 Explain the key part of the daily ministration in the sanctuary.
4 What did the offering of incense represent?
5 What lessons should we learn from the morning and evening incense?

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

Bible Study – The Priesthood

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June 9 – 15, 2024 

Key Text  “You shall appoint the Levites over the tabernacle of the Testimony.” Numbers 1:50

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 350, 351

Introduction

“By divine direction the tribe of Levi was set apart for the service of the sanctuary.” The Faith I Live By, 195

Sunday

1 GOD CHOOSES 

1.a. Which tribe was charged with the care of the sanctuary? Numbers 1:50–53. For what reason did God bypass the tribe of Reuben and choose Levi as His firstborn son? Genesis 49:3, 4 

Note: “In the earliest times, every man was the priest of his own household. In the days of Abraham, the priesthood was regarded as the birthright of the eldest son. Now, instead of the firstborn of all Israel, the Lord accepted the tribe of Levi for the work of the sanctuary. By this signal honor He manifested His approval of their fidelity, both in adhering to His service and in executing His judgments when Israel apostatized in the worship of the golden calf.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 350

“The father [ Jacob] pictured what should have been the position of Reuben as the firstborn son; but his grievous sin at Edar had made him unworthy of the birthright blessing.” Ibid., 235

1.b. Which Levite family was set apart for the priesthood? Exodus 28:1; Numbers 18:1, 6, 7

Note: “The priesthood, however, was restricted to the family of Aaron. Aaron and his sons alone were permitted to minister before the Lord; the rest of the tribe were entrusted with the charge of the tabernacle and its furniture, and they were to attend upon the priests in their ministration, but they were not to sacrifice, to burn incense, or to see the holy things till they were covered.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 350

Monday

2 PRIESTLY GARMENTS – Part 1

2.a. Specify the main parts of the high priest’s dress. Exodus 28:2–4

Note: “The garments of the high priest were of costly material and beautiful workmanship, befitting his exalted station. In addition to the linen dress of the common priest, he wore a robe of blue, also woven in one piece. Around the skirt it was ornamented with golden bells, and pomegranates of blue, purple, and scarlet.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 350, 351

2.b. The ephod. Exodus 28:6, 9, 10

Note: “Outside of this [the robe of blue] was the ephod, a shorter garment of gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and white. It was confined by a girdle of the same colors, beautifully wrought. The ephod was sleeveless, and on its gold-embroidered shoulder pieces were set two onyx stones, bearing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 351

2.c. The breastplate. Exodus 28:29

Note: “Over the ephod was the breastplate, the most sacred of the priestly vestments. This was of the same material as the ephod. It was in the form of a square, measuring a span, and was suspended from the shoulders by a cord of blue from golden rings. The border was formed of a variety of precious stones, the same that form the twelve foundations of the city of God. Within the border were twelve stones set in gold, arranged in rows of four, and, like those in the shoulder pieces, engraved with the names of the tribes. The Lord’s direction was, ‘Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his heart, when he goeth in unto the holy place, for a memorial before the Lord continually.’ Exodus 28:29. So Christ, the great High Priest, pleading His blood before the Father in the sinner’s behalf, bears upon His heart the name of every repentant, believing soul.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 351

Tuesday

3 PRIESTLY GARMENTS – Part 2

3.a. What were the Urim and Thummim? Exodus 28:30; Leviticus 8:8

Note: “At the right and left of the breastplate were set two larger stones, which shone with great brilliancy. When difficult matters were brought to the judges, which they could not decide, they were referred to the priests, and they inquired of God, who answered them. If He favored, and if He would grant them success, a halo of light and glory especially rested upon the precious stone at the right. If He disapproved, a vapor or cloud seemed to settle upon the precious stone at the left hand. When they inquired of God in regard to going to battle, the precious stone at the right, when circled with light, said, Go, and prosper. The stone at the left, when shadowed with a cloud, said, Thou shalt not go; thou shalt not prosper.” The Story of Redemption, 183, 184

3.b. Describe the miter of the high priest. Exodus 28:39; 39:28

Note:  “The miter of the high priest consisted of the white linen turban, having attached to it by a lace of blue, a gold plate bearing the inscription, ‘Holiness to Jehovah.’ ” Patriarchs and Prophets, 351

3.c. Describe the garments of the common priests. Leviticus 6:10

Note: “The robe of the common priest was of white linen and woven in one piece. It extended nearly to the feet and was confined about the waist by a white linen girdle embroidered in blue, purple, and red. A linen turban, or miter, completed his outer costume. Moses at the burning bush was directed to put off his sandals, for the ground whereon he stood was holy. So the priests were not to enter the sanctuary with shoes upon their feet.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 350

3.d. What effect was the dress of the priests and their deportment to have upon the people?

Note: “Everything connected with the apparel and deportment of the priests was to be such as to impress the beholder with a sense of the holiness of God, the sacredness of His worship, and the purity required of those who came into His presence.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 351 

Wednesday

4 ADEQUATE COVERING AND REVERENT ATTITUDE

4.a. Why did the altar not have steps? Exodus 20:26

4.b. What did the prophet Isaiah think of himself when he had a vision of God sitting upon His throne in the temple in heaven? Isaiah 6:5. How could we apply this insightful experience to ourselves?

Note: “Isaiah had denounced the sin of others; but now he sees himself exposed to the same condemnation he had pronounced upon them. He had been satisfied with a cold, lifeless ceremony in his worship of God. He had not known this until the vision was given him of the Lord. How little now appeared his wisdom and talents as he looked upon the sacredness and majesty of the sanctuary. How unworthy he was! how unfitted for sacred service! …

“The vision given to Isaiah represents the condition of God’s people in the last days. They are privileged to see by faith the work that is going forward in the heavenly sanctuary. ‘And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament.’ As they look by faith into the holy of holies and see the work of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary, they perceive that they are a people of unclean lips—a people whose lips have often spoken vanity and whose talents have not been sanctified and employed to the glory of God. Well may they despair as they contrast their own weakness and unworthiness with the purity and loveliness of the glorious character of Christ. But if they, like Isaiah, will receive the impression the Lord designs shall be made upon the heart, if they will humble their souls before God, there is hope for them. The bow of promise is above the throne, and the work done for Isaiah will be performed in them. God will respond to the petitions coming from the contrite heart.” The Review and Herald, December 22, 1896

“Isaiah had a wonderful view of God’s glory. He saw the manifestation of God’s power, and after beholding His majesty, a message came to him to go and do a certain work. He felt wholly unworthy for the work. What made him esteem himself unworthy? Did he think himself unworthy before he had a view of God’s glory?—No; he imagined himself in a righteous state before God; but when the glory of the Lord of hosts was revealed to him, when he beheld the inexpressible majesty of God, he said, ‘I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips … .’ ” Ibid., June 4, 1889

Thursday

5 ISAIAH’S MISSION—AND OURS

5.a. How does the vision of Isaiah chapter 6 apply today? Romans 15:4. Where should our hope be anchored? Hebrews 6:11, 19

Note: “As humanity, with its weakness and deformity, was brought out in contrast with the perfection of divine holiness and light and glory, [the prophet Isaiah] felt altogether inefficient and unworthy. How could he go and speak to the people the holy requirements of Jehovah, who was high and lifted up, and whose train filled the temple?” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, 1140

5.b. What comforting assurance given to a humbled Isaiah is likewise offered today to every believer? Isaiah 6:5–7

Note: “Pray that your lips may be touched with a live coal from the divine altar, that you may speak only pure, Christlike words, and that you may see that it is a sin to speak harshly and unadvisedly.” The Review and Herald, January 14, 1904

“When you place yourselves where you should be in order to hear the voice of God, you will come before Him every day, saying, ‘Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.’ ‘Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?’ And the Lord will give you a burden for souls and will touch your lips as He did those of Isaiah, with a live coal from off His altar.” General Conference Daily Bulletin, March 20, 1891

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Which of the twelve tribes was put in charge of the sanctuary, and why?
2 Describe the garments of the high priest.
3 Describe the garments of the common priests and explain what effect their dress, and especially their deportment, was to have upon the people.
4 What should we learn from the reverent attitude and adequate covering of priests and angels in the presence of the Lord?
5 In what sense does the vision of Isaiah (6:1–7) have a special application for us living in the era of self-righteous Laodicea?

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

Bible Study – Two Apartments of the Sanctuary

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The Plan of Redemption & The Sanctuary Service

May 26 – June 1, 2024

Key Text

“The veil shall be a divider for you between the holy place and the most holy.” Exodus 26:33, last part

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 343–349

Introduction

“The building [the tabernacle] was divided into two apartments by a rich and beautiful curtain, or veil, suspended from gold-plated pillars.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 347

Sunday

1 THE HOLY AND THE MOST HOLY

1.a. Describe the first apartment or holy place of the sanctuary. Hebrews 9:2

Note: “In the holy place was the candlestick, on the south, with its seven lamps giving light to the sanctuary both by day and by night; on the north stood the table of shewbread; and before the veil separating the holy from the most holy was the golden altar of incense, from which the cloud of fragrance, with the prayers of Israel, was daily ascending before God.” The Great Controversy, 412

1.b. Describe the second apartment or most holy place of the sanctuary. Hebrews 9:3–5

Note: “In the most holy place stood the ark, a chest of precious wood overlaid with gold, the depository of the two tables of stone upon which God had inscribed the law of ten commandments.

Above the ark, and forming the cover to the sacred chest, was the mercy seat, a magnificent piece of workmanship, surmounted by two cherubim, one at each end, and all wrought of solid gold. In this apartment, the divine presence was manifested in the cloud of glory between the cherubim.” The Great Controversy, 412

Monday

2 THE CANDLESTICK AND THE SHOWBREAD

2.a. Whom did the candlestick represent? John 8:12; Revelation 1:12–20

Note: “No candlestick, no church, shines of itself. From Christ emanates all its light. The church in heaven today is only the complement of the church on earth; but it is higher, grander—perfect. The same divine illumination is to continue through eternal ages. The Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the light thereof. No church can have light if it fails to diffuse the glory it receives from the throne of God.” God’s Amazing Grace, 95

2.b. Why is it that many prefer to close their eyes to the true Light and walk in their own sparks? Isaiah 50:11; John 3:19–21

Note: “Bible truth, the religion of Christ, struggles against a strong current of moral impurity. Prejudice is even stronger in the hearts of men now than in Christ’s day. Christ did not fulfill men’s expectations; His life was a rebuke to their sins, and they rejected Him. So now the truth of God’s word does not harmonize with men’s practices and their natural inclination, and thousands reject its light.” The Desire of Ages, 587

2.c. To whom did the showbread point? Exodus 25:30; John 6:48–51

Note: “Both the manna and the showbread pointed to Christ, the living Bread, who is ever in the presence of God for us.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 354

2.d. In what sense do all popular churches (represented by seven women) prefer to “eat [their] own bread”? Isaiah 4:1. What is the only thing they want to accept from Christ?

Note: “It is absence of religion that makes the path of so many professors of religion shadowy. There are those who may pass for Christians but who are unworthy the name. They have not Christian characters. When their Christianity is put to the test, its falsity is too evident. True religion is seen in the daily deportment. The life of the Christian is characterized by earnest, unselfish working to do others good and to glorify God.” Testimonies, Vol. 3, 377

Tuesday

3 THE ALTAR OF INCENSE AND THE ARK OF THE COVENANT

3.a. What was before the veil of the most holy place? Exodus 30:1, 7, 8; 40:5; Revelation 8:3, 4

Note: “All who come to Christ today are to remember that His merit is the incense that mingles with the prayers of those who repent of their sins and receive pardon and mercy and grace.… The humble heart needs to offer up prayers to which will be returned answers of grace and peace and joy.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, 1078

3.b. What spiritual attitude is not a sweet smell but rather a noisome smoke to the Lord? Isaiah 65:5; Luke 18:9–11

3.c. Name the most important object in the holy of holies. Exodus 31:18; 40:20

Note: “In this apartment [holy of holies], was the ark, a chest of acacia wood, overlaid within and without with gold, and having a crown of gold about the top. It was made as a depository for the tables of stone, upon which God Himself had inscribed the ten commandments. Hence it was called the ark of God’s testament, or the ark of the covenant, since the ten commandments were the basis of the covenant made between God and Israel.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 348

3.d. Where do all true worshipers carry the law of God? Jeremiah 31:33

3.e. What else did the ark of the covenant contain besides the law of God (the Testimony)? Numbers 17:10; Exodus 16:33–35; Hebrews 9:4

Note: “The manna, falling from heaven for the sustenance of Israel, was a type of Him who came from God to give life to the world.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 297

“ ‘The rod of Aaron for the house of Levi was budded.’… This miracle effectually settled the question of the priesthood. “It was … fully established that Moses and Aaron had spoken by divine authority.” Ibid., 403

Wednesday

4 THE MERCY SEAT WITH THE CHERUBIM

4.a. Give a description of the mercy seat. Exodus 25:17–21

Note: “The cover of the sacred chest [of the ark of the covenant] was called the mercy seat. This was wrought of one solid piece of gold, and was surmounted by golden cherubim, one standing on each end. One wing of each angel was stretched forth on high, while the other was folded over the body (see Ezekiel 1:11) in token of reverence and humility.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 348

4.b. What was represented by the two cherubim looking reverently toward the law of God? Psalm 103:20; Hebrews 1:14

Note: “The position of the cherubim, with their faces turned toward each other, and looking reverently downward toward the ark, represented the reverence with which the heavenly host regard the law of God and their interest in the plan of redemption.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 348, 349

“One wing of each angel was stretched forth on high, while the other wing of each angel covered his form. The ark of the earthly sanctuary was the pattern of the true ark in heaven. There, beside the heavenly ark, stand living angels, at either end of the ark, each with one wing overshadowing the mercy seat.” The Story of Redemption, 153, 154

4.c. How was God’s character revealed in the ark? Psalms 89:14, 15; 119:172; Deuteronomy 32:4

Note: “The law of God, enshrined within the ark, was the great rule of righteousness and judgment. That law pronounced death upon the transgressor; but above the law was the mercy seat, upon which the presence of God was revealed, and from which, by virtue of the atonement, pardon was granted to the repentant sinner.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 349

Thursday

5 GOD’S PRESENCE MANIFESTED

5.a. What was the Shekinah? Exodus 25:22. How can we describe the entire sanctuary scene?

Note: “Above the ark [in the holiest of the Holy City], where the angels stood, was an exceeding bright glory.” Early Writings, 32

“The Shekinah [was] the manifestation of the divine Presence; and from between the cherubim, God made known His will. Divine messages were sometimes communicated to the high priest by a voice from the cloud. Sometimes a light fell upon the angel at the right, to signify approval or acceptance, or a shadow or cloud rested upon the one at the left to reveal disapproval or rejection. …

“No language can describe the glory of the scene presented within the sanctuary—the gold-plated walls reflecting the light from the golden candlestick, the brilliant hues of the richly embroidered curtains with their shining angels, the table, and the altar of incense, glittering with gold; beyond the second veil the sacred ark, with its mystic cherubim, and above it the holy Shekinah, the visible manifestation of Jehovah’s presence; all but a dim reflection of the glories of the temple of God in heaven, the great center of the work for man’s redemption.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 349

“The glory often so filled both apartments that the priest was unable to officiate and was obliged to stand at the door of the tabernacle.

“The priest in the holy place, directing his prayer by faith to the mercy seat, which he could not see, represents the people of God directing their prayers to Christ before the mercy seat in the heavenly sanctuary. They cannot behold their Mediator with the natural eye, but with the eye of faith they see Christ before the mercy seat and direct their prayers to Him, and with assurance claim the benefits of His mediation.” The Story of Redemption, 155

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Describe the two apartments of the sanctuary.

2 Explain the significance of the candlestick and the showbread.

3 What was the spiritual meaning of the golden altar of incense?

4 How does the true Christian’s heart reflect the ark of the covenant?

5 How did God sometimes manifest His divine will in the most holy place?

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

Recipe – Vegan Rice Pudding

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Cardamom

Cardamom is a member of the ginger family, and is the third most expensive spice in the world after saffron and vanilla. Commonly used in Indian cuisine, it has earned the nickname “The Queen of Spices.” Because of its complex flavor profile, it is used in both sweet and savory dishes. There are two types of cardamom—green and black.

Green cardamom has a warm, herbal, citrusy—with a touch of spiciness, and a hint of mint—flavor. Bleach green cardamom and you have white cardamom, which is a favorite in the Scandinavian countries and much of northern Europe.

Black cardamom has a smokier flavor, and is used more often in savory dishes, such as soup.

Cardamom also has a number of health benefits. It contains high levels of antioxidants that may help lower blood pressure. Cardamom powder increases the activity of certain enzymes that help fight cancer and enhances the ability of natural killer cells to attack tumors.

It is often used as a breath freshener, and has been shown to have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that disrupt the bacteria in the mouth that cause gum disease and other periodontal infections, and it can help relieve digestive problems, including ulcers.

Compounds in cardamom may help to increase airflow to the lungs, improving breathing by relaxing the airways. This is particularly helpful for treating asthma. Cardamom can decrease elevated liver enzymes, reduce anxiety, and is generally safe for most people.

Sources: allrecipes.com/article/what-is-cardamom; healthline.com/nutrition/cardamom-benefits; sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1075996419301490

Recipe – Vegan Rice Pudding

Ingredients

1 cup arborio rice

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

1/4 tsp. ground cardamom

3 1/2 cups almond milk

2 Tbs. maple syrup

4 Tbs. jam of choice

Process

  1. In medium saucepan stir together the rice, nutmeg, and cardamom. (This will stop the spices from clumping). Add the almond milk and bring to a simmer on medium-high heat.
  2. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cook the rice, stirring often for 20-25 minutes, or until soft and pleasantly chewy. (Add splashes more almond milk as needed during cooking, if consistency is getting too thick for your liking). Once cooked, drizzle in the maple syrup to sweeten and stir to combine.
  3. Divide into 4 bowls and top each with 1 tablespoon of jam. Drizzle with more maple syrup to sweeten to taste.

Rice pudding will keep in fridge for up to 5 days, and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Source: twospoons.ca/the-creamiest-vegan-rice-pudding

The Glory of God Manifested in Man

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“The body is a most important medium through which the mind and the soul are developed for the upbuilding of character.”

Prophets and Kings, 488

Hebrews 10:5 tells us that Christ came in a human body, “A body You have prepared for Me.” He came in this way to show that He has the power to unite humanity and divinity in those who are willing to be sanctified.

Christ not only had a real physical body like man, but He also had a real human mind, the mental nature of man that was united with the mind of God. Did Jesus Christ also have a human spiritual nature? To answer this question, we need to look at five items.

  1. What is the grace of God?
  2. What is the spiritual nature?
  3. What is spiritual life?
  4. What is the glory?
  5. What do the crown and the throne represent?

What is the grace of God?

The grace of God is linked to the Holy Spirit. “The Holy Spirit comes to the soul as a Comforter. By the transforming agency of His grace, the image of God is reproduced in the disciple; he becomes a new creature. Love takes the place of hatred, and the heart receives the divine similitude.” The Desire of Ages, 391

“Cherish the grace of the Holy Spirit, else you will stand as hindrances in the way of the work of God. Make straight paths for your feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way.” Evangelism, 404

“Christ in the fullness of His grace is there [in the communion service, the foot washing service] to change the current of the thoughts that have been running in selfish channels. The Holy Spirit quickens the sensibilities of those who follow the example of their Lord.” The Desire of Ages, 650. So, the grace of God is the transforming agency, through the work of the Holy Spirit, to recreate in the heart of man the love of God so that the divine similitude, the image of God, will be manifested in the human character.

What is the spiritual nature?

“ ‘Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth.’ Every moment of our probationary time is precious; for it is our time for character-building. We should give most diligent heed to the culture of our spiritual nature.” The Review and Herald, February 24, 1891. “The spirit, the character you have manifested has not been at all after the Pattern I have given you in My life and character, when I was upon the earth.” Ibid., October 16, 1894. “Our personal identity is preserved in the resurrection, though not the same particles of matter or material substance as went into the grave. The wondrous works of God are a mystery to man. The spirit, the character of man, is returned to God, there to be preserved. In the resurrection, every man will have his own character.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, 1093. Spiritual nature is related to character.

What is spiritual life?

“Our Redeemer thirsts for recognition. He hungers for the sympathy and love of those whom He has purchased with His own blood. He longs with inexpressible desire that they should come to Him and have life. As the mother watches for the smile of recognition from her little child, which tells of the dawning of intelligence, so does Christ watch for the expression of grateful love, which shows that spiritual life is begun in the soul.” The Desire of Ages, 191

However, we find in the parable of the rich man recorded in Luke 12:16–21, there are those who have never had this experience. “In living for self, he has rejected that divine love which would have flowed out in mercy to his fellow men. Thus he has rejected life. For God is love, and love is life. This man has chosen the earthly rather than the spiritual, and with the earthly he must pass away.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 258

“Aside from Christ man cannot in spirit and in truth keep one of the commandments of God, but in Christ Jesus the claims of the law are met, because He transforms the nature of man by His grace, creates in the heart a new spiritual life, implants a holy nature, and men become Christlike in character.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 14, 86. It is impossible for us to keep the law because, “The law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin.” Romans 7:14. “To be carnally minded is death.” Romans 8:6. “By nature man has no love for God.” The Review and Herald, March 12, 1901

Spiritual life is divine love, and when the divine love of God has come into and fills the heart, selfishness is eradicated. It is the grace of God that creates in the heart this spiritual life.

What is the significance of the word heart?

“God has bought us, and He claims a throne in each heart.” Special Testimonies to Ministers and Workers, Series A, 39

“God is the owner of the body.” The Youth’s Instructor, September 14, 1893

Does God own your body? He’s bought your body and your soul and your life at a price. “… and when the body, purchased at infinite cost, is made to serve the customs and practices of this world, by following the fashions of this degenerate age, the testimony is borne to the world that pride and sin reign in the heart, that Christ does not abide in the soul temple. The Lord Jesus will not be made to serve with your sins. He claims the undivided throne of the heart, and would banish from the life every worldly, unsanctified action, whose influence would tell against the fact that you are His sons and daughters.” Ibid.

The heart is the throne in the temple of man where his spiritual life is created.

Let’s Review

  • The spiritual nature relates to the character.
  • The character consists of the thoughts and feelings.
  • Spiritual life is the divine love of God implanted in the heart by grace through the power of the Holy Spirit which is necessary if I’m to be like Christ.

What is the glory?

“Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same.” Hebrews 2:14, first part. Paul is writing here about Christ. Jesus possessed a real, literal human nature that possessed more glory than Moses. The glory of God is His character. “Our lives may seem a tangle; but as we commit ourselves to the wise Master Worker, He will bring out the pattern of life and character that will be to His own glory. And that character which expresses the glory—character—of Christ will be received into the paradise of God. A renovated race shall walk with Him in white, for they are worthy.” The Desire of Ages, 331

“Before men and angels Satan has been revealed as man’s enemy and destroyer; Christ, as man’s friend and deliverer. His Spirit will develop in man all that will ennoble the character and dignify the nature. It will build man up for the glory of God in body and soul and spirit. ‘For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.’ 2 Timothy 1:7. He has called us ‘to the obtaining of the glory’—character—‘of our Lord Jesus Christ;’ has called us to be ‘conformed to the image of His Son.’ ” Ibid., 341

Jesus was crowned with the brightness of His Father’s glory—His Father’s character: “… being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person.” Hebrews 1:3

What then is our conclusion? The glory and the character conformed to the character of Christ, depending on the context, are synonymous terms.

What do the crown and the throne represent?

“In the kingdom of God, position is not gained through favoritism. It is not earned, nor is it received through an arbitrary bestowal. It is the result of character. The crown and the throne are the tokens of a condition attained—tokens of self-conquest through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.” The Acts of the Apostles, 543

The crown and the throne are symbols of self-conquest.

When was Jesus crowned with glory? “Then the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And, behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.’ Then said Mary to the angel, ‘How shall this be, since I do not know a man?’ And the angel answered and said to her, ‘The Holy Ghost will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One [Thing, KJV] who is to be born will be called the Son of God.’ ” Luke 1:30–35 KJV

“She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And her Child was caught up to God and to His throne.” Revelation 12:5. The word of God states that He was called that Holy Thing or Holy One at conception. In Him was life; not the kind of life that you and I have, but a life that has no beginning or end. “In Him was life, and His life was the light of men.” John 1:4. This life is the divine love of God that was in Christ the man from the moment of conception.

“The human nature of Christ was like unto ours. And suffering was really more keenly felt by Him, for His spiritual nature was free from every taint of sin. The aversion to suffering was in proportion to its severity. His desire for the removal of suffering was just as strong as human beings experience.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 11, 345

Jesus’ human nature was not only physical and mental, but also spiritual. However, the question that brings division among Adventists today is whether Jesus took the nature of Adam before his fall or after it.

Before the Fall or After

There is no division regarding the fact that Jesus took the deteriorated condition of man’s physical nature after the Fall. Steps to Life Ministry has received mail from all over the country since we began publishing this Mystery of Godliness series, and I have yet to find anyone who contradicts that. Remember, Hebrews 2 says that Jesus took part of the same flesh and blood as the children. So, the question we must address is Was His human mental or spiritual nature any different from any other man who has been born into this world?

Now when you ask that question among Adventists, some will say Yes, it was, and others will say No, it was not. So, we must be very careful that we search and study the Scriptures and Inspiration to find the truth about Jesus’ spiritual nature.

“Men estimate character by that which they themselves are capable of appreciating. The narrow and worldly-minded judged of Christ by His humble birth, His lowly garb, and daily toil. They could not appreciate the purity of that spirit upon which was no stain of sin.” The Desire of Ages, 196

Those who do not appreciate the purity of His spirit use the following texts as absolute proof that there was no difference between the human nature of Christ and the human nature of Adam and his posterity after the Fall. In every way, Christ’s physical, mental, and spiritual natures were the same as ours.

“…God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemned sin in the flesh.” Romans 8:3

“For as much then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same.” Hebrews 2:14

However, in our previous studies of this subject, we found that Romans 8:3 clearly stated that when God sent His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, Jesus took the fallen or ruined physical nature of man which is the result of sin.

Likeness, as found in Romans 8, means “in the form of.” So, Jesus took the physically deteriorated body of man which made it possible for Him to die. But it was also seen in Romans 8 that the term sinful flesh is referring to the carnal mind, the lower, corrupt mental nature of man. “So then, they that are in the flesh cannot please God.” Verse 8

The person who has the carnal mind, who is in the flesh, cannot please God. However, we find that the Bible records two occasions where God the Father testified out loud—verbally and publicly—that He was well pleased with Jesus. Both occasions occurred while Jesus was living in this world as a man.

“When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’ ” Matthew 3:16, 17

“And He was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and His clothes became as white as the light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. … While he [Peter] was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him!’ ” Matthew 17:2, 3, 5

Are Matthew and Paul contradicting each other? Paul has written that it is impossible for those who live in the flesh to please God. Yet Matthew writes that Jesus, who came to this world in the flesh, by God’s own words, pleased Him. That which seems to be a contradiction is made plain when the word flesh is appropriately defined according to the context in which it is used.

Let’s look at the context of the expression flesh and blood in Hebrews 2:14. Is it the same sinful flesh that we inherit from Adam? Was the human nature that Jesus took identical to ours?

“Christ’s perfect humanity is the same that man may have through connection with Christ. As God, Christ could not be tempted anymore than He was not tempted from His allegiance in heaven. But as Christ humbled Himself to the nature of man, He could be tempted. He had not taken on Him even the nature of the angels, but humanity, perfectly identical with our own nature, except without the taint of sin.” Manuscript Releases, Vol, 16, 181, 182

Ellen White talks about this repeatedly. She says that Jesus’ nature was identical to ours, then adds a qualifier so you don’t get mixed up. She says His nature was identical with ours except without the taint of sin. The humanity that Jesus took was perfectly identical to our own except for that one thing. And it was this difference, the fact that His humanity was not tainted with sin that made His suffering greater than any man will ever have to experience.

Jesus became a man so that He could suffer being tempted. Do you understand what this meant for Jesus?

“Human nature was to Him a robe of suffering; and when the crisis came, when He yielded Himself a victim to Satan’s rage, when He hung agonizing upon the cross, dying the cruelest, most ignominious of deaths, the hosts of evil exulted, but man was saved.” The Signs of the Times, August 17, 1891

“Would that we could comprehend the significance of the words, ‘Christ suffered, being tempted.’ While He was free from the taint of sin, the refined sensibilities of His holy nature rendered contact with evil unspeakably painful to Him. Yet with human nature upon Him, He met the arch apostate face to face, and single-handed withstood the foe of His throne. Not even by a thought could Christ be brought to yield to the power of temptation. Satan finds in human hearts some point where he can gain a foothold; some sinful desire is cherished, by means of which his temptations assert their power. But Christ declared of Himself, ‘The prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in Me.’ The storms of temptation burst upon Him, but they could not cause Him to swerve from His allegiance to God.” The Review and Herald, November 8, 1887

What is the power of temptation?

“Feeling the terrible power of temptation, the drawing of desire that leads to indulgence, many a man cries in despair, ‘I cannot resist evil.’ ” Counsels on Health, 439. Desire is the terrible power of temptation.

“It was a continual pain to Christ to be brought into contact with enmity, depravity, and impurity; but never did He utter one expression to show that His sensibilities were shocked or His refined tastes offended. Whatever the evil habits, the strong prejudices, or the overbearing passions of human beings, He met them all with pitying tenderness.” The Ministry of Healing, 165. This is about as close to an incomprehensible statement as you could read.

“Prophecy had declared that the ‘Mighty One,’ the holy One from Mount Paran, was to tread the winepress alone; ‘of the people there was none’ with Him. His own arm brought salvation; He was ready for the sacrifice. The fearful crisis was past. That agony which none but God could endure, Christ had borne.

“The human nature of Christ was like unto ours, and suffering was more keenly felt by Him; for His spiritual nature was free from every taint of sin. Therefore His desire for the removal of suffering was stronger than human beings can experience. How intense was the desire of the humanity of Christ to escape the displeasure of an offended God, how His soul longed for relief, is revealed in the words, ‘O My Father, if this cup may not pass away from Me, except I drink it, Thy will be done.’ ” The Signs of the Times, December 9, 1897

Jesus’ desire for the removal of suffering was stronger than anything we will experience, therefore, His temptations were greater than we will ever experience. He could have, at any time, chosen to exercise His divine power and be free from all His pain. But had He done that, the entire human race would have been lost. He suffered being tempted to save us.

“The divine nature combined with the human, made Him capable of yielding to Satan’s temptations. Here the test to Christ was far greater than that of Adam and Eve, for Christ took our nature, fallen but not corrupted, and would not be corrupted unless He received the words of Satan in the place of the words of God.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 16, 182, 183. Jesus took our ruined physical nature so that He could die.

“He is a brother in our infirmities, but not in possessing like passions. As the sinless One, His nature recoiled from evil.” Testimonies, Vol. 2, 202. Not all passions are evil. But the passions referred to in that statement are evil because Christ did not possess evil passions.

The humanity of Christ was identical to ours except that it was untainted with the natural sin of selfishness. His faculties, the powers of His mind, were not perverted because Satan could not touch His mind unless He yielded to Satan rather than following the will of God. This is why Jesus could say, “The prince of this world is coming, and he has nothing in Me.”

What do we conclude when we read these things? “That He might accomplish His purpose of love for the fallen race, He became bone of our bone and flesh of our flesh. ‘As the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same.’ …

“Through the agency of the Holy Spirit, a new principle of mental and spiritual power was to be brought to man, who, through association with divinity, was to become one with God.” The Signs of the Times, September 24, 1902. Jesus became one flesh with us so that we might become one spirit with Him.

“Christ, the Redeemer and Restorer, was to sanctify and purify man’s mind, making it a power that would draw other minds to Himself.” Ibid. When Christ has sanctified and purified our minds, then our mind will be used by Him to draw other minds to Himself. “Jesus Christ is our example in all things. He began life, passed through its experiences, and ended its record, with a sanctified human will. He was tempted in all points like as we are, and yet because he kept His will surrendered and sanctified, He never bent in the slightest degree toward the doing of evil, or toward manifesting rebellion against God.” Ibid., October 29, 1894

One of the most powerful texts explaining the true nature of Christ as a man is found in James 1:13. “Let no one say when he is tempted, ‘I am tempted by God’; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.” So, if someone says that Christ was tempted with evil, then they deny Jesus’ divinity.

Jesus brought His divinity into humanity giving us an example of what God meant when He said, “ ‘And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed.’ ” Genesis 3:15

When Jesus prayed for those whom He sanctifies, those whom He is not ashamed to call His brethren, He explains the purpose of sanctification. “That they all may be one, as you, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one.” John 17:21, 22. The glory, the character that the Father gave to Jesus, is the glory that Jesus wants to give to you and me.

“To human eyes Christ was only a man, yet He was a perfect man. In His humanity, He was the impersonation of the divine character. God embodied His own attributes in His Son—His power, His wisdom, His goodness, His purity, His truthfulness, His spirituality, and His benevolence. In Him, though human, all perfection of character, all divine excellence, dwelt.” The Youth’s Instructor, September 16, 1897

Though Jesus took upon Himself the form of sinful man, clothing His divinity with humanity, He was holy even as God is holy. If He had not been—having no stain of sin—He could not have been the Saviour of mankind. He was the sin bearer needing no atonement. One with God in purity and holiness of character, He could make propitiation for the sins of the whole world.

“In Christ dwelt the fullness of the Godhead bodily. This is why, although He was tempted in all points like as we are, He stood before the world, from His first entrance into it, untainted by corruption, though surrounded by it. Are we not also to become partakers of that fullness, and is it not thus, and thus only, that we can overcome as He overcame?” Our High Calling, 364

“Christ came to this earth, taking humanity and standing as man’s representative, to show in the controversy with Satan that he was a liar, and that man, as God created him, connected with the Father and the Son, could obey every requirement of God.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 16, 115

God wants to put the principles of His own character in your mind, to make you a new creature. This is why Jesus came. Will you let Him?

Pastor John J. Grosboll is Director of Steps to Life and pastors the Prairie Meadows Church in Wichita, Kansas. He may be contacted by email at historic@stepstolife.org, or by telephone at 316-788-5559.

All We Can Be – A story of two cats

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We have six cats, all rescues from the hard times of living on the streets. Animals have many things to teach us. With each rescue I have ever been surprised by how love can take over in what appears at first to be an indifferent cat. Here are two of their stories.

Tank lived next door to us. One day freezing rain was falling and I saw him high up on the windowsill of his house, trying to get someone’s attention inside to let him in. He was a very young cat, and I went out and got him and took him to his owner. I found out that they left him outside most of the time, even in severe winter weather. I would see him going back and forth in our back yard, but he would never come to me. During the time before winter of that year, I did not see him as much, but finally spotted him one day in the cold winter weather and snow outside of our window eating the corn and deer meal.

I know a cat will not eat this kind of food unless they are starving. He had been left outside to fend for himself, and I found that he had been coming and going back and forth under the abandoned house next door to us. He must have suffered terribly that long winter outside, but I knew I could not get him to come to me to rescue him.

As winter finally faded into early spring, he was still coming and going underneath the abandoned house. I began to give him food in the morning and evening, and eventually, he would sit on my lap under a blanket for a short time in the morning sunlight. Little by little I would call him when I brought him food and he would come. His owners knew he was living under the abandoned house, but they would not take him home. He needed to be neutered, but they would not do it. I asked them if I could have him neutered and the owner said I could.

I took him to the vet and then kept him on our front porch for many days after, secluded from our other cats. I invited his owner to come over to see him and when she did, she said I could keep him. Shortly after his operation he had a urinary blockage and had to be in the hospital for over a week to clear it up. When he was able to come home, and after he felt better, I introduced him to our other cats. He did not have an aggressive nature and got along well with all but Harry, another male cat, who was a bully. Tank and Jasper became playmates and best friends. Tank is now a happy kitty with no more food or shelter worries. He became a happy indoor cat and does not long to go outside again. He was so grateful to have a home.

As the days and weeks went by, Tank really began to change. He was so loving, and now, no longer afraid of me, he comes up on the bed at night while I am sleeping and lays his head on my shoulder with one paw on my face and goes to sleep. I remember the morning I first woke up and saw him peacefully sleeping beside me, amazed at what love could do and how it had changed him.

Jasper was found going back and forth from the abandoned house to get food, chasing all the other cats away. I had to take him in to stop this. He was not wild and let me pick him up. One November day, I realized I hadn’t seen him for a few days and prayed that he would come back before winter so I could rescue him. God answered and he has been part of the family ever since. He was people-friendly, and while we didn’t know his story, we concluded that he had gotten lost, because he appeared to have been on his own for a long time. He was raggedy with gray around his face and the vet thought that he was about five years old. Apparently not so. As soon as he got good food and care, the gray on his face all went away and he was playing like a kitten. He is the sweetest cat ever and so happy to be in his forever home.

Through Tank’s and Jasper’s reaction to kindness I have been reminded of the changes that can take place in us through the love of Christ. We can be wholly made new through His love, mercy and intervention in our lives. Through the love and care of Christ we can get through the trials of this world, and at last be forever home.

Dem Bones

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When a baby is born, it has 270 bones, but most of these bones are cartilage. As the child grows, a number of these bones fuse together until over time, the number of bones decreases to 206, making up its adult skeleton. The human skeleton is divided into two types of bone: the axial and the appendicular.

The axial skeleton is composed of the 80 bones of the spine, chest, and head.

The spine, or vertebral column, include seven cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae, five lumbar vertebrae, and the sacrum, which is composed of five bones at birth, but later fuses into one.

There is one bone in the sternum and 24 ribs (in 12 pairs).

The head contains 29 bones. The skull has 23: eight cranial and 15 facial, and six bones found in the middle ear (three on each side).

The appendicular skeleton is composed of the 126 bones of the arms and legs, including the shoulder and pelvic girdles.

Each arm has a total of 32 bones, this includes the 28 bones that make up the phalanges (fingers) of the hand.

The pelvis includes the pelvic girdle, the sacrum, and the coccyx (often referred to as the tail bone).

Each leg has a total of 8 bones, each foot has 26 bones, and 14 bones make up the phalanges (toes) of each foot.

The skeleton performs six major functions—support, movement, protection, production of blood cells, storage of minerals, and endocrine regulation.

The most common issue with bone is low bone density, leading to osteopenia which makes the bones brittle or osteoporosis which thins and weakens the bones, resulting in sudden factures. Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine that can affect breathing and movement, and causes pain that worsens with age. Osteoarthritis can affect the bones, and in severe cases can result in bone-on-bone contact between the joints. Cancer can also be found in the bones. The most common are the following:

Osteosarcoma—most commonly in the leg or arm bones in both children and young adults, Chondrosarcoma—most commonly in the pelvis, legs or arms of middle-aged and older adults, and Ewing sarcoma—most commonly in the pelvis, legs, or arms of children and young adults.

So how can we protect our bones so that they will function at top efficiency in the way God intended?

  • A calcium-rich diet (1,000-1,200 milligrams daily), that also includes magnesium, zinc, and Omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Eat lots of vegetables. They are one of the best sources for vitamin C, which stimulates the production of bone-forming cells.
  • Vitamin D (400-1,000 IU daily) helps the body absorb calcium into the bones, and vitamin K2 helps prevent the loss of calcium from the bones.
  • Strength training and weight-bearing exercise like walking.
  • Consume an adequate amount of protein.
  • Maintain a stable, healthy weight.
  • Follow God’s Eight Laws of Health.

Sources: wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_bones_of_the_human_skeleton; healthline.com/build-healthy-bones; medicalnewstoday.com/articles/bone-one-bone-arthritis; medlineplus.gov/bonediseases.html

Where is God?

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Year            Disaster                                              Region                   Casualties

1346-1353  Black plague pandemic                         Europe                      75,000,000-200,000,000

1900             Galveston hurricane                              United States           8,000+

1906             San Francisco earthquake and fire      United States           3,000+

1908             Messina earthquake                             Italy                           123,000

1911             Heat wave                                              France                       41,000

1912             Titanic sinking                                       Atlantic Ocean        1,700

1918-1920  Spanish flu                                             Global                       50,000,000-100,000,000

1922             Shantou typhoon                                   China                        50,000-100,000

1931             Flooding (July-November)                   China                        432,000-4,000,000

1941-1945  The Holocaust                                        Europe                      6,000,000+

1959-1961  Famine                                                    China                        11,000,000-40,000,000

1991             Hurricane                                               Bangladesh              139,000

2001             September 11 terrorist attack               United States           3,000+

2004             Earthquake and tsunami                      Indonesia                 228,000

2010             Earthquake                                            Haiti                          100, 000-316,000

2019-2023            Covid-19 pandemic                             Global                    29,000,000

Sources: wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_natural_disasters_by_death_toll; wikipedia.org/wiki/1906_San_Francisco_earthquake; Britannica.com/event/Galveston-hurricane-of-1900; history.com/21st-century/9-11-attacks#how-many-people-died-in-the-9-11-attacks; worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/starvation-deaths-by-country

Where is the God who calmed the sea and stopped the storm? Where is the God who healed the sick and raised the dead? Where is the God who fed 5,000 and more with five loaves of bread and two fishes? Where is the God who opened the Red Sea, providing safe passage for His people, yet utter destruction of the Egyptian army? Where is the God who caused water to flow from a rock in the middle of the desert?

The world asks these questions and many more. How could a God of love and mercy allow such horrible, unspeakable things to happen?

“It is sin that darkens our minds and dims our perceptions.” Sons and Daughters of God, 339

“It is sin in some form that brings variance and disunion.” The Paulson Collection of Ellen G. White, 146

“It is sin that brings ruin.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 1767

“It is sin that is destroying souls.” Child Guidance, 441

“It is sin that alienates from God.” The Review and Herald, September 27, 1906

“It was sin that crucified the Redeemer of the world.” Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce, 157

It is sin that causes death (Romans 6:23).

God allows trial and hardship to perfect character, but He also provides every means to accomplish it. And even if we fall, He is always right there beside us to lift us up, carry us if need be, and to encourage us. God does not abandon those He loves. It is the sinfulness of our nature and the sins we particularly cherish that keep us from Him.

But we can know for certain that there is nothing that God hates more than sin, and nothing He loves more than us. “Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.” Jeremiah 31:3

Sanctifying Power

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“Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.”
John 17:17

The truth which we profess will be of no avail to us unless we are sanctified through it. … While error is prevailing to such an extent in our land, we want to know what is truth, because we cannot be sanctified by error. The better we understand the truth as it is in God’s word, the better we shall know how to sanctify our lives through God’s word.

We are in this world as probationers, and God is proving us by giving us an opportunity to obey His truth. It is a very solemn thing to live in this age of the world, and we should not be satisfied unless we have a living connection with the God of heaven, and we should have a sense of our accountability to Him every day of our lives. …

There are voices that we shall hear all around us to divert us away from the truth, but if we have an eye single to the glory of God and are striving to do His will, we shall hear His voice and know it is the voice of the Good Shepherd. It is very important that we understand the voice that speaks to us. …

There are temptations that will come to every one of us. We all have our different dispositions to overcome, and how are we to know that we are doing this work day by day? We must look into the mirror—God’s holy law—and there discover the defects in our characters. It is a very difficult thing for one to understand himself. We must examine closely to see if there is not something that must be laid aside, and then as we make an effort to put away self, our precious Saviour will give us the help we need that we may be overcomers. …

This world is not heaven, it is the preparation place; it is the workshop of God where we are to be hewed and chiseled and fitted up for the heavenly mansions. Then do not be satisfied with a mere sense of the truth; God calls for a reformation at every step. It is to have a fitness for the mansions that Christ has gone to fit up for us. And if we can only be of the heavenly family in the kingdom of glory then we shall have the eternal reward. May God help us to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of His testimony. In Heavenly Places, 145