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Story – Sin Stinks

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Years ago, my husband and I had two dogs, Dixie and Chuck. Neither of them were purebreds and both were rescue dogs. While Dixie was the smaller dog, she was what we call the alpha dog—the boss. Together those two got into all sorts of adventures.

Both Dixie and Chuck had been trained not to chase or harm any other animal or bird in any way, and they obeyed this directive to a tee, with one exception. For a reason known only to her, Dixie loved skunks. Being the boss, Dixie led the way in their adventures and this included the occasional run-in with the skunks that lived in the pasture around our house.

We lived in the country, about a quarter of a mile north of a section of the Chikaskia River. Dixie and Chuck loved playing in the river, which was only ever about six to eight inches deep except for a handful of times in the five or six years we lived there when it flooded.

Many Sabbath afternoons, we would take the path mowed through the waist-high grasses down to the river to watch the dogs play in the water and fetch the sticks we threw for them.

One such Sabbath, we were headed back to the house when I heard my husband say quietly to me, “Run.” I wasn’t sure that I heard him, so I said, “What?” He repeated, a bit more urgently, “Run.”

I said, “Why?” He was already backing up the path away from me and pointing behind me. I turned just in time to see a skunk emerging from the grass with Dixie headed right for it. I yelled, “Dixie! No!” But Dixie wasn’t listening. She had to meet this new friend and she ran right up to the skunk as it turned around and raised its tail. I yelled for Chuck to come, and turned to run just as Dixie’s nose went right to that skunk’s tail. And with a resounding yelp, Dixie backpedaled away from that skunk very quickly.

When surprised or feeling threatened, skunks defend themselves by spraying a foul-smelling chemical that can cause irritation, temporary blindness, violent sickness, and a runny nose. It is strong enough that it can ward off bears and other potential attackers. But here’s the part about skunk spray that made it not only bad for Dixie, but for all of us. Skunk spray and smell can travel in the air as far as 3.5 miles downwind. While the wind that day wasn’t blowing hard, it was blowing straight toward us. My husband, Chuck and I ran as fast as we could to get inside the house, leaving Dixie to fend for herself.

When things had calmed down, we went out to give Dixie what had become a regular occurrence—a bath with some special, heavy-duty shampoo supplied by our vet to remove the smell.

You know, that experience, and the many others that followed for Dixie (because she never did give up her liking for skunks), is a lot like us and sin. Because of our sinful nature, we are attracted to the devil and seem to think that he is our friend, but, my sweet children, he is not. He tempts us to do wrong and when we give in, he just tempts us again and again. And the more we give in, the more sin fills our lives and covers every part of us until we are enveloped in the stink of sin.

But, there is a remedy. Just like we were able to use that special shampoo to get that horrible smell off Dixie, Jesus can cleanse us and remove the stink of sin.

David once did some very bad things, and all he could sense of himself was the stink of sin. So he prayed, “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. … Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” Psalm 51:7, 10

And Revelation 7:14 tells us that God’s people won’t be stinky with sin when He comes to take them to heaven because they will have been washed clean. “These are the ones who come out of great tribulation, and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”

I have a great many favorite songs and one of them is titled Are You Washed in the Blood? I’m sharing the words on the right.

Remember, the devil is not your friend. But if you forget or even purposely give in to his temptations and you start to stink of sin, just go to the fountain flowing with the cleansing blood of Jesus and He will wash you, clean you right up, and make you one of His children.

The next time you smell something really bad, say to yourself, “I don’t want to smell stinky with sin, so I’m going to ask Jesus to always help me to do what is right and to remember that the devil is not my friend and that sin stinks.”

 

Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing pow’r?

Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

Are you fully trusting in His grace this hour?

Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

 

Are you walking daily by the Saviour’s side?

Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

Do you rest each moment in the Crucified?

Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

 

Lay aside the garments that are stained with sin,

And be washed in the blood of the Lamb;

There’s a fountain flowing for the soul unclean,

O be washed in the blood of the Lamb.

Are you washed in the blood,

In the soul-cleansing blood of the Lamb?

Are your garments spotless?

Are they white as snow?

Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

His Peculiar People

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“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should [show] forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

1 Peter 2:9 KJV

In Paul’s letter to Titus, he wrote the following:

“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own peculiar people, zealous for good works.” Titus 2:11–14

David wrote, “For the Lord has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel for His special [peculiar] treasure.” Psalm 135:4

If you are reading closely, you will notice a theme running through these verses: God’s people are to be peculiar. In the original languages, the words translated as peculiar can also mean special or chosen. Regardless of which translation you choose, it is clear that God’s people are unique compared to the “broad-road” world.

What is it that makes God’s people peculiar?

“Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine.” Exodus 19:5

“For you are a holy people to the Lord your God, and the Lord has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure above all the peoples who are on the face of the earth.” Deuteronomy 14:2

“Also today the Lord has proclaimed you to be His special [peculiar] people, just as He promised you, that you should keep all His commandments.” Deuteronomy 26:18

We have a clue in this last verse as to what makes His people peculiar: they “keep all His commandments.”

The immediate thought to a Seventh-day Adventist is that keeping the fourth commandment is what makes God’s people peculiar. That is indeed true, but that is not the only act of following God’s will that makes His people peculiar.

Revelation 14:12 confirms what we have already noted: God’s peculiar people are obedient to all of His commandments.

Searching the Scriptures confirms other “peculiar” character traits.

In Paul’s first letter to Timothy, he stressed the importance of appropriate apparel, advising against wearing gold, pearls, or anything that would bring attention to a person’s appearance rather than to his or her character.

Another peculiar aspect to the character of God’s people is their diet. We are told in 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20, that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Our diet should be pure and unpolluted—a vegan diet consisting of vegetables, grains, fruits, and nuts.

Inspiration augments that counsel by advising that it is best for optimum health to eat only two meals a day so that we can retire at night with an empty stomach. We are also counseled not to snack or do anything that would activate digestive activity between meals.

In Galatians 5, Paul provides some excellent guidance on developing the peculiar character that God expects His people to possess.

“Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Galatians 5:19–21

Then in verse 24, Paul states that God’s peculiar people will abstain from these habits and attitudes that degrade the image of Christ in them: “And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires,” the very passions and desires that he has given in the previous verses.

It is interesting that Paul interjects within his writing those character traits that clearly identify God’s people: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” Verses 22, 23

Based on what we see in society today, anyone who consistently manifests the righteous character traits listed in verses 22 and 23 would likely be very different from the majority of the population and would therefore be viewed as peculiar, to say the least.

Another peculiar, special, or interesting thing often noticed among Adventists is a sincere desire to speak the truth at all times. How many times have you been listening to an Adventist tell a story and then stop and correct himself in mid-story concerning a statement in the story that didn’t come out right the first time? It may not even be a material or significant point in the conversation, and certainly not be an intentional misstatement, but it shows how seriously Adventists keep in mind the fact that no liar will enter the kingdom of heaven.

Given more time and thought, we could think of many other habits or character traits that God’s peculiar people manifest that make them stand apart, which is exactly what God wants in His people. After all, in 2 Corinthians 6:17, first part, we are told, “Come out from among them and be separate.”

One would think that such people would have a positive influence on their unbelieving friends and relatives. Unfortunately, sometimes there is a problem. In addressing this problem, Inspiration makes the following statement:

“There are many in the church who at heart belong to the world, but God calls upon those who claim to believe the advanced truth to rise above the present attitude of the popular churches of today. Where is the self-denial, where is the cross-bearing that Christ has said should characterize His followers? The reason we have had so little influence upon unbelieving relatives and associates is that we have manifested little decided difference in our practices from those of the world.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 289

However, there is a remedy, one that is  well-known to us.

“When Christ took human nature upon Him, He bound humanity to Himself by a tie of love that can never be broken by any power save the choice of man himself. Satan will constantly present allurements to induce us to break this tie—to choose to separate ourselves from Christ. Here is where we need to watch, to strive, to pray, that nothing may entice us to choose another master; for we are always free to do this. But let us keep our eyes fixed upon Christ, and He will preserve us. Looking unto Jesus, we are safe. Nothing can pluck us out of His hand. In constantly beholding Him, we ‘are changed into the same image from glory to glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord’ (2 Corinthians 3:18).” Steps to Christ, 72

In seeking to be the peculiar people that the Lord wants us to be, I’m sure that we all recognize that we have an enemy, and most of us rightly recognize that enemy as Satan. But we also have to recognize that just as God needs human agents to bring the news of salvation to the world, Satan also needs human agents to do his work. In a testimony to a church member, the pen of Inspiration wrote the following concerning Satan’s agents:

“Sister K, although possessing excellent natural qualities, is being drawn away from God by her unbelieving friends and relatives, who love not the truth and have no sympathy with the sacrifice and self-denial that must be made for the truth’s sake. Sister K has not felt the importance of separation from the world, as the command of God enjoins. The sight of her eyes and the hearing of her ears have perverted her heart.” Testimonies, Vol. 4, 108

Eyes and ears—two of the avenues Satan uses to reach our souls and lead us astray!

“God has given you abilities which you can use to good account, or abuse to your own injury and to the injury of others. You have not realized the claims that God has upon you. It should be ever borne in mind that we are living in this world to form characters for the next. And all our associations with our fellow mortals should be with reference to their eternal interest and to our own; but if our interviews with them are devoted only to pleasure and to our own selfish gratification, if we are light and trifling, if we indulge in wrong acts, we are not coworkers with God, but are decidedly working against Him. The precious lives God has given us are not to be molded by unbelieving relatives in a way to please the carnal mind, but to be spent in a manner which God can approve.” Ibid., 236

In other words, do not let your unbelieving friends and relatives prevent you from becoming the peculiar person that God wants you to be.

Consider this description of a home where there is a lone Adventist, “a home where the shadows are never lifted … .” Ibid., Vol. 5, 362

“… perhaps while one member of the family gives his heart to God, others do not. They are still under the control of the Saviour’s worst enemy, and they feel annoyed and angry that division has come into their household. He who has accepted Christ is no less dutiful than before; on the contrary, he is [to be] more kind, more faithful, more affectionate, because his nature is being purified, sanctified, and ennobled by the truth.” The Bible Echo, March 19, 1894

In other words, he is striving to become one of God’s peculiar people.

May the Lord guide us daily as we seek to know and do His will in all situations and all circumstances so that we may indeed become one of His peculiar people.

John R. Pearson is the office manager and a board member of Steps to Life. He may be contacted by email at johnpearson@stepstolife.org

Hypnotism

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The development of the concepts and practices related to hypnosis have been documented for thousands of years, but became particularly popular in the 19th and 20th centuries. It entered the 19th century as an activity associated with quacks, only to later become an approved medical technique practiced in hospitals and other medical institutions. Source: wikipedia.org/History_of_hypnosis; historyofhypnosis.org

Hypnotism, as defined by the Standard Dictionary, is “an artificially-induced somnambulistic (trance-like) state in which the mind becomes passive, acting readily upon suggestion or direction.” Touching the same phenomenon, the Century Dictionary says: “The subject believes, and at last does all that is commanded.”

That these definitions are no more than the truth, is abundantly shown by the testimony of hypnotists themselves. One of the most prominent of these in America says:

“What is hypnotism? … What force is exerted that, after making a man sleep, rouses him to a false wakefulness in which he obeys any suggestion, loses his identity, speaks a language foreign to him, feels contradictory sensations, takes part in strange scenes, and then is suddenly aroused, to have no memory of what has happened? … It is the most wonderful thing on earth. … Hypnotism is a spell, or trance-like sleep, that one person, by certain simple methods, casts over another. …

“The mind of the subject is entirely under the control of the operator. He may be made to see and hear, to think and feel, exactly as the hypnotist wishes. … No pen could adequately describe the marvels that may be brought about by hypnotism. You must see it and learn to use it before you can fully realize how wonderful is that silent and mysterious force which enables one man to seize on its very throne the will of another, and make him conform to his slightest wish in every act and feeling.”

The divine law demands that all our powers be exercised in subjection to the will of God. “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind,” says the Saviour; while the apostolic injunction is, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” (Mark 12:30; 1 Corinthians 10:31.)

But in hypnotism we have a “silent and mysterious force,” which usurps the place of the Creator and “enables one man to seize on its very throne the will of another man and make him conform to his slightest wish in every act and feeling.” Surely no man has any right to make such a surrender of his will, to so place himself under the power and will of another; and just so surely has no man the right to usurp such power over the mind and will of another. Such power belongs alone to God, for He only can safely hold such power.

Nor is it necessary in all cases that the subject make a conscious surrender of his will to the operator. L. W. DeLaurence, professional hypnotist and magnetic healer, in his book, Hypnotism, under the heading, “People Hypnotized Against Their Will,” says: “There is a way in which a shrewd hypnotist can succeed in putting people under the influence who really do not care to be hypnotized.” He then describes his method of entrapping an unwilling victim, and concludes thus: “You can then proceed by a few well-chosen suggestions to put him dead asleep and induce somnambulism or trance in the regular way. He will ever afterwards be your subject if you understand your business in giving post-hypnotic suggestions.”

Thus hypnotism not only accepts the sovereignty of the mind when voluntarily surrendered to it, but by force and fraud “seizes upon its very throne the will” of the unwary victim of its hellish arts. Is not such power satanic, if not in its origin, at least in its exercise?

Whether this power is satanic, that is, whether Satan or one of his angels merely works through the hypnotist or steps in to complete what he has begun, or whether “the silent and mysterious force” is simply the perversion of a God-given power, matters little. “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey?” Romans 6:16. If the power is satanic, that is if it is conferred upon the hypnotist by Satan, then he who yields to it directly is the servant of Satan. On the other hand, if this “silent and mysterious force” which seizes “on its very throne the will of another,” is only a perverted and misused power, originally God-given and for that reason inherent in man, then he who yields to it becomes, not indeed primarily the servant of Satan, but a servant of one who is himself Satan’s servant; and of whom it may be truly said, “A servant of servants shall he be.” Genesis 9:25, last part. But in either case, the effect can only be ruinous to the one who thus surrenders his will.

How fully the willpower may be seized upon, and with what results, may be seen by the following warning from a noted hypnotist of the better class. He says:

“The hypnotized may fall hopeless victims to the most criminal and harmful actions, not only while they sleep, but after they have been awakened. … There lies such infernal power in the hands of the hypnotizer that every one ought to be strictly forbidden to meddle with hypnotism, except those who are honorable and trustworthy. The hypnotized can by all kinds of suggestions be made not only to harm themselves, but also others, and they may even be irresistibly driven to any crime.”

The question might be asked very appropriately, Where is there a man sufficiently honorable and trustworthy to be a safe custodian of such power, who would be willing to assume the responsibility? Any man who covets such power is an unsafe and dangerous man, no matter what his profession. No man has any right to such power over any human being.

That this “silent and mysterious force” is sometimes used for the alleviation of pain and the subduing of incorrigible children, does not make it any less dangerous. For when the occasion requires it, “Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore, it is no great thing if his ministers [and agencies] also be transformed as the ministers [and agencies] of righteousness.” 2 Corinthians 11:14, 15

Moreover, this false angel of light collects an awful and lasting toll for all the supposed or pretended benefits conferred. The willpower of the subject is forever broken, and he is ever afterwards subject to the will of the hypnotist, unless rescued and set free by divine grace.

Nor is this all; in a book giving instructions in hypnotism, the would-be operator is warned in these words: “If you become excited after having the subject under control, he may remain in that condition for hours, but in my experience there is no danger if you manage right.”

That there is not only danger of mismanagement, but that it often occurs, is shown by the facts connected with two out of a number of cases that might be cited.

In one of these cases the subject was made to believe that he was a pugilist (a fighter). The hypnotist lost control first of himself and of course of his subject, who soon cleared the house and then began the destruction of fences and other property outside, using as his weapon a heavy ornamental urn. Sixteen young men present were unable to restrain the fury of the subject, who, after thrusting aside his friends, as he might have done so many children, began tearing the clothing from his own body like the man described in Luke 8:26–29. The police patrol was called, and after a desperate struggle by five policemen, the young man was handcuffed and held down while a physician administered morphine to him by hypodermic injection; but even after arriving at the hospital he again became violent, and it was again necessary to quiet him with powerful drugs. We are told that after this experience “he was weak and nervous.” Is it any wonder?

The second sample case, illustrative of the “no danger” assurance is that of a young man, a teacher of music, who submitted himself to a professional hypnotist to be taught the “art.” Very soon dangerous symptoms began to manifest themselves, such as unnatural nervousness, great mental agitation, rapid dilation and contraction of the pupils of his eyes, etc., and in a short time he became hopelessly insane.

And let no one suppose that the hypnotist is himself safe. No man can debauch the will and mind of another without sinning against his own soul. Nor is this all; the operator may become self-hypnotized and fall into that form of hypnotic sleep technically known as the “lethargic” or “independent state.” This is a condition so closely resembling death as to deceive even experts. “There is no doubt,” says Professor DeLaurence, “that Bishop, the mind reader, was in this condition when the autopsy was performed upon his supposed dead body.” Nor is self-induced hypnotism uncommon. In the fall of 1904, the newspapers reported the case of a hypnotist in New York City who went to one of the hospitals there and begged to be taken care of, as he feared that he was about to pass involuntarily into the lethargic state, and was in terror lest he might be buried alive.

Surely such facts alone, if there were no moral principle involved, ought to deter anyone from meddling in any way with this “silent and mysterious force.”

Another statement made by hypnotists, and which is doubtless true, demands special consideration. It ought to appeal strongly to Christian minds. It is the claim that under this “silent and mysterious force” the subject “loses his identity” and “speaks a language foreign to him.”

The power thus to speak in an unknown tongue is one of the gifts of the Spirit of God; but it would be blasphemy to assert that it is the Divine Spirit that confers this power upon the hypnotized subject. Nobody claims this; indeed it is asserted that the mind and will of the subject are controlled by the mind and will of the human operator, the hypnotist. The real truth, however, is that the hypnotic gift of tongues is nothing more nor less than a satanic counterfeit of the Divine Spirit’s gift of tongues on the Day of Pentecost. In its nature and tendency, it is closely akin to the false miracles wrought by Jannes and Jambres for the purpose of discrediting the signs shown by Moses and Aaron. Now, as these magicians withstood Moses, so will there be in the last days men professing godliness who will oppose and seek to discredit truth by various counterfeits and substitutes. (See 2 Timothy 3:8.)

Hypnotism is new only in name, for it has long been practiced by heathen conjurers in India, and has been known to Western Civilization for more than a century and a half under the name of “Mesmerism;” while its principles are doubtless as old as the human race. But its modern growth and the wonderful claims made for it are nevertheless suggestive of the dawn of the time foretold by the apostle, when Satan shall work “with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.” 2 Thessalonians 2:9, 10

Another evidence that hypnotism is not of God is found in the fact that while this power, or at least the knowledge of how to exercise it, may be bought with money, the gift of God is beyond purchase. “Thy money perish with thee,” said Peter to Simon the sorcerer, “because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.” Acts 8:20. But hypnotism is a commodity to be bought and sold, the same as the knowledge of any other money-making art.

Hypnotism, under whatever name it may be known, is evil and only evil continually, for it violates the great principle of liberty of soul, of individual responsibility and accountability. Whosoever surrenders his will to any man, should know that once out of his own keeping, his will can be restored to him only by a miracle of divine grace, and that he is in imminent danger of being led captive by Satan at his will. Therefore “avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.”

Past, Present, and Future, James Edson White, ©1909, 337–345

[All scripture taken from the King James Bible.]

Architecture in the Service of the Church

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From the beginning of human history, there have been two groups of people that would follow two lines of religiosity. The first group, choosing disobedience to God—the Creator of the universe—consists of the sons of rebellion; they will always constitute the dominant majority of humanity. It is from this group of people that rulers of individual states and political powers, as well as builders of civilizations, will emerge. And like Cain, it is the sons of rebellion who founded the first cities (Genesis 4:17), and erected impressive temples that serve not only as an expression of their pride and self-deification but also as visible signs of their might and power. These grand, majestic, awe-inspiring temples testified that the sons of rebellion were profoundly religious individuals.

The second group of people consists of the sons of obedience, who have never been the dominant majority in history. Only occasionally will some of the kings of Israel be in accordance with God’s plans and will. In the era of the New Covenant, the church of Christians is Israel—the people of God. According to the words of the Apostle Peter: “… you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” 1 Peter 2:9

The church of God in the early centuries of the Christian era found itself in the “wilderness” due to apostate Christianity, which compromised with paganism and persecuted those who did not accept the authority of the pope. This church never captivated with its external splendor. It is a church that preserves what is internal. The sons of obedience never built powerful, impressive structures. It is worth taking a closer look at how the history of these two global churches has been inscribed in the language of architecture.

Materialized Language

Architecture is the art of designing, constructing, and creating spatial structures, organizing space for human use. However, for a complete understanding of a building with a specific architectural form, perceived through our senses, it is also necessary to acknowledge that, in addition to the technical dimension, there exists a language of architecture. Therefore, it is crucial to perceive architecture as a system of signs. Symbols and signs embedded in the language of architectural structures hold particular significance in understanding political, social, and religious realities. Architecture, in essence, is a materialized language. Religious architecture, therefore, can narrate the history of religious thought as much as written documents. So, what does the architecture of Christian churches tell us?

The Church in Its Beginnings was the Home Church

Today, we are accustomed to thinking of the church as that building on the corner; therefore, when reading about the New Testament church, we may overlook one obvious fact. In the beginning, the local church in a particular area held its gatherings in private homes rather than in spacious church buildings. The members of the church itself are described as a home: “As you come to Him, the living stone, rejected by men but chosen and precious in God’s sight, you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house … .” 1 Peter 2:4, 5 BSB. The church is the house of God, just as the nation of Israel was before. We, who believe in Christ now, have become the house of God, united by His love into one family. It is worth asking ourselves at this point whether we should rediscover the importance of home churches. The church, as the assembly of believers in Jesus Christ, may find, in addition to meeting in formal church buildings, the need for gatherings in homes. This can lead to an extraordinary blessing. It not only deepens our mutual Christian friendships, but a home church can also contribute to the development of the kingdom of God in proclaiming the eternal gospel among people who might never enter a formal church building.

The Beginnings of Christian Architecture

In the year 313, after the issuance of the Edict of Milan, Christian architecture gained the opportunity for full development. Prior to the edict issued by Emperor Constantine and Emperor Licinius, Christianity was an illegal religion, and therefore, there was no legal possibility of publicly professing one’s faith or constructing church buildings. During the era of Constantine, Christianity emerged triumphant from the depths of conspiracy and underground cemeteries (catacombs), and the first church buildings were erected. The emperor himself constructed them in Rome, at the presumed tomb of the apostle Peter, and in many other locations.

The origins of Christian church architecture are the subject of disputes and discussions. However, it seems certain that the concept of the church as a building serving a religious function—as a temple—was developed by Christian builders drawing on the tradition of ancient Roman architecture. Preserved examples of these earliest churches come in two types: central (circular) and longitudinal (basilicas).1 What distinguished the concept of a church building as a temple from, for example, Greek temples, was that the church was an “internal temple” where the central place was the altar around which the clergy—priests together with the laity, or ordinary members of the Christian community—gathered. It is crucial to understand what transpired to lead the Christian community to divide into a separate caste of parishioners—that is, members of the Christian community—a term that also implied an unrefined, uneducated, backward individual—and priests.

Rotten Compromise

Constantine aspired to unite pagans and Christians in his empire instead of dividing them. Unity was to be the foundation of the new era and political order, even at the expense of the truth of the gospel. The previous persecutions of the church were directed against its efforts to maintain biblical separation from the pagan world. However, now that Christianity had been declared the state religion, “conversion” became easy, and the “former” pagans began to bring their pagan beliefs and practices into the church. With peace and prosperity during the time of Constantine, paganism, false teachings, and practices inconsistent with the Bible began to spread within the church. Giving glory to God started to take on an externally attractive and artistically beautiful form, but lost its character of personal communion with God. The beginning of the 4th century marked the beginning of the period of the union of church and state. Pagan, occult, and mysterious cults such as Mithra, Isis, Jupiter, and Bacchus merged with Christianity. “Instead of ‘reaching forth to what was before,’ the Christian Church permitted herself to be overtaken by the spirit of the ages that lay behind her. There came an after-growth of Jewish ritualism, of Greek philosophy, and of pagan ceremonialism and idolatry; and, as the consequence of this threefold action, the clergy began to be gradually changed, as already mentioned, from a ‘teaching ministry’ to a ‘sacrificing priesthood.’ This made them no longer ministers or servants of their fellow Christians; they took the position of a caste, claiming to be superior to the laity, invested with mysterious powers, the channels of grace, and the mediators with God. Thus there arose a hierarchy, assuming to mediate between God and men.”2

The Organization of the Church Building in Space

A building where Christians gathered for worship, whether it was a private home or a structure exclusively used for the purposes of religious gatherings of Christians, was not perceived as a temple. However, from the 4th century onwards, a deviation systematically began. Gradually, but decisively, the power and authority of the word of God were replaced by the fictitious power of religious ceremonies and alleged miracles. Simple believers no longer placed their trust in the one true Saviour, but followed the Roman Church, trusting the teachings of popes and priests. It was widely believed that during the Mass, in the Eucharist, the bread and wine were transformed into the literal body and blood of Christ. By the 11th century, the doctrine had solidified that each Mass is a reiteration of Christ’s sacrifice for the sins of the living and the dead. Therefore, the church building is constructed as a temple with the altar as the central point.

In the initial period, the church building consisted of three naves intersected by the so-called transept, which is a transverse nave, and was concluded with an apse (see diagram). The transept along with the apse forms the presbytery, the priestly space, distinct from the longitudinal naves constituting the so-called nave, designated for the laity—ordinary believers.3 This arrangement of a church is known and used not only in Catholic churches, but only Catholic churches function as temples, having an altar on which sacrifices are made by a Catholic priest.

The Foundations of the Church

With the influx of pagans into the Christian church, the cult of the dead penetrated Christianity. This led to an interest in the tombs of martyrs recognized as saints, with people praying at their graves. Sometimes, alleged miracles occurred at the tombs of martyrs, which resulted in an increasing reverence for them. Magnificent basilicas, temples dedicated to these saints, began to be built over their tombs. However, this was not a time when the remains of the deceased could be moved or touched. It was only in the 4th century, during the reign of Emperor Constantine, that an exception was made to allow the transfer of the remains of the deceased recognized as saints. At the end of antiquity, the cult of relics was inseparably linked to the church building. This means that the church—the temple—was a place where fragments of deceased individuals were preserved. Every Catholic church must have an altar on which there must necessarily be a piece of a corpse—a relic; without it, the celebration of the papal Mass is impossible.4 Interestingly, it was precisely to those churches where relics were housed that the most pilgrimages took place, as there was a belief in their power to perform miracles.5 The foundation of every Catholic church is the world of the dead, full of skeletal remains.

The Temple—Gothic Cathedral

In the history of church architecture, a special place is occupied by the Gothic cathedral, which represents the most perfect expression of the human spirit’s quest to dominate the entire space inhabited by medieval humanity. One could even argue that the construction of Gothic cathedrals was the greatest revolution in the history of architecture, enabling a technological and civilizational leap comparable to the industrial revolution. The Gothic cathedrals that emerged in medieval Europe are characterized by incredible magnificence, artistic beauty, breathtaking dimensions, and harmony of proportions. These medieval cathedrals, visible from afar, dominated the cityscape and influenced the public space with their enormity. The monumental structures were sometimes built over hundreds of years, completed when none of the original builders remained among the living. These medieval cathedrals, with their beauty and grandeur, overwhelmed humanity, reminding them of their own insignificance. The sublimity and magnificence of cathedrals are challenging to compare to anything else. Anyone who entered the interior of these monstrous sacred buildings was overwhelmed by the vastness of the space and the height of the vaults, experiencing awe, admiration, as well as a sense of unease and awe. The entire religious and political power of the Roman Catholic Church was manifested in the Gothic cathedral.

Power is everything

Thanks to the reforms of Pope Gregory VII, the Roman Catholic Church reached the peak of its power. The papacy liberated itself from secular authority, breaking free from dependence on feudal lords and rulers, while simultaneously declaring itself the head of the secular hierarchy. Thus, the popes began to subordinate emperors, kings, and princes to themselves.6 Now bishops have even more power and money to realize even the boldest architectural visions. In the face of rulers impoverished by the Crusades and the stripped wealth of the nobility, the church presented itself as a true force, gaining and strengthening power by promoting itself as the only path to salvation. The world outside the church appeared as miserable, dark, and foolish. The only light seeped through the stained glass of the Gothic cathedral, promising salvation. It was easier to raise a cathedral around a tangible and defined holy relic. For example, the Cathedral of Chalons (France) received the alleged foreskin of Jesus from the circumcision, and one of at least twenty skulls of John the Baptist is in Amiens (also in France). Relics earned cathedrals money, but later cathedrals earned money from relics.7 Cathedrals were built for even greater power and wealth. Of course, all of this was done for the greater glory of God, as their founders used to say. During the Counter-Reformation, Catholic churches under the guidance of the Jesuits were even more lavishly adorned with gold, precious stones, and works of art, creating even greater splendor, while at the same time quietly emphasizing their spiritual emptiness and ostentatious rebellion against the God revealed in the Old and New Testament.

Protestant Church Architecture

With the Reformation, the architecture and art of Protestant churches underwent a change. Historic Protestant churches are primarily characterized by simple and modest interiors. They do not feature statues, religious decorations, depictions of saints, or relics. At the center of the church is the pulpit—the lectern from which the word of God is preached—around which the faithful gather. Usually, next to or in front of the pulpit, there is a wooden table for the observance of the Lord’s Supper, rather than an altar for making offerings. This unequivocally tells us that being in a Protestant church, we are not in a temple but in a house of prayer. It is important to note that among supporters of the Reformation, there were diverse views on buildings for worship. At the beginning of his reformative journey, Martin Luther believed that churches should only be houses of prayer with a purely utilitarian character. According to the ideas preached by Ulrich Zwingli, a special building dedicated to prayer was not necessary. On the other hand, John Calvin saw the need for such a building, provided that its interior was devoid of any adornments.8 However, before Protestants could start building their churches freely, without persecution from Catholics, many years would pass. In some European countries, this would only happen in the second half of the 17th century. In others, it did not occur until the early 18th century.

Forest churches

The period between the onset of the Reformation and the Catholic states granting permission for the organization of public gatherings and the public practice of their faith was a time of persecution of Protestants by Catholics. I was born and raised in Cieszyn Silesia, which in the mid-16th century was a region where the majority of the population were Evangelicals. The call to return to the roots of Christianity was embraced by all layers of society at that time. Religious freedom came to an end when the staunchly Catholic Habsburgs took control of the region, and Roman Catholicism became the sole prevailing faith. In 1654, most Protestant churches were taken away. Until 1709, and in some areas until 1781, they could only meet in secrecy. This was the time of the church “in the wilderness.” To preserve their faith, Protestants in Cieszyn Silesia gathered in secret worship, high in the forests on the slopes of the Beskid Mountains, in places hidden from the eyes of persecutors. This is how forest churches were created. To this day, the memory of nine locations has survived, six in Poland and three in the Czech Republic.9

Church of God

The church of Christ consists of people filled with the Holy Spirit who keep God’s commandments and bear witness to Jesus Christ, as well as having faith in Jesus. If so, what are the buildings where worship services are held? After all “… the Most High does not dwell in houses made by human hands. As the prophet says: ‘Heaven is My throne and the earth is My footstool. What kind of house will you build for Me, says the Lord, or where will My place of repose be? Has not My hand made all these things?’ ” Acts 7:48, 49 BSB

All church buildings serve a supportive role for the church as places of assembly, also known as houses of prayer. In these places, the church gathers, and brothers and sisters filled with the Holy Spirit come together to engage in an atmosphere of prayer, hymns, and psalms, dedicating themselves to the teaching of the word of God. This is how the apostles and the early Christians understood it and practiced it. Moreover, we have the promise of our Lord Jesus that “where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20 BSB. Does this mean that if we gather in a church building, its architecture should be uninspiring, and its interior formal and characterless like a conference hall? God has given man a natural need for beauty, aesthetic sensitivity, and creativity. Therefore, let our houses of prayer express—in the architecture and the interior—our principles of faith, simplicity, and elegance, as well as sensitivity to beauty.

1 J. Białostocki, Sztuka cenniejsza niż złoto, publishing house PWN, pp. 42, 43

2 J.A. Wylie, History of Protestantism, Cassel & Co., Vol. 1, p. 10

3 T. Broniewski, Historia architektury dla wszystkich, Ossolineum, p. 103

4 www.ordo.pallotyni.pl/index.php/dokumenty-o-liturgii/wprowadzenia-do-ksiag-liturgicznych/318-obrzedy-poswiecenia-kosciola-i-oltarza, accessibility: 01.14.2024

5 https://dorzeczy.pl/religia/380383/czym-sa-relikwie-na-czym-polega-kult-relikwii.html, accessibility: 01.14.2024

6 P. Rugała, Państwo i Kościół w walce o dominację nad średniowiecznym światem w badaniach Jaquesa LeGoffa, MHP, p. 107

7 www.national-geographic.pl/artykul/sredniowieczne-katedry-swiatlo-z-kamienia, accessibility: 01.15.2024

8 P. Czernek, Protestancka architektura sakralna na Śląsku Cieszyńskim w XX i XXI wieku, PAN, p. 193

9 https://lutherantheology.wordpress.com/tag/cieszyn/, accessibility: 01.17.2024

Note: BSB (Berean Standard Bible)

Marcin Watras lives in Katowice, Poland. He is interested in the philosophy of religion and trends in society. He works for the European Union.

The Chief of Sinners

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“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners of whom I am chief.” 1 Timothy 1:15

The amazing thing about this statement is that Paul knew very well the crimes of Nero, a most wicked and cruel man. He knew what Judas had done, clearly a crime of immense magnitude. Surely these men were more wicked than Paul, and yet, his testimony is that he is the chief of sinners. The word of God is true and cannot be broken (John 10:35), so we must accept the truth of Paul’s statement.

So here is the question each of us must ask ourselves: Is there more than one chief of sinners?

One of the most dangerous things that can happen to a Christian is to lose sight of his own universal sinful condition. This was the problem with the tribe of Ephraim (Hosea 12:8), and it is the same problem with Laodicea (Revelation 3:14–22), the church of the last days.

Daniel, a man beloved by heaven and of whom the Bible records no fault, identified himself in his prayer as a wicked and rebellious sinner (Daniel 9:3, 4). Likewise, not one prophet or apostle ever claimed to be without sin.

We all must realize that throughout the history of mankind, every man, woman, and child born in this world—except Jesus—was and is sinful within. In speaking of the human condition, Paul wrote, “Now we know that whatever things the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.” Romans 3:19, 20

“The nearer we come to Jesus, and the more clearly we discern the purity of His character, the more clearly shall we see the exceeding sinfulness of sin, and the less shall we feel like exalting ourselves.” The Youth’s Instructor, June 5, 1902

“No deep-seated love for Jesus can dwell in the heart that does not realize its own sinfulness. The soul that is transformed by the grace of Christ will admire His divine character; but if we do not see our own moral deformity, it is unmistakable evidence that we have not had a view of the beauty and excellence of Christ.” Steps to Christ, 65

A Copy of the Heavenly Sanctuary

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May 19 – 25, 2024

Key Text

“And let them [the children of Israel] make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them.” Exodus 25:8

Study Help: The Story of Redemption, 151–157

Introduction

“He [God] presented before Moses a miniature model of the heavenly sanctuary and commanded him to make all things according to the pattern shown him in the mount.” The Signs of the Times, June 24, 1880

Sunday

1 THE EARTHLY TABERNACLE

1.a. God delivered Israel from Egypt (Exodus 12:51). Then He organized them (Exodus 18:21–26). After that He gave them His law (Exodus 20:3–17). What was the next important event that took place in Israel? Exodus 25:8

1.b.      What building plan did the Lord present to Moses? Exodus 25:9, 40; Hebrews 8:5

Note: “The holy places made with hands were to be ‘figures of the true,’ ‘patterns of things in the heavens’ (Hebrews 9:24, 23)—a miniature representation of the heavenly temple where Christ, our great High Priest, after offering His life as a sacrifice, was to minister in the sinner’s behalf. God presented before Moses in the mount a view of the heavenly sanctuary and commanded him to make all things according to the pattern shown him.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 343

1.c. Where, on earth, did God promise to meet with the children of Israel? Exodus 29:42–46

Note: “God commanded Moses for Israel, ‘Let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them,’ and He abode in the sanctuary, in the midst of His people.” My Life Today, 290

Monday

2 GOD’S HABITATION

2.a. Where, in heaven, is God’s throne? Isaiah 6:1; Psalm 11:4

2.b.      Where, in heaven, does Christ share the Father’s throne? Hebrews 8:1, 2

2.c. Why is it especially significant that Christ stands in the courts of heaven as our Advocate? Hebrews 4:14–16

Note: “Through all their weary wandering in the desert, the symbol of His [God’s] presence was with them [Israel]. So Christ set up His tabernacle in the midst of our human encampment. He pitched His tent by the side of the tents of men, that He might dwell among us, and make us familiar with His divine character and life. ‘The Word became flesh, and tabernacled among us (and we beheld His glory, glory as of the Only Begotten from the Father), full of grace and truth.’ John 1:14, R.V., margin.

“Since Jesus came to dwell with us, we know that God is acquainted with our trials, and sympathizes with our griefs. Every son and daughter of Adam may understand that our Creator is the friend of sinners. For in every doctrine of grace, every promise of joy, every deed of love, every divine attraction presented in the Saviour’s life on earth, we see ‘God with us.’ ” The Desire of Ages, 23, 24

2.d.      What additional description unveils more about the glorious scene of God’s throne? Revelation 4:4; 7:13–15; 8:3

2.e. In view of the awesome celestial picture presented, what should be our continual aim? Revelation 3:21; Colossians 3:1, 2

Note: “How much better it is to seek those things which are above, than to seek the things of this world and to form our characters after a worldly similitude!” Sermons and Talks, Vol. 2, 228

“The One who has stood as our intercessor; who hears all penitential prayers and confessions; who is represented with a rainbow, the symbol of grace and love, encircling His head, is soon to cease His work in the heavenly sanctuary. Grace and mercy will then descend from the throne, and justice will take their place. He for whom His people have looked will assume His right—the office of Supreme Judge.” The Review and Herald, January 1, 1889

Tuesday

3 THE CENTER OF THE WORK OF REDEMPTION

3.a. Where is the center of the work of Christ in our behalf? Hebrews 9:11, 12. Why is a knowledge of the sanctuary service a must? Psalm 77:13

Note: “The sanctuary in heaven is the very center of Christ’s work in behalf of men. It concerns every soul living upon the earth. It opens to view the plan of redemption, bringing us down to the very close of time and revealing the triumphant issue of the contest between righteousness and sin. It is of the utmost importance that all should thoroughly investigate these subjects and be able to give an answer to everyone that asketh them a reason of the hope that is in them.” The Great Controversy, 488, 489

3.b.      When did the Holy Spirit make manifest the way into the heavenly sanctuary? Hebrews 9:8; 6:18–20

Note: “Though the ministration was to be removed from the earthly to the heavenly temple; though the sanctuary and our great High Priest would be invisible to human sight, yet the disciples were to suffer no loss thereby. They would realize no break in their communion, and no diminution of power because of the Saviour’s absence. While Jesus ministers in the sanctuary above, He is still by His Spirit the minister of the church on earth.” The Desire of Ages, 166

3.c. If Christ entered “into heaven itself” to minister in the true tabernacle not in the “figures of the true” (Hebrews 9:2, 24), how can we have access to Him? Hebrews 4:14–16

Note: “In the Father’s acceptance of Christ in man’s behalf, we are assured that through the merits of His Son, we may find access to God. We may be accepted in the Beloved. Jesus, the world’s Redeemer, has opened the way so that the most sinful, the most needy, the most oppressed and despised, may find access to God, may have a home in the mansions that Jesus has gone to prepare for those who love Him.” The Bible Echo, February 1, 1893

Wednesday

4 EXACTNESS AND PERFECTION

4.a. What lesson can we learn from the fact that, in the building of the earthly tabernacle, God insisted, again and again, that everything be done “after their pattern”? Exodus 25:9, 40; Acts 7:44

Note: “In all our work, even in mechanical lines, God desires that the perfection of His character shall appear. The exactness, skill, tact, wisdom, and perfection which He required in the building of the earthly tabernacle, He desires to have brought into everything that shall be done in His service. Every transaction entered into by His servants is to be as pure and as precious in His sight as were the gold and frankincense and myrrh which in sincere, uncorrupted faith the wise men from the East brought to the infant Saviour.” Testimonies, Vol. 7, 142, 143

4.b.      How does this lesson apply to the candidates for a place in the kingdom of glory? Matthew 5:48; Colossians 1:28; 4:12

Note: “Paul describes the work of God’s ambassadors as that by which every man shall be presented perfect in Christ Jesus. Those who embrace the truth of heavenly origin should be refined, ennobled, sanctified through it. It will require much painstaking effort to reach God’s standard of true manhood. The irregular stones hewed from the quarry must be chiseled, their rough sides must be polished. This is an age famous for surface work, for easy methods, for boasted holiness aside from the standard of character that God has erected. All short routes, all cutoff tracks, all teaching which fails to exalt the law of God as the standard of religious character, is spurious. Perfection of character is a lifelong work, unattainable by those who are not willing to strive for it in God’s appointed way, by slow and toilsome steps. We cannot afford to make any mistake in this matter, but we want day by day to be growing up into Christ, our living Head.” Testimonies, Vol. 5, 500

“Every day that you live, you can be perfecting the blessed attributes fully revealed in the character of Christ; and when you do this, you will bring light, love, peace, and joy into your homes.” The Review and Herald, July 29, 1890

Thursday

5 MATERIALS PROVIDED

5.a. The Lord could have miraculously provided all the materials needed for the building of the sanctuary. Why did He require the people to bring only freewill offerings? Exodus 25:1–8

Note: “Great and expensive preparations were necessary. Precious and costly materials must be collected. But the Lord accepted only the freewill offerings. Devotion to the work of God and sacrifice from the heart were first required in preparing a place for God.” The Story of Redemption, 152

“God will accept only willing service.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 977

5.b.      As architects of our own character, how careful should we be in choosing the spiritual materials with which to build? 1 Corinthians 3:10–15

Note: “In our character building, we must build on Christ. He is the sure foundation—a foundation which can never be moved. The tempest of temptation and trial cannot move the building which is riveted to the Eternal Rock.

“He who would grow into a beautiful building for the Lord must cultivate every power of the being. It is only by the right use of the talents that the character can develop harmoniously.” Child Guidance, 166

“The word of God warns us to take heed how we build, to see that our building is founded upon the Eternal Rock.” Ibid., 164

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Why did God entrust Moses with setting up a copy of the heavenly sanctuary in the midst of Israel?

2    Where in heaven do the Father and Son have their throne?

3    How can Christ, while ministering in the heavenly sanctuary, be present with His people here on earth?

4    What is symbolized by the exactness and perfection that God demanded in the building of the sanctuary?

5    What does the careful selection of materials for the tabernacle typify?

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

God’s Kingdom on Earth

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May 12 – 18, 2024

Key Text

“And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.” Exodus 19:6

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 303–314

Introduction

“Through the chosen nation, God had purposed to bring blessing to all mankind.” Prophets and Kings, 17

Sunday

1 GOD CHOOSES A PEOPLE

1.a. In the song of deliverance composed by Moses after the crossing of the Red Sea, what did he say about God’s plan to establish a kingdom on earth? Exodus 15:17, 18. What plan did the Lord have for the children of Abraham? Exodus 19:5, 6

1.b.      What promise did that plan include? Exodus 29:45

1.c. Although God is not a respecter of persons (2 Chronicles 19:7; Acts 10:34), why did He choose the people of Israel? Deuteronomy 9:3–5; 10:15. Why does He choose us today as well? 1 Corinthians 4:9, last part

Note: “God had chosen Israel. He had called them to preserve among men the knowledge of His law and of the symbols and prophecies that pointed to the Saviour. He desired them to be as wells of salvation to the world. What Abraham was in the land of his sojourn, what Joseph was in Egypt, and Daniel in the courts of Babylon, the Hebrew people were to be among the nations. They were to reveal God to men.” The Desire of Ages, 27

“By our words and our works we reveal to the world, to angels, and to men whether we believe in Christ as a personal Saviour.” The Youth’s Instructor, April 26, 1900

Monday

2 GOD DEFINES HIS PURPOSE

2.a. What aim did God set before Israel? Deuteronomy 4:5–8. What was to be accomplished through them? Deuteronomy 28:12; Isaiah 2:2, 3

Note: “God had designed that His people should be the light of the world. From them was to shine forth the glory of His law as revealed in the life practice. For the carrying out of this design, He had caused the chosen nation to occupy a strategic position among the nations of earth.

“In the days of Solomon, the kingdom of Israel extended from Hamath on the north to Egypt on the south, and from the Mediterranean Sea to the river Euphrates. Through this territory ran many natural highways of the world’s commerce, and caravans from distant lands were constantly passing to and fro. Thus there was given to Solomon and his people opportunity to reveal to men of all nations the character of the King of kings, and to teach them to reverence and obey Him. To all the world this knowledge was to be given. Through the teaching of the sacrificial offerings, Christ was to be uplifted before the nations, that all who would might live.” Prophets and Kings, 70, 71

2.b.      What did the Lord remind His people, repeatedly, to take into serious consideration? Deuteronomy 7:6–9; 28:15, 16, 33

2.c. What warning was given to the Jews when the kingdom was about to be taken from them? Matthew 8:11, 12. Why did they finally lose the kingdom? Matthew 21:43; Mark 12:6–9

Note: “The Jewish leaders thought themselves too wise to need instruction, too righteous to need salvation, too highly honored to need the honor that comes from Christ. The Saviour turned from them to entrust to others the privileges they had abused and the work they had slighted. God’s glory must be revealed, His word established. Christ’s kingdom must be set up in the world.” The Acts of the Apostles, 16

Tuesday

3 GOD’S PLAN FOR US TODAY

3.a. Describe God’s plan for those under the new covenant. Luke 12:32; 17:21

Note: “Day by day men are revealing whether the kingdom of God is within them. If Christ rules in their hearts, they are gaining strength of principle, power, ability to stand as faithful sentinels, true reformers; for there can be no reform unless there is thorough cooperation with Jesus Christ.

“Through the grace of Christ men are to use their God-given faculties to reform themselves. By this self-denying action, which the Lord of heaven looks upon with approval, they gain victories over their wrong hereditary and cultivated tendencies. Then like Daniel they make impressions upon other hearts that will never be effaced. The influence will be carried to all parts of the world. …

“Christianity … is not a creed. It is the word of Him who liveth and abideth forever. It is a living, animating principle that takes possession of mind, heart, motives, and the entire man.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 20, 113, 114

3.b.      What victory does the Lord want to accomplish in and through His chosen ones? Matthew 5:14, 16; Philippians 2:15

Note: “Men are taking sides, according to their choice. These that are feeding on the word of God will show this by their practice; they are on the Lord’s side, seeking by precept and example to reform the world. …

“The question for us to consider is, Have we the attributes of Christ? Excuses are valueless. All circumstances, all appetites and passions, are to be servants to the God-fearing man, not rulers over him. The Christian is not to be enslaved by any hereditary or cultivated habits or tendencies. He is to rule the animal passions, rather than to be held in the bondage of habit. We are not to be the servants of circumstances, but to control circumstances, by an inwrought principle learned of the greatest Teacher the world ever knew. The solemn position in which we stand today toward the world, the solemn responsibilities and duties enjoined upon us by our Lord, are not to be ignored until our will and our circumstances are adjusted. The principle of self-denial and self-sacrifice, as revealed in the example of Christ, of John the Baptist, of Daniel and the three worthies, is to pass like a plowshare through hereditary and cultivated habits, through all circumstances and surroundings.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 20, 113, 114

Wednesday

4 TWO CLASSES OF PEOPLE

4.a. Today, as we approach the borders of heavenly Canaan, what warnings must we heed? Luke 21:34–36; Romans 13:11, 12

Note: “Those who receive Christ by faith as their personal Saviour cannot be in harmony with the world. There are two distinct classes: One is loyal to God, keeping His commandments, while the other talks and acts like the world.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 139

4.b.      What scene applies with special force today? Luke 17:26–30; Acts 2:40

Note: “Everything in the world is in agitation. The signs of the times are ominous. …

“Men are still eating and drinking, planting and building, marrying, and giving in marriage. Merchants are still buying and selling. Men are jostling one against another, contending for the highest place. Pleasure lovers are still crowding to theaters, horse races, gambling hells. The highest excitement prevails, yet probation’s hour is fast closing, and every case is about to be eternally decided. Satan sees that his time is short. He has set all his agencies at work that men may be deceived, deluded, occupied and entranced, until the day of probation shall be ended, and the door of mercy be forever shut.” The Desire of Ages, 636

4.c. Describe the two classes of people in this world. 1 Thessalonians 5:4, 5. What are the children of light doing? Luke 11:28. What makes many churchgoers children of darkness? Matthew 24:48–51

Note: “All society is ranging into two great classes, the obedient and the disobedient. Among which class shall we be found?” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 949

“Men are taking sides, according to their choice. These that are feeding on the word of God will show this by their practice; they are on the Lord’s side, seeking by precept and example to reform the world. All that have refused to be taught of God hold the traditions of men. They at last pass over on the side of the enemy, against God, and are written, Antichrist. The people of God, who understand our position in this world’s history, are, with ears open and hearts softened and subdued, pressing together in unity, one with Jesus Christ.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 20, 113

Thursday

5 ETERNITY BEFORE US

5.a. Since every person, sooner or later, must make his or her choice in view of eternity extending before us all, what is written in 1 John 2:17?

Note: “Many who profess to be looking for the appearing of our Lord are anxious, burdened seekers for worldly gain. They are blind to their eternal interest. They labor for that which satisfieth not; they spend their money for that which is not bread. They strive to content themselves with the treasures they have laid up upon the earth, which must perish, and they neglect the preparation for eternity, which should be the first and only real work of their lives.” Testimonies, Vol. 2, 600

“Make your decision for eternity.” Ibid., 495

5.b.      Because we must make provisions for eternity, what admonition should we bear in mind? 1 Peter 5:6–10

Note: “Where is security? There is assurance in nothing that is human or earthly. Rapidly are men ranging themselves under the banner they have chosen. … There are those who are waiting and watching and working for our Lord’s appearing. Another class are falling into line under the generalship of the first great apostate. Few believe with heart and soul that we have a hell to shun and a heaven to win.” The Desire of Ages, 636

“Which will we choose—liberty in Christ, or bondage and tyranny in the service of Satan? Why should we reject the invitation of mercy, refuse the proffers of divine love? If we choose to live with Christ through the ceaseless ages of eternity, why not choose Him now as our most loved and trusted friend, our best and wisest counsellor?” The Bible Echo, June 25, 1894

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Why did God choose Israel?

2    Why was the kingdom taken from the Jewish nation and given to others?

3    What is God’s purpose for His people with reference to the world?

4    Explain the difference between true Christians and nominal Christians.

5    Why will many professed Christians be deceived and lose Heaven?

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

Deliverance From Egypt

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May 5 – 11, 2024

Key Text

“So this day shall be to you a memorial; and you shall keep it a feast to the Lord throughout your generations. You shall keep it as a feast by an everlasting ordinance.” Exodus 12:14

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 273–280

Introduction

“The Passover was ordained as a commemoration of the deliverance of Israel from Egyptian bondage. God had directed that, year by year … the history should be repeated.” The Desire of the Ages, 652

Sunday

1 THE PASSOVER INSTITUTED

1.a. What was the last message given to Pharaoh, the rebellious monarch, before the departure of Israel from Egypt? What was the imminent sentence? Exodus 11:4–8

1.b.      Before the execution of this sentence, what directions did God give the Israelites concerning their departure? Summarize Exodus 12:1–28

Note: “The Lord through Moses gave direction to the children of Israel concerning their departure from Egypt, and especially for their preservation from the coming judgment. Each family, alone or in connection with others, was to slay a lamb or a kid ‘without blemish,’ and with a bunch of hyssop sprinkle its blood on ‘the two side posts and on the upper doorpost’ of the house, that the destroying angel, coming at midnight, might not enter that dwelling. …

“In commemoration of this great deliverance, a feast was to be observed yearly by the people of Israel in all future generations. … As they should keep the feast in future years, they were to repeat to their children the story of this great deliverance.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 274

“The first of these festivals, the Passover, the feast of unleavened bread, occurred in Abib, the first month of the Jewish year, corresponding to the last of March and the beginning of April. …

“The Passover was followed by the seven days’ feast of unleavened bread.” Ibid., 537, 539

Monday

2 THE TOKEN OF BLOOD

2.a. What was the meaning of the blood that was to be placed on the houses of the Israelites? Exodus 12:7, 13, 23

Note: “Before obtaining freedom, the bondmen must show their faith in the great deliverance about to be accomplished. The token of blood must be placed upon their houses, and they must separate themselves and their families from the Egyptians, and gather within their own dwellings. Had the Israelites disregarded in any particular the directions given them, had they neglected to separate their children from the Egyptians, had they slain the lamb, but failed to strike the doorpost with blood, or had any gone out of their houses, they would not have been secure. They might have honestly believed that they had done all that was necessary, but their sincerity would not have saved them. All who failed to heed the Lord’s directions would lose their firstborn by the hand of the destroyer. …

“The sign of blood—the sign of a Saviour’s protection—was on their doors, and the destroyer entered not.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 278, 279

2.b.      What mark of protection do we need—and how only can we obtain it? Ezekiel 9:4; Revelation 7:1–3; 14:1

Note: “What is the seal of the living God, which is placed in the foreheads of His people? It is a mark which angels, but not human eyes, can read; for the destroying angel must see this mark of redemption. The intelligent mind has seen the sign of the cross of Calvary in the Lord’s adopted sons and daughters. The sin of the transgression of the law of God is taken away. They have on the wedding garment and are obedient and faithful to all God’s commands.” Maranatha, 243

“The sign, or seal, of God is revealed in the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath, the Lord’s memorial of creation.” Testimonies, Vol. 8, 117

“Those that overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil, will be the favored ones who shall receive the seal of the living God. Those whose hands are not clean, whose hearts are not pure, will not have the seal of the living God. Those who are planning sin and acting it will be passed by. Only those who, in their attitude before God, are filling the position of those who are repenting and confessing their sins in the great antitypical day of atonement, will be recognized and marked as worthy of God’s protection.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 445

Tuesday

3 THE BITTER HERBS AND THE UNLEAVENED BREAD

3.a. With what were the Israelites instructed to eat the Passover lamb? Exodus 12:8. What was the meaning of the bitter herbs?

Note: “The lamb was to be eaten with bitter herbs, as pointing back to the bitterness of the bondage in Egypt. So when we feed upon Christ, it should be with contrition of heart, because of our sins.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 278

3.b.      Living in this last generation, what might the bitter herbs cause God’s people to consider? Hebrews 2:18; Revelation 1:9

Note: “It is through one who is a ‘brother, and companion in tribulation’ that Christ reveals to His people the fearful conflicts which they must meet before His second coming. Before the scenes of their bitter struggle are opened to them, they are reminded that their brethren also have drunk of the cup and been baptized with the baptism. He who sustained these early witnesses to the truth will not forsake His people in the final conflict.” The Home Missionary, November 1, 1893

3.c. What did the unleavened bread symbolize? What does this mean for us today? Exodus 12:15; 1 Corinthians 5:6–8

Note: “The followers of Christ must be partakers of His experience. They must receive and assimilate the word of God so that it shall become the motive power of life and action. By the power of Christ they must be changed into His likeness and reflect the divine attributes. They must eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, or there is no life in them. The spirit and work of Christ must become the spirit and work of His disciples. …

“The use of unleavened bread also was significant. It was expressly enjoined in the law of the Passover, and as strictly observed by the Jews in their practice, that no leaven should be found in their houses during the feast. In like manner, the leaven of sin must be put away from all who would receive life and nourishment from Christ.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 278

Wednesday

4 A COMMEMORATIVE AND TYPICAL ORDINANCE

4.a. Who was not permitted to eat the Passover lamb? Exodus 12:43, 45. What requirement did a stranger have to meet before he or she was allowed to take part in the ordinance? Exodus 12:44, 48

Note: “Christ made baptism the entrance to His spiritual kingdom.” God’s Amazing Grace, 143

4.b.      What ordinance takes the place of the Passover feast under the new covenant? Luke 22:14–20. What requirement is necessary in order to partake of it?

Note: “When the Saviour yielded up His life on Calvary, the significance of the Passover ceased, and the ordinance of the Lord’s Supper was instituted as a memorial of the same event of which the Passover had been a type.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 539

“The Passover was to be both commemorative and typical, not only pointing back to the deliverance from Egypt, but forward to the greater deliverance which Christ was to accomplish in freeing His people from the bondage of sin.” Ibid., 277

4.c. How does God view the attempt of some professed Christians today to continue the ancient Hebrew rites? Galatians 4:9–11. What was added to the New Testament version of the Passover service, and why? John 13:1–17

Note: “In this ordinance [of humility], Christ discharged His disciples from the cares and burdens of the ancient Jewish obligations in rites and ceremonies. These no longer possessed any virtue; for type was meeting antitype in Himself, the authority and foundation of all Jewish ordinances that pointed to Him as the great and only efficacious offering for the sins of the world. …

“This ordinance does not speak so largely to man’s intellectual capacity as to his heart. His moral and spiritual nature needs it. … It was Christ’s desire to leave to His disciples an ordinance that would do for them the very thing they needed—that would serve to disentangle them from the rites and ceremonies which they had hitherto engaged in as essential, and which the reception of the gospel made no longer of any force. To continue these rites would be an insult to Jehovah.” The Review and Herald, June 14, 1898

Thursday

5 THE FIRSTBORN

5.a. What was the symbolical meaning of the dedication of the firstborn? Numbers 3:13

Note: “The dedication of the firstborn had its origin in the earliest times. God had promised to give the Firstborn of heaven to save the sinner. This gift was to be acknowledged in every household by the consecration of the firstborn son. He was to be devoted to the priesthood, as a representative of Christ among men.

“In the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, the dedication of the firstborn was again commanded.” The Desire of Ages, 51

“The firstborn of both man and beast were to be the Lord’s, to be bought back only by a ransom, in acknowledgment that when the firstborn in Egypt perished, that of Israel, though graciously preserved, had been justly exposed to the same doom but for the atoning sacrifice.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 274

“The law for the presentation of the firstborn was made particularly significant. While it was a memorial of the Lord’s wonderful deliverance of the children of Israel, it prefigured a greater deliverance, to be wrought out by the only begotten Son of God. As the blood sprinkled on the doorposts had saved the firstborn of Israel, so the blood of Christ has power to save the world.” The Desire of Ages, 51

5.b.      In what sense is Christ the Firstborn? Colossians 1:18; Revelation 1:5

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    What was the Passover feast, and when was it held?

2    When the Lord was about to deliver the Israelites from Egypt, how were they required to show their faith in the expected miracle?

3    What was symbolized by the unleavened bread and by the bitter herbs?

4    What event did the Passover commemorate as it pointed to the past? What event did it typify as it pointed to the future?

5    What did the presentation of the firstborn commemorate, and what did it prefigure?

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

The Atonement in Symbols

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The Plan of Redemption and The Sanctuary Service

April 28 – May 4, 2024

Key Text

“Without shedding of blood there is no remission.”
Hebrews 9:22

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 71–74

Introduction

“As his [Adam’s] transgression had brought death and wretchedness, life and immortality would be brought to light through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.” The Story of Redemption, 48

Sunday

1 SACRIFICIAL OFFERINGS

1.a. What service did God institute in order to keep the death of Christ ever before humanity? Genesis 4:4. What was its symbolical meaning?

Note: “The sacrificial offerings were ordained by God to be to man a perpetual reminder and a penitential acknowledgment of his sin and a confession of his faith in the promised Redeemer.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 68

1.b.      How was Satan able to pervert, in the mind of Cain, the understanding of the plan of salvation? Genesis 4:3–7

Note: “Cain came before God with murmuring and infidelity in his heart in regard to the promised sacrifice and the necessity of the sacrificial offerings. His gift expressed no penitence for sin. He felt, as many now feel, that it would be an acknowledgment of weakness to follow the exact plan marked out by God, of trusting his salvation wholly to the atonement of the promised Saviour. He chose the course of self-dependence. He would come in his own merits. He would not bring the lamb, and mingle its blood with his offering, but would present his fruits, the products of his labor. He presented his offering as a favor done to God, through which he expected to secure the divine approval. Cain obeyed in building an altar, obeyed in bringing a sacrifice; but he rendered only a partial obedience. The essential part, the recognition of the need of a Redeemer, was left out.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 72

Monday

2 A FUNDAMENTAL DIFFERENCE

2.a. What was the difference between Cain and Abel regarding the atonement? Hebrews 11:4. Explain the disagreement between the two brothers.

Note: “Abel grasped the great principles of redemption. He saw himself a sinner, and he saw sin and its penalty, death, standing between his soul and communion with God. He brought the slain victim, the sacrificed life, thus acknowledging the claims of the law that had been transgressed. Through the shed blood he looked to the future sacrifice, Christ dying on the cross of Calvary; and trusting in the atonement that was there to be made, he had the witness that he was righteous, and his offering accepted.

“Cain had the same opportunity of learning and accepting these truths as had Abel. He was not the victim of an arbitrary purpose. One brother was not elected to be accepted of God, and the other to be rejected. Abel chose faith and obedience; Cain, unbelief and rebellion. Here the whole matter rested.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 72

2.b.      What was the consequence of Cain’s unbelief? Genesis 4:8–12

Note: “Instead of acknowledging his sin, Cain continued to complain of the injustice of God and to cherish jealousy and hatred of Abel. He angrily reproached his brother and attempted to draw him into controversy concerning God’s dealings with them. In meekness, yet fearlessly and firmly, Abel defended the justice and goodness of God. He pointed out Cain’s error and tried to convince him that the wrong was in himself. He pointed to the compassion of God in sparing the life of their parents when He might have punished them with instant death and urged that God loved them, or He would not have given His Son, innocent and holy, to suffer the penalty which they had incurred. All this caused Cain’s anger to burn the hotter. Reason and conscience told him that Abel was in the right; but he was enraged that one who had been wont to heed his counsel should now presume to disagree with him, and that he could gain no sympathy in his rebellion. In the fury of his passion, he slew his brother.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 74

Tuesday

3 TWO CLASSES OF WORSHIPERS

3.a. Describe the two classes of worshipers that have existed from the beginning of the world. Give a more detailed description of the class represented by Cain. Ezekiel 33:31; Luke 18:9–14

Note: “Cain and Abel represent two classes that will exist in the world till the close of time. One class avail themselves of the appointed sacrifice for sin; the other venture to depend upon their own merits; theirs is a sacrifice without the virtue of divine mediation, and thus it is not able to bring man into favor with God. It is only through the merits of Jesus that our transgressions can be pardoned. Those who feel no need of the blood of Christ, who feel that without divine grace they can by their own works secure the approval of God, are making the same mistake as did Cain. If they do not accept the cleansing blood, they are under condemnation. There is no other provision made whereby they can be released from the thralldom of sin.

“The class of worshipers who follow the example of Cain includes by far the greater portion of the world; for nearly every false religion has been based on the same principle—that man can depend upon his own efforts for salvation.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 72, 73

3.b.      How does history show the difference between the two classes in the light of two conflicting principles—love and tolerance vs. hatred and persecution? 1 John 3:11, 12, 15, 16. What warning should we heed in light of this?

Note: “Jesus bears with the perversity of the children of men and pities them in their wrong course. If He felt as some who claim to be His followers feel, He would be filled with continual disgust and hatred as He looks upon those who are abusing His mercy, despising His grace, refusing to obey His commandments, and trampling upon His authority. He has bought them soul and body, and though they give their allegiance to Satan, His bitterest enemy, He loves them still.

“No one can hate his brother, or even his enemy, without placing himself under condemnation. We ever receive from the hand of our Maker and Judge a reward in harmony with the nature of our conduct toward Him and His creatures.” The Youth’s Instructor, January 13, 1898

Wednesday

4 WORSHIP IN PATRIARCHAL TIMES

4.a. What system of worship was conducted, among the people of God, in the days of the patriarchs? Give an example. Genesis 8:20

Note: “By the act of sacrifice the sinner acknowledged his guilt and manifested his faith, looking forward to the great and perfect sacrifice of the Son of God, which the offering of beasts prefigured. Without the atonement of the Son of God there could be no communication of blessing or salvation from God to man.” The Story of Redemption, 51

4.b.      What is written of Abraham’s devotion to God and of his influence among his neighbors? Genesis 12:7, 8.
What can we learn from the anxiety that he felt for the impenitent inhabitants of Sodom? Genesis 18:23–32

Note: “Abraham, ‘the friend of God,’ set us a worthy example. His was a life of prayer. Wherever he pitched his tent, close beside it was set up his altar, calling all within his encampment to the morning and evening sacrifice. When his tent was removed, the altar remained. In following years, there were those among the roving Canaanites who received instruction from Abraham; and whenever one of these came to that altar, he knew who had been there before him; and when he had pitched his tent, he repaired the altar, and there worshiped the living God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 128

“Himself a sinner, he pleaded in the sinner’s behalf. Such a spirit all who approach God should possess. Yet Abraham manifested the confidence of a child pleading with a loved father. He came close to the heavenly Messenger, and fervently urged his petition. …

“Love for perishing souls inspired Abraham’s prayer. While he loathed the sins of that corrupt city, he desired that the sinners might be saved. His deep interest for Sodom shows the anxiety that we should feel for the impenitent. We should cherish hatred of sin, but pity and love for the sinner. All around us are souls going down to ruin as hopeless, as terrible, as that which befell Sodom. Every day the probation of some is closing.” Ibid., 139, 140

Thursday

5 RIGHT AND WRONG IDEAS ABOUT WORSHIP

5.a. How was Satan able to deceive many with the thought that the blood of bulls and goats was actually sufficient to take away their sins? Isaiah 1:11

5.b.      What does God say about any religion that degenerates into a round of formalities? Isaiah 1:15; Proverbs 28:9

Note: “If Satan sees that the Lord is blessing His people and preparing them to discern his delusions, he will work with his masterly power to bring in fanaticism on the one hand and cold formalism on the other, that he may gather in a harvest of souls.” Selected Messages, Book 2, 19

5.c. What is God’s real requirement? Hosea 6:6; Isaiah 1:16–18; 55:6, 7

Note: “That which is called praying morning and evening, according to custom, is not always fervent and effectual. It is with many a sleepy, dull, and heartless repetition of words, and does not reach the ear of the Lord. God does not need or require your ceremonial compliments, but He will respect the broken heart, the confession of sins, the contrition of the soul. The cry of the humble, broken heart He will not despise. …

“We must have such love for Jesus that we will consider it a privilege to suffer and even die for His sake. We may tell the Lord all our trials, tell Him all our weaknesses, tell Him all our dependence upon His might and His power. This is true prayer. If ever there was a time when the Spirit of grace and supplication was needed to be poured out upon us, God Himself inditing our prayers, it is now.” In Heavenly Places, 87

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Why were sacrificial offerings required as soon as sin entered the world?

2    What was the main difference between Cain’s and Abel’s offerings?

3    Explain how Cain and Abel represent two classes of worshipers.

4    How was the hope of salvation kept alive in the time of the patriarchs?

5    What are some important aspects in the practice of true religion?

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

Recipe – Roasted Vegetable Dip/Spread

by

Ready for Hot? Here It Comes.

The jalapeño, one of the most favored varieties of warm peppers, has been used for centuries as a key ingredient to flavor a spectrum of culinary delights. It is a member of the nightshade family Solanaceae, and closely related to paprika, bell peppers, and cayenne peppers. The name “jalapeño” is derived from the Spanish word Xalapa, a provincial capital in the city of Veracruz, Mexico, where early settlers cultivated the crop. Later, it was introduced to the rest of the world through Spanish explorers, and today, these hot peppers are widely grown across the globe.

Jalapeños are commonly consumed when green, but occasionally, they are allowed to completely ripen until turning red, yellow, or orange. These small, fiery peppers provide more than a zest of flavor to chili, tacos, pizza, hummus, salads, breads, and many more delicacies. They also are teeming with health benefits.

Low in calories, the jalapeño abounds with nutrients including vitamins A, C, and B6, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.

Sources: netmeds.com/health-library/post/jalapeno-health-benefits-nutrition-recipes-and-side-effects; Top 5 Health Benefits of Jalapeño

Top five Benefits of Jalapeños
Contains capsicum, which is effective in killing over 40 types of cancer without harming normal cells.
Regulates blood pressure and lowers the risk of heart attack.
Prevents strep throat through its strong antibacterial activities.
Aids in weight loss.
Soothes migraine headaches and provides incredible pain relief.

Recipe – Roasted Vegetable Dip/Spread

Ingredients

1 medium onion, roughly chopped

1 medium red bell pepper, roughly chopped

1 large eggplant, peeled, cut into chunks

1 medium tomato, chopped, or 14 cherry tomatoes

7-8 cloves garlic, peel intact

1 jalapeño pepper, deseeded, chopped

1 ¼ tsp. sea salt, divided

3 Tbs. avocado oil, or less

3 Tbs. tahini

1 Tbs. lemon juice, or to taste

½ tsp. ground cumin

¼ cup parsley, finely chopped

Process

Place all vegetables into a bowl. Add 1 tsp. salt and oil; mix well. Transfer to a parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Bake at 375-400°F for about 40 minutes or until vegetables are roasted. Remove from oven and let cool. Remove garlic peel and transfer all to a food processor. Add tahini, lemon juice, cumin, and ¼ tsp. salt; process to preferred consistency. Spoon into a bowl, add parsley and mix. Chill for 1-2 hours. Serve as a delicious dip with carrot and celery sticks, and pita bread, or use as a sandwich spread.