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Keys to the Storehouse – Our Allotted task

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We should be ever thankful that the Lord has alerted us to the allotted task ahead of us. What is this task? It is to conquer self. In other words, we are to conquer our fallen nature. Just thinking about how cantankerous our characters are at times should give a little idea of the task ahead.

“So long as we are in the world, we shall meet with adverse influences. There will be provocations to test the temper; and it is by meeting these in a right spirit that the Christian graces are developed.” The Ministry of Healing, 487.

Have you been provoked lately? Are you staying on task, your allotted task? This task is impossible while attempting to tackle it alone and you will have a losing battle on your hands! The good news is, if we are willing to listen, “Christ dwells in us, [and] we shall be patient, kind, and forbearing, cheerful amid frets and irritations. Day by day and year by year we shall conquer self, and grow into a noble heroism.” Ibid.

You see, “0ur allotted task … cannot be accomplished without

  • help from Jesus,
  • resolute decision,
  • unwavering purpose,
  • continual watchfulness,
  • and unceasing prayer.

“Each one has a personal battle [with self] to fight. Not even God can make our characters noble or our lives useful, unless we become co-workers with Him. Those who decline the struggle lose the strength and joy of victory.” Ibid.

Are you ready to gain the joy of victory over self through Jesus Christ or will you join the multitude who decline the struggle and remain cantankerous? I would hope that each one of us will go forward to victory. If we lose this victory, we lose out on eternal life. The only thing that we can take to heaven is our character. We must accomplish our allotted task!

Father in heaven: I ask you to unite with me over the struggle with self because I do not wish to remain cantankerous. Save me from my self and in the name of Jesus I choose to be unwavering in my purpose to accomplish the allotted task You have given to me and to win the battle through a resolute decision and Your grace, which is truly sufficient. I resolutely choose to serve Thee. Amen.

Inspiration – A faithful Under-shepherd

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Throughout his ministry, Peter faithfully watched over the flock entrusted to his care, and thus proved himself worthy of the charge and responsibility given him by the Saviour. Ever he exalted Jesus of Nazareth as the Hope of Israel, the Saviour of mankind. He brought his own life under the discipline of the Master Worker. By every means within his power he sought to educate the believers for active service. His godly example and untiring activity inspired many young men of promise to give themselves wholly to the work of the ministry. As time went on, the apostle’s influence as an educator and leader increased; and while he never lost his burden to labor especially for the Jews, yet he bore his testimony in many lands and strengthened the faith of multitudes in the gospel.

In the later years of his ministry, Peter was inspired to write to the believers “scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia” (I Peter 1:1). His letters were the means of reviving the courage and strengthening the faith of those who were enduring trial and affliction, and of renewing to good works those who through manifold temptations were in danger of losing their hold upon God. These letters bear the impress of having been written by one in whom the sufferings of Christ and also His consolation had been made to abound; one whose entire being had been transformed by grace, and whose hope of eternal life was sure and steadfast.

At the very beginning of his first letter the aged servant of God ascribed to his Lord a tribute of praise and thanksgiving. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,” he exclaimed, “which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time” (verses 3–5).

In this hope of a sure inheritance in the earth made new, the early Christians rejoiced, even in times of severe trial and affliction. “Ye greatly rejoice,” Peter wrote, “though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see Him not, … ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls” (verses 6–9).

The apostle’s words were written for the instruction of believers in every age, and they have a special significance for those who live at the time when “the end of all things is at hand” (I Peter 4:7). His exhortations and warnings, and his words of faith and courage, are needed by every soul who would maintain his faith “steadfast unto the end” (Hebrews 3:14).

The apostle sought to teach the believers how important it is to keep the mind from wandering to forbidden themes or from spending its energies on trifling subjects. Those who would not fall a prey to Satan’s devices, must guard well the avenues of the soul; they must avoid reading, seeing, or hearing that which will suggest impure thoughts. The mind must not be left to dwell at random upon every subject that the enemy of souls may suggest. The heart must be faithfully sentineled, or evils without will awaken evils within, and the soul will wander in darkness. “Gird up the loins of your mind,” Peter wrote, “be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ … not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: but as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy” (I Peter 1:13–16).

“Pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a Lamb without blemish and without spot: who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by Him do believe in God, that raised Him up from the dead, and gave Him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God” (verses 17–21).

Had silver and gold been sufficient to purchase the salvation of men, how easily might it have been accomplished by Him who says, “The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine” (Haggai 2:8). But only by the precious blood of the Son of God could the transgressor be redeemed. The plan of salvation was laid in sacrifice. The apostle Paul wrote, “Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich” (II Corinthians 8:9). Christ gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity. And as the crowning blessing of salvation, “the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

“Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren,” Peter continued, “see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently” (I Peter 1:22). The word of God—the truth—is the channel through which the Lord manifests His Spirit and power. Obedience to the word produces fruit of the required quality—”unfeigned love of the brethren.” This love is heaven-born and leads to high motives and unselfish actions.

When truth becomes an abiding principle in the life, the soul is “born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever” (verse 23). This new birth is the result of receiving Christ as the Word of God. When by the Holy Spirit divine truths are impressed upon the heart, new conceptions are awakened, and the energies hitherto dormant are aroused to co-operate with God.

The Acts of the Apostles, 516–520.

Supper is Ready

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The Bible is very clear on the fact that each man, woman and child has a case pending at the bar of God. In fact, in II Corinthians 5:10, it says, “We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” In examining my own life I recognize my need of receiving the mind of Jesus. We live in a generation where minds are so filled with worldliness that the glorious future that we have in Christ is rarely considered or contemplated. Without the mind of Christ we are, in essence, a thoughtless people. With all the uncertainty in the world today we are in desperate need of the mind of Christ, which comes with His peace that surpasses all understanding.

Everyone likes to eat. Many of us have heard it said, “Don’t be late for dinner. Supper will be ready at such and such a time. Don’t be late.” Are you ready for supper? What would be the outcome if you were called to appear right now before the judgment seat? At a time he least expected, Belshazzar was weighed in the balances and found wanting. He wasn’t ready for supper.

The judgment is not some imaginary concept. It is a reality. No matter how much you may try to avoid this fact by your lifestyle, the truth remains the same. We have to give an account of our lives. “Because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by that Man [Christ] Whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.” Acts 17:31.

This is something to think about. If you were to appear before the judgment seat of Christ at this moment, what would be said of your life? How have you lived your life? How have you spent your time, every precious moment of every day?

“And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with lamps, and punish the men who are settled in complacency, who say in their heart, ‘The Lord will not do good, nor will He do evil.’ ” Zephaniah 1:12.

It will come as a terrible shock to those who think there is no judgment and are settled in their carnal security and wake up too late when the Lord searches His people with candles to see if there be any faithful among them.

There are three phases of the judgment process. The first phase is an investigation. This procedure is not only in the heavenly courts but also in earthly governments. When someone is charged with a crime, there is first an investigation or search for evidence concerning that crime. Jesus said that when He returns, He is coming back with His reward. Prior to His return He will investigate each case, “search Jerusalem with lamps,” to see if there be any who remain faithful, or if we are found wanting. After the investigation the innocent are set free and the guilty go on to the sentencing phase. Those who receive the guilty sentence move on to the third phase, the execution of the sentence that has been pronounced. We can be sure that whatever sentence has been handed down, it will surely be carried out.

The investigative phase of God’s judgment is already taking place in the heavenly courts. One day soon, no one knows how soon, that investigation will come to an end and the probation time given to man to repent will close. Will you be ready for supper?

For a man to be judged guilty there must be a law in place that he has broken. God’s law of Ten Commandments is the standard in this judgment. Notice what Paul says in Romans 2:12, 16: “For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law. … in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.”

There are many in heathen lands, even to this very day who have never heard or learned of God’s law, the Ten Commandments. But the Bible is clear that the Spirit of God still moves and works upon those individuals’ hearts and the actions that they live out according to their conscience will either accuse or excuse them and by that they are brought under judgment.

Even atheists, those who believe that there is no God or do not believe His Word or trust in His law, have the law written on their hearts by His Spirit and will come under the judgment. They have a conscience and know the difference between right and wrong, leaving them no escape. The law will also judge those who know the law of God, His standards and requirements. There is no escaping the One who knows all. So it behooves us that our lives come into harmony with the law of God. To survive the judgment we must be clothed with the righteousness of Jesus.

We have not been left ignorant about the state of the world just before the coming of Jesus. As we see the signs approaching and as we look at how things are in society with the increase in crime and natural disasters abounding, it should cause us to be all the more eager to be ready to meet Jesus. Instead, many of us focus our energy in becoming more settled in our lives on this earth. This earth is not our home. We are looking forward to a new earth, and new heavens, under which righteousness will dwell.

We are told in Revelation 22 that in the end there will be only two classes of people, those who are faithful to God’s government and those who are not. This declaration is going to be made before Jesus comes. In the days of Noah when Noah and his family had entered into that ark, the angel of the Lord closed the door. At that moment those who were left outside were unaware that their probation had closed. Being too busy with their worldly plans they had neglected to get ready for supper, and they were lost. Seven days later the flood came and they were all destroyed.

This same situation is going to happen at the end of time. In Revelation 22:11, the words call out, “He who is unjust, let him be unjust still.” Tragically, those who are declared unjust by Jesus when He finishes the judgment will remain unjust. In other words, there is no longer hope of their being converted, no hope of their being born again and no hope of their inheriting the gift of eternal life. They have chosen to be “unjust still” and no other power in heaven could shake them from their lethargy. The Bible goes on to read, similarly, “… he who is filthy, let him be filthy still.” Those who neglect to become clean in the time of probation will remain unclean and filthy when it closes. But, praise God, right now there is still hope.

There is another group in which each soul should desire to be. “… he who is righteous, let him be righteous still.” This is not referring to self-righteousness, for no man can boast of being righteous. It is by accepting the righteousness of Christ and living His life, dying daily to self, that any can be righteous. It is the work of the Holy Spirit guiding and directing the life that a sinner becomes a child of God. It is God Who declares him righteous and holy. He has put on Christ’s robe of righteousness, reflecting the character of Jesus. This is the condition of all who are ready for this supper.

Jesus would have come long before today, but He wants us to be ready. Therefore He delays His return in mercy that none might be eternally lost. Revelation 7:1–3 says, “After these things I saw four angels standing at the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, on the sea, or on any tree. Then I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God. And he cried with a loud voice to the four angels to whom it was granted to harm the earth and the sea, saying, ‘Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.’ ”

There was a time when four angels were about to release the four winds of the earth, which would have resulted in total chaos. Christ was about to come and the plagues of God were about to fall upon humanity. But Christ, our high priest, looking down upon His remnant people, saw that they were not ready. So He pleaded with His Father, “ ‘My blood, Father, My blood, My blood, My blood!’ ” Early Writings, 38. The Father bathes His Son in exceeding bright light and He sends another angel out to bid the four angels to hold: Wait a minute; they are not ready; they are not sealed with the seal of God. They are not prepared, Father. They are not ready. Today we still see those winds of strife to a great degree lingering because of God’s mercy.

What is the seal of God? Before Jesus returns, all living creatures will receive either the seal of God or the mark of the beast. The seal of God assures the recipient of eternal life, while the mark of the beast identifies the recipient with the archenemy of God. We want the seal of God. In Exodus chapter 31, verse 13, the Bible says, “Speak also to the children of Israel, saying: ‘Surely My Sabbaths you shall keep, for it is a sign [a mark, or symbol, or seal] between Me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I am the Lord Who sanctifies you [makes you holy].’ ”

“ ‘Therefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations as a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between Me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, and on the seventh day He rested and was refreshed.’ ” Verses 16, 17.

The Sabbath contains the seal of God. When we want to understand what the seal of God is, we will be drawn to the Sabbath. But keep in mind that we are not just talking about going to church on Saturdays. That is not what it means to keep the Sabbath holy.

God’s messenger has told us, “We should take this lesson to ourselves. Again, the destroying angel is to pass through the land.” In Heavenly Places, 150. That is a prophecy. History will repeat what happened when the destroying angel passed through the land of Egypt before the slaves were set free. “There is to be a mark placed on God’s people and that mark is the keeping of His holy Sabbath.” Ibid.

It does not end there. Exodus 20:8 says, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” Again, it is not just a matter of coming to church Saturday after Saturday; it is a call to live a holy life because no one can keep the Sabbath holy unless he or she has been made holy. “No other institution which was committed to the Jews tended so fully to distinguish them from surrounding nations as did the Sabbath. God designed that its observance should designate them as His worshipers. It was to be a token of their separation from idolatry, and their connection with the true God. But in order to keep the Sabbath holy, men must themselves be holy.” The Desire of Ages, 283. Holiness is the standard. It is impossible to live like a saint on Sabbath and live like the devil for the rest of the week. That is not going to cut it. Every single day is to be lived in harmony with God and His requirements. We must possess the robe of Christ’s righteousness. Man is not made righteous because he keeps the Sabbath, rather man keeps the Sabbath because he receives the righteousness of Christ by faith. Then he is given the Sabbath as a sign to be distinguished as God’s true servant. Being sealed with the seal of God has to do with being made holy. And those who live holy lives will be sealed.

“It [the Sabbath] points to Him [Jesus] as both the Creator and the Sanctifier. It declares that He who created all things in heaven and in earth, and by whom all things hold together, is the head of the church, and that by His power we are reconciled to God. For, speaking of Israel, He said, ‘I gave them My Sabbaths, to be a sign between Me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them,’—make them holy (Ezekiel 20:12). Then the Sabbath is a sign of Christ’s power to make us holy. And it is given to all whom Christ makes holy. As a sign of His sanctifying power, the Sabbath is given to all who through Christ become a part of the Israel of God.” The Desire of Ages, 288. It is not a matter of coming to church, but how you are living throughout the week. How do you treat your neighbors? Are you having daily devotions? How are you treating your family members? How are you treating your enemies? What are you thinking? What holds the affections of your heart captive and what do you think about? All of these things are involved in keeping the Sabbath holy.

To be prepared or ready for this supper, we recognize, first of all, that we must have the seal of the living God placed upon our foreheads, or else the wrath of God will be poured out upon us, but it is not enough for us to have merely head knowledge of these truths. James 4:17 says, “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.” The Spirit of God is working upon our hearts and if we should refuse to do what we know is right, then we have actually become a transgressor of the law. It is not how much you know; it is a matter of what you do with that knowledge.

Keeping the Sabbath

The following statement is very thought provoking: “Not all who profess to keep the Sabbath will be sealed. There are many even among those who teach the truth to others who will not receive the seal of God in their foreheads. They had the light of truth, they knew their Master’s will, they understood every point of our faith, but they had not corresponding works.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 213, 214. They knew it all, but they lacked the power that could change their lives.

“These who were so familiar with prophecy and the treasures of divine wisdom should have acted their faith. They should have commanded their households after them, that by a well-ordered family they might present to the world the influence of the truth upon the human heart.” Ibid., 214.

Here we are told that there are many who are teaching and preaching, and know everything concerning present truth, and yet their homes are out of order. This causes us to recognize the importance of the family. We are all part of some family, even if it is a single person family.

Preparation In the Home

Men, we are called to be the priest of our home. How do we interact with the members of our families? Each situation is different but godly principles remain the same and the Spirit of God is able to meet every situation. We need to examine ourselves. Husbands, do you love your wives as Jesus loved the church and gave His life for it? Fathers, are you living up to God’s standards in your family? Are you caring for your children and your spouse? Mothers, do you show respect and honor towards your husband setting an example for your children? Children, are you honoring and obeying your mother and father? How is it in your home? Is it a place where angels long to linger? A well-ordered loving family has greater influence and speaks louder than any message that could be preached from the pulpit.

The grace of Christ is needed in every home. Many homes do not begin on a solid foundation. Broken families are the cause of fragmented and wretched societies where degradation abounds. Young men and women should secure their relationship with their Maker before thinking of starting a new family. Christ must be the center, the foundation, of all relationships for a healthy and happy home.

Preparation For Life’s Work

Not only must we be prepared in the home, but we must prepare also in our field of labor for the Lord.

“Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ ” Matthew 25:34–40.

Though the home life is essential, are you preparing to work in the Lord’s field? “God could have reached His object in saving sinners without our aid; but in order for us to develop a character like Christ’s, we must share in His work.” The Desire of Ages, 142.

To be saved is not a matter of just coming to church and settling down on the dregs of our Christian experience. We must be active in the cause of God. In order to enter into His joy, the joy of seeing souls redeemed by Jesus’ sacrifice, we must participate in His labors for their redemption.

“The fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah contains present truth for the people of God. Here we see how medical missionary work and the gospel ministry are to be bound together as the message is given to the world. Upon those who keep the Sabbath of the Lord is laid the responsibility of doing a work of mercy and benevolence. Medical missionary work is to be bound up with the message, and sealed with the seal of God.” Evangelism, 516, 517.

“All who love God will show that they bear His sign by keeping His commandments. They are the restorers of paths to dwell in. … Thus genuine medical missionary work is bound up inseparably with the keeping of God’s commandments, of which the Sabbath is especially mentioned, since it is the great memorial of God’s creative work. Its observance is bound up with the work of restoring the moral image of God in man. This is the ministry which God’s people are to carry forward at this time.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 265, 266.

We need to understand how to unite the medical missionary work with that of giving the gospel. The medical missionary work is called the right arm of the gospel and it is the gospel in practice. What good is it for you to know the theories of truth and yet fail to live it out?

Ellen White, in Welfare Ministry, 35, 36 says, “I saw that it is in the providence of God that widows and orphans, the blind, the deaf, the lame, and persons afflicted in a variety of ways have been placed in close Christian relationship to His church; it is to prove His people and develop their true character.”

This is a test, and passing it will determine whether you will be ready for supper. “Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb.” Revelation 19:9 KJV. Many are called but few are chosen (Matthew 22:14). We want to be among those who are chosen, those who are faithful and who understand that we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ. The result of this will cause us to search out Christ in order that we may have His life, because if we have to appear before God on our own, the Bible says, “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6 KJV. In other words, our best is still not good enough. Self must die, traditions that are contrary to the will of God must be put away. We must have the life of Christ; He offers us this life freely, His own righteousness.

Conversion must take place every day. Examine your heart to know whether you are of the faith if you want to partake of this supper.

In vision, Ellen White was given this word concerning the marriage supper: “In my dream a sentinel stood at the door of an important building, and asked every one who came for entrance, ‘Have ye received the Holy Ghost?’ A measuring-line was in his hand, and only very, very few were admitted into the building. ‘Your size as a human being is nothing,’ he said. ‘But if you have reached the full stature of a man in Christ Jesus, according to the knowledge you have had, you will receive an appointment to sit with Christ at the marriage supper of the Lamb; and through the eternal ages, you will never cease to learn of the blessings granted in the banquet prepared for you.

“ ‘You may be tall and well-proportioned in self, but you can not enter here. None can enter who are grown-up children, carrying with them the disposition, the habits, and the characteristics which pertain to children. If you have nurtured suspicions, criticism, temper, self-dignity, you can not be admitted; for you would spoil the feast. All who go in through this door have on the wedding garment, woven in the loom of heaven. … Within this door nothing can enter that could possibly mar the happiness of the dwellers by marring their perfect trust in one another. You can not join the happy family in the heavenly courts; for I have wiped all tears from their eyes. You can never see the King in his beauty if you are not yourself a representative of his character.’ ” The Review and Herald, April 11, 1899.

May we each have on that wedding garment when Christ returns so that He may take us with Him to heaven to participate in the great supper of the Lamb.

All quotes are NKJV unless otherwise noted.

Demario Carter is currently a Bible worker for Steps to Life. 

Manage Your Time

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Time is a talent. Each person born has been granted a certain amount for which they are accountable. One of the most important verses in the whole Bible about time is found in John 9:4 where Jesus said, “I must work the works of Him Who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work.” No matter how old you are, whether young or old, there are some things that you are able to do now that you will not be able to do in the future. No longer am I able to say to my deceased mother, “I love you.” There were many days that I could say that, but no more.

“And seeing from afar a fig tree having leaves, He [Jesus] went to see if perhaps He would find something on it. When He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs.” Mark 11:13. For everything, even the fig tree, there is a best time or season. Timing is everything. There is an opportune time, and then there is another time that is not the right time. There are things that are right when you are 30 that are not right when you are 15. There are things that are right when you are 18 that are not right when you are 9. It is often the timing that makes the difference. When Jesus approached the fig tree it was not the right time for the figs to appear. There is a time to plant and a time to reap. There is a time to work and there is a time to sleep. There is a time to eat. Part of maturing is to become wise in regard to discerning the right time for what you need or want to do.

In Luke 22:37, the Bible says, “For I say to you that this which is written must still be accomplished in Me: ‘And He was numbered with the transgressors,’ For the things concerning Me have an end.” Jesus said, “The things concerning Me have an end.” This world is temporal and everything in it has an end. It is true that everyone, whether two or ninety-two, will one day reach the last day that they will live in this world. Even for those who are alive when Jesus comes, a time will come when it will be the last day that they will live in this world. Knowing that everything in this world comes to an end should regulate the way we think and plan in regard to the use of our time.

Romans 13:11 and 12 tell us, “And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.” Paul says that first we need to know the time. Most people in this world do not know the time, but if you are a Christian, you should be aware that it is time to wake up out of a Laodicean slumber.

When I was a teenager, my uncle, a building contractor, would sometimes stay with my family. I can still hear him rallying the household with his loud voice saying, “It’s time to roll out. Do you know what time it is?” No one was allowed to sleep past 7:00 a.m.

Paul said, “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:15, 16.

“Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near at hand.” “Write the things which you have seen, and the things which are, and the things which will take place after this.” Revelation 1:3, 19.

The book of Revelation is about things that are in the present and what will be in the future. To regulate your time you need to understand what you need to do today, as well as have plans about the future, for next week, next month, and next year.

In the book Christ’s Object Lessons, page 342, Ellen White talks about the talent of time. Following are different facts in regard to time:

  1. How is your time spent?

Most important is to understand that we are accountable to God for how our time is spent. “Our time belongs to God. Every moment is His, and we are under the most solemn obligation to improve it to His glory. Of no talent He has given will He require a more strict account than of our time.”

That statement makes most people tremble for almost all of us have wasted some time in the past. In the day of final judgment God is going to require a strict account of how the time He has given us has been used. It will be a fearful day for those who have used their time only in pleasing themselves.

“Those who choose to neglect the great salvation offered to them freely, who choose to serve themselves and remain enemies of God, enemies of the self-sacrificing Redeemer, are earning their wages. They are sowing to the flesh, and will of the flesh reap corruption.” The Bible Echo, September 19, 1898. The devil delights in those who serve themselves and claims them as his own.

Jesus is the Christian’s example. “For even Christ did not please Himself.” Romans 15:3. Jesus did not live for Himself. If that were the case He would not have come to this world as a poor man and been born in Bethlehem in a cow barn. If He had lived for Himself, He would have never consented to fast for six weeks in the wilderness or spend day and night helping people, even when He was tired and hungry. If He had lived for Himself, He would not have been willing to sleep outdoors when nobody had invited Him into his house to share the home comforts.

If Jesus had lived for Himself, He certainly would never have consented to go the cruel cross and die the death of the worst of criminals, but for our sakes, He was not self-serving. On the day of final judgment will the recording angel be able to say, “According to the record, this person has spent his/her life living to try to help other people,” or sadly report that he/she lived for himself/herself? We must give an account to God for our time. Those who are saved will have lived to help others.

  1. The value of time.

How much is your time worth? When I was a small boy, my father would tell me this story to teach me a lesson. He said there were three bricklayers working on a building. A person came up to the first bricklayer and said, “What are you doing?” He said, “I’m earning $1.75 an hour.” His interest was only in collecting his pay.

When the second bricklayer was asked, he said, “I am laying brick.” This man saw no further than the immediate task; he was simply laying brick.

He then came to the third bricklayer and asked him, “What are you doing?” He replied, “I am building a temple.”

How do you see the work that you do and how would you describe what you are doing with your time? God has given us our job; it is to help people get ready for the kingdom of heaven. Time is so valuable that it cannot be measured and infinitely valuable when used to lead someone to Jesus.

“The value of time is beyond computation. Christ regarded every moment as precious, and it is thus that we should regard it. Life is too short to be trifled away. We have but a few days of probation in which to prepare for eternity. We have no time to waste, no time to devote to selfish pleasure, no time for the indulgence of sin. It is now that we are to form characters for the future, immortal life. It is now that we are to prepare for the searching judgment.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 342.

  1. Redeeming the time.

See Ephesians 5:16. The first thing to understand about redeeming time is that there is absolutely nothing you can do to redeem wasted time. Whatever age you are you cannot change one particle of how you spent one minute of the past. The only way that time can be redeemed is to use it more efficiently now and in the future. The past is forever gone.

  1. Taking time to witness.

Are you witnessing concerning your faith, your religion, and your hope for the future? Are you looking for opportunities to tell others about Jesus and His love for them? “Now is our time to labor for the salvation of our fellow men. There are some who think that if they give money to the cause of Christ, this is all they are required to do …” Ibid., 343. There are many Adventists like that. Some work 80 hours a week and earn so much money that they want to give money so that others can do the witnessing. Well, notice what Ellen White says about this: “The precious time in which they might do personal service for Him passes unimproved. But it is the privilege and duty of all who have health and strength to render to God active service. All are to labor in winning souls to Christ. Donations of money cannot take the place of this.” Ibid. It is not enough for me to say, “I’m going to work hard and earn so much, that I’ll be able to give money to get the … .” No, no! It is not God’s plan to work and earn what money I can and then pay someone else to go and win the souls.

There are people you can reach that your husband, or your wife, or your parents, or your children cannot reach. Young people can often reach people that older people cannot reach. You cannot buy your way into heaven. There are people that God wants you to reach personally.

Who is the person God has put in your pathway? Witnessing involves more than just giving out literature or giving Bible Studies. If you pray for guidance, the Lord might show you many other things that you could do to witness. It would be tragic to come to the day of judgment and say, “O, I didn’t take very much time to witness to anybody.” It will be too late then to do what is possible right now.

  1. How is your time being spent?

Jesus once said to His disciples, “Watch out that you do not become overcharged, overburdened with feasting, and the cares of this life, and that day overtake you unawares.” Luke 21:34 (literal translation).

For many people, especially the middle class, the whole day from early morning to late at night is taken up with just making a living. Many are working two or three jobs to bring in enough money to pay for their luxurious lifestyle. They make the mistake of being so busy with the cares of this life they just don’t have much time to prepare for eternity.

“Life is too solemn to be absorbed in temporal and earthly matters, in a treadmill of care and anxiety for the things that are but an atom in comparison with the things of eternal interest. Yet God has called us to serve Him in the temporal affairs of life. Diligence in this work is as much a part of true religion as is devotion.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 343.

Being a Christian does not mean that you will not have to make a living and manage your worldly business, but that must never become so all-absorbing that no time is spared to prepare for eternity.

The rich young ruler that met Jesus was not a crimina; he was a good man. He did not break the law. Everybody respected him. He was just totally absorbed in this world. Jesus tried to cut him loose, but he did not want to be freed and left Jesus sorrowful for he had many possessions.

  1. Idleness.

It is a great mistake for any adult or young person to be idle. In fact, “The Bible gives no endorsement to idleness. It is the greatest curse that afflicts our world.” Ibid.

It is because of idleness that there is such an avalanche of crime in America today. Idleness was one of the main reasons Sodom and Gomorrah got into the trouble they did. Read Ezekiel 16:49.

The devil has his greatest success with men and women, boys and girls when they have idle time and nothing practical to occupy them. Parents must make it their duty to keep their children productively occupied, teaching them to be productive, for idleness leads to every kind of crime.

  1. Efficient use of time.

About a hundred and seventy years ago there was a young boy growing up in Illinois by the name of Abraham Lincoln. His family was very poor and he had to spend early morning till evening working out in the field. After supper when the rest of the family retired after a long day’s work Abraham would light a fire, either in the lamp or in the stove, so that he could read. He hungered for knowledge and those who knew him said he devoured every book available for him to borrow or find in the community.

“The heights by great men reached and kept

Were not attained by sudden flight,

But they, while their companions slept,

Were toiling upward in the night.” Education, 296.

It is especially important that while still young the lesson is learned how to most efficiently use your time.

  1. Habits of order, thoroughness, and dispatch in your use of time.

“Upon the right improvement of our time depends our success in acquiring knowledge and mental culture. … A few moments here and a few there, that might be frittered away in aimless talk; the morning hours so often wasted in bed; the time spent in traveling on trams or railway cars, or waiting at the station; the moments of waiting for meals, waiting for those who are tardy in keeping an appointment—if a book were kept at hand, and these fragments of time were improved in study, reading, or careful thought, what might not be accomplished. …

“It is the duty of every Christian to acquire habits of order, thoroughness, and dispatch. There is no excuse for slow bungling at work of any character.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 343, 344.

“By tact and method, some will accomplish as much in five hours as others do in ten.” Ibid., 344. How long does it take you to get done with the job? Diligent people learn to use their time more efficiently.

One of the problems in today’s society is that parents do not understand that their children need to be occupied all day long every day with something that is worthwhile. “Parents should teach their children the value and right use of time. …

“Parents cannot commit a greater sin than to allow their children to have nothing to do. The children soon learn to love idleness, and they grow up shiftless, useless men and women. When they are old enough to earn their living, and find employment, they work in a lazy, droning way, yet expect to be paid as much as if they were faithful.” Ibid., 345.

Many people have been ruined because they didn’t learn how to work when they were growing up. Concerning children: “Lack of employment and of steadfast purpose opens the door to a thousand temptations.” Ibid.

Many children are left unsupervised for lengthy periods while both parents have to work to meet their financial commitments. A way must be determined that they have plenty to keep them occupied all day long. This does not always have to be work, but it does need to be useful activities so that the children can develop into happy and healthy citizens.

  1. The other time extreme.

Many years ago I read in inspired writings that we should not try to do two days’ work in one. “Let no one labor to the point of exhaustion, thereby disqualifying himself for other duties. Do not try to crowd two days’ work into one. All should use their strength wisely, and at the end those who work carefully and wisely will be found to have accomplished as much as those who so expend their physical and mental strength that they have no deposit from which to draw in a time of need.” The Signs of the Times, August 5, 1897.

It is very easy for man to go to extremes but we must find the right balance. Often in zeal to accomplish one thing, something else just as important gets neglected.

“You must learn to give up your will and your way, and to receive light from those whom God has made His helping hand, those by whom He designs that you shall be helped. Go to Christ for relief. Cling to Him. Stay long enough to yield up your will to the will of God. Many are in too great a hurry to pray. With hurried steps they pass through the shadow of Christ’s loving presence, pausing perhaps for a few moments within the sacred precincts, but not waiting for counsel. They have no time to sit down, no time to remain with the divine Teacher. With their burdens, they return to their work.” This Day With God, 154.

Most important is to take time each morning before the hustle of the day begins to sit down and receive some instruction from the divine Teacher. The time spent with your Maker will never be wasted and you can move on with the activities of each day laying all of your burdens at the foot of His cross. With the right allocation of time you will be amazed at what you are able to accomplish.

(Unless appearing in quoted references or otherwise identified, Bible texts are from the New King James Version.)

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

Editorial – The Wheat, the Tares and Uncertain Voices

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“I [Ellen White] see perplexities on every side. As character develops man and woman will take their position, for varied circumstances brought to bear upon them will cause them to reveal the spirit which prompts them to action. Every one will reveal the character of the bundle with which he is binding himself. The wheat is being bound up for the heavenly garner. … The true people of God are now pulling apart, and the tares are being bound in bundles ready to burn. Decided positions will be taken. Satan will move upon minds that have been indulged, upon men who have always had their own way, and anything presented to them in counsel or reproof to change their objectionable traits of character is considered faultfinding, binding them, restraining them, that they cannot have liberty to act themselves. The Lord in great mercy has sent messages of warning to them, but they would not listen to reproof. Like the enemy who rebelled in heaven, they do not like to hear, do not correct the wrong they have done but become accusers, declaring themselves misused and unappreciated. Now is the time of trial, of test, of proving.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 995, 996.

“Dark hours of trial are before the church because they have not obeyed the warnings and reproofs and counsel of God. What a bewitching power comes upon human minds to do contrary to the oft repeated will of God, and close the eyes and stop the ears, when Jesus is calling to them to hear His voice. He says, ‘My sheep hear My voice’ (John 10:27).

“That night in that boat was to the disciples a school where they were to receive their education for the great work which was to be done afterwards. The dark hours of trial are to come to every one as a part of his education for higher work, for more devoted, consecrated effort. The storm was not sent upon the disciples to shipwreck them, but to test and prove them individually. Before the great trouble shall come upon the world such as has never been since there was a nation, those who have faltered and who would ignorantly lead in unsafe paths will reveal this before the real vital test, the last proving, comes, so that whatsoever they may say will not be regarded as voicing the True Shepherd. The time of our educating will soon be over. We have no time to lose in walking through clouds of doubt and uncertainty because of uncertain voices.” Ibid., 1002.

(From a letter written by Ellen White to Elder S.N. Haskell, August 22, 1892.)

Bible Study Guides – Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens

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January 25, 2015 – January 31, 2015

Key Text

“As we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.” I Thessalonians 2:4.

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 228–242.

Introduction

“The messengers of Christ must arm themselves with watchfulness and prayer, and move forward with faith, firmness, and courage, and, in the name of Jesus, keep at their work, as did the apostles. They must sound the note of warning to the world, teaching the transgressors of the law what sin is, and pointing them to Jesus Christ as its great and only remedy.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 86.

1 TRUTH AND CONSEQUENCES

  • What victories for Christ were achieved through Paul upon his first arrival in Thessalonica, another Macedonian city? Acts 17:1–4.
  • What should we learn from the way some unbelieving Jews made trouble for the believers? What accusation was brought against the apostles? Acts 17:5–8; I Peter 4:12–16.

Note: “Those who preach unpopular truth in our day meet with determined resistance, as did the apostles. They need expect no more favorable reception from a large majority of professed Christians than did Paul from his Jewish brethren. There will be a union of opposing elements against them; for however diverse from each other different organizations may be in their sentiments and religious faith, their forces are united in trampling under foot the fourth commandment in the law of God.

“Those who will not themselves accept the truth are most zealous that others shall not receive it; and those are not wanting who perseveringly manufacture falsehoods, and stir up the base passions of the people to make the truth of God of none effect.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 86.

2 THE NOBLE BEREANS

  • Despite the false claims against him, how did Paul describe his actual manner of preaching the gospel in Thessalonica? I Thessalonians 2:1–8. Why could his time in that city be considered a success? I Thessalonians 1:5–10.

Note: “Paul was an Adventist; he presented the important event of the second coming of Christ with such power and reasoning that a deep impression, which never wore away, was made upon the minds of the Thessalonians.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 83.

  • What observation was made about the Jews in Berea, the city to which the brethren sent Paul and Silas away by night? How can the Bereans be an inspiration to us today? Acts 17:10–12.

Note: “The minds of the Bereans were not narrowed by prejudice, and they were willing to investigate and receive the truths preached by the apostles. If the people of our time would follow the example of the noble Bereans, in searching the Scriptures daily, and in comparing the messages brought to them with what is there recorded, there would be thousands loyal to God’s law where there is one today.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 88.

“Like the noble Bereans, we should search the Scriptures carefully, prayerfully, to become acquainted with the utterances of God. We should inquire, not what the minister, the church, or some personal friend may say, but what the Lord says.” The Signs of the Times, November 26, 1885.

  • Hearing that many of the Jews of Berea were deeply impressed by the truth, what action did the unbelieving Jews of Thessalonica take? Acts 17:13.

Note: “The unbelieving Jews of Thessalonica, filled with jealousy and hatred of the apostles, and not content with having driven them from their labors among the Thessalonians, followed them to Berea, and again stirred up the excitable passions of the lower class to do them violence. The teachers of the truth were again driven from their field of labor. Persecution followed them from city to city.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 88.

3 INTO THE REGION OF ACHAIA

  • Because of the persecution in Thessalonica, what did the brethren decide to do with Paul? Acts 17:14, 15.

Note: “The faithful apostle steadily pressed on through opposition, conflict, and persecution, to carry out the purpose of God as revealed to him in the vision at Jerusalem: ‘I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles’ (Acts 22:21).” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 88, 89.

  • How did Paul feel, waiting for Silas and Timothy in Athens? Acts 17:16.

Note: “The city of Athens was the metropolis of heathendom. Paul did not here meet with an ignorant, credulous populace, as at Lystra; but he encountered a people famous for their intelligence and education. …

“As Paul looked upon the beauty and grandeur surrounding him, and saw the city crowded with idols, his spirit was stirred with jealousy for God, whom he saw dishonored on every side.

“His heart was drawn out in deep pity for the citizens of that grand metropolis, who, notwithstanding their intellectual greatness, were given to idolatry. …

“As he saw the magnificence of the city, with its costly devices, he realized its seductive power over the minds of the lovers of art and science. His mind was deeply impressed with the importance of the work before him in Athens. His solitude in that great city where God was not worshiped was oppressive; and he longed for the sympathy and aid of his fellow-laborers. As far as human fellowship was concerned, he felt himself to be utterly isolated. In his Epistle to the Thessalonians he expresses his feelings in these words: ‘Left at Athens alone’ (I Thessalonians 3:1).

“Paul’s work was to bear the tidings of salvation to a people who had no intelligent understanding of God and His plans. He was not traveling for the purpose of sight-seeing, nor to gratify a morbid desire for new and strange scenes. His dejection of mind was caused by the apparently insurmountable obstacles which presented themselves against his reaching the minds of the people of Athens.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 89, 90.

  • What challenge did Paul face before these highly philosophical Greeks? I Corinthians 1:22.

4 LOGIC AND REASONING

  • Why was Paul a source of curiosity in Athens? Acts 17:17–21.

Note: “The religion of the Athenians, of which they made great boast, was of no value, for it was destitute of the knowledge of the true God. It consisted, in great part, of art worship, and a round of dissipating amusement and festivities. It wanted the virtue of true goodness. Genuine religion gives men the victory over themselves; but a religion of mere intellect and taste is wanting in the qualities essential to raise its possessor above the evils of his nature, and to connect him with God. …

“Some who prided themselves upon the extent of their intellectual culture entered into conversation with him. This soon drew a crowd of listeners about them. Some were prepared to ridicule the apostle as one far beneath them, socially and intellectually. …

“The Stoics and the Epicureans encountered him; but they, and all others who came in contact with him, soon saw that he had a store of knowledge even greater than their own.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 91, 92.

  • What reasoning did Paul use in his appeal? Acts 17:22–31.

Note: “Inspiration has given us this glance at the life of the Athenians, with all their knowledge, refinement, and art, yet sunken in vice, that it might be seen how God, through His servant, rebuked idolatry, and the sins of a proud, self-sufficient people. The words of Paul become a memorial of the occasion, and give a treasure of knowledge to the church. He was in a position where he might easily have spoken that which would irritate his proud listeners, and bring himself into difficulty. Had his oration been a direct attack upon their gods, and the great men of the city who were before him, he would have been in danger of meeting the fate of Socrates. But he carefully drew their minds away from heathen deities, by revealing to them the true God, whom they were endeavoring to worship, but Who was to them unknown, as they themselves confessed by a public inscription.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 97.

  • Describe the response of nearly all the hearers, and the result. Acts 17:32, 33. Who were two of the exceptions named? Acts 17:34.

5 SHUNNING INTELLECTUAL VANITY

  • Why couldn’t the Athenians understand Paul? I Corinthians 2:12–14. What principle did Jesus explain in this regard? John 7:17.
  • As ancient Greek values and philosophies still permeate today’s social and educational systems, what must we keep in mind? 1 Corinthians 3:18–20; 8:1; Jeremiah 9:23, 24.

Note: “Christian knowledge bears its own stamp of unmeasured superiority in all that concerns the preparation for the future, immortal life. It distinguishes the Bible reader and believer, who has been receiving the precious treasures of truth, from the skeptic and the believer in pagan philosophy.

“Cleave to the word, ‘It is written.’ Cast out of the mind the dangerous, obtrusive theories which, if entertained, will hold the mind in bondage, so that man shall not become a new creature in Christ. The mind must be constantly restrained and guarded. It must be given as food only that which will strengthen the religious experience.” The Review and Herald, November 10, 1904.

“Study not the philosophy of man’s conjectures, but study the philosophy of Him Who is truth. Other literature is of little value when compared with this.

“The mind that is earthly finds no pleasure in contemplating the word of God; but for the mind renewed by the Holy Spirit, divine beauty and celestial light shine from the sacred page. That which is to the earthly mind a desolate wilderness, to the spiritual mind becomes a land of living streams.” The Signs of the Times, October 10, 1906.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What sad result must be expected by all who proclaim unpopular truth?

2 How are the noble Bereans to be an example for us today?

3 In what ways are the ideologies of Athens repeated in our time?

4 Explain the caution of Paul while addressing the Athenian idolaters.

5 What is to be our safeguard in today’s era when paganism is so rampant?

Copyright © 2013 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Souls Are Crying for Truth

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January 18, 2015 – January 24, 2015

Key Text

“A vision appeared to Paul in the night; there stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.” Acts 16:9.

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 188–197.

Introduction

“The Lord calls for volunteers who will take their stand firmly on His side, and will pledge themselves to unite with Jesus of Nazareth in doing the very work that needs to be done now, just now.” Messages to Young People, 198.

1 A GENERAL CONFERENCE SESSION

  • What item was foremost on the agenda of what was essentially a general conference meeting of the early church? Acts 15:1–6.

Note: “The Gentiles, and especially the Greeks, were extremely licentious, and there was danger that some, unconverted in heart, would make a profession of faith without renouncing their evil practices. The Jewish Christians could not tolerate the immorality that was not even regarded as criminal by the heathen. The Jews therefore held it as highly proper that circumcision and the observance of the ceremonial law should be enjoined on the Gentile converts as a test of their sincerity and devotion. This, they believed, would prevent the addition to the church of those who, adopting the faith without true conversion of heart, might afterward bring reproach upon the cause by immorality and excess.

“The various points involved in the settlement of the main question at issue seemed to present before the council insurmountable difficulties. But the Holy Spirit had, in reality, already settled this question, upon the decision of which seemed to depend the prosperity, if not the very existence, of the Christian church.” The Acts of the Apostles, 192.

  • Amid the disputing, what were Peter’s comments on the matter? Acts 15:7–11.

2 KEY DECISIONS

  • What news did Paul and Barnabas report at the meeting in Jerusalem? Acts 15:12. What should we learn from the way James, as chairman, then applied those news into forming a resolution? Acts 15:13–21.

Note: “The Holy Spirit saw good not to impose the ceremonial law on the Gentile converts, and the mind of the apostles regarding this matter was as the mind of the Spirit of God. James presided at the council, and his final decision was, ‘Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God’ (Acts 15:19).

“This ended the discussion. In this instance we have a refutation of the doctrine held by the Roman Catholic Church that Peter was the head of the church. Those who, as popes, have claimed to be his successors, have no Scriptural foundation for their pretensions. Nothing in the life of Peter gives sanction to the claim that he was elevated above his brethren as the vicegerent of the Most High. If those who are declared to be the successors of Peter had followed his example, they would always have been content to remain on an equality with their brethren.” The Acts of the Apostles, 194, 195.

  • With what conclusion did the assembly agree? Acts 15:22–31. Why was it so important that even Gentile Christians should abstain from consuming the blood of animals? Genesis 9:1–4; Leviticus 3:17.

Note: “The entire body of Christians was not called to vote upon the question [whether to enforce the ceremonial law upon the Gentiles]. The ‘apostles and elders,’ men of influence and judgment, framed and issued the decree, which was thereupon generally accepted by the Christian churches. Not all, however, were pleased with the decision; there was a faction of ambitious and self-confident brethren who disagreed with it. These men assumed to engage in the work on their own responsibility. They indulged in much murmuring and faultfinding, proposing new plans and seeking to pull down the work of the men whom God had ordained to teach the gospel message. From the first the church has had such obstacles to meet and ever will have till the close of time.” The Acts of the Apostles, 196, 197.

  • When the time came for all to return to their respective fields of labor, what triggered a dispute between Paul and Barnabas? Acts 15:36–38.

3 NEW COWORKERS

  • What task did Paul soon undertake together with Silas, and who was the youth that Paul soon added to their company? Acts 15:39–41; 16:1–3.
  • Why did Paul feel impressed to go to Philippi in Macedonia? Acts 16:9–12. In what sense does this “Macedonian cry” echo down even to our day? John 4:35; Isaiah 6:8.

Note: “All over the world men and women are looking wistfully to heaven. Prayers and tears and inquiries go up from souls longing for light, for grace, for the Holy Spirit. Many are on the verge of the kingdom, waiting only to be gathered in.” The Acts of the Apostles, 109.

“God will accept many more workers from the humble walks of life if they will fully consecrate themselves to His service. Men and women should be coming up to carry the truth into all the highways and byways of life. Not all can go through a long course of education, but if they are consecrated to God and learn of Him, many can without this do much to bless others. Thousands would be accepted if they would give themselves to God. Not all who labor in this line should depend upon the conferences for support. Let those who can do so give their time and what ability they have, let them be messengers of God’s grace, their hearts throbbing in unison with Christ’s great heart of love, their ears open to hear the Macedonian cry.” The Southern Work, 16, 17.

  • How are we, in our busy generation, to be inspired by the way Lydia proved to be a blessing to the apostles? Acts 16:14, 15, 40; I Peter 4:9.

Note: “Lydia … and her household were converted and baptized, and she entreated the apostles to make her house their home.” The Acts of the Apostles, 212.

“Among our own people the opportunity of showing hospitality is not regarded as it should be, as a privilege and blessing. There is altogether too little sociability, too little of a disposition to make room for two or three more at the family board, without embarrassment or parade. Some plead that ‘it is too much trouble.’ It would not be if you would say: ‘We have made no special preparation, but you are welcome to what we have.’ By the unexpected guest a welcome is appreciated far more than is the most elaborate preparation.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 343.

4 WITNESSING BY EXAMPLE

  • Why were Paul and Silas cast into prison, and how were they treated? Acts 16:16–24. What did they do there? Acts 16:25.

Note: “[While in the Philippian dungeon] the apostles were left in a very painful condition. Their lacerated and bleeding backs were in contact with the rough stone floor, while their feet were elevated and bound fast in the stocks. In this unnatural position they suffered extreme torture; yet they did not groan nor complain, but conversed with and encouraged each other and praised God with grateful hearts that they were found worthy to suffer shame for His dear name. Paul was reminded of the persecution he had been instrumental in heaping upon the disciples of Christ, and he was devoutly thankful that his eyes had been opened to see, and his heart to feel, the glorious truths of the gospel of the Son of God, and that he had been privileged to preach the doctrine which he had once despised.

“There in the pitchy darkness and desolation of the dungeon, Paul and Silas prayed, and sung songs of praise to God. The other prisoners heard with astonishment the voice of prayer and praise issuing from the inner prison. They had been accustomed to hear shrieks and moans, cursing and swearing, breaking at night upon the silence of the prison; but they had never before heard the words of prayer and praise ascending from that gloomy cell. The guards and prisoners marveled who were these men who, cold, hungry, and tortured, could still rejoice and converse cheerfully with each other.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 75, 76.

  • What happened when Paul and Silas praised God in the dungeon? Acts 16:26–34. What does this teach us? Matthew 5:44–46.

Note: “The apostles might have fled when the earthquake opened their prison doors and loosened their fetters; but that would have been an acknowledgment that they were criminals, which would have been a disgrace to the gospel of Christ. …

“The Philippians could but acknowledge the nobility and generosity of the apostles in their course of action, especially in forbearing to appeal to a higher power against the magistrates who had persecuted them. The news of their unjust imprisonment and miraculous deliverance, was noised about through all that region, and brought the apostles and their ministry before the notice of a large number who would not otherwise have been reached.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 80, 81.

5 JOYFULLY BEARING FRUIT

  • Why did the apostles leave Philippi, though not in haste? Acts 16:35–39. In time, what was the fruit of Paul’s labors at Philippi? Philippians 1:1, 2.

Note: “Paul’s labors at Philippi resulted in the establishment of a church there, whose numbers steadily increased. His example of zeal and devotion, above all, his willingness to suffer for Christ’s sake, exerted a deep and lasting influence upon the converts to the faith. They highly prized the precious truths for which the apostle had sacrificed so much, and they gave themselves, with whole-hearted devotion, to the cause of their Redeemer.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 81.

  • How did Paul consider the Philippian believers, and how did he exhort them regarding the persecution they would face? Philippians 1:3–7, 27–30.
  • Like the Philippians, on what are we to focus? Philippians 2:5–11; 4:6–8. What testimony of Paul can inspire us? Philippians 3:7–11.

Note: “The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost was the former rain, but the latter rain will be more abundant. The Spirit awaits our demand and reception. Christ is again to be revealed in His fullness by the Holy Spirit’s power. Men will discern the value of the precious pearl, and with the apostle Paul they will say, ‘What things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord’ (Philippians 3:7, 8).” Christ’s Object Lessons, 121.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Why did the Jewish Christians insist that the Gentiles be circumcised?

2 How did God guide the assembly to correct the problem faced?

3 Even if we cannot answer the Macedonian cry, how can Lydia inspire us?

4 Why was the Philippian jailer and his family softened to conversion?

5 What attitude of Paul is needed in order to receive the latter rain?

Copyright © 2013 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Working With Worldly-minded People

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January 11, 2015 – January 17, 2015

Key Text

“When they [Paul and Barnabas] had preached the gospel to that city [Derbe], and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.” Acts 14:21, 22.

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 177–187.

Introduction

“None need fear defeat at the hand of the enemy; for it is the privilege of the gospel worker to be endued with power from above sufficient to enable him to withstand every satanic influence.” The Review and Herald, May 18, 1911.

1 STARTING OUT

  • Where did Paul and Barnabas begin their mission, and who was the young man that accompanied them? Acts 13:4, 5; 12:12, 25.
  • What challenge did the missionaries encounter at Paphos? Acts 13:6–8.

Note: “Not without a struggle does Satan allow the kingdom of God to be built up in the earth. The forces of evil are engaged in unceasing warfare against the agencies appointed for the spread of the gospel, and these powers of darkness are especially active when the truth is proclaimed before men of repute and sterling integrity. Thus it was when Sergius Paulus, the deputy of Cyprus, was listening to the gospel message. The deputy had sent for the apostles, that he might be instructed in the message they had come to bear, and now the forces of evil, working through the sorcerer Elymas, sought with their baleful suggestions to turn him from the faith and so thwart the purpose of God.

“Thus the fallen foe ever works to keep in his ranks men of influence who, if converted, might render effective service in God’s cause.” The Acts of the Apostles, 167.

2 THE NEED OF COURAGE

  • How did the Lord spiritually bless the amazing boldness with which Paul handled the interference of Elymas, the sorcerer? Acts 13:9–12.

Note: “Although sorely beset by Satan, Paul had the courage to rebuke the one through whom the enemy was working. …

“The sorcerer had closed his eyes to the evidences of gospel truth, and the Lord, in righteous anger, caused his natural eyes to be closed, shutting out from him the light of day. This blindness was not permanent, but only for a season, that he might be warned to repent and seek pardon of the God whom he had so grievously offended. …

“Elymas was not a man of education, yet he was peculiarly fitted to do the work of Satan. Those who preach the truth of God will meet the wily foe in many different forms.” The Acts of the Apostles, 168, 169.

  • Where did the apostles plant the gospel seed next, and what happened to John Mark? Acts 13:13. As it is the case of many newly aspiring missionaries, why did this young man have difficulties? II Timothy 2:3.

Note: “Paul and Barnabas had learned to trust God’s power to deliver. Their hearts were filled with fervent love for perishing souls. As faithful shepherds in search of the lost sheep, they gave no thought to their own ease and convenience. Forgetful of self, they faltered not when weary, hungry, and cold. They had in view but one object—the salvation of those who had wandered far from the fold.

“It was here [in Perga] that Mark, overwhelmed with fear and discouragement, wavered for a time in his purpose to give himself wholeheartedly to the Lord’s work. Unused to hardships, he was disheartened by the perils and privations of the way. He had labored with success under favorable circumstances; but now, amidst the opposition and perils that so often beset the pioneer worker, he failed to endure hardness as a good soldier of the cross.” The Acts of the Apostles, 169, 170.

“Mark did not apostatize from the faith of Christianity; but, like many young ministers, he shrank from hardships, and preferred the comfort and safety of home to the travels, labors, and dangers of the missionary field. This desertion caused Paul to judge him unfavorably and severely for a long time.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 46, 47.

3 NEW SABBATH KEEPERS JOIN THE RANKS

  • Where did Paul and Barnabas begin their preaching in Antioch, and who were some that appreciated it the most—and the least? Acts 13:14, 42–45.
  • Describe the attitude of the believers in the face of such strong opposition. Acts 13:46–52. What should we learn from the way Christ foresaw this conflict and advised His faithful followers? Matthew 10:23.

Note: “When brought before courts, we are to give up our rights, unless by so doing we are brought into collision with God. We are not pleading for our right, but for God’s right to our service. Instead of resisting the penalties imposed unjustly upon us, it would be better to take heed to the Saviour’s word [Matthew 10:23 quoted].” [Emphasis author’s.] Spalding and Magan Collection, 26.

  • Where did Paul and Barnabas go next, and what did they find there? Acts 14:1, 2. What can we learn from their success nonetheless? Acts 14:3.

Note: “Friends of the apostles, although unbelievers, warned them [Paul and Barnabas] of the designs of the malicious Jews, and urged them not to expose themselves uselessly to their fury, but to escape for their lives. They accordingly departed from Iconium in secret and left the faithful and opposing parties to battle for themselves, trusting God to give victory to the doctrine of Christ. But they by no means took a final leave of Iconium; they purposed to return, after the excitement then raging had abated, and complete the work they had begun.

“Those who observe and teach the binding claims of God’s law, frequently receive, in a degree, similar treatment to that of the apostles at Iconium. They often meet a bitter opposition from ministers and people who persistently refuse the light of God, who, by misrepresentation and falsehood, close every door by which the messenger of truth might have access to the people. …

“The apostles, in their work, met all grades of people, and all kinds of faith and religion. They were brought in opposition to Jewish bigotry and intolerance, sorcery, blasphemy, unjust magistrates who loved to exercise their power, false shepherds, superstition, and idolatry. While persecution and opposition met them on every hand, victory still crowned their efforts, and converts were daily added to the faith.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 54, 55.

4 LYSTRA AND DERBE

  • Why did it soon become necessary for Paul and Barnabas to move on from Iconium—and what characterized this new area? Acts 14:4–7.

Note: “Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia … were inhabited by a heathen, superstitious people; but among them were souls that would hear and accept the doctrine of Christ. The apostles chose to labor in those cities because they would not there meet Jewish prejudice and persecution. They now came in contact with an entirely new element—heathen superstition and idolatry. …

“In Lystra there was no Jewish synagogue, though there were a few Jews in the place. The temple of Jupiter occupied a conspicuous position there.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 55.

  • Give an example of how a person’s faith can take hold in a powerful way upon hearing the gospel. Acts 14:8–10. What was the response of the enthusiastic, yet ignorant people who beheld this miracle? Acts 14:11–13.

Note: “Paul and Barnabas appeared in the city together, teaching the doctrine of Christ with great power and eloquence. The credulous people believed them to be gods come down from Heaven. As the apostles gathered the people about them, and explained their strange belief, the worshipers of Jupiter sought to connect these doctrines, as far as they were able, with their own superstitious faith.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 55.

  • Why was it so important that such misunderstandings not be allowed to continue? Acts 14:14–18; Colossians 2:8; Revelation 22:8, 9.

Note: “Do not receive flattery, even in your religious life. Flattery is an art by which Satan lieth in wait to deceive and to puff up the human agent with high thoughts of himself. [Colossians 2:8 quoted.] … Praise, flattery, and indulgence have done more toward leading precious souls into false paths, than any other art that Satan has devised.

“Flattery is a part of the world’s policy, but it is no part of Christ’s policy. Through flattery poor human beings, full of frailty and infirmities, come to think that they are efficient and worthy, and become puffed up in their fleshly mind.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 304.

5 GOD OVERRULES

  • Enraged by the miracle at Lystra, who arrived a short time later—and in what evil deed did they enlist the disappointed heathens? Acts 14:19.

Note: “The disappointment experienced by the idolaters in being refused the privilege of offering sacrifices to the apostles, prepared them to turn against these ministers of God with a zeal which approached that of the enthusiasm with which they had hailed them as gods. The malicious Jews did not hesitate to take full advantage of the superstition and credulity of this heathen people, to carry out their cruel designs. They incited them to attack the apostles by force; and they charged them not to allow Paul an opportunity to speak, alleging that if they did so he would bewitch the people.

“The Lystrians rushed upon the apostles with great rage and fury. They hurled stones violently; and Paul, bruised, battered, and fainting, felt that his end had come. The martyrdom of Stephen was brought vividly to his mind, and the cruel part he had acted on that occasion. He fell to the ground apparently dead, and the infuriated mob dragged his insensible body through the gates of the city, and threw it beneath the walls.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 60, 61.

  • What amazing miracle confirmed God’s blessing? Acts 14:20–23. How did this providential act encourage greatly the apostles to press onward? Acts 14:24–28; Malachi 3:16, 17.

Note: “Timothy had been converted through the ministration of Paul, and was an eye-witness of the sufferings of the apostle upon this occasion. He stood by his apparently dead body, and saw him arise, bruised and covered with blood, not with groans or murmurings upon his lips, but with praises to Jesus Christ, that he was permitted to suffer for His name.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 62.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Why is it important to pray for our missionaries?

2 What lessons do we learn from the human frailty of John Mark?

3 What can we all expect when teaching the law of God to a lawless world?

4 How does this lesson reveal the fickle nature of idolaters?

5 How did God endorse both the attitude and the labors of Paul?

Copyright © 2013 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Chosen and Ordained by God

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January 4, 2015 – January 10, 2015

Key Text

“Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain.” John 15:16, first part.

Study Help: The Acts of the Apostles, 155–165.

Introduction

“Jesus loved us while we were yet sinners, but having chosen us He says He has ordained us to go and bring forth fruit. Has each one something to do?—Certainly, everyone that is yoked up with Christ must bear His burden, work in His lines.” The Signs of the Times, December 17, 1894.

1 THE NEW CONVERT

  • What was Paul inspired to do immediately after his conversion? Acts 9:20. Describe the response. Acts 9:21–24.
  • What soon became necessary in order to protect Paul’s life? Acts 9:25.
  • Explain the important experience that served to fortify Paul’s faith and establish on solid ground his calling from God. Galatians 1:15–17.

Note: “He [Paul] went into Arabia; and there, in comparative solitude, he had ample opportunity for communion with God, and for contemplation. He wished to be alone with God, to search his own heart, to deepen his repentance, and to prepare himself by prayer and study to engage in a work which appeared to him too great and too important for him to undertake. He was an apostle, not chosen of men, but chosen of God, and his work was plainly stated to be among the Gentiles.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 33, 34.

2 CULTIVATING THE FIRST LOVE

  • What characterized Paul’s time in Arabia—and whom else does his experience bring to mind? Psalm 139:23, 24; Exodus 2:15; 3:1.

Note: “In the military schools of Egypt, Moses was taught the law of force, and so strong a hold did this teaching have upon his character that it required forty years of quiet and communion with God and nature to fit him for the leadership of Israel by the law of love. The same lesson Paul had to learn.” Education, 65.

“While in Arabia he [Paul] did not communicate with the apostles; he sought God earnestly with all his heart, determining not to rest till he knew for a certainty that his repentance was accepted, and his great sin pardoned. He would not give up the conflict until he had the assurance that Jesus would be with him in his coming ministry. He was ever to carry about with him in the body the marks of Christ’s glory, in his eyes, which had been blinded by the heavenly light, and he desired also to bear with him constantly the assurance of Christ’s sustaining grace. Paul came in close connection with Heaven, and Jesus communed with him, and established him in his faith, bestowing upon him His wisdom and grace.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 34.

  • Why does God often use wilderness experiences in solitude to prepare leaders to enter into a mighty work for Him? Job 37:14; Psalm 46:10.
  • Despite Paul’s high hopes, what startling disappointment was he to face when he finally had the chance to meet the leading brethren at Jerusalem? Acts 9:26; Galatians 1:18, 19. What made Paul’s experience so unique?

Note: “Peter, James, and John felt confident that God had appointed them to preach Christ among their own countrymen at home. But Paul had received his commission from God, while praying in the temple, and his broad missionary field had been distinctly presented before him. To prepare him for his extensive and important work, God had brought him into close connection with Himself, and had opened before his enraptured vision a glimpse of the beauty and glory of Heaven.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 41, 42.

3 LEAVING ALL PREJUDICE BEHIND

  • Who paved the way for Paul’s acceptance among the apostles, and why did this visit to Jerusalem have to be cut short? Acts 9:27–29; 22:17, 18. What helped the believers eventually to endorse Paul’s ministry to the despised Gentiles? Acts 8:26, 27, 38; 10:34, 35, 44–47.
  • What logic did Paul use in prayer regarding what he felt was his calling—and what was the response? Acts 22:19–21. How was the church blessed by echoing God’s verdict? Acts 9:30, 31.
  • What timeless principle did Paul declare later for the benefit of all believers to the close of time—and how is this principle a warning to us? Galatians 3:28, 29; Colossians 3:11.

Note: “God has chosen man to do a certain work. His mental capacities may be weak, but then the evidence is more apparent that God works. His speech may not be eloquent, but that is no evidence that he has not a message from God. His knowledge may be limited, but in many cases God can work with His wisdom through such an agent, and the power be seen of God, more than through one possessing natural and acquired abilities and who knows it and has confidence in himself, in his judgment, in his knowledge, in his manner of address.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 5, 244.

“Prejudice is a terrible thing in the sight of God. It was prejudice that crucified the world’s Redeemer. Let us as a people put away all prejudice; for it blinds the mind, and makes men incapable of doing justice to those they imagine blameworthy. It will cause men to sit in judgment upon brethren whose inmost souls they cannot read, and if they could, would not understand. Instead of creating discords, of judging others, we need to bind the members of our churches together by the cords of strong brotherly love in heavenly union. If a brother is halting, it is a great sin to set his case before the brethren in a discouraging light, and set others on his track, that they may discover his many frailties. This is a satanic proceeding, and altogether out of harmony with the Spirit of Christ.” The Review and Herald, October 24, 1893.

4 THE VINEYARD EXPANDS . . .

  • What was Paul to say of his early work for Christ? Galatians 1:20–24.
  • Meanwhile, what was taking place in cities north of Judea, even in Cyprus (an island in the Mediterranean)—and why? Acts 11:19–21. What need soon became evident? Acts 11:22–24.
  • Whom did Barnabas seek as a coworker, and within a year, what noteworthy impact did their joint labors carry? Acts 11:25, 26. How is this to be an inspiration to each one of us? John 15:16.

Note: “Jesus is calling for many missionaries, for men and women who will consecrate themselves to God, willing to spend and be spent in His service. O, can we not remember that there is a world to labor for? Shall we not move forward step by step, letting God use us as His helping hand? Shall we not place ourselves on the altar of service? Then the love of Christ will touch and transform us, making us willing for His sake to do and dare.” The Review and Herald, January 27, 1903.

“At the eleventh hour the Lord will call into His service many faithful workers. Self-sacrificing men and women will step into the places made vacant by apostasy and death. To young men and young women, as well as to those who are older, God will give power from above. With converted minds, converted hands, converted feet, and converted tongues, their lips touched with a living coal from the divine altar, they will go forth into the Master’s service, moving steadily onward and upward, carrying the work forward to completion.” The Youth’s Instructor, February 13, 1902.

“When the churches see young men possessing zeal to qualify themselves to extend their labors to cities, villages, and towns that have never been aroused to the truth, and missionaries volunteering to go to other nations to carry the truth to them, the churches will be encouraged and strengthened far more than to themselves receive the labors of inexperienced young men.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 204.

5 THE CALL PUBLICLY RECOGNIZED

  • What did God communicate to the prophets and teachers in the local church at Antioch? Acts 13:1, 2. What reveals that a church can only take such a step in the fear of God, with prayer and fasting? Acts 13:3.

Note: “Before being sent forth as missionaries to the heathen world, these apostles [Barnabas and Saul] were solemnly dedicated to God by fasting and prayer and the laying on of hands. Thus they were authorized by the church, not only to teach the truth, but to perform the rite of baptism and to organize churches, being invested with full ecclesiastical authority. …

“Both Paul and Barnabas had already received their commission from God Himself, and the ceremony of the laying on of hands added no new grace or virtual qualification. It was an acknowledged form of designation to an appointed office and a recognition of one’s authority in that office.” The Acts of the Apostles, 161, 162.

  • How did Paul consider this solemn appointment? Romans 1:1.

Note: “Paul regarded the occasion of his formal ordination as marking the beginning of a new and important epoch in his lifework. It was from this time that he afterward dated the beginning of his apostleship in the Christian church.” The Acts of the Apostles, 164, 165.

  • What are some key points to realize about the sacred calling of a formal ordination to ecclesiastical service? I Timothy 5:22; Isaiah 52:11, last part.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Why did God send Paul to Arabia?

2 How could we be in danger of treating others as the apostles did Paul?

3 What prejudices of mine could be hindering God’s work?

4 Describe the soon-coming scene to be revealed at the eleventh hour.

5 What solemn duty do all church members have whenever a name is proposed for formal ordination, whether it be for deacon, elder, or minister?

Copyright © 2013 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – The Conversion of Saul

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December 28, 2014 – January 3, 2015

The Life of Paul

Key Text

“He [Saul] is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: for I will shew him how great things he must suffer for My name’s sake.” Acts 9:15, 16.

Study Help: Early Writings, 197–202.

Introduction

“He [Saul] had a knowledge of the Scriptures, and after his conversion a divine light shone upon the prophecies concerning Jesus, which enabled him to clearly and boldly present the truth, and to correct any perversion of the Scriptures.” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1, 92.

1 THE HEAD DEACON

  • How did the Lord use Stephen as a powerful instrument in the early church? Acts 6:2–8.

Note: “The church … selected seven men full of faith and the wisdom of the Spirit of God, to attend to the business pertaining to the cause. Stephen was chosen first; he was a Jew by birth and religion, but spoke the Greek language, and was conversant with the customs and manners of the Greeks. He was therefore considered the most proper person to stand at the head, and have supervision of the disbursement of the funds appropriated to the widows, orphans, and the worthy poor. …

“The seven chosen men were solemnly set apart for their duties by prayer and the laying on of hands. Those who were thus ordained, were not thereby excluded from teaching the faith. On the contrary, it is recorded that ‘Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people’ (Acts 6:8). … They were also men of calm judgment and discretion, well calculated to deal with difficult cases of trial, of murmuring or jealousy.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 3, 292, 293.

  • What was it about Stephen that aroused the ire of the Jews? Acts 6:9–14.

2 AN UNFORGETTABLE DEATH

  • When Stephen was called to testify of his faith in Jesus and to relate the history of Israel’s rebellion, describe the contrasting difference between his attitude and that of the Jewish council. Acts 6:15; 7:54–60.
  • Who is named as one who was present and took notice of it all—and how did he later describe himself as an accessory to the crime? Acts 7:58; 22:20.

Note: “The martyrdom of Stephen made a deep impression upon all who witnessed it. The memory of the signet of God upon his face; his words, which touched the very souls of those who heard them, remained in the minds of the beholders, and testified to the truth of that which he had proclaimed. His death was a sore trial to the church, but it resulted in the conviction of Saul, who could not efface from his memory the faith and constancy of the martyr, and the glory that had rested on his countenance.” The Acts of the Apostles, 101.

  • In keeping with the traditional mentality of his countrymen, to what did Saul devote his energies after the death of Stephen? Acts 8:1–3.

Note: “A Roman citizen, born in a Gentile city; a Jew, not only by descent but by lifelong training, patriotic devotion, and religious faith; educated in Jerusalem by the most eminent of the rabbis, and instructed in all the laws and traditions of the fathers, Saul of Tarsus shared to the fullest extent the pride and the prejudices of his nation. …

“In the theological schools of Judea the word of God had been set aside for human speculations; it was robbed of its power by the interpretations and traditions of the rabbis. Self-aggrandizement, love of domination, jealous exclusiveness, bigotry and contemptuous pride, were the ruling principles and motives of these teachers.

“The rabbis gloried in their superiority, not only to the people of other nations, but to the masses of their own. With their fierce hatred of their Roman oppressors, they cherished the determination to recover by force of arms their national supremacy. The followers of Jesus, whose message of peace was so contrary to their schemes of ambition, they hated and put to death. In this persecution, Saul was one of the most bitter and relentless actors.” Education, 64, 65.

3 THE PRICK OF CONSCIENCE

  • Describe the believers’ response to Saul’s persecution of the church and the furious steps that Saul took. Acts 8:3, 4; 9:1, 2. Deep-down, what had always been his goal, even from his youth? Acts 23:1; Hebrews 13:18.

Note: “He [Saul] was looked upon as a man of promise, a zealous defender of the ancient faith.” Education, 64.

  • When we sincerely desire to follow God, what does Jesus reveal as the reason why we will eventually feel uncomfortable when doing wrong? John 16:7, 8.

Note: “Our love to Christ will be in proportion to the depth of our conviction of sin, and by the law is the knowledge of sin.” Faith and Works, 96.

“You may have a conscience and that conscience may bring conviction to you, but the question is, Is that conviction a working agent? Does that conviction reach your heart and the doings of the inner man? Is there a purification of the soul temple of its defilement? That is what we want.” Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 1, 324.

  • What startling phenomenon abruptly stopped Saul in his tracks? Acts 9:3, 4. Who was it that spoke, and what should all realize about the reference to Saul’s “kicking against the pricks”? Acts 9:5.

Note: “He [Saul] had witnessed Stephen’s forbearance toward his enemies and his forgiveness of them. He had also witnessed the fortitude and cheerful resignation of many whom he had caused to be tormented and afflicted. He had seen some yield up even their lives with rejoicing for the sake of their faith.

“All these things had appealed loudly to Saul and at times had thrust upon his mind an almost overwhelming conviction that Jesus was the promised Messiah. At such times he had struggled for entire nights against this conviction, and always he had ended the matter by avowing his belief that Jesus was not the Messiah and that His followers were deluded fanatics.” The Acts of the Apostles, 116, 117.

“Every effort to stay the onward progress of the gospel results in injury and suffering to the opposer. Sooner or later his own heart will condemn him; he will find that he has, indeed, been kicking against the pricks.” The Review and Herald, March 16, 1911.

4 THE TURNING POINT

  • Describe the way Saul was suddenly humbled. Acts 9:6–9.

Note: “In persecuting the followers of Jesus, Saul had struck directly against the Lord of heaven. In falsely accusing and testifying against them, he had falsely accused and testified against the Saviour of the world.” The Acts of the Apostles, 117.

  • Who was Ananias, and what did Jesus tell him to do? Acts 9:10–12. Why was Ananias reluctant to follow this command, and what reassurance was he given? Acts 9:13–16. Why was the highly educated Saul sent to Ananias, a simple man?

Note: “The light of heavenly illumination deprived Saul of sight; but Jesus, the great Healer, did not at once restore it. All blessings flow from Christ, but He had now established a church as His representative on earth, and to it belonged the work of directing the repentant sinner in the way of life. The very men whom Saul had purposed to destroy were to be his instructors in the religion he had despised and persecuted.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 29.

  • How did Ananias address Saul, and what beautiful victories were achieved upon their encounter? Acts 9:17–19.

Note: “Jesus might have done all this work for Paul directly, but this was not His plan. Paul had something to do in the line of confession to the men whose destruction he had premeditated, and God had a responsible work for the men to do whom He had ordained to act in His stead. Paul was to take those steps necessary in conversion. He was required to unite himself to the very people whom he had persecuted for their religion. Christ here gives all His people an example of the manner of His working for the salvation of men. The Son of God identified Himself with the office and authority of His organized church. His blessings were to come through the agencies that He has ordained, thus connecting man with the channel through which His blessings come. Paul’s being strictly conscientious in his work of persecuting the saints does not make him guiltless when the knowledge of his cruel work is impressed upon him by the Spirit of God. He is to become a learner of the disciples.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 431, 432.

5 BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST’S BODY

  • Why was the following step which Saul then took such an important one? Mark 16:16.

Note: “By the light of the moral law, which he had believed himself to be zealously keeping, Saul saw himself a sinner of sinners. He repented, that is, died to sin, became obedient to the law of God, exercised faith in Jesus Christ as his Saviour, was baptized, and preached Jesus as earnestly and zealously as he had once denounced Him.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 31.

  • Why does Christ have an organized body on earth—and what is the church to be known as? Matthew 16:18, 19; I Timothy 3:15.
  • Why is the church so precious to Jesus? Ephesians 5:25, last part, 29, 30.

Note: “Jesus is the friend of sinners; His heart is touched by their woe; He has all power, both in Heaven and upon earth; but He respects the means which He has ordained for the enlightenment and salvation of men; He directs sinners to the church, which He has made a channel of light to the world.

“Saul was a learned teacher in Israel; but, while in the midst of his blind error and prejudice, Christ reveals Himself to him, and then places him in communication with His church. … All is done in the name and by the authority of Christ; but the church is the channel of communication.” Sketches from the Life of Paul, 31, 32.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 How can the life of Stephen inspire us?

2 What attitude caused Stephen’s martyrdom at the hands of religious men?

3 Why did God use Ananias in the restoration of Paul’s sight?

4 Why does it not pay “to kick against the pricks”?

5 What motivated Saul to be baptized—and what is it likewise to motivate us?

Copyright © 2013 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.