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Worship Him – Revelation 14

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The First Angel of Revelation 14

March 1 – 7, 2026

Key Text

“Worship Him that made heaven and earth, and the sea and springs of waters.” Revelation 14:7, last part

Study Help: The Ministry of Healing, 409–418; Prophets and Kings, 183–189

Introduction

“In Revelation 14, men are called upon to worship the Creator; and the prophecy brings to view a class that, as the result of the threefold message, are keeping the commandments of God. One of these commandments points directly to God as the Creator.” The Great Controversy, 437

Sunday

1 A CRISIS OVER TRUE WORSHIP

1.a. What distinct characteristic of God is the basis of true worship according to the first angel’s message? Revelation 14:7, last part. How does this message parallel the message of Elijah’s time? 1 Kings 18:21

 

Note: “History is being repeated. The world today has its Ahabs and its Jezebels. The present age is one of idolatry, as verily as was that in which Elijah lived. No outward shrine may be visible; there may be no image for the eye to rest upon; yet thousands are following after the gods of this world—after riches, fame, pleasure, and the pleasing fables that permit man to follow the inclinations of the unregenerate heart. Multitudes have a wrong conception of God and His attributes and are as truly serving a false god as were the worshipers of Baal. Many even of those who claim to be Christians have allied themselves with influences that are unalterably opposed to God and His truth. Thus, they are led to turn away from the divine and to exalt the human.” Prophets and Kings, 177, 178

1.b.        How may the subtlety of popular philosophy seduce us away from the worship of the true God? 2 Timothy 4:3, 4

 

Note: “In rejecting the truth, men reject its Author. In trampling upon the law of God, they deny the authority of the Lawgiver. It is as easy to make an idol of false doctrines and theories as to fashion an idol of wood or stone. By misrepresenting the attributes of God, Satan leads men to conceive of Him in a false character. With many, a philosophical idol is enthroned in the place of Jehovah; while the living God, as He is revealed in His Word, in Christ, and in the works of creation, is worshipped by but few. Thousands deify nature while they deny the God of nature. Though in a different form, idolatry exists in the Christian world today as verily as it existed among ancient Israel in the days of Elijah. The god of many professedly wise men, of philosophers, poets, politicians, journalists—the god of polished fashionable circles, of many colleges and universities, even of some theological institutions—is little better than Baal, the sun-god of Phoenicia.” The Great Controversy, 583

Monday

2 IN THE NEW TESTAMENT DAYS

2.a. Why did Christ face opposition in seeking to elevate true worship? John 3:19, 20; 8:44, 45, 47

Note: “Truth looked down from heaven and saw not the reflection of her image; for dense clouds of moral darkness and gloom enveloped the world, and the Lord Jesus alone was able to roll back the clouds; for He was the Light of the world. By His presence He could dissipate the gloomy shadow that Satan had cast between man and God. Darkness covered the earth, and gross darkness the people. Through the accumulated misrepresentations of the enemy, many were so deceived that they worshiped a false god, clothed with the attributes of the satanic character.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 176, 177

2.b. How did the apostle Paul face the problem of false worship? Acts 24:14; 28:17. How was he accused by the Jews? Acts 18:13. And by the Romans? Acts 16:20, 21. And by the Greeks? Acts 19:26–28

 

Note: “Ephesus was a popular center for the worship of Diana. The fame of the magnificent temple of ‘Diana of the Ephesians’ extended throughout all Asia and the world. Its surpassing splendor made it the pride, not only of the city, but of the nation. The idol within the temple was declared by tradition to have fallen from the sky. Upon it were inscribed symbolic characters which were believed to possess great power. Books had been written by the Ephesians to explain the meaning and use of these symbols.

“Among those who gave close study to these costly books were many magicians who wielded a powerful influence over the minds of the superstitious worshipers of the image within the temple.” The Acts of the Apostles, 286

Tuesday

3 DIVINE TACT NEEDED

3.a. How tactful was Paul among the Athenians and the Corinthians? Acts 17:22–31; 18:4

 

Note: “When the apostle [Paul] took up his work in Corinth, he realized that he must introduce most carefully the great truths he wished to teach. He knew that among his hearers would be proud believers in human theories, and exponents of false systems of worship who were groping with blind eyes, hoping to find in the book of nature theories that would contradict the reality of the spiritual and immortal life as revealed in the Scriptures. He also knew that critics would endeavor to controvert the Christian interpretation of the revealed word, and that skeptics would treat the gospel of Christ with scoffing and derision.

“As he endeavored to lead souls to the foot of the cross, Paul did not venture to rebuke, directly, those who were licentious, or to show how heinous was their sin in the sight of a holy God. Rather he set before them the true object of life and tried to impress upon their minds the lessons of the divine Teacher, which, if received, would lift them from worldliness and sin to purity and righteousness. He dwelt especially upon practical godliness and the holiness to which those must attain who shall be accounted worthy of a place in God’s kingdom.” The Acts of the Apostles, 272

3.b. How careful should we be in our efforts to emphasize true worship? 1 Peter 3:15, 16

 

Note: “God has jewels in all the churches, and it is not for us to make sweeping denunciation of the professed religious world, but in humility and love, present to all the truth as it is in Jesus. Let men see piety and devotion, let them behold Christlikeness of character, and they will be drawn to the truth.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, 1184

“The truth should be presented with divine tact, gentleness, and tenderness. It should come from a heart that has been softened and made sympathetic. We need to have close communion with God, lest self rise up, as it did in Jehu, and we pour forth a torrent of words that are unbefitting, that are not as dew or as the still showers that revive the withering plants. Let our words be gentle as we seek to win souls. …

“God’s plan is first to get at the heart. Speak the truth, and let Him carry forward the reformatory power and principle. Make no reference to what opponents say, but let the truth alone be advanced. The truth can cut to the quick.” Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 6, 400

Wednesday

4 THE BASIS OF THE EXISTING CONFLICT

4.a. What are the fundamentals of true worship as proclaimed by the first angel? Psalm 100:3; Ecclesiastes 12:13

 

Note: “God’s claim to reverence and worship, above the gods of the heathen, is based upon the fact that He is the Creator and that to Him all other beings owe their existence.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 336

“By the first angel, men are called upon to ‘fear God, and give glory to Him’ and to worship Him as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. In order to do this, they must obey His law. Says the wise man: ‘Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.’ Ecclesiastes 12:13

“Without obedience to His commandments no worship can be pleasing to God.” The Great Controversy, 436

4.b. What are the fundamentals of all false worship, even among professed Christians? Isaiah 29:13, 14; Matthew 15:3, 9

 

Note: “In seeking to cast contempt upon the divine statutes, Satan has perverted the doctrines of the Bible, and errors have thus become incorporated into the faith of thousands who profess to believe the Scriptures. The last great conflict between truth and error is but the final struggle of the long-standing controversy concerning the law of God. Upon this battle we are now entering—a battle between the laws of men and the precepts of Jehovah, between the religion of the Bible and the religion of fable and tradition.” The Great Controversy, 582

“No misfortune is so great as to become the worshiper of a false god. No man is in such miserable darkness as he who has lost his way to heaven.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 435

Thursday

5 THE CLIMAX OF THE CONFLICT

5.a. What test will soon be brought between true and false worship? Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15

 

Note: “We are nearing the close of this earth’s history. Satan is making desperate efforts to make himself god, to speak and act like God, to appear as one who has a right to control the consciences of men. He strives with all his power to place a human institution in the position of God’s holy rest day.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 980, 981

5.b.  What is soon to distinguish the worshipers of God from the worshipers of the beast? Exodus 31:16, 17; 1 John 5:2

 

Note: “The keeping of God’s law, on the one hand, and its violation, on the other, will make the distinction between the worshipers of God and the worshipers of the beast.” The Great Controversy, 445, 446

“Thus, the distinction is drawn between the loyal and the disloyal. Those who desire to have the seal of God in their foreheads must keep the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. Thus, they are distinguished from the disloyal, who have accepted a man-made institution in place of the true Sabbath. The observance of God’s rest day is a mark of distinction between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 981

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. How is false worship practiced today, even among professed believers?
  2. Name some obstacles encountered by the apostle Paul in his labors.
  3. What is essential for us to be able to witness successfully for Christ?
  4. By what points can we distinguish between true and false worship?
  5. How are the vast majority of people soon to promote false worship?

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

Recipe – Creamy Peach Bake

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Peaches

  • The peach is a member of the rose family and is a close relative of the almond.
  • There are over 300 varieties of peaches in the US and over 2,000 varieties worldwide.
  • California produces about 50% of the peaches in the US, but Georgia is still famous for their peaches nationwide.
  • In Japan, white peaches are highly prized and often given as luxurious gifts, sometimes even costing upwards of $10 each for the most perfect specimens.
  • There are hundreds of varieties of peaches in existence today, but all peaches are categorized into two types: freestones and clingstones. The flesh of freestone peaches separates easily from the pit, which makes them ideal for eating fresh. In clingstone varieties, the flesh of the peach clings to the pit. These varieties are best for canning.
  • It is a common misconception that a peach/plum hybrid is the nectarine. A nectarine is actually just a variety of peach with smooth rather than fuzzy skin. In this case, fuzzy skin is a dominant trait; whereas the smooth skin of a nectarine is a recessive trait. Only one gene separates peaches and nectarines and this gene variant causes peaches to have a fuzzy skin and nectarines to have a smooth skin.
  • Peach fuzz is a survival tactic, providing protection from the elements. It stops water and moisture from reaching the delicate skin, preventing premature rot, and ensuring development of a fully mature seed. It also acts as an irritant to destructive insects, preventing them from eating the fruit.

Aside from jams, tarts, pies, cobblers, crisps, cereals, and smoothies, peaches also lend themselves to savory dishes such as salads, pizzas, and soups.

https://veritablevegetable.com/just-peachy-fun-facts-about-peaches/; https://fruitguys.com/blog/ten-tasty-facts-you-probably-didnt-know-about-the-peach/

Recipe – Creamy Peach Bake

Ingredients

16 oz. canned peaches (reserve juice), thinly sliced, or 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced

1½ cups rolled oats, uncooked

1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped

1 cup non-dairy vanilla milk

6 oz. firm silken tofu

1/8 tsp. cardamom

1/8 tsp. coriander

2 tsp. vanilla flavoring

1/4 tsp. almond flavoring

1/2 tsp. salt

Process

Oil an 8”x 8” casserole dish and set aside. Mix peaches, oats, and dates in a bowl. Transfer to prepared dish. Combine reserved peach juice with just enough milk to make 1½ cups of liquid and blend with all remaining ingredients until smooth. Pour into the oat mixture. Cover and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15 minutes more. Allow to cool 10 minutes. Serve with additional non-dairy milk. (If using unsweetened non-dairy vanilla milk, add 2 Tbs. maple syrup if desired.)

The Foundation – Daniel 7

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Daniel 7 is one of the foundational chapters in the Bible concerning the investigative judgement and there’s no point in going to chapters 8—10, or 12 or Revelation before you understand this. It’s foundational and exciting information because it reveals that there is a God in heaven who knows thousands of years ahead of time what will happen. And He has shown us these things in the Bible so that we can be ready for the future.

The Fourth Beast and the Ten Kingdoms

There are four beasts. Let us look at the fourth beast. “Thus, he said: ‘The fourth beast shall be a fourth kingdom on earth, which shall be different from all other kingdoms, and shall devour the whole earth, trample it and break it in pieces.’ ” Daniel 7:23

In his book, The Temporal Power of the Pope, 122, Cardinal Henry Edward Manning wrote regarding verse 23: “The legions of Rome occupied at the circumference of the world. The military roads which sprang from Rome traversed all the earth; the whole world was, as it were, held in peace and in tranquility by the universal presence of this mighty heathen empire. It was ‘exceedingly terrible,’ according to the prophecies of Daniel; it was as it were of iron, beating down and subduing the nations.” Does the Roman Catholic church know who the fourth beast is? Yes, Cardinal Manning tells us very clearly. It is an iron kingdom beating down the nations of earth.

“The ten horns are ten kings who shall arise from this kingdom. and another shall rise after them; he shall be different from the first ones, and shall subdue three kings.” Verse 24

These ten kingdoms rose up over hundreds of years. The ten kingdoms were despised by Rome—verse 23’s fourth kingdom—because Rome believed it would last forever. The ten kingdoms grew stronger and stronger. What Rome believed didn’t matter because hundreds of years before it was founded, Daniel had predicted its demise and the rise of the ten kingdoms.

  1. G. Wells says, “No vestige of the Western Empire, the original Roman Empire, remained as a distinct and separate political division.” The Outline of History, 526. They became stronger and stronger and divided it up until those ten kings owned it all. Another writer wrote, “The destruction of the Roman Empire in the West by the German barbarians is one of the most momentous events in history. It marks a turning point in the fortunes of mankind.”

Out of the Ten, Another.

Daniel then writes that after the fourth beast is divided into the ten kingdoms, another kingdom—different from the first ten—would rise up, more than the ten. This 11th kingdom would assume an air of superiority over all the others.

“The downfall of the Roman imperial government in the West was further, an event of immense significance in the political world, for the reason that it rendered possible the growth in western Europe of several nations or states in place of the single empire.

“Another consequence of the fall of the Roman power in the West was the development of the papacy. In the absence of an emperor in the West, the popes rapidly gained influence and power, and soon built up an ecclesiastical empire that in some respects took the place of the old empire, and carried on its civilizing work.” Myers’s General History for Colleges, 316

“If any man consider the original of this great ecclesiastical dominion, he will easily perceive, that the Papacy is no other than the ghost of the deceased Roman Empire, sitting crowned upon the grave thereof.” Thomas Hobbes

“There grew up in Europe a line of rulers far more powerful than any of these, namely the popes at Rome. Moreover, the majesty of Rome helped to raise the bishops above his fellows.” Medieval and Modern Times, James Harvey Robinson, 40, 41

Here we see secular history almost quoting Scripture regarding the characteristics of this new kingdom and its power over the previous ten kingdoms.

It is a well-established, historical fact that “Papal Rome was for all practical purposes the continuation of the Roman Empire … . Whatever Roman elements the barbarians and Arians left were put under the protection of the bishop of Rome who was the chief person there after the emperor’s disappearance. The Roman church in this way privily pushed itself into the place of the Roman world empire of which it is the actual continuation.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, 846, (Adolph Harnack in 1903, What is Christianity?, 269, 270) If we understand that Papal Rome is a mere continuation of the Roman Empire, then we will understand that Rome was established as a world power that would continue until the end of the world.

“The empire has not perished, but has only undergone transformation. … That is no clever remark, but the recognition of the true state of the matter historically, and the most appropriate and fruitful way of describing the character of this church. It still governs the nations.” Ibid. That was in 1903 he recognized that. “It is a political creation, and as imposing as a World-Empire, because the continuation of the Roman Empire, the Pope, who calls himself ‘King’ and ‘Pontifex Maximus,’ is Caesar’s successor.” Ibid.

  1. G. Wells talks about this power. “As the barbarian races settled and became Christian, the pope began to claim an overlordship of their kings. In a few centuries, the Pope had become in theory, and to a certain extent in practice, the high priest, censor, judge, and divine monarch of Christendom.” The Outline of History, 526. This provides a description of the development of the little horn’s power; a power that became greater than any other nation in Europe, and continues to this day.

Joseph Stalin also said, “How big an army does he [the pope] have?” He doesn’t need an army for He can use the armies of any nation he chooses.

He Speaks and Persecutes

The two big subjects of Daniel 7 are the little horn and the judgment. These subjects should be studied together because we cannot understand the judgment without understanding the little horn.

As the little horn’s power grew, prophecy tells us what happens next. “He shall speak pompous [great] words against the Most High.” Daniel 7:25, first part. “The pope is of so great dignity, and so exalted that he is not a mere man, but as it were God and the vicar of God. So that whatever the pope does, seems to proceed from the mouth of God. … The pope is as it were God on earth.” Ferraris Ecclesiastical Dictionary.

Pope Leo XIII said, “We hold upon this earth the place of God Almighty.” Great words, indeed. But notice as we further in verse 25, Daniel says, he “shall persecute [wear out] the saints of the Most High.” Encyclical letter dated June 20, 1894

History says that “the church of Rome has shed more innocent blood than any other institution that has ever existed among mankind, will be questioned by no Protestant who has a competent knowledge of history. The memorials, indeed, of many of her persecutions are now so scanty, that it is impossible to form a complete conception of the multitude of her victims, and it is quite certain that no power of imagination can adequately realize their sufferings.” W.E.H. Lecky, History of the Rise and Influence of the Spirit of Rationalism in Europe, Vol. 2, 32

A Roman Catholic scholar stated, “The Catholic Church is a respecter of conscience and of liberty. … She has, and she loudly proclaims that she has a ‘horror of blood.’ Nevertheless, when confronted by heresy she does not content herself with persuasion; arguments of an intellectual and moral order appear to her insufficient, and she has recourse to force, to corporal punishment, to torture. She creates tribunals like those of the Inquisition, she calls the laws of the State to her aid, if necessary she encourages a crusade, or a religious war and all her ‘horror of blood’ practically culminates into urging the secular power to shed it, which proceeding is almost more odious—for it is less frank—than shedding it herself. Especially did she act thus in the sixteenth century with regard to Protestants. Not content to reform morally, to preach by example, to convert people by eloquent and holy missionaries, she lit in Italy, in the Low Countries, and above all in Spain, the funeral piles of the Inquisition. In France under Francis I and Henry II, in England under Mary Tudor, she tortured the heretics, whilst both in France and Germany during the second half of the sixteenth and the first half of the seventeenth century if she did not actually begin, at any rate she encouraged and actively aided, the religious wars.” The Catholic Church, the Renaissance, and Protestantism, 182–184

The Thirty Years’ War, fought from 1618 to 1648, resulted from religious conflict within the Holy Roman Empire, sparked by the Reformation. An estimated 4.5 to 8 million soldiers and civilians died in battle, from famine, or disease. Parts of Germany reported a 50% decline in population, this included approximately 98 percent of the Protestant men in Germany. (wikipedia.org/wiki/Thirty_Years%27_War)

This was common knowledge in America because it was recent history. Today in America, it is not only acknowledged, but justified and defended. “The church has persecuted. Only a tyro [a beginner] in church history will deny that. … One hundred and fifty years after Constantine, the Donatists were persecuted, sometimes put to death. … Protestants were persecuted in France and Spain with the full approval of the church authorities. We have always defended the persecution of the Huguenots, and the Spanish Inquisition. … Wherever and whenever there is honest Catholicity, there will be a clear distinction drawn between truth and error, and Catholicity and all forms of heresy. When she thinks it good to use physical force she will use it. … But will the Catholic Church give bond that she will not persecute at all? Will she guarantee absolute freedom and equality of all churches and all faiths? The Catholic church gives no bonds for her good behavior.” The Western Watchman, December 24, 1908

The Saints

A saint keeps the law of God (Romans 7:12). A wicked person breaks the law of God. Understanding Daniel 7 is fundamental, foundational to understanding the prophecies regarding the judgment and the end of time found in the book of Revelation. More than any other chapter in the Bible, Daniel 7 provides the different descriptions and identifying marks of the little horn, and the distinguishing mark or sign of its power.

The Distinguishing Mark

The Roman Catholic church is not alone in persecuting God’s saints. Other religions have spoken great things about themselves, but the little horn power has a special distinguishing mark that these other religions do not have. We find that mark in Daniel 7:25. We must understand this to have any comprehension about the investigative judgment.

Daniel 7:25, last part, says that this special distinguishing mark that sets the little horn power apart from other religions and powers, that he “shall intend to change times and laws.” What are these times and laws? The context of the prophecy is speaking about the things of the Most High. So, if the little horn power seeks to change times and laws, then it is seeking to change the times and laws of the Most High.

Can any human being, power, or organization in this world change the law of God? No! Why? Because God has said that He does not change, and we know that the law of God is His character. Changing the law would changing Himself, and this He will not do (Psalm 89).

Jesus said, “And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one tittle of the law to fail.” Luke 16:17. A tittle is part of a letter, it’s actually a part of a part of a letter. Jesus said heaven and earth cold pass away, but not a single part of a letter of the law to fail. I don’t think you could state it in any stronger language. The apostle Paul says concerning Jesus Christ that it was through Him that God made the worlds, and He is the One who upholds everything by the word of His power, and He says that He would destroy it all before He would allow the smallest part of a letter of the law to fail.

The Protestant Reformation gave man access to the Bible. No longer was the Bible written only in Latin, a language the common man could not read, nor was it chained to the wall in Catholic churches. Reformers translated the Bible into many of the European languages, and the printing press was invented, allowing the Bible to be distributed everywhere.

When men began reading the Bible, they asked, “Why are we keeping Sunday?” Believed to be written in 1545 by Melanchthon, Martin Luther’s associate, in very old English, he says, “He changeth the tymes and lawes that any of the size works days commanded of God will make them unholy and idle days when he listeth or of their own holy days abolished make work days again. When they changed ye Saterday into Sondaye they have changed God’s laws and turned them into their own tradicions to be kept above God’s precepts.” Right away people recognized what was happening.

“Question: Have you any other way of proving that the Church has power to institute festivals of precept? Answer: Had she not such power, she could not have done that in which all modern religionists agree with her—she could not have substituted the observance of Sunday the first day of the week, for the observance of Saturday the seventh day, a change for which there is no Scriptural authority.” From A Doctrinal Catechism, 174. The special, distinguishing mark of the little horn power was an intention to change the times (the Sabbath) and the law (the fourth commandment). This is foundational to understanding the subject of the Investigative Judgment.

How Long, Lord? How Long?

God not only told us when and how the little horn power would develop, providing all the descriptions of who and what it would be so that we would recognize it, but for the first time God gave His children a timeline so that they would know how long this power would be given authority to persecute and overcome God’s saints. This period of time is so important that in Daniel and Revelation, it is mentioned seven times. Seven is a perfect number in the Bible. If something is mentioned seven times in the Bible prophecies, we can be sure it is very important that we understand it, the prophecies regarding the three and a half years, the 42 months, and the 1260 days.

Point 1: The year is called a time in scripture (Daniel 11:13, margin). So, a time is one year, a time dual is two years, the dividing of time is half a year giving you three years and a half.

Point 2: According to ancient history, historians and Jews believed that a year was 360 days.

Point 3: In a symbolic time prophecy, a day equals a year (Ezekiel 4:1–6). The prophecies that foretold Christ’s first coming as the Messiah used the day for a year principle. If a person does not believe in this principle, then they should be looking for a messiah to come around 455 B.C. The day for a year principle is foundational to the Christian religion (Daniel 9:25).

By applying the day for a year principle to Daniel 7, we find that the little horn power is granted the power to persecute and harass God’s saints for 1260 years.

When did the 1260 years begin? When the papacy was given its authority by the civil government. This was done when Justinian made a decree in A.D. 532 against anyone who was called a heretic, and in A.D. 533, Justinian made a decree making the bishop of Rome the lord of all the churches (The Apocalypse of St. John, 172).

However, Italy’s population included Arian powers who did not accept the pope as lord over the churches. In fact, they wanted to decide who would be pope. Not surprisingly, the papacy did not like that idea. So, the sword of the empire cleared the way.

For 16 years, these campaigns caused the city of Rome to be under different masters or rulers five times and suffered three severe sieges. In A.D. 538, at the close of the first siege, the imperial army under Belisarius and the almost the entire nation of the Goths under King Witiges gathered to take control of the city of Rome. The Goths were defeated, digging ‘the grave of the Gothic monarchy’ in Italy.* The resistance of A.D. 538 against Witiges was the crucial hour in history. George Finlay, a secular historian writes, “With the conquest of Rome by Belisarius, the history of the ancient city may be considered as terminating; and with his defense against Witiges commences the history of the Middle Ages.”

First by Decree, then by Force

In A.D. 533, the pope was made ruler over all Christendom by decree, but in A.D. 538, he was made the ruler by force. Now move ahead 1260 years to 1793. “On November 26, 1793, the Convention, of which 17 bishops and some clergy were members, decreed the abolition of all religion.” The Age of Revolution, W.H. Hutton, 156

As far as the France were concerned, the papacy was the only religion, so by decree, it declared the abolition of all other religions. France was then an atheistic socialistic power. The decree was effective in 1793, but it was not enforced until 1798.

In 1798, “General Berthier, by orders of the French government, led his forces into Rome and proclaimed a republic. The pope [Pius VI] was dragged into exile, where he died. The whole papal government was dissolved.”

“ ‘The papacy was extinct: not a vestige of its existence remained; and among all the Roman Catholic powers not a finger was stirred in its defense. The Eternal City had no longer prince or pontiff; its bishop was a dying captive in foreign lands; and the decree was already announced that no successor would be allowed in his place.’ ” Canon Trevor.

Let’s Summarize

Most of the world thought the papacy was done. However, Daniel 7 says it would continue until the kingdom was given to the saints. The Bible tells us that it would look like the papacy was dead, but it would be healed.

  1. The Roman Empire was the fourth beast.
  2. Ten kings would arise out of the fourth beast (A.D. 351–476).
  3. Another king would arise after A.D. 476.
  4. This other king would be different from the first ten.
  5. He would speak great words and be stronger than his fellows.
  6. He would speak great words against the Most High.
  7. He would wear out the saints of the Most High.
  8. He would attempt or think to change the times and laws of God’s government.
  9. This would continue for 1260 years.

This supremacy was established by decree in A.D. 533. It was established by force in A.D. 538. It was abolished by decree in 1793. It was abolished by force in 1798. When writing about this, Daniel says that this horn had “eyes like the eyes of a man, and a mouth speaking pompous words. ‘I watched till thrones were put in place, and the Ancient of Days was seated; His garment was white as snow, and the hair of His head was like pure wool. His throne was a fiery flame, its wheels a burning fire; a fiery stream issued and came forth from before Him. A thousand thousands ministered to Him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before Him. The court was seated, and the books were opened.’ ” Daniel 7:9, 10

Notice, the court, the books, the judgment all have to do with what this little horn has been doing, and what the result of this court session will be.

  1. Jesus Christ will receive a worldwide kingdom that will last forever. “I was watching in the night visions, and behold, One like the Son of Man, coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days, and they brought Him near before Him. Then to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and His kingdom the one which shall not be destroyed.” Verses 13, 14
  2. “I was watching; and the same horn was making war against the saints, and prevailing against them, until the Ancient of Days came, and a judgment was made in favor of the saints of the Most High, and the time came for the saints to possess the kingdom.” Daniel 7:21, 22 The kingdom first given to Christ is now given to His saints.
  3. “But the court shall be seated, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and destroy it forever.” Daniel 7:26. God destroys the little horn’s dominion.
  4. “Then the kingdom [when the dominion of the little horn is taken away and destroyed] and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people, the saints of the Most High. His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey Him.” Verse 27. The whole world is given to the saints of the Most High. Where do you want to be when that happens?

The Bible tells us that a saint keeps the commandments. Since the law of God is holy, just, and good (Romans 7:12), the person who keeps the law of God, is made holy and is, therefore, a saint.

Our Father controls the future. When there is a transition of rulers in this world, when the true Christ stands up and begins to rule, when the rule of antichrist is over, may we be found among that number who are called the saints of the Most High.

*Thomas Hodgkins wrote a series of books entitled, Italy and Her Invaders. Excerpts from these books are used here.

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

Eating Bugs. The New Trend?

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As the world is moving rapidly into the so-called “fourth Industrial Revolution,” one of the topics that quickly pops up into the regular lives of people under this massive and world-changing event is food and the prospect of supplementing one’s diet with bugs.

The very idea of having to eat creepy things, is gaining ground under this “revolution.” And even though “there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9), we can surely be surprised at what many of these ideas are suggesting.

For instance, let’s think of a typical lunch box menu during a usual lunch break: a vegetarian burger or a tasty lentil patty prepared and residing within a whole grain bun with vegan mayo and organic ketchup, plus good veggies to complete the meal, or perhaps a nice baked potato, or a health-conscious homemade fruit smoothie. I bet many of you are drooling by now, but just imagine all these with an extra ingredient—insect-derived by-products. Yes, you read that right.

In many countries, there are food processing plants that manufacture insect-derived flour from the larvae of a particular kind of fly, processed and ground to powder for human consumption. Experts say bugs are a climate-friendly and nutrient-rich alternative to typical animal proteins, but when it comes to Western cultures, the “ick” factor is standing in the way of an insect-inclusive diet.

Eating insects is nothing new. We find that almost every country has in its cultural history the inclusion of bugs for food. Even in the Bible, the Lord allowed the consumption of certain kinds of insects for food.

However, in a new world order, having an insect-based diet as a regular meal is a totally new concept. In spite of this trend, we need to be mindful of the counsel we are given regarding a vegan diet and the possible side effects of including bugs in the food we eat.

Insects Contain Chitin

Chitin (poly-N-acetyl-glucosamine), in general, is a biopolymer, very common in nature. It is mainly produced by fungi, arthropods and nematodes. The list also includes crustaceans, arachnids, algae, and, of course, insects. Insects carry this element not only in their body’s structural frame which supports their exoskeletons and trachea where it may be present in amounts ranging up to 60%, but it is a part of the lining of the epithelium in their digestive system as well. Here, the average chitin content in a number of different species is reported to be 33%.

What Are the Dangers of Chitin?

In general, chitin is not toxic to humans. However, things can change when humans are exposed to a high degree of chitin, particularly when found in food.

For instance, a whiff of chitin inhaled triggers an immune response in the lungs, likely causing a reaction similar to being attacked by fungal spores. In some people, that reaction goes haywire, leading to dangerous inflammation and asthma.

Dietary chitosan may influence calcium metabolism by accelerating its urinary excretion. The reported undesirable effects are a marked decrease in the level of vitamin E in the body’s plasma, reduction in bone mineral content, and growth retardation.

Insects also contain ecdysteroids. These are a type of steroidal hormone present also in certain water animals and some plants. In insects, they control various life-cycle processes. Ecdysterone has a similar chemical structure to testosterone, the male androgen. Due to this action, eating insects or insect derived products may interfere in the long run with human hormone metabolism.

At any rate, there are many things we can continue discussing about changing forms of standardized diets. Yet, for myself, I appreciate more God’s wonderful healthy lifestyle and diet program—found in His word—based on fruits, nuts, seeds, cereals, and vegetables for a healthy and happy life.

Resources: The National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23955853, 3786550, and 31102246

Esteban Salazar is a preventive medicine and lifestyle coach with more than 25 years of experience. His work has expanded as an international speaker and featured guest in many TV and radio shows around the world. He has a bachelor’s degree in Health Ministries and Nutrition from Hartland College in Virginia and also completed farther studies at the E. I. Institute of Applied Chemistry in Mittlesinn, Germany. He enjoys country living with his wife Maritza in the sierra region of Ecuador, South America. He loves playing the piano, traveling, and vegan cuisine.

Testimony – A Health Retreat

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Health retreat anyone? Who wouldn’t love to unwind for three days and dedicate time to his/her physical health—healthy food, exercise classes directed by experts, massages, nature walks, swimming in waterfalls. I was recently invited to such a retreat held in a jungle camp in the tropical part of Mexico; just a short walk from the beach! The attendee limit was 25 people and the cost for each participant was rather steep, but I was invited for free! In exchange, the organizers asked me to oversee the preparation of vegan meals. I was also asked to give a daily 30-minute talk on veganism and healthy lifestyle to the guests. How could I refuse?

The retreat was a secular event. I was to be a part of a four-member team of instructors: two yoga instructors, and a gym trainer, and my task was to share my knowledge of veganism. The organizers knew that I do not consume animal products; hence they declared me an expert in the field. I don’t have any formal education in health sciences, so I decided to share the Adventist health message that has stood the test of time.

As I was contemplating what specifically to share with the group, I decided the first presentation would be on the five blue zones (see map). Blue zones are areas of the world where people live significantly longer and healthier lives. I mentioned that one such blue zone is the town of Loma Linda, California. Why was Loma Linda included on the blue zone list? The reason is simple: Most of its residents are Seventh-day Adventists who live the health message that our church has followed for 150 years.

I delivered the presentation and at the end I asked if anyone had heard of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Out of the 25 attendees, only one person knew that such a church exists. To say that I was surprised is an understatement. Seriously? Only one person? Not a good testimony for our church.

Yoga Instructor

Shortly after the presentation, one of the yoga instructors approached me and wanted to know more about the Adventist diet. I explained that veganism is not a test of fellowship; however, church members are to abstain from tobacco, alcohol, any illegal drugs, and do not consume animals that are listed in the Bible (Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14) as unfit for human consumption.

This instructor looked at me surprised. He had never heard of such a list of animals in the Bible. So, he pulled out his phone and googled the list. He read everything carefully and then we had about a 15-minute conversation on the subject. I explained that this Biblical dietary guide was given to the ancient Israel as a biological protection. They were not to suffer from the diseases and infections of their neighboring nations. Most Christians today claim that this prohibition was for the Jews only and doesn’t apply to us. Since it was for their biological protection, do non-Jews have a superior digestive tract? I left it as an open question.

This man exclaimed: “Yes, it makes a perfect sense. I’m convinced; I’ll never touch such meats again!” “Wow, that was easy,” I thought to myself. I had never witnessed such a quick conviction. This instructor’s actual profession is a food engineer, perhaps that contributed to his quick understanding.

We made friends and exchanged contact information. A week later I received a message from him. He confided to me that he has lots of overweight family members, suffering from diabetes and myriads of health issues. Just three days prior, his sister prepared a pork dish and got food poisoning. She didn’t learn her lesson, and is still cooking pork, which is quite discouraging to my new friend. He attempted to help her and also enlighten his family, but they were not open to it. It was apparent that he felt a bit down. “What shall I do?” he asked. All I could say was to lead by example and he’s the best light his family can have. Given his family history, his health and fitness are certainly a testimony. Imagine, this man isn’t even a Christian!

Gym Instructor

Unbeknownst to me, another instructor also looked up the Adventist church on the Internet. The next day he said to me: “I can’t believe a church has achieved something like this. Pretty incredible. Do you have access to the Adventist church? Is it open to the public? Can you take me?” After the retreat was over, we visited an Adventist bookstore in the city of Guadalajara. Since he already has all kinds of books on healthy living, I recommended the books Counsels on Diet and Foods and The Ministry of Healing by Ellen G. White to him so that he could learn about the beginnings of the health message. He was thrilled.

Be an Authentic Christian

Our role as Christians is not to convert people. Our role is to plant seeds. Only the Holy Spirit can convert hearts. So, what can we do for hungry souls around us? Two things:

Be authentic. Be firm in your principles and stand up for them. People will notice and will look up to you as you’ve never dreamed before. New opportunities to share your faith will arise without asking for it.

Share love with people. Is someone around you going through a tough time? Offer a hug, a strong shoulder, be a good listener. Has someone around you spiritually fallen? Leave any criticism at home. Instead, offer compassion and point the person to God’s grace.

As I attended the Sabbath School lately, the Sabbath school teacher shared that he has a hard time sharing the gospel with his coworkers. He’s just not ready. I thought, seriously? There is no need to preach anything. Our life is the most powerful sermon we can deliver. If we attend a church and at the same time don’t live a Christian life, then sure, our lives won’t impact anyone. But if we live authentically as Christians, people around us will notice and will ask questions themselves. May the Lord help us to be close to Him daily. Then, we will be witnesses for Christ without trying.

“A noble life is the most powerful sermon in favor of Christianity. If we would live such a life, our consciences must be quickened by continual contact with the word of God. Our souls must be familiar with the heavenly standard, and we must avoid every course that diverges from the right.” The Voice in Speech and Song, 303

Grass – God’s Carpet

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Poaceae is (true grasses) the most economically important plant family because it includes cereals, wheat, rice, oats, barley, millet, and maize used for staple foods and feed for livestock. Some of the species, such as bamboo, thatch, and straw, are used for building materials, and other species are a source for biofuel—for example, maize is converted to ethanol.

Lawns and pastureland are composed of true grasses and 46% of the world’s arable land (land used for crops) is covered by rice, wheat, maize, barley, and sugar cane.

It is estimated that there is 11,000 to 13,000 species of grass (Poaceae). These species include cereal grasses, bamboos, natural grassland, lawns, and pastures.

Grasses can be annual or perennial. During winter’s cold, snow, and ice, grass lays dormant beneath the ground with most species turning brown. The melting ice and snow provides the moisture necessary to bring it back when the warming temperatures of Spring awakens the blades and they begin to grow, breaking through the soil.

By summer, the ground is green with new grass. A soft, lush carpet of Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, buffalograss, zoysia grass, and crabgrass.

How many remember running barefoot through and digging your toes into the soft grass in the summer or the smell that fills the air after mowing the lawn?

I love the texts that use grass as an example of Jesus’ promises in which we can place our full trust. What a loving God who covers the world with His perfect carpet.

“The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of God stands forever.” Isaiah 40:8

“Thus, Christ interpreted the message which He Himself had given to the lilies and the grass of the field. He desires us to read it in every lily and every spire of grass. His words are full of assurance, and tend to confirm trust in God.

“So wide was Christ’s view of truth, so extended His teaching, that every phase of nature was employed in illustrating truth. The scenes upon which the eye daily rests were all connected with some spiritual truth, so that nature is clothed with the parables of the Master.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 19, 20

“Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the over, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?” Matthew 6:30

Sources: wikipedia.org/wiki/Grass; wikipedia.org/wiki/Poaceae; americangardener.net/types-of-grasses-for-lawn

The Early Life of George Stephenson

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George Stephenson, the inventor of the locomotive engine, and the founder of the railway system of traveling, was born in 1781 in England. His parents were poor, honest, industrious people. His birthplace a cottage with a clay floor, bare rafters, and unplastered walls.

George was the second of six children, and his father’s earnings seldom exceeded twelve shillings a week. Little, therefore, was left for clothing, and nothing at all for school. As a child, George’s time was spent in running errands and playing about the cottage.

He often helped to care for the children, his special duty being to see that they were kept out of the way of the coal wagons that passed on the tramroad in front of the cottage. These wagons were drawn on wooden rails by horses. Who can tell to what extent the constant sight of this rude railway may have shaped the great work of George Stephenson’s later life? It is interesting to know that the first experiment of a locomotive steam engine was tried on this very tramroad.

When George was eight years old, he found his first employment. He was appointed to look after the cows belonging to a widow, and for this he received twopence (2.5 cents) a day. He had plenty of leisure, which he spent chiefly in company with a favorite playmate, erecting small mills in the little streams around, and making engines out of clay, with hemlock stalks for steam pipes.

George was soon promoted to hoe turnips and to lead horses in plowing, though he was barely big enough to stride across the furrows. For this work he received fourpence a day.

But his great desire was to be with his father and brother at the coal mine. His wish was granted, and his wages were raised, to sixpence and afterward to eightpence a day. This was his employment for several years.

The growing and thoughtful lad, however, never forgot his clay engines; and his great ambition was to have the management of a real engine. Great, therefore, was his delight when he was taken to be an assistant to his father in firing an engine.

At seventeen years of age, his youthful ambition was gratified by his appointment as engineer at the same coal mine where his father was employed as fireman. Here, at last, he was able to carefully study every part of the machinery and to become a thorough master of the construction of the steam engine, an opportunity he had so ardently longed for.

He was now eighteen years of age, but he had never learned to read. His parents could not afford to send him to school, but they had tried to train him to good habits at home. He had been taught to use every minute wisely, and now he determined to learn to read and write. At the age of nineteen, he was proud to be able to write his own name. Then he began the study of arithmetic, working out his problems upon a slate as he sat by his engine fire.

Industry, sobriety, and thrift were the true secret of George’s success as a young man, and these sterling qualities afterward made him useful, prosperous, and honored. Besides his work as engineer, he became an expert in mending and making shoes. He also became skillful in mending clocks.

A heavy trial awaited him in the early death of his wife, leaving one son, Robert. The next year after this sad event, his father was blinded by an accident and reduced to want. With part of the money he had so carefully saved, George at once paid his father’s debts and placed him and his mother in a comfortable cottage near his own home, where he supported them until their deaths.

A great triumph now awaited him, a fitting reward of his own close attention and perseverance. An engine of defective construction had been erected for the purpose of pumping the water from a neighboring pit. It proved utterly incapable of doing the work for which it had been erected. All the best engineers in the district had tried in vain to remedy its defects. George examined it and expressed his belief that he could make it efficient. He was asked to undertake the task, and very soon the pit was cleared of water.

It would be a pleasant task to follow the growing success of this noble young man step by step—to read of his resolve to give his son the best education he could, of his own unceasing efforts at self-improvement, of his ingenuity, his untiring industry, and his masculine vigor.

Amid difficulties of no ordinary kind, God was gradually preparing George Stephenson for his great and enduring work—the construction of the locomotive engine, and the introduction of the vast railway system—so that in this “time of the end” when “knowledge shall be increased” His truth might be carried to “every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” In the year 1825, this work was accomplished, and passengers and goods were first carried over a railway by a locomotive. This great achievement ranked among the highest of all the wonderful products of the industrial era.

Ferns, Selections from the True Education Series, ©1976, 60–63

Our Own Hearts Deceive Us

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Two years ago, I installed an electric fence in the backyard at my home. My dog, Finn, wears a collar that receives a signal from a transmitter inside the house that reminds him, if he gets too close to the fence, to remain within its confines. A green light on his collar’s receiver flashes telling me it is receiving a strong signal.

The fence is a two-wire barrier. If Finn gets too close to the first strand, he receives a warning tone, and if he stops there, nothing further happens. But if he gets too close to the second strand, he receives a more powerful, though painless, incentive to remain in the yard. Let me share with you just how powerful it is.

Not long ago, I noticed that the green light on the receiver was flashing red. This meant that the battery was or very near dead. If Finn got too close to the fence, there would be a weak warning tone or maybe no tone at all nor any other deterrent to keep him inside the fence. Finn had the ability to leave the backyard any time he chose. However, as accustomed as he was to receiving the warnings, he didn’t know that. Yet.

I don’t know how long the battery was weak or dead, but I watched him for two days go outside, wander around the backyard, sometimes for a very long time, or sit in his special spot, surveying his domain. He never tested the fence, and he never crossed it.

That got me thinking about our sinful nature, besetting sins, and how we are too often so settled in our lives of sin that we do not recognize the opportunity to leave that life when it comes.

“The secret of Satan’s power over God’s professed people lies in the deceitfulness of the human heart.” The Signs of the Times, December 13, 1899

Our own hearts deceive us. If we are satisfied to stay as we are, then the devil’s work is easy, but when we realize that we have the chance to be made better, to be changed, then he opens the floodgates against us.

I thought this quote from a popular Christian movie explains it pretty well.

“Sometimes the devil allows people to live a life free of trouble because he doesn’t want them turning to God. Their sin is like a jail cell, except it is all nice and comfy and there doesn’t seem to be any reason to leave. The door’s wide open. Till one day, time runs out, and the cell door slams shut, and suddenly it’s too late.” (God’s Not Dead, Pure Fix Entertainment 2014)

“We must be sanctified through the truth, be wholly consecrated to God … . Every moment that we are not on our watch we are liable to be beset by the enemy and are in great danger of being overcome by the powers of darkness. Satan commissions his angels to be vigilant and overthrow all they can; to find out the waywardness and besetting sins of those who profess the truth, and throw darkness around them, that they may cease to be watchful, take a course that will dishonor the cause they profess to love, and bring sorrow upon the church. The souls of these misguided, unwatchful ones grow darker, and the light of heaven fades from them. They cannot discover their besetting sins, and Satan weaves his net about them, and they are taken in his snare.” Early Writings, 105

Lord, help us to depend upon You alone, and to turn away from Satan’s snares.

Christ’s Denunciation of the Pharisees

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When Christ came to the world, moral power was at a low ebb. The Jews as a people were not spiritually minded. Their hearts went out after their idols—supremacy, wealth, and worldly honor. The teachers of the nation interpreted the Scriptures according to their cherished ideas. They taught that the Messiah was to come as an earthly prince, who would reign on David’s throne, and crush the heathen under Him. They led the people to believe that God would stretch out His arm in their behalf according to His promise, while they did not comply with the conditions of that promise. So far had they separated themselves from God by their wicked works, by their pride and self-righteousness, their oppression of the poor and needy, their hatred and jealousy, that spiritual things were not discerned.

The angels did not announce the birth of Christ to those who claimed to have great light and knowledge. The rabbis who explained the law in the synagogue—those who above all others should have been intelligent in regard to the coming of the Messiah and the manner of His appearing—knew nothing of the Babe cradled in the manger. Had the angels appeared to them with the good tidings of great joy, telling them the wonderful story of the Babe of Bethlehem, they would have rejected the message with contempt. Such humble birth was not according to their lofty ideas. Therefore, the Lord of glory passed by the self-exalted, the men intoxicated with self-love and worldly honor, and came to the men who were humble, who would receive the heavenly messengers and the tidings that were to echo to earth’s remotest bounds.

It was to the humble shepherds that the birth of Christ was first made known. While they were watching their flocks on the hills of Bethlehem, “lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

The manner of Christ’s first advent, and the condition of those to whom the joyful tidings came, is a lesson we shall do well to study. The Lord does not honor those who honor themselves. He does not give His precious light to those who will not make a right use of it—who use it to honor themselves, in the place of exalting the Lord God of Israel. Those whom the Lord has blessed with great privileges are to be pure and humble and undefiled. The humility of the world’s Redeemer is solemn and instructive. He was the Majesty of heaven, yet while on earth, He was unhonored and almost unknown. The light of the world, the heir of glory, He was despised and rejected of men.

As we trace the course pursued by the scribes and Pharisees, and see the light and privileges granted them, we are led to inquire, How could those teachers read the word of God without perceiving the truths which it teaches? Upon these men was placed the responsibility of explaining the law in the synagogue; but Christ declared, “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.” Ye teach for doctrine the commandments of men. The sayings of men, coming down through the rabbis from age to age, had molded their religious worship. Traditions were constantly increasing, which kept the mind in a state of questioning and controversy over the most trivial matters. New laws were constantly being enacted, and the people were taught to regard them as the requirements of God, until a mechanical service became the sum of their religion and their worship. Many of these laws were not committed to writing, and exaction after exaction was added until a most unreasonable mass of maxims and fables was brought together. He who attempted to bring forward scriptures that conflicted with these laws and traditions, was condemned as if he had refused to accept a “Thus saith the Lord.” This education of the rabbis was well-pleasing to Satan; for through them he was preparing the way so that when Christ should come to the world, He would be rejected by His own nation.

Christ designed that His disciples should have an education altogether different from that which they had received from the scribes and Pharisees. He accused these men of teaching many things contrary to the law. “The scribes and Pharisees sit in Moses seat,” He said; “all therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, and love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. … He that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.”

When the question was asked, “Why do Thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread,” Christ answered them, “Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? For God commanded, saying, Honor thy father and thy mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; and honor not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” Thus Christ showed the comparative value of the law of God and their traditions.

“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites,” Christ continued; “for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.” Do we not find just such teachers in our day, men who will not obey the plainest statement of the word, and who, after they have turned from the light of God themselves, do their utmost to lead others into the same path? They manifest the same spirit toward those who keep God’s commandments that the scribes and Pharisees manifested toward Christ. How earnest are these transgressors of God’s law to hedge up the way of those who would accept Christ. They will not enter in themselves, and those who would enter in they hinder.

“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayers: therefore, ye shall receive the greater damnation.” There are many who claim to be sanctified, but who are not. Shall we receive their testimony? If they are holy, their testimony will be in accordance with the divine will; their prayer will be the prayer of Christ, “Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth.”

What shall be the detector of character in these last days?—“Ye shall know them by their fruits.” “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” If men come to us, making void the law of God, we may know that their sanctification is worth just as much, when weighed in the balances of heaven, as were the long, pretentious prayers of the Pharisees.

“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves. … Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchers, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.”

These fearful denunciations were made upon the Jews, because, while teaching the law of God to the people, they were not doers of the word. Had they kept the law of God, they would have discerned Christ and His mission. So it is in our day. There are those who walk in darkness when light shines from every page of the written word. They study the Scriptures that they may interpret them to suit themselves. They sink the Scriptures to their own perverted ideas. They are not honest. They doubt that which they have every reason to believe. They become reasoners in doubt, experts in finding fault. God’s word is misinterpreted, misstated, misapplied, and has no power upon the life and character.

If professed Christians really believe in God, they will not disregard His commandments. Christ says: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever, therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” The Review and Herald, August 29, 1899

A Search for an Undistorted Version of this Spiritual Truth

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What a profound Bible truth—without Jesus I am a lost soul. There is nothing within me that I could achieve that would make me worthy of being granted eternal life. If I would be taken to heaven as I am in this sinful condition, I would only stain that high and lofty place. What can I do to be saved, but most importantly what I must understand is, from what do I need to be saved?

Statement

Justification by faith is God’s provided tool to each one of us to bring about our restoration to the perfection of creation, saving us from sin, which is a distortion of His loving work, and making us fit again to be re-instituted in the New Jerusalem.

Example

Justification is the complete act of pardoning someone for a fault or omission on their part. For example, if a student is absent from school one day, the teacher will require the student to provide an excuse to justify his absence. The student must bring a justification note on the following day validated by an adult who proves the veracity of cause for the young one to miss class. For instance, if the cause of the absence was an illness or health problem, the person providing the justification should be a doctor for it to be valid. It would be unacceptable that a medical justification note would be signed by another classmate of the student in question.

Once a student’s absence is justified by a responsible adult and submitted to the teacher, the student may be reinstated in class to continue with his studies. This justification for this particular situation does not excuse the student from indefinitely missing classes, nor does it grant him a certificate of achievement after the end of the school year. The justification merely excuses the student for the specific absence, preventing removal from the class. Furthermore, the justification does not give the student permission to continue missing classes whenever he wishes, nor does it exempt him from preparing for exams.

Parallelism

In short, justification is a request for excuse or apology for the infraction committed by failing to comply with what has been established.

With this background, we can see how this legal framework centers on the work that Jesus, God the Father, and the Holy Spirit perform to restore us to the state of original perfection.

Sin and Consequences

As the absolute judge in this tribunal, we find God the Father, who has established His law as the standard of conduct for all created beings, indissoluble and perfect. The law establishes that upon violating one of its precepts, the transgressor must die; therefore, the punishment for one who transgresses God’s law is death.

Adam and Eve were created in complete harmony with God’s law. There was no need for them to require a justifier nor did they need justification before God, since they had never committed a sin nor disobeyed the law in any way. They could see God face to face and be accepted into His presence because of their perfect, untainted condition.

By violating a precept of God’s law, Adam and Eve broke that perfect bond between their own existence and compatibility with God’s law, becoming liable to execution for their disobedience. From our first parents and now each one of us, we face the same condemnation that Adam and Eve received.

Divine Grace

It is here, thanks to and solely due to the unique and unconditional love of God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit toward each one of us, a love that we can understand as divine grace and undeserved mercy is bestowed upon us. To give us hope of eternal life, the Deity of the Godhead set in motion the Plan of Redemption for our rescue, thus removing us from the condemnation of eternal death, the consequence of our own disobedience to God’s requirements; giving us a second chance to live in perfect harmony and obedience to God’s law.

Restoration and Redemption

Jesus interceded on behalf of disobedient humanity. Standing before God the Father, He was willing to receive the punishment of death in our place.

To be able to fully reconcile man to God, it was necessary for Jesus Himself to leave heaven and come to this earth that He might experience the results of our fallen condition and to become a part of the human race, which had become captive to sin.

The role of the Holy Spirit, as the indwelling power of divine Providence, would strengthen Jesus in His decision to obey God’s law and grant Him a life of victory over sin while living on this earth surrounded by sinners.

In being exposed to temptation, Jesus gained an understanding of our human weakness firsthand. He therefore identified Himself with our current condition. While He chose at every step of this earthly way to obey all the requirements of God’s law and live a perfect life before God’s eyes, He became familiar with our frailties and struggles.

Finally, taking our place, He willingly accepted execution and death for the sins and disobedience we are guilty of. In this way, He now stands before the Father as the authorized Advocate to sign our much-needed justification note excusing us from our transgression. Thus, He grants us a second chance to make things right in this life. We are renewed within ourselves through the power of the Holy Spirit who now dwells in us. He empowers us, as a renewed being, restored to the image of God, to live in harmony and obedience to His law, just as it was in the beginning.

Just as the Holy Spirit empowered Jesus to live a perfect life of obedience to God’s law, this same Holy Spirit can grant us the transforming power to bring about a new birth in us. Thus, we are delivered from that captivity to sin and brought back into a new life of harmony with the original plan of creation and perfection.

Point of Thought

Justification by faith comprehends the work of the Godhead in our behalf to first pardon us from our faults and then, along with our own choice, to empower us to live in harmony with the laws of heaven, reconciled to God.

Bible

We can compare the previous statements with the following verses from the Bible in order to obtain a Biblical foundation. We can find additional explanation in the Spirit of Prophecy quotations.

– Sin

– Consequences of Sin

– Grace

– Justification

– Sanctification

– Salvation

Sin

Individual transgression and disobedience of God’s law.

“Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.” 1 John 3:4

Consequences of Sin

The consequence of transgressing and disobeying God’s law is separation from God and ultimately death.

“Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; nor His ear heavy, that it cannot hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear.” Isaiah 59:1, 2

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

“The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not bear the guilt of the father, nor the father bear the guilt of the sons. The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself.” Ezekiel 18:20

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23

“Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned.” Romans 5:12

Grace

An undeserved gift. God’s goodwill to forgive and divine initiative to give us a second chance for eternal life.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8, 9

“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.” Titus 2:11

“Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.” Colossians 3:11

“I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.” Galatians 2:21

“I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel.” Galatians 1:6

Justification

This is what only God can do in our favor and is essential within the Plan of Salvation. Jesus lived a perfect life through the power of the Holy Spirit, in obedience to God’s Law. He lived a life without the stain of sin, and therefore was accepted by the Father as righteous. For this reason, nothing and no one can justify us before the Father except Jesus. No good work from our own part justifies us. Only our faith in the work Jesus is performing in us and with us is what allows us to appropriate and receive justification.

“Therefore, we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law.” Romans 3:28

“For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin; He condemned sin in the flesh.” Romans 8:3

“Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Therefore, by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.” Romans 3:19, 20

“Knowing that a man is not justified by the worlds of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.” Galatians 2:16

“And he brought them out and said, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ So, they said, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.’ Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes. And immediately he and all his family were baptized. Now when he had brought them into his house, he set food before them; and he rejoiced having believed in God with all his household.” Acts 16:30–34

“Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Men and brethren, what shall we do?’ Then Peter said to them ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.’ ” Acts 2:37–39

“For the promise that he would be the heir of the world was not to Abraham or to his seed through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.” Romans 4:13

Sanctification

It is the work that Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, performs in us, that provides the basis for a new life. We choose to obey and walk in harmony with God’s Law. God does not force this decision. It is a synergistic mechanism for an end goal that integrates God and man.

The degree of responsibility we have for our sanctification corresponds to the degree of willingness we have to be changed.

The word of God reveals how we are reconciled to God.

“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” John 16:13

“For this is the will of God, your sanctification, that you should abstain from sexual immorality.” 1 Thessalonians 4:3

“But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves to God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life.” Romans 6:22

“Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:1, 2

“Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” Hebrews 13:20, 21

“Repent therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.” Acts 3:19

“And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.” John 16:8

“Likewise, the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” Romans 8:26

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.” Matthew 28:19, 20

“And so, all Israel will be saved, as it is written: ‘The Deliverer will come out of Zion, and He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob; for this is My covenant with them, when I take away their sins.’ ” Romans 11:26, 27

“If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.” 1 Timothy 6:3–5

“Knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves of sin.” Romans 6:6

“But if a wicked man turns from all his sins which he has committed, keeps all My statutes, and does what is lawful and right, he shall surely live; he shall not die. None of the transgressions which he has committed shall be remembered against him; because of the righteousness which he has done, he shall live. ‘Do I have any pleasure at all that the wicked should die?’ says the Lord God, ‘and not that he should turn from his ways and live?” Ezekiel 18:21–23

Salvation

It is the result of Divine grace manifested in justification and sanctification. Salvation is having experienced the new birth and being a new creation in Christ Jesus. We are finally saved from our past.

“Jesus answered, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.’ ” John 3:5

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

“And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, ‘Be saved from this perverse generation.’ ” Acts 2:40

“And she shall bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first, and also for the Greek.” Romans 1:16

“ ‘Come now, and let us reason together,’ says the Lord, ‘Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land.’ ” Isaiah 1:18, 19

“And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to make war with the rest of her offspring, who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” Revelation 12:17

“To him who overcomes will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father in His throne.” Revelation 3:21

Spirit of Prophecy

About Repentance:

“But sorrow had not worked true repentance. The people mourned because their sins had brought suffering upon themselves, but not because they had dishonored God by transgression of His holy law. True repentance is more than sorrow for sin. It is a resolute turning away from evil.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 557

About the Victory of God in His Children

“When the plan of salvation was revealed to the angels, joy, inexpressible joy, filled heaven. The glory and the blessedness of a world redeemed outmeasured even the anguish of the Prince of Life. Through the celestial courts echoed the first strain of that song that angels sang above the hills of Bethlehem—’Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will to men.’ And the lost pair in the garden of Eden, standing as criminals before the righteous Judge, waiting the sentence their transgression merited, heard the first notes of the divine promise. Before the life of toil and sorrow which sin had brought upon them was depicted before them, before the decree that the wages of sin is death was pronounced, they heard the promise of redemption. Though they must suffer from the power of their mighty foe, still through the merits of Christ they could look forward to victory. The mystery of the gospel was spoken in Eden, when God said to the serpent, ‘I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.’ If Satan could have touched the head with his specious temptations, the human family would have been lost; but the Lord had made known the purpose and plan of the mystery of grace, declaring that Christ had bruised the serpent under His feet.” The Signs of the Times, February 13, 1893

About the Kingdom of Grace

“The kingdom of grace was instituted immediately after the fall of man, when a plan was devised for the redemption of the guilty race. It then existed in the purpose and by the promise of God; and through faith, men could become its subjects. Yet it was not actually established until the death of Christ. Even after entering upon His earthly mission, the Saviour, wearied with the stubbornness and ingratitude of men, might have drawn back from the sacrifice of Calvary. In Gethsemane, the cup of woe trembled in His hand. He might even then have wiped the blood-sweat from His brow, and have left the guilty race to perish in their iniquity. Had He done this, there could have been no redemption for fallen men. But when the Saviour yielded up His life, and with His expiring breath cried out, ‘It is finished,’ then the fulfillment of the plan of redemption was assured. The promise of salvation made to the sinful pair in Eden was ratified. The kingdom of grace, which had before existed by the promise of God, was then established.” The Great Controversy (1888), 347, 348

Summary

In spite of the many arguments brought by scholastic debates, the simple consistent point of the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy is that we can only find the hope of salvation when we realize that our own rebellion against God and His law is what has separated us from Him. This consistent line of thought throughout the Scriptures establishes justification by faith and the doctrine regarding salvation.

Sin is breaking the law of God. We are condemned by that transgression to death. Jesus took that damnation upon Himself and died in our place. The Holy Spirit now appeals to our conscience so that we might see our true wicked condition, living a life in transgression of God’s word, that keeps us separated from Him. As we see our extreme doom, we beg God to forgive our sins and ask Him to cleanse us by the blood of Jesus.

As the promise of God is fulfilled: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” 1 John 1:9, the Holy Spirit now convinces us to seek conversion and righteousness. “And when He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.” John 16:8. Through His power we may have victory over sin and live a life of obedience.

Victory requires a constant, moment-by-moment experience of surrendering to the will of God. As long as we distrust ourselves and cling to our Saviour for help, this work of the Holy Spirit can continue in us. When Peter took his eyes off Jesus and focused on his own power, achievement, and delight, he sank into the depths of the raging sea. It was only by grasping the hand of Christ that he was saved from the waves. The continual connection through the Holy Spirit was, in the end, what saved Peter from spiritual death. And we are promised the same.

At the very end, we realize that we are our own enemy and we need to be saved from our own rebellion.

That’s why we can never say, “once saved always saved.” The surrendering of self to the will of God, is an act of choice at every step of the way. Nevertheless, if we do this, we have the assurance indeed that in Christ we are more than conquerors.

Esteban Salazar is a preventive medicine and lifestyle coach with more than 25 years of experience. His work has expanded as an international speaker and featured guest in many TV and radio shows around the world. He has a bachelor’s degree in Health Ministries and Nutrition from Hartland College in Virginia and also completed additional studies at the E. I. Institute of Applied Chemistry in Mittlesinn, Germany. He enjoys country living with his wife Maritza in the Sierra region of Ecuador, South America. He loves playing the piano, traveling, and vegan cuisine.