Reformation Herald Publishing

Bible Study Guides – A Miracle – Working Power

by

April 27, 2014 – May 3, 2014

The Lord Has Spoken

Key Text

“He [the other beast coming up out of the earth] deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the [ten-horned] beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.” Revelation 13:14.

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 48, 582–592, 624.

Introduction

“God never forces the will or the conscience; but Satan’s constant resort—to gain control of those whom he cannot otherwise seduce—is compulsion by cruelty. … He works through both religious and secular authorities, moving them to the enforcement of human laws in defiance of the law of God.” The Great Controversy, 591.

1 GREAT DECEPTION THROUGH MIRACLES

  • What prophecy shows that miracles will be used to deceive people in the last days? Matthew 24:24; II Corinthians 11:14.

Note: “Through spiritualism, Satan appears as a benefactor of the race, healing the diseases of the people, and professing to present a new and more exalted system of religious faith.” The Great Controversy, 589.

“As the crowning act in the great drama of deception, Satan himself will personate Christ. … Satan will manifest himself among men as a majestic being of dazzling brightness.” Ibid., 624.

  • How can we discern between true and false miracles? Deuteronomy 13:1–3; Isaiah 8:19, 20.

Note: “Those who claim to have the great power of God can only be discerned by the great detector, the law of Jehovah.” Faith and Works, 45.

2 MIRACLES NOT A TEST

  • What prophecy was partially fulfilled in the days of Christ and is to be fulfilled again in these last days? Malachi 4:5, 6; Luke 1:17; Matthew 11:11–14.

Note: “John separated himself from friends and from the luxuries of life. The simplicity of his dress, a garment woven of camel’s hair, was a standing rebuke to the extravagance and display of the Jewish priests, and of the people generally. His diet, purely vegetable, of locusts and wild honey, was a rebuke to the indulgence of appetite and the gluttony that everywhere prevailed. … [Malachi 4:5, 6 quoted.] Here the prophet describes the character of the work. Those who are to prepare the way for the second coming of Christ are represented by faithful Elijah, as John came in the spirit of Elijah to prepare the way for Christ’s first advent. The great subject of reform is to be agitated, and the public mind is to be stirred. Temperance in all things is to be connected with the message, to turn the people of God from their idolatry, their gluttony, and their extravagance in dress and other things.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 62.

  • What lesson from John the Baptist (who worked in the spirit and power of Elijah) is of great value for us today? John 10:41.

Note: “Satan is a diligent Bible student. He knows that his time is short, and he seeks at every point to counterwork the work of the Lord upon this earth. It is impossible to give any idea of the experience of the people of God who shall be alive upon the earth when celestial glory and a repetition of the persecutions of the past are blended. They will walk in the light proceeding from the throne of God. By means of the angels there will be constant communication between heaven and earth. And Satan, surrounded by evil angels, and claiming to be God, will work miracles of all kinds, to deceive, if possible, the very elect. God’s people will not find their safety in working miracles, for Satan will counterfeit the miracles that will be wrought. God’s tried and tested people will find their power in the sign spoken of in Exodus 31:12–18. They are to take their stand on the living word: ‘It is written.’ This is the only foundation upon which they can stand securely. Those who have broken their covenant with God will in that day be without God and without hope.” Testimonies, vol. 9, 16.

3 A CHANGE IS COMING

  • What do the two horns on the lamblike beast represent? Revelation 13:11.

Note: “The ‘two horns like a lamb’ (Revelation 13:11) well represent the character of the United States Government, as expressed in its two fundamental principles, Republicanism and Protestantism. These principles are the secret of our power and prosperity as a nation. Those who first found an asylum on the shores of America rejoiced that they had reached a country free from the arrogant claims of popery and the tyranny of kingly rule. They determined to establish a government upon the broad foundation of civil and religious liberty.” The Signs of the Times, November 1, 1899.

  • How will this lamblike nation offend God by enacting oppressive, anti-biblical laws? Revelation 13:14, last part.

Note: “A time is coming when the law of God is, in a special sense, to be made void in our land. The rulers of our nation will, by legislative enactments, enforce the Sunday law, and thus God’s people be brought into great peril. When our nation, in its legislative councils, shall enact laws to bind the consciences of men in regard to their religious privileges, enforcing Sunday observance, and bringing oppressive power to bear against those who keep the seventh-day Sabbath, the law of God will, to all intents and purposes, be made void in our land; and national apostasy will be followed by national ruin.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 977.

  • What threefold union will prepare the world to be deceived by Satan? Isaiah 8:9, 10, 12; Revelation 16:13, 14.

Note: “When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 451.

4 THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST

  • What is the image of the beast, and who has the power to give life to this image? Revelation 13:15, first part.

Note: “When the leading churches of the United States, uniting upon such points of doctrine as are held by them in common, shall influence the state to enforce their decrees and to sustain their institutions, then Protestant America will have formed an image of the Roman hierarchy, and the infliction of civil penalties upon dissenters will inevitably result.” The Great Controversy, 445.

“The same masterful mind that plotted against the faithful in ages past is still seeking to rid the earth of those who fear God and obey His law. Satan will excite indignation against the humble minority who conscientiously refuse to accept popular customs and traditions. Men of position and reputation will join with the lawless and the vile to take counsel against the people of God. Wealth, genius, education, will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and church members will conspire against them. With voice and pen, by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith. By false representations and angry appeals they will stir up the passions of the people. Not having a ‘Thus saith the Scriptures’ to bring against the advocates of the Bible Sabbath, they will resort to oppressive enactments to supply the lack. To secure popularity and patronage, legislators will yield to the demand for a Sunday law. Those who fear God cannot accept an institution that violates a precept of the Decalogue. On this battlefield comes the last great conflict of the controversy between truth and error. And we are not left in doubt as to the issue. Now, as in the days of Mordecai, the Lord will vindicate His truth and His people.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 450, 451.

  • How did the early Christian church fall into the trap of Satan? II Timothy 3:5; II Thessalonians 2:10–12.

Note: “It was apostasy that led the early church to seek the aid of the civil government, and this prepared the way for the development of the papacy—the beast. Said Paul: ‘There’ shall ‘come a falling away … and that man of sin be revealed’ (II Thessalonians 2:3). So apostasy in the church will prepare the way for the image to the beast.” The Great Controversy, 443, 444.

5 THE DEATH DECREE

  • Those who fear God and live a godly life, what must they expect? Matthew 14:3–10; II Timothy 3:12. Give a scriptural example. I Kings 22:8, 27.

Note: “It is natural for the wrongdoer to hold the messengers of God responsible for the calamities that come as the sure result of a departure from the way of righteousness. Those who place themselves in Satan’s power are unable to see things as God sees them. When the mirror of truth is held up before them, they become indignant at the thought of receiving reproof. Blinded by sin, they refuse to repent; they feel that God’s servants have turned against them and are worthy of severest censure.” Prophets and Kings, 139, 140.

“The true and faithful follower of Christ must suffer persecution. There is no way of avoiding it.” The Review and Herald, April 19, 1898.

  • What will happen to those that do not worship the image of the beast and refuse to receive the mark of the beast? Revelation 13:15, last part, 16, 17.

Note: “It will be declared that men are offending God by the violation of the Sunday sabbath; that this sin has brought calamities which will not cease until Sunday observance shall be strictly enforced. …

“The miracle-working power manifested through spiritualism will exert its influence against those who choose to obey God rather than men. Communications from the spirits will declare that God has sent them to convince the rejecters of Sunday of their error, affirming that the laws of the land should be obeyed as the law of God.” The Great Controversy, 590, 591.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 How can we discern between true and false miracles?

2 How does the life of John the Baptist show that miracles will not be the sign by which to identify God’s remnant?

3 What role will spiritualism increasingly play in the United States?

4 What is the image of the beast, and how is it formed?

5 What must we expect from those who knowingly reject the truth?

© 2010 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Recipe – Banana Pudding

by

1/3 cup raw cane sugar

1 ½ tsp. vanilla extract

4 Tbsp. cornstarch

3 very ripe bananas, sliced

1/8 tsp. salt

48 vegan vanilla wafer cookies

3 cups coconut milk,

Nondairy whipped topping for garnish, optional

  1. Place sugar, cornstarch and salt in saucepan and gradually whisk in coconut milk. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-low heat. Cook 5 minutes, or until thickened, whisking constantly. Stir in vanilla, then banana slices.
  2. Line bottom of 11×7-inch baking dish with 24 cookies. Spread hot pudding over top, making sure bananas are submerged to prevent browning. Top with remaining 24 cookies, cover with plastic wrap, and cool. Refrigerate until cold. Top with whipped topping (if using).

Food – No meat, no dairy, no problem: is 2014 the year vegans become mainstream?

by

As New Year dietary fads go, giving up meat, dairy and fish altogether might seem extreme for the average person looking to shed a few pounds. Yet there are growing signs that 2014 could be the year that veganism – often viewed as the preserve of hippies, animal activists and health obsessives – stops being a niche dietary choice and gains new followers, and not just because of soon-forgotten resolutions.

This year will see the German supermarket chain ‘Veganz – We Love Life’ opening its first branch in the United Kingdom (UK), offering over 6,000 vegan products. The store is hoping to take advantage of increasing interest in non-meat, non-dairy food.

Most UK supermarkets already stock vegan products, but Veganz is the first dedicated chain store of its kind in Europe. Set up in 2011, the company hopes to open a total of 21 stores across the continent by 2015 to meet growing demand.

The choice of not consuming any animal products at all is currently being promoted by Mark Bittman’s book VB6, which takes a “flexitarian” approach – advocating eating a vegan diet before 6 p.m.

Veganism has long been plagued by stereotypes of it proponents. But what will dedicated full-time proponents of the lifestyle choice – its title officially coined in 1944 by founder of the British Vegan Society Donald Watson – make of the part-timers and the potential for it to become the latest fad diet?

www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/features/no-meat-no-dairy-no-problem-is-2014-the-year-vegans-become-mainstream-9032064.html

Children’s Story – One Minute More

by

On a bright sunny day while Ned set at the breakfast table he tried to get his mother or sister to tell him where they were all going.

“I’m as much in the dark as you are,” said Carolyn. “I think that mother was afraid I would let out the secret, for she sometimes calls me her little chatterbox. We’re to be ready at ten o’clock sharp.”

“Well, I suppose we’ll know in a few hours. Look, here comes Charley Wood. I promised to show him something in my workshop.” Away ran Ned.

The boys played together until after nine o’clock; and then, instead of going directly to the house, to be on hand promptly at ten o’clock, Ned thought: “Oh, there’s time enough for me to finish my kite.”

Two or three times his eyes were upon his watch; but there were a few minutes to spare, he thought. When he looked again, he was startled to find that it was three minutes past ten. By the time he had his hat and rushed to the front room, he was five minutes late, and no one was there.

He could not believe that his mother would disappoint him for such a little delay, so he called for Carolyn. Then he ran to his mother’s room to see if she were there, then out the front door; but no one was to be seen.

“Why did mother not tell me where she was going? Then I might have overtaken her. Now I don’t know in which direction to go,” mumbled Ned.

It was because of this that his mother had not told Ned where she was going. He was in the habit of trying to make up for lost time by hurrying at the last minute.

Mrs. Gray had planned a visit to her sister, who lived on a farm. Ned and Carolyn had once visited there and had a grand time with their cousins. They played in the hayloft, searched for eggs, helped feed the cattle, and rode the horses to water. They often begged mother to take them again; but she had many home cares and could not get away.

Poor Ned! When he found his mother and sister gone, he was a disappointed boy. Half ashamed to have Jane, the maid, see his tears or know how miserable he was, he went back to his play. He knew that if his mother returned, Carolyn would be sure to run out to the playhouse in search of him, so he stayed out there by himself until dinnertime.

Jane called Ned to dinner. She had lived in the Gray home a long time and knew Ned’s one failing. She had promised Mrs. Gray not to tell him where his mother and sister had gone, until dinnertime. The woman saw the boy with sad, downcast face enter the dining room. Seeing the table set for only one person, Ned was surprised, for his mother rarely stayed away all day.

The boy sat down to his lonely meal, and when Jane came in with a piece of pie, he asked why his mother was not home to dinner.

“Oh, Ned,” she replied, “your mother won’t be back today, or tomorrow either—no, not until Monday morning. She and Carolyn have gone to visit your Aunt Mary.”

This was too much for the youth. Dropping knife and fork, he rushed upstairs to his room, where he flung himself on the bed and cried bitterly.

When he had recovered from the first burst of tears, he remembered his mother’s request “not to forget,” that she should expect him “in the front room at ten o’clock precisely.” Now he understood that she must have started with Carolyn to the station at the very moment the clock hands pointed to the hour. It was a good lesson. He knew his mother had not meant to be cruel to him, and he resolved to improve in promptness.

It was with bright, sunny face, from which all sadness had vanished, that Ned met his mother and sister when they reached home Monday morning. Mrs. Gray saw at once that the hard lesson she had been obliged to teach him had not been in vain.

Storytime Treasury, compiled by P. G. Temple, Harvestime Books, Altamont, Tenessee.

Health – Benefits of Cabbage Juice

by

Cabbage is a popular vegetable and, though many people may not be aware of all of the benefits, it contains many wonderful healing properties. It acts as medicine. During the middle ages, it was known as the “drug of the poor.”

Cabbage can be used both raw as well as cooked. Its outer leaves are generally green while the inner leaves are white. Vitamins are more abundant in the green leaves. This humble vegetable is a rich source of a number of phytonutrients which help boost our defence mechanisms, block the reaction of cancer-causing substances, detoxifies and eliminates harmful toxins and hormones, and stimulates production of antibodies to fight cancer.

Cabbage is easier to digest in its raw fresh form than when cooked. The longer it is cooked, the less digestible it becomes. Cabbage sprouts contain higher levels of nutrients, are delicate and easier to digest.

In selecting cabbages avoid buying ones that have been precut, either halved or shredded. The moment the cabbage is cut, it begins to lose its nutrient content. To store, keep the vegetable refrigerated in a perforated plastic bag to prevent loss of its vitamin C content.

Drinking cabbage juice allows the nutrients to be absorbed into the system much faster, cutting the absorption time down from hours to little more than 10 to 15 minutes. For best results, the juice should be taken in small amounts of about 100-150 ml (1/3 to ½ cup), three times a day on an empty stomach.

Health Benefits of Cabbage Juice

Prevention of cancer: Large studies have found that populations who consume lots of cabbage have a low rate of colon and liver cancer. This is believed to be due to the large amount of fiber in cabbage, which is essential for healthy bowel movement. Chemicals in cabbage are also believed to speed up the body’s metabolism of estrogen and therefore reduce breast, uterus and ovarian cancer. It is also often associated with a lower rate of lung, stomach and prostate cancer.

Arthritis: Cabbage juice is a great anti-inflammatory agent helping to rid the body of arthritis and other degenerative inflammatory diseases.

Asthma: Cabbage juice works wonders for asthma and even bronchitis, boosting the healing ability of the respiratory tract.

Slows aging: One of the health benefits of cabbage juice is its ability to slow down aging.

Prevents cataracts: Reduces the risk of cataracts.

Digestive system: The amino acid glutamine in cabbage juice is totally gentle and cleansing on the digestive system, detoxifying, healing, regenerating and repairing ulcers. It has the ability to cleanse the mucus membranes.

Cabbage juice helps protect the GI tract from gastric reflux.

Lowers serum cholesterol: Cabbage lowers cholesterol and is a powerful antioxidant. A Japanese study showed that people who drank cabbage juice drastically reduced their LDL or bad cholesterol.

Reduces risk of heart disease and stroke: It’s simple – lower cholesterol and you reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Lose weight: A substance in cabbage inhibits the conversion of sugar and other carbohydrates into fat, definitely a painless way of dieting! It detoxifies the liver.

Clears skin: It helps to heal acne.

Constipation: The slightly laxative effect of cabbage makes it effective in stimulating bowel movement. Eat uncooked cabbage, either on its own, or juiced. Cabbage juice contains lactic acid, which is a great disinfectant for the colon.

Prevents Alzheimer’s: Recent research has shown that eating cabbage (red only) is an effective way to prevent deterioration of short and long term memory. The antioxidant responsible for this is called anthocyanin and it reduces plaque on the brain and helps protect brain cells, thus can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Boosts immune function: An ingredient in cabbage called sulforaphane helps create antioxidants which fight infections within the body (along with eliminating cancer). A compound called histidine in cabbage is found to be useful in treating allergies and regulating the T-cells in the immune system.

Prevents cell damage: The phytonutrients in cabbage reduces the number of free radicals responsible for cell damage. They also encourage enzyme production which speeds up detoxification.

Relieves muscle soreness: Cabbage relieves soreness in muscles.

Eye health: History reveals that the Romans and Greeks drank white fresh cabbage to relieve sore or infected eyes.

External Use

Breast engorgement: Peel off the outer layers of cabbage, run it slightly under a rolling pin and cup it over the breasts as close to the skin as possible. Wear your maternity bra over the cabbage and leave till the cabbage leaves wither. This will soothe engorgement and is the preferred natural and cheaper alternative over taking drugs.

Skin wounds: Flatten layers of cabbage leaves with a rolling pin and wrap around affected areas of any wound, blisters, sores, skin eruptions (as in psoriasis), burns and ulcers. Keep in place with a bandage until the leaves turn yellow. Change the leaves and repeat until the wounds heal. In between changes, clean and dry wounds.

And lots more: Free radicals and uric acid, which are identified to be the main cause of rheumatism, gout, arthritis, renal calculi, skin diseases, eczema, hardening and de-colorization of skin, etc., are also removed from the body due to cabbage consumption.

Red Cabbage: Red cabbage has more phytonutrients than the green cabbage and thus helps fight off bacterial and viral infections. Red cabbage contains more vitamin C than green cabbage and also contains anthocyanin which is a great antioxidant.

What You Need to Know about Cabbage Juice

Compared to most vegetables, cabbage keeps extremely well. You can store it in the fridge or a cold place for at least two weeks. If it has been cut however, it will only last another two or three days. Try to avoid cutting it until you are ready to eat or juice it or the plentiful vitamins inside will begin to break down. Make sure the exterior leaves are thoroughly washed before juicing. Cabbage has an effect on iodine absorption, so be careful and ensure that you don’t suffer from thyroid disorders. Consider taking an iodine supplement if necessary.

Remember, cabbage juice may be diluted with water—4 parts water to 1 part cabbage juice or add it to other vegetable juices because cabbage juice is not very pleasant tasting.

www.healthy-juicing.com/health-benefits-of-cabbage-juice/

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_benefits_of_cabbage_juice

Kaye Sehm, Back to Eden Newsletter. Autumn 2013, No. 54. P.O. Box 850, Lavington, NSW 2641 Australia.

Question & Answer – What can interfere or block the Holy Spirit from working in my life?

by

I think you are asking the same thing that Paul counsels us not to do in Ephesians 4:30, “… grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.”

There are several comments that give some ideas on what may interfere with the Holy Spirit working in our lives. These are found in Healthful Living, 306.

  1. The willful commission of a known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit, and separates the soul from God. Jesus cannot abide in the heart that disregards the divine law. God will honor those only who honor Him.
  2. No one need look upon the sin against the Holy Ghost as something mysterious and indefinable. The sin against the Holy Ghost is the sin of persistent refusal to respond to the invitations to repent.
  3. Let all examine their own hearts, to see if they are not cherishing that which is a positive injury to them, and in the place of opening the door of the heart to let Jesus, the Sun of Righteousness, in, are complaining of the dearth of the Spirit of God.
  4. Let these search for their idols, and cast them out.
  5. Let them cut away from every unhealthful indulgence in eating and drinking.
  6. Let them bring their daily practice into harmony with nature’s laws. By doing, as well as believing, an atmosphere will be created about the soul that will be a savor of life unto life.

Also read Ephesians 4:22–32 which is filled with words of counsel.

Also we are told: “The sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit does not lie in any sudden word or deed; it is the firm, determined resistance of truth and evidence.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1093.

Remember to ask the Lord for spiritual discernment so you can see what it is that may be blocking the Holy Spirit from working in your life. Give your whole heart to Jesus and walk with Him, do not resist the truth, and you will see the results in your life and so will others.

Inspiration – Camp Meetings

by

The last evening we enjoyed upon the Nora campground, the Lord blessed me with unusual freedom in speaking to the people, of the necessity of having Jesus in their company as they returned to their homes. I spoke of the importance of coming to such meetings with a mind to work for their own salvation, and that of others. They should have the object before them of earnestly seeking for a deeper work of grace, and a more thorough knowledge of the truth, that they may “be ready always, to give an answer to every man that asketh, a reason of the hope that is in them, with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience, that whereas they speak evil of you, as of evil doers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ” (I Peter 3:15, 16). “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good. And an evil man, out of the evil treasure of his heart, bringeth forth that which is evil; for of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh” (Luke 6:45).

There can be no influence so detrimental to a camp meeting, or any gathering for religious worship, as much visiting and careless conversation. Frequently men and women assemble in companies, and engage in conversation upon common subjects; which do not relate to the meeting. Some have brought their farms with them, and others their houses, laying their plans for building. Some are dissecting the characters of others, and have no time or disposition to search their own hearts, to discover the defects in their own characters, that they may correct their wrongs, and perfect holiness in the fear of God. If all who profess to be followers of Christ would improve the time out of meeting in conversing upon the truth, and dwelling upon the Christian’s hope, and in searching their own hearts, and in earnest prayer before God, pleading for His blessing, there would be a much greater work accomplished than we have yet seen. Unbelievers, who falsely accuse those who believe the truth, would be convinced, because “of their good conversation in Christ.” The words and actions are the fruit which we bear; “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them” (Matthew 7:20).

God gave direction to the Israelites to assemble before Him in the place which He should choose, and observe special days, at set periods, wherein no unnecessary work was to be done; but the time was to be devoted to a consideration of the blessings of God bestowed upon them. At these special seasons they were to bring gifts, free-will offerings, and thank-offerings, unto the Lord, according as the Lord had blessed them. They were directed to rejoice—the man-servant and maid-servant, the stranger, the fatherless and widow—that God had by His own wonderful power brought them from servile bondage to the enjoyment of freedom. And they were commanded not to appear before the Lord empty. They were to bring tokens of their gratitude to God for His continual mercies and blessings bestowed upon them. These offerings were varied, according to the estimate which the donors placed upon the blessings they were privileged to enjoy. Thus the characters of the people were plainly developed. Those who placed a high value upon the blessings God bestowed upon them, brought offerings in accordance with their appreciation of His blessings. Those whose moral powers were stupefied and benumbed by selfishness and idolatrous love of the favors received, rather than of fervent love of their bountiful Benefactor, brought meager offerings. Thus their hearts were revealed. Besides these special religious feast-days of gladness and rejoicing, the yearly passover was to be commemorated by the Jewish nation. The Lord covenanted that if they were faithful in the observance of His requirements, He would bless them in all their increase, and in all the works of their hands.

God requires no less of His people in these last days, in sacrifices and offerings, than he did of the Jewish nation. Those whom God has blessed with a competency, also the widow and the fatherless, should not be unmindful of His blessings. Especially should those whom God has prospered render to God the things that are God’s. They should appear before Him with a spirit of self-sacrifice, and bring their offerings in accordance with the blessings God has bestowed upon them. But many whom God prospers manifest base ingratitude to Him. If His blessings rest upon them, and He increases their substance, they make these bounties as cords to bind them to the love of their possessions, and they allow worldly business to take possession of their affections, and their entire being, and neglect devotion and religious privileges. They cannot afford to leave their business cares, and come before God, even once a year. They turn the blessings of God into a curse. They serve their own temporal interests, at the neglect of God’s requirements.

Men, with their thousands, remain at home, year after year, engrossed in their worldly cares and interests, and feel that they cannot afford to make the small sacrifice of attending the yearly gatherings to worship God. He has blessed them in basket and in store, and surrounded them with His benefits on the right hand and on the left, yet they withhold from God the small offerings He has required of them. They love to serve themselves. Their souls will be like the unrefreshed desert without the dew or rain of heaven. The Lord has brought to them the precious blessing of His grace. He has delivered them from the slavery of sin, and the bondage of error, and has opened to their darkened understandings the glorious light of present truth. And shall these evidences of God’s love and mercy call forth no gratitude in return? Will those who profess to believe that the end of all things is at hand be blind to their own spiritual interest, and live for this world, and this life alone? Do they expect their eternal interest will take care of itself? Spiritual strength will not come without an effort on their part.

Many who profess to be looking for the appearing of our Lord are anxious, burdened, gain-seekers for this world. They are blind to their eternal interest. They labor for that which satisfieth not. They spend their money for that which is not bread. They strive to content themselves with the treasures they have laid up upon the earth, which must perish. And they neglect the preparation for eternity, which should be the first and only real work of their life.

Let us all who possibly can, attend these yearly gatherings. All should feel that God requires this of them. If they do not avail themselves of the privileges God has provided for them to become strong in Him, and in the power of His grace, they will grow weaker and weaker, and have less and less desire to consecrate all to God. Come, brethren and sisters, to these sacred convocation meetings, to find Jesus. He will come up to the feast. He will be present, and He will do for you that which you need most to have done. Your farms should not be considered of greater value than the higher interests of the soul. All the treasures you possess, be they ever so valuable, would not be rich enough to buy you peace and hope, which would be infinite gain, if it cost you all you have, and the toils and sufferings of a life-time. To have a strong, clear sense of eternal things, and a heart of willing obedience to yield all to Christ, are blessings of more value than all the riches, and pleasures, and glories of this world.

These camp meetings are of importance. They cost something. The servants of God are wearing out their lives to help the people, while many of them appear as if they did not want help. For fear of losing a little of this world’s gain, some let these precious privileges come and go, as though they were of but little importance. Let all who profess to believe the truth, respect every privilege that God offers them to obtain clearer views of His truth, and His requirements, and the necessary preparation for His coming. A calm, cheerful and obedient trust in God is what He requires.

You need not weary yourselves with busy anxieties and needless cares. Work on for the day, faithfully doing the work which God’s providence assigns you, and He will have a care for you. Jesus will deepen and widen your blessings. You must make efforts if you have salvation at last. Come to these meetings prepared to work. Leave your home cares, and come to find Jesus, and He will be found of you. Come with your offerings as God has blessed you. Show your gratitude to your Creator, the giver of all your benefits, by a free-will offering. Let none who are able come empty-handed. “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of Heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it” (Malachi 3:10).

The Review and Herald, August 2, 1870.

Keys to the Storehouse – Come and See

by

Right now we have the opportunity to choose which kingdom we would prefer to occupy our lives. We know that the apostles were attracted to Jesus and had their minds on Him when they said, “Rabbi, … where dwellest Thou?” John 1:38.

“Moved by an irresistible impulse, they followed Jesus—anxious to speak with Him, yet awed and silent, lost in the overwhelming significance of the thought, ‘Is this the Messiah?’ …

“Of one purpose only were they conscious. One presence filled their thought. They exclaimed, ‘Rabbi … where dwellest Thou?’ In a brief interview by the wayside they could not receive that for which they longed. They desired to be alone with Jesus, to sit at His feet, and hear His words. …

“He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where He dwelt, and abode with Him that day.” The Desire of Ages, 138, 139.

Does your heart burn within you with a longing you cannot explain when you repeat the words, “Rabbi, where dwellest Thou?” Asking that question, the apostles’ hearts longed to be totally connected with Him. The Holy Spirit was the source of that longing that drew their hearts to Jesus.

They desired to be alone with Him, to sit at His feet and soak in His words. Is that your desire? There was joy in the heart of the divine Teacher as these souls responded to His grace. The invitation is still open today. Come and sit at His feet and listen to His words and you, too, can bring joy to His heart by responding to the drawing of His Holy Spirit.

Jesus longs to establish in your heart the kingdom of righteousness and peace as He did in the hearts of His disciples. Many refused Him when He walked this earth, but those who did accept the invitation received righteousness and peace in their hearts through their time of trouble. Will you respond to the Holy Spirit’s call to “ come and see ”? Do not close the door to the call of One who seeks to establish in your heart His kingdom of righteousness and peace. With whom you desire to sit alone and spend time reflects which kingdom you seek—the kingdom of heaven or the kingdom of this world.

Father: Put into my heart the words “Rabbi, where dwellest Thou?” Open my spiritual ears that I might hear the call “ come and see ” and give me grace to respond to the drawing of the Holy Spirit that I may desire to sit at the feet of Jesus and to hear His words. You have promised that if I delight myself in Thee, You will give me the desires of my heart (Psalm 37:4) and I claim that promise right now. Amen.

Current Events – Pope and Cope exchange Hope for Catholic/Charismatic Union

by

Pope Francis has now sent a video message to Word of Faith father Kenneth Copeland, urging reconciliation between Catholics and Charismatics.

“The Catholic and Charismatic renewal is the hope of the church,” exclaims Anglican Episcopal Bishop Tony Palmer, before a group of cheering followers at the Kenneth Copeland Ministries. Palmer said those words are from the Vatican. Before playing the video message from Pope Francis to Kenneth Copeland, Palmer told the crowd, “When my wife saw that she could be Catholic, and Charismatic, and Evangelical, and Pentecostal, and it was absolutely accepted in the Catholic Church, she said that she would like to reconnect her roots with the Catholic culture. So she did.”

The crowd cheered as he continued, “Brothers and sisters, Luther’s protest is over. Is yours?”

Kenneth Copeland noted the incredible nature of this development: Said Copeland, “Heaven is thrilled over this. … You know what is so thrilling to me? When we went into the ministry 47 years ago, this was impossible.”

The evangelicals to whom the message from Pope Francis was addressed received it with open arms.

Bishop Tony Palmer apparently has a personal relationship with the pope and is being sent as his envoy. He serves as a mediator in that he is an Anglican with his own ministry that is specifically focused on bringing unity to the churches. He is making the rounds to bring different denominations together.

Palmer says he understands that the spirit of Elijah is the spirit of reconciliation to turn hearts of the sons to the father and to each other. He very skillfully breaks down the distinctions between Protestants and Catholics.

It is crucial that all true Protestants understand the reasons for the protestant movement and the role of the Roman Catholic Church in Bible prophecy.

You can watch the presentation of Tony Palmer and the message from the pope at the following website: http://standupforthetruth.com/2014/02/pope-to-copeland-catholics-and-charismatics-must-spiritually-unite/

Watch Doug Batchelor’s commentary on the pope’s message at: http://youtu.be/IsF2q-8ez08

Please note that Steps to Life does not endorsed either of these commentaries. We simply wish for you to be aware of current events in the fulfillment of prophecy.

Inspired:

“Romanism is now regarded by Protestants with far greater favor than in former years. In those countries where Catholicism is not in the ascendancy, and the papists are taking a conciliatory course in order to gain influence, there is an increasing indifference concerning the doctrines that separate the reformed churches from the papal hierarchy; the opinion is gaining ground that, after all, we do not differ so widely upon vital points as has been supposed, and that a little concession on our part will bring us into a better understanding with Rome. The time was when Protestants placed a high value upon the liberty of conscience which had been so dearly purchased. They taught their children to abhor popery and held that to seek harmony with Rome would be disloyalty to God. But how widely different are the sentiments now expressed!” The Great Controversy, 563.

Living a Victorious Life

by

Many try to live the life of a Christian, desiring to serve God in every way. At the same time, we must face the reality that many have become discouraged at their continual failure. Maybe you are just drifting along in this Christian life, thinking that there is no hope of living like Jesus. But I want to tell you the good news; there is hope! This hope has already been given to us in the word of God.

We have been told: “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Matthew 5:48. This is the utmost challenge. How in the world can I be as perfect as the Father of Jesus? It is impossible, so why expect this? There are some Bible examples of Christian perfection. There are those who have walked through our same experiences and have succeeded, after coming to Jesus, and live a sanctified life. There are stories of others who have fallen and later repented of their sins that are encouraging examples of victory.

The first righteous man the Bible mentions is Enoch. It is recorded, “And Enoch walked with God; and he was not; for God took him.” Genesis 5:24. What did he do right? He walked with God. That sounds very simple. The apostle Paul adds a little more information and explains that it was “by faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death.” Hebrews 11:5. Enoch walked with God by faith. His faith was in the promise of the Redeemer Who would come. Because he had this hope, he lived by faith. It continues: “… and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.” He not only walked with God, but he pleased God. All that God required was for him to walk with Him. This is so simple, yet it is so hard for people to grasp the concept and allow this beautiful truth to sink into their hearts. Praise God for His patience!

Another example of an excellent person who walked with God and who is a favorite Bible character with many people is Joseph. Joseph was raised in a God-fearing family. It was not perfect, like all of our families, but he grew up fearing God. He was the favorite of his father, Jacob, which unfairly provoked so many relationships that were not conducive to harmony in the family. The ensuing jealousy of his brethren was the cause of him being sold to the Ishmaelites, which landed him as a slave in Egypt. For many years Joseph’s life was not one to be envied however, God had His hand over Joseph for a special purpose and there were many experiences he went through that prepared him for this work. We also can learn from the experiences of Joseph. He was a very attractive young man, and Potipher’s wife attempted on a number of occasions to lure him into an illicit relationship. But Joseph walked with God and repelled her advances saying, “How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” Genesis 39:9. Joseph’s refusal to sin and the consequent accusations against him caused him to be thrown into prison. “But the Lord was with Joseph, and showed him mercy, and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.” Verse 21. Mortal eyes could not yet see God’s big plan for Joseph’s life, but God had His hand over Joseph and was in control of every event affecting him. Joseph’s faith did not falter, and while in prison he shared his faith to his captive audience.

To have victory over our own sinful nature we must walk with God continually. We must have Him with us even as we go to the grocery store and allow Him to direct us in what items we purchase to put into our bodies to keep us healthy, giving the enemy no room to distract us.

The story told of the three worthies while captive in Babylon is one that parallels well with the time in which we live today. Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were among the princes that were taken captive and given the new names of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, of which we are more familiar. There are several points in this account that are very important to understand. Daniel 3:8–10 says, “Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews. They spake and said to the king Nebuchadnezzar, O king, live for ever. Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, shall fall down and worship the golden image.” Nebuchadnezzar felt so proud and honored to have an image of his own interpretation of the dream God had given him. Considering himself a god in his high position, like Satan, he craved the worship of all the people.

Continuing their accusation: “And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, that he should be cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king. Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, ‘Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of music, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?’ ” Verses 11–15.

There is a movement today happening around the world, particularly in Europe, pushing for a day off each week, apparently to be set-aside for the family. Bible students know what is behind this push, which of course is Sunday and will be the spurious Sabbath that all will be required to acknowledge. It is hidden behind the guise of a necessity for the family, which would absolutely be a benefit.

At first, Nebuchadnezzar looks like a nice guy, a patient king. He offers a second chance and an opportunity for them to change their minds. He basically said, You can save your skins if you just bow down! But then followed the awful declaration in which he was really challenging the God of heaven, the God of Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. His declaration was similar to Pharaoh’s when he said to Moses, “Who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?”

“Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.” Verses 16, 17. What a statement of faith! They knew their God, that He would not be mocked.

We can identify with these men as we make spiritual preparation for the Sunday law that we know is coming. We must determine in our minds not to worship the image that will be set up and be prepared to tell the authorities that our God, Whom we serve, is able to deliver us out of any punishment that is devised for those who refuse to conform to this law. That is all fine, but …!

What if God doesn’t deliver you? What if God has assigned that you and I be martyrs for His honor and glory? Those faithful men fearlessly standing before the king of the greatest nation on the earth at that time said, “But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Then Nebuchadnezzar was full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.” Nobody dared to challenge the king as they did. So, he “… commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated. And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace. Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. Therefore because the king’s commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonied, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?” Verses 18–24. Suddenly God opened this king’s eyes and he saw what you and I today don’t physically see while we walk with God, the presence of Jesus safeguarding His loved ones.

“They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.” Verses 24, 25. That is one reason why they were able to answer the king and say, “No,” and even if he was going to take their lives, they said, “We’re not going to obey you anyway.” They were confident in their individual relationship with their God, they were in His presence; they walked with Him.

The only reason we sin and fall into the traps that Satan has set for us is because we lose the awareness that God is with us. When we forget or neglect our morning devotions, we walk away from Him and miss His guidance. The day never goes well without His companionship.

The story continues in verses 26 and 27, “Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king’s counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them.” What an encouragement is this story from past times; we cannot thank God enough for giving us this story of faith.

The Bible is full of stories of faithfulness. In John 1:47, it says, “Jesus saw Nathaniel coming to Him, and said to him, Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no guile!” Nathaniel, a person that walked with God, and Jesus declared him to be righteous, an Israelite in whom there is no guile.

Our greatest example of faithfulness is our Saviour, Jesus Christ. “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:14, 15.

Was He tempted beyond our human capability? Absolutely not! In this one sense, I have to clarify, but He was tempted in everything that we humans could be tempted. I do believe He was tempted even more, because for Him, being part of the Godhead, and knowingly, that He could not yield His power so He could be our example. He could have called a legion of angels to come and save Him, but He would have ruined His example for us and broken the agreement He had with the Father. In that sense, He was harassed even harder by the enemy. In Philippians 2:5, Paul tells us to “let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” The battle we fight is in the mind, and all power is given to us to win this war by having the mind of Christ.

Jesus, “Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in the fashion of a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” Verses 6–8. As a man He became obedient unto death. Are you ready to die, to die for your faith? We need the fullness of God in us.

In I Peter 2:21–25, it reads, “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.” How can I follow the example of Somebody that has more power than I and “Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth. Who when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously.” Jesus committed Himself to His Father Who was the source of His power. “Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.”

“For verily He took not on Him the nature of angels; but He took on Him the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succour them that are tempted.” Hebrews 2:16–18.

Jesus went through suffering and temptations and He succeeded, by the power of His Father. We are living in the time of the end, and we want to be part of that group who sing the song of Moses and the Lamb. “And I looked, and lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with Him an hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father’s name written in their foreheads.” Revelation 14:1. That name describes their character, the character of God, their Father. That name is engraved in every cell and in every feeling. It influences everything they do.

“These are they which were not defiled with women, for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.” Verses 4, 5. In Jesus there was not found any guile, neither was there in the three Hebrews who were tossed into the fiery furnace. God says, in Matthew 5:48, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” Never are we asked to do anything without being given power to accomplish the task.

An instruction manual for righteousness has been given to man, the Bible. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished into all good works.” II Timothy 3:16, 17. “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.” I Corinthians 12:28. Our ignorance is without excuse.

Jesus said, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away, and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in Me and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me.” John 15:1–4. The key word is abide. The word abide came from the word abode, which is dwelling, a house.

If we are attached to the vine, we will produce fruit. To increase fruit production the branches must be pruned. Ever so lovingly He prunes away our bad habits, all the time giving us grace so we don’t get discouraged. We may not notice the changes in our own lives, but others will see the evidence when patience is displayed instead of the past quick temper. Paul identifies these fruits in Galatians 5:22, 23: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Do these attributes describe you?

“Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin, for His seed remaineth in him.” I John 3:9. That sounds very simple. Looking at the parable in Luke 8:11, we see that the seed is the word of God.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God.” John 1:1, 2. Paul said, “Knowing this that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin.” Romans 6:6, 7. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20.

God certainly understands human nature but makes no excuse for sin when He has provided a remedy in abundance. “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take need lest he fall. There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, Who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.” I Corinthians 10:12–14. One of our biggest idols is self – my needs, my wants, my own opinion and my own comfort – the importance of me!

“Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.” Jude 24. “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13. How many blessings are missed that can never be recovered because we don’t take the time to “be still, and know that I [God] am God.” Psalm 46:10.

There is a promise found in I John 3:5: “And ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin.” God is able to keep us from falling through Jesus Christ. Matthew 1:21 tells us, “And she shall bring forth a Son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus for He shall save His people from their sins.”

“My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” 1 John 2:1. This is so encouraging, for if we do fall we can raise a hand and call out as did Peter when he took his eyes off Jesus and sunk into the water, “Lord, save me!”

“But when he [Peter] saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.” Matthew 14:30. Immediately Jesus stretched forth His hand, and caught him. Paul spoke of this great mystery: “Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but is made manifest to His saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:26, 27.

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7. Surround yourself with the things of God and don’t give the devil any ground. Jesus has shown the way, and His word overflows with counsel how to live a righteous life – walk with Jesus! He is coming soon to take His children home. “Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputed not iniquity, and is whose spirit there is no guile.” Psalm 32:2. Let this be our prayer!

Harold Cortes serves as the pastor for 7th Day Sabbath Church in Colton, California. He has a wife and two children. Brother Cortes grew up in the Seventh-day Adventist faith in Colombia, South America and received his medical degree in Mexico. After coming to the United States he obtained a Master of Public Health degree from Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California, and it was there that he received the call from the Lord to become a pastor and has been serving the church in Colton since 1977.