Judy Hallingstad

Keys to the Storehouse – You are That Fig Tree

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Did you know that you are the “ fig tree ” that Jesus has thus far spared? (See Luke 13:6–9.) A brother received this warning: “You should have gained a valuable experience during the many years that you have been blessed with the great light God has permitted to shine upon your pathway. I heard a voice saying in reference to you: ‘It is an unfruitful tree; why should its fruitless branches shadow the space that a fruitful tree might occupy? Cut it down; for why cumbereth it the ground?’ Then I heard the pleading tones of Mercy’s sweet voice, saying: ‘Spare it a little longer. I will dig about its roots; I will prune it. Give it one more trial; if it fails to be fruitful then, you may cut it down.’ So a little longer probation is granted the unproductive tree, a little longer time for the barren life to blossom and bear fruit. Will the opportunity given be improved? Will the warnings of God’s Spirit be heeded?” Testimonies, vol. 4, 188, 189.

God has given you and me a little longer to blossom and bear fruit. What are some of these fruits?

“Be clothed with humility as with a garment. Bear no thorns to prick and to bruise others, but make manifest the fruits of the Spirit—‘love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law’ (to condemn). ‘And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another’ (Galatians 5:24–26).” Manuscript Releases, vol. 19, 210.

“Are you, O careless heart, a fruitless tree in the Lord’s vineyard? Shall the words of doom erelong be spoken of you? How long have you received His gifts? How long has He watched and waited for a return of love? … You have taken the name of Christ, you are outwardly a member of the church which is His body, and yet you are conscious of no living connection with the great heart of love. The tide of His life does not flow through you. The sweet graces of His character, ‘the fruits of the Spirit,’ are not seen in your life.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 216.

God wants us to be “… trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified.” Isaiah 61:3.

“The heart that does not respond to divine agencies becomes hardened until it is no longer susceptible to the influence of the Holy Spirit. Then it is that the word is spoken, ‘Cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground’ (Luke 13:7)?” Christ’s Object Lessons, 218.

Father: I am so thankful that You have allowed me a little longer probation so that Jesus may dig about my roots and prune me so I can grow. Please continue to allow the fruits of Thy Holy Spirit, which are so fragrant and beautiful, to flow through me so that there be no shadows around me and I will be a productive tree in your vineyard and to Your glory. Amen.

Current Events – Richard Dawkins on Attack

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Renowned evolutionary biologist and atheist, Dawkins has called on schools to protect children from being indoctrinated by their religious parents.

In an interview with The Irish Times, February 25, 2015, before a talk at Trinity College, Dublin, he said,

“Children need to be protected” from religious parents.

He argued that parents were given too much leeway over their children’s education, and that it was time to give more rights back to the individuals themselves.

“There is a balancing act and you have to balance the rights of parents and the rights of children and I think the balance has swung too far towards parents,” he said.

“Children do need to be protected so that they can have a proper education and not be indoctrinated in whatever religion their parents happen to have been brought up in.”

Physicist Lawrence Krauss, who also took part in the interview, agreed that the state had an obligation to properly educating its children.

“That means parents have a limited – it seems to be – limited rights in determining what the curriculum is,” Krauss said.

“The state is providing the education, it’s trying to make sure all children have equal opportunity.

“And parents of course have concerns and a say, but they don’t have the right to shield their children from knowledge. That’s not a right any more than they have the right to shield their children from health care or medicine. And those parents that do that are often tried and imprisoned when they refuse to allow their children to get blood transfusions or whatever is necessary for their health. And this is necessary for their mental health.”

It comes after a writer on the website of Richard Dawkins’ foundation claimed this new scientific theory could answer the question of how life began – and throw out the need for God.

www.salon.com/2015/02/25/richard_dawkins_children_do_need_to_be_protected_from_religious_parents/

How different from God’s ideal for his children.

“To parents is committed the great work of educating and training their children for the future, immortal life. Many fathers and mothers seem to think that if they feed and clothe their little ones, and educate them according to the standard of the world, they have done their duty. They are too much occupied with business or pleasure to make the education of their children the study of their lives. They do not seek to train them so that they will employ their talents for the honor of their Redeemer. Solomon did not say, ‘Tell a child the way he should go’ … but, ‘Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it’ (Proverbs 22:6).” Child Guidance, 39.

True Education Series – Five Smooth Stones

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“And he [David] took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.” I Samuel 17:40

“It [true education] is the harmonious development of the physical, the mental, and the spiritual powers.” Education, 13.

It is helpful to consider, as we study Inspiration, each one of the three aspects involved. The physical part of the stories is apparent. The mental and spiritual aspects lie beneath the surface.

The early life of David presents many practical illustrations of true education. In his family life and his work as a shepherd, he developed into a strong young man in every way. There are spiritual applications to many events in his life. Five Smooth Stones represents the five main doctrines that we need to understand in our battle with the enemy. In this article we will discuss these with some of the important lessons involved with each one.

As we consider these, it is helpful to keep in mind the central theme of the Bible.

“The central theme of the Bible, the theme about which every other in the whole book clusters, is the redemption plan, the restoration in the human soul of the image of God.” Education, 125.

1 – The Sanctuary

We are His by creation and by redemption.

“God would have us realize that He has a right to mind, soul, body, and spirit—to all that we possess. We are His by creation and by redemption. As our Creator, He claims our entire service. As our Redeemer, He has a claim of love as well as of right—of love without a parallel. This claim we should realize every moment of our existence.

“Before believers and unbelievers we must constantly recognize our dependence upon God. Our bodies, our souls, our lives, are His, not only because they are His free gift, but because He constantly supplies us with His benefits, and gives us strength to use our faculties. By returning to Him His own, by willingly laboring for Him, we show that we recognize our dependence upon Him.” The Review and Herald, Nov. 24, 1896.

“The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the happiness of all intelligent beings depends upon their perfect accord with its great principles of righteousness. God desires from all His creatures the service of love—service that springs from an appreciation of His character. He takes no pleasure in a forced obedience; and to all He grants freedom of will, that they may render Him voluntary service.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 34.

Everything depends on the right action of the will.

“What you need to understand is the true force of the will. This is the governing power in the nature of man, the power of decision, or of choice. Everything depends on the right action of the will. The power of choice God has given to men; it is theirs to exercise. You cannot change your heart, you cannot of yourself give to God its affections; but you can choose to serve Him. You can give Him your will; He will then work in you to will and to do according to His good pleasure. Thus your whole nature will be brought under the control of the Spirit of Christ; your affections will be centered upon Him, your thoughts will be in harmony with Him.” Steps to Christ, 47.

“Pure religion has to do with the will. The will is the governing power in the nature of man, bringing all the other faculties under its sway. The will is not the taste or the inclination, but it is the deciding power which works in the children of men unto obedience to God or unto disobedience.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 513.

“Desires for goodness and holiness are right as far as they go; but if you stop here, they will avail nothing. Many will be lost while hoping and desiring to be Christians. They do not come to the point of yielding the will to God. They do not now choose to be Christians.” [Emphasis author’s.] Steps to Christ, 47.

God wants us to understand what is involved with this choice.

“When Moses was about to build the sanctuary as a dwelling place for God, he was directed to make all things according to the pattern shown him in the mount. Moses was full of zeal to do God’s work; the most talented, skillful men were at hand to carry out his suggestions. Yet he was not to make a bell, a pomegranate, a tassel, a fringe, a curtain, or any vessel of the sanctuary, except according to the pattern shown him. God called him into the mount, and revealed to him the heavenly things. The Lord covered him with His own glory, that he might see the pattern, and according to it all things were made. So to Israel, whom He desired to make His dwelling place, He had revealed His glorious ideal of character. The pattern was shown them in the mount when the law was given from Sinai, and when the Lord passed by before Moses and proclaimed, ‘The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin’ (Exodus 34:6, 7).”

“Israel had chosen their own ways. They had not builded according to the pattern; but Christ, the true temple for God’s indwelling, molded every detail of His earthly life in harmony with God’s ideal. He said, ‘I delight to do Thy will, O My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart’ (Psalm 40:8). So our characters are to be builded ‘for an habitation of God through the Spirit’ (Ephesians 2:22). And we are to ‘make all things according to the pattern,’ even Him who ‘suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps’ (Hebrews 8:5; I Peter 2:21).” The Desire of Ages, 208, 209.

“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” I Corinthians 6:19, 20.

When we truly understand and acknowledge God’s ownership of our whole being, we will be loyal to Him at all times and in everything.

“The essence of all righteousness is loyalty to our Redeemer.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 97.

2 – The Spirit of Prophecy

“Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.” Psalm 51:6.

“I call upon everyone who claims to be a son of God never to forget this great truth, that we need the Spirit of God within us in order to reach heaven, and the work of Christ without us in order to give us a title to the immortal inheritance.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 441.

“The Comforter is called ‘the Spirit of truth’ (John 15:26). His work is to define and maintain the truth. He first dwells in the heart as the Spirit of truth, and thus He becomes the Comforter. There is comfort and peace in the truth, but no real peace or comfort can be found in falsehood. It is through false theories and traditions that Satan gains his power over the mind. By directing men to false standards, he misshapes the character. Through the Scriptures the Holy Spirit speaks to the mind, and impresses truth upon the heart. Thus He exposes error, and expels it from the soul. It is by the Spirit of truth, working through the word of God, that Christ subdues His chosen people to Himself.” The Desire of Ages, 671.

“The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.” Matthew 6:22.

“We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts.” II Peter 1:19.

“The Holy Ghost is the author of the Scriptures and of the Spirit of Prophecy. These are not to be twisted and turned to mean what man may want them to mean, to carry out man’s ideas and sentiments, to carry forward man’s schemes at all hazards.” Selected Messages, Book 3, 30.

“The spirit of this generation is: ‘Speak unto us smooth things.’ But the spirit of prophecy speaks only the truth. Iniquity abounds, and the love of many who profess to follow Christ waxes cold. They are blind to the wickedness of their own hearts and do not feel their weak and helpless condition. God in mercy lifts the veil and shows them that there is an eye behind the scenes that discerns their hidden guilt and the motives of their actions.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 13.

“In ancient times God spoke to men by the mouth of prophets and apostles. In these days He speaks to them by the testimonies of His Spirit. There was never a time when God instructed His people more earnestly than He instructs them now concerning His will, and the course that He would have them pursue.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 661.

3 – The Seventh-day Sabbath

“But the Lord gave me a view of the heavenly sanctuary. The temple of God was open in heaven, and I was shown the ark of God covered with the mercy seat. Two angels stood one at either end of the ark, with their wings spread over the mercy seat, and their faces turned toward it. This, my accompanying angel informed me, represented all the heavenly host looking with reverential awe toward the law of God, which had been written by the finger of God.

“Jesus raised the cover of the ark, and I beheld the tables of stone on which the ten commandments were written. I was amazed as I saw the fourth commandment in the very center of the ten precepts, with a soft halo of light encircling it. Said the angel, ‘It is the only one of the ten which defines the living God who created the heavens and the earth and all things that are therein.’ ”

“When the foundations of the earth were laid, then was also laid the foundation of the Sabbath. I was shown that if the true Sabbath had been kept, there would never have been an infidel or an atheist. The observance of the Sabbath would have preserved the world from idolatry.” Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, 95, 96.

“The Sabbath is not introduced as a new institution but as having been founded at creation. It is to be remembered and observed as the memorial of the Creator’s work. Pointing to God as the Maker of the heavens and the earth, it distinguishes the true God from all false gods. All who keep the seventh day signify by this act that they are worshipers of Jehovah. Thus the Sabbath is the sign of man’s allegiance to God as long as there are any upon the earth to serve Him. The fourth commandment is the only one of all the ten in which are found both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. It is the only one that shows by whose authority the law is given. Thus it contains the seal of God, affixed to His law as evidence of its authenticity and binding force.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 307.

“The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty; for it is the point of truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be brought to bear upon men, then the line of distinction will be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve Him not. While the observance of the false sabbath in compliance with the law of the State, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the true Sabbath, in obedience to God’s law, is an evidence of loyalty to the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, receive the mark of the beast, the other choosing the token of allegiance to divine authority, receive the seal of God.” The Great Controversy, 605.

“What shall we say then? is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law.” Romans 7:7.

“For by the law is the knowledge of sin.” Romans 3:20.

“There is no safety nor repose nor justification in transgression of the law. Man cannot hope to stand innocent before God, and at peace with Him through the merits of Christ, while he continues in sin. He must cease to transgress, and become loyal and true. As the sinner looks into the great moral looking glass, he sees his defects of character. He sees himself just as he is, spotted, defiled, and condemned. But he knows that the law cannot in any way remove the guilt or pardon the transgressor. He must go farther than this. The law is but the schoolmaster to bring him to Christ. He must look to his sin-bearing Saviour. And as Christ is revealed to him upon the cross of Calvary, dying beneath the weight of the sins of the whole world, the Holy Spirit shows him the attitude of God to all who repent of their transgressions. ‘For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life’ (John 3:16).” Selected Messages. vol. 1, 213.

In keeping the Sabbath in spirit and in truth we are witnessing to everyone that we belong to the Creator of heaven and earth.

4 – The State of the Dead

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

“Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse; A blessing, if ye obey the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you this day: And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the Lord your God, but turn aside out of the way which I command you this day, to go after other gods, which ye have not known.” Deuteronomy 11:26–28.

“God’s love has been expressed in His justice no less than in His mercy. Justice is the foundation of His throne, and the fruit of His love. It had been Satan’s purpose to divorce mercy from truth and justice. He sought to prove that the righteousness of God’s law is an enemy to peace. But Christ shows that in God’s plan they are indissolubly joined together; the one cannot exist without the other. ‘Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other’ (Psalm 85:10).” The Desire of Ages, 762.

In the garden of Eden God gave Adam and Eve a test of their loyalty. “And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” Genesis 2:16, 17.

God explained His will, and the consequences of transgression.

Satan, on the other hand, presented his deception. “And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.” Genesis 3:4, 5.

Satan suggested that they would benefit by transgressing God’s law.

“ ‘Your eyes shall be opened,’ the enemy had said; ‘ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil’ (Genesis 3:5). Their eyes were indeed opened; but how sad the opening! The knowledge of evil, the curse of sin, was all that the transgressors gained. There was nothing poisonous in the fruit itself, and the sin was not merely in yielding to appetite. It was distrust of God’s goodness, disbelief of His word, and rejection of His authority, that made our first parents transgressors, and that brought into the world a knowledge of evil. It was this that opened the door to every species of falsehood and error.” Education, 25.

“Like the angels, the dwellers in Eden had been placed upon probation; their happy estate could be retained only on condition of fidelity to the Creator’s law. They could obey and live, or disobey and perish. God had made them the recipients of rich blessings; but should they disregard His will, He who spared not the angels that sinned, could not spare them; transgression would forfeit His gifts and bring upon them misery and ruin.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 53.

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” Galatians 6:7, 8.

“If we ever know the truth, it will be because we practice it. We must have a living experience in the things of God before we are able to understand His word. This experimental knowledge is what strengthens the intellect and builds us up into Christ our living Head.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 97.

“True obedience is the outworking of a principle within. It springs from the love of righteousness, the love of the law of God. The essence of all righteousness is loyalty to our Redeemer. This will lead us to do right because it is right—because right doing is pleasing to God.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 97.

“If ye love me, keep my commandments.” John 14:15.

5 – The Second Coming of Christ

We need to learn steadfastness and perseverance in our dedication to Christ.

“The doctrine of the second advent is the very keynote of the Sacred Scriptures. From the day when the first pair turned their sorrowing steps from Eden, the children of faith have waited the coming of the Promised One to break the destroyer’s power and bring them again to the lost Paradise.” The Great Controversy, 299.

“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on Him, If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:31, 32.

“And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for My name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” Matthew 10:21, 22.

“Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life.” Romans 2:6, 7.

“Christian life is more than many take it to be. It does not consist wholly in gentleness, patience, meekness, and kindliness. These graces are essential; but there is need also of courage, force, energy, and perseverance. The path that Christ marks out is a narrow, self-denying path. To enter that path and press on through difficulties and discouragements requires men who are more than weaklings.” The Ministry of Healing, 497.

“So with the great majority of the best and noblest men of all ages. Read the history of Abraham, Jacob, and Joseph; of Moses, David, and Elisha. Study the lives of men of later times who have most worthily filled positions of trust and responsibility.

“How many of these were reared in country homes. They knew little of luxury. They did not spend their youth in amusement. Many were forced to struggle with poverty and hardship. They early learned to work, and their active life in the open air gave vigor and elasticity to all their faculties. Forced to depend upon their own resources, they learned to combat difficulties and to surmount obstacles, and they gained courage and perseverance. They learned the lessons of self-reliance and self-control. Sheltered in a great degree from evil associations, they were satisfied with natural pleasures and wholesome companionships. They were simple in their tastes and temperate in their habits. They were governed by principle, and they grew up pure and strong and true. When called to their lifework, they brought to it physical and mental power, buoyancy of spirit, ability to plan and execute, and steadfastness in resisting evil that made them a positive power for good in the world.” The Adventist Home, 134.

“But this is the rule of conduct for all who would become His disciples. Nothing short of obedience can be accepted. Self-surrender is the substance of the teachings of Christ. Often it is presented and enjoined in language that seems authoritative, because there is no other way to save man than to cut away those things which, if entertained, will demoralize the whole being.”

“When Christ’s followers give back to the Lord His own, they are accumulating treasure which will be given to them when they shall hear the words, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; … enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.’ ‘Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God’ (Matthew 25:23; Hebrews 12:2). The joy of seeing souls redeemed, souls eternally saved, is the reward of all that put their feet in the footprints of Him who said, ‘Follow Me’ (Luke 5:27).” The Desire of Ages, 523.

[All emphasis supplied.]

Lynn Alan Humes became a Christian in 1974 at 24 yrs of age, and a Seventh-day Adventist two years later. Since then he has worked in many parts of the United States, doing canvassing, restaurant work, teaching, preaching, writing, building, agriculture, and whatever needs to be done. He and his wife, Lorraine (Butler) Humes, care for her father, Dr. Maurice Butler, and are involved with many aspects of Gospel Medical Missionary work, building and agriculture in rural Tennessee. He may be contacted by email at: optimalife@gmail.com.

By Beholding We Become Changed

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“How can a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You. Blessed are You, O Lord! Teach me Your statutes. With my lips I have declared all the judgments of Your mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, as much as in all riches. I will meditate on Your precepts, and contemplate Your ways. I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word.” Psalm 119:9–16 NKJV

It is very important to study God’s word to memorize and to saturate our minds with the eternal truths God has given us in His word. In Gospel Workers, 250, we are told the following:

“The life of God, which gives life to the world, is in His word. It was by His word that Jesus healed disease and cast out demons. By His word He stilled the sea and raised the dead; and the people bore witness that His word was with power. He spoke the word of God as He had spoken it to all the Old Testament writers. The whole Bible is a manifestation of Christ. It is our only source of power.”

This is a packed paragraph. What is it that gives life to the world? It is the life of God. Does not the entire Bible bear out this concept, that God is the Creator, the life-giver? Beginning with Genesis 1:1 through to Revelation, God is revealed as the Creator, the Life-giver. Sin has caused a rift in our connection, our communion with God and it is actually only because of His mercy that we live. God, in His mercy, His grace, His long-suffering, and His love, has ordained (shall we say, created?) a means by which we may regain that connection with Him. “The life of God, which gives life to the world, is in His word.”

God has ordained that through the study of His word He restores His life to each one of us and through us to others. There is no mystery, no mystical way to a connection with God. It is achieved only through a practical, earnest, consistent, deep, long-term study of His word.

Do you want life? We all say we want life. But let’s think about the reality of our desire. If there is a banquet of food on my dining room table and I say I want to eat because I am hungry, what is the real truth if I find myself doing innumerable other things and simply not going over to the table and eating the food? Do I really want the food? Am I really hungry? No. So, in the same way is the statement about wanting life. Think about this. Where do we find life? “The life of God, which gives life to the world, is in His word.”

Are you as intent upon “life,” eternal life, as you are upon your daily temporal bread? This is a question to answer before your God and in the honesty of your inmost soul. God already knows the answer, but it is important for you to know for yourself the answer to that question.

Since sin is the basic problem in this world, the issue that separates us from God and causes death, what is necessary and what is the means God has provided in order to recover us from this situation?

What does His word (which contains the life of God) say about this? “How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.” Psalm 119:9–11. We must study this Word; we must hide this Word in our hearts.

Jesus, the example for our lives, lived out the principle of sin having no more dominion over us. The Desire of Ages, 123, tells us how He was able to do this: “And how this is accomplished, Christ has shown us. By what means did He overcome in the conflict with Satan? By the word of God. Only by the word could He resist temptation. ‘It is written,’ He said. And unto us are given ‘exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust’ (II Peter 1:4). Every promise in God’s word is ours. ‘By every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God’ (Matthew 4:4) are we to live. When assailed by temptation, look not to circumstances or to the weakness of self, but to the power of the word. All its strength is yours. ‘Thy word,’ says the psalmist, ‘have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.’ ‘By the word of Thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer’ (Psalms 119:11; 17:4).” [Emphasis supplied.]

Jesus, Divinity in human flesh, lived by and through the word of God. It was His means of resisting temptation, His power for victory. Who are we to believe that we have less need of this word, this feast of salvation, other than our Saviour? Today, if in reality, the “tree of life” from the Garden of Eden was within your physical grasp, would you not drop anything you were doing to eat of the fruit of that tree? I say to you that this tree is within your physical grasp. Today we call it the Bible or the Spirit of Prophecy. In Western countries, Bibles and even most books of the Spirit of Prophecy are available to the majority of people. “The life of God, which gives life to the world, is in His word.” The “tree of life” gave life; God’s word gives life. But do we grasp as readily after “His word” as we would were the tree of life from the Garden of Eden within our grasp? Sobering thought.

My Life Today, 28 gives us this insight: “It is of the greatest importance that you continually search the Scriptures, storing the mind with the truths of God. … You need the treasures of God’s word hidden in your heart.” When are we to search the Scriptures? God says continually.

“The heart that is stored with the precious truths of God’s word is fortified against the temptation of Satan, against impure thoughts and unholy actions.

“Keep close to the Scriptures. The more you search and explain the Word, the more your mind and heart will be fortified with the blessed words of encouragement and promise.

“Let us commit its precious promises to memory.” My Life Today, 28.

“The great and essential knowledge is the knowledge of God and His word. … There should be a daily increasing of spiritual understanding; and the Christian will grow in grace, just in proportion as he depends upon and appreciates the teaching of the word of God, and habituates himself to meditate upon divine things.

“In giving us the privilege of studying His word, the Lord has set before us a rich banquet. Many are the benefits derived from feasting on His word, which is represented by Him as His flesh and blood, His spirit and life.” God’s Amazing Grace, 303. [Emphasis supplied.]

“The word of God is the standard of character. In giving us this word, God has put us in possession of every truth essential to salvation.” Gospel Workers, 250.

What is the central theme of the Bible? The book Education, 125, says, “The central theme of the Bible, the theme about which every other in the whole book clusters, is the redemption plan.” This redemption plan is not left undefined. The definition follows immediately. The redemption plan is “the restoration in the human soul of the image of God.” In other words, it is the getting rid of sin from our lives so that we can be reunited with God! Then it goes on to say, “He who grasps this thought has before him an infinite field for study. He has the key that will unlock to him the whole treasure house of God’s word.” Ibid., 126.

The central theme of God’s word, and remember that God’s word is “the life of God, which gives life to the world,” is the plan of salvation. And if we understand this thought we have the key which unlocks the “whole treasure house of God’s word.”

“The life of God, which gives life to the world, is in His word. It was by His word that Jesus healed disease and cast out demons. By His word He stilled the sea and raised the dead; and the people bore witness that His word was with power. He spoke the word of God as He had spoken it to all the Old Testament writers.” What tremendous food for thought is contained in those sentences. But I want to focus on what follows in the next sentence. It says, “The whole Bible is a manifestation of Christ. It is our only source of power.” Gospel Workers, 250.

Our only source of power is the whole Bible, the central theme of which is the plan of salvation. It is important to rightly know and understand what is in this book. In fact, as we read earlier, it is “the great and essential knowledge.” If something is essential, it is not possible to do without that something.

Let’s read some instruction about the study and meditation of God’s word directly from Scripture. Deuteronomy 6:6–9 NIV: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.” This pretty much encompasses all of life and makes perfect sense when we understand that it is sin that causes separation from God and ultimately eternal death and that it is by His word that God “gives life to the world.” Should not the study of His word be at the center of our lives? That is the instruction that God has given to His people, and that instruction been never changed.

“Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night.” Psalm 1:1, 2 NKJV. Again, God’s word is the meditation day and night. Why? The psalmist gives us the answer.

He says, “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping them there is great reward.” Psalm 19:7–11 NKJV. Do you want to be converted, wise, rejoicing, enlightened, clean? Do you desire God’s word, His means of restoring life, more than you desire gold? Is that borne out by your actions? Is His word truly sweeter to you than honey?

We have learned that it is God’s word that gives life. If we are going to partake of this life, we need to study His word, which itself tells us that it is to be our “meditation day and night”; we are to talk of it “when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” So God’s word is to be our life. I am not saying that we should not have jobs, take care of gardens, and take care of the daily necessities of life. But whatever we are doing “our thoughts and desires can always be upward.” Our High Calling, 161.

What will this do for us practically in our Christian walk? Christ’s Object Lessons, 355, answers this question. It says, “Looking unto Jesus we obtain brighter and more distinct views of God, and by beholding we become changed.” Do you want to become like Jesus? Do you want to be changed? That is what we have to do if we want eternal life with Him. So that means that we must behold Him. How do we behold Jesus? The Scriptures tell us in John 5:39 KJV, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me.” It is through this earnest, diligent study that we gain a knowledge of God and become changed into His likeness.

Are there guidelines as to how we are to study God’s word? We have already mentioned the need to store God’s word in our hearts, and we might first think of memorization, and that is good and necessary. But before we look at memorization, there is another aspect of studying the word of God that I would like to address.

Steps to Christ, 90, has some wonderful instruction on how to study the Word so that we receive the necessary benefit. “There is but little benefit derived from a hasty reading of the Scriptures. One may read the whole Bible through and yet fail to see its beauty or comprehend its deep and hidden meaning. One passage studied until its significance is clear to the mind and its relation to the plan of salvation is evident, is of more value than the perusal of many chapters with no definite purpose in view and no positive instruction gained.”

We read earlier in the book Education, 125, “The central theme of the Bible, the theme about which every other in the whole book clusters, is the redemption plan, the restoration in the human soul of the image of God.” We can read the whole Bible through without thought or care in a hasty manner and gain no benefit. God longs for your salvation, so He instructs us to study one passage of the Bible until we understand how it relates to this plan.

“Keep your Bible with you. As you have opportunity, read it; fix the texts in your memory. Even while you are walking the streets you may read a passage and meditate upon it, thus fixing it in the mind.” Steps to Christ, 90. In this way, through the guidance and teaching of the Holy Spirit (remember that we are always to pray before studying the Word), we come to understand how each passage relates to the plan of salvation, or the new covenant, and we fix it in the mind, or in other words, memorize.

Here are some practical suggestions how to memorize.

Practical Memorization Techniques

“The life of God, which gives life to the world, is in His word. It was by His word that Jesus healed disease and cast out demons. By His word He stilled the sea and raised the dead; and the people bore witness that His word was with power. He spoke the word of God as He had spoken it to all the Old Testament writers. The whole Bible is a manifestation of Christ. It is our only source of power.” Gospel Workers, 250.

My Life Today, 28: “It is of the greatest importance that you continually search the Scriptures, storing the mind with the truths of God. … You need the treasures of God’s word hidden in your heart.”

“The great and essential knowledge is the knowledge of God and His word. … There should be a daily increasing of spiritual understanding; and the Christian will grow in grace, just in proportion as he … habituates himself to meditate upon divine things.” God’s Amazing Grace, 303. [Emphasis supplied.]

These references are a small sampling of those we could cite as evidence that searching and studying God’s words and committing them to memory with a soul hunger for God and His truth is of the utmost importance to our lives, not only our temporal lives, but even more importantly, our eternal lives.

I suspect that to some of us, the very word memorize creates an immediate mental block. But I don’t believe it needs to. From the study that we have just done, it is very clear that we need to store God’s word in our hearts, and that God commands us to do so. So a logical question would then be, would God require something of me that is not possible? No, God is a God of tender mercy, love and patience. He would not command us to do something that is impossible. Therefore, if God will not ask us to do something it is impossible for us to do, then the only other option is that it is something we can do. So we can feel positive toward this memory work. There are many studies that prove the fact that if we have a positive attitude towards something, we are more successful in doing it. So I am going to ask that you discard your doubts, your dread, your reservations and fears, and even your ideas of can’t and replace them with “God asks me to do this, so I know that through His strength I can do this.”

Just do it. If you don’t feel like doing it, do it anyway, because you love your Saviour and Lord and because you want to become like Him. If you don’t have the desire, ask the Lord for the desire. After all, God says that if we ask anything of Him that is His will, He will do it. We have already studied out the fact that memorizing Scripture is His will for us. Therefore, if you don’t have the desire to memorize Scripture, here is some encouragement.

  1. Do it anyway because God asks you to.
  2. Do it because you love your Lord and Saviour.
  3. Ask Him for the desire to do it. Remember, He may not answer right away. He may want to see how serious you are about doing what He asks because He asks. Don’t give up! Trust Him.
  4. Keep in mind that your eternal life depends on obedience.

Before you begin pray for God to help you understand with spiritual understanding what you want to memorize, that He will be your teacher and for the Lord to help your memory. Again, realize that He may not answer right away to test your commitment.

Do what you can to help your own memory. Here are some suggestions.

  1. Analyze what the passage or text is saying so that it makes sense and so that you understand it and it is logical to you.
  2. Is there a sequence of events? If so, outline the passage at least in your mind.
  3. Does one line expand on or explain the previous one?
  4. Memorize one line or section at a time and add to it as you master each section or line.
  5. Repeat the passage out loud. There is value in speaking the words out loud as well as in contemplation of the thought of what they are saying.
  6. Write out what you want to memorize. You can take it with you to pull out anytime you have an opportunity to practice.
  7. Review frequently. Studies show that three 5-minute sessions of memory work throughout the day are more effective than one 15-minute session.
  8. Take the time to write and rewrite the chosen passage, thinking about it and what it says while you write.
  9. Work on memorizing with a friend by repeating the passage or quote to each other.

These are just a few memorizing techniques that you might try to commit God’s word to memory, to hide it in your heart. I am sure you will come up with some on your own as you work toward this goal. As you do this in obedience to God’s command, God will bless you. That is a promise.

Remember, the main goal, the key objective in studying and storing the word of God is to learn of Christ, our only means of salvation. “The life of God, which gives life to the world, is in His word. … The whole Bible is a manifestation of Christ. It is our only source of power.”

But there are other wonderful benefits as well. Do you want to be wise? Would you like a strong intellect? Do you want a breadth of mind, and a nobility of character? Where can you get these characteristics? Here is the answer: “There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the study of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If God’s word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of mind, a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose rarely seen in these times.” Steps to Christ, 90. This is just a hint of the wonderful effects that the study of God’s word has on the life and mind.

Today, make a commitment for your life’s sake and for the sake of the Saviour Who left all of heaven for you. Make a deliberate decision to choose life. How do you do that? By partaking of the feast that God has set before you in His word, by which He brings life to the world. Choose to study His word. Choose to hide His word in your heart, for in His word “God has put us in possession of every truth essential to salvation.” Gospel Workers, 250.

Brenda Douay is a staff member at Steps to Life. She may be contacted by email at: brendadouay@stepstolife.org.

Outside the City

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It was once commonly thought that witchcraft and other forms of sorcery were not a problem in western countries that claimed to be Christian nations, but in recent times it has become evident that even leaders of governments and churches have been involved in various practices of sorcery.

When Paul wrote to the Corinthian church, he made reference to the experience he had in the city of Ephesus where he had stayed for a time. He said, “For a great and effective door has been opened to me, and there are many adversaries.” I Corinthians 16:9.

What was this great and effective door that was opened to him? Ephesus was one of the leading cities at that time from which the gospel could spread all over the world. It was one of the most magnificent cities, but it was also one of the most corrupt. A tremendous amount of superstition and sensual pleasure that held sway over the multitudes was practiced within Ephesus. Under the shadow of the idol temples in the city, criminals of every grade found shelter, and the most degrading vices flourished.

It is interesting how often in the last several thousand years that criminals have used some form of religion to escape the ravages of the law that would otherwise come upon them. Ephesus was famous for the worship of the goddess Diana and the practice of magic flourished. The great temple there was dedicated to the goddess Diana, or Artemus in the Greek and was regarded by the ancients as one of the wonders of the world.

Kings and princes had bestowed large donations upon the building and the Ephesians vied with one another in adding to its splendor. It contained a large amount of the wealth of the surrounding country. Inside the temple was enshrined a goddess, an idol which, according to tradition, was supposed to have fallen from the sky. Upon the idol were inscribed various mystical symbols that were believed to possess great power and it was believed that by entreating the idol, miracles would be wrought.

Some people believed that they had been protected from robbers and even from death by the idol. Numerous and costly books had been written by the Ephesians explaining the meaning and use of these symbols and about how to practice their worship rituals. The people thought that magic, magical rites, and the use of these religious systems, could solve all of their problems.

God chose the apostle Paul to show these worshipers of idols and the magicians something in great contrast to what they were practicing. “Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them.” Acts 19:11, 12.

As a result of being involved with sorcery and magic, evil spirits had possessed many of the people, but through the influence of the apostle Paul, the Holy Spirit worked miracles to deliver them. The manifestation of supernatural power that accompanied the apostle’s work made a deep impression upon the minds of these people who had been under the sway of sorcery.

The people had prided themselves upon their association and intercourse with invisible beings. The miracles of Paul were more potent than anything that had ever happened by the use of magic. It was seen that miracles performed in the name of the Lord could not be imitated by any of the magicians in town or by their enchantments. In this way the Lord exalted his servant even in the estimation of the idolaters themselves, immeasurably above the most favored and powerful of the magicians. The spirits of evil are subject to the God of heaven and He gave His servant authority over them. In fact, the God of heaven was about to bring even greater shame and defeat upon the magicians and those who despised and profaned His Holy name.

Sorcery was prohibited by the Mosaic law on pain of death. Notice what it says in the law of Moses about this: “Give no regard to mediums and familiar spirits; do not seek after them, to be defiled by them: I am the Lord your God.” Leviticus 19:31. “And the person who turns to mediums and familiar spirits, to prostitute himself with them, I will set My face against that person and cut him off from his people.” Leviticus 20:6. “A man or a woman who is a medium, or who has familiar spirits, shall surely be put to death; they shall stone them with stones. Their blood shall be upon them.” Leviticus 20:27. To be involved with sorcery of any kind was to be condemned to death.

In Deuteronomy 18:9–12 the warning is repeated: “When you come into the land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you anyone who makes his son or his daughter pass through the fire, or one who practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens, or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist, or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination to the Lord, and because of these abominations the Lord your God drives them out from before you.”

One of the main reasons the nations in Canaan had to be destroyed was because of their practice of sorcery. God said, “You shall be blameless before the Lord your God. For these nations which you will dispossess listened to soothsayers and diviners; but as for you, the Lord your God has not appointed such for you.” Verse 13.

Sorcery was prohibited by the Mosaic law on pain of death, yet it had been practiced from time to time by apostate Jews. At the same time that Paul was in Ephesus, there were in the city certain Jewish people who claimed to be able to cast out evil spirits. Seeing the wonders that were wrought by Paul, they claimed to have equal power. They believed that the name of Jesus would act as a charm and they determined that they would also cast out evil spirits in just the same way as he had done. In Acts 19:13–17, this event is recorded. “Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, ‘We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.’ Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, ‘Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?’ Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded. This became known both to all Jews and Greeks dwelling in Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.”

The discomfiture and humiliation of those who had profaned the name of Jesus was soon broadcast throughout all of Ephesus, in all of Asia, and in the territory that we call Turkey today. Unmistakable proof had been given of the sacredness of that name and of the peril that a person who should invoke it brought upon themselves while they had no faith in Christ’s divine mission. Terror seized the minds of many people and the work of the gospel made tremendous progress. Facts came out that had previously been concealed and unknown. However, there were some people who, in accepting Christianity, had not fully renounced all of their heathen superstitions. They were still trying quietly to practice some of their magical rites. When they were convinced of their error they came and made a full confession to the apostle Paul and publically acknowledged their secret arts as deceptive and Satanic. Many sorcerers abjured the practice of magic and received Jesus Christ as their Saviour.

“And many who had believed came confessing and telling their deeds. Also, many of those who had practiced magic brought their books together and burned them in the sight of all. And they counted up the value of them, and it totaled fifty thousand pieces of silver. So the word of the Lord grew mightily and multiplied.” Acts 19:18–20.

This public renunciation of sorcery turned out to be a grand victory for Christianity in the very stronghold of superstition. From Ephesus the news was widely circulated concerning the converts who had burned their books on magic. They showed that the things they had once delighted in they now abhorred. It was through magic that they had especially offended God and imperiled their souls, and it was against magic that they showed such indignation. This was given as evidence of their conversion. These treatises that they burned were treatises on divination that contained rules and forms of communication with evil spirits. They were the regulations for the worship of Satan, the directions for soliciting his help and obtaining information from him. By retaining these books the disciples would have exposed themselves to temptation. By selling them they would have placed temptation in the way of others. So, because they had renounced the kingdom of darkness, they did not hesitate at any sacrifice to destroy its power. The truth triumphed over man’s prejudice, over their favorite pursuits, and over their love of money.

It is supposed by some people that because of our modern civilization, these heathen superstitions have disappeared. But have they really? Both Bible prophecy and also the testimony of the facts show that sorcery is practiced today in this Christian age among Christian nations just as much as by old time magicians but in a different form. The ancient system of magic is in reality just the same as that which is now known as modern spiritualism. Satan is finding access to thousands of minds all over the world by presenting himself under the guise of departed friends. Through mediums people think they can communicate with the spirit of a departed friend or relative or the spirit of a famous person who has died. But the Scripture says, “For the living know that they will die; but the dead know nothing, and they have no more reward, for the memory of them is forgotten. Also their love, their hatred, and their envy have now perished; nevermore will they have a share in anything done under the sun.” Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6. And in verse 10 it says, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.”

The book of Genesis and the book of Job were the first two books of the Bible written. In both of these books the state of a person in death is explicitly and plainly stated. God Himself told Adam and Eve, “Dust you are, and to dust you shall return.” Genesis 3:19, last part. Concerning death the book of Job says, “As the cloud disappears and vanishes away, so he who goes down to the grave does not come up. He shall never return to his house, nor shall his place know him anymore.” Job 7:9, 10. When people think they are talking to the spirit of the dead relative, they are actually talking to somebody else. They are indeed talking to a spirit, but it is not the spirit of their dead relative.

Job 14:10–12 explains when the dead person will wake up—when they will have consciousness again. He says, “Man dies and is laid away; indeed he breathes his last and where is he? As water disappears from the sea, and a river becomes parched and dries up, so man lies down and does not rise. Till the heavens are no more, they will not awake nor be roused from their sleep.” While life exists, as we know it, until the end of time, they will not be aroused from their sleep until the Lord returns.

Jesus talked about this subject several times. He said that death was a sleep. “These things He said, and after that He said to them, ‘Our friend Lazarus sleeps, but I go that I may wake him up.’ Then His disciples said, ‘Lord, if he sleeps he will get well.’ However, Jesus spoke of his death, but they thought that He was speaking about taking rest in sleep. Then Jesus said to them plainly, ‘Lazarus is dead.’ ” John 11:11–14.

Jesus also predicted when those that were dead would wake up. “Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.” John 5:28, 29.

Jesus said explicitly in John 6:40 when He will wake up the dead: “This is the will of Him Who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”

Today, true to his early cunning, when the devil appeared to Eve in the form of a serpent and in that form deceived the mother of our race, Satan employs deceptive devices to gain control of the minds of men, appearing to them as the spirit of a dead relative.

It is to protect men from the deception of Satan that the Bible explicitly forbids any such practice. Yet the Bible makes it very clear that in the last days people will be practicing sorcery again. In fact, the Bible says that it will be through sorcery that the whole world will be deceived in the last days. They will not know that it is the devil that is deceiving them for to be deceived means that there is no awareness of the deception. However, through sorcery, by communication with what people think are the spirits of the dead, or the apostles, or saints, or holy people from past ages, people believe that they are talking to the spirits of those who have died. They are not. Like King Saul, who believed he was communicating with the spirit of Samuel, they are talking to the spirits of evil angels.

Notice what the book of Revelation says about this: “And they did not repent of their murders or their sorceries or their sexual immorality or their thefts.” Revelation 9:21. And then, talking about the end of time: “The light of a lamp shall not shine in you (referring to Babylon) anymore, and the voice of bridegroom and bride shall not be heard in you anymore. For your merchants were the great men of the earth, for by your sorcery all the nations were deceived.” Revelation 18:23.

The heathen oracles of ancient times have their counterpart today in spiritualistic mediums, clairvoyants and fortunetellers. The mystic voices that spoke to ancient peoples from Endor and from Ephesus are still, by their lying words, misleading the children of men. Things like secret associations, séances, and the obscurities and wonderers of the sorcerers of our time have replaced the mysteries of ancient heathen worship. These disclosures are eagerly received by thousands of people who refuse to accept light from God’s word or from His Spirit. They will not believe the Bible, but they will believe in magic and miracles. While they speak with scorn about ancient magicians, the great deceiver laughs in triumph as they yield to his arts in a different form. Satan’s agents still claim to cure disease today. They profess to employ electricity, magnetism, and so-called sympathetic remedies, but the truth of the matter is, this magnetic power of which they boast is directly attributable to the sorcery of Satan. It is by this means that he casts his spells over the bodies and souls of men.

The sick, the bereaved, the curious, are today communicating with evil spirits and they know it not. All who venture there are on dangerous ground for the Word of truth declares how God regards them. In ancient times the Lord said through Elijah to one of the kings that because he sought evil spirits instead of seeking the Lord, he was going to die. Today, the visible and the invisible world are in close contact. If we could lift the veil on the invisible world and behold what is happening we would see evil angels all over the world employing their arts to deceive and to destroy. Wherever there is an influence that is being exerted to cause men to forget God, it is there that Satan is exercising his bewitching power.

If we are seeking scenes of dissipation or irreligious pleasure, if we are seeking the society of the sensualist or the skeptic or the blasphemer, we are tampering with sorcery. Before you are aware, your mind will be bewildered and your soul polluted. It is not necessary to even have physical contact with sorcery to become involved. You can be influenced by it through the press, through video, the Internet, television and other mediums whereby communication is distributed to the masses.

The apostle Paul made an exhortation to the people in Ephesus that we need to pay attention to today. He wrote, “Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.” Ephesians 5:11. Spiritualism in every form is very dangerous.

The Lord has given strict warning in His word that His children are not to have anything to do with sorcery or communication with the spirits of the dead or anything of the like. In fact, this is so serious that in the very last book of the Bible, we are told repeatedly that the person who does this will not be in the kingdom of heaven. It says, “But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” Revelation 21:8. In the final reckoning, “the sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolators, and whoever loves and practices a lie” (Revelation 22:15) will be outside the city; they will perish.

God means exactly what He says. We need to learn to fear God and give glory to Him, and realize that the hour of His judgment is come (Revelation 14:7). He is going to judge those who disregard His warnings and who worship and listen to the advice of evil spirits. Whom will you believe?

(Bible texts are from NKJV unless otherwise noted.)

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

Editorial – The Silent Sermon

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“Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life.” Philippians 2:14–16, first part.

A few of the traits of character that result in making believers shine as lights in the world are listed below:

The love of Jesus in the heart produces traits of character that the Christian will shine as lights. They will be patient, kind and respectful to others and easy to be entreated. They will be courteous. In dealing with others they will display meekness and gentleness with no harsh or domineering words or actions. They will show no partiality treating all the same. Their hearts will be pure doing what is right themselves and extending mercy to others who do not act accordingly. Their speech will be Christlike.

“Christ’s knowledge was great, his wisdom deep; but it was without pretense. It found expression in words beautiful with the grace of simplicity, yet clothed with dignity and power.” The Youth’s Instructor, March 19, 1903. “Un-Christlike speech lies at the foundation of nine tenths of all the difficulties that exist in the church.” The Review and Herald, November 24, 1904.

“Into the city of God there will enter nothing that defiles. All who are to be dwellers there will here have become pure in heart. In one who is learning of Jesus, there will be manifest a growing distaste for careless manners, unseemly language, and coarse thought. When Christ abides in the heart, there will be purity and refinement of thought and manner. …

“Only like can appreciate like. Unless you accept in your own life the principle of self-sacrificing love, which is the principle of His character, you cannot know God.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 24, 25.

“All spiritual culture Christ has provided for His children. If Jesus is abiding in the soul, the heart is filled with the holy graces of His Spirit, which makes itself manifest in the transforming of the features. If you would have beauty and loveliness of character, the divine law must be written upon the heart and carried out in the life.” Testimonies on Sabbath-School Work, 22.

“Christ presents His loveliness of character for you to copy.” Manuscipt Releases, vol. 11, 312.

“A profession is nothing in the sight of a holy God. If the truth does not produce beauty of soul and loveliness of character it is of no benefit to the one who claims to believe it.” The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials, 1472.

Bible Study Guides – A Holy Nation

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June 21, 2015 – June 27, 2015

Key Text

“Ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation.” Exodus 19:6.

Study Help: Christ’s Object Lessons, 286–293; The Acts of the Apostles, 14–16.

Introduction

“God desired to make of His people Israel a praise and a glory. …

“Their obedience to the laws of God would make them marvels of prosperity before the nations of the world.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 221, 222.

1 A CHOSEN PEOPLE

  • When the people of Israel were told that they were chosen to be a special people, a holy nation, entrusted with a specific mission, what did they answer? Exodus 19:8.

Note: “God had promised to be their [Israel’s] God, to take them to Himself as a people, and to lead them to a large and good land; but they were ready to faint at every obstacle encountered in the way to that land. In a marvelous manner He had brought them out from their bondage in Egypt, that He might elevate and ennoble them and make them a praise in the earth.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 292.

  • After all the commandments of the holy Law of God were declared to the people, what did they say? Exodus 24:3, 7.

Note: “God had chosen Israel as His people, and they had chosen Him as their King.” Prophets and Kings, 293.

2 A LIGHT IN THE WORLD

  • Near the end of their pilgrimage, how were the conditions of the covenant repeated to the Israelites? Deuteronomy 4:1, 2.

Note: “Through Moses they [the Israelites] were warned against the temptations that would assail them in the future; and they were earnestly exhorted to remain separate from the surrounding nations and to worship God alone.” Prophets and Kings, 294.

  • It was the purpose of God to set up Israel as a light in the world. What was Moses instructed to say to them? Deuteronomy 4:5–8.

Note: “Through the Jewish nation it was God’s purpose to impart rich blessings to all peoples. … The nations of the world, through following corrupt practices, had lost the knowledge of God. Yet in His mercy God did not blot them out of existence. He purposed to give them opportunity for becoming acquainted with Him through His church. He designed that the principles revealed through His people should be the means of restoring the moral image of God in man.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 286.

  • On what condition would the Lord extend His merciful hand toward them? Deuteronomy 4:29–31.
  • What would happen to them were they to forget the covenant of the Lord and turn away from Him? Deuteronomy 4:23–27.

Note: “Moses traced the evils that would result from a departure from the statutes of Jehovah. Calling heaven and earth to witness, he declared that if, after having dwelt long in the Land of Promise, the people should introduce corrupt forms of worship and bow down to graven images and should refuse to return to the worship of the true God, the anger of the Lord would be aroused, and they would be carried away captive and scattered among the heathen.” Prophets and Kings, 295.

3 A DIVINE SYSTEM OF EDUCATION

  • That Israel might be the light of the world, they needed to be an educated people. What duty was entrusted to the parents in Israel? Deuteronomy 6:6–9.

Note: “God had commanded the Hebrews to teach their children His requirements and to make them acquainted with all His dealings with their fathers. This was one of the special duties of every parent—one that was not to be delegated to another. In the place of stranger lips the loving hearts of the father and mother were to give instruction to their children.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 592.

  • Is education necessary as a preparation for the gospel work? II Timothy 2:15.

Note: “Christ is the ‘Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world’ (John 1:9). As through Christ every human being has life, so also through Him every soul receives some ray of divine light. Not only intellectual but spiritual power, a perception of right, a desire for goodness, exists in every heart. But against these principles there is struggling an antagonistic power. The result of the eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil is manifest in every man’s experience. There is in his nature a bent to evil, a force which, unaided, he cannot resist. To withstand this force, to attain that ideal which in his inmost soul he accepts as alone worthy, he can find help in but one power. That power is Christ. Co-operation with that power is man’s greatest need.” Education, 29.

  • What knowledge do we need so that our light may shine brighter and brighter? Matthew 5:14–16.

Note: “The minister, the missionary, the teacher, will find their influence with the people greatly increased when it is manifest that they possess the knowledge and skill required for the practical duties of everyday life.” Education, 221.

4 THE GREATEST NEED OF THE WORLD

  • What is the greatest need of the world today? John 1:9–12.

Note: “The world today is in crying need of a revelation of Christ Jesus in the person of His saints. God desires that His people shall stand before the world a holy people. Why?—because there is a world to be saved by the light of gospel truth; and as the message of truth that is to call men out of darkness into God’s marvelous light is given by the church, the lives of its members, sanctified by the Spirit of truth, are to bear witness to the verity of the messages proclaimed.

“God desires His people to place themselves in right relation to Him, that they may understand what He requires of them above all things else. They are to reveal to every struggling soul in the world what it means ‘to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly’ with their God (Micah 6:8). Wherever they are, at home or abroad, they are to be His commandment-keeping people. They are to have the assurance that their sins are forgiven, and that they are accepted as children of the Most High.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 458, 459.

  • For what purpose has the present truth contained in the threefold message (Revelation 14:6–12) been entrusted to the Advent people? Isaiah 60:1, 2.

Note: “The Lord in compassion is seeking to enlighten the understanding of those who are now groping in the darkness of error. He is delaying His judgments upon an impenitent world, in order that His light bearers may seek and save that which is lost. He is now calling upon His church on the earth to awake from the lethargy that Satan has sought to bring upon them, and fulfill their heaven-appointed work of enlightening the world. His message to His church at this time is, ‘Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee’ (Isaiah 60:1). To meet the conditions existing at the time when darkness covers the earth, and gross darkness the people, the church of God has been commissioned to cooperate with God in shedding abroad the light of Bible truth.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 458.

5 THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL AND THE LAST MESSAGE

  • What responsibility has the Lord placed upon every believer in the threefold message? Philippians 2:15, 16.

Note: “The people of the world are worshiping false gods. They are to be turned from their false worship, not by hearing denunciation of their idols, but by beholding something better. God’s goodness is to be made known. ‘Ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord, that I am God’ (Isaiah 43:12). …

“We are to show to the world and to all the heavenly intelligences that we appreciate the wonderful love of God for fallen humanity. … Far more than we do, we need to speak of the precious chapters in our experience.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 299.

  • What does God intend to accomplish through His people today? Matthew 24:14.

Note: “Long has God waited for the spirit of service to take possession of the whole church so that everyone shall be working for Him according to his ability. When the members of the church of God do their appointed work in the needy fields at home and abroad, in fulfillment of the gospel commission, the whole world will soon be warned and the Lord Jesus will return to this earth with power and great glory.” The Acts of the Apostles, 111.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 How were the conditions of the covenant with the people repeated to them as they were approaching Canaan?

2 How did God use the principles revealed through Israel as a means of restoring His moral image in men and women?

3 What would happen to them were they to forget the covenant of the Lord and turn away from Him?

4 What emphasis was placed on education so that Israel might be the light of the world?

5 How are the people of the world to be turned from false worship?

© 2014 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Israel Defeated—Why?

by

June 14, 2015 – June 20, 2015

Key Text

“Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant.” Joshua 7:11.

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 493–498.

Introduction

“The history of Achan teaches the solemn lesson that for one man’s sin the displeasure of God will rest upon a people or a nation till the transgression is searched out and punished.” Conflict and Courage, 120.

1 “ISRAEL COMMITTED A TRESPASS”

  • What happened soon after the fall of Jericho? Joshua 7:2–5.

Note: “The great victory that God had gained for them [over the fall of Jericho] had made the Israelites self-confident. Because He had promised them the land of Canaan they felt secure, and failed to realize that divine help alone could give them success. Even Joshua laid his plans for the conquest of Ai without seeking counsel from God.

“The Israelites had begun to exalt their own strength and to look with contempt upon their foes. An easy victory was expected, and three thousand men were thought sufficient to take the place. These rushed to the attack without the assurance that God would be with them.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 493, 494.

  • Why were the Israelites defeated? Joshua 7:1, 12.

Note: “It was a time for prompt and decided action, and not for despair and lamentation. There was secret sin in the camp, and it must be searched out and put away before the presence and blessing of the Lord could be with His people. …

“God’s command had been disregarded by one of those appointed to execute His judgments. … Instruction was given to Joshua for the discovery and punishment of the criminal.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 494.

2 “THE NATION WAS HELD ACCOUNTABLE”

  • Was the command of God actually transgressed by the whole camp of Israel or by only one man? Joshua 7:18.

Note: “God was very particular in regard to Jericho, lest the people should be charmed with the things that the inhabitants had worshiped and their hearts be diverted from God. He guarded His people by most positive commands; yet notwithstanding the solemn injunction from God by the mouth of Joshua, Achan ventured to transgress. His covetousness led him to take of the treasures that God had forbidden him to touch because the curse of God was upon them. And because of this man’s sin the Israel of God were as weak as water before their enemies.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 264.

“The nation [of Israel] was held accountable for the guilt of the transgressor: ‘They have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also’ (Joshua 7:11).” [Emphasis author’s.] Patriarchs and Prophets, 494.

  • If only one individual sinned by acting consciously contrary to the divine prohibition, why did God put the responsibility on the whole nation? Joshua 7:11.

Note: “Achan’s sin brought disaster upon the whole nation. For one man’s sin the displeasure of God will rest upon His church till the transgression is searched out and put away. The influence most to be feared by the church is not that of open opposers, infidels, and blasphemers, but of inconsistent professors of Christ. These are the ones that keep back the blessing of the God of Israel and bring weakness upon His people.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 497.

“In His dealings with His people in the past the Lord shows the necessity of purifying the church from wrongs. One sinner may diffuse darkness that will exclude the light of God from the entire congregation. When the people realize that darkness is settling upon them, and they do not know the cause, they should seek God earnestly, in great humility and self-abasement, until the wrongs which grieve His Spirit are searched out and put away.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 265.

3 “GET THEE UP”

  • How did Joshua cry to the Lord, and what was he mostly concerned about? Joshua 7:6–9.

Note: “Joshua and the elders of Israel were in great affliction. They lay before the ark of God in most abject humility because the Lord was wroth with His people. They prayed and wept before God.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 264.

“You can see by the prayer of Joshua, if you have spiritual discernment, that that which was esteemed by Achan as a very little thing was the cause of great anguish and sorrow to the responsible men of Israel. … Achan, the guilty party, did not feel the burden. He took it very coolly.” Christ Triumphant, 137.

  • What was the first work that God instructed Joshua to do? Joshua 7:10, 13.

Note: “It was a time for prompt and decided action, and not for despair and lamentation. There was secret sin in the camp, and it must be searched out and put away before the presence and blessing of the Lord could be with His people.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 494.

“The Lord did not specify who was the guilty party; but He gave directions as to what was to be done.” The Youth’s Instructor, January 25, 1894.

  • How do some people react when a similar work must be done in the church today? Isaiah 30:9, 10.

Note: “The spirit of hatred which has existed with some because the wrongs among God’s people have been reproved has brought blindness and a fearful deception upon their own souls, making it impossible for them to discriminate between right and wrong. They have put out their own spiritual eyesight. They may witness wrongs, but they do not feel as did Joshua and humble themselves because the danger of souls is felt by them.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 266.

4 “TAKE AWAY THE ACCURSED THING”

  • Why didn’t the Lord point out the culprit directly? What is the difference between acceptable and unacceptable confessions? Psalm 32:5.

Note: “The sinner was not directly pointed out, the matter being left in doubt for a time, that the people might feel their responsibility for the sins existing among them, and thus be led to searching of heart and humiliation before God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 494, 495.

“Achan … had seen the armies of Israel return from Ai defeated and disheartened; yet he did not come forward and confess his sin. He had seen Joshua and the elders of Israel bowed to the earth in grief too great for words. Had he then made confession, he would have given some proof of true penitence; but he still kept silence. He had listened to the proclamation that a great crime had been committed, and had even heard its character definitely stated. But his lips were sealed. … There is a vast difference between admitting facts after they have been proved and confessing sins known only to ourselves and to God. Achan would not have confessed had he not hoped by so doing to avert the consequences of his crime. But his confession only served to show that his punishment was just. There was no genuine repentance for sin, no contrition, no change of purpose, no abhorrence of evil.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 497, 498.

  • Why did God involve the whole congregation in a diligent search? I Corinthians 12:25, 26.

Note: “God holds His people, as a body, responsible for the sins existing in individuals among them. If the leaders of the church neglect to diligently search out the sins which bring the displeasure of God upon the body, they become responsible for these sins.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 269.

  • When it comes to helping the erring, what kind of wisdom should attend the needed pastoral work? James 1:5; 3:17, 18; Jude 22, 23.

5 “INDEED I HAVE SINNED …”

  • When the lot fell upon Achan, what did he say? Joshua 7:20, 21.

Note: “To establish his guilt beyond all question, leaving no ground for the charge that he had been unjustly condemned, Joshua solemnly adjured Achan to acknowledge the truth. The wretched man made full confession of his crime.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 495.

“Confessions of sin made at the right time to relieve the people of God will be accepted of Him. But there are those among us who will make confessions, as did Achan, too late to save themselves.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 272.

  • What punishment, applied to Achan, served as a warning for the rest of the people? Joshua 7:24, 25. How is it a warning to us?

Note: “The deadly sin that led to Achan’s ruin had its root in covetousness, of all sins one of the most common and the most lightly regarded. While other offenses meet with detection and punishment, how rarely does the violation of the tenth commandment so much as call forth censure. The enormity of this sin, and its terrible results, are the lessons of Achan’s history.

“Covetousness is an evil of gradual development. Achan had cherished greed of gain until it became a habit, binding him in fetters well-nigh impossible to break. While fostering this evil, he would have been filled with horror at the thought of bringing disaster upon Israel; but his perceptions were deadened by sin, and when temptation came, he fell an easy prey.

“Are not similar sins still committed, in the face of warnings as solemn and explicit? We are as directly forbidden to indulge covetousness as was Achan to appropriate the spoils of Jericho. God has declared it to be idolatry.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 496.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Why were the Israelites defeated in the first encounter with the people of Ai?

2 What was the first work that God instructed Joshua to do?

3 Why did God involve the whole congregation in a diligent search for the culprit?

4 What kind of wisdom is needed to deal with erring church members?

5 Why was Achan’s confession unacceptable?

© 2014 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – The Conquest of Jericho

by

June 7, 2015 – June 13, 2015

Key Text

“The Lord said unto Joshua, See, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour.” Joshua 6:2.

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 487–493.

Introduction

“Jericho [was] a heathen stronghold, the center of the worship of Ashtoreth, vilest and most degrading of all Canaanitish forms of idolatry.” Prophets and Kings, 229.

1 THE CAPTAIN OF THE LORD’S HOST

  • When the Israelites were encamped on the eastern side of the Jordan River, Joshua was seeking the help of the Lord in view of the conquest of Jericho. Who did he see as he arose from prayer? Joshua 5:13–15.

Note: “It was Christ, the Exalted One, Who stood before the leader of Israel.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 488.

  • What instruction did He give him? Joshua 6:2–5. What previous assurances from Christ gave Joshua courage to carry out his mission? Joshua 1:5, 6, 9.

Note: “In obedience to the divine command Joshua marshaled the armies of Israel. … They were simply to make the circuit of the city, bearing the ark of God and blowing upon trumpets. … The ark of God, surrounded by a halo of divine glory, was borne by priests clad in the dress denoting their sacred office. The army of Israel followed, each tribe under its standard. Such was the procession that compassed the doomed city.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 488.

  • On what condition do we have the same comforting assurance today? Matthew 28:20; James 1:5.

2 GOD’S MERCY AND JUSTICE

  • What happened on the seventh day? Joshua 6:15, 16, 20, 21.

Note: “All the inhabitants of the city [of Jericho], with every living thing that it contained, ‘both man and woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and ass’ (Joshua 6:21), were put to the sword. … The city itself was burned; its palaces and temples, its magnificent dwellings with all their luxurious appointments, the rich draperies and the costly garments, were given to the flames. That which could not be destroyed by fire, ‘the silver, and the gold, and the vessels of brass and of iron’ (verse 24), was to be devoted to the service of the tabernacle. The very site of the city was accursed; Jericho was never to be rebuilt as a stronghold; judgments were threatened upon anyone who should presume to restore the walls that divine power had cast down. …

“The utter destruction of the people of Jericho was but a fulfillment of the commands previously given through Moses concerning the inhabitants of Canaan.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 491, 492.

  • As the Lord had already demonstrated in the case of Sodom (Genesis 18:32), how did He show again that He does not destroy the righteous with the wicked? Joshua 6:22, 23.

Note: “Only faithful Rahab, with her household, was spared, in fulfillment of the promise of the spies.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 491.

  • What declaration of Jesus shows that there is hope for all sinners on condition of repentance? Matthew 21:28–31; Luke 13:1–5. What assurance does He give them? John 6:37.

Note: “Whatever the appearance may be, every life centered in self is squandered. Whoever attempts to live apart from God is wasting his substance. He is squandering the precious years, squandering the powers of mind and heart and soul, and working to make himself bankrupt for eternity. The man who separates from God that he may serve himself, is the slave of mammon.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 200, 201.

3 GOD’S MERCY AND JUSTICE (CONTINUED)

  • Why was the destruction of Jericho and its inhabitants necessary? Wouldn’t it have been better to try to evangelize them? Genesis 15:13–16; Deuteronomy 9:4; Isaiah 26:10.

Note: “[Deuteronomy 7:2; 20:16 quoted.] To many these commands seem to be contrary to the spirit of love and mercy enjoined in other portions of the Bible, but they were in truth the dictates of infinite wisdom and goodness. …

“The inhabitants of Canaan had been granted ample opportunity for repentance. Forty years before, the opening of the Red Sea and the judgments upon Egypt had testified to the supreme power of the God of Israel. … All these events were known to the inhabitants of Jericho.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 492.

  • How are evangelists warned about the opponents to the truth who are incurably dishonest? Matthew 7:6. How does the apostle Paul admonish us not to waste much time with such people? Titus 3:10, 11.

Note: “[Matthew 7:6 quoted.]

“Jesus here refers to a class who have no desire to escape from the slavery of sin. By indulgence in the corrupt and vile their natures have become so degraded that they cling to the evil and will not be separated from it. The servants of Christ should not allow themselves to be hindered by those who would make the gospel only a matter of contention and ridicule.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 129.

  • Why should we be always prepared to give others the benefit of choice? I Samuel 16:7, second part.

Note: “Many choose darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil. But there are those who, if the truth could have been presented in a different manner, under different circumstances, giving them a fair chance to weigh the arguments for themselves and to compare scripture with scripture, would have been charmed by its clearness and would have taken hold upon it.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 426, 427.

4 GOD IS STILL WILLING TO DO GREAT THINGS

  • How was the faith of the people of Israel tested in connection with the miracle that the Lord wrought in Jericho? Hebrews 11:30.

Note: “The Captain of the Lord’s host communicated only with Joshua; He did not reveal Himself to all the congregation. … They might have reasoned: ‘What unmeaning movements are these, and how ridiculous the performance of marching daily around the walls of the city, blowing trumpets of rams’ horns. This can have no effect upon those towering fortifications.’ But the very plan of continuing this ceremony through so long a time prior to the final overthrow of the walls afforded opportunity for the development of faith among the Israelites. It was to be impressed upon their minds that their strength was not in the wisdom of man, nor in his might, but only in the God of their salvation. They were thus to become accustomed to relying wholly upon their divine Leader.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 493.

  • What lesson does this event teach us? John 14:12; I John 5:4.

Note: “As on the occasion of the taking of Jericho, not one of the armies of Israel could boast of exercising their finite strength to overthrow the walls of this city, but the Captain of the Lord’s host planned that battle in the greatest simplicity, that the Lord God alone should receive the glory and mortals should not be exalted. God has promised us all power.” Christ Triumphant, 136.

“God will do great things for those who trust in Him. The reason why His professed people have no greater strength is that they trust so much to their own wisdom, and do not give the Lord an opportunity to reveal His power in their behalf. He will help His believing children in every emergency if they will place their entire confidence in Him and faithfully obey Him.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 493.

“The greatest victories to the church of Christ or to the individual Christian are not those that are gained by talent or education, by wealth or the favor of men. They are those victories that are gained in the audience chamber with God, when earnest, agonizing faith lays hold upon the mighty arm of power.” Ibid., 203.

  • What warning and promise of Jesus should we always keep in mind? John 15:5, 7.

Note: “Henceforward Christ’s followers were to look upon Satan as a conquered foe. Upon the cross, Jesus was to gain the victory for them; that victory He desired them to accept as their own. ‘Behold,’ He said, ‘I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you’ (Luke 10:19).

“The omnipotent power of the Holy Spirit is the defense of every contrite soul. Not one that in penitence and faith has claimed His protection will Christ permit to pass under the enemy’s power. The Saviour is by the side of His tempted and tried ones. With Him there can be no such thing as failure, loss, impossibility, or defeat; we can do all things through Him who strengthens us. When temptations and trials come, do not wait to adjust all the difficulties, but look to Jesus, your helper.” The Desire of Ages, 490–493.

“We can do nothing of ourselves. In all our helpless unworthiness we must trust in the merits of the crucified and risen Saviour. None will ever perish while they do this. The long, black catalogue of our delinquencies is before the eye of the Infinite. The register is complete; none of our offenses are forgotten. But He who listened to the cries of His servants of old, will hear the prayer of faith and pardon our transgressions. He has promised, and He will fulfill His word.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 203.

“Those who are unwilling to forsake every sin and to seek earnestly for God’s blessing, will not obtain it. But all who will lay hold of God’s promises … will succeed.” Ibid.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 When Christ revealed Himself to Joshua, what instruction did He give along with His own assurance?

2 How did the Lord demonstrate His mercy in the destruction of Jericho?

3 With what class of sinner are we warned not to waste much time?

4 How can we obtain our greatest victories as individuals and as a church?

5 What is the secret to overcoming sin in our life?

© 2014 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Disaster in Israel

by

May 31, 2015 – June 6, 2015

Key Text

“And Israel joined himself unto Baalpeor: and the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel.” Numbers 25:3.

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 453–461.

Introduction

“But agreeable as were their physical surroundings, the Israelites were here to encounter an evil more deadly than mighty hosts of armed men or the wild beasts of the wilderness.” The Signs of the Times, November 18, 1880.

1 AN UNEXPECTED DEFEAT

  • While Moses was preparing to cross the Jordan River with Israel’s armies for the occupation of Canaan, why was the anger of the Lord kindled against Israel? Numbers 25:1–3.
  • Who was the mastermind behind this great evil? Revelation 2:14; Numbers 31:15, 16.

Note: “At Balaam’s suggestion, a grand festival in honor of their [the Moabites’] gods was appointed by the king of Moab, and it was secretly arranged that Balaam should induce the Israelites to attend. … Great numbers of the people [of Israel] joined him in witnessing the festivities. They ventured upon the forbidden ground, and were entangled in the snare of Satan. Beguiled with music and dancing, and allured by the beauty of heathen vestals, they cast off their fealty to Jehovah. As they united in mirth and feasting, indulgence in wine beclouded their senses and broke down the barriers of self-control. Passion had full sway; and having defiled their consciences by lewdness, they were persuaded to bow down to idols. They offered sacrifice upon heathen altars and participated in the most degrading rites.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 454.

2 HOW WAS THE EVIL SUPPRESSED?

  • What were Moses and the judges of Israel commanded to do before God’s punishment would be removed? Numbers 25:4, 5.

Note: “Their [the Moabites and Midianites’] iniquitous practices did that for Israel which all the enchantments of Balaam could not do—they separated them from God. By swift-coming judgments the people were awakened to the enormity of their sin. A terrible pestilence broke out in the camp, to which tens of thousands speedily fell a prey. God commanded that the leaders in this apostasy be put to death by the magistrates. This order was promptly obeyed. The offenders were slain, then their bodies were hung up in sight of all Israel that the congregation, seeing the leaders so severely dealt with, might have a deep sense of God’s abhorrence of their sin and the terror of His wrath against them.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 455.

  • What happened while the people were weeping and confessing their sins? Numbers 25:6–8, 12, 13.

Note: “All felt that the punishment was just, and the people hastened to the tabernacle, and with tears and deep humiliation confessed their sin. While they were thus weeping before God, at the door of the tabernacle, while the plague was still doing its work of death, and the magistrates were executing their terrible commission, Zimri, one of the nobles of Israel, came boldly into the camp, accompanied by a Midianitish harlot, a princess ‘of a chief house in Midian’ (Numbers 25:15), whom he escorted to his tent. Never was vice bolder or more stubborn. Inflamed with wine, Zimri declared his ‘sin as Sodom’ (Isaiah 3:9), and gloried in his shame.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 455.

  • How many perished at the hand of God in the plague? Numbers 25:9. What did the census that was taken shortly afterwards further reveal? Numbers 26:1, 2, 63–65.

Note: “The judgments visited upon Israel for their sin at Shittim, destroyed the survivors of that vast company, who, nearly forty years before, had incurred the sentence, ‘They shall surely die in the wilderness’ (Numbers 26:65).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 456.

3 ADDITIONAL PROTECTING MEASURES

  • As the Midianites were among the most degraded enemies of God and among the most dangerous neighbors of Israel, what was Moses instructed to do? Numbers 31:1–3, 8.
  • What will God do to them that devise mischief against His people? Psalm 94:1, 2, 20–23.

Note: “He [God] Who slumbers not, Who is continually at work for the accomplishment of His designs, will carry forward His own work. He will thwart the purposes of wicked men, and will bring to confusion the counsels of those who plot mischief against His people. He who is the King, the Lord of hosts, sitteth between the cherubim, and amid the strife and tumult of nations He guards His children still.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 121.

  • On what condition has God promised to protect His people? Deuteronomy 28:1–7.

Note: “The church is God’s agency for the proclamation of truth, empowered by Him to do a special work; and if she is loyal to Him, obedient to all His commandments, there will dwell within her the excellency of divine grace. If she will be true to her allegiance, if she will honor the Lord God of Israel, there is no power that can stand against her. …

“If the church will put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness, withdrawing from all allegiance with the world, there is before her the dawn of a bright and glorious day. God’s promise to her will stand fast forever. He will make her an eternal excellency, a joy of many generations. Truth, passing by those who despise and reject it, will triumph. Although at times apparently retarded, its progress has never been checked. When the message of God meets with opposition, He gives it additional force, that it may exert greater influence. Endowed with divine energy, it will cut its way through the strongest barriers and triumph over every obstacle.” The Acts of the Apostles, 600, 601.

4 FOR OUR ADMONITION

  • Why should we, and especially those who have been called to take part in the work of God, study the ups-and-downs in the history of Israel? Romans 15:4. Why does the apostasy that took place at the Jordan deserve special attention?

Note: “The Israelites, who could not be overcome by the arms or by the enchantments of Midian, fell a prey to her harlots. Such is the power that woman, enlisted in the service of Satan, has exerted to entrap and destroy souls. … It was thus that the children of Seth were seduced from their integrity, and the holy seed became corrupt. It was thus that Joseph was tempted. Thus Samson betrayed his strength, the defense of Israel, into the hands of the Philistines. Here David stumbled. And Solomon, the wisest of kings, who had thrice been called the beloved of his God, became a slave of passion, and sacrificed his integrity to the same bewitching power.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 457.

  • What warning is addressed to this last generation of Christians? I Corinthians 10:8, 11.

Note: “As we approach the close of time, as the people of God stand upon the borders of the heavenly Canaan, Satan will, as of old, redouble his efforts to prevent them from entering the goodly land. He lays his snares for every soul. It is not the ignorant and uncultured merely that need to be guarded; he will prepare his temptations for those in the highest positions, in the most holy office; if he can lead them to pollute their souls, he can through them destroy many. And he employs the same agents now as he employed three thousand years ago. By worldly friendships, by the charms of beauty, by pleasure seeking, mirth, feasting, or the wine cup, he tempts to the violation of the seventh commandment.

“Satan seduced Israel into licentiousness before leading them to idolatry. Those who will dishonor God’s image and defile His temple in their own persons will not scruple at any dishonor to God that will gratify the desire of their depraved hearts. Sensual indulgence weakens the mind and debases the soul.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 457, 458.

5 THE WAY WAS PREPARED FOR SINNING

  • What condition (or conditions) prepared the way for the people of Israel to fall prey to the sensual temptations of Satan when they came to the Jordan River? Ezekiel 16:49, 50.

Note: “It was when the Israelites were in a condition of outward ease and security that they were led into sin. They failed to keep God ever before them, they neglected prayer and cherished a spirit of self-confidence. Ease and self-indulgence left the citadel of the soul unguarded, and debasing thoughts found entrance. It was the traitors within the walls that overthrew the strongholds of principle and betrayed Israel into the power of Satan. It is thus that Satan still seeks to compass the ruin of the soul. A long preparatory process, unknown to the world, goes on in the heart before the Christian commits open sin. The mind does not come down at once from purity and holiness to depravity, corruption, and crime. It takes time to degrade those formed in the image of God to the brutal or the satanic. By beholding we become changed. By the indulgence of impure thoughts man can so educate his mind that sin which he once loathed will become pleasant to him.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 459.

  • What warning should we always bear in mind? I Corinthians 10:12; I Peter 5:8.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Who was the mastermind behind the great apostasy that took place in Israel shortly before crossing the river Jordan?

2 How was the way prepared for the Israelites to fall on that occasion?

3 How were the most guilty punished?

4 What lesson should we learn from the fact that the Midianites had to be destroyed without making efforts to evangelize them?

5 What will a true servant of God be able to say if he or she follows the example of Paul in Philippians 4:9?

© 2014 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.