John J. Grosboll

The Divine Nature

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We are told in 2 Peter 1:4 KJV that we are to become “partakers of the divine nature,” or literally, we are to become partakers of the Godhead. That would be blasphemous for me to say, but this wonderful doctrine was taught by the apostle Peter and has been the subject of a great deal of theological controversy for many years. To understand it, we need the direction of the Holy Spirit. Scripture may be read a hundred times without understanding, but then, all of a sudden, the light comes on and we see the meaning clearly.

In Revelation the third chapter, it is a thrill to read of the Philadelphia church, which is one of only two of the seven churches concerning whom Jesus gives no condemnation or reproof. During the second advent movement in the 1840s, the people had an experience in brotherly love that I myself have never witnessed in Adventists in my whole life. However, this is the experience that is needed if we are going to be ready for the second coming of Jesus.

The Philadelphia church is followed by the Laodicean church. Philadelphia is a Greek word that means brotherly love. Laodicea means the judging of the people. The church of Laodicea is the church that is alive during the time of the judgment. Revelation 3:17 and 18 says, “Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’— and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked—I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see.”

Notice that these people are spiritually naked. When you are naked you usually want to put on clothes. That was the experience of Adam and Eve after they ate from the forbidden fruit. However, the problem they faced was that the clothing they prepared for themselves was inadequate. Jesus said to the Laodicean church, “You don’t know your real condition. You are naked and you do not know it. You need clothes and only I have the clothing that you need.” A surface reader can find the book of Revelation difficult to understand because it is written in symbolic language, but the Bible itself explains all of its symbols. What does the clothing represent? Isaiah 61:10 says, “I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.”

Ellen White comments on this same subject in The Review and Herald, August 7, 1894. She says, “What is it that constitutes the wretchedness, the nakedness of those who feel rich and increased with goods?—It is the want of the righteousness of Christ. In their own righteousness they are represented as clothed with filthy rags, and yet in this condition they flatter themselves that they are clothed upon with Christ’s righteousness. Could deception be greater?”

Jesus came to offer the clothes of righteousness, His own righteousness, to all who would receive Him. This gift was not for the Jews alone. There were people who called themselves “the chosen people of God” who refused to accept Him, being satisfied with their own righteousness. Those who rejected His offer will not be in heaven. Although some of them had memorized and could quote the whole Pentateuch, it will avail them nothing in the end. Nobody can be taken to heaven from Adam down through all his descendants unless they are clothed with these pure garments which are heaven’s gift.

Yet there is more than one garment that must be put on. “He [Jesus] is waiting to strip them of their garments stained and polluted with sin, and to put upon them the white robes [plural] of righteousness; He bids them live and not die.” Steps to Christ, 53.

This is mentioned many times in the writings of Ellen G. White. Sometimes it is referred to simply as a robe, but very often it is referred to in the plural form, garments. There is a reason for that. One example is found in Revelation 16:15 where Jesus says, “Behold, I am coming as a thief. Blessed is he who watches, and keeps his garments, lest he walk naked and they see his shame.” Garments here is plural.

Let’s look at the first garment that is needed. It is found in Messages to Young People, 35: “The [robe of] righteousness by which we are justified is imputed.” Justified means you have been pardoned, forgiven and pronounced free of guilt. Imputed means that righteousness has been attributed or reckoned to you. This is our title to heaven. The word title means that you have a legal right to possess something.

Here is an illustration of this concept. As some of you know, I have been threatened with blindness in my life and it is by the grace of God that I can see and I am very thankful for that blessing. Suppose I was blind and that I would have enough money to go to the auto dealer to buy a new car. I choose my car, sign the papers and get the title to my car. Can I drive it? No. I may have the title, but because of blindness I am not fit to drive the car.

We need to think clearly about Bible truth. Today there are people telling others that all that is needed is a title to heaven to be able to go there. That is a delusion of the devil. No unfit person will be allowed to pollute the perfect peace of heaven. “The righteousness by which we are sanctified is imparted.” This is said to be “… our fitness for heaven.” Ibid., 35.

Justified means we are pardoned. Sanctified means that we have been made holy. It is impossible to make ourselves holy, but God says in Exodus 31:12 and Ezekiel 20:12, “If you keep the Sabbath, I will make you holy.” The righteousness by which you are sanctified, made holy, is imparted. Imparted means that it is actually given to you. The people that are ready for Jesus to come not only have on the robe, but they also have on the wedding garment. The righteousness that is imparted is the wedding garment.

Revelation 19:7, 8 says, “Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready. And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.” The word saint means holy one. Did you notice here that it does not say it is the righteousness of Jesus Christ, but that of the saints? How can this be when man has no righteousness of his own? Jesus says, “I am going to give you My righteousness.” When it is given to you it is imputed—that is justification. However, in sanctification righteousness is actually imparted; His righteousness becomes mine.

There are serious things to consider in regard to this subject. Jesus has a garment, the robe of His righteousness, that He will impute to me to give me a title to heaven. But before I can actually go there I must be made fit. I have to have on the wedding garment to be allowed into the feast. The saints actually have the righteousness. If you are given a garment it will be of no benefit to you unless you put it on.

“The work of preparation is an individual work. We are not saved in groups. … Though all nations are to pass in judgment before God, yet He will examine the case of each individual with as close and searching scrutiny as if there were not another being upon the earth. Everyone must be tested and found without spot or wrinkle or any such thing.” The Great Controversy, 490.

The wedding garment is described as follows:

The “garment was a gift from the king.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 309. It is not something that I can generate by myself. It is a gift.

“… the wedding garment represents the character.” Ibid., 307.

“Christ in His humanity wrought out a perfect character, and this character He offers to impart to us.” Ibid., 311.

“By the wedding garment in the parable is represented the pure, spotless character which Christ’s true followers will possess.” Ibid., 310.

“In order that we may have the righteousness of Christ, we need daily to be transformed by the influence of the Spirit, to be a partaker of the divine nature.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 374. Unless you are a partaker of the divine nature, you are not going to have this experience. My dear friend, one of our problems in Laodicea is that we do not realize how much is actually involved in salvation. It involves much more than we as human beings think. It is common for us as human beings to think that if we could just overcome certain things, then we would be ready to go to heaven.

The Lord sees what you and I do not. We need much more than we think to be ready to go to heaven. “He [Christ] makes an end of the controlling power of sin in the heart … for it is necessary that every believer should be delivered from pollution, as well as from the curse and condemnation of the law. … for Christ works within us, and His righteousness is upon us. Without this, no soul will be entitled to heaven.” Ibid., 395.

If I am not delivered, not only from law-breaking but from all pollution, I will not be going to heaven. That is exactly what the Lord wants to do for me, through the Holy Spirit—clean me up. The following quote is worth repeating: “Christ’s humanity was united with divinity, and in this strength He would bear all the temptations that Satan could bring against Him, and yet keep His soul untainted by sin. And this power to overcome He would give to every son and daughter of Adam who would accept by faith the righteous attributes of His character.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 223.

This offer is just for you. Even if you are the weakest and most sinful person, it is still for you but, remember, you have to put it on. You have to do your part and sometimes that seems to be exceedingly hard. In the book Christ’s Object Lessons, 331, Ellen White wrote that becoming like Christ and developing the perfect character is through “… hard, stern battles with self.” First, we must put on the robe and be justified. Then we will be enabled to put on the wedding garment. “Through the merits of Christ, through His righteousness, which by faith is imputed unto us, we are to attain to the perfection of Christian character.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 744. Is this the experience you desire?

“Let no one despair of gaining the victory. Victory is sure when self is surrendered to God.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, 1095. Everyone may be saved if self is surrendered to God.

Every heresy that had to be opposed in the past will have to be dealt with again, including perfectionism. The Bible does not teach holy flesh but does teach that you can receive power from Christ and develop a holy character. “The Christian will feel the promptings of sin, but he will maintain a constant warfare against it.” The Great Controversy, 470. Do not be discouraged and think you are lost if you feel promptings of sin. We live in a temple of fallen human nature. Therefore we will feel the temptations and promptings of sin. Paul says, “I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish” (Galatians 5:16, 17). It is not safe to simply do whatever comes naturally but by diligence, control the carnal nature.

“But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law” (Galatians 5:18). Notice, many of our Protestant friends are very confused about this and they say, “Oh, we are not under the law.” People that say they are not under the law are actually under it, because whoever breaks the law is under it. Romans 3:19 states: “Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.” The whole world is under the law. Everybody that breaks the law is under it and under the condemnation of eternal death.

Many years ago when I was in interdenominational jail ministry in Fort Worth, Texas, a friend and I would sometimes car pool while driving up there weekly. One day he asked me, “Have you ever thought what it would feel like if there were no plan of salvation?” This was a question I had never thought about, for I had grown up in a Seventh-day Adventist Christian home where my parents understood and taught me the three angels’ messages.

If there were no plan of salvation, not one of the descendants of Adam and Eve would be able to experience eternal life. Everyone would have to die. When our first parents sinned, the angels were very troubled because they understood well that Adam and Eve and all of their posterity would have to die.

“Throughout the heavenly courts there was mourning for the ruin that sin had wrought.

“The Son of God, heaven’s glorious Commander, was touched with pity for the fallen race. His heart was moved with infinite compassion as the woes of the lost world rose up before Him. But divine love had conceived a plan whereby man might be redeemed. …

“Before the Father He [Jesus] pleaded on the sinner’s behalf, while the host of heaven awaited the result with an intensity of interest that words cannot express. Long continued was that mysterious communing—‘the counsel of peace’ (Zechariah 6:13) for the fallen sons of men. The plan of salvation had been laid before the creation of the earth; for Christ is ‘the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world’ (Revelation 13:8); yet it was a struggle, even with the King of the universe, to yield up His Son to die for the guilty race. But ‘God so loved the world, that He gave up His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth Him should not perish, but have everlasting life’ (John 3:16). Oh, the mystery of redemption!” Patriarchs and Prophets, 63, 64.

The plan of salvation does not just involve forgiving people for what they have done wrong. From its very inception, it involved restoring everything that had been lost by sin. In fact, it would be more than restored. We are told that as a result of the incarnation—the life and the death of Jesus Christ—that we are going to be more closely united to Christ than if we had never fallen. We are told in 2 Peter 1:4 literal translation: “… exceeding great and precious promises, that we might become partakers of the Godhead.” I cannot comprehend that, but that is what has to happen in order for me to be ready to go to heaven.

Putting on the wedding garment means that the character of Christ becomes my character; the way He thinks becomes the way I think; the way He talks becomes the way I talk; the way He acts becomes the way I act. Until that happens I am not ready and it would not be safe to take me to heaven because I have not yet put on the wedding garment.

When we talk about being a perfect reflection of the character of Christ, we are not in any sense implying that we will ever be equal with Him. Let me explain it this way. Suppose that you have a mirror and the mirror is perfect. You hold up the mirror to the sun and it gives a perfect reflection from the sunlight. Is the mirror equal to the sun? No, it just gives a reflection of the sun. Our character must reflect the character of Christ. We are never equal to Him but we may perfectly reflect His character. “As he advances toward perfection, he experiences a conversion to God every day; and this conversion is not completed until he attains to perfection of Christian character, a full preparation for the finishing touch of immortality.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 505.

The following is a ten-point summary that may help some people to be able to follow this line of reasoning:

  1. Laodicea is naked and cannot go to the wedding supper unless she becomes clothed.
  2. The nakedness of Laodicea is the lack of the righteousness of Christ.
  3. There are two garments. The first garment is the robe of righteousness, imputed to us, by which we are justified. It is attributed to us and we are declared righteous at conversion. But that is not enough; there is another step.
  4. We are to put on the garments of Christ’s righteousness by which we are sanctified. This is imparted, given to us, so that His righteousness becomes mine.
  5. I begin to think the way He thinks; talk the way He talks; act the way He would act in my place. To be sanctified means to be made holy.
  6. Individually we must first put on the robe of righteousness. The merits of Christ’s righteousness is imputed to us so that we may then become perfect reflections of His character and be ready to put on the wedding garment. The wedding garment representing character is imparted righteousness.
  7. As we accept by faith the righteous attributes of His character, the Holy Spirit gives us power to keep untainted by sin and thereby put on the wedding garment which represents the character of Christ that has now become ours. This also involves stern, hard battles with self. Very often we see that self is our worst enemy.
  8. The Holy Spirit is to deliver every saint from all pollution. This deliverance is not just from breaking the law, but from all pollution. “But there shall by no means enter it anything that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life” (Revelation 21:27).
  9. Developing a Christ-like character, a perfect character, can only be done by a union of divinity and humanity. Jesus Christ came to this world, not as an angel but as a human being, uniting divinity with humanity.
  10. This is possible for all of us if self is surrendered fully to the sovereignty of Jesus Christ.

Unfortunately, everybody who claims title to heaven will not be seen as fit. Matthew 22:14 describes the man who tried to go to the wedding feast without the wedding garment. Jesus said, “Many are called, but few are chosen.” Ellen White writes this: “This is a true statement of the final outcome.” The Review and Herald, May 8, 1900.

Many are called. These are the people that have accepted the gospel. However, few are chosen. Few submit to the working of the Holy Spirit to perfect a Christ-like character. We can look around and see a multitude calling Christ their Saviour, but do they all want Him as their Lord? There are so many who know the truth. They have heard it preached; they know the gospel. Yet many will lose their soul because they have neglected to put on the wedding garment.

“ ‘Many are called but few are chosen.’ This is a true statement of the final outcome. Man is very dear to the heart of God, and all are invited to this feast. But many come not having on the wedding garment. They do not accept Christ’s righteousness. They have not repented and made peace with God. They have not received His free gift.

“Christ must be all and in all to every soul. Those who try in their own strength to solve the mystery of the creation of man, the mystery of redemption, the mystery of eternity, will be baffled. But those who put on the garment provided for them at an infinite cost, find an abundant entrance to the rich feast of spiritual blessings.” The Review and Herald, May 8, 1900.

There is much time today being spent in useless theological controversy. However, even if you have all the right theology you cannot attain heaven without the wedding garment. We are not saved in groups. I cannot put the wedding garment on you and you cannot put the wedding garment on me. Each one must go to the Lord in prayer and say, “Lord, help me to put on the wedding garment. I am making a decision to change my garments. Help me, Lord, to do it.” We cannot do this in our own strength. We need the help of the Holy Spirit.

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

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

Editorial – Students of Prophecy

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“As a people, we should be earnest students of prophecy; we should not rest until we become intelligent in regard to the subject of the sanctuary, which is brought out in the visions of Daniel and John. This subject sheds great light on our present position and work, and gives us unmistakable proof that God has led us in our past experience. It explains our disappointment in 1844, showing us that the sanctuary to be cleansed was not the earth, as we had supposed, but that Christ then entered into the most holy apartment of the heavenly sanctuary, and is there performing the closing work of his priestly office, in fulfillment of the words of the angel to the prophet Daniel, ‘Unto two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed’ (Daniel 8:14).” The Review and Herald, November 27, 1883.

“In history and prophecy the word of God portrays the long continued conflict between truth and error. That conflict is yet in progress. Those things which have been will be repeated. Old controversies will be revived, and new theories will be continually arising.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 1, 47.

Often we concentrate our attention on trying to understand from prophecy the meaning of events taking place in our world and that is all right to do. However, it is even more important to understand what is happening in heaven.

Concerning what is happening on earth, “we are to consider the dealings of God with the nations of the earth. We are to see in history the fulfillment of prophecy, to study the workings of Providence in the great reformatory movements, and to understand the progress of events in the marshaling of the nations for the final conflict of the great controversy.” Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 379, 380.

“Those who are living upon the earth when the intercession of Christ shall cease in the sanctuary above are to stand in the sight of a holy God without a mediator. Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and their own diligent effort, they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. …

“When this work shall have been accomplished, the followers of Christ will be ready for his appearing.” The Southern Watchman, January 24, 1905.

“The present activity of Satan in working upon hearts, and upon churches and nations, should startle every student of prophecy. The end is near.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 537.

Bible Study Guides – Beware of Stubbornness!

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August 21 – 27 

Key Text

“Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him” (Psalm 2:11, 12).

 Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 617–622.

 Introduction

“When the appeals of the Holy Spirit come to the heart, our only safety lies in responding to them without delay. … It is unsafe to delay obedience. You may never hear the invitation again.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 281.

1   THE KING WHO REFUSED TO LISTEN

  •  How did God talk to the king of Egypt? Exodus 5:1; 6:10, 11.

Note: “God spoke to the Egyptian king by the mouth of Moses, giving him the most striking evidences of divine power; but the monarch stubbornly refused the light which would have brought him to repentance. God did not send a supernatural power to harden the heart of the rebellious king, but as Pharaoh resisted the truth, the Holy Spirit was withdrawn, and he was left to the darkness and unbelief which he had chosen.” The Review and Herald, June 20, 1882.

  • Did God expect Pharaoh to listen? Exodus 3:19.

Note: “God speaks to men through His servants, giving cautions and warnings, and rebuking sin. He gives to each an opportunity to correct his errors before they become fixed in the character; but if one refuses to be corrected, divine power does not interpose to counteract the tendency of his own action. He finds it more easy to repeat the same course. He is hardening the heart against the influence of the Holy Spirit. A further rejection of light places him where a far stronger influence will be ineffectual to make an abiding impression.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 268.

 2   THE PRICE OF REBELLION

  •  What was Pharaoh’s initial response to God? Exodus 5:2.

Note: “The seeds of rebellion that he [Pharaoh] sowed when he rejected the first miracle produced their harvest. As he continued to venture on in his own course, going from one degree of stubbornness to another, his heart became more and more hardened, until he was called to look upon the cold, dead faces of the firstborn.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 268.

  • How persistent was God in talking to Pharaoh? Exodus 7:15–18; 8:1, 2, 20, 21; 9:1–3; 13; 10:3, 4. Who encouraged Pharaoh to listen to God? Exodus 8:19; 10:7.

Note: “The Lord gave him [Pharaoh] evidence of His power by working signs and miracles before him. The great I AM acquainted Pharaoh with His mighty works, showing him that He was the ruler of heaven and earth, but the king chose to defy the God of heaven. He would not consent to break his proud, stubborn heart even before the King of kings, that he might receive the light; for he was determined to have his own way and work out his rebellion. He chose to do his own will and set aside the command of God, and the very evidence given him that Jehovah was above all the gods of the nations, above all the wise men and magicians, only served to blind his mind and harden his heart.” Conflict and Courage, 89.

  • What would God have done if Pharaoh had repented? 2 Peter 3:9.

Note: “Had Pharaoh accepted the evidence of God’s power given in the first plague, he would have been spared all the judgments that followed. But his determined stubbornness called for still greater manifestations of the power of God, and plague followed plague, until at last he was called to look upon the dead face of his own firstborn, and those of his kindred; while the children of Israel, whom he had regarded as slaves, were unharmed by the plagues, untouched by the destroying angel. God made it evident upon whom rested His favor, who were His people.” Conflict and Courage, 89.

3   A WARNING FOR US

  •  What warning should we take from Pharaoh’s refusal to listen to God? Hebrews 3:12, 13.

Note: “He who has once yielded to temptation will yield more readily the second time. Every repetition of the sin lessens his power of resistance, blinds his eyes, and stifles conviction. Every seed of indulgence sown will bear fruit. God works no miracle to prevent the harvest. ‘Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap’ (Galatians 6:7). He who manifests an infidel hardihood, a stolid indifference to divine truth, is but reaping the harvest of that which he has himself sown. It is thus that multitudes come to listen with stoical indifference to the truths that once stirred their very souls. They sowed neglect and resistance to the truth, and such is the harvest which they reap.

“Those who are quieting a guilty conscience with the thought that they can change a course of evil when they choose, that they can trifle with the invitations of mercy, and yet be again and again im-pressed, take this course at their peril. They think that after casting all their influence on the side of the great rebel, in a moment of utmost extremity, when danger compasses them about, they will change leaders. But this is not so easily done. The experience the education, the discipline of a life of sinful indulgence, has so thoroughly molded the character that they cannot then receive the image of Jesus. … Mercy might interpose and give them an opportunity to accept her overtures; but after light has been long rejected and despised, it will be finally withdrawn.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 268, 269.

“One cherished sin will, little by little, debase the character, bringing all its nobler powers into subjection to the evil desire. The removal of one safeguard from the conscience, the indulgence of one evil habit, one neglect of the high claims of duty, breaks down the defenses of the soul and opens the way for Satan to come in and lead us astray.” Conflict and Courage, 114.

  • If we realize we have the spirit of Pharaoh, what must we do? Isaiah 27:5.

Note: “Every provision has been made for our infirmities, every encouragement offered us to come to Christ.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 156.

 4   THE RESULTS OF REFUSING TO LISTEN

  •  In the end, why did Pharaoh do what God had asked? Exodus 12:30–32.
  • Whom did God intend to benefit by His messages to Pharaoh? Exodus 3:19, 20.

Note: “ ‘For this cause have I raised thee up, for to show in thee My power’ (Exodus 9:16). Not that God had given [Pharaoh] an existence for this purpose, but His providence had overruled events to place him upon the throne at the very time appointed for Israel’s deliverance. Though this haughty tyrant had by his crimes forfeited the mercy of God, yet his life had been preserved that through his stubbornness the Lord might manifest His wonders in the land of Egypt. The disposing of events is of God’s providence. He could have placed upon the throne a more merciful king, who would not have dared to withstand the mighty manifestations of divine power. But in that case the Lord’s purposes would not have been accomplished. His people were per-mitted to experience the grinding cruelty of the Egyptians, that they might not be deceived concerning the debasing influence of idolatry. In His dealing with Pharaoh, the Lord manifested His hatred of idolatry and His determination to punish cruelty and oppression.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 267, 268.

  • If we are unwilling to listen to God, what can we learn from Pharaoh’s example? Proverbs 1:24–28; Zechariah 7:11, 12; Hebrews 12:25.

Note: “God sent him [Pharaoh] a message of warning and mercy, but he refused to acknowledge the God of heaven and would not render obedience to His commands. He asked, ‘Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice?’ (Exodus 5:2). …

“Every additional evidence of the power of God that the Egyptian monarch resisted, carried him on to a stronger and more persistent defiance of God. … This case is a clear illustration of the sin against the Holy Ghost. … Gradually the Lord withdrew His Spirit. Removing His restraining power, He gave the king into the hands of the worst of all tyrants—self.” Conflict and Courage, 89.

5   THE PROPHET WHO WOULD NOT LISTEN

  •  How many times did God try to get Balaam’s attention? Numbers 22:22–27.
  • What prevented Balaam from recognizing God’s message sooner? 2 Peter 2:20, 21. When we are frustrated and believe things aren’t going our way, is God, perhaps, trying to get our attention?

Note: “Balaam was blinded to the heavenly interposition and knew not that God was obstructing his path.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 441, 442.

“A single cherished sin poisoned the entire character [of Balaam] and caused [his] destruction.” Conflict and Courage, 114.

“When one clearly sees a duty, let him not presume to go to God with the prayer that he may be excused from performing it. He should rather, with a humble, submissive spirit, ask for divine strength and wisdom to meet its claims.” Ibid., 113.

“We are apt to look upon men of experience as safe from the allurements of sinful pleasure. But still we often see those whose early life has been exemplary being led away by the fascinations of sin, and sacrificing their God-given manhood for self-gratification. For a time they vacillate between the promptings of principle and their inclination to pursue a forbidden course; but the current of evil finally proves too strong for their good resolutions, as in the case of the once wise and righteous king, Solomon.” The Health Reformer, June 1, 1878.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

 1     How many people does God talk to who are unlikely to listen to Him?

2     In what ways do we defy God like Pharaoh did?

3     What must we do if we have ignored God?

4     How do we harden our heart today against God?

5     What are the similarities and differences between Pharaoh and Balaam?

Copyright © 2015 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Discernment

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August 14 – 20

Key Text

“Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put dark-ness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight” (Isaiah 5:20, 21)!

 Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 668–672.

 Introduction

“Let God’s people pray to Him for clear spiritual discernment, that they may distinguish the theories of men from the Word of the living God. Let them study the Scriptures.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 18, 151.

1   DETERMINE TO LISTEN

  •  How can we be sure that we are hearing the voice of God? John 10:27; Matthew 7:16–20, 24–27; Galatians 5:22, 23.

 Note: “The good tree will produce good fruit. If the fruit is unpalatable and worthless, the tree is evil. So the fruit borne in the life testifies as to the condition of the heart and the excellence of the character. Good works can never purchase salvation, but they are an evidence of the faith that acts by love and purifies the soul. And though the eternal reward is not bestowed because of our merit, yet it will be in pro-portion to the work that has been done through the grace of Christ. “Thus Christ set forth the principles of His kingdom and showed them to be the great rule of life. To impress the lesson He adds an il-lustration. It is not enough, He says, for you to hear My words. By obedience you must make them the foundation of your character. Self is but shifting sand. If you build upon human theories and inventions, your house will fall.” The Desire of Ages, 314.

  • What demonstrated that Jesus heard His Father accurately? How should this description of Jesus apply to us also? John 5:19, 20, 36.42

 2   LOOKING AT HISTORY

  •  What has been the varied experience of God’s church through the ages with regard to listening to the Lord’s voice? 2 Kings 22:13; 23:3; Zechariah 7:11–13; Jeremiah 29:17–19.
  • What personal testimony did Jeremiah and David declare of their listening to the voice of God? Jeremiah 15:16; Psalm 119:57–60.
  • What can we learn from the experience of Jesus’ disciples in listening to God’s voice? Mark 7:5–8; Matthew 28:19, 20.

Note: “It was most difficult for them [Jesus’ disciples] to keep His lessons distinct from the traditions and maxims of the scribes and Pharisees. They had been educated to accept the teaching of the rabbis as the voice of God, and it still held a power over their minds and molded their sentiments. Earthly ideas, temporal things, still had a large place in their thoughts. They did not understand the spiritual nature of Christ’s kingdom, though He had so often explained it to them. Their minds had become confused. They did not comprehend the value of the Scriptures Christ presented. Many of His lessons seemed almost lost upon them.” The Desire of Ages, 670.

“In the commission to His disciples, Christ not only outlined their work but gave them their message. Teach the people, He said, ‘to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you’ (Matthew 28:20). The disciples were to teach what Christ had taught. That which He had spoken, not only in person, but through all the prophets and teachers of the Old Testament, is here included. Human teaching is shut out. There is no place for tradition, for man’s theories and conclusions, or for church legislation. No laws ordained by ecclesiastical authority are included in the commission. None of these are Christ’s servants to teach. ‘The law and the prophets,’ with the record of His own words and deeds, are the treasure committed to the disciples to be given to the world. Christ’s name is their watchword, their badge of distinction, their bond of union, the authority for their course of action, and the source of their success. Nothing that does not bear His superscription is to be recognized in His kingdom.” Ibid., 826.

3   LISTENING TO THE VOICE OF CONSCIENCE

  •  From the apostle Paul’s experience, how important is it to listen to the voice of our own conscience? Acts 24:16; 1 Timothy 1:19; 1 John 3:21.
  • What will eventually happen if we neglect to follow the voice of conscience? Matthew 6:22, 23; Titus 1:15; 1 Timothy 4:2.

Note: “When a person once neglects to heed the invitations, reproofs, and warnings of the Spirit of God, his conscience becomes seared, and the next time he is admonished, it will be more difficult to yield obedience than before. And thus with every repetition. Conscience is the voice of God, heard amid the conflict of human passions; when it is resisted, the Spirit of God is grieved.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 120.

“Singleness of purpose, wholehearted devotion to God, is the condition pointed out by the Saviour’s words. Let the purpose be sincere and unwavering to discern the truth and to obey it at whatever cost, and you will receive divine enlightenment. Real piety begins when all compromise with sin is at an end. …

“But when the eye is blinded by the love of self, there is only darkness. ‘If thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness’ (Matthew 6:23). It was this fearful darkness that wrapped the Jews in stubborn unbelief, making it impossible for them to appreciate the character and mission of Him who came to save them from their sins.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 91, 92.

  • What should we do with each impression or idea that we may have about what God is telling us? John 5:39; Hebrews 4:12.

Note: “Impressions and feelings are no sure evidence that a person is led by the Lord. Satan will, if he is unsuspected, give feelings and impressions. These are not safe guides. All should thoroughly acquaint themselves with the evidences of our faith, and the great study should be how they can adorn their profession and bear fruit to the glory of God.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 413.

“If you are in doubt upon any subject you must first consult the Scriptures.” Ibid., vol. 5, 512.

 4   HONESTY

  •  What is God’s attitude toward any dishonesty? Proverbs 19:5; Acts 5:3–5.

Note: “God hates hypocrisy and falsehood. Ananias and Sapphira practiced fraud in their dealing with God; they lied to the Holy Spirit, and their sin was visited with swift and terrible judgment.” The Acts of the Apostles, 72.

“From the stern punishment meted out to those perjurers, God would have us learn also how deep is His hatred and contempt for all hypocrisy and deception.” Ibid., 75.

“In much of the service professedly done for God, there is self-emulation and self-exultation. God hates pretense. When men and women receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit, they will con-fess their sins, and, pardon, which means justification, will be given them. But the wisdom of the human agents who are not penitent, not humbled, is not to be depended on, for they are blinded in regard to the meaning of righteousness and sanctification through the truth. When men are stripped of self-righteousness, they will see their spiritual poverty. Then they will approach that state of brotherly kindness that will show that they are in sympathy with Christ.” This Day With God, 326.

  • What can happen when we are not honest with ourselves in the study of Scripture? Ezekiel 14:3, 4. What can we do about this? Verse 6.

Note: “Take up the Bible without prejudice and in a humble, teachable spirit, and, with the understanding open to the impressions of the Spirit of God, let its convincing power mold the life and conscience.” The Bible Echo, September 2, 1895.

“You should not search for the purpose of finding texts of Scripture that you can construe to prove your theories; for the word of God declares that this is wresting the Scriptures to your own destruction. You must empty yourselves of every prejudice and come in the spirit of prayer to the investigation of the word of God.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 308.

 5   MEEKNESS AND HUMILITY

  •  What essential character quality must each one of us learn from Jesus? Matthew 11:29; Psalms 22:26; 25:9.

Note: “Meekness and humility will characterize all who are obedient to the law of God.” The Signs of the Times, July 22, 1897.

“If our will is not in accord with the divine requirements, we are to deny our inclinations, give up our darling desires, and step in Christ’s footsteps.” The Review and Herald, October 23, 1900.

“Each must have an individual experience and put forth personal efforts to reach souls. God requires each to put all his powers into the work and, through continual effort, educate himself to do that work acceptably. … All the workers must use tact and bring their faculties under the controlling influence of the Spirit of God. They must make it a business to study His word and hear God’s voice addressing them from His living oracles in reproof, in instruction, or in encouragement, and His Spirit will strengthen them, that they may, as God’s workers, advance in religious experience. Thus they will be led on step by step to greater heights, and their joy will be full.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 576, 577.

“If you are willing to learn meekness and lowliness of heart in Christ’s school, He will surely give you rest and peace. It is a terribly hard struggle to give up your own will and your own way. But this lesson learned, you will find rest and peace. Pride, selfishness, and ambition must be overcome; your will must be swallowed up in the will of Christ.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1091.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

 1     What evidence demonstrates that we have heard God?

2    What prevented God’s people in the past from hearing Him?

3     How can we maintain a good conscience?

4     How do we know if we are being honest with God?

5     What should we do if we find that our will is not in harmony with God’s requirements?

Copyright © 2015 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – How to Study the Bible

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August 7 – 13

Key Text

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding” (Proverbs 4:7).

 Study Help: The Great Controversy, 593–602.

Introduction

“ ‘If any would not work, neither should he eat’ (2 Thessalonians 3:10). The same rule applies to our spiritual nourishment; if any would have the bread of eternal life, let him make efforts to obtain it.” Faith and Works, 49.

1   THE REQUIRED EFFORT

  •  What is required when studying the Bible? Proverbs 2:1–5.

Note: “We cannot obtain wisdom without earnest attention and prayerful study. Some portions of Scripture are indeed too plain to be misunderstood, but there are others whose meaning does not lie on the surface to be seen at a glance. Scripture must be compared with Scripture. There must be careful research and prayerful reflection. And such study will be richly repaid. As the miner discovers veins of precious metal concealed beneath the surface of the earth, so will he who perseveringly searches the word of God as for hid treasure find truths of the greatest value, which are concealed from the view of the careless seeker.” Steps to Christ, 90, 91.

  • Can we rest satisfied with what has already been discovered in the Scriptures by ourselves or by others? Matthew 13:52; Proverbs 4:18.

Note: “We are to discover new aspects of truth in both the Old and the New Testament, to behold the exceeding breadth and compass of truths which we imagine we understand, but of which we have only a superficial knowledge. He who earnestly searches the Scriptures will see that harmony exists between the various parts of the Bible.” The Bible Echo, October 15, 1892.

 2   SINCERE SEARCHERS WILL BE REWARDED

  •  What is more important than intelligence in order to rightly understand the Bible? Matthew 11:25; Psalm 25:9.

Note: “It is sometimes the case that men of intellectual ability, improved by education and culture, fail to comprehend certain passages of Scripture, while others who are uneducated, whose understanding seems weak and whose minds are undisciplined, will grasp the meaning, finding strength and comfort in that which the former declare to be mysterious or pass by as unimportant. Why is this? It has been explained to me that the latter class do not rely upon their own understanding. They go to the Source of light, the One who has inspired the Scriptures, and with humility of heart ask God for wisdom, and they receive it. There are mines of truth yet to be discovered by the earnest seeker. Christ represented the truth as treasure hid in a field. It does not lie right upon the surface; we must dig for it. But our success in finding it does not depend so much on our intellectual ability as on our humility of heart and the faith which will lay hold upon divine aid.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 704.

  • Who will give us an understanding of essential Bible truths? Proverbs 2:6; Luke 10:21; 24:45. Why isn’t it necessary to our salvation to be able to explain everything that is difficult to understand in the Bible?

Note: “Many feel that a responsibility rests upon them to explain every seeming difficulty in the Bible in order to meet the cavils of skeptics and infidels. But in trying to explain that which they but imperfectly understand, they are in danger of confusing the minds of others in reference to points that are clear and easy to be understood. This is not our work. Nor should we lament that these difficulties exist, but accept them as permitted by the wisdom of God. It is our duty to receive His word, which is plain on every point essential to the salvation of the soul, and practice its principles in our life, teaching them to others both by precept and example. Thus it will be evident to the world that we have a connection with God and implicit confidence in His word. A life of godliness, a daily example of integrity, meekness, and unselfish love will be a living exemplification of the teaching of God’s word, and it will be an argument in favor of the Bible which few will be able to resist.” Ibid., 705, 706.

 3   HAVING A PROPER ATTITUDE

  •  What attitude should we have when we study the Bible? Psalms 10:17; 46:10; Isaiah 57:15.

Note: “We should come with reverence to the study of the Bible, feeling that we are in the presence of God. All lightness and trifling should be laid aside. While some portions of the word are easily understood, the true meaning of other parts is not so readily discerned. There must be patient study and meditation and earnest prayer. Every student, as he opens the Scriptures, should ask for the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, and the promise is sure that it will be given.

“The spirit in which you come to the investigation of the Scriptures will determine the character of the assistant at your side. Angels from the world of light will be with those who in humility of heart seek for divine guidance. But if the Bible is opened with irreverence, with a feeling of self-sufficiency, if the heart is filled with prejudice, Satan is beside you, and he will set the plain statements of God’s word in a perverted light.” Testimonies to Ministers, 107, 108.

  • How should we respond to other people’s conclusions about what the Bible says? 2 Timothy 2:15; Acts 17:11.

Note: “Truth is eternal, and conflict with error will only make manifest its strength. We should never refuse to examine the Scriptures with those who, we have reason to believe, desire to know what is truth as much as we do. Suppose a brother holds a view that differs from yours, and he comes to you, proposing that you sit down with him and investigate that point in the light of the Scriptures; should you rise up filled with prejudice and condemn his ideas while refusing to give him a hearing? The only right way would be to sit down as Christians and investigate the position presented in the light of God’s word, which will reveal truth and unmask error. To ridicule his ideas would not weaken his position, though it were false, or strengthen your position, though it were true. If the pillars of our faith will not stand the test of investigation, it is time that we knew it; for it is foolish to become set in our ideas and think that no one should interfere with our opinions. Let everything be brought to the Bible; for it is the only rule of faith and doctrine.” The Bible Echo, October 15, 1892.

 4   UNDERSTANDING GOD’S WORD

  •  How can we be sure that we understand any portion of the Bible correctly? Isaiah 28:10, 13; 2 Corinthians 13:1.

Note: “’The Holy Scriptures ought to be explained by other and clearer texts; … this Holy Book is, in all things necessary for the Christian, easy of understanding, and calculated to scatter the darkness. We are resolved, with the grace of God, to maintain the pure and exclusive preaching of His only word, such as it is contained in the biblical books of the Old and New Testaments, without adding anything thereto that may be contrary to it. This word is the only truth; it is the sure rule of all doctrine and of all life, and can never fail or deceive us. He who builds on this foundation shall stand against all the powers of hell, while all the human vanities that are set up against it shall fall before the face of God.’” The Great Controversy, 203.

“The Book of books has the highest claims to our reverent attention. Superficial study cannot meet the claims it has upon us, nor furnish us with the benefit that is promised. We should seek to learn the full meaning of the words of truth and to drink deep the spirit of the holy oracles.” The Bible Echo, October 1, 1892.

“You must dig deep in the mine of truth if you would find its richest treasures. Comparing scripture with scripture, you may find the true meaning of the text; but if you do not make the sacred teachings of God’s Word the rule and guide of your life, the truth will be nothing to you.” My Life Today, 22.

  • How did Jesus use this method to overcome Satan’s temptations? Matthew 4:6, 7; Isaiah 59:19.

Note: “Temptations often appear irresistible because, through neglect of prayer and the study of the Bible, the tempted one cannot readily remember God’s promises and meet Satan with the Scripture weapons. But angels are round about those who are willing to be taught in divine things; and in the time of great necessity they will bring to their remembrance the very truths which are needed.” The Great Controversy, 600.

 5   BEGIN WITH PRAYER

  •  Why do we need to pray before we open the Bible? 1 Corinthians 2:11–13; James 1:5; Psalm 10:17.

Note: “Without the guidance of the Holy Spirit we shall be continually liable to wrest the Scriptures or to misinterpret them. …

“There is much reading of the Bible that is without profit and in many cases is a positive injury. When the word of God is opened without reverence and without prayer; when the thoughts and affections are not fixed upon God or in harmony with His will, the mind is clouded with doubt; and in the very study of the Bible, skepticism strengthens. The enemy takes control of the thoughts, and he suggests interpretations that are not correct.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 704, 705.

  • Whose help should we be asking for in prayer? Luke 11:9–13. What will that Helper do for us? John 16:13; 14:13, 16, 17, 26.

Note: “The Bible should never be studied without prayer. The Holy Spirit alone can cause us to feel the importance of those things easy to be understood, or prevent us from wresting truths difficult of comprehension. It is the office of heavenly angels to prepare the heart so to comprehend God’s word that we shall be charmed with its beauty, admonished by its warnings, or animated and strengthened by its promises. We should make the psalmist’s petition our own: ‘Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law’ (Psalm 119:18).” The Great Controversy, 599, 600.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

 1     How much attention and focus should I give to studying the Bible?

2     What is more important than intelligence in the study of the Scriptures?

3     How can we guarantee the help of angels in understanding the Bible?

4     Why are we often overcome by temptation?

5     How should we prepare each time before we begin to study the Bible?

Copyright © 2015 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – Listening to God’s Word

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July 31 – August 6

Key Text

“Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).

 Study Help: The Great Controversy, 197–210.

Introduction

“God speaks to us in His word.” Steps to Christ, 87.

1   THE ULTIMATE AUTHORITY

  •  How much authority does the Word of God have over human teaching? Psalm 119:105; Isaiah 8:20.

Note: “The Holy Scriptures are the perfect standard of truth.” Education, 17.

“ ‘All human teaching should be subordinate to the oracles of God.’ ” The Great Controversy, 204.

“The Lord has one path of safety for His people, and that is the path of obedience to His word. That word is given to us as our guide.” The Bible Echo, August 19, 1895.

  • How can we use our reasoning powers properly in understanding God’s Word? Isaiah 1:16–18; 1 Corinthians 1:18, 25; 2:14–16.

Note: “When we come to the Bible, reason must acknowledge an authority superior to itself, and heart and intellect must bow to the great I AM.” Steps to Christ, 110.

“We are to beware of deifying reason, which is subject to the weakness and infirmity of humanity.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 703.

“With your Bibles open before you, consult sanctified reason and a good conscience. Your heart must be moved, your soul touched, your reason and intellect awakened by the Spirit of God; and then holy principles revealed in the word of God will give light to the soul.” The Review and Herald, February 7, 1893.

 2   LISTENING TO GOD THROUGH HIS WORD

  •  What will be the result if we personally listen to God through His word? Deuteronomy 4:6; Psalm 119:94, 97–100.

Note: “The precious book of God contains rules of life for men of every class and every vocation.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 416.

“We shall advance in true spiritual knowledge only as we realize our own littleness and our entire dependence upon God; but all who come to the Bible with a teachable and prayerful spirit, to study its utterances as the word of God, will receive divine enlightenment.” Ibid., vol. 5, 704.

“In searching the Scriptures for yourself, you will become established in the faith. It is of the greatest importance that you continually search the Scriptures, storing the mind with the truths of God.” The Bible Echo, October 15, 1892.

“Conservative traditions received from educated men, and from the writings of great men of the past, are not safe guides for us in these last days. … Daily, hourly, we must be actuated by the principles of Bible truth—righteousness, mercy, and the love of God. He who would have moral and intellectual power must draw from the divine source. At every point of decision inquire, ‘Is this the way of the Lord?’ ” The Review and Herald, February 7, 1893.

  • What assurance do we have that God will talk to us, individually, through the Bible? John 6:63; Jeremiah 15:16; Psalm 34:8.

Note: “The word of the living God is not merely written but spoken. The Bible is God’s voice speaking to us, just as surely as though we could hear it with our ears. If we realized this, with what awe would we open God’s word, and with what earnestness would we search its precepts! The reading and contemplation of the Scriptures would be regarded as an audience with the Infinite One.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 393.

“When Satan presses his suggestions upon our minds, we may, if we cherish a ‘Thus saith the Lord,’ be drawn into the secret pavilion of the Most High.” Ibid.

“So many are full of busy plans, always active; and there is no time or place for the precious Jesus to be a close, dear companion. They do not refer every thought and action to Him, inquiring: ‘Is this the way of the Lord?’ If they did they would walk with God, as did Enoch.” Ibid.

 3   ESSENTIAL COMMUNICATION

  •  Why were the Scriptures written? John 20:31.
  • If we reject God’s voice in His written Word, can we expect Him to communicate His will to us through other means? Luke 16:31; Proverbs 28:9. Why?

Note: “The law and the prophets are God’s appointed agencies for the salvation of men. … If they do not listen to the voice of God in His word, the testimony of a witness raised from the dead would not be heeded.

“Those who heed Moses and the prophets will require no greater light than God has given; but if men reject the light, and fail to appreciate the opportunities granted them, they would not hear if one from the dead should come to them with a message. They would not be convinced even by this evidence; for those who reject the law and the prophets so harden their hearts that they will reject all light.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 265.

  • Why can’t we rely on anyone else to listen to God for us? Ezekiel 14:12–14; 33:14–16.

Note: “We must study the truth for ourselves; no man should be relied upon to think for us, no matter who he may be or in what position he may be placed. We are not to look upon any man as a perfect guide for us. We are to counsel together and be subject one to another; but at the same time we are to exercise the ability God has given us to learn what is truth. Each one of us must look to God for divine enlightenment, that we may individually develop a character that will stand the test of the great day. …

“Many are drifting into darkness and infidelity, picking flaws with the Bible, bringing up superstitious inventions, unscriptural theories, and speculations of vain philosophy; but it is the duty of everyone to seek a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. The importance and benefit of Bible study cannot be overestimated. In searching the Scriptures our minds are led to dwell upon the infinite sacrifice of Christ, on His mediation in our behalf. As we see His love, as we meditate upon His humiliation and sufferings, the same spirit of self-denial and sacrifice for the good of others will be kindled in our hearts.” The Bible Echo, October 15, 1892.

 4   FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE WITH GOD

  •  Why were the people of Berea commended? Acts 17:10–12.

Note: “No man can safely trust his soul to the minister, or to men who are learned and talented. Jesus charged the priests and rulers, who were regarded as learned in the Scriptures, as being ignorant both of the Scriptures and the power of God. Those to whom God has intrusted talents are responsible for the use of their gifts, and should study the Bible as a book that may be understood. A single text has proved in the past, and will prove in the future, a savor of life unto life to many a soul. As men diligently search, the Bible will open out new treasures of truth that will be as bright jewels to the mind.” The Signs of the Times, August 20, 1894.

“Unless the mind is used, it will cease to expand; unless the taste is cultivated to love the Bible, it will cease to relish the truths of God’s word. The student can see only to the depth of what he has explored, and he cannot appreciate that which lies beyond the compass of his own narrow boundaries. But his very ignorance will make him conceited, talkative, and boastful. What can I say to you, young men and young women, to arouse you to vigor in your efforts to overcome obstacles? Mental effort will become easier and more satisfactory as you put yourselves to the task of understanding the deep things of God. You should each decide that you will not be a second-class student, that you will not allow others to think for you.” The Review and Herald, May 20, 1890.

  • What was Timothy told to do while he waited for Paul to return? 1 Timothy 4:13, 15, 16.
  • What does Jesus say of those who hear His words and obey them? Matthew 7:24, 25.

Note: “Those who hear and obey the words of Christ are building upon the rock, and when the tempest comes, their house will not be over-thrown. They will through faith in Christ Jesus gain eternal life.” This Day with God, 215.

 5   LOOKING DEEPER

  •  How deeply should we study the Bible? Colossians 3:23; 1 Thessalonians 5:21.

Note: “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. 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.

“You are to offer to God nothing less than your best. You should do better and better work as you put in practice what you learn. You should seek to fathom every subject requiring your investigation, comparing not only the ideas and thoughts of men concerning the matter, but also comparing Scripture with Scripture, that you may know that you do know every point of the faith. The taxation of your mind will only strengthen your mental powers for greater effort.” The Review and Herald, May 20, 1890.

“An understanding of Bible truth depends not so much on the power of intellect brought to the search as on the singleness of purpose, the earnest longing after righteousness.” The Great Controversy,

 PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

 1     What are the conditions to receiving enlightenment from God as we study the Bible?

2     What question should we ask when making any decision?

3     What effect will searching the Scriptures have upon us?

4     What do we become when we are ignorant of our Bible?

5     Instead of reading many Bible chapters without learning anything, how can we discover the deep, hidden truths of the Bible?

Copyright © 2015 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Recipe – Maple Walnut Cookies

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Recipe
Maple Walnut Cookies

(a.k.a. Brain Food Cookies, Mood Enhancing Cookies, Prozac Cookies)
2 ½ c. walnuts, ground in food processor 1/3 c. carob chips
2/3 c. whole wheat pastry flour 1/3-½ c. maple syrup
1 tsp. salt 2 tsp. vanilla
1/3 c. ground flaxseed
 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl add all ingredients in given order; mix well. Drop small spoonful of dough on slightly oiled cookie sheet and flatten with fork. Bake 10-15 minutes or until golden brown, checking often to prevent burning. Let cool before removing from sheet.

 

* May add chopped dates, dried cherries, etc., decreasing amount of maple syrup.

Recipe from Dr. Neil Nedley

 

Food – Nuts for Walnuts

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Walnuts are round edible single-seeded fruits from the trees of the Juglans genus belonging to the tree nut family. Wrapped up in its small case is a nearly perfect package of protein, carbohydrate, healthy fat, antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Their benefits ranging from heart health, tumor protection, depression and beauty cannot be overlooked.

The plant is believed to have originated in India and the regions surrounding the Caspian Sea, and in the 4th century A.D., the ancient Romans introduced the walnut to many European countries. Since then it has been cultivated there extensively. Today China is the largest producer of walnuts, closely followed by the United States, Ukraine and Romania. In the United States, California produces 99 percent of the nation’s commercial English walnuts.

There are almost 30 varieties of walnuts, of which the three most commonly known are Persian or English walnut, black walnut, and butternut walnut. It takes 15 years for the tree to grow until it starts producing fruit. Walnut trees have an average lifespan of 80 years; however, under favorable conditions some may live for 300 years or more.

Among all other nuts, walnuts contain the highest amount of antioxidants, making them extremely effective in aiding in destroying free radicals and combating heart disease. Adequate intake has been shown to significantly raise blood levels of healthy omega-3 fats which may prevent the formation of blood clots which can cause sudden cardiac death, as well as lowering bad cholesterol and increasing the production of good cholesterol, thus also maintaining safe insulin levels with type 2 diabetes.

The antioxidant properties of walnuts help lower the risk of chronic oxidative stress, and the anti-inflammatory properties help lower the risk of chronic inflammation. Lowering these two risks helps diminish the greatest threat for cancer development. Prostate, breast cancer and bowel cancer risk has been found to be reduced by the consumption of approximately 3 ounces per day. Studies have found that the greater the omega-3 acids, the smaller the tumor.

Walnuts which are rich in B-vitamins and antioxidants aid in preventing skin from free radical damage, wrinkles, and signs of aging. The walnut’s oil protects the skin from dryness and returns its natural moisture. It is also used as base oil in many massage oils used for massage therapy. Walnuts are a good hair food as they contain biotin or vitamin B7 that helps strengthen hair, reduce hair fallout, and improve hair growth to a certain extent.

Because the shell is shaped somewhat like a human skull and the crinkly kernel resembles a brain, the walnut has historically been regarded as brain food. In fact, because it provides omega-3 fatty acids coupled with iodine and selenium, it does indeed aid in ensuring optimal healthy brain function. Consuming walnuts may increase serotonin and melatonin levels, which are directly linked to mood, cognitive function, and sleep. Boosting levels of omega-3s may have a natural effect on decreasing the symptoms of depression.

 

Recipe
Maple Walnut Cookies

(a.k.a. Brain Food Cookies, Mood Enhancing Cookies, Prozac Cookies)
2 ½ c. walnuts, ground in food processor 1/3 c. carob chips
2/3 c. whole wheat pastry flour 1/3-½ c. maple syrup
1 tsp. salt 2 tsp. vanilla
1/3 c. ground flaxseed
 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl add all ingredients in given order; mix well. Drop small spoonful of dough on slightly oiled cookie sheet and flatten with fork. Bake 10-15 minutes or until golden brown, checking often to prevent burning. Let cool before removing from sheet.

 

* May add chopped dates, dried cherries, etc., decreasing amount of maple syrup.

Recipe from Dr. Neil Nedley

 

Health – Thoughts on Nuts

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The following is an excerpt from the book, Proof Positive, by Neil Nedley, M.D.
He shares some very interesting insight into nut consumption and your health.

“… Nuts in general have been studied extensively and have been found not only to lower blood cholesterol levels, but also to provide a corresponding decrease in the risk of heart disease. …

“This study on nut consumption was conducted at Loma Linda University and has received international attention. [Fraser GE, Sabate J, et al. A possible protective effect of nut consumption on risk of coronary heart disease. The Adventist Health Study. Arch Intern Med 1992 Jul;152(7):1416-1424.] The initial study focused on the amount of nuts eaten by the participants in the Adventist Health Study. They found that those consuming nuts less than once per week had the highest risk of heart attack. Those who consumed nuts one to four times per week lowered their risk about 25 percent … Those who consumed nuts more than five times a week cut their risk in half. The study was controlled for other lifestyle variables so that the researchers could be more certain that the nuts were the only factor involved. Many health professionals were surprised by the findings of this study. Previously, health professionals commonly encouraged patients to avoid nuts because of their high fat content. Now we know that nuts in small to moderate amounts are part of a healthful diet because they supply some fat nutrients that are beneficial for preventing heart disease.

“Regarding peanuts, the fat in peanuts has a specific chemistry and triglyceride structure (apart from the saturated and polyunsaturated content) that makes them surprisingly harder on your arteries than other vegetable fats. [Kritchevsky D. Dietary fat and experimental atherosclerosis. Int J Tissue React 1991;13(2):59-65.] Thus, a person who wants to protect his arteries would be wise to choose other nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans in place of peanuts. Almonds have another advantage. They are unique among the nut food group in that they contain far more vitamin E than other nuts; in fact, they exceed just about all other foods in this regard. … The realization of some of the peanut fat’s negative aspects leaves me impressed with a statement I read about nuts that was written nearly 100 years ago in the classic book on the principles of health, The Ministry of Healing, [298], written by Ellen White: ‘With nuts may be combined grains, fruits, and some roots, to make foods that are healthful and nourishing. Care should be taken, however, not to use too large a proportion of nuts. … some nuts are not so wholesome as others. Almonds are preferable to peanuts, but peanuts in limited quantities, used in connection with grains, are nourishing and digestible.’

“Why did she warn against excessive nut consumption? One likely reason is that a high fat diet (even if from ‘good’ fats) tends to promote weight gain. For many people, a large proportion of nuts in their diet may contribute to obesity. The overweight condition itself can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.’ ” Proof Positive, 68, 69.

Dr. Nedley then goes on to share about a study done by Dr. Sabate [Sabate J, Fraser GE, et al. Effects of walnuts on serum lipid levels and blood pressure in normal men. N Engl J Med 1993 Mar 4;328(9):603-607].

“Dr. Sabate took the nut research a step further. Instead of using Seventh-day Adventists again, who are already on a better overall diet than most Americans, he now studied individuals on an average American diet. One half of the total group was placed on an average diet. The other half were fed an identical-looking diet with one major difference. Walnuts were blended up and added to various food items. Other sources of fat were decreased to keep the calorie and total fat levels the same in the two groups. … Walnuts reduce cholesterol: The study group ate 1 ½ cups – 84 grams of walnuts daily for 4 weeks. Average LDL – bad cholesterol was reduced by 18 mg/dl.

“Eating walnuts daily had some amazing results. LDL cholesterol, the ‘bad cholesterol,’ dropped by 18 points. This represents a remarkable lowering of heart attack risk. For each percentage point drop in the bad cholesterol, there is a two to three percent drop in the heart attack rate. [Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults. The Expert Panel. Arch Intern Med 1988 Jan;148(1):36-69.]

“An 18 point drop in LDL translates into a 36 to 54 percent drop in heart disease risk. The benefits of walnuts may not simply be due to their excellent P/S ratio. These nuts are also high in so-called omega-3 fatty acids, which have some special benefits.” Ibid., 69.

The foregoing excerpts give us a deeper understanding of how certain nuts work on our bodies. We are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14) and God has provided for each of our needs. We are blessed to have such information to guide us along the nutrition pathway.

Question and Answer – What is the “great gulf” in Luke 16:26?

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The Gulf of Disobedience

“The closing scenes of this earth’s history are portrayed in the closing of the rich man’s history. The rich man claimed to be a son of Abraham, but he was separated from Abraham by an impassable gulf—a character wrongly developed. Abraham served God, following His word in faith and obedience. But the rich man was unmindful of God and of the needs of suffering humanity. The great gulf fixed between him and Abraham was the gulf of disobedience. There are many today who are following the same course. Though church members, they are unconverted. They may take part in the church service, they may chant the psalm, “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O God” (Psalm 42:1); but they testify to a falsehood. They are no more righteous in God’s sight than is the veriest sinner. The soul that longs after the excitement of worldly pleasure, the mind that is full of love for display, cannot serve God. Like the rich man in the parable, such a one has no inclination to war against the lust of the flesh. He longs to indulge appetite. He chooses the atmosphere of sin. He is suddenly snatched away by death, and he goes down to the grave with the character formed during his lifetime in copartnership with Satanic agencies. In the grave he has no power to choose anything, be it good or evil; for in the day when a man dies, his thoughts perish (Psalm 146:4; Ecclesiastes 9:5, 6).

“When the voice of God awakes the dead, he will come from the grave with the same appetites and passions, the same likes and dislikes, that he cherished when living. God works no miracle to re-create a man who would not be re-created when he was granted every opportunity and provided with every facility. During his lifetime he took no delight in God, nor found pleasure in His service. His character is not in harmony with God, and he could not be happy in the heavenly family.

“Today there is a class in our world who are self-righteous. They are not gluttons, they are not drunkards, they are not infidels; but they desire to live for themselves, not for God. He is not in their thoughts; therefore they are classed with unbelievers. Were it possible for them to enter the gates of the city of God, they could have no right to the tree of life, for when God’s commandments were laid before them with all their binding claims they said, No. They have not served God here; therefore they would not serve Him hereafter. They could not live in His presence, and they would feel that any place was preferable to heaven.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 269, 270.