Issue: 2023 May

Bible Study – The Sabbath

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June 18 – 24, 2023

Key Text

“Moreover I also gave them My Sabbaths, to be a sign between them and Me, that they might know that I am the Lord who sanctifies them. … Hallow My Sabbaths, and they will be a sign between Me and you, that you may know that I am the Lord your God.” Ezekiel 20:12, 20

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 201–213

Introduction

“Like the Sabbath, the week originated at creation, and it has been preserved and brought down to us through Bible history. God Himself measured off the first week as a sample for successive weeks to the close of time. Like every other, it consisted of seven literal days. Six days were employed in the work of creation; upon the seventh, God rested, and He then blessed this day, and set it apart as a day of rest for man.” Christian Education, 190

Sunday

1 THE SEVENTH DAY

1.a. What did the Creator do on the seventh day? Genesis 2:2

Note: “The weekly cycle of seven literal days, six for labor, and the seventh for rest, which has been preserved and brought down through Bible history, originated in the great facts of the first seven days.” Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 3, 90

“He rested, not as one weary, but as well pleased with the fruits of His wisdom and goodness and the manifestations of His glory.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 47

1.b.        Besides resting on the seventh day, what else did the Lord do? Genesis 2:3

Note: “After resting upon the seventh day, God sanctified it, or set it apart, as a day of rest for man. Following the example of the Creator, man was to rest upon this sacred day, that as he should look upon the heavens and the earth, he might reflect upon God’s great work of creation.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 47

Monday

2 THE SABBATH IN THE WILDERNESS

2.a. Before giving the ten commandments at Sinai, what specific instructions did the Lord give to His people? Exodus 16:22–30

Note: “God requires that His holy day be as sacredly observed now as in the time of Israel. The command given to the Hebrews should be regarded by all Christians as an injunction from Jehovah to them. The day before the Sabbath should be made a day of preparation, that everything may be in readiness for its sacred hours. In no case should our own business be allowed to encroach upon holy time. God has directed that the sick and suffering be cared for; the labor required to make them comfortable is a work of mercy, and no violation of the Sabbath; but all unnecessary work should be avoided. Many carelessly put off till the beginning of the Sabbath little things that might have been done on the day of preparation. This should not be. Work that is neglected until the beginning of the Sabbath should remain undone until it is past. This course might help the memory of these thoughtless ones, and make them careful to do their own work on the six working days.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 296

2.b. What miracles did the Lord perform in connection with Sabbath observance? Exodus 16:16–27

Note: “Every week during their long sojourn in the wilderness the Israelites witnessed a threefold miracle, designed to impress their minds with the sacredness of the Sabbath: a double quantity of manna fell on the sixth day, none on the seventh, and the portion needed for the Sabbath was preserved sweet and pure, when if any were kept over at any other time it became unfit for use.

“In the circumstances connected with the giving of the manna, we have conclusive evidence that the Sabbath was not instituted, as many claim, when the law was given at Sinai. Before the Israelites came to Sinai they understood the Sabbath to be obligatory upon them. In being obliged to gather every Friday a double portion of manna in preparation for the Sabbath, when none would fall, the sacred nature of the day of rest was continually impressed upon them. And when some of the people went out on the Sabbath to gather manna, the Lord asked, ‘How long refuse ye to keep My commandments and My laws?’ ” Patriarchs and Prophets, 296, 297 [Author’s emphasis.]

Tuesday

3 THE FOURTH COMMANDMENT

3.a. In reference to God’s example at the end of creation, what does He require of His people? Exodus 20:8–11

Note: “God saw that a Sabbath was essential for man, even in Paradise. He needed to lay aside his own interests and pursuits for one day of the seven, that he might more fully contemplate the works of God and meditate upon His power and goodness. He needed a Sabbath to remind him more vividly of God and to awaken gratitude because all that he enjoyed and possessed came from the beneficent hand of the Creator.

“God designs that the Sabbath shall direct the minds of men to the contemplation of His created works. Nature speaks to their senses, declaring that there is a living God, the Creator, the Supreme Ruler of all. … The beauty that clothes the earth is a token of God’s love. We may behold it in the everlasting hills, in the lofty trees, in the opening buds and the delicate flowers. All speak to us of God. The Sabbath, ever pointing to Him who made them all, bids men open the great book of nature and trace therein the wisdom, the power, and the love of the Creator.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 48

3.b.        What is included in the fourth commandment? Isaiah 58:13, 14

Note: “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.

“God has given men six days wherein to labor, and He requires that their own work be done in the six working days. Acts of necessity and mercy are permitted on the Sabbath, the sick and suffering are at all times to be cared for; but unnecessary labor is to be strictly avoided. … Those who discuss business matters or lay plans on the Sabbath are regarded by God as though engaged in the actual transaction of business. To keep the Sabbath holy, we should not even allow our minds to dwell upon things of a worldly character.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 307

Wednesday

4 A SIGN BETWEEN GOD AND HIS PEOPLE

4.a. What is the relation between creation and the Sabbath? Exodus 31:13–17

Note: “God’s memorial, the seventh-day Sabbath, the sign of His work in creating the world, has been displaced by the man of sin. God’s people have a special work to do in repairing the breach that has been made in His law; and the nearer we approach the end, the more urgent this work becomes. All who love God will show that they bear His sign by keeping His commandments. They are the restorers of paths to dwell in. … Genuine medical missionary work is bound up inseparably with the keeping of God’s commandments, of which the Sabbath is especially mentioned, since it is the great memorial of God’s creative work. Its observance is bound up with the work of restoring the moral image of God in man. This is the ministry which God’s people are to carry forward at this time. This ministry, rightly performed, will bring rich blessings to the church.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 265, 266

4.b. How does sanctification relate to the Sabbath? Ezekiel 20:12, 20

Note: “The Sabbath given to the world as the sign of God as the Creator is also the sign of Him as the Sanctifier. The power that created all things is the power that re-creates the soul in His own likeness. To those who keep holy the Sabbath day it is the sign of sanctification. True sanctification is harmony with God, oneness with Him in character. It is received through obedience to those principles that are the transcript of His character. And the Sabbath is the sign of obedience. He who from the heart obeys the fourth commandment will obey the whole law. He is sanctified through obedience.

“To us as to Israel the Sabbath is given ‘for a perpetual covenant.’ To those who reverence His holy day the Sabbath is a sign that God recognizes them as His chosen people. It is a pledge that He will fulfill to them His covenant. Every soul who accepts the sign of God’s government places himself under the divine, everlasting covenant. He fastens himself to the golden chain of obedience, every link of which is a promise.

“The fourth commandment alone of all the ten contains the seal of the great Lawgiver, the Creator of the heavens and the earth. Those who obey this commandment take upon themselves His name, and all the blessings it involves are theirs. ” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 350

Thursday

5 LESSONS FROM ANCIENT ISRAEL

5.a. What reforms were needed before and after the captivity of Israel and Judah? Jeremiah 17:19–27; Nehemiah 13:15–22

5.b. What reformation is needed today? Isaiah 56:1–8

Note: “Far more sacredness is attached to the Sabbath than is given it by many professed Sabbathkeepers. The Lord has been greatly dishonored by those who have not kept the Sabbath according to the commandment, either in the letter or in the spirit. He calls for a reform in the observance of the Sabbath.

“At the very beginning of the fourth commandment the Lord said: ‘Remember.’ He knew that amid the multitude of cares and perplexities man would be tempted to excuse himself from meeting the full requirement of the law, or would forget its sacred importance. Therefore He said: ‘Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.’ Exodus 20:8.

“All through the week we are to have the Sabbath in mind and be making preparation to keep it according to the commandment. We are not merely to observe the Sabbath as a legal matter. We are to understand its spiritual bearing upon all the transactions of life. All who regard the Sabbath as a sign between them and God, showing that He is the God who sanctifies them, will represent the principles of His government. They will bring into daily practice the laws of His kingdom. Daily it will be their prayer that the sanctification of the Sabbath may rest upon them. Every day they will have the companionship of Christ and will exemplify the perfection of His character. Every day their light will shine forth to others in good works.” Testimonies, Vol. 6, 353, 354

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    What did the Lord do on the first Sabbath?

2    Describe the miracles related to the Sabbath in the wilderness.

3    What is the main purpose of the Sabbath?

4    How can we sanctify the Sabbath?

5    What must be included in our preparation for the Sabbath?

Copyright 2005, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study – Divine Power in Creation Pt. 2

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June 11 – 17, 2023

Key Text

“Know that the Lord, He is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture.” Psalm 100:3

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 111–116

Introduction

“In God’s word alone we find an authentic account of creation. Here we behold the power that laid the foundation of the earth, and that stretched out the heavens. Here, only, can we find a history of our race, unsullied by human prejudice or human pride.” Christian Education, 38

Sunday

1 THE FOURTH DAY

1.a. What was God’s work on the fourth day? Genesis 1:14–19

Note: “The sun and the moon were made by Him [Christ]. There is not a star which beautifies the heavens that He did not make.” The Ministry of Healing, 424

1.b.        What should the sun bring to our mind? Psalm 84:11; Malachi 4:2, first part

Note: “The Sun of Righteousness did not burst upon the world in splendor, to dazzle the senses with His glory. It is written of Christ, ‘His going forth is prepared as the morning.’ Hosea 6:3. Quietly and gently the daylight breaks upon the earth, dispelling the shadow of darkness, and waking the world to life. So did the Sun of Righteousness arise, ‘with healing in His wings.’ Malachi 4:2.” The Desire of Ages, 261

“After association with the Son of God the humble follower of Christ is found to be a person of sound principle, clear perception, and reliable judgment. He has a connection with God, the Source of light and understanding. He who longed to be of service to the cause of Christ, has been so quickened by the life-giving rays of the Sun of Righteousness, that he has been enabled to bear much fruit to the glory of God.” Christian Education, 199

Monday

2 THE FIFTH DAY

2.a. Describe the creative work done on the fifth day. Genesis 1:20–22. What declaration is made about each day thus far? Genesis 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23

Note: “Geology has been thought to contradict the literal interpretation of the Mosaic record of the creation. Millions of years, it is claimed, were required for the evolution of the earth from chaos; and in order to accommodate the Bible to this supposed revelation of science, the days of creation are assumed to have been vast, indefinite periods, covering thousands or even millions of years.

“Such a conclusion is wholly uncalled for. The Bible record is in harmony with itself and with the teaching of nature. Of the first day employed in the work of creation is given the record, ‘The evening and the morning were the first day.’ Genesis 1:5. And the same in substance is said of each of the first six days of creation week. Each of these periods Inspiration declares to have been a day consisting of evening and morning, like every other day since that time. In regard to the work of creation itself the divine testimony is, ‘He spake, and it was done; He commanded, and it stood fast.’ Psalm 33:9. With Him who could thus call into existence unnumbered worlds, how long a time would be required for the evolution of the earth from chaos? In order to account for His works, must we do violence to His word?” Education, 128, 129

2.b.        Why is it so difficult for scientists to accept God’s word? Romans 1:18–21

Note: “A terrible picture of the condition of the world has been presented before me. Immorality abounds everywhere. Licentiousness is the special sin of this age. Never did vice lift its deformed head with such boldness as now. The people seem to be benumbed, and the lovers of virtue and true goodness are nearly discouraged by its boldness, strength, and prevalence.

“I was referred to Romans 1:18–32, as a true description of the world previous to the second appearing of Christ.

“It is sin, not trial and suffering, which separates God from His people and renders the soul incapable of enjoying and glorifying Him. It is sin that is destroying souls. Sin and vice exist in Sabbathkeeping families.” Child Guidance, 440

Tuesday

3 THE SIXTH DAY

3.a. What was created during the first part of the sixth day? Genesis 1:24, 25. How does God regard all these creatures? Matthew 6:26; 10:29 

Note: “Harsh treatment, even to the brutes, is offensive to God. Those who profess to love God do not always consider that abuse to animals, or suffering brought upon them by neglect, is a sin. The fruits of divine grace will be as truly revealed in men by the manner in which they treat their beasts, as by their service in the house of God. Those who allow themselves to become impatient or enraged with their animals are not Christians. …

“God, who created man, made the animals, also. They were to minister to man’s comfort and happiness, to serve him, and to be controlled by him.” The Signs of the Times, November 25, 1880

3.b.        What was the crowning work of the Creator? Genesis 1:26–28

Note: “After the earth with its teeming animal and vegetable life had been called into existence, man, the crowning work of the Creator, and the one for whom the beautiful earth had been fitted up, was brought upon the stage of action. … ‘So God created man in His own image; … male and female created He them.’ Here is clearly set forth the origin of the human race; and the divine record is so plainly stated that there is no occasion for erroneous conclusions. God created man in His own image. Here is no mystery. There is no ground for the supposition that man was evolved by slow degrees of development from the lower forms of animal or vegetable life. Such teaching lowers the great work of the Creator to the level of man’s narrow, earthly conceptions. Men are so intent upon excluding God from the sovereignty of the universe that they degrade man and defraud him of the dignity of his origin. He who set the starry worlds on high and tinted with delicate skill the flowers of the field, who filled the earth and the heavens with the wonders of His power, when He came to crown His glorious work, to place one in the midst to stand as ruler of the fair earth, did not fail to create a being worthy of the hand that gave him life. The genealogy of our race, as given by inspiration, traces back its origin, not to a line of developing germs, mollusks, and quadrupeds, but to the great Creator. Though formed from the dust, Adam was ‘the son of God.’ ” Patriarchs and Prophets, 44, 45

Wednesday

4 ORIGINAL INSTITUTIONS

4.a. What institution did the Creator establish on the sixth day? Genesis 1:27, 28

Note: “Jesus pointed His hearers back to the marriage institution as ordained at creation. ‘Because of the hardness of your hearts,’ He said, Moses ‘suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.’ Matthew 19:8. He referred them to the blessed days of Eden, when God pronounced all things ‘very good.’ … Then, as the Creator joined the hands of the holy pair in wedlock, saying, A man shall ‘leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one’ (Genesis 2:24), He enunciated the law of marriage for all the children of Adam to the close of time. That which the Eternal Father Himself had pronounced good was the law of highest blessing and development for man.

“Like every other one of God’s good gifts entrusted to the keeping of humanity, marriage has been perverted by sin; but it is the purpose of the gospel to restore its purity and beauty. In both the Old and the New Testament the marriage relation is employed to represent the tender and sacred union that exists between Christ and His people, the redeemed ones whom He has purchased at the cost of Calvary.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 63, 64

4.b. What diet was provided for man at creation? Genesis 1:29

Note: “In order to know what are the best foods, we must study God’s original plan for man’s diet. He who created man and who understands his needs appointed Adam his food. ‘Behold,’ He said, ‘I have given you every herb yielding seed, … and every tree, in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for food.’ Upon leaving Eden to gain his livelihood by tilling the earth under the curse of sin, man received permission to eat also ‘the herb of the field.’

“Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple and natural a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing. They impart a strength, a power of endurance, and a vigor of intellect, that are not afforded by a more complex and stimulating diet.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 81

Thursday

5 RESTORATION

5.a. What did Malachi prophesy concerning these last days? Malachi 4:5, 6

Note: “Those who are to prepare the way for the second coming of Christ are represented by faithful Elijah, as John came in the spirit of Elijah to prepare the way for Christ’s first advent. The great subject of reform is to be agitated, and the public mind is to be stirred. Temperance in all things is to be connected with the message, to turn the people of God from their idolatry, their gluttony, and their extravagance in dress and other things.” Testimonies, Vol. 3, 62

5.b.        What did the apostle Peter say, prophetically, about this work? Acts 3:19–21

Note: “The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening. The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Here are ‘the times of refreshing’ to which the apostle Peter looked forward … .” The Great Controversy, 611, 612

“In the time of the end every divine institution is to be restored. The breach made in the law at the time the Sabbath was changed by man, is to be repaired. God’s remnant people, standing before the world as reformers, are to show that the law of God is the foundation of all enduring reform and that the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is to stand as a memorial of creation, a constant reminder of the power of God. In clear, distinct lines they are to present the necessity of obedience to all the precepts of the Decalogue. Constrained by the love of Christ, they are to cooperate with Him in building up the waste places. They are to be repairers of the breach, restorers of paths to dwell in.” Prophets and Kings, 678

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Who is the true Source of light and how can we walk in it?

2    What does the Bible say about the days of creation?

3    What was the condition of man when he was created?

4    What relation exists between the family and the Sabbath?

5    What was prophesied about the restoration of all divine institutions?

Copyright 2005, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study – Divine Power in Creation

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June 4 – 10, 2023

Key Text

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.” Genesis 1:1, 2

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 44–51

Introduction

“Divine wisdom, infinite grace, were made plain by the things of God’s creation. Through nature and the experiences of life, men were taught of God.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 22

Sunday

1 THE GODHEAD PRESENT AT CREATION

 1.a. Who took an active part in the creation of the universe? Genesis 1:1, 2, 26; John 1:1–3

  • God, the Father – Hebrews 11:3
  • Jesus Christ – Colossians 1:16, 17
  • The Holy Spirit – Psalm 104:30

Note: “If Christ made all things, He existed before all things. The words spoken in regard to this are so decisive that no one need be left in doubt. Christ was God essentially, and in the highest sense. He was with God from all eternity. God over all, blessed forevermore.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary Vol. 5, 1126

1.b.  As we contemplate creation, what do we realize? Psalm 19:1–6

Note: “God encourages us to contemplate His works in the natural world. He desires that we shall turn our mind from the study of the artificial to the natural. We shall understand this better as we lift up our eyes to the hills of God, and contemplate the works which His own hands have created. They are God’s work. His hand has molded the mountains and balances them in their position, that they shall not be moved except at His command. The wind, the sun, the rain, the snow, and the ice, are all His ministers to do His will.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary Vol. 3, 1144, 1145

Monday

2 THE POWER OF GOD’S WORD

2.a. How did the universe come into existence? Psalm 33:6–9

 Note: “God spoke, and His words created His works in the natural world. God’s creation is but a reservoir of means made ready for Him to employ instantly to do His pleasure.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 1, 1081

2.b.  What should cause us to truly marvel at God’s creation? Hebrews 11:3

Note: “In the creation of the earth, God was not indebted to preexisting matter. ‘He spake, and it was; … He commanded, and it stood fast.’ Psalm 33:9. All things, material or spiritual, stood up before the Lord Jehovah at His voice and were created for His own purpose. The heavens and all the host of them, the earth and all things therein, came into existence by the breath of His mouth.” The Ministry of Healing, 414, 415

“Nature in her work testifies of the intelligent presence and active agency of a being who moves in all His works according to His will. It is not by an original power inherent in nature that year by year the earth yields its bounties and continues its march around the sun. The hand of infinite power is perpetually at work guiding this planet. It is God’s power momentarily exercised that keeps it in position in its rotation.

“The God of heaven is constantly at work. It is by His power that vegetation is caused to flourish, that every leaf appears and every flower blooms. Every drop of rain or flake of snow, every spire of grass, every leaf and flower and shrub, testifies of God. These little things so common around us teach the lesson that nothing is beneath the notice of the infinite God, nothing is too small for His attention.

“The mechanism of the human body cannot be fully understood; it presents mysteries that baffle the most intelligent. It is not as the result of a mechanism, which, once set in motion, continues its work, that the pulse beats and breath follows breath. In God we live and move and have our being. Every breath, every throb of the heart, is a continual evidence of the power of an ever-present God.” Testimonies, Vol. 8, 260

2.c. What is revealed by God’s creation? Romans 1:20

Tuesday

3 THE FIRST DAY

 3.a. What was created on the first day of creation? Genesis 1:3–5

 Note: “He [God] causes ‘the light to shine out of darkness.’ 2 Corinthians 4:6. When ‘the earth was without form, and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep,’ ‘the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light; and there was light.’ Genesis 1:2, 3.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 415

3.b.        What other light comes from the same source? John 1:6–10; 8:12; 9:5

 Note: “God is light; and in the words, ‘I am the light of the world,’ Christ declared His oneness with God, and His relation to the whole human family. It was He who at the beginning had caused ‘the light to shine out of darkness.’ 2 Corinthians 4:6. He is the light of sun and moon and star. He was the spiritual light that in symbol and type and prophecy had shone upon Israel. But not to the Jewish nation alone was the light given. As the sunbeams penetrate to the remotest corners of the earth, so does the light of the Sun of Righteousness shine upon every soul.” The Desire of Ages, 464

3.c. How does this light affect all who accept it? Isaiah 60:1, 2

Note: “In the night of spiritual darkness, God’s word goes forth, ‘Let there be light.’ To His people He says, ‘Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.’ Isaiah 60:1. …

“It is the darkness of misapprehension of God that is enshrouding the world. Men are losing their knowledge of His character. It has been misunderstood and misinterpreted. At this time a message from God is to be proclaimed, a message illuminating in its influence and saving in its power. His character is to be made known. Into the darkness of the world is to be shed the light of His glory, the light of His goodness, mercy, and truth.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 415

“It is the highest duty of every Christian to let the light God has given shine forth in steady rays.” The Review and Herald, December 12, 1893

Wednesday

4 THE SECOND DAY

4.a. What did God create on the second day? Genesis 1:6–8. What do we learn from God’s work in the firmament? Psalm 19:1–3

Note: “Shall we not commit to memory the lessons nature teaches? Shall we not open the eyes of our senses; and take in the beautiful things of God? We would do well to read often the nineteenth psalm that we may understand how the Lord binds up His law with His created works. …

“We are to contemplate the wonderful works of God, and repeat the lessons learned from them to our children, that we may lead them to see His skill, His power, His grandeur in His created works.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 3, 1143

4.b. What was God’s main purpose in creating the world? Isaiah 45:18

Note: “In the beginning, God was revealed in all the works of creation. It was Christ that spread the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth. It was His hand that hung the worlds in space. … And upon all things in earth, and air, and sky, He wrote the message of the Father’s love.” The Desire of Ages, 20

4.c. Explain why the sky can be especially inspiring to the Christian. Job 37:14–18

Note: “Several years ago, while journeying from Christiania, Norway, to Goteborg, Sweden, I was favored with the sight of the most glorious sunset it was ever my privilege to behold. Language is inadequate to picture its beauty. The last beams of the setting sun, silver and gold, purple, amber, and crimson, shed their glories athwart the sky, growing brighter and brighter, rising higher and higher in the heavens, until it seemed that the gates of the city of God had been left ajar, and gleams of the inner glory were flashing through. For two hours the wondrous splendor continued to light up the cold northern sky—picture painted by the great Master Artist upon the shifting canvas of the heavens. Like the smile of God it seemed, above all earthly homes, above the rock-bound plains, the rugged mountains, the lonely forests, through which our journey lay.” The Faith I Live By, 248

Thursday

5 THE THIRD DAY

5.a. What was brought forth on the third day? Genesis 1:9–13

Note: “When God formed the earth, there were mountains, hills, and plains, and interspersed among them were rivers and bodies of water. The earth was not one extensive plain, but the monotony of the scenery was broken by hills and mountains, not high and ragged as they now are, but regular and beautiful in shape. The bare, high rocks were never seen upon them, but lay beneath the surface, answering as bones to the earth. The waters were regularly dispersed. The hills, mountains, and very beautiful plains, were adorned with plants and flowers, and tall, majestic trees of every description, which were many times larger, and much more beautiful, than trees now are. The air was pure and healthful, and the earth seemed like a noble palace. Angels beheld and rejoiced at the wonderful and beautiful works of God.” Spiritual Gifts, Vol. 3, 33

“It is through the gift of Christ that we receive every blessing. Through that gift there comes to us day by day the unfailing flow of Jehovah’s goodness. Every flower, with its delicate tints and its fragrance, is given for our enjoyment through that one Gift.” The Ministry of Healing, 424

5.b.  What relationship exists between creation and the first angel’s message? Revelation 14:6, 7 

Note: “In the first angel’s message men are called upon to worship God, our Creator, who made the world and all things that are therein.” Selected Messages, Book 2, 106

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    Who took part in the creation of the universe?

2    How did God create everything in the universe?

3    What is the cause of the spiritual darkness in the whole world?

4    What do we learn from God’s power manifested in creation?

5    What is the relationship between God’s creation and the first angel’s message?

Copyright 2005, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Bible Study – Peace

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Christian Character (2)

May 28 – June 3, 2023

Key Text

“All Your children shall be taught of the Lord, and great shall be the peace of Your children.” Isaiah 54:13

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 328–332; 377–382

Introduction

“ ‘Peace I leave with you,’ He said, ‘My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.’ John 14:27. This peace is not the peace that comes through conformity to the world. Christ never purchased peace by compromise with evil. The peace that Christ left His disciples is internal rather than external and was ever to remain with His witnesses through strife and contention.” The Acts of the Apostles, 84

Sunday

1 THE SOURCE

1.a. Where can we find peace? Isaiah 9:6; Philippians 4:6, 7

Note: “What can give you greater joy than to see children and youth following Christ, the great Shepherd, who calls, and the sheep and lambs hear His voice and follow Him? What can spread more sunshine through the soul of the interested, devoted worker than to know that his persevering, patient labor is not in vain in the Lord, and to see his pupils have the sunshine of joy in their souls because Christ has forgiven their sins? What can be more satisfying to the worker together with God, than to see children and youth receiving the impressions of the spirit of God in true nobility of character and in the restoration of the moral image of God—the children seeking the peace coming from the Prince of peace? The truth a bondage?—Yes, in one sense; it binds the willing souls in captivity to Jesus Christ, bowing their hearts to the gentleness of Jesus Christ. O it means so much more than finite minds can comprehend, to present in every missionary effort Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” Christian Education, 156, 157

1.b.        How only can we receive Jesus’ peace? Ephesians 2:13, 14; Isaiah 26:3, 4

Monday

2 PEACE THROUGH CHRIST’S BLOOD

2.a. What can sinners have through the blood of Christ? Colossians 1:20; Isaiah 53:5

Note: “Without the cross, man could have no connection with the Father. On it hangs our every hope. In view of it the Christian may advance with the steps of a conqueror; for from it streams the light of the Saviour’s love. When the sinner reaches the cross, and looks up to the One who died to save him, he may rejoice with fullness of joy; for his sins are pardoned. Kneeling at the cross, he has reached the highest place to which man can attain. The light of the knowledge of the glory of God is revealed in the face of Jesus Christ; and the words of pardon are spoken: Live, O ye guilty sinners, live. Your repentance is accepted; for I have found a ransom.

“Through the cross we learn that our heavenly Father loves us with an infinite and everlasting love, and draws us to Him with more than a mother’s yearning sympathy for a wayward child. Can we wonder that Paul exclaimed, ‘God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ’? (Galatians 6:14). It is our privilege also to glory in the cross of Calvary, our privilege to give ourselves wholly to Him who gave Himself for us. Then with the light of love that shines from His face on ours, we shall go forth to reflect it to those in darkness.” The Review and Herald, April 29, 1902

2.b.        In accepting Christ as our righteousness, what do we possess? Romans 5:1

Note: “When the Spirit of God controls mind and heart, the converted soul breaks forth into a new song; for he realizes that in his experience the promise of God has been fulfilled, that his transgression has been forgiven, his sin covered. He has exercised repentance toward God for the violation of the divine law, and faith toward Christ, who died for man’s justification.” The Acts of the Apostles, 476

“Whoever consents to renounce sin and open his heart to the love of Christ, becomes a partaker of this heavenly peace.

“There is no other ground of peace than this. The grace of Christ received into the heart, subdues enmity; it allays strife and fills the soul with love. He who is at peace with God and his fellow men cannot be made miserable. Envy will not be in his heart; evil surmisings will find no room there; hatred cannot exist.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 27, 28

Tuesday

3 RIGHTEOUSNESS AND PEACE

3.a. What is the relationship between righteousness and peace? Isaiah 32:17

Note: “Dwell upon the marvelous plan of salvation, the great sacrifice made by the King of glory that you might be elevated through the merits of His blood and by obedience finally be exalted to the throne of Christ. This subject should engage the noblest contemplation of the mind. To be brought into favor with God—what a privilege! To commune with Him—what can more elevate, refine, and exalt us above the frivolous pleasures of earth? To have our corrupt natures renovated by grace, our lustful appetites and animal propensities in subjection, to stand forth with noble, moral independence, achieving victories every day, will give peace of conscience which can arise alone from rightdoing.” Testimonies, Vol. 1, 504

3.b.        What is the role of the ten commandments in this process? Psalm 119:165; Isaiah 48:18

Note: “In obedience to God’s law there is great gain. In conformity to the divine requirements there is a transforming power that brings peace and good will among men. If the teachings of God’s word were made the controlling influence in the life of every man and woman, if mind and heart were brought under its restraining power, the evils that now exist in national and in social life would find no place. From every home would go forth an influence that would make men and women strong in spiritual insight and in moral power, and thus nations and individuals would be placed on vantage ground.” Prophets and Kings, 192

“ ‘Blessed are the peacemakers.’ The peace of Christ is born of truth. It is harmony with God. The world is at enmity with the law of God; sinners are at enmity with their Maker; and as a result they are at enmity with one another. But the psalmist declares, ‘Great peace have they which love Thy law: and nothing shall offend them.’ Psalm 119:165. Men cannot manufacture peace. Human plans for the purification and uplifting of individuals or of society will fail of producing peace, because they do not reach the heart. The only power that can create or perpetuate true peace is the grace of Christ. When this is implanted in the heart, it will cast out the evil passions that cause strife and dissension.” The Desire of Ages, 302, 305

Wednesday

4 ETERNAL PEACE

4.a. How is the new earth described? Isaiah 32:18; 33:24; Revelation 21:1–7 

Note: “Pain cannot exist in the atmosphere of heaven. There will be no more tears, no funeral trains, no badges of mourning. …

“There, immortal minds will contemplate with never-failing delight the wonders of creative power, the mysteries of redeeming love. There will be no cruel, deceiving foe to tempt to forgetfulness of God. Every faculty will be developed, every capacity increased. The acquirement of knowledge will not weary the mind or exhaust the energies. There the grandest enterprises may be carried forward, the loftiest aspirations reached, the highest ambitions realized; and still there will arise new heights to surmount, new wonders to admire, new truths to comprehend, fresh objects to call forth the powers of mind and soul and body.

“All the treasures of the universe will be open to the study of God’s redeemed. Unfettered by mortality, they wing their tireless flight to worlds afar—worlds that thrilled with sorrow at the spectacle of human woe and rang with songs of gladness at the tidings of a ransomed soul. With unutterable delight the children of earth enter into the joy and the wisdom of unfallen beings. They share the treasures of knowledge and understanding gained through ages upon ages in contemplation of God’s handiwork.” The Great Controversy, 676, 677

4.b.        What else is promised to the redeemed? Revelation 22:1, 5

Note: “Christ, the heavenly Teacher, will lead His people to the tree of life that grows on either side of the river of life, and He will explain to them the truths they could not in this life understand. In that future life His people will gain the higher education in its completeness. Those who enter the city of God will have the golden crowns placed upon their heads. That will be a joyful scene that none of us can afford to miss. We shall cast our crowns at the feet of Jesus, and again and again we will give Him the glory and praise His holy name. Angels will unite in the songs of triumph. Touching their golden harps, they will fill all heaven with rich music and songs to the Lamb.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, 988

Thursday

5 OUR PRESENT DUTY

5.a. While we are still on earth, what is our present duty? Matthew 5:9; Hebrews 12:14; 1 John 4:7

Note: “Christ’s followers are sent to the world with the message of peace. Whoever, by the quiet, unconscious influence of a holy life, shall reveal the love of Christ; whoever, by word or deed, shall lead another to renounce sin and yield his heart to God, is a peacemaker.

“And ‘blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.’ The spirit of peace is evidence of their connection with heaven. The sweet savor of Christ surrounds them. The fragrance of the life, the loveliness of the character, reveal to the world the fact that they are children of God. Men take knowledge of them that they have been with Jesus.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 28

5.b.        How does Isaiah describe the work of God’s messengers? Isaiah 52:7–9

Note: “All who consecrate soul, body, and spirit to God will be constantly receiving a new endowment of physical and mental power. The inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command. Christ gives them the breath of His own spirit, the life of His own life. The Holy Spirit puts forth its highest energies to work in heart and mind. The grace of God enlarges and multiplies their faculties, and every perfection of the divine nature comes to their assistance in the work of saving souls. Through cooperation with Christ they are complete in Him, and in their human weakness they are enabled to do the deeds of Omnipotence.” The Desire of Ages, 827

“The greatest work, the noblest effort, in which men can engage, is to point sinners to the Lamb of God.” Gospel Workers, 18

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1    What should we do to obtain peace?

2    Who is the Source of peace in our heart?

3    What is the relation between righteousness and peace?

4    What is the basis of our eternal peace?

5    How can I cultivate the qualities of a peacemaker?

Copyright 2005, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

Recipe – Crockpot Steel Cut Overnite Oats

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The Almond

What is a superfood? There are no set criteria, but the American Heart Association states that the general belief is that superfoods typically

  • are nutrient-rich
  • are beneficial for health on several fronts
  • help promote overall well-being in mind and body

Nuts and seeds, then, are true superfoods because they are full of minerals, high in fiber, a good source of healthy fats, full of protein, contain phyto-nutrients (antioxidants), help prevent chronic disease, help with weight loss, and promote longevity.

The almond, along with their fellow nuts like walnuts and cashews, contain vital vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Almonds specifically help stabilize blood sugar, are alkalizing to the body, and are a source of naturally-derived calcium and magnesium. Cancer studies have shown that they may have anticancer properties, and other health studies have found that the almond can lower blood pressure and the risk of heart diseases and diabetes.

It is a myth that almonds are fattening, as long you don’t eat them in excess (of course, this is a good practice to follow when consuming any food—See The Ministry of Healing, 298). Some say that almonds are the most nutritious of all nuts. Whether that is true or not, they are very beneficial for our health.

For all the above reasons, regular consumption of almonds is recommended. It is also recommended that almonds be soaked overnight before eating them, as this significantly improves their health benefits and digestibility. This is particularly welcome if you have a sensitive gut. However, there is no need to presoak when using a crockpot.

Sources: breastcancerconqueror.com/8-reasons-nuts-seeds-true-superfoords; healthshots.com/healthy-eating/superfoods/almonds-are-best-eaten-soaked-and-peeled-heres-why; timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/diet/Almonds-are-not-fattening; Wikipedia

Recipe – Crockpot Steel Cut Overnite Oats

Ingredients

3 cups steel cut oats

8 cups water

2 cups almond milk

2 large apples, diced

2 Tbs. vegan protein powder

½ cup slivered almonds

2 Tbs. sesame seeds

2 Tbs. flax seed

2 Tbs. chia seed

½ – ¾ cup of raisins

Process

Cook on low setting in crockpot for 8-10 hours. Serve topped with vegan yogurt.

The Humanity of Christ is Everything

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“The humanity of the Son of God is everything to us. It is the golden chain that binds our souls to Christ, and through Christ to God. This is to be our study.”

Selected Messages, Book 1, 244

We started this series several months ago with 1 Timothy 3:16: “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” Another text speaks of the same mystery found in 1 Timothy, but the language is completely different. “I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church, of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God which was given to me for you, to fulfill the word of God, the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to His saints. To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:24–27

Friends, if I do not understand the truth about the nature of Christ, then I will not understand what it means for Christ to be in me, the hope of glory, and that has serious implications.

Let’s continue our study of the mystery of godliness, focusing on Galatians 4, starting with verses 4 and 5.

“But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.”

This is a simple and straightforward text, yet there is, in Adventism, tremendous controversy and misunderstanding over it. This is because we often read into the text something that it does not actually say. Some Adventists have interpreted that when the Bible says “God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law,” as meaning that Christ was born under the law of sin. You and I are born under the law of sin; in fact, every human being, save One, that has ever lived and is alive in the world today is born under the law of sin. The Spirit of Prophecy talks at great length about this and I challenge you to search it out for yourself.

In the Bible, the word law can apply to a number of different things and this is where the problem arises among conservative, Protestant Christians. They take New Testament texts that refer to the law or laws and apply them to the ten commandments—the law of God—when the texts could be referring to the law of the Lord, the law of Moses, or even the Torah. We have to be careful which interpretation of the word law we are adopting when we speak of the nature of Christ. Jesus was born under the law, just not the law of sin.

The first section of the Hebrew Bible is called the Torah. The Torah is the law, written by Moses and followed by the Jews as the law. The ten commandments are contained within the Torah, and oftentimes, the New Testament talks about the Torah, referring to it as the whole law of Moses. So, it is important to know which law the Bible is referring to: the law of the Lord, the law of God (the ten commandments), or the law of Moses.

But Paul writes in Romans 7 about “another” law which is not one of these three, but rather the law of sin. If you recall, we previously learned that Adam was originally created and lived in perfect harmony, not only with the law of God, but also with the nature of God. The principles of righteousness were written on his heart. Adam’s natural thoughts and feelings, his disposition and affections were in harmony with the nature and law of God; he reflected the character of God. Adam was created under the law of God.

But when he sinned, his nature, once governed by the principles of righteousness, was changed, and thereafter governed by the principles of selfishness. This new nature, governed by the law of sin, became the nature of all mankind.

We are born under the law of sin, but Jesus was born under the law of God. He was born to be the embodiment of the law of God. How could He be the ultimate example of a life lived in perfect obedience to the law of God if He was not born under the law of sin, the same law that governs us?

Let’s see how this can be true. “Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, ‘Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!’ But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.’ Then Mary said to the angel, ‘How can this be, since I do not know a man?’ And the angel answered and said to her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.’ ” Luke 1:26–35

What these texts say cannot be said about any human being except Jesus Christ. “He was born without a taint of sin, but came into the world in like manner as the human family.” Lift Him Up, 345. He grew in His mother’s womb and when the fullness of time was accomplished, He was delivered into this world, born with a physical body the same as all human beings.

Jesus was born of the Holy Spirit and a human woman. So here’s the question, what did He inherit from Mary? We find the answer in Romans 1:3, “Concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh.” And Hebrews 10:5, 10, “Therefore, when He came into the world, He said: ‘Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but a body You have prepared for Me.’ … By that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”

Remember, that the words flesh, nature, and law can have more than one meaning, and to know the correct meaning, we have to know the context of the scripture. So, what does the word flesh in Romans 1:3 refer to?

This is what Ellen White says are the attributes of human beings: “We have reason, conscience, memory, will, affections—all the attributes a human being can possess.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 6, 112

Now let’s look at what she says about Christ:

“We should consider the fact that to Christ our nature was a robe of humiliation and suffering. He humbled Himself to become a man, so that a body should be found, a Lamb without blemish should be provided as a sinless offering, that God might be just and the Justifier of him that believeth in Jesus. Humanity was in union with divinity.” The Signs of the Times, June 18, 1896

“He had not taken on Him even the nature of the angels, but humanity, perfectly identical with our own nature, except without the taint of sin. A human body, a human mind, with all the peculiar properties, He was bone, brain, and muscle. A man of our flesh, He was compassed with the weakness of humanity.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 16, 182

These two references make it clear that the word flesh, in this context, refer to His physical, human body and mind.

“The circumstances of His life were of that character that He was exposed to all the inconveniences that belong to men, not in wealth, not in ease, but in poverty and want and humiliation. He breathed the very air man must breathe. He trod our earth as a man. He had reason, conscience, memory, will, and affections of the human soul which was united with His divine nature.” Ibid.

So from our reading in Galatians 4 and from Inspiration, we find that Jesus received from His mother a human body and mind—prepared by God—with all the attributes possible for a human being to possess. He was made to be the Lamb without blemish, without the taint of sin, that a sanctified offering might be found. Christ’s humanity did not exist before He was conceived and born of Mary.

“His [Christ’s] human nature was created; it did not even possess the angelic powers. It was human, identical with our own.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 6, 111

Jesus had existed as a divine person throughout the ceaseless ages. In His divinity, He was not under the law of God. As the author of the law, He was above it. But when He was made of a woman, He was made in subjection to the law of God. He became a child of humanity, instructed by the Holy Spirit as every child may be, and a servant under the government of His Father until the time appointed for Him to receive His kingdom.

The foundation of God’s government in heaven and throughout His earthly dominion is His law, and it has two ruling principles: to love God supremely and to love our fellow human beings as ourselves. “The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the happiness of all created beings depended upon their perfect accord with its great principles of righteousness. God desires from all His creatures the service of love—homage that springs from an intelligent appreciation of His character.” The Great Controversy, 493. The authority of God is backed by His law which requires all created intelligences to be in subjection to its claims.

God sent His Son made under the law, placed under the jurisdiction, power, and control of His government and His law. To be subject to God’s law, Jesus had to have a human body, because in His divinity alone, He was not under or subject to the law.

This raised the question in Ellen White’s time, and still today, when Jesus was tempted, was it possible for Him to yield to the temptation? In fact, there are many Protestant theologians who believe that it was impossible for Christ to fail, impossible for Him to yield to temptation.

But Mrs. White says in answer to this question: “The point you inquire of me is, In our Lord’s great scene of conflict in the wilderness, apparently under the power of Satan and his angels, was He capable, in His human nature, of yielding to these temptations?

“I will try to answer this important question: As God He could not be tempted: but as a man He could be tempted, and that strongly, and could yield to the temptations.” Selected Messages, Book 3, 129

Notice how particular and definite she is in detail. Was Christ God? Yes He was. In His divine nature as God He could not be tempted (James 1:13–15).

“For a period of time Christ was on probation. He took humanity on Himself, to stand the test and trial which the first Adam failed to endure. Had He failed in His test and trial, He would have been disobedient to the voice of God, and the world would have been lost.” The Signs of the Times, May 10, 1899

From these references we can know that Christ was identical to us in His humanity, including not only bone, brain and muscle, but also all the attributes a human being can possess—conscience, memory, will, and affections—with the vital exception that His humanity did not possess the taint of sin.

We have studied that the law of God is an expression of His very nature, the embodiment of the great principle of love, the foundation of His government in heaven and earth. Mrs. White says that His law is a transcript of His character and the only correct standard of holiness.

“Righteousness is holiness, likeness to God, and ‘God is love.’ 1 John 4:16. It is conformity to the law of God, for ‘all Thy commandments are righteousness’ (Psalm 119:172), and ‘love is the fulfilling of the law’ (Romans 13:10). Righteousness is love, and love is the light and the life of God.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 18

God’s law is truth, the embodiment of the great principle of love, the foundation of His government in heaven and on earth, a transcript of His character, the security of life, happiness, and peace. God’s law is righteousness and the only correct standard of holiness, but to sinners that law is a ministry of condemnation and death.

The law of God is broad in its requirements, and man is under the obligation to keep it, not only outwardly, but in his thoughts, emotions, intents, and feelings of the heart and soul.

“If the law extended to the outward conduct only, men would not be guilty in their wrong thoughts, desires, and designs. But the law requires that the soul itself be pure and the mind holy, that the thoughts and feelings may be in accordance with the standard of love and righteousness.” The Review and Herald, April 5, 1898

Notice that the soul and the mind are closely connected. “The mind controls the whole man. All our actions, good or bad, have their source in the mind. It is the mind that worships God, and allies us to heavenly beings.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 426. The law of God requires that the soul itself—the inward thoughts, feelings, motives, and desires—not just the outward actions, be pure and in harmony with it.

There are two powers seeking to control in this world. Satan is in a vicious and violent battle to control the minds and souls of men. He spends all of his time trying to figure out how to accomplish it. We need to understand this warfare and how we must cooperate with the heavenly agencies.

“The law requires righteousness—a righteous life, a perfect character; and this man has not to give. He cannot meet the claims of God’s holy law.” The Desire of Ages, 762

The reason we cannot meet the claims of God’s law is not complicated. When Adam yielded to temptation, man became carnal, and when he had a son, his son was then born in his carnal image. All of us are born as partakers of the satanic nature. Adam’s natural allegiance belonged to his Creator, but he became a traitor, and as the legal representative of the race, laid its homage as a willing offering at the feet of the enemy, who then took control of man’s mind. Knowing this, it is easy to look back through history and understand how man was, and still is, capable of some of the most horrendous thoughts and actions.

How is it that mankind has become so degraded? There is but one explanation: the devil controls the human mind. Selfishness is the law of Satan’s kingdom, and when man chose him as his ruler, he came under the jurisdiction of the law of self, the law of sin. Selfishness replaced love in man’s heart and became the ruling principle of his life.

The law of God requires righteousness, and not one of Adam’s posterity is born inheriting righteousness, because Adam disobeyed and entailed sin upon his posterity (Manuscript Releases, Vol. 6, 3). Righteousness is holiness, a likeness to God. “No man inherits holiness as a birthright, nor can he, by any methods that he can devise, become loyal to God.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 310. From the moment of conception, we are, by nature, transgressors of God’s law. We do not possess the righteousness, the holiness, nor the allegiance to God that the law demands.

But what does the Bible say regarding the humanity of the only begotten Son from the moment that He was conceived? “And the angel answered and said to her, ‘The Holy Ghost will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you: therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.’ ” Luke 1:35

Referring to this scripture, Mrs. White says, “These words do not refer to any human being, except to the Son of the infinite God.” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 5, 1128. It was essential that from the moment of conception, Jesus had to be righteous, holy, and have an allegiance to God, all the things which the law demands. He had to meet the claims and the requirements of the law of God from the moment of conception, because He came to fulfill the law. “Jesus volunteered to meet the highest claims of the law, that He might be the justifier of all who believe on Him. We look to the cross, and see in Jesus a fully satisfied and reconciled God.” The Review and Herald, September 2, 1890

“Christ did not possess the same sinful, corrupt, fallen disloyalty we possess, for then He could not be a perfect offering.” Selected Messages, Book 3, 131. From the moment of His conception, Jesus Christ had not one sinful thought, desire, or propensity. If He had, it would be impossible for Him to be our Saviour; He would be unable to justify us, nor to forgive our sins.

Paul, speaking of Jesus, says, “For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.” Colossians 2:9, 10

“The glory of Christ is His character, and His character is an expression of the law of God. He fulfilled the law in its every specification.” The Signs of the Times, December 12, 1895

“The facts of this history are not fable, but a living, acting, experience. To deny this would rob Jesus of His greatest glory—allegiance to God—which enshrouded Him as a garment in this world on the field of battle with the relentless foe, and He is not reckoned with the transgressor.” Manuscript Releases, Vol. 16, 183

Jesus came to this world to reveal what the apostle Paul says was hidden in the mind of God from the beginning. The inhabitants of the unfallen worlds could not understand it; the devil and the people of this world do not understand it; but Jesus came to reveal it.

He couldn’t do it as an angel, and He couldn’t do it as God. “Christ came in human form to show the inhabitants of the unfallen worlds and of the fallen world that ample provision has been made to enable human beings to live in loyalty to their Creator.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 227. What a wonderful promise!

“Christ came to vindicate the sacred claims of the law.” Pacific Union Recorder, December 17, 1903

“He came to manifest the nature of His law, to reveal in His own character the beauty of holiness.” Education, 76

There is attractiveness like no other in studying the life and character of Jesus. People who lack spiritual understanding might say He was just a good man. He was a man, but He was a perfect man, for in His humanity, “God embodied His own attributes in His Son.” The Youth’s Instructor, September 16, 1897

Jesus, as a man, was God’s goodness, wisdom, power, purity, truthfulness, spirituality, benevolence, and love. “In Him, though human, all perfection of character, all divine excellence, dwelt.

“The words of Christ were full of deep meaning as He put forth the claim that He and the Father were of one substance, possessing the same attributes.” The Signs of the Times, November 27, 1893

“The righteousness of God is embodied in Christ. We receive righteousness by receiving Him.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 18

From childhood to manhood, Christ taught that the kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Jesus is the Truth because He did not, by one act of disobedience, separate Himself from God. The source of His peace was the power of the Holy Spirit who was upon Him and in control of His mind. Disobedience would have separated Him from God, just as disobedience separated the first Adam from God.

“Christ is called the second Adam. In purity and holiness, connected with God and beloved by God, He began where the first Adam began.” The Youth’s Instructor, June 2, 1898

Christ’s obedience to the law, was not merely an outward compliance. Jesus was the very expression of God’s law in His nature, with the great principle of love in His heart. If we have this same principle of love implanted in our hearts, then the image of our Saviour will be reflected in us, and we will be ready for Jesus to come again.

“Let it never be forgotten that the teacher must be what he desires his pupils to become.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 58 [Author’s emphasis.]

“None need fail of attaining, in his sphere, to perfection of Christian character. By the sacrifice of Christ, provision has been made for the believer to receive all things that pertain to life and godliness. God calls upon us to reach the standard of perfection and places before us the example of Christ’s character. In His humanity, perfected by a life of constant resistance to evil, the Saviour showed that through cooperation with Divinity, human beings may in this life attain to perfection of character. This is God’s assurance to us that we, too, may obtain complete victory.” The Acts of the Apostles, 531

In closing, Galatians 4:4 says, “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law.”

Born of a woman, embodied with the very attributes of God’s nature, born under the law of God, filled with love, righteousness, and holiness, Jesus came to confront the master deceiver and save mankind.

We must understand who Jesus is, what He is like and then, we must claim the promise that His character will be worked out in us, and we will be perfected by the power of the Holy Spirit. Alone, we are helpless, but with His divine grace and power, our hearts and minds can be changed to be in harmony with His.

[Emphasis supplied.]

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

Honey – Is It a Clean Food?

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Can I eat honey? Isn’t honey an “animal by-product” since it comes from bees?

First, bees do not make honey. No, it’s true.

But bees do process nectar from the flowers that becomes honey. Here is how it works.

Honeybees fly from flower to flower collecting nectar. They have two stomachs: the honey stomach and the midgut. When the nectar is collected, it enters the honey stomach. It can take up to 1,000 flowers’ worth of nectar to fill a bee’s honey stomach. If a bee is hungry, the section between the midgut and the honey stomach opens and some of the nectar moves into the midgut. In this second stomach, the nectar is then converted to energy for the bee. Once the honey stomach is filled, the bee will return to the hive and the honey-making commences.

In the hive, the bee will regurgitate the nectar from the honey stomach and it is then passed, mouth-to-mouth, among the bees in the hive to reduce the moisture content. Each bee will chew the nectar for about a half an hour, using natural enzymes (invertase and glucose oxidase) to convert the complex sugar in nectar into simple sugar. Enzymes are organic compounds that speed up a biochemical reaction.

Nectar is about 80% water. Through this process, the moisture content of the nectar is reduced to about 20 percent. With the reduction in moisture and the help of the enzymes, honey is made. The glucose oxidase enzyme is a natural preservative which limits the ability of bacteria and other microorganisms to grow in the honey and spoil it. The honey is then stored in the cells within the hive until it is needed.

Fun Fact: Hydrogen peroxide is also made from glucose oxidase.

Honeybees do not hibernate in the winter. They remain in their hives, huddled together to keep warm, and feast on the sweet honey they have hoarded for weeks. Honeybees produce more honey than they will need to survive during the winter months, and it is the remaining honey that is collected by beekeepers and sold in stores.

Unlike a cow, whose milk is produced in a process that ultimately causes the mammary glands to make milk, the bee is simply a storage facility and manufacturing plant, if you will. The nectar is collected from the flowers and stored in the honey stomach. It is then processed outside the bee and the glucose oxidase is added, thus making honey.

One More Fun Fact: The oldest evidence of honey was found in ancient Georgia (Eastern Europe) in 2003 and was determined to be about 5,500 years old. It had been stored in ceramic vessels in the tomb of a noblewoman. Three types of honey were found—meadow flower, berry, and linden. Originally thought to be the oldest honey found, archaeologists found a jar of honey in the tomb of King Tutankhamun. They tasted it and found it to still be sweet. Its low water content and acidic pH kept it from spoiling.

When bees are on the search for nectar, flying from flower to flower, their bodies brush against the flowers and pick up pollen. In this way, bees transfer pollen enabling the different flower species to reproduce.

Raw honey has been used as a remedy for centuries and provides a number of health benefits and medicinal uses. Many of these benefits are specific to raw honey, as the process of pasteurization destroys many of the beneficial nutrients.

A Good Source of Antioxidants

Raw honey contains a variety of plant chemicals that act as antioxidants. These protect the body from the damaging effects of oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Antioxidant compounds called polyphenols can have an anti-inflammatory affect against conditions associated with oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between harmful free radicals and antioxidants, and can be involved in the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s, as well as cancer and heart disease. Raw honey can also contain bee pollen and propolis which can have a protective effect for the respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and nervous systems.

Nutrition

One tablespoon of raw honey contains approximately 64 calories, 17 grams of sugar, and smaller amounts of micronutrients such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, riboflavin, and zinc, among others. It is also a source of amino acids, enzymes, and other compounds. Honey also may have a slight benefit over regular sugar in blood sugar maintenance. However, while it may be slightly better for the diabetic than sugar, it still should be consumed in moderation.

Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties/Heals Wounds

The propolis in raw honey has antifungal and antibacterial properties and can be significant in the treatment of both internal and topical ailments.

Phytonutrient Powerhouse

These compounds in raw honey have been found to have immune-boosting and anticancer benefits. However, the pasteurization process can destroy these nutrients.

Help for Digestive Issues

Honey is sometimes used to treat diarrhea. It contains prebiotics, which nourish the good bacteria that live in the intestines.

Soothe a Sore Throat and Cough

Honey is an old sore throat remedy. Add it, along with some lemon, to hot tea when you feel a cold coming on.

Brain Benefits

The polyphenols in honey may be able to counter inflammation in the hippocampus, where our memories are stored, thereby being a benefit to brain health.

There is a risk that raw honey could carry harmful bacteria which could result in botulism poisoning. For this reason, raw honey should never be given to an infant less than a year old. In adults, there could be a short period of diarrhea and vomiting, followed by constipation and other, perhaps, more severe symptoms, such as blurred vision and muscle weakness.

Honey doesn’t expire quickly, but it can become contaminated. It should be stored in tightly sealed containers away from light and extreme temperatures. If the color of your honey has drastically changed or smells off, it should be thrown out.

Last Fun Fact: In 2017, bees produced 158 million pounds of honey in the United States alone.

Bee pollen is a mixture of flower pollen, nectar, enzymes, honey, wax, and bee secretions. It is loaded with nutrients, amino acids, vitamins, lipids, and over 250 other active substances. Bee pollen is produced by young bees, who then take it back to the hive and store it until it ferments. Then it becomes bee bread—the bread of the hive—which supplies food for the bees. But what does it do for man?

Used as a medicine, bee pollen contains antioxidants. It can lower the risk factors for heart disease, high blood lipids and cholesterol. It may boost liver function, and it can reduce inflammation and swelling.

“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 … More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.” Psalm 19:7, 8, and 10, last part

Why would God compare His law to the sweetness of honey were it not a clean food and healthful for the body?

Sources: livescience.com/how-do-bees-make-honey; mydelicioussweets.com/whats-the-oldest-honey-ever-found; healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/top-raw-honey-benefits; healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-honey; Wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxidative-stress; beeculture.com/the-chemistry-of-honey

Question: Can eating cheese keep me out of heaven?

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Question:

Can eating cheese keep me out of heaven?

Answer:

If you have already read John Pearson’s article Following Counsel, then you know that Sister White is very specific regarding the consumption of cheese: Counsels on Diet and Foods, 370; Testimonies, Vol. 2, 68; Counsels on Health, 114; The Ministry of Healing, 302, to name a few.

The decision to eat, or not eat, cheese, as with all things that the Bible and Inspiration provide counsel for, is a matter of obedience.

“Obey, obey, for Christ’s sake and for your own soul’s sake. Obey that which your conscience tells you is truth. Accept the grace and righteousness of Christ. God is tenderly calling you, ‘Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light’ (Matthew 11:28–30). If you refuse the invitation to repentance, to freedom from sin, the great day of God will find you hopeless, shelterless, disobedient, a transgressor of His law. He will not then be able to give you a place in His kingdom. God help you to come now, is my prayer.” This Day With God, 153

“We must make it our lifework to understand the will of God. … Your every word and action is to be in accordance with the will of God … .” Our Father Cares, 272

“It is by following in the path of obedience in simple faith that the character attains perfection. …

“Christ has promised us sufficient power to reach this high standard. He says, ‘Whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in My name, I will do it. If ye love Me, keep My commandments. And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive’ (John 14:13–17). …”

“We cannot overestimate the value of simple faith and unquestioning obedience.” That I May Know Him, 116

If God asks me to do, or not to do, anything for which the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy provide clear direction, then I must obey, for nothing in this world should be more important to me than obedience to God. Disobedience is an outward expression of selfishness within and a sign that I have not surrendered my will to God. Obedience is the outward expression of my love for and surrender to Him.

I Must Tell Jesus

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Each morning, before we start the workday here at Steps to Life, we have staff worship. Part of our worship is singing a hymn. Recently, we sang I Must Tell Jesus, and after having sung the hymn, we contemplated what tragedy or discouragement might have befallen the writer of the song to elicit such a heartfelt declaration. I determined to see if I could find out.

I Must Tell Jesus was written, both lyrics and music, by Elisha (E. A.) Hoffman. He was born in 1839 in the town of Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania.

In 1864, at the age of 24, Elisha served in the Union Army during the Civil War. In 1865, he married Susan Orwig, who died in 1875. In 1879, he married Emma Sayres Smith. In total, he had three children, sons Orey and Harry, and daughter Florence.

He worked for eleven years in the Evangelical Association’s publishing house. In 1868, following in his father’s footsteps, he was ordained in the Presbyterian Church. He served as a minister for over 60 years in Ohio, Illinois, and Michigan, spending 33 of those years as pastor of the Benton Harbor Presbyterian Church.

He is credited with writing over 2,000 hymns, such as Are You Washed in the Blood?; Leaning on the Everlasting Arms; and I Must Tell Jesus. He was both lyricist and composer of his songs.

While serving a church in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, he visited a woman who had faced a number of struggles. He relates his visit with her thusly:

“There was a woman to whom God had permitted many visitations of sorrow and affliction. Coming to her home one day, I found her much discouraged. She unburdened her heart, concluding with the question, ‘Brother Hoffman, what shall I do?’ I quoted from the word, then added, ‘You cannot do better than to take all of your sorrows to Jesus. You must tell Jesus.’

“For a moment she seemed lost in meditation. Then her eyes lighted as she exclaimed, ‘Yes, I must tell Jesus.’ As I left her home, I had a vision of that joy-illuminated face, and I heard all along my pathway the echo, ‘I must tell Jesus. I must tell Jesus.’ ”

Upon arriving home, he wrote the words of this beloved hymn and composed the tune he titled “Orwigsburg” after his birthplace. I Must Tell Jesus first appeared in the Pentecostal Hymns hymnal in 1894.

Perhaps some might find the song simplistic or repetitious, since in the four stanzas, with their refrains, the phrase “I must tell Jesus” is repeated twenty-one times. But I think it would be true to say that, sometimes, we most definitely need to be reminded—and reminded again—that Jesus alone is the One who can help us.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

Elisha Hoffman retired from the ministry in 1922, and died at the age of 90 on November 5, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois.

Sources: dianaleaghmatthews.com/i-must-tell-jesus; hymnary.org/person/Hoffman_Elisha; wordwisehymns.com/2011/12/02/i-must-tell-jesus; Wikipedia; hymnologyarchive.com/elisha-hoffman

I must tell Jesus all of my trials;

I cannot bear these burdens alone;

In my distress, He kindly will help me;

He ever loves and cares for His own.

 

I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!

I cannot bear my burdens alone;

I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!

Jesus can help me, Jesus alone.

The Hippopotamus

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How fast can a hippo swim? Can Hippos drown? Are Hippos dangerous? What do Hippos eat?

Hippopotamus is a Greek word meaning “river horse.”

Hippos are semi-aquatic, meaning they live in the water, but not all the time. They are found most often in slow-moving rivers and lakes in the Sahara Desert in Africa. They live in groups with a dominate bull and 5-30 cows and calves.

In spite of its body weight and composition compared to other aquatic mammals, a hippo lives and survives most of its life in the water, spending up to 16 hours a day in the water. Technically, they are not accomplished swimmers nor can they float. They walk or gallop always maintaining some kind of contact with the bottom or side of the river bed, propelling themselves locomotion-style—at almost five miles per hour—through the water, holding their breath for up to five minutes.

Hippos weigh 3,000-9,000 pounds and are 9.5-14 feet long, making them the third-largest land animal behind the elephant and rhinoceros. Male hippos grow throughout their lives, while females reach their maximum weight at around the age of 25.

Their skeletal structure is graviportal, adapted to carrying great weight. Their dense bones and low center of gravity allow them to sink and move along the bottom of the water. They usually trot on dry land, but if you think you could outrun such a big beast, be warned—hippos can gallop up to 20 mph. For reference, the fastest human, Usain Bolt, can run 23.4 mph.

Hippos’ eyes, ears, and nostrils are placed high at the top of their skulls so that they will be above water while the hippo rests submerged. Being nocturnal creatures, hippos spend the day in the water, but venture on land at sunset to eat leaves and grass, their favorite food—adults can eat up to 150 pounds of it per day. Notwithstanding the fact that their diet is primarily vegetarian, hippos will, on occasion, eat meat, and, therefore, are considered to be omnivores.

Hippos’ skin is about two inches thick and demands moisture. They cannot survive long on land because their bodies begin to dehydrate. They do not have sweat glands, but do have special glands in their skin which secrete a reddish, oily fluid, sometimes called “blood sweat.” This substance, however, is neither blood nor sweat. It is a secretion containing acids that inhibit the growth of disease-causing bacteria, as well as providing a sunscreen effect.

Hippos live an average of 40-50 years in the wild, but there have been hippos in zoos or wildlife sanctuaries that have exceeded 50 years. Because of their pig or cow-like appearance and peaceful meandering in the water, as observed in exhibits in countless zoos around the world, it is hard to believe that they have a violent and aggressive character. But they can be quite ferocious, which earns them the label of predator. They have powerful jaws with tusks and very big teeth that are capable of snapping a canoe in half. Thus they are classified as one of the most deadly creatures on the planet.

Bull hippos are territorial and mark both their water and land territory with their feces. Even though hippos spend their days in the water sleeping and quietly resting from the heat, don’t let their yawning fool you. A yawning hippo is feeling threatened, and the yawn is meant to warn other animals they are getting too close to its territory, and gives the unsuspecting animal a good, up-close look at those huge tusks and teeth.

Hippos actually sleep underwater. Due to their reflexes, they surface every 20-30 minutes, inhaling fresh air before submerging again, all without ever waking up.

Since hippos are so ferocious and deadly, who are they afraid of? Despite the thickness of their skin, a hippo can be killed with a gun, making man a dangerous predator. But in the wild, young hippos and calves are the easy, natural prey of crocodiles, lions, and hyenas.

Sources: hippohaven.com/how-fast-can-a-hippo-swim; thebigzoo.com/are-hippos-herbivores; kidadl.com/facts/are-hippos-omnivores-explore-why-they-like-to-eat-both-meat-and-grass; teacherscollegesj.com/are-hippo-skins-touch; onpolemotorsports.com/why-is-hippo-skin-bulletproof; animalways.org/hippos-are-the-deadlist-animals;timesmojo/can-hippo-breathe-under-water; Wikipedia/hippopotamus; a-z-animals.com/blog/hippo-size-just-how-much-does-a-hippo-weigh