Issue: 2016 October

Bible Study Guides – God’s Servants Sealed

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November 19, 2016 – November 25, 2016

Key Text

“Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads” (Revelation 7:3).

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 5, 207–216.

Introduction

“Satan is now using every device in this sealing time, to keep the minds of God’s people from the present, sealing truth; and to cause them to waver. I saw a covering that God was drawing over His people, to protect them in the time of trouble; and every soul that was decided on the truth, and was pure in heart, was to be covered with the covering of Almighty God.” The Review and Herald (The Present Truth), August 1, 1849.

1 A REFUGE

  • What invitation does God make to His people before the destruction of the earth? Isaiah 26:20, 21.
  • What promises will be a comfort in those turbulent days? Psalm 46:1–3; 91:1–10.

Note: “The time of trouble is the crucible that is to bring out Christ-like characters. It is designed to lead the people of God to renounce Satan and his temptations. The last conflict will reveal Satan to them in his true character, that of a cruel tyrant, and it will do for them what nothing else could do, up-root him entirely from their affections.” The Review and Herald, August 12, 1884.

“Their [God’s people’s] faith does not fail because their prayers are not immediately answered. Though suffering the keenest anxiety, terror, and distress, they do not cease their intercessions. They lay hold of the strength of God as Jacob laid hold of the Angel; and the language of their souls is: ‘I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me’ (Genesis 32:26).” The Great Controversy, 619, 620.

2 SEALED OR SLAIN

  • Who is destroyed, and who is given shelter in Ezekiel’s vision? Ezekiel 9:3–6, 9, 10.
  • How is the work of the protecting angels cited in the Revelation similar to that of the man with the writer’s inkhorn in Ezekiel’s vision? Revelation 7:1–3.
  • How does the experience of the Jews in the time of Esther illustrate that of God’s people at the end of time? Esther 3:8, 9; 9:1–3.

Note: “This sealing of the servants of God is the same that was shown to Ezekiel in vision.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 445.

“The trying experiences that came to God’s people in the days of Esther were not peculiar to that age alone. … The same spirit that in ages past led men to persecute the true church, will in the future lead to the pursuance of a similar course toward those who maintain their loyalty to God. …

“The decree that will finally go forth against the remnant people of God will be very similar to that issued by Ahasuerus against the Jews. Today the enemies of the true church see in the little company keeping the Sabbath commandment, a Mordecai at the gate. The reverence of God’s people for His law is a constant rebuke to those who have cast off the fear of the Lord and are trampling on His Sabbath.

“Satan will arouse indignation against the minority who refuse to accept popular customs and traditions. Men of position and reputation will join with the lawless and the vile to take counsel against the people of God. Wealth, genius, education will combine to cover them with contempt. Persecuting rulers, ministers, and church members will conspire against them. With voice and pen, by boasts, threats, and ridicule, they will seek to overthrow their faith. By false representations and angry appeals, men will stir up the passions of the people. Not having a ‘Thus saith the Scriptures’ to bring against the advocates of the Bible Sabbath, they will resort to oppressive enactments to supply the lack. To secure popularity and patronage, legislators will yield to the demand for Sunday laws. … On this battlefield will be fought the last great conflict in the controversy between truth and error. And we are not left in doubt as to the issue. Today, as in the days of Esther and Mordecai, the Lord will vindicate His truth and His people.” Prophets and Kings, 605, 606.

3 PURIFICATION OF CHARACTER

  • What type of character will be developed in those who are preparing for the seal? Revelation 14:1, 5. What does having the Father’s name imply? Matthew 6:9; I Peter 3:15.

Note: “Now is the time to prepare. The seal of God will never be placed upon the forehead of an impure man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of the ambitious, world-loving man or woman. It will never be placed upon the forehead of men or women of false tongues or deceitful hearts. All who receive the seal must be without spot before God—candidates for heaven.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 216.

“It is not any seal or mark that can be seen, but a settling into the truth, both intellectually and spiritually, so they [God’s people] cannot be moved.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, 1161.

“Are we striving with all our power to attain to the stature of men and women in Christ? Are we seeking for His fullness, ever pressing toward the mark set before us—the perfection of His character? When the Lord’s people reach this mark, they will be sealed in their foreheads.” Ibid., vol. 6, 1118.

“I also saw that many do not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of the Lord without a high priest in the sanctuary through the time of trouble. Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the time of trouble must reflect the image of Jesus fully.” Early Writings, 71.

  • How will the Lord perform this sanctifying work in us? Hebrews 7:25; 13:20, 21; Philippians 1:6; 2:12, 13.

Note: “I saw that the time for Jesus to be in the most holy place was nearly finished and that time can last but a very little longer. What leisure time we have should be spent in searching the Bible, which is to judge us in the last day. …

“Live and act wholly in reference to the coming of the Son of man. The sealing time is very short, and will soon be over. Now is the time, while the four angels are holding the four winds, to make our calling and election sure.” Early Writings, 58.

“Let us strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundred and forty-four thousand.” The Review and Herald, March 9, 1905.

4 SIGHING AND CRYING

  • What is the work of God’s people in the last days? Isaiah 58:12.

Note: “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.” Prophets and Kings, 678.

  • What does it mean to sigh and cry? Ezekiel 9:4.

Note: “The abominations for which the faithful ones were sighing and crying were all that could be discerned by finite eyes, but by far the worst sins, those which provoked the jealousy of the pure and holy God, were unrevealed.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 211.

“At the time when the danger and depression of the church are greatest, the little company who are standing in the light will be sighing and crying for the abominations that are done in the land. But more especially will their prayers arise in behalf of the church because its members are doing after the manner of the world. …

“They mourn before God to see religion despised in the very homes of those who have had great light. They lament and afflict their souls because pride, avarice, selfishness, and deception of almost every kind are in the church.” Ibid., 209, 210.

  • Where does the judgment begin, and what does this mean for God’s professed people? Ezekiel 9:6.

Note: “But the general slaughter of all those who do not thus see the wide contrast between sin and righteousness, and do not feel as those do who stand in the counsel of God and receive the mark, is described in the order to the five men with slaughter weapons: [Ezekiel 9:5, 6 quoted].” Testimonies, vol. 3, 267.

5 DELIVERANCE

  • How will God finally deliver His people in this time? Luke 18:7; Daniel 12:1, 2. Discuss the purification of the church prior to the close of probation.

Note: “In the hour of the church’s greatest danger most fervent prayer will be offered in her behalf by the faithful remnant, and God will hear and answer at the very time when the guilt of the transgressor has reached its height.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 524.

“The church may appear as about to fall, but it does not fall. It remains, while the sinners in Zion will be sifted out—the chaff separated from the precious wheat.” Selected Messages, Book 2, 380.

“The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The mark of the beast will be urged upon us. … In this time the gold will be separated from the dross in the church. … Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat. All who assume the ornaments of the sanctuary, but are not clothed with Christ’s righteousness, will appear in the shame of their own nakedness.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 81.

  • Who will survive the plagues and be translated at the second coming of Jesus? I Thessalonians 4:16, 17; Revelation 14:4.

Note: “None but the hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their experience … such as no other company have ever had. … These, having been translated from the earth, from among the living, are counted as ‘the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb’ (Revelation 14:4).” The Great Controversy, 649.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What protection does God offer from the plagues, and how can you have it?

2 How are we to be brought to the condition of readiness for the seal?

3 How do the remnant relate to the sin around them, in and out of the church?

4 Have you felt the personal assurance of God’s promise to prepare you for the end?

5 How does God’s vision of the wheat and the chaff differ from ours?

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

Bible Study Guides – Earth’s Final Warning

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November 12, 2016 – November 18, 2016

Key Text

“This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth” (I Timothy 2:3, 4).

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 603–612.

Introduction

“The advent movement of 1840-44 was a glorious manifestation of the power of God; the first angel’s message was carried to every missionary station in the world, and in some countries there was the greatest religious interest which has been witnessed in any land since the Reformation of the sixteenth century; but these are to be exceeded by the mighty movement under the last warning of the third angel.” The Great Controversy, 611.

1 EVERYONE MUST KNOW

  • What important commission did Jesus give to His disciples? Acts 1:8.

Note: “Before ascending to heaven, Christ gave His disciples their commission. He told them that they were to be the executors of the will in which He bequeathed to the world the treasures of eternal life. …

“They were not to wait for the people to come to them; they were to go to the people with their message.” The Acts of the Apostles, 27, 28.

  • What must take place before the end of the world? Matthew 24:14.

Note: “It is the privilege of every Christian not only to look for but to hasten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:12, margin). Were all who profess His name bearing fruit to His glory, how quickly the whole world would be sown with the seed of the gospel. Quickly the last great harvest would be ripened, and Christ would come to gather the precious grain.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 69.

2 PROPHECIES OF DESTRUCTION

  • Why is Jesus’ coming delayed, and what is in store for this earth, as we know it? 2 Peter 3:7–10.
  • Describe the prophecies of destruction in the dramatic climax of this earth’s history. Isaiah 13:6–9; 34:1–5; Revelation 6:14–17; 11:18.

Note: “God permits the wicked to prosper and to reveal their enmity against Him, that when they shall have filled up the measure of their iniquity all may see His justice and mercy in their utter destruction. The day of His vengeance hastens, when all who have transgressed His law and oppressed His people will meet the just recompense of their deeds; when every act of cruelty or injustice toward God’s faithful ones will be punished as though done to Christ Himself.” The Great Controversy, 48.

  • How does this parallel the Flood in the days of Noah? Genesis 6:13, 17; 7:23; Matthew 24:37–41.

Note: “The Bible declares that in the last days men will be absorbed in worldly pursuits, in pleasure and money-getting. They will be blind to eternal realities. …

“Men are rushing on in the chase for gain and selfish indulgence as if there were no God, no heaven, and no hereafter. In Noah’s day the warning of the flood was sent to startle men in their wickedness and call them to repentance. So the message of Christ’s soon coming is designed to arouse men from their absorption in worldly things. It is intended to awaken them to a sense of eternal realities, that they may give heed to the invitation to the Lord’s table.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 228.

“Before the Flood God sent Noah to warn the world, that the people might be led to repentance, and thus escape the threatened destruction. As the time of Christ’s second appearing draws near, the Lord sends His servants with a warning to the world to prepare for that great event. Multitudes have been living in transgression of God’s law, and now He in mercy calls them to obey its sacred precepts. All who will put away their sins by repentance toward God and faith in Christ are offered pardon.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 102.

3 THE SEVEN LAST PLAGUES

  • How does Revelation describe the actual carrying out of God’s judgments on the earth? Revelation 15:7; 16:1–21.

Note: “I saw that His [God’s] anger was dreadful and terrible, and if He should stretch forth His hand, or lift it in anger, the inhabitants of the world would be as though they had never been, or would suffer from incurable sores and withering plagues that would come upon them, and they would find no deliverance, but be destroyed by them. … Then I realized, as never before, the importance of searching the word of God carefully, to know how to escape the plagues which that Word declares shall come on all the ungodly.” Early Writings, 64, 65.

“Our own course of action will determine whether we shall receive the seal of the living God or be cut down by the destroying weapons. Already a few drops of God’s wrath have fallen upon the earth; but when the seven last plagues shall be poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation, then it will be forever too late to repent and find shelter. No atoning blood will then wash away the stains of sin.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 212.

  • Describe the scene when the destruction of the rest of the living is finished. Revelation 19:17–19.

Note: “My attention was again directed to the earth. … After the saints had been delivered by the voice of God, the wicked multitude turned their rage upon one another. The earth seemed to be deluged with blood, and dead bodies were from one end of it to the other.

“The earth looked like a desolate wilderness. Cities and villages, shaken down by the earthquake, lay in heaps. Mountains had been moved out of their places, leaving large caverns. Ragged rocks, thrown out by the sea, or torn out of the earth itself, were scattered all over its surface. Large trees had been uprooted and were strewn over the land.” Early Writings, 289, 290.

  • At the culmination of the destruction of the earth, what is the last event? Malachi 4:1–3; 2 Peter 3:10.

4 A THREEFOLD MESSAGE

  • How are the judgment and the fall of spiritual Babylon described by the first and second angels of Revelation 14? Revelation 14:6–8.

Note: “In the prophecy this warning of the judgment, with its connected messages, is followed by the coming of the Son of man in the clouds of heaven. The proclamation of the judgment is an announcement of Christ’s second coming as at hand. And this proclamation is called the everlasting gospel. Thus the preaching of Christ’s second coming, the announcement of its nearness, is shown to be an essential part of the gospel message.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 227, 228.

  • How does the third angel present the final warning before the seven last plagues? Revelation 14:9–12.

Note: “The most fearful threatening ever addressed to mortals is contained in the third angel’s message. That must be a terrible sin which calls down the wrath of God unmingled with mercy. Men are not to be left in darkness concerning this important matter; the warning against this sin is to be given to the world before the visitation of God’s judgments, that all may know why they are to be inflicted, and have opportunity to escape them.” The Great Controversy, 449, 450.

  • Who is represented by these “angels” (messengers) that “preach” the everlasting gospel to the people of the earth? Mark 16:15.

Note: “The three angels of Revelation 14 represent the people who accept the light of God’s messages and go forth as His agents to sound the warning throughout the length and breadth of the earth. Christ declares to His followers: ‘Ye are the light of the world’ (Matthew 5:14). To every soul that accepts Jesus the cross of Calvary speaks: ‘Behold the worth of the soul: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” ’ (Mark 16:15). Nothing is to be permitted to hinder this work. It is the all-important work for time; it is to be far-reaching as eternity. The love that Jesus manifested for the souls of men in the sacrifice which He made for their redemption will actuate all His followers.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 455, 456.

5 THE FINAL CALL

  • Just prior to the plagues, what special call is repeated to God’s faithful who are not yet united with the remnant church? Revelation 18:1–5.

Note: “Notwithstanding the spiritual darkness and alienation from God that exist in the churches which constitute Babylon, the great body of Christ’s true followers are still to be found in their communion. …

“Revelation 18 points to the time when, as the result of rejecting the threefold warning of Revelation 14:6–12, the church will have fully reached the condition foretold by the second angel, and the people of God still in Babylon will be called upon to separate from her communion. This message is the last that will ever be given to the world; and it will accomplish its work. When those that ‘believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness’ (2 Thessalonians 2:12), shall be left to receive strong delusion and to believe a lie, then the light of truth will shine upon all whose hearts are open to receive it, and all the children of the Lord that remain in Babylon will heed the call.” The Great Controversy, 390.

  • In order for the earth to be “lightened with his glory,” what characteristics must the angel (messenger) exhibit? Isaiah 52:7, 8; Matthew 5:16; Colossians 1:27.
  • What action plan does the apostle present to us in view of these realities? I Thessalonians 5:4–6.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What is the urgent task which the Lord has left in our hands?

2 How do the condition and the destiny of earth today parallel those of Noah’s time?

3 Describe how God will bring this present world to an end.

4 What warning is to be given before the complete destruction of the earth?

5 How can we be sure to be on God’s side in the times ahead?

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

Bible Study Guides – The Investigative Judgment

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November 6, 2016 – November 12, 2016

Key Text

“Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after” (I Timothy 5:24).

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 479–491.

Introduction

“While the investigative judgment is going forward in heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the sanctuary, there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God’s people upon earth.” Maranatha, 254.

1 YOUR CASE PENDING

  • Who has a case pending in judgment? 2 Corinthians 5:10. With whom does it begin? I Peter 4:17.

Note: “As the books of record are opened in the judgment, the lives of all who have believed on Jesus come in review before God. Beginning with those who first lived upon the earth, our Advocate presents the cases of each successive generation, and closes with the living. Every name is mentioned, every case closely investigated.” The Great Controversy, 483.

  • When are most people judged? Hebrews 9:27. Why?
  • On what evidence is the judgment based? Revelation 20:11, 12. What is recorded in the books? Jeremiah 2:22; Malachi 3:16; Nehemiah 13:14.

2 THE STANDARD AND THE ADVOCATE

  • What is the standard by which we are to be judged? James 2:10–12. What is the character of this standard, and what does it require? Psalm 19:7; Matthew 5:48.

Note: “The law of God is the standard by which the characters and the lives of men will be tested in the judgment.” The Great Controversy, 482.

“In His teachings, Christ showed how far-reaching are the principles of the law spoken from Sinai. He made a living application of that law whose principles remain forever the great standard of righteousness—the standard by which all shall be judged in that great day when the judgment shall sit, and the books shall be opened.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 211.

  • What is the penalty for unrighteousness? Romans 6:23. Is there any hope for one with a bad record? I John 2:1, 2.

Note: “The death of the spotless Son of God testifies that ‘the wages of sin is death’ (Romans 6:23), that every violation of God’s law must receive its just retribution. Christ the sinless became sin for man. He bore the guilt of transgression, and the hiding of His Father’s face, until His heart was broken and His life crushed out. All this sacrifice was made that sinners might be redeemed. In no other way could man be freed from the penalty of sin.” The Great Controversy, 540.

  • How are we to receive the propitiation? Romans 3:25; I John 1:9.

Note: “The examples in God’s word of genuine repentance and humiliation reveal a spirit of confession in which there is no excuse for sin or attempt at self-justification. Paul did not seek to shield himself; he paints his sin in its darkest hue, not attempting to lessen his guilt. …

“The humble and broken heart, subdued by genuine repentance, will appreciate something of the love of God and the cost of Calvary; and as a son confesses to a loving father, so will the truly penitent bring all his sins before God. And it is written, ‘If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness’ (I John 1:9).” Steps to Christ, 41.

3 TIME OF THE JUDGMENT

  • What will happen to those who have truly accepted the Advocate? John 11:25; John 5:24–29.

Note: “All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal life.” The Great Controversy, 483.

  • When Jesus returns, what will He bring with Him, and what does He do with it? Revelation 22:12; 2 Timothy 4:7, 8.
  • What must happen first in order that Christ may reward the faithful? I Timothy 5:24; I Peter 4:17; Luke 20:35, 36.

Note: “Before the final reward is given, it must be decided who are fitted to share the inheritance of the righteous. This decision must be made prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven; for when He comes, His reward is with Him, ‘to give every man according as his work shall be’ (Revelation 22:12). Before His coming, then, the character of every man’s work will have been determined, and to every one of Christ’s followers the reward will have been apportioned according to his deeds.

“It is while men are still dwelling upon the earth that the work of investigative judgment takes place in the courts of heaven. The lives of all His professed followers pass in review before God. All are examined according to the record of the books of heaven, and according to his deeds the destiny of each is forever fixed.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 310.

“There will be no future probation in which to prepare for eternity. It is in this life that we are to put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness. This is our only opportunity to form characters for the home which Christ has made ready for those who obey His commandments.” Ibid, 319.

4 THE BLOTTING OUT OF SINS

  • What will have happened to the sins of the righteous who receive their reward at the resurrection? Micah 7:19; Isaiah 43:25.

Note: “The work of the investigative judgment and the blotting out of sins is to be accomplished before the second advent of the Lord. Since the dead are to be judged out of the things written in the books, it is impossible that the sins of men should be blotted out until after the judgment at which their cases are to be investigated. But the apostle Peter distinctly states that the sins of believers will be blotted out ‘when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and He shall send Jesus Christ’ (Acts 3:19, 20). When the investigative judgment closes, Christ will come, and His reward will be with Him to give to every man as his work shall be.” The Great Controversy, 485.

  • Explain how the parable of the unjust servant (Matthew 18:23–35) shows the difference between forgiveness and blotting out. Although we may be faithful today, what sobering reality should keep us ever vigilant? Ezekiel 33:13–16.
  • What happens to the name of an unfaithful person, written in the book of life? Exodus 32:32, 33. How is a name written there in the first place, and whose names will be retained? Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:5.

Note: “We are now living in the great day of atonement. In the typical service, while the high priest was making the atonement for Israel, all were required to afflict their souls by repentance of sin and humiliation before the Lord, lest they be cut off from among the people. In like manner, all who would have their names retained in the book of life should now, in the few remaining days of their probation, afflict their souls before God by sorrow for sin and true repentance. There must be deep, faithful searching of heart. … 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.” The Great Controversy, 489, 490.

5 EXAMINATION AND REWARD

  • In order for sins to be blotted out, what must happen first, as described in the parable of the man without a wedding garment? Matthew 22:9–14. What is symbolized by the wedding garment? Revelation 19:8; Philippians 3:9.

Note: “By the king’s examination of the guests at the [wedding] feast is represented a work of judgment. The guests at the gospel feast are those who profess to serve God, those whose names are written in the book of life. …

“By the wedding garment in the parable is represented the pure, spotless character which Christ’s true followers will possess. … It is the righteousness of Christ, His own unblemished character, that through faith is imparted to all who receive Him as their personal Saviour.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 310.

  • What work is Christ doing for each repenting sinner now, and what pronouncement will be made when that work is done? Hebrews 2:17; Revelation 22:11, 12; Daniel 12:1.
  • Since the judgment concludes with the final generation who are judged while living, what is Jesus’ warning to us? Mark 13:33. What assurance do we have? Hebrews 4:14–16; 13:20, 21.

Note: “The judgment is now passing in the sanctuary above. … Soon—none know how soon—it will pass to the cases of the living.” The Great Controversy, 490.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Why is the time of judgment such a solemn time in which to live?

2 How can we be sure to be judged “not guilty”?

3 Why must the judgment of professed believers happen before the Second Coming?

4 What is the distinction between forgiveness and blotting out of sins?

5 What experience must Christ’s true followers have who will be judged while living?

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

Bible Study Guides – The Sabbath in the Last Days

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October 30, 2016 – November 5, 2016

Key Text

“Hallow My sabbaths; and they shall be a sign between Me and you, that ye may know that I am the Lord your God” (Ezekiel 20:20).

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 433–450.

Introduction

“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.” Prophets and Kings, 678.

1 REMEMBER

  • What expression in Exodus 20:8 shows that the Sabbath day was being kept before God spoke and wrote the Decalogue at Sinai?

Note: “The Sabbath is not introduced as a new institution but as having been founded at creation. It is to be remembered and observed as the memorial of the Creator’s work.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 307.

  • What did God do on the seventh day of creation? Genesis 2:1, 2. What was special about this day? Genesis 2:3.

Note: “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.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 111.

“Because He had rested upon the Sabbath, ‘God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it’ (Genesis 2:3),—set it apart to a holy use. He gave it to Adam as a day of rest. It was a memorial of the work of creation, and thus a sign of God’s power and His love.” The Desire of Ages, 281.

2 A MEMORIAL OF CREATION

  • What is the Sabbath to remind us of? Exodus 20:11; Psalm 111:4.

Note: “Pointing to God as the Maker of the heavens and the earth, it [the Sabbath] distinguishes the true God from all false gods. All who keep the seventh day signify by this act that they are worshipers of Jehovah. Thus the Sabbath is the sign of man’s allegiance to God as long as there are any upon the earth to serve Him.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 307.

“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.” Ibid., 48.

  • If God made all things, what position does that place us in? Psalm 100:3; Ephesians 2:10.
  • Who is the Creator to Whom the Sabbath belongs? John 1:3; Mark 2:27, 28.

Note: “Because the Sabbath was made for man, it is the Lord’s day. It belongs to Christ. For ‘all things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made’ (John 1:3). Since He made all things, He made the Sabbath. By Him it was set apart as a memorial of the work of creation. It points to Him as both the Creator and the Sanctifier. It declares that He Who created all things in heaven and in earth, and by Whom all things hold together, is the head of the church, and that by His power we are reconciled to God.” The Desire of Ages, 288.

“The fourth commandment is the only one of all the ten in which are found both the name and the title of the Lawgiver. It is the only one that shows by Whose authority the law is given. Thus it contains the seal of God, affixed to His law as evidence of its authenticity and binding force.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 307.

3 A SIGN OF SANCTIFICATION

  • What additional purpose did the Sabbath serve after sin entered the world? Ezekiel 20:12.

Note: “The Sabbath is a sign of Christ’s power to make us holy. And it is given to all whom Christ makes holy. As a sign of His sanctifying power, the Sabbath is given to all who through Christ become a part of the Israel of God.” The Desire of Ages, 288.

  • Of what was the Sabbath especially a reminder to the children of Israel? Deuteronomy 5:15.
  • How are the themes of “enmity” against sin and deliverance from it reflected in the meaning of the Sabbath? Genesis 3:15; Exodus 31:13.

Note: “It is the work of conversion and sanctification to reconcile men to God by bringing them into accord with the principles of His law. … ‘The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be’ (Romans 8:7). But ‘God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son’ (John 3:16), that man might be reconciled to God. Through the merits of Christ he can be restored to harmony with his Maker. His heart must be renewed by divine grace; he must have a new life from above. This change is the new birth, without which, says Jesus, ‘he cannot see the kingdom of God’ (John 3:3).” The Great Controversy, 467.

“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.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 350.

“All who cherish the Lord as their portion in this life will be under His control, and will receive the sign, the mark of God, which shows them to be God’s special possession. Christ’s righteousness will go before them, and the glory of the Lord will be their rereward. The Lord protects every human being who bears His sign.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 969.

4 THE EXPERIENCE OF TRUE SABBATH KEEPING

  • What does true Sabbath keeping involve in these final days of earth’s history? Matthew 11:28–30; Ephesians 4:22–24.

Note: “Everyone needs to have a personal experience in obtaining a knowledge of the will of God. We must individually hear Him speaking to the heart. When every other voice is hushed, and in quietness we wait before Him, the silence of the soul makes more distinct the voice of God. He bids us, ‘Be still, and know that I am God’ (Psalm 46:10). Here alone can true rest be found. … Amid the hurrying throng, and the strain of life’s intense activities, the soul that is thus refreshed will be surrounded with an atmosphere of light and peace.” The Desire of Ages, 363.

  • What is the result of the process of renewal? 2 Corinthians 5:17.
  • To truly keep the Sabbath holy, in what spiritual condition must we be? Leviticus 20:26; Ephesians 1:3, 4.
  • What should we earnestly seek for daily? Psalm 51:10.

Note: “The very first reaching out of the heart after God is known to Him. Never a prayer is offered, however faltering, never a tear is shed, however secret, never a sincere desire after God is cherished, however feeble, but the Spirit of God goes forth to meet it.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 206.

“Consecrate yourself to God in the morning; make this your very first work. Let your prayer be, ‘Take me, O Lord, as wholly Thine. I lay all my plans at Thy feet. Use me today in Thy service. Abide with me, and let all my work be wrought in Thee.’ This is a daily matter. Each morning consecrate yourself to God for that day. Surrender all your plans to Him, to be carried out or given up as His providence shall indicate. Thus day by day you may be giving your life into the hands of God, and thus your life will be molded more and more after the life of Christ.” Steps to Christ, 70.

5 A DELIGHT AND A JOY

  • If we receive the Sabbath covenant, and it does the intended work in us, what will it become? Isaiah 58:13, 14. What is meant by the words “My holy day”? Matthew 12:8.
  • What blessing will the Sabbath bring to all who truly receive it? Matthew 11:28.

Note: “To all who receive the Sabbath as a sign of Christ’s creative and redeeming power, it will be a delight. Seeing Christ in it, they delight themselves in Him.” The Desire of Ages, 289.

“All heaven was represented to me as beholding and watching upon the Sabbath those who acknowledge the claims of the fourth commandment and are observing the Sabbath. Angels were marking their interest in, and high regard for, this divine institution. Those who sanctified the Lord God in their hearts by a strictly devotional frame of mind, and who sought to improve the sacred hours in keeping the Sabbath to the best of their ability, and to honor God by calling the Sabbath a delight—these the angels were specially blessing with light and health, and special strength was given them.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 704, 705.

  • If we are found faithful, what will we be doing every Sabbath in the kingdom on the earth made new? Isaiah 66:23.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Explain the reasons why God said “remember.”

2 What things does the Sabbath remind us of?

3 What other significance does the Sabbath have in the Christian’s experience?

4 How may we truly experience Sabbath rest?

5 How are you benefiting from the blessings of the Lord’s day?

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

Recipe – Pistachio Sesame Seed Balls

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Recipe
Pistachio Sesame Seed Balls
½ cup almond butter ½ cup sesame seeds
½ cup pistachios 1 Tbsp. coconut oil
6 medjool dates, pitted
Put all ingredients into a food processor and process until the pistachios are chopped finely and everything is well blended. Take out a spoonful at a time, squeeze in the palm of your hand a couple of times to make the mixture tight and compact, and then roll into a ball shape. Put in the refrigerator for approximately 15–30 minutes to firm. Makes 14–16 small balls. These balls are quick and healthy! Enjoy!

Food – The Yummy Pistachio

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Once you begin munching on pistachio nuts it is very hard to stop. They taste so good and also they are so good for you.

“While most of the positive research on nuts has not distinguished among the various types, some research has. One study, published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, specifically investigated pistachio nuts and concluded that eating pistachio nuts instead of other dietary fat calories improved lipid profiles and decreased coronary risk. A second study, published recently in Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Disease, indicated that the consumption of pistachio nuts decreased oxidative stress and improved both total cholesterol and HDL (“good”) cholesterol in healthy volunteers. (There was a trend toward reducing triglycerides and LDL [“bad”] cholesterol, but this didn’t reach statistical significance.) The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL, reported to be one of the most specific risk factors for cardiovascular disease, fell by 21 percent in the pistachio-eating group.

“If pistachio nuts had a public-relations agent, she would have been mighty happy with the results of a recent study in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry. The study was the most comprehensive analysis of nut and seed varieties to date—it examined twenty-seven different products. Though pistachio nuts did not have the highest phytosterol content of all (that distinction went to sesame seeds and wheat germ), they did have the highest phytosterol content of any product generally considered a snack food (270 mg per 100 g). ‘Given the many possible mechanisms of action of phytosterols on cholesterol metabolism, it is important to have quantitative estimates of total phytosterol content,’ reported the team of researchers from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. The main phytosterol identified in all the nut and seed samples as beta-sitosterol, which is known not only for lowering cholesterol but also the supporting of prostate health.

“Unsalted pistachios have a very high potassium-to-sodium ratio, which helps normalize blood pressure and maintain water balance in the body. Pistachio nuts also contain the powerful antioxidant vitamin E, which boosts the immune system. (Best of all, the vitamin E in pistachio nuts is mostly the gamma-tocopherol form found in most supplements.) Pistachios also contain magnesium and phosphorus and trace amounts of other minerals and vitamins, as well as phytosterols. Extracts from the pistachio kernel have shown significant antiviral activity.

“And they’re so delicious.

“Note: Some pistachio growers and importers dye the nut red, which exposes the kernels to chemical dyes. You’re better off with the plain kind.” The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth, Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., C.N.S., 156, 157.

 

Recipe
Pistachio Sesame Seed Balls
½ cup almond butter ½ cup sesame seeds
½ cup pistachios 1 Tbsp. coconut oil
6 medjool dates, pitted
Put all ingredients into a food processor and process until the pistachios are chopped finely and everything is well blended. Take out a spoonful at a time, squeeze in the palm of your hand a couple of times to make the mixture tight and compact, and then roll into a ball shape. Put in the refrigerator for approximately 15–30 minutes to firm. Makes 14–16 small balls. These balls are quick and healthy! Enjoy!

 

 

Children’s Story – The Little Orphan Princess

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Queen Victoria was born May 24, 1819. When a child, she was often called “the little Mayflower.” She was not the daughter of a king, and she did not know that she might some day be the queen of England. She was very much like other little girls. She liked to play with toys, and run and play at the seashore.

She had no brothers and sisters, but she had many dolls. The little princess herself made the bodies of some of these dolls, to which she fastened china heads. Others of them, however, were quaint, jointed, wooden dolls, such as few children of the present day have seen, but their grandmothers remember.

The little princess had few playmates, but her dolls were to her as real people. She dressed them like famous men and women she had heard about, representing kings and queens of England, poets, and many other famous literary people. The dolls were all properly dressed in such costumes as were then worn. But not all the dolls of this little maiden were English. Her French dolls represented Napoleon Bonaparte, who was a great French general, Empress Josephine, and some others. Her Russian dolls showed the czar’s uniform of white broadcloth, gold-laced and corded. There were also many dolls in Swiss and Italian costumes. Little Victoria was taught to sew, and her dolls’ costumes were made with the greatest care.

Her father died when she was a baby. Victoria was brought up very carefully by her mother. The king of England was Victoria’s uncle. He had no children, and Victoria’s mother knew that when he died her little girl would be queen. But Victoria knew nothing about this.

Her mother was a sensible woman, and the little princess was brought up in a wise and simple manner. She was taught to be regular in eating, exercising, studying, and sleeping. It is said that as a child her breakfasts consisted of bread and milk and fruit, and that for the evening meal she had bread and milk. Her dinner was also very simple.

Princess Victoria received her education under her mother’s loving care. From ten to twelve every morning and from two to four in the afternoon were regular hours for study. She was taught to speak and to write French and German. Still more carefully was she taught to use her own language well. She was taught history and arithmetic. She was taught to sing and to draw. Nor did her wise mother neglect to teach her to cook, and to sew, and to be useful at home. Victoria learned to spend money wisely, to think before speaking, to be careful of the feelings of others, and try to make others happy.

When she was eighteen years old, all the people of England had a holiday. One of her birthday presents was a piano from her “uncle-king.” Four weeks later, King William IV died. When Victoria received the sad news, tears came to her blue eyes. She was no longer a happy princess; she was a queen.

Queen Victoria tried to govern her people justly. In every way she sought to make them happy. She was always kind to the poor and needy. When an Eastern ruler asked her the secret of England’s success, that noble woman placed her hand reverently on the Bible and said, “That Book is the secret of England’s success.”

Victoria reigned a little more than sixty-three years. When she lay on her deathbed, Dean Farrar, a very dear friend, came to see her.

“Do you think my Lord will come soon?” she asked. “I wish He would come before I go. I would lay the diadem of England at His feet. I would place my country’s crown on His brow. He alone is worthy to wear a royal crown.”

When she died, thousands of people all over the world felt that they had lost a friend.

[Emphasis author’s.]

True Education Reader, Fourth Grade, 179–183.

Sermon on the Mount Series – God’s Eternal Law

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Many people today are very confused about the meaning of the word love. It is mistakenly thought to refer to a wonderful romantic feeling or sexual passion, but it actually refers to a spiritual condition that multitudes of people desire but do not seem to experience.

There was a time when Moses, the man of God, made a request of the Lord. He said, “Show me Your glory” (Exodus 33:18). We read in Exodus 33 and 34 that the Lord would reveal as much as it was possible for him to see and live. It says, “And the Lord passed before him and proclaimed, ‘The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin.’ ” (Exodus 34:6, 7). On this occasion it was His character that the Lord revealed to Moses; He was gracious, and merciful, and longsuffering, and He kept mercy for thousands. These principles of the kingdom of heaven were enunciated when the Lord spoke His law to the children of Israel upon Mount Sinai. That law is a pronouncement of the principle of love, but what is that really like?

The Bible mentions many times that the person who has love in his heart will keep God’s commandments. (See I John 5:2, 3; Romans 13.) The giving of the commandments was a Revelation to the children of Israel, as well as to all the people of this earth, a reiteration of the law that governs the kingdom of the heavens. This law was ordained in the hand of a mediator, spoken by Him Who has the power to change the hearts of men and bring them into harmony with its divine principles.

Before God had given His law on Sinai, He had revealed His purpose for the children of Israel. He said, “…you are to be holy men to Me …” (Exodus 22:31, literal translation). Without holiness no one can ever see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14 clearly states that none can have eternal life and see the Lord if they are not holy.

Israel’s problem was and probably still is that she did not perceive the spiritual nature of the law. The people looked at it as a list of things they were not to do. Paul however, when writing to the Romans referring to the law said, “For we know that the law is spiritual …” (Romans 7:14). He goes on to say that he is not spiritual, but, he says, the law is spiritual.

Too often their professed obedience was simply an observance of forms, rituals, or ceremonies instead of a surrender of the heart to the sovereignty of love. In Jesus’ character, teachings and work, He represented to men what God was like—the holiness of His character, His benevolence and His paternal attributes. And at the same time, Jesus presented to them the worthlessness of mere ceremonial obedience. When He did these things the Jewish leaders did not understand or receive what He was talking about. They thought He was dwelling too lightly upon the requirements of the law, when He was actually setting before them the foundational principles on which the law is based.

So, looking at the externals without understanding the principles underlying those externals, the Jewish leaders accused Jesus of trying to overthrow the law. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus revealed in unmistakable language that that was not His purpose at all. In Matthew 5:17, 18, He said, “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled.”

It was Jesus Christ, the One Who created the world and upholds everything by the word of His power, the One Who gave the law on Mount Sinai Who declared that it is not His purpose to set aside any of its precepts, not even the smallest letter or part of a letter of the law. Whatever you study in science or nature, no matter what it is, from the smallest microscopic insect to the study of planets requiring the use of a telescope, everything in the natural world operates under law. Upon obedience to these natural laws, the order and harmony of the natural world depends.

In the same way that natural laws govern nature, there are also great principles of righteousness that control the life of all created beings. Upon conformity to these righteous principles, the well-being of the entire universe depends. Before this world was ever called into existence, God’s law existed. The angels of heaven were governed by it and in order for earth to be in harmony with heaven, man also must be obedient to the divine statutes.

Psalm 103:20 tells us that the angels obey God’s commandments. To man in Eden, Christ made known the precepts of the law. When Jesus came to earth His mission was not to destroy the law or to remove even the smallest part of a letter from it. His purpose, by His grace, was to bring man back into obedience to the precepts of the law. Many decades later when writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, His beloved disciple, John, speaks of this law as a perpetual obligation. He says, “Sin is the transgression of the law” (I John 3:4, last part, KJV). And He says that “whoever commits sin transgresses also the law” (verse 4, first part, literal translation).

Not only that, he makes it very clear that the law Jesus spoke of is not some new commandment but an old commandment that has been in effect from the beginning, at creation, which was later reiterated on Mount Sinai. (See I John 2:7).

A study of the first book of the Bible will reveal that the people in the times of Genesis understood every single one of the commandments. They knew that to violate those principles was wrong and worthy of death. All the principles therein expressed can be found in the book of Genesis.

Those of that generation knew those things that were wrong and they called the breaking of them sin. So, speaking of the law, Jesus said, Don’t think that I’ve come to destroy it, or take it away. I have come to fulfill it. He uses the word “fulfill” in the same sense that He declared to John the Baptist when He said in Matthew 3:15, literal translation: “Allow it to be so now, that we might fulfill all righteousness,” that is, fulfill the measure of the law’s requirement, to give an example of perfect conformity to the will of God.

In the Old Testament we see in prophecy that the mission of the Messiah would be to magnify the law and to make it honorable (Isaiah 42:21). The Messiah was to show mankind the spiritual nature of the law. He would present its far-reaching principles and make plain its eternal obligation. Jesus did this in His Sermon on the Mount. This sermon is primarily a sermon about the spirituality of the law. He talks by name of different commandments and shows that they extend not merely to outward observances, but to the heart and to the mind, revealing thoughts and feelings.

When we look at the character of Jesus, we see in His character a divine beauty, of whom the most noble and the gentlest among mankind are but a faint reflection. Concerning His character, the wise man wrote in prophecy concerning Him, in Song of Solomon 5:10, 16, that He is the chiefest among 10,000; yes, He is altogether lovely.

When David saw Him in prophetic vision, he wrote, “You are fairer than the children of men …” (Psalm 45:2, literal translation). Jesus is spoken of in the New Testament as the express image of the Father’s person, the effulgence of His glory (Hebrews 1). And the self-denying Redeemer, throughout all of His pilgrimage of love on earth, was a living representation of the character of the law of God. To keep the law in its purpose and intent from your heart is to reveal the character of Jesus Christ. He said, “I have kept My Father’s commandments” (John 15:10). “I do always those things that please Him” (John 8:29 KJV).

So, He made manifest in this world what heaven-born love is like, how it reveals itself, how it lives. Christ-like principles underlie the principles of the ten commandments. Jesus said, “… until heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle will in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled” (Matthew 5:18, literal translation). His own life and character showed the unchangeable nature of God’s law. He proved that by His grace God’s law can be perfectly obeyed by every son and daughter of Adam. He said, not the smallest letter, not even a part of a letter can be changed. Notice how it is recorded in the gospel of Luke 16:17 ASV: “But it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away, than for one tittle (part of a letter) of the law to fail.”

So Jesus proved, and showed, and taught that the law of God, the ten commandments, is unchangeable and will last forever.

Jesus did not teach that the law would ever be abrogated. He fixes the eye of the human race upon the most distant object that we can focus on, and He assures us that until that point is reached, the law will retain all of its authority and that none need suppose that it was His mission to do away with even part of it. As long as heaven and earth continue, the holy principles of God’s law will remain. Because the law of the Lord is perfect, therefore it cannot be changed. It is impossible for sinful men, of course, in themselves, to meet the standard of its requirement. That is why the apostle Paul said in Romans 7:14: “… the law is spiritual, but I am carnal (fleshly), sold under sin” (Romans 7:14).

For that reason, you and I need the gospel. That is why Jesus came as our Redeemer. It was His mission, not only to pay the price in His own body for our sins, but to make us partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:3, 4). It was His mission to bring us back into harmony with the law that governs the entire universe of heaven. Remember—sin is the transgression of the law, 1 John 3:4, the law that we have had since the beginning, I John 2:7.

When we forsake our sins; in other words, when we choose to quit breaking God’s law and choose to come to Jesus, and see Him as our Saviour from sin and Lord of our life, then the law is not done away with, but exalted.

Remember, sin is the transgression of the law, 1 John 3:4, and when we choose to forsake our sins and accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour and choose to follow Him, then He gives to us the Holy Spirit and enables us, by His grace and power, to live a life that is in harmony with His law. Notice what the apostle Paul said about this in Romans 3:31: “Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law.” Why is the law established? When a person repents of his sin and comes to Jesus forsaking his/her sin, then the law of God is exalted. That person realizes that he/she needs to come into harmony with the law that governs the whole universe of God. And Jesus gives to him the Holy Spirit and enables him to keep the law (Romans 8). That is one of the main reasons that the Holy Spirit is given to the believers.

In fact, if you receive the Holy Spirit and do not begin to obey God, then you are insulting the Holy Spirit. Notice what Hebrews 10:16 says is the new covenant promise: “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord. I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them.”

It is true that the systems of types and ceremonies that pointed to Christ as the Lamb of God to take away the sin of the world were to pass away at His death. But the principles of righteousness embodied in the commandments are just as unchangeable as God’s throne. Not one command has ever been annulled. Not one precept has been changed. Those principles were made known to man in paradise as the great law of life and will exist unchanged in paradise restored.

When Eden will again bloom on the earth, God’s law of love will be observed by all beneath the sun. The book of Genesis makes it very clear that those living in those generations knew the precepts. The 7th commandment says, “You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14). This commandment is one of the most widely broken all over the world today. But even before the ten commandments were ever given, the people in the times of Genesis knew that it was wrong to commit adultery.

Notice what Joseph said about it. Joseph was the enslaved manager of Potiphar’s house. “It came to pass after these things that his master’s wife cast longing eyes on Joseph, and she said, ‘Lie with me.’ But he refused and said to his master’s wife, ‘Look, my master does not know what is with me in the house, and he has committed all that he has to my hand. There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?’ So it was, as she spoke to Joseph day by day, that he did not heed her, to lie with her or to be with her” (Genesis 39:7–10).

As a result, he landed up in prison for his refusal to commit adultery. Joseph would rather go to prison than sin against his God. He said, “How can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?”

The Bible says that in heaven, God’s word is forever settled (Psalm 119:89). Nobody in heaven has any question about God’s law. We also read in Psalm 111:7, 8: “All His precepts [commandments] are sure. They stand fast forever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness.”

Again in Psalm 119:152 KJV, it says, “Concerning Thy testimonies, I have known of old that Thou hast founded them for ever.” If you really love God, you will keep His commandments. Notice what the apostle John said about this in I John 4:7, 8: “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”

How do you know that you really love God? I John 5:2, 3 says, “By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.”

The apostle John had the same problem in his day that we see in the Christian world today. People claimed to love God while hating their neighbor and refusing to keep God’s commandments. He addresses that over and over again in his book. He said in I John 3:7–10: “Little children, let no one deceive you …” on this point. “He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous. He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose, the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God. In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: Whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother.” Then he goes on to say, “… this is the message that you heard from the beginning …” (verse 11).

O, friend, is the love of God really in your heart?

(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.

Health – Ingenious Ways to Exercise

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A few years back I knew a family that had decided to get completely off the grid. The couple had several young children so the idea of “no power/electricity” was incomprehensible to them. Included in all of the thoughts that ran through their young minds was, “We won’t have a refrigerator” and “What about television?” These young minds were in total shock. It was a good thing that the father had thought out much of these things ahead of time while preparing their new home for occupancy. One of the things he had rigged up was a bicycle hooked up to the television. Anyone who wanted to watch television would need to pedal the bicycle during the whole time. It worked and the family was in great shape; there were also times, more often than not, that the television and bicycle were empty. This lifestyle gave the children more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in place of sitting and watching television.

What brought this to my memory was the following article which came out recently that talked about a bicycle washing machine which will clean your laundry while you pedal away calories. Of course, this will even strengthen the heart which will strengthen the whole body to the glory of God. The following are some excerpts for your enjoyment and thought.

“… a team of designers at China’s Dalian Nationalities University has developed a device called the Bike Washing Machine, which does exactly what its name implies—namely, it washes clothes using pedal power alone.

“The bike looks like a hybrid between an exercise bike and a washing machine. It’s a stationary bike with one front ‘wheel,’ which contains an ordinary-looking washing machine drum. When you pedal the bike, the drum turns and washes a load of laundry the same way a typical washing machine does.

“Although it is not clear whether the device will shift automatically from wash to rinse mode, it appears that the designers could make it perform that task fairly easily with some sort of timer and valve system.

“It might seem like a gimmicky invention at first glance, but it does make sense, especially for those who live in small apartments where having an exercise bike and a separate washing machine might pose a problem in terms of space. The bike could also be useful to those living in remote areas where electricity is scarce or unavailable.

“Another interesting feature of the Bike Washing Machine is that it can also be used to generate electricity that can be stored in a battery.

“In addition to saving space, washing your clothes and generating electricity, the bike will also help you burn calories and shed pounds while performing those other useful tasks.

“A prototype is now being built, and the team has submitted its design to the website Tuvie.com.” www.naturalnews.com/049616_pedal_power_bicycle_laundry.html

Exercise is one of the eight health laws, along with nutrition, water, sunshine, temperance, air, rest and trust in God. These new inventions may lead many back to at least one of these health laws—exercise.

Being creative in your own home and lifestyle may preserve your health so you may enjoy the life God has given to you. Think of ways to keep your body moving such as:

  • Stand up and walk while talking on the phone.
  • Move your arms up, down and around and flex your feet while sitting at your desk.
  • Rise up and down on your toes while washing dishes or cooking meals. Don’t just stand there.

Our bodies were made for movement and we need to keep our blood moving. Hook up an exercise bike to the television so you can move while you are watching or, alternately you might think about getting a rebounder to bounce on while you are watching.

Remember that your eyes also need exercise! Begin to get into the habit of moving your eyes back and forth, up and down, and blink, blink, blink for a few minutes. Do this several times each day.

Your brain also needs some good exercise. Think positively! Our thoughts can change our actions and our attitudes and many times improve our health. Positive thinking and positive activity can rewire your brain and strengthen brain areas that stimulate positive feelings. Every time a negative thought creeps in, retrain your brain to think a positive thought. Give your brain some positive activity. Sing scripture songs. Think on all of the positive things that God has provided. Never dwell on the sad, gloomy or frustrating things. We are told: “… be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind …” (Romans 12:2).

Think positively and be creative in the exercising of your whole body, physically, mentally and spiritually.

Question & Answer – Any ideas when we are to leave the big cities?

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“Be assured that the call is for our people to locate miles away from the large cities. One look at San Francisco as it is today would speak to your intelligent minds, showing you the necessity of getting out of the cities. …

“The Lord calls for His people to locate away from the cities, for in such an hour as ye think not, fire and brimstone will be rained from heaven upon these cities. Proportionate to their sins will be their visitation. When one city is destroyed, let not our people regard this matter as a light affair, and think that they may, if favorable opportunity offers, build themselves homes in that same destroyed city. …” Last Day Events, 95.

“The time is not far distant, when, like the early disciples, we shall be forced to seek a refuge in desolate and solitary places. As the siege of Jerusalem by the Roman armies was the signal for flight to the Judean Christians, so the assumption of power on the part of our nation, in the decree enforcing the papal sabbath, will be a warning to us. It will then be time to leave the large cities, preparatory to leaving the smaller ones for retired homes in secluded places among the mountains.” Christian Service, 161.

“As God’s commandment-keeping people we must leave the cities. As did Enoch, we must work in the cities but not dwell in them.” Last Day Events, 96.

“The cities are to be worked from outposts. Said the messenger of God, ‘Shall not the cities be warned? Yes, not by God’s people living in them but by their visiting them, to warn them of what is coming upon the earth.’ ” Ibid.