Issue: 2018 September

Bible Study Guides-Justification by Faith – Jesus Christ Our Only Hope

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October 21 – 27, 2018

Key Text

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Study Help: Selected Messages, Book 1, 226–228.

Introduction

“Christ alone is exalted to be ‘a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.’ ‘Neither is there salvation in any other’ (Acts 5:31; 4:12).” Christ’s Object Lessons, 264.

Sunday

THE DIVINE SUBSTITUTE

  • What promise of salvation was given to Adam and Eve after they sinned? Genesis 3:15.

Note: “To Adam, the offering of the first sacrifice was a most painful ceremony. His hand must be raised to take life, which only God could give. It was the first time he had ever witnessed death, and he knew that had he been obedient to God, there would have been no death of man or beast. As he slew the innocent victim, he trembled at the thought that his sin must shed the blood of the spotless Lamb of God. This scene gave him a deeper and more vivid sense of the greatness of his transgression, which nothing but the death of God’s dear Son could expiate. And he marveled at the infinite goodness that would give such a ransom to save the guilty. A star of hope illumined the dark and terrible future and relieved it of utter desolation.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 68.

  • How does the prophet Isaiah explain this substitution? Isaiah 53:4, 5.

Note: “Christ was treated as we deserve, that we might be treated as He deserves. He was condemned for our sins, in which He had no share, that we might be justified by His righteousness, in which we had no share. He suffered the death which was ours, that we might receive the life which was His.” The Desire of Ages, 25.

Monday

THE CONDITION OF ETERNAL LIFE

  • What is the condition of eternal life? Matthew 19:16, 17.

Note: “The condition of eternal life is now just what it always has been—just what it was in Paradise before the fall of our first parents—perfect obedience to the law of God, perfect righteousness. If eternal life were granted on any condition short of this, then the happiness of the whole universe would be imperiled. The way would be open for sin, with all its train of woe and misery, to be immortalized.” Steps to Christ, 62.

“Christ does not lessen the claims of the law. In unmistakable language He presents obedience to it as the condition of eternal life—the same condition that was required of Adam before his fall. The Lord expects no less of the soul now than He expected of man in Paradise, perfect obedience, unblemished righteousness. The requirement under the covenant of grace is just as broad as the requirement made in Eden—harmony with God’s law, which is holy, just, and good.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 391.

“As the Bible presents two laws, one changeless and eternal, the other provisional and temporary, so there are two covenants. The covenant of grace was first made with man in Eden, when after the Fall there was given a divine promise that the seed of the woman should bruise the serpent’s head. To all men this covenant offered pardon and the assisting grace of God for future obedience through faith in Christ. It also promised them eternal life on condition of fidelity to God’s law. Thus the patriarchs received the hope of salvation.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 370.

  • Since perfect obedience to the law of God is the condition of eternal life and all human beings have sinned, how can the descendants of Adam have eternal life? Roman 3:23–26; Romans 8:1–4?

Note: “It was possible for Adam, before the fall, to form a righteous character by obedience to God’s law. But he failed to do this, and because of his sin our natures are fallen and we cannot make ourselves righteous. Since we are sinful, unholy, we cannot perfectly obey the holy law. We have no righteousness of our own with which to meet the claims of the law of God. But Christ has made a way of escape for us. He lived on earth amid trials and temptations such as we have to meet. He lived a sinless life. He died for us, and now He offers to take our sins and give us His righteousness.” Steps to Christ, 62.

Tuesday

PERFECT OBEDIENCE THROUGH CHRIST

  • What assurance do we have through the merits of Christ? Romans 5:1–11; Philippians 3:7–11; Ephesians 1:4–11.

Note: “The world’s Redeemer, the only begotten Son of God, by His perfect obedience to the law, by His life and character, redeemed that which was lost in the fall, and made it possible for man to obey that holy law of righteousness which Adam transgressed. Christ did not exchange His divinity for humanity, but combined humanity with divinity; and in humanity He lived the law in behalf of the human family. The sins of every one who will receive Christ were set to His account, and He has fully satisfied the justice of God.” Special Testimonies on Education, 21.

“Because man fallen could not overcome Satan with his human strength, Christ came from the royal courts of Heaven to help him with His human and divine strength combined. Christ knew that Adam in Eden, with his superior advantages, might have withstood the temptations of Satan, and conquered him. He also knew that it was not possible for man, out of Eden, separated from the light and love of God since the fall, to resist the temptations of Satan in his own strength. In order to bring hope to man, and save him from complete ruin, He humbled Himself to take man’s nature, that, with His divine power combined with the human, He might reach man where he is. He obtains for the fallen sons and daughters of Adam that strength which it is impossible for them to gain for themselves, that in His name they might overcome the temptations of Satan.” The Review and Herald, August 18, 1874.

  • What was prophesied by Daniel in regard to the righteousness of Christ? Daniel 9:24.

Note: “In the prophecy of Daniel it was recorded of Christ that He shall ‘make reconciliation for iniquity, and … bring in everlasting righteousness’ (Daniel 9:24). Every soul may say: ‘By His perfect obedience He has satisfied the claims of the law, and my only hope is found in looking to Him as my substitute and surety, who obeyed the law perfectly for me. By faith in His merits I am free from the condemnation of the law. He clothes me with His righteousness, which answers all the demands of the law. I am complete in Him who brings in everlasting righteousness.’ ” Selected Messages, Book 1, 396.

Wednesday

THE LAMB WITHOUT BLEMISH

  • Under what symbol did John the Baptist introduce Christ to the people? John 1:29.

Note: “John had been deeply moved as he saw Jesus bowed as a suppliant, pleading with tears for the approval of the Father. As the glory of God encircled Him, and the voice from heaven was heard, John recognized the token which God had promised. He knew that it was the world’s Redeemer whom he had baptized. The Holy Spirit rested upon him, and with outstretched hand pointing to Jesus, he cried, ‘Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world’ (John 1:29).” The Desire of Ages, 112.

  • What does the apostle Peter say about Jesus Christ as the redemptive sacrifice for sin? 1 Peter 1:18, 19.

Note: “ ‘In Him [Christ] dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily’ (Colossians 2:9). Men need to understand that Deity suffered and sank under the agonies of Calvary. Yet Jesus Christ whom God gave for the ransom of the world purchased the church with His own blood. The Majesty of heaven was made to suffer at the hands of religious zealots, who claimed to be the most enlightened people upon the face of the earth.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 907.

“As the sinner looks upon the Saviour dying on Calvary, and realizes that the Sufferer is divine, he asks why, this great sacrifice was made; and the cross points to the holy law of God, which has been transgressed. The death of Christ is an unanswerable argument to the immutability and righteousness of the law. In prophesying of Christ, Isaiah says, ‘He will magnify the law, and make it honourable’ (Isaiah 42:21). The law has no power to pardon the evil-doer. Its office is to point out his defects, that he may realize his need of One who is mighty to save, realize his need of One who will become his substitute, his surety, his righteousness. Jesus meets the need of the sinner; for He has taken upon Him the sins of the transgressor. ‘He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes we are healed’ (Isaiah 53:5). The Lord could have cut off the sinner, and utterly destroyed him; but the more costly plan was chosen. In His great love He provides hope for the hopeless, giving His only begotten Son to bear the sins of the world.” The Bible Echo, March 15, 1893.

Thursday

THE DIVINE CHALLENGE

  • What unanswerable question did Christ put to His enemies? John 8:46.

Note: “In His life on earth, Christ developed a perfect character, He rendered perfect obedience to His Father’s commandments. In coming to the world in human form, in becoming subject to the law, in revealing to men that He bore their sickness, their sorrow, their guilt, He did not become a sinner. Before the Pharisees He could say, ‘Which of you convinceth me of sin?’ (John 8:46). Not one stain of sin was found upon Him. He stood before the world the spotless Lamb of God.” The Youth’s Instructor, December 29, 1898.

  • How can we be saved? John 3:16–18.

Note: “How, then, are we to be saved? ‘As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness,’ so the Son of man has been lifted up, and everyone who has been deceived and bitten by the serpent may look and live. ‘Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world’ (John 1:29). The light shining from the cross reveals the love of God. His love is drawing us to Himself. If we do not resist this drawing, we shall be led to the foot of the cross in repentance for the sins that have crucified the Saviour. Then the Spirit of God through faith produces a new life in the soul. The thoughts and desires are brought into obedience to the will of Christ. The heart, the mind, are created anew in the image of Him who works in us to subdue all things to Himself. Then the law of God is written in the mind and heart, and we can say with Christ, ‘I delight to do Thy will, O my God’ (Psalm 40:8).” The Desire of Ages, 175, 176.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     Explain Isaiah 53:4, 5.

2    How does the Bible clarify human righteousness? Isaiah 64:6.

3    How can we present perfect obedience to the law of God?

4    What does the death of Christ on Calvary prove?

5    What challenge did Christ direct to His enemies?

 

© 2017 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides-Justification by Faith – God’s Plan to Save Us

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October 14 – 20, 2018

Key Text

“And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22).

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 63–79.

Introduction

“Through Christ, restoration as well as reconciliation is provided for man. The gulf that was made by sin has been spanned by the cross of Calvary.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 363.

Sunday

THE PLAN OF REDEMPTION REVEALED

  • What promise of redemption did God give to Adam and Eve? Genesis 3:15; Galatians 3:16.

Note: “Adam and his companion were assured that notwithstanding their great sin, they were not to be abandoned to the control of Satan. The Son of God had offered to atone, with His own life, for their transgression. A period of probation would be granted them, and through repentance and faith in Christ they might again become the children of God.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 66.

  • What converting grace does the promise of redemption include, and why is it necessary? Galatians 3:14; John 3:5.

Note: “It is the grace that Christ implants in the soul which creates in man enmity against Satan. Without this converting grace and renewing power, man would continue the captive of Satan, a servant ever ready to do his bidding. But the new principle in the soul creates conflict where hitherto had been peace. The power which Christ imparts enables man to resist the tyrant and usurper. Whoever is seen to abhor sin instead of loving it, whoever resists and conquers those passions that have held sway within, displays the operation of a principle wholly from above.” The Great Controversy, 506.

Monday

ONLY ONE APPROVED PLAN

  • What is the essential element in the plan of redemption, and what does it signify? Hebrews 9:22; Leviticus 17:11.

Note: “Christ was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. To many it has been a mystery why so many sacrificial offerings were required in the old dispensation, why so many bleeding victims were led to the altar. But the great truth that was to be kept before men, and imprinted upon mind and heart, was this, ‘Without shedding of blood is no remission’ (Hebrews 9:22). In every bleeding sacrifice was typified ‘the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world’ (John 1:29).” Our High Calling, 47.

  • What shows that Cain did not wholeheartedly accept the divine plan? Genesis 4:3–5.

Note: “They [Cain and Abel] knew that in these [sacrificial] offerings they were to express faith in the Saviour whom the offerings typified, and at the same time to acknowledge their total dependence on Him for pardon; and they knew that by thus conforming to the divine plan for their redemption, they were giving proof of their obedience to the will of God. Without the shedding of blood there could be no remission of sin; and they were to show their faith in the blood of Christ as the promised atonement by offering the firstlings of the flock in sacrifice. Besides this, the first fruits of the earth were to be presented before the Lord as a thank offering.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 71.

  • What did God tell Cain about the divine plan, and what did Cain’s response reveal about himself? Genesis 4:6–8.

Note: “He [Cain] thought that his own plans were best, and that the Lord would come to his terms. Cain in his offering did not acknowledge his dependence upon Christ. He thought that his father Adam had been treated harshly in being expelled from Eden. The idea of keeping that sin ever before the mind, and offering the blood of the slain lamb as a confession of entire dependence upon a power outside of himself, was torture to the high spirit of Cain.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 77, 78.

Tuesday

SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS FRUSTRATES GOD’S PLAN

  • What parable of Jesus illustrates the error of trusting in yourself for righteousness? Luke 18:9–14.

Note: “The Pharisee goes up to the temple to worship, not because he feels that he is a sinner in need of pardon, but because he thinks himself righteous and hopes to win commendation. His worship he regards as an act of merit that will recommend him to God.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 150.

  • How does this attitude frustrate God’s grace, and why? Galatians 2:21.

Note: “The Pharisee and the publican represent two great classes into which those who come to worship God are divided. Their first two representatives are found in the first two children that were born into the world. Cain thought himself righteous, and he came to God with a thank offering only. He made no confession of sin, and acknowledged no need of mercy. But Abel came with the blood that pointed to the Lamb of God. He came as a sinner, confessing himself lost; his only hope was the unmerited love of God. …The sense of need, the recognition of our poverty and sin, is the very first condition of acceptance with God.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 152.

  • How is this general attitude displayed in nearly every false religion? Romans 10:2, 3.

Note: “The class of worshipers who follow the example of Cain includes by far the greater portion of the world; for nearly every false religion has been based on the same principle—that man can depend upon his own efforts for salvation. It is claimed by some that the human race is in need, not of redemption, but of development—that it can refine, elevate, and regenerate itself. As Cain thought to secure the divine favor by an offering that lacked the blood of a sacrifice, so do these expect to exalt humanity to the divine standard, independent of the atonement. The history of Cain shows what must be the results. It shows what man will become apart from Christ. Humanity has no power to regenerate itself. It does not tend upward, toward the divine, but downward, toward the satanic.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 73.

Wednesday

THE DIVINE ORIGIN OF THE PLAN

  • What shows that the plan of redemption originated with God and not with man? 1 John 4:19.
  • In what simple terms does the apostle Paul describe the gift of redemption? Ephesians 2:8.

Note: “The Lord saw our fallen condition; He saw our need of grace, and because He loved our souls, He has given us grace and peace. Grace means favor to one who is undeserving, to one who is lost. The fact that we are sinners, instead of shutting us away from the mercy and love of God, makes the exercise of His love to us a positive necessity in order that we may be saved.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 347.

  • What do the coats of skins provided by God to our first parents teach us about the promise of redemption? Genesis 3:21; Isaiah 61:10.

Note: “It is God’s glory to encircle sinful, repentant human beings in the arms of His love, to bind up their wounds, to cleanse them from sin, and to clothe them with the garments of salvation.” Prophets and Kings, 668.

“No fig-leaf garment, no worldly citizen dress, can be worn by those who sit down with Christ and angels at the marriage supper of the Lamb.

“Only the covering which Christ Himself has provided can make us meet to appear in God’s presence. This covering, the robe of His own righteousness, Christ will put upon every repenting, believing soul.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 311.

“Desponding soul, take courage, even though you have done wickedly. Do not think that perhaps God will pardon your transgressions and permit you to come into His presence. God has made the first advance. While you were in rebellion against Him, He went forth to seek you. With the tender heart of the shepherd He left the ninety and nine and went out into the wilderness to find that which was lost. The soul, bruised and wounded and ready to perish, He encircles in His arms of love and joyfully bears it to the fold of safety.” Ibid., 188, 189. [Emphasis author’s.]

Thursday

THE EXTENT OF GOD’S LOVE

  • How far does the reconciliation promised by God through Christ extend? John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 5:19.

Note: “Only as we contemplate the great plan of redemption can we have a just appreciation of the character of God. The work of creation was a manifestation of His love; but the gift of God to save the guilty and ruined race, alone reveals the infinite depths of divine tenderness and compassion. ‘God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life’ (John 3:16). While the law of God is maintained, and its justice vindicated, the sinner can be pardoned. The dearest gift that heaven itself had to bestow has been poured out that God ‘might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus’ (Romans 3:26). By that gift men are uplifted from the ruin and degradation of sin to become children of God. Says Paul: ‘Ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father’ (Romans 8:15).” Testimonies, vol. 5, 739. [Emphasis author’s.]

  • How did Jesus impressively illustrate the love and concern of God for every single person? Matthew 18:11–14.

Note: “Jesus knows us individually, and is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. He knows us all by name. He knows the very house in which we live, the name of each occupant. He has at times given directions to His servants to go to a certain street in a certain city, to such a house, to find one of His sheep.

“Every soul is as fully known to Jesus as if he were the only one for whom the Saviour died. The distress of every one touches His heart.” The Desire of Ages, 479, 480.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     What would have happened if there was no promise of redemption?

2    How was the plan of redemption illustrated in the offering of sacrifices?

3    How does self-righteousness frustrate the plan of redemption?

4    How does God make the first advance in restoring us to His favor?

5    How intimately does God know each of us?

Bible Study Guides-Justification by Faith – The Sin Problem

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October 7 – 13, 2018

Key Text

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

Study Help:  Patriarchs and Prophets, 48–62.

Introduction

“The human family have all transgressed the law of God, and as transgressors of the law, man is hopelessly ruined; for he is the enemy of God, without strength to do any good thing.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 321.

Sunday

GOD’S PURPOSE FOR HUMANITY

  • In whose image were Adam and Eve created, and for what purpose? Genesis 1:26, 27, 31; Isaiah 43:7.

Note: “When Adam came from the Creator’s hand, he bore, in his physical, mental, and spiritual nature, a likeness to his Maker. ‘God created man in His own image’ (Genesis 1:27), and it was His purpose that the longer man lived the more fully he should reveal this image—the more fully reflect the glory of the Creator. All his faculties were capable of development; their capacity and vigor were continually to increase.” Education, 15.

  • Though our first parents wore no artificial garments, what enshrouded them as a symbol of their purity? Psalm 104:1, 2. Compare Exodus 34:29.

Note: “The sinless pair wore no artificial garments; they were clothed with a covering of light and glory, such as the angels wear.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 45.

“The white robe of innocence was worn by our first parents when they were placed by God in holy Eden. They lived in perfect conformity to the will of God. All the strength of their affections was given to their heavenly Father. A beautiful soft light, the light of God, enshrouded the holy pair. This robe of light was a symbol of their spiritual garments of heavenly innocence. Had they remained true to God it would ever have continued to enshroud them.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 310, 311.

Monday

A TEST OF LOVE

  • In what sense were our first parents free to fulfill their divine purpose? Deuteronomy 30:19.

Note: “Our first parents, though created innocent and holy, were not placed beyond the possibility of wrongdoing. God made them free moral agents, capable of appreciating the wisdom and benevolence of His character and the justice of His requirements, and with full liberty to yield or to withhold obedience. …

“God might have created man without the power to transgress His law; He might have withheld the hand of Adam from touching the forbidden fruit; but in that case man would have been, not a free moral agent, but a mere automaton. Without freedom of choice, his obedience would not have been voluntary, but forced. There could have been no development of character.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 48, 49.

  • What test of loyalty was given to our first parents? Genesis 2:16, 17.

Note: “When Adam and Eve were placed in the beautiful garden they had everything for their happiness which they could desire. But God chose, in His all-wise arrangements, to test their loyalty before they could be rendered eternally secure. They were to have His favor, and He was to converse with them and they with Him. Yet He did not place evil out of their reach. Satan was permitted to tempt them. If they endured the trial they were to be in perpetual favor with God and the heavenly angels.” The Story of Redemption, 24.

  • Describe how our first parents became disloyal to God. 2 Corinthians 11:3; Genesis 3:1–6.

Note: “Satan represented to the holy pair that they would be gainers by breaking the law of God. Do we not today hear similar reasoning? Many talk of the narrowness of those who obey God’s commandments, while they themselves claim to have broader ideas and to enjoy greater liberty. What is this but an echo of the voice from Eden, ‘In the day ye eat thereof’—transgress the divine requirement—‘ye shall be as gods’ (Genesis 3:5)?” Patriarchs and Prophets, 55.

Tuesday

SIN AND ITS CONSEQUENCES

  • How is sin defined in the Bible? 1 John 3:4.

Note: “Our only definition of sin is that given in the word of God; it is ‘the transgression of the law;’ it is the outworking of a principle at war with the great law of love which is the foundation of the divine government.” The Great Controversy, 493.

  • What tragic consequence came upon humanity because of their sin? Genesis 3:19, 23; Romans 5:12.

Note: “It was not the will of God that the sinless pair should know aught of evil. He had freely given them the good, and had withheld the evil. But, contrary to His command, they had eaten of the forbidden tree, and now they would continue to eat of it—they would have the knowledge of evil—all the days of their life. From that time the race would be afflicted by Satan’s temptations. Instead of the happy labor heretofore appointed them, anxiety and toil were to be their lot. They would be subject to disappointment, grief, and pain, and finally to death.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 59.

  • What additional consequence did the Fall have on the nature of every human being? Romans 3:12; 7:14, 18; 8:7.

Note: “After their sin Adam and Eve … were told that their nature had become depraved by sin; they had lessened their strength to resist evil and had opened the way for Satan to gain more ready access to them. In their innocence they had yielded to temptation; and now, in a state of conscious guilt, they would have less power to maintain their integrity.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 61.

“The result of the eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil is manifest in every man’s experience. There is in his nature a bent to evil, a force which, unaided, he cannot resist.” Education, 29.

“Of himself he is incapable of sensing sin, incapable of appreciating and appropriating the divine nature. Were it brought within his reach there is nothing in it that his natural heart would desire it.” Selected Messages, vol. 1, 340.

Wednesday

4          FIG-LEAF GARMENTS

  • After realizing their loss of innocence, and the light given to symbolize it, what did Adam and Eve do to try and cover their nakedness? Was their covering acceptable? Genesis 3:7, 8 (compare Revelation 3:17).

Note: “When sin entered, they [our first parents] severed their connection with God, and the light that had encircled them departed. Naked and ashamed, they tried to supply the place of the heavenly garments by sewing together fig leaves for a covering.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 311.

  • In what spiritual sense have sinners been making fig-leaf garments for themselves ever since the Fall? Romans 10:3.

Note: “This is what the transgressors of God’s law have done ever since the day of Adam and Eve’s disobedience. They have sewed together fig leaves to cover the nakedness caused by transgression. They have worn the garments of their own devising, by works of their own they have tried to cover their sins, and make themselves acceptable with God.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 311.

  • What deception leads us to think that we can make ourselves acceptable to God? Jeremiah 17:9; Isaiah 64:6.

Note: “Many are deceived concerning the condition of their hearts. They do not realize that the natural heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. They wrap themselves about with their own righteousness, and are satisfied in reaching their own human standard of character; but how fatally they fail when they do not reach the divine standard, and of themselves they cannot meet the requirements of God. …

“The human family have all transgressed the law of God, and as transgressors of the law, man is hopelessly ruined; for he is the enemy of God, without strength to do any good thing. ‘The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be’ (Romans 8:7).” Selected Messages, Book 1, 320, 321.

Thursday

THE WHOLE WORLD GUILTY BEFORE GOD

  • How has all humanity failed to fulfill God’s original purpose? Romans 3:23.
  • As the standard of righteousness, what purpose does the law of God serve? Romans 3:19, 20; Galatians 3:24.

Note: “The law stands firm, and justice sternly points the sinner to its holy precepts. It is not the province of the law to save the sinner, but to condemn, not to pardon, but to convict. It can not be changed to meet man in his fallen condition. Then how is God’s justice to be satisfied and His favor obtained? Not by works; ‘for by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in His sight.’ In his own strength the sinner can not meet the demands of God.” The Signs of the Times, July 31, 1901.

  • What question has been asked by sinners ever since the Fall, and what is the only answer? Job 9:2; 25:4–6; John 1:29.

Note: “In every congregation there are souls who are unsatisfied. Every Sabbath they should hear something that will help them in the way of salvation and teach them how to become better Christians. The important thing for them to know is, How can a sinner be justified before God? Let the way of salvation be presented before them in simplicity. Lift up Jesus as the sinner’s only hope.” The Review and Herald, October 7, 1909.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     For what purpose did God create human beings?

2    Why was it important to allow humanity freedom of choice to serve God?

3    What sinful condition are we all subject to apart from God?

4    How can I be guilty of making fig-leaf garments for myself?

5    In whom only can I find hope for my sinful condition?

Bible Study Guides-Justification by Faith – Luther: The Man for His Time

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September 30 – October 6, 2018

Key Text

“Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith” (Habakkuk 2:4).

Study Help:  The Great Controversy, 120–144; 197–205.

Introduction

“Zealous, ardent, and devoted, knowing no fear but the fear of God, and acknowledging no foundation for religious faith but the Holy Scriptures, Luther was the man for his time; through him God accomplished a great work for the reformation of the church and the enlightenment of the world.” The Great Controversy, 120.

Sunday

 LUTHER FINDS THE LIGHT

  • What parable illustrates the experience of Martin Luther when he found the Bible for the first time? Matthew 13:44–46.

Note: “While one day examining the books in the library of the university, Luther discovered a Latin Bible. … He had heard portions of the Gospels and Epistles, which were read to the people at public worship, and he supposed that these were the entire Bible. Now, for the first time, he looked upon the whole of God’s word. With mingled awe and wonder he turned the sacred pages; with quickened pulse and throbbing heart he read for himself the words of life.” The Great Controversy, 122.

  • As Luther studied the Word more deeply, what effect did this have upon him? Psalm 119:130; Jeremiah 15:16.

Note: “He who tastes of the love of Christ will continually long for more; but he seeks for nothing else. The riches, honors, and pleasures of the world do not attract him. The constant cry of his heart is, More of Thee.” The Desire of Ages, 187.

Monday

LIGHT PIERCES THE DARKNESS

  • As Luther studied his Bible further, what conviction did he feel concerning his own life? Isaiah 6:5.

Note: “Angels of heaven were by his [Luther’s] side, and rays of light from the throne of God revealed the treasures of truth to his understanding. He had ever feared to offend God, but now the deep conviction of his condition as a sinner took hold upon him as never before.

“An earnest desire to be free from sin and to find peace with God led him at last to enter a cloister and devote himself to a monastic life.” The Great Controversy, 122, 123.

  • As Luther sought to find pardon and peace through painful acts of penance, what was God trying to teach him? 1 Timothy 1:15.

Note: “The pious Staupitz opened the word of God to Luther’s mind and bade him look away from himself, cease the contemplation of infinite punishment for the violation of God’s law, and look to Jesus, his sin-pardoning Saviour. ‘Instead of torturing yourself on account of your sins, throw yourself into the Redeemer’s arms. Trust in Him, in the righteousness of His life, in the atonement of His death. … Listen to the Son of God. He became man to give you the assurance of divine favor.’ ‘Love Him who first loved you’ (D’Aubigné, b. 2, ch. 4).” The Great Controversy, 123, 124.

  • As he was climbing Pilate’s staircase on his knees, what central Bible truth became clear to Luther? Romans 1:17.

Note: “By a recent decretal an indulgence had been promised by the pope to all who should ascend upon their knees ‘Pilate’s staircase,’ said to have been descended by our Saviour on leaving the Roman judgment hall and to have been miraculously conveyed from Jerusalem to Rome. Luther was one day devoutly climbing these steps, when suddenly a voice like thunder seemed to say to him: ‘The just shall live by faith’ (Romans 1:17). He sprang to his feet and hastened from the place in shame and horror. That text never lost its power upon his soul. From that time he saw more clearly than ever before the fallacy of trusting to human works for salvation, and the necessity of constant faith in the merits of Christ.” The Great Controversy, 125.

Tuesday

SAVED BY GRACE THROUGH FAITH

  • When in 1517 Luther published his ninety-five theses against the power of indulgences, how did he teach that our works cannot atone for sin? Galatians 2:16; Acts 20:21.

Note: “Luther … set before the people the offensive character of sin, and taught them that it is impossible for man, by his own works, to lessen its guilt or evade its punishment. Nothing but repentance toward God and faith in Christ can save the sinner. The grace of Christ cannot be purchased; it is a free gift. He counseled the people not to buy indulgences, but to look in faith to a crucified Redeemer. He related his own painful experience in vainly seeking by humiliation and penance to secure salvation, and assured his hearers that it was by looking away from himself and believing in Christ that he found peace and joy.” The Great Controversy, 129.

  • How alone are we saved from sin, and by whom? Romans 1:16; Ephesians 2:8–10.

Note: “By these [Luther’s] theses it was shown that the power to grant the pardon of sin, and to remit its penalty, had never been committed to the pope or to any other man. … It was also clearly shown that the gospel of Christ is the most valuable treasure of the church, and that the grace of God, therein revealed, is freely bestowed upon all who seek it by repentance and faith.” The Great Controversy, 130.

  • From whom do we obtain a saving faith in Jesus, and how may we increase it? Romans 10:9; Luke 17:5.

Note: “Faith that enables us to receive God’s gifts is itself a gift, of which some measure is imparted to every human being. It grows as exercised in appropriating the word of God. In order to strengthen faith, we must often bring it in contact with the word.” Education, 253, 254.

“Now, brethren, you have educated yourselves so much in doubts and questionings that you have to educate your souls in the line of faith. You have to talk faith, you have to live faith, you have to act faith, that you may have an increase of faith.” Faith and Works, 78.

Wednesday

THE SCRIPTURES: THE FOUNDATION OF OUR FAITH

  • What attitude held by Luther towards the authority of Scripture became the vital principle of the Reformation? Colossians 2:8; Isaiah 8:20.

Note: “He [Luther] firmly declared that Christians should receive no other doctrines than those which rest on the authority of the Sacred Scriptures. These words struck at the very foundation of papal supremacy. They contained the vital principle of the Reformation.” The Great Controversy, 126.

  • In an effort to counter the effect of Luther’s teachings, in 1529 the German Emperor prepared a Decree that would end religious freedom and restore the authority of the Roman Catholic Church. What two principles contained in the Protest of the Princes of Germany against this decree constitute the essence of Protestantism? Acts 4:18–20; 5:28, 29; Matthew 15:8, 9.

Note: “ ‘The principles contained in this celebrated Protest … constitute the very essence of Protestantism. Now this Protest opposes two abuses of man in matters of faith: the first is the intrusion of the civil magistrate, and the second the arbitrary authority of the church. Instead of these abuses, Protestantism sets the power of conscience above the magistrate, and the authority of the word of God above the visible church. In the first place, it rejects the civil power in divine things, and says with the prophets and apostles, ‘We must obey God rather than man.’ In presence of the crown of Charles the Fifth, it uplifts the crown of Jesus Christ. But it goes farther: it lays down the principle that all human teaching should be subordinate to the oracles of God’ (D’Aubigné, b. 13, ch. 6). The protesters had moreover affirmed their right to utter freely their convictions of truth. They would not only believe and obey, but teach what the word of God presents, and they denied the right of priest or magistrate to interfere. The Protest of Spires was a solemn witness against religious intolerance, and an assertion of the right of all men to worship God according to the dictates of their own consciences. …

“Satan’s manner of working against God and His word has not changed; he is still as much opposed to the Scriptures being made the guide of life as in the sixteenth century. In our time there is a wide departure from their doctrines and precepts, and there is need of a return to the great Protestant principle—the Bible, and the Bible only, as the rule of faith and duty.” [Emphasis author’s.] The Great Controversy, 203–205.

Thursday

THE WORD BRINGS LIFE TO THE SOUL

  • What does the word of God do for those who hear or read it? Psalm 119:103, 104.
  •  How did Luther’s teaching of the word of God affect those he taught? Romans 10:17; Hebrews 4:12.

Note: “The word of God, by which Luther tested every doctrine and every claim, was like a two-edged sword, cutting its way to the hearts of the people. Everywhere there was awakening a desire for spiritual progress. Everywhere was such a hungering and thirsting after righteousness as had not been known for ages. The eyes of the people, so long directed to human rites and earthly mediators, were now turning in penitence and faith to Christ and Him crucified.” The Great Controversy, 133.

  • What will happen as we study and obey the word of God? John 17:17.

Note: “The Scriptures are the great agency in the transformation of character. … If studied and obeyed, the word of God works in the heart, subduing every unholy attribute. The Holy Spirit comes to convict of sin, and the faith that springs up in the heart works by love to Christ, conforming us in body, soul, and spirit to His own image. Then God can use us to do His will. The power given us works from within outwardly, leading us to communicate to others the truth that has been communicated to us.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 100.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1     What was Luther’s reaction to finding a Bible for the first time?

2    What fallacy became clear to Luther as he climbed Pilate’s staircase?

3    In what way alone can a sinner be saved?

4    How can we continue to uphold the essence of Protestantism today?

5    What role do the Scriptures have in transforming character?

Recipe – Nutty Carob Candies

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Nutty Carob Candies

Ingredients

  • ½ – ⅔ cup coconut oil
  • ¾ cup dates, pitted (8-10)
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 3 Tbsp. carob powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • ¾ cup chopped walnuts

Process

Set nuts aside and place all other ingredients into food processor and mix until fully combined. Then add nuts and mix. Spoon into 8 x 8” dish or pan, flatten out and put into refrigerator to set for a few hours. Cut into bite sized squares and enjoy!

Food – Carob

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Carob, a healthy alternative to chocolate or cocoa powder, is also known as St. John’s bread. It grows on Fabaceae trees in pods much like peas and is considered a legume. Many cultures regularly use carob like other nuts and seeds. Carob powder is a healthy alternative to cocoa powder.

“Carob powder contains virtually no fat. If you’re on a low-fat diet, carob powder is a good option. Just keep in mind that it is higher in sugar and carbs than cocoa powder. Just 2 tablespoons of carob powder have 6 grams of sugar, about 1.5 teaspoons. Since most baking recipes call for up to 1 cup of carob powder, the sugar grams can add up fast. Still, if you substitute carob powder for chocolate chips, you’ll save on fat and calories.

“According to the Mayo Clinic, the average American gets 3,400 mg of sodium daily. This is much more than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 2,300 mg. The American Heart Association recommends even less, just 1,500 mg daily. Carob powder contains no sodium.

“Calcium is a mineral. It’s important for bone health. It also helps your heart, nerves, and muscles function well. Two tablespoons of carob powder have 42 mg of calcium, or 4 percent of the RDA.

“Carob powder is gluten-free. Carob powder contains no caffeine. Try these ways to add carob powder to your diet:

  • add carob powder to smoothies
  • sprinkle carob powder on yogurt or ice cream
  • add carob powder to your favorite bread dough or pancake batter
  • make a hot carob drink instead of hot chocolate

“Carob powder is Fido-friendly. It doesn’t contain high levels of theobromine, a compound that is toxic to dogs and cats in large quantities. Many dog treats are made with carob powder. There’s no need to panic if your dog or cat gets into your stash.” www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/carob-powder

 

Nutty Carob Candies

Ingredients

½ – ⅔ cup coconut oil

¾ cup dates, pitted (8-10)

¼ cup honey

3 Tbsp. carob powder

Pinch of salt

¾ cup chopped walnuts

Process

Set nuts aside and place all other ingredients into food processor and mix until fully combined. Then add nuts and mix. Spoon into 8 x 8” dish or pan, flatten out and put into refrigerator to set for a few hours. Cut into bite sized squares and enjoy!

Children’s Story – When God Controlled a Railway Train

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Many years ago an engineer brought his train to a stop at a little village in Massachusetts where the passengers had only five minutes to get off the train and stretch their legs a bit before the train pulled out again.

“The conductor tells me that the train to Bedford leaves the junction ahead fifteen minutes before we get there,” said a sad-looking lady on the platform to the engineer. “That is the last train tonight to Bedford, and I’m trying to get home with a very sick child. I have no money for a hotel. I simply must reach that train on time and get home tonight.”

“It can’t be done,” replied the engineer.

“Would it be possible for you to hurry a little?” asked the anxious, tearful mother.

“No, Ma’am. I have a schedule, and the rules say I must follow it exactly.”

The woman turned away sorrowfully. But a moment later, she was back. “Are you a Christian?” she asked the engineer.

He looked puzzled. “Yes, I am,” he answered. “Why do you ask?”

“Will you pray with me that the Lord may in some way delay that train at the junction?”

“Well … Yes, I’ll pray with you, but I don’t have much faith that the train will be delayed long enough for you to make your connection.”

Just then the conductor called out, “All aboard!”

The poor woman hurried to get back into the train and take care of her sick child. The engineer quickly climbed to his spot in the engine, and soon the train was puffing its way down the track, climbing the grade. In her seat on the train, the woman prayed for God to help her to reach the Bedford train in time. Up in his seat at the throttle, the engineer also prayed. “Lord,” he said, “delay that Bedford train only ten minutes, and I’ll make up the extra five minutes!”

“Somehow,” the engineer later recalled, “everything seemed to go according to some plan. After I prayed, I couldn’t help increasing my speed just a little! We hardly paused at the first stop. People got on and off more quickly than I’ve ever seen before. In half a minute, the conductor was waving his lantern, and we were off once more. I began to have more faith that we would reach the junction before that other train left.

“Once over the summit of the mountain, it was easy to give the engine a little more steam, and then a little more. I prayed, and the train seemed to shoot down the rails like an arrow. I sensed something was pushing us forward, and I couldn’t hold her back! We came rushing into the junction six minutes ahead of schedule. And there stood the Bedford train! Its conductor was still standing on the platform, his lantern resting at his side.”

Now, these trains never connected with each other. They weren’t intended to; the schedule didn’t allow for it. No message had been sent ahead to hold the Bedford train. There was no reason it should not have left the station several minutes earlier. Yet, there it stood—waiting.

The conductor of the Bedford train approached the engineer of the train that had just pulled into the junction. “Well,” he inquired, “will you tell me what we’re waiting for? Somehow I felt that I needed to wait until you arrived at the station tonight. But I don’t know why.”

“I can tell you,” replied the engineer. “I have a woman on board my train who has a sick child and who must get home tonight. She has been praying—and I have been praying—that somehow your train would still be here when we arrived. And here you are!”

Storytime, Character-building Stories for Children, Pacific Press Publishing Association, 6, 7.

Life Sketches Series – Joy from Suffering

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The entrance of the gospel for the first time into Europe occurred when the apostles Paul and Silas entered into a ship at Troas to go to Philippi. This was accompanied by great suffering. It was in regard of his own experience that the apostle Paul wrote about the purpose of suffering.

“It happened, as we (Paul and Silas) went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling. This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, ‘These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation.’ And this she did for many days. But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, ‘I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.’ And he came out that very hour. But when her masters saw that their hope of profit was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to the authorities” (Acts 16:16–19).

The girl’s masters had been using her to earn money and feared that if people accepted the preaching of the apostles their source of income would cease; so they made many false charges against them: “They brought them to the magistrates, and said, ‘These men, being Jews, exceedingly trouble our city; and they teach customs which are not lawful for us, being Romans, to receive or observe.’ Then the multitude rose up together against them; and the magistrates tore off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten with rods. And when they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to keep them securely. Having received such a charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks” (verses 20–24).

One of the most dangerous situations that any human being can get into is to be the victim of mob action. For Paul and Silas there had been no trial, no justice, no opportunity to have council or to defend themselves in a court. Their clothes were stripped off them, they were beaten until bruised and bloody before being taken into prison where their feet were put in the stocks. There they were chained to prevent them from escaping.

By night, with their feet in stocks unable to move and in great pain and with no refreshment, the Bible says, “At midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were loosed. And the keeper of the prison, awaking from sleep and seeing the prison doors open, supposing the prisoners had fled, drew his sword and was about to kill himself. But Paul called with a loud voice, saying, ‘Do yourself no harm, for we are all here’  ” (verses 25–28). Through the influence of the apostle Paul, when all the chains were loosed and the doors were opened, the prisoners did not flee. “Then he (the jailer) called for a light, ran in, and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. And He brought them out and said, ‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved’ ” (verses 29, 30)?

This jailor had been impressed by the conduct of his new prisoners. They acted differently from any prisoners he had ever held before. He realized that God had delivered them from prison, but they had not run away having regard for the jailer’s life. He realized that he owed his life to Paul and Silas and a desire rose in his heart to know their God. He had heard something about what they were teaching, about the gospel, and now he wanted to know about the God that they served. Who was this God they prayed and sang to? He wanted to know what he must do to be saved. The most important question that any human being can ask is that same question, “What must I do to be saved?”

Immediately the answer came. “So they said, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household’ ” (verse 31). It was not complicated, just believe!

The Greek word translated believe means much more than just a mental assent of believing that something is true in your mind. It means to believe something enough that you make a commitment to that belief. John 2:24 says, “Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men.”

That word commit is the same word that is translated believe, or to have faith. To believe means to make a commitment. To whom was the jailer to commit? He was to make a commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ. Such a phrase was very significant, for people in those days knew exactly what a lord was. Today, we who live in free countries are ignorant of the position of a lord because we are all free. But in the Roman Empire where approximately 2/3 of the people were slaves and only about 1/3 were free, they knew exactly what a lord was. A lord was somebody who had total authority or sovereignty over your life. If you want to be saved you must believe in Jesus as your Lord. “Believe in the Lord.” If He is the Lord of your life you will follow Him and you will do what He says.

Believe on the Lord Jesus, the most wonderful name in the English language that comes from the Hebrew word which means Saviour, Deliverer. Believe on Him as your Saviour, as the Lord of your life and if you do, you will be saved. It is not complicated. Anyone, at any time of their life, can choose to make that decision. But friends, it is not by just giving a mental assent that the gospel is true, or that Christianity is true, not at all. It is by making a commitment to follow Jesus in holy living. Sadly, that is what keeps people from following Christ.

John says, “He who says he abides in Him must walk as He walked” (1 John 2:6, literal translation). The Philippian jailor accepted the call. He believed in Him as his Lord and Saviour from sin. He had seen evidence of what the gospel could do in the lives of Paul and Silas. He wanted the same thing, he wanted the same Lord and Master. Acts chapter 16:32–34 says, “Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes. And immediately he and all his family were baptized. Now when he had brought them into his house, he set food before them; and he rejoiced, having believed in God with all his household.”

God brought beauty out of ashes; a wonderful thing happened because of the way Paul and Silas reacted to their suffering. One of the reasons that God allows suffering among His children is so that other people can see what the religion of Christ does in a person’s life. It changes the way they react, even to bad situations. The apostle Paul and Silas sang songs in the prison after they had been beaten and tortured, with their feet in the stocks, chained and in agony. As a result of their reaction to their suffering, others saw that they were different from the other criminals in the prison. Though they were looked upon as criminals, they did not manifest criminal behavior. Their demeanor as they sang and prayed had such an effect on the jailor that his whole household became Christians.

God may allow His children to suffer, that through their suffering others may find salvation, creating friendships that will last throughout eternity.

With all that had happened overnight, the magistrates had second thoughts about the night’s events. They had found out what had happened to the girl who had been possessed of an evil spirit and been freed, and wondered if they had done the right thing. They decided that they should let Paul and Silas go free. The Bible says, “The magistrates sent the officers, saying, ‘Let those men go.’ So the keeper of the prison reported these words to Paul, saying, ‘The magistrates have sent to let you go. Now therefore depart, and go in peace.’ But Paul said to them, ‘They have beaten us openly, uncondemned Romans, and have thrown us into prison. And now do they put us out secretly’ ” (verses 35–37)?

Paul and Silas did not want to be looked at as criminals by slinking away. While they insisted on their innocence and that they had been treated illegally, being Roman citizens, the magistrates were afraid they would be relieved of their jobs if an appeal were made to the Roman emperor.

“ … the magistrates … were afraid when they heard that they were Romans. Then they came and pleaded with them and brought them out, and asked them to depart from the city” (verses 38, 39). Before they left the city, the Bible says, “They went out of the prison and entered the house of Lydia; and when they had seen the brethren, they encouraged them and departed” (verse 40).

After they left the city the whole story spread throughout that region. As a result, a large number of people became Christians and the church in Philippi was organized. Later, when Paul was in prison again, he wrote to the church. You can read his letter to the Philippian church in the New Testament.

Paul understood that many would suffer persecution for Christ’s sake. He said, “To you it has been given on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in His name, but also to suffer for His sake, having the same conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in me” (Philippians 1:29, 30, literal translation).

There is a reason that we go through suffering in this world. Peter described it this way: “This is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: ‘Who committed no sin, nor was deceit found in His mouth’; who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed” (1 Peter 2:19–24).

Later, the apostle Peter, who was told by Jesus Himself, that at the end of his life he would be crucified (John 21), wrote to the Christians: “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter. For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? … Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator” (1 Peter 4:12–17, 19).

Some people have wondered how they could endure the suffering that they find themselves in. The Bible is full of many wonderful and precious promises to those who suffer for righteousness’ sake. Here are two. “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:12, 13).

Paul tells of the thorn in his flesh, referring to the bodily trouble he suffered that he wanted to be relieved of. He wrote, “He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:9, 10).

These Bible promises are not just for the apostle Paul; they are promises for every person who is suffering.

(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 in Wichita, Kansas. He may be contacted by email at: historic@stepstolife.org, or by telephone at: 316-788-5559.

Health Nugget – Nitrate

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The Nutrient You Need but Probably Don’t Know About

Nutrition and biochemistry form two sides of the same coin: our diet provides the raw materials for complex biochemicals that form the structure of the body and the myriad substances that enable it to function.

One particular biochemical is nitric oxide, not to be confused with nitrous oxide, or so-called laughing gas. Back in 1992, the journal Science declared nitric oxide to be the “molecule of the year.” Six years later, three scientists earned the Nobel Prize for their research on nitric oxide.

The story, like almost everything that occurs in nutritional biochemistry, follows a series of steps. Cells “talk” with each other, and nitric oxide functions as a key cell-communication molecule. It signals endothelial cells lining blood vessels to dilate, or relax. Because of this property, nitric oxide plays a key role in maintaining normal blood pressure.

Nitric oxide’s nutritional precursors are the amino acid L-arginine, and the body can make some L-arginine from L-citrulline. But an excellent and often overlooked source is dietary nitrate. The body converts nitrate to nitrite, which is then converted to nitric oxide.

Many fruits and vegetables are good sources of nitrate, and there are significant amounts of nitrate in celery, lettuce, arugula, and spinach. But the hands-down richest source is beetroot and, in particular, beetroot juice and concentrate. (The juice is extracted from the red beetroots you cook with or use in salads, not the sugar beets used for making sucrose.)

How to “Beet” Hypertension

The studies on the benefits of beetroot juice and blood pressure show remarkably consistent benefits. Amrita Ahluwalia, PhD., of Queen Mary University, London, and her colleagues asked 68 people with hypertension to drink either one cup (150 ml) of nitrate-rich beetroot juice or nitrate-free beetroot juice daily. The drinks were switched so everyone in the study eventually consumed both types of juice for two weeks.

The researchers measured the subjects’ blood pressure using three different techniques. All three techniques found a reduction in blood pressure among people drinking the beetroot juice with naturally occurring nitrate.

A separate study by the same researchers involved giving 69 patients a cup of either nitrate-rich beetroot juice or beetroot juice without nitrate daily for six weeks. All of the subjects had elevated cholesterol levels. Using ultrasound, researchers determined that the nitrate-rich beetroot juice led to a 24 percent improvement in blood vessel flexibility and tone, technically known as endothelial function. The subjects also had a slight decrease in blood clotting, another sign of improved cardiovascular health, and an improvement in aortic pulse wave velocity, both signs of improved cardiovascular risk. These factors worsened in the placebo group.

Reducing Glaucoma Risk

Harvard medical researchers recently reported that eating nitrate-rich vegetables can lower the risk of primary open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of the disease.

Jae H. Kang, ScD, and her colleagues analyzed health data that had been collected every two years, starting in the mid-1980s and continuing through 2012, and that included 63,893 female nurses and 41,094 male physicians as study subjects. She reported that people with the highest daily intake of nitrate—approximately 240 mg, mostly from leafy green vegetables—had a 21 percent lower risk of open-angle glaucoma and a 44 percent lower risk of glaucoma with the early stages of vision loss.

Boosting Athletic Performance

Finally, Michael J. Berry, Ph.D. of Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and his colleagues tested the effects of beetroot juice on 15 people diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The juice substantially increased blood levels of nitrate and nitrite.

Studies conducted in Europe show that concentrated beetroot improves exercise performance and increases tolerance to high-intensity exercise. The studies involved “recreationally fit” athletes and elite athletes training under controlled conditions, such as cycling or running on a treadmill in an exercise laboratory.

The dietary nitrate in beetroot works in a couple of different ways. First, it enables blood vessels to flex (instead of remaining stiff) under pressure. Second, the nitrate enables athletes to use less oxygen while exercising at the same intensity. This makes “exercise seem easier, and it should be possible to continue it for longer,” says Andrew M. Jones, Ph.D., a professor and exercise physiologist at the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom.

These studies have found that blood nitrate levels peak two to three hours after consuming beetroot, and that levels remain elevated for six to nine hours. That means the key is to drink beetroot juice three hours before exercising, and to have it daily to maintain higher blood levels of nitrate, according to Jones. The juice also led to significant reductions in post-exercise and resting blood pressure.

How to Use Beetroot Juice

Most blood pressure studies have used 180 g (6.35 oz.) of beetroot juice daily, although more might be helpful to some people. (Beet juice can cause nausea and vomiting, so this amount should be spread over the course of the day in 2–3 doses.) A beneficial effect on blood pressure should be apparent within 10 days.

Please note that the juice may turn your urine pink, but this is a superficial, not harmful, side effect.

The Nutrition Reporter, Jack Challem, August 31, 2016.

God has freely given us life giving, nutrient abundant vegetables, fruits, juices for building, repairing, rejuvenating, and healing of blood and cells. Consuming a diet rich in nutrition can prevent and even reverse disease conditions. Let each eat and drink that which will offer radiant, energetic and truly optimal health.

Question & Answer – What Constitutes Character?

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… the thoughts and feelings combined make up the moral character.

Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, 660

 A:

“A character formed according to the divine likeness is the only treasure that we can take from this world to the next. Those who are under the instruction of Christ in this world will take every divine attainment with them to the heavenly mansions. And in heaven we are continually to improve. …

“Mental ability and genius are not character, for these are often possessed by those who have the very opposite of a good character. Reputation is not character. True character is a quality of the soul, revealing itself in the conduct.

“A good character is a capital of more value than gold or silver. It is unaffected by panics or failures, and in that day when earthly possessions shall be swept away, it will bring rich returns. Integrity, firmness, and perseverance are qualities that all should seek earnestly to cultivate; for they clothe the possessor with a power which is irresistible—a power which makes him strong to do good, strong to resist evil, strong to bear adversity.

“Strength of character consists of two things—power of will and power of self-control. Many youth mistake strong, uncontrolled passion for strength of character; but the truth is that he who is mastered by his passions is a weak man. The real greatness and nobility of the man is measured by his powers to subdue his feelings, not by the power of his feelings to subdue him. The strongest man is he who, while sensitive to abuse, will yet restrain passion and forgive his enemies.

“If it were considered as important that the young possess a beautiful character and amiable disposition as it is that they imitate the fashions of the world in dress and deportment, we would see hundreds where there is one today coming upon the stage of active life prepared to exert an ennobling influence upon society.” Maranatha, 223.