Bible

Ask the Pastor – Archaeology and the Bible

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Question:

Have the discoveries of archaeology verified the reliability of the Bible, or are we still to take the Bible only on faith?

Answer:

Over the centuries, there have been many criticisms brought against the Bible concerning its historical reliability. These criticisms are usually based on a lack of evidence from outside sources to confirm the biblical record. Since the Bible is a religious book, many scholars take the position that it is self-endorsing and cannot be trusted unless there is some kind of validating evidence from non-biblical sources. In other words, the Bible is always questioned unless proven reliable, and, as a result, a lack of outside evidence places the biblical account in doubt.

This standard seems to be really different from that applied to other ancient writings, even though many of them, if not most, have a religious element. They are considered to be accurate, unless there is evidence to show that they are not. Although it is not possible to verify every inci-dent in the Bible, the discoveries of archaeology since the mid-1800s have revealed the reliability and trustworthiness of the Bible narrative. Following are some examples: The discovery of the Ebla archive in Northern Syria in the 1970s has revealed that the Bible’s story about the Patriarchs is true. These documents, written on clay tablets from around the year 2300 b.c., demonstrate that personal names and places in the Genesis account are genuine. The name Canaan was in use in Ebla—a name critics once said was not used at that time and was used incorrectly in the early chapters of the Bible. The word tehom (“the deep”), in Genesis 1:2, was said to be a late word demonstrating the late writing of the creation story. However, it has been found that it was part of the vocabulary at Ebla and was in use some 800 years before Moses. Ancient customs reflected in the stories of the Patriarchs in Genesis have also been found in clay tablets from Nuzi and Mari.

The Hittites were once thought to be a biblical legend, until their capital and records were discovered at Bogazkoy, Turkey. Many thought the biblical references to Solomon’s wealth were greatly exaggerated. But recovered records from the past show that the king indeed was extremely wealthy and that indeed his prosperity was as the Bible said. It was once claimed there was no Assyrian king named Sargon, as recorded in Isaiah 20:1, because this name was not known in any other record. Then, Sargon’s palace was discovered in Khorsabad, Iraq. The very event mentioned in Isaiah 20, his capture of Ashdod, was recorded on the palace walls. In addition to this, fragments of a stela memorializing the victory were found at Ashdod itself.

Another king who was in doubt was Belshazzar, the king of Babylon named in Daniel 5. The last king of Babylon in recorded history was Nabonidus. But tablets have been found showing that Belshazzar was Nabonidus’ son who served as coregent in Babylon. Again the Bible record comes through by showing that Belshazzar could in fact offer to make Daniel the third highest ruler in the kingdom for reading the handwriting on the wall. (Daniel 5:16.)

These are only a few of the many accounts of the Bible that have been verified by the archeological spade of time. If you are ever tempted to question the accuracy and truth of the Bible, just remember that it has been tested and questioned over the centuries, and has passed every test brought upon it. Because Jesus said, “I am coming again,” we can have full confidence that He will, based upon the trustworthiness of His Word.

Pastor Mike Baugher is a retired minister of the gospel. If you have a question you would like Pastor Mike to answer, e-mail it to: landmarks@stepstolife.org, or mail it to: LandMarks, Steps to Life, P. O. Box 782828, Wichita, KS 67278.

Bible Study Guides – Sunday in the Scriptures

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November 12, 2006 – November 18, 2006

Key Text

“Upon the first [day] of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as [God] hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.” 1 Corinthians 16:2.

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 283–289; 788–794.

Introduction

“Each member of the different families in our churches who believes the truth may act a part in its advancement by cheerfully adopting systematic benevolence.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 411.

“Praise ye the Lord. I will praise the Lord with [my] whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and [in] the congregation. The works of the Lord [are] great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. His work [is] honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever. He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the Lord [is] gracious and full of compassion. He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant. He hath shewed his people the power of his works, that he may give them the heritage of the heathen. The works of his hands [are] verity and judgment; all his commandments [are] sure.” Psalm 111:1–7.

1 What is the first reference to the first day of the week (Sunday) in the New Testament? Matthew 28:1; Mark 16:2; Luke 24:1; John 20:1.

2 What were the followers of Jesus doing on that day that indicates that it was not a special day for worship? Luke 23:56; 24:1.

note: “The spices with which the body of Jesus was to be anointed had been prepared on the day preceding the Sabbath. Early in the morning of the first day of the week, the Marys, with certain other women, went to the sepulcher to proceed with the work of embalming the body of the Saviour. As they neared the garden, they were surprised to see the heavens beautifully lighted up, and the earth trembling beneath their feet. They hastened to the sepulcher, and were astonished to find that the stone was rolled away from the door, and that the Roman guard were not there. They noticed a light shining about the tomb, and, looking in, saw that it was empty.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 3, 198.

3 When Mary saw Jesus, did He give any indication that the first day was to henceforth be regarded as a sacred day of worship? Mark 16:9; John 20:11–17.

note: “But now in His own familiar voice Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ Now she knew that it was not a stranger who was addressing her, and turning she saw before her the living Christ. In her joy she forgot that He had been crucified. Springing toward Him, as if to embrace His feet, she said, ‘Rabboni.’ But Christ raised His hand, saying, Detain Me not; ‘for I am not yet ascended to My Father: but go to My brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto My Father, and your Father; and to My God, and your God.’ [John 20:17.] And Mary went her way to the disciples with the joyful message.” The Desire of Ages, 790.

4 What were the circumstances surrounding Jesus’ first appearance to the disciples? John 20:19–23.

note: “The Holy Spirit is the breath of life in the soul. The breathing of Christ upon his disciples was the breath of true spiritual life. The disciples were to interpret this as imbuing them with the attributes of their Saviour, that in purity, faith, and obedience, they might exalt the law, and make it honorable. God’s law is the expression of his character. By obedience to its requirements we meet God’s standard of character. Thus the disciples were to witness for Christ.” Review and Herald, June 13, 1899.

5 After Jesus breathed the Holy Ghost on His disciples, was there any indication of a change in their obligation to the law and the Sabbath?

note: “[John 20:20–23 quoted.] Thus the disciples received their commission. They were to teach and to preach in Christ’s name. The instruction given them had in it the vital, spiritual breath that is in Christ. He alone could give them the oil which they must have in order to work successfully. Christ’s likeness must appear in them. They could be successful only as they studied their Master’s character and followed his example.” Review and Herald, June 13, 1899.

6 Eight days later when He met with them for the second time, what message was given to them? John 20:26–31.

note: “Many who are given to doubt excuse themselves by saying that if they had the evidence which Thomas had from his companions, they would believe. They do not realize that they have not only that evidence, but much more. Many who, like Thomas, wait for all cause of doubt to be removed, will never realize their desire. They gradually become confirmed in unbelief. Those who educate themselves to look on the dark side, and murmur and complain, know not what they do. They are sowing the seeds of doubt, and they will have a harvest of doubt to reap. At a time when faith and confidence are most essential, many will thus find themselves powerless to hope and believe.” The Desire of Ages, 807, 808.

7 Where do we find the next reference to the first day of the week? 1 Corinthians 16:1, 2.

8 What did the apostle mean when he said “lay by him” (see marginal reading for 1 Corinthians 16:2)? Was this a meeting in the church?

note: “Each member of the different families in our churches who believes the truth may act a part in its advancement by cheerfully adopting systematic benevolence. ‘Let every one of you lay by him in store [by himself at home], . . . that there be no gatherings when I come.’ [1 Corinthians 16:2.] The burden of urging and pressing individuals to give of their means was not designed to be the work of God’s ministers. The responsibility should rest upon every individual who enjoys the belief of the truth. ‘Let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.’ Every member of the family, from the oldest down to the youngest, may take part in this work of benevolence.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 411, 412.

9 Did the apostle put any religious significance on this day when he designates it as the “first day of the week” in 1 Corinthians 16:2? Ezekiel 46:1.

10 Should the Sabbath be a day when we count our income? Exodus 31:14, 15.

note: “When the Sabbath begins, we should place a guard upon ourselves, upon our acts and our words, lest we rob God by appropriating to our own use that time which is strictly the Lord’s. We should not do ourselves, nor suffer our children to do any manner of our own work for a livelihood, or anything which could have been done on the six working days. Friday is the day of preparation. . . .

“Those who are not fully converted to the truth, frequently let their minds run freely upon worldly business, and although they may rest from physical toil upon the Sabbath, their tongues speak out what is in their minds; hence these words concerning cattle, crops, losses, and gains. All this is Sabbath-breaking. If the mind is running upon worldly matters, the tongue will reveal it; for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” Gospel Workers (1892), 207, 208.

11 In Acts 20:7, we find the only recorded public meeting on the first day of the week. How often did they assemble to “break bread”? Acts 2:42, 46.

12 When did this meeting begin and how long did it last? Acts 20:7, 8, 11.

13 Since the creation record informs us that the day begins at sunset (Genesis 1:5, 8, 13, 19, 23, 31), we can see that this meeting was held on Saturday evening. Why did Paul hold a meeting on this evening?

note: “Upon the last evening of his tarry with them, the brethren ‘came together to break bread.’ [Acts 20:7.] The fact that their beloved teacher was about to depart, had called together a larger company than usual. They assembled in an upper room on the third story, the coolest and pleasantest place for such a gathering on that warm spring evening. The nights were then dark, but many lights were burning in the chamber. Paul’s mind was impressed with a sense of the perils that awaited him, and the uncertainty of again meeting with his brethren; he had matters of great interest and importance to present before them; and in the earnestness of his love and solicitude for them, he preached until midnight.” Sketches From the Life of Paul, 196, 197.

14 Where was Paul going? Did he believe that he would ever see the brethren again? Acts 20:16, 22, 25.

note: “Since his conversion, Paul’s visits to Jerusalem had always been attended with anxiety, and with a feeling of remorse as he gazed upon scenes that recalled his former life. There was the school of Gamaliel, where he had received his education, the synagogue in which he worshiped, the house where the high priest had given him his commission to Damascus, the spot where the blood of Stephen had witnessed for Christ. As the apostle gazed upon the place for martyrdom, the scene in all its vividness rose up before him. Was he going forward to a similar fate? Never had he trod the streets of Jerusalem with so sad a heart as now.” Sketches From the Life of Paul, 206.

15 On which day does the apostle John say he was in the spirit? Revelation 1:10.

16 Of which day did Jesus say He was the Lord? Mark 2:28; Luke 6:5.

17 Which day did He declare was “my holy day”? Isaiah 58:13.

note: “The Sabbath was made for all mankind, and was instituted in Eden before the fall of man. The Creator called it ‘my holy day.’ [Isaiah 58:13.] Christ announced himself as ‘the Lord of the Sabbath.’ [Mark 2:28.] Beginning with creation, it is as old as the human race, and having been made for man it will exist as long as man shall exist.” The Signs of the Times, November 12, 1894.

18 What is the only day according to Scripture that can be termed the “Lord’s day”?

note: “It was on the Sabbath that the Lord of glory appeared to the exiled apostle. The Sabbath was as sacredly observed by John on Patmos as when he was preaching to the people in the towns and cities of Judea. He claimed as his own the precious promises that had been given regarding that day. ‘I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day,’ John writes, ‘and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last. . . . And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; and in the midst of the seven candlesticks One like unto the Son of man.’ Revelation 1:10–13.” The Acts of the Apostles, 581, 582.

Personal Review

“He Is Risen!”—“The women who had stood by the cross of Christ waited and watched for the hours of the Sabbath to pass. On the first day of the week, very early, they made their way to the tomb, taking with them precious spices to anoint the Saviour’s body. They did not think about His rising from the dead. The sun of their hope had set, and night had settled down on their hearts. As they walked, they recounted Christ’s works of mercy and His words of comfort. But they remembered not His words, ‘I will see you again.’ John 16:22. . . .

“He is risen, He is risen! The women repeat the words again and again. No need now for the anointing spices. The Saviour is living, and not dead. They remember now that when speaking of His death He said that He would rise again. What a day is this to the world! Quickly the women departed from the sepulcher ‘with fear and great joy; and did run to bring His disciples word.’ [Matthew 28:8.]” The Desire of Ages, 788, 789.

Obedience At Any Cost—“This subject opens before the earnest seeker after truth. It becomes more and more clear to him that God has not changed or altered the thing that has gone out of his lips. He sees the sanctity and blessing placed upon the seventh day, and the necessity for its observance. The more earnestly he investigates this subject, the more convinced he becomes of the truth of God’s word, as seen in the law of the ten commandments. His interest in truth is tested, his love for God proved, as he advances. If he submits his will to God’s will, all will be well. If he chooses obedience to God’s commandments at any cost, his peace and happiness will increase.” Review and Herald, July 13, 1897.

Reprinted with permission, Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke Virginia, 2003.

Question – Scriptural Contradiction?

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Question:

John 1:18 says, “No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared [him].” But Exodus 33:11 says, “The Lord spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend.” Are these texts contradictory?

Answer:

God did speak to Moses on more than one occasion. Read, for example, Numbers 12:6–8 and Exodus 24:9–11; compare John 9:29. In these passages, we see that God communicated directly with Moses, who was the leader of God’s people, and also with Aaron, his two sons, and the 70 elders of Israel. We also know that Moses was in direct communication with God when he received the Ten Commandments. It is also recorded that God spoke to Abraham. (See Exodus 6:3.)

We may begin to understand how all this is possible from Jesus’ response when Phillip said to Him, “Show us the Father.” John 14:8. Jesus’ answer is recorded in verses 9 and 10. From these verses, we may understand that Jesus represents the Father, and Jesus is God. So when it says that God spoke to Moses or to Abraham, we may understand that it was Jesus, for no man has seen God at any time.

Ellen White has explained this seeming contradiction very well: “Since the sin of our first parents, there has been no direct communication between God and man. The Father has given the world into the hands of Christ, that through His mediatorial work He may redeem man and vindicate the authority and holiness of the law of God. All the communion between heaven and the fallen race has been through Christ. It was the Son of God that gave to our first parents the promise of redemption. It was He who revealed Himself to the patriarchs. . . . It was He who gave the law to Israel. Amid the awful glory of Sinai, Christ declared in the hearing of all the people the ten precepts of His Father’s law. It was He who gave to Moses the law engraved upon the tables of stone.” God’s Amazing Grace, 43.

“I have often seen the lovely Jesus, that he is a person. I asked him if his Father was a person, and had a form like himself. Said Jesus, ‘I am in the express image of my Father’s Person.’ ” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 2, 74.

“Those who realize the greatness and majesty of God, will take His name on their lips with holy awe. He dwelleth in light unapproachable; no man can see Him and live.” Early Writings, 122.

At the present time, angels behold the Father’s face, but we cannot. However, the time is coming when, as a result of the plan of salvation, all the redeemed of the Lord, because they have been restored to perfect holiness, will be able to see and openly communicate with both the Father and the Son.

“There is the New Jerusalem, the metropolis of the glorified new earth. . . .

“The people of God are privileged to hold open communion with the Father and the Son. ‘Now we see through a glass, darkly.’ 1 Corinthians 13:12. We behold the image of God reflected, as in a mirror, in the works of nature and in His dealings with men; but then we shall see Him face to face, without a dimming veil between. We shall stand in His presence, and behold the glory of His countenance.” The Faith I Live By, 363.

If you have a Bible question you would like answered, e-mail it to: landmarks@stepstolife.org, or mail it to: LandMarks, Steps to Life, P. O. Box 782828, Wichita, KS 67278.

Bible Study Guides – The Word of God

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April 1, 2007 – April 7, 2007

Key Text

“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” John 5:39.

Study Help: Selected Messages, Book 1, 15–21.

Introduction

“God committed the preparation of His divinely inspired Word to finite man. This Word arranged into books, the Old and New Testaments, is the guidebook to the inhabitants of a fallen world; bequeathed to them, that by studying and obeying the directions, not one soul would lose its way to heaven.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 944.

“The writers of the Bible had to express their ideas in human language. It was written by human men. These men were inspired of the Holy Spirit.” Ibid., 945.

1 What does Jesus say concerning the Scriptures? Of whom do they testify? John 5:39.

note: “No man, woman, or youth can attain to Christian perfection and neglect the study of the word of God. By carefully and closely searching His word we shall obey the injunction of Christ, [John 5:39 quoted]. This search enables the student to observe closely the divine Model, for they testify of Christ. The Pattern must be inspected often and closely in order to imitate it.” Counsels on Sabbath School Work, 17.

2 How is the Scripture given? How much of the Scripture is given in this way? For what is it profitable? 11 Timothy 3:16. What will it do for the man of God? Verse 17.

note: “The Bible points to God as its author; yet it was written by human hands; and in the varied style of its different books it presents the characteristics of the several writers. The truths revealed are all ‘given by inspiration of God’ (2 Timothy 3:16); yet they are expressed in the words of men. The Infinite One by His Holy Spirit has shed light into the minds and hearts of His servants. He has given dreams and visions, symbols and figures; and those to whom the truth was thus revealed have themselves embodied the thought in human language.

“The Ten Commandments were spoken by God Himself, and were written by His own hand. They are of divine, and not of human composition. But the Bible, with its God-given truths expressed in the language of men, presents a union of the divine and the human. Such a union existed in the nature of Christ, who was the Son of God and the Son of man. Thus it is true of the Bible, as it was of Christ, that ‘the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.’ John 1:14.” The Great Controversy, v, vi.

3 By what agency were holy men of God, or prophets, moved to speak? 11 Peter 1:21. Who spoke to the fathers in times past? Through whom did He speak? Hebrews 1:1. Who speaks to us in the last days? Through whom? Verse 2.

note: “The writers of the Bible had to express their ideas in human language. It was written by human men. These men were inspired of the Holy Spirit. . . .

“The Scriptures were given to men, not in a continuous chain of unbroken utterances, but piece by piece through successive generations, as God in His providence saw a fitting opportunity to impress man at sundry times and divers places. Men wrote as they were moved upon by the Holy Ghost.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 945.

“The Bible is written by inspired men, but it is not God’s mode of thought and expression. It is that of humanity. God, as a writer, is not represented. Men will often say such an expression is not like God. But God has not put Himself in words, in logic, in rhetoric, on trial in the Bible. The writers of the Bible were God’s penmen, not His pen. Look at the different writers.

“It is not the words of the Bible that are inspired, but the men that were inspired.” Ibid.

“His [Jesus] word, the ever-present evidence of His divinity, had a convincing power that reached their [Samaritans] hearts. Christ was pained that His own people, to whom the Sacred Oracles had been committed, should fail to hear the voice of God speaking to them in His Son.” The Desire of Ages, 198.

4 Whose were the words spoken by the prophet Ezekiel? Ezekiel 1:1; 3:10, 11. What responsibility rested upon him concerning the message given him? Ezekiel 33:7–9.

note: “The position of those who have been called of God to labor in word and doctrine for the upbuilding of His church, is one of grave responsibility. In Christ’s stead they are to beseech men and women to be reconciled to God, and they can fulfill their mission only as they receive wisdom and power from above.” The Acts of the Apostles, 360.

5 What care was demanded of Jeremiah in delivering his God-given messages? Jeremiah 26:2.

note: “Jeremiah called their [the nation of Israel] attention repeatedly to the counsels given in Deuteronomy. More than any other of the prophets, he emphasized the teachings of the Mosaic law and showed how these might bring the highest spiritual blessing to the nation and to every individual heart. . . .

“On one occasion, by command of the Lord, the prophet took his position at one of the principal entrances to the city and there urged the importance of keeping holy the Sabbath day. . . .

“Thus the prophet stood firmly for the sound principles of right living so clearly outlined in the book of the law.” Prophets and Kings, 411, 412.

6 How much higher are God’s thoughts than man’s thoughts? Isaiah 55:8, 9.

note: “[Job 11:7, 8; Isaiah 55:8, 9; 46:9, 10 quoted.] It is impossible for the finite minds of men to fully comprehend the character or the works of the Infinite One. To the keenest intellect, to the most powerful and highly educated mind, that holy Being must ever remain clothed in mystery.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 698, 699.

“Even the prophets who were favored with the special illumination of the Spirit did not fully comprehend the import of the revelations committed to them. The meaning was to be unfolded from age to age, as the people of God should need the instruction therein contained.” The Great Controversy, 344.

7 What assurance is given us concerning God’s Word? Isaiah 55:10, 11.

note: “Receive into the soul by faith the incorruptible seed of the word, and it will bring forth a character and a life after the similitude of the character and the life of God.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 38.

“Entreat the heralds of the gospel of Christ never to become discouraged, never to regard the most hardened sinner as beyond the reach of the grace of God. The one apparently hopeless may accept the truth in the love of it. He who turns the hearts of men as the rivers of water are turned, can bring the most selfish, sin-hardened soul to Christ. Is anything too hard for God to do? [Isaiah 55:11 quoted.]” Gospel Workers, 267.

“Often our merciful Father encourages His children and strengthens their faith by permitting them here to see evidence of the power of His grace upon the hearts and lives of those for whom they labor.” Ibid., 515.

8 What do the words of the Lord contain? John 6:63, 68. What does the apostle call these words? Philippians 2:16, first part.

note: “God will make the most precious revelations to His hungering, thirsting people. They will find that Christ is a personal Saviour. As they feed upon His word, they find that it is spirit and life. The word destroys the natural, earthly nature, and imparts a new life in Christ Jesus. The Holy Spirit comes to the soul as a Comforter. By the transforming agency of His grace, the image of God is reproduced in the disciple; he becomes a new creature. Love takes the place of hatred, and the heart receives the divine similitude.” The Desire of Ages, 391.

“The apostle Paul felt a deep responsibility for those converted under his labors. Above all things, he longed that they should be faithful. . . . He knew that preaching alone would not suffice to educate the believers to hold forth the word of life. He knew that line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, they must be taught to advance in the work of Christ.” The Acts of the Apostles, 206.

9 What is the place of the Word in the Christian’s armor? Ephesians 6:17. (Compare Revelation 1:16.)

note: “God is merciful, and with the truth rejoicing, purifying, ennobling the life, we can do a sound and solid work for God. Prayer and faith will do wonderful things. The Word must be our weapon of warfare. Miracles can be wrought through the Word; for it is profitable for all things.” Evangelism, 489.

“I must be an example to others. I must meditate upon the word of God night and day and bring it into my practical life. The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, is the only sword which I can safely use.” The Adventist Home, 180.

10 What is Christ called? Why is He so called? John 1:1–4; Revelation 19:11–13.

note: “The One appointed in the counsels of heaven came to the earth as an instructor. He was no less a being than the Creator of the world, the Son of the Infinite God. The rich benevolence of God gave Him to our world; and to meet the necessities of humanity, He took on Him human nature. To the astonishment of the heavenly host, He walked this earth as the Eternal Word. Fully prepared, He left the royal courts to come to a world marred and polluted with sin. Mysteriously He allied Himself to human nature. ‘The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.’ [John 1:14.] God’s excess of goodness, benevolence, and love was a surprise to the world, of grace which could be realized, but not told.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 400.

“Who is Christ?—He is the only begotten Son of the living God. He is to the Father as a word that expresses the thought,—as a thought made audible. Christ is the word of God. . . . His words were the echo of God’s words.” The Youth’s Instructor, June 28, 1894.

11 How are we cleansed from sin? John 15:3; Psalm 17:4. How may we be kept from sin? Psalm 119:9, 11. What will the words of the Lord be to us? Jeremiah 15:16.

note: “There always have been and always will be two classes on the earth to the end of time—the believers in Jesus, and those who reject Him. Sinners, however wicked, abominable, and corrupt, by faith in Him will be purified, made clean, through the doing of His word.” My Life Today, 77.

“Satan well knows that all whom he can lead to neglect prayer and the searching of the Scriptures, will be overcome by his attacks. Therefore he invents every possible device to engross the mind.” The Great Controversy, 519.

“The Word of God is our sanctification and righteousness, because it is spiritual food. To study it is to eat the leaves of the tree of life. Nothing is more uplifting to God’s servants than to teach the Scriptures just as Christ taught them. The Word of God contains divine nourishment, which satisfies the appetite for spiritual food.” Evangelism, 138, 139.

12 By what do we grow? 1 Peter 2:1, 2.

note: “The word of God is the seed. Every seed has in itself a germinating principle. In it the life of the plant is enfolded. So there is life in God’s word. Christ says, ‘The words that I speak unto you, they are Spirit, and they are life.’ John 6:63.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 38.

“The understanding takes the level of the things with which it becomes familiar. If all would make the Bible their study, we should see a people further developed, capable of thinking more deeply, and showing a greater degree of intelligence, than the most earnest efforts in studying merely the sciences and histories of the world could make them. The Bible gives the true seeker an advanced mental discipline, and he comes from contemplation of divine things with his faculties enriched; self is humbled, while God and His revealed truth are exalted. It is because men are unacquainted with the precious Bible histories, that there is so much lifting up of man, and so little honor given to God. The Bible contains just that quality of food that the Christian needs in order that he may grow strong in spirit and intellect. The searching of all books of philosophy and science cannot do for the mind and morals what the Bible can do, if it is studied and practiced. Through the study of the Bible, converse is held with patriarchs and prophets. The truth is clothed in elevated language, which exerts a fascinating power over the mind; the thought is lifted up from the things of earth, and brought to contemplate the glory of the future immortal life.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 130.

Adapted from “The Victorious Life,” Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, Pacific Press Publishing Association, Mountain View, California, 1924.

Editorial – Deprived of Your Bible

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Many years ago, Ellen White wrote, “The time will come when many will be deprived of the written Word. But if this Word is printed in the memory, no one can take it from us.

“Study the word of God. Commit its precious promises to memory so that, when we shall be deprived of our Bibles, we may still be in possession of the word of God.” Last Day Events, 67, 68.

A large percentage of the world’s population has already experienced this deprivation.

Perhaps you have read the miraculous stories of Brother Andrew whom the Lord used to smuggle large numbers of Bibles into Communist countries prior to Communism’s collapse in Eastern Europe and Russia in 1989. He also organized a large transport of Bibles into China and into Islamic countries.

Today Christian organizations are working to bring Bibles into areas of the world where it is against the civil law for people to possess them. This includes large parts of the Middle East and Far East. Until a few years ago it included Russia and Eastern Europe. People have never suspected that in Western Europe and the United States this would happen, but it is being attempted in the United States right now.

As David Horowitz describes in his book Dark Agenda, The War to Destroy Christian America, there are global radicals, high ranking leftist politicians, entertainers in Hollywood, and financial powers on Wall Street who are engaged in an attack on Christianity. If they are successful, freedoms that Americans have taken for granted for over 200 years will suddenly vanish.

It is high time for you and me to memorize what is in the Bible.

“Several times each day precious, golden moments should be consecrated to prayer and the study of the Scriptures, if it is only to commit a text to memory, that spiritual life may exist in the soul.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 459.

“Hang in memory’s hall the precious words of Christ. They are to be valued far above silver or gold.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 81.

“Keep a pocket Bible with you as you work, and improve every opportunity to commit to memory its precious promises.” The Review and Herald, April 27, 1905.

An Anchor

by

Priscilla J. Owens penned the words of a familiar hymn in 1882:

Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
When the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift and the cables strain,
Will your anchor drift, or firm remain?

We have an anchor that keeps the soul
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll,
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love.

Yes, indeed, we are living in a time when, more than ever before, an anchor is needed, an anchor that can firmly hold down our souls. The people of God are being shaken every which way by doctrinal errors and by life’s trials. Certainly, we are going through the final refining process before we face the time of trouble such as has never before been since the beginning of the nations. Yes, we are living in an age where everything that could go wrong does go wrong! There are so many confusions that are shaking the very foundations of our beliefs that we, in this contemporary world, need to reconfirm our fundamental beliefs and solely rely on God’s power to overcome sin and to remain faithful to the truth.

God has a people who will be used to finish the work of the everlasting gospel, and Satan is very angry and is trying to eradicate them in any and every way possible. He is trying to overcome God’s people through erroneous teachings and through the hardships of life. We need to cast our anchor and let it fasten to the Rock of ages so that our ship will not drift away, blown about by the winds of various doctrines.

In this article, we will study two specific areas concerning our anchor. First, its use to secure us from doctrinal drifts, and, second, its use to fasten us amid life’s trials.

Secure From Doctrinal Drifts

After 15 years of service in the Seventh-day Adventist Church organization as a pastor and an evangelist, I started, 17 years ago, an independent ministry called “Light for Life.” The day I joined the conservative movement, I thought that I was coming into the errorless land, that I would be forever safe from the danger of false doctrines. I was so naïve in thinking that as long as I was out of the range of the new theology, I would be on a sound doctrinal foundation! What a surprise I have experienced! I have met all kinds of fanatical and extreme offshoots in the conservative camps, insomuch that I could not believe my own eyes. I have encountered scores of people ranging from those who believe in perfectionism, not character perfection, to those who teach an impersonal Holy Spirit and the keeping of the feast days. I even once met a person who told me that to wear a tie is to worship a Babylonian idol! Can you imagine that?

We really need to throw our anchors onto the sure doctrines given in the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy so that we will not be moved. As a matter of fact, the sealing experience is to settle into the truth so that we will not be moved anymore from it.

The apostle Paul said, “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let [them] slip.” Hebrews 2:1. “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” Romans 16:17, 18. And, also, Jesus said, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” John 17:17.

God is truth, so believing in false doctrines will distort our understanding of God, and such a misunderstanding of who God really is will eventually distort our character-building process. If someone believes in a fanatical doctrine or an extreme belief, it is more than likely that he or she did not have a well-balanced mind-set in the first place. Believing errors contrary to common sense and reason, generally, has to do with the hidden pride in our hearts; we oftentimes want to stand out and be different from the rest of the people, to gratify the desire for self-exaltation.

If we pray in humility and study the Word of God diligently, the Holy Spirit of God will always lead us into all truth. We have to believe it. How can we go against the impressions of the Spirit of God when we truly want to submit ourselves to the Lord on our knees? Even if we are briefly led astray by a deception, the Spirit of God will strive with us and surely bring us back to truth. If we cannot believe that, then we are just a bunch of orphans left without hope.

My Bible tells me this: “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; [Even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I [am] in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” John 14:16–21.

When we are born again in the Spirit, we immediately begin to be led by the Holy Spirit. Of course, we need to fight with the defects in our minds, which were inherited from our ancestors, so to speak, and also with wrongful thinking patterns to which we have become accustomed. But we have the assurance from God that He is going to help us, if we surrender our minds to Him every day, and He has promised to lead us into all the truth. He is the Spirit of truth!

“These things have I spoken unto you, being [yet] present with you. But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” John 14:25, 26.

Aspects of Our Anchor

My brothers and my sisters, we should not be afraid! God has given us three things to help us to stay in the truth, that we may not be deceived by any errors or heresies. They are: the Bible, the Spirit of Prophecy, and the Holy Spirit. These are the parts of our sure anchor. We do not need to fall into any errors.

The Prophet’s Counsel

“I saw that angels of God were commissioned to guard with special care the sacred, important truths which were to serve as an anchor to the disciples of Christ through every generation. The Holy Spirit especially rested upon the apostles, who were witnesses of our Lord’s crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension—important truths that were to be the hope of Israel. All were to look to the Saviour of the world as their only hope, and walk in the way which He had opened by the sacrifice of His own life, and keep God’s law and live. I saw the wisdom and goodness of Jesus in giving power to the disciples to carry on the same work for which He had been hated and slain by the Jews. In His name they had power over the works of Satan. A halo of light and glory centered about the time of Jesus’ death and resurrection, immortalizing the sacred truth that He was the Saviour of the world.” Early Writings, 196.

“God will arouse His people; if other means fail, heresies will come in among them, which will sift them, separating the chaff from the wheat. The Lord calls upon all who believe His word to awake out of sleep. Precious light has come, appropriate for this time. It is Bible truth, showing the perils that are right upon us. This light should lead us to a diligent study of the Scriptures and a most critical examination of the positions which we hold. God would have all the bearings and positions of truth thoroughly and perseveringly searched, with prayer and fasting. Believers are not to rest in suppositions and ill-defined ideas of what constitutes truth. Their faith must be firmly founded upon the word of God so that when the testing time shall come and they are brought before councils to answer for their faith they may be able to give a reason for the hope that is in them, with meekness and fear.

“Agitate, agitate, agitate. The subjects which we present to the world must be to us a living reality. It is important that in defending the doctrines which we consider fundamental articles of faith, we should never allow ourselves to employ arguments that are not wholly sound. These may avail to silence an opposer, but they do not honor the truth. We should present sound arguments, that will not only silence our opponents, but will bear the closest and most searching scrutiny. With those who have educated themselves as debaters, there is great danger that they will not handle the word of God with fairness. In meeting an opponent, it should be our earnest effort to present subjects in such a manner as to awaken conviction in his mind, instead of seeking merely to give confidence to the believer.

“Whatever may be man’s intellectual advancement, let him not for a moment think that there is no need of thorough and continuous searching of the Scriptures for greater light. As a people we are called individually to be students of prophecy. We must watch with earnestness that we may discern any ray of light which God shall present to us. We are to catch the first gleamings of truth; and through prayerful study, clearer light may be obtained, which can be brought before others.

“When God’s people are at ease, and satisfied with their present enlightenment, we may be sure that He will not favor them. It is His will that they should be ever moving forward to receive the increased and ever-increasing light which is shining for them. The present attitude of the church is not pleasing to God. There has come in a self-confidence that has led them to feel no necessity for more truth and greater light. We are living at a time when Satan is at work on the right hand and on the left, before and behind us; and yet as a people we are asleep. God wills that a voice shall be heard arousing His people to action.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 707–709.

Multiplicity of Errors

In our contemporary world, we encounter many different kinds of teachings which focus on frivolous and minor points, yet magnify them as being among the most important issues or even as crucial for our salvation. We should be careful of those kinds of teachings that have now crept into our ranks. We need to focus on the most important doctrines and be occupied with the pillars of our faith that were given to us by our early leaders, inspired by the Spirit of God when they were moved to raise up the Advent Movement. Satan gains his power over the mind through false theories and heresies.

“Satan has wrought with deceiving power, bringing in a multiplicity of errors that obscure the truth. Error cannot stand alone, and would soon become extinct if it did not fasten itself like a parasite upon the tree of truth. Error draws its life from the truth of God. The traditions of men, like floating germs, attach themselves to the truth of God, and men regard them as a part of the truth. Through false doctrines, Satan gains a foothold, and captivates the minds of men, causing them to hold theories that have no foundation in truth. Men boldly teach for doctrines the commandments of men; and as traditions pass on from age to age, they acquire a power over the human mind. But age does not make error truth, neither does its burdensome weight cause the plant of truth to become a parasite. The tree of truth bears its own genuine fruit, showing its true origin and nature. The parasite of error also bears its own fruit, and makes manifest that its character is diverse from the plant of heavenly origin.

“It is through false theories and traditions that Satan gains his power over the human mind.” Review and Herald, October 22, 1895.

“Many who embraced the third message had not had an experience in the two former messages. Satan understood this, and his evil eye was upon them to overthrow them; but the third angel was pointing them to the most holy place, and those who had had an experience in the past messages were pointing them the way to the heavenly sanctuary. Many saw the perfect chain of truth in the angels’ messages, and gladly received them in their order, and followed Jesus by faith into the heavenly sanctuary. These messages were represented to me as an anchor to the people of God. Those who understand and receive them will be kept from being swept away by the many delusions of Satan.” Early Writings, 255.

Amid Life’s Trials

We are living during an age where the structure of our society is not conducive to the cultivation of piety and purity. Never, since the fall of humanity, has it been so difficult to perfect our characters. Everybody suffers, no matter who they may be. I have met many people during my life, and I do not know of anyone who claims that he or she does not have a cross to bear. The surrounding circumstances of our lives and the environment of our society make our cross-bearing much more difficult now than it has been in previous generations, without even mentioning the reason of the law of heredity. We are, by far, the weakest generation of them all, so we need even more help and more guidance from the Lord.

After a traveler crossed the Sahara Desert on foot, he was interviewed by many reporters. In one interview, someone asked him, “What was the most difficult thing to overcome in the journey? Was it heat? Or perhaps sandstorms?” But, surprisingly, he answered that it was rather the sand that got into his shoes that made the journey through the desert so difficult. That is right; the sand in his shoes!

It is not big trials or problems that usually discourage and dishearten us. On the contrary, it is rather small temptations and minor disappointments and trials that cause us to fall and to faint within our hearts. So, we need to focus on the Lord, who is in the heavenly sanctuary. He never forgets us. He devotes all His time to doing everything to save our souls. He is our High Priest.

Of what importance is the position of high priest? A high priest is someone who is appointed from among us, someone who knows our problems and trials by experience, and who is, therefore, able to help us in our time of need.

Jesus Christ is our Mediator. The work of the Mediator is not only to forgive our sins but also to teach and to strengthen us; in other words, to provide the saving grace to overcome. And not only that, but He comforts us in our trials and strengthens us to bear them. So, we really need to focus on Jesus in the most holy place in the heavenly sanctuary. His ministry has been more intensified since He entered into the most holy place. He is preparing His final church to face the time of trouble that will soon break upon us. His business is to save us from the dangers we are facing daily. He is not just reading though record books in formal sessions up there in heaven like an attorney who is not interested in the real person he is defending or for whom he is fighting.

Jesus really cares about you and me. He would rather die than lose us to the hands of our enemy, so we need to follow Him by faith into the most holy place and know and experience for ourselves the work that He is doing for us there on a daily basis. He is our only hope and our anchor. We need to know Him, and that is eternal life. “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” John 17:3. We need to know Him by experience as He daily delivers us in all our trials and sufferings. He is to be our Saviour in every sense of the word as we journey toward our heavenly home.

“Thither the faith of Christ’s disciples followed him as he ascended from their sight. Here their hopes centered, ‘which hope we have,’ said Paul, ‘as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made a high priest forever.’ [Hebrews 6:19, 20.]” The Great Controversy, 421.

“Said Jesus: ‘The Father Himself loveth you.’ [John 16:27.] If our faith is fixed upon God, through Christ, it will prove ‘as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; whither the Forerunner is for us entered.’ [Hebrews 6:19.] It is true that disappointments will come; tribulation we must expect; but we are to commit everything, great and small, to God. He does not become perplexed by the multiplicity of our grievances nor overpowered by the weight of our burdens. His watch care extends to every household and encircles every individual; He is concerned in all our business and our sorrows. He marks every tear; He is touched with the feeling of our infirmities. All the afflictions and trials that befall us here are permitted, to work out His purposes of love toward us, ‘that we might be partakers of His holiness’ [Hebrews 12:10] and thus become participants in that fullness of joy which is found in His presence.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 742.

The Faith We Need

I was deeply touched by the total trust in and commitment to the Lord that a fellow believer recently expressed in testimony. She said that her husband is in jail for a fraud charge; her 17-year-old son has committed suicide, and she is now in the final stage of stomach cancer. Yet, she told the people congregated that she is still thankful to God, “Because,” she said, “I know and trust the fact that the Lord did His best to save my family, and I will find out more of what God has done for my family when I go to heaven. Surely I will praise Him the more then!” What a testimony! That is the kind of faith we should have before we go through the time of trouble.

When Jesus was on the cross, He could not see beyond the portals of the tomb, nor could He see a ray of hope coming down from the throne of His Father, and yet He died a victor as He remembered and trusted in His Father’s promise. That is what we call the faith of Jesus. The remnant of the woman must have this same faith of Jesus. The descriptions of the experience of the 144,000 at the time of Jacob’s trouble are similar to the experience that Jesus Christ had from Gethsemane to Calvary.

We need to learn how to anchor our souls in the Lord in our daily trials now, so that we will learn to place everything on the altar and trust Him even when all our hopes have vanished into total darkness. We shall then have the faith of Jesus and will have absolute peace in our hearts, for we have learned to lay our helpless souls on God, fully surrendering to His will.

“The season of distress and anguish before us will require a faith that can endure weariness, delay, and hunger—a faith that will not faint though severely tried. The period of probation is granted to all to prepare for that time. Jacob prevailed because he was persevering and determined. His victory is an evidence of the power of importunate prayer. All who will lay hold of God’s promises, as he did, and be as earnest and persevering as he was, will succeed as he succeeded. Those who are unwilling to deny self, to agonize before God, to pray long and earnestly for His blessing, will not obtain it. Wrestling with God—how few know what it is! How few have ever had their souls drawn out after God with intensity of desire until every power is on the stretch. When waves of despair which no language can express sweep over the suppliant, how few cling with unyielding faith to the promises of God.

“Those who exercise but little faith now, are in the greatest danger of falling under the power of satanic delusions and the decree to compel the conscience. And even if they endure the test they will be plunged into deeper distress and anguish in the time of trouble, because they have never made it a habit to trust in God. The lessons of faith which they have neglected they will be forced to learn under a terrible pressure of discouragement. We should now acquaint ourselves with God by proving His promises.” The Great Controversy, 621.

We read, in Roman 8:28, 29, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate [to be] conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.”

The Anchor Holds

“The heart surrendered to God’s wise discipline will trust every working out of His providence. . . . Temptation will come to discourage, but what is gained by yielding to any such temptations? Is the soul made any better by murmuring and complaining of its only source of strength? Is the anchor cast within the vail? Will it hold in sickness? Will it be the testimony borne in the last closing scenes of life when the lips are becoming palsied with death? The anchor holds! I know that my Redeemer liveth.” The Upward Look, 377.

Let us contemplate the words of the Psalmist. If we can truly respond yes to these words from our innermost hearts, then we can be certain that our anchor is cast on Jesus our Lord!

“Truly God [is] good to Israel, [even] to such as are of a clean heart. But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well nigh slipped. For I was envious at the foolish, [when] I saw the prosperity of the wicked. For [there are] no bands in their death: but their strength [is] firm. They [are] not in trouble [as other] men; neither are they plagued like [other] men. Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them [as] a garment. Their eyes stand out with fatness: they have more than heart could wish. They are corrupt, and speak wickedly [concerning] oppression: they speak loftily. They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth. Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full [cup] are wrung out to them. And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High? Behold, these [are] the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase [in] riches. Verily I have cleansed my heart [in] vain, and washed my hands in innocency. For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning. If I say, I will speak thus; behold, I should offend [against] the generation of thy children. When I thought to know this, it [was] too painful for me; Until I went into the sanctuary of God; [then] understood I their end. Surely thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction. How are they [brought] into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors. As a dream when [one] awaketh; [so], O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image. Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins. So foolish [was] I, and ignorant: I was [as] a beast before thee. Nevertheless I [am] continually with thee: thou hast holden [me] by my right hand. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me [to] glory. Whom have I in heaven [but thee]? and [there is] none upon earth [that] I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: [but] God [is] the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.” Psalm 73:1–26.

[All emphasis added.]

Bible Study Guides – Means of Communication

by

September 30, 2007 – October 6, 2007

Key Text

“Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.” Amos 3:7.

Study Help: The Great Controversy, “Introduction,” v-vii.

Introduction

“Before the entrance of sin, Adam enjoyed open communion with his Maker; but since man separated himself from God by transgression, the human race has been cut off from this high privilege. By the plan of redemption, however, a way has been opened whereby the inhabitants of the earth may still have connection with heaven. God has communicated with men by His Spirit, and divine light has been imparted to the world by revelations to His chosen servants. ‘Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.’ 11 Peter 1:21.” The Great Controversy, “Introduction,” v.

1 How did God communicate with man before the Fall? Genesis 1:27, 28; 2:15-17.

note: “Adam and Eve, in their untainted purity, delighted in the sights and sounds of Eden. God appointed them their work in the garden, ‘to dress it and to keep it.’ Genesis 2:15. Each day’s labor brought them health and gladness, and the happy pair greeted with joy the visits of their Creator, as in the cool of the day He walked and talked with them. Daily God taught them His lessons.” The Ministry of Healing, 261.

“Adam and Eve were given the garden of Eden to care for. They were ‘to dress it and to keep it.’ [Genesis 2:15.] They were happy in their work. Mind, heart, and will acted in perfect harmony. In their labor they found no weariness, no toil. Their hours were filled with useful work and communion with each other. Their occupation was pleasant. God and Christ visited them and talked with them.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 10, 327.

2 Since the Fall, how has God communicated with man? Hebrews 1:1. Compare Isaiah 59:2.

note: “Of special value to God’s church on earth today the keepers of His vineyard are the messages of counsel and admonition given through the prophets who have made plain His eternal purpose in behalf of mankind. In the teachings of the prophets, His love for the lost race and His plan for their salvation are clearly revealed. The story of Israel’s call, of their successes and failures, of their restoration to divine favor, of their rejection of the Master of the vineyard, and of the carrying out of the plan of the ages by a goodly remnant to whom are to be fulfilled all the covenant promises this has been the theme of God’s messengers to His church throughout the centuries that have passed. And today God’s message to His church to those who are occupying His vineyard as faithful husbandmen is none other than that spoken through the prophet of old:

‘Sing ye unto her, A vineyard of red wine. I the Lord do keep it; I will water it every moment: lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day.’ Isaiah 27:2, 3.” Prophets and Kings, 22.

3 By what other means does God communicate with man? Psalm 19:1-4; Romans 1:20.

note: “How wonderfully, with what marvelous beauty, has everything in nature been fashioned. Everywhere we see the perfect works of the great Master Artist. The heavens declare His glory; and the earth, which is formed for the happiness of man, speaks to us of His matchless love. Its surface is not a monotonous plain, but grand old mountains rise to diversify the landscape. There are sparkling streams and fertile valleys, beautiful lakes, broad rivers, and the boundless ocean. God sends the dew and the rain to refresh the thirsty earth. The breezes, that promote health by purifying and cooling the atmosphere, are controlled by His wisdom. He has placed the sun in the heavens to mark the periods of day and night, and by its genial beams give light and warmth to the earth, causing vegetation to flourish.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 312.

“Let no one teach things that the Redeemer, He who owns man, body, soul, and spirit, has not taught. We need not any fanciful teaching regarding the personality of God. What God desires us to know of Him is revealed in His word and His works. The beautiful things of nature reveal His character and His power as Creator. They are His gift to the race, to show His power and to show that He is a God of love. But no one is authorized to say that God Himself in person is in flower or leaf or tree. These things are God’s handiwork, revealing His love for mankind.” Medical Ministry, 94.

4 Through whom did God warn Lot? Genesis 19:1-3, 12, 13. Compare Hebrews 1:14.

note: “In all ages, God has wrought through holy angels for the succor and deliverance of His people. Celestial beings have taken an active part in the affairs of men. They have appeared clothed in garments that shone as the lightning; they have come as men in the garb of wayfarers. Angels have appeared in human form to men of God. They have rested, as if weary, under the oaks at noon. They have accepted the hospitalities of human homes. They have acted as guides to benighted travelers. They have, with their own hands, kindled the fires at the altar. They have opened prison doors and set free the servants of the Lord. Clothed with the panoply of heaven, they came to roll away the stone from the Saviour’s tomb.” The Great Controversy, 631.

“God knows how Satan is working, and sends his angels to watch over his children, to protect them from the Devil’s power. And the battle is constantly going on between the angels of God, and the Devil’s angels. The angels of God are clothed with a complete armor, the panoply of heaven, and, although surrounded with deadly foes, fear nothing, for they are doing the will of their loved Commander. They enter the darkest places to rescue the children of God from the snares of Satan, and their presence causes the evil angels to fall back. And as the evil angels are defeated, they utter terrible imprecations against the injustice of God, and against his angels.” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 2, 277.

5 What means did God use to warn Pharaoh of coming famine? Genesis 41:1-7.

note: “The king of Egypt had in one night two dreams, apparently pointing to the same event and seeming to foreshadow some great calamity. He could not determine their significance, yet they continued to trouble his mind. The magicians and wise men of his realm could give no interpretation. The king’s perplexity and distress increased, and terror spread throughout his palace.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 219.

6 What other means did God provide through which He might reveal His will to ancient Israel? Exodus 28:29, 30; Leviticus 8:8. Compare 1 Samuel 30:7, 8.

note: “The garments of the high priest were of costly material and beautiful workmanship, befitting his exalted station. . . .

“At the right and left of the breastplate were two large stones of great brilliancy. These were known as the Urim and Thummim. By them the will of God was made known through the high priest. When questions were brought for decision before the Lord, a halo of light encircling the precious stone at the right was a token of the divine consent or approval, while a cloud shadowing the stone at the left was an evidence of denial or disapprobation.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 350, 351.

7 What did Jesus say concerning Himself? John 12:46. Compare John 1:1-5, 9, 14, 18.

note: “We can trace the line of the world’s great teachers as far back as human records extend; but the Light was before them. As the moon and the stars of the solar system shine by the reflected light of the sun, so, as far as their teaching is true, do the world’s great thinkers reflect the rays of the Sun of Righteousness. Every gem of thought, every flash of the intellect, is from the Light of the World.” Gospel Workers (1915), 50.

“The question has been asked me [Ellen White], ‘Do you think that the Lord has any more light for us as a people?’ I answer that He has light that is new to us, and yet it is precious old light that is to shine forth from the Word of truth. We have only the glimmerings of the rays of the light that is yet to come to us. We are not making the most of the light which the Lord has already given us, and thus we fail to receive the increased light; we do not walk in light already shed upon us.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 401, 402.

8 Besides dreams and Urim, what other method of communication from God was available to ancient Israel? 1 Samuel 28:6.

note: “When the high priest entered within the most holy once a year, and ministered before the ark in the awful presence of God, he inquired, and God often answered him with an audible voice. When the Lord did not answer by a voice, he let the sacred beams of light and glory rest upon the cherubim upon the right of the ark, in approbation or favor. If their requests were refused, a cloud rested upon the cherubim at the left.” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4A, 102.

9 By what means did God commonly impart His messages to prophets? Numbers 12:6. What is the message of the prophet frequently called? Hosea 1:1; Joel 1:1; Micah 1:1.

note: “The word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, 94.

“Isaiah, seeing in prophetic vision the apostasy of the Jews, addressed them as rulers of Sodom and Gomorrah: [1 Samuel 15:22; Isaiah 1:10-12, 16, 17 quoted].” The Desire of Ages, 590.

“The word of the Lord came to Elijah; he did not seek to be the Lord’s messenger, but the word came to him. God always has men to whom He entrusts His message. His Spirit moves upon their hearts and constrains them to speak. Stimulated by holy zeal, and with the divine impulse strong upon them, they enter upon the performance of their duty without coldly calculating the consequences of speaking to the people the word which the Lord has given them.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 299.

10 What does the Old Testament say of prophetic guidance in the last days? Joel 2:28-32. Compare Acts 2:16-21.

note: “In immediate connection with the scenes of the great day of God, the Lord by the prophet Joel has promised a special manifestation of His Spirit. Joel 2:28. This prophecy received a partial fulfillment in the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost; but it will reach its full accomplishment in the manifestation of divine grace which will attend the closing work of the gospel.” The Great Controversy, “Introduction,” ix.

11 What is one important characteristic of the remnant people of God? Revelation 12:17; 19:10.

note: “Those who love and keep the commandments of God are most obnoxious to the synagogue of Satan, and the powers of evil will manifest their hatred toward them to the fullest extent possible. John foresaw the conflict between the remnant church and the power of evil, and said, ‘The dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.’ [Revelation 12:17.]” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 974.

“Little heed is given to the Bible, and the Lord has given a lesser light to lead men and women to the greater light.” Colporteur Evangelist, 37.

12 How did Paul refer to those who were waiting for the day of the Lord? 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6; 1 Corinthians 1:4-7.

note: “The time of the end is come, the visions of the prophets are unsealed, and their solemn warnings point us to our Lord’s coming in glory as near at hand.

“The Jews misinterpreted and misapplied the word of God, and they knew not the time of their visitation. The years of the ministry of Christ and His apostles, the precious last years of grace to the chosen people, they spent in plotting the destruction of the Lord’s messengers. Earthly ambitions absorbed them, and the offer of the spiritual kingdom came to them in vain. So today the kingdom of this world absorbs men’s thoughts, and they take no note of the rapidly fulfilling prophecies and the tokens of the swift-coming kingdom of God.” The Desire of Ages, 235.

“It is ‘unto them that look for Him’ that Christ is to ‘appear the second time without sin unto salvation.’ Hebrews 9:28. Like the tidings of the Saviour’s birth, the message of the second advent was not committed to the religious leaders of the people. They had failed to preserve their connection with God, and had refused light from heaven; therefore they were not of the number described by the apostle Paul: ‘But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.’ 1 Thessalonians 5:4, 5.” The Great Controversy, 315.

Prisoners of Hope—Under the Fig Tree

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Everyone who has read the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church recognizes the marvelous way in which God has led it. It has a heritage from which we may well learn and for which we should be thankful. We should each resolve to stand firmly upon the principles that the Lord has established.

Yet we see that almost from the start there was controversy. We have been told that our history may well parallel the sad debacle of the children of Israel on their way to the Promised Land. Many of the church’s marvelous pioneers were certainly led by God in sacrifice and oftentimes in the most outstanding ways.

Two Classes

The Spirit of Prophecy was given during the early history of Advent believers. There were those during the lifetime of Ellen G. White who believed she was God’s messenger. There were those who did not believe her messages came from God. There are still two classes in the church today.

If and when there are two classes in the church, differences of opinion or perhaps even controversy may well be fostered and promulgated. There are those who say that we do not really have any crisis or difficulties in the church, that the Lord is leading it, and all is well. I would like to quote a paragraph from a sermon by Robert H. Pierson, former General Conference President, as presented at the Annual Council, October 16, 1978, and reported in the Adventist Review, October 26, 1978. It reads as follows:

“Already, brethren and sisters, there are subtle forces that are beginning to stir. Regrettably there are those in the church who belittle the inspiration of the total Bible, who scorn the first 11 chapters of Genesis, who question the Spirit of Prophecy’s short chronology of the age of the earth, and who subtly and not so subtly attack the Spirit of Prophecy. There are some who point to the reformers and contemporary theologians as a source and the norm for Seventh-day Adventist doctrine. There are those who allegedly are tired of the hackneyed phrases of Adventism. There are those who wish to forget the standards of the church we love. There are those who covet and would court the favor of the evangelicals; those who would throw off the mantle of a peculiar people; and those who would go the way of the secular, materialistic world.

“Fellow leaders, beloved brethren and sisters don’t let it happen! I appeal to you as earnestly as I know how this morning¾don’t let it happen! . . . This is God’s last church with God’s last message.” “An Earnest Appeal From the Retiring President of the General Conference,” Adventist Review, October 26, 1978, Review and Herald Publishing Association, Takoma Park, Washington, D.C., 10.

Do you suppose it might be possible that God’s last church might not be willing to give to the world God’s last message in the way God wants it to be given?

Life and Death Issues

Could anyone read in Revelation 3:14-22 where we are told that we are “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” and still insist that all is well?

We know from research by a number of men that controversy arose in 1888 over a message God gave the church. This message had to do with righteousness by faith. We are told that some part of this message was rejected at that time. This produced controversy and a delay in God’s plan for His people on their way to the Promised Land. My understanding is that the righteousness having to do with justification and forgiveness was not rejected, but the righteousness which had to do with the preparation of God’s people to be fit for heaven was rejected. This appears to be again what is being rejected today by many. This had to do specifically with sanctification. So controversy raises its head, and we have differences of opinion which may well be basic to one’s salvation.

Dr. Geoffrey J. Paxton, in his book, The Shaking of Adventism (Zenith Publishers, Wilmington, Delaware, January 1977) states that we are in a life and death struggle as to the nature of the gospel. Dr. Paxton has written a book of 156 pages on the problems in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, dealing with the shaking and the controversy in connection with righteousness by faith.

What To Do

The question that comes to mind is, How does the Lord want us to deal with differences of opinion or controversy? “If pride and selfishness were laid aside, five minutes would remove most difficulties.” Early Writings, 119.

God has given men and women minds with which to study and to choose. All of average intelligence may know the truth on any matter of religious consequence if they are willing to depend wholly upon God and the Holy Spirit and search as for hidden treasure.

Truth, however, is not dependent upon knowing every word of the Greek language; neither is it dependent upon the knowledge or science of the world. It is not dependent upon higher education or a doctor’s degree. To find truth, we are wholly dependent upon the Holy Spirit. “Without the Spirit of God a knowledge of His word is of no avail.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 408. “In comparison with the knowledge of God, all human knowledge is as chaff. And the way of salvation can be made known only by God.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7A, 469. So, as you can see, we are completely dependent upon God to recognize and know the truth. “Strife and contention cannot arise among those who are controlled by His Spirit.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 227.

Does this mean, then, that when we see the truth stamped into the dust that we are to do nothing? No! We are to meet the issue and stand for God.

“It is difficult to discern between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.” Ibid., vol. 8, 247.

“Those who have not been in the habit of searching the Bible for themselves, of weighing evidence, have confidence in the leading men and accept the decisions they make; and thus many will reject the very messages God sends to His people, if these leading brethren do not accept them.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 106, 107.

God’s Guidance

Where matters of principle or truth are involved, the majority is seldom right. When the pioneers of this movement were in question regarding any spiritual matter, they got together as a group and studied. At times they were unable to understand the question under study, even though they studied night and day. Ellen White met with them, but was not able to enter into or understand the matters at hand.

When the pioneers had reached an impasse and could go no further, Ellen White was taken off in vision, and the Lord showed her the truth of the matter under study. The men accepted these revelations as from the Lord. “Many of our people do not realize how firmly the foundation of our faith has been laid.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 206.

As the pioneers would study and could not understand a matter, the following was written by Ellen White: “During this whole time I could not understand the reasoning of the brethren. My mind was locked, as it were, and I could not comprehend the meaning of the scriptures we were studying. This was one of the greatest sorrows of my life. I was in this condition of mind until all the principal points of our faith were made clear to our minds, in harmony with the Word of God. The brethren knew that when not in vision, I could not understand these matters, and they accepted as light direct from heaven the revelations given.” Ibid., 207. The fundamental beliefs of Seventh-day Adventists were therefore established by the Lord, and are not to be tampered with.

It must be evident that the Lord was responsible for the points of our faith which were not readily
understood. He spoke to the pioneers after long, futile hours of unresolved study through the Spirit of Prophecy, and gave them truth and understanding, which, you will note, was in harmony with the Word of God.

Why Differences

We have all these truths today as God gave them to the early leaders. We have the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy. One therefore wonders how and why there could be differences of opinion or possible controversy. In any event, perhaps we should get together and study, as did the pioneers¾or better yet, ask the Lord how He would have us settle differences of opinion.

The following two quotations for your consideration are given, not to point the finger at anyone, but to show what conditions are, or may well be, and what the Lord says to do.

“Satan has laid his plans to undermine our faith in the history of the cause and work of God. I am deeply in earnest as I write this. Satan is working with men in prominent positions to sweep away the foundations of our faith. Shall we allow this to be done, brethren?” Review and Herald, November 19, 1903.

“My [Ellen White] message to you is: No longer consent to listen without protest to the perversion of truth. Unmask the pretentious sophistries. . . . Everyone is now to stand on his guard. God calls upon men and women to take their stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. I have been instructed to warn our people.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 196. [Emphasis added.] This was written some time ago, but I believe we can see applications of this today.

As previously stated, it is quite a mystery that there could be real controversy in our ranks with all the information and instruction we have at hand. But perhaps the great diversity between all may bring good in the end if we study as for hidden treasure and approach all subjects with an open mind directed by the Holy Spirit.

“There is to be no change in the general features of our work. It is to stand as clear and distinct as prophecy has made it. We are to enter into no confederacy with the world, supposing that by so doing we could accomplish more. . . . No line of truth that has made the Seventh-day Adventist people what they are is to be weakened. We have the old landmarks of truth, experience, and duty, and we are to stand firmly in defense of our principles, in full view of the world.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 17. [Emphasis added.]

“We are in danger of variance, in danger of taking sides on a controverted point; and should we not seek God in earnestness, with humiliation of soul, that we may know what is truth?

Fig Tree Experience

“Nathanael heard John as he pointed to the Saviour and said, ‘Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world’ (John 1:29)! Nathanael looked at Jesus, but he was disappointed in the appearance of the world’s Redeemer. Could He who bore the marks of toil and poverty be the Messiah? Jesus was a worker; He had toiled with humble workingmen, and Nathanael went away. But he did not form his opinion decidedly as to what the character of Jesus was. He knelt down under a fig tree, inquiring of God if indeed this man was the Messiah.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 414.

While Nathanael was under the fig tree, Phillip came along and stated to him that they had found the Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth. Phillip did not seek a controversy. He simply said, “Come and see.” When Jesus saw Nathanael, He said, “Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!” John 1:47. To have no guile might well be a good beginning to the solution of a controversy. But even more important would be to kneel under the fig tree and to plead with God as to what is truth, before and after a thorough study of the question at hand.

You will remember that Jesus told Nathanael that before Phillip came to him, He saw him under the fig tree. He sees us also as we kneel under the fig tree to get a solution to controversy; and He will answer us if we are, as was Nathanael, “without guile.” Nathanael was honest. He had an open mind, and before he left Jesus, the controversy was settled in a true fashion in his own mind, because he exclaimed, “Rabbi, Thou art the Son of God; Thou art the King of Israel.” John 1:49. In arriving at any spiritual truth, we need Jesus as the King of our hearts.

“God wants us to depend upon Him, and not upon man. He desires us to have a new heart; He would give us revealings of light from the throne of God. We should wrestle with every difficulty, but when some controverted point is presented, are you to go to man to find out his opinion, and then shape your conclusions from his?¾No, go to God. Tell Him what you want; take your Bible and search as for hidden treasures.” Ibid., 415.

“In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I beseech the people of God to depend upon the Lord for strength. Beware how you place men where God should be. We are not safe in taking men as our authority or our guide, for they will surely disappoint us.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 386.

“Would it not be well for us to go under the fig tree to plead with God as to what is truth?” Selected Messages, Book 1, 415.

Nathanael did not make up his mind until he had consulted God. When we do this first and not consult man; searching as for hidden treasure, believing, and having surrendered all completely to Christ, a new heart is given, a new creature is born; and man becomes a partaker of the divine nature. Then it is that Jesus will reveal truth and settle, for that individual, any controversy in truth in His own way.

Many years ago I had studied the question of the sanctuary and righteousness by faith for long hours in the early morning over months of time. I have recently heard different speakers state certain things which might be in question or might not be the whole truth, as I remember from my previous study. Therefore I decided that reconsideration and reassessment on my part was in order. I reviewed what I had studied and made a list of related topics which I thought worthwhile to consider; listed quotations from the Spirit of Prophecy and the Bible; and asked the Lord to give me truth. I attempted to get under the fig tree.

Our God is a great God. He is a God of love. Our God is alive. He wants each of us to have eternal life and to live and develop with Him through eternity. We each need to know the truth as it is in Jesus. He has given us all things we need. We need to practice the straight truth in our everyday lives. Since we live in an unusual time, in the last end of time, God expects more of us than of any other generation or people. He expects us to reflect a high standard¾perfection, the image of Jesus.

“The Jews perished as a nation because they were drawn from the truth of the Bible by their rulers, priests, and elders. Had they heeded the lessons of Jesus, and searched the Scriptures for themselves, they would not have perished.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 109. As we search and study, “Would it not be well for us to go under the fig tree to plead with God as to what is truth?”

Surely, we are all “Prisoners of Hope”!

Raymond L. Knoll, M.D. was born May 11, 1907. Becoming a Seventh-day Adventist in 1923, he has a love and devotion to the Holy Bible and to the writings of Ellen G. White. Graduating from a community college in Alberta, Canada in 1928 where he majored in mathematics and science, he continued his education at Union College in Lincoln, Nebraska, graduating with a B.A. in mathematics and a minor in science. After teaching several years in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, he entered the College of Medical Evangelists Medical School in Loma Linda, California, graduating with his M.D. in 1944. A freelance writer, he wrote and published the book, How to Live To Be 101 and Be Able To Enjoy It! This article is reprinted with permission from his latest book, Prisoners of Hope.

Bible Study Guides – Primacy of the Bible

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November 17, 2007 – November 23, 2007

Key Text

“All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” 11 Timothy 3:16, 17.

Study Help: Selected Messages, Book 1, 15-23; The Great Controversy, 593-602.

Introduction

“In His word, God has committed to men the knowledge necessary for salvation. The Holy Scriptures are to be accepted as an authoritative, infallible revelation of His will. They are the standard of character, the revealer of doctrines, and the test of experience.” The Great Controversy, vii.

“I [Ellen White] take the Bible just as it is, as the Inspired Word. I believe its utterances in an entire Bible. . . .

“Brethren, cling to your Bible, as it reads, and stop your criticisms in regard to its validity, and obey the Word, and not one of you will be lost.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 17, 18.

1 What claim did Paul make concerning the Holy Scriptures? 11 Timothy 3:15-17.

note: “Let all seek to comprehend, to the full extent of their powers, the meaning of the word of God. A mere superficial reading of the inspired word will be of little advantage; for every statement made in the sacred pages requires thoughtful contemplation. It is true that some passages do not require as earnest concentration as do others; for their meaning is more evident. But the student of the word of God should seek to understand the bearing of one passage upon another until the chain of truth is revealed to his vision. As veins of precious ore are hidden beneath the surface of the earth, so spiritual riches are concealed in the passage of Holy Writ, and it requires mental effort and prayerful attention to discover the hidden meaning of the word of God. Let every student who values the heavenly treasure put to the stretch his mental and spiritual powers, and sink the shaft deep into the mine of truth, that he may obtain the celestial gold,¾ that wisdom which will make him wise unto salvation.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 169, 170.

2 How did Peter describe the workings of divine inspiration? 11 Peter 1:21.

note: “The Bible points to God as its author; yet it was written by human hands; and in the varied style of its different books it presents the characteristics of the several writers. The truths revealed are all ‘given by inspiration of God’ (11 Timothy 3:16); yet they are expressed in the words of men. The Infinite One by His Holy Spirit has shed light into the minds and hearts of His servants. He has given dreams and visions, symbols and figures; and those to whom the truth was thus revealed have themselves embodied the thought in human language.” The Great Controversy, v.

3 Did God communicate to the prophet, in each case, the very words of His message? Ezekiel 40:4; 11:24, 25. Compare Revelation 1:10, 11.

note: “God has been pleased to communicate His truth to the world by human agencies, and He Himself, by His Holy Spirit, qualified men and enabled them to do this work. He guided the mind in the selection of what to speak and what to write. The treasure was entrusted to earthen vessels, yet it is, nonetheless, from Heaven. The testimony is conveyed through the imperfect expression of human language, yet it is the testimony of God; and the obedient, believing child of God beholds in it the glory of a divine power, full of grace and truth.” The Great Controversy, vi, vii.

4 What term is sometimes applied to the prophets of God? Luke 1:70; 11 Peter 3:2.

note: “We are to take our position in the school of Christ as humble learners. He speaks as one having authority, and he affirms that all that is written in the law and the prophets is the word of the living God. It is the inspiration of One infallible, the divine communication to holy men of old, who spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” Review and Herald, October 3, 1899.

The life record of Ellen G. White, while not free from frailties, was distinguished for its Christlike consistency and integrity.

5 Of whom do the Scriptures testify? John 5:39.

note: “Holy prophets have foretold the manner of Christ’s birth, the events of his life, his mission, and his death and resurrection. In the Old Testament we find the gospel of a coming Saviour. In the New Testament we have the gospel of a Saviour revealed as prophecy had foretold. . . .

“There is no discord between the teachings of Christ in the Old Testament and his teachings in the New. While the Old Testament is constantly pointing forward to the true Offering, the New Testament shows that the Saviour foretold by prophecy, and prefigured by the typical offerings, has come. The dim glory of the Jewish age has been succeeded by the brighter, clearer glory of the Christian age.” Review and Herald, September 14, 1886.

“You should search the Bible; for it tells you of Jesus. As you read the Bible, you will see the matchless charms of Jesus. You will fall in love with the Man of Calvary.” Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, 293.

6 In His earthly life, to what authority did Christ appeal? Luke 4:4, 8, 10; Matthew 26:31. Compare Deuteronomy 8:3; Zechariah 13:7.

note: “Jesus met Satan with the words of Scripture. ‘It is written,’ He said. In every temptation the weapon of His warfare was the word of God. Satan demanded of Christ a miracle as a sign of His divinity. But that which is greater than all miracles, a firm reliance upon a ‘Thus saith the Lord,’ was a sign that could not be controverted. So long as Christ held to this position, the tempter could gain no advantage.” The Desire of Ages, 120.

“We are to receive God’s word as supreme authority. We must accept its truths for ourselves. And we can appreciate these truths only as we search them out by personal study.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 402.

7 What is said of the enduring nature of God’s Word? Isaiah 40:8; Matthew 24:35; Psalm 119:89.

note: “This Holy Book has withstood the assaults of Satan, who has united with evil men to make everything of divine character shrouded in clouds and darkness. But the Lord has preserved this Holy Book by His own miraculous power in its present shape—a chart or guidebook to the human family to show them the way to heaven.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 15.

“God will not break His covenant, nor alter the thing that has gone out of His lips. His word will stand fast forever as unalterable as His throne. At the judgment this covenant will be brought forth, plainly written with the finger of God, and the world will be arraigned before the bar of Infinite Justice to receive sentence.” Prophets and Kings, 187.

8 What unique power is found in the Word of God? 1 Peter 1:23-25; 2:2; John 17:17.

note: “The truths of the Bible, received, will uplift the mind from its earthliness and debasement. If the word of God were appreciated as it should be, both young and old would possess an inward rectitude, a strength of principle, that would enable them to resist temptation.” Testimonies, vol. 8, 319.

“Let the student take the Bible as his guide and stand like a rock for principle, and he may aspire to any height of attainment. All the philosophies of human nature have led to confusion and shame when God has not been recognized as all in all. But the precious faith inspired of God imparts strength and nobility of character. As His goodness, His mercy, and His love are dwelt upon, clearer and still clearer will be the perception of truth; higher, holier, the desire for purity of heart and clearness of thought. The soul dwelling in the pure atmosphere of holy thought is transformed by intercourse with God through the study of His word. Truth is so large, so far-reaching, so deep, so broad, that self is lost sight of. The heart is softened and subdued into humility, kindness, and love.” Ibid., 322.

9 What noble example in Bible study was set by the Bereans? Acts 17:11. Compare Psalm 119:33, 36, 38, 40.

note: “We should exert all the powers of the mind in the study of the Scriptures and should task the understanding to comprehend, as far as mortals can, the deep things of God; yet we must not forget that the docility and submission of a child is the true spirit of the learner. Scriptural difficulties can never be mastered by the same methods that are employed in grappling with philosophical problems. We should not engage in the study of the Bible with that self-reliance with which so many enter the domains of science, but with a prayerful dependence upon God and a sincere desire to learn His will. We must come with a humble and teachable spirit to obtain knowledge from the great I AM. Otherwise, evil angels will so blind our minds and harden our hearts that we shall not be impressed by the truth.” The Great Controversy, 599.

“Never should the Bible be studied without prayer. Before opening its pages we should ask for the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, and it will be given.” Steps to Christ, 91.

10 What important principle stated with respect to Revelation can be applied to the whole Bible? Revelation 22:18, 19.

note: “When men, compassed with human infirmities, affected in a greater or less degree by surrounding influences, and having hereditary and cultivated tendencies which are far from making them wise or heavenly-minded, undertake to arraign the word of God, and to pass judgment upon what is divine and what is human, they are working without the counsel of God. The Lord will not prosper such a work. The effect will be disastrous, both upon the one engaged in it and upon those who accept it as a work from God. Skepticism has been aroused in many minds by the theories presented as to the nature of inspiration. Finite beings, with their narrow, short-sighted views, feel themselves competent to criticize the Scriptures, saying: ‘This passage is needful, and that passage is not needful, and is not inspired.’ ” Testimonies, vol. 5, 709.

“The language of the Bible should be explained according to its obvious meaning, unless a symbol or figure is employed. Christ has given the promise: ‘If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine.’ John 7:17. If men would but take the Bible as it reads, if there were no false teachers to mislead and confuse their minds, a work would be accomplished that would make angels glad and that would bring into the fold of Christ thousands upon thousands who are now wandering in error.” The Great Controversy, 599.

11 Why cannot the “natural man” understand the Scriptures? 1 Corinthians 2:10-14.

note: “We need the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit in order to discern the truths in God’s word. The lovely things of the natural world are not seen until the sun, dispelling the darkness, floods them with its light. So the treasures in the word of God are not appreciated until they are revealed by the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness.

“The Holy Spirit, sent from heaven by the benevolence of infinite love, takes the things of God and reveals them to every soul that has an implicit faith in Christ. By His power the vital truths upon which the salvation of the soul depends are impressed upon the mind, and the way of life is made so plain that none need err therein. As we study the Scriptures, we should pray for the light of God’s Holy Spirit to shine upon the word, that we may see and appreciate its treasures.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 113.

12 What will be the experience of all who live by the truths of the Bible? Psalm 119:99, 103, 104.

note: “When the testing time shall come, those who have made God’s word their rule of life will be revealed. In summer there is no noticeable difference between evergreens and other trees; but when the blasts of winter come, the evergreens remain unchanged, while other trees are stripped of their foliage. So the falsehearted professor may not now be distinguished from the real Christian, but the time is just upon us when the difference will be apparent. Let opposition arise, let bigotry and intolerance again bear sway, let persecution be kindled, and the halfhearted and hypocritical will waver and yield the faith; but the true Christian will stand firm as a rock, his faith stronger, his hope brighter, than in days of prosperity.” The Great Controversy, 602.

Children’s Story – She Dared to Save the Bibles

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Linh Dao was only ten years old, but she already knew that following Jesus could be dangerous. That was because she lived in Vietnam, where the Communist leaders did not allow Christians to share their faith with others. Nor did they allow people to read the Bible together.

But Linh’s family had a lot of Bibles hidden in their home. Her father was the pastor of an “underground church” that had to meet in secret. He knew that they might all be caught and killed whenever they met together. But that did not stop these brave Christians, for they loved God even more than their own lives. So they continued to read their Bibles and worship God together.

But the police found out about the Bibles. One scary day, four officers burst into Linh’s home. They forced her father to sit and watch while they searched everywhere for Bibles.

Linh loved God’s Word. She just could not let the officers take all the Bibles away. So, while the police searched her home and questioned her parents, the brave girl hid Bibles in her school backpack. One of the officers noticed the little girl. “What is in there?” he asked, looking at her backpack.

She hesitated for a moment. She did not want to lie, but if she told him about the Bibles, he would take them all. What should she do? God gave her an answer. “There are books for children,” she replied.

The policeman turned away. But the four officers had found the rest of the Bibles, and they arrested her father. He was sentenced to hard labor and “re-education.” The government did not want him to think like a Christian or to share his faith with others. They wanted him to be just like them. He had to be “brainwashed.” They would try all kinds of cruel tricks to force him to turn from God and trust the government instead.

When Linh’s neighbors heard about her father’s arrest, they believed he was a criminal, but Linh was proud of her dad. “He is a Christian,” she told everyone. She explained that as a follower of Jesus, he had to keep telling others about God’s love—even when it meant persecution.

Each day, Linh prayed for her father. Finally, she and her mother and sister were allowed to visit him in the prison, but they could only see him through a chain-link fence. Linh looked for a way to get closer to her dad, and found a spot where she could squeeze her little body through a chained gate. Once inside the prison yard, she ran up to her father and hugged him. The guards watched, but they did not stop or hurt her. God kept her safe.

Afterwards, Linh kept praying that God would use her father to show His love in the prison. He answered her prayer in wonderful ways. Since Linh’s family had smuggled him a pen during their visit, her father could write Bible verses on cigarette paper. Soon, the prisoners were passing his “cigarette sermons” from cell to cell. Many of the lonely men, who had been beaten and tortured, learned to know God and His wonderful love in the midst of their suffering. Instead of “re-education” to be obedient to the government, they learned to love Jesus as their Shepherd and Friend. Satan wanted to destroy them, but God brought a great victory!

People who reject God also reject God’s people. People who love the Bible make them angry: “I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” John 17:14. Read also Matthew 5:10–12.