covet

Bible Study Guides – Covetousness, Part II

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April 23, 2006 – April 29, 2006

Key Text

“[Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Hebrews 13:5.

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 3, 544–551.

Introduction

“My brother, you cannot be a Christian and cherish covetousness. You cannot be a Christian and not be a missionary. When you hear that there are thousands upon thousands who are in the darkness of error and superstition, knowing not the things that are coming upon the earth, how can you enjoy the truth and remain at ease? You may feel that the little you can do will be so inadequate to the demand that you will do nothing; but if each will do what he can, God will bless the effort, and the treasury will not be empty. If you were perishing from cold and hunger, would you call one your friend who refused even to attempt to relieve you? Think of the multitudes in foreign lands who are perishing for want of the bread of life in the precious, saving truths for this time; and remember that Christ identifies his interest with that of these needy ones. ‘Inasmuch,’ he says, ‘as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.’ [Matthew 25:40.]” Review and Herald, October 5, 1886.

1 What sin is unbecoming to even be mentioned, as Christians? Ephesians 5:3.

note: “The popular churches are filled with men who, while they make a pretense of serving God, are thieves, murderers, adulterers, and fornicators; but those who profess our lowly faith claim a higher standard. They should be Bible Christians, and they must be diligent in the study of the Chart of life. Carefully and prayerfully should they examine the motives which prompt them to action. Those who would put their trust in Christ should begin to study the beauties of the cross now. If they would be living Christians they must begin to fear and obey God now. If they will they can save their souls from ruin and make a success of winning eternal life.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 493.

2 What other commandment is broken by a covetous man? Can such ever enter heaven? Ephesians 5:5.

note: “The Scriptures speak of the large class of professors who are not doers. Many who claim to believe in God deny Him by their works. Their worship of money, houses, and lands marks them as idolaters and apostates. All selfishness is covetousness, and is, therefore, idolatry. Many who have placed their names on the church roll, as believers in God and the Bible, are worshiping the goods the Lord has entrusted to them that they may be His almoners. They may not literally bow down before their earthly treasure, but nevertheless it is their god. They are worshipers of mammon. To the things of this world they offer the homage which belongs to the Creator. He who sees and knows all things records the falsity of their profession.

“From the soul temple of a worldly Christian, God is excluded, in order that worldly policy may have abundant room. Money is his god. It belongs to Jehovah, but he to whom it is entrusted refuses to let it flow forth in deeds of benevolence. Did he appropriate it in accordance with God’s design, the incense of his good works would ascend to heaven, and from thousands of converted souls would be heard songs of praise and thanksgiving.” Counsels on Stewardship, 223.

3 What is one of the ways in which covetousness manifests itself? 11 Peter 2:2, 3.

note: “Our work is to lead all into the path of hope and courage and helpfulness. Thus we are to make our words and actions Christlike. We are to be actuated by the unselfish motives that lead men to make straight paths for their feet, lest the lame shall be turned out of the way.

“The Holy Ghost is the author of the Scriptures and of the Spirit of Prophecy. These are not to be twisted and turned to mean what man may want them to mean, to carry out man’s ideas and sentiments, to carry forward man’s schemes at all hazards. [11 Peter 2:2 quoted.] We must stand as vigilant soldiers, guarding against the entrance of one wrong principle.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 2, 189.

“The Lord is guarding His people against a repetition of the errors and mistakes of the past. There have always abounded false teachers, who, advocating erroneous doctrines and unholy practices, and working upon false principles in a most specious, covert, deceptive manner, have endeavored to deceive, if possible, the very elect. They bind themselves up in their own fallacies. If they do not succeed, because their way becomes hedged by warnings from God, they will change somewhat the features of their work, and the representations they have made, and bring out their plans again under a false showing. They refuse to confess, repent, and believe. Confession may be made, but no real reformation takes place, and erroneous theories bring ruin upon unsuspecting souls, because these souls believe and rely upon the men advocating these theories.” The Kress Collection, 6.

4 How will the preaching of God’s word affect such persons? Ezekiel 33:31, 32.

note: “There are persons who believe that they are right, when they are wrong. While claiming Christ as their Lord, and professedly doing great works in His name, they are workers of iniquity. . . .

“A mere profession of discipleship is of no value. The faith in Christ which saves the soul is not what it is represented to be by many. ‘Believe, believe,’ they say, ‘and you need not keep the law.’ But a belief that does not lead to obedience is presumption. The apostle John says, ‘He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.’ 1 John 2:4. Let none cherish the idea that special providences or miraculous manifestations are to be the proof of the genuineness of their work or of the ideas they advocate. When persons will speak lightly of the word of God, and set their impressions, feelings, and exercises above the divine standard, we may know that they have no light in them.” Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 146.

5 What is the characteristic sin of this world? Jeremiah 6:13.

note: “In order to let Jesus into our hearts, we must stop sinning. The only definition for sin that we have in the Bible is that it is the transgression of the law. The law is far-reaching in its claims, and we must bring our hearts into harmony with it. Men may wrap themselves about with their own righteousness, they may reach their own standard of character, but they do not reach the standard that God has given them in his word. We may measure ourselves by ourselves, and compare ourselves among ourselves; we may say we do as well as this one or as that one, but the great question is, Do we meet the claims that Heaven has upon us? The reason why iniquity prevails to such an alarming extent is that the law of God is made void in the earth. His law spoken from Sinai and exemplified in the life of Christ, is perfect, converting the soul. It condemns every sin, and requires every virtue. Not only does it demand a correct outward deportment, but its principles reach even to the thoughts and affections of the heart. . . . In the light of the law, covetousness is seen to be idolatry, lust adultery, and anger murder. No wonder that the carnal mind is enmity against God, and not subject to his law.” The Signs of the Times, March 3, 1890.

6 When does this text (Jeremiah 6:13) especially apply? Jeremiah 6:14, 16, 17; 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 3; 11 Timothy 3:1–5.

note: “The Bible declares that before the coming of the Lord there will exist a state of religious declension similar to that in the first centuries. [11 Timothy 3:1–5 quoted.] ‘Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.’ 1 Timothy 4:1. Satan will work ‘with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness.’ And all that ‘received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved,’ will be left to accept ‘strong delusion, that they should believe a lie.’ 11 Thessalonians 2:9–11. When this state of ungodliness shall be reached, the same results will follow as in the first centuries.

“The wide diversity of belief in the Protestant churches is regarded by many as decisive proof that no effort to secure a forced uniformity can ever be made. But there has been for years, in churches of the Protestant faith, a strong and growing sentiment in favor of a union based upon common points of doctrine. To secure such a union, the discussion of subjects upon which all were not agreed—however important they might be from a Bible standpoint—must necessarily be waived.” The Great Controversy, 444.

7 What is the difference between a righteous man and a covetous man? Proverbs 21:25, 26.

note: “This subject of the use of the means entrusted to us should be carefully considered; for the Lord will require his own with usury. While in poverty, many regard systematic giving as a Bible requirement; but when they come into possession of money or property, they do not acknowledge God’s claim upon them. They look upon their means as their own. But not so did King David regard his possessions. He understood that God is the great proprietor of all things, and that he himself was highly honored in that he had been taken into partnership with God. His heart was filled with gratitude for the favor and mercy of God, and in his prayer when presenting offerings for the building of the temple, he said, ‘Of thine own have we given thee.’ [1 Chronicles 29:14.]” Review and Herald, December 8, 1896.

8 For what did David pray? Psalm 119:36.

note: “When the truth is enshrined in the heart, it will be manifested in the daily life. The truth of the psalmist’s words will be realized: ‘The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.’ ‘Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness.’ [Psalms 19:7; 119:34–36.] The home will be sweetened by its influence, and the business transactions will be entered upon as if in full view of the heavenly universe.” Review and Herald, November 17, 1896.

9 What promise is made to him who hates covetousness? Proverbs 28:16.

note: “The path of obedience to God is the path of virtue, of health, and happiness. The plan of salvation, as revealed in the Holy Scriptures, opens up a way whereby man may secure happiness and prolong his days upon the earth, as well as enjoy the favor of Heaven and secure that future life which measures with the life of God. The words of inspiration will never fail. Whenever we comply with the conditions, the Lord will surely fulfill his promises.” Review and Herald, October 16, 1883.

10 To what does the apostle exhort God’s people? Hebrews 13:5.

note: “The present is our day of trust. To every person is committed some peculiar gift or talent which is to be used to advance the Redeemer’s kingdom. All God’s responsible agents, from the lowliest and most obscure to those in high positions in the church, are entrusted with the Lord’s goods. It is not the minister alone who can work for the salvation of souls. Those who have the smallest gifts are not excused from using the very best gifts they have, and in so doing their talents will be increased. It is not safe to trifle with moral responsibilities nor to despise the day of small things. God’s providence proportions His trusts according to the varied capabilities of the people. None should mourn because they cannot glorify God with talents which they never possessed and for which they are not responsible.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 618.

11 What is the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ? 11 Corinthians 8:9.

note: “Will the church arouse? Will its members come into sympathy with Christ, so they will have His tenderness for all the sheep and lambs of His fold? For their sake the Majesty of heaven made Himself of no reputation; for them He came to a world all seared and marred with the curse, He toiled day and night to instruct, to elevate, and to bring everlasting joy to a thankless, disobedient people. For their sake He became poor, that they through His poverty might be rich. For them He denied Himself; for them He endured privation, scorn, contempt, suffering, and death. For them He took the form of a servant. This is our pattern; will we copy it? Will we have a care for God’s heritage? Will we cherish tender compassion for the erring, the tempted, and the tried?” Welfare Ministry, 24.

Bible Study Guides – Covetousness, Part I

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April 16, 2006 – April 22, 2006

Key Text

“Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.” Luke 12:15.

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 493–498.

Introduction

“The system of benevolence was arranged to prevent that great evil, covetousness. Christ saw that in the prosecution of business the love of riches would be the greatest cause of rooting true godliness out of the heart. He saw that the love of money would freeze deep and hard into men’s souls, stopping the flow of generous impulses and closing their senses to the wants of the suffering and the afflicted. ‘Take heed,’ was His oft-repeated warning, ‘and beware of covetousness.’ ‘Ye cannot serve God and mammon.’ [Luke 12:15; 16:13; Matthew 6:24.] The oft-repeated and striking warnings of our Redeemer are in marked contrast with the actions of His professed followers who evidence in their lives so great eagerness to be rich and who show that the words of Christ are lost upon them. Covetousness is one of the most common and popular sins of the last days, and has a paralyzing influence upon the soul.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 547.

1 What is more than food or raiment? Luke 12:23.

note: “Men act as though they were bereft of their reason. They are buried up in the cares of this life. They have no time to devote to God, no time to serve Him. Work, work, work, is the order of the day. All about them are required to labor upon the high-pressure plan, to take care of large farms. To tear down and build greater is their ambition, that they may have wherewith to bestow their goods. Yet these very men who are weighed down with their riches pass for Christ’s followers. They have the name of believing that Christ is soon to come, that the end of all things is at hand; yet they have no spirit of sacrifice. They are plunging deeper and deeper into the world. They allow themselves but little time to study the word of life and to meditate and pray. Neither do they give others in their family, or those who serve them, this privilege. Yet these men profess to believe that this world is not their home, that they are merely pilgrims and strangers upon the earth, preparing to move to a better country. The example and influence of all such is a curse to the cause of God. Hollow hypocrisy characterizes their professed Christian lives. They love God and the truth just as much as their works show, and no more. A man will act out all the faith he has. ‘By their fruits ye shall know them.’ [Matthew 7:20.] The heart is where the treasure is. Their treasure is upon this earth, and their hearts and interests are also here.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 662, 663.

2 What assurance does Christ give that we shall be clothed? Luke 12:28.

note: “If God, the divine Artist, gives to the simple flowers that perish in a day their delicate and varied colors, how much greater care will He have for those who are created in His own image? This lesson of Christ’s is a rebuke to the anxious thought, the perplexity and doubt, of the faithless heart.” Steps to Christ, 124.

“Christ is here [Luke 12:27–31] teaching a precious lesson in regard to His service. Whatever experiences may come to you, He says, serve God. Whatever inconveniences and hardships you may encounter, trust in the Lord. We have no cause to worry and fear if we take our position for the truth, that we and our families will suffer. To do this is to manifest unbelief in God. . . . If we would study the Word more faithfully, we would increase in faith.—Manuscript 83, 1909.” Evangelism, 238.

3 Why would Christ not have us live in careful suspense regarding the necessities of life? Luke 12:29, 30.

note: “[Luke 12:30; Matthew 6:32, 33 quoted.] I have come to open to you the kingdom of love and righteousness and peace. Open your hearts to receive this kingdom, and make its service your highest interest. Though it is a spiritual kingdom, fear not that your needs for this life will be uncared-for. If you give yourself to God’s service, He who has all power in heaven and earth will provide for your needs.” Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 99.

“They only are truly blessed whose chief concern is to secure those blessings which will nourish the soul and endure forever. . . . God has a care for us, even to bestow His temporal blessings upon us. Our earthly good is not beneath the notice of our heavenly Father. He knoweth that we have need of these things.” Our High Calling, 196.

4 Of what does Christ exhort us to beware? Luke 12:15.

note: “One marked feature in the teachings of Christ is the frequency and earnestness with which He rebuked the sin of covetousness and pointed out the danger of worldly acquisitions and inordinate love of gain. . . .

“It is this increasing devotion to money getting, the selfishness which the desire for gain begets, that removes the favor of God from the church and deadens its spirituality. When the head and hands are constantly occupied with planning and toiling for the accumulation of riches, the claims of God and humanity are forgotten. If God has blessed us with prosperity, it is not that our time and attention should be diverted from Him and given to that which He has lent us. The giver is greater than the gift. We are not our own; we have been bought with a price. Have we forgotten that infinite price paid for our redemption? Is gratitude dead in the heart? Does not the cross of Christ put to shame a life of selfish ease and indulgence?” Testimonies, vol. 4, 82.

5 What parable is given to illustrate covetousness? How does this parable show the covetous spirit? Luke 12:16–20.

note: “The length and usefulness of life do not consist in the amount of our earthly possessions. Those who use their wealth in doing good will see no necessity for large accumulations in this world; for the treasure which is used to advance the cause of God and which is given to the needy in Christ’s name is given to Christ, and He lays it up for us in the bank of heaven in bags which wax not old. He who does this is rich toward God, and his heart will be where his treasures are secured. He who humbly uses what God has given for the honor of the Giver, freely giving as he has received, may feel the peace and assurance in all his business that God’s hand is over him for good, and he himself will bear the impress of God, having the Father’s smile.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 546.

“He [the foolish rich man] had an abundance; so have many who profess to believe the truth, and they are acting over the case of the poor, foolish rich man. Oh, that they would be wise and feel the obligations resting upon them to use the blessings that God has given them in blessing others, instead of turning them into a curse. God will say to all such, as to the foolish rich man: ‘Thou fool.’ [Luke 12:20.]” Ibid., vol. 2, 662.

6 What kind of men was Moses to select for responsible positions? Exodus 18:21.

note: “In His instruction to Moses the Lord very plainly set forth the character of those who were to fill important positions as counselors. . . . The Lord’s counsel has been strangely neglected. There are men in places of holy trust who, when reproved, have cared nought for it. Some who for years have stood as counselors have boldly stated that they would not receive the testimonies given. In triumph they have declared that many of our most responsible men have lost faith in the message coming from Sister White. Thus the rejecters of light have been strengthened in their unbelief, feeling that they had quite a strong confederacy. Men who have had the light have walked contrary to the light. These words are appropriate: ‘Truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter.’ [Isaiah 59:14.] The malaria of unbelief has been diffusing its deathly atmosphere throughout the ranks, nigh and afar off. All this has been stated plainly, yet for years matters have been left unchanged. Can the Lord’s favor be expected under such circumstances?” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 341, 342.

7 Is the same instruction given to Moses also brought into the New Testament? 1 Timothy 3:1, 3.

note: “The same principles of piety and justice that were to guide the rulers among God’s people in the time of Moses and of David, were also to be followed by those given the oversight of the newly organized church of God in the gospel dispensation. In the work of setting things in order in all the churches, and ordaining suitable men to act as officers, the apostles held to the high standards of leadership outlined in the Old Testament Scriptures.” The Acts of the Apostles, 95.

8 What spirit should characterize a bishop or an elder? Titus 1:7, 8.

note: “The gospel net gathers both good and bad. It takes time for character to be developed; there must be time to learn what men really are. The family of the one suggested for office should be considered. Are they in subjection? Can the man rule his own house with honor? What character have his children? Will they do honor to the father’s influence? If he has no tact, wisdom, or power of godliness at home in managing his own family, it is safe to conclude that the same defects will be carried into the church, and the same unsanctified management will be seen there. It will be far better to criticize the man before he is put into office than afterward, better to pray and counsel before taking the decisive step than to labor to correct the consequences of a wrong move. . . .

“The leaders of churches in every place should be earnest, full of zeal and unselfish interest, men of God who can give the right mold to the work. They should make their requests to God in faith. . . . They must daily be connected with God, drawing their supplies from His exhaustless storehouse and bringing therefrom things new and old. If their own souls have been vivified by the Spirit of God, they will cheer, strengthen, and encourage others; but if they have not drunk at the living fountain of salvation themselves, they will not know how to lead others there.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 618, 619.

9 With what class of sins is covetousness placed? 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10.

note: “The tempter is ever presenting worldly gain and honor to entice men from the service of God. He tells them it is their overconscientiousness that keeps them from prosperity. Thus many are induced to venture out of the path of strict integrity. One wrong step makes the next easier, and they become more and more presumptuous. They will do and dare most terrible things when once they have given themselves to the control of avarice and a desire for power. Many flatter themselves that they can depart from strict integrity for a time, for the sake of some worldly advantage, and that having gained their object, they can change their course when they please. Such are entangling themselves in the snare of Satan, and it is seldom that they escape.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 440.

10 Should Christians fellowship with those who are covetous? 1 Corinthians 5:9–11.

note: “In your connection with worldly societies, are you keeping your covenant with God? Do these associations tend to direct your own mind or that of others to God, or are they diverting the interest and attention from Him? Do they strengthen your connection with the divine agencies, or turn your mind to the human in place of the divine?

“Are you serving, honoring, and magnifying God, or are you dishonoring Him and sinning against Him? Are you gathering with Christ or scattering abroad? All the thought and plan and earnest interest devoted to these organizations, has been purchased by the precious blood of Christ; but are you doing service for Him when uniting yourselves with atheists and infidels, men who profane the name of God, tipplers, drunkards, tobacco devotees?

“While there may be in these societies much that appears to be good, there is, mingled with this, very much that makes the good of no effect, and renders these associations detrimental to the interests of the soul.” Evangelism, 618, 619.

11 How does God regard a covetous man? Psalm 10:3.

note: “Those who allow a covetous spirit to take possession of them cherish and develop those traits of character which will place their names on the record-books of heaven as idolaters. All such are classed with thieves, revilers, and extortioners, none of whom, the word of God declares, shall inherit the kingdom of God. [Psalm 10:3 quoted.] Covetous attributes are ever opposed to the exercise of Christian beneficence. The fruits of selfishness always reveal themselves in a neglect of duty, and in a failure to use God’s entrusted gifts for the advancement of His work.” Review and Herald, December 1, 1896.

The Pen of Inspiration – A Lesson on Covetousness

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As Jesus was departing from a certain place, a young man came to him with the inquiry, “Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one, that is, God; but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honor thy father and thy mother; and, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. The young man saith unto him, All these have I kept from my youth up; what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him. If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor and thou shalt have treasure in heaven; and come and follow me. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.” [Matthew 19:16–22.]

Jesus quoted to the young man five of the last six commandments, also the second great commandment, on which the last six commandments depend. These he thought he had kept. Jesus did not mention the first four commandments, which define our duty to God. In answer to the inquiry, “What lack I yet?” Jesus said to him, “If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven.”

Idol Revealed

Here was his lack. He failed to love God with all his heart and his neighbor as himself. Jesus touched his possessions. Said he, “Sell that thou hast, and give to the poor.” This pointed out the young man’s idol. His love of riches was supreme; hence it was impossible for him to love God with all his heart, with all his soul, and with all his mind. And this supreme love for his riches shut his eyes to the wants of his fellow-men. He did not love his neighbor as himself; therefore he failed to keep the last six commandments. His heart was on his treasures, swallowed up in his earthy possessions. He loved the things of earth better than God, better than the heavenly treasure. Jesus tested him to see which he loved most, riches or eternal life. Did he eagerly lay hold of the eternal prize? Did he earnestly strive to remove the obstacle that was in the way of his having a treasure in heaven? Oh, no; “he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.”

“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you that a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” [Matthew 19:23, 24.]

It is God’s plan that riches should be used properly, distributed to bless the needy, and to advance the work of God. If men love their riches better than they love their fellow-men, better than they love God or the truths of his word, if their hearts are on their riches, they cannot have eternal life. Some would rather yield the truth than sell and give to the poor. Here souls are proved; and, like the rich young man, many go away sorrowful because they cannot have their riches and a treasure in heaven too. They cannot have both, and they risk their chance of eternal life for a worldly possession.

All Things Possible

“It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” “With God all things are possible” [Matthew 19:26]; but he will not permit the rich men to selfishly hoard their riches, and yet enter into his kingdom. Truth, set home to the heart by the Spirit of God, will crowd out the love of riches. The love of Jesus and the love of money cannot dwell in the same heart. The love of God so far surpasses the love of money that the possessor breaks away from his riches and transfers his affections to God. Through love he is then led to minister to the wants of the needy and to assist the cause of God. It is his highest pleasure to make a right disposition of his Lord’s goods. He holds all that he has as not his own, and faithfully discharges his duty as God’s steward. Then he can keep both the great commandments of the law: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.” “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Matthew 22:37, 39.]

In this way it is possible for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. “And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.” [Matthew 19:29.] Here is the reward for those who sacrifice for God. They receive a hundredfold in this life, and shall inherit everlasting life.

Reward to Come

“But many that are first shall be last, and the last shall be first.” [Matthew 19:30.] Some who receive the truth do not live it. They cling to their possessions, and are not willing to use their means to advance the cause of God. They will not trust God’s promises. Their love of this world swallows up their faith. God calls for a portion of their substance, but they heed it not. They reason that they have labored hard to obtain what they have, and they cannot lend it to the Lord, for they may come to want. “O ye of little faith!” [Matthew 6:30.] That God who cared for Elijah in the time of famine, will not pass by one of his self-sacrificing children. He who has numbered the hairs of their head will care for them, and in days of famine they will be satisfied. While the wicked are perishing from hunger and thirst, their bread and water will be sure. Those who cling to their earthly treasure, and will not make a right disposition of that which is lent them of God, will lose the heavenly treasure, eternal life.

There was a time when there were but few who listened to and embraced the truth, and they had not much of this world’s goods. Then it was necessary for some to sell their houses and lands, and obtain cheaper, while their means were freely lent to the Lord to publish the truth, and otherwise aid in advancing the cause of God. These self-sacrificing ones endured privations; but if they endure unto the end, great will be their reward.

Sacrifice for God

God has been moving upon many hearts. The truth for which a few sacrificed so much has triumphed, and multitudes have laid hold of it. In the providence of God, those who have means have been brought into the truth, that as the work increases the wants of his cause may be met. God does not now call for the houses his people need to live in; but if those who have an abundance do not hear his voice, cut loose from the world, and sacrifice for God, he will pass them by, and will call for those who are willing to do anything for Jesus, even to sell their homes to meet the wants of the cause. God will have free-will offerings. Those who give must esteem it a privilege to do so.

Some give of their abundance, yet feel no lack. They do not practice self-denial for the cause of Christ. They give liberally and heartily, but they still have all that heart can wish. God regards it. The action and motive are strictly marked by him, and they will not lose their reward. But those who have less means must not excuse themselves because they cannot do as much as some others. Do what you can. Deny yourself of some article you can do without, and sacrifice for the cause of God. Like the poor widow, cast in your two mites. You will actually give more than all those who give of their abundance; and you will know how sweet it is to deny self, to give to the needy, to sacrifice for the truth, and to lay up treasure in heaven.

Learn Self-Denial

The young, especially young men, who profess the truth, have yet a lesson of self-denial to learn. If these made more sacrifice for the truth, they would esteem it more highly. It would affect their hearts, and purify their lives. Too often the young do not take the burden of the cause of God, or feel any responsibility in regard to it. Is it because God has excused them? Oh, no; they excuse themselves. They do not realize that they are not their own. Their strength, their time, is not their own. They are bought with a price; and unless they possess the spirit of self-denial and sacrifice, they can never gain the immortal inheritance.

Said the great Teacher, “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” “Choose ye this day whom ye will serve.” [Matthew 6:24; Joshua 24:15.]

Review and Herald, September 16, 1884.

The Ten Commandments, Part XVII – Thou Shalt Not Covet

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In Romans 7:12, the apostle Paul says, “Wherefore the law [is] holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” This statement is a conclusion that he draws concerning the value of the Ten Commandments—holy, just, and good. Paul could very well have been answering the same spirit that is charged against those who love the Law of God today.

Paul is saying, “Do not think for a minute that there is anything wrong with the Law of God!” There are a number of people today who are challenging the Law of God, saying that it has been done away with. And, indeed, they, as those in Paul’s day, may very well be appealing for the justification of such a thing. But Paul says, “Do not even think such a thing! The law is good; it serves a purpose. It is righteous; it is holy, and it is good.”

The Psalmist confirmed this when he wrote, “The law of the Lord [is] perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord [is] sure, making wise the simple.” Psalm 19:7.

As we have gone through this series on the Ten Commandments, we have seen that indeed the intent of the law is to point out sin in a way that directs us to the Saviour. It is not the purpose of the commandments to save us. The commandments are there to point out the sin so we may be directed to the Saviour, find grace, find mercy, and ultimately be saved because we have sought Him.

The Law of God is perfect and eternal. It contains depth that we do not comprehend as we superficially read the law. If you just read the Ten Commandment Law, and you think that your duty and your responsibility is to just keep the letter of the law and not the spirit of the law, you have missed the point. The law goes much, much deeper than that. It is very comprehensive; it is immeasurable, and it encompasses every virtue within the range of human duty. It also strictly and directly prohibits every sin within the reach of human conduct. It contains the whole duty of man.

Full Circle

The Ten Commandments complete a full circle. Basically the law does not just start with the first commandment and end with the tenth commandment, because when we end with the tenth, we are back around to the first again. Making a full circle, we find ourselves back at the beginning. It is like the Bible. The Bible is not just Genesis to Revelation. When we finish Revelation, we can be directed back to Genesis again. It is a circle, and it is a whole.

The Bible begins with the creation of man in the perfect setting of the Garden of Eden, and when John closes the Book of Revelation, we see that the story of redemption has completed itself to the extent that we find man back in his perfect, restored state in the Garden of Eden again. So the Bible is circular, as is the Law of God.

The Ten Commandments, beginning with the first which deals with the worship of the true God, we will see again in Ephesians 5:5: “For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.” The apostle Paul puts covetousness into the setting of the whole law, dealing with all aspects of the law—anything that is unclean.

The Tenth

In Deuteronomy 5, from where we have been studying the Ten Commandments, we read: “Neither shalt thou desire thy neighbour’s wife, neither shalt thou covet thy neighbour’s house, his field, or his manservant, or his maidservant, his ox, or his ass, or any [thing] that [is] thy neighbour’s.” Verse 21.

As I have mentioned before, there are some changes in the commandments as they first appear in Exodus 20 and as they appear in Deuteronomy 5. Did you catch what the difference is in this commandment, other than the first word, “neither”? Moses adds one word here; he says: “You are not supposed to covet your neighbor’s field.” So we see that there is a difference in the wording of the commandments, including the tenth one.

Covetous Defined

We can look longingly at the automobiles on a car lot, not recognizing our desire as coveting, because the cars do not belong to a specific individual. Or we can look out across the countryside at beautiful houses and say, “I wish that I had that house.” This expresses excessive desire. But Webster says that it is excessive desire concerning wealth or possessions or for another’s possessions. While it appears that there is a prohibition concerning just what belongs to our neighbors, in reality, anything that is not ours belongs to someone else, and our clamor to obtain it constitutes covetousness.

Some of the synonyms of covetous are: greedy, acquisitive (not inquisitive but acquisitive), grasping, and avaricious. Webster goes on to say that,

“Greedy stresses the lack of restraint and often of discrimination in desire. Acquisitive implies both eagerness to possess and ability to acquire and keep. Grasping adds to covetous and greedy an implication of selfishness and often suggests unfair or ruthless means. Avaricious implies obsessive acquisitiveness [acquiring] especially of money and strongly suggests stinginess.” Ibid.

It is interesting to note, as we go through these definitions that the synonyms Webster gives for the word covetous itself, reveal that this is probably one of the areas of life that we almost applaud! Almost every advertising campaign that is launched today bases its advertising on this concept of covetousness. The advertisers usually try to flavor their advertisements with all kinds of desirable objects in an attempt to enhance the desire for the object that they are trying to sell. They try to get us on a two-pronged approach, not only from the object of advertising but from the object itself, so this commandment is tremendously flouted today.

Covetousness is Unrighteous

In looking through the Bible, we find that a goodly amount of Scripture deals with the sin of covetousness. Paul wrote again, concerning this, in 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10, which basically says the same thing as Ephesians 5:5, but it is a little more defined: “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”

Notice that when Paul says “unrighteous,” then a list follows that defines those things that are unrighteous. The one thing to which we need to pay attention in this list of sins is that covetousness is placed with those that are considered to be the grossest sins. Right in the very middle of all these sins that we find very distasteful is covetousness. It is a sin that, when left uncontrolled by the person who can control it, grows until it completely possesses that person and corrupts his or her character.

Undetected

This is a sin that goes undetected except by the persons themselves. I think this is probably the reason why this sin is listed as the last commandment. There is a sequence to the commandments, starting with “Thou shalt have no other gods.” If we can make that application in our lives, then we can move down to the next one, that says, “Do not make any graven images,” and down to the next one that says, “Do not take the name of the Lord in vain,” and then “Remember the Sabbath day,” and on through the relationships between man and man. Once we can focus on all of those, once we get all of those together in our thinking, we can with the Psalmist say, “The law of God is perfect, converting the soul.”

A conversion process occurs that can take a man of wretchedness and turn him around. I do not know that any of us can actually understand it, except by what we see transpiring in our lives—but it is there.

So, as we have made our way through God’s Law, we find ourselves at that tenth commandment that declares, If you can be judged by all of these others from an outward appearance, once you get to the tenth, you have to judge yourself. You have to deal with that.

A Heart Matter

Ellen White wrote: “Satan carries out his plans well. As the servants of God appoint meetings, Satan with his angels is on the ground to hinder the work. He is constantly putting suggestions into the minds of God’s people.” Early Writings, 267.

From this quotation, we can see how covetousness makes a foothold in our minds. If we have gone through the sequencing of the commandments and have been converted to God, but we have not quite yet come to the tenth commandment, the devil is going to get on our trails like we would not believe! He may not put thoughts of covetousness into our minds, but Ellen White says that he and his angels work on God’s people and that he puts suggestions into their minds.

Covetousness is the only sin that deals with the heart in terms of an internal way that cannot really be seen from the outside. If the devil can put those thoughts into our hearts, into our minds, we need to be very, very careful of guarding our hearts so that he is not able to put those thoughts there.

Continuing, Ellen White wrote: “He leads some in one way and some in another, always taking advantage of evil traits in the brethren and sisters, exciting and stirring up their natural besetments.” Ibid. What are “their natural besetments”? Well, “their natural besetments” are those weaknesses of the flesh that are either inherited or cultivated. The devil knows what those inherited and those cultivated tendencies may be for each one of us, so he puts thoughts into our minds of covetousness. As a warning to us, God put in place a commandment to deal with all the various aspects of this, which can be magnified even farther beyond just the word.

“If they are disposed to be selfish and covetous, Satan takes his stand by their side, and with all his power seeks to lead them to indulge their besetting sins.” Ibid. Now, that is alarming!

Battle Raging

We are in what is called the great controversy. There is a battle raging for our souls, and the devil is going to do anything and everything that he can to destroy us, not only from this earth but also from any inheritance into eternal life. Remember that we earlier read that the unrighteous are not going to inherit eternal life, and the list of sins that are associated with unrighteousness.

Ellen White also wrote: “Covetousness, selfishness, love of money, and love of the world, are all through the ranks of Sabbath-keepers. . . . Those that have this covetousness in their hearts are not aware of it. It has gained upon them imperceptibly.” Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4b, 26. This sin cannot be seen on the outside of those suffering from it. We cannot see into others’ minds.

In Testimonies, vol. 1, 141, we read: “Worldly-mindedness, selfishness, and covetousness have been eating out the spirituality and life of God’s people.”

Camouflaged Covetousness

Allow me to ask the question: Do you think covetousness is a problem for Seventh-day Adventists? I think it is. Some of the things that we can see that are manifested from covetousness, we do not specifically identify as covetousness, but it becomes an outgrowth of that. As an example, say that a man and a woman get involved in a personal relationship. There is a little saying that suggests that a man chases a woman until she catches him. It works both ways, but there is a chasing that occurs, and sometimes, once the catching takes place and the two begin to bond into a relationship, one or the other begins to treat the other individual very meanly and very badly and to take advantage of them. Sometimes it even turns into physical abuse. There are shelters now to protect individuals from such things, but we have probably all observed such a relationship at some time.

This is kind of a twisted example of covetousness, because a person can desire someone, and, after the conquest is over, the motivation for going after that person has been a covetous, greedy motivation, not love. It is really a lustful kind of motivation. As we study the Bible, we find that the word lust and the word covetous are interchangeable. In the Strong’s Concordance (James Strong, New Strong’s Concordance of the Bible, Thomas Nelson Inc., Nashville, Tennessee, 1985) you will find the same Greek word, epithumia, can be translated one way or the other, as lust or as covetous.

In a relationship such as I described above, the man or woman, instead of building the relationship on love, appreciation, and companionship, becomes possessive, when the challenge is over, and greedy. The attitude of “you are mine; you will do as I say,” is displayed. In this attitude of covetousness, the other person is treated as a possession or a piece of property that the other person has sought after and now owns. This is why many of these relationships turn so bad. That is how covetousness works.

Selfish Orientation

The whole orientation of a covetous person seems to be about himself or herself. We might often hear from such an individual, “What about me?” I will never forget an experience that I had several years ago. I was called to a home to pray for and anoint a lady who was quite ill. This lady’s mother and husband were in the home when I arrived. The husband and I went into his wife’s sick room, and I talked with them to ascertain where their experience with the Lord was before doing the anointing. After the anointing and the prayer were over, we opened the bedroom door and went into the living room where the mother was waiting to come into the bedroom, thinking that the anointing had not yet taken place. She was on fire when she learned that the service was completed. “What about me?” she demanded. “What about me? I am the mother. What about me?”

What about me? is basically the motivation for a covetous person—What about me? What do I get out of this? Why cannot I have what others have? They have a house along the lake; why cannot I have a house by the lake? They have a new car; why cannot I have a new car? He has a beautiful wife; why cannot I have a beautiful wife?—Everything is about “me.”

The interesting thing is that this commandment covers all of these areas and says, You need to search your own heart and make sure what your own motivation is, so that you are right in all of these areas.

Application for Today

From Deuteronomy 5:21, look at the things that are meaningful to us today. This was not something that Moses wrote 3,500 years ago and has no application to us today. It definitely has application to us today.

“Neither shalt thou desire thy neighbour’s wife.” We could save so much pain in society today if that was followed! So that is very applicable today.

“Neither shalt thou covet thy neighbour’s house.” We could certainly make application of this as well.

What does it mean, Thou shalt not covet “his field”? This is actually referring to the aspect of supplying the needs for sustenance of life. In our time we might say, “Thou shalt not covet his job.” This is where political maneuvering, ladder climbing, and all of these kinds of things come into play so we can get into position to get the right job. In the Bible, the reference is made to a man who had a field from which he got his sustenance to support not only himself, but his family as well. The command is, “Do not make any move toward the man’s field.”

“. . . or his manservant.” It is not uncommon for a company to attempt to entice a prized employee from a competitor or other company. The manservant is seen as something that is valuable for the sake of greediness. Is it applicable today? You better believe it is applicable today! “. . . or his maidservant” falls into the same category.

“. . . his ox” is part of the machinery that is necessary for the man to earn his living. An ox was a “tractor” in the days of Moses. At that time, a person might desire to have the man’s ox—his “tractor” or “farm implement”—so that he could do his work better and more efficiently.

“. . . his ass.” It is an interesting point that Israel always had, as its mode of transportation, the ass. The people did not ride horses. As a matter of fact, as we read Scripture, we find that there was a very strong disapproval of Israelites having horses, notwithstanding King Solomon. The reason for this was that horses were considered implements of war. God wanted His people to be agrarian; He did not want them to be covetous. He did not want them to overreach, so they were not horse people; they were donkey people. That was the means of transportation for the Israelites. What is our means of transportation today? We do not have donkeys that we ride today, but we have automobiles and all kinds of other conveyances. These may be necessary, but God says that we are not to covet what belongs to someone else.

And then comes what may be called a blanket statement: “Do not covet anything that belongs to thy neighbor.”

When we stop and consider the practicality of such a commandment as this, we see that, in reality, it produces a great degree of harmony and peace of mind. The people who are always out there wanting to grab ahold of something that does not belong to them are generally very unhappy individuals. Happy is the man who is content with his lot.

Parallels

There are many parallels to which covetousness gives birth, and, in its ultimate, covetousness is the seed that can produce the plant of violation of every other one of the Ten Commandments. For example, consider these.

First Commandment: Coveting tempts us to the violation of the first commandment, which prohibits the worship of gods other than Jehovah. Polytheism is the worship of many gods, or at least of two or more. Mammon is one of the most popular gods that has been a silent rival for worship. Jesus said that the worship of mammon and of Jehovah is incapable of being compatible with one another. He said, “You cannot have them both. You have to choose one or the other.” (See Matthew 6:24; Luke 16:13.)

Many people have tried, silently, to covet after mammon and yet worship God at the same time. Ultimately, they must make a decision at some point. Jesus said that, “No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other.” Matthew 6:24. As is so often the case, mammon wins. Material wealth and possessions command attention of God’s people in ways that they should not.

Job gave some wise counsel when he said, in Job 31:24, 25, 28, “If I have made gold my hope, or have said to the fine gold, [Thou art] my confidence; If I rejoiced because my wealth [was] great, and because mine hand had gotten much; . . . This also [were] an iniquity [to be punished by] the judge: for I should have denied the God [that is] above.” He recognized a choice must be made between mammon and God, and he chose God.

Second Commandment: What about the second commandment? We do not have to go to the heathen in mission lands in order to find worshippers of images. There are plenty of idol worshippers of gold and silver, stocks and bonds, real estate and business. This worship is going on all the time, and it is never really identified in the area of sin as it should be, because it is a sin of the heart. It is something that can be concealed, and nobody else can know that it is happening.

Third Commandment: Coveting leads us to violate the third commandment, which deals with sacrilegious falsehood. An example of this is found in the Old Testament as well as the New Testament.

Gehazi, you may remember, was Elisha’s servant. Seemingly, in the earlier part of his life, he was a dedicated man, but when Naaman was healed, Gehazi could not stand the fact that Elisha did not take any reward for this. Elisha was a man of God; he was a man who stood for God’s name; he did not take God’s name in vain. Gehazi, who also professed to be a follower of Jehovah, decided that he would go after some reward, so he denied the name of God for the purpose of covetousness. Swift judgment came upon him because of his sin of covetousness. (See 11 Kings 5:20–27.)

Ananias and Sapphira selfishly tried to retain part of the pledge they had made to God. As a result, they lost everything that this earthly life could hold for them, including eternal life. (See Acts 5:1–10.) Again, their sin is an example of what can come to one who has a covetous nature.

Fourth Commandment: Does covetousness cause the violation of the fourth commandment? Breaking of the Sabbath always comes through a motivation of covetousness. One of the primary violations of the fourth commandment is that of employment. People choose to work on the Sabbath for the sake of their employment.

We can be tempted to play during the Sabbath hours for the sake of our own personal pleasure. We can be tempted to buy or sell for our own convenience. Violation of the Sabbath really boils down to the sin of covetousness that starts in the heart.

Fifth Commandment: The fifth commandment can be trampled through covetousness, tempting the young person to forget parental counsel that limits wants and desires. A covetous spirit may also keep children from honoring parents and attending to their needs as they grow older.

Sixth Commandment: The sixth commandment concerning murder has been broken to satisfy the cravings of a covetous mind. It was Judas’ love of money that lured him into the betrayal of his Lord into the hands of murderers. Writing of Judas, Ellen White stated, “How tenderly the Saviour dealt with him who was to be His betrayer! In His teaching, Jesus dwelt upon principles of benevolence that struck at the very root of covetousness. He presented before Judas the heinous character of greed. . . .

“Instead of walking in the light, Judas chose to retain his defects. Evil desires, revengeful passions, dark and sullen thoughts, were cherished, until Satan had full control of the man.” The Desire of Ages, 295.

Seventh Commandment: Being tempted into adultery comes from a direct violation of this tenth commandment that says, “Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours wife.” A Bible example of this is found in the story of David and Bathsheba. (See 11 Samuel 11:3–17.) The length to which this violation can carry a person is revealed there. What a shame the sin of covetousness brought upon the nation of Israel.

Eighth Commandment: Covetousness tempts us into the violation of the eighth commandment that says, “Thou shalt not steal.” This, of course, is what led to Achan’s downfall. (See Joshua 7:18–26.) “The deadly sin that led to Achan’s ruin had its root in covetousness, of all sins one of the most common and the most lightly regarded. While other offenses meet with detection and punishment, how rarely does the violation of the tenth commandment so much as call forth censure. The enormity of this sin, and its terrible results, are the lessons of Achan’s history.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 496. Achan sold his soul for “a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight.” Joshua 7:21. What a cheap price for forfeiting eternal life!

Ninth Commandment: The ninth commandment, bearing false witness, also has its basis in covetousness. How often have we heard people lie about someone or something to better their own positions? As discussed previously, covetousness is motivated by the selfish attitude of “me.”

How very important for us to follow Jesus’ counsel: “Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.” Luke 12:15.

All of the commandments deal with the issue of covetousness rooted in the heart. If this sin is not dealt with between ourselves and God, we are destined to violate openly the Ten Commandments, and, ultimately, we can lose everything in the end.

Importance of the Ten

We must realize just how precious the Ten Commandments are to us, as a people. As we read in the Book of Ecclesiastes 12:13: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this [is] the whole [duty] of man.”

God means what He says. The Ten Commandments are revealed in all the stories and documentation of Scripture. It all comes down to Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 5. There is the whole duty of man.

A retired minister of the gospel, Pastor Mike Baugher may be contacted by e-mail at: landmarks@stepstolife.org.

Secret Sins

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Do you have a longing for the return of Jesus?

Do you believe He is returning for a church without spot or wrinkle?

There is a heavy burden on my heart that I have carried for a while. The reason why this burden is heavy is because I realize that the presence and power of God, to a great degree, is missing from His church. The joy of the Lord, which is our strength, is not expressed on a daily basis. The gifts of the Spirit, which are promised, are as foreign to us as light is to darkness. The love of God, which is the bond of perfection, is as low as a river in the middle of the summer; it is almost dry. Indeed, for this realization, my heart is grieved. Now you may be wondering what my burden is. I am burdened by the thought that there are secret sins among God’s people and these secret sins are preventing the power of Jesus from being manifested within His church. Therefore, let us consider three interrelated results of secret sins and how to combat them.

First, what are secret sins? Simply put, they are cherished sins that are practiced by an individual or group within the church and which are hidden from the church body as a whole. For the purpose of space, we will only consider the secret sins of an individual.

In order to recognize three results of these secret sins, let us look at an event which occurred during the days of Joshua. In Joshua chapter 6 we see that the children of Israel had just crossed the Jordan River after 40 years of wilderness wandering and it was time for them to possess the promised land. Prior to them entering Jericho, the Lord gave them a clear command as to what they were to do with the inhabitants and their possessions. In Joshua 6:17–19 we read, “And the city shall be accursed, even it, and all that are therein, to the Lord: only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all that are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent. And ye, in any wise keep yourselves from the accursed thing, lest ye make yourselves accursed, when ye take of the accursed thing, and make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it. But all the silver, and gold, and vessels of brass and iron, are consecrated unto the Lord: they shall come into the treasury of the Lord.”

Well, what did Israel do? In Joshua 6:23, 24 we read, “And the young men that were spies went in, and brought out Rahab, and her father, and her mother, and her brethren, and all that she had … And they burnt the city with fire, and all that was therein: only the silver, and the gold, and the vessels of brass and of iron, they put into the treasury of the house of the Lord.” Yes! Mission accomplished! Praise God for His faithful people, right? Well, the story takes a bitter turn, and Israel is in for a secret surprise.

In Joshua 7:1 we read, “But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the Lord was kindled against the children of Israel.” Now in this passage it was Achan who took of the accursed thing. However, who was God’s anger aroused against? It was the entire camp of Israel. This brings us to the first result of secret sins.

Not only the perpetrator of the sin is affected but the secret sins of one individual will arouse the displeasure of God against His entire church. It only takes one.

Now as we consider this, we can look at various times and places in the Scripture and see that this is displayed on various levels. For example, Adam transgressed in the beginning. In those days there were only two souls who composed God’s church on earth. However, on whom is the judgment of God placed as a result of Adam’s sin? It was on all humanity. We have all inherited the result of Adam’s sin. In Romans 5:18 Paul states, “Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation.” And in I Corinthians 5:6 Paul says that “a little leaven leavens the whole lump.”

In light of this, here is what the Lord’s prophet says: “Achan’s sin brought disaster upon the whole nation. For one man’s sin the displeasure of God will rest upon His church till the transgression is searched out and put away.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 497. “No man lives to himself. Shame, defeat, and death were brought upon Israel by one man’s sin … Various sins that are cherished and practiced by professed Christians bring the frown of God upon the church.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 493.

Now the questions for you to consider are: How much do you truly love the church of God? Do you love the church of God in private, when no one else is around or looking? Do you love the church so much that you will do nothing in secret to cause the frown of God to rest upon her? These are questions that we all must consider.

Let us now look at the second result of secret sins. Israel had destroyed Jericho, and it appeared as if all was well. God granted them victory and it was time to press forward. Unknown to them, however, was the fact that there was secret sin in the camp. They went forth ready to take the next city, little Ai. Joshua sent out spies to view the city, and they reported to him that the city was too small to send the whole army of Israel. Joshua consented and sent only 3,000 men. As they went to dispossess the city, the men of Ai came out and chased Israel away. In this pursuit, thirty-six Israelites were slaughtered. Now this may appear as a small defeat, but to Israel it was so great a defeat that their hearts melted and became like water.

In response to this, Joshua fell down before the Ark of the Covenant and began to mourn. Perplexed, he says, “Alas, O Lord God, wherefore hast thou at all brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? Would to God we had been content, and dwelt on the other side of Jordan!” Joshua 7:7.

When he ended his complaint, Jehovah responded. “And the Lord said unto Joshua, Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them: for they have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also, and they have put it even among their own stuff. Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because they were accursed.” Joshua 7:10–12.

This brings us to the second result of secret sins. That is, the secret sins of one individual will cause the church to lose her battles and fall before her enemies.

Now, is the church engaged in warfare? Yes! And who is her enemy? In Revelation 12:17 we read, “And 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.”

Satan and his legions are undoubtedly at war with the remnant church. And what is Satan’s main strategy? How does he effectively war against the church? Well, his main strategy is to work through false disciples who enter the sheepfold over the fence and destroy the church by sowing strife, teaching falsehood, casting doubt, and trampling upon our faith. We are told by inspiration that, “The great deceiver has many agents ready to present any and every kind of error to ensnare souls … It is his plan to bring into the church insincere, unregenerate elements that will encourage doubt and unbelief, and hinder all who desire to see the work of God advance and to advance with it.” The Great Controversy, 520.

Now, this only addresses the battle front that Satan attacks us on as a church body. But what about the battle that each individual member has against the enemy called self? Since the secret sins of one individual will cause the church to lose her battles, could it be that the secret sins of professed brethren has a weakening effect on those who are earnestly trying to overcome? Consider these inspired words: “The influence most to be feared by the church is not that of open opposers, infidels, and blasphemers, but of inconsistent professors of Christ. These are the ones that keep back the blessing of the God of Israel and bring weakness upon His people.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 497.

Let us move to the third result of secret sins. Now that the Lord had told Joshua the cause of their defeat, notice the warning He gave: “Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because they were accursed: neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you.” Joshua 7:12.

The Spirit of Prophecy gives implications that this text is applied to the church as a whole, but more importantly to the leaders. The Lord said that He would no longer be with Joshua unless he destroyed the accursed thing.

The third result of secrets sins is this: The secret sins of one individual will eventually fall upon the leaders of the church and they will be held accountable for those sins. Surprising? This is what inspiration says: “If the leaders of the church neglect to diligently search out the sins which bring the displeasure of God upon the body, they become responsible for these sins.”

“God’s displeasure is upon His people, and He will not manifest His power in the midst of them while sins exist among them and are fostered by those in responsible positions.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 269, 270.

Are you a leader in the church? Are you being faithful to your duty?

Now I have just presented three interrelated results of secret sins. Once again they are:

The secret sins of one individual will arouse the displeasure of God against His entire church.

The secret sins of one individual will cause the church to lose her battles and fall before her enemies.

The secret sins of one individual will eventually fall upon the leaders of the church, and they will be held accountable for those sins.

Now consider the most subtle secret sin that exists within the church—covetousness.

After the Lord warned Joshua that He would depart from him unless he removed the accursed thing, He tells him to sanctify and assemble the people (Joshua 7:13, 14). Joshua then conducted an investigation by the process of elimination. In the morning, all the tribes of Israel appeared before the Lord, and the tribe of Judah was taken. Out of Judah, the family of the Zarhites was taken. Out of the Zarhites, the household of Zabdi was taken. And out of this household, Achan was singled out. In Joshua 7:19–21 we read Joshua’s plea: “My son, give, I pray thee, glory to the Lord God of Israel, and make confession unto him; and tell me now what thou hast done; hide it not from me.” (By the way, when we confess our sins to God, we are giving Him glory. We are recognizing that His law is just and that He is righteous.) Achan answers, “Indeed I have sinned against the Lord God of Israel, and thus and thus have I done: When I saw …” Notice that he saw. Friends, we must be careful of what we see. There are three evils of this world, and one of these is the lust of the eyes. Achan says, “When I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight, then I coveted them, and took them.” Notice that he coveted and then took of the spoils. Covetousness was the root of Achan’s problem, and it led him to practice deceit and theft. We must beware of covetousness.

We often stress the importance of all of the Ten Commandments. We proclaim that they have not been abolished and that we are still obligated to keep them. It is easy for us to recognize when murder occurs or when someone is being disobedient to their parents. It is even easy for us to recognize when the fourth commandment is broken; we see this all over the Christian world. But how often do we recognize and reprove covetousness, the tenth commandment?

So what does it mean to covet? Well, one way to covet is to wish for something earnestly. This can be a positive action. But in a negative sense, to covet means to have a strong desire for what belongs to another. On a basic level, therefore, covetousness means to have a strong craving for possessions. We want so many things. We want and want until our wants are out of control.

In spite of this, coveting in itself is not evil. What makes it evil is the object of our desires mingled with our ambition to gain that object. For example, Achan coveted evil because his desire was for that which the Lord commanded to be destroyed or consecrated to Him. On the better side of coveting, the apostle Paul exhorts us to “covet earnestly the best gifts.” I Corinthians 12:31. We are told to covet spiritual things; we are to covet heaven; we are to covet after treasures that will last forever.

Why is it that covetousness is so subtle? Well, as humans we have desires; God has created us with the capacity to want. However, because of our lack of self-control, we allow our desire to overpower our ability to reason and make moral decisions. As a result we find ourselves thinking that our strong desires are legitimate when, in reality, we are being greedy and covetous. Inspiration says, “The deadly sin that led to Achan’s ruin had its root in covetousness, of all sins one of the most common and the most lightly regarded. While other offenses meet with detection and punishment, how rarely does the violation of the tenth commandment so much as call forth censure.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 496.

On top of this we have an astonishing quote from Spiritual Gifts, vol. 2, 236: “The greatest sin which now exists in the church is covetousness.” This was written in 1860 and at that time the church was not as wealthy as she is today. So if covetousness was the greatest sin in 1860, how much more are we struggling with this leaven today?

In conclusion, I wish to make an appeal to all Adventists, especially the youth. I want you to consider a possible solution for secret sins. Do you realize that there is no institution more precious to God than is his church? It is the church of God that receives the affections of the entire universe, and all the angels of God are working on her behalf. With intensity they are working to bring the church into perfect unity, but their labors are limited because of secret sins. But change indeed is possible, and a final reformation will come. But what is needed in the church for this reformation to occur? What is needed in the church to bring her into that condition in which she may receive the latter rain? Yes, we have evangelists, we have pastors and teachers. We have Bible workers, colporteurs, and medical missionaries. But there is still a vital office that is empty, and until this office is filled, we will continue to journey in this wilderness. Church of God, what we need at this time are true living prophets. Not necessarily prophets who have visions and dreams, but prophets who rightly proclaim the truth into the context of their community; prophets who, as God’s mouthpiece, speak light into a situation full of darkness. And more than that, we need true prophets who, in the name of Jesus, will call forth order out of chaos. Now not all are called to be prophets. However, let those who have ears to hear, listen to what the Spirit says. The apostle Paul says, “Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.” I Corinthians 14:1. And just as every other gift comes through constant prayer and obedience, so the gift of prophecy will be revived if you earnestly pray for it and obey Christ. Indeed, the only way to realize this gift is to learn what it means to truly love; to love God with all your heart, and to love your neighbor as yourself. I leave you with these final words of inspiration. “God would have His people disciplined and brought into harmony of action, that they may see eye to eye and be of the same mind and of the same judgment. In order to bring about this state of things, there is much to be done. The carnal heart must be subdued and transformed. God designs that there shall ever be a living testimony in the church. It will be necessary to reprove and exhort, and some will need to be rebuked sharply, as the case demands.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 360.

Once again I ask: Do you have a longing for the return of Jesus, and do you believe He is returning for a church without spot or wrinkle?

For a copy of the complete sermon or CD contact: orders@stepstolife.org or call 316-788-5559.

A member of Steps to Life staff, Demario Carter works in the Mail Order Services Department. He can be contacted by e-mail at: landmarks@stepstolife.org or by phone at: 316–788–5559.