creation

The Creation of Man

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By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the hosts of them by the breath of his mouth.” Psalm 33:6. All of creation was made by God. He spoke, and with authority commanded the light to shine out of darkness. He commanded the water to exist. He commanded into existence the sun, moon, and stars. Then He commanded that the trees, plants and animals come forth. All these things were commanded into existence. By speaking, He created. That is powerful and far beyond any human capability—to speak things into existence.

There is a principle that it would be wise to understand. Jesus said, “O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” Matthew 12:34. The words that you speak are the expression of your heart. If you want to know what is in your heart, just think of what you meditate upon and to what you say to other people, “for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.” Words express your heart. Words express your mind.

There are basically two parts of the mind, the thinking aspect and the feeling aspect. It is thoughts and feelings that make up moral character. (See Testimonies, vol. 5, 310.) Thoughts and feelings produce actions, and when those actions are repeated, habits are formed. Habits mold character, and it is character that determines a person’s destiny. Everything begins in the mind. Basically the words you speak express your character, your thoughts and your feelings. A good character will bring forth good words and a bad character will bring forth bad words.

In the beginning, when God created this world, the universe, the galaxies, the beautiful trees, flowers, mountains, and islands, He created them by His word. God’s word reflects His character, and since God created all things by His word, all things that He created reveal His character. Praise God for flowers! When you look at flowers they cause you to think, feel at peace and enjoy their beauty, because they reflect God’s peace, His love, and His beauty—God feels good!

Looking at mountains and seeing something bigger than yourself, so majestic, so powerful and so strong makes you feel small. God is majestic, strong, and powerful! Look at the vast ocean or into the sky on a bright starry night seeing the innumerable lights in the heavens that declare the wisdom of God that is unfathomable. When you appreciate the beauty of creation, you see God’s character, because His love is written in every detail.

In the book of Genesis, it is written that on the first day God created the light. He said, “Let there be light: and there was light.” Genesis 1:3. On the second day He said, “Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.” Verse 6. Boom! God spoke the word, and the water was divided.

On the third day, the grass of the field and the trees were created. Verse 11. God spoke those words, and boom! There it was, powerful! On the fourth day, He spoke into existence the sun, moon, and stars. Verse 16. On the fifth day, the oceans and rivers were filled with fish and the air was filled with birds. Verse 21. Then, on the sixth day, God said, “Let the earth bring forth the living creature after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth.” Verse 24. Then God said, “Let there be man.” Verse 26. No! Have you considered that God could have said, “Let there be man, and there was a man”? Yes, He could have used that method, yet man was not created that way.

God formed man out of the dust (Genesis 2:7). If you have ever tried to form something out of dust, you would know that water would need to be added, and dust and water takes a lot of shaping and touching. Incidentally, up of 60 percent of the human body weight is composed of water! In the creation of man, God gave that extra touch. In this world, when we touch someone it usually means affection. God spoke the rest of creation into existence, but in the creation of man, He came close and touched the man, demonstrating His affection for man.

Not only was Adam shaped into God’s own image, but He breathed into his nostrils His own breath. God did not breathe life into the plants or the trees. God did not breathe into the animals’ nostrils, yet He breathed into the nostrils of Adam. To breathe into his nostrils, God had to come very close to Adam, showing extra affection. The special union between God and man was as if the crowning act of creation was sealed with a kiss. It is incredible that God created man with a kiss, but man, with a kiss, betrayed Jesus. God embraced us with His arms. The Roman soldiers embraced Jesus, to take Him away to His death at Calvary.

As this subject is studied, you will see just how much God loves you. God created all things to reflect His character, but in the creation of man, more love is seen. If you make a special pie and you want it to be sweeter, you would add extra honey. In the creation of man it is as if God poured extra honey into that creation.

God said, “Let there be light,” and He saw the light that it was good. He created the water, and said, “It was good.” He created the plants and trees and said, “It was good.” He created the sun, moon, and stars, and He said, “It was good.” He created the fish and birds, and said, “It was good.” He created animals, and said, “It was good.” But there was one time after creating almost everything that He said, “It is not good.” “And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone.” Genesis 2:18.

For Adam to realize that he needed a companion, but before God gave him a helper, he was given the job of naming the animals. Adam noticed that within the animal kingdom each species was a pair. All the animals were in pairs; they all had a mate, but there was no mate comparable to himself.

Adam began to feel the need of a companion, and God knew it was time to provide him with a helper. God caused Adam to fall into a deep sleep, and the first open chest surgery was performed. Without stitches or scars, God took a rib. How many ribs? Not two, not three, but one. God wanted Adam to have one woman, not two or three or four. And from that rib, Adam’s rib, a human rib taken from his own side, not from an animal or other beast, God created Eve. He wanted Adam to have an equal of his own kind, equally yoked together.

When Adam woke up and saw Eve, his first words must have been, “Wow! I was waiting for you.” Can you imagine if God had created Adam and Eve at the same time, forming Adam and then forming Eve, and breathed into Adam’s nostril and then breathed into Eve’s nostril and they both woke up at the same time? They might have looked at each other and said, “Who are you?”

Which would be more loving, to wake up and say, “Who are you” or wake up and say, “I was waiting for you”? Many times, young people get married, and after the wedding ceremony and the first honeymoon, they wake up in the morning, look at each other, and ask, “Who are you?” And there goes their marriage life! God did not create Eve until Adam felt the need to receive love and to give love. It would be wise that if a man did not feel the genuine need for a woman, to not get married. Otherwise, after he gets married he may think that his wife is the greatest burden in his life.

Everything about the creation of man and woman involves the ingredients of love. God created you in love. The Bible has much to say about this. “What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.” Psalm 8:4, 5. The Bible asks, “What is man?” Then gives the answer: he was made “a little lower than the angels.” In the beginning, God created man with beauty, glory and honor. The Bible says that He “crowned him.” A crown is put on your head. Head represents top. The creation of man is better than the creation of the flowers, and trees and the planet, even the stars. The creation of man is the best creation of God, the crowning act of His creative power.

There is one more thing to keep in mind. That is, God crowned man with glory. “Even every one that is called by My name: for I have created him for My glory.” Isaiah 43:7. The Bible is clear. God created man, and crowned him with glory—for His glory.

The Bible interprets itself, so we must let the Bible explain what glory represents. Often, when we think of the word glory, we think of great light. But glory does not just mean great light. Up on the mountain, the prophet Moses made a great request to God: “And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.” Exodus 33:18. What a request! What would God reveal to you if you were to ask that of Him? Let’s see how God responded: “I will make all My goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord [My name] before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.” Verse 19.

When Moses asked to see God’s glory, God said, “I will show you My goodness; I will show you My name, I will show you My mercy; I will show you My grace.” Therefore, glory is equal to God’s goodness, His name, His mercy, and His grace. When you have grace, mercy, goodness, name, and put it all together, there is only one conclusion, a common denominator. All of those things represent God’s character.

The flowers and trees, reflect God’s character, but they have their limitations. Man is different. When God created man it was to exhibit more of His character and reveal God’s love more than any other part of creation. Man has the ability to reveal God’s character more and more as long as we grow in the grace and the knowledge of God by reflecting His love. Mankind has the ability to develop continually forever and ever, day by day, becoming more and more like Jesus.

Can you imagine what it would be like after 300 million years? Do you think you will be equal to God? No, never; God’s character is infinite. There is no measurable limit to the depth, height or width of His love. Praise God that you can reflect His character from glory to glory. Within man there is an empty space that needs to be filled, a throne that needs to be filled by the presence of God’s love.

Before becoming a Christian, you may have done all kinds of sinful things, thinking that doing so would make you happy. But you felt empty. You knew something was not right, that you were not what you needed to be. You may not have known about the true image and the purpose of God. If you continue doing sinful things thinking that is all there is, then what is the meaning of life? What is your purpose? The Bible makes clear the purpose of life; you will feel the most fulfilled when you allow God’s character to reflect in your life. When you have that experience with God, it is guaranteed that you will be a satisfied person.

Many people try to fill that empty space with alcohol, parties, women, men, and with all kinds of things, but they never can satisfy the emptiness of soul, which is likened to a broken cup. It can never be filled satisfactorily with anything but Jesus.

Man was created in the image of God, physically, mentally and spiritually. The first Adam was very big—about 15 feet tall. The tallest man today would be considered a very small person in comparison. Adam was strong. He was the king of the whole planet earth. Just think how fast he could run!

Can you imagine Adam’s handsome face, symmetrical and without a blemish? His brain was brilliant. For that reason, from Adam to the time of Moses, there is no record of writing. The people spoke and remembered without the need of written word.

Today, when somebody speaks, we write it down once, twice, three times and then still forget. Adam’s mind was better than any computer in the world today.

Even more superior than his other attributes was Adam’s spiritual condition, which was very simple. He was happy. He felt joy in the presence of God.

So what happened to us? Why are we so short and our faces so crooked? Why are we so uncomely? Why do we so easily get diseased and sick? Why is it that we forget things, especially those things that are right? And most importantly, why do we get so sad or angry when we have to do right? And why is it that in the presence of God we don’t feel any joy, but we feel uncomfortable? What has happened to us?

The Bible says, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23. As stated before, the word glory means God’s character. Because of sin, mankind comes short of God’s character. The character of God has been lost because of sin. The biggest problem in the world today is not your wife, it is not your husband, it is not your boss; it is sin.

Sin is the main problem that destroys your character and gives you the character of Satan. Your character is messed up; it is confused because you have eaten from the tree of good and evil. You see and have both good and evil qualities. In other words, you can be pleasant and loving to someone, but at the same time you are hateful to someone else. You can be patient for your own selfish gain, and you can act meekly and humbly to gain power and authority. You twist other people’s personalities and disguise your own to make yourself look better than other people.

The biggest problem in the world today is not having the character of God. What is the cause? Sin. What is sin? “Sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). Breaking God’s law destroys God’s character in your life. Why then the law? The Bible says, “Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” Romans 7:12. If the commandment is of God, it is holy, just, and good. God’s character is holy; God’s character is just; God’s character is good; and the law of God is holy, just, and good.

Simply said, God’s law reflects His character. When you go against His law, you go against His character. That is why, when you break God’s law, you walk away from the character of God and walk towards the character of Satan. Hate, jealousy, evil surmising, bigotry, provoking, revenge, jealousy, impatience, backbiting—all these things begin to creep into your life. But there is good news, powerful news! God can help us get out of this disastrous condition.

“Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 11 Thessalonians 2:14. You have lost your glory—your character—but the Bible says that you can obtain glory! Glory means character, the character of Jesus Christ! It is His purpose and the great plan of salvation to restore man back to the image and the character of God.

The Bible says, “To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27. When Christ lives in you, then you have hope to reflect His character. What a powerful message from the Word that is, “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord …” II Corinthians 3:18. Again, glory, represents character. By beholding the character of God, change happens.

People today are looking for change. They are looking for a new life. People are looking for a transformation; they are looking for something different. People are looking for something that is not only to change for a short time, but permanently.

The Bible gives a very clear message that when you behold the glory of God, you become changed, from one character into another. Development is taking place again. Restoration is taking place again. New life is beginning again. When you behold Jesus, you are going to be like Him.

God does not promise that the world will be an easy place without effort. No! The Bible promises that change is possible, but at the same time, the road is narrow and strait (see Matthew 7:14). This whole world is turning toward reflecting Satan’s character and you have to swim against that current to escape.

Today, people say that it is normal to get angry; it is normal to yell and scream, because everybody is doing it. Blame is given to parents, claiming that they have passed on character defects and there is nothing that can be done about it. But the God of creation can create and re-create. In the beginning, at the creation, God touched Adam, but in the re-creation of man, Jesus dwells in the heart. It is more powerful and intimate than a mere touching; it is Christ living in you.

“I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” What is the good news that needs to go to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people? “Saying with a loud voice, ‘Fear God, and give glory to Him.’ ” Revelation 14:6, 7. What does that glory mean? It means reflecting His character.

Today, Christians go to church with their Bible under arm, and when they walk in the church, they put on the suit of a holy angel. They bow, they pray, they sing songs, and sometimes they even cry, because their emotions have been touched. They give money, but when they go home, they put the Bible away where it will stay for the rest of the week. Something goes wrong, and father and mother have a little fight which gets bigger and bigger. The children agitate the parents, and the parents nag at their children. Father lies and cheats a little bit to get some more money out of his business. Mother chit chats and gossips, making phone calls backbiting people, living like the devil for six days. Then they go back to church again with their Bible under arm, putting on that holy angel garment again. This is not going to work!

The power of God and the truth in His word is more powerful than living that kind of life. The problem is not to try harder or to put in more effort. The problem is that Jesus is not living in their hearts. The problem Jesus has with the Laodicean church (Revelation 3:14–22) is not a lack of knowledge; it is not because they don’t have money; they are increased with goods and they are rich, but they are poor and naked and miserable and wretched. The biggest problem with the Laodiceans, that causes them to be lukewarm, is that Jesus is standing outside, knocking. If Jesus is standing outside knocking, then Jesus is not in them. If Jesus is not in them, then there is no “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). The reason the Laodiceans are lukewarm is because Christ is not in them. They have no hope to reflect God’s character, yet they want the name of Christian while still in a lukewarm condition. Why does the Laodicean church not open the door (verse 20)? The problem is they do not want to be crucified to self.

How can you have Christ living in your heart? When you say, “I am,” how much of you are you describing? All of it! When God said to Moses, “I Am that I Am” (Exodus 3:14), it described all of Him. When Paul says, “I am …” he means all of me is “crucified with Christ.” All of me is crucified and surrendered to Christ. “Nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.” Galatians 2:20. So, when you say, “I am crucified with Christ,” “I” does not live, but Christ lives “in me.”

The Bible says that when Jesus Christ comes back the second time, He is coming back to get His children; those who reflect His character. Jesus is saying to you today, “My child, die with Me. Die with Me that you may live with Me.”

If you recognize that your life is empty and you have been chasing hopeless rainbows; if you have been looking for wealth that only moths and worms eat up; if you are looking for beautiful mansions while you live in a broken down hut; if you see that you are poor and naked, rededicate your life to Jesus right now. He wants you to walk with Him, not by so much trying hard once again, but by abiding in Him, allowing Him to cleanse you from all of your sins and teach you to rest in Him, leaving everything in His hands, because He is the Author and Finisher of your faith (Hebrews 12:2).

Bible Study Guides – Twin Institutions

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September 18, 2011 – September 24, 2011

Key Text

“Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.” Hebrews 4:11.

Study Help: Child Guidance, 527–537; Testimonies, vol. 6, 349–368.

Introduction

“To those who keep holy the Sabbath day it is the sign of sanctification. True sanctification is harmony with God, oneness with Him in character.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 350.

1 THE FIRST GIFTS

  • What blessed gifts did God give at creation? Genesis 1:26, 27; 2:2, 3.

Note: “He [Jesus] referred them [His hearers] to the blessed days of Eden, when God pronounced all things ‘very good.’ Then marriage and the Sabbath had their origin, twin institutions for the glory of God in the benefit of humanity.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 63.

  • What does God desire in these last days? Acts 3:19–21.

Note: “In both the Old and the New Testament the marriage relation is employed to represent the tender and sacred union that exists between Christ and His people, the redeemed ones whom He has purchased at the cost of Calvary.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 64.

“In the time of the end every divine institution is to be restored. … God’s remnant people, standing before the world as reformers, are to show that the law of God is the foundation of all enduring reform and that the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is to stand as a memorial of creation, a constant reminder of the power of God. In clear, distinct lines they are to present the necessity of obedience to all the precepts of the Decalogue.” Prophets and Kings, 678.

2 THE CONNECTION

  • What is the connection between the family and the Sabbath? Exodus 31:13–17; Deuteronomy 11:19.

Note: “The Sabbath and the family were alike instituted in Eden, and in God’s purpose they are indissolubly linked together. On this day more than on any other, it is possible for us to live the life of Eden. It was God’s plan for the members of the family to be associated in work and study, in worship and recreation, the father as priest of his household, and both father and mother as teachers and companions of their children.” Education, 250, 251.

  • How does our Sabbath preparation parallel with the preparation for the Lord’s coming? Will we be ready or unprepared? Amos 4:12.

Note: “I saw that we should not put off the coming of the Lord. Said the angel: ‘Prepare, prepare, for what is coming upon the earth. Let your works correspond with your faith.’ ” Testimonies, vol. 1, 123.

“On Friday let the preparation for the Sabbath be completed. See that all the clothing is in readiness and that all the cooking is done. Let the boots be blacked and the baths be taken. It is possible to do this. If you make it a rule you can do it. The Sabbath is not to be given to the repairing of garments, to the cooking of food, to pleasure seeking, or to any other worldly employment. Before the setting of the sun let all secular … papers be put out of sight. …

“We should jealously guard the edges of the Sabbath. Remember that every moment is consecrated, holy time. Whenever it is possible, employers should give their workers the hours from Friday noon until the beginning of the Sabbath. Give them time for preparation, that they may welcome the Lord’s day with quietness of mind. …

“There is another work that should receive attention on the preparation day. On this day all differences between brethren, whether in the family or in the church should be put away. …

“Before the Sabbath begins, the mind as well as the body should be withdrawn from worldly business. God has set His Sabbath at the end of the six working days, that men may stop and consider what they have gained during the week in preparation for the pure kingdom which admits no transgressor. We should each Sabbath reckon with our souls to see whether the week that has ended has brought spiritual gain or loss.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 355, 356.

3 A SPECIAL TIME—DON’T WASTE IT

  • How should we spend the precious hours of the Sabbath? Psalm 95:1–11; Exodus 20:8–11.

Note: “Before the setting of the sun, let the members of the family assemble to read God’s Word, to sing and pray. … We need to confess to God and to one another. …

“This should be a day of blessing to us—a day when we should lay aside all our secular matters and center our thoughts upon God and heaven.” Child Guidance, 529.

“The Sabbath school and the meeting for worship occupy only a part of the Sabbath. The portion remaining to the family may be made the most sacred and precious season of all the Sabbath hours. Much of this time parents should spend with their children.” Ibid., 532.

  • What should we not allow on the Sabbath day? Isaiah 58:13.

Note: “None should permit themselves, through the week, to become so absorbed in their temporal interests, and so exhausted by their efforts for worldly gain, that on the Sabbath they have no strength or energy to give to the service of God. We are robbing the Lord when we unfit ourselves to worship Him upon His holy day. …

“Let not the precious hours of the Sabbath be wasted in bed. On Sabbath morning the family should be astir early.” Child Guidance, 530.

“We should not provide for the Sabbath a more liberal supply or a greater variety of food than for other days. Instead of this the food should be more simple, and less should be eaten, in order that the mind may be clear and vigorous to comprehend spiritual things. Overeating befogs the brain. The most precious words may be heard and not appreciated, because the mind is confused by an improper diet. By overeating on the Sabbath, many have done more than they think to dishonor God.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 357.

“In order to keep the Sabbath holy, it is not necessary that we enclose ourselves in walls, shut away from the beautiful scenes of nature and from the free, invigorating air of heaven. … The mind cannot be refreshed, enlivened, and elevated by being confined nearly all the Sabbath hours within walls, listening to long sermons and tedious, formal prayers. The Sabbath of the Lord is put to a wrong use if thus celebrated.” Ibid., vol. 2, 583.

4 ACTIVITIES TOGETHER

  • What are some special things to do on the Sabbath? Job 12:7–9; Psalm 150:1, 6.

Note: “Since the Sabbath is the memorial of creative power, it is the day above all others when we should acquaint ourselves with God through His works. In the minds of the children the very thought of the Sabbath should be bound up with the beauty of natural things. Happy is the family who can go to the place of worship on the Sabbath as Jesus and His disciples went to the synagogue—across the fields, along the shores of the lake, or through the groves. Happy the father and mother who can teach their children God’s written word with illustrations from the open pages of the book of nature; who can gather under the green trees, in the fresh, pure air, to study the word and to sing the praise of the Father above.

“By such associations parents may bind their children to their hearts, and thus to God, by ties that can never be broken.” Education, 251.

“In pleasant weather let parents walk with their children in the fields and groves. Amid the beautiful things of nature tell them the reason for the institution of the Sabbath. Describe to them God’s great work of creation. …

“Tell them of the way of salvation. … Let the sweet story of Bethlehem be repeated. Present before the children Jesus, as a child obedient to His parents, as a youth faithful and industrious, helping to support the family. … From time to time read with them the interesting stories in Bible history. Question as to what they have learned in the Sabbath school, and study with them the next Sabbath’s lesson.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 358, 359.

  • What else must we include in our Sabbath activities? Hebrews 10:24, 25.

Note: “The necessities of life must be attended to, the sick must be cared for, the wants of the needy must be supplied. He will not be held guiltless who neglects to relieve suffering on the Sabbath. God’s holy rest day was made for man, and acts of mercy are in perfect harmony with its intent. …

“The Sabbath is not intended to be a period of useless inactivity. … Man is to leave the occupations of his daily life, and devote those sacred hours to healthful rest, to worship, and to holy deeds.” The Desire of Ages, 207.

5 PREPARING FOR ETERNITY

  • What does the Sabbath foreshadow now? Hebrews 4:8–11; Isaiah 66:22, 23; Revelation 21:1.

Note: “There [in the city of God] the redeemed shall ‘know, even as also they are known’ [I Corinthians 13:12]. The loves and sympathies which God Himself has planted in the soul shall there find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion with holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, the sacred ties that bind together ‘the whole family in heaven and earth’ [Ephesians 3:15]—these help to constitute the happiness of the redeemed. …

“The family of heaven and the family of earth are one.” The Adventist Home, 544.

  • Unto what words of instruction should we take heed in order to be prepared for the great day of God? II Peter 3:11–14.

Note: “ ‘Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else’ [Isaiah 45:22]. This is the message written in nature, which the Sabbath is appointed to keep in memory. …

“God designed that its observance should designate them as His worshipers. It was to be a token of their separation from idolatry, and their connection with the true God. But in order to keep the Sabbath holy, men must themselves be holy. Through faith they must become partakers of the righteousness of Christ.” The Desire of Ages, 283.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What are the twin institutions which were given at creation and what are their purposes?

2 What is the connection between the family and the Sabbath?

3 How should you spend your time on the Sabbath day?

4 Describe some special activities to do together.

Copyright © 2002 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – God’s Supreme Plan

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April 7, 2013 – April 13, 2013

Key Text

“If there be a messenger with him, an interpreter, one among a thousand, to shew unto man his uprightness: Then he is gracious unto him, and saith, Deliver him from going down to the pit: I have found a ransom.” Job 33:23, 24.

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 52–62; The Story of Redemption, 42–50.

Introduction

“It is the glory of the gospel that it is founded on the principles of restoring in the fallen race the divine image.” The Review and Herald, May 2, 1912.

1 CHRIST, THE EXPRESS IMAGE

  • How does God the Father address His Son? Hebrews 1:8–10. What distinctions characterize the Son of God? Colossians 2:9.

Note: “In the work of creation, Christ was with God. He was one with God, equal with Him, the brightness of His glory, the express image of His person, the representative of the Father.” The Signs of the Times, February 13, 1893.

“Christ was God essentially, and in the highest sense. He was with God from all eternity. God over all, blessed forevermore.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1126.

  • How does the Son of God summarize His relationship with the Father? John 10:30. What should we then realize as we seek to worship God?

Note: “In Christ is gathered all the glory of the Father. In Him is all the fullness of the Godhead.” The Signs of the Times, November 24, 1898.

“Our ministers must be very careful not to enter into controversy in regard to the personality of God. This is a subject that they are not to touch. It is a mystery, and the enemy will surely lead astray those who enter into it.” Sermons and Talks, vol. 1, 343.

2 THE COUNSEL OF PEACE

  • What was to be the crowning act of God’s entire creation? Genesis 1:26; Psalm 100:3. In view of the crisis that had occurred in heaven, what did the Father and Son consider?

Note: “The Father consulted His Son in regard to at once carrying out their purpose to make man to inhabit the earth. He would place man upon probation to test his loyalty before he could be rendered eternally secure. If he endured the test wherewith God saw fit to prove him, he should eventually be equal with the angels.” The Story of Redemption, 19.

  • How did the Father and Son plan to redeem humanity in case they would fall prey to the archrebel? Zechariah 6:13, last part; Job 33:27–30.

Note: “The great plan of redemption was laid before the foundation of the world. And Christ, our Substitute and Surety, did not stand alone in the wondrous undertaking of the ransom of man. In the plan to save a lost world, the counsel was between them both; the covenant of peace was between the Father and the Son. ‘For God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life’ (John 3:16). The Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, would become a servant. The only-begotten Son, in whom the Father delighted, was given for the ransom of a fallen race. …

“The Father gave Himself to the world in the gift of His Son. It was the love of the Father for fallen man that devised in union with the Son the plan of redemption. And in this great gift the character of God is exemplified to all who shall receive the world’s Redeemer by faith, as a God of holiness and a God of love. In the crucifixion of His dear Son upon the cross of Calvary, He gives to all the sons and daughters of Adam an expression of His justice and His love. This offering made manifest the immutability of the holiness of His law. In the cross of Calvary justice and truth have met together, righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

“The Lord God omnipotent is the God of His people. He is also a tender, loving Father, ready to hear their prayers; for God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them. God sent forth His Son to be the propitiation for them through faith in His atoning blood.” The Signs of the Times, December 23, 1897.

3 THE CREATION OF THE HUMAN RACE

  • What distinguishes humanity from all God’s other creatures? Genesis 1:27.

Note: “Created to be ‘the image and glory of God’ (1 Corinthians 11:7), Adam and Eve had received endowments not unworthy of their high destiny. Graceful and symmetrical in form, regular and beautiful in feature, their countenances glowing with the tint of health and the light of joy and hope, they bore in outward resemblance the likeness of their Maker. Nor was this likeness manifest in the physical nature only. Every faculty of mind and soul reflected the Creator’s glory. Endowed with high mental and spiritual gifts, Adam and Eve were made but ‘little lower than the angels’ (Hebrews 2:7), that they might not only discern the wonders of the visible universe, but comprehend moral responsibilities and obligations.” Education, 20.

  • What should we realize about the high calling of humanity? Psalm 8:3–9.

Note: “The same unseen Hand that guides the planets in their courses, and upholds the worlds by His power, has made provision for man formed in His image, that he may be little less than the angels of God while in the performance of his duties on earth.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 415, 416.

  • Describe the Edenic scene of Adam’s early existence. Genesis 1:31; 2:8, 15.

Note: “Adam was surrounded with everything his heart could wish. Every want was supplied. There was no sin, and no signs of decay in glorious Eden. Angels of God conversed freely and lovingly with the holy pair. The happy songsters caroled forth their free, joyous songs of praise to their Creator. The peaceful beasts in happy innocence played about Adam and Eve, obedient to their word. Adam was in the perfection of manhood, the noblest of the Creator’s work. He was in the image of God, but a little lower than the angels.” Selected Messages, Book 1, 268.

4 TRAGEDY STRIKES

  • How and why did God test Adam’s fidelity? Genesis 2:9, 16, 17.

Note: “God created man in His own image, after His likeness, free from sin, and with organs well developed. The earth was to be populated with intelligent beings who were only a little lower than the angels. But God would first prove the holy pair, and test their obedience; for He would not have a world filled with beings who would disregard His laws.” The Signs of the Times, January 23, 1879.

  • What warnings should we heed from observing the way Adam failed the test? Genesis 3:1–13.

Note: “The very fact that Adam’s trial was small, made his sin exceeding great. God tested him in that which was least, to prove him; and with the prohibition He stated that the punishment consequent upon his disobedience would be death. If Adam could not bear this smallest of tests to prove his loyalty, he surely could not have endured a stronger trial had he been taken into closer relationship with God, to bear higher responsibilities. He evidenced that God could not trust him; should he be exposed to Satan’s more determined attacks, he would signally fail. …

“Adam did the worst thing he could do under the circumstances. In doing that which God had expressly forbidden he set his will against the will of God, thus waging war with His requirements. The pen of inspiration has with accuracy traced the history of our first parents’ sin and fall, that all generations may be warned not to follow Adam’s example, in the slightest disregard of God’s requirements. Had the test been in regard to larger matters, men might have excused the sin of disobedience in what they call smaller things. But God made the test with Adam upon things that are least, to show man that the slightest disobedience to His requirements is sin in every sense of the word. God, the Governor of the universe, has made all things subject to law; things apparently insignificant, and things of the greatest magnitude, are all governed by laws adapted to their natures. Nothing that God has made has been forgotten or left to blind chance. To man, as being endowed with reasoning powers and conscience, God’s moral law is given to control his actions. Man is not compelled to obey. He may defy God’s law, as did Adam, and take the fearful consequences; or by living in harmony with that law he may reap the rewards of obedience.” The Signs of the Times, January 23, 1879.

5 HEAVEN TO THE RESCUE

  • How did the angels exemplify unselfish love? John 15:13. What was to be their privilege? Romans 15:1.

Note: “The angels prostrated themselves at the feet of their Commander and offered to become a sacrifice for man. But an angel’s life could not pay the debt; only He who created man had power to redeem him. Yet the angels were to have a part to act in the plan of redemption. Christ was to be made ‘a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death’ (Hebrews 2:9). As He should take human nature upon Him, His strength would not be equal to theirs, and they were to minister to Him, to strengthen and soothe Him under His sufferings. They were also to be ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who should be heirs of salvation (Hebrews 1:14). They would guard the subjects of grace from the power of evil angels and from the darkness constantly thrown around them by Satan.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 64, 65.

  • In the words addressed to the serpent, what hope did God offer to the fallen pair? Genesis 3:14, 15; Romans 16:20.

Note: “The Godhead was stirred with pity for the race, and the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit gave Themselves to the working out of the plan of redemption.” The Review and Herald, May 2, 1912.

“Christ would take upon Himself the guilt and shame of sin—sin so offensive to a holy God that it must separate the Father and His Son. Christ would reach to the depths of misery to rescue the ruined race.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 63.

“Adam marveled at the goodness of God in providing such a ransom for the sinner.” The Signs of the Times, February 20, 1893.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What are the heavenly credentials of the Son of God?

2 What was the “counsel of peace”?

3 Why was Adam tested? Why is each of us tested?

4 Explain why the test in Paradise was relatively small. Why are our daily tests small as well?

5 Can we be inspired by the response of all Heaven to this crisis?

© 2007 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – The Government of Heaven

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March 31, 2013 – April 6, 2013

That I Might Live

Key Text

“By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth.” Psalm 33:6.

Study Help: Patriarchs and Prophets, 33–43; The Story of Redemption, 13–19.

Introduction

“The Son of God had wrought the Father’s will in the creation of all the hosts of heaven; and to Him, as well as to God, their homage and allegiance were due.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 36.

1 THE GOD OF HEAVEN

  • What characteristic is unique to the Godhead? Psalm 33:6, 9. How—and by Whom—were all things in the universe created? John 1:1–3.

Note: “The Sovereign of the universe was not alone in His work of beneficence. He had an associate—a co-worker who could appreciate His purposes, and could share His joy in giving happiness to created beings. …

“The Father wrought by His Son in the creation of all heavenly beings. [Colossians 1:16 quoted.] Angels are God’s ministers, radiant with the light ever flowing from His presence and speeding on rapid wing to execute His will. But the Son, the anointed of God, the ‘express image of His person,’ ‘the brightness of His glory,’ ‘upholding all things by the word of His power,’ holds supremacy over them all (Hebrews 1:3).” Patriarchs and Prophets, 34.

  • What does Inspiration reveal about the throne of God? Jeremiah 17:12. How does this relate to the Son of God? Hebrews 1:8.

Note: “The Son of God shared the Father’s throne, and the glory of the eternal, self-existent One encircled both. … The Son of God had wrought the Father’s will in the creation of all the hosts of heaven; and to Him, as well as to God, their [the angels’] homage and allegiance were due.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 36.

2 LIFE IN HEAVEN

  • What are some of the fundamental characteristics of the government of Heaven? Psalm 89:14; I John 4:16.

Note: “The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the happiness of all intelligent beings depends upon their perfect accord with its great principles of righteousness. God desires from all His creatures the service of love—service that springs from an appreciation of His character. He takes no pleasure in a forced obedience; and to all He grants freedom of will, that they may render Him voluntary service.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 34.

“God’s love has been expressed in His justice no less than in His mercy. Justice is the foundation of His throne, and the fruit of His love. It had been Satan’s purpose to divorce mercy from truth and justice. He sought to prove that the righteousness of God’s law is an enemy to peace. But Christ shows that in God’s plan they are indissolubly joined together; the one cannot exist without the other. ‘Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other’ (Psalm 85:10).” The Desire of Ages, 762.

  • What characterized the relationship between the entire host of heavenly creatures and their beneficent Creator? Psalm 103:20, 21.

Note: “So long as all created beings acknowledged the allegiance of love, there was perfect harmony throughout the universe of God. It was the joy of the heavenly host to fulfill the purpose of their Creator. They delighted in reflecting His glory and showing forth His praise. And while love to God was supreme, love for one another was confiding and unselfish. There was no note of discord to mar the celestial harmonies.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 35.

“All created beings live by the will and power of God. They are dependent recipients of the life of God. From the highest seraph to the humblest animate being, all are replenished from the Source of life.” The Desire of Ages, 785.

“When the Lord created these [angelic] beings to stand before His throne, they were beautiful and glorious. Their loveliness and holiness were equal to their exalted station. They were enriched by the wisdom of God, and girded with the panoply of heaven.” The Signs of the Times, April 14, 1898.

3 UNPRECEDENTED DISSONANCE

  • What ambition was nourished by Lucifer, the highest created being? Ezekiel 28:12–15.

Note: “There was one who perverted the freedom that God had granted to His creatures. Sin originated with him who, next to Christ, had been most honored of God and was highest in power and glory among the inhabitants of heaven. Lucifer, ‘son of the morning,’ was first of the covering cherubs, holy and undefiled. He stood in the presence of the great Creator, and the ceaseless beams of glory enshrouding the eternal God rested upon him. ‘Thus saith the Lord God; Thou sealest up the sum, full of wisdom, and perfect in beauty. Thou hast been in Eden the garden of God; every precious stone was thy covering. … Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire. Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee’ (Ezekiel 28:12–15).

“Little by little Lucifer came to indulge the desire for self-exaltation. The Scripture says, ‘Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty, thou hast corrupted thy wisdom by reason of thy brightness’ (Ezekiel 28:17). ‘Thou hast said in thine heart, … I will exalt my throne above the stars of God. … I will be like the Most High’ (Isaiah 14:13, 14). Though all his glory was from God, this mighty angel came to regard it as pertaining to himself.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 35.

  • What was the real cause of Lucifer’s dissatisfaction? Proverbs 13:10; Psalm 10:4.

Note: “Not content with his position, though honored above the heavenly host, he [Lucifer] ventured to covet homage due alone to the Creator. Instead of seeking to make God supreme in the affections and allegiance of all created beings, it was his endeavor to secure their service and loyalty to himself. And coveting the glory with which the infinite Father had invested His Son, this prince of angels aspired to power that was the prerogative of Christ alone.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 35.

4 TWO OPPOSITE WAYS OF WORKING

  • How did Heaven’s reasoning with Lucifer exemplify God’s tender appeals to His erring creatures throughout all ages? What was Lucifer’s attitude?

Note: “In heavenly council the angels pleaded with Lucifer. The Son of God presented before him the greatness, the goodness, and the justice of the Creator, and the sacred, unchanging nature of His law. God Himself had established the order of heaven; and in departing from it, Lucifer would dishonor his Maker and bring ruin upon himself. But the warning, given in infinite love and mercy, only aroused a spirit of resistance. Lucifer allowed his jealousy of Christ to prevail, and became the more determined.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 36.

  • In sharp contrast to God’s methods, what means did Lucifer use to subtly dissuade many angels from their trustful allegiance to God? Psalm 55:21.

Note: “Leaving his place in the immediate presence of the Father, Lucifer went forth to diffuse the spirit of discontent among the angels. He worked with mysterious secrecy, and for a time concealed his real purpose under an appearance of reverence for God. He began to insinuate doubts concerning the laws that governed heavenly beings, intimating that though laws might be necessary for the inhabitants of the worlds, angels, being more exalted, needed no such restraint, for their own wisdom was a sufficient guide. They were not beings that could bring dishonor to God; all their thoughts were holy; it was no more possible for them than for God Himself to err. The exaltation of the Son of God as equal with the Father was represented as an injustice to Lucifer, who, it was claimed, was also entitled to reverence and honor.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 37.

“While claiming for himself perfect loyalty to God, he urged that changes in the order and laws of heaven were necessary for the stability of the divine government. Thus while working to excite opposition to the law of God and to instill his own discontent into the minds of the angels under him, he was ostensibly seeking to remove dissatisfaction and to reconcile disaffected angels to the order of heaven. While secretly fomenting discord and rebellion, he with consummate craft caused it to appear as his sole purpose to promote loyalty and to preserve harmony and peace.” Ibid., 38.

5 OPEN REBELLION

  • Trace the final stages of Lucifer’s rebellion in heaven. Revelation 12:7–9.

Note: “He [Lucifer] nearly reached the decision to return [to God], but pride forbade him. It was too great a sacrifice for one who had been so highly honored to confess that he had been in error.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 39.

  • How is Satan’s fall summarized? Isaiah 14:12–15. Why didn’t the Lord immediately destroy him? Ezekiel 28:17, 19.

Note: “Even when he was cast out of heaven, Infinite Wisdom did not destroy Satan. Since only the service of love can be acceptable to God, the allegiance of His creatures must rest upon a conviction of His justice and benevolence. The inhabitants of heaven and of the worlds, being unprepared to comprehend the nature or consequences of sin, could not then have seen the justice of God in the destruction of Satan. Had he been immediately blotted out of existence, some would have served God from fear rather than from love. The influence of the deceiver would not have been fully destroyed, nor would the spirit of rebellion have been utterly eradicated. For the good of the entire universe through ceaseless ages, he must more fully develop his principles, that his charges against the divine government might be seen in their true light by all created beings, and that the justice and mercy of God and the immutability of His law might be forever placed beyond all question.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 42.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Why is the Son of God entitled to share the Father’s throne?

2 What can we learn from the heavenly plan of government?

3 How can we avoid even the initial steps of Lucifer’s personal disaffection?

4 What warning should we take from the way so many angels were influenced by Lucifer?

5 Explain the wisdom of God’s methods of handling this crisis.

© 2007 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Let there be Light

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“Then the Pharisees and the Sadducees came, and testing Him [Jesus] asked that He would show them a sign from heaven. He answered and said to them, ‘When it is evening you say, “It will be fair weather, for the sky is red”; and in the morning, “It will be foul weather today, for the sky is red and threatening.” Hypocrites! You know how to discern the face of the sky, but you cannot discern the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.’ And He left them and departed.”

Matthew 16:1–4

Jesus often used physical realities—the things of nature—to make a spiritual point. He referred to them as signs. These signs were actual, factual, even sometimes historical events intended to direct the minds of the hearers beyond the truths of the physical world to greater spiritual truths.

Paul suggests that God has done the same thing—used physical reality to make a spiritual point—in the act of creation itself. He wrote, in II Corinthians 4:6, “For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

Here Paul is making an allusion to Genesis 1:1–3, which reads, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Then God said, ‘Let there be light’; and there was light.”

Clearly, Paul considers the creation as recorded by Moses in Genesis to be a historical, factual, and plainly understood and widely accepted fact. God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. For Paul, this text points to a real event in time and history—the creation of light around six thousand years ago.

However, God revealed to Paul that the text does even more than record history. God showed Paul that His acts in creation were prophetic and eternal words, foretelling spiritual things to come. Just as God said, “Let there be light!” He now says to helpless, weak sinners, “Let there be understanding of who Christ is.” To quote 11 Corinthians 4:6 again, “to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”

As the divine light on day one invaded the darkness of the pre-creation void, so God’s grace invades our weak, frail, dark minds. We stand before God without spiritual light and void of goodness. Like the original creation in Genesis 1, we do not yet have spiritual life, but all that changes because of God’s grace. God says, “Let there be light,” and there is light!

God revealed a similar idea to John. John 1:4, 5 says, “In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.” Like Paul, John is alluding to Genesis 1:1–3, understanding that every word of the creation story is historical and literally true.

In addition, God revealed to John that the Genesis text says much more. God intended the historic light of creation to burn an even greater spiritual truth into our minds. The same God who said “Let there be light” is the God who inspired Peter to write, in I Peter 2:9, “You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

Allusions to the light of truth penetrating darkness are ubiquitous in both the Old and the New Testaments. Both Job and his “miserable comforters” speak of the contrast between light and dark. In Job 29:2, 3, Job remarks of his misery, “Oh, that I were as in months past, as in the days when God watched over me; when His lamp shone upon my head, and when by His light I walked through darkness.”

David spoke of it in Psalm 18:28, where he wrote, “For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness,” and again in Psalm 112:4: “Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness.” (KJV)

Isaiah used the same metaphor in Isaiah 9:2: “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined.”

In speaking for God, Isaiah wrote in Isaiah 42:16, “I will bring the blind by a way they did not know; I will lead them in paths they have not known. I will make darkness light before them, and crooked places straight. These things I will do for them, and not forsake them.”

Micah as well made reference to this phenomenon in Micah 7:8: “Do not rejoice over me, my enemy; when I fall, I will arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.”

And, of course, we are all familiar with the words of Christ Himself, as quoted in John 8:12: “Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.’ ”

He made a similar reference in John 12:35, 36: “Then Jesus said to them, ‘A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.’ ”

In John 3:19, in His conversation with Nicodemus, Jesus remarked, “And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.”

The same God Who, in Genesis 1, transformed the earth, filling it with light, life, order, and rule, is the same God Who is transforming believers by His grace into men and women who are to be “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14), and, when fulfilling the grand commission, will, as Gabriel told Daniel in Daniel 12:3, shine as the stars of heaven. The power of God that was manifested in the historic creation is the same power that is at work in our lives today.

Unfortunately, some professedly Christian leaders have mythologized the Creation, dismissing it as pre-scientific nonsense. Even Pat Robertson, a leading evangelical Christian, has maintained that the Creation is a myth, citing carbon dating and dinosaurs “frozen in time out in the Dakotas” as irrefutable evidence that the earth is vastly more than 6,000 years old. (November 27, 2012, on the “700 Club” broadcast, CBN television.)

Such statements give strength to the Catholic argument that man’s intelligence overrules the teachings of Scripture, and erodes faith in God’s word, leading one to believe that he can pick and choose what he takes as truth in God’s word.

Paul and John took the opposite view. They understood that all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness.

To trivialize God’s words—any of His words, from the very first words, “Let there be light,” to the very last words, “Surely, I come quickly”—deprives believers of the blessings, the faith, and the confidence in His word that God intended us to have when He gave it to us.

(Unless appearing in quoted references or otherwise identified, Bible texts are from the New King James Version.)

John Pearson is the office manager and a board member of Steps to Life. After retiring as chief financial officer for the Grand Canyon Association, Grand Canyon, Arizona, he moved to Wichita, Kansas, to join the Steps team. He may be contacted by email at: johnpearson@stepstolife.org.

The Sabbath

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A clear understanding of the origin and purpose of the seventh-day Sabbath and the part it occupies in the lives of God’s faithful people is necessary in the closing scenes of the great controversy between Christ and Satan.

The Sabbath was set apart on the seventh day of creation and is also the fourth commandment, which is evidence that the law of God was given to Adam and Eve on the very day of creation and was in effect at creation. The seventh-day Sabbath has also been a very prominent commandment all through the history of the controversy between Christ and Satan. It says, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of the Lord your God; in it you shall not do any work, you or your son or your daughter, your male or your female servant or your cattle or your sojourner who stays with you. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.” Exodus 20:8–11 NAS.

The sojourner and the Gentile are also advocated to keep the commandments, and if they are in your home, they are to keep the Sabbath with you. All ten commandments are for everybody, not just the Jews.

The Sabbath was introduced at creation. It has been in effect and will be in effect throughout eternity, “from one new moon to another and from one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before Me, saith the Lord.” Isaiah 66:23. All will gather from one new moon to another in the new earth, from one Sabbath to another.

The only ones that do not want to keep the Sabbath are the rebellious of this earth who are the minority in this universe. Sabbath keepers belong to the great majority of people in the universe. On this earth it looks like you are the outcasts, but in comparison to the whole universe and with God and with His Son, we are the great majority of Sabbath keepers. So be of good courage.

In Genesis 2:2 we are told that God rested on the seventh day. “And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had made; and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had made.”

In Patriarchs and Prophets, 47, it says, “The great Jehovah had laid the foundations of the earth; He had dressed the whole world in the garb of beauty and had filled it with things useful to man; He had created all the wonders of the land and of the sea. In six days the great work of creation had been accomplished. And God ‘rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it He had rested from all His work which God created and made’ (Genesis 2:2, 3). God looked with satisfaction upon the work of His hands. All was perfect, worthy of its divine Author, and He rested, not as one weary, but as well pleased with the fruits of His wisdom and goodness and the manifestations of His glory.”

This is a very clear statement of where the Sabbath came from and its purpose. So it was on the seventh day of creation that He set aside the Sabbath day as a day of rest.

We are told in Genesis 2:3 there were three things that God did for the seventh-day Sabbath that He did not do for the other six days. It says, “And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it He had rested from all His work which God created and made.”

God blessed the seventh day; He sanctified it and then He rested on it.

Often some people will say that they worship every day of the week, or they keep every day holy. Nobody can keep a day holy that God has not sanctified or made holy. But the seventh-day Sabbath He sanctified and therefore you can keep it holy because it is a holy day. The other six days do not have that blessing; they were not made holy. You cannot keep holy something that is not holy.

Many people recognize the association of the seventh day with the seventh-day Sabbath, but to avoid it they worship on Sunday in honor of the resurrection as justification. It is up to us to strive for holiness each and every day of the week, but there is only one Sabbath day. We are preparing for heaven, and in heaven the occupants keep the seventh-day Sabbath, and we want to fit into that heavenly environment. We need to understand the depth of meaning in the Sabbath.

God told us to remember. It is man’s duty to rest on the seventh-day Sabbath; he is to reflect upon God’s great work of creation and to behold the evidences of God’s wisdom and goodness. As we do this, we will be filled with love and reverence for our Maker. By observing the seventh-day Sabbath we acknowledge that God is our Creator and that we are the work of His hands and are subject to His authority.

The fourth commandment points to God as the Maker of the heavens and the earth, and it also gives the law its authenticity and binding force because it contains the seal of God which shows His authority as Creator and His claim to reverence and worship above all others. This seal gives the name of the Lawgiver, which is the Creator, and it identifies His territory, which is the heavens and the earth.

In Patriarchs and Prophets, 307, we are told: “God has given men six days wherein to labor, and He requires that their own work be done in the six working days. Acts of necessity and mercy are permitted on the Sabbath, the sick and suffering are at all times to be cared for; but unnecessary labor is to be strictly avoided. ‘Turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on My holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and … honor Him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure.’ Nor does the prohibition end here. ‘Nor speaking thine own words’ (Isaiah 58:13), says the prophet. Those who discuss business matters or lay plans on the Sabbath are regarded by God as though engaged in the actual transaction of business. To keep the Sabbath holy, we should not even allow our minds to dwell upon things of a worldly character. And the commandment includes all within our gates. The inmates of the house are to lay aside their worldly business during the sacred hours. All should unite to honor God by willing service upon His holy day.”

We find specific principles showing us that we are not to get involved in things that involve our worldly needs. We are to turn our thoughts heavenward.

  • We are not to do our own ways.
  • We are not to find our own pleasure; this includes sports and things like that.
  • Man’s own work is not to be done on the seventh-day Sabbath.
  • Unnecessary labor is strictly forbidden.
  • We are not to discuss business matters or lay plans.
  • Our minds are not to dwell upon things of a worldly character.

One of the big snares that Satan has introduced into God’s remnant people is the Saturday night entertainment, because many times the thoughts, especially with young people, are, throughout the Sabbath hours focused on “What is going to happen tonight?” Having parties for children and showing films are the talk of the day, and it is very hard for them to keep their minds upon things of eternal value when those kinds of incentives or plans are made for their entertainment. This does much to desecrate the Sabbath in the lives of the youth and the adults.

Looking at the law of God in a positive manner is a blessing to us. If we followed His commandments we would have a very safe society; we would not need police or jails because society would be living at peace with everybody and respectful toward each other’s needs. The law of God is a blessing to us, and we need to approach it as God would like us to. It is a wonderful blessing for the people of God and to all who observe the seventh-day Sabbath.

In The Desire of Ages, 285, we are told: “Christ would teach His disciples and His enemies that the service of God is first of all. The object of God’s work in this world is the redemption of man; therefore that which is necessary to be done on the Sabbath in the accomplishment of this work is in accord with the Sabbath law. Jesus then crowned His argument by declaring Himself the ‘Lord of the Sabbath’—One above all question and above all law. This infinite Judge acquits the disciples of blame, appealing to the very statutes they are accused of violating.”

Looking at the positive side of the law, this is to be a blessing to the fallen race. The whole purpose of God is to restore man to freedom from sin and to restore him to the kingdom of glory. Anything that can further that objective is appropriate to do on the Sabbath. That is another principle, and God leaves it up to us to decide the actual things we should or shouldn’t do in light of that principle. The things necessary to be done on the Sabbath for the accomplishment of the redemption of man is in accord with the Sabbath law. The law is a positive blessing.

“They were performing those rites that pointed to the redeeming power of Christ, and their labor was in harmony with the object of the Sabbath. But now Christ Himself had come. The disciples, in doing the work of Christ, were engaged in God’s service, and that which was necessary for the accomplishment of this work it was right to do on the Sabbath day.” Ibid., 285.

Isaiah 58:13 tells us, “If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on My holy day; and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable; and shalt honour Him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words.”

There are also several other things that are appropriate to do on the Sabbath.

  • Acts of necessity and mercy. Ask yourself if this is something that is a necessity to help somebody in their physical needs, etc.
  • The sick and suffering are at all times to be cared for.
  • We are to call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable; and honor Him in His character, doing those things that He would like to see us doing to help in the plan of redemption.
  • All should unite to honor God by willing service.

We do not want to get into the area of making statements for what to do and what not to do. The Jews got into that and became all mixed up and then missed the true meaning of the Sabbath. We need to look at the general principles and ask ourselves if this can help in the plan of redemption or help somebody in their necessity or needs. We need to understand what can be done on the Sabbath, because someday we will be tested. Many are watching us, and we may need to give a reason for the things we do and not do. We need to stand with the principle that it is lawful to do good and to promote the plan of redemption and to work with Jesus in the saving of souls.

God calls the Sabbath a “sign between me and you.” “Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily My sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” Exodus 31:13.

Keeping the seventh-day Sabbath is a sign that we believe in the new covenant and that Jesus is ministering in the Most Holy Place of the sanctuary of the new covenant in heaven. Here is the reason this is true. To keep the Sabbath holy the individual must be holy himself. We are all sinners, unholy. To become holy we must have our sins removed. We can be freed from our sins in one way only. That way is to go to Jesus in the Most Holy Place, confess our sins and plead with our Redeemer to atone for these confessed sins with His blood. Jesus is just and will cleanse us from these sins and also give us strength to keep from committing sin. He then presents this humble one to the Father as if he had never sinned. God the Father now sees him as one “of the saints who obey God’s commandments and remain faithful to Jesus.” Revelation 14:12 NIV. The sinner is now free from sin and can keep the Sabbath holy because he is holy.

The Sabbath is a time to spend with the Lord. How are you going to know that He is the Lord and how are you to know that He is holy unless you spend time with Him in His word and keep your thoughts on things of eternal value? You will not know unless you observe the Sabbath.

Maurice Hoppe is Director of the Steps to Life training programs and a member of the Steps to Life Board. The Training Program for Ministers and Church Leaders is a correspondence course that prepares individuals to serve as a pastor or Bible worker. Preparing for the Final Conflict is a correspondence course for the laity. Both of these courses teach present truth that will be an anchor for the soul during the storm of opposition and persecution just ahead. He and his wife also have a correspondence course offered through Revelation Ministry. He can be contacted at: mauricehoppe@stepstolife.org.

Current Events – Collision of Two Worlds

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“For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, … they did not like to retain God in their knowledge …” Romans 1:20–22, 28. Also, see Genesis 1.

About 4.5 billion years ago, just after the solar system formed, the relatively small planetary body that would become Earth experienced something extreme. A planetary embryo—probably about the size of Mars—called Theia collided with Earth, spinning the moon off into orbit around the nascent planet.

Overall, scientists agree that this moon-forming collision happened, but a current debate raging in planetary science hinges upon just what that collision was like. A new study in the journal Science this week may help solve the mystery of what went down in the early days of the solar system.

Usually, each body in the solar system has different ratios of various elements. According to Edward Young, a co-author of the new study, it’s “almost unheard of” for two bodies to have the same ratio of oxygen isotopes. In fact, these ratios are usually so unique that researchers treat them as “fingerprints” for bodies.

However, a new analysis performed by Young and his team shows that the Earth and moon actually have a very similar—if not identical—ratio of oxygen isotopes.

Young and his team analyzed seven moon rock samples brought back from three Apollo missions to the lunar surface. Earlier analyses had shown that the oxygen isotope ratio is different on the moon compared to the Earth, but this new, detailed study appears to suggest that the ratios are essentially the same.

The new finding could mean that instead of dealing Earth a glancing blow, Theia’s impact packed a bigger punch, forcing the material that composes the two bodies to mix more than previously expected, due to a “high-energy, high-angular-momentum impact,” the study reads.

Young’s work supports computer models of the moon-forming impact that show Theia dealing Earth a devastating blow, effectively causing the two bodies to completely mix their compositions together, creating two cosmic objects with very similar if not the same oxygen isotope ratios.

“Our measurements essentially say that the moon and the Earth are identical within the precision [of the instruments],” Young said.

“Since they’re identical, it says that these newer models that have been coming out in the last couple years say there might be a way to slow the Earth and the moon down after the impact and therefore maybe the impact really was a planet-crushing head on collision.”

“Our work suggests that the people creating those kinds of models are on the right track.”

But it’s not a cut and dry case. The mechanism of that mixing—whether it was a direct impact from Theia or something else entirely—isn’t yet clear.

“I am not sure that Young et al demonstrate a mechanism that leads to thorough mixing, but they certainly document that there is a need for some process to mix all the materials to homogenize oxygen,” Jeff Taylor, a scientist at the Hawaii Institute of Geophysics and Planetology who wasn’t affiliated with the study told Mashable via email.

Scientists will need to tackle the mysteries of the moon’s formation from two different angles.

On the one hand, researchers need to refine comprehensive models that will explain how different forms of impacts could lead to our current moon, while research also needs to proceed to examine the chemistry of the lunar body and compare it to Earth.

By combining those two ways of attacking the issue, Young said, lunar researchers might one day be able to get a comprehensive idea of how Earth’s closest neighbor really formed.

http://mashable.com/2016/01/28/moon-formation-collision-isotopes/#eZdmFn253Gqx

Really? Genesis 1 has a much simpler and believable explanation of how this universe came into being. “In the beginning God created …”

Bible Study Guides – The Sabbath in the Last Days

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October 30, 2016 – November 5, 2016

Key Text

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

Study Help: The Great Controversy, 433–450.

Introduction

“In the time of the end every divine institution is to be restored. The breach made in the law at the time the Sabbath was changed by man, is to be repaired.” Prophets and Kings, 678.

1 REMEMBER

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

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

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

Note: “Like the Sabbath, the week originated at creation, and it has been preserved and brought down to us through Bible history. God Himself measured off the first week as a sample for successive weeks to the close of time. Like every other, it consisted of seven literal days. Six days were employed in the work of creation; upon the seventh, God rested, and He then blessed this day and set it apart as a day of rest for man.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 111.

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

2 A MEMORIAL OF CREATION

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

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

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

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

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

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

3 A SIGN OF SANCTIFICATION

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

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

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

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

“The Sabbath given to the world as the sign of God as the Creator is also the sign of Him as the Sanctifier. The power that created all things is the power that re-creates the soul in His own likeness. To those who keep holy the Sabbath day it is the sign of sanctification. True sanctification is harmony with God, oneness with Him in character. It is received through obedience to those principles that are the transcript of His character. And the Sabbath is the sign of obedience. He who from the heart obeys the fourth commandment will obey the whole law. He is sanctified through obedience.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 350.

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

4 THE EXPERIENCE OF TRUE SABBATH KEEPING

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

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

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

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

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

5 A DELIGHT AND A JOY

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

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

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

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

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Explain the reasons why God said “remember.”

2 What things does the Sabbath remind us of?

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

4 How may we truly experience Sabbath rest?

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

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