love

The Patience of Christ

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There are various reasons given for the apparent delay of the second return of Jesus.

Justifiably, most if not all reasons given may very well be correct. However, I would like to highlight one most important reason that could very well be the reason of all reasons why Jesus has not returned. So just to make us think a little I would ask, What is Jesus waiting for to return to this earth? Will He wait forever? Some Christians constantly say they need time to change or to give up sin. How does this attitude influence the return of Jesus or the individual’s salvation? This waiting attitude of Christ as a question forms the substance of this message!

In reference to Christianity in general and more specifically as a religion, Jesus Christ the founder has been looking for a revelation, a demonstration of something from its inception, and might I say for well over two thousand years. He has been waiting, expecting, anxiously looking for, but He has been grossly disappointed. What is He waiting and looking for with great longing?

The Nature of the Problem and the Problem

Jesus identifies the problem and spells out its nature in His address to the end time church—Laodicea. We read of this in the last book of the Holy Scriptures. “And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” Revelation 3:14–17.

He provides the solution as recorded: “I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” Revelation 3:18–21.

The Laodicean message is for Seventh day Adventists—God’s servant in Manuscript 33, 1894, puts it this way, “The message to the Laodicean church is highly applicable to us as a people. It has been placed before us for a long time, but has not been heeded as it should have been. When the work of repentance is earnest and deep, the individual members of the church will buy the rich goods of heaven. Oh, how many behold things in a perverted light, in the light in which Satan would have them see.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 961.

“The message to the Laodicean church is applicable to our condition. How plainly is pictured the position of those who think they have all the truth, who take pride in their knowledge of the Word of God, while its sanctifying power has not been felt in their lives. The fervor of the love of God is wanting in their hearts, but it is this very fervor of love that makes God’s people the light of the world.” Faith and Works, 82, 83.

The Problem

God’s end time church is seriously affected by self-deception and being self-conceited. We do not understand ourselves. The faithful and true witness states, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” Revelation 3:15–17.

Like the Ephesian Christians, the Laodiceans have experienced a great loss tantamount to spiritual death. They lost their first love—the love of Jesus. Her problem is that she is devoid of the character of Jesus which can easily be identified when an individual possesses faith and love, the righteousness of Christ and the spirit to discern between right and wrong, good and evil.

Often times Christians are caught up with the externals, which often reflect significantly that they are destitute inwardly. We may note this important quotation, “You may manifest great zeal in missionary effort, and yet because it is corrupted with selfishness, and tastes strongly of self, it is nought in the sight of God; for it is a tainted, corrupted offering. Unless the door of the heart is open to Jesus, unless He occupies the soul temple, unless the heart is imbued with His divine attributes, human actions when weighed in the heavenly balances, will be pronounced ‘Wanting [Daniel 5.27].’ The love of Christ would make you rich; but many do not realize the value of His love. Many do not realize that the spirit which they cherish is destitute of the meekness and lowliness of Christ, destitute of the love that would constitute them channels of light.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 961.

The Solution

We read the priceless advice given to the Laodiceans, “I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.” Revelation 3:18.

Who is the faithful and true witness?

He is the vendor of priceless treasures. This thought is brought out clearly in the following statement: “The great Vendor of spiritual riches is inviting your recognition. The Saviour comes with jewels of truth of the richest value in distinction from all counterfeits, all that is spurious. He comes to every house, to every door; He is knocking, presenting His priceless treasure, urging, ‘Buy of me.’ ” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 964.

Jesus says, “Buy of me”—“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.

“Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.” Isaiah 55:1, 2.

What are the goods being sold?

Gold tried in the fire

White raiment

Eyesalve

What do these represent?

“Gold tried in the fire” represents love or faith that works by love which ultimately purifies the soul. This is the primary merchandise being offered to professing Christians!

“The gold tried in the fire is faith that works by love. Only this can bring us into harmony with God. We may be active, we may do much work; but without love, such love as dwelt in the heart of Christ, we can never be numbered with the family of heaven.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 158.

Spelled out even clearer, “The gold here recommended as having been tried in the fire is faith and love. It makes the heart rich; for it has been purged until it is pure, and the more it is tested the more brilliant is its luster.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 88.

Once again God’s messenger explains that this “gold tried in the fire,” is indeed the love of Jesus. The following is recorded, “The Lord knocks at the door of your heart, desiring to enter, that he may impart spiritual riches to your soul. He would anoint the blind eyes, that they may discover the holy character of God in his law, and understand the love of Christ, which is indeed gold tried in the fire.” The Review and Herald, February 25, 1890.

This gold tried in the fire has almost disappeared from the church of God. You see, this love is not superficial, spasmodic, earthly, or governed by circumstances. It is free from everything that savors of being human. It is pure and holy. It is of heavenly origin. It has diminished from the church because it cannot prosper where self reigns.

“Love of self excludes the love of Christ. Those who live for self are ranged under the head of the Laodicean church who are lukewarm, neither cold nor hot. The ardor of the first love has lapsed into a selfish egotism. The love of Christ in the heart is expressed in the actions. If love for Christ is dull, the love for those for whom Christ has died will degenerate. There may be a wonderful appearance for zeal and ceremonies, but this is the substance of their self-inflated religion. Christ represents them as nauseating to His taste.” Our High Calling, 348.

Consequently, because self is so prominent in the church today, when trials come, which, in the providence of God, will come, many are affected and end up defecting.

Ellen White makes this very clear. She tells us, “I was pointed to the providence of God among His people and was shown that every trial made by the refining, purifying process upon professed Christians proves some to be dross. The fine gold does not always appear. In every religious crisis some fall under temptation. The shaking of God blows away multitudes like dry leaves. Prosperity multiplies a mass of professors. Adversity purges them out of the church. As a class, their spirits are not steadfast with God. They go out from us because they are not of us; for when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, many are offended.

“Let these look back a few months to the time when they were sitting on the cases of others who were in a condition similar to that which they now occupy. Let them carefully call to mind the exercise of their minds in regard to those tempted ones. Had anyone told them then that notwithstanding their zeal and labor to set others right, they would at length be found in a similar position of darkness, they would have said, as did Hazael to the prophet: ‘Is thy servant a dog, that he should do this great thing?’ II Kings 8:13.

“Self-deception is upon them. During the calm, what firmness they manifest! what courageous sailors they make! But when the furious tempests of trial and temptation come, lo! their souls are shipwrecked. Men may have excellent gifts, good ability, splendid qualifications; but one defect, one secret sin indulged, will prove to the character what the worm-eaten plank does to the ship—utter disaster and ruin!” Testimonies, vol. 4, 89, 90.

This “gold tried in the fire” is what plants a person in Christ. As the apostle Paul puts it, “rooted and grounded in Him.” Ephesians 3:17. This love is the stabilizing element that keeps the Christian permanently connected to Jesus.

A question that really requires our prayerful attention is, “Why is it that many who profess to have faith in Christ have no strength to stand against the temptations of the enemy?—It is because they are not strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man. The apostle prays ‘that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.’ Ephesians 3:17–19. If we had this experience, we should know something of the cross of Calvary. We would know what it means to be partakers with Christ in His sufferings. The love of Christ would constrain us, and though we would not be able to explain how the love of Christ warmed our hearts, we would manifest His love in fervent devotion to His cause.” Our High Calling, 365.

Faith and love enables us to do something very important. What is it?

“Buy faith and love, the precious, beautiful attributes of our Redeemer, which will enable us to find our way into the hearts of those who do not know Him, who are cold and alienated from Him through unbelief and sin.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 964. [Emphasis supplied.]

The power of Christ’s love is revealed: “The love that was in the heart of Christ is to be in our hearts, that we may reveal it to those around us. We need to be daily strengthened by the deep love of God, and to let this love shine forth to those around us.” The Upward Look, 159.

Therefore, when Laodicea’s condition is critically analyzed, the verdict is that the church is devoid of the love of God, thus the heavenly merchant man who has been waiting and longing has declared, “You are neither hot nor cold, but lukewarm, and if you do not ‘buy of Me gold,’ I will spew you out of my mouth or I will reject you!” Revelation 3:15, 16.

The white raiment represents the righteousness of Jesus Christ. “Only the covering which Christ Himself has provided can make us meet to appear in God’s presence. This covering, the robe of His own righteousness, Christ will put upon every repenting, believing soul. ‘I counsel thee,’ He says, ‘to buy of Me … white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.’ Revelation 3:18.

“This robe, woven in the loom of heaven, has in it not one thread of human devising. Christ in His humanity wrought out a perfect character, and this character He offers to impart to us. ‘All our righteousness are as filthy rags.’ Isaiah 64:6.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 311.

What does it mean to be clothed with Christ’s robe of righteousness?

“When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness. Then as the Lord looks upon us He sees, not the fig-leaf garment, not the nakedness and deformity of sin, but His own robe of righteousness, which is perfect obedience to the law of Jehovah.” Ibid., 312.

How do we receive Christ’s righteousness?

“By receiving His imputed righteousness, through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, we become like Him. The image of Christ is cherished, and it captivates the whole being.” God’s Amazing Grace, 96.

It is evident that self must be surrendered to Christ, and the Holy Spirit be allowed to do the work of cleansing so that which is the soul’s need may be met.

What does the righteousness of Christ consist of?

“Righteousness of Christ imputed to men means holiness, uprightness, purity. Unless Christ’s righteousness was imputed to us we could not have acceptable repentance. The righteousness dwelling in us by faith consists of love, forbearance, meekness, and all the Christian virtues. Here the righteousness of Christ is laid hold of and becomes a part of our being. All who have this righteousness will work the works of God.” Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce, 134.

“The righteousness of Christ consists in right actions and good works from pure, unselfish motives. Outside righteousness, while the inward adorning is wanting, will be of no avail.” This Day With God, 182.

We can conclude on this point by agreeing that “the white raiment is purity of character, the righteousness of Christ imparted to the sinner. This is indeed a garment of heavenly texture, that can be bought only of Christ for a life of willing obedience.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 88.

“The eyesalve [represents, or] is that wisdom and grace which enables us to discern between the evil and the good, and to detect sin under any guise. God has given His church eyes which He requires them to anoint with wisdom, that they may see clearly; but many would put out the eyes of the church if they could; for they would not have their deeds come to the light, lest they should be reproved. The divine eyesalve will impart clearness to the understanding.” Ibid., 88, 89.

I must make this point clear to our understanding that according to the Faithful and True witness—Jesus Christ—the Laodicean Christians are not totally blind. “The Laodiceans,” Ellen White states, “were not entirely blind, else the eyesalve would have done nothing to restore their sight, and enable them to discern the true attributes of Christ. Says Christ, By renouncing your own self-sufficiency, giving up all things, however dear to you, you may buy the gold, the raiment, and the eyesalve that you may see.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 965.

Why anoint the eyes? “He would anoint the blind eyes, that they may discover the holy character of God in His law, and understand the love of Christ, which is indeed gold tried in the fire.” Ibid., 965.

This is important because while we are blessed with 20/20 vision to see about our self-interest and to glorify self, at the same time we are blind to see Christ and His wonderful love which we so desperately need. Because we are so focused on self we are totally destitute of the love of Jesus; therefore, when our love for God and our fellowman is tested, we utterly fail. We give up on Christ and we abandon our fellow human beings.

What we need to understand is that the more we promote self, the more we fail to realize how wretched, miserable, poor, blind, naked and lukewarm we are.

But, let us not forget or be confused that there is love in the church, but Christ, the owner of the church still says to us, “Buy of me gold tried in the fire.” This conveys the fact that what the church calls love is not the genuine love. Jesus’ love holds up under all circumstances; it remains unchanged no matter how severely tried or unkindly treated! This is the gold tried in the fire.

The current love present in the church, which makes God nauseated, is a love that is destructive, which cultivates evil and only more evil, and which originates in the synagogue of Satan; it’s a love that cherishes hate, resentment, pride, jealousy, fault-finding, gossiping, envy, evil-surmising, strife, bitterness, an unforgiving spirit, deception, hypocrisy, unbelief and all manner of unchristlike attitudes and behavior! It’s a love that is pretentious. So Christ once again says, buy of me gold tried in the fire. Buy the genuine article, for this is the only one that will endure when all else fails. “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” I Corinthians 13:13.

Ellen White reminds us, “It is difficult for us to understand ourselves, to have a correct knowledge of our own characters. The word of God is plain, but often there is an error in applying it to one’s self. There is liability to self-deception and to think its warnings and reproofs do not mean me. ‘The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?’ Jeremiah 17:9. Self-flattery may be construed into Christian emotion and zeal. Self-love and confidence may give us assurance that we are right when we are far from meeting the requirements of God’s word.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 332.

So, having said all this, I would like to go back to my original question and provide the answer. What is it that Christ is waiting for and longing for before He returns to this earth? We read in the Gospel of Mark, “But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.” Mark 4:29.

What fruit is Christ here referring to? The apostle Paul in his letter to the Galatian Christians identifies this fruit: “The fruit of the Spirit is love.” “This fruit can never perish, but will produce after its kind a harvest unto eternal life.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 68, 69.

“Christ is waiting with longing desire for the manifestation of Himself in His church. When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, then He will come to claim them as His own.

“It is the privilege of every Christian not only to look for but to hasten the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (II Peter 3:12, margin). Were all who profess His name bearing fruit to His glory, how quickly the whole world would be sown with the seed of the gospel.” Ibid.

Satan knows this; consequently, this is what he has been doing: “The enemy well knows that if we do not have love one for another, he can gain his object, and wound and weaken the church, by causing differences among brethren. He can lead them to surmise evil, to speak evil, to accuse, condemn, and hate one another. In this way the cause of God is brought into dishonor, the name of Christ is reproached, and untold harm is done to the souls of men.” This Day with God, 165.

So Jesus has been waiting, longing to see His love manifested in the lives of all His followers, and this in turn would hasten His coming. Will He wait forever? No!

In closing I leave these words with you: “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” I John 3:1–3.

Jesus pleads to you and me, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Revelation 3:20. Will you open to the heavenly merchant man? “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” Revelation 3:15, 16.

Pastor Ivan Plummer ministers through the Emmanuel Seventh Day Church Ministries in Bronx, New York. He may be contacted by telephone at: 718-822-3900.

A New Commandment

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Imagine living in a house with 20 other people. For those of us in the United States where the average household size is about three members, this may be somewhat foreign; however, such a large family can still be an object lesson for the people of God who may not have a real sense of how valuable and precious each member of the church of God is as a family. America’s most famous supersized family, the Duggars, from Arkansas, is one such example of a family with many members—19 children, all caring for each other, assisting each other in love. They are a well-ordered family engaging in Christian activities. All of the children are homeschooled with each of them involved in personal Bible study and all of them involved in music. God has blessed this home abundantly with each member using the talents given them to help the others, making the home a sanctuary. There are strict house rules and any young man desiring to court one of the young ladies is first required to ask permission from her father. Harmony and personal growth for each member in the family depends on order and boundaries, but most of all on a committed love for each one.

Jesus said, “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14:2, 3. There are many dwelling places, many rooms in God’s house. Is one of those rooms reserved for you? Is Jesus preparing a place for you? The illustration of the Duggar Family is to show that in order for God’s family to grow into the fullness of Christ and to fulfill God’s purpose, there must be a change of attitude toward one another. Each member must become more concerned for his/her brothers and sisters. I make an appeal to every member of God’s family to consider and keep the new commandment about which Jesus spoke.

Before we discuss this new commandment, let us identify just who are the true members of God’s family. We “are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26), but what does this mean? Basically, it is trusting in God’s Word and His promises and willingly obeying or keeping that Word. The Scripture says that “faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17. Has the Word of God ever sounded in your ears? Has God ever spoken to you? I would have to say that He has spoken to me.

The Apostle Paul said that “the gospel, which ye have heard, … was preached to every creature which is under heaven.” Colossians 1:23. This brings to mind what is written in Psalm 19:1–3: “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.” These verses declare that the gospel has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven. Have you heard the voice of God? He has spoken, and He is still speaking. Are you listening for and have you heard that “still small voice” (I Kings 19:12)?

The story is told of Abraham the patriarch, a man to whom righteousness was accounted because of his faith. The Word of God came to Abraham and the promise was made that he would have a son who would be his heir. Abraham, who was nearly 100 years old, continued to wait without the fulfillment of the promise. His wife Sarah was barren. She was past childbearing years, and her womb was dead. How could Abraham have a son when all circumstances proved that this was impossible? As Jesus said, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26). Abraham knew this truth, and as a result, in spite of his circumstances, how did he respond? “He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.” Romans 4:20, 21.

Are you staggering today at some promise God has made? Does it seem that you have to wait too long to see the result? There are many promises in the Bible, but there is one in particular that has been given to all of us. “And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.” I John 2:25. Do you believe this promise? Do you have faith that what He has promised He is also able to perform regardless of how long it takes for it to come true? “Faith claims God’s promises, and brings forth fruit in obedience. … Genuine faith has its foundation in the promises and provisions of the Scriptures.” The Desire of Ages, 126. Faith is one of the characteristics of those who are true members of God’s family.

“For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” Galatians 3:27. To be baptized into Christ and thus be clothed with Him is an emblem of being buried with Him in death. Your old character, your old self, or old man is crucified with Christ, and you have, therefore, died to sin. Jesus told Nicodemus that, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3. Friend, you cannot be born again unless you die to sin first.

“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? … Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” Romans 6:3, 6. Have you died to sin? Have you been crucified with Christ, or are you still clinging to some pet sin that still has control over you?

Baptism is more than just partaking of Christ’s death. We do not remain in the grave. After the death and burial of Jesus, He was resurrected, so not only are we baptized into His death, but we are also baptized into His life. This is described as being born again. In other words, not only have we died to sin but we have also come alive to righteousness or alive to God. There is only one baptism, death to sin, followed by a new life in Jesus Christ. This is what it means to put on Christ, to be partakers with His life. We become clothed with His righteousness which is His character. Just as it was with the Apostle Paul, we too must experience dying to sin. This is a daily process.

“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” Romans 6:4. The Scriptures speak of two different forms of baptism. John the Baptist declared, “Repent ye, the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 3:2. His ministry, the baptism of water unto repentance, being submerged into water, is a symbol of what actually takes place within the heart, being buried with Christ. Just as Christ was raised from the dead or the grave to life, the repentant sinner comes out of the water into newness of life. The Scriptures also speak about baptism as being an answer of a good conscience toward God (I Peter 3:21).

Water baptism occurs after the recognition of sin and repentance, but it is the baptism of the Holy Spirit that actually makes us part of God’s family. The sacred record declares that, at times, the Holy Spirit descended upon the Gentiles prior to being baptized by water, and often the disciples appealed to the people to repent and be baptized that they may receive the Holy Spirit. “God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying.” Galatians 4:6. In Romans 8:9, last part, we are told, “Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.” If you do not have the Holy Spirit, you are none of His, and you are not a part of God’s family. This does not mean there is no hope, but I state this so you may recognize and question whether or not you are truly part of God’s family. Have you received His Holy Spirit?

We have identified the members of God’s family as those who have faith in Jesus, who take Him at His word and obey, and those who have been baptized into Christ, not only by water but, more importantly, by the Holy Spirit and have put on Christ.

What is the purpose for each person who is a member of God’s family? What is your purpose? First of all, we must recognize any gifts that our Father has given us. We must recognize what gift we have received once we received the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 4:7 tells us, “But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” The Apostle Paul referred to how much grace God had given unto him which was displayed in the many talents and abilities he was able to perform in the name of Christ. Grace is given to everyone; no one is left out.

“When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.” Ephesians 4:8. Think about the gifts you have received from the Holy Spirit and whether you are using these gifts to benefit others and the church.

Let us look at some of the gifts given by the Spirit. The Apostle Paul said, “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.” Ephesians 4:11. “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.” I Corinthians 12:28.

Do you believe that God still gives gifts to His children? Sadly, we do not see gifts within the church as perhaps we could. Some of the gifts we may avoid or shrink back from when we see them displayed by others, especially within the Christian world, because we understand that the enemy is able to counterfeit these gifts. But we should not allow any people, church, denomination, group, not even angels to discourage us from praying for and desiring the gifts of the Holy Spirit. These gifts are important to the church and to recognize or possess any of these gifts is something about which to pray.

Perhaps you have had a talent since your youth. This is still a gift from God, given to you to be used in service for others. If you do not possess any of these gifts, we are told by the apostle to “covet earnestly the best gifts.” I Corinthians 12:31. Have a strong desire for the best gifts, not to hoard up for yourself but to use in service for others. In chapter 14:1 he says, “Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts.” In Luke 12:32 Jesus said, “It is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom” of heaven, and Psalm 84:11 says, “No good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly.” We must believe these things and ask the Father for the gift of His Spirit.

What is the purpose of these gifts? In Ephesians 4:11–13 we read, “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.”

The purpose of the spiritual gifts is to equip the church for ministry and to build up the body until every member is filled with Christ and every member reaches Christian maturity. Sadly, we have not yet reached this standard. How much, then, should we be pleading to the Father to pour out His blessing upon us?

Verses 15 and 16 say, “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” Building up the body in love, building up the church, the family of God, in love; this is the purpose of these gifts. This is our purpose as members of God’s family. This is precisely what God intends for us. We were born into God’s family to love and to be loved, to come to Christian maturity.

Now that we have considered our purpose, how are we to carry it out by loving and building up one another?

The new commandment that God desires to be engraved on the hearts of each of His children was given by Jesus to His disciples. “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” John 13:34. In God’s church today, is this commandment being heeded? Does each church member love one another as Jesus loved us? You may ask the question, and it is a good question and one worthy of reflection, “How did Jesus love us?” We understand that He still loves us today and we need to reflect upon how Jesus did love us. Below is listed just a few of the ways that Jesus has demonstrated His love for us.

  1. He voluntarily left the riches of heaven, becoming a poor man on earth, despised and rejected by the majority. “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.” II Corinthians 8:9. What are you willing to give up for the family of God?
  2. He suffered hunger and privation, resisting the temptations of the devil while fasting in the wilderness for forty days. In His strength we can now be conquerors over the perverted appetite so common today. “And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered.” Luke 4:1, 2. Jesus refused to indulge Himself when the enemy came with the suggestion that if He be the Son of God, He should turn the stones into bread. He waited on God and put implicit trust in Him for His sustenance, being an example.
  3. He refused the offer of power and riches in exchange for worshiping the prince of this earth. When Satan showed Him the kingdoms of this world saying that all of these things could be His, He refused to bow to anyone but His Father (Matthew 4:8, 9).
  4. He refused to act presumptuously. When the enemy told Him to cast Himself down and the angels of God would be summoned to His help and that God would give His angels charge over Him, He refused to tempt God, because He loved us (Matthew 4:6).
  5. Jesus spent entire nights in prayer with His Father. His mission was to save the sheep that had gone astray and only by being connected with His Father could He fulfill His assignment. “And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.” Luke 6:12. Inspiration tells us that He did this quite often because He loves us. How much time do you spend on your knees in prayer for the family of God? We are to love one another as He loved us.
  6. He suffered a cruel death, taking upon His shoulders all the sins of the world and being separated from His Father so that all who believe on Him will not have to suffer the second death. “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.” Hebrews 2:9. That is how much He loved us. How much are you prepared to give?

I appeal to those who are family members, to those who claim themselves to be a part of God’s family. Jesus said, “This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:12, 13. “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” I John 3:16. Are you a member of God’s family? Are you willing to lay down your life for the brethren? Let us love one another as Jesus loved us and thus fulfill the new commandment.

If you consider the criteria to be part of the family of God and you realize that you are not in possession of the Holy Spirit, do not lose heart. The Good Shepherd is calling you into His fold. He has already paid the price, so just come. There is no real life apart from Christ. If you are breathing, living and moving, there is no life apart from Christ. Without Him you are dead in your trespasses and sins. However, our Lord stands with His arms wide open, ready to receive any and all who come to Him by faith. If you hear the Father calling to you today, inviting you to be a part of His family, to be born again, believe His promise, have faith in Jesus and be baptized in Him.

Jesus said, “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37. “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” John 10:27–29. Just come and you will find a home and be safe at last.

Appealing to the people of Judea, “Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” Acts 2:38. Put your faith completely in Jesus, trust in His promises and be clothed with His righteousness.

Remember, this is the new commandment specifically given to God’s people. Jesus said, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.” John 15:13–15.

Respond to this invitation now while the offer is still open. Everyone has been given special talents that are needed to complement others in the family of God. Jesus said, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” He is coming soon; be ready!

Demario Carter is a Bible worker for Steps to Life. 

Keys to the Storehouse – The Atmosphere of Heaven

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Just think about what the atmosphere of heaven is really like—where agape love is part of the heart and is lived out in everything. In just a casual reading of I Corinthians 13:4–8, we do not see or realize the positive impact this would make in our lives and the lives of those around us, if our hearts were truly full of love and it flowed out through our influence and actions and not merely just words. Would you not like to walk in the atmosphere of heaven right here and now? I surely would!

When each has an understanding of the real meaning of the words in I Corinthians 13:4–8 and the Holy Spirit works a miracle transformation in the heart and life, a heavenly influence would be felt that would impact everything and everyone around us. What does it really mean?

  • Love suffers long (patient)—agape love drives away all impatience
  • Love is kind (friendly)—agape love leaves room for no unkindness
  • Love envies not (jealous)—agape love banishes all jealousy
  • Love vaunts not itself (boasts)—with agape love, boasting and self-assertion disappear
  • Love is not puffed up (pride)—agape love makes no place in the heart for pride
  • Love does not behave itself unseemly—agape love makes no room for recklessness, foolishness and rashness
  • Love seeks not its own—with agape love, self is dead, selfishness is unknown
  • Love is not provoked—agape love banishes anger and wrath
  • Love takes no account of evil—brooding over so-called wrongs will be no more. Bitterness will not be found with agape love in the heart
  • Love beareth all things—complaining will never be heard
  • Love believeth all things—mistrust will not destroy fellowship
  • Love hopeth all things—despair, anxiety, despondency go

Whenever impatience and unkindness dwell in your life, it is evident that God’s agape love, which comes from God, is absent from your heart. There is such a need to really understand and to allow that heavenly atmosphere, that agape love into our very hearts—into our very lives.

Why are we in this world? In Manuscript Releases, vol. 20, 171, it says, “Believers in Christ are, in this world, to bring into action the principles of heaven.” Now is the time to bring into action in our personal lives these most wonderful principles of heaven so others may receive the blessings from God through us. God is waiting for you and me to represent His kingdom right here and right now.

There is no impatience, unkindness, rashness, bitterness, anger, complaining or brooding over so-called wrongs in God’s kingdom. “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” Romans 14:17. What a most wonderful atmosphere that could begin in our hearts right now and flow forth to others.

Oh Heavenly Father, I want more than anything to walk in the midst of that heavenly atmosphere so that others will receive a little sampling of heaven right here and now through me. Please fill me with Your agape love and let it so transform me as to bring into action the principles of heaven that all will be blessed. Amen.

Turn this key to the Storehouse to receive your heavenly sample right now.

Destroying Love and Unity Among Believers

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Deuteronomy 13:12-18

Most, if not all of us, have heard the word rumor before; however, I would like to strongly suggest that most of us who have heard the word do not fully understand the damaging effects and awful results of rumors. By definition, rumor means a story or statement in general circulation without confirmation or certainty as to facts. It means gossip or hearsay.

The word gossip, which is a well-known word to most of us, means idle talk or rumor, especially about the personal or private affairs of others. It means light, familiar talk or writing.

Synonyms for the word gossip are small talk, hearsay, palaver, chit-chat, rumor and scandal.

It was the American historian, George Bancroft, who rightfully concluded, “Truth is not exciting enough to those who depend on the characters and lives of their neighbors for all their amusement.” The New Dictionary of Thoughts, 242. (Tryon Edwards, C. N. Catrevas, Jonathan Edwards, and Ralph Emerson Browns, New York Standard Book Co., 1969, 1960.) And Hector Hugh Munro said, “Hating anything in the way of ill-natured gossip ourselves, we are always grateful to those who do it for us and do it well.” Familiar Quotation by John Bartlett, 812. (Little, Brown & Company, New York, 1989.)

Having said all this, by now you are aware of the thrust and focus of this message! I desire to address a passage of Scripture that will help us Christians to understand how to relate to and deal with hearsay, rumor, gossip, and related synonyms.

From the Holy Scriptures we read, “If thou shalt hear say in one of thy cities, which the Lord thy God hath given thee to dwell there, saying, Certain men, the children of Belial, are gone out from among you, and have withdrawn the inhabitants of their city, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which ye have not known; Then shalt thou enquire, and make search, and ask diligently; and, behold, if it be truth, and the thing certain, that such abomination is wrought among you.” Deuteronomy 13:12–14.

In this passage the Lord gave to His people a divine principle based on strict justice, righteousness, integrity and love. It demonstrates a high regard for the rights of others and a profound measure of respect for our fellow human beings. If this divine principle were followed to the letter, what untold harm would have been prevented! How many estranged relationships would never have existed! How many enemies would never have been created!

The phrase hearsay conveys the understanding of a person avouching himself/herself concerning a report, which they have heard. This person boastfully certifies that what has been communicated is fact even though that which was reported has not been proven.

The phrase “children of Belial” literally means sons of evil, children of wickedness or ungodly men. The counsel given to the Israelites was this: If you hearsay that some of your brethren and sisters have severed association from the rest of Israel—the church—perhaps with the purpose of setting up a new church, and have made strong effort to draw away others with them, then some important steps must be followed before action is taken on these children of Belial.

What are the steps that must be followed in dealing with hearsay?

God through Moses commanded, “Then shalt thou enquire, and make search, and ask diligently; and, behold, if it be truth, and the thing certain. …” Verse 14.

The steps that must be followed are:

  1. Inquire
  2. Make Search
  3. Ask Diligently
  4. The Thing Certain

Let’s see what these mean.

To Inquire means to seek or to ask, to make inquisition. It is to investigate with the idea of demanding an answer.

To Make Search involves finding out, seeking out, to search out, to penetrate, to examine intimately. It has to do with use of intensive and minute investigation.

Ask Diligently conveys the idea of thoroughness; it is to make sure.

The Thing Certain literally means to substantiate, to verify, to establish after due investigation. It incorporates the phrase, without a shadow of a doubt. In the context of church discipline, it must be based on certainties, not on rumors. Hearsay should not be accepted as evidence. If one presumes to make an accusation, he/she should be required to provide proof in substantiation of it before action is taken.

This is how a person can ascertain the truth concerning a matter that is a floating rumor. These steps speak to the fact that it is absolutely necessary that all sides of the matter or issue be heard and examined carefully before conclusions are made and actions taken!

As far as the Israelites were concerned, they were required to search into the very heart of a matter. It would be a crime, a murder, if they should act judicially on mere rumor or through any evil bias. Certainty of the facts must precede any sentence of destruction.

Such instructions are repeated elsewhere in the book of Deuteronomy for emphasis. “If there be found among you, within any of thy gates which the Lord thy God giveth thee, man or woman, that hath wrought wickedness in the sight of the Lord thy God, in transgressing his covenant, And hath gone and served other gods, and worshipped them, either the sun, or moon, or any of the host of heaven, which I have not commanded; And it be told thee, and thou hast heard of it, and enquired diligently, and, behold, it be true, and the thing certain, that such abomination is wrought in Israel: Then shalt thou bring forth that man or that woman, which have committed that wicked thing, unto thy gates, even that man or that woman, and shalt stone them with stones, till they die. At the mouth of two witnesses, or three witnesses, shall he that is worthy of death be put to death; but at the mouth of one witness he shall not be put to death.” Deuteronomy 17:2–6.

In Deuteronomy 19:15–19, the principle of hearing both sides of the matter is emphasized: “One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established. If a false witness rise up against any man to testify against him that which is wrong; Then both the men, between whom the controversy is, shall stand before the Lord, before the priests and the judges, which shall be in those days; And the judges shall make diligent inquisition: and, behold, if the witness be a false witness, and hath testified falsely against his brother; Then shall ye do unto him, as he had thought to have done unto his brother: so shalt thou put the evil away from among you.”

Jesus, while He was on earth, taught this important principle as recorded in Matthew 18:16: “But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.” The principle set forth here is that a perceived offender should be personally approached by one hearing of his or her possible or alleged wrongdoing with the sincere hope of hearing and understanding the other side of the story. The need for two or three witnesses has to do with the fact that they can bear witness to the efforts that have been put forth on the perceived offender’s behalf and also to the facts in the case. As convincing as a person’s story might be, the other individual’s testimony may be even more convincing and also may very well be the truth. Therefore, this is why it is so important to inquire, make search, ask diligently and see that the thing is certain!

Have you ever wondered what are the reasons why Christians practice or find delight in hearsay or gossip?

Well, here are several reasons:

  1. Actuated by curiosity
  2. Actuated by jealousy
  3. Many by hatred against those through whom God has spoken to reprove them
  4. Some conceal their real sentiments
  5. Others are eager to publish all they know, or even suspect, of evil against another. See Testimonies, vol. 5, 94.

It would do us much good to remember that as often as we engage in gossip or hearsay we literally grieve Jesus and sadden the angels. These words of Inspiration make this very plain: “You may feel it no sin to gossip and talk nonsense, but this grieves your Saviour, and saddens the heavenly angels.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 457. It does not stop there, for this evil practice displeases the Holy Spirit to the degree that He will have little to do with such individuals or churches.

Some members who have been Christians for many years feel it their duty to gossip with the new converts, but this is not what God expects of us. Counsel is given on this matter: “The ministers may do their part, but they can never perform the work that the church should do. God requires His church to nurse those who are young in faith and experience, to go to them, not for the purpose of gossiping with them, but to pray, to speak unto them words that are ‘like apples of gold in pictures of silver.’ ” Testimonies, vol. 4, 69.

Here are some of the ways the church and individuals are affected by hearsay or gossip.

  1. The church becomes weak — “Christians should be careful in regard to their words. They should never carry unfavorable reports from one of their friends to another, especially if they are aware that there is a lack of union between them. It is cruel to hint and insinuate, as though you knew a great deal in regard to this friend or that acquaintance of which others are ignorant. … What harm has not the church of Christ suffered from these things! The inconsistent, unguarded course of her members has made her weak as water.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 186.
  2. Confidence destroyed and mischief created — “Confidence has been betrayed by members of the same church, and yet the guilty did not design to do mischief.” Ibid.
  3. Souls separated from God — “I saw that when sisters who are given to talk get together, Satan is generally present, for he finds employment. He stands by to excite the mind and make the most of the advantage he has gained. He knows that all this gossip, and tale-bearing, and revealing of secrets, and dissecting of character, separate the soul from God. It is death to spirituality and a calm religious influence.” Ibid., 185, 186. “The thoughtless, unkind words that are spoken grow with every repetition. One and another adds a word, until the false report assumes large proportions. Great injustice is done. By their unrighteous suspicions and unrighteous judgments the talebearers hurt their own experience and sow the seeds of discord in the church.” Ibid., vol. 8, 83.
  4. Faith is undermined, discord and strife created, friends are separated — “The spirit of gossip and talebearing is one of Satan’s special agencies to sow discord and strife, to separate friends, and to undermine the faith of many in the truthfulness of our positions. Brethren and sisters are too ready to talk of the faults and errors that they think exist in others, and especially in those who have borne unflinchingly the messages of reproof and warning given them of God.” Ibid., vol. 4, 195.

“Satan is working to crowd himself in everywhere. He would put asunder very friends. There are men who are ever talking and gossiping and bearing false witness, who sow the seeds of discord and engender strife. Heaven looks upon this class as Satan’s most efficient servants.” Ibid., vol. 4, 607.

  1. Majority of church trials arise from gossip — “Gossipers and news carriers are a terrible curse to neighborhoods and churches. Two thirds of all the church trials arise from this source.” Ibid., vol. 2, 466.

“Difficulties are often caused by the vendors of gossip, whose whispered hints and suggestions poison unsuspecting minds and separate the closest friends. Mischief-makers are seconded in their evil work by the many who stand with open ears and evil heart, saying: ‘Report, … and we will report it.’ This sin should not be tolerated among the followers of Christ. No Christian parent should permit gossip to be repeated in the family circle or remarks to be made disparaging the members of the church.” Ibid., vol. 5, 241, 242.

  1. The reclaiming of backsliders is hindered by hearsay —Ellen White wrote to a particular church to counsel them concerning some of their brethren who had backslidden and especially one brother A. She told them: “There was more gossiping over his case than sincere sorrow for him. All these things kept him from the fold and caused his heart to be separated farther and farther from his brethren, making his rescue still more difficult.” Ibid., vol. 2, 218.
  2. Has a twofold curse — “Evilspeaking is a twofold curse, falling more heavily upon the speaker than upon the hearer. He who scatters the seeds of dissension and strife reaps in his own soul the deadly fruits. How miserable is the talebearer, the surmiser of evil! He is a stranger to true happiness.” Ibid, vol. 5, 176.

I leave with you some wise counsels from the Word of God:

  1. “He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool. In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise. The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth.” Proverbs 10:18–20.

“An hypocrite with his mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be delivered.” Proverbs 11:9.

  1. “A talebearer revealeth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.” Verse 13.

“He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips.” Proverbs 20:19.

  1. “He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.” Proverbs 13:3.
  2. “An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire. A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.” Proverbs 16:27, 28.

“He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.” Proverbs 17:9.

  1. “The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly.” Proverbs 18:8.

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” Proverbs 18:21.

  1. “A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall perish.” Proverbs 19:9.
  2. “Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.” Proverbs 21:23.
  3. “But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Matthew 12:36, 37.

I appeal to you with the words of the apostle Paul to the Philippian Christians: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8.

It is only through total reliance on Christ, surrendering ourselves to Him daily, that we will be delivered from the sin of gossip, hearsay, and talebearing. None need be discouraged because Jesus is waiting to give each one victory. All we need to do is claim the promise, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Verse 13.

Pastor Ivan Plummer ministers through the Emmanuel Seventh Day Church Ministries in Bronx, New York. He may be contacted by telephone at: 718-882-3900.

Bible Study Guides – Character Revealed

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March 6, 2011 – March 12, 2011

Key Text

“Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” Matthew 7:20.

Study help: Christ’s Object Lessons, 150–163; Steps to Christ, 67–76.

Introduction

“A profession of religion has become popular with the world.” The Great Controversy, 386.

1 How do false Christians often deceive themselves? I John 4:20.

Note: “It is the greatest and most fatal deception to suppose that a man can have faith unto life eternal, without possessing Christlike love for his brethren.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1141.

2 How do loveless Christians reveal their character? Matthew 7:4, 5.

Note: “The sin that leads to the most unhappy results is the cold, critical, unforgiving spirit that characterizes Pharisaism. When the religious experience is devoid of love, Jesus is not there; the sunshine of His presence is not there. No busy activity or Christless zeal can supply the lack. There may be a wonderful keenness of perception to discover the defects of others; but to everyone who indulges this spirit, Jesus says, ‘Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye’ [Matthew 7:5]. He who is guilty of wrong is the first to suspect wrong. By condemning another he is trying to conceal or excuse the evil of his own heart. It was through sin that men gained the knowledge of evil; no sooner had the first pair sinned than they began to accuse each other; and this is what human nature will inevitably do when uncontrolled by the grace of Christ.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 126.

3 When the love of Christ is lacking in the heart, how does this become evident? Revelation 3:17; Matthew 7:20.

Note: “Love of self excludes the love of Christ. Those who live for self are ranged under the head of the Laodicean church who are lukewarm, neither cold nor hot. The ardor of the first love has lapsed into a selfish egotism. The love of Christ in the heart is expressed in the actions. If love for Christ is dull, the love for those for whom Christ has died will degenerate. There may be a wonderful appearance for zeal and ceremonies, but this is the substance of their self-inflated religion. Christ represents them as nauseating to His taste.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 962.

4 How do men deceive themselves through self-love and self-confidence? Jeremiah 17:9; Matthew 15:19.

Note: “It is difficult for us to understand ourselves, to have a correct knowledge of our own characters. The word of God is plain, but often there is an error in applying it to one’s self. There is liability to self-deception and to think its warnings and reproofs do not mean me. ‘The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it’ [Jeremiah 17:9] Self-flattery may be construed into Christian emotion and zeal. Self-love and confidence may give us assurance that we are right when we are far from meeting the requirements of God’s word.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 332.

“Man’s great danger is in being self-deceived, indulging self sufficiency, and thus separating from God, the source of his strength. Our natural tendencies, unless corrected by the Holy Spirit of God, have in them the seeds of moral death. Unless we become vitally connected with God, we cannot resist the unhallowed effects of self-indulgence, self-love, and temptation to sin.

“In order to receive help from Christ, we must realize our need. We must have a true knowledge of ourselves. It is only he who knows himself to be a sinner that Christ can save. Only as we see our utter helplessness and renounce all self-trust, shall we lay hold on divine power.

“It is not only at the beginning of the Christian life that this renunciation of self is to be made. At every advance step heavenward it is to be renewed.” The Ministry of Healing, 455.

5 How does a counterfeit type of missionary work contrast with the genuine? Titus 3:2, 3; James 3:14–16; Proverbs 6:18, 19.

Note: “God will never say to us, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant’ [Matthew 25:23], at the end of our journey, if we now cherish a spirit which craves to crowd out and supplant others. Malice, guile, hypocrisy, envy, and evil speaking are things which God abhors, and no one who reveals those fruits in his life will enter the kingdom of heaven. …

“Those who make faultfinding their work, may appear to be constantly anxious and interested in regard to the welfare of others. They may seem to be actively engaged in good work. But their work does harm, and by the Lord it is not regarded as of any value. ‘They say,’ is whispered here and there; by blind suggestions, other minds are filled with suspicion and distrust; uneasiness is created. Those who have listened to the ‘They say,’ call to mind something they have observed in their brethren, which might have been wrong, and much is made of that which is worthy of but little notice. These apparently innocent words strike long, fibrous roots into the minds of those that hear them, and untold harm is done. Seeds of bitterness are planted; evil suggestions rankle in human hearts, and the seed springs up to bear an abundant harvest.

“The enemy of all righteousness sets in operation objectionable missionary work of this kind. One who is professedly working for Christ is tempted by him to probe the minds of others, and ask their opinions of words which have been spoken. In this way suspicion and envy are planted in many breasts. If those who carry on this missionary work could see it as it is regarded by the Lord of heaven; if for one day they could trace the course of their work, and see its baleful results, they would repent.

“To do good to all, to faithfully perform our home duties, to devote our time to comparing our lives with the life of Christ, praying for a humble, sanctified mind—this is the missionary work which the Lord requires us to do.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Bible Commentary, vol. 7, 940.

6 What attitude too often destroys the peace of the church? Matthew 18:1–4.

7 Describe the attitude spread by those who boast in their own self-sufficiency over righteousness and truth. Isaiah 5:20; 65:5.

Note: “[Isaiah 5:19–23 quoted.]

“The class here represented, in order to exalt their own opinions, employ a reasoning which is not authorized by the word of God. They walk in the sparks of their own kindling. By their specious reasoning, they confuse the distinction that God desires to have drawn between good and evil. The sacred is brought down on a level with common things. Avarice and selfishness are called by false names; they are called prudence. Their rising up in independence and rebellion, their revenge and stubbornness, in their eyes are proofs of dignity, evidences of a noble mind. They act as though ignorance of divine things were not dangerous and even fatal to the soul; and they prefer their own reasoning to divine revelation, their own plans and human wisdom to the admonitions and commands of God. The piety and conscientiousness of others are called fanaticism, and those who practice truth and holiness are watched and criticized. They deride those who teach and believe the mystery of godliness, ‘Christ in you, the hope of glory’ [Colossians 1:27]. The principles underlying these things are not discerned by them; and they go on in wrongdoing, leaving the bars open for Satan to find ready access to the soul.” The Review and Herald, December 22, 1896.

8 What will be the influence of capable but unconverted men, and what will be their end? II Peter 2:1–3.

Note: “Men may possess capabilities given them in trust of God, but if they are not humble men, daily converted men, as vessels of honor, they will do the greater harm because of their capabilities. If they are not learners of Christ Jesus, if they do not pray and keep their natural hereditary and cultivated tendencies under control, traits of character that God abhors will pervert the judgment of those who associate with them.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 4, 1138.

“Men who repudiate the teachings of the Spirit of God are not the proper persons to be placed in offices as leaders in the church. There is danger that the teachings of men who are not soundly converted may lead others into by and forbidden paths.” Loma Linda Messages, 465.

9 How are today’s popular ministries and professed Christians making Satan happy? II Timothy 3:1–5.

Note: “A profession of religion has become popular with the world. Rulers, politicians, lawyers, doctors, merchants, join the church as a means of securing the respect and confidence of society, and advancing their own worldly interests. Thus they seek to cover all their unrighteous transactions under a profession of Christianity. The various religious bodies, re-inforced by the wealth and influence of these baptized worldlings, make a still higher bid for popularity and patronage. Splendid churches, embellished in the most extravagant manner, are erected on popular avenues. The worshipers array themselves in costly and fashionable attire. A high salary is paid for a talented minister to entertain and attract the people. His sermons must not touch popular sins, but be made smooth and pleasing for fashionable ears. Thus fashionable sinners are enrolled on the church records, and fashionable sins are concealed under a pretense of godliness.” The Great Controversy, 386.

10 What warning is given to us who profess to believe in the third angel’s message? Matthew 23:25, 27.

Note: “Many who profess to be serving God are in the same position as Saul—covering over ambitious projects, pride of display, with a garment of pretended righteousness. The Lord’s cause is made a cloak to hide the deformity of injustice, but it makes the sin of tenfold greater enormity.” “Ellen G. White Comments,” The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 2, 1017.

Review and Thought Questions:

1 To what is Christian love an index?

2 What are the characteristics of self-love?

3 How are seeds of bitterness scattered by self-righteous believers?

4 What are often the far-reaching ill effects of walking in the sparks of your own kindling?

5 What is often used as a cloak to hide injustice?

©2005 Reformation Herald Publishing Association, Roanoke, Virginia. Reprinted by permission.

Bible Study Guides – In the Heart and Home

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April 10, 2011 – April 16, 2011

Key Text

“He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love.” Song of Solomon 2:4.

Study Help: Education, 259–261; The Ministry of Healing, 356–362.

Introduction

“His [Christ’s] is a love that fails not nor forsakes.” Education, 90.

1 LOVE IN ACTION

  • Name some interesting truths which inspired poetry declares about love. Proverbs 10:12; 15:17.
  • What are we to understand about the source, power, and result of love? I John 4:7–19; Proverbs 7:2.

Note: “By contemplation of God’s matchless love, we take upon us His nature. Christ was a representative before men and before angels, of the character of the God of heaven. He demonstrated the fact that when humanity depends wholly upon God, men may keep God’s commandments and live, and His law be as the apple of the eye.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 226.

  • In view of this great love offered to us, what should be the cry of our soul? Song of Solomon 1:7; Psalms 42:1, 2; 63:1–4.

Note: “My soul cries out after the living God. My very being longs after Him. Oh, for to reflect His lovely image perfectly! Oh, for to be wholly consecrated to Him! Oh, how hard it is for dear self to die. We can rejoice in a whole Saviour; one who saves us from all sin. We can be shut in with God where we can daily say, ‘I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me’ [Galatians 2:20] ‘to will and to do of his good pleasure’ [Philippians 2:13].” Reflecting Christ, 350.

2 DELIGHTING IN GOD’S LOVE

  • How does Inspiration describe the way our seasons of devotion should be? Song of Solomon 2:3, 4.

Note: “We need to appreciate more fully the meaning of the words: ‘I sat down under His shadow with great delight.’ Song of Solomon 2:3. These words do not bring to our minds the picture of hasty transit, but of quiet rest. There are many professing Christians who are anxious and depressed, many who are so full of busy activity that they cannot find time to rest quietly in the promises of God, who act as if they could not afford to have peace and quietness. To all such Christ’s invitation is: ‘Come unto Me, … and I will give you rest.’ Matthew 11:28.” Testimonies, vol. 7, 69.

“Many, even in their seasons of devotion, fail of receiving the blessing of real communion with God. They are in too great haste. With hurried steps they press through the circle of Christ’s loving presence, pausing perhaps a moment within the sacred precincts, but not waiting for counsel. They have no time to remain with the divine Teacher. With their burdens they return to their work. …

“Not a pause for a moment in His presence, but personal contact with Christ, to sit down in companionship with Him—this is our need. Happy will it be for the children of our homes and the students of our schools when parents and teachers shall learn in their own lives the precious experience pictured in these words from the Song of Songs [Song of Solomon 2:3, 4 quoted].” Education, 260, 261.

  • What are we to find through our prayerful study of the Bible? Song of Solomon 4:15; John 4:10.

Note: “The word of God is ‘a fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon’ (Song of Solomon 4:15). The heart that has once tasted the love of Christ, cries out continually for a deeper draft, and as you impart you will receive in richer and more abundant measure. Every revelation of God to the soul increases the capacity to know and to love. The continual cry of the heart is, ‘More of Thee,’ and ever the Spirit’s answer is, ‘Much more.’ ” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 20.

3 COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE

  • How are we admonished against the dating and courtship practices which commonly prevail today? Proverbs 6:23–29; 5:1–13.

Note: “Courtship, as carried on in this age, is a scheme of deception and hypocrisy, with which the enemy of souls has far more to do than the Lord.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 105.

“The ideas of courtship have their foundation in erroneous ideas concerning marriage. They follow impulse and blind passion. The courtship is carried on in a spirit of flirtation. The parties frequently violate the rules of modesty and reserve, and are guilty of indiscretion, if they do not break the law of God. The high, noble, lofty design of God in the institution of marriage is not discerned; therefore the purest affections of the heart, the noblest traits of character, are not developed.

“Not one word should be spoken, not one action performed, that you would not be willing the holy angels should look upon and register in the books above.” Medical Ministry, 141.

  • How does Inspiration reveal the beauty of God’s true plan for marriage? Proverbs 5:15–18; Song of Solomon 7:6.

Note: “Love is a precious gift, which we receive from Jesus. Pure and holy affection is not a feeling, but a principle. Those who are actuated by true love, are neither unreasonable nor blind.

“The divine love emanating from Christ never destroys human love, but includes it. By it human love is refined and purified, elevated and ennobled. Human love can never bear its precious fruit until it is united with the divine nature and trained to grow heavenward.

“True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. On the contrary, it is calm and deep in its nature. It looks beyond mere externals, and is attracted by qualities alone. It is wise and discriminating, and its devotion is real and abiding.” The Faith I Live By, 255.

4 ENDURING LOVE FOR OUR SPOUSE

  • How does Scripture intertwine the Gospel message with God’s plan for marriage? Song of Solomon 2:16; 4:7; 6:3.

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. ‘Fear not,’ He says; ‘thy Maker is thine husband; the Lord of hosts is His name; and thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.’ ‘Turn, O backsliding children, saith the Lord; for I am married unto you.’ Isaiah 54:4, 5; Jeremiah 3:14.” Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 64.

  • How are married couples to reflect Christ’s love in daily life? Song of Solomon 5:10, 16; Ephesians 5:22–33.

Note: “By having a knowledge of Christ—his words, his habits, and his lessons of instruction—we borrow the virtues of the character we have so closely studied, and become imbued with the spirit we have so much admired. Jesus becomes to us ‘the chiefest among ten thousand,’ the One ‘altogether lovely’ [Song of Solomon 5:10, 16].” The Review and Herald, March 15, 1887.

“Let each give love rather than exact it. Cultivate that which is noblest in yourselves, and be quick to recognize the good qualities in each other.” The Ministry of Healing, 361.

“Though difficulties, perplexities, and discouragements may arise, let neither husband nor wife harbor the thought that their union is a mistake or a disappointment. Determine to be all that it is possible to be to each other. Continue the early attentions. In every way encourage each other in fighting the battles of life. Study to advance the happiness of each other. Let there be mutual love, mutual forbearance. Then marriage, instead of being the end of love, will be as it were the very beginning of love. The warmth of true friendship, the love that binds heart to heart, is a foretaste of the joys of heaven.” Ibid., 360.

THE FAMILY CIRCLE

  • Why should we be especially thankful if blessed with the privilege of having a family? Ecclesiastes 4:8–12.

Note: “That cannot be a happy home where love is not cultivated between husband and wife, between parents and children. If parents have been self-centered, and have trained their children in an atmosphere where love was not manifested in affectionate words and actions, then change the atmosphere of your home as quickly as possible. Let husbands love their wives, and let the wives see that they reverence their husbands. The plan of salvation was devised in order to transform the natural character, and fashion it after the divine image. When the grace of Christ is received in the heart, it will soften whatever is harsh, and subdue that which is coarse and unkind. Courtesy will be expressed in the affairs of home life.” The Signs of the Times, May 7, 1894.

“Hearts that are filled with the love of Christ can never get very far apart. Religion is love, and a Christian home is one where love reigns and finds expression in words and acts of thoughtful kindness and gentle courtesy.

“Our homes must be made a Bethel, our hearts a shrine. Wherever the love of God is cherished in the soul, there will be peace, there will be light and joy.

“Jesus wants to see happy marriages, happy firesides.” The Faith I Live By, 255.

Review and Thought Questions

1 What does love have to do with God?

2 Why do many fail to benefit much from Bible reading?

3 Why is such great suffering caused by lovesick romance today?

4 Name some ways to improve our marriages.

5 Describe God’s plan for the family circle.

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

Bible Study Guides – What Is Needed

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July 10, 2011 – July 16, 2011

Key Text

“Let them [the children] learn first to shew piety at home.” I Timothy 5:4.

Study Help: Testimonies, vol. 7, 45–50.

Introductory

“Our work for Christ is to begin with the family in the home.” Maranatha, 102.

1 LIFE-LONG COMMITMENT

  • By His example, how did Christ show us what is needed in our relationships with one another? John 15:13; Philippians 2:2–8.

Note: “Let each give love rather than exact it. Cultivate that which is noblest in yourselves, and be quick to recognize the good qualities in each other.” The Adventist Home, 107.

“In your life union your affections are to be tributary to each other’s happiness. Each is to minister to the happiness of the other. This is the will of God concerning you.” Testimonies, vol. 7, 45.

  • Of what is marriage a symbol? Isaiah 54:5; Ephesians 5:25.

Note: “Christ honored the marriage relation by making it also a symbol of the union between Him and His redeemed ones. He Himself is the Bridegroom; the bride is the church, of which, as His chosen one, He says, ‘Thou art all fair, My love; there is no spot in thee’ [Song of Solomon 4:7].” The Adventist Home, 26.

  • How long is this relationship to last? Hosea 2:19; Romans 7:2, 3.

Note: “Marriage is a step taken for life.” The Adventist Home, 340.

“This vow links the destinies of the two individuals with bonds which nought but the hand of death should sever.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 507.

2 LOVE IN ACTION

  • What speaks even louder than our words? Titus 2:7; I John 3:7–11.

Note: “Divine truth exerts little influence upon the world, when it should exert much influence through our practice. The mere profession of religion abounds, but it has little weight. We may claim to be followers of Christ, we may claim to believe every truth in the word of God; but this will do our neighbor no good unless our belief is carried into our daily life. Our profession may be as high as heaven, but it will save neither ourselves nor our fellow men unless we are Christians. A right example will do more to benefit the world than all our profession.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 383.

“Actions speak louder than the most positive profession of godliness.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 579.

“Our words, our actions, our deportment, our dress, everything, should preach. Not only with our words should we speak to the people, but everything pertaining to our person should be a sermon to them, that right impressions may be made upon them, and that the truth spoken may be taken by them to their homes. Thus our faith will stand in a better light before the community.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 618.

  • What does Christ teach us regarding those to whom we are to extend our love? Matthew 5:44–48.

Note: “You should help those who stand most in need of help, those who are less favorably situated, who are erring and faulty, and who may have injured you and tried your patience to the utmost. It is just such ones that Jesus pities, because Satan has more power over them and is constantly taking advantage of their weak points and driving his arrows to wound them where they are least protected. Jesus exercises His power and mercy for just such pitiable cases.” Testimonies, vol. 2, 75.

“As Christ has borne, and continues to bear, with our errors, our ingratitude and our feeble love, so should we bear with those who test and try our patience. Shall the followers of the self-denying, self-sacrificing Jesus be unlike their Lord? Christians should have hearts of kindness and forbearance.” Ibid., vol. 3, 111.

3 THE REMNANT’S CHARACTERISTICS

  • What is the virtue so greatly needed in our lives? Hebrews 12:1.
  • How can we have the patience to exercise when circumstances and individuals test us? Luke 21:19; Matthew 7:7.

Note: “Self denial, self-sacrifice, benevolence, kindness, love, patience, fortitude, and Christian trust are the daily fruits borne by those who are truly connected with God. Their acts may not be published to the world, but they themselves are daily wrestling with evil, and gaining precious victories over temptation and wrong. Solemn vows are renewed, and kept through the strength gained by earnest prayer and constant watching thereunto.” The Sanctified Life, 11.

“Whenever little annoyances and trials arise, ask God in silent prayer to give you strength and grace to bear them patiently. There is a power in silence; do not speak a word until you have sent up your petition to the God of heaven.” Historical Sketches, 157, 158.

“The abuses of the stomach by the gratification of appetite, are the fruitful source of most church trials. Those who eat and work intemperately and irrationally, talk and act irrationally. An intemperate man cannot be a patient man.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 50.

“Impatient words are spoken and unkind deeds are done, dishonest practices are followed and passion is manifested, and all because the nerves of the brain are diseased by the abuse heaped upon the stomach.

“Some cannot be impressed with the necessity of eating and drinking to the glory of God. The indulgence of appetite affects them in all the relations of life. It is seen in their family, in their church, in the prayer meeting, and in the conduct of their children. … God has bountifully provided for the sustenance and happiness of all His creatures; and if His laws were never violated, and all acted in harmony with the divine will, health, peace, and happiness, instead of misery and continual evil, would be experienced.” Ibid., 53, 54.

“All should cultivate patience by practicing patience. By being kind and forbearing, true love may be kept warm in the heart, and qualities will be developed that Heaven will approve.” The Adventist Home, 106.

4 ANOTHER BUILDING BLOCK

  • What else is needed in order to be fit representatives of our gracious Lord? I Corinthians 9:26; 10:31.

Note: “A practical knowledge of the science of human life is necessary in order to glorify God in our bodies. It is therefore of the highest importance that among the studies selected for childhood, physiology should occupy the first place. …

“Parents should arouse and in the fear of God inquire, What is truth? A tremendous responsibility rests upon them. They should be practical physiologists, that they may know what are and what are not correct physical habits, and be enabled thereby to instruct their children. The great mass are as ignorant and indifferent in regard to the physical and moral education of their children as the animal creation. And yet they dare assume the responsibilities of parents.

“Every mother should acquaint herself with the laws that govern physical life. … To parents is committed the sacred charge of forming the characters of their children in childhood. They should be to their children both teacher and physician. They should understand nature’s wants and nature’s laws.” Counsels on Health, 38, 39.

  • How does caring for the physical body affect our character development and witnessing? III John 2; Psalm 67:2; I Corinthians 9:27.

Note: “Our habits of eating and drinking show whether we are of the world or among the number whom the Lord by His mighty cleaver of truth has separated from the world.” Counsels on Diet and Foods, 58.

“Should we dress in plain, modest apparel without reference to the fashions; should our tables at all times be set with simple, healthful food, avoiding all luxuries, all extravagance; should our houses be built with becoming plainness, and furnished in the same manner, it would show the sanctifying power of the truth, and would have a telling influence upon unbelievers. But while we conform to the world in these matters, in some cases apparently seeking to excel worldlings in fanciful arrangement, the preaching of the truth will have but little or no effect. Who will believe the solemn truth for this time, when those who already profess to believe it contradict their faith by their works?” Ibid., 90.

5 WISDOM

  • What is necessary in order to rightly train a family and/or to relate properly to the church family and the world around us? Philippians 1:9; Colossians 1:9, 10.

Note: “Children are committed to their parents as a precious trust, which God will one day require at their hands. We should give to their training more time, more care, and more prayer. They need more of the right kind of instruction.” The Adventist Home, 161.

  • What should we consider with regard to having a family and the size of the family? I Timothy 5:8.

Note: “Parents should not increase their families any faster than they know that their children can be well cared for and educated.” The Adventist Home, 163.

  • What description is given of God’s wisdom, and how can we obtain it? James 3:17; 1:5.

Note: “Give the Word its honored position as a guide in the home. Let it be regarded as the counselor in every difficulty, the standard of every practice. Will my brethren and sisters be convinced that there can never be true prosperity to any soul in the family circle unless the truth of God, the wisdom of righteousness, presides?” Child Guidance, 509.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 What type of commitment is necessary in your life?

2 What is the most effective way to witness?

3 Describe a most essential virtue you must have and how you gain it.

4 What is the connection between your physical well-being and your ability to share Christ with others?

5 How can you know how to accomplish the tasks before you?

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

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 – God’s Order Extended

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July 31, 2011 – August 6, 2011

Families for Christ

Key Text

“Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.” Psalm 128:1, 2.

Study Help: The Adventist Home, 114–120.

Introduction

“The cause of division and discord in families and in the church is separation from Christ. To come near to Christ is to come near to one another.” The Adventist Home, 179.

1 THE CHURCH FAMILY

  • Describe God’s plan both for individual families and for the church? Ephesians 3:14, 15; 2:19–22.

Note: “The secret of true unity in the church and in the family is not diplomacy, not management, not a superhuman effort to overcome difficulties—though there will be much of this to do—but union with Christ.

“Picture a large circle, from the edge of which are many lines all running to the center. The nearer these lines approach the center, the nearer they are to one another.

“Thus it is in the Christian life. The closer we come to Christ, the nearer we shall be to one another. God is glorified as His people unite in harmonious action.” The Adventist Home, 179.

“When religion is manifested in the home, its influence will be felt in the church and in the neighborhood.” Ibid., 38.

  • What is one purpose of the church family? Ephesians 4:12, 13.

Note: “God has appointed the church as a watchman. …

“The church has a special work to do in educating and training its children that they may not, in attending school, or in any other association, be influenced by those of corrupt habits.” Child Guidance, 312.

2 THE GREATEST DUTY

  • Who is described as a person of great importance? Proverbs 31:10.

Note: “Woman should fill the position which God originally designed for her, as her husband’s equal. The world needs mothers who are mothers not merely in name but in every sense of the word. We may safely say that the distinctive duties of woman are more sacred, more holy, than those of man. Let woman realize the sacredness of her work and in the strength and fear of God take up her life mission.” The Adventist Home, 231.

  • What is the mother’s role and why is it so important? Titus 2:4, 5.

Note: “The king upon his throne has no higher work than has the mother. The mother is the queen of her household. She has in her power the molding of her children’s characters, that they may be fitted for the higher, immortal life. An angel could not ask for a higher mission; for in doing this work she is doing service for God. Let her only realize the high character of her task, and it will inspire her with courage.” The Adventist Home, 231.

  • Describe how the enemy seeks to weaken the family.

Note: “If you ignore your duty as a wife and mother and hold out your hands for the Lord to put another class of work in them, be sure that He will not contradict Himself; He points you to the duty you have to do at home. If you have the idea that some work greater and holier than this has been entrusted to you, you are under a deception. By faithfulness in your own home, working for the souls of those who are nearest to you, you may be gaining a fitness to work for Christ in a wider field. But be sure that those who are neglectful of their duty in the home circle are not prepared to work for other souls.

“The Lord has not called you to neglect your home and your husband and children. He never works in this way; and He never will. … Never for a moment suppose that God has given you a work that will necessitate a separation from your precious little flock.” The Adventist Home, 245, 246.

3 SUBMISSION—WHAT IS IT?

  • In these days of frequent preoccupation with “women’s rights,” what is Christ’s injunction to wives? Colossians 3:18; Ephesians 5:22–24.

Note: “In the creation, God had made her [Eve] the equal of Adam. Had they remained obedient to God—in harmony with His great law of love—they would ever have been in harmony with each other. …

“Eve had been perfectly happy by her husband’s side in her Eden home; but, like restless modern Eves, she was flattered with the hope of entering a higher sphere than that which God had assigned her. In attempting to rise above her original position, she fell far below it. A similar result will be reached by all who are unwilling to take up cheerfully their life duties in accordance with God’s plan.” The Adventist Home, 115.

  • Is this counsel of submission only for wives? Ephesians 5:21. Are there any conditions as to when is it right to submit and when is it wrong? Colossians 3:18; Acts 5:29.

Note: “God requires that the wife shall keep the fear and glory of God ever before her. Entire submission is to be made only to the Lord Jesus Christ, who has purchased her as His own child by the infinite price of His life. God has given her a conscience, which she cannot violate with impunity. Her individuality cannot be merged into that of her husband, for she is the purchase of Christ. It is a mistake to imagine that with blind devotion she is to do exactly as her husband says in all things, when she knows that in so doing, injury would be worked for her body and her spirit, which have been ransomed from the slavery of Satan. There is One who stands higher than the husband to the wife; it is her Redeemer, and her submission to her husband is to be rendered as God has directed—‘as it is fit in the Lord’ [Colossians 3:18].” The Adventist Home, 116.

  • Explain the purpose and meaning of submission. I Peter 3:8.

Note: “The wife, if she has the spirit of Christ, will be careful of her words; she will control her spirit, she will be submissive, and yet will not feel that she is a bondslave, but a companion to her husband.” The Adventist Home, 118.

4 MORE LOVE

  • What else is needed in the marriage, and in the church relationship? I Peter 3:1–4; Proverbs 31:26.

Note: “Let each give love rather than exact it. Cultivate that which is noblest in yourselves, and be quick to recognize the good qualities in each other. The consciousness of being appreciated is a wonderful stimulus and satisfaction. Sympathy and respect encourage the striving after excellence, and love itself increases as it stimulates to nobler aims. …

“Neither the husband nor the wife should attempt to exercise over the other an arbitrary control. Do not try to compel each other to yield to your wishes. You cannot do this and retain each other’s love. Be kind, patient, and forbearing, considerate, and courteous. By the grace of God you can succeed in making each other happy, as in your marriage vow you promised to do.” The Ministry of Healing, 361.

“Pray for the sweet, molding influence of the Holy Spirit. Let your lips be governed by the law of kindness. Refuse to be sour, uncourteous, unkind. …

“Do not serve the enemy of God by exhibiting a harsh, unkind spirit.” This Day With God, 111.

  • How should her daily duties be viewed by the wife and by others? Proverbs 31:10–31.

Note: “The mother seldom appreciates her own work and frequently sets so low an estimate upon her labor that she regards it as domestic drudgery. She goes through the same round day after day, week after week, with no special marked results. She cannot tell at the close of the day the many little things she has accomplished. Placed beside her husband’s achievement, she feels that she has done nothing worth mentioning. …

“While the father has been dealing with the things which must perish and pass away, the mother has been dealing with developing minds and character, working not only for time but for eternity. …

“There are opportunities of inestimable worth, interests infinitely precious, committed to every mother. The humble round of duties which women have come to regard as a wearisome task should be looked upon as a grand and noble work. It is the mother’s privilege to bless the world by her influence, and in doing this she will bring joy to her own heart.” The Adventist Home, 232–234.

5 UNITY IN ACTION

  • What do all of us need in our relationships both in the family and in the church? Psalm 133:1; Ephesians 4:2, 3.

Note: “Parents are to work together as a unit. There must be no division. … It sometimes happens that, of the mother and father, one is too indulgent and the other too severe. This difference works against good results in the formation of the characters of their children. …

“If fathers and mothers are at variance, one working against the other to counteract each other’s influence, the family will be in a demoralized condition, and neither the father nor the mother will receive the respect and confidence that are essential to a well-governed family. … Children are quick to discern anything that will cast a reflection upon the rules and regulations of a household, especially those regulations that restrict their actions.” The Adventist Home, 312.

  • What are the results of disunity? Mark 3:25.

Note: “In these first disciples was presented marked diversity. They were to be the world’s teachers, and they represented widely varied types of character. In order successfully to carry forward the work to which they had been called, these men, differing in natural characteristics and in habits of life, needed to come into unity of feeling, thought, and action. This unity it was Christ’s object to secure. To this end He sought to bring them into unity with Himself.” The Acts of the Apostles, 20.

  • In what are we to be united? I Peter 1:22; I John 2:4, 5; 3:18.

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1 Why does God give us family relationships?

2 What is the most important duty for the wife?

3 What is submission and how do you accomplish it?

4 What are some of the wonderful challenges given to the wife and mother?

5 How can we achieve the unity needed in the family and in the church?

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

Pen of Inspiration – The Love of God, A Constraining Motive

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There always have been, and always will be to the end of time, two classes on the earth—the believers in Jesus and those who reject Him. The truth will be a savour of life unto life to those who believe. However wicked, abominable, and corrupt he may be, the sinner will be purified by faith in Him, made clean by the doing of His word. But the same truth will be to the unbeliever a savour of death unto death.

Argument will fail to convince the sinner of his responsibility to God. Learning and talent will fail to convince the soul. But the presentation of the love of God has a convincing power above that of argument, debate, or eloquence. The love of Christ, as expressed in self-denial, self-sacrifice, and death, as He bowed low under the sins of humanity, touches the sympathies and melts the stubborn heart. The fact that the Son of God, innocent and pure, suffered for sin; that the guiltless bore the punishment of the guilty, the just endured the penalty for the unjust, breaks the heart; and as Jesus is lifted up, conviction strikes to the soul, and the love that prompted the bestowal of the infinite gift of Christ, constrains the repenting one to surrender all to God. The seed of gospel truth has been dropped into his heart; and he beholds a love that is without a parallel, pledging a personal Saviour, and with Him every needed blessing. “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things” [Romans 8:32]?

Those who receive Christ are melted and subdued by the manifestation of His love in His humiliation, suffering, and death in their behalf. They behold Him as their substitute and surety, as pledging Himself to accomplish their full salvation through a plan that is consistent with the justice of God, and which vindicates the honour of His law. But there are some who are stirred with strong emotion as they view the humiliation of Jesus, who shrink from following in His footsteps when they understand that they must be sharers in His humiliation and suffering. When Jesus asks the surrender of self without reserve, when He asks compliance with His government, and that they shall walk in humble obedience and implicit trust, their nature rebels. “No,” says the proud heart; “we want to keep our independence.” But this is the very thing that Jesus wants you to have. It was that you might be freed from the slavery of sin that He died on Calvary’s cross. He died that through faith in Him, you might be free indeed, and stand fast in the glorious liberty of the children of God.

Contemplate the sufferings of your Redeemer, and you will find that a check will be put upon sin. Every sin that is committed is a re-enacting of Christ’s humiliation, a re-opening of His wounds. Those who refuse to look upon Jesus lifted up upon the cross, who will not deny the inclination of their perverse hearts, who will not give up what they term their independence, their freedom to serve the author of sin as they please, will find their hearts filled with bitterness against those who accept Jesus as a personal Saviour. To them Christians will seem their enemies and injurers, and the gospel a sword.

Paul writes, “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world” [Galatians 6:14]. There is a mutual suffering here presented on the part of the Christian and the world. The world sees no charm in Jesus, and the Christian sees in Him matchless charms, and expresses his love, saying, “Thy gentleness hath made me great” [1 Samuel 22:36]. Christians realize the blessing that comes upon those who hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they are filled. The blessing comes upon those who desire entire conformity to the will of God, who desire to know Christ and to reflect His image. Through the merits of Jesus Christ, they realize that nothing is reserved in the heart of God for them but the fountain of the water of life—tender mercy, loving-kindness, infinite compassion. Jesus changes place with the sinner who believes, and the Father loves the followers of Christ, even as He loves His Son. He who receives the truth, has his heart filled with peace and joy as he contemplates Jesus.

But how different is the case of him who refuses to receive the salvation purchased at infinite cost. He refuses to look upon the humiliation and love of Jesus. He plainly says, “I will not have this man to reign over me.” To all who take this attitude, Jesus says, “I came not to send peace, but a sword” [Matthew 10:34]. Families must be divided, in order that all who call upon the name of the Lord may be saved. All who refuse His infinite love, will find Christianity a sword, a disturber of their peace. The light of Christ will cut away the darkness that covers their evil doings; and their corruption, their fraud, their cruelty will be exposed. Christianity unmasks the hypocrisies of Satan, and it is this unmasking of his designs that stirs his bitter hatred against Christ and His followers.

Satan has woven his spell even over the professed church of Christ, and many who claim to believe in Christ seem to be in the stupor of death. But the Lord has not left them to slumber on; He has sent them a message to arouse them from their carnal security. A part of these professors arouse and repent, and do their first works; but those who take comfort in their legal religion, in their form of godliness that is devoid of the power, feel that they have been personally rebuked and injured by the repentance of those who have aroused and returned unto the Lord. Instead of humbling their hearts and confessing their backsliding, they resist and oppose the message the Lord has sent. They oppose their finite wisdom against the wisdom of the Infinite. They allow their prejudices and passions to hold sway; they work on Satan’s side of the question. Thus the advocates of truth are brought into an unexpected conflict, and they are forced to bear witness to the truth, and to resist the hostility and hatred of those who would make the truth of God of none effect. Thus dissension comes in like a sword to divide believers and unbelievers.

The Bible Echo, March 26, 1894.