Bible: Senior Division Third Quarter 1982

OUR BIBLE
SENIOR DIVISION
THIRD QUARTER 1982
OUR BIBLE
1. Inspiration
2. Christ in All the Bible
3. God's Mediums of Communication
4. The Sure Word of Prophecy
5. Testing the Prophets
6. The Testimony of Jesus Christ
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7. The Bible as an Educator
8. History in the Bible
9. Difficult Things in the Bible
10. Power in the Word of God
11. The Bible Only
12. The Bible and Tradition
13. The Scriptures Our Safeguard
rt '._N_I9' IN_lI9a 1NII9i
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, Our Bible, for July-September, 1982, is published by the
Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General Conference Sabbath School Department.
Printed and distributed by Reformation Herald Publishing Assn., P.O. Box 312, Blackwood,
NJ 08012, U.S.A.
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
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FOREWORD
We should never cease to thank the Lord for having given us a written
revelation of all the truth we need for our salvation. The Bible is the only
foundation of the Christian faith, the only infallible authority in religion, the
only sure rule of all doctrine, the only guide enabling man to distinguish be-
tween the true and the false. The Bible is the only sure means of intellectual
culture. Christ, speaking through the Bible, is our best Friend, Counselor and
Educator. The Bible is always up-to-date with the course of events, because
it tells us not only what happened in the past, and what is happening now,
but also what will happen in the future. It has been said with propriety that
the Bible is an anvil which has worn out many hammers that have been used
against it. No other book can supersede the Bible.
"The Bible, and the Bible only, gives a correct view" of [the stupendous
crisis that is coming upon the world]. "Here are revealed the great final
scenes in the history of our world, events that already are casting their
shadows before, the sound of their approach causing the earth to tremble
and men's hearts to fail them for fear."-Education, p. 180.
"The urgent necessities that are making themselves felt in this time de-
mand a constant education in the word of God. This is present truth.
Throughout the world there should be a reform in Bible study, for it is needed
now as never before. As this reform progresses, a mighty work will be
wrought; for when God declared that His word should not return unto Him
void, He meant all that He said. A knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ
'whom He has sent' is the highest education, and it will cover the earth with
its wonderful enlightenment as the waters cover the Sea."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p.
13l.
The advice from the Spirit of Prophecy is, "Let the Bible be received as
the only food for the soul, as it is the very best and most effectual for the
purifying and strengthening of the intellect" (Fundamentals 0/ Christian Education, pp.
379,380).
"No other study will so ennoble every thought, feeling, and aspiration as
the study of the Scriptures. This Sacred Word is the will of God revealed to
men. Here we may learn what God expects of the beings formed in His im-
age. Here we learn how to improve the present life and how to secure the
future life. No other book can satisfy the questionings of the mind and the
craving of the heart. By obtaining a knowledge of God's word, and giving
heed thereto, men may rise from the lowest depths of ignorance and degra-
dation to become the sons of God, the associates of sinless angels."- Testimonies,
vol. 5, p. 24.
May the Lord richly bless the teachers and students as they go through
this new series of lessons.
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
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CHAPEL IN
LA CEIBA, HONDURAS
In Central America, between Guatemala on the west and
Nicaragua on the east, there is a small country called Honduras,
with 43,277 square miles and about 3,691,000 inhabitants. The
northern edge stretches along the Caribbean Sea, while a small
part touches the Pacific Ocean on the west. That is the country
where the majority of our Central American believers are
located.
On the Caribbean coast of Honduras there is a point of land
going out into the sea, called Cape Honduras, where Christopher
Columbus landed in 1502. This was the first place on the Amer-
ican mainland that he set foot. A little way west of Cape Hon-
duras, on the Caribbean Sea, there is a flourishing city of about
47,000 inhabitants, La Ceiba, where we have a group of
brethren and many interested souls. The meetings are held in
private homes. Our numerous friends, who are attracted by the
message of reformation, would come to the meetings if these
were held in a chapel. The brethren in Honduras, especially
those in La Ceiba, have therefore been considering the possibili-
ty of building a house of prayer in that city. And, although they
are poor, they have been making self-denying efforts to ac-
complish their goal. As a sacrifice for the building of a sanc-
tuary, namely, a proper place for collective worship, a ,sister has
donated a lot, while others have made donations in money.
They will start building as soon as they have our assurance that
their appeal for a thirteenth Sabbath offering is being directed
to our brethren all over the world. Please add your generous
contribution to their sacrifices.
"God loveth a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7).
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
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Lesson 1 Sabbath, July 3, 1982
INSPIRATION
"The preparation of the written word began in the time of Moses. Inspired reve-
lations were then embodied in an inspired book. This work continued during the
long period of sixteen hundred years-from Moses, the historian of creation and
the law, to John, the recorder of the most sublime truths of the gospel."-TheGreat
Controversy, p. 7.
KEY TEXT: "For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy
men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost" (2 Peter
1:21).
Supernatural Guidance o Sunday

June 27
1. What do we know about the supernatural influence which qualified men to

write the books of the Bible? 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21. How does the
Spirit of Prophecy explain the inspiration of the Bible?
"The union of the divine and the human, manifest in Christ, exists also in the Bi-
ble. The truths revealed are all 'given by inspiration of God;' yet they are expressed in
the words of men and are adapted to human needs. Thus it may be said of the Book of
God, as it was of Christ, that 'the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.' And
this fact, so far from being an argument against the Bible, should strengthen faith in it
as the word of God. Those who pronounce upon the inspiration of the Scriptures, ac-
cepting some portions as divine while they reject other parts as human, overlook the
fact that Christ, the divine, partook of our human nature, that He might reach human-
ity. In the work of God for man's redemption, divinity and humanity are combined."-
Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 747.
2. What do men obtain through divine inspiration? Job 32:8; Daniel 1:17. What
warning did the Lord's servant give about theories that have been advanced
in regard to the inspiration of the Bible?
"Instead of opening the soul to receive rays of light from heaven, some have been
working in an opposite direction. Both through the press and from the pulpit have
been presented views in regard to the inspiration of the Bible which have not the sanc-
tion of the Spirit or the word of God. Certain it is that no man or set of men should
undertake to advance theories upon a subject of so great importance, without a plain
'Thus saith the Lord' to sustain them. And when men, compassed with human infir-
mities, affected in a greater or less degree by surrounding influences, and having
hereditary and cultivated tendencies which are far from making them wise or
heavenly-minded, undertake to arraign the word of God, and to pass judgment upon
what is divine and what is human, they are working without the counsel of God. The
Lord will not prosper such a work. The effect will be disastrous, both upon the one
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engaged in it and upon those who accept it as a work from God. Skepticism has been
aroused in many minds by the theories presented as to the nature of inspiration. Finite
beings, with their narrow, shortsighted views, feel themselves competent to criticize
the Scriptures, saying: 'This passage is needful, and that passage is not needful, and
is not inspired.' "- Testimonies. vol. 5, p. 709.
A Few Examples D Monday
June 28
3. Give examples showing how God's messengers acknowledged the authority
of the Lord for the messages they delivered. Numbers 22:38; 24:13; 2 Samuel
23:2; Isaiah 38:4, 5.
"The voice of God was heard by the prophets whom He had appointed to a special
work and to bear a special message. He sent them to repeat the same words over and
over again. He had a message prepared for them that was not after the ways and will
of men, and this He put in their mouths and had them proclaim." - Testimonies to Ministers.
p.405.
4. What New Testament examples show that holy men spoke as they were in-
fluenced by the Holy Spirit? Luke 1:67-70; Acts 4:8; 7:55, 56.
Inspired Minds D Tuesday

June 29
5. In the process of inspiration, how does the Holy Spirit work through the
human agent? 1 Corinthians 2:12-16; Galatians 1:11, 12.
"It is not the words of the Bible that are inspired, but the men that were inspired.
Inspiration acts not on the man's words or his expressions but on the man himself,
who, under the influence of the Holy Ghost, is imbued with thoughts. But the words
receive the impress of the individual mind. The divine mind is diffused. The divine
mind and will is combined with the human mind and will; thus the utterances of the
man are the Word of God."- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, pp. 945,
946.
6. What enabled the apostles to preach the gospel with much success? 2 Peter
1:16; 1 John 1:3. Why does the Holy Spirit use different human instruments
to write on the same subjects?
"In our Bible, we might ask, Why need Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in the
Gospels, why need the Acts of the Apostles, and the variety of writers in the Epistles,
go over the same thing?
"The Lord gave His word in just the way He wanted it to come. He gave it
through different writers, each having his own individuality, though going over the
same history. Their testimonies are brought together in one Book, and are like the
testimonies in a social meeting. They do not represent things in just the same style.
Each has an experience of his own, and this diversity broadens and deepens the
knowledge that is brought out to meet the necessities of varied minds. The thoughts
expressed have not a set uniformity, as if cast in an iron mold, making the very hear-
ing monotonous. In such uniformity there would be a loss of grace and distinctive
beauty....
"The Creator of all ideas may impress different minds with the same thought, but
each may express it in a different way, yet without contradiction. The fact that this
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difference exists should not perplex or confuse us. It is seldom that two persons will
view and express truth in the very same way. Each dwells on particular points which
his constitution and education have fitted him to appreciate. The sunlight falling upon
the different objects gives those objects a different hue." -Selected Messages, book 1, pp. 21,
22.
A Wonderful Provision o Wednesday

June 30
7. What provision has God made for the bestowing of more light upon His peo-
ple according to the needs of the times? Philippians 3:15.
"In harmony with the word of God, His Spirit was to continue its work
throughout the period of the gospel dispensation. During the ages while the Scrip-
tures of both the Old and the New Testament were being given, the Holy Spirit did
not cease to communicate light to individual minds, apart from the revelations to be
embodied in the Sacred Canon. The Bible itself relates how, through the Holy Spirit,
men received warning, reproof, counsel, and instruction, in matters in no way relating
to the giving of the Scriptures. And mention is made of the prophets in different ages,
of whose utterances nothing is recorded. In like manner, after the close of the canon
of the Scripture, the Holy Spirit was still to continue its work, to enlighten, warn, and
comfort the children of God."- The Great Controversy, p. 10.
"There are glorious truths to come before the people of God. Privileges and
duties which they do not even suspect to be in the Bible will be laid open before the
followers of Christ. As they follow on in the path of humble obedience, doing God's
will, they will know more and more of the oracles of God, and be established in right
doctrines."- That I May Know Him, p. 114.
8. What points of truth did the Holy Spirit reveal to the Advent believers when
the time came for the threefold message to be given? Hebrews 8:1, 2, 5; 9:4;
Revelation 11:19. .
" ... Those who by faith followed their great High Priest as He entered upon His
ministry in the most holy place, beheld the ark of His testament. As they had studied
the subject of the sanctuary they had come to understand the Saviour's change of
ministration, and they saw that He was now officiating before the ark of God, pleading
His blood in behalf of sinners."- The Great Controversy. p. 433.
"The Spirit of God impressed the hearts of those students of His word. The con-
viction was urged upon them that they had ignorantly transgressed this precept [Ex-
odus 20:8-11] by disregarding the Creator's rest day. They began to examine the
reasons for observing the first day of the week instead of the day which God had sanc-
tified. They could find no evidence in the Scriptures that the fourth commandment
had been abolished, or that the Sabbath had been changed; the blessing which first
hallowed the seventh day had never been removed. They had been honestly seeking
to know and to do God's will; now, as they saw themselves transgressors of His law,
sorrow filled their hearts, and they manifested their loyalty to God by keeping His
Sabbath holy." -Ibid., pp. 434, 435.
Additional Responsibility o Thursday

July 1
9. How does God treat involuntary ignorance? Acts 17:30; John 9:41. For what
light are we accountable? James 4:17.
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"As we have followed down the chain of prophecy, revealed truth for our time has
been clearly seen and explained. Weare accountable for the privileges that we enjoy
and for the light that shines upon our pathway. Those who lived in past generations
were accountable for the light which was permitted to shine upon them. Their minds
were exercised in regard to different points of Scripture which tested them. But they
did not understand the truths which we do. They were not responsible for the light
which they did not have. They had the Bible, as we have; but the time for the un-
folding of special truth in relation to the closing scenes of this earth's history is during
the last generations that shall live upon the earth."- Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 692, 693.
10. What is required of us in proportion to the light that has been given us? Luke
12:47,48.
"We are accountable only for the light that shines upon us. The commandments
of God and the testimony of Jesus are testing us. If we are faithful and obedient, God
will delight in us, and bless us as His own chosen, peculiar people. When perfect faith
and perfect love and obedience abound, working in the hearts of those who are
Christ's followers, they will have a powerful influence. Light will emanate from them,
dispelling the darkness around them, refining and elevating all who come within the
sphere of their influence, and bringing to a knowledge of the truth all who are willing
to be enlightened and to follow in the humble path of obedience."-Testimonies, vol. 2, pp.
693,694.
Recapitulation D Friday
July 2
a. How are divinity and humanity combined in the inspiration of the Bible?
b. How did the word of God come to the prophets, and what did they have to do?
c. How should we understand the fact that holy men spoke or wrote under the
inspiration of the Holy Spirit?
d. What work was the Holy Spirit to continue after the close of the canon of
Scripture?
e. By what are we being tested? How will the Lord bless our influence if we live
up to all the light that He has given us? •
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Lesson 2 Sabbath, July 10,1982
CHRIST IN ALL THE BIBLE
"Christ was the teacher of His ancient people as verily as He was when He came to
the world clothed in the garments of humanity. Hiding His glory in human form,
He often appeared to His people and talked with them 'face to face, as a man
speaketh unto his friend.' "- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 405. "He [Jesus] spoke the word
of God ... to all the Old Testament writers. The whole Bible is a manifestation of
Christ."-Gospel Workers, p. 250.
KEY TEXT: "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and
they are they which testify of me" (John 5:39).
A uthorship of the Bible o Sunday

July 4
1. How do we know that the writers of the Bible received light from Christ? John
1:1-4,9; 12:46-48; 5:39.
"The blessed Bible gives us a knowledge of the great plan of salvation, and shows
us how every individual may have eternal life. Who is the author of the book?-Jesus
Christ. He is the True Witness, and He says to His own, 'I give unto them eternal life;
and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.' The
Bible is to show us the way to Christ, and in Christ eternal life is revealed." -Fundamen-
tals 0/ Christian Education, p. 308.
2. Who inspired the minds of the prophets as they spoke or wrote God's mes-
sages? 1 Peter 1:10-12.
"All the words of Holy Scripture are His [Christ's]."- The Desire 0/ Ages, p. 413.
"It was Christ that spoke to His people through the prophets." -Patriarchs and Proph-
ets, p. 366.
Examples o Monday
July 5
3. Who was the Instructor of Enoch? Genesis 5:24 (note). Who spoke to the
antediluvians through the mouth of Noah? 1 Peter 3:18-20.
"That God who walked with Enoch was our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He
was the light of the world then just as He is now. Those who lived then were not
without teachers to instruct them in the path of life; for Noah and Enoch were Chris-
tians."- Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 392.
4. Who used David as a mouthpiece? Psalm 16:10 (Acts 2:27,31); Psalm 22:16,
18 (Matthew 27:35); Psalm 40:6-8 (Hebrews 10:5-7).
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Additional Examples D Tuesday
July 6
5. From whom did Moses receive the two tables of the law and all the instruc-
tions on Mount Sinai? Acts 7:37, 38.
"It was Christ who gave to Moses the instruction that He gave to the children of
Israel. It was Christ who delivered the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. Moses and
Aaron were the visible leaders of the people. To Moses instruction was given by their
invisible Leader, to be repeated to them." - The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments).
vol. 1. p. 1117.
6. Who spoke through Isaiah about the coming of a Deliverer? Isaiah 61:1-3
(Luke 4:16-21).
The Promised Gift D Wednesday

July 7
7. What impediment rested upon the minds of the Jewish leaders? Matthew
22:29. What did Christ do for the disciples so that they would not have the
same problem as the scribes and Pharisees? Luke 24:45,. How can we have a
clear understanding of the truth?
"After the crucifixion and the resurrection of Christ, His disciples listened with
wonder and amazement to His lessons of truth; for they seemed as new ideas to them;
but He told them, 'These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with
you.... Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scrip-
tures' (Luke 24:44, 45). The truth is constantly unfolding and presenting new features
to different minds. All who dig in the mines of truth, will constantly discover rich and
precious gems." -Selected Messages, book 1. p. 404.
"Baptized with the Spirit of Jesus, there will be a love, a harmony, a meekness, a
hiding of the self in Jesus that the wisdom of Christ will be given, the understanding
enlightened; that which seems dark will be made clear." -Counsels 10 Writers and Editors, p.
81.
8. According to the Lord's promise, what did the Holy Spirit do for the early
Christians? What does He do for us today? John 14:26; 16:12, 13.
"In bringing men to repentance, it is not the office work of the Holy Spirit to
reveal new truths, but to present to the mind and urge upon the conscience the
precious lessons which Christ has given in the Old and New Testaments."- The SDA Bi-
ble Commentary [E.G. White Comments). vol. 6, pp. 1068, 1069.
Christ's Presence with Us D Thursday

July 8
9. How did Christ, after His ascension, manifest Himself to some of His ser·
vants on different occasions? Give examples. Acts 9:4-6,10-16; 10:19,28;
18:9; Revelation 1:10-18.
10. What did Christ mean when He said He would be with His people unto the
end of the world? Matthew 28:20; John 14:16-18; Romans 8:9.
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"Do not talk of your inefficiency and your defects. When despair would seem to
be sweeping over your soul, look to Jesus, saying, He lives to make intercession for
me. Forget the things that are behind, and believe the promise, 'I will come to you,'
and 'abide with you.''' -Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 516, 517.
Recapitulation o Friday
July 9
a. Who spoke to the people of God through the prophets?

b. What examples from the Psalms show that Christ spoke through David?
c. How can you prove from the Bible that it was Christ who spoke to Moses on
mount Sinai?
d. What is the experience of those who are baptized with the Spirit of Jesus?
e. What should a believer do when discouraged or tempted to despair? •
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GOD'S MEDIUMS OF COMMUNICATION
"God had been pleased to communicate His truth to the world by human agen-
cies, and He Himself, by His Holy Spirit, qualified men and enabled them to do
this work. He guided the mind in the selection of what to speak and what to
write."-The Great Controversy, p. 8.
KEY TEXT: "If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known
unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream" (Numbers
12:6).
Dreams and Visions D Sunday

July 11
1. How did the Lord use prophets as a vehicle to communicate His will to the
people? Numbers 12:6.
"The Infinite One by His Holy Spirit has shed light into the minds and hearts of
His servants. He has given dreams and visions, symbols and figures; and those to
whom the truth was thus revealed have themselves embodied the thought in human
language."- The Great Controversy, p. 7.
2. What distinction did the Lord make with Moses? Numbers 12:7,8; Deuter-
onomy 34:10.
" ... The Lord then told them [the Israelites] that Moses was greater than a
prophet, and that He had revealed Himself to Moses in a more direct manner than to a
prophet." -Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4, p. 27.
Other Mediums of Communication D Monday

July 12
3. How else did God often speak to His servants? Give examples. Exodus 3:1-5;
1 Samuel 3:1-10; Isaiah 6:8; Jonah 4:9, 10.
4. What other means of communication did the Lord also employ? Give exam-
ples. 1 Kings 19:5-7; Daniel 9:20-23; Revelation 22:8, 9. What mediums
are mentioned in 1 Samuel 28:6?
" ... the Lord had already refused to communicate with Saul, by dreams, by
Urim, or by prophets. 1 Samuel 28:6. These were God's own appointed mediums of
communication, and He did not pass them by to deliver the message through the
agent of Satan." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 683.
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A Warning Against Deception o Tuesday
July 13
5. What warning must be borne in mind in connection with dreams and visions?
Jeremiah 29:8 (last part); 1 John 4:1.
"The multitude of dreams arise from the common things of life, with which the
Spirit of God has nothing to do. There are also false dreams, as well as false visions,
which are inspired by the spirit of Satan. But dreams from the Lord are classed in the
word of God with visions and are as truly the fruits of the spirit of prophecy as visions.
Such dreams, taking into the account the persons who have them and the circum-
stances under which they are given, contain their own proofs of their genuineness."-
Testimonies, vol. 1, pp. 569, 570.
6. What should we know about those who say they do not need the Holy Scrip-
tures because they are under the direct guidance of the Holy Spirit? John
12:48, 49; Ephesians 2:2; 1 John 4:6.
"The Spirit was not given-nor can it ever be bestowed-to supersede the Bible;
for the Scriptures explicitly state that the word of God is the standard by which all
teaching and experience must be tested....
"Great reproach has been cast upon the work of the Holy Spirit by the errors of a
class that, claiming its enlightenment, profess to have no further need of guidance
from the word of God. They are governed by impressions which they regard as the
voice of God in the soul. But the spirit that controls them is not the Spirit of God. This
following of impressions, to the neglect of the Scriptures, can lead only to confusion,
to deception and ruin. It serves only to further the designs of the evil one. Since the
ministry of the Holy Spirit is of vital importance to the church of Christ, it is one of the
devices of Satan, through the errors of extremists and fanatics, to cast contempt upon
the work of the Spirit and cause the people of God to neglect this source of strength
which our Lord Himself has provided."- The Great Controversy, pp. 9, 10.
Speaking and Writing o Wednesday
July 14
7. What is the duty of a prophet when the Lord gives him a dream or a vision?
Jeremiah 23:28; Habakkuk 2:2.
"In the highest sense the prophet was one who spoke by direct inspiration, com-
municating to the people the messages he had received from God. But the name was
given also to those who, though not so directly inspired, were divinely called to in-
struct the people in the works and ways of God. For the training of such a class of
teachers, Samuel, by the Lord's direction, established the schools of the prophets."-
Edumtion, p. 46.
8. Instead of just speaking, what other duty is often enjoined upon a prophet?
Give examples. Daniel 12:4; Revelation 1:11. What differences can be noticed
among the many writers of the Bible?
"Written in different ages, by men who differed widely in rank and occupation,
and in mental and spiritual endowments, the books of the Bible present a wide con-
trast in style, as well as a diversity in the nature of the subjects unfolded. Different
forms of expression are employed by different writers; often the same truth is more
strikingly presented by one than by another. And as several writers present a subject
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under varied aspects and relations, there may appear, to the superficial, careless, or
prejudiced reader, to be discrepancy or contradiction, where the thoughtful, reverent
student, with clearer insight, discerns the underlying harmony.
"As presented through different individuals, the truth is brought out in its varied
aspects. One writer is more strongly impressed with one phase of the subject; he
grasps those points that harmonize with his experience or with his power of percep-
tion and appreciation; another seizes upon a different phase; and each, under the
guidance of the Holy Spirit, presents what is most forcibly impressed upon his own
mind-a different aspect of the truth in each, but a perfect harmony through all. And
the truths thus revealed unite to form a perfect whole, adapted to meet the wants of
men in all the circumstances and experiences of life."- The Great Controversy, p. 8.
A Cause-and-Effect Relationship D Thursday

July 15
9. What is the responsibility of a prophet? Ezekiel 33:7-9. What is the respon-

sibility of God's watchmen today?
"And today the Lord declares to His watchmen that if they are unfaithful and do
not warn the people who are in peril, they will be taken away in their sins. 'His blood,'
He says, 'will I require at thine hand.' But if His messengers lift up their voices in
reproof and warning, to turn men from their wicked ways, and those souls will not
hear, then the watchman is clear; the offender against God will be taken in his sins;
his blood will be upon his own soul."- Testimonies to Ministers. p. 406.
10. What is the result if we follow the instructions of God given through the
prophets? 2 Chronicles 20:20 (last part). What must happen if we refuse to
obey? Isaiah 1:20.
"God comes with entreaties and assurances to those who are making mistakes.
He seeks to show them their error, and lead them to repentance. But if they refuse to
humble their hearts before Him, if they strive to exalt themselves above Him, He must
speak to them in judgment. "-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1156.
July 16
a. How was Moses distinguished from the other prophets?

b. What were God's appointed mediums of communication in the time of ancient
Israel?
c. Why will the guidance of the Holy Spirit never do away with the Bible?
d. What were the primary and secondary meanings of the word "prophet"?
e. When the Lord sends a warning to His people, what alternative is placed both
before the messenger and before the people? •
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THE SURE WORD OF PROPHECY
It is necessary for us to have an intelligent faith fastened upon the "sure word of
prophecy," that we may be qualified to carry a convincing message to the world
and be able to stand through different tests.
KEY TEXT: "We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well
that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the
day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts" (2 Peter 1:19).
God's Omniscience D Sunday

July 18
1. How far-reaching is God's ability to predict the future? And how does He
challenge all false gods and false prophets? Isaiah 41:21-23; 46:9, 10.
"I AM means an eternal presence; the past, present, and future are alike to God.
He sees the most remote events of past history, and the far distant future with as
clear a vision as we do those things that are transpiring daily. We know not what is
before us, and if we did, it would not contribute to our eternal welfare. God gives us
an opportunity to exercise faith and trust in the great I AM."- The SDA Bible Commentary
[E.G. White Comments], vol. 1, p. 1099.
2. What does the Lord do before major events come to affect His people? Amos
3:7.
" 'The secret things,' says Moses, 'belong unto the Lord our God: but those things
which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever;' and the Lord declares
by the prophet Amos, that He 'will do nothing; but He revealeth His secret unto His
servants the prophets.' Deuteronomy 29:29; Amos 3:7. The students of God's word
may, then, confidently expect to find the most stupendous event to take place in
human history clearly pointed out in the Scriptures of truth." - The Great Controversy, p. 324.
Convincing Evidence D Monday

July 19
3. For what purpose did the Lord supply the gift of prophecy? John 14:29. How
did prophecy strengthen the early Christians?
"Christ warned His disciples in regard to what they would meet in their work as
evangelists. He knew what their sufferings would be, what trials and hardships they
would be called upon to bear. He would not hide from them the knowledge of what
they would have to encounter, lest trouble, coming unexpectedly, should shake their
faith. 'I have told you before it come to pass,' He said, 'that, when it is come to pass,
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ye might believe.' John 14:29. Their faith was to be strengthened, rather than weak-
ened, by the coming of trial. They would say to one another: 'He told us that this
would come, and what we must do to meet it.' "- Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 235.
4. What convincing evidence has been given us of the certainty of our hope? 2
Peter 1:19. How has our faith been strengthened in these last days?
"Faithful men ... had taken heed to the 'sure word of prophecy,' the 'light that
shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the daystar arise.' 2 Peter 1:19. They
had been seeking the knowledge of God more than all hid treasures, counting it 'bet-
ter than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.' Proverbs 3: 14.
And the Lord revealed to them the great things of the kingdom." - The Great Controversy,
p.312.
Importance ofProphetic Study o Tuesday

July 20
5. What was one of the causes of the spiritual darkness that envolved the
Jewish nation? Mark 12:24. How do we know that Christ urged upon His dis-
ciples the importance of prophetic study? Matthew 24:15; Luke 24:27.
"The time of Christ's coming, His anointing by the Holy Spirit, His death, and the
giving of the gospel to the Gentiles, were definitely pointed out. It was the privilege of
the Jewish people to understand these prophecies, and to recognize their fulfillment
in the mission of Jesus. Christ urged upon His disciples the importance of prophetic
study. Referring to the prophecy given to Daniel in regard to their time, He said,
'Whoso readeth, let him understand.' Matt. 24:15. After His resurrection He explained
to the disciples in 'all the prophets' 'the things concerning Himself.' Luke 24:27. The
Saviour had spoken through all the prophets. 'The Spirit of Christ which was in them'
'testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.' 1
Peter 1:11." -The Desire of Ages, p. 234.
6. How does Peter emphasize the importance of divine prophecy? 2 Peter 3:2
(first part).
Danger ofIgnoring Prophecy o Wednesday

July 21
7. To whom do the prophetic revelations belong? Deuteronomy 29:29. What

happens when prophecy is ignored? Proverbs 29:18.
" ... God has given these things [which are revealed] to us, and His blessing will
attend the reverent, prayerful study of the prophetic scriptures." - The Desire of Ages, p.
234.
8. What calamity came upon Jerusalem and upon the Jewish nation because
they did not understand the word of God nor know the time of their visita-
tion? Daniel 9:26; Luke 19:41-44. Why is it important for us to study the
history of nations in the light of divine prophecy?
"We need to study the working out of God's purpose in the history of nations and
in the revelation of things to come, that we may estimate at their true value things
seen and things unseen; that we may learn what is the true aim of life; that, viewing
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the things of time in the light of eternity, we may put them to their truest and noblest
use. Thus, learning here the principles of His kingdom and becoming its subjects and
citizens, we may be prepared at His coming to enter with Him into its possession."-
Education, p. 184.
Prophecies for the Time of the End o Thursday

July 22
9. What do faith, obedience and patience have to do with the fulfillment of divine
prophecy? Habakkuk 2:2-4. What understanding would the Lord give to His
servants in the time of the end? Daniel 12:9, 10.
"As the message of Christ's first advent announced the kingdom of His grace, so
the message of His second advent announces the kingdom of His glory. And the se-
cond message, like the first, is based on the prophecies. The words of the angel to
Daniel relating to the last days were to be understood in the time of the end."- The
Desire of Ages, p. 234.
10. If, in our understanding of prophecy, the coming of Christ has been delayed
(Matthew 25:5), how should we interpret and use this delay? 2 Peter 3:9, 11,
12, 14; 1 Thessalonians 5:6; Amos 4: 12 (second part).
July 23
a. Where may we confidently expect to find, clearly pointed out, the most stu-
pendous events to take place in history?
b. How has the Lord, in these last days, blessed the efforts of those who have
sought knowledge in God's word more than all hidden treasures?
c. What did Christ say with reference to the prophecy given to Daniel?
d. Why should we pay attention to God's purpose in the history of the nations
and in His prophetic word?
e. As the message of Christ's first advent ushered in the kingdom of grace,
what does the message of His second coming announce? •
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TESTING THE PROPHETS
Great care must be exercised in the work of God when some one is said to have
the gift of prophecy. Two dangers surround this claim: (1) that of rejecting a true
prophet, and (2) that of listening to false prophets. We need not err in this matter
if we follow the rules given in the Bible.
KEY TEXT: "Ye shall know them by their fruits" (Matthew 7:16).
An Essential Test D Sunday

July 25
1. What rule was given to test the prophets and distinguish God's messengers
from the emissaries of Satan? Deuteronomy 18:22; Isaiah 8:20.
"In these days of peril we are not to accept everything that men bring to us as
truth. As professed teachers from God come to us declaring that they have a message
from God, it is proper to inquire carefully, How do we know that this is truth? Jesus
has told us that 'false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many' (Matt. 24:11). But
we need not be deceived; for the Word of God gives us a test whereby we may know
what is truth. The prophet says, 'To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not
according to this word, it is because there is no light in them' (Isa. 8:20)." -Selected Mes-
sages. book 2, p. 99.
2. What additional rule was to be applied in the test? Deuteronomy 13:1-4.

What was the legal way of dealing with false prophets? Deuteronomy 13:5;
18:20.
"Let none cherish the idea that special providences or miraculous manifestations
are to be the proof of the genuineness of their work or the ideas they advocate. When
persons will speak lightly of the word of God, and set their impressions, feelings, and
exercises above the divine standard, we may know that they have no light in them."-
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 146.
A n Essential Test (continued) D Monday

July 26
3. According to Christ, whereby shall we know the false prophets? Matthew

7:15-23.
"Teachers of falsehood will arise to draw you away from the narrow path and the
strait gate. Beware of them; though concealed in sheep's clothing, inwardly they are
ravening wolves. Jesus gives a test by which false teachers may be distinguished from
the true. 'Ye shall know them by their fruits,' He says. 'Do men gather grapes of
thorns, or figs of thistles?' "- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 145.
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4. What standard has been given us for the testing of their fruits? 1 John 2:3-6;
James 2:10.
"If men do not feel the weight of the moral law; if they make light of God's
precepts; if they break one of the least of His commandments, and teach men so, they
shall be of no esteem in the sight of heaven. We may know that their claims are
without foundation. They are doing the very work that originated with the prince of
darkness, the enemy of God."- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 145.
A Clear Contrast o Tuesday

July 27
5. What are some of the characteristics of a false prophet? Jeremiah 6:13, 14;
Zephaniah 1:12 (last part); Isaiah 5:20, 21.
"Those who seek to cloak sin and make it appear less aggravating to the mind of
the offender are doing the work of the false prophets and may expect the retributive
wrath of God to follow such a course. The Lord will never accommodate His ways to
the wishes of corrupt men."- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 185.
"Those who prophesy lies encourage men to look upon sin as a small matter.
When the terrible results of their crimes are made manifest, they seek, if possible, to
make the one who has faithfully warned them responsible for their difficulties, even
as the Jews charged Jeremiah with their evil fortunes."-Ibid., p. 174.
6. What will identify a true prophet? Jeremiah 7:23; 6:16.
"The prophets of God were hated by apostate Israel because through them their
hidden sins were brought to light. Ahab regarded Elijah as his enemy because the
prophet was faithful to rebuke the king's secret iniquities. So today the servant of
Christ, the reprover of sin, meets with scorn and rebuffs. Bible truth, the religion of
Christ, struggles against a strong current of moral impurity. Prejudice is even stronger
in the hearts of men now than in Christ's day. Christ did not fulfill men's expectations;
His life was a rebuke to their sins, and they rejected Him. So now the truth of God's
word does not harmonize with men's practices and their natural inclination, and thou-
sands reject its lights. Men prompted by Satan cast doubt upon God's word, and choose
to exercise their independent judgment. They choose darkness rather than light, but
they do it at the peril of their souls. Those who caviled at the words of Christ found
ever-increased cause for cavil, until they turned from the Truth and the Life. So it is
now. God does not propose to remove every objection which the carnal heart may bring
against His truth. To those who refuse the preCious rays of light which would illuminate
the darkness, the mysteries of God's word remain such forever. From them the truth is
hidden. They walk blindly, and know not the ruin before them."- The Desire of Ages, pp.
587,588.
Telling the Difference o Wednesday

July 28
7. How is the knowledge of the doctrinal truth to serve as a defense against false
prophets? 2 John 9, 10.
8. As truth and error are often closely related, how shall we be able to tell the
difference? John 7: 17, 18.
-19 -
"The perception and appreciation of truth, He [Jesus] said, depends less upon the
mind than upon the heart. Truth must be received into the soul; it claims the homage
of the will. If truth could be submitted to the reason alone, pride would be no hindrance
in the way of its reception. But it is to be received through the work of grace in the
heart; and its reception depends upon the renunciation of every sin that the Spirit of
God reveals. Man's advantages for obtaining a knowledge of the truth, however great
these may be, will prove of no benefit to him unless the heart is open to receive the
truth, and there is a conscientious surrender of every habit and practice that is opposed
to its principles. To those who thus yield themselves to God, having an honest desire
to know and to do His will, the truth is revealed as the power of God for their salva-
tion. These will be able to distinguish between him who speaks for God, and him who
speaks merely from himself." - The Desire 0/ Ages, pp. 455, 456.
A Twofold Danger D Thursday

July 29
9. How were the Jews warned against heeding false prophets? Ezekiel 13: 1-10;
Jeremiah 23:32. How have we been warned?
"It is necessary that something should be done to guard the interests of those who
believe the truth for this time. Christ has given many warnings to the effect that false
doctrines, false prophets, and false christs would arise and deceive many. From the
light that God has been pleased to give me, His humble servant, I know that these
prophecies have been fulfilling, and testimonies have not been few that have been
given to meet these things as they have come up all along through our religious ex-
perience. Great delusions will arise, and even 'of your own selves shall men arise,
speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.' Even Satan will
disguise himself, and appear as Christ." -Counsels to Writers and Editors, p. 152.
10. How were they also warned against rejecting the messages of God'S true proph-
ets? Isaiah 30:8-14; Jeremiah 7:25-28. And how have we been warned?
"Cling close to your Bible, for its sacred truths can purify, ennoble, and sanctify
the soul. You must hold the truth and teach it as it is in Jesus, else it is of no value to
you. Before the light of God's truth let human opinions and ideas and human wisdom
appear as they are in the sight of God, -as foolishness." -Counsels to Writers and Editors, p.
50.
"If you seek to turn aside the counsel of God to suit yourselves, if you lessen the
confidence of God's people in the testimonies He has sent them, you are rebelling
against God as certainly as were Korah, Dathan, and Abiram."- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 66.
July 30
a. What is a very evident characteristic of a person who walks in darkness,

though he may claim to be a messenger of God?
b. How does a person show that he is doing the very work that originated with
the prince of darkness?
c. What distinguishes a true prophet from a false prophet?
d. Why does the reception of the truth depend more upon the heart than upon
the mind?
e. What two dangers require much caution when a prophet is tested? •
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Lesson 6 Sabbath, August 7,1982
THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST
The testimony of Jesus Christ, which is the spirit of prophecy, has an important
part to act in these last days, to establish the people of God in the truth and to
help them in their preparation for the coming of the Lord.
KEY TEXT: " ... the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy" (Revelation
19:10).
Spiritual Gifts o Sunday

August 1
1. What instruction did Paul give to the early Christians concerning the need to
seek spiritual gifts? 1 Corinthians 12:31.
"The talents that Christ entrusts to His church represent especially the gifts and
blessings imparted by the Holy Spirit." -Christ's Object Lessons. p. 327.
"The gifts are already ours in Christ, but their actual possession depends upon
our reception of the Spirit of God."-Ibid.
2. What gift does the apostle emphasize in his injunction? 1 Corinthians 14:1.
What evidence shows that he is also addressing the last generation of Chris-
tians? 1 Corinthians 15:51,52.
Spiritual Gifts (continued) o Monday

August 2
3. What specific message is directed by the Lord through Paul (1 Cor. 14:37) to
the saints living on earth immediately before the second coming of Christ? 1
Corinthians 1:7.
"God has set in the church different gifts. These are precious in their proper
places, and all may act a part in the work of preparing a people for Christ's soon com-
ing." -Gospel Workers, p. 481.
4. If we are not to come short of any gift while we are waiting for the second
coming of Christ, what place must the gift of prophecy have among the last
remnant of God's people? 1 Corinthians 12:4-10,28,29.
God's Promise o Tuesday

August 3
5. What promise did God make through Joel to those who are His faithful
children in these last days? Joel 2:28-32. What does Sister White say with
reference to this promise?
- 21-
"I recommend to you, dear reader, the Word of God as the rule of your faith and
practice. By that Word we are to be judged. God has, in that Word, promised to give
visions in the 'last days'; not for a new rule of faith, but for the comfort of His people,
and to correct those who err from Bible truth." -Early Writings, p. 78.
6. When did this promise have a partial fulfillment? Acts 2:1-4, 14-20. When
is it to have its final and complete fulfillment? Acts 3:19, 20.
"In immediate connection with the scenes of the great day of God, the Lord by
the prophet Joel has promised a special manifestation of His Spirit. Joel 2:28. This
prophecy received a partial fulfillment in the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of
Pentecost; but it will reach its full accomplishment in the manifestation of divine
grace which will attend the closing work of the gospel."- The Great Controversy, p. 11.
The Testimony ofJesus o Wednesday

August 4
7. Who was a bearer of the testimony of Jesus Christ nearly two thousand years
ago? Revelation 1:1,2,9. .
8. What is said of the last remnant of the church in connection with the
testimony of Jesus Christ? Revelation 12:17. What is the testimony of Jesus
Christ? Revelation 19:10 (last part). Upon whom did the Lord bestow the
spirit of prophecy soon after the great Advent disappointment in 1844?
"You know how the Lord has manifested Himself through the spirit of prophecy.
Past, present, and future have passed before me. I have been shown faces that I had
never seen, and years afterward I knew them when I saw them. I have been aroused
from my sleep with a vivid sense of subjects previously presented to my mind; and I
have written, at midnight, letters that have gone across the continent and, arriving at
a crisis, have saved great disaster to the cause of God. This has been my work for
many years. A power has impelled me to reprove and rebuke wrongs that I had not
thought of. Is this work of the last thirty-six years from above or from beneath?" - Tes-
timonies. vol. 5, pp. 64, 65.
Special Help o Thursday

August 5
9. What condition must be reached by those who are preparing for the second
coming of Christ? 2 Corinthians 11:2; Revelation 19:7, 8. How is the enemy
working to hinder God's people from reaching this condition? 2 Corinthians
11:3,4. What is the purpose of the testimony of Jesus Christ in this case?
" ... If you had made God's word your study, with a desire to reach the Bible
standard and attain to Christian perfection, you would not have needed the Testimo-
nies. It is because you have neglected to acquaint yourselves with God's inspired
Book that He has sought to reach you by simple, direct testimonies, calling your at-
tention to the words of inspiration which you had neglected to obey, and urging you to
fashion your lives in accordance with its pure and elevated teachings.
"The Lord designs to warn you, to reprove, to counsel, through the testimonies
given, and to impress your minds with the importance of the truth of His word. The
written testimonies are not to give new light, but to impress vividly upon the heart the
truths of inspiration already revealed. Man's duty to God and to his fellow men has
-22 -
been distinctly specified in God's word; yet but few of you are obedient to the light
given. Additional truth is not brought out; but God has through the Testimonies sim-
plified the great truths already given and in His own chosen way brought them before
the people to awaken and impress the mind with them, that all may be left without ex-
cuse."- Testimonies, vol. 2. p. 605.
10. What gift is to be a great help in our preparation for the second coming of the
Lord? I Corinthians 1:4-8; I Thessalonians 5:4,8, 17-23. What is this help
calculated to accomplish in our midst?
"God designs that His people shall be a unit, that they shall see eye to eye and be
of the same mind and of the same judgment. This cannot be accomplished without a
clear, pointed, living testimony in the church."- Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 361.
"The Lord reproves and corrects the people who profess to keep His law. He
points out their sins and lays open their iniquity because He wishes to separate all sin
and wickedness from them, that they may perfect holiness in His fear.... God
rebukes, reproves, and corrects them, that they may be refined, sanctified, elevated,
and finally exalted to His own throne."-Ibid., vol. 2, p. 453.
August 6
a. What do the talents entrusted to us (Matthew 25:14-30) represent in the first

place?
b. How important are the spiritual gifts to the church in view of the soon coming
of Christ?
c. What do you know about the fulfillment of God's promise through Joel
(chapter 2, verses 28-32)?
d. How do we know that the spirit of prophecy would be present with the people
of God in these last days?
e. How can you prove, from the writings of Paul, that the gift of prophecy is to
aid God's remnant church' in their preparation for the second coming of
Christ? •
- 23-
Lesson 7 Sabbath, August 14, 1982
THE BIBLE AS AN EDUCATOR
"As an educating power the Bible is without a rival. No scientific works are so ~
well adapted to develop the mind as a contemplation of the great and vital truths t
and practical lessons of the Bible. No other book has ever been printed which is
so well calculated to give mental power." -Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 84.
KEY TEXT: "The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto
the simple" (Psalm 119:130).
The Source ofAll True Wisdom o Sunday

August 8
1. What do we know of the educational value of the Bible? Psalm 119:99, 130.
"As an educating power the Bible is of more value than the writings of all the phi-
losophers of all ages. In its wide range of style and subjects there is something to in-
terest and instruct every mind, to ennoble every interest." -COltnsels to Parents, Teachers,
and Students, pp. 428, 429.
2. Who is the source of all true wisdom? Proverbs 1:7; 2:6, 7; Romans 11:33.
Science and the Bible o Monday

August 9
3. Why do we believe that true science and the written word of God will always
agree with each other? John 1:1-5, 9; Acts 3:21 (second part).
"God is the author of science. Scientific research opens to the mind vast fields of
thought and information, enabling us to see God in His created works. Ignorance may
try to support skepticism by appealing to science; but instead of upholding skep-
ticism, true science contributes fresh evidences of the wisdom and power of God.
Rightly understood, science and the written word agree, and each sheds light on the
other. Together they lead us to God by teaching us something of the wise and benefi-
cent laws through which He works." -Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 426.
4. What happens when scientists cover plain facts with specious suppositions
(or fanciful hypotheses), or when theologians cover biblical statements with
erroneous interpretations? Romans 1:22; 1 Corinthians 1:20.
"Inferences erroneously drawn from facts observed in nature have, however, led
to supposed conflict between science and revelation; and in the effort to restore har-
mony, interpretations of Scripture have been adopted that undermine and destroy the
force of the word of God. Geology has been thought to contradict the literal interpre-
- 24-
tation of the Mosaic record of the creation. Millions of years, it is claimed, were re-
quired for the evolution of the earth from chaos; and in order to accommodate the Bi-
ble to this supposed revelation of science, the days of creation are assumed to have
been vast, indefinite periods, covering thousands or even millions of years." -Education,
p.128.
The Bible as Literature o Tuesday

August 10
5. Where do we find the earliest poetic utterances known to man? Job, chapter
38. .
"The earliest as well as the most sublime of poetic utterances known to man are
f found in the Scriptures. Before the oldest of the world's poets had sung, the shepherd
of Midian recorded those words of God to Job-in their majesty unequaled, unap-
proached, by the loftiest productions of human genius." -Education, p. 159.
6. Which is the earliest song recorded in the Bible? Exodus 15:1-4. What does
Sister White say about the poetic writings of the Bible?
"The earliest song recorded in the Bible from the lips of men was that glorious
outburst of thanksgiving by the hosts of Israel at the Red Sea." -Education, p. 162.
"There is poetry which has called forth the wonder and admiration of the world.
In glowing beauty, in sublime and solemn majesty, in touching pathos, it is unequaled
by the most brilliant productions of human genius." -Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and
Students, p. 429.
Principles ofIndividual and National Prosperity o Wednesday

August 11
7. Give examples showing how the Bible teaches practical wisdom calculated to
make life a success. Proverbs 17:22,28; Matthew 7:12; Romans 12:18-21.
"There is no branch of legitimate business for which the Bible does not afford an
essential preparation. Its principles of diligence, honesty, thrift, temperance, and purity
are the secret of true success. These principles, as set forth in the book of Proverbs,
constitute a treasury of practical wisdom. Where can the merchant, the artisan, the
director of men in any department of business, find better maxims for himself or for
his employees than are found in these words of the wise man... ?" -Education, p. 135.
8. How does the Bible make it clear that the well-being of a nation depends
upon its obedience to the word of God? Deuteronomy 7:12-14; 29:9; 32:46,
47.
"The teaching of the Bible has a vital bearing upon man's prosperity in all the
relations of this life. It unfolds the principles that are the cornerstone of a nation's
prosperity-principles with which is bound up the well-being of society, and which
are the safeguard of the family-principles without which no man can attain
usefulness, happiness, and honor in this life, or can hope to secure the future, immor-
tal life. There is no position in life, no phase of human experience, for which the
teaching of the Bible is not an essential preparation. Studied and obeyed, the word of
God would give to the world men of stronger and more active intellect than will the
closest application to all the subjects that human philosophy embraces. It would give
men of strength and solidity of character, of keen perception and sound judgment-
men who would be an honor to God and a blessing to the world."-PatriarchsandProphets,
p.599.
- 25-
System of Theology and Philosophy D Thursday
August 12
9. Which is the most important of all sciences and where do we find it? 2
Timothy 3:15.
"The foundation of all true science is contained in the Bible. Eyery branch of
knowledge may be found by searching the word of God. And above all else it contains
the science of all sciences, the science of salvation. The Bible is the mine of the
unsearchable riches of Christ." -Christ's Object Lessons, p. 107.
"The Bible contains a simple and complete system of theology and philosophy. It
is the book that makes us wise unto salvation. It tells us of the love of God as shown in
the plan of redemption, imparting the knowledge essential for all students-the
knowledge of Christ. ...
"God has not only revealed to us the doctrine of the atonement, holding out the
hope of etemallife, but His words are the manna from heaven for the soul to feed upon
and receive spiritual strength. The Bible is the great standard of right and wrong,
clearly defining sin and holiness. Its living principles, running through our lives like
threads of gold, are our only safeguard in trial and temptation." -Counsels to Parents,
Teachers, and Students, p. 422.
10. Since the Bible is so important to us, what is our duty? 2 Timothy 2:15;
Jeremiah 15:16; Luke 11:28.
"The Bible stands the highest among books, and its study is valuable above the
study of other literature in giving strength and expansion to the mind." -Ftmdamentals of
Christian Education, p. 394.
August 13
a. What is of greater educational value than all the writings of all the philoso-
phers of all ages?
b. When rightly understood, what do science and revelation do as they walk
hand in hand?
c. Who wrote the earliest poem and earliest song recorded in the Bible? Name
the books and chapter!, where these literary productions are found.
d. If the word of God were studied and obeyed, what kind of men would it give
to the world?
e. What is the most important aim and effect of the wisdom imparted by the
Holy Scriptures? •
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HISTORY IN THE BIBLE
•
• "The Bible is the most wonderful of all histories, for it is the production of God,
not of the finite mind. It carries us back through the centuries to the beginning of
all things, presenting the history of times and scenes which would otherwise
never have been known." -Fundamentals 0/ Christian Education, p. 377.
KEY TEXT: "Seek ye out of the book of the Lord, and read ..." (Isaiah 34:16).
God's Hand in History D Sunday

August 15
1. Which is the only book that throws light on the distant past and supplies an
accurate account of ancient events? Isaiah 34:16 (first part); 43:9; Job 8:8.
"The Bible is of the highest value because it is the word of the living God. Of all
the books in the world it is the most deserving of study and attention, for it is eternal
wisdom. The Bible is a history that tells us of the creation of the world and opens to us
past centuries. Without it we should have been left to conjecture and fable in regard
to the occurrences of the remote past." -Counsels. to Parents, Teachers, and Students, p. 421.
2. Whose hand can be seen in the rise and fall of empires? Daniel 2:20, 21; Job
12:18, 19,21,23; Psalm 66:7.
"In the annals of human history the growth of nations, the rise and fall of empires,
appear as dependent on the will and prowess of man. The shaping of events seems, to
a great degree, to be determined by his power, ambition, or caprice. But in the word
of God the curtain is drawn aside, and we behold, behind, above, and through all the
play and counterplay of human interests. and power and passions, the agencies of the
all-merciful One, silently, patiently working out the counsels of His own will." -Educa-
tion, p. 173.
God's Purpose for the Nations D Monday

August 16
3. For what purpose have nations been permitted to occupy a place on earth?
Deuteronomy 4:5-8; Daniel 4:11, 12,27.
"This representation [Daniel 4:11, 12] shows the character of a government that
fulfills God's purpose-a government that protects and upbuilds the nation." -Educa-
tion, p. 175.
"Every nation that has come upon the stage of action has been permitted to occupy
its place on the earth, that it might be seen whether it would fulfill the purpose of 'the
Watcher and the Holy One.' Prophecy has traced the rise and fall of the world's great
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empires-Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. With each of these, as with na-
tions of less power, history repeated itself. Each had its period of test, each failed, its
glory faded, its power departed, and its place was occupied by another." -Ibid., pp. 176,
177.
4. Upon what basis does the prosperity of a nation rest? Proverbs 14:34; Psalms
2:10; 33:12.
"God has revealed in His law the principles that underlie all true prosperity both
of nations and of individuals. 'This is your wisdom and your understanding,' Moses
declared to the Israelites of the law of God. 'It is not a vain thing for you; because it is
your life.' Deuteronomy 4:6; 32:47. The blessings thus assured to Israel are, on the
same conditions and in the same degree, assured to every nation and every individual
under the broad heavens." -Education, p. 174
Nations Choose Their Own Destiny D Tuesday
August 17
5. In what words has the Lord made it clear that the future of a nation depends
upon its own choice? Jeremiah 18:7-10; 12:17.
"The history of nations that one after another have occupied their allotted time and
place, unconsciously witnessing to the truth of which they themselves knew not the
meaning, speaks to us. To every nation and to every individual of today God has as-
signed a place in His great plan. Today men and nations are being measured by the
plummet in the hand of Him who makes no mistake. All are by their own choice decid-
ing their destiny, and God is overruling all for the accomplishment of His purposes."-
Education, p. 178.
6. What examples show that, if a nation changes its conduct, the fate of that na-
tion can finally be reversed? 2 Kings 17:13-20; Jonah 3:4-10.
Instruments ofPunishment D Wednesday

August 18
7. What is written about the patience of the Lord with the Amorites? Genesis
15:16. Why did the Lord, through the people of Israel, punish the nations of
Canaan? Leviticus 18:24, 25.
" ... The Lord had shown himself to be long-suffering, of great kindness and
tender pity, even to these heathen peoples. When Abraham was shown in vision that
his seed, the children of Israel, should be strangers in a strange land four hundred
years, the Lord gave him the promise, 'In the fourth generation they shall come hither
again; for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet full.' Genesis 15:16. Although the
Amorites were idolaters, whose life was justly forfeited by their great wickedness,
God spared them four hundred years to give them unmistakable evidence that He was
the only true God, the Maker of heaven and earth. All his wonders in bringing Israel
from Egypt were known to them. Sufficient evidence was given; they might have
known the truth, had they been willing to turn from their idolatry and licentiousness.
But they rejected the light, and clung to their idols." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 434.
8. When later on the people of Israel defiled themselves and refused to repent,
what powerful kingdom did the Lord arouse to punish Israel and other na-
tions? 2 Chronicles 36:15-17; Jeremiah 27:6-8. What was God's purpose in
allowing Israel to be carried into captivity?
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"Humbled in the sight of the nations, those who once had been recognized as
favored of Heaven above all other peoples of the earth were to learn in exile the lesson
of obedience so necessary for their future happiness. Until they had learned this
lesson, God could not do for them all that He desired to do. 'I will correct thee in
measure, and will not leave thee altogether unpunished,' He declared in explanation
of His purpose to chastise them for their spiritual good. Jeremiah 30: 11."-Prophetsand
Kings, p. 475.
True Philosophy ofHistory o Thursday

August 19
9. How did Paul set forth the Bible philosophy of history? Acts 17:26, 27.
"The Bible reveals the true philosophy of history. In those words of matchless
beauty and tenderness spoken by the apostle Paul to the sages of Athens is set forth
God's purpose in the creation and distribution of races and nations."-Education, pp.173,
174.
10. In what symbolic representation did the Lord show to Ezekiel that the Lord
still guides the affairs of the earth? Ezekiel 10:8-10.
"While the nations rejected God's principles, and in this rejection wrought their
own ruin, it was still manifest that the divine, overruling purpose was working
through all their movements.
"This lesson is taught in a wonderful symbolic representation given to the prophet
Ezekiel during his exile in the land of the Chaldeans... ."-Education, p. 177.
"As the wheellike complications were under the guidance of the hand beneath the
wings of the cherubim, so the complicated play of human events is under divine con-
trol. Amidst the strife and tumult of nations, He that sitteth above the cherubim still
guides the affairs of the earth."-Ibid., p. 178.
August 20
a. How does the Bible teach that the course of history is not entirely dependent
upon the capricious will of man? Give examples.
b. To whom else, and under what conditions, do God's promises to Israel
belong?
c. What choice and decision are all men and nations making today? How?
d. What proves that the Lord was long-suffering even toward the heathen na-
tions that finally had to be destroyed?
e. What does the symbolic representation given to Ezekiel teach? •
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DIFFICULT THINGS IN THE BIBLE
"We shall advance in true spiritual knowledge only as we realize our own little-
ness and our entire dependence upon God; but all who come to the Bible with a
teachable and prayerful spirit, to study its utterances as the word of God, will
receive divine enlightenment. There are many things apparently difficult or
obscure which God will make plain and simple to those who thus seek an under-
standing of them."-Testimollies, vol. 5, p. 704.
KEY TEXT: "But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and
more unto the perfect day" (Proverbs 4:18).
Things Hard to Be Understood D Sunday

August 22
1. Since God's thoughts are not our thoughts (Isaiah 55:8), what must we ex-
pect to find in the Scriptures? 2 Peter 3: 16.
"The word of God, like the character of its divine Author, presents mysteries
which can never be fully comprehended by finite beings."-Testimollies, vol. 5, p. 699.
2. How have many difficulties in the Bible been increased and complicated by
man? Mark 7:13.
"The truths most plainly revealed in the Bible have been involved in doubt and
darkness by learned men, who, with a pretense of great wisdom, teach that the Scrip-
tures ·have a mystical, a secret, spiritual meaning not apparent in the language
employed. These men are false teachers."- The Great COlltroversy, p. 598.
" ... it is Satan's work to pervert the investigative powers of the mind. A certain
pride is mingled with the consideration of Bible truth, so that men feel defeated and
impatient if they cannot explain every portion of Scripture to their satisfaction. It is
too humiliating to them to acknowledge that they do not understand the inspired
words. They are unwilling to wait patiently until God shall see fit to reveal the truth to
them. They feel that their unaided human wisdom is sufficient to enable them to com-
prehend the Scripture; and failing to do this, they virtually deny its authority. It is
true that many theories and doctrines popularly supposed to be the teaching of the Bi-
ble have no foundation in Scripture and, indeed, are contrary to the whole tenor of in-
spiration. These things have been a cause of doubt and perplexity to many minds.
They are not, however, chargeable to God's word, but to man's perversion of it."-
Testimollies. vol. 5, pp. 701, 702.
"The errors of popular theology have driven many a soul to skepticism, who
might otherwise have been a believer in the Scriptures."- The Great COlltroversy, p. 525.
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Skepticism o Monday
August 23
3. What happens when men choose to shut their eyes to the evidences of the
truth? Romans 1: 18-22,25. How do skeptics misuse the difficulties existing
in the Bible?
"The difficulties of Scripture have been urged by skeptics as an argument against

the Bible; but so far from this, they constitute a strong evidence of its divine inspira-
tion." - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 700.
4. What are the true causes of skepticism? Psalm 10:4.
"We see the minds of many wandering through the mazes of skepticism. The
causes of this are ignorance, pride, and a defective character. Humility is a hard lesson
for fallen man to learn. There is something in the human heart which rises in opposi-
tion to revealed truth on subjects connected with God and sinners, the transgression
of the divine law, and pardon through Christ."- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 588.
"Disguise it as they may, the real cause of doubt and skepticism, in most cases, is
the love of sin." -Steps to Christ, p. 111.
Sound Doctrine o Tuesday
August 24
5. Why must we reject the idea that doctrine is not important? 1 Corinthians
15:1,2; Galatians 1:8; 1 John 2:24.
"The truth and the glory of God are inseparable; it is impossible for us, with the
Bible within our reach, to honor God by erroneous opinions. Many claim that it mat-
ters not what one believes, if his life is only right. But the life is molded by the faith. If
light and truth is within our reach, and we neglect to improve the privilege of hearing
and seeing it, we virtually reject it; we are choosing darkness rather than light." - The
Great Controversy, p. 597.
6. What will Satan always try to introduce among the people of God, and why
does the Lord permit it? 1 Corinthians 11:19. Why is it so important to con-
tend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints? Jude 3, 4.
"The position that it is of no consequence what men believe is one of Satan's most
successful deceptions. He knows that the truth, received in the love of it, sanctifies
the soul of the receiver; therefore he is constantly seeking to substitute false theories,
fables, another gospel. From the beginning the servants of God have contended
against false teachers, not merely as vicious men, but as inculcators of falsehoods that
were fatal to the soul. Elijah, Jeremiah, Paul, firmly and fearlessly opposed those who
were turning men from the word of God."- The Great Controversy, p. 520.
"Error is never harmless. It never sanctifies, but always brings confusion and dis-
sension. It is always dangerous. The enemy has great power over minds that are not
thoroughly fortified by prayer and established in Bible truth." - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 292.
"The Pillar and Ground of the Truth" o Wednesday
August 25
7. How should a brother or sister act if he or she has doctrinal doubts or new
doctrinal ideas? Proverbs 11:14.
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"There are a thousand temptations in disguise prepared for those who have the
light of truth; and the only safety for any of us is in receiving no new doctrine, no new
interpretation of the Scriptures, without first submitting it to brethren of experience.
Lay it before them in a humble, teachable spirit, with earnest prayer; and if they see no
light in it, yield to their judgment; for 'in the multitude of counselors there is safety.' "
- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 293.
8. If the true church is "the pillar and ground of the truth" (1 Timothy 3:15),
what must she uphold? Psalm 119:142; John 17:17. And what persons
should not be retained in her communion? Romans 16: 17.
"Unto the Perfect Day" D Thursday

August 26
9. As far as the progressive understanding of the word of God is concerned, what
has been the experience of Christ's true followers? Proverbs 4: 18. Under what
condition shall we have a clearer discernment of the truth? Matthew.5:8.
"Peter exhorts his brethren to 'grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord
and Saviour Jesus Christ.' 2 Peter 3:18. When the people of God are growing in grace,
they will be constantly obtaining a clearer understanding of His word. They will
discern new light and beauty in its sacred truths. This has been true in the history of
the church in all ages, and thus it will continue to the end." -Steps to Christ, p. 112.
"The pure in heart discern the Creator in the works of His mighty hand, in the
things of beauty that comprise the universe. In His written word they read in clearer
lines the revelation of His mercy, His goodness, and His grace. The truths that are
hidden from the wise and prudent are revealed to babes. The beauty and preciousness
of truth, which are undiscerned by the worldly-wise, are constantly unfolding to those
who have a trusting, childlike desire to know and to do the will of God. We discern the
truth by becoming, ourselves, partakers ofthe divine nature." - Thoughts From the Mount of
Blessing, pp. 26, 27.
10. When will God reveal to us many things which we are now unable to under-
stand? 1 Corinthians 13:12.
"By faith we may look to the hereafter and grasp the pledge of God for a growth of
intellect, the human faculties uniting with the divine, and every power of the soul being
brought into direct contact with the Source of light. We may rejoice that all which has
perplexed us in the providences of God will then be made plain, things hard to be un-
derstood will then find an explanation; and where our finite minds discovered only con-
fusion and broken purposes, we shall see the most perfect and beautiful harmony."-
Steps to Christ, p. 112, 113.
August 27
a. How have men been handling the word of God deceitfully?
b. What is, in most cases, the real cause of skepticism?
c. What two things are inseparable from each other, so that it is impossible to
honor God by wrong doctrinal ideas?
d. What definition does Paul use for the church of the living God, and what does
that definition imply?
e. Under what condition shall we be constantly obtaining a clearer understand-
ing of God's word? •
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Lesson 10 Sabbath, September 4, 1982
POWER IN THE WORD OF GOD
"The means by which we can overcome the wicked one is that by which Christ
overcame,-the power of the word."-The Desire of Ages, p. 258.
KEY TEXT: "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any
twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and
spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts
and intents of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12),
God's Word in Three Major Events D Sunday
August 29
1. What instrument did God use in the works of creation? Psalm 33:6, 9;
Hebrews 11:3.
"God spoke, and His words created His works in the natural world. God's crea-
tion is but a reservoir of means made ready for Him to employ instantly to do His
pleasure."- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 1, p. 1081.
2. How was the word of God instrumental in the purification of the earth by a
flood? When and how will it be instrumental again? 2 Peter 3:5-7.
"As He [God] called forth the waters in the earth at the time of the Flood, as
weapons from His arsenal to accomplish the destruction of the antediluvian race, so at
the end of the one thousand years He will call forth the fires in the earth as His
weapons which He has reserved for the final destruction." - The SDA Bible Commentary
[E.G. White Comments], vol. 1, pp. 1090, 1091.
Christ's Victory and Our Victory D Monday

August 30
3. With what did Christ overcome Satan in the wilderness of temptation? Mat-
thew 4:4, 7, 10. What did Christ mean when He said, "Man shall not live by
bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God"?
"Often the follower of Christ is brought where he cannot serve God and carry for-
ward his worldly enterprises. Perhaps it appears that obedience to some plain require-
ment of God will cut off his means of support. Satan would make him believe that he
must sacrifice his conscientious convictions. But the only thing in our world upon
which we can rely is the word of God. 'Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His
righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.' Matthew 6:33, Even in
this life it is not for our good to depart from the will of our Father in heaven. When we
learn the power of His word, we shall not follow the suggestions of Satan in order to
obtain food or to save our lives. Our only questions will be, What is God's command? "
and what His promise?"- The Desire of Ages, p. 121.
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4. By what means can we also overcome? Psalms 119:11; 17:4.
"By what means did He [Christ] overcome in the conflict with Satan? By the word
of God. Only by the word could He resist temptation. 'It is written,' He said. And unto
us are given 'exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be par-
takers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through
lust.' 2 Peter 1:4. Every promise in God's word is ours. 'By every word that pro-
ceedeth out of the mouth of God' are we to live. When assailed by temptation, look
not to circumstances or to the weakness of self, but to the power of the word. All its
strength is yours." - The Desire of Ages, p. 123.
Christ in Us o Tuesday
August 31
5. Through what means do we receive Christ? John 6:48-51,56-58,63.
"It is through the word that Christ abides in His followers. This is the same vital
union that is represented by eating His flesh and drinking His blood. The words of
Christ are spirit and life. Receiving them, you receive the life of the Vine." - The Desire
of Ages, p. 677.
"How many of those who are laboring in word and doctrine are eating Christ's
flesh and drinking His blood? How many can comprehend this mystery? The Saviour
Himself explains this matter: 'It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth
nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are Ii/e.' The word
of God must be interwoven with the living character of those who believe it. The only
vital faith is that faith which receives and assimilates the truth till it is a part of the be-
ing and the motive power of the life and action. Jesus is called the Word of God. He
accepted His Father's law, wrought out its principles in His life, manifested its spirit,
and showed its beneficent power in the heart. Says John: 'The Word was made flesh,
and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the Only Begotten of
the Father,) full of grace and truth.' The followers of Christ must be partakers of His
experience. They must assimilate the word of God. They must be changed into its
likeness by the power of Christ and reflect the divine attributes." - Testimonies, vol. 5, p.
576.
6. What work does Christ do in us when we receive the Word? John 8:32-36.
"The Word makes the proud humble, the perverse meek and contrite, the disobe-
dient obedient. The sinful habits natural to man are interwoven with the daily prac-
tice. But the Word cuts away the fleshly lusts. It is a discerner of the thoughts and in-
tents of the mind. It divides the joints and marrow, cutting away the lusts of the flesh,
making men willing to suffer for their Lord." -The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Com-
ments], vol. 7, p. 928.
The Power of God unto Salvation o Wednesday

September 1
7. What role does the word of God play in the regeneration of men and women?
John 3:7, 8; 1 Peter 1:23.
8. Through what agent are we to be purified, sanctified and fitted for the
kingdom of heaven? 1 Peter 1:22 (first part); John 17:17.
"Under the inspiration of the Spirit, the apostle Peter represents Christians as
those who have purified their souls in obeying the truth. Just in accordance with the
faith and love we bring into our work will be the power brought into it. No man can
- 34-
create faith. The Spirit operating upon and enlightening the human mind, creates
faith in God. In the Scriptures faith is stated to be the gift of God, powerful unto salva-
tion, enlightening the hearts of those who search for truth as for hidden treasure. The
Spirit of God impresses the truth on the heart. The gospel is called the power of God
unto salvation because God alone can make the truth a power which sanctifies the
soul. He alone can render the cross of Christ triumphant."- The SDA Bible Commentary
[E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 940. .
Revival and Reformation D Thursday

September 2
9. What does the word of God do to those who receive it? Psalm 119:130. How
did England benefit by the work of John Wycliffe?
"At last the work was completed-the first English translation of the Bible ever
made. The word of God was opened to England. The Reformer feared not now the
prison or the stake. He had placed in the hands of the English people a light which
should never be extinguished. In giving the Bible to his countrymen, he had done
more to break the fetters of ignorance and vice, more to liberate and elevate his coun-
try, than was ever achieved by the most brilliant victories on fields of battle."- The
"The appeal to men's reason aroused them from their passive submission to papal
dogmas. Wycliffe now taught the distinctive doctrines of Protestantism-salvation
through faith in Christ, and the sole infallibility of the Scriptures. The preachers
whom he had sent out circulated the Bible, together with the Reformer's writings,
and with such success that the new faith was accepted by nearly one half of the people
of England."-Ibid., p. 89.
10. What results will follow wherever the word of God is faithfully preached? 2
Corinthians 7:9, 10.
"Wherever the word of God has been faithfully preached, results have followed
that attested its divine origin. The Spirit of God accompanied the message of His ser-
vants, and the word was with power."- The Great Controversy, p. 461.
"Revivals brought deep heart searching and humility. They were characterized
by solemn, earnest appeals to the sinner, by yearning compassion for the purchase of
the blood of Christ. Men and women prayed and wrestled with God for the salvation
of souls. The fruits of such revivals were seen in souls who shrank not at self-denial
and sacrifice, but rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer reproach and trial
for the sake of Christ. Men beheld a transformation in the lives of those who had pro-
fessed the name of Jesus. The community was benefited by their influence. They
gathered with Christ, and sowed to the Spirit, to reap life everlasting." -Ibid., p. 462.
September 3
a. As the Lord, by His word, called forth the waters to cleanse the world in the
days of Noah, what is He going to do again in our days?
b. When we are tempted, what power may be ours if we have faith?
c. How and through what means does Christ abide in us? Explain John 6:56-58.
d. According to E.G. White, why is the gospel called the power of God unto
salvation?
e. Describe a genuine revival consequential upon the powerful influence of the
word of God. •
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THE BIBLE ONLY
Great and professedly good men have urged human ideas above a "Thus saith the
Lord." We must not yield to their influence and weaken our hold on the truth as
it is in Jesus. The Bible, and the Bible only, is the rule of our faith.
KEY TEXT: "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this
word, it is because there is no light in them" (Isaiah 8:20).
Choosing Between Two Possibilities D Sunday

September 5
1. How has the light of divine truth been treated in every age? John 3:19, 20.
What reception will God's message have today?
"Opposition is the lot of all whom God employs to present truths specially applica-
ble to their time. There was a present truth in the days of Luther,-a truth at that time
of special importance; there is a present truth for the church today. He who does all
things according to the counsel of His will has been pleased to place men under vari-
ous circumstances and to enjoin upon them duties peculiar to the times in which they
live and the conditions under which they are placed. If they would prize the light given
them, broader views of truth would be opened before them. But truth is no more de-
sired by the majority today than it was by the papists who opposed Luther. There is the
same disposition to accept the theories and traditions of men instead of the word of
God as in former ages. Those who present the truth for this time should not expect to
be received with greater favor than were earlier reformers. The great controversy be-
tween truth and error, between Christ and Satan, is to increase in intensity to the close
of this world's history."- The Great Controversy, pp. 143, 144.
2. What is our responsibility when the Lord sends us light? Acts 17: 11.
"There are many at the present day thus clinging to the customs and traditions of
their fathers. When the Lord sends them additional light, they refuse to accept it,
because, not having been granted to their fathers, it was not received by them. We
are not placed where our fathers were; consequently our duties and responsibilities
are not the same as theirs. We shall not be approved of God in looking to the example
of our fathers to determine our duty instead of searching the word of truth for
ourselves. Our responsibility is greater than was that of our ancestors. Weare ac-
countable for the light which they received, and which was handed down as an in-
heritance for us, and we are accountable also for the additional light which is now
shining upon us from the word of God."- The Great Controversy, p. 164.
- 36-
God's Word, the Highest Authority o Monday
September 6
3. What principle must ever underlie the faith and govern the conduct of all gen-
uine Christians? Matthew 4:10 (middle part); Acts 4:13-19. What banner
was held aloft by the Reformers in the 16th century and is to be exalted by us
today?
"The banner of truth and religious liberty which these Reformers held aloft has in
this last conflict been committed to us. The responsibility for this great gift rests with
those whom God has blessed with a knowledge of His word. We are to receive God's
word as supreme authority. We must accept its truths for ourselves. And we can ap-
preciate these truths only as we search them out by personal study. Then, as we make
God's word the guide of our lives, for us is answered the prayer of Christ: 'Sanctify
them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.' John 17:17. The acknowledgment of the
truth in word and deed is our confession of faith. Only thus can others know that we
believe the Bible."- Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 402, 403.
4, How do true believers become established in the faith? Ephesians 2:20-22;

Colossians 2:6, 7.
"Christ, the Word, the revelation of God,-the manifestation of His character,

His law, His love, His life,-is the only foundation upon which we can build a
character that will endure.
"We build on Christ by obeying His word."- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 149.
God's True Representatives o Tuesday
September 7
5. What visible agency did the Lord provide for the teaching of His word? Mat-
thew 16:18; Ephesians 4:11, 12.
"From the beginning God has been working by His Holy Spirit through human in-
strumentalities for the accomplishment of His purpose in behalf of the fallen race....
"And today God is still using His church to make known His purpose in the earth.
Today the heralds of the cross are going from city to city, and from land to land, pre-
paring the way for the second advent of Christ. The standard of God's law is being ex-
alted. The Spirit of the Almighty is moving upon men's hearts, and those who respond
to its influence become witnesses for God and His truth."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 53, 54.
6. With what rule must men comply before they can be recognized by God as
His messengers? Isaiah 8:20. What characteristics will identify the faithful
remnant in these last days? Revelation 14:12.
"In His word, God has committed to men the knowledge necessary for salvation.
The Holy Scriptures are to be accepted as an authoritative, infallible revelation of His
will. They are the standard of character, the revealer of doctrines, and the test of ex-
perience." - The Great Controversy, p. 9.
No Compromise with the World o Wednesday
September 8
7. What fact has always distinguished the true people of God from the rest of the
world? Esther 3:8; Daniel 3:12. Why can they make no compromise with the
world?
- 37-
" ... Thus we acknowledge God, and recognize His law, the foundation of His
government in heaven and throughout His earthly dominions. His authority should be
kept distinct and plain before the world, and no laws are to be acknowledged that
come in collision with the laws of Jehovah. If in defiance of God's arrangements the
world be allowed to influence our decisions or our actions, the purpose of God is
defeated. However specious the pretext, if the church waver here, there is written
against her in the books of heaven a betrayal of the most sacred trusts, and treachery
to the kingdom of Christ."- Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 16, 17.
8. What is the only right stand that meets the requirements of God whenever
principles are in question? Hebrews 8:10; Acts 5:29.
"I saw that it is our duty in every case to obey the laws of our land, unless they
conflict with the higher law which God spoke with an audible voice from Sinai, and
afterward engraved on stone with His own finger. 'I will put My laws into their mind,
and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to Me a
people.' He who has God's law written in the heart will obey God rather than men,
and will sooner disobey all men than deviate in the least from the commandment of
God. God's people, taught by the inspiration of truth, and led by a good conscience to
live by every word of God, will take His law, written in their hearts, as the only
authority which they can acknowledge or consent to obey. The wisdom and authority
of the divine law are supreme."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 361.
Building upon the Rock o Thursday

September 9
9. What stand will the faithful remnant take in this last conflict? Matthew 7:24;
1 John 2:14 (second part).
" ... God will have a people upon the earth to maintain the Bible, and the Bible
only, as the standard of all doctrines and the basis of all reforms. The opinions of
learned men, the deductions of science, the creeds or decisions of ecclesiastical coun-
cils, as numerous and discordant as are the churches which they represent, the voice
of the majority-not one nor all of these should be regarded as evidence for or against
any point of religious faith. Before accepting any doctrine or precept, we should de-
mand a plain 'Thus saith the Lord' in its support." -The Great Controversy, p. 595.
10. As' the profession-"the Bible, and the Bible only"-is often used as a cloak
for human ideas, what help has God sent us to make sure that we will not
turn away from the Bible? Revelation 12:17 (last part); 19:10.
"The testimonies of the Spirit of God are given to direct men to His Word, which
has been neglected. Now if their messages are not heeded, the Holy Spirit is shut
away from the soul." -Selected Messages, book 1, p. 46.
"When you find men questioning the testimonies, finding fault with them, and
seeking to draw away the people from their influence, be assured that God is not at
work through them. It is another spirit. Doubt and unbelief are cherished by those
who do not walk circumspectly. They have a painful consciousness that their life will
not abide the test of the Spirit of God, whether speaking through His Word or
through the testimonies of His Spirit that would bring them to His Word. Instead of
beginning with their own hearts, and coming into harmony with the pure principles of
the gospel, they find fault, and condemn the very means that God has chosen to fit up
a people to stand in the day of the Lord.
- 38-
"Let some skeptical one come along, who is not willing to square his life by the
Bible rule, who is seeking to gain the favor of all, and how soon the class that are not
in harmony with the work of God are called out. Those who are converted, and
grounded in the truth, will find nothing pleasing or profitable in the influence or
teaching of such a one. But those who are defective in character, whose hands are not
pure, whose hearts are not holy, whose habits of life are loose, who are unkind at
home, or untrustworthy in deal-all these will be sure to enjoy the new sentiments
presented. All may see, if they will, the true measure of the man, the nature of his
teaching, from the character of his followers.
"Those who have most to say against the testimonies are generally those who
have not read them, just as those who boast of their disbelief of the Bible are those
who have little knowledge of its teachings. They know that it condemns them, and
their rejection of it gives them a feeling of security in their sinful course." -Ibid., pp. 45,
46.
September 10
a. Why is our responsibility greater than was that of our ancestors in connec-
tion with the knowledge and practice of the truth?
b. How is Christ's prayer in John 17: 17 to be fulfilled in our behalf?
c. What is to be our only standard of character, revealer of doctrines, and test
of experience?
d. What is the consequence if the church wavers in her obedience to the laws of
Jehovah?
e. As far as obedience to the word of God is concerned, what stand will charac-
terize the true followers of Christ as we near the end? •
- 39-
Lesson 12 Sabbath, September 18,1982
THE BIBLE AND TRADITION
Throughout the centuries apostate Christianity has substituted human tradition

for a "Thus saith the Lord," making of none effect the law of God, while God's
true representatives have defended God's truth against teachings and practices
of men.
KEY TEXT: "Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you" (John 15:14).
Test ofFaithfulness D Sunday

September 12
1. What is the only true evidence of loyalty to God and faith in the Scriptures?
James 1:22-25; John 14:23.
"With the word of God in hand we may draw nearer, step by step, in consecrated
love to Jesus. As the Spirit of God becomes better known, the Bible will be accepted
as the only foundation of faith. God's people will receive the word as the leaves of the
tree of life, more precious than fine gold purified in the fire, and more powerful to
sanctify than any other agency." - Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 192, 193.
2. How did Jesus instruct His disciples concerning the necessity of obeying all
the Bible rules? Matthew 19:17-21; 22:36-40.
"To those who, like the young ruler, are in high positions of trust and have great
possessions, it may seem too great a sacrifice to give up all in order to follow Christ.
But this is the rule of conduct for all who would become His disciples. Nothing short
of obedience can be accepted. Self-surrender is the substance of the teachings of
Christ. Often it is presented and enjoined in language that seems authoritative,
because there is no other way to save man than to cut away those things which, if
entertained, will demoralize the whole being."- The Desire 0/ Ages, p. 523.
Satan's Effort to Suppress God's Light D Monday
September 13
3. What prophetic event is mentioned by Daniel, Paul and John? DanieIS:ll,
12; 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 4, 7; Revelation 13:5-7. What tactic did Satan
adopt to turn people away from the Truth?
"Satan well knew that the Holy Scriptures would enable men to discern his decep-
tions and withstand his power. It was by the word that even the Saviour of the world
had resisted his attacks. At every assault, Christ presented the shield of eternal truth,
saying, 'It is written.' To every suggestion of the adversary, He opposed the wisdom
and power of the word. In order for Satan to maintain his sway over men, and
establish the authority of the papal usurper, he must keep them in ignorance of the
-40 -
Scriptures. The Bible would exalt God and place finite men in their true position;
therefore its sacred truths must be concealed and suppressed. This logic was adopted
by the Roman Church. For hundreds of years the circulation of the Bible was prohib-
ited. The people were forbidden to read it or to have it in their houses, and unprincipled
priests and prelates interpreted its teachings to sustain their pretensions."- The Great
Controversy, p. 51.
4. How were the Holy Scriptures and God's messengers treated during the long
period of papal supremacy? Revelation 11:3,4.
"Concerning the two witnesses, the prophet declares further, 'These are the two
olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.' 'Thy word,'
said the psalmist, 'is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.' Revelation 11:4;
Psalm 119:105. The two witnesses represent the Scriptures of the Old and the New
Testament. Both are important testimonies to the origin and perpetuity of the law of
God. Both are witnesses also to the plan of salvation. The types, sacrifices, and proph-
ecies of the Old Testament point forward to a Saviour to come. The Gospels and Epis-
tles of the New Testament tell of a Saviour who has come in the exact manner foretold
by type and prophecy.
" 'They shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in
sackcloth.' During the greater part of this period, God's witnesses remained in a state
of obscurity. The papal power sought to hide from the people the word of truth, and set
before them false witnesses to contradict its testimony. When the Bible was proscribed
by religious and secular authority; when its testimony was perverted, and every effort
made that men and demons could invent to turn the minds of the people from it; when
those who dared proclaim its sacred truths were hunted, betrayed, tortured, buried in
dungeon cells, martyred for their faith, or compelled to flee to mountain fastnesses,
and to dens and caves of the earth-then the faithful witnesses prophesied in sackcloth.
Yet they continued their testimony throughout the entire period of 1260 years. In the
darkest times there were faithful men who loved God's word and were jealous for His
honor. To these loyal servants were given wisdom, power, and authority to declare
His truth during the whole of this time."- The Great Controversy, pp. 267, 268.
Changing God's Law-A Special Characteristic D Tuesday
September 14
5. What is the special characteristic of the religio-political power of Revelation
13? Daniel 7:25.
"The special characteristic of the beast, and therefore of his image, is the breaking
of God's commandments. Says Daniel, of the little horn, the papacy, 'He shall think to
change times and the law.' Daniel 7:25, R.V. And Paul styled the same power the 'man
of sin,' who was to exalt himself above God. One prophecy is a complement of the
other. Only by changing God's law could the papacy exalt itself above God; whoever
should understandingly keep the law as thus changed would be giving supreme honor
to that power by which the change was made. Such an act of obedience to papal laws
would be a mark of allegiance to the pope in the place of God." -The Great Controversy, p.
446.
6. What compromise is the Protestant world ready to make with Rome? Revela-
tion 13:11, 12, 14.
"The Roman Church has not relinquished her claim to supremacy; and when the
world and the Protestant churches accept a sabbath of her creating, while they reject
- 41-
the Bible Sabbath, they virtually admit this assumption. They may claim the authority
of tradition and of the Fathers for the change; but in so doing they ignore the very
principle which separates them from Rome-that 'the Bible, and the Bible only, is the
religion of Protestants.' The papist can see that they are deceiving themselves, will-.
ingly closing their eyes to the facts in the case. As the movement for Sunday enforce-
ment gains favor, he rejoices, feeling assured that it will eventually bring the whole
Protestant world under the banner of Rome."- The Great Controversy, p. 448.
A Timely Warning D Wednesday

September 15
7. What warning applies to the objectionable work of many translators, inter-

preters and commentators? Colossians 2:8-10.
"With the open Bible before them, and professing to reverence its teachings,
many of the religious leaders of our time are destroying faith in it as the word of God.
They busy themselves with dissecting the Word, and set their own opinions above its
plainest statements. In their hands God's Word loses its regenerating power. This is
why infidelity runs riot, and iniquity is rife." -Evangelism, p. 591.
"The time has come when we cannot depend upon the doctrine which comes to
our ears, unless we see that it harmonizes with the Word of God. There are
dangerous heresies that will be presented as Bible doctrines; and we are to become
acquainted with the Bible so that we may know how to meet them. The faith of every
individual will be tested, and everyone will pass through a trial of close criticism."-
Ibid., pp. 590, 591.
8. What tactic of Satan has been delaying the objective of the "everlasting
gospel"? Jeremiah 8:9; Galatians 1:9; Matthew 15:8, 9.
"The substitution of the precepts of men for the commandments of God has not
ceased. Even among Christians are found institutions and usages that have no better
foundation than the traditions of the fathers. Such institutions, resting upon mere
human authority, have supplanted those of divine appointment. Men cling to their
traditions, and revere their customs, and cherish hatred against those who seek to
show them their error. In this day, when we are bidden to call attention to the com-
mandments of God and the faith of Jesus, we see the same enmity as was manifested
in the' days of Christ."- The Desire of Ages, p. 398.
A Constant Battle D Thursday

September 16
9. What weapon did Luther and other reformers fearlessly use in defense of the
gospel? Ephesians 6: 17.
"Fearlessly did Luther defend the gospel from the attacks which came from
every quarter. The word of God proved itself a weapon mighty in every conflict. With
that word he warred against the usurped authority of the pope, and the rationalistic
philosophy of the schoolmen, while he stood firm as a rock against the fanaticism that
sought to ally itself with the Reformation." - The Great Controversy, p. 193.
10. What must the faithful followers of the truth expect? Matthew 5:11, 12.
What experience is to be repeated among the believers in the threefold
message?
- 42-
"Now is the time for God's people to show themselves true to principle. When the
religion of Christ is most held in contempt, when His law is most despised, then should
our zeal be the warmest and our courage and firmness the most unflinching. To stand
in defense of truth and righteousness when the majority forsake us, to fight the bat-
tles of the Lord when champions are few-this will be our test. At this time we must
gather warmth from the coldness of others, courage from their cowardice, and loyalty
from their treason. The nation will be on the side of the great rebel leader. " - Testimo-
nies, voL 5, p. 136.
September 17
a. What will happen as the Spirit of God becomes better known among us?
b. What logic did the papal church follow in keeping the Bible away from the
people? What did faithful men do with the word of God during the Dark
Ages?
c. What basic principle do Protestants ignore as they invoke the authority of
tradition and the writings of the church fathers for Sunday observance?
d. How are many religious leaders destroying faith in the Bible as the word of
God?
e. While a faithful few stand in defense of truth and righteousness, what is to be
expected from the majority of all professed believers in the threefold mes-
sage in this last conflict? •
-43 -
THE SCRIPTURES OUR SAFEGUARD
"None but those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will
stand through the last great conflict. To every soul will come the searching test:
Shall I obey God rather than men? The decisive hour is even now at hand. Are our
feet planted on the rock of God's immutable word?"-The Great Controversy. pp. 593, 594.
KEY TEXT: "Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this proph-
ecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at
hand" (Revelation 1:3).
An Inexcusable Deception D Sunday
September 19
1. How was the plain testimony of God's word met in the days of Christ and in
the days of the Advent pioneers? John 7:48.
" ... As of old, the plain testimony of God's word was met with the inquiry:
'Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed?' And finding how difficult a task
it was to refute the arguments drawn from the prophetic periods, many discouraged
the study of the prophecies, teaching that the prophetic books were sealed and were
not to be understood. Multitudes, trusting implicitly to their pastors, refused to listen
to the warning; and others, though convinced of the truth, dared not confess it, lest
they should be 'put out of the synagogue.' "- The Great Controversy. p. 380.
2. How is the Christian world being deceived today? 2 Peter 2:1,2.
"Notwithstanding the Bible is full of warnings against false teachers, many are
ready thus to commit the keeping of their souls to the clergy. There are today thou-
sands of professors of religion who can give no other reason for points of faith which
they hold than that they were so instructed by their religious leaders. They pass by the
Saviour's teachings almost unnoticed, and place implicit confidence in the words of the
ministers.... A lack of moral courage to step aside from the beaten track of the world
leads many to follow in the steps of learned men; and by their reluctance to investi-
gate for themselves, they are becoming hopelessly fastened in the chains of error....
Though reason and conscience are convinced, these deluded souls dare not think dif-
ferently from the minister; and their individual judgment, their eternal interests, are
sacrificed to the unbelief, the pride and prejudice, of another." -The Great Controversy, pp.
596,597.
"The Temple of the Lord, the Temple of the Lord" D Monday
September 20
3. What deception rested upon the minds of the Jewish leaders and people in
connection with their material greatness? Jeremiah 7:4. And how did they
treat the word of God? John 5:46,47.
"The Jewish leaders looked with pride upon their magnificent temple, and the im-
posing rites of their religious service; but justice, mercy, and the love of God were
- 44-
lacking. The glory of the temple, the splendor of their service, could not recommend
them to God; for that which alone is of value in His sight they did not offer. They did
not bring Him the sacrifice of a humble and contrite spirit. It is when the vital prin-
ciples of the kingdom of God are lost that ceremonies become multitudinous and ex-
travagant. It is when the character building is neglected, when the adornment of the
soul is lacking, when the simplicity of godliness is lost sight of, that pride and love of
display demand magnificent church edifices, splendid adornings, and imposing
ceremonials. In all this God is not honored." -Christ's Object Lessons, pp. 297, 298.
4. How do professed Christians show the same spirit today? What is their at-
titude toward the word of God? 2 Timothy 4:3, 4.
"The spirit which actuated those priests and rulers is still manifested by many
who make a high profession of piety. They refuse to examine the testimony of the
Scriptures concerning the special truths for this time. They point to their own
numbers, wealth, and popularity, and look with contempt upon the advocates of truth
as few, poor, and unpopular, having a faith that separates them from the world." -The
The Last Great Delusion D Tuesday

September 21
5. What will be regarded as more important than a plain "Thus saith the Lord"?
Matthew 24:24; Revelation 13:13, 14.
"The last great delusion is soon to open before us. Antichrist is to perform his
marvelous works in our sight. So closely will the counterfeit resemble the true that it
will be impossible to distinguish between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By
their testimony every statement and every miracle must be tested." -The Great Contro-
versy, p. 593.
6. What must happen to those who choose to ignore the Scriptures? John 7:49.
When undeniable miracles are wrought, what will be the experience of those
who are not firmly established upon the word of God?
"Just before us is 'the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to
try them that dwell upon the earth.' Revelation 3:10. All whose faith is not firmly es-
tablished upon the word of God will be deceived and overcome. Satan 'works with all
deceivableness of unrighteousness' to gain control of the children of men, and his de-
ceptions will continually increase. But he can gain his object only as men voluntarily
yield to his temptations. Those who are earnestly seeking a knowledge of the truth and
are striving to purify their souls through obedience, thus doing what they can to pre-
pare for the conflict, will find, in the God of truth, a sure defense." -The Great Controversy,
p.560.
The Foretold Test D Wednesday

September 22
7. As the disciples did not remember the words of Christ (Matthew 16:21-24;
24:25), what did they suffer? Luke 24:17-26.
" ... the disciples were looking for temporal deliverance from the Roman yoke,
and they could not tolerate the thought that He in whom all their hopes centered should
suffer an ignominious death. The words which they needed to remember were ban-
ished from their minds; and when the time of trial came, it found them unprepared.
The death of Jesus as fully destroyed their hopes as if He had not forewarned them."-
The Great Controversy, p. 594.
- 45-
8. For what reason will many believers be taken unawares by the deceptions
and events of these last days? What instruction are they overlooking? Revela-
tion 1:3; 16:15.
" ... So in the prophecies the future is opened before us as plainly as it was opened
to the disciples by the words of Christ. The events connected with the close of proba-
tion and the work of preparation for the time of trouble, are clearly presented. But
multitudes have no more understanding of these important truths than if they had
never been revealed. Satan watches to catch away every impression that would make
them wise unto salvation, and the time of trouble will find them unready." - The Great
Controversy, p. 594.
Preparation for the Final Crisis D Thursday

September 23
9. When we read the Bible, what should be our constant prayer? Acts 9:6 (first
part).
"We are living in the most solemn period of this world's history. The destiny of
earth's teeming multitudes is about to be decided. Our own future well-being, and
also the salvation of other souls depend upon the course which we now pursue. We
need to be guided by the Spirit of truth. Every follower of Christ should earnestly in-
quire, 'Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?' We need to humble ourselves before the
Lord, with fasting and prayer, and to meditate much upon His word, especially upon
the scenes of the judgment. We should now seek a deep and living experience in the
things of God." - The Great Controversy. p. 601.
10. When will the distinction be more clearly seen between those who have made
God's word their rule of life and those who have followed their carnal inclina-
tions? Malachi 3:14-18.
"When the testing time shall come, those who have made God's word their rule of
life will be revealed. In summer there is no noticeable difference between evergreens
and other trees; but when the blasts of winter come, the evergreens remain unchanged,
while other trees are stripped of their foliage. So the falsehearted professor may not
now be distinguished from the real Christian, but the time is just upon us when the
difference will be apparent. Let opposition arise, let bigotry and intolerance again
bear sway, let persecution be kindled, and the halfhearted and hypocritical will waver
and yield the faith; but the true Christian will stand firm as a rock, his faith stronger,
his hope brighter, than in days of prosperity."- The Great Controversy. p. 602.
September 24
a. Although the Bible is full of warnings against false teachers, what are many
professed Christians doing?
b. What parallel exists between the Jewish leaders in the days of Christ and the
professed Christian leaders today?
c. How only shall we be prepared to stand in the presence of the last great delu-
sion which is just before us?
d. As many professed believers have no understanding of the important truths
for these last days, what will happen when the time of trouble comes?
e. What answer shall we find in the word of God if we inquire prayfully, "Lord,
what will Thou have me to do?"
- 46-
the 13th Sabbath. Let us
help our brethren in Hondu-
ras (Central America) to
build a chapel i~ the city of
"La Ceiba".
See details on pages 4, and 48.
- 47-
I
A . . . . ""Tela-----: CD• • 0
\.,. ~
£ORTES 0Ch' A TL,4.NTI DA ': Sonoguera
~ ."~
S~a
oloma ,_.-., /'
San'Pedro .<D. ,(o .... ·_./"·./Olanchlloo .\ /", Ie/aimed by
'0 ",' •• ~ ~ANTA. I
"i~
EI Progreso YORO /" • .:.--"" " Nicaragua
G / lBARBARA) ,
_COPAN 1 Noronll/o," r Yoro' O
,
Yocon
OLANCHa
oSan Esteban
'-.
Du1ce.Nombrea":"0 Santo B6rbara
Santa Rosa. . I .......... ' 6~<.
T', /'
,""",~
a
oManto oCa/acamas •
JArea
I In Dispute
Claimed by
).''\.oCo~quln ~
a ,t oP,to Solo • ) Sa/amoo /-. Honduras
#.' .',. ). COMAYAGUA /FRAN" . J f I
,.., CiSCO 'l
-~o ~. ,--7NTIBu~Slguatepeque: ~
OCOTEPEQUE'f .0·Graclos. 0 .0 u Ica po
MORAZAN .-
Nuevo..... t'" ". CA >-- . .0. I • • /
Ocotepeque",,-: LEMPIRA' .c·la POZ':'Ii C0fll,ayagua/1-0 / '-. • ...........
" • \Esperanzo 0." ."' J .
IE' L PARA......,ISO
- ' ..
f'/" ."""'-. J' kMarcalad)
LA PAZ c o Tegucigalpa
. C®
oDanl1 - -.
S omayaguela, .
-1 <. \..,.. -. ~ /Yu'7coron oEI P
"'-1
DO
I .. '~'~'
.VALLE.
l'J
'f
Nacoome·
I .0.
\ """,'
·anp"CHOLUTECA
enZD . 0
.0.
Cholute
The arrow on the map above points to the location of La Ceiba, where the brethren want to build
a monument for the Lord. See page 4 for detailed information.

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OUR BIBLE

rt '._N_I9' IN_lI9a 1NII9i

The General Conference Sabbath School Department

The General Conference Sabbath School Department

Supernatural Guidance o Sunday

1. What do we know about the supernatural influence which qualified men to

Inspired Minds D Tuesday

A Wonderful Provision o Wednesday

Additional Responsibility o Thursday

CHRIST IN ALL THE BIBLE

A uthorship of the Bible o Sunday

The Promised Gift D Wednesday

Christ's Presence with Us D Thursday

a. Who spoke to the people of God through the prophets?

GOD'S MEDIUMS OF COMMUNICATION

Dreams and Visions D Sunday

Other Mediums of Communication D Monday

A Cause-and-Effect Relationship D Thursday

9. What is the responsibility of a prophet? Ezekiel 33:7-9. What is the respon-

a. How was Moses distinguished from the other prophets?

THE SURE WORD OF PROPHECY

God's Omniscience D Sunday

Convincing Evidence D Monday

Importance ofProphetic Study o Tuesday

Danger ofIgnoring Prophecy o Wednesday

7. To whom do the prophetic revelations belong? Deuteronomy 29:29. What

Prophecies for the Time of the End o Thursday

TESTING THE PROPHETS

An Essential Test D Sunday

2. What additional rule was to be applied in the test? Deuteronomy 13:1-4.

A n Essential Test (continued) D Monday

3. According to Christ, whereby shall we know the false prophets? Matthew

A Clear Contrast o Tuesday

6. What will identify a true prophet? Jeremiah 7:23; 6:16.

Telling the Difference o Wednesday

A Twofold Danger D Thursday

a. What is a very evident characteristic of a person who walks in darkness,

THE TESTIMONY OF JESUS CHRIST

Spiritual Gifts o Sunday

Spiritual Gifts (continued) o Monday

God's Promise o Tuesday

The Testimony ofJesus o Wednesday

Special Help o Thursday

a. What do the talents entrusted to us (Matthew 25:14-30) represent in the first

THE BIBLE AS AN EDUCATOR

The Source ofAll True Wisdom o Sunday

Science and the Bible o Monday

The Bible as Literature o Tuesday

Principles ofIndividual and National Prosperity o Wednesday

HISTORY IN THE BIBLE

God's Hand in History D Sunday

God's Purpose for the Nations D Monday

Instruments ofPunishment D Wednesday

True Philosophy ofHistory o Thursday

DIFFICULT THINGS IN THE BIBLE

Things Hard to Be Understood D Sunday

"The difficulties of Scripture have been urged by skeptics as an argument against

4. What are the true causes of skepticism? Psalm 10:4.

"Unto the Perfect Day" D Thursday