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CHRIST OUR
RIGHTEOUSNESS:
Sabbath School Lessons
Senior Division
CHRIST
OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS
Lesson1
TitleAWay of Escape
Page5
PRINTED INU.S.A.2
The
Filthy
Rags
8
3
The Wedding Garment
12
4
Our Title to Heaven
15
5
Our Fitness for Heaven
18
6
Remedying Defective Characters
21
7
A Dangerous Counterfeit
24
8
A Radical Change
28
9
The Work of the Holy Spirit
31
10
The Former Rain and the Latter Rain
34
11
The Father and the Family Circle
38
12
The Influence of the Mother
41
13
Building the Character of the Children
44
14
God's Church in the Last Days
48
The Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly. Christ Our Righteousness, for October-December 1988, is published by the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General Conference, Sabbath School Department. It is printed and distributed by Reformation Herald Publishing Association, P. O. Box 7240, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-0240,U.S.A.
-FOREWORD
One hundred years ago, a very definite message of revival and reformation, designatedthe message of righteousnessbyfaith,came to the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It was first presented by Elders Waggoner and Jones at the General Conference session which was being held in the city of Min-neapolis, Minnesota, October 17 through November 4, 1888. Its purpose was to lead us to cast aside our cloak of self-righteousness and to receive the righteousness of Christ by faith, His unblemished character, which is perfect obedience to the commandments of God (COL 312, 314, 315; TM 91, 92).
The message was not received alike by all who were present at the General . Conference. Some accepted it; others remained neutral, neither accepting nor rejecting it; and there were others who decidedly opposed it. The important fact for us is that the Spirit of Prophecy placed the seal of approval upon the message. Sister White wrote:
"The question of most vital importance for this time is, 'Who is on the Lord's side? Who will unite with the angel in giving the message of truth to the world? Who will receive the light that is to fill the whole earth with its glory?' Those who cherish the light that they have, will receive more. Increasing light will shine about the souls who yield to the softening, subduing grace of Christ; and those who love the light, will be saved from the delusions of Satan."- The Review and Herald, November 5, 1889.
The sad thing, however, is that the Adventist people, save exceptions, did not actually receive the message. Sister White stated:
"For nearly two years we have been urging the people to come up and ac-cept the light and the truth concerning the righteousness of Christ, and they do not know whether to come and take hold of this precious truth or not.... They do not let the Saviourin."-The Review and Herald, March11,1890.
"The Lord has seen our backslidings, and He has a controversy with His people.... The displeasure of the Lord is against His people. In their present condition it is impossible for them to represent the character of Christ. . . . They have refused to receive the message; they have refused to come to the light, lest their deeds should be reproved.... The time will come when it must be said of the impenitent, 'Ephraim is joined to his idols; let him alone.' Will the church see where she has fallen?"- The Review and Herald, (Extra), December23,
1890.
The message of Christ's righteousness was not only to be set before the church, to bring a revival and reformation among the people of God; it was to be given also to the world.
"This is the message that God commanded to be given to the world. It is the third angel's message, which is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, and at-tended with the outpouring of His Spirit in a large measure."- Testimonies to Ministers, p.92.
It is evident that the mother church is not in a position, now, to do this work, because, since 1888, she has been reaping the accumulated conse-(Continued on page 47)
-Thirteenth Sabbath Offering
for a
Chapel in Guayaquil, Ecuador
Ecuador is a republic of South America. Area, 269,178 square kilometers. Population, over 9,647,000. The official language is Spanish. The predomi-nant religion is Roman Catholicism (92%). Religious liberty is ensured by the constitution.
The message of reformation was brought to Ecuador in 1945 by Brother Mario Linares, who started working in Guayaquil. Churches and groups have since been established in the main cities and towns of the country. The Ecua-dorian brethren are now making plans to build a chapel in Guayaquil. To im-plement this project, they need financial assistance. Here is their appeal:
"Unfortunately, until now, we have not been able to secure a proper meeting place in Guayaquil. By the grace of God we already have the build-ing site where we intend to put up a house of prayer. You may be interested to know that we are running a vegetarian restaurant, through which we hope to raise some funds for the prospective construction. However, in spite of all the efforts and sacrifices put forth by the brethren, our financial possibilities are still insufficient for the plans that we have in view. For this reason we ap-peal to all our brethren and friends for a special contribution in behalf of our project. May the Lord reward you abundantly for your sacrifice!"
"And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just." Luke 14:14.
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
-Lesson 1 Sabbath, October 1, 1988
A VVAY OF ESCAPE
Christ has made it possible for man to be reconciled to God and restoredby faith to righteousness.
KEY TEXT: "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." Hebrews 11:6.
MAN FALLS FROM GRACE
o
Sunday September 25 1. In what likeness was the first couple created? Genesis 1:26,27."Man was to bear God's image, both in outward resemblance and in character. Christ alone is 'the express image' (Hebrews 1:3) of the Father; but man was formed in the likeness of God. His nature was in harmony with the will of God. His mind was capable of comprehending divine things. His affections were pure; his appetites and passions were under the control of reason. He was holy and happy in bearing the im-age of God and perfect obedience to His will."-Patriarchs and Prophets,p.45.
2. What did man do later? Into what state did he fall and what was the conse-quence? Hosea 6:7; Romans 3:23 (first part).
"In the beginning God created man in His own likeness. He endowed him with noble qualities. His mind was well balanced, and all the powers of his being were har-monious. But the Fall and its effects have perverted these gifts. Sin has marred and well-nigh obliterated the image of God in man."-Patriarchs and Prophets,p.595.
o
MondayA WAY OUT September26
3. What did God do to save the fallen race? What made this necessary? Job 33:24; Romans 6:23 (last part).
"The Son of God, heaven's glorious Commander, was touched with pity for the fallen race. His heart was moved with infinite compassion as the woes of the lost world rose up before Him. But divine love had conceived a plan whereby man might be redeemed."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 63.
-"As the bow in the cloud results from the union of sunshine and shower, so the bow above God's throne represents the union of His mercy and His justice. To the sinful but repentant soul God says, Live thou; 'I have found a ransom.' Job 33:24."
-Education,p.115.
4. Although the Lord has found a ransom, what is necessary for man to be able to stand before Him and be an heir of salvation? Matthew 22:11-13; Revela-tion 21:27.
"Only those who are clothed in the garments of His righteousness will be able to en-dure the glory of His presence when He shall appear with 'power and great glory.' "
- The Review and Herald,July 9, 1908.
"The condition of eternal life is now just what it always has been-just what it was in Paradise before the fall of our first parents-perfect obedience to the law of God, perfect righteousness.Ifeternal life were granted on any condition short of this, then the happiness of the whole universe would be imperiled. The way would be open for sin, with all its train of woe and misery, to beimmortalized."-Steps to Christ,p. 62.
o
TuesdayBY BELIEVING IN JESUS September 27
5. How only is man able to reach this perfect obedience? Matthew 1:23; Ro-mans 7:22-25.
"The theme that attracts the heart of the sinner is Christ, and Him crucified. On the cross of Calvary, Jesus stands revealed to the world in unparalleled love. Present Him thus to the hungering multitudes, and the light of His love will win men from darkness to light, from transgression to obedience and true holiness. Beholding Jesus upon the cross of Calvary arouses the conscience to the heinous character of sin as nothing else can do.Itwas sin that caused the death of God's dear Son and sin is the transgression of the law. On Him was laid the iniquities of us all. The sinner then con-sents unto the law that it is good; for he realized that it condemns his evil deeds, while he magnifies the matchless love of God in providing for him salvation through the im-puted righteousness of Him who knew no sin, in whose mouth there was found no
guile."-The Review and Herald, November 22,1892.
6. How can man come to God? What does this mean in practical life? Hebrews 11:6;John 3:14-18.
"In like manner you are a sinner. You cannot atone for your past sins; you cannot change your heart and make yourself holy. But God promises to do all this for you through Christ. You believe that promise. You confess your sins and give yourself to
God. Youwillto serve Him. Just as surely as you do this, God will fulfill His word to you.Ifyou believe the promise-believe that you are forgiven and cleansed-God sup-plies the fact; you are made whole, just as Christ gave the paralytic power to walk when the man believed that he was healed.Itisso if you believeit."-Steps to Christ, p. 51.
o
WednesdayFREE PARDON September 28
7. What alone makes it possible for men to receive mercy and the help that is needed? Romans 3:25, 26.
-"The only way in which he [the sinner] can attain to righteousness is through faith. By faith he can bring to God the merits of Christ, and the Lord places the obe-dience of His Son to the sinner's account. Christ's righteousness is accepted in place of man's failure, and God receives, pardons, justifies, the repentant, believing soul, treats him as though he were righteous, and loves him as He loves His Son. This is how faith is counted forrighteousness."-The Review and Herald,November 4,1890. 8. What is the result of the exercise of true faith? Romans 5:1; 3:24.
"Faith is the condition upon which God has seen fit to promise pardon to sinners; not that there is any virtue in faith whereby salvation is merited, but because faith can lay hold on the merits of Christ, the remedy provided for sin."- The Review and Herald,
November 4, 1890.
SALVATION FOR THE RIGHTEOUS
o
Thursday September 29 9. What is the cause for rejoicing and what is promised the sinner who
acknowl-edges his lost and miserable condition? Isaiah 61:10.
"Since we are sinful, unholy, we cannot perfectly obey the holy law.... But Christ has made a way of escape for us.... He died for us, and now He offers to take our sins and give us His righteousness. If you give yourself to Him, and accept Him as your Saviour, then, sinful as your life may have been, for His sake you are accounted righteous. Christ's character stands in place of your character, and you are accepted before God just as if you had notsinned."-Steps to Christ, p. 62.
"When men see their own nothingness, they are prepared to be clothed with the righteousness of Christ."- The Review and Herald, September 16, 1902.
10. What will identify the saved and what is said of them? Jeremiah 23:6.
"On Christ's coronation day he will not acknowledge as his any who bear spot or wrinkle or any such thing. But to his faithful one he will give crowns of immortal glory. Those who would not that he should reign over them will see him surrounded by the army of the redeemed, each of whom bears the sign, THE LORD OUR
RIGH-TEOUSNESS."-The Review and Herald,November 24,1904.
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS
a. Compare the nature of man before and after the fall.
o
Friday September 30b. Because there is no way that man can restore himself, what has God done? c. What can man do in behalf of his own justification?
d. How is man reconciled to God? e. What must be restored in man?
7
Lesson 2 Sabbath, October 8, 1988
THE FILTHY RAGS
There is a great danger of appearing outwardly correct without putting self away and having an actual continuous connection with Christ.
KEY TEXT: "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I but Christ liveth in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20.
COMMANDMENT KEEPING NOT ENOUGH
o
Sunday October 2
1. What danger is possible even for those who outwardly comply with the re-quirements of the law of God? 2 Corinthians 5:3; Revelation 3:17.
"When we contemplate His purity and excellence, we shall see our own weak-ness and poverty and defects as they really are. We shall see ourselves lost and hope-less, clad in garments of self-righteousness, like every other sinner. We shall see that if we are ever saved, it will not be through our own goodness, but through God's in-finite grace."-Christ's Object Lessons,p. 159.
"No outward observances can take the place of simple faith and entire renuncia-tion of self. But no man can empty himself of self. We can only consent for Christ to accomplish the work."-Ibid.
2. In what way did the early experience of Paul illustrate a positive danger for all who recognize the binding claims of God's love? Philippians 3:5, 6.
"But Israel had not perceived the spiritual nature of the law, and too often their professed obedience was but an observance of forms and ceremonies, rather than a surrender of the heart to the sovereignty of love. As Jesus in His character and works represented to men the holy, benevolent, and paternal attributes of God, and presented the worthlessness of mere ceremonial obedience, the Jewish leaders did not receive or understand His words. They thought that He dwelt too lightly upon the requirements of the law; and when He set before them the very truths that were the soul of their divinely appointed service, they, looking only at the external, accused Him of seeking to overthrow it."- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,p. 46.
-SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS IS ABHORRENT TO GOD
D
Monday October 3 3. After his conversion, how did Paul consider his former "blameless" state? What realization made him change his mind? Romans 7:9; Philippians3:7-9.
"Paul says that 'as touching the law' -as far as outward acts were concerned-he was 'blameless,' but when the spiritual character of the law was discerned, when he looked into the holy mirror, he saw himself a sinner. Judged by a human standard, he had abstained from sin, but when he looked into the depths of God's law, and saw himself as God saw him, he bowed in humiliation....
"Sin then appeared in its true hideousness, and his self-esteem was gone. He became humble. He no longer ascribed goodness and merit to himself."- The SDA Bi-ble Commentary, [E.G. White Comments] vol. 6, p.1076.
4. What is the divine description of "our own righteousness" according to the word of God? Isaiah 64:6.
"In their professed service to God, the Jews were really working for self. Their righteousness was the fruits of their own efforts to keep the law according to their own ideas and for their own selfish benefit. Hence it could be no better than they were. In their endeavor to make themselves holy, they were trying to bring a clean thing out of an unclean.... The works of the selfish heart are 'as an unclean thing;' and 'all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.' Isaiah 64:6." - Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p.54.
ACCEPTABLE RIGHTEOUSNESS
D
Tuesday October 4 5. What did Jesus teach, in the Sermon on the Mount, concerningrighteous-ness? Matthew 5:20.
"A legal religion is insufficient to bring the soul into harmony with God. The hard, rigid orthodoxy of the Pharisees, destitute of contrition, tenderness, or love, was only a stumbling block to sinners.... The only true faith is that which 'worketh by love' (Galatians 5:6) to purify the soul. It is as leaven that transforms the character."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 53.
6. When Paul understood this principle, what did he then endeavor to do? What did he teach the Gentiles also? Philippians 3:9; Romans 9:30.
"So we have nothing in ourselves of which to boast. We have no ground for self-exaltation. Our only ground of hope is in the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and in that wrought by His Spirit working in and throughus."-Steps to Christ, p 63.
D
WednesdayDANGER OF FORMALITY October5
7. What condition soon developed in the last period of the church, designated by Laodicea? What warning has the Lord given? Revelation 3:17, 18.
-"The testimonies of the Spirit of prophecy which were received during the year 1887 gave warning of danger. They named again and again a specific evil, a deception into which the church was falling. That deception was pointed out as the fatal mistake of drifting into formalism; the substitution of forms, ceremonies, doctrines, machin-ery, and activities for that heart experience which comes alone through fellowship with Christ Jesus our Lord. Throughout the entire year this specific danger was kept before ministers and people by messages which appeared in theReview and Herald." -Christ Our Righteousness,p.28.
8. Since there is always danger of self-deception, what warning should be borne in mind? Matthew 6:21-23.
"Itis possible to be a formal, partial believer, and yet be found wanting, and lose eternal life.Itis possible to practice some of the Bible injunctions, and be regarded as a Christian, and yet perish because you are lacking in essential qualifications that con-stitute Christiancharacter."-The Review and Herald, January 11,1887.
"The observance of external forms will never meet the great want of the human soul. A mere profession of Christ is not enough to prepare one to stand the test of the
Judgment."-Ibid., January 25, 1887.
"There is too much formality in the church....
"Those who profess to be guided by the word of God, may be familiar with the evidences of their faith, and yet be like the pretentious fig tree, which flaunted its foliage in the face of the world, but when searched by the Master, was found destitute offruit."-Ibid., February 15, 1887.
"A formal round of religious services is kept up; but where is the love of Jesus? Spirituality is dying....
"Shall we meet the mind of the Spirit of God? Shall we dwell more upon practical godliness and far less upon mechanicalarrangements?"-Testimonies,vol.5,pp.538, 539.
OBEDIENCE MADE POSSIBLE
o
Thursday October 6 9. What dangerous condition existed among the professed people of God in thetime of Christ, and what similar danger exists even today? John 8:39.
"The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ's day was that a mere as-sent to the truth constitutes righteousness. In all human experience a theoretical knowledge of the truth has been proved to be insufficient for the saving of the soul.It does not bring forth the fruits of righteousness.... The Pharisees claimed to be chil-dren of Abraham, and boasted their possession of the oracles of God; yet these advan-tages did not preserve them from selfishness, malignity, greed for gain, and the basest hypocrisy. They thought themselves the greatest religionists of the world, but their so-called orthodoxy led them to crucify the Lord of glory.
"The same danger still exists...."-The Desire of Ages, p.309.
10. How only can the righteousness of the law be fulfilled in us? What alone makes this possible? Romans 8:1-4.
"The law requires righteousness-a righteous life, a perfect character; and this man has not to give. He cannot meet the claims of God's holy law. But Christ, coming
to earth as a man, lived a holy life, developed a perfect character. These He offers as a free gift to all who will receive them. His life stands for the life of men. Thus they have remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. More than this, Christ imbues men with the attributes of God. He builds up the human character after the similitude of the divine character, a goodly fabric of spiritual strength and beauty. Thus the very righteousness of the law is fulfilled in the believer in Christ. God can 'be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.' Rom.3:26."-The Desire of Ages,p. 762.
A FULL COMPLIANCE
D
Friday October 7 11. What is needed to make the bearing of good fruit possible? John 15:4, 5."While the graft is outwardly united with the vine, there may be no vital connec-tion. Then there will be no growth or fruitfulness. So there may be an apparent con-nection with Christ withput a real union with Him by faith. A profession of religion places men in the church, but the character and conduct show whether they are in connection with Christ."- The Desire of Ages,p. 676.
12. What did the apostle Paul say about himself after his conversion? How can this become true in our lives? Galatians 2:20.
"A union with Christ by living faith is enduring; every other union must perish. Christ first chose us, paying an infinite price for our redemption; and the true believer chooses Christ as first and last, and best in everything. But this union costs us some-thing. It is a relation of utter dependence, to be entered into by a proud being. All who form this union must feel their need of the atoning blood of Christ. They must have a change of heart. They must submit their own will to the will of God. There will be a struggle with outward and internal obstacles. There must be a painful work of detach-ment, as well as a work of attachment. Pride, selfishness, vanity, worldliness-sin in all its forms-must be overcome, if we would enter into a union with Christ. The rea-son why so many find the Christian life so deplorably hard, why they are so fickle, so variable, is, they try to attach themselves to Christ without first detaching themselves from these cherishedidols."-The Review and Herald, December13,1887.
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS
a. What will enable us to see our own defects of character?
b. What was Paul's opinion about himself, in the light of the law, before and after his conversion?
c. Whereby is the only true faith characterized?
d. What is the greatest danger before every professed believer in Christ? e. What is man, in his human strength, able to do as far as meeting the claims of
God's holy law? How is obedience possible?
f. Describe the difference between an apparent connection with Christ and a
Lesson 3 Sabbath, October 15, 1988
THE WEDDING GARMENT
LESSONS FROM THE WEDDING FEAST
No one will be permitted in heaven unless he has the white raiment provid-ed by the True Witness and every believer must obtain this from Christ per-sonally.
KEY TEXT: "And He saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless." Matthew 22:12.
D
Sunday October 9 1. What parable shows that there are some requirements to be met by the can·didates for the kingdom of heaven? Matthew 22:12.
"The parable of the wedding garment opens before us a lesson of the highest con-sequence. By the marriage is represented the union of humanity with divinity; the wedding garment represents the character which all must possess who shall be ac-counted fit guests for the wedding."-Christ'sObject Lessons,p. 307.
2. What was expected of all who accepted the invitation to come to the wed-ding? What important lesson is herein? Matthew 22:11.
"Only the covering which Christ Himself has provided can make us meet to ap-pear in God's presence. This covering, the robe of His own righteousness, Christ will put upon every repenting, believing soul. 'I counsel thee,' He says, 'to buy of me ... white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.' Rev. 3:18."-Christ's Object Lessons,p. 311.
THE WEDDING ROBE
D
Monday October 10 3. What is the significance of the fact that the wedding garments were providedby the king? Isaiah 61:10.
"For every guest at the feast there had been provided a wedding garment. This garment was a gift from the king. By wearing it the guests showed their respect for the giver of the feast. But one man was clothed in his common citizen dress. He had refused to make the preparation required by the king. The garment provided for him at great cost he disdained to wear. Thus he insulted hislord."-Christ's Object Lessons,p. 309.
-4. What is represented by the wedding robe? What is offered by the True Witness to those living in the last period? Revelation 3:18.
"By the wedding garment in the parable is represented the pure, spotless character which Christ's true followers will possess. To the church it is given 'that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white,' 'not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing.' Rev. 19:8. The fine linen, says the Scripture, 'is the righteousness of saints.' Eph. 5:27.Itis the righteousness of Christ, His own unblemished character, that through faith is imparted to all who receive Him as their personal Saviour."
-Christ's Object Lessons, p.310.
A DUTY ILLUSTRATED
o
Tuesday October 11 5. What must the "guests" do? What part must we take and what is our duty inthis matter? Romans 6:1-13; Colossians 3:12, 14; Revelation 19:8. "Before the believer is held out the wonderful possibility of being like Christ, obedient to all the principles of the law. But of himself man is utterly unable to reach this condition. The holiness that God's word declares that he must have before he can be saved is the result of the working of divine grace as he bows in submission to the discipline and restraining influences of the Spirit of truth. Man's obedience can be made perfect only by the incense of Christ's righteousness, which fills with divine fragrance every act of obedience. The part of the Christian is to persevere in over-coming every fault. Constantly he is to pray to the Saviour to heal the disorders of his sin-sick soul. He has not the wisdom or strength to overcome; these belong to the Lord, and He bestows them on those who in humiliation and contrition seek Him for help." - The Acts of the Apostles, p.532.
6. Who is represented by the one that went to the feast· without the wedding garment? Matthew 22:13, 14.
"The man who came to the feast without a wedding garment represents the con-dition of many in our world today. They profess to be Christians, and lay claim to the blessings and privileges of the gospel; yet they feel no need of a transformation of character. They have never felt true repentance for sin. They do not realize their need of Christ or exercise faith in Him. They have not overcome their hereditary or culti-vated tendencies to wrongdoing. Yet they think that they are good enough in them-selves, and they rest upon their own merits instead of trusting in Christ. Hearers of the word, they come to the banquet, but they have not put on the robe of Christ's righ-teousness."-Christ'sObject Lessons,p.315.
LESSONS REGARDING THE JUDGMENT
o
Wednesday October 12 7. What should be kept in mind when considering the significance of the
wed-ding garment? Hebrews 12:14.
"Moral perfection is required of all. Never should we lower the standard of righteousness in order to accommodate inherited or cultivated tendencies to wrong-doing. We need to understand that imperfection of character is sin. All righteous at-tributes of character dwell in God as a perfect, harmonious whole, and every one who
receives Christ as a personal Saviour is privileged to possess theseattributes."-Christ's Object Lessons,p. 330.
"One defect, cultivated instead of being overcome, makes the man imperfect, and closes against him the gate of the Holy City. He who enters heaven must have a character that is without spot or wrinkle or any such thing. Naught that defileth can ever enter there. In all the redeemed host not one defect will beseen."-Messages to Young People, p.144.
8. What characterizes the judgment of God? What principles beside love are in His character? Psalm89:14; 1 John4:16.
"God is love. He has shown that love in the gift of Christ.... But the love of God does not lead Him to excuse sin. He did not excuse it in Satan; He did not excuse it in Adam or Cain; nor will He excuse it in any other of the children of men. He will not connive at our sins or overlook our defects of character. He expects us to overcome in His name."-Christ's Object Lessons, p. 316.
FORMING A RIGHTEOUS CHARACTER
D
Thursday October 13 9. Where does sin begin in the individual? What did the apostle Paul say shouldbe in the believer? Mark7:21-23;Philippians2:5.
"The courts of the temple at Jerusalem, filled with the tumult of unholy traffic, represented all too truly the temple of the heart, defiled by the presence of sensual passion and unholy thoughts. In cleansing the temple from the world's buyers and sellers, Jesus announced His mission to cleanse the heart from the defilement of sin-from the earthly desires, the selfish lusts, the evil habits, that corrupt the
soul."-The Desire of Ages, p.161.
"No man can of himself cast out the evil throng that have taken possession of the heart. Only Christ can cleanse the soul temple. But He will not force an
entrance."-Ibid.
10.What purpose should always be in the mind of Christ's followers as the close of probation comes ever nearer? Philippians2:12, 13;Hebrews12:28.
"Mercy and truth are promised to the humble and penitent, but judgments are prepared for the sinful and rebellious. 'Justice and judgment are the habitation of Thy throne.' A wicked and adulterous people will not escape the wrath of God and the punishment they have justly earned. Man has fallen; and it will be the work of a life-time, be it longer or shorter, to recover from that fall, and regain, through Christ, the image of the divine, which he lost by sin and continued transgression. God requires a thorough transformation of soul, body and spirit in order to regain the estate lost throughAdam."-Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 448.
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS
D
Friday October 14 a. What provision in the parable of Matthew22:2-14enables us to stand in thepresence of God?
b. What significance is in the wedding garment then and now? c. How is the thinking of the rejected guest repeated?
d. What is represented by this special garment?
Lesson 4 Sabbath, October 22, 1988
OUR TITLE TO HEAVEN
DEFINITIONS
Justification is pardon and comes by faith or believing in Christ and His pro-visions for those who really commit their all to Him.
KEY TEXT: "For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith." Romans 1:17.
o
Sunday October 161. What is to be understood by being "justified" in the sight of God? Compare Romans 3:24; Ephesians 1:7.
"Justification is the opposite of condemnation."-TheSDA Bible Commentary,[E.G.
White Comments], vol. 6,p.1070.
"Pardon and justification are one and the same thing."-Ibid.
"The righteousness by which we are justified is imputed; the righteousness by which we are sanctified is imparted. The first is our title to heaven, the second is our fitness for heaven."- The Review and Herald, June4, 1895.
2. What does Scripture clearly state regarding the guilty? What attributes of God are also mentioned? Exodus 34:6,7.
"God can be just while He justifies the repentingsinller."-The Great Controversy, p.415.
"When the sinner believes that Christ is his personal Saviour, then, according to His unfailing promises, God pardons his sin, and justifies him freely. The repentant soul realizes that his justification comes because Christ, as his substitute and surety, has died for him, is his atonement andrighteousness."-The Review and Herald, Novem-ber 4, 1890.
JUSTIFIED BY GRACE
o
Monday October 17 3. What must all believers know and understand concerning good works in
relation to justification? Romans 3:20.
"In our knowledge of Christ and His love the kingdom of God is placed in the midst of us. Christ is revealed to us in sermons and chanted to us in songs. The
-spiritual banquet is set before us in rich abundance. The wedding garment, provided at infinite cost, is freely offered to every soul. By the messengers of God are pre-sented to us the righteousness of Christ, justification by faith, the exceeding great and precious promises of God's word, free access to the Father by Christ, the comfort of the Spirit, the well-grounded assurance of eternal life in the kingdom of God. What could God do for us that He has not done in providing the great supper, the heavenly banquet?"-Christ's Object Lessons, p. 317.
4. Through what means may all be justified? Titus 3:7.
"Without the grace of Christ it is impossible to take one step in obedience to the law of God. Then how necessary that the sinner hear of the love and power of his Redeemer and Friend! While the ambassador for Christ should plainly declare the claims of the law, he should make it understood that none can be justified without the atoning sacrifice ofChrist."-Selected Messages, vol.1, p. 372.
JUST MEN MADE PERFECT
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Tuesday October 18 5. What does the shed blood of Christ also do in behalf of the repentant sinner?1 John 1:9.
"God is approached through Jesus Christ, the Mediator, the only way through which He forgives sins. God cannot forgive sins at the expense of His justice, His holiness, and His truth. But He does forgive sins and that fully. There are no sins He will not forgive in and through the Lord Jesus Christ. This is the sinner's only hope, and if he rests here in sincere faith, he is sure of pardon and that full and free. There is only one channel and that is accessible to all, and through that channel a rich and abundant forgiveness awaits the penitent, contrite soul and the darkest sins are
for-given."-The SDA BibleCommentary,[E.G.White Comments], vol.7, pp. 912, 913. 6. What kind of people will finally constitute the true church of God? Hebrews
12:22,23.
"The Lord requires perfection from His redeemed family. He calls for perfection in character-building. Fathers and mothers especially need to understand the best methods of training children, that they may cooperate with God. Men and women, children and youth, are measured in the scales of heaven in accordance with that which they reveal in their home life. A Christian in the home is a Christian every-where. Religion brought into the home exerts an influence that cannot be measured."
-The SDA Bible Commentary, [E.G.White Comments], vol.5, p. 1085.
COOPERATINGWITH CHRIST
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Wednesday October 19 7. What should the repentant sinner remember as he recognizes Christ as Hispersonal Saviour? Why? Isaiah 51:1; Romans 6:18.
"In order to meet the requirements of the law, our faith must grasp the righteous-ness of Christ, accepting it as our righteousrighteous-ness. Through union with Christ, through acceptance of His righteousness by faith, we may be qualified to work the works of God, to be colaborers with Christ. If you are willing to drift along with the current of evil, and do not cooperate with the heavenly agencies in restraining transgression in
your family, and in the church, in order that everlasting righteousness may be brought in, you do not have faith. Faith works by love and purifies the soul."-Selected Messages, vol. 1,p. 374.
8. What is expected of all who would receive and retain justification? 2 Corin-thians 7:1; 1 John 3:23.
"But while God can be just, and yet justify the sinner through the merits of Christ, no man can cover his soul with the garments of Christ's righteousness while practicing known sins, or neglecting known duties. God requires the entire surrender of the heart, before justification can take place; and in order for man to retain justification, there must be continual obedience, through active, living faith that works by love and purifies the soul."-The Review and Herald, November 4, 1890.
CERTAINTY OF JUSTIFICATION
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Thursday October 20 9. What truth was clearly exposed by the prophet Isaiah concerning justifica-tion in the dispensajustifica-tion before Christ came as Son of Man? Isaiah 50:7-9."The work of God in the earth presents, from age to age, a striking similarity in every great reformation or religious movement. The principles of God's dealing with men are ever the same. The important movements of the present have their parallel in those of the past, and the experience of the church in former ages has lessons of great value for our owntime."-The Great Controversy,p. 343.
10. What certainty of being justified do we have in the Christian dispensation? What is the foundation of this assurance? Romans 8:31-33; 1:17.
"Luther was one day devoutly climbing these steps [Pilate's staircase], when sud-denly a voice like thunder seemed to say to him: 'The just shall live by faith.' Romans 1:17. He sprang to his feet and hastened from the place in shame and horror. That text never lost its power upon his soul. From that time he saw more clearly than ever before the fallacy of trusting to human works for salvation, and necessity of constant faith in the merits ofChrist."-The Great Controversy,p. 125.
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS a. What is the essential definition of justification?
b. What is Christ's part and what is man's part in justification? c. What is the purpose of God in justification?
d. What is expected of the justified believer?
e. What makes justification a certainty to the believer?
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Friday October 21Lesson 5 Sabbath, October 29, 1988
OUR FITNESS FOR HEAVEN
Justification having been imputed, righteousness must become part of the believer's life perfecting him in the image of Christ.
KEY TEXT: "And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the com-ing of our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
THE NEXT STEP
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Sunday October 23
1. What simple illustration did the apostle use to show how our faith is imputed for righteousness? Genesis 15:1-6; Romans 4:17-25.
"In order to meet the requirements of the law, our faith must grasp the righteous-ness of Christ, accepting it as our righteousrighteous-ness. Through union with Christ, through acceptance of His righteousness by faith, we may be qualified to work the works of God, to be colaborers withChrist."-Selected Messages, book I,p. 374.
2. After righteousness is imputed, what further step is also necessary? Hebrews 12:14.
"The righteousness by which we are justified is imputed; the righteousness by which we are sanctified is imparted. The first is our title to heaven, the second is our fitness forheaven."-The Review and Herald, June4,1895.
EXAMPLES OF SANCTIFICATION
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Monday October24 3. What was the purpose of God with His people Israel? What is His purpose forHis people in the last days? Isaiah 58:8.
"The last rays of merciful light, the last message of mercy to be given to the world, is a revelation of His character of love. The children of God are to manifest His glory. In their own life and character they are to reveal what the grace of God has done for them.
"The light of the Sun of Righteousness is to shine forth in good works-in words of truth and deeds of holiness."-Christ's Object Lessons,pp. 415, 416.
-4. Why is sanctification necessary? What is meant by sanctification? Romans
8:6-8; 1Thessalonians4:3-7.
"Itis the work of conversion and sanctification to reconcile men to God by bring-ing them into accord with the principles of His law. In the beginnbring-ing, man was created in the image of God. He was in perfect harmony with the nature and the law of God; the principles of righteousness were written upon his heart. But sin alienated him from his Maker. He no longer reflected the divine image. His heart was at war with the principles of God's law. 'The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.' Romans 8:7. But 'God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son,' that man might be reconciled to God. Through the merits of Christ he can be restored to harmony with his Maker. His heart must be renewed by divine grace; he must have a new life from above. This change is the new birth, without which, says Jesus, 'he cannot see the kingdom of God.' "-The Great Controversy, p.467.
A GROWING EXPERIENCE
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Tuesday October 25 5. What power is needed in the process of sanctification? What is the source ofthat power? John14:26; 16:13.
"Our sanctification is the work of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.Itis the fulfillment of the covenant God has made with those who bind themselves up with Him, to stand with Him, His Son, and His Spirit in holy fellowship. Have you been born again? Have you become a new being in Christ Jesus? Then cooperate with the three great powers of heaven who are working in yourbehalf."-The SDA Bible Com-mentary, [E.G. White Comments). vol. 7, p. 908.
6. What shows that true sanctification is not an instantaneous experience? Hebrews12:1,2; 2 Peter3:18(first part);2 Corinthians7:1.
"The Scriptures plainly show that the work of sanctification is progressive. When in conversion the sinner finds peace with God through the blood of the atone-ment, the Christian life has but just begun. Now he is to 'go on unto perfection;' to grow up 'unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.' ... And Peter sets before us the steps by which Bible sanctification is to be attained: [2 Peter 1:5-10
quoted]."-The Great Controversy,p.470.
STEP BY STEP
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Wednesday October 26 7. What provision is made for progressinsanctification? How does this keep the converted sinners from becoming exalted or self-righteous? 2 Peter1:5-10."Those who experience the sanctification of the Bible will manifest a spirit of humility. Like Moses, they have had a view of the awful majesty of holiness, and they see their own unworthiness in contrast with the purity and exalted perfection of the Infinite One.
"The prophet Daniel was an example of true sanctification. His long life was filled up with noble service for his Master. He was a man 'greatly beloved.' (Daniel 10:11)
of Heaven. Yet instead of claiming to be pure and holy, this honored prophet iden-tified himself with the really sinful of Israel as he pleaded before God in behalf of his people: [Daniel 9:18 quoted]."-The Great Controversy, p.470.
8. What is a common modern error concerning sanctification? How can this be a danger to those professing present truth? James2:17-20.
"The sanctification now gaining prominence in the religious world carries with it a spirit of self-exaltation and a disregard for the law of God that mark it as foreign to the religion of the Bible. Its advocates teach that sanctification is an instantaneous work, by which, through faith alone, they attain to perfect holiness. 'Only believe,' say they, 'and the blessing is yours;' No further effort on the part of the receiver is supposed to be required. At the same time they deny the authority of the law of God, urging that they are released from obligation to keep the commandments. But is it possible for men to be holy, in accord with the will and character of God, without com-ing into harmony with the principles which are an expression of His nature and will, and which show what is well pleasing toHim?"-The Great Controversy, p.471.
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ThursdayLIKE JESUS October 27
9. How much is involved in this work of sanctification and to what extent? 1 Thessalonians5:23.
"The sanctification set forth in the Scriptures embraces the entire being-spirit, soul, and body.... In the time of ancient Israel every offering brought as a sacrifice to God was carefully examined. If any defect was discovered in the animal presented, it was refused; for God had commanded that the offering be 'without blemish.' So Christians are bidden to present their bodies, 'a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.' In order to do this, all their powers must be preserved in the best possible con-dition. Every practice that weakens physical or mental strength unfits man for the service of hisCreator."-The Great Controversy, p.473.
10.Why must sanctification continue making the believer a complete over-comer? As what does the Lord consider such ones? Hebrews2:11.
"Jesus teaches us to callHis Father our Father. He is not ashamed to call us brethren. Hebrews 2:11. So ready, so eager, is the Saviour's heart to welcome us as members of the.family of God, that in the very first words we are to use in approach-ing God He places the assurance of our divine relationship, 'Our Father.' "-The Mount of Blessing,p. 103.
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS
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Friday October 28 a. In what does sanctification differ from justification as considered in theprevious lesson?
b. Why must the people of God be sanctified?
c. How is it shown by its nature that sanctification is a continuing process rather than the work of a moment?
d. What may we learn as we consider the order of progression mentioned by Peter?
Lesson 6 Sabbath, November 5, 1988
•
REMEDYING DEFECTIVE CHARACTERS
God takes men as they are but does not expect them to remain that way but to change until they are like Jesus.
KEY TEXT: "For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself." Ro-mans 14:7.
GOD STARTS WITH FAULTY MEN
o
Sunday October 30
1. What is clear evidence that God accepts men as they are? Luke 15:1, 2.
"God takes men as they are, with the human elements in their character, and trains them for His service, if they will be disciplined and learn of Him. They are not chosen because they are perfect, but notwithstanding their imperfections, that through the knowledge and practice of the truth, through the grace of Christ, they may become transformed into His image."- The Desire of Ages, p. 294.
2. What has been manifested in the people called by God in every age? What desire was expressed by the Psalmist? Genesis 12:11, 13; Psalms 106:32, 33; 69:6.
"In all who have been chosen to accomplish a work for God the human element is seen. Yet they have not been men of stereotyped habits and character, who were satisfied to remain in that condition. They earnestly desired to obtain wisdom from God, and to learn to work for Him."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 248.
MAN HAS HIS PART
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Monday October 31 3. Because the righteousness of Christ is not a cloak for unconfessed or cherished sin, what warnings should be carefully heeded? Galatians 6:4; Ephesians 4:22;Philippians 3: 13, 14."In order to receive God's help, man must realize his weakness and deficiency; he must apply his own mind to the great change to be wrought in himself; he must be aroused to earnest and persevering prayer and effort. Wrong habits and cust?ms
21-must be shaken off; and it is only by determined endeavor to correct these errors and to conform to right principles that the victory can be gained."-Patriarchs and Prophets,
p.248.
4. Where must this work begin? Proverbs4:23;Malachi4:5, 6.
"The restoration and uplifting of humanity begins in the home. The work of parents underlies every other. Society is composed of families, and is what the heads of families make it. Out of the heart are the 'issues of life' (Proverbs 4:23); and the heart of the community, of the church, and of the nation is the household."-The
Ministry of Healing, p.349.
DUTY OF PROFESSED SABBATHKEEPERS
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Tuesday November 1.~
5. Of what divine work is true Sabbath observance a sign, and what must ministers and people do? What was revealed concerning many families of professed Sabbathkeepers? Exodus31:13;Ezekiel22:26.
"I was shown that merely observing the Sabbath and praying morning and even-ing are not positive evidences that we are Christians. These outward forms may all be strictly observed, and yet true godliness be lacking.... All who profess to be Christ's followers should have command of their own spirit, not allowing themselves to speak fretfully or impatiently.
"There are many such miserable families all through the ranks of Sabbath-keepers. Angels bear the shameful tidings to heaven, and the recording angel makes a record of it all."- Testimonies, vol. 1,pp.305, 306.
6. What must be ever remembered by believers and especially by every memo ber of Christian families? Romans 14:7.
" 'None of us liveth to himself.' The character will manifest itself. The looks, the tone of the voice, the action-all have their influence in making or marring the hap-piness of the domestic circle. They are molding the temper and character of the chil-dren; they are inspiring or tending to destroy confidence and love. All are made either better or worse, happy or miserable by these influences. We owe our families the knowledge of the word brought into practical life. All that it is possible for us to be to purify, enlighten, comfort, and encourage those connected with us in family relation should bedone."-Testimonies,vol.7, p.50.
THE NEED OF CHRISTLIKENESS IN THE HOME
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Wednesday November2 7. What does the Lord desire for the family? What would result if there were ,.more sincerity and practical religion in the homes of the believers? Proverbs
21:21;Matthew5:14.
"Home religion is greatly needed, and our words in the home should be of a right character, or our testimonies in the church will amount to nothing. Unless you mani-fest meekness, kindness, and courtesy in your home, your religion will be in vain.If there were more genuine home religion, there would be more power in the church."
8. Of what does complaining and anger testify when found in the family? What is the result? James 3:14-16.
"Unkindness, complaining, and anger shut Jesus from the dwelling. I saw that the angels of God will flee from a house where there are unpleasant words, fret-fulness, andstrife."-Testimonies, vol. 1,p. 307.
DIVINE AID GIVES VICTORY
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Thursday November 3 9. What is often the cause of problems in the home? What tends to establish the
well-being of the family? Proverbs 29:22; 25:15; 15:1.
"Often it is our own attitude, the atmosphere that surrounds ourselves, which determines what will be revealed to us in another. There are many who regard the ex-pression of love as a weakness, and they maintain a reserve that repels others. This spirit checks the current ofsympathy."-The Ministry of Healing, p. 360.
10. What should always be in the mind of the believer, and for what should he earnestly seek God? Psalm 119:117,133.
"There is not an impulse of our nature, not a faculty of the mind or an inclination of the heart, but needs to be, moment by moment, under the control of the Spirit of God. There is not a blessing which God bestows upon man, nor a trial which He per-mits to befall him, but Satan both can and will seize upon it to tempt, to harass and destroy the soul, if we give him the least advantage. Therefore however great one's spiritual light, however much he may enjoy of the divine favor and blessing, he should ever walk humbly before the Lord, pleading in faith that God will direct every thought and control every impulse.
"All who profess godliness are under the most sacred obligation to guard the spirit, and to exercise self-control under the greatest provocation."-Patriarchs and Prophets,p.421.
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS
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Friday November 4 a. What shows that a Christian character is not conferred in a single
exper-ience?
b. What does God expect of man in the matter of reforming character? c. What experience must a believer have in order to become a true
Sabbath-keeper?
d. What experiences in the home all too often reveal that there are still lessons to be learned?
Lesson 7 Sabbath, November 12, 1988
JUDGING OTHER'S MOTIVES
A DANGEROUS COUNTERFEIT
Satan leads men to be satisfied with self-righteousness, religious activity and works.
KEY TEXT: "Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity." 2 Timothy 2:19.
o
Sunday November 61. How did Jesus forcibly show the danger confronting those who think they are right? Matthew7:1-5. What leads one to condemn another?
"The sin that leads to the most unhappy results is the cold, critical, unforgiving spirit that characterizes Pharisaism. When the religious experience is devoid of love, Jesus is not there; the sunshine of His presence is not there. No busy activity or Christless zeal can supply the lack. There may be a wonderful keenness of perception to discover the defects of others; but to everyone who indulges this spirit, Jesus says, 'Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then $halt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.' He who is guilty of wrong is the first to suspect wrong. By condemning another he is trying to conceal or excuse the evil of his own heart.Itwas through sin that men gained the knowledge of evil; no sooner had the first pair sinned than they began to accuse each other; and this is what human nature will inevitably do when uncontrolled by the grace ofChrist."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 126.
2. To whom has all judgment been given? When any other assumes the right to judge the motives of another, what is he really doing? John 5:22; 2 Thessalo-nians 2:4.
"Christ is the only true standard of character, and he who sets himself up as a standard for others is putting himself in the place of Christ. And since the Father 'hath committed all judgment unto the Son' (John 5:22), whoever presumes to judge the motives of others is again usurping the prerogative of the Son of God. These would-be judges and critics are placing themselves on the side of antichrist [2 Thessa-lonians 2:4quoted]."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,pp. 125, 126.
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DANGER OF ZEAL AND WORKS
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Monday November 7 3. What warning is given by Paul to believers not to mistake zeal for merit? What will identify true believers?1Corinthians 13:1-7;Matthew7:21-23.
"The spirit of unselfish labor for others gives depth, stability, and Christlike love-liness to the character, and brings peace and happiness to its possessor. The aspira-tions are elevated. There is no room for sloth or selfishness. Those who thus exercise the Christian graces will grow and will become strong to work for God."-Steps to Christ, p.80.
4. Against what danger did Jesus warn believers? What lesson is left particular-ly for our time? Matthew15:9, 11, 16-20.
"The effort to earn salvation by one's own works inevitably leads men to pile up human exactions as a barrier against all sin. For, seeing that they fail to keep the law, they will devise rules and regulations of their own to force themselves to obey. All this turns the mind away from God to self. His love dies out of the heart, and with it perishes love for his fellow men. A system of human invention, with its multitudinous exactions, will lead its advocates to judge all who come short of the prescribed human standard. The atmosphere of selfish and narrow criticism stifles the noble and gener-ous emotions, and causes men to become self-centered judges and petty
spies."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p.123.
BLINDED BY SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS
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Tuesday November 8 5. What mistaken ideas of righteousness developed in Old Testament times? How were these corrected in the Christian dispensation? Romans 10:2-11.
"When we bring our lives to complete obedience to the law of God, regarding God as our supreme Guide, and clinging to Christ as our hope of righteousness, God will work in our behalf. This is a righteousness of faith, a righteousness hidden in a mystery of which the worldling knows nothing, and which he cannot
understand."-The SDA Bible Commentary, [E.G. White Comments], vol. 1,p.1118.
6. What lesson must all learn of Christifthey would become effective workers for Him? How did the elder brother of the prodigal show that he did not understand this lesson? Luke5:29-32; 15:25-32.
I}
). "Self-righteousness not only leads men to misrepresent God, but makes them coldhearted and critical toward their brethren. The elder son, in his selfishness and jealousy, stood ready to watch his brother, to criticize every action, and to accuse him for the least deficiency. He would detect every mistake, and make the most of every wrong act. Thus he would seek to justify his own unforgiving spirit. Many today are doing the same thing. While the soul is making its very first struggles against a flood of temptations, they stand by, stubborn, self-willed, complaining, accusing. They may claim to be children of God, but they are acting out the spirit of Satan. By their attitude toward their brethren, these accusers place themselves where God cannot give them the light of Hiscountenance."-Christ's Object Lessons, p. 210.
LOOKING IN FAITH
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Wednesday November 9 7. Contrary to human methods, how did the Spirit of Christ work in the earlyChristian church? John12:32.
"Seek, and you shall find. God is seeking you, and the very desire you feel to come to Him is but the drawing of His Spirit. Yield to that drawing."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 131.
"Christ does not drive but draws men unto Him. The only compulsion which He employs is the constraint of love. When the church begins to seek for the support of secular power, it is evident that she is devoid of the power of Christ-the constraint of divine love."-Ibid., p. 127.
8. Where should the chief interest of every Christian be directed? What Old Testament experience illustrates the lifegiving virtue in doing this? Gala-tians6:14-16;Numbers21:8,9.
"He who looks often upon the cross of Calvary, remembering that his sins placed the Saviour there, will never try to estimate the degree of his guilt in comparison with that of others. He will not climb upon the judgment seat to bring accusation against another. There can be no spirit of criticism or self-exaltation on the part of those who walk in the shadow of Calvary's cross."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 128.
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ThursdayTRUE RIGHTEOUSNESS IN CHRISTIANS November 10
9. What is the only sure foundation for righteousness? Matthew 7:24, 25; 2
Timothy2:19.
"Christ, the true foundation, is a living stone; His life is imparted to all that are built upon Him. 'Ye also, as living stones, are built up a spiritual house.' 'Each several building, fitly framed together, groweth into a holy temple in the Lord.' 1 Peter 2:5, R.V.; Ephesians 2:21, R.V. The stones became one with the foundation; for a com-mon life dwells in all. That building no tempest can overthrow; for-'That which shares the life of God, with Him surviveth all.'
"But every building erected on other foundation than God's word will fall. He who, like the Jews in Christ's day, builds on the foundation of human ideas and opi-nions, of forms and ceremonies of man's invention, or on any works that he can do in-dependently of the grace of Christ, is erecting his structure of character upon the shifting sand. The fierce tempests of temptation will sweep away the sandy founda-tion and leave his house a wreck on the shores oftime."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,pp. 150, 151.
10. What parable is given as a warning against self-righteousness in Christians who may not suspect this of themselves? Matthew20:1-10.
"Christ warned the disciples who had been first called to follow Him, lest the same evil should be cherished among them. He saw that the weakness, the curse of the church, would be a spirit of self-righteousness. Men would think that they could
do something toward earning a place in the kingdom of heaven. They would imagine that when they had made certain advancement, the Lord would come in to help them. Thus there would be an abundance of self and little of Jesus. Many who had made a little advancement would be puffed up and think themselves superior to others. They would be eager for flattery, jealous if not thought most important. Against this danger Christ seeks to guard Hisdisciples."-Christ's Object Lessons, pp. 400, 401.
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS
o
Friday November 11
I.
i
a. What is to be judged by men? What is not to be judged? b. What danger confronts workers who are zealous for the work? c. How can we be on guard against self-righteousness?
d. What is the contrast between real righteousness and the counterfeit? e. What manifestation of righteousness is dangerous to believers and workers? •
•
liThe death of Abel was in consequence of
Cain's refusing to accept God's plan in the school of
obedience, to be saved by the blood ofJesus Christ,
typified by the sacrificial offerings pointing to
Christ. Cain refused the shedding of blood, which
symbolized the blood of Christ to be shed for the
,
world."
, -The SDA Bible Commentary, [E.G. White Comments] vol. 6, p. 1109.
Lesson 8 Sabbath, November 19, 1988
A RADICAL CHANGE
TWO CONTRASTING CLASSES
The natural man must receive divine power to become a spiritual man, holy and righteous, and continually receive power to maintain this experience and avoid self-righteousness.
KEY TEXT: "Itis sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a nat-ural body, and there is a spiritual body." 1 Corinthians 15:44.
o
Sunday November 131. Into what two categories do the Scriptures classify all mankind? 1 Corin-thians 15:44.
"The old nature, born of blood and the will of the flesh, cannot inherit the kingdom of God. The old ways, the hereditary tendencies, the former habits, must be given up; for grace is not inherited. Those who are begotten unto a new life by the Holy Spirit, have become partakers of the divine nature, and in all their habits and practices, they will give evidence of their relationship to Christ."-The Review and Herald, April 12, 1892.
2. How does the natural man come into existence? What must he expect? Job 14:1,2; John 3:6 (first part).
A CHANGE POSSIBLE
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Monday November 14 3. What is the contrast shown by John between the natural born sons of manand the sons of God? What power is necessary to become a son of God? John ~
1:12,13.
"When Jesus speaks of the new heart, He means the mind, the life, the whole be-ing. To have a change of heart is to withdraw the affections from the world, and fasten them upon Christ. To have a new heart is to have a new mind, new purposes, new motives. What is the sign of a new heart?-a changed life. There is a daily, hourly dying to selfishness and pride."- The SDA Bible Commentary,[E.G.White Commentsj,vol. 4,pp.1164, 1165.
28-4. What radical change must be seenina converted soul? What must be replaced and in which way? Romans 8:5-10.
"Christ's plan is the only safe one. He declares, 'Behold, I make all things new.' 'Ifany man be in Christ, he is a new creature.' Christ gives man no encouragement to think that He will accept a patchwork character, made up mostly of self, with a little of Christ. This is the condition of the Laodicean church. At first there seems to be some of self and some of Christ. But soon it is all of self and none of Christ. The root of selfishness is revealed." - The SDA Bible Commentary,[E.G.White Comments], vol.6, p. 1101.
MAINTAINING THE SPIRITUAL LIFE
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Tuesday November 15 5. What is manifested in the converted soul? How is this condition maintained?2 Corinthians 4:6-11.
"One of the most earnest prayers recorded in the Word of God is that of David when he pled, 'Create in me a clean heart,0God.' God's response to such a prayer is, A new heart will I give you. This is a work that no finite man can do. Men and women are to begin at the beginning, seeking God most earnestly for a true Christian ex-perience. They are to feel the creative power of the Holy Spirit. They are to receive the new heart, that is kept soft and tender by the grace of heaven. The selfish spirit is to be cleansed from the soul. They are to labor earnestly and with humility of heart, each one looking to Jesus for guidance and encouragement." - The SDA Bible Commen-tary,[E.G.White Comments], vol. 4,p. 1165.
6. How is spiritual life to be maintained? What cautions were given the Hebrew believers in this regard? Hebrews 3:12-14.
"The Lord works in cooperation with the will and action of the human agent.Itis the privilege and duty of every man to take God at His word, to believe in Jesus as his personal Saviour, and to respond eagerly, immediately, to the gracious propositions which He makes. He is to study to believe and obey the divine instruction in the Scrip-tures. He is to base his faith not on feeling but upon the evidence and the Word of God."-The SDA Bible Commentary, [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7,p.928.
THE GREAT NEED
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Wednesday November 16 ~ 7. What will be manifest in those who accept the heavenly gift and accept therighteousness of Christ? Jude 21, 23-25.
"This scripture [Jude from verse20to the close of the chapter] brings to view the fact that there is most earnest work to be done, and we need divine intuition that we may know how to work for souls ready to perish. There are souls to be plucked out of the fire, there are souls who are to be treated with the tenderest compassion. Workers are needed who have learned in the school of Christ His method of saving souls." -The SDA Bible Commentary, [E.G.White Comments], vol.7, p. 953.
8. What are some of the dangers that we have to faceinour days? What counsels, if heeded, will enable us to meet these perils victoriously? Revelation3:17, 18; 1Timothy6:9-12.
"Christ sees that which man does not see. He sees the sins which, if not repented of, will exhaust the patience of a long-suffering God. Christ cannot take up the names of those who are satisfied in their ownself-sufficiency."-The SDA Bible Commentary,
[E.G. White Comments], vol. 7,p.964.
RIGHTEOUSNESS TO PREVAIL
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Thursday November 17 9. What mighty power will be used to call the righteous from their graves?
Mat-thew24:30,31; 1Thessalonians4:16.
"In this book [Revelation] are depicted scenes that are now in the past, and some of eternal interest that are taking place around us; other of its prophecies will not receive their complete fulfilment until the close of time, when the last great conflict between the power of darkness and the Prince of heaven will take place."- The Review and Herald,August 31, 1897.
10. How complete will be the cleansing of the universe from sin by the power of righteousness? Revelation21:27;Isaiah35:8; 60:18-21.
"The hand of Omnipotence is at no loss for ways and means to accomplish His
purposes."-The SDA Bible Commentary,[E.G. White Comments], vol. 7,p.946.
"Water will never destroy the earth again, but the weapons of God are concealed in the bowels of the earth, which He will draw forth to unit with the fire from heaven to accomplish His purpose in the destruction of all those who would not receive the message of warning and purify their souls in obeying the truth and being obedient to the laws ofGod."-Ibid.
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS
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Friday November 18 a. What should we know concerning the origin and destiny of the carnal man? b. What is possible through the power of God alone?
c. How is it possible to keep a clean heart, clean?
d. How is selfishness and self-righteousness kept out of the life?
e. What great manifestation of power will be seen when the work of
Lesson 9 Sabbath, November 26, 1988
THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Because true sanctification cannot be obtained by human power alone, the Holy Spirit is divinely delegated to make this possible.
KEY TEXT: "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." Romans 8:14.
THE DIVINE AGENCY
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Sunday November 20
1. Who were and still are closely associated in the plan of redemption? Matthew 28:18, 19; 2 Corinthians 13:14.
"The Godhead was stirred with pity for the race, and the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit gave Themselves to the working out of the plan of redemption."-Counsels on Health, p.222.
2. Who is continuing to work with man for the salvation of mankind? John 14:16, 17; 16:7-14.
"The Spirit of God is freely bestowed to enable every man to lay hold upon the means of salvation."- The Great Controversy, p. 262.
LIKE THE SON OF MAN
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Monday November 21 3. What did Christ leave for us to be used by the Holy Spirit in the work of
atonement and sanctification? John 6:63.
"[John 6:63 quoted.] But spiritual things are spiritually discerned, and the reason of your lack of interest is that you lack the Spirit of God. When the heart is brought in-to harmony with the word, a new life will spring up within you, a new light will shine upon every line of the word, and it will become the voice of God to your soul." -Fun-damentals of Christian Education, p. 183.
