sdarm bible study qtr. 2 1959
TRANSCRIPT
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
1/32
: :_: : :.: :.:
: : : :
:.: : : : : : : : : : :
IIII
Sabbath School Lesson
IIII
x
QU RT RLY
ll
IIII Senior Division Second Quarter 959
IIII
IIII
X
IIII
IIII
. .
X
1lj
w
h
IIII
ntlfS
J All
iii
X
IIII
X
illl
X
IIII
Ii IIII
IIII
But without faith is impossible to please him: r he that
: :
cometh to God must believe
Hebrews 11: 6
IIII
IIII
X X X X X X X X
X
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
2/32
orewor
Abraham s affection for his children
and
his household led
him to
guard
their religious faith, to impart to them a knowledge
of the divine statutes, as the most precious legacy he could trans
mit to them, and
through them to
the
world. All were
taught
that
they were
under the
rule of the God of heaven.
There
was
to
be
no opposition on the
part
of parents,
and
no disobedience
on
the part
of children. God s law had appointed to each his
duties,
and
only in obedience to it could any secure happiness
or prosperity.
From every Christian home a holy light should shine forth.
Love should be revealed in action.
should flow out in all
home intercourse, showing itself in thoughtful kindness, in
gentle, unselfish courtesy.
There
are homes where this principle
is
carried out,-homes where God
is
worshipped,
and
truest love
reigns.
From
these homes, morning
and
evening prayer ascends
to God
as
sweet incense,
and
His mercies
and
blessings descend
upon
the
suppliants like
the
morning dew.
A
well-ordered Christian household
is
a powerful argument
in favor of the reality of
the
Christian religion,-an argument
that the infidel cannot gainsay. All can see that there
is
an in
fluence
at work in the family that affects the children, and that
the
God of Abraham is with them.
the homes of professed
Christians
had
a right religious mould, they would exert a mighty
influence for good. They would indeed be
the
light of
the
world.
The
God of heaven speakes to every faithful
parent
in
the words addressed to Abraham: I know him, that he will com
mand
his children
and
his household after him,
and
they shall.
keep the way of
the
Lord, to do justice
and
judgment; that
the
Lord
may bring upon Abraham that which
he
hath spoken of
him.
Patriarchs and Prophets p. 142, 144. .
THE GENERAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEE
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, Heirs of Faith, for April to June, 1959, is published
by
the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General Conference and printed
by the
Reformation Herald Publishing Association a corporation of the Seventh Day Adventist Reform
Movement)
at
Sacramento, California, United States of America. Mailing Address: P.
O Box
5234 Oak Park, Sacramento 17, California.
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
3/32
000 000 013 430
GCArchive
Lesson No. 1 - Sabbath April 4 1959.
AN
UNWISE
CHOICE
Questions
1. Where did Abraham and his family go after they left Egypt? Gene
sis 13: 14.
2. As the possessions of Abraham and
Lot
increased
what
difficulty
arose? Genesis 13: 57.
3. What words revealed
the
unselfish attitude of Abraham? Genesis
13: 8 9.
4. In contrast with the self.denial of Abraham
what
selfish choice
did Lot make? Genesis 13: 10 11.
NOTE Although Lot owed his prosperity to his connection with Abra
ham he manifested no gratitude to his benefactor. Courtesy would have
dictated that he yield the choice to Abraham; but instead of this he
selfishly endeavored to grasp all its advantages.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 133.
5.
As
Lot
behe-ld
the
prospects of worldly gain
what
important fact
did he lose sight of? Genesis 13: 13.
What
was the underlying cause of the great corruption prevailing
in this city? Ezekiel 16: 49 50.
NOTE Art and commerce contributed to enrich the proud city of
the plain. The treasures of the East adorned her palaces and the caravans
of the desert brought their stores of precious things to supply her marts
of trade.
With
little thought or labor every want of life could be supplied
and the whole year seemed one round of festivity.
The profusion reigning everywhere gave birth to luxury and pride.
Idleness and riches make the heart
hard
that has never been oppressed
by
want or burdened
by
sorrow. The love of pleasure was fostered
by
wealth and leisure and the people gave themselves up to sensual in
dulgence
Patriarchs and Prophets p. 156.
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
4/32
satanic rather than divine. Idleness is the greatest curse that can fall
upon man; for vice and crime follow in its train.
It
enfeebles the mind,
perverts the understanding, and debases the soul. Satan lies in ambush,
ready to destroy those who are unguarded, whose leisure gives him oppor-
tunity
to
insinuate himself
under
some attractive disguise.
He
is never
more successful than when he comes to men in their idle hours. at-
riarchs and Prophets p 156.
8. What difficulty soon arose as a result of Lot s selfish choice? Genesis
14: 812:
9. Who told Abraham of Lot s captivity? To what was
the
attention
of the Sodomites drawn by the success of Abraham s efforts to free
Lot? Genesis 14: 1316.
NOTE:
At
the
time of Lot s removal to Sodom, corruption
had
not
become universal, and God in his mercy permitted rays of light to shine
amid the moral darkness. When Abraham rescued the captives from
the Elamites, the attention of the people was called to the true faith
Patriarchs and Prophets p 157.
10.
Did
this incident check the wickedness and demoralization of
the
great city? Isaiah 26: 10; Genesis 18: 20; 19: 13.
NOTE: God was speaking to that people
by
His providence,
but
the
last ray of light was rejected as all before
had
been.
Patriarchs and
Prophets p. 157.
11.
How did
this corrupting influence affect Lot s family? Genesis 19:
14.
12.
How did Lot
show
that
he
had
implicit faith in God? Genesis 19:
15, 16.
NOTE: Though daily distressed
at
beholding deeds of violence, he
had
no true conception of
the
debasing and abominable iniquity practiced
in
that
vile city.
He
did not
realize
the
terrible necessity for God s judg-
ments to
put
a check on sin. Some of his children clung to Sodom, and
his wife refused to
depart
without them. The thought of leaving those
whom he held dearest on
earth
seemed more than he could bear. It was
hard
to forsake his luxurious home, and all
the
wealth acquired by
the
labors of his whole life, to go forth a destitute wanderer. Stupified with
sorrow, he lingered loth to depart. But for the angels of God, they would
all have perished in the ruin of Sodom
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 160.
13. What was the sad end of Lot s hesitation? Genesis 19: 26.
NOTE:
Lot
himself
had
manifested no hesitancy to obey
the
angel s warning, but
had
earnestly fled toward the mountains, without
one word of pleading or remonstrance, his wife would have made her
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
5/32
escape But his hesitancy
and
delay caused her to lightly regard the
divine warning
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 161.
14.
What
was another result of Lot s sojourn in this wicked city? Were
his children able to discern good from evil? Genesis 19: 30-36.
15.
What
special lesson can we, as God s people, learn from Lot s
sad history? I Timothy 6: 69.
NOTE:
When Lot entered
Sodom,
he
fully
intended
to keep himself
free from iniquity, and to command his household after him. But he
signally failed. The corrupting influences about him had an effect
upon
his own faith, and his children s connection with the inhabitants of Sodom
bound
up his interest in a measure with theirs. The result is before us.
Many are still making a similar mistake. In selecting a home they
look more to
the
temporal advantages they
may
gain
than
to
the
moral
and social influences that will surround themselves and their families.
They choose a beautiful and fertile country, or remove to some flourishing
city, in the hope of securing greater prosperity;
but
their children are
surrounded by temptation,
and
too often they form associations that
are unfavorable to the development of piety and the formation of a right
character. The atmosphere of lax morality, of unbelief, of indifference to
religious things, has a tendency to counteract
the
influence of
the
par-
ents
Patriarchs and Prophets pp. 168, 169.
16.
What
present day
application is
there to
the
Lord s appeal through
Jeremiah? Jeremiah 51: 6.
NOTE:
~
parents
He
sends the warning cry, Gather your children
into your own houses; gather them away from those who are disregarding
the commandments of God, who are teaching and practicing evil. Get
out of the large cities as fast as possible : Testimonies vol. 6, p. 195.
17.
What
important truth should we remember when obedience brings
earthly losses? Mark 8: 36, 37.
Lesson No. 2 -
Sabbath,
April 11, 1959.
THE COVENANT
WITH
ABRAHAM
Questions
1. What
divine promise did Abraham receive after he
separated fl Om
Lot? Genesis 13: 14-16; 17: 8.
2
Was this promise to have an earthly fulfillment? Hebrews 11: 9,
13; Acts 7: 4, 5.
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
6/32
NOTE: The heritage that
Cod
has promised to his people is
not in
this world. Abraham had no possession in
the
earth, no, not so much
as to set his foot on. He possessed great substance,
and
he used it to
the glory of
Cod
and the good of his fellow-men; but he
did
not look
upon
this world as his home.
The
Lord
had
called
him to
leave his
idolatrous countrymen, with the promise of the land of Canaan as an
everlasting possession, yet
neither he
nor his son nor his son s son received
it
Patriarchs and Prophets p.
l69.
3.
Who are to
receive the fulfillment of this promise? Galatians 3:
22, 29.
NOTE: The Bible plainly teaches that the promises made to Abraham
are to be fulfilled through Christ. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 170.
4.
Why
was
Abraham
accounted righteous? Genesis 15:
5.
How
great was Abraham s faith? Romans 4: 1822.
What was the Lord s desire for His faithful servant? Genesis 17: 27.
7. What were the conditions of this covenant? Did
Abraham
fulfill
them? Genesis 17: 1 (last part); 26: 5.
8. To
whom
also was this covenant made?
Jeremiah
31: 3134.
NOTE: Though
this covenant was
made
with Adam
and
renewed to
Abraham,
it
could
not
be
ratified until
the
death
of Christ.
had
existed
by the promise of
Cod
since the first intimation of redemption
had been
given; it had
been
accepted by faith; yet when ratified by Christ, it is
called a w covenant. The law of Cod was the basis of this covenant,
which was simply an arrangement for bringing
men
again into the harmony
with the divine will, placing them where they could obey Cod s law.
That the
new
covenant was valid in
the
days of Abraham, is
evident from the fact that it was then confirmed both by the promise
and by the
oath
of
Cod,-the
two immutable things, in which it was
impossible for
Cod
to lie. Patrwrchs and Prophets pp. 370, 371.
9.
What
visible sign was given
to
remind Abraham and his posterity
of the covenant
and their
obligations to it? Genesis 17: 11.
NOTE: To him was given the rite of circumcision, which was a sign
that those who received it were
devoted
to the service of Cod,-a pledge
that they would remain separate from idolatry,
and
would obey the law
of Cod. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 363.
10.
Of what
value was circumcision if it was not accompanied
by
obe
dience? Romans
2:
25.
11.
Did
circumcision actul\lly give Abraham a claim to
the
promises?
Why were circumcision
and
the ceremonial law given? Galatians
3: 1719.
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
7/32
NOTE:
f
man had kept the law of God, as given to Adam after his
fall, preserved by Noah, and observed by Abraham, there would have been
no necessity for
the
ordinance of circumcision. And
if the
descendants of
Abraham had kept the covenant, of which circumcision was a sign, they
would never have
been
seduced into idolatrr, nor would
it
have
been
necessary for them to suffer a life of bondage in Egypt; they would have
kept God s law in mind,
and
there would have
been
no necessity for it
to be proclaimed from Sinai, or engraved upon the tables of stone. And
had the people practiced the principles of the ten commandments, there
would have been no need of
the
additional directions given to Moses.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p.
364.
12. Who alone are considered as Abraham s children and partakers of
the promise? Romans 4: 11.13; Galatians 3: 69.
13.
What
replaces
the
outward
circumcision? Romans 2: 28, 29; Colo
ssians 2: 913.
14. What priesthood serves under
the new
covenant ? Genesis 14:
18; Hebrews 7: 1117.
15. Who
is
the high priest of this priestly order? Hebrews 5: 5,
NOTE:
The
child for whom the redemption money had been paid was
He who was to pay the ransom for the sins of the whole world. He was
the true high priest over the house of God, the head of an unchange-
able priesthood, the intercessor
at the
right
hand
of the Majesty on
high.
Desire
of Ages p. 52.
16. Who is
the
Alpha and
the
Omega of the plan of redemption, and
the sole Mediator in the old as well as the
new
covenant?
Hebrews
13: 8; I Timothy 2: 5.
NOTE: Since the sin of our first parents,
there
has
been
no direct com-
munication between God and man. The Father has given the world
into the hands of Christ, that through His meditorial work He may redeem
man, and vindicate the authority and holiness of
the
law of God. All
the communion between heaven
and
the fallen race has
been
through
Christ. It was the Son of God
that
gave to our first parents the promise
of redemption. was
He
who revealed himself to
the
patriarchs. Adam,
Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob,
and
Moses understood the gospel.
They
looked for salvation through man s Substitute and Surety. These holy
men of old held communion with the Saviour who was to come to our
world in human flesh; and some of them talked with Christ and heavenly
angels face to face. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 366.
lor ntrt st i ur f ith
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
8/32
Lesson No. 3 - Sabbath, April 18, 1959.
ABRAHAM S TWO SONS
Questions
1. What step did Sarah persuade Abraham to take when the promise
of a son was delayed? Was this in harmony with
the
divine will?
Genesis 16: 13.
NOTE: Thinking it impossible that a child would be given her in her
old age, Sarah suggested, as a plan
by
which
the
divine purpose might
be fulfilled,
that
one of
her
handmaidens should be taken by Abraham
as a secondary wife. Polygamy had become wide-spread that
it
had
ceased to
be
regarded as a sin,
but
it
was no less a violation of
the
law of God, and was fatal to the sacredness and peace of the family
relation. Abraham s marriage with Hagar
resulted in evil, not only to his
own household, but to future generations. Patriarchs and Prophets p.
145.
2. What difficulties soon arose? Genesis 16: 4, 5.
NOTE: Flattered with the honor of her new position as Abraham s wife,
and hoping to
be
the mother of the great nation to descend from him,
Hagar became proud and boastful, and treated her mistress with contempt.
Mutual jealousies disturbed
the
peace of the once
happy
home. Forced
to listen to the complaints of both, Abraham vainly endeavored to restore
harmony. Though it was
at
Sarah s earnest entreaty that he had married
Hagar, she now reproached him as the one at fault. Patriarchs aud
Prophets
p
145.
3. Where did Hagar go in order to escape the wrathful hand cf
her mistress? What instruction did
an
angel bring her? Genesis
16: 69.
4.
In
her sorrow, what words of comfort did she receive? Genesis
16: 10,
5. What description of
the
character of
the
child was given? Genesis
16: 12.
6. What promise was again given Abraham? Did he understand it?
Genesis 17: 1518.
NOTE: But Abraham did not yet understand the promise. His mind
at once turned to Ishmael, clinging to the belief that through him God s
gracious purposes were to be accomplished. Patriarchs and Prophets p.
146.
7.
In
order to clear away all misunderstandings, what decided answer
did the Lord give? Genesis 17: 1921.
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
9/32
8. Although impossible from
the
human standpoint, how was
the
prom-
ise fulfilled? Who was unhappy with the event? Genesis 21: 1-7.
NOTE: The birth of Isaac, bringing, after a life-long waiting, the ful
fillment of
their
dearest hopes, filled
the
tents of Abraham
and
Sarah
with gladness. But to
Hagar
this event was the overthrow of
her
fondly
cherished ambitions. Ishmael, now a youth, had been regarded by all in
the
encampment as the heir of Abraham s wealth, and the inheritor of
the blessings promised to his descendants. Now he was suddenly set
aside; and in their disappointment, mother and son
hated the
child of
Sarah. The general rejoicing increased their jealousy, until Ishmael dared
openly to mock the heir of God s promise.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 146.
9.
What
demand did Sarah make? What lesson did Abraham learn
through this painful experience? Genesis 21: 912.
NOTE:
The
instruction given to Abraham, touching the sacredness of the
marriage relation, was to be a lesson for all ages. declares that the
rights and happiness of this relation are to be carefully guarded, even
at
a great sacrifice. Sarah was the only true wife of Abraham. Her rights
as a wife and mother, no other person was entitled to share. She re
verenced her husband, and in this she
is
presented in the New Testament
s
a worthy example.
But
she was unwilling
that
Abraham s affections should
be given to another; and the Lord did not reprove her for requiring the
banishment of her rival. Both Abraham and Sarah distrusted the power
of God,
and it
was this error
that
led to
the
marriage with Hagar.
Patriarchs and Prophets p 147.
10.
What
contrast does Paul make b.etween the two sons of Abraham?
Romans 9: 6-8; Galatians 4: 2123.
11.
What
deep
significance is there in this? Galatians 4: 2431.
Lesson No. 4 - Sabbath, April 25, 1959.
THE
GREAT TEST
Questions
1.
What
difficult
test
did the
Lord bring
to Abra,ham
to
llerfect
his faith? Genesis 22: 1, 2.
NOTE:
God had called Abraham to be the father of the faithful, and
his life was to
stand
as
an
example of faith to suceeding generations.
But his faith had not been perfect. He had shown distrust in God in
concealing
the
fact
that
Sarah was his wife,
and
again in his marriage
with Hagar. That He might reach the highest standard, God subjected
him
to another test, the closest which man was ever called to endure
Patriarchs and Prophets p. 147.
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
10/32
2. Was Abraham willing to take this, thc most trying step in his ex-
perience? Genesis 22: 3.
NOTE:
That day-the longest that Abraham had ever expericnced
dragged slowly to its close. While his son and the young men were sleeping,
he spent
the
night
in prayer, still hoping
that
some heavenly messenger
might come to say
the
trial was enough, that
the
youth might return un
harmed to his mother. But no relief came to his tortured soul. Another long
day, another night of humiliation and prayer, while ever the command
that was to leave him childless was ringing in his ears. Satan was near
to whisper doubts
and
unbelief; but Abraham resisted his suggestions.
As
they were about to begin the journey of the third day, the patriarch,
looking northward, saw the promised sign, a cloud of glory hovering over
Mount Moriah, and he knew that
the
voice which had spoken to him
was from heaven,
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 151.
3.
What
was the patriarch s only hope
in
this difficult hour? Hebrews
11: 19 (first part).
NOTE: Yet none but God could understand how great was the father s
sacrifice in yielding up his son to death; Abraham desired that none
but
God should witness the parting scene.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 152.
4. What instructions
did
he give his servants? Genesis 22: 5.
5. What question of Isaac deeply troubled Abraham? What was his
answer? Genesis 22: 68.
How far was Abraham s faith tried? How did Isaac strengthen his
father? Genesis 22: 9, 10.
NOTE: At the appointed place they built the altar, and laid the wood upon
it. Then with trembling voice, Abraham unfolded to his son
the
divine
message. was with terror
and
amazement
that
Isaac learned his fate;
but
he offered no resistance. He could have escaped his doom, had he
chosen to
do
so;
the
grief-stricken old man, exhausted with
the
struggle
of those
three
terrible days, could
not
have opposed
the
will of
the
vigorous youth. But Isaac had been trained from childhood to ready, trusting
obedience, and as
the
purpose of God was opened before him, he Yielded
a willing submission. He was a sharer in Abraham s faith, and he felt
that
he was honored in being called to give his life as an offering to
God, Patriarchs and Prophets p. 152.
7. How was Abraham s hand stayed from making
the
fatal move?
Genesis 22: 11, 12.
8. What promises were again repeated? Genesis 22: 15-18.
9 What was provided as a sacrifice? Who was represented by this
symbol? Genesis 22: 13.
1
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
11/32
NOTE:
The
ram offered in the place of Isaac represented the Son
of God, who was to be sacrificed in our stead.
When
man was doomed
to death by transgression of the law of God, the Father, looking upon His
Son, said to the sinner, Live: I have found a ransom. -Patriarchs and
Prophets
p.
154.
10.
How
did our heavenly Father s sacrifice differ from Abraham s?
ANSWER: God gave His Son to a
death
of agony
and
shame.
The
angels who witnessed the humiliation and soul-anguish of the Son
of
God were not permitted to interpose, as in the case of Isaac. There was
no voice to cry, It is enough. To save the fallen race, the King of glory
yielded
up
His life. \Vhat stronger proof can
be
given of
the
infinite
compassion and love
o
God?
He that
spared not his own Son, but de
livered him
up
for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us
all
things?
-Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 154.
What was God s purpose in testing the faith of Abraham? I Cor-
inthians 4: 9 (last part).
NOTE: The sacrifice required of Abraham was not alone for his own
good, nor solely for the benefit of suceeding generations; but is was
also for the instruction of the sinless intelligences of heaven and of other
worlds.
The
field of the controversy between Christ
and Satan,-the
field
in which the plan of redemption is wrought
out,-is
the lesson-book of
the universe. -Patriarchs and Prophets p. 154.
12. What future event was now more clearly understood? I John 4: 9.
NOTE: I t had been difficult even for the angels to grasp the mystery
of
redemption,-to
comprehend that the Commander of heaven, the Son
of God, must die for guilty man.
When the
command was given to
Abraham to offer
up
his son, the interest of all heavenly beings was
listed. With intense earnestness they watched each step in the fulfillment
of this command. When to Isaac s question, Where is the lamb for a
burnt-offering? Abraham made answer, God will provide himself a
lamb;
and
when the father s
hand
was stayed as he was about to slay
his son, and the ram which God had provided was offered in the place
of
Isaac,-then
light was shed upon
the
mystery of redemption,
and
even the angels understood more clearly the wonderful provision
that
God had made for man s salvation. -Patriarchs and Prophets p. 155.
Thus through faith they come to know God by an experimental know
ledge. They have proved
for
themselves the reality of His word the truth
of
His
promises. They have tasted and they know that the Lord
is
good
he
Ministry of Healing p. 461.
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
12/32
Lesson No. 5 - Sabbath May 2, 1959.
EXAMPLE
FOR
YOUTH
Questions
s
Abraham grew old,
what
problem arose? Genesis 24: 1-4.
NOTE:
Abraham had become
an
old man, and expected soon to die;
yet
one
act remained for him to do, in securing
the
fulfillment of
the
promise
to his posterity. Isaac was the one divinely appointed to succeed him
as
the
keeper of
the
law of God, and
the
father of the chosen people;
but he was yet unmarried. The inhabitants of Canaan were given to
idolatry, and God had forbidden intermarriage between His people and
them, knowing
that
such marriages would lead to apostasy.
The
patriarch
feared
the
effect of
the
corrupting influences surrounding his son
In
. the mind of Abraham, the choice of a wife for his son was a matter of
grave importance; he was anxious to have him marry one who would
not
lead him from God.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 171.
2. How firmly did Abraham trust in God? Who shared this trust
with him? Genesis 24: 7.
NOTE: Isaac, trusting to his father's wisdom and affection, was satisfied
to commit
the matter
to him, believing also
that
God Himself would direct
in
the choice made.
Patriarchs and Prqphets
p. 171.
3.
s
he drew near to his destination, what sign did the faithful ser
vant ask of the Lord? Genesis 24: 11-14.
4. In
what
striking manner
did the
Lord answer his prayer? Genesis
24: 1527.
5.
s
the servant related his experience,
what
response
did
the parents
of Rebecca make? Genesis 24: 50, 51.
6.
What
record does
the
Bible give concerning this marriage which
was directed by God Himself? Genesis 24: 67.
NOTE: Isaac was highly honored
by
God, in being made inheritor of
the promises through which the world was to be blessed; yet when he
was forty years of age, he submitted to his father's judgment in appointing
his experienced, God-fearing servant to choose a wife for him. And the
result of
that
marriage, as presented in the scriptures, is a tender and
beautiful picture of domestic happiness:
Patriarchs and Prophets
p.
175.
7.
For
whom does this experience contain a special lesson?
ANSWER: What a contrast between
the
course of Isaac and that pursued
by the
youth of our time, even among professed Christians YOlmg people
2
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
13/32
too often feel that
th e
bestowal of their affections s a matter in which
self alone should
be consulted -a matter
that neither God
no r
their
parents should in an y wise control. Long before
they have
reached
man
hood or womanhood, they
think
themselves competent to make their own
choice,
w it ho ut t he ai d
of parents. A few years of
married
life are usually
sufficient to show them their error, but often too late to prevent it s baleful
results.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 175.
8. In such
an
important matter, whose advice should
be
sought? Psalm
119: 105, 24;
Jo b
12: 12.
NOTE: f there
is an y subject which should
be
carefully considered
and
in which th e counsel of older an d more experienced persons should be
sought, it is th e subject of marriage; if ever th e Bible was needed as
a counselor, if ever divine guidance should
be
sought in prayer, it is
before taking a
step
that
binds persons together for life.
Patriarchs and
Prophets
p. 175.
9.
What
advice is found in
th e
Holy Scriptures for every young
man
as
he
would choose a
partner
for life?
What
should
he
especially
remember? Proverbs 31: 1031; 14: 1; 21: 9, 19.
10. What should a girl always consider before she gives
her
consent
_ to marriage?
ANSvVER: Before giving
her
hand in m ~ t r m o n y every woman should
inquire
w het he r h e with
whom she is about to
unite her
destiny is worthy.
What has been his past record? Is his life pure? Is
th e
love which he
expresses of a noble, elevated character, or is
it
a mere emotional fond
ness? Has he th e traits of character that will make
her
happy? Will
she
be
allowed to preserve he r individuality, or must
her
judgment and
conscience
be
surrendered to th e control of her hus band?
s
a disciple
of Christ, she s not he r own; she has
been bought
with a price.
Can
she honor
th e
Saviour s claims as supreme? Will body an d soul, thoughts
an d purposes, be preserved pure
an d
holy?
These
questions have a vital
bearing upon the well-being of every woman who enters
th e
marriage
relation. Testimonies vol. 5, p. 362.
11. In days of old, what express command was given to God s people?
s this command binding today? Deuteronomy 7: 1, 3. 4;
II
Corin
thians 6: 415; Amos 3: 3.
NOTE: Th e happiness
an d
prosperity of
th e
marriage relation de
pends upon the unity of th e parties; but between the believer
an d
th e
unbeliever there is a radical difference of tasts, inclinations, an d purposes.
They are serving two masters, between whom there can be no concord.
However
pure
an d correct ones principles ma y be, th e influence of an
unbelieving companion will
have
a tendency to lead away from God.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 174.
12.
hat
dangers lurk at the door of an early marriage?
3
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
14/32
ANSWER A youth
not out of his teens
is
a poor judge of the fitness
of a person as young as himself to be his companion for life. After their
judgment has become more matured, they view themselves bound for life
to
each
other, and perhaps
not
at all calculated to make each other
happy. Then, instead of making
the
best of their lot, recriminations take
place, the breach widens, until there is settled indifference
and
neglect
of each other. To them there is nothing sacred in the word home. The
very atmosphere is poisoned
by
unloving words and bitter reproaches.
-Messages to Young People
p. 452.
13.
What
record is left of Abmham
and
his household?
Did
Isaac s
home life and training contribute to his own
happy
marriage? Gene
sis 18: 19.
NOTE
Parents should never lose sight of their own responsibility for
the future
happiness of
their
children. Isaac s deference to his father s
judgment was the result of the training
that
had taught him to love
a life of obedience. While Abraham required his children to respect
parental authority, his daily life testified that authority was not a selfish
or arbitrary control, but was founded in love,
and
had their welfare
and happiness in view. -Patl iarchs and Prophets pp. 175, 176.
14. Aided by
the
example of their parents, what must
the
youth of
today
learn? I Corinthians 13: 47.
NOTE
True
love is a
high
and
holy principle, altogether different in
character from
that
love which is awakened by impulse,
and
which sudden
ly dies
when
severely tested. It is by faithfulness to duty
in
the parental
home that the youth are to prepare themselves for homes of their own.
Let
them here practice self-denial, and manifest kindness, courtesy, and
Christian sympathy. Thus love will be kept
warm
in the heart, and
he who goes out from such a household to stand
at
the
head
of a family
of his own, will know how to promote the happiness of her whom he
has chosen as a companion for life. Marriage, instead of being the end
of love, will be only its beginning. -Patriarchs and Prophets p. 176.
Lesson No. 6 - Sabbath, May 9, 1959.
J CO
N
ESAU
Questions
What
was prophesied concerning the characteristics of Isaac s two
sons? Genesis 25: 22, 23.
2.
What
differences were soon manifested
in
these two boys? Genesis
25: 27, 28.
4
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
15/32
NOTE Esau grew up loving self-gratification, and centering all his
interest
the present. Impatient of restraint,
he
delighted in the wild
freedom of the chase, and early chose the life of a hunter. Yet he was
the
father s favorite Jacob, thoughtful, diligent, and care-taking, ever
thinking more of the future
than
the present, was content to dwell at
home, occupied in the care of the flocks and the tillage of the soil. His
patient perseverance, thrift, and foresight were valued by the mother.
His affections were deep and strong, and his gentle, unremitting atten
tions added far more to her happiness than did the boisterous and occa
sional kindnesses of Esau. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 177.
3. At an early age,
what
promise of divine blessing and privilege was
made
to them? What great future event was included in this
blessing?
ANSWER: They were taught to regard the birthright as a matter
of great importance, for
it
included not only an inheritance of worldly
wealth,
but
spiritual pre-eminence.
He
who received it was to
be the
priest of his family; and in the line of his posterity the Redeemer of the
world would come. On the other hand, there were obligations resting upon
the possessor of the birthright. He who should inherit its blessings must
devote his life to the service of God. Like Abraham, he must be obedient
to the divine requirements. In marriage, in his family relations, in public
life, he must consult the will of God. Patriarchs and Prophets pp. 177,
178.
What was Esau ready to do because of his carelessness in his
religious life? Genesis 25: 2934.
NOTE But Esau had no love for devotion, no inclination to a religious
life.
The
requirements that accompanied the spiritual birthright were an
unwelcome and even hateful restraint to him. The law of God, which
was
the
condition of
the
divine covenant with Abraham, was regarded
by
Esau as a yoke of bondage. Bent on self-indulgence, he desired nothing
so much as liberty to do as he pleased. To him power and riches, feasting
and
reveling, were happiness.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 178.
5
Through what
act did
Esau
show himself to be unworthy of the
birthright? Nevertheless, what was the father determined to do?
Genesis 24: 34; 27: 1-4.
NOTE Esau had violated one of the conditions of the covenant,
which forbade intermarriage between the chosen people and the heathen;
yet Isaac was still unshaken in his determination to bestow upon him
the birthright. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 179.
6 What deception did Rebekah resort to in order to secure the blessing
for Jacob? Genesis 27: 510.
NOTE
Jacoh and Rehekah succeeded in their pnrpose, hilt they gained
5
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
16/32
only
trouble and sorrow
by
their deception. God had declared
that
Jacob
should receive the birthright,
and
His word would have been fulfilled
His own time,
had
they waited
in
faith for Him to work for them.
But
like many who now profess to
be
children of God, they were unwilling
to leave
the matter in
His hands.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 180.
7.
What
was the blessing Jacob received through this act of treachery?
Was he
able to enjoy it? Genesis 27: 2729.
NOTE:
From
the
hour when he received the birthright, Jacob was
weighed down with self-condemnation.
He
had sinned against his father,
his brother, his own soul, and against God. In one short hour he had
made work for a life-long repentance. This scene was vivid before him
in
after-years, when the wicked course of his own sons oppressed his
soul.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 180.
8. After
it
was forever too late, what were Esau s feelings
about the
birthright? Genesis 27: 3440.
NOTE:
The birthright which he had s carelessly bartered, he could
not
now regain.
For
one morsel meat, for a momentary gratification of
appetite
that had
never been restrained, Esau sold his inheritance;
but
when he saw his folly, it was too late to recover the blessing. Patriarchs
and Prophets
p. 181.
9. How
does the. Apostle Paul describe this experience? Hebrews 12: 17.
NOTE:
He
thought, I now sell it, I can easily
buy it
back.
He
bartered it away for a favorite dish, flattering himself
that
he could dis
pose of it at will, and buy it back at pleasure.
But
when he sought
to buy it back, even
at
a great sacrifice on his part, he was not able
to do so.
He
then bitterly repented his rashness, his folly, his madness.
He
looked
the
matter over on every side.
He
sought for repentance care
fully and with tears; but it was all in vain. He had despised
the
blessing,
and the
Lord removed
it
from him forever.
Testimonies
vol. 2, pp. 38,
39.
10. Why was God unable to accept his repentance?
ANSWER: Esau was not shut out from the privilege of seeking o d ~
favor
by
repentance;
but
he could find no means of recovering
the
birth
right. His grief
did
not spring
up
from conviction of sin; he did not desire
to be reconciled to God.
He
sorrowed because of the results of his sin,
but not for
the
sin itself.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p 181.
11. What
is
Esau
called
by the
Scriptures?
Whom
does he represent?
Hebrews 12: 16.
NOTE: He
represents those who lightly value
the
redemption purchased
for them
by
Christ, and are ready to sacrifice their heirship to heaven
for the perishable things of earth. Multitudes live for the present, with
6
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
17/32
no thought or care for
the
future. Like
Esau
they cry, let us eat
and
drink; for tomorrow we die Patriarchs and Prophets p. 181.
12. What are the material and spiritual blessings
we
receive
through
our birthright? I
Peter
2: 9; Revelation 21: 17.
Lesson No. 7 - Sabbath, May 16, 1959.
JACOB S EXILE
Questions
Why was Jacob compelled to leave his father s house? Genesis 27:
4143.
2. With what words of admonition and comfort did
haac
send his
son away? Genesis 28: 14.
NOTE: Threatened with death by the wrath of Esau, Jacob went out
from his father s home a fugitive; but he carried with him the father s
blessing; Isaac had renewed to him the covenant promise, and
had
bidden
him;-as its inheritor, to seek a wife of his mother s family in Mesopotamia.
Yet it was with a deeply troubled heart that Jacob set out on his lonely
journey. With only his staff in his
hand
he must travel hundreds of miles
through a country inhabited hy wild, roving trihes. In his remorse and
timidity he sought to avoid men, lest he should be traced by his angry
brother. He feared that he had lost forever the blessing that God had
purposed to give him; and Satan was at hand to press temptations upon
him. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 183.
3.
What
Scripture aptly describes Jacob s state of mind during his
flight? Romans 7: 24.
NOTE:
He
felt that
he
was an outcast, and
he
knew
that
all this
trouble
had
been brought upon him
by
his own wrong course.
The
darkness of despair pressed upon his soul, and he hardly dared to pray.
But he was
so
utterly lonely that he felt the need of protection from God
as
he
had never felt it before.
With
weeping and
deep
humiliation
he
confessed his sin, and entreated for some evidence that he was not utterly
forsaken. Still his burdened heart found no relief. He had lost all con
fidence in himself, and he feared
that the
God of his fathers
had
cast
him off Patriarchs and Prophets p. 183.
4.
How only
can the
sinsick soul return to God?
John
14:
6
5.
How
was
the
glorious
truth
of
the
open way to heaven revealed
to Jacob? Genesis 28: 1012.
6 Who is represented by this ladder? John
I:
5
7
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
18/32
NOTE: The ladder represents Jesus,
the appointed medium
of com
munication. Had he not
with
his own merits bridged the gulf that sin
had made, the ministering angels could have held no communion
with
fallen man. Christ connects man in his weakness and helplessness
with
the
source
of
infinite power.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 184.
7. Who was above the ladder?
With
what words did He comfort and
encourage
the repentant sinner? Genesis 28: 13-15.
8.
In his
gratitude towards God what did he
vow? What did
he
erect?
Genesis
28:
1622.
9.
What
quest ion should
we ask ourselves more frequently?
Psalm
116: 12.
NOTE:
Jacob felt
that
God
had
claims
upon him which
he
must
acknowledge and that the special tokens of divine favor
granted
him
demanded a return.
So
does every blessing bestowed
upon
us call for a
response to the
Author of
all
our
mercies. The Christian should often
review his
past
life, and recall with
gratitude the
precious deliverances
that.
God
has
wrought
for
him
supporting him in trial, opening ways
before him when all seemed dark and forbidding, refreshing him
when
ready to faint Patriarchs and Prophets p. 187.
Lesson No. 8 -
Sabbath
May 23, 1959.
A NIGHT OF ANGUISH
Questions
1. What
truth was strongly impressed
upon Jacob
in his
later
life?
Galatians 6: 7
NOTE: Although
Jacob had
earnestly
repented of
his sin,
and it
had
been
forgiven
him of
God,
yet
he had
to
bear the
sad consequences.
He
had
defrauded
and
in
his
later
life
he had
to
reap the
harvest of deceit.
2.
What
experience
did
he have
with
his mother s relatives? Genesis
29: 1825.
3.
How many years did Jacob spend serving Laban? What did he
tell the
crafty
uncle? Genesis
31:
3842.
What
circumstances compelled
Jacob
to leave Mesopotamia?
Gene
sis 31: 1, 2.
NOTE:
Jacob
would have left
his crafty kinsman long before,
but
for
the
fear of encountering
Esau. Now he
felt
that he
was in
danger
from
the sons of Laban who, looking upon his wealth as their own, might
en
8
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
19/32
deavor to secure it by violence. He was in great perplexity and distress,
not knowing which
way to
turn
-Patl iarchs and Prophets
p. 193.
5.
In
his perplexity,
what
directions
did the Lord
give him?
What
promise was
to
be his? Genesis 31: 11, 13.
As Jacob
turned
towards home, his mind full of premonitions,
what sign
did
the Lord give concerning His promise of care and
protection? Genesis 32: 1, 2.
7.
How were
Jacob s fears confirmed? Genesis 32: 37.
8. What steps
did
Jacob take in order to tum away his brother s wrath?
Genesis 32: 1316, 20.
NOTE: He sent from his vast flocks generous presents to Esau, with a
friendly message.
He
did
all in his power to atone for
the
wrong to
his brother,
and
to avert the threatened danger,
and then in
humiliation
and
repentance
-he pleaded
for divine protection -Patriarchs and r -
phets p. 196.
9
To whom
did
Jacob tum in his great trouble? Genesis 32: 2426.
10. What event caused a turning point in Jacob s experience? Genesis
32: 2426.
NOTE:
The
struggle continued until near
the
break of day, when
the
stranger placed his finger
upon
Jacob s thigh,
and
he
was crippled
instantly.
The
patriarch now discerned the character of his antogonist
All
penitent
and broken, he clung to the Angel; he wept, and made
supplication: pleading for a blessing. He must have the assurance that
his sin was pardoned. Physical pain was
not
sufficient to divert his
mind
from this object. His determination grew stronger, his faith more
earnest
and
persevering, until the very last -Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 197.
11. Who gained the victory in this struggle?
What
new
name was
given
Jacob? Hosea
12: 3, 4; Genesis 32: 28.
NOTE:
Through humiliation, repentance,
and
self-surrender, this sin
ful, erring mortal prevailed with the Majesty of heaven. He .had fastened
his trembling grasp upon the promises of God,
and
the heart of Infinite
Love could not turn away the sinner s plea
As an
evidence
that he
had
been
forgiven, his name was changed
from one that was a reminder of his sin, to one
that
commemorated his
victory
Jacob had received the blessing for which his soul had longed. His
sin as a supplanter
and
deceiver
had
been
pardoned.
The
crisis in his
life was past.
Doubt
perplexity, and remorse had imbittered his existence,
hut
now all was changed; and sweet was the peace of reconciliation with
9
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
20/32
God. Jacob
no
longer feared to meet his brother
Patriarchs and
Prophets pp.
197, 198.
12. What
important
lesson, essential for us
to
learn, did Jacob
learn
that
night?
Psalm
60: 11.
NOTE:
In
his night of anguish beside the Jabbok, when destruction
seemed just before him, Jacob had
been taught
how vain is the help
of man, how groundless is all trust in human power. He saw
that
his
only help must come from Him against whom he had
so
grievously
sinned. Helpless and unworthy, he pleaded God s promise of mercy to
the repentant sinner. That promise was his assurance that God would
pardon
and
accept him. Sooner might heaven and earth pass than
that
word could fail;
and
it was this
that
sustained him through that fearful
conflict. Patriarchs and Prophets pp. 198, 201.
13. After Jacob
submitted
himself fully
to
God,
what
miraculous change
was
brought about
in Esau s intentions? Genesis 33:
1 4
14.
What future time is symbolized by this experience of Jacob? Jere-
miah 30: 5 7
NOTE: Jacob s experience during that night of wrestling
and
anguish
represents that trial through which the people of God must pass just
before Christ s second coming
When
Christ shall cease his work as mediator in man s behalf, then
this time of trouble will begin
Patriarchs and Prophets
p.
201.
15 Why
does
God
allow this tribulation
to
come
upon
His people?
ANSWER: Their affliction is great, the flames of
the
furnace seem
about to consume them;
but the
Refiner will bring them forth as gold
tried in
the
fire. God s love for His children during the period of their
severest trial,
is
as strong and tender as in
the
days of their sunniest
prosperity; but
it
is needful for them to
be
placed in
the
furnace of
fire; their earthliness must
be
consumed,
that the
image of Christ may
be
perfectly reflected,
reat
Controversy p. 621.
16. Wbat must
we
learn
today
in
order
to be able to
stand
firm
in
the
time of Jacob s trouble? Luke 18: 1; Revelation 13: 10
last
part).
NOTE: Jacob prevailed because
he
was persevering and determined.
His experience testifies to the power of importunate prayer. It is now
that
we
are to learn this lesson of prevailing prayer, of unyielding
faith. The greatest victories to the church of Christ or to the individual
Christian, are not those that are gained
by
talent or education,
by
wealth,
or the favor of men. They are those victories that are gained in the
audience
chamber with
God,
when
earnest, agonizing faith lays hold
upon the mighty arm of power, Patriarchs and Prophets p. 203.
2
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
21/32
Lesson No. 9 -
Sabhath,
May 30, 1959.
A NEW BEGINNING
Questions
Where did
Jacob o with his family?
What did
he erect? Genesis
33: 1820.
2.
What did
Jacob s
daughter
do,
and what
wcre
the
results of this
thoughtless act? Genesis 34: 1, 2.
3. How
did
Simeon
and Levi
seek revcnge? Genesis 34: 11.16, 25, 26.
NOTE:
The
tal l y of Jacob
and
his sons
at
Shechem
ended
in violence
and
bloodshed.
The
one daughter of the household had
been brought
to shame
and
sorrow, two brothers were involved in
the
guilt of murder,
a whole city had
been
given to ruin
and
slaughter, in retaliation for
the lawless
deed
of one rash youth.
The
beginning that
led
to results
so terrible was the
act
of Jacob s daughter, who
went
out
to
see the
daughters of the land, thus venturing into association with the ungodly.
He
who seeks pleasure among those
that
fear not God, is placing him
self on Satan s ground,
and
inviting his temptations. Patriarchs and
Prophets p. 204.
4.
What
lesson, especially for
thc
young,
s
there
in this? Psalm 1: 1;
Proverbs 4: 14. -
NOTE: t has been truly said, Show me your company, and I will ~ w
you your character.
The
youth fail to realize
how
sensibly
both their
their character
and
their reputation are affected by
their
choice of
associates. One seeks the company of those whose tastes
and
habits
and
practices are congenial. He who prefers the society of the ignorant
and
vicious to that of the wise
and
good shows that his own character
s
defective. His tastes
and
habits may at first be altogether dissimilar
to
the
tastes
and
habits of those whose company
he
seeks;
but
as
he
mingles with this class, his thoughts
and
feelings change; he sacrifices
right p r i n i p l s ~
and
insensibly yet unavoidably sinks to
the
level of
his companions Counsels to Parents Teachers and Students p. 221.
5. What wickedness was even manifested in
the
household of Jacob?
How
did
he feel about it? Genesis 31: 19 (last part).
NOTE: Jacob felt that there was cause for
deep
humiliation. Cruelty
and
falsehood were manifest in the character of his sons.
There
were
false gcds in the camp,
and
idolatry
had
to some extent gained a foothold
even in his household. Should
the Lord -deal
with them according to
their deserts, would he not leave them to
the
vengeance of
the
surrounding
nations? Patriarchs and Prophets p. 205.
2
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
22/32
6. How did Jacob go about cleansing these sins from his family? Gene
sis 35: 2, 4.
What
could the Lord now do for Jacob s family? Genesis 35: 5.
8. After sanctifying his family,
what
covenant was
renewed
with him?
Genesis 35: 912.
9. Where
must
reformation always begin if it is to
be
successful?
ANSWER: Those who bear the last message of ~ r y to the world
should feel it their duty to instruct parents in regard to home religion.
The
great reformatory movement must begin in presenting to fathers and
mothers and children
the
principles of
the
law of God.
As the
claims of
the
law are presented, and men and women are convicted of their duty
to render obedience, show
them
the responsibility of their decision,
not only for themselves but for their children
Religion in the home is our great hope,
and
makes the prospect
bright for the conversion of the whole family to the truth of God.
Testimonies
vol. 6, p. 119.
10. What
appeal
of
the Lord
is important in this presentday refor
mation? Isaiah 52: 11; 1: 16.
11. In order to
be
accounted faithful to God,
what
is
the duty
of all
fathers
and
spiritual leaders?
Isaiah
58:
1.
NOTE: In the work of reform to be carried forward today, there is
need of men who, like Ezra and Nehemiah, will not palliate or excuse
sin, nor shrink from vindicating the honor of God. Those upon whom
rests
the
burden of this work, will not hold their peace
when
wrong is
done, neither will they cover evil with a cloak of false charity. They will
remember that God is no respector of persons, and that severity to a
few may prove mercy to
many
Prophets and Kings p. 675.
12.
What
promise will
be
fulfilled to us if we will comply with the
conditions? Ezekiel 37: 2628.
Lesson No. 10 - Sabbath, June 6, 1959.
THE SONS
OF
JACOB
Questions
1.
What
bit ter fruits
did
Jacob s sin,
and
the
polygamy within
the
household yield? James : 16.
NOTE: The
sin of Jacob, and
the
train of events to which it led,
had
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
23/32
not failed to exert an influence for evil -an influence that revealed its
bitter
fruit in the character
and
life of his sons.
As
these sons arrived
at manhood, they developed serious faults. The results of polygamy were
manifest in the household. This terrible evil tends to dry up the very
springs of love,
and
its influence weakens
the
most sacred ties.
The
jealousy of the several mothers had imbittered the family relation, the
children had grown
up
contentious,
and
impatient of control, and the
father s life was darkened with anxiety -
and
grief Patriarchs and
Prophets p. 208, 209.
2.
Which
son refrained from the sins of his
brethren?
What were Jacob s
feelings towards this son? Genesis 37: 2, 3.
NOTE:
There
was one, however, of a widely different
character -the
elder son of Rachel, Joseph, whose rare personal beauty seemed
but
to
reflect an
inward beauty
of
mind
and
heart. Pure, active,
and
joyous,
the
lad
gave evidence of moral earnestness and firmness. He listened to his
father s instructions,
and
loved to obey God. The qualities that
afterward
distinguished him in Egypt-gentleness fidelity,
and
truthfulness-were
already manifest in his daily life. His mother being dead, his affections
clung the more closely to the father, and Jacob s heart was bound up
in this child of his old age
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 209.
3. What was the soon result of Jacob s unwisely revealed love? Genesis
37: 4.
4.
In
what
way
did
the Lord
reveal Joseph s future? Genesis 37: 6,
7, 9
5. Because of
these
dreams how
did
his brothers feel? Genesis 37: 8.
To
what
lengths will men go if they allow themselves to
be
actuated
by
hatred and envy? I John 3: 15.
NOTE: In the revengeful thought the evil deed lies enfolded. ount
of Blessings p. 89.
7 What story confirms the truth of these words? Genesis 37: 1220.
8. What distinct command of God, still applicable today, was ignored
by the
sons of Jacob? Leviticus 19: 17, 18.
9
Who
intervened, saving Joseph from
death?
Genesis 37: 21, 22.
10. What
did
Joseph s brothers do in
their
endeavors to prevent the
fulfillment of his dreams? Genesis 37: 26-28.
11.
Who
did
they
overlook
when
making
their
plans?
Job 5:
11, 12.
NOTE: was envy that moved the brothers of Joseph to sell him
as a slave; they hoped to prevent him from becoming greater
than them
selves. And when he was carried to Egypt, they flattered themselves
that
3
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
24/32
they were to
be
no more troubled with his dreams;
that
they
had
removed
all possibility of their fulfillment. But their own course was overruled by
God to bring about the very event that they designed to hinder.
at-
riarchs and Prophets p. 239.
Lesson No. 11 -
Sabbath
June 13, 1959.
JOSEPH BANISHED FROM EGYPT
Questions
What
New Testament
verse describes God s purpose of allowing
Joseph
to
be
taken
a captive
to Egypt?
Romans
8:
28.
NOTE: But, in the providence of God, even this experience was to be
a blessing to him.
He
had learned in a few hours
that
which years might
not otherwise have taught him. His father, strong
and
tender as his love
had been, had done him wrong by his partiality and indulgence. This
unwise preference
had
angered his brothers
and
provoked them
to
the
cruel deed
that had
separated him from his home. Its effects were manifest,
also, in his own character. Faults had been encouraged that were now
to be corrected
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 213.
2.
What
firm decision
did
the youth
make
as the caravan
approached
the country of
Egypt?
ANSWER: His soul thrilled with the high resolve to prove himself true
to God under all circumstances to
act
as became a subject of
the
King
of heaven. He would serve the
Lord
with undivided heart; he would
meet the trials of his lot with fortitude, and perform every duty with
fidelity Patriarchs and Prophets p. 214.
3. What were the fruits of this noble resolution? Genesis 39: 15.
4. As a test of his faith
and
loyalty,
what
temptation came to Joseph?
Genesis 39: 7.
NOTE: . . . . . Heretofore he had remained untainted by the corruption
teeming in
that
heathen land; but this temptation,
so
sudden,
so
strong,
so
seductive how should it be met? Joseph knew well what would be
the consequence of resistance. On the one hand were concealment, favor,
and rewards; on the other, disgrace, imprisonment, perhaps death. His
whole future life depended upon the decision of the moment. Would
principle triumph?
Would
Joseph still
be
true to
God?
With
inexpressible
anxiety, angels looked upon the scene.
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 217.
5. What was Joseph s firm reply? Genesis 39: 9.
4
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
25/32
How was his steadfast loyalty rewarded? Genesis 39: 20.
NOTE: Joseph suffered for his intregity; for his
tempter
revenged
her-
self
by
accusing him of a foul crime, and causing him to be thrust into
prison.
Had
Pot iphar believed his wife's charge against Joseph,
the
young
Hebrew would
have
lost his life; but the modesty and uprightness that
had uniformly characterized his conduct were proof of his innocence;
and
yet, to save the reputation of his master's house,
he
was
abandoned
to disgrace and bondage. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 218.
7. What glorious promise is given those who, like Joseph, are per
secuted for righteousness sake?
Matthew 5: 10.
8. When tempted what important fact did Joseph remember? What
should continually be fresh in
our
minds? Psalm 139: 1-5.
NOTE:
Under
the
inspecting eye of God and holy angels, many take
liberties of which they would not be guilty in the presence of
their
fellow-men; but Joseph's first thought was of God. How can I do this
great wickedness, and sin against God?'
he
said.
f we are to cherish an habitual impression that God sees
and
hears
all that we do and say, and keeps a faithful record of our words
and
actions, and that
we
must meet it all, we would fear
to
sin at-
riarchs and Prophets p. 217.
9
What
great difference in
character
is
there
between
Joseph
and
present-day youth?
ANSWER: Mark the character of Joseph. Virtue was severely tested,
but
its triumph was complete. At every point the noble youth endured
the
test. The same lofty,
unbending
principle appeared at every trial. The
Lord was with him, and his word was law.
Such firmness and untarnished principle shines brightest
in
contrast
with the feebleness and inefficiency of the youth of this age. With but
few exceptions, they are vacillating, varying with every change of cir
cumstance
and
surroundings, one thing today,
and
another tomorrow.
Let the attractions of pleasure or selfish gratification be presented, and
conscience will
be
sacrificed to gain the coveted indulgence. Can such
a person be trusted? Never In the absence of temptation he may carry
himself with such seeming propriety that your doubts and suspicions
appear
unjust; but let opportunity be presented, and he will
betray
your
confidence.
He
is unsound
at
heart. Just
at the
time when firmness and
principle
are
most required, you wiiI find him giving way, and if
he
does not become an Arnold or a Judas, it is because he lacks a fitting
opportunity. Testimonies vol. 5, pp. 43, 44.
10.
What
appeal
does
the Lord
make to
the
youth of
today?
I Timothy
4: 12; I Corinthians 16: 13.
5
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
26/32
Lesson No. 12 - Sabbath, June 20, 1959.
JOSEPH IN
THE
ROYAL COURT
Questions
1. Was Joseph forgotten as he remained unjustly in prison? Because of
his integrity and faithfulness to God, what confidence did
the
prison
keeper place in
Him?
Genesis 39: 21-23.
NOTE:
But
Joseph s real character shines out, even in the darkness
of the dungeon.
He
held fast his faith and patience; his years of faithful
service had been most cruelly repaid, yet this did not render him morose
or distrustful.
He
had the peace
that
comes from conscious innocence,
and he trusted his case with God. He did not brood upon his own
wrongs,
but
forgot his sorrow in trying to lighten the sorrows of
others.
He
found a work to do even in the prison. God was preparing
him, in the school of affliction, for greater usefulness, and he did not
refuse
the
needful discipline Patriarchs and Prophets p. 218.
2. Who also was thrown into prison? Genesis 40: 13.
3. In what
way did
the Lord reveal to these two men
their
future
destiny? Genesis 40: 513, 1619.
4. Was Joseph s prophecy fulfilled? Genesis 40: 20-22.
5. What earnest request did Joseph make of the chief butler? Did the
butler keep his promise? Genesis 40: 14, 15, 23.
NOTE:
The
chief butler saw the dream fulfilled in every particular;
but
when restored to royal favor, he
thought
no more of his benefactor.
For
two years longer, Joseph remained a prisoner. The hope that
had
been kindled in his
heart
gradually died out, .and to all other trials was
added
the bitter sting of ingratitude. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 219.
6 In his dissappointment,
what
important principle was impressed upon
his mind? Psalms 146: 3; 118: 8,
9
7.
What
method
did
the Lord use to intervene for Joseph? Genesis
41: 18.
8. After consulting with magicians and wise men in vain, to whom
was Pharoah s attention drawn? Genesis 41: 913.
NOTE:
It was humiliating to Pharoah to turn away from the maglCHU s
and
wise men of his kingdom to consult an alien
and
a slave;
but
he
was ready to accept
the
lowliest service if his troubled mind might find
relief
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 220.
9
What
message did God send Phal Oah through his dreams? Genesis
41: 2532.
6
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
27/32
10. What wise counsel did Joseph give the ruler of Egypt? Genesis 41:
3336.
11. After conferring with his servants, who was chosen by Pharoah to
head
his household?
What
dangers
did
this high position
bring
with it? Genesis 41: 37-44.
NOTE: From the dungeon, Joseph was exalted to be ruler over all
the land of Egypt. was a position of
high
honor, yet
it
was beset
with difficulty and peril. One cannot stand upon a lofty
height
without
danger. s the tempest leaves unharmed the lowly flower of the valley,
while it uproots the stately tree upon the mountain-top, so those who
have maintained their intregity in humble life, may be dragged down
to the pit
by the
temptations that assail worldly success and honor. But
Joseph s character bore
the
test alike of adversity and prosperity. The
same fidelity to God was manifest when
he
stood in the palace of
the
Pharoahs as
when
in a prisoner s cell
Patriarchs and Prophets p.
222.
12. What was the secret of Joseph s success? What had he learned
from all the circumstances he passed through? Job 28: 28.
NOTE: How was Joseph enabled to make such a record of firmness of
character, uprightness and
wisdom? In
his early years he
had
consulted
duty
rather
than inclination; and the integrity, the simple trust, the noble
nature, of the youth, bore fruit in
the
deeds of
the
man. A pure
and
simple life
had
favored
the
vigorous development of both physical and
intellectual powers. Communion with God through His works, and the
contemplation of the grand truths intrusted to the inheritors of faith,
had elevated and ennobled his spiritual nature, broadening
and
strengthen
ing the mind s no other study could do
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 222.
13.
What
had been Satan s purpose in causing Joseph s brothers to
try and
put
him aside? To what did this action
lead?
ANSWER: But Joseph was faithful to God, and his fidelity was a
constant testimony to
the true
faith. was to quench this light
that
Satan worked through
the
envy of Joseph s brothers to cause him
to
be
sold as a slave in a heathen land. God overruled events, however, so
that the knowledge of himself should be given to the people of Egypt.
Both in the house of Potiphar and in the prison, Joseph received an
education and training that, with the fear of God, prepared him for
his high position as prime minister of the nation. From the palace of
the Pharoahs his influence was felt throughout the land,
and
the know
ledge of God spread far
and
wide Patriarchs and Prophets p. 332.
14. What precious experience will all those have who remain faithful
to God
under
all circumstances
and
permit
Him to rule
their
destiny?
Isaiah 28: 29.
7
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
28/32
Lesson No. 13 - Sabbath
June
27, 1959.
A GREAT REUNION
Questions
1
How
far
did
this great famine
reach?
Who went to
Egypt
to get food
for their household? Genesis 41: 56, 57; 42: 1-3.
2.
How
were
they
received
at
first by Joseph? Genesis 42: 69.
NOTE: His Hebrew
name had been
exchanged for the one bestowed
upon
him
by the king; and there was little resemblance between the
prime minister of Egypt and the stripling whom they had sold to the
Ishmaelites.
As
Joseph saw his brothers stooping and making obeisance,
his dreams came to his mind,
and the
scenes of the past rose vividly before
him. His keen eye, surveying the group, discovered
that
Benjamin was not
among them. Had he also fallen a victim to the treacherous cruelty of
those savage men? He determined to learn the truth Patriarchs and
Prophets
p.
224.
3.
In
what way did Joseph test his brothers? What was he able to see?
Genesis 42: 1724.
NOTE:
During
the
years since Joseph
had
been separated from his
brothers, these sons of Jacob had changed in character. Envious, tur
bulent, deceptive, cruel,
and
revengeful they
had
been;
but
now,
when
tested by adversity, they were shown to be unselfish, true to one another,
devoted
to their
father, and, themselves middle-aged men, subject to
his authority. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 225.
4. Under
what
condition only were Joseph s brothers allowed to appear
again before him? Genesis 43: 13.
5.
Who
offered himself as a surety in order that the father s permission
might be obtained? Genesis 43: 8. 9.
What
was Joseph s first question
when
his brothers arrived the
second time in
Egypt? How
great was his joy when he saw his
younger brother? Genesis 43: 2730.
7.
How did
he test his brothers this time in order to prove their char
acters? Genesis 44: 113.
8.
What
words revealed their thorough change of heart? Genesis 44:
3034.
9. What
scene took place after Joseph
had
seen the fruit of
truc
repentance?
Genesis 45: 14, 14, 15.
10.
As
fears began to arise that he would take revenge, what words of
assurance
did
Joseph speak? Genesis 45: 58.
8
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
29/32
n.
What message were the brothers to
bring
to his
aged
father? Gene
sis 45: 913.
12. How did
Jacob
receive this joyful message? What painful duty
must now
be
fulfilled
by
his sons? Genesis 45: 25-28.
NOTE: Another act of humiliation remained for the ten brothers.
They
now confessed to their father
the
deceit and cruelty
that
for
so
many
years had imbittered his life and theirs. Jacob
had
not suspected
them
of so base a sin, but
he
saw
that
all had been overruled for good, and
he forgave and blessed his erring children. Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 232.
13.
What
assurance did Jacob receive
that
his journey was in harmony
with the divine will? Genesis 46: 14.
NOTE: The promise
had
been given to Abraham of a posterity num-
berless as the stars; but as yet the chosen people had increased but slowly.
And the
land
of Canaan now offered no field for the development of such
a nation as
had
been foretold.
was in the possession of powerful heathen
tribes, that were not to be dispossessed unlil
the
fourth generation.
Egypt, however, offered the conditions necessary to the fulfillment
of the divine purpose Patriarchs and Prophets p. 232.
14. What beautiful example of true, filial love did Joseph, the honored
minister of
Egypt leave us? Genesis 46: 29.
NOTE:
Upon
reaching Egypt, the company proceeded directly to the
land of Goshen.
Thither
came Joseph in his chariot of state,
attended
by a princely retinue. The splendor of his surroundings and the dignity
of his position were alike forgotten; one
thought
alone filled his mind,
one longing thrilled his heart. As he beheld the travelers approaching,
the love whose yearnings
had
for
so
many long years been repressed,
would no longer be controlled. He sprung from his chariot, and has
tened forward to bid his father welcome. And he fell on his neck, and
wept on his neck a good while. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 233.
5
What
did
Jacob say as
he
embraced
his
long
lost son?
How many
years
did
the
Lord
add to his life? Genesis 46: 30.
NOTE: In his first greeting to Joseph, Jacob had spoken as
i
with
this joyful ending to his long anxiety and sorrow,
he
was ready to die.
But seventeen years were yet to
be
granted him in the peaceful retirement
of Goshen. These years were in happy contrast to those tha t had preceeded
them. He saw in his sons evidence of true repentance; he saw his family
surrounded
by
all the conditions needful for
the
development of a great
nation; and his faith grasped the sure promise of their future estahlishment
in Canaan.
He
himself was surrounded with every token of love
and
favor that the Prime Minister of Egypt could bestow;
and
happy in the
society of his long-lost son,
he
passed down gently and peacefully to
the grave. Patriarchs and Prophets p. 233.
9
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
30/32
16. After the
death
of
their
father what great fear came upon
the
sons
of Jacob? With
what
words did Joseph quieten their fears? Genesis
50: 15-21.
7
What
was Joseph s last request before his
death?
What
hope was
this to bring to later generations? Genesis 50: 24 25.
NOTE: When he saw
that
his
end
was near he summoned his kinsmen
about him. Honored as
he had
been
in
the land of the Pharoahs
Egypt
was to
him
but
the
place of his exile; his last
act
was to signify
that
his lot was cast
with
Israel. .
A nd th ro ugh the centuries of toil which
followed
that
coffin a re minder of
the
dying words of Joseph testified
to Israel that they were only sojourners
in
Egypt and bade them keep
their hopes fixed upon the land of promise for the time of deliverance
would surely come:
Patriarchs and Prophets
p. 240.
NOTES
3
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
31/32
S D fLM
~ i ~ ~ f :
-
8/8/2019 SDARM Bible Study Qtr. 2 1959
32/32