sdarm qtr. 4 1991 bible study

8/8/2019 SDARM Qtr. 4 1991 Bible Study

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Sabbath Bible Lessons

THE LAST EVENTSLesson Titles Page1 The Two Beasts 52 The Present Truth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 The Three Angels' Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 That Other Angel 175 The Sabbath-The Great Issue 216 The Sealing of the 144,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 257 The Latter Rain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298 The Short Time of Trouble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 339 The Mark of the Beast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

10 The Peace and Safety Cry 4111 The Close of Probation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4412 The Time of]acob's Trouble 4813 God's People Delivered 51

Volume 66 Number 4

The Sabbath Bible Lessons (USPS 005-118) is published quarterly by the SeventhDay Adventist Reform Movement General Conference,Sabbath School Department,5248 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048. Telephone (703) 362-1800.Annual subscriptions: U.S.A. $7.00. Other countries $8.00.It is printed and distributed by Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A. Telephone (703) 366-9400.Send subscription requests and payments in United States currency to the addressbelow. Second-class postage paid at Roanoke, Virginia 24022-9998.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

Sabbath Bible Lessons PO Box 724D Roanoke, VA 24019-0240PRINTED IN U.S.A.

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FOREWORDThe lessons for this quarter concern The Last Events. Theycover a period of time which extends from the beginning of thefirst angel's message to the second coming of Christ. Theselessons make a brief survey of the Advent Movement-the joys,disappointments, struggles and victories experienced in the past;the circumstances prevailing at present; and the final outcome ofthe controversy, in the light of divine prophecy. The dangers andsnares that Satan has prepared for the children of God are also

considered, and all should especially weigh their urgent needs,both as individuals and as a body of believers. History and prophecy have always been two important subjects of study among thepeople of the Lord. In this connection it would be well to give specialattention to the following instructions of the Spirit of Prophecy:"My ministering brethren, as you stand before the people,speak those things that are essential, those things that will in-struct. Teach the great practical truths that must be brought into

the life. Teach the saving power of Jesus, 'in whom we haveredemption . . . even the forgiveness of sins' (Col. 1:14). Strive tomake your hearers comprehend the power of truth."Ministers should present the sure word of prophecy as thefoundation of the faith of Seventh-day Adventists. ' '-Gospel Workers,pp. 147, 148."Satan's efforts to hinder the work and to destroy the workmen have not ceased; but God has had a care for his servants and

for His work."We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shallforget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our pasthistory."-Life Sketches ofEllen G. White, p. 196.Our prayers go with these lessons, that the Lord may blessthe students with additional enlightenment, and that His HolySpirit may impress their hearts with the need of seeking a moregenuine experience with the Lord, as they meditate upon thetruths herein.

The General Conference Sabbath School Department

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Special Project Offeringfor Chapels in Romania

Romania-the country in which we have the largest membership in Europe-saw a radical change in 1989-1990.After World War II our brethren in Romania enjoyed only afew years of liberty, during which our church there grew rapidlyand reached over 4,000 members. Before long, the religious activities of our people were restricted and the most important of alltheir human rights-religious freedom-came to an end. Then thebrethren went through a long period of fearful oppression and

persecution. Our meetings were forbidden, our church propertieswere confiscated, and many of our members had to answer fortheir faith before the authorities. A good number of our leadingbrethren were sentenced to a long term of imprisonment, andsome of them never came out alive. Even in recent years some ofour people were put in jail when they were surprised-holdingworship in small numbers in private homes.God heard the prayers and cries of His oppressed children

and brought a change in the political situation in Romania,1989-1990, when the heroic Romanian people stood up in a triumphant revolution.This event opened the door for a new beginning in the proclamation of the Reform message in that country. After 40 years ofoppression, our people there were aroused and filled with new zeal.Our church in Romania is incorporated and our people areunited. They are printing and distributing books and great quantities of pamphlets. Our workers are also giving public lectures ingovernment halls and private homes, and many spiritually hungrypeople are listening to the present truth.Since the Reform Movement was proscribed and our meetingswere forbidden, our people in Romania, 3,500 members at present, have no chapels. They will start building some now that theyare free. Therefore, they are hereby making an appeal for aspecial offering in behalf of this project. As we want to help them

develop their work, we ask our members and friends around theworld to please remember the needs of our Romanian brethrenand make a special sacrifice at the end of this quarter. The Lordwill certainly bless the donors and their gifts.R. Ludwig, regional secretary for Europe-4-


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Lesson 1 Sabbath, October 5, 1991

THE TWO BEASTS

"Prophecy represents Protestantism as having lamblike horns, but speakinglike a dragon."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments]. vol. 7. p. 975.KEY TEXT: "And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose namesare not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world" (Revelation 13:8).

THE FIRST BEAST o SundaySeptember 29

A NAME OF BLASPHEMY

1. From where does the first beast come up? What do waters represent in theBible? Revelation 13:1; 17:15."In Revelation 17 an angel explained that waters represent 'peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.' Revelation 17:15. Winds are a symbol of strife."- The Great Controversy, p. 440.

2. What is this beast like, and from whom does he get his power and authority?Revelation 13:2."In the sixth century the papacy had become firmly established. Its seat of power

was fixed in the imperial city, and the bishop of Rome was declared to be the headover the entire church. Paganism had given place to the papacy. The dragon had givento the beast 'his power, and his seat, and great authority.' Revelation 13:2."-The GreatControversy, p. 54."In chapter 13 (verses 1-10) is described another beast, 'like unto a leopard,' towhich the dragon gave 'his power, and his seat, and great authority.' This symbol, asmost Protestants have believed, represents the papacy, which succeeded to the powerand seat and authority once held by the ancient Roman empire."-Ibid., p. 439.o Monday

September 303. What does the symbolic beast do? Revelation 13:5 (first part), 6; Daniel7:25 (first part)."By substituting human law for God's law, Satan will seek to control the world.This work is foretold in prophecy. Of the great apostate power which is the represen-

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A PERIOD OF PERSECUTION

tative of Satan, it is declared, 'He shall speak great words against the Most High, andshall wear out the saints of the Most High, and think to change times and laws: andthey shall be given into his hand.' Dan. 7:25."-The Desire ofAges, p. 763.4. What is blasphemy against God? Mark 2:5-7; John 10:31-33.

"Instead of trusting in the Son of God for forgiveness of sins and for eternalsalvation, the people looked to the pope, and to the priests and prelates to whom hedelegated authority." - The Great Controversy, p. 55."The people were also taught that by the payment of money to the church theymight free themselves from sin, and also release the souls of their deceased friendswho were confined in the tormenting flames."-Ibid., p. 59."Christ gave no ecclesiastical right to forgive sin, nor to sell indulgences, thatmen may sin without incurring the displeasure of God, nor did He give His servantsliberty to accept a gift or bribe for cloaking sin, that it may escape merited censure.Jesus charged His disciples to preach the remission of sin in His name among all na-tions; but they themselves were not empowered to remove one stain of sin from thechildren of Adam."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1151.

D TuesdayOctober 15. How long would the beast continue persecuting the saints? Revelation 13:5

(last part); Daniel 7:25 (last part) ."The forty and two months are the same as the 'time and times and the dividingof time,' three years and a half, or 1260 days, of Daniel 7-the time during which thepapal power was to oppress God's people."-The Great Controversy, p. 439.

6. What happened to this power at the end of the forty-two prophetic monthsor 1260 years? Revelation 13:3, 10."This period, as stated in preceding chapters, began with the supremacy of thepapacy, A.D. 538, and terminated in 1798. At that time the pope was made captive by

the French army, the papal power received its deadly wound, and the prediction wasfulfilled, 'He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity.' " - The Great Controversy,p.439.

THE SECOND BEAST o WednesdayOctober 27. From where does the second beast come up, and whom does he represent?

Revelation 13:11.

"But the beast with lamblike horns was seen 'coming up out of the earth.' In-stead of overthrowing other powers to establish itself, the nation thus representedmust arise in territory previously unoccupied and grow up gradually and peacefully.It could not, then, arise among the crowded and struggling nationalities of t:le OldWorld-that turbulent sea of 'peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.' I tmust be sought in the Western Continent."What nation of the New World was in 1798 rising into power, giving promise ofstrength and greatness, and attracting the attention of the world? The application of

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the symbol admits of no question. One nation, and only one, meets the specificationsof this prophecy; it points unmistakably to the United States of America."-The GreatControversy, p. 440." 'And he had two horns like a lamb.' The lamblike horns indicate youth, in-nocence, and gentleness, fitly representing the character of the United States whenpresented to the prophet as 'coming up' in 1798."-Ibid., p. 441.8. Although this beast shows innocence, how will he speak and what work will

he do? Revelation 13:12-14 (first part)."Republicanism and Protestantism became the fundamental principles of the na-tion. These principles are the secret of its power and prosperity. The oppressed anddowntrodden throughout Christendom have turned to this land with interest andhope. Millions have sought its shores, and the United States has risen to a placeamong the most powerful nations of the earth."-The Great Controversy, p. 441."The lamblike horns and dragon voice of the symbol point to a striking con-tradiction between the professions and the practice of the nation thus represented.The 'speaking' of the nation is the action of its legislative and judicial authorities. Bysuch action it will give the lie to those liberal and peaceful principles which it has putforth as the foundation of its policy. The prediction that it will speak 'as a dragon' andexercise 'all the power of the first beast' plainly foretells a development of the spirit ofintolerance and persecution that was manifested by the nations represented by thedragon and the leopardlike beast. And the statement that the beast with two horns'causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast' indicatesthat the authority of this nation is to be exercised in enforcing some observance which

shall be an act of homage to the papacy."-Ibid., p. 442.THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST o ThursdayOctober 39. What is the image of the beast and what will be said to all the inhabitants ofthe earth? Revelation 13:14 (last part), 15.

"But what is the 'image to the beast'? and how is it to be formed? The image ismade by the two-horned beast, and is an image to the beast. It is also called an imageof the beast. Then to learn what the image is like and how it is to be formed we muststudy the characteristics of the beast itself-the papacy."- The Great Controversy, p. 443."The 'image to the beast' represents that form of apostate Protestantism whichwill be developed when the Protestant churches shall seek the aid of the civil powerfor the enforcement of their dogmas."-Ibid., p. 445.10. How does the image threaten all classes of people dwelling on earth? Revela

tion 13:16, 17.

"Fearful is the issue to which the world is to be brought. The powers of earth,uniting to war against the commandments of God, will decree that 'all, both small andgreat, rich and poor, free and bond' (Revelation 13:16), shall conform to the customsof the church by the observance of the false sabbath. All who refuse compliance willbe visited with civil penalties, and it will finally be declared that they are deserving ofdeath." - The Great Controversy, p. 604."As the controversy extends into new fields and the minds of the people are calledto God's downtrodden law, Satan is astir. The power attending the message will only-7-


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REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

madden those who oppose it. The clergy will put forth almost superhuman efforts toshut away the light lest it should shine upon their flocks. By every means at their com-mand they .will endeavor to suppress the discussion of thes.e vital questions. Thechurch appeals to the strong arm of civil power, and, in this work, papists and Pro-testants unite. As the movement for Sunday enforcement becomes more bold anddecided, the law will be invoked. against commmandment keepers. They will bethreatened with fines and imprisonment, and some will be offered positions of in-fluence, and other rewards and advantages, as inducements to renounce their faith.But their steadfast answer is: 'Show us from the word of God our error'-the sameplea that was made by Luther under similar circumstances. Those who are arraignedbefore the courts make a strong vindication of the truth, and some who hear them areled to take their stand to keep all the commandments of God."-Ibid., p. 607.o FridayOctober 4a. What do the dragon and the leopard like beast symbolize?

b. What blasphemous power does the papacy presume to have?

c. What period of religious oppression is foretold in Bible prophecy?d. Name three dist inct features of the second beast.

e. How will the Protestant churches bring about that great and final apostasyin which al l professed Christians will unite?

"Prophecy represents Protestantism as

having lam blike horns, but speaking like adragon. Already we are beginning to hear thevoice of the dragon. There is a satanic forcepropelling the Sunday movement, but it isc on ce al ed . E ve n the men who are engaged inthe work, are themselves blinded to the re-sults w hich w ill follow their movement."

- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 975.

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THE PRESENT TRUTH

" "There are many precious truths contained in theWord of God, but i t is 'pres-ent truth' that the flock needs now."-Early Writings, p. 63.KEY TEXT: "Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembranceof these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth" (2 Peter 1:12). o SundayTHE TRUTH IN WHICH WE ARE TO BE ESTABLISHED October 61. Of all truth revealed in the Bible, what particular truth is of special impor-tance to us? 2 Peter 1: 12."Different periods in the history of the church have each been marked by the de-velopment of some special truth, adapted to the necessities of God's people at that time.Every new truth has made its way against hatred and opposition; those who wereblessed with its light were tempted and tried. The Lord gives a special truth for thepeople in an emergency. Who dare refuse to publish it?"- The Great Controversy, p. 609.

2. In what direction does the truth increase and for what purpose? Proverbs4:18."No truth is more clearly taught in the Bible than that God by His Holy Spirit

especially directs His servants on earth in the great movements for the carrying for-ward of the work of salvation. Men are instruments in the hand of God, employed byHim to accomplish His purposes of grace and mercy. Each has his part to act; to eachis granted a measure of light, adapted to the necessities of his time, and sufficient toenable him to perform the work which God has given him to do." - The Great Controver-sy, p. 343.THE MEASURE OF TRUTH REVEALED o MondayOctober 73. How does the Lord reveal the truth to His children? How much truth is reovealed at a time? Isaiah 28:10."God permitted great light to shine upon the minds of these chosen men, revealing to them many of the errors of Rome; but they did not receive all the light that wasto be given to the world. Through these, His servants, God was leading the people outof the darkness of Romanism; but there were many and great obstacles for them to

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meet, and He led them on, step by step, as they could bear it. They were not preparedto receive all the light at once. Like the full glory of the noontide sun to those whohave long dwelt in darkness, it would, if presented, have caused them to turn away.Therefore He revealed it to the leaders little by little, as it could be received by thepeople. From century to century, other faithful workers were to follow, to lead thepeople on still further in the path of reform."- The Great Controversy, p. 103.4. How does the apostle Peter show that the children of God could understand

only as much as was necessary for their time? 1 Peter 1:10-12."Even the prophets who were favored with the special illumination of the Spiritdid not fully comprehend the import of the revelations committed to them. The mean-ing was to be unfolded from age to age, as the people of God should need the instruc- ..tion therein contained."- The Great Controversy, p. 344.

TRUTH REVEALED TO THE PATRIARCHS D TuesdayOctober 8 .,

5. In what way was the plan of redemption revealed to Adam and Eve, and toAbraham? Genesis 3:15; Galatians 3:8; John 8:56.

"To man the first intimation of redemption was communicated in the sentencepronounced upon Satan in the garden. The Lord declared, 'I will put enmity betweenthee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, andthou shalt bruise his heel.' Genesis 3:15. This sentence, uttered in the hearing of ourfirst parents, was to them a promise. While it foretold war between man and Satan, itdeclared that the power of the great adversary would finally be broken."-Patriarchsand Prophets, pp. 65, 66.

"Through type and promise God 'preached before the gospel unto Abraham.'Galatians 3:8. And the patriarch's faith was fixed upon the Redeemer to come. SaidChrist to the Jews, 'Your father Abraham rejoiced that he should see My day; and hesaw it, and was glad.' John 8:56, R.V., margin. The ram offered in the place of Isaacrepresented the Son of God, who was to be sacrificed in our stead. When man wasdoomed to death by transgression of the law of God, the Father, looking upon HisSon, said to the sinner, 'Live: I have found a ransom.' "-Ibid., p. 154.6. How much of the p lan of salvation did the Lord reveal to Jacob and in what

way? Genesis 28:11-14."In this vision the plan of redemption was presented to Jacob, not fully, but insuch parts as were essential to him at that time. The mystic ladder revealed to him inhis dream was the same to which Christ referred in His conversation with Nathanael.Said He, 'Ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending

upon the Son of man. ' John 1:51. Up to the time of man's rebellion against the government of God, there had been free communion between God and man. But the sin ofAdam and Eve separated earth from heaven, so that man could not have communionwith his Maker. Yet the world was not left in solitary hopelessness. The ladderrepresents Jesus, the appointed medium of communication. Had He not with His ownmerits bridged the gulf that sin had made, the ministering angels could have held nocommunion with fallen man. Christ connects man in his weakness and helplessnesswith the source of infinite power."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 184.-1 0 -


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REVELATION IN THE CHRISTIAN ERA D WednesdayOctober 9

PRESENT TRUTH IN OUR TIME

7. What was present truth in the time of the disciples?Why did the Lord notaccept the title of "Good Maste r" a s given by the rich young man? Mark1:15; Luke 24:25-27; Matthew 19:16, 17."Christ Himself had sent them forth with the message: 'The time is fulfilled, andthe kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.' Mark 1:15. Thatmessage was based on the prophecy of Daniel 9. The sixty-nine weeks were declaredby the angel to extend to 'the Messiah the Prince.' " - The Great Controversy, p. 345.

8. What was present truth in the time of Luther? Romans 1 :16, 17."By a recent decretal an indulgence had been promised by the pope to all whoshould ascend upon their knees 'Pilate's staircase,' said to have been descended byour Saviour on leaving the Roman judgment hall and to have been miraculously conveyed from Jerusalem to Rome. Luther was one day devoutly climbing these steps,when suddenly a voice like thunder seemed to say to him: 'The just shall live by faith.'Romans 1:17."-The Great Controversy, p. 125."There was a present truth in the days of Luther-a truth at that time of specialimportance; there is a present truth for the church today. He who does all things according to the counsel of His will has been pleased to place men under various circumstances and to enjoin upon them duties peculiar to the times in which they liveand the conditions under which they are placed. If they would prize the light given

them, broader views of truth would be opened before them."-Ibid., pp. 143, 144.D ThursdayOctober 10

9. What is the present truth in our day and what respons ibil ity do we have forit? Revelation 14:6-12; 18:1-4 ."The Lord in His great mercy sent a most precious message to His people throughElders Waggoner and Jones. This message was to bring more prominently before the

world the uplifted Saviour, the sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. It presented justification through faith in the Surety; it invited the people to receive the righteousness ofChrist, which is made manifest in obedience to all the commandments of God. Manyhad lost sight of Jesus. They needed to have their eyes directed to His divine person,His merits, and His changeless love for the human family. All power is given into Hishands, that He may dispense rich gifts unto men, imparting the priceless gift of His ownrighteousness to the helpless human agent. This is the message that God commanded tobe given to the world. It is the third angel's message, which is to be proclaimed with aloud voice, and attended with the outpouring of His Spirit in a large measure."-Testimonies to Ministers. pp. 91, 92.10. Why is it so important to have the present truth? 1 Timothy 4:16.

"Precious light has come, appropriate for this time. I t is Bible truth, showing theperils that are right upon us. This light should lead us to a diligent study of the Scriptures and a most critical examination of the positions which we hold. God would have allthe bearings and positions of truth thoroughly and perseveringly searched, with prayer-11-


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and fasting. Believers are not to rest in suppositions and ill-defined ideas of what constitutes truth. Their faith must be firmly founded upon the word of God so that whenthe testing time shall come and they are brought before councils to answer for theirfaith they may be able to give a reason for the hope that is in them, with meekness andfear."- Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 707. 708."In order to endure the trial before them, they must understand the will of God

as revealed in His word; they can honor Him only as they have a right conception ofHis character, government, and purposes, and act in accordance with them. None butthose who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will stand through thelast great conflict."- The Great Controversy, pp. 593, 594.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSa. Why d id the Lord reveal different truths to His people?b. Why d id not God give them all the light at once?

o FridayOctober 11

c. To whom was the gospel revealed in the patriarchal dispensation?d. I f al l professed Christians would truly appreciate the light given them, what

would follow?e. What was a special truth in Luther's time and is still very important~ ~ .

"In His Word God reveals what He can do forhuman beings. He molds and fashions after the divinesimilitude the characters of those who will wear Hisyoke. Through His grace they are made partakers ofthe divine nature, and are thus enabled to overcomethe corruption that is in the world through lust. I t isGod who gives us power to overcome. Those who hearHis voice and obey His commandments are enabled toform righteous characters. Those who disregard Hisexpressed commands will form characters like thepropensities that they indulge." - The SDA Bible Commentary[E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 943.

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seen flying 'in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto themthat dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.''With a loud voice' he proclaims the message: 'Fear God, and give glory to Him; forthe hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, andthe sea, and the fountains of waters. ' Verses 6, 7."-The Great Controversy, p. 355."To William Miller and his colaborers it was given to preach the warning inAmerica. This country became the center of the great advent movement. I t was herethat the prophecy of the first angel's message had its most direct fulfillment. Thewritings of Miller and his associates were carried to distant lands. Wherever missionaries had penetrated in all the world, were sent the glad tidings of Christ's speedyreturn. Far and wide spread the message of the everlasting gospel: 'Fear God, andgive glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come.' "-Ibid., p. 368."In 1833 Miller received a license to preach, from the Baptist Church, of whichhe was a member."-Ibid., p. 332.

4. What was the re su lt of the proclamation of the f irst angel 's message? John3:19,20."As his [Miller's] work tended to build up the churches, it was for a time regardedwith favor. But as ministers and religious leaders decided against the advent doctrineand desired to suppress all agitation of the subject, they not only opposed it from thepulpit, but denied their members the privilege of attending preaching upon the second advent, or even of speaking of their hope in the social meetings of the church.Thus the believers found themselves in a position of great trial and perplexity. Theyloved their churches and were loath to separate from them; but as they saw the

testimony of God's word suppressed and their right to investigate the propheciesdenied they felt that loyalty to God forbade them to submit. Those who sought to shutout the testimony of God's word they could not regard as constituting the church ofChrist, ' the pillar and ground of the truth.' Hence they felt themselves justified inseparating from their former connection. In the summer of 1844 about fifty thousandwithdrew from the churches."-The Great Controversy, p. 376.

THE SECOND ANGEL'S MESSAGE D TuesdayOctober 155. What was the message of the second angel and when was it proclaimed forthe first time? Revelation 14:8."The message of Revelation 14 announcing the fall of Babylon, must apply toreligious bodies that were once pure and have become corrupt. Since this messagefollows the warning of the Judgment, it must be given in the last days, therefore itcannot refer to the Romish Church, for that church has been in a fallen condition formany centuries. Furthermore, in the eighteenth chapter of the Revelation, in amessage which is yet future, the people of God are called upon to come out ofBabylon."- The Great Controversy, p. 383 (1888 edition)."The second angel's message of Revelation 14 was first preached in the summerof 1844, and it then had a more direct application to the churches of the United States,where the warning of the judgment had been most widely proclaimed and mostgenerally rejected, and where the declension in the churches had been most rapid."-Ibid., p. 389.

6. What other voice was heard together with the second angel's message?Matthew 25:6.-1 4 -


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"Near the close of the second angel's message, I saw a great light from heavenshining upon the people of God. The rays of this light seemed bright as the sun. And Iheard the voices of angels crying. 'Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meetH l '1m."This was the midnight cry, which was to give power to the second angel'smessage. Angels were sent from heaven to arouse the discouraged saints and preparethem for the great work before them. The most talented men were not the first toreceive this message. Angels were sent to the humble, devoted ones, and constrainedthem to raise the cry, 'Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him!' " Early Writings, p. 238.

THE THIRD ANGEL'S MESSAGE D WednesdayOctober 167. What was .predicted by both the prophet Daniel and the apostle Paul that

the "man of sin" would do with the law and the truth of God? Daniel 7:25;2 Thessalonians 2:3, 4."The special characteristic of the beast, and therefore of his image, is the breaking of God's commandments. Says Daniel, of the little horn, the papacy: 'He shallthink to change times and the law.' Daniel 7:25, R.V. And Paul styled the same powerthe 'man of sin,' who was to exalt himself above God. One prophecy is a complementof the other. Only by changing God's law could the papacy exalt itself above God;whoever should understandingly keep the law as thus changed would be givingsupreme honor to that power by which the change was made. Such an act of obedience to papal laws would be a mark of allegiance to the pope in the place of God."The Great Controversy, p. 446.

8. Against what does the third angel warn the inhabitants of the earth? Revelation 14:9-13.

"If the light of truth has been presented to you, revealing the Sabbath of thefourth commandment, and showing that there is no foundation in the Word of God forSunday observance, and yet you still cling to the false sabbath, refusing to keep holythe Sabbath which God calls 'My holy day,' you receive the mark of the beast. Whendoes this take place? When you obey the decree that commands you to cease fromlabor on Sunday and worship God, while you know that there is not a word in the Bi-ble showing Sunday to be other than a common working day, you consent to receivethe mark of the beast, and refuse the seal of God."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G.White Comments], vol. 7, p. 980.

THE THIRD ANGEL'S MESSAGE (continued) D ThursdayOctober 179. What is in reality the essence of the third angel's message? Exodus31:13-17.

"The keeping of the Sabbath is a sign of loyalty to the true God, 'Him that madeheaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.' It follows that themessage which commands men to worship God and keep His commandments willespecially call upon them to keep the fourth commandment.-1 5 -


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REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

"In contrast to those who keep the commandments of God and have the faith ofJesus, the third angel points to another class, against whose errors a solemn and fearful warning is uttered: 'If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive hismark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath ofGod.' Revelation 14:9, 10."-The Great Controversy, p. 438.10. What will be the final result of the proclamation of the third angel's mes

sage? Revelation 14:12."Although church and state will unite their power to compel 'all, both small andgreat, rich and poor, free and bond' (Revelation 13:16), to receive 'the mark of thebeast,' yet the people of God will not receive it. The prophet of Patmos beholds 'themthat had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, andover the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God' andsinging the song of Moses and the Lamb. Revelation 15:2, 3."-The Great Controversy,p.450."These truths, as presented in Revelation 14 in connection with 'the everlastinggospel,' will distinguish the church of Christ at the time of His appearing. For as theresult of the threefold message it is announced: 'Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.' And this message is the last to be given before thecoming of the Lord. Immediately following its proclamation the Son of man is seen bythe prophet, coming in glory to reap the harvest of the earth."-Ibid., pp. 453, 454.

D FridayOctober 18a. Why was it necessary fo r the Lord to send a message of warning beforeJesus' coming?b. Narrate what you know about the work of William Miller.c. What is the meaning of the message Babylon is fallen and to whom does it apply?d. What did the man of sin attempt to do? What was the result of his attempt?e. How many 'classes of people will exist at the close of probation? What a re

the characteristics ofGod's chosen people, and where did John see them?

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THAT OTHER ANGEL

"Then I saw another mighty angel commissioned to descend to the earth, tounite his voice with the third angel, and give power and force to his message."-Early Writings, p. 277.KEY TEXT: "Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risenupon thee" (Isaiah 60:1).THE COMING OF THE ANGEL o SundayOctober 20

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1. How should the third angel's message be proclaimed? Revelation 14:9."The third angel's message is to be given with power. The power of the procla

mation of the first and second messages is to be intensified in the third. In the Revelation John says of the heavenly messenger who unites with the third angel: 'I sawanother angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice.' Revelation 18:1, 2."- Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 60.2. What happened with the message of the third angel in the hands of thosewho should proclaim it? Isaiah 29:13; Ezekiel 33:31, 32.

"We are in danger of giving the third angel's message in so indefinite a mannerthat it does not impress the people. So many other interests are brought in that thevery message which should be proclaimed with power becomes tame and voiceless.At our camp meetings a mistake has been made. The Sabbath question has beentouched upon, but has not been presented as the great test for this time. While thechurches profess to believe in Christ, they are violating the law which Christ Himselfproclaimed from Sinai. The Lord bids us: 'Show My people their transgression, andthe house of Jacob their sins.' Isaiah 58:1. The trumpet is to give a certain sound."- Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 60, 61.

THE RIGHT TIMED MondayOctober 21

3. Describe that other angel: a) his coming; b) his voice; c) the result of hiswork. Revelation 18:1."The time of test is just upon us, for the loud cry of the third angel has alreadybegun in the revelation of the righteousness of Christ, the sin-pardoning Redeemer.

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This is the beginning of the light of the angel whose glory shall fill the whole earth."The Review and Herald, Nov. 22, 1892.4. What relationship exists between the work of the fourth angel and the

message to Laodicea? Revelation 3:18-20."We thank the Lord with all the heart that we have precious light to presentbefore the people, and we rejoice that we have a message for this time which is present truth. The tidings that Christ is our righteousness has brought relief to many,many souls, and God says to His people, 'Go forward.' The message to the Laodiceanchurch is applicable to our condition. How plainly is pictured the position of thosewho think they have all the truth, who take pride in their knowledge of the word ofGod, while its sanctifying power has not been felt in their lives. The fervor of the loveof God is wanting in their hearts, but it is this very fervor of love that makes God'speople the light of the world. . . ."In every meeting since the General Conference, souls have eagerly acceptedthe precious message of the righteousness of Christ. We thank God that there aresouls who realize that they are in need of something which they do not possess-goldof faith and love, white raiment of Christ's righteousness, eyesalve of spiritualdiscernment. If you possess these precious gifts, the temple of the human soul willnot be like a desecrated shrine. Brethren and sisters, I call upon you in the name ofJesus Christ of Nazareth, to work where God works. Now is the day of gracious op-portunity and privilege."- The Review and Herald, July 23, 1889.

THE FIRST WORK OF THE ANGELo TuesdayOctober 22

5. What specialwork must be accomplished before the earth is fully enlightenedwith God's glory? Joel 2:12-17; Acts 3:19, 20."[The message to Laodicea] is designed to arouse the people of God, to discoverto them their backslidings, and to lead to zealous repentance, that they may befavored with the presence of Jesus, and be fitted for the loud cry of the third

angel."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 186."The question of most vital importance for this time is, 'Who is on the Lord'sside? Who will unite with the angel in giving the message of truth to the world? Whowill receive the light that is to fill the whole earth with its glory?' " - The Review and

Herald, Nov. 5, 1889.6. Besides making their own preparation, what else must God's people do?

Isaiah 58:1; 2 Timothy 4:2-4."God has raised up men to meet the necessity of this time who will cry aloud andspare not, who will lift up their voice like a trumpet, and show My people their trans

gression and the house of Jacob their sins. Their work is not only to proclaim the law,but to preach the truth for this time-the Lord our righteousness."-The Review andHerald, Aug. 13, 1889.

"The rebuke of the Lord will rest upon those who would bar the way, thatclearer light shall not come to the people. A great work is to be done, and God seesthat our leading men have need of more light, that they may unite with themessengers whom He sends to accomplish the work that He designs shall be done.The Lord has raised up messengers, and endued them with His Spirit, and has said,- 1 8 -


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'Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.' Let no one run the risk of interposing between the people and the message of Heaven. This message will go to the people; andif there were no voice among men to give it, the very stones would cry out."Gospel Workers, p. 304.

THE FINAL WORK o WednesdayOctober 237. What will the "movement represented by the angel" of Revelation 18 ac

complish aided by the power of the lat te r rain? Revelation 18:2-4."Hence the movement symbolized by the angel coming down from heaven,lightening the earth with his glory and crying mightily with a strong voice, announcing the sins of Babylon. In connection with his message the call is heard: 'Come out ofher, My people.' These announcements, uniting with the third angel's message, constitute the final warning to be given to the inhabitants of the earth."-The Great Con-troversy, p. 604."The message will be carried not so much by argument as by the deep convictionof the Spirit of God . . . . Now the rays of light penetrate everywhere, the truth is seenin its clearness, and the honest children ofGod sever the bands which have held them.Family connections, church relations, are powerless to stay them now. Truth is moreprecious than all besides. Notwithstanding the agencies combined against the truth, alarge number take their stand upon the Lord's side."-Ibid., p. 612.

8. What promise of the Lord will be fulfilled in the last phase of the work ofthat other angel?What is the glory that shall fill the whole earth? Numbers14:21; Habakkuk 2:14."The revelation of Christ by the Holy Spirit brought to them a realizing sense ofHis power and majesty, and they stretched forth their hands unto Him by faith, saying,'I believe.' Thus it was in the time of the early rain; but the latter rain will be moreabundant. The Saviour of men will be glorified, and the earth will be lightened withthe bright shining of the beams of His righteousness."-Christ Our Righteousness, p. 127."The whole earth, wrapped as it is in the darkness of sin, and sorrow, and pain,

is to be lighted with the knowledge of God's love."-Christ's Object Lessons, p. 418."The beauty and fragrance of the character of Christ revealed in the life testifiesthat God has indeed sent His Son into the world to be its Saviour."-Ibid., p. 420.

THE REMNANT IDENTIFIED o ThursdayOctober 249. By what special points of identification will the true remnant church be

known? Zephaniah 3: 12, 13; Revelation 12:17.

"The remnant church will be brought into great trial and distress. Those whokeep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragonand his hosts. Satan numbers the world as his subjects, he has gained control of theapostate churches; but here is a little company that are resisting his supremacy. If hecould blot them from the earth, his triumph would be complete. As he influenced theheathen nations to destroy Israel, so in the near future he will stir up the wickedpowers of earth to destroy the people of God. All will be required to render obedience-1 9 -


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to human edicts in violation of the divine law. Those who will be true to God and toduty will be menaced, denounced, and proscribed. They will 'be betrayed both byparents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends.' " - Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 472, 473."The spirit which actuated those priests and rulers is still manifested by manywho make a high profession of piety. They refuse to examine the testimony of theScriptures concerning the special truths for this time. They point to their own numbers, wealth, and popularity, and look with contempt upon the advocates of truth asfew, poor, and unpopular, having a faith that separates them from the world."-TheGreat Controversy, p. 596.10. Where was the remnant church seen by John the apostle? What are theirpeculiar characteristics? Revelation 14:1-5; 15:2,3.

"In holy vision the prophet saw the ultimate triumph of God's remnant church.He writes:"I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten thevictory . . . stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they sing the songof Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelousare Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways, Thou King ofsaints.' Revelation 15:2, 3."And I looked, and, 10, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with Him a hundred forty and four thousand, having His Father's name written in their foreheads.'Revelation 14:1. In this world their minds were consecrated to God; they served Himwith the intellect and with the heart; and now He can place His name 'in theirforeheads.' 'And they shall reign for ever and ever.' Revelation 22:5. They do not goin and out as those who beg a place. They are of that number to whom Christ says,'Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.'He welcomes them as His children, saying, 'Enter thou into thejoy of thy Lord.' Matthew 25:34, 21."-The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 590, 591.

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REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSo FridayOctober 25

a. What conditions demanded the coming of the angel of Revelation IS?

b. Through what messages has God pointed out the great need of the church?By what other names is this message known?c. What are the two phases of the work of the angel of Revelation IS?d. When the angel finishes his work preparing a people for the latter rain,what message will he give to the whole world?

e. How can the whole world be enlightenedwith the glory of God?

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Lesson 5 Sabbath, November 2, 1991

THE SABBATH-THE GREAT ISSUE

"Far more sacredness is attached to the Sabbath than is given it by many professed Sabbathkeepers." - Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 353.KEY TEXT: "Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layethhold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth hishand from doing any evil" (Isaiah 56:2).

REPAIRING THE BREACH D SundayOctober 27

1. Why are the people of God cal led "repairers of the breach" in these las tdays? Isaiah 58:12; 61:4 ."When the Sabbath was changed by the papal power, the seal was taken fromthe law. The disciples of Jesus are called upon to restore it by exalting the Sabbath ofthe fourth commandment to its rightful position as the Creator's memorial and thesign of His authority."- The Great Controversy, p. 452."The breach was made in the law of God when the Sabbath was changed by theRoman power. But the time has come for that divine institution to be restored. Thebreach is to be repaired and the foundation of many generations to be raised up."

-Ibid., p. 453.2. What was predicted by the prophet Isaiah, the apostle Peter and Sister E. G.White in reference to the restoration of the divine institutions? Isaiah 8:16;Acts 3:19-21."In the time of the end every divine institution is to be restored. The breachmade in the law at the time the Sabbath was changed by man, is to be repaired. God'sremnant people, standing before the world as reformers, are to show that the law ofGod is the foundation of all enduring reform and that the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is to stand as a memorial of creation, a constant reminder of the power ofGod. In clear, distinct lines they are to present the necessity of obedience to all the

precepts of the Decalogue."-Prophets and Kings, p. 678.THE SABBATH IN THE FAMILY o MondayOctober 283. What should parents and chi ldren keep in mind, both in and outside thesanctuary, on the Sabbath day? Leviticus 19:30.

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a) In the church:"The house of God is desecrated and the Sabbath violated by Sabbath believers'children. They run about the house, play, talk, and manifest their evil tempers in thevery meetings where the saints have met together to glorify God and to worship Himin the beauty of holiness. . . ."Above everything, take care of your children upon the Sabbath. Do not let themviolate it, for you may just as well violate it yourself as to let your children do it. Whenyou suffer your children to play upon the Sabbath, God looks upon you as a commandment breaker. You transgress His Sabbath."-Selected Messages, book 3, p. 257.b) At home:"Before the setting of the sun let the members of the family assemble to readGod's word, to sing and pray. There is need of reform here, for many have beenremiss. We need to confess to God and to one another. We should begin anew tomake .special arrangements that every member of the family may be prepared to

honor the day which God has blessed and sanctified."-Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 356, 357."They [the entire family] come to the table without levity. Boisterous noise andcontention should not be allowed any day of the week; but on the Sabbath all shouldobserve quietness. No loud-toned commands should be heard at any time; but on theSabbath it is entirely out of place. This is God's holy day, the day He has set apart tocommemorate His creative works, a day He has sanctified and hallowed."-SelectedMessages, book 3, pp. 257, 258.4. What things are improper to do on the Sabbath day? Isaiah 58:13.What are

we permitted to do on the Sabbath?"God has given men six days wherein to labor, and He requires that their ownwork be done in the six working days. Acts of necessity and mercy are permitted onthe Sabbath, the sick and suffering are at all times to be cared for; but unnecessarylabor is to be strictly avoided. 'Turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thypleasure on My holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord,honorable; and . . . honor Him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine ownpleasure.' Isaiah 58:13. Nor does the prohibition end here. 'Nor speaking thine ownwords,' says the prophet. Those who discuss business matters or lay plans on theSabbath are regarded by God as though engaged in the actual transaction of business.

To keep the Sabbath holy, we should not even allow our minds to dwell upon things ofa worldly character."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 307."When the Sabbath commences, we should place a guard upon ourselves, uponour acts and our words, lest we rob God by appropriating to our own use that timewhich is strictly the Lord's. We should not do ourselves, nor suffer our children to do,any manner of our own work for a livelihood, or anything which could have been doneon the six working days. . . . God requires not only that we refrain from physicallabor upon the Sabbath, but that the mind be disciplined to dwell upon sacred themes.The fourth commandment is virtually transgressed by conversing upon worldly thingsor by engaging in light and trifling conversation. Talking upon anything or everything

which may come into the mind is speaking our own words. Every deviation from rightbrings us into bondage and condemnation."-Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 702, 703.

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POLLUTING THE SABBATH D TuesdayOctober 295. What promise is given to those who do not pollute the Sabbath? Isaiah 56:2,

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"We must be guarded, lest the lax practices that prevail among Sundaykeepersshall be followed by those who profess to observe God's holy rest day. The line ofdemarcation is to be made clear and distinct between those who bear the mark ofGod's kingdom and those who bear the sign of the kingdom of rebellion."-Testimonies,vol. 6, p. 353.6. In the time of Israel, what was the penalty for transgression of the Sabbath?

Numbers 15:32-36; Jeremiah 17:21,22,27."We should jealously guard the edges of the Sabbath. Remember that every mo-ment is consecrated, holy time. Whenever it is possible, employers should give theirworkers the hours from Friday noon until the beginning of the Sabbath. Give them timefor preparation, that they may welcome the Lord's day with quietness of mind. By sucha course you will suffer no loss even in temporal things."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 356.

THE SABBATH-A TEST o WednesdayOctober 307. How were the Israelites tested on the Sabbath question? Exodus 16:4,26-28. Under the third angel's message, s ince when have God's people

been held accountable on this point?"Then I was shown that the commandments of God and the testimony of JesusChrist relating to the shut door could not be separated, and that the time for the commandments of God to shine out with all their importance, and for God's people to betried on the Sabbath truth, was when the door was opened in the most holy place inthe heavenly sanctuary, where the ark is, in which are contained the ten commandments. This door was not opened until the mediation of Jesus was finished in the holyplace of the sanctuary in 1844. Then Jesus rose up and shut the door of the holy place,and opened the door into the most holy, and passed within the second veil, where Henow stands by the ark, and where the faith of Israel now reaches."I saw that Jesus had shut the door of the holy place, and no man can open it; andthat He had opened the door into the most holy, and no man can shut it (Rev. 3:7, 8);and that since Jesus has opened the door into the most holy place, which contains theark, the commandments have been shining out to God's people, and they are beingtested on the Sabbath question."I saw that the present test on the Sabbath could not come until the mediation ofJesus in the holy place was finished and He had passed within the second veil. . . ."Because so many good Christians have fallen asleep in the triumphs of faith andhave not kept the true Sabbath, they were doubting about its being a test for usnow."-Early Writings, pp. 42, 43.

8. How does God consider occasional Sabbath breaking? Nehemiah 13:16,17."No one who disregards the fourth commandment, after becoming enlightenedconcerning the claims of the Sabbath, can be held guiltless in the sight of God."Brother K, you acknowledge the requirements of God to keep the Sabbath, butyour works do not harmonize with your declared faith. You give your influence to theside of the unbeliever, insofar as you transgress the law of God. When your temporalcircumstances seem to require attention, you violate the fourth commandmentwithout compunction. You make the keeping of God's law a matter of convenience,obeying or disobeying as your business or inclination indicates. This is not honoring

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the Sabbath as a sacred institution. You grieve the Spirit of God and dishonor yourRedeemer by pursuing this reckless course."A partial observance of the Sabbath law is not accepted by the Lord and has aworse effect upon the minds of sinners than if you made no profession of being a Sabbathkeeper."-Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 247, 248.

PREPARATION FOR THE FINAL TEST o ThursdayOctober 319. What preparat ion must be made at this time and why? Jeremiah 12:5."The days are fast approaching when there will be great perplexity and confusion. Satan, clothed in angel robes, will deceive, if possible, the very elect. There willbe gods many and lords many. Every wind of doctrine will be blowing. Those whohave rendered supreme homage to 'science falsely so called' will not be the leadersthen. Those who have trusted to intellect, genius, or talent will not then stand at thehead or rank and file. They did not keep pace with the light. Those who have provedthemselves unfaithful will not then be entrusted with the flock. In the last solemnwork few great men will be engaged."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 80."The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The mark ofthe beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step by step yielded to worldlydemands and conformed to worldly customs will not find it a hard matter to yield tothe powers that be, rather than subject themselves to derision, insult, threatened im-prisonment, and death."-Ibid., vol. 5, p. 81.

10. What must the world hear and understand before the test? Mark 16:15, 16."Men will soon be forced to great decisions, and they must have opportunity tohear and to understand Bible truth, in order that they may take their stand intelligentlyon the right side."-Evangelism, p. 25.

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REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSa. What is the foundation of every enduring reformation?

o FridayNovember 1b. How does God look upon parents who allow their children to play around

the church on the Sabbath day?

c. In view of the Sabbath, what special consideration should be taken on Friday?d. What relat ion exist s between the year 1844, the Sabbath test and the

heavenly sanctuary?

e. While the remnant people of God have been tested on the Sabbath questionsince 1844, who will be tested on this point in the near future?

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II

THE SEALING OF THE 144,000

"Only those who receive the seal of the living God will have the passportthrough the gates of the Holy City." - The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G.White Comments), vol. 7, p. 970.KEY TEXT: "And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal ofthe living God" (Revelation 7:2).

o SundayTHE SEAL November 31. What does the sealing angel hold in his hand? Revelation 7:2 (first part).

Where do we find the seal of God in the ten commandments? Isaiah 8:16.

"The Lord commands by the same prophet: 'Bind up the testimony, seal the lawamong My disciples.' Isaiah 8:16. The seal of God's law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all the ten, brings to view both the name and the title of theLawgiver. It declares Him to be the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and thusshows His claim to reverence and worship above all others. Aside from this precept,there is nothing in the Decalogue to show by whose authority the law is given."-TheGreat Controversy, p. 452.2. When did the sealing work commence? Revelation 14:9-12; 11:19. What is

written of those who died under the third angel's message? Revelation14:13.

"The enemies of the present truth have been trying to open the door of the holyplace, that Jesus has shut, and to close the door of the most holy place, which Heopened in 1844, where the ark is, containing the two tables of stone on which are written the ten commandments by the finger of Jehovah."Satan is now using every device in this sealing time to keep the minds of God'speople from the present truth and to cause them to waver. I saw a covering that Godwas drawing over His people to protect them in the time of trouble; and every soulthat was decided on the truth and was pure in heart was to be covered with the covering of the Almighty."-Early Writings, p. 43.

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"God has begun to draw this covering over His people, and it will soon be drawnover all who are to have a shelter in the day of slaughter."-Ibid., p. 44."Dear Brother:"I hardly know what to say to you. The news of your wife's death was to meoverwhelming. 1could hardly believe it and can hardly believe it now. God gave me aview last Sabbath night which 1will write. . . ."I saw that she was sealed and would come up at the voice of God and standupon the earth, and would be with the 144,000. 1 saw we need not mourn for her; shewould rest in the time of trouble, and all that we could mourn for was our loss in beingdeprived of her company. 1 saw her death would result in good."-Selected Messages,book 2, p. 263.

HOLDING THE WINDS D MondayNovember 43. What temporary restriction has been imposed on the four symbolic winds?Revelation 7: 1. What do winds represent in the Bible and the Spirit of

Prophecy? Jeremiah 49:36 ; 51:1, 2.

"John sees the elements of nature-earthquake, tempest, and political striferepresented as being held by four angels. These winds are under control until Godgives the word to let them go. There is the safety of God's church."-Testimonies toMinisters, p. 444."I asked my accompanying angel the meaning of what 1heard, and what the fourangels were about to do. He shewed me that it was God that restrained the powers,and that He gave His angels charge over things on the earth, and that the four angelshad power from God to hold the four winds, and that they were about to let the fourwinds go, and while they had started on their mission to let them go, the merciful eyeof Jesus gazed on the remnant that were not all sealed, then He raised His hands tothe Father and plead with Him that He had spilled His blood for them. Then anotherangel was commissioned to fly swiftly to the four angels, and bid them hold until theservants of God were sealed with the seal of the living God in their foreheads."- ThePresent Truth and Review and Herald, August, 1849.4. How long will the angels hold the winds? Revelation 7:2 (last part), 3.

"I saw that the four angels would hold the four winds until Jesus' work was donein the sanctuary, and then will come the seven last plagues."-Early Writings, p. 36.

THE NUMBER OF THE SEALED D TuesdayNovember 55. How many are sealed from the tribes of spiritual Israel? Revelation 7 :4 . Is

this a symbolic or a l i teral number?"The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while thewicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake."-Early Writings, p. 15.

6. What was the great concern of Sister White for herself and her contemporaries with reference to this numbered group? Including those faithfulpioneers , how many did John see in this group? Revelation 14:1.

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"Let U$ strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundredand forty-four thousand."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7,p.970.

CONDITIONS FOR RECEIVING THE SEAL7. What should we do to be sealed? Ezekiel 9:4.

D WednesdayNovember 6

"The names of those who are steadfastly looking and waiting and watching forthe appearing of their Saviour-more earnestly and wishfully than they who wait forthe morning-will be numbered with those who are sealed."-Testimonies to Ministers,p.445."Jesus is in His holy temple and will now accept our sacrifices, our prayers, andour confessions of faults and sins and will pardon all the transgressions of Israel, that

they may be blotted out before He leaves the sanctuary. When Jesus leaves the sanctuary, then they who are holy and righteous will be holy and righteous still; for alltheir sins will then be blotted out, and they will be sealed with the seal of the livingGod."-Ear(y Writings, p. 48.8. What separation is required before we can receive the seal? 2 Timothy 2:19

( last part) ; 2 Corinthians 6:17."The angel is to place a mark upon the forehead of all who are separated from

sin and sinners, and the destroying angel will follow, to slay utterly both old andyoung."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 505.

THERE IS A TIME LIMIT D ThursdayNovember 79. What evidence shows that the door of mercy will not remain open forever?

Isaiah 55:6; Jeremiah 8:20; Luke 13:23-27.

"Our own course of action will determine whether we shall receive the seal of theliving God or be cut down by the destroying weapons. Already a few drops of God'swrath have fallen upon the earth; but when the seven last plagues shall be poured outwithout mixture into the cup of His indignation, then it will be forever too late to repent and find shelter. No atoning blood will then wash away the stains of sin."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 212.10.What will be the fate of those who have not received the seal under the third

angel's message? Ezekiel 9:5, 6.

"Not all who profess to keep the Sabbath will be sealed. There are many evenamong those who teach the truth to others who will not receive the seal of God in theirforeheads. They had the light of truth, they knew their Master's will, they understoodevery point of our faith, but they had not corresponding works. These who were sofamiliar with prophecy and the treasures of divine wisdom should have acted theirfaith. They should have commanded their households after them, that by a wellordered family they might present to the world the influence of the truth upon thehuman heart."-Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 213, 214.- 27 -


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Lesson 7 Sabbath, November 1 6, 1991

THE LATTER RAIN

"Unless we are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active Christianvirtues, we shall not recognize the manifestations of the Holy Spiri t in thelatter rain." - Testimonies to Ministers, p. 507.KEY TEXT: "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blottedout, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of theLord" (Acts 3:19).IN APOSTOLIC TIMES D SundayNovember 10

PREPARATION

1. What promise did Jesus make to the disciples just prior to His ascension toheaven? Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8 ."Christ 's visible presence was about to be withdrawn from the disciples, but anew endowment of power was to be theirs. The Holy Spirit was to be given them inits fullness, sealing them for their work. 'Behold,' the Saviour said, 'I send the promise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be enduedwith power from on high.' Luke 24:49."-The Acts of the Apostles, p. 30.

2. How was the promise of Jesus fulfilled? Joel 2:28, 29; Acts 2:1-4; 12-18."The priests, determined to account for the miraculous power of the disciples in

some natural way, declared that they were drunken from partaking largely of the newwine prepared for the feast. Some of the most ignorant of the people present seizedupon this suggestion as the truth, but the more intelligent knew it to be false; andthose who understood the different languages testified to the accuracy with whichthese languages were used by the disciples."In answer to the accusation of the priests Peter showed that this demonstrationwas in direct fulfillment of the prophecy of Joel, wherein he foretold that such powerwould come upon men to fit them for a special work."-TheActs of the Apostles, pp. 40, 41.D Monday

November 113. What preparation did the apost les make in order to receive the promise?

Acts 1:12-14."As the disciples waited for the fulfillment of the promise, they humbled theirhearts in true repentance and confessed their unbelief. As they called to remembrance

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CLOTHED WITH THE ARMOR

the words that Christ had spoken to them before His death they understood more ful-ly their meaning. Truths which had passed from their memory were again brought totheir minds, and these they repeated to one another. They reproached themselves fortheir misapprehension of the Saviour."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 36."Notice that it was after the disciples had come into perfect unity, when theywere no longer striving for the highest place, that the Spirit was poured out. Theywere of one accord. All differences had been put away. And the testimony borne ofthem after t;Je Spirit had been given is the same. Mark the word: 'The multitude ofthem that believed were of one heart and of one soul.' Acts 4:32. The Spirit of Himwho died that sinners might live animated the entire congregation of believers."- Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 20, 21.4. What is required of us in order that we may receive the Holy Spirit in

fullness? Joel 2:12-17.

"For the outpouring of the Spirit every lover of the cause of truth should pray.And as far as lies in our power, we are to remove every hindrance to His working.The Spirit can never be poured out while variance and bitterness toward one anotherare cherished by the members of the church. Envy, jealousy, evil surmising, andevilspeaking are of Satan, and they effectually bar the way against the Holy Spirit'sworking."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 42.

"Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have onespot or stain upon them. It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, tocleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Then the latter rain will fall upon us asthe early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost."-Ibid., vol. 5, p. 214.o TuesdayNovember 12

5. What is an essential part of our preparation for the lat te r rain? Zechariah10:1; Luke 11:13."Since this is the means by which we are to receive power, why do we not hungerand thirst for the gift of the Spirit? Why do we not talk of it, pray for it, and preachconcerning it? The Lord is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to those who serveHim than parents are to give good gifts to their children. For the daily baptism of theSpirit every worker should offer his petition to God. Companies of Christian workersshould gather to ask for special help, for heavenly wisdom, that they may know howto plan and execute wisely. Especially should they pray that God will baptize Hischosen ambassadors in mission fields with a rich measure of His Spirit. The presenceof the Spirit with God's workers will give the proclamation of truth a power that notall the honor or glory of the world could give."- The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 50, 51.

6. What power will the elect of God possess when they receive the Holy Spiritin fullness? Mark 16:15-18."I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth the truth with great power. Ithad effect. Many had been bound; some wives by their husbands, and some childrenby their parents. The honest who had been prevented from hearing the truth noweagerly laid hold upon it. All fear of their relatives was gone, and the truth alone wasexalted to them. They had been hungering and thirsting for truth; it was dearer andmore precious than life. I asked what had made this great change. An angel answered,

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'It is the latter rain, the refreshing from the presence of the Lord, the loud cry of thethird angel.' "-Early Writings, p. 271."Servants of God, with their faces lighted up and shining with holy consecration,will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from heaven. By thousands ofvoices, all over the earth, the warning will be given. Miracles will be wrought, thesick will be healed, and signs and wonders will follow the believers."-The Great Con-troversy, p. 612.THE LOUD CRY o WednesdayNovember 137. What message will the remnant people of God proclaim under the power ofthe latter rain? Revelation 14 :9 -12 ; 18 :1 -3 .

'! "Thus the message of the third angel will be proclaimed. As the time comes forit to be given with greatest power, the Lord will work through humble instruments,leading the minds of those who consecrate themselves to His service. The laborerswill be qualified rather by the unction of His Spirit than by the training of literary in-stitutions."- The Great Controversy, p. 606.8. What doctrinal point will then become clear to many honest people in Babylon? Mark 2:27,28."There are many who have never had an opportunity to hear the special truthsfor this time. The obligation of the fourth commandment has never been set beforethem in its true light. He who reads every heart and tries every motive will leave none

who desire a knowledge of the truth, to be deceived as to the issues of the controversy. The decree is not to be urged upon the people blindly. Everyone is to have sufficient light to make his decision intelligently."The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty, for it is the point of truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be brought to bear upon men, then the lineof distinction will be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve Himnot."- The Great Controversy, p. 605.

THE LOUD CRY (continued) D ThursdayNovember 14

9. While the door is closed for one class, how will the Lord look upon anotherclass? Romans 9:15, 16."Qh, that the people might know the time of their visitation! There are manywho have not yet heard the testing truth for this time. There are many with whom theSpirit of God is striving. The time of God's destructive judgments is the time of mercyfor those who have had no opportunity to learn what is truth. Tenderly will the Lordlook upon them. His heart of mercy is touched; His hand is still stretched out to save,while the door is closed to those who could not enter."-Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 97.

10.What last opportunity will then be extended to the people of God who ares ti ll in Babylon? Revelat ion 18:4."There was a coming out, a decided separation from the wicked, an escape for life.So it was in the days of Noah; so with Lot; so with the disciples prior to the destruction ofJerusalem; and so it will be in the last days. Again the voice of God is heard in a messageof warning, bidding His people separate themselves from the prevailing iniquity. . . .

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"As in the days of Noah and Lot, there must be a marked separation from sin andsinners."-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 166, 167.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS D FridayNovember 15a. Describe the true gift of tongues manifested among the apostles.b. What bar s the way for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit?

c. Between the two special outpourings of the Holy Spirit (the former and thelatter rain), for what should Christians pray?d. Before the decree is urged upon the people, what will God send them?

e. What special opportunity will be extended to those who have been honestlyignorant of the truth?

/I

"God can breathe new life into every soulthat sincerely desires to serve Him, and cantouch the lips with a live coal from off thealtar, and cause them to become eloquentwith His praise. Thousands of voices will beimbued with the power to speak forth thewonderful truths of God's Word. The stammering tongue will be u nl oo sed, a nd the timidwill be m ad e st ro ng to bear courageous testi- 9mony to the truth."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. WhiteComments], vol. 6, p. 1055.

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THE SHORT TIME OF TROUBLE

"And at the commencement of the time of t rouble , we were filled with theHoly Ghost as we went forth and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully."-EarlyWritings, p. 33.KEY TEXT: "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world fora witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come" (Matthew24:14).THE MESSAGE PROCLAIMED IN HASTE D SundayNovember 17

\ .

1. In what sense does the Lord bid His servants to fulfill their commission,"compel ling" men to come in? Luke 14:23."The command given in the parable, to 'compel them to come in,' has often beenmisinterpreted. It has been regarded as teaching that we should force men to receivethe gospel. But it denotes rather the urgency of the invitation, and the effectiveness ofthe inducements presented. The gospel never employs force in bringing men toChrist. Its message is 'Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.' Isa.55:1."-Chnst's Object Lessons, p. 235."Weare living in a time when the last message of mercy, the last invitation, is

sounding to the children of men. The command, 'Go out into the highways andhedges,' is reaching its final fulfillment. To every soul Christ's invitation will begiven. The messengers are saying, 'Come; for all things are now ready.' Heavenlyangels are still working in cooperation with human agencies. The Holy Spirit ispresenting every inducement to constrain you to come. Christ is watching for somesign that will betoken the removing of the bolts and the opening of the door of yourheart for His entrance. Angels are waiting to bear the tidings to heaven that anotherlost sinner has been found. The hosts of heaven are waiting, ready to strike theirharps and to sing a song of rejoicing that another soul has accepted the invitation tothe gospel ieast."-Ibid., p. 237.2. What will be the extent of the proclamation of the threefold message?

Romans 10:13-15, 18. How will the remnant church proclaim the messagein the time of the latter rain?"The Spirit of the Lord will so graciously bless consecrated human instrumentalities that men, women, and children will open their lips in praise and thanksgiving,

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filling the earth with the knowledge of God, and with His unsurpassed glory, as thewaters cover the sea."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 984."As Christ was glorified on the day of Pentecost, so will He again be glorified inthe closing work of the gospel, when He shall prepare a people to stand the final test,in the closing conflict of the great controversy."-Ibid., p. 983.

THE RESU:::"T OF THE LOUD CRY o MondayNovember 183. What events will characterize the final work of prophesied reformation?Mark

16:18 (last part). How will the churches react through the civil powers?"Many were praising God. The sick were healed, and other miracles werewrought. A spirit of intercession was seen, even as was manifested before the greatDay of Pentecost. Hundreds and thousands were seen visiting families and opening

before them the word of God. Hearts were convicted by the power of the Holy Spirit,and a spirit of genuine conversion was manifest. On every side doors were thrownopen to the proclamation of the truth. The world seemed to be lightened with theheavenly influence."- Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 126."The so-called Christian world is to be the theater of great and decisive actions.Men in authority will enact laws controlling the conscience, after the example of thepapacy. Babylon will make all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. Every nation will be involved."- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments],vol. 7, p. 949.4. How will the proclamation of the third angel 's message cover the earth?Who will take part in the finishing of God's work? Matthew 24:14; 2

Timothy 4:2, 5."There will be a series of events revealing that God is master of the situation.The truth will be proclaimed in clear, unmistakable language. As a people we mustprepare the way of the Lord under the o v ~ r r u l i n g guidance of the Holy Spirit. Thegospel is to be given in its purity. The stream of living water is to deepen and widen inits course. In all fields, nigh and afar off, men will be called from the plow and from

the more common commercial business vocations that largely occupy the mind, andwill be educated in connection with men of experience. As they learn to labor effectively they will proclaim the truth with power. Through most wonderful workings ofdivine providence, mountains of difficulty will be removed and cast into the sea. Themessage that means so much to the dwellers upon the earth will be heard and understood. Men will know what is truth. Onward and still onward the work will advanceuntil the whole earth shall have been warned, and then shall the end come."-Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 96."The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power ,of God than marked its opening. The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpour-ing of the former rain at the opening of the gospel are again to be fulfilled in the latterrain at its close."-The Great Controversy, pp. 611, 612.

THE "OTHER SHEEP" o TuesdayNovember 195. How is the Spirit of God preparing the hearts of many honest individuals in

other churches? Malachi 3:16.- 3 4 -


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"God has jewels in all the churches, and it is not for us to make sweeping denunciation of the professed religious world, but in humility and love, present to all thetruth as it is in Jesus. Let men see piety and devotion, let them behold Christlikenessof character, and they will be drawn to the truth."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G.White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1184.6. How will the honest ones be drawn to the truth? Matthew 5:16."The work of the Holy Spirit is to convince the world of sin, of righteousness,and of judgment. The world can only be warned by seeing those who believe the truthsanctified through the truth, acting upon high and holy principles, showing in a high,elevated sense, the line of demarcation between those who keep the commandmentsof God and those who trample them under their feet."-TheSDA Bible Commentary [E.G.White Comments], vol. t, p. 980.

THE "OTHER SHEEP" (continued) o WednesdayNovember 207. What will happen to the faithful children of God who will be found inBabylon and in the unreformed Laodicean church? John 10:16."I saw that God has honest children among the nominal Adventists and the fallenchurches, and before the plagues shall be poured out, ministers and people will becalled out from these churches and will gladly receive the truth. Satan knows this;

and before the loud cry of the third angel is given, he raises an excitement in thesereligious bodies, that those who have rejected the truth may think that God is withthem. He hopes to deceive the honest and lead them to think that God is still workingfor the churches. But the light will shine, and all who are honest will leave the fallenchurches, and take their stand with the remnant."-Early Writings, p. 261.8. Under what circumstanceswill the inhabitants of the earth make their decision for or against the truth? Amos 8:9; Joel 3:14.

"Not all in this world have taken sides with the enemy against God. Not all havebecome disloyal. There are a faithful few who are true to God; for John writes: 'Hereare they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.' Revelation14:12. Soon the battle will be waged fiercely between those who serve God and thosewho serve Him not. Soon everything that can be shaken will be shaken, that thosethings that cannot be shaken may remain."-Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 15, 16.

to TWO CLASSES o ThursdayNovember 219. Why will the honest ones not remain in Babylon any longer? Revelation18:4-6 ,8 .

"[I]n the last work for the warning of the world, two distinct calls are made to thechurches. The second angel's message is, 'Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city,because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication' (Rev.14:8). And in the loud cry of the third angel's message a voice is heard from heavensaying, 'Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye- 3 5 -


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receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities' (Rev. 18:4, 5). "-Selected Messages, vol. 2, p. 118.10.How many classes of people will exist on ear th jus t prior to the close of pro

bation, and who are they? Matthew 12:30; Revelation 12:17; 13:16 ."There are only two parties upon this earth-those who stand under the bloodstained banner of Jesus Christ and those who stand under the black banner of rebellion. In the twelfth chapter of Revelation is represented the great conflict between theobedient and the disobedient."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7,

p.974."In the issue of the contest all Christendom will be divided into two great classes-those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, and those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark."-The Great Controversy, p. 450.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSa. What part do heavenly angels act in the closing of the work?

o FridayNovember 22b. From where will many workers be called in the last great work of the

gospel?

c. In what sense should we be ca reful when we speak of the apostasy of thechurches?

d. How will God's children in Babylon respond to the call? Why will it not bepossible to start a work of reformation under the final test?

e. Describe the two parties into which mankind will be divided.

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THE MARK OF THE BEAST

"Those who would not receive the mark of the beast and his image when thedecree goes forth, must have decision now to say, Nay, we will not regard theinstitution of the beast."-Early Writings, p. 67 .KEY TEXT: "If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark inhis forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of thewrath of God" (Revelation 14:9, 10).TWO DISTINCTIVE MARKS o SundayNovember 24

A THREAT AND A WARNING"

1. What is the sign, mark, or seal of the living God? Ezekiel 20:12 , 20."The sign, or seal, of God is revealed in the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath, the Lord's memorial of creation."-Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 117."The Sabbath is the sign between God and His people; and we are to make visible our conformity to the law of God by observing the Sabbath. It is to be the mark ofdistinction between God's chosen people and the world."- The SDA Bible Commentary[E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 949.

2. What is the mark of the beast and where will i t be placed? Revelation 13:16."The mark of the beast is the opposite of this-the observance of the first day of

the week. This mark distinguishes those who acknowledge the supremacy of thepapal authority from those who acknowledge the authority of God."-Testimonies, vol.8, p. 117."The mark of the beast is the papal sabbath, which has been accepted by theworld in the place of the day of God's appointment."-Evangelism, p. 234."John was called to behold a people distinct from those who worship the beastand his image by keeping the first day of the week. The observance of this day is themark of the beast."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 979.o Monday

November 253. How does the beast threaten those who would not accept his mark? Revelation 13:15, 17.

"The first day of the week, a common working day, possessing no sanctitywhatever, will be set up as was the image at Babylon. All nations and tongues and- 37 -


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THE LAST ACT IN THE DRAMA D WednesdayNovember 277. What will be the attitude of the popular ministers and the people in regardto the commandments of God? Psa lm 119 :53, 150 ; Matthew 15:8 , 9 ."Ministers who deny the obligation of the divine law will present from the pulpitthe duty of yielding obedience to the civil authorities as ordained of God. In legislativehalls and courts of justice, commandment keepers will be misrepresented and condemned. A false coloring will be given to their words; the worst construction will beput upon their motives."- The Great Controversy, p. 592."The time is coming when God's people will feel the hand of persecution because they keep holy the seventh day. Satan has caused the change of the Sabbath inthe hope of carrying out his purpose for the defeat of God's plans. He seeks to makethe commands of God of less force in the world than human laws. The man of sin,

who thought to change times and laws, and who has always oppressed the people ofGod, will cause laws to be made enforcing the observance of the first day of theweek."-Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 229, 230.8. Which country will be the first to enforce Sunday-keeping and what will therest of the world do?What is the Sunday decree called in the Spirit of Prophecy? Revelation 13:12."As America, the land of religious liberty, shall unite with the papacy in forcingthe conscience and compelling men to honor the false sabbath, the people of everycountry on the globe will be led to follow her example. Our people are not half awaketo do all in their power, with the facilities within their reach, to extend the message ofwarning."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 18."This earth has almost reached the place where God will permit the destroyer towork his will upon it. The substitution of the laws of men for the law of God, the exaltation, by merely human authority, of Sunday in place of the Bible Sabbath, is thelast act in the drama. When this substitution becomes universal, God will revealHimself. He will arise in His majesty to shake terribly the earth.

sdarm qtr. 4 1991 bible study

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