SDARM Qtr. 4 1991 Bible Study

Sabbath Bible Lessons
THE LAST EVENTS

Lesson Titles Page
1 The Two Beasts 5

2 The Present Truth . . . . . . . . . ................. 9
3 The Three Angels' Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 13
4 That Other Angel 17
5 The Sabbath-The Great Issue 21
6 The Sealing of the 144,000 . . . .. . . .... . . ... . . .. 25
7 The Latter Rain . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .... . . ... . . .. 29
8 The Short Time of Trouble . . . .. . . .... . . ... . . .. 33
9 The Mark of the Beast . . . . . . .. . . .... . . ... . . .. 38
10 The Peace and Safety Cry 41
11 The Close of Probation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 44
12 The Time of]acob's Trouble 48
13 God's People Delivered 51
Volume 66 Number 4
The Sabbath Bible Lessons (USPS 005-118) is published quarterly by the Seventh
Day Adventist Reform Movement General Conference,Sabbath School Department,
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FOREWORD
The lessons for this quarter concern The Last Events. They
cover a period of time which extends from the beginning of the
first angel's message to the second coming of Christ. These
lessons 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 of
the controversy, in the light of divine prophecy. The dangers and
snares 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 proph-
ecy have always been two important subjects of study among the
people of the Lord. In this connection it would be well to give special
attention 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 have
redemption ... even the forgiveness of sins' (Col. 1:14). Strive to
make your hearers comprehend the power of truth.
"Ministers should present the sure word of prophecy as the
foundation of the faith of Seventh-day Adventists. ' '-Gospel Workers,
pp. 147, 148.
"Satan's efforts to hinder the work and to destroy the work-
men 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 shall
forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past
history." -Life Sketches of Ellen G. White, p. 196.
Our prayers go with these lessons, that the Lord may bless
the students with additional enlightenment, and that His Holy
Spirit may impress their hearts with the need of seeking a more
genuine experience with the Lord, as they meditate upon the
truths herein.
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
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Special Project Offering
for Chapels in Romania
Romania-the country in which we have the largest member-
ship in Europe-saw a radical change in 1989-1990.
After World War II our brethren in Romania enjoyed only a
few years of liberty, during which our church there grew rapidly
and reached over 4,000 members. Before long, the religious acti-
vities of our people were restricted and the most important of all
their human rights-religious freedom-came to an end. Then the
brethren went through a long period of fearful oppression and
persecution. Our meetings were forbidden, our church properties
were confiscated, and many of our members had to answer for
their faith before the authorities. A good number of our leading
brethren were sentenced to a long term of imprisonment, and
some of them never came out alive. Even in recent years some of
our people were put in jail when they were surprised-holding
worship 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 trium-
phant revolution.
This event opened the door for a new beginning in the procla-
mation of the Reform message in that country. After 40 years of
oppression, our people there were aroused and filled with new zeal.
Our church in Romania is incorporated and our people are
united. They are printing and distributing books and great quan-
tities of pamphlets. Our workers are also giving public lectures in
government halls and private homes, and many spiritually hungry
people are listening to the present truth.
Since the Reform Movement was proscribed and our meetings
were forbidden, our people in Romania, 3,500 members at pres-
ent, have no chapels. They will start building some now that they
are free. Therefore, they are hereby making an appeal for a
special offering in behalf of this project. As we want to help them
develop their work, we ask our members and friends around the
world to please remember the needs of our Romanian brethren
and make a special sacrifice at the end of this quarter. The Lord
will certainly bless the donors and their gifts.
R. Ludwig, regional secretary for Europe
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Lesson 1 Sabbath, October 5, 1991
THE TWO BEASTS
"Prophecy represents Protestantism as having lamblike horns, but speaking

like 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 names
are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the founda-
tion of the world" (Revelation 13:8).
o Sunday
THE FIRST BEAST September 29
1. From where does the first beast come up? What do waters represent in the
Bible? Revelation 13:1; 17:15.
"In Revelation 17 an angel explained that waters represent 'peoples, and multi-
tudes, 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 head
over the entire church. Paganism had given place to the papacy. The dragon had given
to the beast 'his power, and his seat, and great authority.' Revelation 13:2."- The Great
Controversy, p. 54.
"In chapter 13 (verses 1-10) is described another beast, 'like unto a leopard,' to
which the dragon gave 'his power, and his seat, and great authority.' This symbol, as
most Protestants have believed, represents the papacy, which succeeded to the power
and seat and authority once held by the ancient Roman empire."-Ibid., p. 439.
o Monday
A NAME OF BLASPHEMY September 30
3. What does the symbolic beast do? Revelation 13:5 (first part), 6; Daniel
7:25 (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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tative of Satan, it is declared, 'He shall speak great words against the Most High, and
shall wear out the saints of the Most High, and think to change times and laws: and
they shall be given into his hand.' Dan. 7:25."-The Desire of Ages, 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 eternal
salvation, the people looked to the pope, and to the priests and prelates to whom he
delegated authority." - The Great Controversy, p. 55.
"The people were also taught that by the payment of money to the church they
might free themselves from sin, and also release the souls of their deceased friends
who were confined in the tormenting flames."-Ibid., p. 59.
"Christ gave no ecclesiastical right to forgive sin, nor to sell indulgences, that
men may sin without incurring the displeasure of God, nor did He give His servants
liberty 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 the
children of Adam."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1151.
D Tuesday
A PERIOD OF PERSECUTION October 1
5. 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 dividing
of time,' three years and a half, or 1260 days, of Daniel 7-the time during which the
papal 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 months
or 1260 years? Revelation 13:3, 10.
"This period, as stated in preceding chapters, began with the supremacy of the
papacy, 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 was
fulfilled, 'He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity.' "- The Great Controversy,
p.439.
o Wednesday
THE SECOND BEAST October 2
7. 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 represented
must 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 Old
World-that turbulent sea of 'peoples, and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.' It
must be sought in the Western Continent.
"What nation of the New World was in 1798 rising into power, giving promise of
strength 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 specifications
of this prophecy; it points unmistakably to the United States of America."-The Great
Controversy, 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 when
presented 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 and
downtrodden throughout Christendom have turned to this land with interest and
hope. Millions have sought its shores, and the United States has risen to a place
among 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. By
such action it will give the lie to those liberal and peaceful principles which it has put
forth as the foundation of its policy. The prediction that it will speak 'as a dragon' and
exercise 'all the power of the first beast' plainly foretells a development of the spirit of
intolerance and persecution that was manifested by the nations represented by the
dragon 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' indicates
that 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.
o Thursday
THE IMAGE OF THE BEAST October 3
9. What is the image of the beast and what will be said to all the inhabitants of
the earth? Revelation 13:14 (last part), 15.
"But what is the 'image to the beast'? and how is it to be formed? The image is
made by the two-horned beast, and is an image to the beast. It is also called an image
of the beast. Then to learn what the image is like and how it is to be formed we must
study the characteristics of the beast itself-the papacy."- The Great Controversy, p. 443.
"The 'image to the beast' represents that form of apostate Protestantism which
will be developed when the Protestant churches shall seek the aid of the civil power
for 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 and
great, rich and poor, free and bond' (Revelation 13:16), shall conform to the customs
of the church by the observance of the false sabbath. All who refuse compliance will
be visited with civil penalties, and it will finally be declared that they are deserving of
death." - The Great Controversy, p. 604.
"As the controversy extends into new fields and the minds of the people are called
to God's downtrodden law, Satan is astir. The power attending the message will only
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madden those who oppose it. The clergy will put forth almost superhuman efforts to
shut 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. The
church 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 and
decided, the law will be invoked. against commmandment keepers. They will be
threatened 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 same
plea that was made by Luther under similar circumstances. Those who are arraigned
before the courts make a strong vindication of the truth, and some who hear them are
led to take their stand to keep all the commandments of God."-Ibid., p. 607.
o Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS October 4
a. 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 distinct features of the second beast.
e. How will the Protestant churches bring about that great and final apostasy
in which all professed Christians will unite? •
•
"Prophecy represents Protestantism as
having lamblike horns, but speaking like a
dragon. Already we are beginning to hear the
voice of the dragon. There is a satanic force
propelling the Sunday movement, but it is
concealed. Even the men who are engaged in
the work, are themselves blinded to the re-
sults which will 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 the Word of God, but it 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 remembrance
of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the pres-
ent truth" (2 Peter 1:12).
o Sunday
THE TRUTH IN WHICH WE ARE TO BE ESTABLISHED October 6
1. 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 were
blessed with its light were tempted and tried. The Lord gives a special truth for the
people 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? Proverbs
4:18.
"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 by
Him to accomplish His purposes of grace and mercy. Each has his part to act; to each
is granted a measure of light, adapted to the necessities of his time, and sufficient to
enable him to perform the work which God has given him to do." - The Great Controver-
sy, p. 343.
o Monday
THE MEASURE OF TRUTH REVEALED October 7
3. How does the Lord reveal the truth to His children? How much truth is reo
vealed at a time? Isaiah 28:10.
"God permitted great light to shine upon the minds of these chosen men, reveal-
ing to them many of the errors of Rome; but they did not receive all the light that was
to be given to the world. Through these, His servants, God was leading the people out
of 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 prepared
to receive all the light at once. Like the full glory of the noontide sun to those who
have 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 the
people. From century to century, other faithful workers were to follow, to lead the
people 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 Spirit
did 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.
D Tuesday .,
TRUTH REVEALED TO THE PATRIARCHS October 8
5. In what way was the plan of redemption revealed to Adam and Eve, and to
Abraham? Genesis 3:15; Galatians 3:8; John 8:56.
"To man the first intimation of redemption was communicated in the sentence
pronounced upon Satan in the garden. The Lord declared, 'I will put enmity between
thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and
thou shalt bruise his heel.' Genesis 3:15. This sentence, uttered in the hearing of our
first parents, was to them a promise. While it foretold war between man and Satan, it
declared that the power of the great adversary would finally be broken."-Patriarchs
and 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. Said
Christ to the Jews, 'Your father Abraham rejoiced that he should see My day; and he
saw it, and was glad.' John 8:56, R.V., margin. 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.' "-Ibid., p. 154.
6. How much of the plan 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 in
such parts as were essential to him at that time. The mystic ladder revealed to him in
his 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 govern-
ment of God, there had been free communion between God and man. But the sin of
Adam and Eve separated earth from heaven, so that man could not have communion
with his Maker. Yet the world was not left in solitary hopelessness. The ladder
represents Jesus, the appointed medium of communication. 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.
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D Wednesday
REVELATION IN THE CHRISTIAN ERA October 9
7. What was present truth in the time of the disciples? Why did the Lord not
accept the title of "Good Master" as given by the rich young man? Mark
1:15; Luke 24:25-27; Matthew 19:16, 17.
"Christ Himself had sent them forth with the message: 'The time is fulfilled, and
the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.' Mark 1:15. That
message was based on the prophecy of Daniel 9. The sixty-nine weeks were declared
by 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 who
should ascend upon their knees 'Pilate's staircase,' said to have been descended by
our Saviour on leaving the Roman judgment hall and to have been miraculously con-
veyed 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 special
importance; there is a present truth for the church today. He who does all things ac-
cording to the counsel of His will has been pleased to place men under various cir-
cumstances and to enjoin upon them duties peculiar to the times in which they live
and the conditions under which they are placed. If they would prize the light given
them, broader views of truth would be opened before them."-Ibid., pp. 143, 144.
D Thursday
PRESENT TRUTH IN OUR TIME October 10
9. What is the present truth in our day and what responsibility do we have for
it? Revelation 14:6-12; 18:1-4.
"The Lord in His great mercy sent a most precious message to His people through
Elders 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 jus-
tification through faith in the Surety; it invited the people to receive the righteousness of
Christ, which is made manifest in obedience to all the commandments of God. Many
had 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 His
hands, that He may dispense rich gifts unto men, imparting the priceless gift of His own
righteousness to the helpless human agent. This is the message that God commanded to
be given to the world. It is the third angel's message, which is to be proclaimed with a
loud voice, and attended with the outpouring of His Spirit in a large measure."-Testi-
monies 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. It is Bible truth, showing the
perils that are right upon us. This light should lead us to a diligent study of the Scrip-
tures and a most critical examination of the positions which we hold. God would have all
the bearings and positions of truth thoroughly and perseveringly searched, with prayer
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and fasting. Believers are not to rest in suppositions and ill-defined ideas of what con-
stitutes truth. Their faith must be firmly founded upon the word of God so that when
the testing time shall come and they are brought before councils to answer for their
faith they may be able to give a reason for the hope that is in them, with meekness and
fear."- 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 of
His character, government, and purposes, and act in accordance with them. None but
those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will stand through the
last great conflict."- The Great Controversy, pp. 593, 594.
o Friday
•
a. Why did the Lord reveal different truths to His people?
b. Why did not God give them all the light at once?
c. To whom was the gospel revealed in the patriarchal dispensation?
d. If all 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 for
human beings. He molds and fashions after the divine
similitude the characters of those who will wear His
yoke. Through His grace they are made partakers of
the divine nature, and are thus enabled to overcome
the corruption that is in the world through lust. It is
God who gives us power to overcome. Those who hear
His voice and obey His commandments are enabled to
form righteous characters. Those who disregard His
expressed commands will form characters like the
propensities that they indulge." - The SDA Bible Commentary
[E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 943.
•
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THE THREE ANGELS' MESSAGES
"
"I was shown three steps - the first, second, and third angels' messages. Said
my accompanying angel, 'Woe to him who shall move a block or stir a pin of
these messages: "- Early Writings, p. 258.
KEY TEXT: "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for
a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come" (Matthew
24:14).
D Sunday
THE EVERLASTING GOSPEL October 13
1. What messages constitute a part of the everlasting gospel? Revelation

14:6-12.
"To prepare a people to stand in the day of God, a great work of reform was to
be accomplished. God saw that many of His professed people were not building for
eternity, and in His mercy He was about to send a message of warning to arouse them
from their stupor and lead them to make ready for the coming of the Lord.
"This warning is brought to view in Revelation 14. Here is a threefold message
represented as proclaimed by heavenly beings and immediately followed by the com-
ing of the Son of man to reap 'the harvest of the earth.' "- The Great Controversy, p. 311.
2. To whom was the proclamation of the everlasting gospel entrusted?

Romans 10:14, 15.
"This message is declared to be a part of 'the everlasting gospel.' The work of

preaching the gospel has not been committed to angels, but has been entrusted to
men. Holy angels have been employed in directing this work, they have in charge the
great movements for the salvation of men; but the actual proclamation of the gospel is
performed by the servants of Christ upon the earth."- The Great Controversy, p. 312.
D Monday
THE FIRST ANGEL'S MESSAGE October 14
3. What is the first angel's message and when was it first proclaimed? Revela-
tion 14:7.
"A great religious awakening under the proclamation of Christ's soon coming is
foretold in the prophecy of the first angel's message of Revelation 14. An angel is
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seen flying 'in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them
that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.'
'With a loud voice' he proclaims the message: 'Fear God, and give glory to Him; for
the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and
the 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 in
America. This country became the center of the great advent movement. It was here
that the prophecy of the first angel's message had its most direct fulfillment. The
writings of Miller and his associates were carried to distant lands. Wherever mis-
sionaries had penetrated in all the world, were sent the glad tidings of Christ's speedy
return. Far and wide spread the message of the everlasting gospel: 'Fear God, and
give 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 which
he was a member."-Ibid., p. 332.
4. What was the result of the proclamation of the first angel's message? John
3:19,20.
"As his [Miller's] work tended to build up the churches, it was for a time regarded
with favor. But as ministers and religious leaders decided against the advent doctrine
and desired to suppress all agitation of the subject, they not only opposed it from the
pulpit, but denied their members the privilege of attending preaching upon the sec-
ond 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. They
loved 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 prophecies
denied they felt that loyalty to God forbade them to submit. Those who sought to shut
out the testimony of God's word they could not regard as constituting the church of
Christ, 'the pillar and ground of the truth.' Hence they felt themselves justified in
separating from their former connection. In the summer of 1844 about fifty thousand
withdrew from the churches."-The Great Controversy, p. 376.
D Tuesday
THE SECOND ANGEL'S MESSAGE October 15
5. What was the message of the second angel and when was it proclaimed for
the first time? Revelation 14:8.
"The message of Revelation 14 announcing the fall of Babylon, must apply to

religious bodies that were once pure and have become corrupt. Since this message
follows the warning of the Judgment, it must be given in the last days, therefore it
cannot refer to the Romish Church, for that church has been in a fallen condition for
many centuries. Furthermore, in the eighteenth chapter of the Revelation, in a
message which is yet future, the people of God are called upon to come out of
Babylon."- The Great Controversy, p. 383 (1888 edition).
"The second angel's message of Revelation 14 was first preached in the summer
of 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 most
generally 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? Mat·
thew 25:6.
-14 -
"Near the close of the second angel's message, I saw a great light from heaven
shining upon the people of God. The rays of this light seemed bright as the sun. And I
heard the voices of angels crying. 'Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet
· l'
H1m.
"This was the midnight cry, which was to give power to the second angel's
message. Angels were sent from heaven to arouse the discouraged saints and prepare
them for the great work before them. The most talented men were not the first to
receive this message. Angels were sent to the humble, devoted ones, and constrained
them to raise the cry, 'Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him!' "-
Early Writings, p. 238.
D Wednesday
THE THIRD ANGEL'S MESSAGE October 16
7. 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 break-
ing of God's commandments. Says Daniel, of the little horn, the papacy: 'He shall
think to change times and the law.' Daniel 7:25, R.V. And Paul styled the same power
the 'man of sin,' who was to exalt himself above God. One prophecy is a complement
of the other. Only by changing God's law could the papacy exalt itself above God;
whoever should understandingly keep the law as thus changed would be giving
supreme honor to that power by which the change was made. Such an act of obe-
dience 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? Revela-
tion 14:9-13.
"If the light of truth has been presented to you, revealing the Sabbath of the
fourth commandment, and showing that there is no foundation in the Word of God for
Sunday observance, and yet you still cling to the false sabbath, refusing to keep holy
the Sabbath which God calls 'My holy day,' you receive the mark of the beast. When
does this take place? When you obey the decree that commands you to cease from
labor 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 receive
the mark of the beast, and refuse the seal of God."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G.
White Comments], vol. 7, p. 980.
D Thursday
THE THIRD ANGEL'S MESSAGE (continued) October 17
9. What is in reality the essence of the third angel's message? Exodus

31:13-17.
"The keeping of the Sabbath is a sign of loyalty to the true God, 'Him that made
heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.' It follows that the
message which commands men to worship God and keep His commandments will
especially call upon them to keep the fourth commandment.
-15 -
"In contrast to those who keep the commandments of God and have the faith of
Jesus, the third angel points to another class, against whose errors a solemn and fear-
ful warning is uttered: 'If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his
mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of
God.' 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 and
great, rich and poor, free and bond' (Revelation 13:16), to receive 'the mark of the
beast,' yet the people of God will not receive it. The prophet of Patmos beholds 'them
that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and
over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God' and
singing 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 everlasting
gospel,' will distinguish the church of Christ at the time of His appearing. For as the
result of the threefold message it is announced: 'Here are they that keep the command-
ments of God, and the faith of Jesus.' And this message is the last to be given before the
coming of the Lord. Immediately following its proclamation the Son of man is seen by
the prophet, coming in glory to reap the harvest of the earth."-Ibid., pp. 453, 454.
D Friday
a. Why was it necessary for the Lord to send a message of warning before
Jesus' 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 ap-
ply?
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 are
the characteristics of God's chosen people, and where did John see them? •
..
-16 -
THAT OTHER ANGEL
"Then I saw another mighty angel commissioned to descend to the earth, to

unite 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 risen
upon thee" (Isaiah 60:1).
o Sunday
THE COMING OF THE ANGEL October 20
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 Revela-
tion John says of the heavenly messenger who unites with the third angel: 'I saw
another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was light-
ened 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 those
who 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 manner
that it does not impress the people. So many other interests are brought in that the
very message which should be proclaimed with power becomes tame and voiceless.
At our camp meetings a mistake has been made. The Sabbath question has been
touched upon, but has not been presented as the great test for this time. While the
churches profess to believe in Christ, they are violating the law which Christ Himself
proclaimed from Sinai. The Lord bids us: 'Show My people their transgression, and
the house of Jacob their sins.' Isaiah 58:1. The trumpet is to give a certain sound."
, - Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 60, 61.
D Monday
THE RIGHT TIME October 21
3. Describe that other angel: a) his coming; b) his voice; c) the result of his
work. Revelation 18: 1.
"The time of test is just upon us, for the loud cry of the third angel has already
begun in the revelation of the righteousness of Christ, the sin-pardoning Redeemer.
-17 -
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 present
before the people, and we rejoice that we have a message for this time which is pre-
sent 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 Laodicean
church is applicable to our condition. How plainly is pictured the position of those
who think they have all the truth, who take pride in their knowledge of the word of
God, while its sanctifying power has not been felt in their lives. The fervor of the love
of God is wanting in their hearts, but it is this very fervor of love that makes God's
people the light of the world....
"In every meeting since the General Conference, souls have eagerly accepted
the precious message of the righteousness of Christ. We thank God that there are
souls who realize that they are in need of something which they do not possess-gold
of faith and love, white raiment of Christ's righteousness, eyesalve of spiritual
discernment. If you possess these precious gifts, the temple of the human soul will
not be like a desecrated shrine. Brethren and sisters, I call upon you in the name of
Jesus 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.
o Tuesday
THE FIRST WORK OF THE ANGEL October 22
5. What special work must be accomplished before the earth is fully enlightened
with God's glory? Joel 2:12-17; Acts 3:19, 20.
"[The message to Laodicea] is designed to arouse the people of God, to discover

to them their backslidings, and to lead to zealous repentance, that they may be
favored 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's
side? Who will unite with the angel in giving the message of truth to the world? Who
will receive the light that is to fill the whole earth with its glory?' "- 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 and
spare 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 and
Herald, Aug. 13, 1889.
"The rebuke of the Lord will rest upon those who would bar the way, that
clearer light shall not come to the people. A great work is to be done, and God sees
that our leading men have need of more light, that they may unite with the
messengers 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,
-18 -
'Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their trans-
gression, and the house of Jacob their sins.' Let no one run the risk of interposing be-
tween the people and the message of Heaven. This message will go to the people; and
if there were no voice among men to give it, the very stones would cry out."-
Gospel Workers, p. 304.
o Wednesday
THE FINAL WORK October 23
7. What will the "movement represented by the angel" of Revelation 18 ac-

complish aided by the power of the latter 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, announc-
ing the sins of Babylon. In connection with his message the call is heard: 'Come out of
her, My people.' These announcements, uniting with the third angel's message, con-
stitute 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 conviction
of the Spirit of God.... Now the rays of light penetrate everywhere, the truth is seen
in its clearness, and the honest children of God sever the bands which have held them.
Family connections, church relations, are powerless to stay them now. Truth is more
precious than all besides. Notwithstanding the agencies combined against the truth, a
large 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 of
that other angel? What is the glory that shall fill the whole earth? Numbers
14:21; Habakkuk 2:14.
"The revelation of Christ by the Holy Spirit brought to them a realizing sense of
His 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 more
abundant. The Saviour of men will be glorified, and the earth will be lightened with
the 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 testifies
that God has indeed sent His Son into the world to be its Saviour."-Ibid., p. 420.
o Thursday
THE REMNANT IDENTIFIED October 24
9. 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 who
keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragon
and his hosts. Satan numbers the world as his subjects, he has gained control of the
apostate churches; but here is a little company that are resisting his supremacy. If he
could blot them from the earth, his triumph would be complete. As he influenced the
heathen nations to destroy Israel, so in the near future he will stir up the wicked
powers of earth to destroy the people of God. All will be required to render obedience
-19 -
to human edicts in violation of the divine law. Those who will be true to God and to
duty will be menaced, denounced, and proscribed. They will 'be betrayed both by
parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends.' "- Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 472, 473.
"The spirit which actuated those priests and rulers is still manifested by many
who make a high profession of piety. They refuse to examine the testimony of the
Scriptures concerning the special truths for this time. They point to their own num-
bers, wealth, and popularity, and look with contempt upon the advocates of truth as
few, poor, and unpopular, having a faith that separates them from the world."-The
Great Controversy, p. 596.
10. Where was the remnant church seen by John the apostle? What are their
peculiar 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 the
victory ... stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they sing the song
of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelous
are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of
saints.' Revelation 15:2, 3.
"And I looked, and, 10, a Lamb stood on the Mount Sion, and with Him a hun-
dred 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 Him
with the intellect and with the heart; and now He can place His name 'in their
foreheads.' 'And they shall reign for ever and ever.' Revelation 22:5. They do not go
in 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 foun-
dation of the world.'°He welcomes them as His children, saying, 'Enter thou into the
joy of thy Lord.' Matthew 25:34, 21."-The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 590, 591.
o Friday
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 enlightened with the glory of God?
•
-20 -
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 pro-
fessed Sabbathkeepers." - Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 353.
KEY TEXT: "Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth
hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his
hand from doing any evil" (Isaiah 56:2).
D Sunday
REPAIRING THE BREACH October 27
1. Why are the people of God called "repairers of the breach" in these last
days? Isaiah 58:12; 61:4.
"When the Sabbath was changed by the papal power, the seal was taken from
the law. The disciples of Jesus are called upon to restore it by exalting the Sabbath of
the fourth commandment to its rightful position as the Creator's memorial and the
sign of His authority."- The Great Controversy, p. 452.
"The breach was made in the law of God when the Sabbath was changed by the
Roman power. But the time has come for that divine institution to be restored. The
breach 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 breach
made in the law at the time the Sabbath was changed by man, is to be repaired. God's
remnant people, standing before the world as reformers, are to show that the law of
• God is the foundation of all enduring reform and that the Sabbath of the fourth com-
mandment is to stand as a memorial of creation, a constant reminder of the power of
God. In clear, distinct lines they are to present the necessity of obedience to all the
precepts of the Decalogue." -Prophets and Kings, p. 678.
o Monday
THE SABBATH IN THE FAMILY October 28
3. What should parents and children keep in mind, both in and outside the
sanctuary, on the Sabbath day? Leviticus 19:30.
- 21-
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 the
very meetings where the saints have met together to glorify God and to worship Him
in the beauty of holiness....
"Above everything, take care of your children upon the Sabbath. Do not let them
violate it, for you may just as well violate it yourself as to let your children do it. When
you suffer your children to play upon the Sabbath, God looks upon you as a command-
ment 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 read
God's word, to sing and pray. There is need of reform here, for many have been
remiss. We need to confess to God and to one another. We should begin anew to
make .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 and
contention should not be allowed any day of the week; but on the Sabbath all should
observe quietness. No loud-toned commands should be heard at any time; but on the
Sabbath it is entirely out of place. This is God's holy day, the day He has set apart to
commemorate His creative works, a day He has sanctified and hallowed."-Selected
Messages, 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 own
work be done in the six working days. Acts of necessity and mercy are permitted on
the Sabbath, the sick and suffering are at all times to be cared for; but unnecessary
labor is to be strictly avoided. 'Turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy
pleasure 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 own
pleasure.' Isaiah 58:13. Nor does the prohibition end here. 'Nor speaking thine own
words,' says the prophet. Those who discuss business matters or lay plans on the
Sabbath 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 of
a worldly character."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 307.
"When the Sabbath commences, we should place a guard upon ourselves, upon
our acts and our words, lest we rob God by appropriating to our own use that time
which 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 done
on the six working days.... God requires not only that we refrain from physical
labor upon the Sabbath, but that the mind be disciplined to dwell upon sacred themes.
The fourth commandment is virtually transgressed by conversing upon worldly things ..
or 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 right
brings us into bondage and condemnation."-Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 702, 703.
D Tuesday
POLLUTING THE SABBATH October 29
5. What promise is given to those who do not pollute the Sabbath? Isaiah 56:2,
6,7.
- 22-
"We must be guarded, lest the lax practices that prevail among Sundaykeepers
shall be followed by those who profess to observe God's holy rest day. The line of
demarcation is to be made clear and distinct between those who bear the mark of
God'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 their
workers the hours from Friday noon until the beginning of the Sabbath. Give them time
for preparation, that they may welcome the Lord's day with quietness of mind. By such
a course you will suffer no loss even in temporal things."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 356.
o Wednesday
THE SABBATH-A TEST October 30
7. How were the Israelites tested on the Sabbath question? Exodus 16:4,
26-28. Under the third angel's message, since when have God's people
been held accountable on this point?
"Then I was shown that the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus
Christ relating to the shut door could not be separated, and that the time for the com-
mandments of God to shine out with all their importance, and for God's people to be
tried on the Sabbath truth, was when the door was opened in the most holy place in
the heavenly sanctuary, where the ark is, in which are contained the ten command-
ments. This door was not opened until the mediation of Jesus was finished in the holy
place 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 He
now 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; and
that 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 the
ark, the commandments have been shining out to God's people, and they are being
tested on the Sabbath question.
"I saw that the present test on the Sabbath could not come until the mediation of
Jesus 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 and
have not kept the true Sabbath, they were doubting about its being a test for us
now."-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 enlightened
concerning 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, but
your works do not harmonize with your declared faith. You give your influence to the
side of the unbeliever, insofar as you transgress the law of God. When your temporal
circumstances seem to require attention, you violate the fourth commandment
without 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
- 23-
the Sabbath as a sacred institution. You grieve the Spirit of God and dishonor your
Redeemer by pursuing this reckless course.
"A partial observance of the Sabbath law is not accepted by the Lord and has a
worse effect upon the minds of sinners than if you made no profession of being a Sab-
bathkeeper."-Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 247, 248.
o Thursday
PREPARATION FOR THE FINAL TEST October 31
9. What preparation must be made at this time and why? Jeremiah 12:5.
"The days are fast approaching when there will be great perplexity and confu-
sion. Satan, clothed in angel robes, will deceive, if possible, the very elect. There will
be gods many and lords many. Every wind of doctrine will be blowing. Those who
,
have rendered supreme homage to 'science falsely so called' will not be the leaders
then. Those who have trusted to intellect, genius, or talent will not then stand at the
head or rank and file. They did not keep pace with the light. Those who have proved
themselves unfaithful will not then be entrusted with the flock. In the last solemn
work 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 of
the beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step by step yielded to worldly
demands and conformed to worldly customs will not find it a hard matter to yield to
the 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 to
hear and to understand Bible truth, in order that they may take their stand intelligent-
lyon the right side."-Evangelism, p. 25.
o Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS November 1
a. What is the foundation of every enduring reformation?
b. 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 relation exists between the year 1844, the Sabbath test and the
heavenly sanctuary?
e. While the remnant people of God have been tested on the Sabbath question
since 1844, who will be tested on this point in the near future? •
- 24-
THE SEALING OF THE 144,000

II
"Only those who receive the seal of the living God will have the passport
through the gates of the Holy City." - The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Com-
ments), vol. 7, p. 970.
KEY TEXT: "And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of
the living God" (Revelation 7:2).
o Sunday
THE SEAL November 3
1. 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 law
among My disciples.' Isaiah 8:16. The seal of God's law is found in the fourth com-
mandment. This only, of all the ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the
Lawgiver. It declares Him to be the Creator of the heavens and the earth, and thus
shows 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."-The
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? Revelation
14:13.
"The enemies of the present truth have been trying to open the door of the holy
place, that Jesus has shut, and to close the door of the most holy place, which He
opened in 1844, where the ark is, containing the two tables of stone on which are writ-
ten the ten commandments by the finger of Jehovah.
"Satan is now using every device in this sealing time to keep the minds of God's
people from the present truth and to cause them to waver. I saw a covering that God
was drawing over His people to protect them in the time of trouble; and every soul
that was decided on the truth and was pure in heart was to be covered with the cover-
ing of the Almighty."-Early Writings, p. 43.
- 25-
"God has begun to draw this covering over His people, and it will soon be drawn
over 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 me
overwhelming. 1 could hardly believe it and can hardly believe it now. God gave me a
view last Sabbath night which 1 will write....
"I saw that she was sealed and would come up at the voice of God and stand
upon the earth, and would be with the 144,000. 1 saw we need not mourn for her; she
would rest in the time of trouble, and all that we could mourn for was our loss in being
deprived of her company. 1 saw her death would result in good."-Selected Messages,
book 2, p. 263.
D Monday
HOLDING THE WINDS November 4
3. 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 strife-

represented as being held by four angels. These winds are under control until God
gives the word to let them go. There is the safety of God's church."-Testimonies to
Ministers, p. 444.
"I asked my accompanying angel the meaning of what 1 heard, and what the four
angels 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 angels
had power from God to hold the four winds, and that they were about to let the four
winds go, and while they had started on their mission to let them go, the merciful eye
of Jesus gazed on the remnant that were not all sealed, then He raised His hands to
the Father and plead with Him that He had spilled His blood for them. Then another
angel was commissioned to fly swiftly to the four angels, and bid them hold until the
servants of God were sealed with the seal of the living God in their foreheads."- The
Present 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 done
in the sanctuary, and then will come the seven last plagues."-Early Writings, p. 36.
D Tuesday
THE NUMBER OF THE SEALED November 5
5. How many are sealed from the tribes of spiritual Israel? Revelation 7:4. Is
this a symbolic or a literal number?
"The living saints, 144,000 in number, knew and understood the voice, while the
wicked thought it was thunder and an earthquake."-Early Writings, p. 15.
.'
6. What was the great concern of Sister White for herself and her contem-
poraries with reference to this numbered group? Including those faithful
pioneers, how many did John see in this group? Revelation 14:1.
- 26-
"Let U$ strive with all the power that God has given us to be among the hundred
and forty-four thousand."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7,
p.970.
D Wednesday
CONDITIONS FOR RECEIVING THE SEAL November 6
7. What should we do to be sealed? Ezekiel 9:4.
"The names of those who are steadfastly looking and waiting and watching for
the appearing of their Saviour-more earnestly and wishfully than they who wait for
the 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, and
our 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 sanc-
tuary, then they who are holy and righteous will be holy and righteous still; for all
their sins will then be blotted out, and they will be sealed with the seal of the living
God."-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 and
young."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 505.
D Thursday
THERE IS A TIME LIMIT November 7
9. 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 the
living God or be cut down by the destroying weapons. Already a few drops of God's
wrath have fallen upon the earth; but when the seven last plagues shall be poured out
without mixture into the cup of His indignation, then it will be forever too late to re-
pent and find shelter. No atoning blood will then wash away the stains of sin."-Testi-
monies, 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 even
among those who teach the truth to others who will not receive the seal of God in their
foreheads. They had the light of truth, they knew their Master's will, they understood
every point of our faith, but they had not corresponding works. These who were so
familiar with prophecy and the treasures of divine wisdom should have acted their
faith. They should have commanded their households after them, that by a well-
ordered family they might present to the world the influence of the truth upon the
human heart."-Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 213, 214.
- 27-
D Friday
a. What has been the significance of the Sabbath truth since the door of the
Most Holy place was opened in 1844?
b. What important event will take place when the angels let the winds blow?
c. What do we know about the number of the sealed ones and the early faithful
Adventists?
d. What are the conditions for receiving the seal of God?
e. What two alternatives does the sealing message place before each in-
dividual? What will be the final consequences? •
•
"The Israelites placed over their doors a
signature of blood, to show that· they were
God's property. So the children of God in this
age will bear the signature God has appointed.
They will place themselves in harmony with
God's holy law. A mark is placed upon every
one of God's people just as verily as a mark
was placed over the doors of the Hebrew
dwellings, to preserve the people from the
general ruin.... The Lord protects every
human being who bears His sign."
-SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 7, pp. 968, 969.
•
-28-
THE LATTER RAIN
"Unless we are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active Christian

virtues, we shall not recognize the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in the
latter rain." - Testimonies to Ministers, p. 507.
KEY TEXT: "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted
out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the
Lord" (Acts 3:19).
D Sunday
IN APOSTOLIC TIMES November 10
1. What promise did Jesus make to the disciples just prior to His ascension to
heaven? Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8.
"Christ's visible presence was about to be withdrawn from the disciples, but a
new endowment of power was to be theirs. The Holy Spirit was to be given them in
its fullness, sealing them for their work. 'Behold,' the Saviour said, 'I send the prom-
ise of My Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued
with 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 new
wine prepared for the feast. Some of the most ignorant of the people present seized
upon this suggestion as the truth, but the more intelligent knew it to be false; and
those who understood the different languages testified to the accuracy with which
these languages were used by the disciples.
"In answer to the accusation of the priests Peter showed that this demonstration
was in direct fulfillment of the prophecy of Joel, wherein he foretold that such power
would come upon men to fit them for a special work."-TheActs of the Apostles, pp. 40, 41.
D Monday
PREPARATION November 11
3. What preparation did the apostles make in order to receive the promise?
Acts 1:12-14.
"As the disciples waited for the fulfillment of the promise, they humbled their
hearts in true repentance and confessed their unbelief. As they called to remembrance
- 29-
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 to
their minds, and these they repeated to one another. They reproached themselves for
their misapprehension of the Saviour."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 36.
"Notice that it was after the disciples had come into perfect unity, when they
were no longer striving for the highest place, that the Spirit was poured out. They
were of one accord. All differences had been put away. And the testimony borne of
them after t;Je Spirit had been given is the same. Mark the word: 'The multitude of
them that believed were of one heart and of one soul.' Acts 4:32. The Spirit of Him
who 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 another
are cherished by the members of the church. Envy, jealousy, evil surmising, and
evilspeaking are of Satan, and they effectually bar the way against the Holy Spirit's
working."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 42.
"Not one of us will ever receive the seal of God while our characters have one
spot or stain upon them. It is left with us to remedy the defects in our characters, to
cleanse the soul temple of every defilement. Then the latter rain will fall upon us as
the early rain fell upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost."-Ibid., vol. 5, p. 214.
o Tuesday
CLOTHED WITH THE ARMOR November 12
5. What is an essential part of our preparation for the latter rain? Zechariah
10:1; Luke 11:13.
"Since this is the means by which we are to receive power, why do we not hunger
and thirst for the gift of the Spirit? Why do we not talk of it, pray for it, and preach
concerning it? The Lord is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to those who serve
Him than parents are to give good gifts to their children. For the daily baptism of the
Spirit every worker should offer his petition to God. Companies of Christian workers
should gather to ask for special help, for heavenly wisdom, that they may know how
to plan and execute wisely. Especially should they pray that God will baptize His
chosen ambassadors in mission fields with a rich measure of His Spirit. The presence
of the Spirit with God's workers will give the proclamation of truth a power that not
all 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 Spirit
in fullness? Mark 16:15-18.
"I heard those clothed with the armor speak forth the truth with great power. It
had effect. Many had been bound; some wives by their husbands, and some children
by their parents. The honest who had been prevented from hearing the truth now
eagerly laid hold upon it. All fear of their relatives was gone, and the truth alone was
exalted to them. They had been hungering and thirsting for truth; it was dearer and
more precious than life. I asked what had made this great change. An angel answered,
- 30-
'It is the latter rain, the refreshing from the presence of the Lord, the loud cry of the
third 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 of
voices, all over the earth, the warning will be given. Miracles will be wrought, the
sick will be healed, and signs and wonders will follow the believers."-The Great Con-
troversy, p. 612.
o Wednesday
THE LOUD CRY November 13
7. What message will the remnant people of God proclaim under the power of
the latter rain? Revelation 14:9-12; 18:1-3.
'! "Thus the message of the third angel will be proclaimed. As the time comes for
it 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 laborers
will 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 Baby-
lon? Mark 2:27,28.
"There are many who have never had an opportunity to hear the special truths
for this time. The obligation of the fourth commandment has never been set before
them 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 controver-
sy. The decree is not to be urged upon the people blindly. Everyone is to have suffi-
cient light to make his decision intelligently.
"The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty, for it is the point of truth especial-
ly controverted. When the final test shall be brought to bear upon men, then the line
of distinction will be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve Him
not."- The Great Controversy, p. 605.
D Thursday
THE LOUD CRY (continued) November 14
9. While the door is closed for one class, how will the Lord look upon another
class? Romans 9:15, 16.
"Qh, that the people might know the time of their visitation! There are many
who have not yet heard the testing truth for this time. There are many with whom the
Spirit of God is striving. The time of God's destructive judgments is the time of mercy
for those who have had no opportunity to learn what is truth. Tenderly will the Lord
• look 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 are
still in Babylon? Revelation 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 of
Jerusalem; and so it will be in the last days. Again the voice of God is heard in a message
of warning, bidding His people separate themselves from the prevailing iniquity....
- 31-
"As in the days of Noah and Lot, there must be a marked separation from sin and
sinners."-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 166, 167.
D Friday
a. Describe the true gift of tongues manifested among the apostles.
b. What bars the way for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit?
c. Between the two special outpourings of the Holy Spirit (the former and the
latter rain), for what should Christians pray? /I
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 honestly
ignorant of the truth? •
•
"God can breathe new life into every soul
that sincerely desires to serve Him, and can
touch the lips with a live coal from off the
altar, and cause them to become eloquent
with His praise. Thousands of voices will be
imbued with the power to speak forth the
wonderful truths of God's Word. The stam-
mering tongue will be unloosed, and the timid
will be made strong to bear courageous testi- 9
mony to the truth." -The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White

Comments], vol. 6, p. 1055.
•
-32-
THE SHORT TIME OF TROUBLE
"And at the commencement of the time of trouble, we were filled with the
Holy Ghost as we went forth and proclaimed the Sabbath more fully."-Early
Writings, p. 33.
KEY TEXT: "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for
a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come" (Matthew
24:14).
D Sunday
THE MESSAGE PROCLAIMED IN HASTE November 17
1. In what sense does the Lord bid His servants to fulfill their commission,
"compelling" men to come in? Luke 14:23.
"The command given in the parable, to 'compel them to come in,' has often been
misinterpreted. It has been regarded as teaching that we should force men to receive
the gospel. But it denotes rather the urgency of the invitation, and the effectiveness of
the inducements presented. The gospel never employs force in bringing men to
Christ. 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 and
hedges,' is reaching its final fulfillment. To every soul Christ's invitation will be
given. The messengers are saying, 'Come; for all things are now ready.' Heavenly
angels are still working in cooperation with human agencies. The Holy Spirit is
presenting every inducement to constrain you to come. Christ is watching for some
sign that will betoken the removing of the bolts and the opening of the door of your
heart for His entrance. Angels are waiting to bear the tidings to heaven that another
lost sinner has been found. The hosts of heaven are waiting, ready to strike their
harps and to sing a song of rejoicing that another soul has accepted the invitation to
the 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 message
in the time of the latter rain?
"The Spirit of the Lord will so graciously bless consecrated human instrumen-
talities that men, women, and children will open their lips in praise and thanksgiving,
- 33-
,
~
filling the earth with the knowledge of God, and with His unsurpassed glory, as the
waters 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 in
the 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.
o Monday
THE RESU:::"T OF THE LOUD CRY November 18
3. 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 were
wrought. A spirit of intercession was seen, even as was manifested before the great
Day 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 thrown
open to the proclamation of the truth. The world seemed to be lightened with the
heavenly 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 the
papacy. Babylon will make all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornica-
tion. 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 must
prepare the way of the Lord under the ov~rruling guidance of the Holy Spirit. The
gospel is to be given in its purity. The stream of living water is to deepen and widen in
its 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, and
will be educated in connection with men of experience. As they learn to labor effec-
tively they will proclaim the truth with power. Through most wonderful workings of
divine providence, mountains of difficulty will be removed and cast into the sea. The
message that means so much to the dwellers upon the earth will be heard and under-
stood. Men will know what is truth. Onward and still onward the work will advance
until the whole earth shall have been warned, and then shall the end come."-Testi-
"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 latter
rain at its close."-The Great Controversy, pp. 611, 612.
o Tuesday
THE "OTHER SHEEP" November 19
5. How is the Spirit of God preparing the hearts of many honest individuals in
other churches? Malachi 3:16.
- 34-
"God has jewels in all the churches, and it is not for us to make sweeping denun-
ciation of the professed religious world, but in humility and love, present to all the
truth as it is in Jesus. Let men see piety and devotion, let them behold Christlikeness
of character, and they will be drawn to the truth."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G.
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 truth
sanctified through the truth, acting upon high and holy principles, showing in a high,
elevated sense, the line of demarcation between those who keep the commandments
of God and those who trample them under their feet."-TheSDA Bible Commentary [E.G.
White Comments], vol. t, p. 980.
o Wednesday
THE "OTHER SHEEP" (continued) November 20
7. What will happen to the faithful children of God who will be found in
Babylon and in the unreformed Laodicean church? John 10:16.
"I saw that God has honest children among the nominal Adventists and the fallen
churches, and before the plagues shall be poured out, ministers and people will be
called 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 these
religious bodies, that those who have rejected the truth may think that God is with
them. He hopes to deceive the honest and lead them to think that God is still working
for the churches. But the light will shine, and all who are honest will leave the fallen
churches, and take their stand with the remnant."-Early Writings, p. 261.
8. Under what circumstances will the inhabitants of the earth make their deci-
sion 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 have
become disloyal. There are a faithful few who are true to God; for John writes: 'Here
are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.' Revelation
14:12. Soon the battle will be waged fiercely between those who serve God and those
who serve Him not. Soon everything that can be shaken will be shaken, that those
things that cannot be shaken may remain."-Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 15, 16.
o Thursday
to TWO CLASSES November 21
9. Why will the honest ones not remain in Babylon any longer? Revelation
18:4-6,8.
"[I]n the last work for the warning of the world, two distinct calls are made to the
churches. 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 heaven
saying, 'Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye
- 35-
receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath re-
membered her iniquities' (Rev. 18:4, 5). "-Selected Messages, vol. 2, p. 118.
10. How many classes of people will exist on earth just 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 blood-
stained banner of Jesus Christ and those who stand under the black banner of rebel-
lion. In the twelfth chapter of Revelation is represented the great conflict between the
obedient 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 wor- •
ship the beast and his image and receive his mark."-The Great Controversy, p. 450.
o Friday
a. What part do heavenly angels act in the closing of the work?
b. From where will many workers be called in the last great work of the
gospel?
c. In what sense should we be careful when we speak of the apostasy of the

churches?
d. How will God's children in Babylon respond to the call? Why will it not be
possible to start a work of reformation under the final test?
e. Describe the two parties into which mankind will be divided.

•
- 36-
THE MARK OF THE BEAST
"Those who would not receive the mark of the beast and his image when the
decree goes forth, must have decision now to say, Nay, we will not regard the
institution of the beast."-Early Writings, p. 67.
KEY TEXT: "If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in
his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the
wrath of God" (Revelation 14:9, 10).
o Sunday
TWO DISTINCTIVE MARKS November 24
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 Sab-
bath, 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 visi-
ble our conformity to the law of God by observing the Sabbath. It is to be the mark of
distinction 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 it 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 the
papal 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 the
world 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 beast
and his image by keeping the first day of the week. The observance of this day is the
mark of the beast."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 979.
"
o Monday
A THREAT AND A WARNING November 25
3. How does the beast threaten those who would not accept his mark? Revela-
tion 13: 15, 17.
"The first day of the week, a common working day, possessing no sanctity
whatever, will be set up as was the image at Babylon. All nations and tongues and
- 37-
peoples will be commanded to worship this spurious sabbath. This is Satan's plan to
make of no account the day instituted by God, and given to the world as a memorial of
creation."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol~ 7, p. 976.
4. What warning is given against receiving the mark of the beast? Revelation
14:9,10.
"After the warning against the worship of the beast and his image the prophecy
declares: 'Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.'
Since those who keep God's commandments are thus placed in contrast with those
that worship the beast and his image and receive his mark, it follows that the keeping
of God's law, on the one hand, and its violation, on the other, will make the distinction
between the worshipers of God and the worshipers of the beast." - The Great Controversy,
pp. 445, 446.
"The most fearful threatening ever addressed to mortals is contained in the third
angel's message. That must be a terrible sin which calls down the wrath of God un-
mingled with mercy. Men are not to be left in darkness concerning this important
matter; the warning against this sin is to be given to the world before the visitation of
God's judgments, that all may know why they are to be inflicted, and have opportuni-
ty to escape them."-Ibid., pp. 449, 450.
D Tuesday
SUNDAY LAWS November 26
5. What terrible time is coming upon the inhabitants of the earth? Psalm
119:125, 126; Matthew 24:9 (last part).
"There is a time coming when commandment keepers can neither buy nor sell.
Make haste to dig out your buried talents. If God has entrusted you with money, show
yourselves faithful to your trust; unwrap your napkin, and send your talents to the ex-
changers, that when Christ shall come, He may receive His own with interest."-
Counsels on Stewardship, p. 40. .
"The rulers of our nation will, by legislative enactments, enforce the Sunday
law, and thus God's people be brought into great peril. When our nation, in its
legislative councils, shall enact laws to bind the consciences of men in regard to their
religious privileges, enforcing Sunday observance, and bringing oppressive power to
bear against those who keep the seventh-day Sabbath, the law of God will, to all in-
tents and purposes, be made void in our land; and national apostasy will be followed
by national ruin."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 977.
6. What decision must all make in view of the controversy between Sabbath
and Sunday? 1 Kings 18:21; Joel 3:14.
"The third angel's message has been sent forth to the world, warning men
against receiving the mark of the beast or of his image in their foreheads or in their
hands. To receive this mark means to come to the same decision as the beast has
done, and to advocate the same ideas, in direct opposition to the Word of God."-The
SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 979.
"The great decision now to be made by everyone is, whether he will receive the
mark of the beast and his image, or the seal of the living and true God."-Ibid., p. 977.
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D Wednesday
THE LAST ACT IN THE DRAMA November 27
7. What will be the attitude of the popular ministers and the people in regard
to the commandments of God? Psalm 119:53, 150; Matthew 15:8, 9.
"Ministers who deny the obligation of the divine law will present from the pulpit
the duty of yielding obedience to the civil authorities as ordained of God. In legislative
halls and courts of justice, commandment keepers will be misrepresented and con-
demned. A false coloring will be given to their words; the worst construction will be
put upon their motives."- The Great Controversy, p. 592.
"The time is coming when God's people will feel the hand of persecution be-
cause they keep holy the seventh day. Satan has caused the change of the Sabbath in
the hope of carrying out his purpose for the defeat of God's plans. He seeks to make
the 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 of
God, will cause laws to be made enforcing the observance of the first day of the
week."-Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 229, 230.
8. Which country will be the first to enforce Sunday-keeping and what will the
rest of the world do? What is the Sunday decree called in the Spirit of Proph-
ecy? Revelation 13: 12.
"As America, the land of religious liberty, shall unite with the papacy in forcing
the conscience and compelling men to honor the false sabbath, the people of every
country on the globe will be led to follow her example. Our people are not half awake
to do all in their power, with the facilities within their reach, to extend the message of
warning."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 18.
"This earth has almost reached the place where God will permit the destroyer to
work his will upon it. The substitution of the laws of men for the law of God, the ex-
altation, by merely human authority, of Sunday in place of the Bible Sabbath, is the
last act in the drama. When this substitution becomes universal, God will reveal
Himself. He will arise in His majesty to shake terribly the earth. He will come out of
His place to punish the inhabitants of the world for their iniquity, and the earth shall
disclose her blood and shall no more cover her slain."-Ibid., vol. 7, p. 141.
D Thursday
A CLEAR DISTINCTION November 28
9. What distinction will be seen between the children of God and the followers
of Satan in the final test? Malachi 3:18; 1 John 3:8-10.
"When the testing time shall come, those who have made God's word their rule
of life will be revealed. In summer there is no noticeable difference between ever-
greens and other trees; but when the blasts of winter come, the evergreens remain
unchanged, while other trees are stripped of their foliage. So the falsehearted pro-
fessor may not now be distinguished from the real Christian, but the time is just upon
us when the difference will be apparent. Let opposition arise, let bigotry and in-
tolerance again bear sway, let persecution be kindled, and the halfhearted and hypo-
critical will waver and yield the faith; but the true Christian will stand firm as a rock,
his faith stronger, his hope brighter, than in days of prosperity."- The Great Controver-
sy, p. 602.
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"While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to earthly powers, receive
the mark of the beast, the other choosing the token of allegiance to divine authority,
receive the seal of God."-Ibid., p. 605.
10. When Sunday-keeping is urged upon the inhabitants of the earth and all
have made their decision, what will happen immediately afterwards?
Revelation 22: 11.
"An angel returning from the earth announces that his work is done; the final
test has been brought upon the world, and all who have proved themselves loyal to
the divine precepts have received 'the seal of the living God.' Then Jesus ceases His
intercession in the sanctuary above. He lifts His hands and with a loud voice says, 'It
is done;' and all the angelic host layoff their crowns as He makes the solemn an-
nouncement: 'He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him
be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let
him be holy still.' Revelation 22:11. Every case has been decided for life or death."-
The Great Controversy, p. 613.
o Friday
a. Where in the ten commandments can we find the seal, stamp, sign, or mark
of God?
b. Why should the third angel's message be given with a loud voice, and when?
c. Although many were sealed in the past, when will the seal of God be im-
pressed, and when will the mark of the beast be enforced?
d. When will the "last act in the drama" take place?
e. When an angel returns from the earth stating that the final test was brought
upon the world, what will take place in the heavenly sanctuary? •
•
"In the Sabbath school, parents may be
learners as well as the children. Both parents
and children should seek to have a knowledge of
of the Scriptures. Other books should be sec-

ondary to the word of God." -Counsels on Sabbath School
Work, p. 53.
•
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Lesson 10 Sabbath, December 7, 1991
THE "PEACE AND SAFETY" CRY
"Satan delights in war.... It is his object to incite the nations to war against
one another, for he can thus divert the minds of the people from the work of
preparation to stand in the day of God." - The Great Controversy, p. 589.
KEY TEXT: "There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked" (Isaiah 57:21).
D Sunday
THE SOURCE OF TRUE PEACE December 1
1. Who alone can give us true peace? What is the difference between true
peace and that which the wicked offer? John 14:27.
"Shortly before His crucifixion Christ had bequeathed to His disciples a legacy
of peace. 'Peace I leave with you,' He said, 'My peace I give unto you: not as the
world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.'
John 14:27. This peace is not the peace that comes through conformity to the world.
Christ never purchased peace by compromise with evil. The peace that Christ left His
disciples is internal rather than external and was ever to remain with His witnesses
through strife and contention."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 84.
2. What is the cause of the lack of peace in the world, in families, and in the
lives of individuals? Isaiah 48:18; Psalm 119:165.
. " 'Blessed are the peacemakers.' The peace of Christ is born of truth. It is har-
mony with God. The world is at enmity with the law of God; sinners are at enmity
with their Maker; and as a result they are at enmity with one another. But the
psalmist declares, 'Great peace have they which love Thy law: and nothing shall of-
fend them.' Ps. 119:165. Men cannot manufacture peace. Human plans for the purifi-
cation and uplifting of individuals or of society will fail of producing peace, because
they do not reach the heart. The only power that can create or perpetuate true peace
is the grace of Christ. When this is implanted in the heart, it will cast out the evil pas-
sions that cause strife and dissension."- The Desire of Ages, pp. 302-305.
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D Monday
FALSE PEACE December 2
3. While the wicked speak of peace, for what are they preparing? Psalms
55:21; 120:7; 140:2.
"Weare [tanding upon the threshold of great and solemn events. Prophecies are
fulfilling. Strange, eventful history is being recorded in the books of heaven. Every-
thing in our world is in agitation. There are wars and rumors of wars. The nations are
angry, and the time of the dead has come, that they should be judged. Events are
changing to bring about the day of God, which hasteth greatly."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 14.
4. What will many nations do in the very near future, and what will some of
the small nations claim? Joel 3:9, 10.
"The world is stirred with the spirit of war. The prophecy of the eleventh chap-
ter of Daniel has nearly reached its complete fulfillment. Soon the scenes of trouble
spoken of in the prophecies will take place."- Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 14.
D Tuesday
THE SPIRIT OF WAR December 3
5. What is one of the signs of the soon coming of Jesus? Luke 21:9, 10.
"John ... was a witness of the terrible scenes that will take place as signs of
Christ's coming. He saw armies mustering for battle, and men's hearts failing them
for fear."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 982.
6. While the nations proclaim "peace and safety," what will befall them? 1
Thessalonians 5:1-3.
"Already kingdom is rising against kingdom. There is not now a determined

engagement. As yet the four winds are held until the servants of God shall be sealed
in their foreheads. Then the powers of earth will marshal their forces for the last
great battle. How carefully we should improve the little remaining period of our pro-
bation!"-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 968.
D Wednesday
THE SHAKING OF THE POWERS OF EARTH December 4
7. What did both David and John write about the anger of the nations in these
last days? Psalm 46:1-3,6,8; Revelation 11:18 (first part).
"I saw that the anger of the nations, the wrath of God, and the time to judge the
dead were separate and distinct, one following the other, also that Michael had not
stood up, and that the time of trouble, such as never was, had not yet commenced.
The nations are now getting angry, but when our High Priest has finished His work in
the sanctuary, He will stand up, put on the garments of vengeance, and then the
seven last plagues will be poured out."-Early Writings, p. 36.
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8. Explain the meaning of the shaking of the powers of earth. Joel 3:16;
Hebrews 12:26.
"I saw that the powers of earth are now being shaken and that events come in
order. War, and rumors of war, sword, famine, and pestilence are first to shake the
powers of earth, then the voice of God will shake the sun, moon, and stars, and this
earth also. I saw that the shaking of the powers in Europe is not, as some teach. the
shaking of the powers of heaven, but it is the shaking of the angry nations."-Early
Writings, p. 41.
o Thursday
THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON December 5
9. Where and by whom will the armed forces of the nations be finally summoned
for the last world war? Revelation 16:13, 14, 16; Joel 3:11-13.
"The battle of Armageddon is soon to be fought. He on whose vesture is written

the name, King of kings, and Lord of lords, is soon to lead forth the armies of heaven.
"It cannot now be said by the Lord's servants. as it was by the prophet Daniel:
'The time appointed was long.' Daniel 10:1. It is now but a short time till the wit-
nesses for God will have done their work in preparing the way of the Lord."-Testi-
10. What are the other names for Armageddon? Revelation 14:20; Isaiah 63:3,
4; Zechariah 12:11. Will Armageddon be a physical or a spiritual war, or
both?
"The nations of the world are eager for conflict; but they are held in check by the
angels. When this restraining power is removed, there will come a time of trouble and
anguish. Deadly instruments of warfare will be invented. Vessels, with their living
cargo, will be entombed in the great deep. All who have not the spirit of truth will
unite under the leadership of satanic agencies. But they are to be kept under control
till the time shall come for the great battle of Armageddon." - The SDA Bible Commen-
tary [E.G. White Comments]. vol. 7. p. 967.
o Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS December 6
a. What would be the result if all men were obedient to God's commandments?
b. What is the difference between the peace of the world and the peace which
Jesus offers us?
c. While the angels of God are holding the four winds, for what are the nations
preparing?
d. How are the powers of earth being shaken?
e. What will happen when the restraining power of God is removed from this
earth? •
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THE CLOSE OF PROBATION
"When the work of the gospel is completed, there immediately follows the
separation between the good and the evil, and the destiny of each class is
forever fixed:' - Christ's Object Lessons, p. 123.
KEY TEXT: "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may
obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16).
o Sunday
A NEGLECTED WORK December 8
1. What gracious invitation does the Lord extend to all those who are willing
to be saved? Isaiah 55:6, 7.
"My brethren and sisters, seek the Lord while He may be found. There is a time
coming when those who have wasted their time and opportunities will wish they had
sought Him. God has given you reasoning faculties. He wants you to keep in the line
of reason and in the line of labor. He wants you to go forth to our churches to labor
earnestly for Him."-Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 106, 107.
"There is help for us only in God. We must not wait for stronger persuasions, for
better opportunities, or for holier tempers. We can do nothing of ourselves. We must
come to Christ just'as we are."-Steps to Christ, p. 31.
2. What should we do in regard to the nearness of the end? Amos 4:12. Other-
wise, what must we expect? Hebrews 2:3.
"I saw that many were neglecting the preparation so needful and were looking to
the time of 'refreshing' and the 'latter rain' to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord
and to live in His sight. Oh, how many 1 saw in the time of trouble without a shelter!
They had neglected the needful preparation; therefore they could not receive the
refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God. Those who
refuse to be hewed by the prophets and fail to purify their souls in obeying the whole
truth, and who are willing to believe that their condition is far better than it really is,
will come up to the time of the falling of the plagues, and then see that they needed to
be hewed and squared for the building."-Early Writings, p.71.
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D Monday
THE DAY OF SALVATION December 9
3. What does Paul say about the day of salvation? Romans 13:11,12; 2 Corin-
thians 6:2.
"The angels of God in their messages to men represent time as very short. Thus
it has always been presented to me. It is true that time has continued longer than we
expected in the early days of this message. Our Saviour did not appear as soon as we
hoped. But has the word of the Lord failed? Never! It should be remembered that the
promises and threatenings of God are alike conditional."-Selected Messages, book I, p. 67.
"Now is the hour of probation. Now is the day of salvation. Now, now, is God's
.. time."-Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 102.
4. What is our present duty in view of the shortness of time? Hebrews

3:12-15.
"Oh, that now, while it is called today, you would turn to the Lord! Your every
deed is making you either better or worse. If your actions are on Satan's side, they
leave behind them an influence that continues to work its baleful results. Only the
pure, the clean, and the holy can enter the city of God. 'Today if ye will hear His
voice, harden not your hearts,' but turn to the Lord, that the path you travel may not
leave desolation in its track."- The Adventist Home, p. 358.
D Tuesday
SINS ARE BLOTTED OUT December 10
5. What will be done with the sins of God's true children immediately before
the times of refreshing? Acts 3:19.
"Those who are living upon the earth when the intercession of Christ shall cease
in the sanctuary above are to stand in the sight of a holy God without a mediator.
Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from sin by the blood
of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and their own diligent effort they must be
conquerors in the battle with evil. While the investigative judgment is going forward
in heaven, while the sins of penitent believers are being removed from the sanctuary,
there is to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God's peo-
ple upon earth."-The Great Controversy, p. 425.
6. What will be the fate of those whose sins are not blotted out before the close
of probation? Hebrews 10:26.
"As the books of record are opened in the judgment, the lives of all who have
believed on Jesus come in review before God. Beginning with those who first lived
upon the earth, our Advocate presents the cases of each successive generation, and
closes with the living. Every name is mentioned, every case closely investigated.
Names are accepted, names rejected. When any have sins remaining upon the books
of record, unrepented of and unforgiven, their names will be blotted out of the book of
life, and the record of their good deeds will be erased from the book of God's remem-
brance."- The Great Controversy, p. 483.
-45 -
o Wednesday
WE KNOW NOT THE HOUR December 11
7. As probation may close unexpectedly, what should we be doing? Mark

13:35-37.
"Weare waiting and watching for the return of the Master, who is to bring the
morning, lest coming suddenly He find us sleeping. What time is here referred to?
Not to the revelation of Christ in the clouds of heaven to find a people asleep. No; but
to His return from His ministration in the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary,
when he lays off His priestly attire and clothes Himself with garments of vengeance,
and when the mandate goes forth: 'He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he
which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still:
and he that is holy, let him be holy still.' "-Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 190, 191.
8. Why is the time of mercy being extended? 2 Peter 3:9. Although the time is
past due, what should we know for sure? Hebrews 10:37.
"God is long-suffering, not willing that any should perish; but His forbearance
has a limit, and when the boundary is past, there is no second probation. His wrath
will go forth and He will destroy without remedy."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G.
o Thursday
"AND THE DOOR WAS SHUT" December 12
9. What will indicate that Jesus' work is finished in the heavenly sanctuary?
Revelation 8:5; 22:11.
"I saw angels hurrying to and fro in heaven. An angel with a writer's inkhorn by
his side returned from the earth and reported to Jesus that his work was done, and the
saints were numbered and sealed. Then I saw Jesus, who had been ministering before
the ark containing the ten commandments, throw down the censer. He raised His
hands, and with a loud voice said, 'It is done.' And all the angelic host laid off their
crowns as Jesus made the solemn declaration, 'He that is unjust, let him be unjust
still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be
righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.' Every case had been decided
for life or death."-Early Writings, pp. 279, 280.
10. What does the parable of the ten virgins teach us regarding the time of pro-
bation? Matthew 25:8-10.
"When the work of investigation shall be ended, when the cases of those who in
all ages have professed to be followers of Christ have been examined and decided,
then, and not till then, probation will close, and the door of mercy will be shut. Thus
in the one short sentence, 'They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage:
and the door was shut,' we are carried down through the Saviour's final ministration,
to the time when the great work for man's salvation shall be completed."-The Great
Controversy, p. 428.
"It is in a crisis that character is revealed. When the earnest voice proclaimed at
midnight, 'Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him,' and the sleeping
virgins were roused from their slumbers, it was seen who had made preparation for
-46-
the event. Both parties were taken unawares; but one was prepared for the emergen-
cy, and the other was found without preparation. So now, a sudden and unlooked-for
calamity, something that brings the soul face to face with death, will show whether
there is any real faith in the promises of God. It will show whether the soul is sustained
by grace. The great final test comes at the close of human probation, when it will be
too late for the soul's need to be supplied."-Christ's Object Lessons, p. 412.
o Friday
a. In the time of trouble, what will happen to those who neglected their
preparation?
.
b. Although time has continued longer than the Advent people expected, of
what should we be sure?
c. When will the sins of the faithful people of God be removed from the sanc-
tuary?
d. To what event does Mark 13:35-37 refer?
e. When will the final verdict be given and what will be impossible from that
time onward? •
•
"When probation ends, it will come
suddenly, unexpectedly-at a time when we
are least expecting it. But we can have a clean
record in heaven today, and know that God
accepts us; and finally, if faithful, we shall be
gathered into the kingdom of heaven."-TheSDA
Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 989.
•
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THE TIME OF JACOB'S TROUBLE
"So when the irrevocable decision of the sanctuary has been pronounced and
the destiny of the world has been forever fixed, the inhabitants of the earth
will know it not."-The Great Controversy, p. 615. "
KEY TEXT: "She is empty, and void, and waste: and the heart melteth, and the
knees smite together, and much pain is in all loins, and the faces of
them all gather blackness" (Nahum 2:10).
D Sunday
THE FOUR WINDS December 15
1. What will happen when the four angels cease to hold the four winds? Psalm
46:1-3,6,8.
"As yet the four winds are held until the servants of God shall be sealed in their
foreheads. Then the powers of earth will marshal their forces for the last great
battle."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 968.
2. What is another name for the blowing of the winds? Revelation 15:1; 16:1.
"The wicked have passed the boundary of their probation; the Spirit of God, per-
sistently resisted, has been at last withdrawn. Unsheltered by divine grace, they have
no protection from the wicked one. Satan will then plunge the inhabitants of the earth
into one great, final trouble. As the angels of God cease to hold in check the fierce
winds of human passion, all the elements of strife will be let loose. The whole world
will be involved in ruin more terrible than that which came upon Jerusalem of ald."
- The Great Controversy,' p. 614.
"When Christ ceases His intercession in the sanctuary, the unmingled wrath
threatened against those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark
(Revelation 14:9, 10), will be poured out."-Ibid., p. 627.
D Monday
THE WICKED IN TROUBLE December 16
3. What will the ungodly do when it will be too late to be saved? Amos 8:11,
12.
"Those who had not prized God's Word were hurrying to and fro, wandering
from sea to sea, and from the north to the east, to seek the Word of the Lord. Said the
angel, 'They shall not find it. There is a famine in the land; not a famine of bread, nor
a thirst for water, but for hearing the words of the Lord. What would they not give for
one word of approval from God! but no, they must hunger and thirst on. Day after day
-48-
have they slighted salvation, prizing earthly riches and earthly pleasure higher than
any heavenly treasure or inducement. They have rejected Jesus and despised His
saints. The filthy must remain filthy forever.'
"Many of the wicked were greatly enraged as they suffered the effects of the
plagues. It was a scene of fearful agony."-Early Writings, pp. 281, 282.
4. How did the prophet describe the time of trouble for the wicked? Isaiah
28:21.
"Men are prone to abuse the long-suffering of God, and to presume on His for-
bearance. But there is a point in human iniquity when it is time for God to interfere;
and terrible are the issues. 'The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, and will
• not at all acquit the wicked' (Nahum 1:3). The long-suffering of God is wonderful,
because He puts constraint on His own attributes; but punishment is nonetheless cer-
tain. Every century of profligacy has treasured up wrath against the day of wrath; and
when the time comes, and the iniquity is full, then God will do His strange work. It
" will be found a terrible thing to have worn out the divine patience; for the wrath of
God will fall so signally and strongly that it is represented as being unmixed with mer-
cy; and the very earth will be desolated."-Selected Messages, book 2, pp. 372, 373.
o Tuesday
THE PLAGUES December 17
5. Upon whom will the first plague be poured out? Revelation 16:2.
"When Christ ceases His intercession in the sanctuary, the unmingled wrath
threatened against those who worship the beast and his image and receive his mark
(Revelation 14:9, 10), will be poured out. The plagues upon Egypt when God was
about to deliver Israel were similar in character to those more terrible and extensive
judgments which are to fall upon the world just before the final deliverance of God's
people. Says the revelator, in describing those terrific scourges: 'There fell a noisome
and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast, and upon them
which worshiped his image.' "-The Great Controversy, pp. 627, 628.
6. What will happen to the sea, the rivers and fountains of waters under the se-
cond and third plagues? Revelation 16:3-7.
"The sea 'became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the
sea.' And 'the rivers and fountains of waters ... became blood.' Terrible as these inflic-
tions are, God's justice stands fully vindicated. The angel of God declares: 'Thou art
righteous, 0 Lord, ... because Thou hast judged thus. For they have shed the blood of
saints and prophets, and Thou hast given them blood to drink; for they are worthy.'
Revelation 16:2-6. By condemning the people of God to death, they have as truly in-
curred the guilt of their blood as if it had been shed by their hands. In like manner
Christ declared the Jews of His time guilty of all the blood of holy men which had been
shed since the days of Abel; for they possessed the same spirit and were seeking to do
the same work with these murderers of the prophets."-The Great Controversy, p. 628.
o Wednesday
THE PLAGUES (continued) December 18
7. What is the fourth plague? Revelation 16:8, 9. What was foretold already by
Isaiah about the sun? Isaiah 30:26.
-49 -
"In the plague that follows, power is given to the sun 'to scorch men with fire.
And men were scorched with great heat.' Verses 8, 9. The prophets thus describe the
condition of the earth at this fearful time: 'The land mourneth; ... because the
harvest of the field is perished.... All the trees of the field are withered: because joy
is withered away from the sons of men.' 'The seed is rotten under their clods, the
garners are laid desolate. . . . How do the beasts groan! the herds of cattle are
perplexed, because they have no pasture.... The rivers of water are dried up, and
the fire hath devo"lred the pastures of the wilderness.' 'The songs of the temple shall
be howlings in that day, saith the Lord God: there shall be many dead bodies in every
place; they shall cast them forth with silence.' Joel 1:10-12, 17-20; Amos 8:3."-The
8. Where will the fifth plague be poured out and how will men react? Revela-
tion 16:10, 11.
o Thursday
THE PLAGUES (concluded) December 19
9. Where will the sixth plague be poured out and what will be the result?
Revelation 16:12-14.
10. What will the last plague be? Revelation 16:17-21.
"The firmament appears to open and shut. The glory from the throne of God
seems flashing through. The mountains shake like a reed in the wind, and ragged
rocks are scattered on every side. There is a roar as of a coming tempest. The sea is
lashed into fury. There is heard the shriek of a hurricane like the voice of demons
upon a mission of destruction. The whole earth heaves and swells like the waves of
the sea. Its surface is breaking up. Its very foundations seem to be giving way. Moun-
tain chains are sinking. Inhabited islands disappear. The seaports that have become
like Sodom for wickedness are swallowed up by the angry waters. Babylon the great
has come in remembrance before God, 'to give unto her the cup of the wine of the
fierceness of His wrath.' Great hailstones, everyone 'about the weight of a talent,' are
doing their work of destruction. Verses 19, 21. The proudest cities of the earth are
laid low. The lordly palaces, upon which the world's great men have lavished their
wealth in order to glorify themselves, are crumbling to ruin before their eyes."-The
o Friday
a. When will the blowing of the winds or the outpouring of the plagues begin?
b. After the close of probation, who will feel the wrath of God in this time of
trouble and destruction?
c. Upon whom will the first plague be poured out? Describe the second and the
third plagues.
d. What will happen to crop and cattle under the fourth plague? What will
unrepentant sinners do under the fifth plague?
e. Describe the sixth and seventh plagues.

•
- 50-
GOD'S PEOPLE DELIVERED
•
"The people of God will then [after the close of probation] be plunged into
those scenes of affliction and distress described by the prophet as the time of
Jacob's trouble."-The Great Controversy, p. 616.
KEY TEXT: "Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of
Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it" (Jeremiah 30:7).
o Sunday
FEAR AND ANGUISH December 22
1. Although none of the people of God will be destroyed in the time of trouble,
through what experience do they have to go? Isaiah 26:20,21.
"The people of God will not be free from suffering; but while persecuted and
distressed, while they endure privation and suffer for want of food they will not be left
to perish."- The Great Controversy, p. 629.
"I saw a writing, copies of which were scattered in different parts of the land,
giving orders that unless the saints should yield their peculiar faith, give up the Sab-
bath, and observe the first day of the week, the people were at liberty after a certain
time to put them to death. But in this hour of trial the saints were calm and composed,
trusting in God and leaning upon His promise that a way of escape would be made for
them. In some places, before the time for the decree to be executed, the wicked rushed
upon the saints to slay them; but angels in the form of men of war fought for them."-
Early Writings, pp. 282, 283.
2. What sure promise of God is the hope of the remnant? Revelation 3:10.
What will be the greatest anguish for God's people?
"Though God's people will be surrounded by enemies who are bent upon their
destruction, yet the anguish which they suffer is not a dread of persecution for the
truth's sake; they fear that every sin has not been repented of, and that through some
fault in themselves they will fail to realize the fulfillment of the Saviour's promise: I
'will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world.'
Revelation 3:10. If they could have the assurance of pardon they would not shrink
from torture or death; but should they prove unworthy, and lose their lives because of
their own defects of character, then God's holy name would be reproached."-The
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o Monday
DELIVERANCE AT THE VOICE OF GOD December 23
3. How and when will God deliver His people from their enemies? Revelation
16:17-19.
"It is at midnight that God manifests His power for the deliverance of His peo-
ple. The sun appears, shining in its strength. Signs and wonders follow in quick suc-
cession. The wicked look with terror and amazement upon the scene, while the
righteous behold with solemn joy the tokens of their deliverance. Everything in
nature seems turned out of its course. The streams cease to flow. Dark, heavy clouds
come up and clash against each other. In the midst of the angry heavens is one clear
space of indescribable glory, whence comes the voice of God like the sound of many
waters, saying: 'It is done.' Revelation 16:17.
"That voice shakes the heavens and the earth. There is a mighty earthquake,
'such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so
great.' Verses 17,18.... Prison walls are rent asunder, and God's people, who have
been held in bondage for their faith, are set free."-The Great Controversy, pp. 636, 637.
4. What will the saints do when the wicked rush to destroy them after hearing
the announcement of the day and hour of Jesus coming? Psalm 91:7,8.
"At our happy, holy state the wicked were enraged, and would rush violently up
to lay hands on us to thrust us into prison, when we would stretch forth the hand in
the name of the Lord, and they would fall helpless to the ground. Then it was that the
synagogue of Satan knew that God had loved us who could wash one another's feet
and salute the brethren with a holy kiss, and they worshiped at our feet."-Early Writ-
ings, p. 15.
o Tuesday
THE END OF TROUBLE December 24
5. Describe the final deliverance of the saints from their spiritual anguish.
Psalm 91:14, 15.
"Soon our eyes were drawn to the east, for a small black cloud had appeared,
about half as large as a man's hand, which we all knew was the sign of the Son of man.
We all in solemn silence gazed on the cloud as it drew nearer and became lighter,
glorious, and still more glorious, till it was a great white cloud. The bottom appeared
like fire; a rainbow was over the cloud, while around it were ten thousand angels,
singing a most lovely song; and upon it sat the Son of man. His hair was white and
curly and lay on His shoulders; and upon His head were many crowns. His feet had
the appearance of fire; in His right hand was a sharp sickle; in His left, a silver
trumpet. His eyes were as a flame of fire, which searched His children through and
through. Then all faces gathered paleness, and those that God had rejected gathered
blackness. Then we all cried out, 'Who shall be able to stand? Is my robe spotless?'
Then the angels ceased to sing, and there was some time of awful silence, when Jesus
spoke: 'Those who have clean hands and pure hearts shall be able to stand; My grace
is sufficient for you.' At this our faces lighted up, and joy filled every heart. And the
angels struck a note higher and sang again, while the cloud drew still nearer the
earth."-Early Writings, pp. 15, 16.
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6. What event will take place when Jesus appears in the clouds of heaven? 1
Thessalonians 4:15, 16; Isaiah 26:19.
"Amid the reeling of the earth, the flash of lightning, and the roar of thunder, the
voice of the Son of God calls forth the sleeping saints. He looks upon the graves of the
righteous, then, raising His hands to heaven, He cries: 'Awake, awake, awake, ye
that sleep in the dust, and arise!' Throughout the length and breadth of the earth the
dead shall hear that voice, and they that hear shall live. And the whole earth shall ring
with the tread of the exceeding great army of every nation, kindred, tongue, and peo-
ple. From the prison house of death they come, clothed with immortal glory, crying:
'0 death, where is thy sting? 0 grave, where is thy victory?' 1 Corinthians 15:55. ,And
the living righteous and the risen saints unite their voices in a long, glad shout of vic-
tory."- The Great Controversy, p. 644,
o Wednesday
CHANGED FROM MORTAL TO IMMORTAL December 25
7. When will the living saints be vested with immortality? 1 Corinthians

15:51,52.
"Sin defaced and almost obliterated the divine image; but Christ came to restore
that which had been lost. He will change our vile bodies and fashion them like unto
His glorious body. The mortal, corruptible form, devoid of comeliness, once polluted
with sin, becomes perfect, beautiful, and immortal. All blemishes and deformities are
left in the grave....
"The living righteous are changed 'in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.' At
the voice of God they were glorified; now they are made immortal and with the risen
saints are caught up to meet their Lord in the air. Angels 'gather together His elect
from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.' Little children are borne by
holy angels to their mothers' arms. Friends long separated by death are united, never-
more to part, and with songs of gladness ascend together to the City of God."-The
8. When the "sleeping saints" are raised immortal and the "living saints" re-
ceive immortality, where will the two companies go? 1 Thessalonians 4:17.
"The 144,000 shouted, 'Alleluia!' as they recognized their friends who had been
torn from them by death, and in the same moment we were changed and caught up
together with them to meet the Lord in the air.
"We all entered the cloud together, and were seven days ascending to the sea of
glass, when Jesus brought the crowns, and with His own right hand placed them on
our heads. He gave us harps of gold and palms of victory. Here on the sea of glass the
144,000 stood in a perfect square."-Early Writings, p. 16.
o Thursday
THE REWARD OF THE SAINTS December 26
9. Where were the victorious people of God seen by the apostle? Revelation
15:2, 3; 14: 1.
"Upon the crystal sea before the throne, that sea of glass as it were mingled with
fire-so resplendent is it with the glory of God-are gathered the company that have
- 53-
'gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the
number of his name.' With the Lamb upon Mount Zion, 'having the harps of God,'
they stand, the hundred and forty and four thousand that were redeemed from among
men; and there is heard, as the sound of many waters, and as the sound of a great
thunder, 'the voice of harpers harping with their harps.' And they sing 'a new song'
before the throne, a song which no man can learn save the hundred and forty and four
thousand. It is the song of Moses and the Lamb-a song of deliverance. None but the
hundred and forty-four thousand can learn that song; for it is the song of their ex-
perience-an experience such as no other company have ever had."-The Great Con-
troversy, pp. 648, 649.
10. What description do we have of the home of the saved? Isaiah 65:17;
Revelation 21:1-5.
"In the Bible the inheritance of the saved is called 'a country.' Hebrews 11:14-16.
There the heavenly Shepherd leads His flock to fountains of living waters. The tree of
life yields its fruit every month, and the leaves of the tree are for the service of the na-
tions. There are ever-flowing streams, clear as crystal, and beside them waving trees
cast their shadows upon the paths prepared for the ransomed of the Lord. There the
wide-spreading plains swell into hills of beauty, and the mountains of God rear their
lofty summits. On those peaceful plains, beside those living streams, God's people, so
long pilgrims and wanderers, shall find a home."-The Great Controversy, p. 675.
o Friday
a. Describe the twofold anguish of God's people in the time of Jacob's trouble.
b. From where will some of the saints be delivered when the earthquake oc-
curs at midnight?
c. Will the saints be in anguish for a short time also after the partial resurrec-
tion? When will their anguish come to an end?
d. At the partial resurrection (at the voice of God) the saints were glorified.
When will they become immortal?
e. Describe the condition of the 144,000 on the sea of glass and on Mount
Zion, and the home of the saved. •
is the day to remember our brethren in

Romania with a generous offering.
- 54-
General meetings, Field Conference in Romania, June 1990.
Field Conference delegates in Romania, June 1990.

Baptism of 63 souls in Romania with 3,400 people in attendance, July 1990.
Workers' meeting in Romania, April 1990.

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Sabbath Bible Lessons

THE LAST EVENTS

1 The Two Beasts 5

R. Ludwig, regional secretary for Europe

THE TWO BEASTS

"Prophecy represents Protestantism as having lamblike horns, but speaking

4. What is blasphemy against God? Mark 2:5-7; John 10:31-33.

"Republicanism and Protestantism became the fundamental principles of the na-

a. 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 distinct features of the second beast.

THE PRESENT TRUTH

10. Why is it so important to have the present truth? 1 Timothy 4:16.

c. To whom was the gospel revealed in the patriarchal dispensation?

THE THREE ANGELS' MESSAGES

1. What messages constitute a part of the everlasting gospel? Revelation

2. To whom was the proclamation of the everlasting gospel entrusted?

"This message is declared to be a part of 'the everlasting gospel.' The work of

"The message of Revelation 14 announcing the fall of Babylon, must apply to

9. What is in reality the essence of the third angel's message? Exodus

b. Narrate what you know about the work of William Miller.

THAT OTHER ANGEL

"Then I saw another mighty angel commissioned to descend to the earth, to

1. How should the third angel's message be proclaimed? Revelation 14:9.

"[The message to Laodicea] is designed to arouse the people of God, to discover

7. What will the "movement represented by the angel" of Revelation 18 ac-

9. By what special points of identification will the true remnant church be

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

THE SABBATH-THE GREAT ISSUE

8. How does God consider occasional Sabbath breaking? Nehemiah 13:16,17.

a. What is the foundation of every enduring reformation?

c. In view of the Sabbath, what special consideration should be taken on Friday?

THE SEALING OF THE 144,000

"John sees the elements of nature-earthquake, tempest, and political strife-

7. What should we do to be sealed? Ezekiel 9:4.

d. What are the conditions for receiving the seal of God?

THE LATTER RAIN

"Unless we are daily advancing in the exemplification of the active Christian

4. What is required of us in order that we may receive the Holy Spirit in

a. Describe the true gift of tongues manifested among the apostles.

mony to the truth." -The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White

THE SHORT TIME OF TROUBLE

a. What part do heavenly angels act in the closing of the work?

c. In what sense should we be careful when we speak of the apostasy of the

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

THE MARK OF THE BEAST

d. When will the "last act in the drama" take place?

of the Scriptures. Other books should be sec-

THE "PEACE AND SAFETY" CRY

"Already kingdom is rising against kingdom. There is not now a determined

"The battle of Armageddon is soon to be fought. He on whose vesture is written

d. How are the powers of earth being shaken?

THE CLOSE OF PROBATION

4. What is our present duty in view of the shortness of time? Hebrews

7. As probation may close unexpectedly, what should we be doing? Mark

d. To what event does Mark 13:35-37 refer?

THE TIME OF JACOB'S TROUBLE