Sabbath Bible Lessons: of Humanity

3/94 July - September 1994
Sabbath Bible Lessons

Senior Division
The Web ~
of Humanity
Contents
Lesson Titles Page
1 Children of One Common Father 5

2 No Distinction of Nationality or Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 9
3 Different Classes 13
4 No Caste or Colors in Christ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 17
5 Worldly Policies or Divine Order? 21
6 Our Father's Family 25
7 True and False Unity 29
8 True and False Shepherds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 33
9 "Who Is the Greatest?" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 37
10 Offices in the Church 41
11 Jesus, the Divine Pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 45
12 The Power of the Gospel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 49
13 God's Family Reunion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 53
Sabbath Bible Lessons, a daily study program, is based solely

on the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy without additional comments.
The quotations are as brief as possible to provide concise, direct
thoughts. Brackets [] are supplied in some cases to ensure clarity,
proper context, and smooth readability. Further study in the source
materials is strongly recommended.
Sabbath Bible Lessons (USPS 005-118) Volume 69/No. 3/]uly-September 1994. Published
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FOREWORD
This quarterly, The Web of Humanity, is a study about God's
great family on earth. God created Adam of the dust, breathed into
his nostrils the breath of life, and he became a living soul. He was
called "the son of God." His descendants rapidly populated the
earth, but because of the increasing wickedness they were all
destroyed by the flood, with the exception of Noah and his family.
From the descendants of the three sons of Noah came into existence
all the nations of the earth. The apostle Paul made it very clear to
the Athenians that God "made of one blood all nations of men for to
dwell on all the face of the earth" (Acts 17:26).
It is very unfortunate that man became degenerated by sin, and
today not only the physical, but also the moral and spiritual
characteristics that God put in man have been almost obliterated
and replaced by those of Satan. Looking at a drunkard, or a robber,
or at any criminal, we exclaim with astonishment: Man was "made a
little lower than the angels," but, alas! What a sad condition he is
found in now!
The daily news reports tell us of loveless, merciless criminals
who, forgetting that their fellowmen are God's creatures like them-
selves, dare to take the lives of innocent people without cause.
The hatred that exists between races, nationalities, and castes is
not pleasing to God. In His sight there is no distinction of persons,
no matter what their nationality or social position may be. Both the
educated and the ignorant need the saving grace of God.
Another important part of our study is focused on the proper at-
titude of those who claim to be God's children, and how they are to
deal with their brethren.
Our heavenly Father has a great family, and those who receive
power to become sons and daughters of God have the privilege of
calling Jesus Christ their elder Brother. Those who accept Him as
their personal Saviour are adopted into God's family as brothers and
sisters of Jesus, of the angels, and of the inhabitants of the whole
universe of God.
Mayall Sabbath school students understand the great privilege
of becoming sons and daughters of the King of the Universe, and
may they love their fellowmen for whom Jesus died.
The General Conference Sabbath School Department
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Why a Web?
Most of us have at some time observed the artistic crafts-
manship and delicate beauty of the lacelike web of a spider,
glistening with dewdrops in the morning sunshine. The truly
remarkable feat achieved by this tiny creature of God provides
a natural illustration of how diligent effort and painstaking
care can produce a unified network of exquisite design.
Some of the more elaborate webs are formed by several
spiders laboring together, completing their task with amazing
speed and efficiency. We may even feel a bit remorseful when
we accidently damage or destroy some portion of a garden
spiderweb, realizing the tremendous effort these little work-
men have invested in forming their intricate framework.
In a similar sense, the Spirit of Prophecy describes how
"we are all woven in the great web of humanity, and we can-
not, without loss, withdraw our sympathies from one another."
-Gospel Workers, p. 331. The damage done by breaking God's
network requires diligent effort to restore. We should treasure
the work of the Holy Spirit in knitting our hearts in Christian
love, for "it is impossible for a healthy influence to be main-
tained in the church when this common interest and sympathy
does not exist." -Ibid.
"We are God's servants, dOIng His service. Into the great
web of life we are to draw no thread of selfishness; for this
would spoil the pattern. But, oh, how thoughtless men are apt
to be! ... The holy love of God should lead every one to see
that it is his duty to care for some other one, and thus keep
alive the spirit of benevolence.... With what goodness, mer-
cy, and love God lays His requirements before His children,
telling them what they are to do. He honors us by making us
His helping hand. Instead of complaining, let us rejoice that
we have the privilege of serving under so good and merciful a
Master."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments],
vol. 1, pp. 1118, 1119.
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Lesson 1 Sabbath, July 2, 1994
Children of One Common Father

"God created man in His own image.... Man was to bear God's
image, both in outward resemblance and in character.... His
nature was in harmony with the will of God." -Patriarchs and
Prophets, p. 45.
KEY TEXT: "SO God created man in his own image, in the image of God
created he him; male and female created he them" (Genesis
1:27).
o Sunday
MAN WAS MADE June 26
1. When God created man, what was he like, and what was he called?
Genesis 1:27; Luke 3:38.
"God is a being, and man was made in His image. After God created
man in His image, the form was perfect in all its arrangements, but it had no
vitality. Then a personal, self-existing God breathed into that form the
breath of life, and man became a living, breathing, intelligent being. All
parts of the human machinery were put in motion. The heart, the arteries,
the veins, the tongue, the hands, the feet, the perceptions of the mind, the
senses, were placed under physical law. It was then that man became a liv-
ing soul."-Manuscript Releases, vol. 3, p. 304.
"God created man in His own image. Here is no mystery. There is no
ground for the supposition that man was evolved by slow degrees of devel-
opment from the lower forms of animal or vegetable life.... The genealogy
of our race, as given by inspiration, traces back its origin, not to a line of
developing germs, mollusks, and quadrupeds, but to the great Creator.
Though formed from the dust, Adam was 'the son of God.' "-Patriarchs and
Prophets, p. 45.
2. What was the purpose of God in the creation of the earth and man?
Isaiah 43:7; 45:18.
"God created the earth to be the abode of holy, happy beings. The Lord
'formed the earth and made it; He hath established it, He created it not in
vain, He formed it to be inhabited.' Isaiah 45:18. That purpose will be ful-
filled, when, renewed by the power of God, and freed from sin and sorrow, it
shall become the eternal abode of the redeemed." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 67.
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o Monday
OUR FATHER June 27
3. What is our kinship with God and with Jesus Christ? 1 Corinthians
8:6. Who should be the object of our constant consideration?
"The perception of God's love works the renunciation of selfishness. In

calling God our Father, we recognize all His children as our brethren. We
are all a part of the great web of humanity, all members of one family. In our
petitions we are to include our neighbors as well as ourselves. No one prays
aright who seeks a blessing for himself alone."- Thoughts From the Mount of
Blessing, p. 105.
4. Since we all have the same Father, what should be our attitude
toward our brethren and neighbors? Malachi 2: 10.
"Let the precious plant of love spring up in your hearts. When your
neighbor tries to injure you, return good for evil. Do all in your power to
please and help him, and you will soon see the hardness melted from his
heart, if it is possible for it to be overcome at all. We are to manifest the love
that Jesus has manifested, that we may be known and read of all men, as not
of the world, but of the Father. Seek God with humiliation of soul, for the
forgiveness of your sins. Go to your brother against whom you have had feel-
ings of enmity, and say, 'I want all variance to cease.' God has said, 'By this
shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.'
Take your brother right by the hand, and ask him to forgive you. It will not
hurt you to get down on your knees, if necessary to do so. Get all the roots of
bitterness out of the way. Have all these feelings blotted out by hearty con-
fession one to another. Do not be satisfied with a sort of general confession.
Come right to the point."- The Review and Herald, August 14, 1888.
"The Lord looks upon the creatures He has made with compassion, no
matter to what race they may belong.... God is our common Father, and
each one of us is our brother's keeper." -Selected Messages, book 2, p. 344.
o Tuesday
CAIN AND ABEL June 28
5. What characteristics were noticed in the two brothers, Cain and

Abel? Genesis 4:1-4, 5 (first part).
"Abel was determined to worship God according to the directions God

had given. This displeased Cain. He thought that his own plans were best,
and that the Lord would come to his terms. Cain in his offering did not
acknowledge his dependence upon Christ. He thought that his father Adam
had been treated harshly in being expelled from Eden."- Testimonies to Minis-
ters, p. 77.
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6. Describe the attitude of Cain in rejecting God's arrangements, and
the consequences which fell upon Abel. Genesis 4:5 (last part), 8.
What habitual tendency of the wicked is shown by this experience?
"Cain invites Abel to walk with him in the fields, and he there gives
utterance to his unbelief and his murmuring against God. He claims that he
was doing well in presenting his offering; and the more he talks against God,
and impeaches His justice and mercy in rejecting his own offering and
accepting that of his brother Abel, the more bitter are his feelings of anger
and resentment."- The Signs of the Times, December 16, 1886.
"While Abel justified the plan of God, Cain became enraged, and his
anger increased and burned against Abel because he would not join him in
his rebellion, until in his rage he slew him."- The Signs of the Times, February
6, 1879.
"Cain hated and killed his brother, not for any wrong that Abel had
done, but 'because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous.'
1 John 3:12. So in all ages the wicked have hated those who were better than
themselves. Abel's life of obedience and unswerving faith was to Cain a per-
petual reproof." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 74.
o Wednesday
JACOB AND ESAU June 29
7. What contrast was seen between Isaac's two sons, although they
received the same education in the home? Genesis 25:27; 30-34.
What is Esau called in the Bible, and how are we thereby warned
against self-indulgence? Hebrews 12:16.
"The circumstances of Esau's selling his birthright represents the

unrighteous, who consider that the redemption purchased for them by
Christ of little value, and sacrifice their heirship to Heaven for perishable
treasures. Many are controlled by their appetite, and rather than to deny an
unhealthy appetite, will sacrifice high and valuable considerations. If one
must be yielded, the gratification of a depraved appetite, or the high and
heavenly blessings which God promises only to the self-denying and God-
fearing, the clamors of appetite, as in the case of Esau, will generally prevail,
and for self-gratification, God and Heaven will be virtually despised."-
Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3, p. 116.
8. How did Esau react when he realized that he had lost his birthright
forever? Genesis 27:30-34; Hebrews 12:17. How much did he hate
his brother? Genesis 27:41.
"Esau had lightly valued the blessing while it seemed within his reach,
but he desired to possess it now that it was gone from him forever. All the
strength of his impulsive, passionate nature was aroused, and his grief and
rage were terrible.... Esau was not shut out from the privilege of seeking
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God's favor by repentance, but he could find no means of recovering the
birthright. His grief did not spring from conviction of sin; he did not desire to
be reconciled to God. He sorrowed because of the results of his sin, but not
for the sin itself." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 181.
o Thursday
JOSEPH AND HIS BRETHREN June 30
9. Describe the contrast between the attitude of Joseph toward his

brothers and their attitude toward him. Genesis 37:4; 13-20.
"With the true interest of a brother, Joseph searched for his brethren,
where his father supposed he would find them, but they were not there. A
certain man found him wandering in the field in search of his brethren, and
directed him to Dothan. This was a long journey for Joseph. But he cheerful-
ly performed it, because he loved his brethren." - The Spirit 0/ Prophecy, vol. 1,
p. 128.
10. After being sold as a slave, how was Joseph eventually rewarded
for his faithfulness and love for his brethren? What dangers accom-
pany such an honor? Genesis 41:41-46; Psalm 105:21,22.
"From the dungeon Joseph was exalted to be ruler over all the land of
Egypt. It was a position of high honor, yet it was beset with difficulty and
peril. One cannot stand upon a lofty height without danger. ... But Joseph's
character bore the test alike of adversity and prosperity. "-Patriarchs and
Prophets, p. 222.
o Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS July 1
a. Describe the creation of man and his condition after creation.

. b. When we call God "our Father" what are we virtually saying?
c. What was the fundamental difference between Cain and Abel?
d. In what sense are many, today, following the example of Esau?
e. In spite of the fact that Joseph was elevated to a high position, from
what danger was he not free? •
FOR FURTHER STUDY:

Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 44-51.
Ibid., pp. 71-79.
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No Distinction of
Nationality or Race
"[Christ] ... laid the foundation for a religion by which Jew and
Gentile, black and white, free and bond, are linked together in
one common brotherhood, recognized as equal in the sight of
God."-Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 225.
KEY TEXT: "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have
put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither
bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all
one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:27, 28).
D Sunday
THE ORIGIN OF NATIONS July 3
1. What is the only true source of information that we have about the
origin of people on earth? Isaiah 34:16.
"As an educator, the Holy Scriptures are without a rival. The Bible is
the most ancient and the most comprehensive history that men possess. It
came fresh from the Fountain of eternal truth; and throughout the ages a
divine hand has preserved its purity. It lights up the far-distant past, where
human research seeks in vain to penetrate. In God's word only do we behold
the power that laid the foundations of the earth, and that stretched out the
heavens. Here only do we find an authentic account of the origin of nations.
Here only is given a history of our race unsullied by human pride or prej-
udice."-Messages to Young People, p. 263.
2. What do the Scriptures say about the origin of the different na-
tions, revealing how all people are related to one another? Genesis
9:18, 19; 10:32; Acts 17:26. What happened at the time of the
building of the tower of Babel? Genesis 11:8,9.
"God has made all nations of one blood, and this tells the great truth of
the kinship of men. Every man is related to his fellowmen both by creation
and redemption. This was the truth that Christ constantly sought to keep
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before His disciples and before men. The feast at the house of the Pharisee
was made an occasion for presenting lessons of our individual responsibility
to the human race, and for pointing out the duties that are enjoined upon
man to his fellowmen." - The Review and Herald, November 12, 1895.
o Monday
ISHMAEL July 4
3. What counsel and what assurance concerning the future of her son
were given to Hagar, the mother of Ishmael? Genesis 16:7-11.
"[Hagar] made her way to the desert, and as she rested beside a foun-
tain, lonely and friendless, an angel of the Lord, in human form, appeared to
her. Addressing her as 'Hagar, Sarai's maid,' to remind her of her position
and her duty, he bade her, 'Return to thy mistress, and submit thyself under
her hands.' "-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 145, 146.
4. Relate the events which occurred when Ishmael was a teenager,

and cite the predictions describing his lifestyle and posterity. Gene-
sis 17:19; 21:1-3, 9-18, 20, 21; 16:12.
"[Ishmael] despised Isaac because he thought that he was preferred

before him. Sarah saw the disposition manifested by Ishmael against her son
Isaac, and she was greatly moved." -Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3, p. 103.
"The Lord informs Abraham, through His angels, to listen to the voice of
Sarah his wife ... for this was the only course he could pursue to restore har-
mony and happiness again to his family." - The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 1, p. 97.
"Separated from his father, and embittered by the strife and contention
of a home destitute of the love and fear of God, Ishmael was driven to choose
the wild, marauding life of the desert chief [Genesis 16:12 quoted]. In his lat-
ter days he repented of his evil ways and returned to his father's God, but
the stamp of character given to his posterity remained." -Patriarchs and
Prophets, p. 174.
o Tuesday
THE ISRAELITES July 5
5. What promise was given to Jacob on his way to Padan-Aram?

Genesis 28:12-14. What was the secret of the prosperity of Jacob
and his seed, later referred to as Israel? Genesis 35:9, 10.
"The days of Israel's greatest prosperity had been those in which they
acknowledged Jehovah as their King-when the laws and the government
which He had established were regarded as superior to those of all other na-
tions." -Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 605.
6. In spite of the fact that God had chosen Israel to be His peculiar
people, what did they do? Isaiah 30:1; Jeremiah 2:11-13.
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"Because Israel had been chosen to preserve the knowledge of God in
the earth, they had been, from their first existence as a nation, the special
objects of Satan's enmity, and he had determined to cause their destruction.
He could do them no harm while they were obedient to God; therefore he
had bent all his power and cunning to enticing them into sin. Ensnared by his
temptations they had transgressed the law of God and thus separated from
the Source of their strength, and had been left to become the prey of their
heathen enemies."- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 468.
"By departing from God's law the Hebrews had failed to become the peo-
ple that God desired to make them, and then all the evils which were the result
of their own sin and folly they charged upon the government of God. So com-
pletely had they become blinded by sin."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 605.
o Wednesday
ISRAEL REJECTED July 6
7. Because the children of Israel had rejected the Saviour, what
prediction did Jesus make concerning the Jewish nation? Luke
13:34,35.
"How was the Son of God received?-When the husbandmen saw Him,
they said, within themselves, 'This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us
seize on his inheritance. And they caught him, and cast him out of the vine-
yard, and slew him.' Christ came to His own, but His own received Him not.
They rewarded Him evil for good, and hatred for love. His soul was filled with
grief as He saw the backsliding of Israel."- The Review and Herald, July 17, 1900.
8. In condemning Christ, what sentence did the Jews pronounce upon
themselves and their descendants? Matthew 27:23-25.
"Looking upon the smitten Lamb of God, the Jews had cried, 'His blood
be on us, and on our children.' That awful cry ascended to the throne of God.
That sentence, pronounced upon themselves, was written in heaven. That
prayer was heard. The blood of the Son of God was upon their children and
their children's children, a perpetual curse.
"Terribly was it realized in the destruction of Jerusalem. Terribly has it
been manifested in the condition of the Jewish nation for eighteen hundred
years-a branch severed from the vine, a dead, fruitless branch, to be gath-
ered up and burned. From land to land throughout the world, from century
to century, dead, dead in trespasses and sins!"-The Desire of Ages, p. 739.
o Thursday
SPIRITUAL ISRAEL July?
9. According to the words of the apostle Paul, who are the true Israel-
ites? Romans 2:28, 29; 9:7, 8; Galatians 3:7.
"That which God purposed to do for the world through Israel, the
chosen nation, He will finally accomplish through His church on earth today.
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He has 'let out His vineyard unto other husbandmen,' even to His covenant-
keeping people, who faithfully 'render Him the fruits in their seasons.'
Never has the Lord been without true representatives on this earth who
have made His interests their own. These witnesses for God are numbered
among the spiritual Israel, and to them will be fulfilled all the covenant
promises made by Jehovah to His ancient people."-Prophets and Kings,
pp. 713, 714.
10. How did the Gentiles become Israelites and what does Inspiration
say about some of the natural descendants of Israel? Romans
11:13, 19, 20, 24. What distinctions are put away where Christ
reigns? Galatians 3:27, 28.
"Among the Jews are some who, like Saul of Tarsus, are mighty in the
Scriptures, and these will proclaim with wonderful power the immutability
of the law of God. The God of Israel will bring this to pass in our day. His
arm is not shortened that it cannot save. As His servants labor in faith for
those who have long been neglected and despised, His salvation will be
revealed." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 381.
o Friday
a. What is the relationship of all human beings, and why?
b. What results do we see even today because of Abraham's mistake

in marrying Hagar?
c. Why did God choose Israel to be His nation, His people?
d. Because the Jewish nation rejected Jesus, how does the Bible
describe their condition?
e. Explain how we can become true Israelites.

•
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 190, 191, 195-198.
The Desire of Ages, pp. 239, 240, 621, 622, 823.
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Different Classes
"We are not to renounce social communion. We should not seclude
ourselves from others. In order to reach all classes, we must meet
them where they are." - The Desire of Ages, p. 152.
KEY TEXT: "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all
men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith"
(Galatians 6:10).
o Sunday
THE WEALTHY July 10
1. Give an example of how rich people may be able to apply their
wealth and influence in the promotion of God's work, especially in a
time of crisis. John 19:38-40.
"[Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea] had been able to do for their
dead Master what it would have been impossible for the poor disciples to do;
and their wealth and influence had protected them, in a great measure, from
the malice of the priests and rulers.
"Now, when the Jews were trying to destroy the infant church,
Nicodemus came forward in its defense. No longer cautious and question-
ing, he encouraged the faith of the disciples and used his wealth in helping to
sustain the church at Jerusalem and in advancing the work of the gospel."-
The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 104, 105.
2. In what parable does Jesus indicate that the servants of God must
take special interest in the wealthy? Matthew 22:9.
"In the command to go into the highways and hedges, Christ sets forth
the work of all whom He calls to minister in His name."-Christ's Object Les-
sons, p. 229.
"Those who belong to the higher ranks of society are to be sought out
with tender affection and brotherly regard. Men in business life, in high
positions of trust, men with large inventive faculties and scientific insight,
men of genius, teachers of the gospel whose minds have not been called to
.the special truths for this time-these should be the first to hear the call. To
them the invitation must be given."-Ibid., p. 230.
"Thousands of wealthy men have gone to their graves unwarned,
because they have been judged by appearance, and passed by as hopeless
subjects. But, indifferent as they may appear, I have been shown that most
of this class are soul burdened. There are thousands of rich men who are
starving for spiritual food." - Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 78.
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o Monday
THE WORTHY POOR July 11
3. Who also are represented by those in the "byways and hedges" in

the parable of the great feast? Luke 14:23.
"Weare not to think only of great and gifted men, to the neglect of the
poorer classes. Christ instructs His messengers to go also to those in the
byways and hedges, to the poor and lowly of the earth. In the courts and
lanes of the great cities, in the lonely byways of the country, are families and
individuals-perhaps strangers in a strange land-who are without church
relations, and who, in their loneliness, come to feel that God has forgotten
them. They do not understand what they must do to be saved. Many are
sunken in sin. Many are in distress. They are pressed with suffering, want,
unbelief, despondency. Disease of every type afflicts them, both in body and
in soul. ...
"God has given a special command that we should regard the stranger,
the outcast, and the poor souls who are weak in moral power. Many who ap-
pear wholly indifferent to religious things are in heart longing for rest and
peace. Although they may have sunken to the very depths of sin, there is a
possibility of saving them." -Christ's Object Lessons, pp. 232, 233.
4. In the words of the prophet Isaiah, what constitutes true godliness?

Isaiah 58:7.
"We must have a care for those who have the moral courage to accept
the truth, who lose their situations in consequence, and are refused work by
which to support their families. Provision should be made to aid the worthy
poor and to furnish employment for those who love God and keep His com-
mandments. They should not be left without help, to feel that they are forced
to work on the Sabbath or starve. Those who take their position on the
Lord's side are to see in Seventh-day Adventists a warmhearted, self-
denying, self-sacrificing people, who cheerfully and gladly minister to their
brethren in need."- Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 85.
o Tuesday
OUR NEIGHBOR July 12
5. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, who was pointed out as being
our neighbor? Luke 10:30-37.
"Christ has shown that our neighbor does not mean merely one of the
church or faith to which we belong. It has no reference to race, color, or class
distinction. Our neighbor is every person who needs our help. Our neighbor
is every soul who is wounded and bruised by the adversary. Our neighbor is
everyone who is the property of God."- The Desire 0/ Ages, p. 503.
6. Although all mankind is to be helped, who are to be the special ob-

jects of our assistance? Galatians 6: 10.
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"In a special sense, Christ has laid upon His church the duty of caring
for the needy among its own members. He suffers His poor to be in the
borders of every church. They are always to be among us, and He places
upon the members of the church a personal responsibility to care for them.
"As the members of a true family care for one another, ministering to
the sick, supporting the weak, teaching the ignorant, training the inexperi-
enced, so is 'the household of faith' to care for its needy and helpless ones.
Upon no consideration are these to be passed by."-The Ministry of Healing,
p.201.
o Wednesday
OTHERS July 13
7. What promise is given to those that will accept the Sabbath in these
last days? Isaiah 56:1, 6, 7.
"Many from among the sons of the strangers were to learn to love
[Christ] as their Creator and their Redeemer."-Prophets and Kings, p. 372.
"Jesus says: Ask what ye will in My name, and it shall be done unto
you. In presenting My name, you bear witness that you belong to Me, that
you are My sons and daughters, and the Father will treat you as His own,
and love you as He loveth Me. Your faith in Me will lead you to exercise close,
filial affection toward Me and the Father. I am the golden chain by which your
heart and soul are bound in love and obedience to My Father. Express to My
Father the fact that My name is dear to you, that you respect and love Me,
and you may ask what you will. He will pardon your transgressions, and
adopt you into His royal familY,-make you a child of God, a joint heir with
His only-begotten Son."- The Signs of the Times, June 18, 1896.
8. In what other class of people should we take special interest? Psalms
25:7; 119:9.
"Study to win the youth to Jesus. Impress their minds with the mercy
and goodness of God in permitting them, sinful though they are, to enjoy the
advantages, the glory and honor, of being sons and daughters of the Most
High. What a stupendous thought, what unheard-of condescension, what
amazing love, that finite men may be allied to the Omnipotent! "-Temperance,
p.212.
"Weare in a world of sin and temptation, and youth are perishing out of
Christ all around us, and He wants you to labor for the youth in every con-
ceivable way that you can. If you have a house, and a pleasant home, then in-
vite the youth that have no homes, invite the youth that are in need of help,
that are in need of sympathy and kind words, courtesy, and respect. They
want all this."-Reflecting Christ, p. 247.
o Thursday
ALL ARE PRECIOUS July 14
9. As far as the plan of salvation is concerned, what difference exists
between a Jew and a Gentile? Romans 10:12.
-15 -
" 'And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.'
Wonderfully significant words! Henceforth there would be no partition wall
between Jew and Gentile. The gospel would be preached to all nations. Will
all hear the message of salvation?-They will; for Christ has said it. And if
they obey His gracious words, they will be claimed by God in the day when
He makes up His jewels. 'I will spare them,' He says, 'as a man spareth His
own son that serveth him.' All are drawn. Not one is left without conviction.
Christ gives everyone evidence."- The Review and Herald, November 13, 1900.
10. What changes are to be wrought by the power of Christ? Titus 2:11;
2 Corinthians 5:17; Colossians 3:9-11.
"There is no defect in God's plan for the salvation of men. If the gospel
is not to every soul the power of God unto salvation, it is not because the gos-
pel is at fault, but because men are not practical believers, practical re-
ceivers of the grace and righteousness of Christ."- This Day With God, p. 18.
"Christ came to this earth with a message of mercy and forgiveness. He
laid the foundation for a religion by which Jew and Gentile, black and white,
free and bond, are linked together in one common brotherhood, recognized
as equal in the sight of God. The Saviour has a boundless love for every
human being. In each one He sees capacity for improvement. With divine
energy and hope He greets those for whom He has given His life. In His
strength they can live a life rich in good works, filled with the power of the
Spirit."- Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 225.
"Christ has made all one.... The Bible declares that all human beings
are to be respected as God's property."-The Review and Herald, October 17,
1899.
D Friday
a. Why do we need to show special interest in the rich?

b. Who are the poor that should be helped?
c. Why does God permit the poor to be found in His church?
d. Why should the young people be the object of our interest?
e. Why should no distinction be made between Jew and Gentile? •
FOR FURTHER STUDY:

Christ's Object Lessons, pp. 376-389.
The Desire of Ages, pp. 497-505.
-16 -
No Caste or Colors in Christ
"God recognizes no distinction of rank. With Him there is no caste. In

His sight, men are simply men, good or bad. In the day of final
reckoning, position, rank, or wealth will not alter by a hairsbreadth
the case of anyone." - Counsels on Stewardship, p. 162.
KEY TEXT: "But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all
things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are
all things, and we by him" (1 Corinthians 8:6).
o Sunday
THE DESCENDANTS OF NOAH July 17
1. Name the sons of Noah and the basis on which blessings would
come to their posterity. Genesis 9:18, 19,26,27.
"To repeople the desolate earth, which the Flood had so lately swept
from its moral corruption, God had preserved but one family, the household
of Noah.... Yet in the three sons of Noah was speedily developed the same
great distinction seen in the world before the Flood. In Shem, Ham, and
Japheth, who were to be the founders of the human race, was foreshadowed
the character of their posterity."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 117.
"The reverence manifested by Shem and Japheth for their father, and
thus for the divine statutes, promised a brighter future for their descendants.
. . . The line of Shem was to be that of the chosen people, of God's covenant,
of the promised Redeemer. Jehovah was the God of Shem.... And Japheth
'shall dwell in the tents of Shem.' In the blessings of the gospel the descen-
dants of Japheth were especially to share."-Ibid., pp. 117, 118.
2. What is written about Ham and the descendants of Canaan? Where

did Israel, from the line of Shem, temporarily sojourn? Psalm
105:23,27.
"The unnatural crime of Ham declared that filial reverence had long
before been cast from his soul, and it revealed the impiety and vileness of his
character. These evil characteristics were perpetuated in Canaan and his
posterity, whose continued guilt called upon them the judgments of God."
-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 117.
-17 -
"The prophecy of Noah was no arbitrary denunciation of wrath or
declaration of favor. It did not fix the character and destiny of his sons. But
it showed what would be the result of the course of life they had severally
chosen and the character they had developed. It was an expression of God's
purpose toward them and their posterity in view of their own character and
conduct. As a rule, children inherit the dispositions and tendencies of their
parents, and imitate their example; so that the sins of the parents are prac-
ticed by the children from generation to generation."-Ibid., p. 117.
o Monday
THE VALUE OF A SOUL July 18
3. What lessons do we learn from the conversion of the Ethiopian
eunuch? Acts 8:26-28,35-39; Psalm 68:31; Isaiah 56:3-5.
"This Ethiopian was a man of good standing and of wide influence. God
saw that when converted he would give others the light he had received and
would exert a strong influence in favor of the gospel." - The Acts of the Apos-
tles, p. 107.
4. What possibility was opened through Christ for all people? Ephe-
sians 2:13,14. Why must partition walls be broken down? Romans
8:14; 15:5,6.
"Whoever of the human family give themselves to Christ, whoever hear

the truth and obey it, become children of one family. The ignorant and the
wise, the rich and the poor, the heathen and the slave, white or black-Jesus
paid the purchase money for their souls. If they believe on Him, His cleans-
ing blood is applied to them. The black man's name is written in the book of
life beside the white man's. All are one in Christ. Birth, station, nationality,
or color cannot elevate or degrade men. The character makes the man."-
Selected Messages, book 2, p. 343.
o Tuesday
THE DARK CORNERS OF THE EARTH July 19
5. From where will God bring together some of His remnant, or
spiritual brethren? Isaiah 11: 11; 56:8.
"The whole world is opening to the gospel. Ethiopia is stretching out

her hands unto God. From Japan and China and India, from the still dark-
ened lands of our own continent, from every quarter of this world of ours,
comes the cry of sin-stricken hearts for a knowledge of the God of love."-
Gospel Workers, p. 85.
6. What do the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy say about many peo-
ple in Christian as well as in pagan countries? Isaiah 40:5; Luke 3:6.
"Among earth's inhabitants, scattered in every land, there are those

who have not bowed the knee to Baal. ... In heathen Africa, in the Catholic
-18 -
lands of Europe and of South America, in China, in India, in the islands of
the sea, and in all the dark corners of the earth, God has in reserve a firma-
ment of chosen ones that will yet shine forth amidst the darkness, revealing
clearly to an apostate world the transforming power of obedience to His
law."-Prophets and Kings, pp. 188, 189.
D Wednesday
SOUNDING THE GOSPEL July 20
7. What commission did Christ entrust to His followers in these last

days? Matthew 24: 14; 28: 19, 20.
"The third angel's message is now to be proclaimed in every land. It is

to be borne to English-speaking people, and to those of every other lan-
guage. Let believers, as active recipients of God's blessing, diffuse the light
of His truth to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people."- The Review and
Herald, July 7, 1903.
"To us as a people God has committed great and solemn truths, not
merely to be enjoyed by ourselves, but to be given to others. The banner of
truth must be unfurled in every nation. The message of warning must be
proclaimed to every tongue and people."-Ibid., December 7,1886.
8. How many countries are to be reached by the proclamation of the

everlasting gospel? Revelation 14:6.
"In foreign countries many enterprises for the advancement of this

message must yet be begun and carried forward."-Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 51.
D Thursday
BRING THEM IN July 21
9. What words of Jesus indicate that we have brethren in the fallen

churches? 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 reject-
ed 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.
10. Besides the "other sheep" that are to be gathered in, who else
should be the object of our special attention? Genesis 4:9; James
5:19,20.
-19 -
"How many there are who ask the question, Am I my brother's keeper?
Said the angel, Yea, thou art thy brother's keeper. To every professed Chris-
tian the words are spoken, Suffer not thy brother to be left unwarned;
cherish a spirit of kindness and of love toward the erring. Often when a man
commits a wrong, it is because spiritual blindness is upon him; he is deceived
and deluded. Treat not such as an enemy.... The soul who accepts the
sacrifice of Christ in his behalf is pledged to have a special care for his
brother who is erring."- The Review and Herald, May 13, 1909.
"He [who by impenitence is severed from the fellowship of the church]
is not to be regarded as cut off from the mercy of God. Let him not be despised
or neglected by his former brethren, but be treated with tenderness and
compassion, as one of the lost sheep that Christ is still seeking to bring to
His fold." - The Desire of Ages, p. 441.
"Brethren and sisters in the faith, does the question arise in your
hearts, 'Am I my brother's keeper?' If you claim to be the children of God,
you are your brother's keeper."- The Review and Herald, October 12, 1886.
o Friday
a. What were the conditions on which the posterity of Noah could

receive God's favor?
b. Regardless of color or nationality, if a man is converted, where is

his name written?
c. Name some of the countries mentioned in the Spirit of Prophecy

where we have brethren.
d. Where should the gospel be proclaimed?
e. Although we should work for those who have never heard the mes-
sage, what should we do for those who have strayed from the fold?
FOR FURTHER STUDY:

Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 179-183.
Selected Messages, book 1, pp. 257-260.
- 20-
Worldly Policies or Divine Order?

"Among the disciples of Christ ... one was not to aspire to dominion
over his brethren, and to seek to be lord over God's heritage." - The
Signs of the Times, January 15, 1885.
KEY TEXT: "And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your ser-
vant" (Matthew 20:27).
D Sunday
WRONG PRINCIPLES July 24
1. What are the principles and policies that regulate the worldly
governments? Mark 10:42.
"In the kingdoms of the world, the people were supposed to exist
for the benefit of the ruling classes The higher classes were to think,
decide, enjoy, and rule; the lower [classes] were to obey and serve.... The
people were expected to believe and practice as their superiors directed."-
The Desire 0/ Ages, p. 550.
2. In contrast with the rules and regulations of the world, what prin-
ciples should govern God's people? Acts 5:29; Isaiah 1: 18.
"The government of God is not, as Satan would make it appear, found-

ed upon a blind submission, an unreasoning control. It appeals to the in-
tellect and the conscience. 'Come now, and let us reason together' is the
Creator's invitation to the beings He has made. Isaiah 1:18. God does not
force the will of His creatures. He cannot accept an homage that is not will-
ingly and intelligently given. A mere forced submission would prevent all
real development of mind or character; it would make man a mere autom-
aton. Such is not the purpose of the Creator." -Steps to Christ, pp. 43, 44.
D Monday
HONORARY TITLES July 25
3. What was made clear in the teachings of Jesus about using honor-
ary titles? Matthew 23:8-10. To whom alone does the title
"Reverend" belong? Psalm 111:9.
- 21-
"To what human being is [the title of 'reverend'] befitting? How little
does man reveal of the wisdom and righteousness it indicates. How many of
those who assume this title are misrepresenting the name and character of
God! Alas, how often have worldly ambition, despotism, and the basest sins
been hidden under the broidered garments of a high and holy office!"-The
Desire of Ages, p. 613.
"It dishonors God to address ministers as 'reverend.' No mortal has any
right to attach this to his own name, or to the name of any other human be-
ing. It belongs only to God." -Sons and Daughters of God, p. 58.
4. What titles does the "man of sin," the "son of perdition," claim for
himself? 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 4.
"It is one of the leading doctrines of Romanism that the pope is the visi-
ble head of the universal church of Christ, invested with supreme authority
over bishops and pastors in all parts of the world. More than this, the pope
has been given the very titles of Deity. He has been styled, 'Lord God the
Pope,' and has been declared infallible. He demands the homag~ of all men.
The same claim urged by Satan in the wilderness of temptation is still urged
by him through the Church of Rome, and vast numbers are ready to yield
him homage."- The Great Controversy, p. 50.
o Tuesday
RULE OR RUIN July 26
5. What arbitrary command was given by king Nebuchadnezzar, and

how did he threaten the three worthies? Daniel 3:14, 15.
"As Nebuchadnezzar tried to force his subjects to obey his mandates,

so men will try to force us to disregard the Word of God. They will endeavor
to compel us to render homage to man-made statutes; but in God's strength
we are to refuse to dishonor Him. The laws of earthly kingdoms are to be
obeyed only when they do not conflict with the laws of God. When govern-
ments are tyrannical and overbearing, when they trample on God's law,
their laws are contemptible in His sight. And when they try to control the
minds and consciences of those whom Christ died to make free, God's chil-
dren are to show their loyalty to Him by refusing to disobey His command-
ments."- The Signs of the Times, May 13, 1897.
6. What counsel is given by the apostle Peter to those who have

responsibilities to oversee God's flock? 1 Peter 5:2, 3. What was
the erroneous attitude of some leaders in the days of Sister White,
and how did she respond?
"If men will not come to the terms made by the leading workers, they
will not entertain them, they do not care what results may follow their in-
justice. With them it is rule or ruin. God has not appointed any man to do
- 22-
such work. And no human being shall be permitted to prescribe my liberty
or intrench upon the perfect freedom of my brethren, without hearing my
voice lifted in protest against it."-The Review and Herald, July 23,1895.
"The Lord never created man to lord it over his fellow man."- The
Review and Herald, February 14, 1899.
o Wednesday
PREVENTING DIVISIONS July 27
7. What was one of the great concerns of the apostle Paul? Hebrews
12: 15; Galatians 5: 14, 15. How can the peace of the church be
disturbed?
"Upon the occurrence of trials in the church let every member examine
his own heart to see if the cause of trouble does not exist within. By spiritual
pride, a desire to dictate, an ambitious longing for honor or position, a lack
of self-control, by the indulgence of passion or prejudice, by instability or
lack of judgment, the church may be disturbed and her peace sacrificed."-
Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 241.
8. What is the main cause of difficulties and divisions in the church?

1 Corinthians 3:3. How can they be avoided?
"The secret of unity is found in the equality of believers in Christ. The

reason for all division, discord, and difference is found in separation from
Christ. Christ is the center to which all should be attracted; for the nearer we
approach the center, the closer we shall come together in feeling, in sym-
pathy, in love, growing into the character and image of Jesus. With God
there is no respect of persons."-Selected Messages, book 1, p: 259.
"It is the duty of ministers to respect the judgment of their brethren;
but their relations to one another, as well as the doctrines they teach, should
be brought to the test of the law and the testimony; then, if hearts are teach-
able, there will be no divisions among us."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 503.
o Thursday
NO KINGLY POWER IN THE CHURCH July 28
9. What should all who have duties and responsibilities in the church
keep in mind? James 3:13-16.
"Those who accept a position of responsibility in the cause of God

should always remember that with the call to this work God has also called
them to walk circumspectly before Him and before their fellow men. Instead
of considering it their duty to order and dictate and command, they should
realize that they are to be learners themselves. When a responsible worker
fails to learn this lesson, the sooner he is released from his responsibilities
- 23-
the better it will be for him and for the work of God. Position never will give
holiness and excellence of character. He who honors God and keeps His
commandments is himself honored." - Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 282, 283.
"Through confession and reformation they will remove everything that
divides hearts. And He who forgives our sins cleanses us from all the rub-
bish that has been accumulating around us through human devising-
rubbish that encouraged alienation and strife, and that perpetuated difficul-
ties because of our refusal to submit to Christ's yoke."-Manuscript Releases,
vol. 4, p. 354.
10. What is the right attitude of a servant of God toward his fellow
workers? Matthew 20:27; 1 Peter 5:5, 6. What does the Spirit of
Prophecy say about ruling over the brethren?
"In the church of God no one is to set himself up in kingly power and
authority. 'All ye are brethren.' Be very courteous in speech, very kindly in
action."- The Bible Training School, May 1, 1903.
"God has not set any kingly power in the Seventh-day Adventist
Church to control the whole body or to control any branch of the work. He
has not provided that the burden of leadership shall rest upon a few men.
Responsibilities are distributed among a large number of competent men."
- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 236.
D Friday
a. Why does God not compel anyone to obey?
b. What does the Bible say about titles, like "Master," "Reverend,"
"Father," etc.?
c. What may some leaders be tempted to do if they cannot rule?
d. How can difficulties in the church be avoided?
e. What kind of leaders should not exist in God's church?

•
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
- 24-
Lesson 6 Sabbath, August 6, 1994
Our Father's Family

"All who are found worthy to be counted as the members of the fam-
ily of God in heaven, will recognize one another as sons and daugh-
ters of God." -Selected Messages, book 1, p. 259.
KEY TEXT: "For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my
brother, and my sister, and mother" (Mark 3:35).
o Sunday
ADOPTED BY GOD July 31
1. Narrate the conversation that took place between the disciples and
Jesus, according to Matthew 12:47-50 and Mark 3:35.
"[Matthew 12:47-50 describes] the relationship that exists between

Christ and His followers. We occupy this exalted position, if we are indeed
doing the will of God. We are to consider ourselves as constituting the family
of Christ, and we are to follow Him as dear children. Adopted into the
household of God, shall we not honor our Father and our kindred? We have
no excuse to plead, for through Jesus we may command all power in Heaven
and earth that we may walk worthy of our high calling."-The Signs of the
Times, March 23, 1888.
"If we are doing the will of God, we are counted as the brethren and
sisters of our Master. We are to remember this in our daily life."- The Review
and Herald, August 7, 1888.
2. By what means alone can we become sons and daughters of God?

John 1:12, 13; Romans 8:15, 16.
"Divine sonship is not something that we may gain of ourselves. Only to

those who receive Christ as their Saviour is given the power to become sons
and daughters of God. The sinner can not, by any power of his own, rid him-
self of sin. For the accomplishment of this result, he must look to a higher
Power. John exclaimed, 'Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the
sin of the world.' Christ alone has power to cleanse the heart."-The Review
and Herald, September 3, 1903.
"Jesus asks us to consecrate ourselves to Him. He has placed signal
honor upon the human race; for He says, 'As many as received him, to them
- 25-
gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his
name.' Shall we not, then, give to Christ that which He has died to redeem?
If you will do this, He will quicken your conscience, renew your heart, sanc-
tify your affections, purify your thoughts, and set all your powers at work
for Him. Every motive and every thought will be brought into captivity to
Jesus Christ.
"Those who are sons of God will represent Christ in character. Their
works will be perfumed by the infinite tenderness, compassion, love, and
purity of the Son of God. And the more completely mind and body are yield-
ed to the Holy Spirit, the greater will be the fragrance of our offering to
Him."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 909.
o Monday
GUARDING GOD'S HERITAGE August 1
3. In order to become children of our heavenly Father, what must we

do? 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.
"Do you desire to become the sons and daughters of the Most High?
Here is stated the condition of this great privilege. Come out, be separate,
touch not the unclean. You cannot keep the fellowship of the world, par-
ticipate in its pleasures, identify yourself with its interests, and still be the
sons of God.... You may come unto the Father in the name of His Son,
and, no matter how broken and feeble your petitions, Jesus will present
them before the throne of infinite power, and the light that was shed upon
Him, will be reflected upon you. You will be 'accepted in the Beloved.' "-
The Review and Herald, February 28, 1888.
"If, dear reader, there is a separation of your sympathies from your
relatives and friends for the sake of Christ and His truth, do not feel that you
are left brotherless, sisterless, motherless, fatherless. Your heavenly Father
promises: 'I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be
my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.' "- The Signs of the Times,
November 3, 1887.
4. Who are to be accounted as the younger members of God's family,

and why must extra care be taken in their behalf? Psalm 127:3;
Matthew 19:13-15.
"Who are these little ones that are committed to our care? They are the
younger members of the Lord's family." -Fundamentals of Christian Education,
p.158.
"It is not safe for Christians to choose the society of those who have no
connection with God, and whose course is displeasing to Him. Yet how many
professed Christians venture upon the forbidden ground. Many invite to their
homes relatives who are vain, trifling, and ungodly; and often the example
and influence of these irreligious visitors produce lasting impressions upon
the minds of the children in the household."-Messages to Young People, p. 432.
"Study to win the youth to Jesus. Impress their minds with the mercy
and goodness of God in permitting them, sinful though they are, to enjoy the
- 26-
advantages, the glory and honor, of being sons and daughters of the Most
High."-Temperance, p. 212.
o Tuesday
WE SHALL SEE GOD August 2
5. What special privilege is ours today, and what promise is given us

for the future? 1 John 3:1, 2. What is required of us before we can
realize the promise? 1 John 3:3.
"For every human being, Christ has paid the election price. No one
need be lost. All have been redeemed. To those who receive Christ as a per-
sonal Saviour will be given power to become the sons and daughters of God.
An eternal life insurance policy has been provided for all."- The SDA Bible
Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 944.
6. Who will have the privilege of seeing God face to face? Matthew 5:8;
Hebrews 12: 14.
"Jesus declared that the pure in heart should see God.... They would
also see God in the future immortal state, as did Adam when he walked and
talked with God in Eden. Even now the pure in heart see God 'through a
glass darkly, but then face to face.' "- The Spirit ofProphecy, vol. 2, pp. 208, 209.
o Wednesday
OUR ELDEST BROTHER August 3
7. In order to become a member of the human family, what was it

necessary for Jesus to do? Philippians 2:5-8.
"The light shining from the throne of God upon the cross of Calvary
forever puts an end to man-made separations between class and race. Men
of every class become members of one family, children of the heavenly King,
not through earthly power, but through the love of God who gave Jesus to a
life of poverty, affliction, and humiliation, to a death of shame and agony,
that He might bring many sons and daughters unto glory." -Selected Messages,
book 1, p. 258.
8. Since Jesus is one of the human family, how does He consider us?
Hebrews 2:11.
"Christ was to identify Himself with the interests and needs of humani-
ty. He who was one with God has linked Himself with the children of men by
ties that are never to be broken. Jesus is 'not ashamed to call them brethren'
(Hebrews 2:11); He is our Sacrifice, our Advocate, our Brother, bearing our
human form before the Father's throne, and through eternal ages one with
the race He has redeemed-the Son of man." -Steps to Ch1'ist, p. 14.
- 27-
o Thursday
GOD'S CHILDREN SCATTERED August 4
9. Where are the members of God's great family at the present time?
John 17:15; Ephesians 3:14, 15.
"The church of God below is one with the church of God above.
Believers on the earth and the beings in heaven who have never fallen consti-
tute one church. Every heavenly intelligence is interested in the assemblies
of the saints who on earth meet to worship God. In the inner court of heaven
they listen to the testimony of the witnesses for Christ in the outer court on
earth, and the praise and thanksgiving from the worshipers below is taken
up in the heavenly anthem, and praise and rejoicing sound through the
heavenly courts because Christ has not died in vain for the fallen sons of
Adam."- Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 366.
10. What wonderful promise is made to the members of God's family

who are still on this earth? John 17:24.
"Now the church is militant. Now we are confronted with a world in

midnight darkness, almost wholly given over to idolatry. But the day is com-
ing in which the battle will have been fought, the victory won. The will of
God is to be done on earth, as it is done in heaven. Then the nations will own
no other law than the law of heaven. All will be a happy, united family, clothed
with the garments of praise and thanksgiving-the robe of Christ's righteous-
ness."- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 42.
o Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS August 5
a. If we do the will of God, what do we become?

b. If forsaken by our unbelieving relatives for the truth's sake, what shall
we gain?
c. How do the pure in heart see God both now and in the hereafter?
d. In our spiritual family, who is our eldest Brother?
e. When will the great family of God be together?
•
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
Christ's Object Lessons, pp. 207-211.
- 28-
True and False Unity

"Union is strength; division is weakness. When those who believe
present truth are united, they exert a telling influence." - Testimonies,
vol. 5, p. 236.
KEY TEXT: "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus
Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no
divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in
the same mind and in the same judgment" (1 Corinthians 1:10).
D Sunday
FORBIDDEN UNITY August 7
1. What does the word of God say about uniting with unbelievers?
Judges 2:2 (first part); 2 Corinthians 6:14.
"The Lord's injunction, 'Be ye not unequally yoked together with

unbelievers' (2 Corinthians 6:14), refers not only to the marriage of Chris-
tians with the ungodly, but to all alliances in which the parties are brought
into intimate association, and in which there is need of harmony in spirit and
action. The Lord gave special direction to Israel to keep themselves distinct
from idolaters." -Selected Messages, book 2, p. 121.
2. What do the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy say about partnership
with worldlings? Amos 3:3; 2 Corinthians 6:15; Isaiah 8:11, 12.
"Sabbathkeepers should not be in partnership with unbelievers. God's

people trust too much to the words of strangers, and ask their advice and
counsel when they should not."- Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 200.
"Even in business relations we cannot, without involving principle, con-
nect ourselves with those who are not loyal to God. What the one party feels
that conscience forbids, the other allows. And this not merely in regard to
religious matters, but in business transactions." -Historical Sketches of Foreign
Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, pp. 215, 216.
D Monday
FORBIDDEN MARRIAGES August 8
3. What clear command given by God to the children of Israel is still

binding today? Why? Deuteronomy 7:3, 4.
- 29-
"Men and women professing godliness should tremble at the thought of
entering into a marriage covenant with those who do not respect and obey
the commandments of God. It was this that opened the flood-gates of sin to
the antediluvians. Such a connection with the world is a direct departure
from God's express requirements-'Be ye not unequally yoked together with
unbelievers.' "- The Signs of the Times, December 30, 1880.
4. What experience is recorded in the Scriptures about marrying

unbelieving wives? Nehemiah 13:23-29. What does the Spirit of
Prophecy say about mixed marriages?
"Never should God's people venture upon forbidden ground. Marriage

between believers and unbelievers is forbidden by God. But too often the un-
converted heart follows its own desires, and marriages unsanctioned by God
are formed. Because of this many men and women are without hope and
without God in the world."-The Adventist Home, p. 63.
"It is disobedience to God that fills so many hearts and homes with
misery. My sister, unless you would have a home where the shadows are
never lifted, do not unite yourself with one who is an enemy of God."-
Messages to Young People, p. 440.
o Tuesday
FORBIDDEN ASSOCIATIONS August 9
5. What warning did God give to His children about the danger of
mingling with apostates? Jeremiah 51:6; Revelation 18:4.
"The Lord has singled us out and made us subjects of His marvelous
mercy. Shall we be charmed with the pratings of the apostate? Shall we
choose to take our stand with Satan and his host? Shall we join with the
transgressors of God's law?"- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 595.
"Christ calls for unity. But He does not call for us to unify on wrong
practices. The God of heaven draws a sharp contrast between pure, ele-
vating, ennobling truth and false, misleading doctrines. He calls sin and im-
penitence by the right name. He does not gloss over wrongdoing with a coat
of untempered mortar. I urge our brethren to unify upon a true, scriptural
basis." -Selected Messages, book 1, p. 175.
6. What injunction of the apostle Peter is still applicable in these last

days? Acts 2:40.
"I was shown the necessity of those who believe that we are having the
last message of mercy, being separate from those who are daily imbibing
new errors. I saw that neither young nor old should attend their meetings;
for it is wrong to thus encourage them while they teach error that is a deadly
poison to the soul and teach for doctrines the commandments of men. The
influence of such gatherings is not good. If God has delivered us from such
darkness and error, we should stand fast in the liberty wherewith He has set
- 30-
us free and rejoice in the truth. God is displeased with us when we go to
listen to error, without being obliged to go; for unless He sends us to those
meetings where error is forced home to the people by the power of the will,
He will not keep us. The angels cease their watchful care over us, and we are
left to the buffetings of the enemy, to be darkened and weakened by him and
the power of his evil angels; and the light around us becomes contaminated
with the darkness."-Early Writings, pp. 124, 125.
D Wednesday
UNITY AMONG GOD'S PEOPLE August 10
7. As we approach the final events, what special warning should be

heeded by those who believe the present truth? Hebrews 10:24,25;
1 Corinthians 1:10.
"Let us press together. It is no time now for us to quarrel among our-

selves, no time to draw apart. Let us not thus counterwork the work that God
is seeking to do for us and through us."- The Review and Herald, January 13, 1910.
"The members of the church need now to confess their backslidings
and press together. My brethren, allow nothing to come in that will separate
you from one another or from God. Talk not of the differences of opinion, but
unite in the love of the truth as it is in Jesus."- Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 11, 12.
"We must blend together in the bonds of Christlike unity; then our
labors will not be in vain. Draw in even cords, and let no contentions be
brought in. Reveal the unifying power of truth, and this will make a powerful
impression on human minds. In unity there is strength." -Selected Messages,
book 1, p. 168.
"If there was ever a time when the people of God should press together,
it is now."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 236.
8. What constitutes the greatest proof to the world that we are God's
children? Psalm 133:1; 1 John 1:7; John 13:35; 17:21.
"Harmony existing among men of varied dispositions is the strongest

evidence that can be borne that God has sent His Son into the world to save
sinners. True Christians are distinct in individuality, and they differ in disposi-
tion; but they are sanctified by the same spirit, and they are one in the under-
standing of the things of God."- The Signs 0/ the Times, November 26, 1902.
D Thursday
JESUS' PRAYER ANSWERED August 11
9. How will Christ's prayer for unity among His followers be

answered in these last days? John 17:22,23.
"Like will attract like. Those who are drinking from the same fountain
of blessing will draw nearer together. Truth dwelling in the hearts of
- 31-
believers will lead to blessed and happy assimilation. Thus will be answered
the prayer of Christ that His disciples might be one even as He is one with
the Father. For this oneness every truly converted heart will be striving."-
Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 100, 101.
"Thus will the truth be brought into practical life, and thus will be
answered the prayer of Christ, uttered just before His humiliation and death:
[J ohn 17:21 quoted]." - Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 401.
10. How can divisiveness be fully banished from among God's remnant
people in these last days? Colossians 3:12-15; 1 Peter 3:8; 4:8.
"Tbe people of God will draw together and present to the enemy a
united front. In view of the common peril, strife for supremacy will cease;
there will be no disputing as to who shall be accounted greatest. No one of
the true believers will say: 'I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas.'
The testimony of one and all will be: 'I cleave unto Christ; I rejoice in Him as
my personal Saviour.' ... The love of Christ, the love of our brethren, will
testify to the world that we have been with Jesus and learned of Him. Then
will the message of the third angel swell to a loud cry, and the whole earth
will be lightened with the glory of the Lord." - Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 401.
D Friday
a. What does the Spirit of Prophecy warn about partnership with

unbelievers?
b. From what kind of homes are the shadows never lifted?
c. What is the danger in attending meetings where error is taught?
d. Though different in disposition 'one from another, how can we be

one in Christ?
e. When will the proclamation of the third angel's message swell into
a loud cry? •
FOR FURTHER STUDY:

Ibid., vol. 8, pp. 239-243.
- 32-
True and False Shepherds

"The voice that magnifies the law of God we recognize as the voice of
the true Shepherd; but we know that those who would make of none
effect the commandments of God, are false shepherds who would
exalt tradition above the commandments ofJehovah."- The Youth's In-
structor, September 27, 1894.
KEY TEXT: "He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the
lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall
gently lead those that are with young" (Isaiah 40:11).
o Sunday
FALSE SHEPHERDS August 14
1. How can we distinguish between true and false shepherds? Ezekiel

34:1-4.
"If ministers who are called upon to preach the most solemn message
ever given to mortals, evade the truth, they are unfaithful in their work, and
are false shepherds to the sheep and the lambs. The assertions of man are of
no value. Let the word of God speak to the people. Let those who have heard
only traditions and maxims of men, hear the voice of God, whose promises
are Yea and Amen in Christ Jesus."-The Review and Herald, March 11,1902.
2. What do the false shepherds do when they see the flock in danger?
John 10:12, 13.
"In the final victory, God will have no use for those persons who are
nowhere to be found in time of peril and danger, when the strength, courage,
and influence of all are required to make a charge upon the enemy." -Gospel
Workers, p. 322.
o Monday
TRUE SHEPHERDS August 15
3. Describe the care with which the true Good Shepherd handles His
flock. Isaiah 40:11; John 10:11, 14.
"Jesus is the Good Shepherd who has given His life for the sheep.
Every soul that will submit to be ransomed, Jesus will bear from the pit of
- 33-
corruption or from the briars of sin. He bore our sins, He carried our sor-
rows. Jesus takes the soul, sinful and polluted, upon His shoulders, and
joyfully bears it to the haven of safety. Not a solitary soul would have
entered the fold of Christ if the divine Shepherd had not made a personal
effort to save that which was lost."-The Youth's Instructor, December 30,1897.
4. What are the duties of the undershepherds in regard to the flock of

God? 1 Peter 5:1, 2; Acts 20:28.
"Christ, the Chief Shepherd, has entrusted the care of His flock to His
ministers as undershepherds; and He bids them have the same interest that
He has manifested, and feel the sacred responsibility of the charge He has
entrusted to them. He has solemnly commanded them to be faithful, to feed
the flock, to strengthen the weak, to revive the fainting, and to shield them
from devouring wolves."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 191.
"A faithful shepherd will not study his own ease and convenience, but
will labor for the interest of the sheep. In this great work he will forget self;
in his search for the lost sheep he will not realize that he himself is weary,
cold, and hungry. He has but one object in view: to save the lost and wander-
ing sheep at whatever expense it may be to himself. His wages will not in-
fluence him in his labor nor turn him from his duty. He has received his com-
mission from the Majesty of heaven, and he expects his reward when the
work entrusted to him is done."- Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 341.
D Tuesday
THE TRUE SHEEP August 16
5. What happened to the Lord's sheep because of the false shepherds?

Ezekiel 34:5, 6; Isaiah 53:6.
"The poor scattered sheep have been left to be torn by wolves and
starve without food. They are coming in from all directions. These poor
souls have had no labor and yet they seem to cling to the truth, but are starv-
ing for food." -Manuscript Releases, vol. 7, p. 28.
6. What wonderful promise is made about the scattered, torn sheep?

Ezekiel 34:12-16; Micah 2:12; 1 Peter 2:25.
"Oh, how good it would be to meet with a few of like precious faith to
exhort and comfort one another with words of holy cheer from the word of
God. The sheep are now scattered, but thank God they are about to be
gathered to a good pasture. Oh, how sweet it will be to meet all the blood-
washed throng in the city of our God."-Manuscript Releases, vol. 5, p. 95.
"In the gathering, when God has set His hand to gather His people, ef-
forts to spread the truth will have their designed effect." -Early Writings,
p.74.
- 34-
o Wednesday
THE GOATS August 17
7. Although many appear to be sheep and lambs, what are they in

reality? Zechariah 10:3.
"Mark the division made between those represented by the sheep and
the goats, and mark the words which decide forever the destiny of the two
classes. Listen, you who have ears to hear and intellect to comprehend."-
Manuscript Releases, vol. 15, pp. 112, 113.
"There are two classes to the end of time-a party to be separated on
the left hand He calls 'goats,' and there is a party to be on the right hand He
calls 'sheep.' "-Sermons and Talks, p. 151.
8. What will Jesus say to the sheep on His right and to the goats on His
left? Matthew 25:34, 41.
"The trumpet of the archangel will soon startle the living, and wake the
dead. At that day the wicked will be separated from the just, as the shepherd
divides the goats from the sheep."-The Youth's Instructor, July 21,1892.
"And when Christ shall separate the righteous from the wicked, as a
shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats; and he shall set the sheep on his
right hand, but the goats on the left, we shall all want to be on the right hand.
We shall not then esteem it an honor to be found with the multitudes in the
paths of transgression."- The Review and Herald, January 13, 1885.
o Thursday
ONE SHEPHERD AND ONE FOLD August 18
9. What important truth is taught in the parable of the lost sheep?

Luke 15:4-7.
"The sheep that has strayed from the fold is the most helpless of all
creatures. It must be sought for by the shepherd, for it cannot find its way
back. So with the soul that has wandered away from God; he is as helpless as
the lost sheep, and unless divine love had come to his rescue he could never
find his way to God." -Christ's Object Lessons, p. 187.
"In the parable of the lost sheep, the shepherd goes out to search for
one sheep,-the very least that can be numbered. Discovering that one of his
sheep is missing, he does not look carelessly upon the flock that is safely
housed, and say, I have ninety and nine, and it will cost me too much trouble
to go in search of the straying one. Let him come back, and I will open the
door of the sheepfold and let him in. No; no sooner does the sheep go astray
than the shepherd is filled with grief and anxiety. Leaving the ninety and
nine in the fold, he goes in search of the straying one. However dark and
tempestuous the night, however perilous and uncertain the way, however
long and tedious the search, he does not falter until the lost is found."-
Gospel Workers, pp. 181, 182.
- 35-
10. What is the responsibility of those who claim to be followers of
Christ in regard to the straying sheep? Jude 22,23.
"There is one lost sheep, the very least that could be numbered; and yet
he represents the shepherd as leaving the ninety and nine, and going into the
mountains to seek that one lost wanderer. Then why is it that the sons and
daughters of God are so cold of heart, so indifferent to the souls that are
perishing around them? Why is it that the members of the church are so will-
ing to let the whole burden rest upon the shoulders of the ministers? How
great a mistake is this, since every subject of grace is to have a part to act in
saving those that are lost. ... Jesus uses the illustration of a lost sheep to
show the need of seeking after those who have wandered from him; for a
sheep once lost will never find its way back to the fold without help. It must
be sought for, it must be carried back to the fold." - The Review and Herald,
June 30, 1896.
D Friday
a. What does the false shepherd do when strength and courage are
most needed?
b. Jesus is the true Good Shepherd. What are the pastors of the
church called?
c. What will God do with the sheep that are now scattered?
d. What is the characteristic of the goats and how can we identify

them?
e. What is the duty of the undershepherds?

•
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
Early Writings, pp. 123-125.
- 36-
"Who Is the Greatest?"
"In the estimation of heaven, greatness of character consists in living

for the welfare of our fellowmen, in doing works of love and mercy."
- The Desire of Ages, pp. 613, 614.
KEY TEXT: "But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant"
(Matthew 23:11).
D Sunday
A CHANGE OF HEART NEEDED August 21
1. What evidence shows that the spirit of self-aggrandizement was

prevalent among the disciples? Luke 9:46.
"Instead of being ambitious to be equal to another in honor and posi-

tion, or perhaps even higher, we should seek to be the humble, faithful ser-
vants of Christ. This spirit of self-aggrandizement made contention among
the apostles even while Christ was with them." - Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 226.
2. How did Jesus endeavor to correct this problem? Luke 9:47, 48;
Matthew 18:3. In what sense should we become like little children?
1 Corinthians 14:20.
"It was not enough for the disciples of Jesus to be instructed as to the
nature of His kingdom. What they needed was a change of heart that would
bring them into harmony with its principles. Calling a little child to Him,
Jesus set him in the midst of them; then tenderly folding the little one in His
arms He said, 'Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye
shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.' The simplicity, the self-
forgetfulness, and the confiding love of a little child are the attributes that
Heaven values. These are the characteristics of real greatness."- The Desire
of Ages, p. 437.
"Little children do not manifest feelings of superiority and aristocracy.
They are simple and natural in their appearance. Christ would have His
followers cultivate unaffected manners, that their whole bearing might be
humble and Christlike."- The Review and Herald, June 22, 1886.
- 37-
o Monday
A DISPUTE AMONG THE DISCIPLES August 22
3. When the Lord's supper was instituted at the last Passover, what
dispute still continued among the disciples? Luke 22:24.
"It was at the last Passover that the disciples were to hold with their
Lord that these words were spoken. Very soon Christ was to offer Himself
as a sacrifice for the world. At this time, in the last hours that the disciples
would have with their Master, Satan made a determined effort to arouse
contention among them. Sorrow filled Christ's heart as He saw them yield-
ing to the spirit of strife, and disputing as to who should be greatest."-
Manuscript Releases, vol. 6, p. 24.
4. With what lesson did Jesus again endeavor to correct the existing
problem? Luke 22:25-27; John 13:13-17.
"Very tenderly, yet with solemn emphasis, Jesus tried to correct the
evil. He showed what is the principle that bears sway in the kingdom of
heaven, and in what true greatness consists, as estimated by the standard of
the courts above. Those who were actuated by pride and love of distinction
were thinking of themselves, and of the rewards they were to have, rather
than how they were to render back to God the gifts they had received. They
would have no place in the kingdom of heaven, for they were identified with
the ranks of Satan."- The Desire of Ages, p. 436.
o Tuesday
THE HIGHEST POSITION August 23
,
5. What was the religious experience of the apostle Paul before and
after his conversion? Philippians 3:4-9.
"Writing to the Philippians, [Paul] describes his experience before and

after his conversion. 'If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he
might trust in the flesh,' he says, 'I more ... 'touching the righteousness
which is of the law, blameless.'
"After his conversion, his testimony was:-'Yea, verily, and I count all
things to be loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ.' "- The Signs
of the Times, July 20, 1904.
6. Where will a repentant sinner find his most exalted position? Luke
10:39; 1 Corinthians 1:18.
"If we would be saved at last we must all learn the lesson of penitence
and faith at the foot of the cross." -Lift Him Up, p. 240.
"Some have thought that you must labor for [people of one nationality]
in a different way from the way in which you work for [those of another na-
tionality or still another]; but [the former] need to learn at the foot of the
- 38-
cross the same lessons that [the latter] must learn there."-The Review and
Herald, November 12, 1889.
"When at the foot of the cross the sinner looks up to the One who died
to save him, he may rejoice with fullness of joy; for his sins are pardoned.
Kneeling in faith at the cross, he has reached the highest place to which man
can attain."- The Faith I Live By, p. 103.
D Wednesday
HUMILITY August 24
7. Before receiving honor, what will a true child of God do? Proverbs
15:33: James 4:10.
"Those who are really worthy of attention and preference will never be
found putting themselves forward, but will leave the best and highest places
for some one else, esteeming others better than themselves."- The Review
and Herald, October 8, 1895.
"The more one sees of the character of God, the more humble he
becomes, and the lower his estimation is of himself. This indeed is the
evidence that he beholds God, that he is in union with Jesus Christ." -Sons
and Daughters of God, p. 68.
8. What did Jesus say we should do instead of seeking high or honor-

able positions? Luke 14:8-11; Matthew 23:11.
"The spirit that urges men to seek the highest place, is accompanied
with pride, selfishness, and self-esteem, and the result will be that he who
struggles for the highest position will find himself in the lowest. Nothing will
make a man really great except to be truly good. But he who is wholly conse-
crated to God does not have the exaltation of self in view, but the glory of
God."- The Review and Herald, October 8, 1895.
D Thursday
BROTHERLY LOVE August 25
9. What should be our attitude both in our homes and in society?

What kind of love will a true Christian reveal? What attitude is not
acceptable to Heaven? Romans 12:9, 10; 1 Thessalonians 4:9.
"Weare exhorted to add to godliness, brotherly kindness. 0 how much

we need to take this step, to add this quality to our characters! In many of
our homes there is a hard, combative spirit manifested. Critical words and
unkind actions are offensive to God. Dictatorial commands and haughty,
overbearing manners are not acceptable to Heaven. The reason there are so
many differences existing between brethren is that they have failed to add
brotherly kindness. We should have that love for others that Christ has had
for us. A man is estimated at his true value by the Lord of heaven. If he is
unkind in his earthly home, he is unfit for the heavenly home. If he will have
- 39-
his own way, no matter whom it grieves, he would not be content in heaven,
unless he could rule there. The love of Christ must control our hearts, and
the peace of God will abide in our homes. Seek God with a broken and con-
trite spirit, and you will be melted with compassion toward your brethren.
You will be prepared to add to brotherly kindness, charity, or love."- The
Review and Herald, February 21, 1888.
10. What is the basic distinction between the children of God and the
children of the devil? 1 John 3:10, 11.
"Take the question to your own hearts, and answer it as if before the
Judge of all the earth. A reformation must take place in every family, in every
institution, in every church. 'Let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but
in deed and in truth.' "- The Review and Herald, April 3, 1900.
"Those who claim to believe the truth should obey the Word of God just
as it reads, practicing its instruction. Remember that those who love not
their brethren, deny the faith. Many, because their brethren do not follow
their leading, manifest toward them a spirit of hatred. God has never bidden
us follow the leading of any man, and He has said, 'He that saith he is in the
light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.' "- The General
Conference Bulletin, July 1, 1900.
"The sacred union with Christ will unite the brethren in the most
endearing bonds of Christian fellowship. Their hearts will be touched with
divine compassion one for another."- The Signs of the Times, March 23, 1888.
D Friday
a. How did Christ correct the disciples with reference to the strife
over the question, Who is the greatest?
b. In order to harmonize with the principles of heaven, what do we
need?
c. Where do we need to learn the lesson of penitence?
d. What will not be done by those that are humble in their own estima-
tion?
e. How will the absence of brotherly kindness become evident? •
FOR FURTHER STUDY:

Ibid., p. 650.
- 40-
Lesson 10 Sabbath, September 3, 1994
Offices in the Church

"Great care should be exercised in selecting officers for the new chur-
ches. Let them be men and women who are thoroughly converted."
- Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 85.
KEY TEXT: "Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men,
such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place
such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hun-
dreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens" (Exodus 18:21).
D Sunday
QUALIFIED LEADERS August 28
1. In the election of church officers, what guidelines should be taken
into consideration? Exodus 18:21.
"The same principles of piety and justice that were to guide the rulers
among God's people in the time of Moses and of David, were also to be fol-
lowed by those given the oversight of the newly organized church of God in
the gospel dispensation. In the work of setting things in order in all the chur-
ches, and ordaining suitable men to act as officers, the apostles held to the
high standards of leadership outlined in the Old Testament Scriptures."-
The Acts of the Apostles, p. 95.
"It would be well for all our ministers to give heed to these words and
not hurry men into office without due consideration and much prayer that
God would designate by His Holy Spirit whom He will accept."- Testimonies,
vol. 5, p. 617.
2. What instruction is given about the election of church elders (d.

Acts 20:17, 28)? 1 Timothy 3:2-7; Titus 1:5-9.
"The family of the one suggested for office should be considered. Are
they in subjection? Can the man rule his own house with honor? What char-
acter have his children? Will they do honor to the father's influence? If he has
no tact, wisdom, or power of godliness at home in managing his own family,
it is safe to conclude that the same defects will be carried into the church,
and the same unsanctified management will be seen there. It will be far bet-
ter to criticize the man before he is put into office than afterward, better to
pray and counsel before taking the decisive step than to labor to correct the
consequences of a wrong move."- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 618. .
- 41-
o Monday
STEWARDSHIP August 29
3. What principle must always be kept in mind in all church business?
1 Corinthians 4:1,2.
"To be faithful stewards of the mysteries of God, we must not shrink

from giving needed warning and reproof. Though the hearts of men may be
uplifted in pride, and they may refuse to be warned, we still have done our
duty."-The Review and Herald, January 1,1884.
"All must render an account to God, of how their time and their talents of
intellect and money have been used. It is not a light thing to be intrusted with
riches; but it is a grand thing to be accounted as a faithful steward of God in
making right use of the Lord's money."-The Review and Herald, March 8,1887.
4. What is the responsibility of the church officers regarding the
Lord's money? Malachi 3:10.
"If the pastors show that they are not fitted for their charge, if they fail
to set before the church the importance of returning to God His own, if they
do not see to it that the officers under them are faithful, and that the tithe is
brought in, they are in peril. They are neglecting a matter which involves a
blessing or a curse to the church. They should be relieved of their responsibil-
ity, and other men should be tested and tried."-Counsels on Stewardship, p. 106.
"Many presidents of state conferences do not attend to that which is
their work-to see that the elders and deacons of the churches do their work
in the churches, by seeing that a faithful tithe is brought into the treasury."
- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 305.
"Elders of churches, do your duty. Labor from home to home, that the
flock of God shall not be remiss in this great matter, which involves such a
blessing or such a curse."-Ibid., p. 306.
o Tuesday
DISQUALIFIED LEADERS August 30
5. What sin excludes one from holding high positions in the church?
Ephesians 5:3-5.
"I have no real ground of hope for those who have stood as shepherds to
the flock, and have for years been borne with by the merciful God, following
them with reproof, with warnings, with entreaties, but who have hid their
evil ways, and continued in them, thus defying the laws of the God of heaven
by practicing fornication. We may leave them to work out their own salva-
tion with fear and trembling, after all has been done to reform them; but in
no case entrust to them the guardianship of souls. False shepherds!"- Testi-
monies to Ministers, p. 428.
6. What is the most urgent need of ministers, workers and church of-
ficers? Psalm 51:10-13.
- 42-
"0 that God would impress His ministers with the need of being thor-
oughly converted! 0 that He would impress them with their nE(ed of an abid-
ing Christ! Then there would be a revival of the Holy Spirit." - The Review and
Herald, February 28, 1899.
o Wednesday
THE HIGHEST AUTHORITY August 31
7. What is the highest authority of God under heaven and how should
its decisions be taken? Matthew 18: 17, 18.
"God has bestowed the highest power under heaven upon His church. It
is the voice of God in His united people in church capacity which is to be
respected." - Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 451.
"There is no higher tribunal upon earth than the church of God. And if
the members of the church will not submit to the decision of the church, and
will not be counseled and advised by it, they cannot be helped. If one and
then another think they know best and choose their own judgment instead of
the judgment of the church, what kind of a church would we have? What
would be the use of a church if each one is permitted to choose his own
course of action? Everything would be in the greatest confusion; there would
be no harmony, no union."-Manuscript Releases, vol. 5, p. 296.
8. When problems and difficulties arise in the church, to what sole

authority should the members resort? 1 Corinthians 6:1-7. How
does Heaven regard professed believers who press lawsuits against
their brethren?
"Those church members who appeal to the courts of the world show
that they have chosen the world as their judge, and their names are regis-
tered in heaven as one with unbelievers." -Selected Messages, book 3, p. 302.
"Contentions, strife, and lawsuits between brethren are a disgrace to
the cause of truth. Those who take such a course expose the church to the
ridicule of her enemies and cause the powers of darkness to triumph. They
are piercing the wounds of Christ afresh and putting Him to an open shame.
By ignoring the authority of the church they show contempt for God, who
gave to the church its authority."- Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 242, 243.
o Thursday
SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD September 1
9. What standards and principles should govern the followers of

Christ? John 17:14-17; 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18; 7:1.
"It is not conformity to the customs and practices of the world that will
enlighten them and make them feel their great need of saving grace; but it is
to come out from the world and be separate, stand apart and above it, and in
character represent Christ and give the impression to the world of a holy,
separate life." -Special Testimonies to Battle Creek Church, p. 5.
- 43-
"Those who would labor for God must work intelligently to replenish
the deficiencies in themselves and glorify the Lord God of Israel by standing
in the light, working in the light of the Sun of Righteousness. Thus they will
carry the church forward and upward and heavenward, making its separa-
tion from the world more and more distinct." - Testimonies to Ministers, p. 406.
10. Why is it that God's church must keep herself separated from the
world? James 4:4; 1 John 2:15.
"It was by associating with idolaters and joining in their festivities that
the Hebrews were led to transgress God's law and bring His judgments upon
the nation. So now it is by leading the followers of Christ to associate with
the ungodly and unite in their amusements that Satan is most successful in
alluring them into sin. 'Come out from among them, and be ye separate,
saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean.' 2 Corinthians 6:17. God requires of
His people now as great a distinction from the world, in customs, habits, and
principles, as He required of Israel anciently."-Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 458.
"God's people are to be distinguished as a people who serve Him fully,
wholeheartedly, taking no honor to themselves, and remembering that by a
most solemn covenant they have bound themselves to serve the Lord and
Him only."-Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 17.
o Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS September 2
a. What steps should be taken before a worker is ordained to the

ministry?
b. What duty is enjoined upon church elders and deacons?
c. To what kind of ministers can the guardianship of the flock not be
entrusted?
d. What does the Spirit of Prophecy say about the spirit of indepen-
dence and about lawsuits?
e. What sin of ancient Israel should be a warning to us today? •
FOR FURTHER STUDY:

Gospel Workers, pp. 111-146.
-44-
Jesus, the Divine Pattern

"While the disciples were contending for the highest place, in the
promised kingdom, Christ girded Himself, and performed the office
of a servant by washing the feet of those who called Him Lord." - The
Faith I Live By, p. 298.
KEY TEXT: "Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than
his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If
ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them" (John 13:16,
17).
D Sunday
SINCERITY September 4
1. What should we understand about sincerity, and what must go
together with it? 1 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:10.
"If you come to Christ in sincerity and humility, the Holy Spirit will br-
ing to your remembrance the precious words of Christ, and what ye hear in
the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops. As Christ sheds His light upon
your pathway, you are to reflect its bright rays to others."- The Review and
Herald, May 3, 1892.
"Sincerity will never save a soul from the consequences of believing an
error. Without sincerity there is no true religion, but sincerity in a false
religion will never save a man. I may be perfectly sincere in following a
wrong road, but that will not make it the right road, or bring me to the place
I wished to reach. The Lord does not want us to have a blind credulity, and
call that the faith that sanctifies." -Selected Messages, book 2, p. 56.
2. What counsel does the apostle Paul give to the ministers of the
gospel? Titus 2:1, 2, 6-8; 2 Timothy 2:15.
"What is the work of the minister of the gospel? It is to rightly divide

the word of truth; not to invent a new gospel, but to rightly divide the gospel
already committed to them.... The burden of our message should be the
mission and life of Jesus Christ. Let there be a dwelling upon the humilia-
tion, self-denial, meekness, and lowliness of Christ, that proud and selfish
hearts may see the difference between themselves and the Pattern, and may
be humbled."- The Review and Herald, September 11, 1888.
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o Monday
A SERVANT OF SERVANTS September 5
3. At the last Passover feast, what lesson did Jesus intend to teach His
disciples? John 13:4, 5.
"The pitcher, the basin, and the towel were there, in readiness for the
feet washing; but no servant was present, and it was the disciples' part to
perform it.... Jesus waited for a time to see what they would do. Then He,
the divine Teacher, rose from the table. Laying aside the outer garment that
would have impeded His movements, He took a towel, and girded Himself.
. . . 'After that He poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disci-
ples' feet.' "- The Desire 0/ Ages, p. 644.
4. What is the real significance of the feet washing ceremony? John

13:10-15.
"By the act of our Lord this humiliating ceremony [washing of feet] was
made a consecrated ordinance. It was to be observed by the disciples, that
they might ever keep in mind His lessons of humility and service....
"The ordinance preceding the Lord's Supper is to clear away these
misunderstandings, to bring man out of his selfishness, down from his stilts
of self-examination, to the humility of heart that will lead him to serve his
brother." - The Desire 0/ Ages, p. 650.
"Reconciliation one with another is the work for which the ordinance of
feet washing was instituted. By the example of our Lord and Master, this
humiliating ceremony has been made a sacred ordinance. Whenever it is
celebrated, Christ is present by His Holy Spirit." -Evangelism, p. 275.
o Tuesday
THE SINLESS ONE September 6
5. In what things should we imitate Christ? 1 Peter 2:21,22.
"Men were awed by the purity and moral dignity of our Saviour, while
His unselfish love and gentle benignity won their hearts. He was the embodi-
ment of perfection. If His representatives would see fruits attending their
labors similar to those that crowned the ministry of Christ, they should
earnestly strive to imitate His virtues and cultivate those traits of character
which would make them like Him."-Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 263.
6. By what means can a sinful person be changed into a perfect being?

2 Corinthians 3: 18.
"By beholding Christ, by talking of Him, by beholding the loveliness of

His character we become changed. Changed from glory to glory. And what
is glory? Character-and he becomes changed from character to character.
- 46-
Thus we see that there is a work of purification that goes on by beholding
Jesus. "-Sons and Daughters of God, p. 337.
"Many see much to admire in the life of Christ. But true love for Him
can never dwell in the heart of the self-righteous. Not to see our own deform-
ity is not to see the beauty of Christ's character. When we are fully awake to
our own sinfulness, we shall appreciate Christ. The more humble are our
views of ourselves, the more clearly we shall see the spotless character of
Jesus."- The Review and Herald, September 25, 1900.
o Wednesday
FOLLOWING JESUS September 7
7. What are the steps that lead to perfection in Christ? Matthew

16:24.
"God bids you now to come to repentance. Let your hearts be broken
before God; confess your sins and be converted. Let there be humility of
heart in seeking the Lord, and sincerity of purpose in carrying out His
works."-The [Australasian] Union Conference Record, October 7,1907.
"Give up your self-confidence and self-sufficiency, brethren, and follow
the meek Pattern. Ever keep Jesus in your mind that He is your example and
you must tread in His footsteps. Look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of
our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despis-
ing the shame." -Early Writings, pp. 113, 114.
8. What does it mean to walk in Christ? Colossians 2:6-8; Ephesians

5:2; John 13:16, 17.
"Christ came to the earth to give to men the pattern of the perfect
character that all must obtain who would be welcomed to the future heaven-
ly world. He found His pleasure in unwearied works for the good of men. His
object in coming to our world was to leave an example of what the human
character must become in order to be fitted for the society of heaven."-The
Upward Look, p. 184.
o Thursday
SHINING LIGHTS September 8
9. How are our characters to shine as lights in the world? Philippians

2:14, 15.
"Christ can take the different members of the family, with all their
varied characteristics, and by His rich grace, fashion them all in the image of
the divine. He can bring them all into conformity to His will, and show forth
through them the influence of the truth upon mind and character, to a crooked
and perverse generation among whom they shine as lights in the world."
- The Review and Herald, July 18, 1893.
- 47-
10. How can we glorify our heavenly Father on earth? Matthew 5:16.
"Even though a church may be composed of poor and uneducated and

unknown persons, yet if they are believing, praying members, their influ-
ence will be felt for time and for eternity. If they go forth in simple faith,
relying upon the promises of the word of God, they may accomplish great
good. If they let their light shine, Christ is glorified in them, and the interests
of His kingdom are advanced. If they have a sense of their individual account-
ability to God, they will seek for opportunities to work, and will shine as
lights in the world. They will be examples of sincerity and of zealous fervor
in working out God's plan for the salvation of souls."- The Review and Herald,
June 25, 1895.
"Christ has come to be our example, and we are to walk as He walked,
and work as He worked, with unselfish purpose, ever keeping the Pattern
before us. Weighted with the sense of responsibility, we are to represent
Christ to the world. This is our work as Christians; for we are to let our light
shine forth to the world in good works. Actions will tell, and therefore how
important it is to study the life of Christ to see how He glorified the Father,
that we may go and do likewise."-The Youth's Instructor, December 15,1892.
o Friday
a. Besides honesty and sincerity, what else is necessary?

b. What is removed by the act of the feet washing? What opportunity
is given to the brethren on such occasions?
c. What does it mean to be changed from glory to glory in this life?
d. What distinguishes God's people from the rest of professed Chris-
tians?
e. How can the light of Jesus Christ shine through us?
•
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pp.38-44.
- 48-
The Power of the Gospel

"When the ministers receive wisdom from above, the power of God
will accompany their efforts." - The Review and Herald, June 11, 1889.
KEY TEXT: "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the
power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the
Jew first, and also to the Greek" (Romans 1:16).
D Sunday
THE GREAT COMMISSION September 11
1. Before Jesus ascended to heaven, what command did He give to His

disciples? Mark 16:15, 16; Matthew 28:19,20.
"The gospel commission as recorded in Matthew was given not only to

the disciples of Christ who were then living, but to all who should afterward
receive Him. Upon everyone who accepts Him as personal Saviour is placed
the burden of proclaiming the gospel message." -Spalding and Magan Collec-
tion, p. 342.
"When the members of the church of God do their appointed work in
the needy fields at home and abroad, in fulfillment of the gospel commission,
the whole world will soon be warned and the Lord Jesus will return to this
earth with power and great glory."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 111.
2. What enabled the disciples to carry out the gospel commission?

Acts 1:8. What power is contained in the gospel? Romans 1:16.
"The apostles were not sent forth to be witnesses for Christ until they
had received that spiritual endowment necessary to fit them for the execu-
tion of their great commission."- The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 3, p. 242.
"By the grace of Christ the apostles were made what they were. It was
sincere devotion and humble, earnest prayer that brought them into close
communion with Him. They sat together with Him in heavenly places. They
realized the greatness of their debt to Him. By earnest, persevering prayer
they obtained the endowment of the Holy Spirit, and then they went forth,
weighted with the burden of saving souls, filled with zeal to extend the tri-
umphs of the cross. And under their labors many souls were brought from dark-
ness to light, and many churches were raised up."-Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 32.
- 49-
o Monday
THE RESULTS OF THE EARLY RAIN September 12
3. Describe the spiritual condition of the apostles before and after the
day of Pentecost. Acts 1:13, 14; 4:32.
"Under the training of Christ the disciples had been led to feel their
need of the Spirit. Under the Spirit's teaching they received the final
qualification, and went forth to their lifework. No longer were they ignorant
and uncultured. No longer were they a collection of independent units or
discordant, conflicting elements. No longer were their hopes set on worldly
greatness. They were of 'one accord,' 'of one heart and of one soul.' "-The
Acts of the Apostles, p. 45.
"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."- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 20.
4. What were the apostles able to accomplish under the power of the
early rain? Acts 2:42-44; 4:33; 17:6 (last part). How did this
arouse the enmity of the wicked?
"The power with which the apostles still proclaimed the gospel, the
wonders wrought by them in the name of Jesus, the converts daily added to
the church, the union and harmony that pervaded the body of believers, the
swift and terrible manifestation of divine judgment in the case of Ananias
and Sapphira-all were marked by the Jewish leaders, and urged them on to
still more determined efforts to crush the powerful heresy." -Sketches From
the Life of Paul, p. 12.
o Tuesday
PREPARATION FOR THE LATTER RAIN September 13
5. What steps should be taken in our preparation for the latter rain?
Acts 3:19,20; Joel 2:12, 13.
"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.... I saw that none could share
the 'refreshing' unless they obtain the victory over every besetment, over
pride, selfishness, love of the world, and over every wrong word and action."
-Early Writings, p. 71.
6. How can we obtain the victory and be ready for the latter rain?
James 4:8; 1 Peter 1:15, 16; Revelation 14:5.
"Individuals are tested and proved a length of time to see if they will
sacrifice their idols and heed the counsel of the True Witness. If any will not
be purified through obeying the truth, and overcome their selfishness, their
- 50-
pride, and evil passions, the angels of God have the charge: 'They are joined
to their idols, let them alone,' and they pass on to their work, leaving these
with their sinful traits unsubdued, to the control of evil angels. Those who
come up to every point, and stand every test, and overcome, be the price what
it may, have heeded the counsel of the True Witness, and they will receive
the latter rain, and thus be fitted for translation."-Testimonies, vol. I, p. 187.
o Wednesday
THE LOUD VOICE (LOUD CRY) September 14
7. How should the third angel's message be proclaimed? Revelation

14:9 (first part). What element is indispensable for the proclama-
tion of the final warning? Zechariah 4:6.
"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 ful-
filled in the outpouring 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.
8. In what way does the angel of Revelation 18 give the final warning
to the world? Revelation 18: 1. How does Satan also work to divert
souls from accepting this message?
"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."-
The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 980.
"God is raising up a class to give the loud cry of the third angel's
message.... It is Satan's object now to get up new theories to divert the
mind from the true work and genuine message for this time. He stirs up
minds to give false interpretation of Scripture, a spurious loud cry, that the
real message may not have its effect when it does come. This is one of the
greatest evidences that the loud cry will soon be heard and the earth will be
lightened with the glory of God." -Selected Messages, book 3, p. 410.
o Thursday
THE EARTH ENLIGHTENED September 15
9. What promise will be fulfilled after the outpouring of the latter

rain? Numbers 14:21; Habakkuk 2:14.
,'We see before us a special work to be done in the time when the whole
earth shall be filled with the light and the glory of the Lord, as the waters
cover the sea. The prophecies in the eighteenth of Revelation will soon be
fulfilled. During the proclamation of the third angel's message, 'another
angel' is to 'come down from heaven, having great power;' and the earth is
- 51-
to be 'lightened with the glory.' The Spirit of the Lord will so graciously and
universally bless consecrated human instrumentalities, that men, women,
and children will open their lips in praise and testimony, filling the earth
with the knowledge of God, and with His unsurpassed glory, as the waters
cover the sea."- The Review and Herald, October 20, 1904.
10. What is the glory that shall fill the earth, and who will help to dif-
fuse it? 2 Corinthians 4:6; Isaiah 60: 1.
"The glory of God is His character." - The Signs 0/ the Times, September 3,
1902.
"It will be seen that the glory shining in the face of Jesus is the glory of
self-sacrificing love."- The Desire 0/ Ages, p. 20.
"Servants of God, with their faces lighted up and shining with holy con-
secration, will hasten from place to place to proclaim the message from
heaven."- The Great Controversy, p. 612.
"Let me ask you, What you are doing to prepare for this work? Are you
building for eternity? You must remember that this angel [of Revelation 18]
represents the people that have this message to give to the world. Are you
among that people?"- The Review and Herald, August 18, 1885.
o Friday
a. What work must be finished on earth before the return of the Lord
Jesus?
b. What took place when the disciples ceased striving for earthly
greatness?
c. If Christians do not obtain victory over sin, what will the angels do
with them?
d. Explain the meaning of the words "loud voice," "loud cry," "more
fully," "with the greatest power," in reference to the final warning.
e. Whom does the angel of Revelation 18 represent? Are you among
that people? •
FOR FURTHER STUDY:

The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 35-38.
Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 506-512.
- 52-
God's Family Reunion

"The will of God is to be done on earth, as it is done in heaven. Then
the nations will own no other law than the law of heaven. All will be
a happy, united family, clothed with the garments of praise and
thanksgiving - the robe of Christ's righteousness." - Testimonies, vol. 8,
p.42.
KEY TEXT: "Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new
heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness"
(2 Peter 3:13).
o Sunday
OUR ELDEST BROTHER September 18
1. By what name was Jesus to be called, as indicated by the angel

Gabriel? Luke 1:31,32,35.
"Christ brought men and women power to overcome. He came to this

world in human form, to live a man amongst men. He assumed the liabilities
of human nature, to be proved and tried. In His humanity He was a partaker
of the divine nature. In His incarnation He gained in a new sense the title of
the Son of God.... While the Son of a human being, He became the Son of
God in a new sense. Thus He stood in our world-the Son of God, yet allied
by birth to the human race." -Selected Messages, book 1, pp. 226, 227.
2. Although Jesus is the Creator of all things, what position did He

take, and how does He consider us? Hebrews 2:9-13.
"Jesus teaches us to call His Father our Father. He is not ashamed to call
us brethren. Hebrews 2:11. So ready, so eager, is the Saviour's heart to
welcome us as members of the family of God, that in the very first words we
are to use in approaching God He places the assurance of our divine relation-
ship, 'Our Father.' "- Thoughts From the Mount 0/ Blessing, p. 103. [Author's italics.]
"Christ was to identify Himself with the interests and needs of humani-
ty. He who was one with God has linked Himself with the children of men by
ties that are never to be broken. Jesus is 'not ashamed to call them brethren'
(Hebrews 2:11); He is our Sacrifice, our Advocate, our Brother, bearing our
human form before the Father's throne, and through eternal ages one with
the race He has redeemed-the Son of man."-Steps to Christ, p. 14.
- 53-
o Monday
OTHER MEMBERS OF GOD'S FAMILY September 19
3. Besides Jesus Christ and the redeemed, who else make up God's
family? Ephesians 3:14, 15; Job 38:7; Matthew 18:10.
"Before the creation of man, angels were in existence; for when the
foundations of the earth were laid, 'the morning stars sang together, and all
the sons of God shouted for joy.' Job 38:7."-The Great'Controversy, p. 511.
4. What promise did Jesus make to those who become children of the
heavenly Father? John 14:2, 3.
"God has a kingdom awaiting His children whom He has tested and
tried in a world marred and corrupted by sin. Mansions are prepared for all
who have subjected themselves in obedience to the divine law."- The Signs 0/
the Times, October 14, 1897.
"We have His promise. We hold the title deeds to real estate in the
kingdom of glory. Never were title deeds drawn up more strictly according
to law, or signed more legibly, than those that give God's people a right to
the heavenly mansions."-This Day With God, p. 202.
o Tuesday
JOYFUL REUNION September 20
5. What is the role of the holy angels, and what do they do in our behalf?
Hebrews 1:13, 14. What privilege will the saints have in heaven?
"Every redeemed one will understand the ministry of angels in his own
life. The angel who was his guardian from his earliest moment; the angel
who watched his steps, and covered his head in the day of peril; the angel
who was with him in the valley of the shadow of death, who marked his
resting place, who was the first to greet him in the resurrection morn-
ing-what will it be to hold converse with him, and to learn the history of
divine interposition in the individual life, of heavenly cooperation in every
work for humanity!"-Education, p. 305.
6. Who will rejoice when many souls are seen saved in the heavenly
kingdom? John 4:35,36; Isaiah 53:11.
"The redeemed will meet and recognize those whose attention they
have directed to the uplifted Saviour. What blessed converse they will have
with these souls! ... Others will say: '1 was a heathen in heathen lands. You
left your friends and comfortable home, and came to teach me how to find
Jesus, and believe in Him as the only true God.... '
"Others will express their gratitude to those who fed the hungry and
clothed the naked. 'When despair bound my soul in unbelief, the Lord sent
- 54-
you to me,' they say, 'to speak words of hope and comfort. You brought me
food for my physical necessities, and you opened to me the word of God,
awakening me to my spiritual needs. You treated me as a brother.... I am
here, saved, eternally saved, ever to live in His presence, and to praise Him
who gave His life for me.' "-Gospel Workers, pp. 518, 519.
D Wednesday
HEIRS OF THE KINGDOM September 21
7. What prediction will be fulfilled when the great family of God will
meet together in heaven? Daniel 7:27.
"Here are the conditions upon which every soul will be elected to eter-
nallife. Your obedience to God's commandments will prove your right to an
inheritance with the saints in light. God has elected a certain excellence of
character; and everyone who, through the grace of Christ, shall reach the
standard of His requirement, will have an abundant entrance into the
kingdom of glory."-The Review and Herald, July 17,1888.
"If we are ever to enter heaven, we must bring heaven into our life
here. We must be pure and holy, and if we gain heaven at last, we shall be
with the Saviour throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity."- The Signs of the
Times, June 8, 1891.
8. From where will the redeemed come, and how will circumstances
be reversed for many of them? Matthew 8:11; Mark 13:27; Revela-
tion 7:9, 14.
"The heirs of God have come from garrets, from hovels, from dun-
geons, from scaffolds, from mountains, from deserts, from the caves of the
earth, from the caverns of the sea. On earth they were 'destitute, afflicted,
tormented.' Millions went down to the grave loaded with infamy because
they steadfastly refused to yield to the deceptive claims of Satan. By human
tribunals they were adjudged the vilest 6f criminals. But now 'God is judge
Himself.' Psalm 50:6. Now the decisions of earth are reversed. 'The rebuke
of His people shall He take away.' Isaiah 25:8. 'They shall call them, The ho-
ly people, The redeemed of the Lord.' He hath appointed 'to give them beau-
ty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit
of heaviness.' Isaiah 62:12; 61:3. They are no longer feeble, afflicted, scat-
tered, and oppressed. Henceforth they are to be ever with the Lord. They
stand before the throne clad in richer robes than the most honored of the
earth have ever worn." - The Great Controversy, p. 650.
D Thursday
IN HEAVEN AT LAST September 22
9. What has been the hope of God's children throughout the ages?
Hebrews 11:14-16.
"How great will be the joy when the redeemed of the Lord shall all
meet-gathered into the mansions prepared for them! 0, what rejoicing for
- 55-
all who have been impartial, unselfish laborers together with God in carrying
forward His work in the earth! What satisfaction will every reaper have,
when the clear, musical voice of Jesus shall be heard, saying, 'Come, ye
blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foun-
dation of the world.' 'Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.' "-Counsels on
Stewardship, p. 348.
10. How is the home of God's great family described in the Bible?
2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1-7; 1 Corinthians 2:9.
"Human language is inadequate to -describe the reward of the righ-

teous. It will be known only to those who behold it. No finite mind can com-
prehend the glory of the Paradise of God.
"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 nations. 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. By what endearing name should we address our prayers to God?

b. Who were praising God at the creation of the world?
c. Describe the conversations that the redeemed will have with one
another and with the angels in the earth made new.
d. What change of conditions will be seen in the redeemed of the Lord?
e. What song will be sung by the innumerable host of the saved? •
FOR FURTHER STUDY:

Early Writings, pp. 285-289.
The Great Controversy, pp. 635-652.
- 56-
Special Project Offering
for the Headquarters in Ecuador
Ecuador is a republic in South America. The area is

109,483 square miles (283,561 square kilometers) with a
population of over ten million. The official language is
Spanish. About 94% of the people are Roman Catholics and
6% are of other faiths' (induding Protestant and Jewish).
Shortly after World War II, Brother Mario Linares
came from Peru to bring the message of reformation to this
country as a result of some interest developed through the
work of a colporteur. Since then the interest in the truth has
been growing slowly but steadily. In 1990 the work in
Ecuador was organized into a Union Conference. The
"entering wedge" has been used successfully by the col-
porteurs as they distribute health books from door-to-door,
while other brethren are active in developing several small
vegetarian restaurants.
Several years ago, Brother Jorge V. Alvarez donated a
piece of land in the capital city, Quito, where we built a
chapeL On this same lot, preparations are now being made
to build also the headquarters of the Union Conference. Un-
til now we operate from a rented house, which does not
meet the needs of the growing work.
Because our financial possibilities are very limited, we
do need the help of all the brethren and friends from around
the world. Please remember the work in Ecuador and be
prepared to make a special sacrifice on the last Sabbath of
this quarter. Thank you in advance for your generous
response to our appeaL May God bless the donations and
the donors!
The Ecuadorian Executive Union Committee
- 57-
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Project for Ecuador
This picture will give you an idea of the
location of our present property. The
vacant lot to the left is the place where
the new headquarters will be built, by
the grace of God. The sister shown in
the picture is one of the first members
of the Reform Movement in Ecuador.
For more details, please read the ap-
peal on page 57.
"Not to any class is Christ's
love restricted.... He is the Son
of man, and thus a brother to
every son and daughter of Adam.
His followers are not to feel
themselves detached from the
perishing world around them.
They are a part of the great web
of humanity; and Heaven looks
upon them as brothers to sin-
ners as well as to saints."
- The Desire of Ages, p. 638.

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3/94 July - September 1994

Sabbath Bible Lessons

1 Children of One Common Father 5

Sabbath Bible Lessons, a daily study program, is based solely

Children of One Common Father

"The perception of God's love works the renunciation of selfishness. In

5. What characteristics were noticed in the two brothers, Cain and

"Abel was determined to worship God according to the directions God

"The circumstances of Esau's selling his birthright represents the

9. Describe the contrast between the attitude of Joseph toward his

a. Describe the creation of man and his condition after creation.

FOR FURTHER STUDY:

4. Relate the events which occurred when Ishmael was a teenager,

"[Ishmael] despised Isaac because he thought that he was preferred

5. What promise was given to Jacob on his way to Padan-Aram?

a. What is the relationship of all human beings, and why?

b. What results do we see even today because of Abraham's mistake

c. Why did God choose Israel to be His nation, His people?

e. Explain how we can become true Israelites.

3. Who also are represented by those in the "byways and hedges" in

4. In the words of the prophet Isaiah, what constitutes true godliness?

6. Although all mankind is to be helped, who are to be the special ob-

a. Why do we need to show special interest in the rich?

FOR FURTHER STUDY:

No Caste or Colors in Christ

"God recognizes no distinction of rank. With Him there is no caste. In

2. What is written about Ham and the descendants of Canaan? Where

"Whoever of the human family give themselves to Christ, whoever hear

"The whole world is opening to the gospel. Ethiopia is stretching out

"Among earth's inhabitants, scattered in every land, there are those

7. What commission did Christ entrust to His followers in these last

"The third angel's message is now to be proclaimed in every land. It is

8. How many countries are to be reached by the proclamation of the

"In foreign countries many enterprises for the advancement of this

9. What words of Jesus indicate that we have brethren in the fallen

a. What were the conditions on which the posterity of Noah could

b. Regardless of color or nationality, if a man is converted, where is

c. Name some of the countries mentioned in the Spirit of Prophecy

d. Where should the gospel be proclaimed?

FOR FURTHER STUDY:

Worldly Policies or Divine Order?

"The government of God is not, as Satan would make it appear, found-

5. What arbitrary command was given by king Nebuchadnezzar, and

"As Nebuchadnezzar tried to force his subjects to obey his mandates,

6. What counsel is given by the apostle Peter to those who have

8. What is the main cause of difficulties and divisions in the church?

"The secret of unity is found in the equality of believers in Christ. The

"Those who accept a position of responsibility in the cause of God

a. Why does God not compel anyone to obey?

c. What may some leaders be tempted to do if they cannot rule?

d. How can difficulties in the church be avoided?

e. What kind of leaders should not exist in God's church?

Our Father's Family

"[Matthew 12:47-50 describes] the relationship that exists between

2. By what means alone can we become sons and daughters of God?

"Divine sonship is not something that we may gain of ourselves. Only to

3. In order to become children of our heavenly Father, what must we