SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS

SENIOR DIVISION

Third Quarter 1972.

From Paradise
To Paradise
 FOREWORD
The students af the w(}rd of God are wall aware that we are near-
ing the end and close to the fulfillment of the hopes 'of God's people
through the ages. '['hey ,also know that there are precious lessona
to be learned from the expel'iences tluough which God has alreaay
led His people. 'Ihe lessons prepared for study dming this quarter,
"From Parndise to Pa,radise," a1'e to refresh the minds of all concerning
the way marks that hnve heen passed already. It is to be hoped tllllt
all will be encouraged hy tracing the course of divine providence in
human history, There are lessons to he learned from the experiences
that parallel those hy which we Me passing and have yet to pass.
" .. ' Sacred history was one of the studies in the schools of the
prophets. In the records of Hi~ dealings with the nations were traced
the footsteps of Jehovah, So today we are to consider the dealings
of God with the nations of tIle Co:uth. We are to sec in history the
fulfillment of prophecy, to study the workings of Providence in the
great reformatory movements, and to understand the progress of events
)n the marshalling of the nations for the final conflict of the great
controversy." -MH 441, 44'2.
The apostle Paul wrote to the believers: "But of the times and
,the SCo~sons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unt.o you, ..
But ye, bret.hren, are not in clarlmess, that that da? shoulcl overtake
you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, a.nd the children of
the day: we are not of the night, nor of d,arkness. 'Iherefo.re let us noil
sleep as do others; ]mt let us watch and be sober (1 'Ihes. 5:1, 4-6).
We have the warning to watch a'nd be sober lest we, who know, be
taken unawares, Further, we need to be famili,ar with all these things
so that we may, "be ready always to give a'n answer to every man
that asketh you a reallon of the hope that is in you with meekness and
fear" (1 Peter 3:15). It is our prayer that student.s and teachers will
receive rich blessings as they review the evidences that the coming of
our Lord and Saviour cannot he much longer delayer],
GENERAL CONFERENCE SABBATH SCHOOL DEPARTMEN['

PLAN AHEAD FOR 13TH SABBATH OFFERING

GIVE FREELY FOR FOREIGN MISSIONS

Sa hba th 8chool Lesson Quarterly, "From Para·dise to Paraaise" for

July to Septemher 1972, is published bi}" the Seventh Do~.y Adventist
Reform Movement General Conference, M:liling Add1'ess: P.O. Box 312,
Blackwood, NJ 08012, USA.
H:H:J~H:H:f~H:H:f~H:H:f(f(HH:H:f(f(H)(H)(f(H)(H)(f(H)(H)-l)(H~-l)(H:Wli-l
Lesson No.1 Sabbath, July 1, 1972.

IN THE BEGINNING
KEY 'TEXT: Isaiah 45: 12
1. What does 'the BiMe teach concerning the origin of the whole
universe? Ps. 33:6, 9; Gen. 1:1.
2. After the earth had been called into existence, who was bl:ought
upon the stage of action? Gen, 1:26, 27.
3. Is tihere any ground for the supposition that man has evolved
from the lower forms of life? To whom does inspilration trace
back the origin of our race? Luke 3:38.
NO'I'E: " ... There is no ground for the supposition that man was
ev,olved by slow degrees of development from the lower ftkms of
animal or vegetable life. Such teaching lowers the great wO.rk of the
Creator to t.he level of man's narrow, earthly conceptions. Men are so
intent upon excluding God from the sovereignty of the universe that
they degrade man o3l1d defraud him of the clignity of his origin. He
who set. t.he starry worlc1s on high and tinted wit.h delicate skill the
flowers of the field, who filled the eal·th and the heavens with the
wonders of: His power, when He came to crown His glorious work, to
plnce one in the midst to stand as ruler of the fail' earth, did not fail
to crente a being worthy of the hand that gave him life. The gene·
ology of our race, as given by inspiration, traces back its origin, not to
a line of developing germs, mollusks, and quadrupeds, hut to the great
Cre::tt.or. rrhough formed from the dust, Adam was 'the son of God.' "
-pp 45.
4. What was the physical appealrance of 'the sinless pair? What
kind of gannents did they weal"? Reb. 2:7.
NOTE: "As mnn came forth f.rom tke hand of his CrNlter, he was
of: lofty stature and perfect symmetry. His countenance bore the
ruddy tint of health and glowed with the c]elight of life am] joy.
Adnm's h('ight was much greater than that of men who now inhahit
the eartll. Eve ""3S somewhat less in stature; yet her form was noble,
ane] full of beauty. The sinless pa-ir wore no artificial garments;
they were clothed with a covering of light and glory. such as the
angC'ls wea.l'. So long as they lived in obedience to God, t.his robe of
light continufoC] to enshroud them." -PP 45.
5. Wihat does the Spirit of Prophecy say about the nature of man,
as well as of his mind, his affections and his passions?

NOTE: "Mall was to bear God's image. both ill outward resemblance
and in chamcter. Chl'ist alone is 'the express image' (Hebrews 1:3)
(jf the Father: hut 1I1ml wa's formed in the likenC'ss of God. His natme
was in harmony with the will of God. His mind was capable of
-3-
comprellending divine things. His affections were pure; his appe-
tites ,and passions we.re under the control of reason. He was holy and
happy in boaring the image of God an(l in perfect obedience to
His will." -pp 45.

6. What dominion was man given? PlI. 8:61-8.

7. 'What lesson should we learn from the creation of the woman?

Genesis 2:21-,Q3; Eph. 5:29.

NOTE: " ... Eve wa-s created from a rib taken from the side of
Adam, signifying that she was not t.o control him as t.h8 h('~d, )101'
to be trampled under his feet as an inferior, but. t.o st.and by his side
as all equal, to be loved and pTotect.ed by him. A paTt. of man, bone
of his hone, and flesh of his £Iesh, she was his second self, showiJlg
the close union and the affectionate attachment that should exist
in this relation ... " -PP 46.

8. What institution did God make for the benefit of man? Undec
what condition is this institution designed to be a blessing?
Matthew 19:4-6.
NOTE: "Goa eeleb'ilt('(l the first m:lJ'l'iage. Thus the institution
has fOT its origillatoT the Creator of the univ('rse. 'Mal'J'iage is
hOllor'1hlE" (Hebrcws 13 :4); it was one of the first gifts of God to
man, and it is one of thc two instit.utions that, after the Fall, Ac1am
bTought with him beyonc1 thc giltes of Paradise. "When the divine prin·
ciples :ll'e Tecognized aml obeyed in this relation, mmriage is a
blessing; it guaTds the purity and happiness of the racc, it provides
for man's social needs, it elevates the physical, the intellectual, and
the moral nature." -PP 46.

9. What ideal place did God prepare as the home of our first
pa.rmts? Genesis 2: 8.
NOTE: " ... Everything that God had made was the perfection of
beauty, and nothing seemed wanting that could contribute to the
happillcSS of the holy pail'; YE't. the Creator ga've thcm still another
token of His love, by preparing a ga.rden especially fOT their home.
In this gardell were trees of every variety, man~' of thcm ladp-n
with frilgl'nllt and delicious fTuit. There weTe lovely vines, growing
lrpright. ~'et, presenting a most g',racciful appenl'nnee, "'iith their
branches (hooping lllldc.1' tlieir lo,ad of tempting fruit of th(' riehest
alHl most varie(l hues. H was the work of Adam a'nd Eve to t.rain
th(' hrnncheR of the ville to form howers, thus making for th('ms('lyc~
:1 (l\\-elling fr0111 living t!'ces covered with foling'c an(l fruit. '[Ilf're
\'.'E'rc f"agmnt floweTs of cvcry hue in rich profusion. In th(' mirlst
(of the garrlClI sl'ood the tree of life, smpassing in gIOT)" a.]J other
trees, Its fruit appeal'('d like apples of gold anrl silvPI', and had
the pow('r to peTpctuilte life." -PP 46, 47.
10. What kind of dielt did the Oreator provide for them? Gen. 1:29,
-4-
NOTE: "In order to know what are the best foods, we must study
God's originwl plan for man's diet. He who cre,ated man and who
understands his needs appoin ted Adam his food ...
"Gntins, fruits, nuts, and vegetables cOllstitute the diet chosen
for us by uur Crcator. ~Phese foods, prep:.tred in as simple Hnd natural
a Illanner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing. 1hey
impiW't a strength, a power of enduranee, and a vigor of intellect
,that are not afforded by a more complex and stimulating diet."
-:MIl 295, 296.

-x-x-x-x-x-
Lesson No, 2 Sabbath, July 8, 1972.
THE DAYS OF NOAH
KEY 'rEX'l": I Peter 3:20,
1. What moral and spiritual condition had developed in the days
of Noah? Genesis 6:5,
No'rE: " ... There were many giants, men uf gl'eat stature and
strcngth, .renowned for ,visdom; skillful in devising the most cun-
ning and wonderful works; but their guilt in giving loose rein to
iniquity W3S in proportion to their skill and mental ability,
"God bestowed upon these antediluvians many and rich gifts;
but they used His bounties to glorify themselves, and tILl' ned them
into a curse by fixing their affectiullS upon the gifts instead of the
Giver. They employed the gold and silver, the precious stones and
the chOIce ,vood, in the construction of habitations for themselves,
and ende':.lvoured to excel one another in bea,utifying their dwellings
with the IllOSt skillful workmanship. They sought only to gratify
the desires of their own proud hearts, amI reveled ill scenes of
pleasure and wickedness, Not desiring to retain God in their know-
ledge, th ey soon came to deny His existence"." -PP 90, 91,
2, What practice had ]jeen introduced contrary to God's an-auge-
mont? What was the result? Gen, 4:19; 6:1, 2,
NOTE: "Polygamy had been early introduced, contI'ary to thc divine
arrangemcnt a t the beginning. '[-he Lord gave to Ad,am one wife,
showing His order in that respect. But a·fter the Fall, men chose to
follow their OW1l sinful desires; and as the result, crime and
wretchedness rapidly increased"." -PP 91, 92,
3. VV1hat rights were ignored although protected by the eighth
and tenth commandments? Ex, 20:15, 17,
NOTE: "Neithe.r the marriage rela tion nor the rights of property \\"erQ
respected. "Whoever coveted the wives or the possessions of his neigh-
bour, took them by force, and men exulted in their deeds of violence."
(PP 92,)
 4. What eating habit did the antediluvians develop, and what was
the J;'asultJ? Genesis 4:23
No'rE: ""l'hey delighted in destroying the life of anim::tl,s; and the
use of flesh for food rendered them still 11101'e cmel and bloodthirsty,
ulltil they came to regard hUlnali life with astonishiJig indiJIerulJee"
(PP 92).
5. What ullfavourable referellce did Christ make of Noah's con-
temporaries? Why were Ithey actually condemned? Mat. 24:38, 3·9.
NOTl!l: " ... God did not condemn the antediluvians for eating and,
drinking; He had given them the fruits of the earth in great abundanco
to supply their physical wamts. Theil' sin consisted in taking these
gifts without gratitude to the Giver, and debasing themselves by
indulging ':lppetite without restraint. It was lawful for them to
malTY. :l\Iarriage was in God's order; it was one of the first in-
stitutions which He estwblished. He gave special dit'ections con-
cerning this ordinancc, clothing it with sanctity and heauty; but
these directions were fOl'gottell, and marriage was perverted and
made to ministcr to passiou." -PP 101.
6. What does the Spirit of Prophecy say of the parallel between
the days of Noah and our days?
NO'I'l!l: "A similar condition a.f things exists now. 'l'hat which is
lawful in itself is carricd to 0xcess. Appetite is iJldulged without
restraint. Professcd followers of Christ arc today eating and tlrinking
with the drunken, while their names stand in honored church records.
Intempemnce benumbs the moral and splrituaoJ powers and prepares
the way for indulgence of the lower passions. Multitudes feel under
no moral obligation to curb their sensual desires, and thcy become the
slaves of lust. Men are Jiving for the pleasures of sense; for this
world and this life alone ... " -PP 101, 102.
7. What two impressive means did Noah use to warn ilie world?
What does Peter rightfully call him? 2 Pelter 2:5.
NOTE: " ... Whilc N ollh was giving his warning message to the world,
his works testified of his sincerity. It was thus that his faith was
perfected and ill':lde evident. He gave the world an example of believing
just what God says. All that he possessed, he invested in the ark.
As he began to construct that immense boat all dry ground, multitudes
came from every direction to see the strange sight and to hear the
earnest, fervCllt words of the singular preacher. Every blow ~truck
upon the ark was a witness to the people." -PP 95.
8. What attitude did the plrofessed worshippers of God take? 1 Pet.
3:20 (first patt).
NOTE: "The men of that generation were not all, in the fullest
acceptation of the term, idolaters. M~ny professed to be worshippers
of God. They claimed that their idols were representations of the
Deity, and that through them the people could obtain a clearer con-
~
 ception of the divine Being. This class were foremost in rejecting
the preaching of Noah. As they endeavored to represent God by
material objects, their minds were blinded to His majesty and power;
... As sin becau\{) general, it appeared less ~l!J1(1 less sinful, and they
finally decktred that the divine law was no longer in f'orce; that
it was contrary to the eha'racter of God to punillh transgression; and
they denied "Ul t His judgments were to be visited upon the earth.
Had the men of that generation obeyed the divine l,aw, they would
,have recognized the voice of God in the warning of His servant;
but their minds had become so blinded by rejection of light thfrt they
really believed Noah's message to be a delusion." -PP 95, 96.
9. Eventually, what did those do who had once been deeply 1m-
preslled by Noah's message? What was their assertion? 1 Pet. 3:4.
No'rE: "As time p3ssed on, with no apparent change ill Ilatur~, men
whose hearts had at times trembled with fear, began to be reassured.
'fhey reasOllcd, as many I'cason now, that Ilature is a-bove the God of
nature, and that her 1'3Ws arc so firm.ly established that God Himself
could not change them. Reasoning that if the message of Noah were
correct, nature would be turned out of her course, they made that
message, in tho minds of the world, a delusion - a grand deception.
They manifested their oontempt for the warning of God by doing just
as they had dono before the warning was given. They continued their
festivities and their gluttonott's feasts; they ate and dnmk, pktnted and
builded, layillg their plans in reference to advantages they hoped to
gain in the future; and they went to greater lengths in wickedness,
mId in defiaut disregard of God's requirements, to testify that they
had no fea r of the Infinite One. They asserted that if there were any
truth in what Noa.h had said, the men of renown - the wise, the
prudent, the great men - would understand the matter." -PP 97.
10. How was Noah's faith rewaJrded? To whom is his e:ltample of
fideltity calculnted to biring encouragemeJllt.? Gen. 7:9; 9:1;
Hebrews 11:7.

NO'l'E: " ... Noah's warnings had been rejected by the world, but
his influence and examplc resulted in blessings to his family. As a
reward for hill faithfulncss and integrity, God sa'ved all the members
of his family with him. W'lrat encouragement to parental fidelity!"
-PP 98.

-x-x:-x-x-x-
Lesson No.3 Sabba.th, July 15, 1972.
AfTER THE FLOOI>
KEY 'l'EX']': Psalms 32:11
1. What was the first act C1l the patria.rch, after leaving the ark?
Genesis 8: 20.
-'1-
2. By w11at assurance did the LOird encourage the family of Noah,
lest clouds and rain should fill them with constant terror? Gen.
9:11-0.6.
3. What promise did God link with the assurance given to No,ah
and his household concerning the flood? Isa. 54:9, 10.
4. What happened to the richest treasures of th~th? Wha.t was
the reason for this? Ps. 39:6; 62:10. y,te.tiiJI....."., ~< b= '
KO'l':t;: ".,. A violent wind which Wias caused to bIoI\' for thc pur-
pose of drying up the w[\lters, moved them with gr€':lt force, in some
instances evcn eal'l'ying away the tops of the mountains and helLping
up trees, rocks, and earth above the bodies of the dead. By t.he same
m€'3ns t.he silver a'nd gold, the choice wood and precious stones, which
had enriched 3nd adorned the world beforc the Flood, aud which thc
illh·;]bitants had idolized, \\'0I'e concealcd from the sight and senl'ell
of men, the violent actions of the waters piling ea'rth '~nd rocks upon
these treasures, and in some cases even forming moun tains a bove them.
God saw tha t the more He enriched and prospered sinful men, the
,more they would COl'l'Upt their ways before Him ... " -pp 108.
5. What acounts for the existence of coal and oil beneath the surfac~
of 'the earth? What natulral forces are available to God t,o bring
judgments that folreteU the soon coming of Christ? lsa. 64:1-3.
Nahum 1:3-6.
NOTE: "At this time immense forests were buried. 'l'Jlese have since
been changed to coal, forming the extensive coal beds that now exist,
and also yielding large quantities of oil. The coal and oil frequently
ignite and burn bcneath the surface of the em'tll. 'Ihus 1'0cks al'e heated,
limestone is burned, ~nd iron are melted. 'I'he action of the water upon
the limc adds fury to the intense heat, and causes earth.q'uakes, volcanoes,
and fiery issues. As the fire ancl water come in contact with ledges
of rock, and ore, there -:lre hea,vy cxplosions underground, which sound
like muffled thunder. 'l"he ail' is hot and suffocating. Volcanic eruptions
follow; and these often failing to give sufficient vent to the heated
elements, the earth itself is conv'Ulsed, the ground heaves and swells
like the waves of the sca, gl'l;::tt fissures appeal', and sometimes cities
villages, a,nd burning mountains are swallowed up. Thesc wonderful
manifestations will be more and more frequent a,nd tel'l'ible just
before the second coming of Christ and the end of the world, as
signs of its speedy destruction." -PP 108, 109.
6. What manifestations of God's poweir will be witness'ed at the
second coming of Christ? Ps. 144:5, 6); Rev. 16:2<J, 21.
NOTE: "More tel'l'ible manifestations than the world has ever yet
beheld, will be witnessed at the second advent o,f Christ" (PP 109).
"As lightnings from heaven unite with the fire in the earth, the
mountains will burn like a furnace, and will pour forth terrific
strealll.'l of I[\lV03., overwhelming gardens and fields, villages and cities.
Seething molten masses thrown into the rivers will cause the waters
· to boil, sending forth mas&ive I'ocks with inclescribable molence and
scotening t.heir broken fragment.s upon the lal\{1. R.ivers will be drie(l
up. The earth will be convulsed; everywhere there will l)e dreadful
ea·rthquakes and eruptions." -Ibid., p. 110.
7. How will the children of God be preserved amjidslt these com-
motions? Ps. 91:9, 10, 14,; 27:5.
8. What is the meaning of the curses and blessings p!ronounced by
Noah upon his s'ons? Gen. 9:25-27.
NOTE: '''rhe propllecy of Noah was no arbitr.ary denunciation of
wrot.h or declarll,t.ion of favor. It did not, fix the character aml destiny
of his sons. But it showed what would be the result of the Murse
of life they had sevCl'ally cllOsen and the character they had developed.
It WflS all expression of Go(l 's purpose toward them a·nd their posterity
in view o£ t.heir own p.haracter a11(1 c011(lurt ... " -PP 118.
9 What contlrolled the multitude soon after the restoraJtion of
society upon the earth? ' Genesis 11: 6-8.
10. WlIat Wiarning is given against tihe same danger by the apostle
Paul? 2 Corinthians 10:5.
NO'J'E: "God wishes us to llave t.he mnstery over our,selves. BrM; He
pannot help us without our consent find co-operation. The divine Spirit
works t.hrough the powers 11l1d faculties given to man. Of ourselves.
we are not able to bring the purposes ,and desires and inclinations
int.o harmony with the will of God; but if we are 'willing to be made
willing,' the Saviour will accomplish t.his for us, 'Casting down
imaginatinn.s, and every high thing t.hat eX'31tet.h itself aga-inst the
knowledge of God, and bringing into captivit.y every thought to the
obedience of Christ.' 2 Corinthians ] 0 :!)." -AA 482, 483.

-x-x-x-x-x-
Lesson NO!. 4 Siabbath, July 22, 1972.

LESSONS FROM THE MANNA

KEY TEX1': Phil. 4:19.
1. What assurance did Moses give the congregation as far as ther
wants were conceiI'ned? Ex. 16:4, 5.

2. In the morning, what did lthey find upon the surface of the g!round?
What was it like? What did the people call it? Ex. 16:14, 15, 31.
3 T'o wha.t was the taslte of it compared? What was it apt to pro-
mote? Ex. 16:31; Num. 11:8.
NOTE: "'1'he manna with which He f('(l t hem in the wil(lernf'ss II"~~ of
a natlll'e to promote physical, mental, and moraoJ strength" (Ed 38).
-9-
 4, What did Mioses say in e:lq>lana1ion of that new kind of food
provided for Islrael? What kind of manna is the Lord prepared
to give us !today? Ex. 16:15 (last part).
NOTE: ", .. As God gave manna from he-aven to sust.ain the children
of Israel, so He will now give His people in different. place'S skill a,nd
wisdom to use the productions of these countries in prep:lI'ing foods
to take the place of meat, .. " -7'1' 124. (CD 96.).
5. How much welre they directed to gather daily for every person?
Exodus 16:16.
According to recent archeological findings, an orner is "A dry
measure (Ex. 16:16, 18, 32, 33), which wa's 1/10 t,he si?:e of an ephah
(v. 36'); this makes it the equiva ICllt of 2,20 litcrR Ot' 2 qt.s," --SDA
Bible Dictionary, p. 788.
6, What fact, connected with the gathering of Ithe manna, shows
that the right quantity of food eaten is an essential point?
Exodus 16:17, 18.
7. What plractical lesson is drawn from this experience by the
apostle Paul? 2 Corinthians 8:13·1~.
8, WhaJt were the instructions for the day of pre-paration and the
Sabbath? Exodus 16:23, 26, 26.
9, How long did the children of Israel witness that threefold miracle
in the circumstances connected with Ithe giving of the malma?
Exodus 16:35.

NOTE,: "Every week during their long sojourn in the wilderness the
ISl'aelitoo witnessed a threefold miTa'C1e, designed to impress their minds
'with the sacredness of the Sabbath: ,a double quantity of manna
fell on the sixth day, none on the seventh, and the portion needed
for the Sabba,th was preservec] sweet and pUl'e, when if any wero
kept over at any other time it bec.ame unfit for use," -pp 296.

10. Has God lowered His requirements today with reference to the
SahbaJtih? wrhelrefrom do we know that the dJjciples were strict
Sabbathkeepers? Luke 23:56; Acts 16:13; 22:12.

NOT:E: "God requires that. His holy day be as &acredly obscrved now
as in the time of Israel. TIle commane] given to the Hebrcws should
be regarded by all Christ,ians ns an injunction from JehoYah to them.
The rl,ay before the Sabba,th should be mane a rlny of preparation,
that cVCl'ything ma~' be in readiness for it.s sacrcd hours. In no
case shoule] our own husiness be allowed to encronch upon holy time.
God h'3s direct.ed t.hat the sick am] suffering be cnl'crl f01'; the labor
required to make them comfortable is a work of mercy, nnd no violat.ioll
of the Sa'bbath; but all unnecessary work shoulrl be avoided. :Many
carelessly put off till the heginning of the Sabbat,h little things that
might have been done 011 the day of preparation. This should not be
-10-
 Work tllllt is neglected until the beginning o.fl the Sabbath should
remain undone until it is past. This course might help the memory
of these thoughtless ones, a'nd make them careful to do their own work
on the six working days." -pp 296.

-x-x-x-x-x-
Lesson No. 5 Sabbath, July ~9, 1972.

LESSONS FROM THE MURMURING OF THE PEOPLE

KEY TEXT: 1 Corinthians 15:33.
1. What was provided for the sustenance of Israel in the wilderness?
Psalms 78:24, 25.

2. Of Whom was the manna, falling from heaven, .a type? John 6: 48-51.

3. What is written among Ithe blessings promised to God's people in

the future life? Rev. 2:17.
4. For what Ireason did the Lord place a restriction l1pon their dielt?
Proverbs 23:1-3.
NOTE: "God might as easily have provided them wit.h flesh as with
ma'nna, but ·n restriction was placed upon them for their gooc1. It
was His purpose to supply them with food better suited to their wants
thnll the feverish diet to which many had become accustomed in Egypt.
'I'lle perverted appetite was to be brought into a more healthy state,
:tlKlt they might enjoy the food originally provided for man - the
fl'Uits of the earth, which God gave to Adam and Eve in Eden. It was
for this reo son that the Israelites had I'een deprived, in a great meaflUre,
of animo::l1 food" -PP 378.
5. What was the purpose of the Lord in establishing the people
of Israel in the land of Canaan? Wha1t prevented them, to a grea¥:
extent, from accomplishing the plan of God? Deut. 26:18, 19;
Daniel 9:4~8.
NOTI-]: "God brought the Israelites' from Egypt, that He might
estnblish t.hem in the land of Canaan, a pure, holy, and happy people.
III the accomplishment of this object He subjected them to n C01l1'lle of
discipline, both for their own good and for the good of their posterity.
Hnd the.\' been willing to deny appetite, in obedience to His w'ise
restrictions, feebleness and disea'se would have been unknown among
them. Theil' descenda'nts would hnve possessed both physical aml mental
;:trength. 'J'hey would hnve had clear perceptions of tl'Uth and duty,
lleen discrimination, and sound judgmellt. But their unwillingness
'to submit to the restrictions and re,quirements of God, prev'enterl
them, to a great extent, from reaching the high standard ,,-hich He
'desired t.hem to attain, and from receiving the blessings which He
was ready to bestow upon them." -PP 378.
-11-
 6, For mat purpose did Satan temPt the people to stand up in
rebellion against the dietetic restrictions imposed by the Lolrd?
Why should 'this subject be given special consideration today?
Romans 15:4.

NOTE: "Satan tempted them to regard this restriction as unjnst and

cruel. He enused them to Inst aHer forbidden things, heNlUse he saw
th!lt the umestra'ined indulgence of apPl't>ite woultl t.enrl to produce
sensuality, ~nfl by this means the people could be more NISily hrought
under his ront1'01. TIl(.' ant.hor of fliseasp and misery will assail men
where h~ can have 010 greatest surress. Through temjltMions atldressed
to the appetite he has, to a large extent, led mpn into sin from the
time when he iJl(lucc(l Eve to Po:'It of the forhidden fl'llit. Tt: was by this
eame means that he led Israel to murmur a'gainst God, Tntemperance
in eatillg and drinking, leading as it floes to the indlflgeme of the
lower passions, prepares t,he way for men to flisrega 1'<1 all moml obli-
gations. When assailed hy temptation. tllOY have lit,t.le power of re-
sistance," -pp 378.

7. Wllat is ,tlte reason for the contagious dissatisfaction tllat soon

appead in the encampment of Israel? Num. 11:4.

NOTE: " .. , '1'he Isra('lites, flnring their bondage in Bg~'pt, had been
compplled to snhsist on th(' plainest and simplest food; but the keen
,appet.ite inrll1c(>(l hy privation and ha'rd labor harl made it palatable.
Many of tll(, Egyptians, how("ver, who were now among l'hem, had been
ooctl,stomed to a luxurious rliet; and these w('rp the first to com·
plain.,," -PP 377, 378.

8, During 'theilr journey from Sinai to Kladesh, what was heard

from among the mixed multitude? For what did they clamor?
Num. 11:1 (first part); Ps. 78:18-20.
9, How were the most guilty of Ithe complainers treated by tJle
Lord? Num. 11:1 (last part); Ps. 78:21.

10, Why wa-s it that theilr murmuring at 'this point had to receive
prompt punishment? Provo 17:11; 1 Cor. 15:33.

NOTE: "" ,Murmuring and tumults had heen frequent. during the
jomney from the UNI Sea to Sinai, hut in pity for tll('ir ignor.ance anrl
hlindness God had not then visited the sin with ;i1J(lglllent,~, Bllt. since
It-hat time He ba<l revea led Himself to thelll n·t H ol'ch. They had
received gl'Co:lt light., as thp~, had heen witnesses to the ll1ujcsty, the
powel', and tbe mercy of God; ,111(1 their unbelief anrl rlisront('nt in-
eUl'l'ed the greater guilt. Furthermore, the~' ha(l ro\'('na!lt('d t.o a{'cept
Jehovah as t.heir king and to obey His authority, '1'heir l11unnming
was now rebellion, a 11(1 as such it must receiv(' prompt and sign,al
punishment, if Ismel was to be preserved from anarchy and Tuin"."
-PP 379
-12-
Lesson No.6 Sabbath, August 5, 1972.

LUSTING AFTER FLESH FOOD

KBY 'I BX'l': Jeremiah 49: 12.
1. Did the people learn the lesson that Ithe Lord wanted to teach
them? What attitude did they Itake after the punishment?
Numbers 11: 4-6.
NO'l'lE: (( 'l'he people in terror besought Moses to entreat the Lord
for them. He did so, and the fire was quenched. In memory of this
judgment he called the name of the place :l'.aberah, 'a burning.'
"But the evil was soon 1\"orse than before. Instead of leading
the survivors to IlUllliliatioll ,wd repelltullce, this feu'rful judgment
ssemed only to incrc:lse their murmurings. In all directions the
people were ga thered at the door of their tents, weeping and la.menting
:T.lius they manifested their disconten t with the food provided
for them by their Crcn,tor. Yet they hud constHnt evidence tha.t it
was adapted to their wHnts; for llothwithstanding the harclships they
endured, there was not a feeble one in all their tribes." -pp 379.
2. In his distress, what prayer did Moses utter before the Lord?
Nunl.. 11:11-15.
3. Hearing the praYell' of His servant, whalt was the first direction
that the Lord gave him? Numbers 11:16, 17.
4. What mistake did Moses make in connection with the murmuring
of 'the people? Numbers 11: 14,
NO:1'B " ... he (Moses) had magnified his own burdens and services,
almost losillg sight of the f,act that he was only the instrument by
which God had wrought. He was not excusable in indulging, in the
slightcst degree, the spirit of murmuring t.hat was the eurse of
Israel. Had he relied fully upon Go·d, the Lord would have guided him
cont.inually and would have given him strength for every emergency."
-FE 380,
5. What further direc'tion did the LOl.'d give? W11at was He prepared
to grant? Num. 11:18-20.
6. How did Mosel! show his distmst in 'the Lord, and how was he
rebuked for this human weakness on his part? Num. 11: 21-23.
7. What happened whel1 Moses had sununoned the seventy eldera
to the tabelrnacle? Numbers 11:24, 25.
8. Wha't evidence did Moses give of his lofty and unselfish spirit?
Numb-ers 11: 26-29.
9. How did the Lord miraculously supply the demands of the people
for flesh food? Why did the Lord give them flesh, when that
was not for theix highest good? Numbers 11:31, 32.
-13-
NOT'E: " ... All that was not needed for present use was preserved
by drying, so that the supply, as promised, ,vas sufficient for a whole
month.
"God gave the people th.at which was not for their highest good,
because they persisted in desiring it; they would not be satisfied
with those things that \I'"ould prove a benefit to them ... " -pp 382.
10. How were they speedily punished fOIr gratifying their rebellions
desires? Num. 11:33; Ps. 78:30, 31.
NOTE: " ... Large numbers were cut dOW11 by burniJlg fevers, while
the inost guilty among them \\'ere smitten as soon as they tasted
the food for which they had lusted." -PP 382.

-x-x-x-x-x-
Lesson No.7 Sabbath, August 12, 1972.
GOD'S PURPOSE FOR ISRAEL THWARTED
KEY 'l'EXT: Jeremiah 7: 23.
1. Because the fles!hle,ss diet w,as not whole"heartedly accepl~ed
by rebellious .Israel, how did the Lord meet the demands of the
people? Leviticus 11:2.

NO'l'E: " ... the restriction to a nonflesh diet was never heartily
accepted. It continued to be the cause o·f discontent and murmuring,
open or secret, and it was not made permanent." -:MIT 311.

2. In order to lessen the evil Iresults of the flesh diet, what re-
strictions did 'the Lord impose? Lev. 11:45-47, 3, 9, 21, 22.
NOTE: "Upon their settlement in Canaan, the Israelites were per-
mitted the use of animal food, but under careful restrictions which
tended to lessen the evil results. T:he usc of swine's flesh was pro,
hibited, as also of other animals and of birds and fish whose flesh
was pronounced unclean ... " -MIT 311, 312.

3. Where else in the Scriptures is Irepea'ted the classification of

animals, fishes and fowls that mayor may not be used as food?
Deut. 14:4,8.

4. What instruction was given concerning the carcasses of unclean·

beasts? Lev. 11:8, 24.

5. W;hat was to be done with those things that had touched the
carcass of an unclean animal? Lev. 11:27, 28, 32-35.

6. 'What ins'truction was given concerning any clean animal that was
torn Olr died of itself? Lev. 22:8; 17:15.
-14:-
 7. What were the children of Israel permitted to do with such flesh'?
Deut, 14:21.
8. Wha1t was the law concerning the blood and the fat? How long
does this law apply? Lev. 3:17; 17:14.
NO'l'E: "~nle meat is served reeking with fat, because it suits the
perverted taste. Both the blood and the f,at of anima.Js are consumed
as a luxury. But the Lord gave special directions that these should
not be eaten. Why') Because their use would make a diseased current
of blood in the human system. T.he disregard for the Lord's special
diructiolLs has brought a variety of difficulties and diseases upon
human beings ... " -CD 393, 394.
9. Wllat evidence is in the S'criptUlres to show that this law was
not abrogated when the ceremonial law was nailed to the cross?
Acts 15:29; 2 Cor, 6:17.

r NO'l'E: " ... the Gentiles were accustomed to eat the flesh of animals
that' had been strangled, while the Jews ha'd been divinely instructed
that when beasts were killed for food, particular care was to be taken
that the blood should flow ~rom the body j otherwise the llleat would
not be regarded as whulesome. God had given these injunctio,ns to
tho Jews for the purpose of presel'ving their health. The Jews regarded
it as sinful to usc blood as an ,article of diet ... " -AA 191.

10. From what evil did tthe Lord promise to keep His people? Wllat
were the conditiolls upon which this promise would be fulfilled?
Deut. 11 :22-25.

-x-x-x-x-x-
Lesson No.8 S'abbatih, AUglls't 19, 1972.

SPIRITUAL ISRAEL DOES NOT LEARN FROM THEIR FORE-

FATHERS
KEY 'l'E:K:l'.: Eccl. 7:17,
1. What was known to the Israilites and othelr nations concerning
tile heal11.h problems preV'aililn-g in Egypt? What conditions
remain at all t.imes? Deutt. 7:15; 28:59, 60.

NO:l',E: "Let it be made plain that the way of God's commandments

is the way of life. God has established the laws uf nature, but His
kllYs are nut a j'bitrary exactions. Every ':'rlLOu shalt not,' whether
in physical ur in moral law, implies a promise. If we obey it, blessing
will attend our steps. God never forces us to do right, but He seeks
to sa\"e us' from the evil and lead us to the good.
"Let attention be called to the laws that were taught to Israel.
Gud gave tltem definite instruction in rega.rd to their habits of life.
-15-
He made known to them the laws relating to both physical and spiritual
well·being; and on condition of obedience He assured them, 'T,he
Lord will take away from thee a l! sickness.' Deuteronomy 7 :15.
'Set yom hearts unto all the words lI'hich I testify Qlllong you this
day.' 'For they are life unto those tha,t find them, and health to
all their flesh.' Deuteronomy 32:46; Proverbs 4:22." -MH 114.
2. What was God's purpose in establ,ishing Israel in Canaan? On
what condition would this promise be fulfilled? Dent 11:2Z.25.
NO:l':E: "God had placed His people in Cauaau as a mighty breast·
work to stay the tide of moml evil, that it might not flood the world.
If faithful to Him, God intended that Israel should go on conquering
:lnd to conquer. He would give int.o their hands natiuns greater and
more powerful than the Canaanites ... " -PP 544.

3 W',hat exalted position did God plan for His people, not only in
health but also in material wealth? Again what condition is
given, and w'halt alternative is presented as a wa,rning? Deut.
28:13, 15, 44.

NO:l'E: '''rheir obedience to the laws of God would make them marvels
of prosperity before the nations of the world. He who could give
them wisdom and skill in all cunning work would COli tinue to be
their t.eacher and would mllloble :l,nd elevate them throngh obedience
to His laws. If obedient, they would be pl'eserved from the diseases
that afflicted other Hatiolls and "'ould be blessed with vigor of intellect.
'rhe glory of God, His majesty 'and power, were to be revealed in all
their prosperit.y. 'r,hey were to be a kingdom of priests and princes.
God fmnished them with every facility for becoming the gr>catest
nation Oli the ea'rth." -6T 222.
4. "Nha't did the Lord teU them concerning the conquest of the
promised land? What would Iresult if they failed to completely
do what the Lord had said? Num. 33:55.
5. Wliat report is given by sacred history of 'their experience in
this matter? Fs. 106:34, 35.
6. What brought the decrease in mental, molral and spiri'tual powers
of Israel? What was the repeated result in the time of the
judges? Judges 2:12-14.

7. Who should have shared the blessing resulting from God calling
out a people and giving them special lighlj; on health reform?
Mat. 5:14, 15.
NOTjl';: "In these words are set forth the cOHditions of all true
prosperity, conditions with which, if they fulfill the purpose of their
establishment, a1\ our institutions must com.ply.
"The Lord years ago gave me special light in regard to the estab-
lishment of a health institution where the sick could be treated on
-16-
altogether different lines from those followed in any other institution
in our world. It was to be founded mId conducted upon Bible prin-
ciples, as the Lord's instrumentality, and it was to be in His hands
one of the most effective (lgencies for giving light to the ·world. It
was God 'b purpose that ,t should SbIld forth with sdentific ability,
with moral mId spiritual po\\"or, :1nd as n faithful sentinel of reform
in all its bearings. All who should act a part in it were to be re-
formers, having l'espect to its principles, and heeding the light of
health reform shiniug upon us as a people." -6:r 223.
8, In manifesting this lighl~
and blessing, who is to receive thE!
credit and the glolry? Mat. 5:16.
NO'fE: "God designed that the institution which He should estab-
lish should stand fOl'th as a beac·Jll of light, of wanting and reproof.
He would prove to the world thnt (In institution conducted on re-
ligious principles, as au a'sylum for the sick, coult1 be sustained with-
out. sacrificing its peculiar, holy cha'racter; that it could be kept
free from the objectionable fe,ntures found in uther health institutions.
It was to be an instrumentality for bringing about great reforms."
-6:',V 223.
9. Why should God's people always bewalre of the customs and
habits of unbelievers? Jer. 10:2, 3 (first part).
NO'l'E:" But they (the people of Israel) did not keep their covenant
with God. TJley followed nfter the idolatrous IJl'actices of other
lIations, and instead of making thoir Crea.tor's llnme a praise ill the
earth their course held it up to the cOlltempt of the h o:lth ell. Yet the
purpose of God must be accomplished. The kllowledge of His will
must be spread abroad in the earth ... " -5:1~ 455.

10, Where will the faith and trust of the remnant called in the
last days be? Zeph. 3: 12.
No:-r,E: ".,. 'l~he reason why 00 m:my chunh members do not ullder-
stand this br.U1ch of the work i:; that they a.re not following their
Leader step by step in self-donial and :;elfJ-sacl'ifioc. '1';ho medical
missionary work is God's work and bears Hjs sigIl':lture, "-6:1', 300,

-x-x-x-x-x-
Lesson No, 9 Sabbath, August 26, 1972.
SAMSON
KEY 'l'EX:T,: 1 Sam. 28:22.
1. What message did "the angel of the Lolrd" bring t.o the child-
less wife of Manoa.h? Judges 13:3.
2. Wjhat instruction did !~he angel give her concerning her own habits
and also for the treatment of her child? JUdges 13:4.
-17-
 3. W11at purpose did the Lord have with Ithat boy, that made strict
ha,bits of health reform so necessary from the womb? Judges 13:5.

4. Fearful that they should make some mistake in the impor1tanll

mission entrusted to them, what did Manoah especially wan1t to
know'? Judges 13: 8-12.

5. What instruction did the angel of the Lord repeal~? Judges

13:13, 14.
KO:1'JE: "God had a'll important work for the promised child of l'vlanoah
to do, :md it was to secure for him the qualifications llecessary for
this work that the habits of both the mother and the child were to be
ca-refully regulated. ' Neither let her clrink wine or strong drink. 7
was the Angel's instruction for the wife of :Manoa'h, 'nor eat any
unclean thing. All that I commanded her let her observo,' :l'1ha
child will be ,affected for good or for evil by the habits of the mother.
She must herself be contl'olled by principle and must practice tem-
perance and self-denial, if she would seek the welfa're of her child.
Unwise advisers will urge upon the mother the necessity of gratifying
every; wish and impulse, but such teaching is false anrl mischievous.
{the mothel' is by the COmnl!31HI of God Himself placed under the most
solemn obligation to exercise self-control." -pp 561.

6. What does the Spirit of Prophecy say about pre-natal influences?

NO,[~E " ... Both paronts transmit their own ~haracteristics, mental
and physical, their dispositions nnd appetites, to their children. As
the result of parental intemperance children often lack physical
stl'ength and mental and moml power. Liquor drinkers and tobacco
users may, and do, transmit their insatiable craving, their inflamed
blood and irritable nerves, to their children. 'T,he licentious often
bequeath their Ul,holy desires, and even loathsome diseases, as a legacy
to their offspring. And as the children have less power to resist
temptation than had the parents, the tendency is for each generation
to fall lower and lower. :1';o:.l great degree parents are responsible
not only for the violent passions and perverted appetites of their
children but for the infirmities of the thousands born dea.f, blind,
diseased, or idiotic.," -PP 561.
7, What duty will be fulfilled faithfully by Chlristian parents?
Proverbs 22:6.

NO'I'E: "And it was not enough that the promised child should re-
~eive a good legacy from the parents. 'rhis must be followed by
careful training and the formation of right habits, God directed that
the future judge and deliverer of 1sral should be trained to strict
temper:lllce from infancy. He was to be a Na'write from his birth
thus heing placed under a perpetual prohibition against the use of
wine 01' stl'ong drink. 'The lessons of temperance, self-denial, and
self-control are to be ta,ught to children even from babyhood.
-18-
 "The angel's prohibition included 'every unclean thing.' :rhe
distinction bet.ween articles of food as clean and unclean was not a
mercly ceremonial and arbitra-ry regulat.ioll, but was hased upon
sanitary principles ... " -pp 561, 562.

8. I!!1 what words does king Solomon advise us to be temperate?

What is the true meaning of Christian temperance? Provo 23';1-3.

NO'l'E: " ... The principles of temperance must be ca·rried further

than the mere use of spiritous liquors. The use of stimulat.ing and in-
digestiblc food is often equally injurious to health, and in many
1\ cases sows t.he seeds of drunkenncss. 'l'rue temperance teaches us to
dispense entirely with everything hurtful and to use judiciously that
which is healthful. Thel'e are few who l'ealize as they should how
much their habits of diet h,ave to do with their health, their charactcr,
their uscfulness in this world, a·nd their etental destiny. The appetite
should ever be in subjection to the moral and intellectual powel's.
'l'he body should be servant. to the mind, and not the mind to the
body." -PP 562.

9. How did Samson corrup1t his ways before the Lord? Judg.14:1-3.

NO'l'E: ".,. Had Samson obeyed the divine comm:mds as faithfully as

his pa,rents had done, his would have been a nobler and happier destiny,
But assoeiation with idola.tel's corrupted him. The town of Zorah
being near the country of the Philistines, Samson came to mingle
with them on frielHlly terms. 'l'hus in his youth intimacles sprang
up, the influence of wllich darkened his whole life. A young woman
dwelling in the Philistine town of 'l'imnath engaged Samson's affections,
and he determined to make her his wife. '[0 his God,fearing paJ'ents,
who end0:lVOured to dissuade him from his purpose, his only answer
was, 'She pleaseth me well.' 'rhe parents at la'st yielded to his wishes,
and the maniage took place." -pp 562.

10, What warning does the apostle Paul give in this connection?
Why is this warning so imporl~ant today? 2 Corinthians 6:15, 16.

No'rE: "How many are pursuing the same course as did Samson!
How often maniages are formed between the godly and the ungodly,
because inclination governs in the selection of husbancl or wife! The
parties do not ask counsel of God, nOr have His glory in view, Christ-
ianity ought to have a contI'olling influence upon the maniage relation,
but it is too often the case that the motives which lead to this union
are not ill keeping with Christian principles. Satan is constantly
seeking to strengthen his power over the people of God by inducing
Ithem to enter in~o alliance with his subjects; and in onler to ac·
complish this he endeavours to arouse unsanctified passions in thd
heart. But the Lord ha's in His word pIainly instructed His people
not to unite themselves with those who have not His love abiding
in them ... " -PP 563.
-19-
Lesson No. 10 Sabbath, September 2, 1972.
IN THE COURT OF BABYLON
KEY '1'EXT: Daniell: 8.
1. What decision did the king of Babylon make, in view of the
want of men to fill important positions in his kingdom? Dan. 1:3,4.
2. WllO were among the students, and for what purpose were theilr
names changed? Daniel 1:6, 7.
NO'1'E: '''rhe king did not compel the Hebrew youth to renounce
their faith in favor of idolatry, but he hoped to bring this about grad-
ually. By givillg them names significant of idolatry, by bringing
,them daHy into close association with idolatrolls customs, and under
the influence of the seductive rites of heathen worship, he hoped to
induce them to renounce the religion of their Ita tion and to unite
with the worship of the Babylonians." -PK 481.
3. How were they severely tested? Daniel 1 :5.
4 Wlhat were the intentions of the king in ptroviding tha't they
should eat of the meat and drink of the wine that came from
his table?
NOT:E: "'1'he youth in this school of trainillg were not only to be
admitted to the royal palace, but it was provided that they should
cat of the lIlC'at and drink of the winc ",hich came from the king'8
table. In all this the king considered th[tt he \\'as not only bestowing
great hOllor upon them, but securing for them the best physical and
mental development that could be attained." -SL 19.
5. What did they decide? What were the main reasons tha't led
them to their decision? Dan. 1:8 (first part).

NO'l"E: "Amollg the viands plueeu I,;,efore the kieg were swine's
flesh and other meats whieh were declared unclean h.y the law of
:Moses, and which the Hebrews had been expressly forbidden to eat.
Here Daniel was brought to a severe test ... " -SL 19.
" ... a portioll having been offered to idols, the food fl'OIll the
king's ta ble was consecrated to idolatry; alld one partaking oj' it
would be regarded !IS offering homage to the gods oj' Babyloll. In
such homage, loyalty to Jehovah forbade Daniel and his cOlllp,miolls
to join. Even a mere pretense of eating the food or drinking the
wine would be a denial of their faith. '1'0 do this would be to array
themselve,9 with heathenism and to dishonor the principles oj' the
law of God.
"Nor dared thcy risk the enervating cffect oj' luxury ~md dissipation
on physical, mental, and spiritual develo.pmcnt. '1'hey wcre ac,q'uaintcd
witlt the history of Na'llab and Abihu, the recol'd of \I']lOse intem-
perance ·and its results had been preservcd in the parehmcnts oj' the
-20-
 Pentateucll; and tlley I<new that theh own physical and mental power
woulf] he injU1'iously affpcted by the usc of wine." -PK 481, 482.
6. What was the background of their sltrict adherence to principle?
Proverbs 22:6.
NO'J'E: "Daniel and his associates had been trained by their parents
to IHlbits of strict tempermlce. Thpy had bepn taught that GOf] would
hold thpm accountahlp for their cava hilit.i es, :l11f] that they must never
dwarf 0" enfeehle tllf'ir powers. 'J'his ef]ur':lt.ion ",as 1'0 Danipl and
his conlpanions thp means of their preservation amidst thp rlemorali7.ing
influencps of the court of 13ahylon. Strong ,\"('rp tIl(' tempt.at.ions S\11'-
rounf]ing thelll in that eOl'l'upt and luxmious C 0111' t, but thpy remained
nncontamin,~ted. No power, no influence, could swa~' thplll from lhe
pl'inciples thp~, had learned in pm'ly life h~' a study of HIP word and
works of God." PK 482.
7. What request did Daniel make of Ithe chief of the eunuchs? W1ly
did the eunuch hesita!te to grant Daniel's request? Dan. 1:8-10.
8. W11at appeal did Daniel then make to 'this steward in charge of
the Hebrew youths? What was the ~'esult? Dan. 1:11-16.
. 9. How did God bless Daniel and his associates? Dan. 1: 17.
10. What did the final examination reveal at the end of the training
period? Dan. 1 :18-20.
NO'J'E: " ... In physical strength ana hpaltly, in menlal "igor and
literary a t.t'a·inIllPnt, they stoorl unrivalprl. The f'l'ec.l. form, the firm.
eklstic stpp, t.he fair countenance, the ullrlimmcrl sensps, the untainlr.d
hreath - all werc so Illany certificates of goorl habits, insignia of the
110hility with which nature honors those who are oheflient to her laws.
"In acquiring lhe wisdom of the Babylonians, Daniel mid his
companions "'el'e far more suecessful than their fellow stUflenls;; hnt
their leaming diii not cOllle by chancp. Thcy nhta·ined their know-
lef]ge hy thp fa·ithful use of their powl'rs, ltnder the guidance of the
Holy Spil'it. They pl,~ced themselves in connection wil.h the Somce of
all wisdom, making the ]<11owledge of Goel the founelat.ion of their
('elucation. In faith they pra~'cd for wisdom, and they liverl thcir
praycrs ... " - P ] { 485, 486.

-x-x-x-x-x-
Lesson No. 11 Sabbath, September 9, 1972.

THE MESSAGE AND WORK OF ELIJAH

KEY TEX'J': Mabchi 4:5, 6.
1. W11at situaition existed in Israel, mainly due to the evil influ-
ence of the king? Wlhat testimony does the Bible give about
Ahab? 1 Kings 16':33.

-2:1.-

I
NOTE: "Under the blighting influence of Allab's rule, Israel wandered
far from the living God and corrupted their ways before Him. For
many years they had been losing their sense of reverence 'and godly
fear; and now it seemed as if there were none who dared expose
their lives by openly standing forth in opposition to the prewLiling
hlasphemy. The dark shadow of apestasy covered the whole land.
Images of Baalim amI Ashtoreth weTe everywhere to be seen. Idolatrous
temples and consecrated groves, wherein were \\rorshipped the works
of men's hanrls, were multiplied. The ail' vms polluted with the
smoke of the sacrifices offererl to fa·lse gods. Hill and vale resounded
with the drunken cries of a heathen priesthood who sacrificed to the
sun, moon, Hnd st.Hrs." -PK 115.
2. What does the word of God say about Elijah in connection with
the work of reform? 1 Kings 17: 1.
NOTE: "Among the mountains of Gilead, ea'st of the Jordan, therEi
rlwelt in the days of Ahab a. man of faith and prayer whose f~arless
ministry was destined to check the rapid sprea'll. of apostasy in Isr,ael.
Far removeil from any city of renown, and occupying no high station
in life, Elijah the Tishbite nevertheless entered upon his mission
confident in God's purpose to prepare the way before him ,and to give
him abundant success. The word of faith and power was upon his lips,
anrl his whole life was devoted to the work of reform. His Was the
voice of one crying in the wilrle1'l1ess to rebuke sin anrl press back
the tide of evil. And while he C,:Hne to the people as a reprover of
sin. his message offered the bahn of Gilead to the sin-sick souls of
all who desired to be healed." -PK 119.

3. Where did Elijah hide himself, in obedience to the word of God,

and how was he sustained there? What diet did he have, and
who were the bearelrs thatb1:ought him his food? 1 Kings 17: 2-6.

4. Where did the Lord direc1t him to go, after the brook dried up?
With what promise was his sustenance assured? 1 Kings 17:8, 9.

No'rE: "After his first appearance to Ahab, denouncing upon him the
judgments of God because of his and Isra,e1 's ,apostasy, God directed
his c,ourse fTol11 Jezebel's peweT to a place of sHfety in the
mountains, by the brook Oherith. There He honoured Elijah
by sending food to him morning and evening by an angel of heaven.
Then, ,as the hrook became dry, He sent him to the widow of Sarepta,
and wrought a miTacle daily to keep the widow's family and Elijah
in food. After he had been hlessed with evirlences of such love and
care from Gorl, We would suppose that Elijah would never distrust {
Him. But the ,apostle tells us that he was a man of like passions as we,
and subject, as we are, to tempta·tiolls." -3T 288.
5. What did the prophet, first of all, ask the widow to bring him?
1 Kings 17:10, II,
6 What disappointing answelr did she give him? 1 Kings 17:12.
-22:-
 7. By what demand and promise was the woman's faith severely
tested? 1 Kings 17:13, 14.
NOTE: "No greater test of fflith than this could have been required.
'1'he widow had hitherto t.J·eated all strangers with kindness and
liberality. Now, reg>:lrdless of the suffering that might result to herself
and child, and trusting in the God of Israel to supply her every need,
she met this supreme test of hospitality by doing 'acr.ording to the
sfl~'ing of Elijah.' " -PK 130, 131.
8. How did she respond to the words of the prophet? 1 Kings 17: 15.
NO'J'E: "The widow of Zfl.repta shared her morsel with Elijah, anel
in return her life f1'lld that: of lH'1' son were preserved. And to fill
who, in tinll' of trifll anfl wflnt. give sympathy and ':lssistance to others
more needy, God has promisefl great blessing. He has not changed;
His power is no less now than in the days of J~lijah ... " -PE: 131, 132.
9. What miracle did the Lord work in recognition of her faith?
1 Kings 17: 16.
10. What favourable refelrence did Christ make to that widow's faith?
Luke 4:25, 26.

-x-x--x-x-x-
Lesson No. 12 Sabbath, September 16, 1972.
THE MESSAGE AND WORK OF ELIJAH (Continued)
KEY TEXT: James 5:17.
1. Fair what evil did Elijah rebuke the baekslidden king of Israel?
Wihat characters does God call for in our days? 1 Kings 18:17, 18.

NOTE: " ... God calls for men like Elijah, Nathan, and John the
Bflptist - men who "'ilI beflr His message with faithfulness, regflrdless
of the consequences; men who will speak the truth bravely, though
it cflll for the &3Crifice of all they l,ave.
"God canllot use men who, in time of peril, when the strength,
rOUl'age, and influence of all are needed, are afraid to take a flrlll
stmHl for the right. He 03lls for mon who will do faithful battle
flgainst wrong, warring against priJlcipalities and powers, against
O,e rulers of the darklless of this worM, flg'3inst spiritua'l wickedness
ill high places ... " -PK 142.
2 Wha1t similar e·vil ean be seen today? Daniel 7:25.

NO'l'E: "During the Christian dispensation, thp great enemy of

ma·n's h:lppiness has made the Sabbath of the fOlll'th commandment
an object of special attack. Satan says, "I will work at cross pur-
poses with God. I will empower my followers to set aside God's
-23-
memorial, the seventh-day S:tbba,th. Thus I will show the world
~hat the day sanctified and blessed by God has been changed. That
day shall no,t live in the miJlds of the people. I will oblitel'ate the
memory of it, I will place in its stead a day that does not bear the
credentials of God, a day that ca'nnot be a sign between Goel alld
His people.. I will lead those who accept this day to place upon it
the sanet.it:y that God placed upon the seventh day.
" 'Through m~r viceregent., I will exalt. myself. The first. day will
be ext.olleil, 11I1d tho Prot.pst-allt w'orld will receive this spurious sabbath
as genuine, 'l'hrough the 110nobsPl'vance of t.he Sabbat.h that God
inst.ituteil, I "'ill bring His klW into oOllt·emp1". The worelA. "A sign
betwpen M.e anil you t.hroughout your generations," I will make to
serve on t.he side of my sabbath.

" 'Thus the world will become mino ... ' " -PK 183, 184.
3. What is the parallel between the days of Elijah and our days?
Eccl, 3:15.
NOTE: ",. ,History is being rep(\~ted. The wOl'lil t.oilay has its
Ahabs and it.s Je7.elwls. The ]JI'esellt age is onp of idolatry, as verily as
was that in ,,"hich Blijah lived, No outward shrine may be visible;
thpre may he no image for the eye to rest. upon; yet t.housallds aI's
following after t.he gods of this world - aft,m' riches. ffllne, pleasure,
and the pleasing fahles that permit. man to follow the inclinations
of t.he unregenerate h(\:11'1". Multi.tudes ha've a Wrong cOl1ception of Gael
and His att.rihutes, anil are as t,rul~' serying a false goel as WCl'e the
worshippers of Baal..," -·PK 177.

4, What wolrk does the Lord demand from us today? By what name
does God call our time in view of the work of restoration t11all
is to be carried on? Tsa. 58:12, 13; Adts 3:19,21.

5. Tn whose spirit and power are we called to perform this wDlrk?

WlIO was called to do such a work, in the same spirit and power,
in the days of Christ? Mat, 17:11-13; Luke 1:16, 17.

NOTE: "., ,Those who are t.o prepare the way for the seconel coming
of Christ are represented hy faithful Elijah, as John 0ame in tho
spirit of Elijah to prepare the "ray for Christ's first advent. '1.'110 great
subject of reform is to be agitated, and the puhlic. mind is t.o be
stilTed. 'l'empewulce in a,ll things is to be c01l11eoted with the message,
to tUt'll the people of Gocl from their idolah'y, their gluttony, and
their extravagance in dress al1d other things." -3T 6'2.

'6 Wherein did John the Baptist resemble Elijah? Mat. 3-:1-4.

KO'l'E: " ... .John's singulal' apppa'r':lnce carried thp minds of his
hearers back to the ancient seers, In his ma1l11er a1\(1 dress ho l'esembled
the prophet Elijah, 'With the spirit amI polI'er of Elijah he denounced the
national cOJ'l'Uption, a'nd rebuked the prevailing SillS .. ," -DA 104.
-24-
 "John came in the spirit and power of ELijah, to do such a
work as Elijah did" (Ibid., p. 135).

7. After the test on Mount Calrmel, and while Elijah was taking
refuge in the wilderness, wi!th what message did the Lord rouse
him from his despondency? What food was he given, and bIy
whom was it provided? 1 Kings 19:4-8.

8. What diet did John the Baptist adopt? What other practices
and habilts did he - as a reformelr - develop? Mark 1:6.

KO'1'E: "John separated himself from friends a.nd from the luxuries
of life. '1'he simplicity of his dress, a garment woven of camel's
hair, was a sbanding rebuke to the extravagance and display of the
Jewish priests, and of the people generw]]y. His diet, purely vegetable,
of locusts and wild honey, was a rebuke to the indulgence of appetite
and the gluttony that everywhere prev,ailed ... " -3T 62
9. Since We have Elij,ah the prophet and John the Baptist as our
repr'es'entatives in the gre,at work of refonn todaiy\, Wherein
flhould we, too. show fltrictnesfl? 1 Cor. 10:31.

NO'1'E: "The self-denial, humility, and temperance required of the

righteous, whom God especially leads and blesses, is to be presented
to the people in contrast to the extr':lVRgant, heaUh-destroying habits of
,those who live in this degenerRte age. God has shown thRt health
reform is as closely connected with the third Rngel's message a·s the
hand is with the body. There is nowhere to be found so great a
cause of physical and moral degeneracy as a neglect of this important
subject, '1'hose who indulge appetite Rnd passion, and close their
eyes to the light for fear they will see sinful indulgences ,vhich they
are unwilling to forsa'ke, are guilty before God. "W1lOever turns from
the light in one instance hardens h is heart to disregard the light
upon other matters. 'Vhoever violates mor,::tl ob,ligations in the matter
of eating and dressing prepares the way to violate the claims of God
in regard to eternal intel'ests ... " -8-'[' 62, 63.

10. In what other respect does Elijah stand as our represen!tative?

Mat. 17:1-4.

NO'Ll<]: "Moses upon the mount of transfiguration was a witness

to Christ '.8 victory over sin and death. He represented those who shall
come forth from the grave at the resunection of the just. Elijah, who
had been translated to heaven without seeing death, represented those
who will be living upon the earth at Christ's second coming, and who
will he 'changed, ill a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last
trump;' when' this 1ll0J'tal must put on immortality,' and 'this cor-
ruptible must put on inco1'l'uption.' ... " -DA 421, 422.
REMEMBER-ITS 13TH SABBATH NEXT WEEK!
~
Lasson No. 18 Sabbath, September 23, 1972.
OUR HEALTH WORK TODAY
KEY '[j<]X'l': J'ohn 8:31.
1. Why is health refo!rm so important, especially for those who live
in the last days of this world's history? 1 Cor. 9:25-27.
NO'I'E: '''1'he body must be kept in (I llealthy cOllditioll in order
that the soul may be in health. 'rhe condition of the body effects
-the cOllllitioll of the soul. He who would have physical alld spiritual
strength must educate his appetito in right lines. He must be careful
not to IJurden tllO soul by overtaxing his physical 01' spiritua'[ powers.
Pa·ithful adhe.rence to right principlcs in ea tillg, chill king, aJl(1 dressing
is a duty that God has laid upon human beings." -Ev. 261
2. Whelre are the basic principles of health reform found? Provo 4:18-22.
NOTE: '''rhe principles of health rcform arc found in tho word of
God. The gospel of health is to be firmly linked with t.he ministry
of the won1. It is the Lord's design that the l'estol'ing influellce
of h'3alth reform shall be a part of the last great effort to procklim
the gospel message ... " -MM 259. (Ev. 261,)
3, How is health !reform to be considered in its relationship with
:tihe t;hiIfd amgel's message? \ Prov. 3:1, 2, 8.
NO'I'E: "I ",as again shown that tho health reform is ono branch
of the great wOl'k which is to fit a people for the cOllliilg of tho
Lord. It is as closely connected with the thil'd angel's message as the
hand is with the body" (3T 161).
4. Recalling the expelrience of Israel in the wildel'l1ess, what warning
does Paul send Ito the generation living in the last days of earth's
history? Num. 11:4, 34; 1 Cor. 10:5, 6, 11.

5. What fate will those meet who profess to believe the third
angel's message and yet reject this warning? Isa. 22:12-14.

6. To what specific time does Ithe wal'l1ing of llsaiah 22:12-14 refeir?

Isa. 22:12, 20"22; Rev. 3:7.
7. What is the only safe stand that we can take in eOnnection with
flesh eating? Prov. 23:20.

NO'1'E: "Again a'lHI again I have been shown that God is trying
to lead us back, step by step, to His original design - that mall
should subsist upon the natuml products: of the earth" (CH 450).
(CD 380.)
":Mamy who are now only half converted on the question of meat
ea,ting will go from God's people, to walk no more with them" (Re-
view and Hemld, May 27, 1902). (CH 575; CD 382.)
-21&-
 "No meat will be used by His people" (CD 82).
" Among those who are waiting for the coming of the Lord, meat
eating will evelltually be done away; flesh will cease to form a part
of their diet" (Ibid., pp. a80, 381).
8. What are some of the evil effects of flesh foods?
a. Moral and spiritual effects
NOTE: "A religiou~ life can be more successfully gaIned and main-
tained if meat is dis"arded, for thi~ <.liet ~timulates into intense ac-
tivity lustful propensitie~, and enfeebles the mor,al and spiritnal
na ture" (CD 389).
b. Mental effects
NOTE: "It is impossiule for those who rna'ke free usc of flesh meats
to have {In unclouded brain a ntl an active intellect" (2'[ 62). (CD 389.
c. PJlysfcal effects
NOTE: " ... Disease in ca ttle is making meat eating a dangerous
matter. 'l'he Lord's curse is upon the earth, upon man, upon beasts,
upon the fish in the sea; and as tl'an~gressioll becomcs almost ulli-
versal, the curse will be permitted to becomc as broad (lnd as deep
as the trunsgressioll. :Qisease is can traded uy the use of mea't. The
(uiseased flesh of thcse dead carWSSC8 is sold in the mal'ket places,
and disease among lIlen is the sure result." -CD 411.
g. Can we say that it is actually sin to nse any health-destroying
articles of diet? James 4:17.

No'rE: "Sa tan is corrupting minds and destroying souls through

hi~ subtle temptations. Will our people ~ee and feel the sin of in-
dulging perverted Qppetite~ Will they discard tea, coffee, flesh meats,
and all stimUlating food, and devote the means expended for these
hurtful indulgences to sprca'dillg the truth ~ ... " -3'1' 569.
10. How far will disrespect for the light on health reform effect
our trelatiollship with God? 1 Cor. 3,:16, 17.

NO'l'E: " ... If wc enfeeble the body by self-gratification, by in.

dulging t.he appetite, and by dressing in accordance with health-dest.roy-
ing fashions, in order t.o be in harmony with the world, we become
enemies of God." -3'1' 63.
Lesson No. 14 Sabbath, September 30, 1972.
THE FINAL RESTORATION
KEY TEXT: Revelation 21:4.
1. W1l.at is God's pUlrpose for us, especially in the last days of tlhis
earth's hifitory? And what is necessary so that this great aim
can be realized? Eph. 4:12, 13.
NO'I'E: "God's purpose for His children is tha't they shall grow
up to the full stature of lllen a'll d women in Christ In order to do
this, they lllUSt use aright every power of mind, SOUl,' and body. 'I hey
cannot afford to waste any mental or physical strength.
"I'rhe ,q,uestion of how to preserve the health is one of primary
importance. Wl1ell we study this question in the fea'r of God we shall
learn that it is best, for both our physical and our spiritual advance-
ment, to observe simplicity in diet.,," -9'1' 153.
2 What connection exists between the health reform message and
the loud cry? What are some of the effects of its presentation?
Titus 2:12, 13.
NOipE: "The work of health refonn is the Lord's means for lessening
suffering in our wo1'ld and for purifying His church. Teach the people
that they can act as God's helping hand by co-operating with the
Master "Varkel' in restoring physical and spiritual he.alth. This work
bears the signature of heavell and will open doors for the entrancE!
of other precious tl'Uths ... " -9'1 112, 113.
" , , . The presentation of this message is to result in the con-
version and sancotif1ic.ation of souls. We are to feel the power of the
Spirit of God in this movt'ment. 'I'his is ':1 wonderful, definite message;
it means everything to the receiver, and it is to be proclaimed with
a loud cry. We must have a true, abiding faith that this mes&age
will go forth with increasing importance till the close of time."
-Iboid., page 154.
3. In view of what great fOlrtheoming events d,oes this messagl'1
have an important role, helping us in our work of repentance
and conversion? Acts 3:19, 20.
4. What message necessarily includes the health reform message?
What promise is given to those who overcome? Isa. 58: 1; Rev.
3 :18-21,
NOTE: " ... Will you not seek God most humbly, that you may give
the L.aodicean message 'with clear, distinc~ utterance? "Vhere are
God's watchmen who will see the peril and give the warning? Be
assured tha.t there arc messages to come from human lips under the
inspiration of the Holy Spirit. 'Cry aloud, spare not, ... show My
people their transgression, and the house of J.:1cob their sins ... "
-'l'estimonies to Ministers page 296.
-28-
 i5 . How powerful will the working of the Lord be in our behalf
When we heed this message more fully? What will happen,
howeve,r, if we neglect this message? Ps. 103,:2, 3; James 5:15.
NO'PE: " ... The Lord has given me light that when the Israel of
today humble themselves before Him, .and cleanse the soul-temple
from a]] defilement, He will hear their prayers in behalf of the sick
and will bless in the use of His remedies for disease. When in fa-itl!
the human agent does all he can to combat ,liS0:1Se, using the simple
J)lethods of treatmont that God has provided, his efforts will 1)0
b'lessed of God.
"If, aftor so much light has been given, God's people will cherish
wrong ha-bits, indulging self and 1'efusing to refo1'm, they will suffer
the sure consequences of transgression If they ,are determined to
gratify pel·vel·ted appetite at any cost, God wi]] not miraculously
save them from the consequences of their indulgence ... " -9T 164.
6. What provision has the Lord made to meet the necessities of
His people in the kingdom of glory? Eze. 47:12; Rev. 22:1, 2.
7. How c-an sinners flhare the benefilts of the tlree of life today?
Isaiah 34:16.
NO'LE: " ... Open the Bible before the tompted, struggling one, and
over an,] over again read to him tho promises of God. 'Phese promises
wi]] be to him as the leaves of t.he tree of life. Patiently continue
yom' efforts, until with grateful joy tho trembling ha-nd grasps the
hopo of l'edemption through Christ." -NIH 173.
8. What evils will not be allowed to exist in the kingdom of
glory? Isai-ah 33: 24; Revelation 21: 4.
9. What condition will ensure the existence of peace in the kingdom
of glory? Isaiah 32:16-18; 48:18; 2 Pete-r 3:13.
10. By whrut description does the Lord announce the complete restolr-
ation of His original plan and our participation in it? Rev. 21 :5-7.

Printed By Religious Libe~i;y Publishing Association

43 Harrow Road, Auburn, N.S.W. 2144, Australil\