SABBATH SCHOOL LESSONS

SENIOR DIVISION

First Quarter, 1973.

Signs of The Times

 FOREWORD

"How readest thou ~" The signs of our times are clear for all to
see. Many see them, but continue as seeing them not. This does not
surprise us of the careless throng, but what of those who profess to be
the people of God, not just merely Christians, but the very elect, those
to whom the prophet was sent and who have received messages upon
messages~

"In this generation there are many who are treading on the same
ground as were the unbelieving Jews. They have witnessed the mani-
festation of the power of God; the Holy Spirit has spoken to their
hearts; but they cling to their unbelief and resistance. God sends
them warnings and reproof, but thGy are not willing to confess their
errors, and they reject His message and His messengers ... " -DA 587.

We have the example of signs as well publicized as the tumultuous

entry of Jesus amid the waving palm branches, but they are misin-
terpreted and misappli.ed by the religious leaders. In the days of
Jesus the common people queried, What else could it be~

"'The last appeal to Jerusalem had been in vain. The priests

and rulers had heard the prophetic voice of the past echoed by the
multitude, in answer to the question, 'Who is this ~, but they cUd not
accept it as the voice of Inspiration. In anger and amazement they
tried to silence the people ... " -Ibid., pp. 580, 581.

"For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for

our leal'lling, ... " (Rom. 15:4.) W'ith this in mind, we should follow
the advice of Jesus: "Let these sayings sink down into your ears"
(Luke 9:44). All should study the signs daily and pray that the Lord
will give each one for himself, the spiritual discel'llment to see whither
the Lord is really leading His "little flock."

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 000 000 013 428
GC Archive

Lesson No.1 Sabbalth, Janua,ry' ,'6, 1\173.

PROPHECY AND PROMISES
1. For what reason did the Lord provide the prophetic gift among
His people? Isa. 48:1-5; John 14:29.
NO'l'E: "~rom the rise and fall of nations as made plain in the pages
of Holy Wnt, they need to learn how worthless is mere outward and
wCH'ldly glory. Babylon, with all its power and its magnificence the
like of w.hich our wodd has never since beheld. - power and magnifi-
cence whIch to the people of that day seemed so stable and enduring..
- how completely has it passed away! As' the flower of the grass'
it has perished. So perishes all that has not God for its foundation.
Only that whieh is bound up with His purpose and expresses His char-
acter can endure. His principles are the only steadfast things our
world knows." -Ed 183.
2. Whalt should be the Iresult if these directions were followed?
Isaiah 48:16-19.
3. What was the general response to the prophecies and promises
before that glob'al disaster - the flood - and whait was the result?
Gen. 6:5, 7, 13; Mat. 24:38, 39.
4. Wllat effect does human indifference to or willful rejedtion of signs
Which GQd has sent, have upon His purposes? What prominent
sign was seen by all in the time of Noah? Gen. 6:13, 14.
NOTE: '" By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen
as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house;
by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the right-
eousness which is by faith.' Hebrews 11:7. While Noah was giving
his wal'lling message to the wodd, his works testified of his sincerity.
It was thus that his faith was perfected and made evident. He gave
the world an example of believing just what God says. All that he
possessed, he im-ested in the ark. As he hegan to construct tnr..t immense
boat on dry ground, multitudes came from every direction to see the
strange sight and to heal' the earnest, fervent words of the singular
preacher. Every blow struck upon the ark was a witness to the people."
-pp 95.
6. What supernaltural sign was given for all intelligent beings to
witness just befolre the flood was to come? Gen. 7:13-16.
NO~E: " ... Beasts of every description, the fiercest as well as the
most gentle, were seen coming from mountain and forest and quietly
making their way toward the ark. A noise as of rushing wind was
heard, and 10, birds were flocking from all directions, their numbers
darkening the heavens, and in perfect order they passed to the ark.
Animals obeyed the command of God, while men were disobedient.
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.D.A.R.
Guided by holy angels, they 'went in two and two unto Noah into the
ark,' and the clean beasts by sevens. .The world looked on in wonder,
some in fear. Philosophers were called upon to accoullt for the singular
occurrence, but in vain. It was a mystery which they could not fathom.
But men had become so hardened by heir persistent rejection of light
that evcn the sun shining in its glory, and the earth clad in almo£t
Edell beauty, they banished their rising fears by hoistorOllS merriment
and by their deeds of violence they seemed to invite upon themselves
the visitation of the already awakened wrath of God." -pp 97, 98.
6. WQ£ Noah, and his family, endowed with supernatural powers
beyond those of Itb!eir fellow citizens? Gen. 6:8-10; 7:1.
7. Upon what security was the experience of NoaJJ. and his family
based? Heblrews 11:6, 7.
8. How do we know that God's love does nolt abrogate justice and
permit the continuance of sin? 2 Peter 3:~-11.
N01'E: ' 'Prom the highest peaks men looked abroad upon a shoreless
ocean. The solemn warnings of God's servant no longer seemed a
subject for ridicule and scorning. How those doomed sinners longed
for the oppo·rtunities which they had slighted! How they pleaded for
(,ne hour's probation, one more privilege of mercy, one call from the
lips of Noah! But the sweet voi"c of mercy was no more to be heard by
them. Love, no less than justice, demanded that God's judgments
should put a check on sin. The avenging waters swept over the last
retreat, and the despis~rs of God perished in the black depths." -PP
100, 10l.
9. Concerning the fulfillment of the promises of God, what should
be remiembered? What should be done. if they do not come to
pass· inunedliately? Hebrews 10:35-39.
10. What must we do until Ithe prophecies and plrOlnises are completely
fulfilled? 2 Thess. 2; 15-17
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Lesson No. 2 Sabba.th, January 13, 1973.

SIGNS AT THE EXODUS

1. Whalt condition had developed W1ith the people of God in Egypt?
E:J:odwr 1:1-14.
2. What change had come with the king of E1gypt (Pharaoh)? Ex.
2:23-25
3. What had been promised through Joseph many years before?
Genesis 50: 22\-24.
NOTE: "When he (Joseph) saw that his end was neal', he summoned
his kinsmen about him. Honored as he had been in tI1C land of the
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Pharaohs, Egypt wa~ to him but the place of his exile; his last act
was to signify that his lot was cast with Israel. His last words were,
'God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land unto thp
land which He sware to Abraham, to Isaac, and t.o Jacob.' And hl"
took a solemn oath of the children of Israel that they would carry
up his bones with them to the land of Canaan. 'So .Toseph -died, being
an hundred and ten years old: and they emhalmed him, and he was
put in a co-ffin in Egypt.' And through the centuries of toi.! which
followed, that coffin, a reminder of the dying words of Joseph, testified
to Israel that they were only sojourners in Egypt, and bade them
keep t.heir hopes fixed upon the Land of Promise, for th(" t.ime of dt'-
liverllnre wonld surely come." -P'P 240. - . __

.
~
")The elders of Israel endeavoured to sustain the sinking faith
of their brethren by repeating the promises made t.o their fathers,
and the prophetic words of Joseph before his death. foretellin!! their
oeliverance from Egypt. Some would listen and believe. Others.
looking at the circumstances that surrounded them, refused to hope.
The Egyptians, being informed of what was reported among their
hondmen. d('rided their expectations and scornfully denied tht' power
of t.ht'ir Goo ... " -Ibid., p. 259.
4. Whalt peculiar sign of God's -intervention for His people came
to Moses, His ehosen leader? Exodus 3:1-6; 7-10.
5. By what means did Moses convince the eldelrs and people, and thus
establish their confidence? EXOdus 4:29-31.
6. For what reason had the Exodus been delayed? Exodus 5 :20..123.

NOTI~: '''The Hebrews had expected to obtain their freedom with·

out an~' speeia! trial of their faith or any real suffering 0)' hardship.
But th('y were not yet prepared fOl' deliveTance. They had little faith
in Gorl, and were unwilling patiently to endure their afflictions until
He should see fit to work for them. Many were content to remain in
hOllrIage rather than meet the rIifficulties attenrIing removal to II
st.range lanrI; anrI the habits of some had become so much like those
of the Egyptians that they preferred to rIwell in Egypt.. Therefore t.he
1,01'(1 dirI not deliver them by the first. manifest.at.ion of His power
h("fore Pha I'aoh ... " -pp 260.
7. Who were these people thalt went along with the children of
Israel? Exodus 12:38; Num. 11:4-6.
NOTE: ,,( ... And a mixed multitude went up also with them.' In
t.his multitude were not only those who were actuated by faith in
the GorI of Israel, but also a far greater number who desired only
t.o escape froll} the plagues, or who followed in the wake of the
moving'multihldes merely from excitement and curiosity. This class
"-('1'(' ('\,('1' a hindrance and a snare t.o IS1·ael." -PP 281.

8. W1lat did these influence the rest of the people to do and to

what extent dlid Ithe people go? Ex. 16:3; Num. 14:4.
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NOTE: " ... Especially was this the case with the mixed multitude.
They were impatient to be on their way to the Land of Promise
-the land flowing with milk and honey. It was o,nly on condition
of obedience that the goodly land was promised them, but they lost
sight of this . . . " -PP 315.
t< • • • The 'mixed multitude' had been the first to indulge mur-
muring and impatience, and they were the leaders in the apostasy
that followed ... " -Ibid., p. 316.
9. If success and ~ecurity welre to be achieved in t,his great movement
towards the promised land, what was a p11ime and essent:l;al
need? How does this principle apply today? Isa. 1:19, 20.
N()'T'V-· "TTl thph h""'oaCfp' the I8me1ite8 lwd to 80mp. extent lost
thD l""M"1,,ilND "t' 0"il '0 low. apd t;,pv had dpnartPfl f"om its nre-
nn~'Q 'f'hn QOhhPtJ, 1,·,,1 hPP'" (1'pTlDl'allv disl'pCfaropo, ftPd the exactions
,,-P tho;.,. +;"lC01"rnf.)!=ltPl·q mf.lc1p ;t~ (lhF:prv~n(le annal'p,n+.lv itnnn~sihle. But
M..,"nQ 1,oil "l'nw11 his 1'e0n1p t,hat nhpoiencp. to God was the ,first con-
ditinn nf o"livpranp.e; and the efforts made to restor'e the observanre
oJ' the Sabbath had come to the notice of their oppressors," -pp 21>8,

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Less(}n No. 3 Sabbath, January 20, 1973.

THE MIGHTY SIGN OF THE MESSIAH

1. 'What could the patriarch Job confidently exclaim? Job 19:25-27.
2. What had Jacob left for his posterity and for thClir as,surance
in later times? Gen. 49:10.
3. 'What did the prophet Isaiah write, and what diid ithe apostle Paul
repeat? Isa. 59:20; Rom. 11:26.
4. 'What tangible evidence of Chlrist's power and glory could have
been recognized among Ithe Israelite.s? How was the, confidence
of John restored? Isa. 35:4·6; Mat. 20:30, 31; Isa. 61:1, 2-
NOTE: The Saviour did not at once answer the disciples' question.
As they stood wondering at His silence, the sick and afflictecl were
coming to Him to be healed. The blind were groping their way through
the crowd; ciiseased ones of all classes, some urging their own way.
some borne by their friends, were eagerly pressing into the presence of
,Tesus. The voice of the mighty Healer penetrated the deaf ear. A
word, a touch of His hand, opened the blind eyes to behold the Ii,ght
of day, the scenes of nature, the faces of friends, nIHI the face of the
Deliverer. Jesus rebuked disease and banished fever. , His voice reached
the ears of the clving, aJlc1 they arose in health and vigor. Paralyzeci de-
moniae8 oheved His word. their madness left them, and they worshipped
Him. While He healed their diseases, He taught the people. The poor
peasants and laborers, who were shunned by the rabbi.s as unclean,
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gathered closc about Him, and He spoke to, them the words of eternal
life." -DA 216, 217.
5. What gave the Jews opportunilty to have acclU'ate knowledge
the prophetic ltime and conditions for Christ's Meslliahshil.p? Dan.
9:24-27.
NOTE: " A t the time 0.£ Christ's first advent the priests and scribes
of the Holy City, to whom were entrusted the oracles of God, mi~ht
have discerned the signs of the times and proclaimed the eaming of the
Promised One. The prophecy of Micah designated Hig birthplace:
Daniel specified the time of His advent. Micah 5:2; Daniel 9:25. God
rommitted these prophecies to the Jewish leaders; they werA without
r,xcuse if they did not know and deciare to the people that Un' Messiah's
r.ominl" WilS at hand. Their ignorance was the result of sinful ne~lect..
The .Tews were building monuments for the slain prophets of God.
whilc by their deference to the gTeat men of earth they were paying
homage to t.he servants of Satnn. Absorbed in their ambitious strife
for nlace and power among men. they)ost sill'ht of the divine honors
f'l'ofl'l'l'ed t.h I'm by the King of heaven," -GC 313.
6. What sign was intimately connected with the' Temple in Jernsale'In?
Hag. 2:7-9.
7. What civil power conltrolled the world at the time of the Messiah's
birth, and What were the circumstances prepared to promote his
work? Luke 2:1..6.
NOTE: '" When the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth
His Son.' Providence llad directed the movements of nations, and the
tide, of human impulse and influence, until the world was ripe for the
coming of the Deliverer. The nations ""cre united under one government.
Olle language was widely spoken, and was everywhere recognized as the
lnnguage of literature. From all lands the Jews of the dispersion
gathered to Jerusalem to the annual feasts. As these returned to
thl' places of their sojourn, they could spread throughout the worlel
tht' tidings of thc Messiah's coming." -DA 32.

8. What is the infallible assurance to be associated wilth God's

promises? Isa. 14:24, 27.
9. What crisis was brought to the ecclesiastical autlhol'li,lties and
Jewish le.aders by the public minJistry of John the BaptJSt?
Isa. 40:1-5; Mat. 3:1-13.
NOTE: "It was long since I~rael had had a prophet, long since sueh
a reformation as was now in progreS8 had been witnessed. 'l'hedemand
fo1' eoufession of sin seemed new and startling. Many among the
leaders would not go to hear John's appeals and denundations, lest they
shoulrl l'e led to disclose the secrets of their own lives. Yet his Ereaching
was a direct announcement of the Measiah. It was well known that
the seventy weeks of Daniel's prophecy, covering the Messiah's advent,
were nearly ended; and all were eagel' to share in that era of national
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glory which was then expected. Such was the popular enthusiasm
that the Sanhedrin would soon be forced either to sanction or to reject
John's work. Already their power over the people was waning. It was
becominl; a serious .q'uestion how to maintain their position. In the
hope of arriving at some conclusion, they dispatched to the Jordan
a denutntion of priests and Levites to confer with the new teacher."
-Desire of Ages page 133.
10. How widely known was John the Baptist's preparatory work
for the coming Messiah? Who among many others was also con·
fused bptween the forerunner and the promised Messiah? Mark
1:5; Mat. 14:1-5.
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Lesson No.4 Sabbalth, January 'Xl, 1973.

SIGNS THAT WOULD IDENTIFY THE LORD

1. What direct qupst;on did the Lord encourage the Jewish king Ahaz
to ask? Isa. 7:10-15.
2. What con.dition would exist with naltional I£raeI at that time?
Isaiah 7:15, W.
NOTE: "TIle people whom God had called to be the pillar and ground
of the truth hftd become representatives of Satan. They were doing -
the work that he desired them to do, takinl;" a course to misrepresent
the charader of God. and cause the world to look upon Him as a
tyl'ftnt. The very priests who ministered in the temple had lost sight
of the significance of the service they performed. They had ceased
to look beyond the symbol to the thing signifiecl. .. " -DA 36.
"In word and in deed the Messiah, during His earthly ministry,
was to reveal to manki.nd the glory of God the Father. Every act
of His life, every word spoken, every miracle wrought, was to make
known to fallen humanity the infinite love of God." -PK 696.

3. '\lITI1ile the pponle were intens'eJy 'interested in the advent of Chlrist,

what could they ndt comprehend? Isaiah 53:2; John 1:11.
NO'!'¥,: "For more than a thousand years the Jewish people had
aw~ih'd the Saviour's coming. Upon this event they had rested their
hricrhteRt honPR. In song and prophfCY, in temple rite and household
nraver. they Ilad p.nRhrined His name. And yet at His coming they
knew Him not. The Beloved of heaven was to them 'as a root out of
drv !!'l'ounu:' He had 'no form nor comeliness;' and they saw in Him
no beauty that thev should desire Him. 'He came unto His own, and
His own received Him not.' Isa. 53:2; John 1:11." -DA 27.

4. Fow directlv and positively did the Lord demonstrate the signs by
which Fe should be recognized? Isa. 61:1-3; Luke 4:16"19;
John 8:12.
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 5. How did the Fathe!" in heaven identify Ithe &:m of G<>d? Luke
3:21, 22.
NOTE: "Of the vast throng at the Jordan, few except John discel'lled
the heavenly vision. Yet the solemnity of the divine Presence rested
upon the assembly. The people stood silently gazing upon Christ. His
form was bathed in the light that ever .surrounds the throne of God. His
upturned face was glorified as they had never befol'e seen the face
of man. From the open heavens a voice was heard saying, 'This is My
heloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.' ,. -DA 112.

6. Whait impressive sign was 'given to sOme of the disciples? Mat. 17:Hl.

NOTE: "Yet they received great light. They were assured that
all heaven knew of the sin of the Jewish nation in rejecting Christ.
They were given a clearer insight into the work of the Redeemer.
They saw with their eyes and heard with their ears things that were
heyond the compreh~n8ion of man. They were 'evewitnesses of His
majesty' (2 Peter 1:16). and they realized that Jesus was indeed the
Messiah, j'O whom patriarchs and prophets had witnessed, and that
He was recogni7.ed as sJlch by the heavenl~' univrrse." -DA 42fl.

7. While the Jews were so ultra conservative and eXclusive, where

had the Holy Spirit been working? Isaiah 42: 1·4: 60: 3.

NO'TE: "Outside of the Jewish nation there were men who foretold
the nnpearance of a divine instructor. These men weI P ~ceking for truth,
[lnd to them the Spirit of Inspiration was impal·ted. One after another,
like stars in the darkened heavens, such teachers had arisen. Thpir
words of prophecy had kindled hope in the hearts of thousands of the
Gent'ile world. "-DA a3.
8. What has G<>d provided in every period and stage of human history?
Hab. Z:1.
NO'TE: " ....Though corruption :md defiance might be seen in every
part of the alien province, a way for its recovery was provided. At
the very crisis, when Satan seemet'f about to triumph, the Son of God
came with the embassage of divine grace. Through every age, through
pvery hour, the love of God had been exerelsed toward the fallen race.
Notwithstanding the perversity of men, the signR1s of mercy had been
cont.inuall}' exhibited. And when the fullness of the time had come,
the Deity' was glo.d{ied by pouring upon the world a flood of healing
grace that was never to be obstructed 01' withtlrawn till the plan of
salv:;flon he fulfilled." -DA 37.

9. If people ignore or reject the signs sent to them fOr warning

and el1coltra.gem~nt, What is the inevi'tab~e result? 2 C1lr. 24:19, 20;
36:1£,.

10. What sign had a dual plll"pOSe both in the Old Testament and
the New Testamen't.? N''llm. 21:9; John 3:14.
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NOTE: "Here was ground with which Nicodemus 'was familiar. The
svmbol of the uplifted serpent made plain to him the Saviour's mission.
When the peonle of Israel were dying from the sting of the fiery
sernents, God dil'pcted Moses to make a sernent of brass" and place it on
higoh in the midst of the con<;(regation. Then the word was sounded
throllO'hout the encamnment that all who would look upon the sernent
Should live. The peonle well knew that in itself the serpent had no
rower to help them. It was a symbol of Christ. As the imaqe made in
the likeness of the d~stroying sernents was lifted un for their h~.aling,
f,n One made' in the likeness of sinful flesh' was to be their Redeemer.
Rom. 8'3. Many (\.f the Ism~lites regarded the sacrificial service as
havinq in itself virtue to set them free from sin. God dpsired to tP.Rch
If-.h~Tl1 t.hot :t ll"d no more value than that sernent of hrass. It was to
11',,(1 tlleir minds to tIl" Saviour. Whether for thn healinq of their
w01lnds or the narilon of t,heir sins. thpv co"ld do nothinq for th~mselve8
hllt sh"'" thpir faith in the Gift of God. They were to look and live."
-DA 174, 175.
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Lesson No.5 Sabbath, Febrnary 3, 1973,

SIGNS OF THE SECOND ADVENT

1. WlJ.at sil!ns did pronhets indicate would be observable before the
second advent of Christ? Joel 3:14, 15; 2:10, 31; Rev. 6:12, 13,
2. While the.re have been similar heaven I" and earthly phenomena,
vrnat pMrti""lar featUl'eg WOll'd be sfJIns of the second advent
'01' the Lord? Rev. 6:13; Mat. 24:7 (last part).
NO,{,E: "''1'he 'Prl'sent is a time of overwhelmin~ interest to all
livinq. Rulprs and statesmpn, men who occuPy positions of trust and
1111t.h n ritv. thinking men and women of all classps. have their attention
fixPd un on the events taking place about us. They are watching the
relations tl1at exist amc,l'.g the nations. They observe the intensity
that is taking possession of every earthly element, and they recognize
that something weat and decisive is about to take 'Place - that the
world 011 the verge of a stupendous crisis." -PK ":n.
3. W'ha't social conditions positively identify th'is time? 2 Tim.
3:1,4; lsa, 59:14,
NOTE: ".There are not many, even among educators and statesmen,
who comnrehend the causes that underlie the present state of society.
1J.'·ho~e who hold the reins of government are not. able to solve the
prohlem of moral corruption, poverty, pauperism, and increasing crime.
They are struggling in vain to place business operations on a more
secure hasis. If men would dve mo·re heed to the teaching of God's
wo"'l. they would find a solution of the problems that perplex them."
-D'T 13.
4. What is seen almost universally in business? .lames 5:1.3.
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 NOTE: "The Scriptures c1esc.ribe the conuition of the world just
before Chri~t 's second. coming.. James the apostle pictures the greed
:wd oppreSSIon that WIll prevail... (James 5: 1-6 quoted.) This is a
picture of what exists today. By every species of oppression and
extortion, men are piling up colossal fortunes, while the cries of starving
humanity are coming up before God." -COL 170.
5. What alre· modern statesmen, religious and social leaders unable to
control? What, knowledge is scarcely found among the people'?
Hos. 4:1, 2; 5:4.
NOTE: "'The condition of things in the world shows that troublous
times are right upon us. The daily papers are full of indications of a
terrible conflict in the neal' future. Bold robberies are of frequent
occurrence. Strikes are common. Thcfts and murders are committed on
every hand. Men possessed of demons are taking the lives of men,
women, and little children. Men have become infatuated with vice,
and every species of evil prevails." -9T 11.
6. What effect does television have upon society, and why should
it not be pernl;i.tted in the homes of the believers'? Rev. 21:27.
NO'l'B: "Among the most dangerous resorts for pleasure is the theater.
Instead of being a school of morality and. :virtue, as is so often claimed,
it is the 'very hotbed of immorality. Vicious habits and sinful pro-
pcnsities are strengthened and confirmed by these entertainments.
Low songs, lewd gestures, expressions, and attitudes, deprave the imagin-
ation and debase the morals. Every youth who habitually attends
such exhibitions will_ be corrupted in principle. There is no influence
in our land more powerful to poison the imagination, to destroy re-
ligious impressions, and to blunt the relish for the tranquil pleasures
and sober realities of life than theatrical amusements. The love for
these scenes increases with every indulgence, as the desire for intoxi-
cating drink strengthens with its use. The only safe course is to
shun the theater, the circus, and every other questionable place of
amusement." --4T 652, 653.
7. What bl6nefit or curse can follow what we behold'? 2 Cor. 3:18.
NOTE: "It iH by beholding that we become changed. And as those
sacred precepts in which God has opened to men the perfection and
holiness of His character are neglected, and the minds of the people
are attracted to human teachings and theories, what marvel that there
has followed a decline of living piety in the church. Saith the Lord:
'They have forsaken Me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them
out cisterns, broken cisterns that can hold no water.' Jeremiah 2:13."
-GO 478.
8. What reason alone prevents the total collapse of human society'?
What is the only r;olutilln? 2 Peter 3:7-9.
9. To ke'ep us from the positive danger that remains if we do not
take heed of the signs and waJrnings applicable for our time,
wha.t did Jesus say'] Mark 4:21-23.'
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10. WllOm doe,s the Bible say has provided the signs of the times, and
what urgent and immediate call does He give? Rev. 22:16, 17.
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Lesson No. 6 Sabbath, F,ebruary 10, 1973.

SIGNS IN THE REALM OF RELIGION
1. What religious signs, relaJting to His coming, did the Lord say could
be recognized in the las1t days? Isaiah 4:1.
2. Wlhat is the general relationship of the churches to se,;u)ar govern-
ments? James 4:4.
NO'1'E: "NIany of the Protestant churches are following Rome's ex-
ample of iniquitous connection with' the kings of the eal,th' - the state
churches, by their relation to secular governments; and other denomin·
ations, by seeking the favor of the world. And the term 'Babylon'
- confusion - may be appropriately applied to these bodies, all pro-
fessing to derive theh doctrines from the Bible, yet divided into
almost innumerable sects, with widely conflicting creeds and theories."
-GC 383.
3. The Revelator (John) revea.]ed the ,sign,s which would identify each
of tne seven prophe!tic churches (Rev. 2, 3). Wllat signs identify
Laod,icea? Rev. 3:14->22.

4, The Laodicean condition is the' result of apostasy: from an original

me,ssage. How does the Lord plrovide for such condiition? Rev. 18:1-4.

1\ 0'1'.1<;: ' 'The seri pture points forward to a time when the allnounce-
ment of the fall of Babylon, as made by th~ second angel of Revelation
14 (verse 8), is to be repeated, with the additional mention of the
corruptions which have been entering the various organizations that
constitute Babylon, since that message was first given, in the summer
of 1844. A terrible condition of the religipus world -is here described.
With every rejection of truth the minds of the people will become
darker, their heal'ts more stubbol'll, until they are entrenched in an
infidel hardihood. In defiance of the wal'llings which God has given,
they will continue to trample upon one of the precepts of the Decalogue,
until they are le-d to persecute those who hold it sacred. Ohl'ist is set
at nought in the contempt placed upon His word and His people. As
the teachings of spiritualism are accepted by the churches, the restraint
imposed upon the cal'llal heart is removed, and the profession of religion
will become a cloak to conceal the basest iniquity. A belief in spiritual
manifestations opens the door to seducng spirits and doctrines _ of
devils, and thus the influence of evil angels will be felt in the
churches. " -GO 603, 604.

5. What is the indisputable sign of identity of God's people in these

circumstances'? Rev. 12:17; 14:1-6, 12.
-l.t-
 6', ~at perpetual sign, desjlgnated by 'the Lolrd, would remain among
humanity to confirm thiis? Ex. 31:12-17.
7. Wbat sign will become the centra.! point of issue with 'the religious
~ocieties?Ex. 20: 8-11.

NOTE: ":The Sabbath will be the great test of loyalty, for it is the
point of truth especially controverted. When the final test shall be
brought to bear upon men, then th~ line of distinction will be drawn
between those who serve God and those who serve Him not. While
the observance of the false sabbath in compliance with the law of the
state, contrary to the fourth commandment, will be an avowal of
allegiance to a power that is in opposition to God, the keeping of the
true Sabbath, in obedience to God's law, is an evidence of loyalty to
the Creator. While one class, by accepting the sign of submission to
earthly powers, rece~ve the mark of the beast, the other choosing the
token of allegiance to divino authority, receive tho sea.! of God." GC 605.

8. In which way ate the pagan and secular societies ultimately united
Wli.th the religious societies? Revelation 13:16-18.

NOTE: "The line of distinction between professed Christians and the

ungodly is now hardly distinguishable. Church members love what the
world loves and are -ready to join with them, and Satan determines to
unite them in one ,body and thus st!'engthen his cause by sweeping all
into the ranks of spiritualism. Papists, who boast of miracles as a certain
sign of the true church, will be readily deceived by this wonder_working
power; and Protestants, having cast away the shield of truth, will
also be -deluded. Papists, Protestants, and worldlings will alike accept
the fortn of godliness without the power, and they will see in this
union a grand movement for the conversion of the world and the
ushering in of the long-expected millenium." -GC 588, 5889.

9. WhaJt happens to the last of the /leven prophetic churches? Rev. 3:16.
NOTE: "~I As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed
faith in the third angel's message, but have not been sanctified through
obedience to the truth, abandon their position and join the ranks of the
opposition. By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, they
have come to view matters in nearly the same light; and when the
test is brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side. Men
of talent and pleasing address, who once rejoiced in the truth, employ
their powers to deceive and mislead souls. :They become the most
bitter enemies of their former brethren. When Sabbathkeepers arc
brought before the courts to answer for their faith, these apostates
are the most efficient agents of Satan to misrepresent and accuse them,
and by false reports and insinuations to stir up the rulers against
them. " -GC 608.
10. With signs and warnings for every time and condition, What does
the Lord also give? John 16:12-15.
-13-
NO'rE: " ... Different periods in the history of the church have each
been marked by the development of some special truth, adapted to the
necessities of God's people at that time. Every new truth haa made
Its way against hatred and opposition; those who were blessed with
its light were tempted and tried. (The LOl"d gives a spedal truth for the
people ill an emergency ... " -GO 609.
-----.>oOcxr--

Lesson No.7 Sabbath, Feblrnary 17, 1973.

THE SIGN OF THE SABBATH
1. What was the very first sign blessed, sandtified and given to
ma.nkind? Gen. 2:1-8.
2. In what unmiistakable way did the Lord confirm the importance
of the Sabbath as a sign, before He gave the Itwo tables of stone?
What supernatural control was exercised over Israel's physical and
spilritual needs? Ex. 16:14, 15, 22-26.

3. What wonderlul blessing could all. discover bY recognition a.nd

observance of the sign of the SlabbaJth? Isa. 58:13, 14.
4. After four miJ,l,eniums of man's existence, how wa,s the, sign of the
Sabbath respected b~ the Lord and His apostles? Luke 4:1jG,;
Acts 17:2.
NO.'!'E: ' 'Christ, during His earthly ministry, emphasi~ed the binding
claims of the Sabbath; in all His teaching He showed reverence for the
institution He Himself had given. In His days the Sabbath had become
so perverted that its observance reflected the character of selfish and
arbitrary men rather than the character of God. Christ set asido the
false teaching by which those who claimed to know God had misrepre-
sented Him. Although followed with merciless hostility by the !'abbis,
He did not even appear to conform to their requirements, but went
straight forward keeping the Sabbath according to the law of God."
-PK 183.
5. Can a perpetual sign fixed by God be changed by man? Rev.
22:19; MaL 3:&.
6. What applies to other signs also? Mat. 24:35.

NOTE: "Skepticislj1 may treat the claims of God's law with jest,
scoffing, and denial. !l'he spirit of worldliness may contaminate the
many and control the few, the cause of God may hold its ground only
by great exertion and continua.] sacrifice, yet in the end the truth
will triumph gloriously." -PK 186.
7. While many interesting and helpful s:Igns and wa.rn-
ing$, will pass away, what sign will remain as a. memorial on tho
New Earth? Isa. 66:22, 28.
-1.-
 8. The prophet Isaiah foretold of the Sabbath-keeping blessing ito be
enjoyed by Gentiles and "the stranger," when was this sign
fulfilled? Isa. 56:1-6; Acts 13:4244.
9. What singular tiitle would signify tl).e church of God in the time of
the end? Revelation 12:17.
NOTE: "N 0 name which we can take will be appropriate but that;
which accords with our profession and expresse.s our faith and marks
us a peculiar peopla. 'The name Seventh-day Adventist is a standing
rebuke to the Protestant world. Here is the line of distinction between
the worshippers of God and those who worship the beast and receive
his marIe ..
"The name Seventh-day Adventist carries the true features of our
faith in front, and will convict the inqUlnng mind. Like
an arrow from the Lord's quiver, it will wound the transgre<lsors of
God's law, and will lead to repentance toward God and faith in our
Lord J e<lUS Christ.
"I was showll that almost every fanatic who has arisen, who
wishes to hide his sentiments that he may lead away others, claims to
belong to the church of God. Such a name would at once excite sus-
picion; for it is employed to conceal the most absurd errors. 'rhis
llamc is too indefinite for the rcmnant people of God. It would lead
to the suppositlOll that we had a faith which we wished to cover up."
--l!T 223, 224.
10. When Statan tries to counterfeit the coming of the Lord, what
teaching of man may we expect to impressively advocate? What
perpetual memorial and sign will he endeavoulr to substitute?
Mark 13:21-24.
NCfl'E: "'" In gentle', compassionate tones he (Satan) presents some
of the same gracious, heavenly truths which the Saviour uttered;
he heals the diseases of the people, and then, in his assumed character
of Christ, he claims to have changed the Sabbath to Sunday, and
commands all to hallow the day which he has blessed. He declares
that those who persist· in keeping holy the seventh day are blas-
pheming his name by refusing to listen to his angels sent to them
with light and truth. This is the strong, almost overmastering delusion.
Like the Samaritans who were deceived by Simon Magnus, the multi-
tudes, from the least to the greatest, give heed to the<le sorceries, saying:
'],his is 'the great power of God.' Acts 8:10.'" -GC 624, 625.
--00000---

-lfi-
Lesson No.8 Sabbath, February 24, 1973,.

SIGNS IN JERUSALEM
1. Under what circumsta.nc~s was the Jewish church and nation
established? Whalt conditions were fixed for its heavenly plrefer-
ence and providence? Gen. 22:15_18; Gal. 3:26-29.
2. Because of betrayal of trust and apostasy, what did the Lord
finally declare of national Israel? Mat. 23:34,.38.
3. What sign of dism,issal was given to 'the Jewish pr~esthood of the
termination of God's covenant With them? Luke 23:44,45.
Xo.TE: "As Jesus died all Calval'y, He cried, 'It is finished,' and the
veil of the temple was rent in twain, from the top to the bottom. 'rhis
was to show that the services of the earthly sallctuary were forever
finished, and that God would 110 more mcet with the pricsts ill their
carthly temple, to accept their sacrifices. The blood of Jesus was then
s~ed, which was to be offered by Himself ill the heavenly sanctuary.
As the priest entered the most holy alice a year to cleanse the earthly
sanctuary, ,so Jesus entered the most holy of the heavenly, at the end
of the 2300 days of Daniel 8, in 1844, to make a final atonemcnt
for all who could bc benefited by His mediations, and thus to cleanse
the sanctuary." "":'EW 253.
4. Af;ter Christ's ll'esurreclAion and ascension, what mighty sign fulfilled
a prophetic promi$e to those who recognized it? Acts 2:1-,13.
5. What happened to many who were sincerely interested in salvation?
Acts 2:38-40, 41.43.
6. Afte,r many years of persistent rejection of the call folr reformation,
wihat warning came to the city of Jerusalem? Luke 21:5, 6, 20, 21.

NO'l'E: " ... When the idolatrous standards of the Romans should
be set up in the holy grounds, which extended some fUl'Jongs outside
the city walls, then the followers of Christ were to find safety in flight.
When the warning signs should be scen, those who would escape must
make no delay. Throughout the land of Judea, as well as in Jerusalem
itsclf, thc signal for flight must be immediately obeyed. He who
chanced to be upon thc housetop must not go down into his house, even
to save his most valued treasures. ;Those who were working in the
fields or vineyards must not take time. to return for the outer garment
laid aside while they should be toling in the heat of the day. IThey
must not hesitate a moment, lest they be involved in the general
destruction. " -GO~.

7. Were there any tiIlat recognized tiIlese signs?

NOTE: '.' Por nearly forty years after the doom of Jerusalem had
been pronounced by Christ Himself, the Lord delayed His judgments
upon the city and the nation. Wonderful was the long-suffering of
God toward the rejectors of His gospel and the murderers of His Son.
-18-
'1'he parable of the unfruitful tree represented God's dealings with the
Jewish nation. ;The commmld had gone forth, 'Cut it down; why
cumbereth it the ground ~, (Luke 13: 7) but divine mercy had spared
it yet a little longer. 'There were still many among the Jews who were
ignorant of the character and the work of Christ. And the children
had not enjoyed the opportunities 01' received the light which their
parents had spurned. 'rhrough the preaching of the apostles and their
associates, God would cause light to shine upon them; they would
be permitted to see how proph ecy had been fulfilled, not only in the
birth and life of Christ, but in His death and resurrection. The
children were not condemlled for the sins of the parents; but when,
'with a knowledge of all the light given to their parents, the children
rejected the addition a 1 light granted to themselves, they became
partakers of the parents' sins, and fillec] up the measure of their
iniquity." -GC 27, 28.
8. Who were saved dn this fearful. disa,ster?
NOTE: " Not one Chri8tian pcrished in the clestruction of Jerusalem.
Christ had given His disciples warning, and all who believed His
words watched for the promised sign." -GO 30.
9. How was this esca.pe provided?
NOTE: " ... Events were so ovel'1'uled that neither Jews nor Homans
should himler the -flight of the Christians. Upon the retreat of
Cestius, thc .J ews, sallying from Jerusalem, pursued after his retiring
army; and while both forces were thus fully engaged, the Christians
had an opportunity to leave the city. At this time the country also
had been cleared of enemies who might have endea.voured to intercept
them. At the time of the siege, the Jews were assembled at Jerusalem
to keep the :B'east of Tabemacles, and thus the Christians thl'oughout
the land were able to make their escape unmolested. 'Without delay
they fled to a place of safety - the city: of Pella, jn the land of
Perea, beyond Jordan." -GC 30, 31.
10. What special lesson does this expelriellce of the believer/! at /that
time have for the b'eliev'ers in this present time?
NOTE: "Let men beware lest t'lIGY neglect the lesson conveyed to
them in the words of Christ. As He wamed His disciples of Jerusalem's
destruction, giving them a sign of the approaching ruin, that they
might make their escape; so He has warned the world of the day of
fjnal destruction and has given them tokens of its approach, that all
who will may flee from the wrath to come ... " -GC 37.

--00000-

-17-
Leseon No. 9 Sabbath, March 3, 1978.
BLINDNESS TO MODERN SPIRITUAL SIGNS
1. What inevitably happeIl$ to those who will not see clear signs?
MatJthew 15:14.
No'rE: " ... But God will llever remove fr01l1 uny ma·n all causes for
doubts. Those who love to dwell in the atmosphere of doubt and
questioning unbelief can have the unenviable privilege. God gives
sufficient evidence for the candid mind to believe: but he who turns
from the weight of evidence because there are a few thillgs which he
cannot make plain to his finite understanding will be left in the cold,
chilling atmosphere of unbelief and questioning doubts, aml will
make shipwreck of faith ... " -4T 232,233.
2. What happens to idols and thos'e who worship them? Isa. 44:9.18.

3. What acted sign did the prophet Ezekiel display to the rebellious
Jews? Ezek. 12:1.7.
4. How quickly do we fail to appreciate a,nd undelrstand practical
and spiritua.I lessons from the Scriptures? Mark 8:15-21.
NO'l'E: "Tho leaven placed in the meal works imperceptibly, chang_
ing the whole mass to its own nature. So if hypocrisy is allowed to
"xist in the heart, it permeates the character and the life. A striking
example of the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, Christ had already rebuked
in dellouncing the practice of 'Corban,' by which a neglect of filial
duty was concealed under a pretellse of liberality to the temple. The
scribes and Pharisees werc illsinuating deceptive principles. 'l'hey
cOllccaled the real tendency of their doctrines, and improved every
occasion to instill them artfully into t)le minds of their hearers. These
false principles, when once accepted, worked like leaven in the meal,
permeating and transforming the chal·acter. It was this deceptive
teaching that made it so hurd for the people to receive the words of
Christ. " -DA 408.
5. What will the enlightened believer Witness? 1 John 3:1,2.

6. What condition is demanded for this promise? 1 John 3:3·; 1 Pet.

1:13-15.
7. What is the Laodicean blindness? Revelation 3:18.
NOTE: ' 'The eye is tho sensitive conscience, the inner light, of the
mind. Upon its COl'l'cct view of things the spiritual healthfulness
of the whole soul and being depon-ds." -7BC 9~5.
8. In these last day.'f, wh~t can the overcomer confidently believe?
Matthew 13:16, 17.
9. What prophetic sign will Satan use to counterfeit the testimony of
the Scriptures? 2 'J:hes. 2:1-5, 8·10.

-u-
NOTE: " ... The Scriptures pointing forward to this time declare that
Satan will work with all power find 'with all deceivableness of
unrighteousness.' 2 Thess. 2:9,10. His workinl;' is plainly revealed
by the rapidly increasing darkness, the multitudinous errors, heresies,
and delusions of these last days. Not only is Satan leading the world
captive, but his deceptions are leavening the professed churches of
our Lord Jesus Christ. The great apostasy will develop into darkness
deep as midnight, impenetrable as sackeloth of hair. .To God's people it
will be a night of weeping, a night of persecution for the truth's
sake. But out of that night of darkness God's light will shine."
-COL 414, 415.
10. What will ble the crowning act of Satan with the spiritually blind
in modern times? Mat. 24:24; 2 Cor. 11:14; Gal. 1:8.
NOTE: "As the crowning act in the great drama of deception, Satall
himself wiJ] pprsonate Christ. The Church has lonl;' professed to look
to the Saviour's advent as the consummation of her hopes. Now the
great deceiveJ' win make it appear that Christ has come. In different
parts of the earth, Satan will manifest himself among men as a
majestic being of dazzling brightness, resembling the description of the
Son of God given by John in the R.evelation. R.evelation 1 :13-15. The
glory that surrounds him is unsurpassed by anything that mortal eyes
have yet beheld. The shout of triumph rings out upon the air: 'Chri~t
has come! Christ has come!' ... " -GC ';624.
---00000---

Lesson No. 10 Sabbath, March 10, 1973.

INTERPRETING THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES
1. What request was made to the Lord by the Pharisees and the
Sadducees? Mat. 16:1.
2. What position was taken by many and is also taken even at this
present tim.e? What is 'the real need? Ma!~. 16:2.4.
NOTE: ' , Now the Pharisees and Sadducees came to Christ, asking
for a sign from heaven. When in the days of Joshua Israel went out
to battle with the Canaanites at Bethhoron, the sun had stood still
at the leader's command until victory was gained; and many similar
wonders had. been manifest in their history. Some 8uch sign was de-
manded of Jesus. But these signs were not what the Jews needed.
No mere external evidence could benefit them. What they needed
was not intellectual enlightenment, but spiritual renovation." -DA 406.
3. What condition completely neutralizes spiritual discernmeillt? Whalt
difference could be seen in the experience of Nineveh? Mat. 12:40, 41.
NOTE: " ... The change in human hearts,' the transformation of
human characters, is a miracle that reveals an ever-living Saviour,
working to rescue souls. A consistent life in Christ is a great miracle.
-19 -
In the preaching of the word of God, the sign that should be manifest
now and alwaJ's is the presence of the Holy Spirit, to make the word
n. regenerating power to those that hear. This is God's Witness before
the world to the divine mission of His Ron." -DA 407.
4. 'What promised sign did John the Bapltist fulfill in his' time?
Mal. 3:1; 4:5; John 1:19-28.
5. What was the reaction of the two classes of people to the signs
demonstrated by John the Bap'tist, and what did Jesus say of him?
Luke 7:29, 30; John 5:32.35; Mat. 11:13" 14.
NOTE: ' 'Princes and mbbis, solcliers, publicans, and peasants came
to hear the prophet. For a time the solemn warning from God alarmed
them. Many were brought to repentance, and Teceived bapt.ism. Persons
of all ranks submitted to the requirement of the Baptist, in order to
participate in the kingdom he announced.
"Many of the scribes :.md Pharisees came confessing their sins, and
asking for baptism. They had exalted themselves as better than othm'
men, and had led the people to entertain a high opinion of their piety;
no,,, the guilty secrets of their lives were unveiled. But John was im-
pressed by the Holy Spirit that many of these men had not real con-
viction of sin. They were timeservers. As friends of the prophet,
they hoped to find favor with the coming Prince. And by receiving
baptism at the hrmds of this populnr young teacher, they t.hought to
strengthen their influence with the people." -DA 105.
6. W'hat was the significance of the signs given by the Baptist?
What was one of Ithese signs included in the evangelism of the
apostles? Mark 1:4, 5; Acts 2:37, 38; 8:12, 13.
7. What effect does tradition and custom have when it is necessary to
discern and interpret Ithe truth? John 6:30.36.
No'rE: "Innumerable signs hfid been given; but they had closed
their eyes and hardened their hem·ts. Now thn t the Father Himself
had spoken, and they could ask for no furthn sign, they still refused
to believe." -DA 626.
8. 'What simple records do we have of two individuals in very diff-
erent circumstance, but who could Irecognize Chri$t? Mat. 8:1.3, 5-13.

9. Wllat must be associated wfth evidence? What reward came to a

certain nobleman? John 4:46-60.
NOTE: 'rho nobleman wanted to see the fulfillment of his prayer
befOTe he should believe; but he hnd to nccept the word of Jesus
that his re.qjUest was heard and the 1)lessing granted. 'rhis lesson we
nl.so have to len I'll. Not because we sec or feel thnt God hears us arc
wo to believe. We aJ'O to trust in His pl'omises. Whon we COllle to
Him in faith, e"ery petition enters the lleart of God. When we have
asked for His blessing, we should beliove that we receive it, and
thank Him that we have l'ocei "ed it. Then we are to go about our duties,
-- 20 -
assured that the blessing will be realized when we need it most. When
we have learned to do this, we shall know that our prayers are answered.
God will do for us 'exceeding abundantly,' 'according to the riches
of His glory,' and' the working of His mighty power.' Eph. 3 :20, 116;
1: 19. " --DA 200.
10. What d,anger constantly eXists for the presump'tuous interpret.ation
of the signs of the times? Isaiah 5:20, 21.
NOTE: "The only 'way in which we can gain a more perfect appre-
hension of truth is by keeping the heart tender and subdued by the
Spirit of Christ. 'The soill must be cleansed from vanity and pride,
and vacated of all that has held it ill possession, and Christ must be
enthroned within. Human science is too limited to comprehend the
atOl18ment. The plan of redemption is so far-reaching that philosophy
rannot explain it. It will ever remain a mystery that the most pro-
found reasoning cannot fathom. ,The science of .salvation
cannot be explailled; but it can be known by expel'ience. Only he
who sees his own sinfulness can discern the preciousne.ss of the
Saviour." -DA 494, 495.
-00000--

Lesson No. 11 Sabbath, March 17, 1973,.

REDEEMING THE TIME

1. What benefi't and blessing comes to the sincere truth seeker, when
signs of the times are recognized? Ps. 119:49, 50.

NOTE: "Today the signs of the times declare that we are standing
on the threshho]d of great and solemn events. Everything in our world
is in agitation. Before our eyes is fulfilling the Saviour's prophecy
of the events to precede His coming: 'Ye shall hear of wars and
rumors of wal'S... Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom
against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and
earthquakes, in divel's places.' Matthew 24:6, 7.

"The present is a time of overwhelming interest to all living.

Rulel's 8.-ml statesmE-n, men who occupy positions of trust and authority,
thiJ1.ki'lg men and women of all classes, have their attention fixed
upon the events taking place about us. They are watching the relations
that exist among the nations. They observe the intensi~y that is taking
possesp,ion of every earthly clement. and they recognize that something
great and (lecisive is about to take place - that the world is on the
verge of a stupendous crisis." -PK 536, 537.

2. Before His ascension, what question troubled the disciples of the

Lord? Matthew 24:3.
3. What method would Satan use to confuse the people, and destroy
the effect of the signs of the times? Malt. 24:24.
- 21-
NOTE: "Again, worldl~' wisdom teach~ t·hat prayer is not essential.
Men of science claim that there can be no real answer to prayer; that
this would be a viohtion of law, a miracle, and that miracles have no
<'xistence. The universe, say they, is governed by fixed laws, and God
Himsclf does nothing contrary to these laws. Thus they represent
God as bound by His own laws - as if thc operation of divine laws
could exclude divil1c freedom. Such teaching is opposed to the testimony
of the Scriptures. Were not miracles wrought by Christ and His
apostles? The same compassionate Saviour lives today, and He is as
willing to listen to the prayer of faith a.s when He walked visibly
among mell. The natural cooperates with the supernatura.I. It is a part
of God's plan to grant us, in answer to the prayer of faith, that which
He would not bestow did we not thus ask." -GC 1>25.
4. Why is the time element of prophetic signs and i'ts interplretation
important? Eccl. 3:1.
5. How are divine 'truth, prophetic time, and history related?
Eccl. 3:14, 15.
6. WlhaJt is a postive dangoc if we fail to redeem our time, even
though the professed people of God alre willingly self-d,eceived?
Jeremiah 8:18.20.
NO'l'E: "'rho value of time is beyond computation. Christ regarded
evel'y moment a.s precious, and it is thus that we should regard it.
Life is too short to be trifled away. We have but a few days of pro·
bation in which to prepare for eternity. We have no time to waste,
no time to devote to selfish pl<'flsure, 110 time for the indulgence
of sin. It is now that we are to form characters for the future, im·
mortal life ... " -COL 342.
7. WhaJl; was itt that intetrepted the prophets who used to fore.
tell the times and give the signs, and what should be our major
interest? Matthew 13:17; 1 Peter 1:10.13.
NOTE: "Yet while it was not given to the prophets to understand
fully the things revealed to them, they earnestly sought to obtain all
the light which God had been pleased to make manifest. They' inquired
and searched diligently,' 'searching what, or what manner of tilne
the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify.' What a lesson
to the people of God in the Christian age, for whose benefit these
propheci~s were given to His ~ervants! 'Unto whom it was revealed,
that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister.' Witness
those llOly men of God as they 'inquiJ'erl and searched diligentl:,' COl}'
ecrning revelations given them for gonel'ations that were yet unborn.
Contrast their holy zeal with the listless unconceJ'Jl with which the
favorecl 011('S of later agl's treat this gift of Heaven. What a rebuke
to the ease.loving, world·loving indifference which is content to
declarc that the prophecies cannot he understood!" -GO 344.
8. While the believers of the early Christian church were well in-
formed, what warning did John write Ito them? I John 2:18.21,
- 22-
 9. What gift was considelred nec6,'lsary fOlr tlhis :time of the end?
What would these signs do? Eph. 4:8.13, 14, 17, 18.
10. :W)hat condil~ions will be existing when probationary time for
mankind ends? Daniel 21:1.
~oOoo--

Lesson No. 12 SabbaJth, March 24, 1973,.

THE TIME OF THE LATTER RAIN
1. By what means is the message of the gospel continued? In
what period are we now living? Z'ech. 4:6; 1 Pet. 4:7.
Na'rE: "What can I say to my brethrcn in the name of the Lord ~
What proportion of our' cfforts' has been made in accordance with
the light the Lord has heen pleased to give~ We cannot depend upon
form 01' external mae.hi11c!·v. '¥hat we Heed is the quickening influence
of the Holy Spirit of God. 'Not by might, nor by power, but by My
8pirit. ~aith the Lo]'(l of hosts.' Pmv without ceasing, and wakh
by working in accordance with your prayers. As you pray, believe,
trust in God. It is the time of the latter rain, when the Lord will
give largely of His Spirit. Be fervent in prayer, and watch in the
Spirit. " ---''l'M 512.
2. For what great blessing has the chuJrch becn urged to ask? Hos.
6:1-3; .Toel 2:23.
NO:rE: "The dispensation in which we are now living 'is to be,
to those that ask, the dispensation of thc Holy Spirit. Ask for His
blessing. It is· time we were more intense in our devotion. 'To us is
committed the arduolis, but happy, glorious work of revealing Christ
to those who are in darkness. We are called to proclaim the special
truths for this time. For all this t.he outpouring of the Spirit is
<'ssential. We shoul'l pray for it. The Lord experts us to ask Him.
vVc hf\\'c 110t. 1)('C11 wholehearte(l in this work." -'I'M 511, 512.

3. In whaJt way was the blessing of the Holy SpirJt manifested

with I(ihe beginning of the third angeI's message? Acts 2:16-18.

NOTE: "While I was praying at. t.he family altar, the Holy Ghost
fell upon me, and I seemed to be rising higher and highm', far ahov(\
the dark world. I tl1l'ned to look for the Advent people in the world.
but could not fin(1 them, when a voice sRid to me, 'Look again, and
look a little higller.' At this I raised my eyes, ane1 saw a straight
an(l nano\\' path, cast up high above the world. On this path the
Advolt. 11eop1c were travelling to the city, ,,-hich was at the farther
end of the path. ~'l'hcy hnd a bright light set up behind them at the
beginning of the path, which an angel told me was the midnight cry.
:This light shone all alQllg the path and gave light for their feet
so that they might not stumble ... " -EW 14.-
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 4. At what time would 'this gift be most important? Why would
i<t be very necessary? 1 'rim. 4:1.

5. What parable gave great emphasis for the need of the power of
the Holy Spirit in the time of !the end? Mat. 25:1.13.

6, What evidence is given of the resuJIts of the power of the Holy

Spirit wolrking in the early Second Advent experience? 1 John
4:19, 20.
NQ.TE: "Such were the blessed results experienced by those who
accepted the advent message. /They came from differel1t denominations,
and their denominational barriers we1'e hurled to the grnund; con-
flicting creeds were shivered to atoms; the unsCl'iptural hope of a
temporal millennium was abandoned,. false views of the second advent
were corrected, pride and conformity to the world were swept nway;
wrongs were made right; henrta were united in the sweetest fellowship,
and lova and joy reigned supreme. If this doctrine did this for the few
who did receive it, it would hnve .lollo the snlnc' fol' nll if nlJ lInd
l'('rl'iv20 it." -GO 379, 380.
7. What condition developed in this 'time of Ithe end, and what
was the situation in the Movement of the third angel's message
by 1888'? Matlthew 24:48.
.. --_..An':~~ ~.T':':''!" ...:;_:-~ .•-: :.:-;=-=---::=-~ : ~ . - '."-U(~""'-:::-=-._':=--oI.:7«.-----;·:-:-:,-~.

NO)TE: ", .. The solemn question should come home to e\'el'? member
of om churches, How are we standing before God, ns the professed
followers of Jesus Christ? Is our light shining forth to the world in
clear, steady rays~ Have we, as a people, solemnly dedicated to God,
preserved our union with the Source of all Jight~ Are not the sym.ptoms
of decay and declension painfully visibll' in the midst of the Christian
churches of to·dayl Spiritual death has come upon the people that
should be manifesting life nml zeal, pmity and consecra.tion, by the
most enrnest devot.ion to the cnuse of truth. The facts concerning
the real condition of the professed people of God, speak 1I10re loudly
than their profession, and make it eviclent that some power bas cut
the cable that anchored them to the Etel'llal Rock, amI that they are
/lrifting away to sea, without chart or compass," -Review and Herald,
July 24, 1888. (COR 36).
8. What may we know of tlle recepltion of the vitally important phase
of the gospel that Ithe Holy Spirit was introducing throuJgh cer.
ta.in individuals, about 'the time of the Minneapolis Conference
in 1888'? Matthew 11:16, 17.
KaTE: " ... Messages bearing the divine credentials have been sent
to God's people; the glory, the majesty, the righteousness of Christ,
fun of goodnC8s and truth, have been presented; the fullness of the
Godhead in Jesus Christ has been set forth among us with beauty
and loveliness, to charm all whose hearts are not closed with prejudice,
We know that God ha.s wrought among us. We have seen souls turned
from sin to righteousness. W'e have seen faith revived in the henrts
oJ' the contl'ite ones,. " -Review and Herald, May 27, 1890. (COR 44)
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 "I have travelled from place to place, attending meetings where
the message of the righteousness of Christ was preached. I considered
it a privilege to stand by the side of my brethren, and give my testi-
mony with the message for the time; and I saw that the power of
God attended the message whcrever it \l'a·s spoken ... " Ibid., March 18,
1890. (COR 46).
9. What time had now arrived, and what sign should have been
recognized? Acts 3: 19-21; Revelation 18: 1, 2.
NOTE: " ... '1'he time of test is just upon us, for the loud cry of the
third angel has already begun in the revelation of the righteousness
of Christ, the sin_pardoning Redeemer. This is the beginning of the
light of the angel whose glory shall fill the whole earth ... " -Re-
view and Herald, Nov. 22, 1892. (COR 56.)
10. What sign was given for the restitution of the pure principles of
the third angel's message?
NOTE: ' 'Men of clear understanuing are needed now. God calls upon
those who are willing to be controlled by the Holy Spirit to lead out
in a work of thorough reformation. I see a crisis before us, and the
Lord calls for His la.borers to come into line. Every soul should now
stand in a position of deeper, truer consecration to God than during
the yeurs thut have passed ... " -l~M 514.
--ooOo~

Lesson No. 13 Sabbath, March 31, 1973.

THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

1. What hea.venly signs were viJ;:ible for those who waited for the
promised Saviour? Matthew 3:1, 2, 9, 10.
2. What sign did ,the sheJ?herds have when they left their sheep
'to look for tb.e prom,ised child at Bethlehem? Luke 2:8.18.
3·. What sign did the Lord say that would d1raw men to Him? John
3:14; 12:32, 33.
4. What sign did the Lord 'give, 'that He was the conqueror of death,
and the assurance of e'ternal life? John 3:16; Luke 24:1.8.
NO'!')';: "He is risen, He is rison! '1'he women I'opeat tho words again
and again. No need now for the anointing spices. The Saviour is
living, and not dead. They remember now that when speaking of
His death He said that He would rise aga.in. What a day is this
to the world! Quickly the women depaI'ted from the sepulcher 'with
fear and greflt joy; and did run to bring His disciples word.' "
-DA 789.
5. By whait signs did the Lord prove His identilty aftetr His resur-
rection when meeting later with the disciples? John 20:19, 20; 26-2'9.
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 6. What sign will the Lord keep throughout the ceaseless alges ot
'eternity? John 20:30, 31.
:NOTE: " ... '1'heu at the closc of thl' olle thousand years, Jesus
with the augels and all the saints, leaves thc Holy City, and while He
is desc011diug to the earth with them, the wicked dead are mised,
and then the vcry men that 'pierced Him,' being raised, will see Him
afar off in all His glory, the nngels and saints with Him, and will
wail because of Him. They will see the prints of the nails in His hancls
Dad in His feet, and wherc they thrust t.he spea l' into His side. The
pl'ints of the nails and the spear will then be His glory ... " -EW 53.
7. What wiU be the sign of God's love and care for those who
must live during the final judgments? Revelation 7:1.4.
8. What will be the central and unending theme of interest in the
earth made new? Revelation 4:10, 11.
NOTE: "The cross of Christ will be the science and the soug of the
redepmed throngh all eternity. In Christ glorified they will behold
Christ crucified. Never will it be forgotten that He whose power
created and upheld the unnumbered worlds through the vast realms
of space, the Beloved of God, the Majesty of heaven, He whom cherub
aud shining seraph delighted to adore - humbled Himself to uplift
falleu man; that He bore the guilt and shame ::>f sin, and the hiding
of His Father's face, till the woes of a lost world broke His hea-rt
:md crushed out His life on Calvary's cross. That the Maker of all
lI'orlds, the AI'biter of all destinies, should lay aside His glory and
humiliate Himself from love to man will ever excite the wonder and
adoration of the universe. As the nations of the saved look upon their
B.edeemer and behold the eternal glory of the Father shining in His
countena-nce; as they behold His throne, which is from everlasting
to everlasting, and know that His kingdom is to have no end, they break
forth in ra-pturous song: 'Worthy, worthy is the Lamb tha-t was
slain, and hath redeemed us to God b~' His own most precious blood!"
-GC651, 652.
9. What $'hall we do about the siigns of our times? Heb. 2:1-3.
10. If we fail Ito respond to the warnings and messages contained wi'th
them, what must we expect to witness and rece:ive? Rev. 16:1.
--00000--

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