Sabbath School Lesson

QUARTERLY

THE LIFE OF CHRIST

-continued

Senior Division, Fourth Quarter, 1963

 Foreword
The lessons of the fourth quarter of 1963 deal again with the life and
teachings of our Great Master, Jesus Christ. Each time as we consider
more deeply and more carefully the profound love of God revealed by
His beloved Son, it will enlighten our knowledge bringing motives for
admiration, wonder, and amazement.
The thoughts on the teachings and life of Christ are inexaustible.
rvlany books have been written about the life which Christ lived while on this
earth, and excellent thoughts and ideas have developed about our Saviour,
but in reality we can truly say,-The half has never been told of the love
of God. For this reason we wish to continue our study of the life and
teachings of the One who is the Author and Finisher of our Faith, so
that we may develop a greater incentive to discover the beauties and pract-
ices and also to imitate the life of Him in whom we find the "fulness of
the Godhead bodily." Colossians 2: 9.
"Since Jesus came to dwell with us, we know that God is aquainted with
our trials, and sympathizes with our griefs. Every son and daughter of
Adam may understand that our Creator is the friend of sinners. For in
every doctrine of grace, every promise of joy, every deed of love, every
divine attraction presented in the Saviour's life on earth, we see 'God with
us'" -Desi.,e of Ages, p. 24.
It is our wish that the stundents of these precious lessons, will, through
the aid of the Holy Spirit, pelletmte deeply into these gems of truth which
will help us in the work of sanctification and the preparation of our
characters that we may dwell in these mansions of glory, and see the
promises fulfilled in His gloriom kingdom, and there we will continue
to study the infinite love of God.
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Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly "The Life of Christ (Continued) ," for October to December,
1963, is published by the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement Ceneral Conference and
printed by the Reformation Herald Publishing Association (a corporation of the Seventh
Day Adventist Reform Movement) at Sacramento, California, United States of America.
Mailing Address: P.O.Box 5234 Oak Park, Sacramento 17, California, U. S. A.
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Lesson No. 1 - Sabbath, October 5, 1963.

THE WAY -THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE

Key text: " ... 1 am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto
the Father, but by me." John 14: 6.
Questions
1. What promise did Christ make to His disciples after Judas had left
the upper chamber? John 14: 1·4.

NOTE: " ...The object of Christ's departure was the opposite of what
the disciples feared. It did not mean a final separation. He was going to
prepare a place for them, that He might come again, and receive them unto
Himself. While He was building mansions for them, they were to build
characters after the divine similitude." -Desire of Ages, p. 663.
2. What question did Thomas ask Christ? John 14: 5.

3. Through whom alone can wc have access to God? John 14: 6.

4. Through whom can we know the Father? John 14: 7.

5. What question did Philip ask that showed that the disciples did
not yet understand Christ? John 14: 8.

6. What did Christ say, amazed at Philip's vague comprehension?

John 14: 9,10.

7. Upon what evidence should the believer's faith in Christ rest?

John 14: 11.
8. What power may we have through faith in Christ? John 14: 12.

NOTE: " ...Christ did not mean that the disciples' work would be of a
more exalted character than His, but that it would have greater extent.
He did not refer merely to miracle working, but to all that would take place
under the working of the Holy Spirit.
"The Saviour's promise to His disciples is a promise to His church to the
end of time. God did not design that His wonderful plan to redeem men
should achieve only insignificant results. All who will go to work trusting
not in what they themselves can do, but in what God can do for and
through them, will certainly realize the fulfillment of His promise...."
-Desire of Ages, pp. 664,667.
9. What is the secret of success? '''ho is the source of our power?
John 14: 13,14.

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NOTE: "Prayer is the breath of the soul. It is the secret of spiritual power.
No other means of grace can be substituted, and the health of the SOli I
be preserved. Prayer brings the heart into immediate contact with the
Well-spring of life, and strengthens the sinew and muscle of the
religious experience...." -Gospel Workers, pp. 254,255.

10. What does it mean to pray in Christ's name? Matthew 21: 22;
1 John 3: 22.

NOTE: " ...But to pray in the name of Jesus is something more than a
mere mention of that name at the beginning and the ending of a prayer.
It is to pray in the mind and spirit of Jesus, while we believe His
promises, rely upon His grace, and work His works." -Steps to Ch1'ist,
p. 100.

11. Upon what condition is Christ's promise given? John 14: 15,16.

NOTE: "All true obedience comes from thE> heart. It was heart work
with Christ. And if we consent, He will so identify Himself with our
thoughts and aims, so blend our hearts and minds into conformity to
His will, that when obeying Him we shall be but carrying out our own
impulses. The will, refined and sanctified, will find its highest delight in
doing His service. When we know Cod as it is our privilege to know
Him, our life will be a life of continual obedience. Through an ap-
preciation of the character of Christ, through communion with Cod, sin will
become hateful to us." -Desim of Ages, p. 668.

12. How closely does Christ want to identify Himself with us if we

comply with the condition? John 14: 17-20; I John 3: 24; Galatians
2: 20.

NOTE: " ...By the Spirit the Saviour would be accessible to all. In this
sense He would be nearer to them than if He had not ascended on high."
-Desire of Ages, p. 669.
13. What wiII the Lord do in our behalf if we depend on Him for counsel?
James 1: 5; 2 Corinthians 3: 5.

NOTE: " ...The Lord will teach liS our duty just as willingly as He will
teach somebody else. If we come to Him in faith, He will speak His
mysteries to us personally. Our hearts will often burn within us as One
draws nigh to commune with us as He did with Enoch. Those who decide
to do nothing in any line that will displease Cod, will know, after
presenting their case before Him, just what course to pursue. And they will
receive not only wisdom, but strength. Power for obedience, for service,
will he imparted to them, as Christ has promised ...." -Desire of Ages,
p. 668.

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Lesson No. 2 - Sabbath, October 12, 1963.

THE COMFORTER
Key te>.t: ") will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." John 14: 18.

Questions

1. Whereby can we show our love to Christ? How will the Lord
manifest Himself to His faithful servants? John 14: 21.

NOTE: " ...The Lord knows al! about His faithful servants who for His
sake arc lying in prison or who arc banished to lonely islands. He
comforts thcm with His own presence. When for the truth's sake the
believer stands at the bar of unrighteous tribunals, Christ stands by his
side. All thc reproaches that fall upon him, fall upon Christ. Christ is
condemned over again in the person of His disciple. 'vVhen one is in-
carcerated in prison walls, Christ ravishes the heart with His lcive...."
·-Desire of Ages, p. 6GB.

2. If we remain faithful, can any circumstance separate us from Christ?

Homans 8: 35-39.

NOTE: "At all times and in all places, in all sorrows and in all afflictions,
when the outlook seems dark and the futnre perplexing, and we feel
helpless and alone, thc Comforter will bc sent in answer to the prayer
of faith. Circumstanccs may scparate us from every earthly friend; but
no circumstance, no distance, can separate us from the heavenly Com-
fortcr. 'vVhcrcvcr we are, wherever wc may go, He is always at onr right
haud to snpport, sustain, uphold, and ehecr." -Desire of Ages, pp. 669, 670.

3. In what way did Christ, through the Holy Spirit, manifest Himself
to the disciples? John 14: 20; Ephesians 3: ](j·19.

4. What kept Christ from saying many things He yet wanted to say
to the disciples? When would these things, yet left unsaid, be
opened to them? John 10: 12; Matthew 18: 1.

l\:OTE: "On this last evening with His disciplt's, Jesus had much to
tell them. If they had been prepared to rt'eeive what He longed to
impart, tlll'y would havl' bccn saved from heartbreaking anguish, from
disappointment and unbelief. But Jesus saw that they could not bear what
He had to say. As He looked into their faces, the words of warning and
comfort were stayed upon His lips...." -Desire of Ages, p. 643.

5. What is the work of the Holy Spirit in behalf of Christ's true

followers? John 16: 13.

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NOTE: " .. .It is through false theories ami traditions that Satan gains
his power over the mind. By directing men to false sbmdards, he misshapes
the character. Through the Scriptures the Holy Spirit speaks to the
mind, and impresses truth npon the heart. Thus He exposes error, alld
expels it from the soul. It is by the Spirit of truth, working through the
word of God, that Christ subdues His ehos~n people to Himself."
-Desire of Ages, p. 671.

6. What do we know will he the fate of those who claim to be led

by the Spirit independent of the written Word? 2 Timothy 4: 3,4.

NOTE: " ... If they belittle the law of God, if they pay no heed to His
will as revealed in the testimonies of His Spirit, they are deceivers. They
are controlled by impulse and impressions, which they believe to be from
the Holy Spirit, and consider more reliable than the Inspired vVord.
They elaim that every thought and feeling is an impression of t·he
Spirit; and when they arc reasoned with out of the Scriptures, they
declare that they have something more reliable. But while tbey think
that they are led by the Spirit of Cod, they are in reality following
an imagination wrought upon by Satan." -Selected Messages, bk. ::,
Pl'. 98,99.

7. What is the mission of the Holy Spirit in behalf of the world?

John 16: 8.

NOTE: " ...Thf' preaching of the word will be of no avail without the
continual presence and aid of the Holy Spirit. This is the only effectual
teacher of divine truth. Only when the truth is accompanied to the
heart by the Spirit will it quicken the eonseienee or tnubfonn the life.
One might be able to present the letter of the word of Cod, he might
be familiar with all its commands and promises, but unless the Holy
Spirit sets 11Onl" the truth, no souls will fall on the Rock and be broken ... .n
-DesiTe of Ages, Pl'. 671,672.

8. Why is it that many talk about the Holy Spirit but never fully
receive it? Matthew 7: 21-23.

NOTE: " ...There are many who believe and profess to claim the
Lord's promise; they talk ahout Christ and a!Jollt the Holy Spirit, yet
receiw' no benefit. They do not surrender the soul to be guided and
controlled by the divine agenci",s. vVt' cannot use the Holy Spirit. The
Spirit is to use us. Through the Spirit Cod works in His people 'to will
and to do of His good pleasure.' Philippians 2: 13. But many will not
submit to this. They want to manage thtmsclves. This is why they do
not receive the heavenly gift. Only to those who wait humbly upon Cod,
who watch for His guidance .<Iml grace, is the Spirit given ... ." -Desire
of Ages, p. 672.

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 9. Whose assistance must we have in order to resist and overcome
sin? Philippians 2: 13; 4: 13.

NOTE: " ...Sin could be resisted and overcome only through the mighty
agency of the Third Person of the Godhead, who would come with no
modified energy, but in the fullness of divine power. It is the Spirit that
makes effectual what has been wrought out by the world's Redeemer.
It is by the Spirit that the heart is made pure. Through the Spirit the
believer becomes a partaker of the divine nature. Christ has given His
Spirit as a divine power to overcome all hereditary and cultivated tenden-
cies to evil, and to impress His own character upon His church." -
Desire of Ages, p. 671.

10. What was Christ's last exhortation to His disciples? John 14: 27.

11. As they came toward the Mount of Olives, what did Jesus say to
His disciples, warning them of their unpreparedness for the test?
Matthew 26: 31.

12. What did Peter say in self-confidence? Matthew 26: 33.

13. What words did Christ use to repeat the warning to Peter? Matthew
26: 34.

Lesson No.3 - Sabbath, October 19, 1963.

EVIDENCE OF OUR DISCIPLESHIP

Key text: "These things I command you, that ye love one another."
John 15: 17.

Questions

1. Drawing the attention of the disciples to a flourishing grapevine

at the foot of Mount Olivet, what did Christ say to them? John 15: 1.

NOTE: " ..The Jews based their hope of salvation on the fact of their
connection with Israel. But Jesus says, I am the real Vine. Think not that
through a connection with Israel you may become partakers of the life
of God, and inheritors of His promise. Through Me alone is spiritual life
received." -Desire of Ages, p. 675.

2. In what sense are the disciples to stand with the Saviour? What
does it mean to enter into a union with Christ? John 15: 5.

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NOTE: " ...There will be a struggle with outward and internal obstacles.
There must be a painful work of detachment as well as a work of attachment.
Pride, selfishness, vanity, worldliness-sin in all its forms-must be overcome
if we would enter into a union with Christ. The reason why many find
the Christian life so deplorably hard, why they are so fickle, so variable,
is that they try to attach themselves to Christ without first detaching
themselves from these cherished idols.
"After the union with Christ has been formed, it can be preserved only
by earnest prayer and untiring effort. vVe must resist, we must deny, we
must -conquer self. Through the gmce of Christ, by courage, by faith,
by watchfulness, we may gain the victory." -Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 23l.
3. How many classes of people are there in the church? How can we
tell them apart? John 15: 2,6.

NOTE: "There is a wide difference between a pretended union and

a real connection with Christ by faith. A profession of the truth places men
in the church, but this does not prove that they have a vital connection with
the living Vine. A rule is given by which the true disciple may be dis-
tinguished from those who claim to follow Christ but have not faith in
Him. The one class are fruit bearing, the other, fruitless. The one are often
subjected to the pruning knife of God that they may bring forth more
fruit; the other, as withered branches, are erelong to be severed from
the living Vine.
"I am deeply solicitous that our people should preserve the living test-
imony among them, and that the church should be kept pure from the
unbelieving element...." -Tf3stimony, vol. 5, pp. 228,229.
4. Through what process must those pass who bear fruit? John 15: 2
(last part).

NOTE: " ...The pruning will cause pain, but it is the Father who applies the
knife. He works with no wanton hand or indifferent heart. There are
branches trailing upon the ground; these must be cut loose from the
earthly supports to which their tendrils are fastening. They are to reach
heavenward, and find their support in Gocl. The excessive foliage that
draws away the life current from the fruit must be pruned off. The
overgrowth must be cut out, to give room for the healing beams of the Sun
of Righteousness. The husbandman prunes away the harmful growth,
that the fruit may be richer and more abundant." -Desire of Ages, p. 677.
5. What instrument does God use to purify the church members?
John 15: 3; 1 Peter 1: 22.

6. What will be the end of those who neglect this puification? Revelation
22: 11.

NOTE: "I saw that many were neglecting the preparation so needful and
were looking to the time of 'refreshing' and the 'latter rain' to fit them to
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stand in the day of the Lord and to live in His sight. Oh, how many I saw
in the time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful
preparation; therefore they could not receive the refreshing that all must
have to fit them to live in the sight of a holy God. Those who refuse to
be hewed by the prophets and fail to purify their souls in obeying the
whole truth, and who are willing to believe that their condition is far
better than it really is, will come up to the time of the falling of the plagues,
and then see that they needed to be hewed and squared for the building.
But there will be no time to do it and no Mediator to plead their cause before
the Father. ..." -Early Writings, p. 71.

7. How can we abide in Christ and Christ in us? John 15: 4; 1 John 3: 24.

NOTE: ".. .It is through the word that Christ abides in His followers.
This is the same vital union that is represented by eating His flesh and
drinking His blood. The words of Christ are spirit and life. Receiving them,
you receive the life of the Vine. You live 'by every word that proceedeth
out of the mouth of God.' Matthew 4: 4. The life of Christ in you produces
the same fruits as in Him. Living in Christ, adhering to Christ, supported
by Christ, drawing nourishment from Christ, you bear fruit after the
similitude of Christ." -Desire of Ages, p. 677.

8. In what sense does God desire us to produce much fruit? John

15: 5,7,8.

NOTE: "'Herein is 1\ly Father glorified,' said Jesus, 'that ye bear much
fruit.' God desires to manifest through you the holiness, the -benevolence,
the compassion, of His own character... ." -Desire of Ages, p. 677.

9. What evidence can Christians produce that they are disciples of Christ?
John 15: 8-12.

10. What will this love, manifested in the church, surely stir up? John
15: 18·21.

NOTE: " ...Satan told his angels that the churches were asleep. He would
increase his power and lying wonders, and he could hold them. 'But,'
he said, 'the sect of Sabbathkeepers we hate; they are continually working
against us, and taking from us our subjects, to keep the hated law of God....
As they appoint meetings in different places, we are in danger. Be very
vigilant then. Cause disturbance and confusion if possible. Destroy love
for one another. Discourage and dishearten their ministers; for we hate
them... ." -Early Writings, p. 266,267.

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Lesson No.4 - Sabbath, Octobre 26, 1963.

GETHSEMANE
Key text: "'vVatch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation ...."
Matthew 26: 41.

Questions

1. As Christ was making His way to the garden to Gethsemane, what

did He say as He contemplated the exceeding wrath of God against
transgression? Matthew 26: 38.

2. Describe the conflict of Christ with the powers of darkness. Matthew

26: 39·44; Luke 22: 44.

NOTE: "Three times has He uttered that prayer. Three times has human-
ity shrunk from the last, crowning sacrifice. But now the history of the
human race comes up before the world's Hedeemer. He sees that the
transgressors of the law, if left to themselves, must perish. He secs the
helplessness of man. He sces the power of sin. The woes and lamentations
of a doomed world rise before Him. He beholds its impending fatc, and
His decision is made. He will save man at any eost to Himself. He fH:eepts
His baptism of blood, that through Him perishing millions may gain
everlasting life...." -Desire of Ages, pp. 6DO, 6D3.

4. In what way was the Saviour strengthened to drink the cup? Luke
22: 43; Hebrews 5: 7.

NOTE: " .. .In this awful crisis, when cverythin~ \\'as at stake, when the
mysterious cup trembled in the hand of the sufferer, the heavens opened,
a light shone forth amid the stormy darkness of the crisis hour, and tIl"
mighty angel who stands in God's presence, occupying the position from
which Satan fell, callle to the side of Ghrist. The :ll1gel came not to take
the cup from Ghrist's hand, but to str('ngthen Him to drink it, with the
assurance of the Father's love....
"Ghrist's agony did not cease, 'JlI~ His depression and discouragement left
Him. The storm had in nowise abated, but He who was its object was
strengthened to meet its fury. He eanle forth calm and serene. A heavenly
peace rested upon His bloodstained face. He had borne that which no
human being could ever bear; for He had tasted the sufferings of
death for every man." -Desire of Ages, pp. 6H3,6H4.

5. What did Christ ask as He stepped forth to meet His persecutors?

What did they answer? What did Christ reply? And what happened
when Christ identified Himself as being the One whom they were
seeking? John 18: 4-6.

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 6. What sign had the traitor given the pursuers of Jesus? Matthew 26: 48.

7. How did Judas show his vileness of character, and what did Jesus
say to him? Matthew 26: 49,50; Luke 22: 48.

8. What were the disciples ready to do in behalf of their Master as

they saw the cords brought forward to bind His hands? What did
Peter, in his anger do? Luke 22: 49; John 18: 10.

9. What did Jesus say and do in disapproval of Peter's action? What

did He then say to the priests and elders? Matthew 26: 52-54;
Luke 22: 51-53.

10. What had Christ foretold with regard to His disciples' weakness?
How did they show their weakness now that their faith was tested?
John 16:' 32; Mark 14: 50.

Lesson No. 5 - Sabbath, November 2, 1963.

BEFORE ANNAS AND CAIAPHAS

Key text: " ...Nevertheless 1 say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of
man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of
heaven." Matthew 26: 64.

Questions

1. Before whom was Christ subjected to a preliminary trial? John 18: 13;
Matthew 26: 57.

NOTE: "Annas was the head of the officiating priestly family, and in
deference to his age he was recognized by the people as high priest.
His counsel was sought and carried out as the voice of God. He must
first see Jesus a captive to priestly power. He must be present at the
examination of the prisoner, for fear that the less-experienced Caiaphas might
fail of securing the object for which they were working. His artifice, cunning,
and subtlety must be used on this occasion; for, at all events, Christ's
condemnation must be secured." -Desire of Ages, p. 698.

2. Of what did the high priest question Jesus and what was his intention?
Tohn 18: 19.

NOTE: " ...There were two charges which the priests desired to maintain.
If Jesus could be proved a blasphemer, He would be condemned by the Jews.
If convicted of sedition, it would secure His condemnation by the Romans.
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The second charge Annas tried first to establish. He questioned Jesus
concerning His disciples and His doctrines, hoping the prisoner would
say something that would give him material upon which to work. He thought
to draw out some statement to prove that He was seeking to establish a
secret society, with the purpose of setting up a new kingdom. Then the
priests could deliver Him to the Romans as a disturber of the peace and
a creator of insurrection." -Desire of Ages, p. 699.

3. As Christ read the priest's purpose, what did He answer him?

John 18: 20,21.

4. What action did one of the officers take, following Jesus' reply to
Annas, the High Priest as he saw Annas put to silence? John 18: 22.

5. What did Jesus calmly reply to the officer? John 18: 23.

6. Why did the Jewish authorities hasten the trial and execution of
Jesus?

ANSWER: H...They knew the regard in which Jesus was held by the
people, and feared that if the arrest were noised abroad, a rescue would
be attempted. Again, if the trial and execution were not brought about
at once, there would be a week's delay on account of the celebration of th"
Passover. This might defeat their plans. In securing the condemnation of
Jesus they depended largely upon the clamor of the mob, many of them
the rabble of Jerusalem. Should there be a week's delay, the excitement
would abate, and a reaction would be likely to set in. The better part
of the people would be aroused in Christ's favor; many would come
forward with testimony in His vindication, bringing to light the mighty
works He had done. This would excite popular indignation against the
Sanhedrin. Their proceedings would be condemned, and Jesus would be set
free, to receive new homage from the multitudes. The priests and rulers
therefore determined that before their purpose could become known, Jesus
should be delivered into the hands of the Romans." -Desire of Ages, p. 703.

7. For what did the Sanhedrin seek and why? Why was their search in
vain? Matthew 26: 59; Mark 14: 56.

8. How did two of the witnesses falsely testify against Christ? Matthew
26: 61.

NOTE: HEarly in His ministry Christ had said, 'Destroy this temple, and
in three days I will raise it up.' In the figurative language of prophecy,
He had thus foretold His own death and resurrection. 'He spake of the
temple of His body.' John 2: 19,21. These words the Jews had
understood in a literal sense, as referring to the temple at Jerusalem.
Of all that Christ had said, the priests could find nothing to use against
Him save this. By misstating these words they hoped to gain an advantage.

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The Romans had engaged in rebuilding and embellishing the temple,
and they took great pride in it; any contempt shown to it would be sure
to excite their indignation. Here Uomans and Jews, Pharisees and Sadducees,
could meet; for all held the temple in great veneration. On this point two
witnesses were found whose testimony was not so contradictory as that
of the others had been. One of them, who had been bribed to accuse
Jesus, declared, 'This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God,
and to build it in three days.' Thus Christ's words were misstated. If they
had been reported exactly as He spoke them, they would not have secured
His condemnation even by the Sanhedrin. Had Jesus been a mere man, as
the Jews claimed, His declaration would only have indicated an unreasonable,
boastful spirit, but could not have been construed into blasphemy. Even
as misrepresented by the false witnesses, His words contained nothing
which would be regarded by the Uomans as a crime worthy of death."
-Desire of Ages, pp. 705, 706.
9. With what solemn oath did Caiaphas, at last, address Jesus? And
what was His answer? Matthew 26: 62·64.

NOTE: "The words of Christ startled the high priest. The thought that
there was to be a resurrection of the dead, when all would stand at the bar
of God, to be rewarded according to their works, was a thought of terror
to Caiaphas. He did not wish to believe that in future he would receive
. sentence according to his works. There rushed before his mind as a panorama
the scenes of the final judgment. For a moment he saw the fearful
spectacle of the graves giving up their dead, with the secrets he had hoped
were forever hidden. For a moment he felt as if standing before the
eternal Judge, whose eye, which sees all things, was reading his soul,
bringing to light mysteries supposed to be hidden with the dead." -
Desire of Ages, p. 708.
10. How did Caiaphas and the Sanhedrin react to Christ's reply?
Matthew 26: 65·68.

11. What incident took place as Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard?
Mark 14: 66·72.

NOTE: "... Many who do not shrink from active warfare for their Lord
are driven by ridicule to deny their faith. By associating with those whom
they should avoid, they place themselves in the way of temptation. They
invite the enemy to tempt them, and are led to say and do that of which
under other circumstances they would never have been guilty. The disciple
of Christ who in our day disguises his faith through dread of suffering or
reproach denies his Lord as really as did Peter in the judgment hall."
-Desire of Ages, p. 712.
12. What did Peter do when he realized the falseness of his heart? Mark
14: 72 (last part).

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NOTE: "He pressed on in solitude and darkness, he knew not and cared
not whither. At last he found himself in Gethsemane. The scene of a few
hours before came vividly to his mind. The suffering face of his Lord,
stained with bloodly sweat and convulsed with anguish, rose before him ....
On the very spot where Jesus had poured out His soul in agony to His
Father, Peter fell upon his face, and wished that he might die." -Desij'e
of Ages, p. 713.

Lesson No.6 - Sabbath, November 9, 1963.

IN PILATE'S JUDGMENT HALL

Key text: " ...1 find in him no fault at all." John 18: 38.

Questions

1. When Christ was brought into the judgment hall, what did Pilate ask?
John 18: 29.

2. What words did the priests use to show their irritation at Pilate's
question? John 18: 30.

NOTE: " ...When those composing the Sanhedrin, the first men of the
nation, bring to you a man they deem worthy of death, is there need to
ask for an accusation against him? They hoped to impress Pilate with a
sense of their importance, and thus lead him to accede to their request
without going through many preliminaries. They were eager to have their
sentence ratified; for they knew that the people who had witnessed Christ's
marvelous works could tell a story very different from the fabrication
they themselves were now rehearsing." -Desire of Ages, p. 724.

3. What did Pilate do to perplex the priests? John 18: 31.

NOTE: "If your judgment is sufficient, he said, why bring the prisoner to
me? 'Take ye Him, and judge Him according to your law: Thus pressed,
the priests said that they had already passed sentence upon Him, but
that they must have Pilate's sentence to render their condemnation valid.
"Vhat is your sentence? Pilate asked. The death sentence, they answered; but
it is not lawful for us to put any man to death. They asked Pilate to take
their word as to Christ's guilt, and enforce their sentence. They would take
the responsibility of the result.
"Pilate was not a just or a conscientious judge; but weak though he was
in moral power, he refused to grant this request. He would not condemn
Jesus until a charge had been brought against Him." -Desire of Ages, p. 725.
-14-
 4. Was it lawful for Pilate to pass a death sentence on anyone on
religious grounds? What other grounds did the priests seek against
Christ to cloak their hypocrisy? Luke 23: 2.

NOTE: " ...They (the priests) must not allow it to appear that Christ
had been arrested on religious grounds. Were this put forward as a reason,
their proceedings would have no weight with Pilate. They must make it
appear that Jesus was working against the common law; then He could
be punished as a political offender. Tumults and insurrection against the
Roman government were constantly arising among the Jews. With these
revolts the Romans had dealt very rigorously, and they were constantly on
the watch to repress everything that could lead to an outbreak." -Desire
of Ages, p. 725.

5. Convinced that a deep plot had been laid to destroy an innocent

man who stood in the way of the Jewish dignitaries, what question
did Pilate ask Christ? What was the Saviour's answer? Luke 23: 3.

6. What question did Christ ask Pilate? John 18: 34.

7. As pride prevented Pilate from acknowledging the conviction that

pressed upon his heart, what did he say in answer to Christ's question?
John 18: 35.

8. How did Christ plainly state His own mISSiOn presenting to Pilate
that He was not seeking an earthily throne? John 18: 36,37.

9. What important inquiry did Pilate make, however, without waiting

for an answer? John 18: 38 (first part).

10. Going to the Jews, what did Pilate emphatically declare to them after
having investigated their accusations against Christ? John 18: 38
(second part).

11. How did Pilate try to evade the responsibility of the trial? Who made
friends because of the trial of the Saviour? Luke 23: 6,7.

"He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted

with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised,
and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried
our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities:
the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are
healed." Isaiah 53: 3·5.

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Lesson No. 7 - Sabbath, November 16, 1963.

PILATE AND HEROD IN PERPLEXITY

Key text: "And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! John 19: 5.

Questions

1. Who had long been desirous of seeing Jesus and why? How did he
feel when he saw the Saviour? Luke 23: 8.

2. When Herod had first heard of Jesus, what did he say? Matthew 14: 2.

3. When Jesus was brought before Herod, what did the tetrarch do?
Luke 23: 9.

NOTE: "Herod questioned Christ in many words, but throughout the

Saviour maintained a profound silence. At the command of the king, the
decrepit and maimed were then called in, and Christ was ordered to
prove His claims by working a miracle. Men say that Thou canst heal thc
sick, said Herod. I am anxious to see that Thy widespread fame has not
been belied. Jesus did not respond, and Herod still continued to urge:
If Thou canst work miracles for others, work them now for Thine own
good, and it will serve Thee a good purpose. Again he commanded, Show
us a sign that Thou hast the power with which rumor hath accredited
Thee. But Christ was as one who heard and saw not... ." -Desire of Ages,
p.729.

4. Why was Herod's conscience now far less sensitive than when he
had been admonished by John the Baptist? Why did Christ abstain
from speaking to Herod? Isaiah 53: 7.

NOTE: "Herod's conscience was now far less sensitive than when he had
trembled with horror at the request of Herodias for the head of John the
Baptist. For a time he had felt the keen stings of remorse for his terrible
act; but his moral perceptions had become more and more degraded
by his licentious life. Now his heart had become so hardened that he
could even boast of the punishment he had inflicted upon John for daring
to reprove him. And he now threatened Jesus, declaring repeatedly that
he had power to release or to condemn Him. But no sign from Jesus gave
evidence that He heard a word.
"Christ might have spoken words to Herod that would have pierced
the ears of the hardened King. He might have stricken him with fear and
trembling by laying before him the full iniquity of his life, and the horror
of his approaching doom. But Christ's silence was the severest rebuke
that He could have given. Herod had rejected the truth spoken to him by
the greatest of the prophets, and no other message was he to receive.
Not a word had the Majesty of heaven for him... ." -Desire of Ages, p. 730.
-16-
 5. What treatment was Jesus subjected to in the presence of Herod? What
did the tetrarch feel while Christ being mocked? Luke 23: 11.

NOTE: " ...At the very time when Christ was encompassed by mockers,
adulterers, and murderers, Herod felt that he was beholding a God upon
His throne.
"Hardened as he was, Herod dared not ratify the condemnation of
Christ. He wished to relieve himself of the terrible responsibility, and
he sent Jesus back to the Roman judgment hall." -Desire of Ages, p. 731.

6. When Jesus was brought back to Pilate, how did the Roman governor
try to set Him free? How did he, nevertheless, show his weakness?
Luke 23: 13-16.

NOTE: "Here Pilate showed his weakness. He had declared that Jesus
was innocent, yet he was willing for Him to be scourged to pacify His
accusers. He would sacrifice justice and principle in order to compromise
with the mob. This placed him at a disadvantage. The crowd presumed
upon his indecision, and clamored the more for the life of the prisoner.
If at the first Pilate had stood firm, refusing to condemn a man whom he
found guiltless, he would have broken the fatal chain that was to bind him
in remorse and guilt as long as he lived. Had he carried out his con-
victions of right, the Jews would not have presumed to dictate to him.
Christ would have been put to death, but the guilt would not have rested
upon Pilate. But Pilate had taken step afler step in the violation of his
conscience. He had excused himself from judging with justice and equity,
and he now found himself almost helpless in the hands of the priests and
rulers. His wavering and indecision proved his ruin." -Desire of Ages,
pp. 731,732.

7. How did God send Pilate a message warning him against the act
he was about to commit under the preSSUl'e of the Jews? Matthew
27: 19.

NOTE: "Even now Pilate was not left to act blindly. A message from God
warned him from the deed he was about to commit. In answer to Christ's
prayer, the wife of Pilate had been visited by an angel from heaven, amI
in a dream she had beheld the Saviour and conversed with Him. Pilate's
wife was not a Jew, but as she looked upon Jesus in her dream, she had
no doubt of His character or mission. She knew Him to be the Prince of
God. She saw Him on trial in the judgment hall. She saw the hands tightly
bound as the hands of a criminal. She saw Herod and his soldiers doing
their dreadful work. She heard the priests and rulers, filled with envy and
malice, madly accusing. She heard the words, "We have a law, and by
our law He ought to die.' She saw Pilate give Jesus to the scourging, after
he had declared, 'I find no fault in Him.' She heard the condemnation pro-
nounced by Pilate, and saw him give Christ up to His murderers. She saw
the cross uplifted on Calvary. She saw the earth wrapped in darkness, and

-17-
heard the mysterious cry, 'It is finished.' Still an,other scene met her gaze.
She saw Christ seated upon the great white cloud, while the earth reeled
in space, and His murderers fled from the presence of His glory. With a
cry of horror she awoke, and at once wrote to Pilate words of warning.
"While Pilate was hesitating as to what he should do, a messenger
pressed through the crowd, and handed him the letter from his wife, .. ."
-Desire of Ages, p. 732.
8. What means did Pilate employ which was customary at that time,
in trying to secure Christ's release? Matthew 27: 17.

9. When Pilate gave the people a choice between the innocent Saviour
and a criminal, what answer came from the mob? Matthew 27: 21
(last part).

NOTE: " ...Barabbas, the robber and murderer, was the representative
of Satan .. " Satan was their leader. As a nation they would act out his
dictation. His works they would do. His rule they must endure. That people
who chose Barabbas in the place of Christ were to feel the cruelty of
Barabbas as long as time should last." -Desire of Ages, p. 739.

10. How are professed believers today repeating the same mistake as
the Jews? Acts 3: 14, 15.

NOTE: "Unsanctified ministers are arraying themselves against God. They

are praising Christ and the god of this world in the same breath. While
professedly they receive Christ, they embrace Barabbas, and by their actions
say, 'Not this Man, but Barabbas.' Let all who read these lines, take heed.
Satan has made his boast of what he can do. He thinks to dissolve the
unity which Christ prayed might exist in His church. He says, '1 will go
forth and be a lying spirit to deceive those that 1 can, to criticize, and
condemn, and falsify. Let the son of deceit and false witness be entertained
by a church that !1as had great light, great evidence, and that church will
discard the message the Lord has sent, and receive the most unreasonable
assertions and false supposition and false theories. Satan laughs at their
folly; for he knows what truth is." -Testimony to Ministers, p. 409.

"He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth:
he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her
shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. He was taken from pl'ison
and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut
off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was
he stricken. And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in
his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his
mouth." Isaiah 53: 7-9.

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Lesson No. 8 - Sabbath, November 23, 1963.

THE RESULT OF PILATE'S

WEAKNESS AND INDECISION
Key text: "There is a way which seemetll right unto man, but the end
thereof are the ways of death." Proverbs 14: 12.

Questions

1. As Pilate was still endeavouring to release the Saviour, and as he

thought that the people had not understood his question, what did he
ask? What was their reply? John 18: 39 (second part); Luke 23: 18.

2. How did Pilate endeavour to set Christ free? What was the result
of Pilate's indecision? Luke 23: 20·23.

NOTE: " ...Louder and louder swelled the storm that Pilate's indecision
had called forth." -Desi're of Ages, p. 734.

3. What treatment was Christ again submitted to? What was Satan's
purpose in leading the mob to abuse the Saviour? Mark 15: 16·19.

NOTE: "Satan led the cruel mob in its abuse of the Saviour. It was his
purpose to provoke Him to retaliation jf possible, or to drive Him to perform
a miracle to }'elease Himself, and thus bleak up the plan of salvation. One
stain upon His human life, onc faill1re of His humanity to endure the
terrible test, and the Lamb of Cod would have been an imperfect offering,
and the redemption of man a failure. But He who by a command could bring
the heavenly host to His aid-He who could have driven that mob in
terror from His sight by the flashing forth of His divine majesty-submitted
with perfect calmness to the coarsest insult and outrage." -Desire of
Ages, p. 734.

4. As Pilate presented the two prisoners, what did he solemnly say,

pointing to the Saviour? John 19: 4,5.

5. At last, losing his patience with the unreasonable cruelty of the

Jews, how did Pilate cry out despairingly? And what did the
Priests declare in reply? John 19: 6,7.

6. Startled at the declaration of the priests, what question did Pilate

ask Christ? John 19: 8,9.

7. Perturbed at Christ's silence, what did Pilate haughtily say to Him

and what did Christ reply? John 19: 10, 11.

-19-
 8. As Pilate still sought to release Christ, what did the Jews cry out?
Through what weakness in Pilate were the Jews finally able to
accomplish their purpose? John 19: 12.

NOTE: "Pilate longed to deliver Jesus. But he saw that he could not do
this, and yet retain his own position and honor. Rather than lose his wordly
power, he chose to sacrifice an innocent life. How many, to escape loss
or suffering, in like manner sacrifice principle. Conscience and duty
point one way, and self-interest points another. The current sets strongly in
the wrong direction, and he who compromises with evil is swept away into
the thick darkness of guilt." -Desire of Ages, p. 738.

9. As Pilate took his place on the judgment seat and again presented
Jesus to the people, what did he say? What did the priests and the
multitude answer? John 19: 14, 15.

10. What did Pilate, in his weakness do, as he saw that he could not
prevail against the urgent clamors of the murderous mob? Matthew
27: 24.

NOTE: "Pilate yielded to the demands of the mob. Rather than risk losing
his position, he delivered Jesus up to be crucified. But in spite of his
precautions, the very thing he dreaded afterward came upon him. His
honors were stripped from him, he was cast down from his high office, and,
stung by remorse and wounded pride, not long after the crucifixion he
ended his own life. So all who compromise with sin will gain only sorrow
and ruin... ." -Desire of Ages, p, 738.

11. What did Caiaphas and the whole multitude say in answer to,
Pilate's self.acquitting words? How have they and their descendants
been suffering the effects of their self·condemnatory sentence?
Matthew 27: 25.

NOTE: "Looking upon the smitten Lamb of God, the Jews had cried, 'His
blood be on us and on our children.' That awful cry ascended to the throne
of God. That sentence, pronounced upon themselves, was written in
heaven. That prayer was heard. The blood of the Son of God was upon their
children and their children's children, a perpetual curse.
"Terribly was it realized in the destruction of Jerusalem. Terribly has it
been manifested in the condition of the Jewish nation for eighteen hundred
years,-a branch severed from the vine, a dead, fruitless 'branch, to be
gathered up and burned. From land to land throughout the world, from
century to century, dead, dead in trespasses and sinsl" -Desire of Ages,
p.739.

-20-
Lesson No. 9 - Sabbath, November 30, 1963.

CALVARY
Key text: " ...It is finished...." John 19: 30.

Questions

1. What did Pilate do after he had declared himself innocent of the

blood of Christ? John 19: 16.

2. As Christ fell fainting beneath the burden of the cross, whom did the
Jews seize to place the cross upon his shoulders? Mark 15: 21.

3. What effect did the bearing of the cross have upon it's bearer?
Romans 8: 28.

NOTE: "Simon had heard of Jesus. His sons were believers in the Saviour,
but he himself was not a disciple. The bearing of the cross to Calvary
was a blessing to Simon, and he was ever after grateful for this providence. It
led him to take upon himself the cross of Christ from choice, and ever
cheerfully stand beneath its burden." -Desire of Ages, p. 742.

4·. What did Christ say to a company of women who were grieving
and lamenting over Him? What two terrible scenes of judgment
did Christ depict? Luke 23: 27·31.

NOTE: " ...From the scene before Him, Christ looked forward to the
time of Jerusalem's destruction. In that terrible scene, many of those who
were now weeping for Him were to perish with their children.
"From the fall of Jerusalem the thoughts of Jesus passed to a wider
judgment. In the destruction of the impenitent city He saw a symbol of
the final destruction to come upon the world ...." -Desire of Ages, p. 743.

5. Notwithstanding the cruelty by which Christ was treated, how did

He pray for His enemies? Luke 23: 34.

6. What inscription, written by Pilate, was placed upon the cross?

How did the Jews wish to have the inscription changed? What did
Pilate say to them? Through the providence of God, what was
the mission of that inscription? John 19: 19·22.

7. What prophecy was fulfilled in the sufferings of Christ upon the

cross? Psalms 22: 16·18.

8. What words did the enemies of Jesus utter in derision? What should
be the result of their testimony? Matthew 27: 39·43.

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NOTE: "...But although spoken in mockery, these words led men to
search the Scriptures as they had never done before. Wise men heard,
searched, pondered, and prayed. There were those who never rested until,
by comparing scripture with scripture, they saw the meaning of Christ's
mission. Never before was there such a general knowledge of Jesus as when
He hung upon the cross. Into the hearts of many who beheld the crucifixion
scene, and who heard Christ's words, the light of truth was shining."
-Desire of Ages, p. 749.

9. What conviction came to one of the dying thieves? What was his
dying prayer? Luke 23: 39·42.

10. What was Christ's promise to the penitent thief? Luke 23: 43.

NOTE: "I say unto thee today, Thou shalt be with Me in Paradise... He
slept in the tomb, and on the morning of the resurrection He said, 'I am not
yet ascended to My Father.' John 20: 17. But on the day of the crucifixion
the day of apparent defeat and darkness, the promise was given. 'Today'
while dying upon the cross as a malefactor, Christ assures the poor sinner,
Thou shalt be with Me in Paradise." -Desire of Ages, p. 751.

11. In His dying hour, to whose care did Jesus entrust His mother?
John 19: 26,27.

12. What happened when the sun refused to look upon the awful scene
of Christ's crucifixi«:m? Luke 23: 44,45.

13. What did Jesus cry out at the end of the darkness? Matthew 27: 46.

14. In keeping with the custom at that time, what was offered to Jesus, tu
deaden the sense of pain? Why did He refuse it? Mark 15: 23.

NOTE. " ...He would receive nothing that could becloud His mind. His
faith must keep fast hold upon God. This was His only strength. To
becloud His senses would give Satan an advantage." -Desire of Ages,
p.746.

15. What loud cry came from the lips of Christ, announcing that His
work had been done? John 19: 30.

16. What event took place ill nature, and what took place in the temple?
Matthew 27: 51.

-22-
Lesson No. 10 - Sabbath, December 7, 1963.

THE RESURRECTION
Key text: '... .I am the resmrection, and the life: he that believeth in me,
though he were dead, yet shall he live." John 11: 25.

Questions

1. Who came to the help of the disciples in their distress, and what
did he do? Luke 23: 50-53.

2. Who were last to leave Christ's tomb and how did they show their
customary respect for the sacredness of the fourth commandment?
Luke 23: 54-56.

3. How did inanimate nature, for the second time, bear witness to
Christ's divinity? Matthew 28: 2 (first part).

4. Who came from heaven and what did he do? Matthew 28: 2.

NOTE: " ...This messenger is he who fills the position from which Satan
fell. It is he who on the hills of Bethlehem proclaimed Christ's birth. The
earth trembles at his approach, the hosts of darkness flee, and as he rolls
away the stone, heaven seems to come down to the earth. The soldiers see
him removing the stone as he would a pebble, and hear him cry, Son of
Cod, come forth; Thy rather calls Thee. They see Jesus come forth from
the grave, and hear Him proclaim over the rent sepulcher, 1 am the
resurrection, and the life: .. :'-Desire of Ages, p. 780.

5. What was the feeling and deportment of the Roman soldiers in the
presence of the heavenly messenger? Matthew 28: 3,4.

6. Who, besides the Roman soldiers, bore testimony to the reSUl'l'ectioll

of Christ? Matthew 27: 52,53.

NOTE: "As Christ arose, He brought from the grave a multitude of

captives. The earthquake at his death had rent open their graves, and
when He arose, they came forth with Him. They were those who had
been co-laborers with God, and who at the cost of their lives had borne
testimony to the truth. Now they were to be witnesses for Him who had
raised them from the dead" -Desire of Ages, p. 786.

7. What did the heaven-sent messenger say to the women who had
come to the tomb to anoint the Saviour's body? Matthew 28: 5-7.

-23-
 8. As Mary had not heard the good news, with what sorrowful message
did she go to Peter and John? What did the two disciples do to
make sure of Mary's words? John 20: 1-10.

NOTE: "The women had not all come to the tomb from the same direction.
Mary Magdalene was the first to reach the place; and upon seeing that
the stone was removed, she hurried away to tell the disciples. Meanwhile
the other women came up. A light was shining about the tomb, but the
body of Jesus was not there. As they lingered about the place, suddenly
they saw that they were not alone. A young man clothed in shining garments
was sitting by the tomb. It was the angel who had rolled away the stone.
He had taken the guise of humanity that he might not alarm these friends
of Jesus. Yet about him the light of the heavenly glory was still shining,
and the women were afraid. They turned to flee, but the angel's words
stayed their steps. 'Fear not ye,' he said; 'for I know that ye seek Jesus,
which was crucified. He is not here: for He is risen, as He said. Come,
see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell His disciples
that He is risen from the dead.' Again they look into the tomb, and again
they hear the wonderful news. Another angel in human form is there, and he
says, 'Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is
risen: ...
"Mary had not heard the good news. She went to Peter and John with
the sorrowful message, 'They have taken away the Lord out of the
sepulcher, and we know not where they have laid Him.' The disciples
hurried to the tomb, and found it as Mary had said... ." -Desire of Ages,
pp. 788, 789.

9. As Mary returned and looked into the empty tomb, who did she see?
What did they say to her and what did she answer? John 20: 11·13.

10. Who then addressed her? What did she say, supposing Him to be
a gardener? What did He say to her? John 20: 14-17.

NOTE: "Jesus refused to receive the homage of His people until He had
the assurance that His sacrifice was accepted by the Father. He ascended
to the heavenly courts, and from God Himself heard the assurance that
His atonement for the sins of men had been ample, that through His
blood all might gain eternal life. The Father ratified the covenant made
with Christ, that He would receive repentant and obedient men, and
would love them even as He loves His Son. Christ was to complete His
work, and fulfill His pledge to 'make a man more precious than fine gold;
even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.' Isaiah 13: 12. All power in
heaven and on earth was given to the Prince of life, and He retured to His
followers in a world of sin, that He might impart to them of His power and
glory." -Desire of Ages, p. 790.

-24-
Lesson No. 11 - Sabbath, December 14, 1963.

THE WALK TO EMMAUS

Key text: " .., .Abide with us: for it is toward evening and the day is far
~pent. ..." Luke 24: 29.

Questions

1. As two of the disciples, utterly disheartened, were on their way to

Emmaus, what wel'e they talking about and who joined them?
Luke 24: 13-16.
2. Seeing their grief, what did the "supposed stranger" ask, trying to
comfort them? Luke 24: 17.
3. TelIing Him of their disappointment in regard to their Master, what
did they say? Luke 24: 18-24.
4. How did Christ, without yet making Himself known to them, bring
joyful expectations to their hearts? Luke 24: 25-27.
NOTE: " ...They looked upon His death as the destruction of all their
hopes. Now He showed from the prophets that this was the very strongest
evidence for their faith." -Desire of Ages, p. 799.
5. What declaration of Christ shows that He highly valued the Old
Testament, contrary to the concept of modern nominal Christians?
Luke 16: 31.
NOTE: "In teaching these disciples, Jesus showed the importance of the
Old Testament as a witness to His mission. Many professed Christians now
discard the Old Testament, claiming that it is no longer of any use. But
such is not Christ's teaching....
"It is the voice of Christ that speakes through patriarchs and prophets,
from the clays of Adam even to the closing scenes of time. The Saviour
is revealed in the Old Testament as clearly as in the New. It is the light
from the prophetic past that brings out the life of Christ and the teachings
of the New Testament with clearness and beauty. The miracles of Christ
are a proof of His divinity; but a stronger proof that He is the world's
Redeemer is found in comparing the prophecies of the Old Testament
with the history of the New." -Desire af Ages, p. 799.
6. As the two disciples were about to enter their home, and as the
"Stranger" appeared as though Hc would continue His journey,
what did they say to Him? Luke 24: 28,29.
7. When did they identify Him to be the Lord Jesus? And what did
they say to each other after He had vanished out of their sight?
Luke 24: 30·32.
-25-
 8. Leaving their meal untasted, what did the two disciples immediately
do? Luke 24: 33.
9. As they entered the upper chamber in Jerusalem, what did the eleven
disciples say? And what story did the two travellers tell? Luke
24: 34,35.
10. When the door had been opened for the two disciples to enter,
who entered with them? Luke 24: 36.

Lesson No. 12 - Sabbath, December 21, 1963.

PEACE BE UNTO YOU

Key text: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the
world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither
let it be afraid." John 14: 27.
Questions
1. With what greeting did Jesus surprise the disciples in the upper room?
Luke 24: 36.
2. How did they feel and what did they at first suppose to see? Luke
24: 37.
3. What did Jesus say and do before the disciples could put aside their
unbelief and acknowledge their risen Saviour? Luke 24: 38-40.
4. For what purpose did Christ open their understanding? Luke 24: 44-48.
5. What gift did Christ bestow on His disciples before they could fulfill
their official duties in connection with the church? How essential
is this gift? John 20: 22.
NOTE: "The Holy Spirit is the breath of spiritual life in the soul. The
impartation of the Spirit is the impartation of the life of Christ. It imbues
the receiver with the attributes of Christ. Only those who are thus taught
of God, those who possess the inward working of the Spirit, and in whose
life the Christ-life is manifested, are to stand as representative men, to
minister in behalf of the church." -Desire of Ages, p. 805.
6. When sin is manifested in the church, how are we to act? Matthew
18: 15·18; 2 Timothy 4: 2.
NOTE: " ...Call sin by its right name. Declare what God has said in regard
to lying, Sabbathbreaking, stealing, idolatry, and every other evil. They

-26-
which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.' Galatians 5: 2l.
If they persist iu sin, the judgment you have declared from God's word
is pronounced upon them in heaven. In choosing to sin, they disown
Christ; thc church must show that she does not sanction their deeds,
01' she hcrsolf dishonors her Lord. She must say about sin what God says
ahout it. She must deal with it as God directs, and her action is ratified
in heaven. He who despises the authority of the church despises the
authority of Christ Himself." -Desire of Ages, p. 806.
7. How are we to lead the erring to repent and be converted? John
20: 23; James 5: 19; I Peter 4: 8.
NOTE: "Let the repentance of the sinner be accepted by the church
with grateful hearts. Let thc repenting one be led out from the darkness
of unbelief into the light of faith and righteousness. Let his trembling hand
he placcd in the loving hand of Jesus. Such a remission is ratified in
heaven.
"Only in this sense has the church power to absolve the sinner. Remissinn
of sins can be obtained only through the merits of Christ. To no man,
to no hody of mcn, is given power to free the soul from guilt. ..." -Desire
of Ages, p. 806.
8. As Thomas heard the disciples tell of the wonderful manifestations
of the risen Saviour, what did he repeatedly declare in his unbelief
and despair? John 20: 24. 25.
9. What happened while the disciples were having their evening meal,
one week after the resurrection? John 20: 26.
10. Turning to Thomas, what did Jesus say to put an end to his doubts?
As Thomas had no desire for further proof, what did he cry out in
acknowledgment of the risen Saviour? John 20: 27,28.
II. What did Jesus say, gently reproving Thomas' unbelief? John 20: 29.
12. What goes hand in hand with faith? What will be the end of those
who, like Thomas, wait for all cause of doubt to be removed before
they believe? James I: 6; I Timothy I: 19.
NOTE: " ... ~[any who, like Thomas, wait for all cause of doubt to be
removed, will never realize their desire. They gradually become confirmed
in unbelief. Those who educate themselves to look on the dark side, and
murmur and complain, know not what they do. They are sowing the seeds
of doubt, and thcy will have a harvest of douht to reap. At a time when
faith and cllnfidence are most essential, many will thus find themselves
powerless to hope and believe." -Desi're of Ages, p. 808.

FOR OUR FOREIGN MISSIONS

Plan Your Next Week's 13th Sabbath School Offering

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Lesson No. 13 - Sabbath, December 28, 1963.

GO AND TEACH ALL NATIONS

Key text: "...Lo, I am with you alway; even unto the end of the world."
Matthew 2B: 20.

Questions

1. While waiting for the appointed meeting in Galilee, what did Peter
propose to the other disciples? Did they have any success during that
night? John 21: 2,3.

2. Who watched the disciples, alone, f..om the sho..e? Did they know
who it was? John 21: 4.

3. As the day was breaking, with what question did the "Strange....
accost the disciples? What did He tell them to do and what was
the result? John 21: 5,6.

4. As John recognize the "St..ange..," what did he say to Pete..? While

the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish,
what did Peter do when he hea..d that it was the Lo..d? John 21: 7.

5. When they had finished bl'eakfast, what opportunity did Jesus extend
to Peter? What pointed question did the Lord ..epeatedly ask Pete..?
How many times did Christ draw from Pete.. the assurance of his
love and loyalty? John 21: 15-17.

NOTE: " ...He had dishonored Ch..ist, and had incm..ed the dist..ust of
his brethren. They thonght he would not he allowed to take his forllle ..
position among them, and he himself felt that he had forfeited his trust.
Before heing called to take up again his apostolic wo..k, he Illust hefore
them all give evidence of his ..epentance. Without this, his sin, though
repented of, might have destroyed his influence as a ministe.. of Christ.
The Saviour gave him opportnnity to regain the confidence nf his hreth..en,
and, so far as possihle, to remove the ..eproaeh he had brought upon the
gospel.
"Here is given a lesson for all Ch..ist's followe ..s. The gospel makes 110
compromise with evil. It cannot cxcuse sin. Secret sins are to he confessed
in secret to Cod; hut, for open sin, open confession is ..equired. The ..e-
proaeh of the disciple's sin is cast upon Ch ..ist. It causes Satan to t..iumph,
and wavering souls to stumble. By giving proof of repentanee, the disciple,
so far as lies in his powe.., is to ..cmove his ..eproach," -Desire of Ages,
p. Bll.

6. What transformation was so evident in Peter? Luke 22: 32.

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NOTE: "Before his fall, Peter was always speaking unadvisedly, from the
impulse of the moment. He was always ready to correct others, and to
cxprcss his mind, before he had a clear comprehension of himself or of
what he had to say. But the converted Peter was very different. He retained
his former fervor, but the grace of Christ regulated his zeal. He was no
longer impetuous, self-confident, and self-exalted, but calm, self-possessed,
and teachable. He could thcn feed the lambs as well as the sheep of
Christ's flock." -Desire of Ages, pp. 812,815.

7. How did Jesus make known to Peter the very manner of his death?
John 21: 18, 19.

8. As a desire came over Peter to know John's future, what question did
he ask Jesus? What was the Lord's answer? John 21: 21-23.

9. What place did the Lord designate in order to have a meeting with
His disciples? How many believers were there present? What is said
of some of His professed followers? Matthew 28: 7, 10, 16; 1 Corinth·
ians 15: 6.

10. Clothed with boundless authority and standing but a step from His
heavenly throne, what commission and what promise did the Lord
give to the disciples? Does this commission rest upon the ministry
alone? Matthew 28: 18,20.

NOTE: "The Saviour's commission to the disciples included all the

believers. It includes all believers in Christ to the end of time. It is a fatal
mistake to suppose that the work of saving souls depends alone on the
OI'dained ministers. All to whom the heavenly inspiration has come are
put in tfllst with the gospel. All who receive the life of Christ are ordained
to work fOl' the salvation of their fellow men. For this work the church
was established, and all who take upon themselves its sacred vows are
thereby plcdged to be coworkers with Christ." -Desire of Ages, p. 822.

ll. What marvelous power were the disciples to receive? What would
they be enabled to do? Luke 24: 49; Mark 16: 17,18.

NOTE: "The disciples wcre to have the same power which Jesus had to
heal 'all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.'
By healing in His name the diseases of the body, they would testify to
His p~wer for the healing of the soul. !vlatthew 4: 23; 9: 6. And a new
endowment was now promised. The disciples were to preach among other
nations, and they would receive power to speak other tongues. The
apostles and their associates were unlettered men, yet through the out-
pouring of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost, their speech, whether in
their own or a foreign language, became pure, simple, and accurate, both
in word and in accent." -Desire of Ages, p. 821.

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12. After His resurrection, how long did the Lord tarry on earth before
ascending to His throne of glory? Acts 1: 3.

13. While the disciples were still looking upward, for the last glimpse
of their ascending Lord, with what comforting promise did two
angels address them? Acts 1: 10,11.

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