Sabbath Bible L Essons: T F A ' M

1/99 Januar y–March 1999
Sabbath Bible L essons

Senior Div ision
THE FIRST ANGEL’S

MESSAGE
The Everlasting Gospel

Contents
For ewor d
Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
“We are God’s commandment-keeping people. For the past fifty years every
“ The Revelation of Jesus Christ” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 phase of heresy has been brought to bear upon us, to becloud our minds regard-
Special Mission Offering for Germany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 ing the teaching of the Word—especially concerning the ministration of Christ
An Open Book With a Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 in the heavenly sanctuary, and the message of Heaven for these last days, as
The Mystery Finished . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 given by the angels of the fourteenth chapter of Revelation. Messages of every
A Worldwide Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 order and kind have been urged upon Seventh-day Adventists, to take the place
The Time of the End . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 of the truth which, point by point, has been sought out by prayerful study, and
The First Angel of Revelation 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 testified to by the miracle-working power of the Lord. But the waymarks which
have made us what we are, are to be preserved, and they will be preserved, as
Special Mission Offering for Nicaragua . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
God has signified through His Word and the testimony of His Spirit. He calls
The Everlasting Gospel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 upon us to hold firmly, with the grip of faith, to the fundamental principles that
Fear God . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 are based upon unquestionable authority.”—Selected Messages, book 1, p. 208.
Give Glory to Him . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 This is why the lessons for this year will focus on the three angels’ mes-
Worship Him. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 sages found in Revelation 14, followed by the accompanying message of the
Special Mission Offering for Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 angel of Revelation 18. During this first quarter, our subject is The First Angel’s
The Cleansing of the Sanctuary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Message. Why is the study of this message so important for each one of us?
“ The Hour of His Judgment Is Come” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 “The first angel’s message of Revelation 14, announcing the hour of God’s
judgment and calling upon men to fear and worship Him, was designed to sep-
The Wedding Garment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
arate the professed people of God from the corrupting influences of the world
and to arouse them to see their true condition of worldliness and backslid-
Sabbath Bible Lessons, a daily study program, is based solely ing.”—The Great Controversy, p. 379.
on the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy without additional comments. “The proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages has
The quotations are as brief as possible to provide concise, direct been located by the word of Inspiration. Not a peg or pin is to be removed. No
thoughts. Brackets [] are supplied in some cases to ensure clarity, human authority has any more right to change the location of these messages
proper context, and smooth readability. Further study in the source than to substitute the New Testament for the Old. . . . The first and second
materials is strongly recommended. messages were given in 1843 and 1844, and we are now under the proclama-
tion of the third; but all three of the messages are still to be proclaimed. It is
just as essential now as ever before that they shall be repeated to those who
Cover illustration: J. Maniscalco and PhotoDisc.
are seeking for the truth. By pen and voice we are to sound the proclamation,
showing their order, and the application of the prophecies that bring us to the
Sabbath Bible Lessons (USPS 005-118), Vol. 74, No. 1, January–March 1999. third angel’s message. There cannot be a third without the first and second.
Published quarterly by the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement General These messages we are to give to the world in publications, in discourses,
Conference, Sabbath School Department. Copyright © 1997, printed and distributed showing in the line of prophetic history the things that have been, and the
by Reformation Herald Publishing Association, 5240 Hollins Road, Roanoke, Virginia
24019-5048, USA. Telephone (540) 366-9400 • USA and Canada 1-888-712-1234 • Fax things that will be.”—Counsels to Writers and Editors, pp. 26, 27.
(540) 366-2814 • Internet http://www.sdarm.org • e-mail: sdarm@worldnet.att.net. Referring to the full acceptance of the first angel’s message, the pen of
Inspiration adds: “If God’s professed people would receive the light as it
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shines upon them from His word, they would reach that unity for which Christ
currency only) to the address below. Prices subject to change without notice. prayed, that which the apostle describes, ‘the unity of the Spirit in the bond of
peace.’ ‘ There is,’ he says, ‘one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in
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one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism’ (Ephesians 4:3–5)”
please send address changes to:
(The Great Controversy, p. 379). [Author’s italics.] May this be our goal!
Sabbath Bible Lessons
PO Box 7240 The General Conference Sabbath School Department
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PRINTED IN USA Sabbath Bible Lessons, January–March 1999 3
man by his great wickedness provokes the wrath of God, Christ, man’s inter-
Lesson 1 Sabbath, Januar y 2, 1999 cessor, pleads for him, and points to the rainbow in the cloud, as evidence of
God’s great mercy and compassion for erring man; also the rainbow above the
throne and upon His head emblematical of the glory and mercy from God
resting there for the benefit of repentant man.”—Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3, p. 75.
“The Revelation of Jesus
❑ Monday
Christ” THE RAINBOW December 28
Right after the Flood, what promise did God make to Noah and
“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew
unto his ser vants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent
3 all his descendants? Genesis 9:11–15. What lesson should we
as parents teach our children in connection with the rainbow?
and signified it by his angel unto his ser vant John” (Revelation 1:1).
“The whole Bible is a revelation; for all revelation to men comes

through Christ, and all centers in Him. God has spoken unto us by His
Son, whose we are by creation and by redemption.”—The SDA Bible Com- “It was [God’s] design that as the children of after generations should
mentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 953. see the bow in the cloud, and should inquire the reason of this glorious cir-
❑ Sunday cle that compasseth the earth, that their parents could explain to them the
THE ANGEL WITH THE RAINBOW December 27 destruction of the old world by a flood, because the people gave them-
selves up to all manner of wickedness, and that the hands of the Most
Explain the source of the book of Revelation, and its purpose High had bended the bow, and placed it in the clouds, as a token that He
1 for us today. Revelation 1:1. would never bring again a flood of waters on the earth. This symbol in the
clouds was to confirm the belief of all, and establish their confidence in
God, for it was a token of divine mercy and goodness to man. That
although God had been provoked to destroy the earth by the flood, yet His
mercy still encompasseth the earth. God says, when He looked upon the
“Christ came to John exiled on the Isle of Patmos to give him the truth
bow in the cloud He will remember. He would not have us understand that
for these last days, to show him that which must shortly come to pass.
He would ever forget; but He speaks to man in his own language, that man
Jesus Christ is the great trustee of divine revelation. It is through Him that
may better understand Him.”—Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3, p. 74, 75.
we have a knowledge of what we are to look for in the closing scenes of
“We may rejoice in hope, for the bow of God’s covenant is over us. He
this earth’s history. God gave this revelation to Christ, and Christ com-
never will forget the children of His care. How difficult for the mind of finite
municated the same to John.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Com-
man to take in the peculiar love and tenderness of God, and His matchless
ments], vol. 7, p. 953.
condescension when He said, ‘I will look upon the bow in the cloud, and
What did John see above the head of the mighty Angel shown remember thee.’ ”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 1, p. 1091.
2 in vision between the sixth and seventh trumpets? Revelation
10:1. Why is this significant? What is round about the throne of God, and what does it sym-
4 bolize? Revelation 4:3; Psalm 85:10.
“The mighty angel who instructed John was no less a personage than
Jesus Christ.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 971. “In the rainbow above the throne is an everlasting testimony that ‘God
“A rainbow is represented in Heaven round about the throne, also above so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever
the head of Christ as a symbol of God’s mercy encompassing the earth. When believeth in him should not perish (John 3:16). . . .’ Whenever the law is
4 Sabbath Bible Lessons, January–March 1999 Sabbath Bible Lessons, January–March 1999 5
presented before the people, let the teacher of truth point to the throne ❑ Wednesday
arched with the rainbow of promise, the righteousness of Christ. The DIRECT INTERVENTIONS December 30
glory of the law is Christ; He came to magnify the law, and to make it hon-
orable. Make it appear distinct that mercy and peace have met together in How did Christ reveal Himself to Saul? Acts 9:3–8. How did
Christ, and righteousness and truth have embraced each other.”—The SDA
7 Saul react to that awe-inspiring manifestation?
Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1133.
❑ Tuesday
THE HEAVENLY MESSENGER December 29
“Filled with fear, and almost blinded by the intensity of the light, the
How does John describe the appearance of the Son of God? companions of Saul heard a voice, but saw no man. But Saul understood
5 Revelation 1:13–15. Why is our Lord’s appearance so dif ferent the words that were spoken, and to him was clearly revealed the One who
than when He was on earth? spoke—even the Son of God. In the glorious Being who stood before him
he saw the Crucified One. Upon the soul of the stricken Jew the image of
the Saviour’s countenance was imprinted forever. The words spoken
struck home to his heart with appalling force. Into the darkened chambers
of his mind there poured a flood of light, revealing the ignorance and error
“Richly favored was this beloved disciple. He had seen his Master in of his former life and his present need of the enlightenment of the Holy
Gethsemane, His face marked with the blood drops of agony, His ‘visage . . . Spirit.”—The Acts of the Apostles, p. 115.
marred more than any man, and His form more than the sons of men’ (Isaiah
52:14). He had seen Him in the hands of the Roman soldiers, clothed with an
Describe the inter vention of Christ in behalf of the three young
old purple robe and crowned with thorns. He had seen Him hanging on the 8 Hebrews in the fier y furnace. Daniel 3:23–25.
cross of Calvary, the object of cruel mockery and abuse. Now John is once
more permitted to behold his Lord. But how changed is His appearance! He
is no longer a Man of Sorrows, despised and humiliated by men. He is clothed
in a garment of heavenly brightness. . . . His voice is like the music of many
waters. His countenance shines as the sun.”—The Acts of the Apostles, p. 582. “The Lord did not forget His own. As His witnesses were cast into the
furnace, the Saviour revealed Himself to them in person, and together
Besides the rainbow, what other particulars did John notice in they walked in the midst of the fire. In the presence of the Lord of heat and
6 the appearance of the mighty Angel? Revelation 10:1. Why cold, the flames lost their power to consume.”—Prophets and Kings, pp. 508, 509.
could these visions of Christ bring joy to John—and to us?
❑ Thursday
CHRIST’S INTEREST IN OUR BEHALF December 31
What can we learn from Christ’s appearance to Abraham and to

“As a personal being, God has revealed Himself in His Son. The out-
shining of the Father’s glory, ‘and the express image of His person,’ Jesus,
9 Joshua? Genesis 18:22–33; Joshua 5:13–15.
as a personal Saviour, came to the world. As a personal Saviour He ascend-

ed on high. As a personal Saviour He intercedes in the heavenly courts.
Before the throne of God in our behalf ministers ‘One like unto the Son of
man.’ Hebrews 1:3; Revelation 1:13. “Two of the heavenly messengers departed, leaving Abraham alone with
“Christ, the Light of the world, veiled the dazzling splendor of His divin- Him whom he now knew to be the Son of God.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 139.
ity and came to live as a man among men, that they might, without being “To reduce Jericho was seen by Joshua to be the first step in the con-
consumed, become acquainted with their Creator. Since sin brought sepa- quest of Canaan. But first of all he sought an assurance of divine guidance,
ration between man and his Maker, no man has seen God at any time, and it was granted him. Withdrawing from the encampment to meditate
except as He is manifested through Christ.”—The Ministry of Healing, pp. 418, 419. and to pray that the God of Israel would go before His people, he beheld
an armed warrior, of lofty stature and commanding presence, ‘with his
sword drawn in his hand.’ To Joshua’s challenge, ‘Art thou for us, or for Sabbath, Januar y 2, 1999
our adversaries?’ the answer was given, ‘As Captain of the host of the Lord
am I now come’ (Joshua 5:13, 14). The same command given to Moses in
Horeb, ‘Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou stand-
Special Mission Of fering
est is holy’ (Exodus 3:5), revealed the true character of the mysterious for a chapel and headquarters in Germany
stranger. It was Christ, the Exalted One, who stood before the leader of
Israel.” —Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 487, 488. Germany, with its geographical position in the heart of Europe, has
played a significant role in world history. Its role in religious upheavals is also
As Christ desires to lead us to heavenly Canaan, what lessons well known—we think of Martin Luther and the courageous protest of the
10 should we learn from the experience of ancient Israel? Acts princes in their struggle to uphold the principles of the Bible.
7:37, 38; 1 Corinthians 10:1–6, 11. The history of Adventism in Europe has not been spared of shakings.
Through the steadfastness of faithful brethren both in Germany as well as in
other surrounding nations, the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement was
organized shortly after World War I. During the 1930’s our church was prohib-
ited in this country and our members suffered much. Many were imprisoned
“The ten holy precepts spoken by Christ upon Sinai’s mount were the for adhering to God’s Ten Commandments and quite a few met a martyr’s
revelation of the character of God, and made known to the world the fact death.
that He had jurisdiction over the whole human heritage.”—The SDA Bible After the terrible storm of World War II, lingering religious persecution,
and a serious crisis left the SDA Reform Movement in Germany with almost
Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 1, p. 1105.
nothing. Yet through the help of God, hard work, and strict economy, the
“Shrouded in the pillar of cloud, the world’s Redeemer held communion Lord’s work in this part of the vineyard was restored slowly but steadily. By
with Israel. Let us not say, then, that they had not Christ. When the people God’s grace, we soon were able to see progress not only here, but also in
thirsted in the wilderness, and gave themselves up to murmuring and com- many other Missions, Fields and Unions which we were able to assist
plaint, Christ was to them what He is to us—a Saviour full of tender com- throughout the world. Therefore it may come as a surprise to see Germany
passion, the Mediator between them and God. After we have done our part now appearing as one of those asking for financial help.
to cleanse the soul temple from the defilement of sin, Christ’s blood avails Until now, whenever we needed to hold large meetings, we have always
for us, as it did for ancient Israel.”—Ibid., vol. 6, p. 1061. had to depend on rented facilities—which are usually quite expensive. For
years we searched for a suitable site to purchase, and the Lord graciously pro-
vided us with the opportunity to buy such a place in 1997. The castle of
❑ Friday Lindach with its adjoining buildings is situated in a very attractive area near
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS January 1 the city of Stuttgart, in the midst of a forest. All that we had sought for a long
time is now available—a chapel for worship and headquarters, publishing
a. Why can we trust the book of Revelation? house, home for the elderly, space for conferences, seminars, and youth gath-
erings are all there. Since this property formerly served as a natural health
b. How does the symbol surrounding Christ’s throne of fer us hope? sanitarium, we even have rooms for health treatments.
To acquire this facility has been quite an opportunity, and we have invest-
c. Why should the appearance of Christ in heaven bring us encouragement? ed all that we can. Now we must appeal
to you, our dear brethren, sisters and North Sea
d. What examples reveal that Christ has manifested Himself to men? friends, to help us as much as you can DENMARK
Baltic Sea
when the Special Mission Offering is
e. How can we best summarize God’s plan for each of us today? gathered on Sabbath, January 2, 1999. NETH.
Berlin POLAND
We thank you most kindly for your UNITED KINGDOM
FOR FUR THER STUDY willingness to extend your open hand BELGIUM
GERMANY
English Channel
with a generous gift. May the Lord LUX.
CZECH
The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, pp. 954, 955. reward you richly.
FRANCE
LIECH. AUSTRIA
The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 568–573, 581–584. Your brethren from Germany SWITZERLAND
SLOVENIA
❑ Monday
Lesson 2 Sabbath, Januar y 9, 1999 OVER LAND AND SEA January 4
What is symbolized by the position of Christ in relation to the

3 earth and the sea? Revelation 10:2 (last part); Psalm 95:5;
An Open Book W ith a Matthew 28:18 (last part).
Message
“The mighty angel who instructed John was no less a personage than
“And he had in his hand a little book open: and he set his right foot Jesus Christ. Setting His right foot on the sea, and His left upon the dry
upon the sea, and his left foot on the earth” (Revelation 10:2).
land, shows the part which He is acting in the closing scenes of the great
controversy with Satan. This position denotes His supreme power and
“The book that was sealed was not the book of Revelation, but that por-
authority over the whole earth.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White
tion of the prophecy of Daniel which related to the last days.”—Selected
Comments], vol. 7, p. 971.
Messages, book 2, p. 105.
What else does that position of Christ represent while He is
THE BOOK OF DANIEL
❑ Sunday
January 3
4 holding the open book in His hand? Psalm 147:15; Romans
10:17, 18.
What is the significance of God’s command concerning the
1 visions given to Daniel? Daniel 12:4.
“The angel of Revelation 10 is represented as having one foot on the

sea and one foot on the land, showing that the message will be carried to
distant lands, the ocean will be crossed, and the islands of the sea will hear
“In the past teachers have declared Daniel and the Revelation to be the proclamation of the last message of warning to our world.” —Selected
sealed books, and the people have turned from them. The veil whose Messages, book 2, pp. 107, 108.
apparent mystery has kept many from lifting it, God’s own hand has with-
drawn from these portions of His word.”—Testimonies to Ministers, p. 113. ❑ Tuesday
THE LOUD VOICE January 5
How does the instruction regarding Daniel’s visions reveal the
2 time in which we are living? Daniel 12:9; Revelation 10:2 (first How is Christ speaking to the world—and why? Revelation 10:3
part). What does God want us to realize in our days? 5 (first part); Isaiah 55:3, 6, 7.
“In the Revelation the Lion of the tribe of Judah has opened to the stu- “The controversy has waxed stronger and more determined from age
dents of prophecy the book of Daniel, and thus is Daniel standing in his to age, and will continue to do so, to the concluding scenes when the mas-
place. He bears his testimony, that which the Lord revealed to him in terly working of the powers of darkness shall reach their height. Satan,
vision of great and solemn events which we must know as we stand on the united with evil men, will deceive the whole world and the churches who
very threshold of their fulfillment.”—Selected Messages, book 2, p. 109. receive not the love of the truth. But the mighty angel demands attention.
“The book of Daniel is now unsealed, and the revelation made by Christ He cries with a loud voice. He is to show the power and authority of His
to John is to come to all the inhabitants of the earth. By the increase of voice to those who have united with Satan to oppose the truth.”—The SDA
knowledge a people is to be prepared to stand in the latter days.”—Ibid., p. 105. Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 971.
Against what dangers are we warned? Hebrews 3:15; 4:1; 12:25. “This time, which the angel declares with a solemn oath, is not the end
6 of this world’s history, neither of probationary time, but of prophetic time,
which should precede the advent of our Lord. That is, the people will not
have another message upon definite time. After this period of time, reach-
ing from 1842 to 1844, there can be no definite tracing of the prophetic
“It is far more easy to profess and resolve than to perform. Like
time. The longest reckoning reaches to the autumn of 1844.”—The SDA Bible
ancient Israel, many covenant to cleave unto the Lord, and serve Him, and
then soon forget their vows, and join with the ungodly in the pursuits of
“There will never again be a message for the people of God that will be
worldly gain or pleasure. We should be jealous of ourselves, lest we depart
based on time.”—Selected Messages, book 1, p. 188.
from God. [Hebrews 12:25 quoted.] The blessings and privileges which
“Time has not been a test since 1844, and it will never again be a
we enjoy place us under the most solemn obligation to improve these gifts
test.”—Early Writings, p. 75.
to the glory of our Creator. They should inspire in our hearts love to God,
and an earnest determination to obey His requirements. Let us not ❑ Thursday
become self-confident or presumptuous.”—The Signs of the Times, June 9, 1881. A MISTAKEN CONCLUSION January 7
❑ Wednesday What prophecy, in the book of Daniel, reached to the autumn
THE SEVEN THUNDERS January 6 9 of 1844? Daniel 8:14. How are we to calculate prophetic time?
Numbers 14:34; Ezekiel 4:6.
What happened after the seven thunders uttered their voices—
7 and why? Revelation 10:4.
“All felt that upon the events therein foretold depended their brightest
expectations and most cherished hopes. These prophetic days had been
“After these seven thunders uttered their voices, the injunction comes shown to terminate in the autumn of 1844. In common with the rest of the
to John as to Daniel in regard to the little book: ‘Seal up those things which Christian world, Adventists then held that the earth, or some portion of it,
the seven thunders uttered’ (Revelation 10:4). These relate to future was the sanctuary. They understood that the cleansing of the sanctuary
events which will be disclosed in their order.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. was the purification of the earth by the fires of the last great day, and that
G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 971. this would take place at the second advent. Hence the conclusion that
“The special light given to John which was expressed in the seven Christ would return to the earth in 1844.”—The Great Controversy, p. 409.
thunders was a delineation of events which would transpire under the first “The 2300 days had been found to begin when the commandment of
and second angels’ messages. It was not best for the people to know these Artaxerxes for the restoration and building of Jerusalem went into effect,
things, for their faith must necessarily be tested.”—Ibid. in the autumn of 457 B.C. Taking this as the starting point, there was per-
fect harmony in the application of all the events foretold in the explanation
Discuss what the mighty Angel, Christ, was willing to reveal,
8 and what this means to us. Revelation 10:5, 6.
of that period in Daniel 9:25–27. Sixty-nine weeks, the first 483 of the 2300
years, were to reach to the Messiah, the Anointed One; and Christ’s bap-
tism and anointing by the Holy Spirit, A.D. 27, exactly fulfilled the specifi-
cation. In the midst of the seventieth week, Messiah was to be cut off.
Three and a half years after His baptism, Christ was crucified, in the
“In the order of God most wonderful and advanced truths would be spring of A.D. 31. The seventy weeks, or 490 years, were to pertain espe-
proclaimed. The first and second angels’ messages were to be proclaimed, cially to the Jews. At the expiration of this period the nation sealed its
but no further light was to be revealed before these messages had done rejection of Christ by the persecution of His disciples, and the apostles
their specific work. This is represented by the angel standing with one foot turned to the Gentiles, A.D. 34. The first 490 years of the 2300 having then
on the sea, proclaiming with a most solemn oath that time should be no ended, 1810 years would remain. From A.D. 34, 1810 years extend to 1844.
longer. ‘ Then,’ said the angel, ‘shall the sanctuary be cleansed’ (Daniel 8:14). All
the preceding specifications of the prophecy had been unquestionably ful-
filled at the time appointed.”—Ibid., p. 410. Lesson 3 Sabbath, Januar y 16, 1999
What words of Christ have often had an application among the

10 people of God, including in 1844? John 16:12.
The Myster y Finished
“But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall
“The appointed time had passed, and the Lord had not appeared. The begin to sound, the myster y of God should be finished, as he hath
believers knew that God’s word could not fail; their interpretation of the declared to his ser vants the prophets” (Revelation 10:7).
prophecy must be at fault; but where was the mistake?”—The Great
Controversy, p. 409. “Christ was God manifest in the flesh, the mystery hidden for ages,
“God had led His people in the great advent movement; His power and and in our acceptance or rejection of the Saviour of the world are involved
glory had attended the work, and He would not permit it to end in dark- eternal interests.”—Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 179.
ness and disappointment, to be reproached as a false and fanatical excite- ❑ Sunday
ment. He would not leave His word involved in doubt and uncertainty. THE PLAN OF REDEMPTION January 10
Though many abandoned their former reckoning of the prophetic periods,
and denied the correctness of the movement based thereon, others were In essence, what is the “myster y of God” that was hidden
unwilling to renounce points of faith and experience that were sustained 1 “from ages” and revealed in the days of Christ and the apos-
by the Scriptures and by the witness of the Spirit of God. They believed tles? Colossians 1:26, 27; 1 Timothy 3:16.
that they had adopted sound principles of interpretation in their study of
the prophecies, and that it was their duty to hold fast the truths already
gained, and to continue the same course of Biblical research. With earnest
prayer they reviewed their position and studied the Scriptures to discover “The incarnation of Christ is a mystery. The union of divinity with
their mistake.”—Ibid., pp. 410, 411. humanity is a mystery indeed, hidden with God, ‘even the mystery which
hath been hid from ages’ (Colossians 1:26). It was kept in eternal silence
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS January 8
by Jehovah, and was first revealed in Eden, by the prophecy that the Seed
of the woman should bruise the serpent’s head, and that he should bruise
a. Why is it important for us to study the book of Daniel? His heel.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1082.
b. In a practical sense, what should the position of Christ’s two feet When was the plan of salvation established? Revelation 13:8
in John’s vision mean to us? 2 (last part); 1 Peter 1:18–20; Ephesians 1:4. What does this
reveal to us about God’s character?
c. What is the significance of Christ’s “loud voice” for each of us per-
sonally?
d. What is meant by the declaration that “there should be time no

longer” (Revelation 10:6)? “God had a knowledge of the events of the future, even before the cre-
ation of the world. He did not make His purposes to fit circumstances, but
e. How are we to calculate the 2300-day prophecy? He allowed matters to develop and work out. He did not work to bring
about a certain condition of things, but He knew that such a condition
FOR FUR THER STUDY would exist. The plan that should be carried out upon the defection of any
Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 113–115. of the high intelligences of heaven—this is the secret, the mystery which
The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 971. has been hid from ages. And an offering was prepared in the eternal pur-
poses to do the very work which God has done for fallen humanity.”—The “When you see yourselves as sinners saved only by the love of your
SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1082. heavenly Father, you will have tender pity for others who are suffering in
“Redemption is part of the divine nature. It is the prerogative of God to sin. You will no longer meet misery and repentance with jealousy and cen-
have to reconstruct, not to destroy. The Son of God was given to die before sure. When the ice of selfishness is melted from your hearts, you will be
the foundation of the world. The existence of sin is unexplainable; therefore in sympathy with God, and will share His joy in the saving of the lost.”—
not a soul knows what God is until he sees himself in the light reflected Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 210, 211.
from the cross of Calvary, and detests himself as a sinner in the bitterness
of his soul. When his soul cries out in great need for a sin-pardoning ❑ Tuesday
Saviour, then God is revealed as gracious, full of compassion and forgive- PAR TAKERS OF GOD’S PROMISES January 12
ness and love, long-suffering and patience.”—Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 264, 265.
How do we become heirs to the promises made to Abraham
❑ Monday
5 and his seed, even if we are not born of Abraham’s lineage?
Matthew 3:9; Romans 9:6–8; Galatians 3:29. What are we to
PROVISION FOR THE GENTILES January 11 realize also about New Testament promises?
What aspect of the “myster y of God” brought great joy to many
3 Gentiles? Ephesians 3:3–6; Romans 9:24, 25; Acts 13:46–48.
Through what symbol did God reveal this point to Peter? Acts
10:10–15, 19, 20, 28.
“The Pharisees had declared themselves the children of Abraham. Jesus
told them that this claim could be established only by doing the works of
Abraham. The true children of Abraham would live, as he did, a life of obedi-
ence to God. . . . A mere lineal descent from Abraham was of no value. Without
“[Acts 10:10–16 quoted.] This vision conveyed to Peter both reproof a spiritual connection with him, which would be manifested in possessing the
and instruction. It revealed to him the purpose of God—that by the death same spirit, and doing the same works, they were not his children.
of Christ the Gentiles should be made fellow heirs with the Jews to the “This principle bears with equal weight upon a question that has long
blessings of salvation. As yet none of the disciples had preached the agitated the Christian world—the question of apostolic succession. Descent
gospel to the Gentiles. In their minds the middle wall of partition, broken from Abraham was proved, not by name and lineage, but by likeness of char-
down by the death of Christ, still existed, and their labors had been con- acter. So the apostolic succession rests not upon the transmission of eccle-
fined to the Jews, for they had looked upon the Gentiles as excluded from siastical authority, but upon spiritual relationship. A life actuated by the
the blessings of the gospel. Now the Lord was seeking to teach Peter the apostles’ spirit, the belief and teaching of the truth they taught, this is the
worldwide extent of the divine plan.”—The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 135, 136. true evidence of apostolic succession. This is what constitutes men the suc-
cessors of the first teachers of the gospel.”—The Desire of Ages, pp. 466, 467.
How did the Jews react when they heard that God had made a
4 provision for the Gentiles also? Acts 22:20–22. What contrast Through what work, in which we are to take part, are “wild
should characterize our own attitude toward fellow mortals lost 6 branches” (Gentile believers) being grafted into the “olive tree”
in darkness? (Israel)? Romans 11:17, 18, 24; 2 Corinthians 5:16–20;
Galatians 3:28.
“Both Jews and Gentiles were without Christ, and in darkness. It was
a most unwelcome thought to the Jews that they needed salvation. They “Christ came to this earth with a message of mercy and forgiveness.
had been the peculiar people of God, and had looked upon the Gentiles He laid the foundation for a religion by which Jew and Gentile, black and
with contempt. Christ was not only presented as the hope and glory of white, free and bond, are linked together in one common brotherhood,
Israel, but also as a light to lighten the Gentiles. This was wholly contrary recognized as equal in the sight of God. The Saviour has a boundless love
to their prejudices.”—The Signs of the Times, August 5, 1889. for every human being.”—Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 225.
“As the dry and apparently lifeless branch is grafted into the living tree, Romans 11:25, 26 (first part); Revelation 7:4. Describe the
so may we become living branches of the True Vine. . . . two classes of people living on earth when the voice of God is
heard. (Revelation 16:17, 18.)
“Every Christian must stand on guard continually, watching every avenue
of the soul where Satan might find access. He must pray for divine help and
at the same time resolutely resist every inclination to sin. By courage, by faith,
by persevering toil, he can conquer. But let him remember that to gain the vic-
tory Christ must abide in him and he in Christ.”—Ibid., vol. 5, p. 47. “Soon we heard the voice of God like many waters, which gave us the
day and the hour of Jesus’ coming. The living saints, 144,000 in number,
❑ Wednesday
A FINAL WORK January 13
knew and understood the voice, while the wicked thought it was thunder
and an earthquake.”—Early Writings, p. 15.
When is the proclamation of “God’s myster y” to be finished?
7 Revelation 10:7. How did Christ teach that the door of proba-
10
What is written about another class of saints, besides the
tion will then be closed? Luke 13:23–27. 144,000? When and how will they come to view? Revelation
7:9; John 5:28, 29 (first part); 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17.
“The gospel dispensation is the last period of probation that will ever
be granted to men. Those who live under this dispensation of test and trial “Amid the reeling of the earth, the flash of lightning, and the roar of
and yet are not led to repent and obey will perish with the disloyal. There thunder, the voice of the Son of God calls forth the sleeping saints. He
is no second trial. The gospel that is to be preached to all nations, kin- looks upon the graves of the righteous, then, raising His hands to Heaven,
dreds, tongues, and peoples presents the truth in clear lines, showing that He cries, ‘Awake, awake, awake, ye that sleep in the dust, and arise!’
obedience is the condition of gaining eternal life. Christ imparts His right- Throughout the length and breadth of the earth the dead shall hear that
eousness to those who consent to let Him take away their sins.”—The SDA voice, and they that hear shall live. And the whole earth shall ring with the
Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, pp. 971, 972. tread of the exceeding great army of every nation, kindred, tongue, and
people.”—The Great Controversy, p. 644.
What work will Christ complete in behalf of His loyal subjects
8 before the close of probation? Romans 11:26 (last part), 27. ❑ Friday
a. What “myster y of God” is to benefit us in a practical way?

“Jesus is in His holy temple and will now accept our sacrifices, our b. How might we appropriate today the lesson given to Peter in Acts 10?
prayers, and our confessions of faults and sins and will pardon all the trans-
gressions of Israel, that they may be blotted out before He leaves the sanc- c. What is the key to maintaining our connection with the True Vine?
tuary.”—Early Writings, p. 48.
“Then Jesus ceases His intercession in the sanctuary above. . . . Every d. What must we realize about today’s opportunity for salvation?
case has been decided for life or death. Christ has made the atonement for
His people and blotted out their sins. The number of His subjects is made e. Explain the dif ference between the 144,000 and the great multi-
up.”—The Great Controversy, pp. 613, 614. tude.
❑ Thursday FOR FUR THER STUDY

“ALL ISRAEL” AND THE “GREAT MULTITUDE” January 14
Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 207–211.
Among the “living saints,” how many will there be in “all Early Writings, pp. 13–20.
9 Israel” after the “fullness of the Gentiles” is brought in?
“To William Miller and his colaborers it was given to preach the warn-
Lesson 4 Sabbath, Januar y 23, 1999 ing in America. This country became the center of the great advent move-
ment. It was here that the prophecy of the first angel’s message had its
most direct fulfillment. The writings of Miller and his associates were car-
ried to distant lands. Wherever missionaries had penetrated in all the
A Worldwide Movement world, were sent the glad tidings of Christ’s speedy return. . . .
“The testimony of the prophecies which seemed to point to the com-
ing of Christ in the spring of 1844 took deep hold of the minds of the peo-
“When ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at ple. As the message went from state to state, there was everywhere awak-
the doors” (Matthew 24:33). ened widespread interest. Many were convinced that the arguments from
the prophetic periods were correct, and, sacrificing their pride of opinion,
“Christ had bidden His people watch for the signs of His advent and they joyfully received the truth. Some ministers laid aside their sectarian
rejoice as they should behold the tokens of their coming King.”—The Great views and feelings, left their salaries and their churches, and united in pro-
Controversy, p. 308. claiming the coming of Jesus. There were comparatively few ministers,
however, who would accept this message; therefore it was largely com-
❑ Sunday mitted to humble laymen. Farmers left their fields, mechanics their tools,
“IT IS NEAR” January 17 traders their merchandise, professional men their positions; and yet the
number of workers was small in comparison with the work to be accom-
What conviction took hold of many people as the year 1844 plished. The condition of an ungodly church and a world lying in wicked-
1 was drawing near? Matthew 24:33. ness, burdened the souls of the true watchmen, and they willingly
endured toil, privation, and suffering, that they might call men to repen-
tance unto salvation. Though opposed by Satan, the work went steadily
forward, and the advent truth was accepted by many thousands.”—The
Great Controversy, p. 368.
“Like the great Reformation of the sixteenth century, the advent
movement appeared in different countries of Christendom at the same ❑ Monday
time. In both Europe and America men of faith and prayer were led to the PROPHETIC SIGNS January 18
study of the prophecies, and, tracing down the inspired record, they saw
What prophetic signs actually showed that Christ’s coming was
convincing evidence that the end of all things was at hand. In different
lands there were isolated bodies of Christians who, solely by the study of
3 near? Matthew 24:29, 30; Revelation 6:12, 13.
the Scriptures, arrived at the belief that the Saviour’s advent was near.”—
The Great Controversy, p. 357.
Dr. Joseph Wolff: Africa, Asia, USA (GC 357–362) Mighty earthquake: 1755 (GC 304)
Manuel Lacunza: South America (GC 363) The darkening of the sun and moon: May 19, 1780 (GC 306)
Johann Bengel: Germany (GC 363) The great meteoric shower: November 13, 1833 (GC 333)
L. Gaussen: France and Switzerland (GC 364)
What remarkable fulfillment of prophecy took place in 1840?
Child-preachers: Scandinavia (GC 366, 367)
Dissenters, nonconformists, and many ministers of the Church of
4 Revelation 9:1–5, 15.
England: Great Britain (GC 362)
In America, which prophecy led William Miller to preach the

2 message of the soon return of Christ? Daniel 8:14. What can we “In the year 1840 another remarkable fulfillment of prophecy excited
learn from the way the believers responded to God’s call? widespread interest. Two years before, Josiah Litch, one of the leading
ministers preaching the second advent, published an exposition of (Leviticus 16:29–34), when the high priest, having made an atonement for
Revelation 9, predicting the fall of the Ottoman Empire. According to his all Israel, and thus removed their sins from the sanctuary, came forth and
calculations, this power was to be overthrown ‘in A.D. 1840, sometime in blessed the people. So it was believed that Christ, our great High Priest
the month of August.’ . . . would appear to purify the earth by the destruction of sin and sinners, and
“At the very time specified, Turkey, through her ambassadors, accept- to bless His waiting people with immortality. The tenth day of the seventh
ed the protection of the allied powers of Europe, and thus placed herself month, the great Day of Atonement, the time of the cleansing of the sanc-
under the control of Christian nations. The event exactly fulfilled the pre- tuary, which in the year 1844 fell upon the twenty-second of October, was
diction. When it became known, multitudes were convinced of the cor- regarded as the time of the Lord’s coming.”—Ibid., p. 400.
rectness of the principles of prophetic interpretation adopted by Miller and “But again they were destined to disappointment. The time of expec-
his associates, and a wonderful impetus was given to the advent move- tation passed, and their Saviour did not appear.”—Ibid., p. 403.
ment.”—The Great Controversy, pp. 334, 335.
❑ Wednesday
❑ Tuesday FIRST SWEET, THEN BITTER January 20
“THE BRIDEGROOM TARRIED” January 19
What was meant by “eating up” the little book (Revelation
What question did many sinners ask as they identified them- 7 10:9, 10)? Jeremiah 15:16; John 6:58.
5 selves with the advent movement? Acts 16:30 (last part).
“The comprehension of truth, the glad reception of the message, is

“All classes flocked to the Adventist meetings. Rich and poor, high and represented in the eating of the little book.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G.
low, were, from various causes, anxious to hear for themselves the doc- White Comments], vol. 7, p. 971.
trine of the second advent.”—The Great Controversy, p. 369.
“Wherever the message was given, it moved the people. Sinners Using the prophetic words of the Angel, describe the disap-
repented, wept, and prayed for forgiveness, and those whose lives had been 8 pointment of the early Adventists in 1844. Revelation 10:9, 10.
marked with dishonesty were anxious to make restitution. Parents felt the
deepest solicitude for their children. Those who received the message
labored with their unconverted friends and relatives, and with their souls
bowed with the weight of the solemn message, warned and entreated them
to prepare for the coming of the Son of man.”—Early Writings, pp. 232, 233. “ The disappointment of those who expected to see our Lord in 1844
was indeed bitter to those who had so ardently looked for His appearing.
On what basis did the early Adventists explain the tarr ying It was in the Lord’s order that this disappointment should come, and that
6 time after the first disappointment? Habakkuk 2:1–4; Matthew hearts should be revealed.”—Selected Messages, book 2, p. 108.
25:5. What led them to set a second date of the Lord’s appear- “[God’s] disappointed ones, who were still seeking after truth, were
ing after they discovered Artaxer xes’ decree in the autumn of led step by step to communicate to the world that which had been com-
457 B.C.?
municated to them. The prophetic declarations were to be repeated, and
the truth essential for salvation was to be made known.”—Ibid., p. 110.
❑ Thursday
“Miller and his associates at first believed that the 2300 days would ter- “THOU MUST PROPHESY AGAIN” January 21
minate in the spring of 1844, whereas the prophecy points to the autumn
of that year.”—The Great Controversy, pp. 328, 329. [Author’s italics.] What became clear to the faithful believers after the disap-
“Under the Mosaic system the cleansing of the sanctuary, or the great
9 pointment? Revelation 10:11.
Day of Atonement, occurred on the tenth of the seventh Jewish month
“Their only safe course was to cherish the light which they had
already received of God, hold fast to His promises, and continue to search Lesson 5 Sabbath, Januar y 30, 1999
the Scriptures, and patiently wait and watch to receive further light.”—The
10
What is our part in the revelation of God’s myster y to the
world? Romans 16:25, 26; Ephesians 3:8, 9; 4:3. The T ime of the End
“As the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of
man be” (Matthew 24:37).
“The life of Christ was a life charged with a divine message of the love
of God, and He longed intensely to impart this love to others in rich mea- “It was because of their wickedness that [the antediluvians] were
sure. Compassion beamed from His countenance, and His conduct was destroyed; and today the world is following the same way.”—The Desire of
Ages, p. 633.
characterized by grace, humility, truth, and love. Every member of His
church militant must manifest the same qualities, if He would join the ❑ Sunday
church triumphant. The love of Christ is so broad, so full of glory, that in THESE LAST DAYS January 24
comparison to it, everything that men esteem as great, dwindles into
insignificance. When we obtain a view of it, we exclaim, O the depth of the How did Christ depict the conditions prevalent in the world in
riches of the love that God bestowed upon men in the gift of His only- 1 these last days? Matthew 24:6–8, 37–39.
begotten Son!”—Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 179.
“To present to the world this mystery that God kept in silence for eter-
nal ages before the world was created, before man was created, was the
part that Christ was to act in the work He entered upon when He came to “When the Saviour pointed out to His followers the signs of His return,
this earth. And this wonderful mystery, the incarnation of Christ and the He foretold the state of backsliding that would exist just prior to His sec-
atonement that He made, must be declared to every son and daughter of ond advent. There would be, as in the days of Noah, the activity and stir of
Adam.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1082. worldly business and pleasure seeking—buying, selling, planting, build-
ing, marrying, and giving in marriage—with forgetfulness of God and the
❑ Friday future life.”—The Great Controversy, p. 309.
What can be seen even among churchgoers today? 2 Timothy
a. How has the Lord alerted His people to prepare for His return? 2 3:1–5; Matthew 24:12.
b. Name three events which were a fulfillment of end-time prophecy.
c. Why was 1840 a landmark year?
d. When our faith is tested, how should we respond to disappoint- “Everything in the world is in agitation. The signs of the times are omi-
ments? nous. Coming events cast their shadows before. The Spirit of God is with-
drawing from the earth, and calamity follows calamity by sea and by land.
e. How is the ever yday life of Christ to be echoed in our own lives? There are tempests, earthquakes, fires, floods, murders of every grade.
Who can read the future? Where is security? There is assurance in nothing
FOR FUR THER STUDY that is human or earthly. Rapidly are men ranging themselves under the
banner they have chosen. Restlessly are they waiting and watching the
Selected Messages, book 3, pp. 169, 170. movements of their leaders. There are those who are waiting and watching
The Upward Look, pp. 90, 91. and working for our Lord’s appearing. Another class are falling into line
under the generalship of the first great apostate. Few believe with heart and signs are fulfilling. While they cry, ‘Peace and safety,’ sudden destruction is
soul that we have a hell to shun and a heaven to win.”—The Desire of Ages, p. 636. coming. When the scorner, the rejecter of truth, has become presumptuous;
when the routine of work in the various money-making lines is carried on
❑ Monday without regard to principle; when the student is eagerly seeking knowledge
SPIRITUAL DECADENCE January 25 of everything but his Bible, Christ comes as a thief.”—The Desire of Ages, p. 635.
What has been the condition of the professed Christian church-
3 es since 1844? Revelation 3:1 (last part). What fearful denun-
DECEPTIONS
❑ Tuesday
January 26
ciation rests upon the churches? Matthew 7:21–23.
What types of deception will lead many souls to perdition?

5 Revelation 13:13; Matthew 24:23, 24. What is our only safe-
guard? Isaiah 8:20.
“The unhappiness and degradation that follow in the train of licen-
tiousness cannot be estimated. The world is defiled under its inhabitants.
They have nearly filled up the measure of their iniquity; but that which will
bring the heaviest retribution is the practice of iniquity under the cloak of
“Even now false christs and false prophets are showing signs and won-
godliness. The Redeemer of the world never spurned true repentance,
ders to seduce [Christ’s] disciples.”—The Desire of Ages, p. 631.
however great the guilt; but He hurls burning denunciations against
“Antichrist is to perform his marvelous works in our sight. So closely will
Pharisees and hypocrites. There is more hope for the open sinner than for
the counterfeit resemble the true that it will be impossible to distinguish
this class.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 144.
between them except by the Holy Scriptures. By their testimony every state-
How can we be in danger of imitating the evil ser vant in the ment and every miracle must be tested.”—The Great Controversy, p. 593.
4 parable? What will be the end of these professed believers? “Except those who are kept by the power of God, through faith in His
Matthew 24:48–51. word, the whole world will be swept into the ranks of this delusion. The
people are fast being lulled to a fatal security, to be awakened only by the
outpouring of the wrath of God.”—Ibid., p. 562.
What will be the climax in the work of deception? Matthew

“The evil servant says in his heart, ‘My lord delayeth his coming.’ He 6 24:26; 2 Corinthians 11:14.
does not say that Christ will not come. He does not scoff at the idea of His
second coming. But in his heart and by his actions and words he declares
that the Lord’s coming is delayed. He banishes from the mind of others
the conviction that the Lord is coming quickly. His influence leads men to
presumptuous, careless delay. They are confirmed in their worldliness and “Satan came as an angel of light in the wilderness of temptation to
stupor. Earthly passions, corrupt thoughts take possession of the mind. deceive Christ; and he does not come to man in a hideous form, as he is
The evil servant eats and drinks with the drunken, unites with the world sometimes represented, but as an angel of light. He will come personating
in pleasure seeking. He smites his fellow servants, accusing and con- Jesus Christ, working mighty miracles; and men will fall down and wor-
demning those who are faithful to their Master. He mingles with the ship him as Jesus Christ. We shall be commanded to worship this being,
world. Like grows with like in transgression. . . . whom the world will glorify as Christ. What shall we do?—Tell them that
“Men are putting afar off the coming of the Lord. They laugh at warn- Christ has warned us against just such a foe, who is man’s worst enemy,
ings. The proud boast is made, ‘All things continue as they were from the yet who claims to be God; and that when Christ shall make His appear-
beginning.’ ‘Tomorrow shall be as this day, and much more abundant’ (2 ance, it will be with power and great glory, accompanied by ten thousand
Peter 3:4; Isaiah 56:12). We will go deeper into pleasure loving. But Christ times ten thousand angels and thousands of thousands; and that when He
says, ‘Behold, I come as a thief’ (Revelation 16:15). At the very time when shall come, we shall know His voice.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White
the world is asking in scorn, ‘Where is the promise of His coming?’ the Comments], vol. 6, pp. 1105, 1106.
❑ Wednesday “In consideration of the shortness of time we as a people should watch
TROUBLOUS TIMES January 27 and pray, and in no case allow ourselves to be diverted from the solemn
work of preparation for the great event before us. Because the time is
What attitude prevails in these last days? Luke 18:8; 2 Peter
7 3:3, 4.
apparently extended, many have become careless and indifferent in regard
to their words and actions. They do not realize their danger and do not see
and understand the mercy of our God in lengthening their probation, that
they may have time to form characters for the future, immortal life. Every
moment is of the highest value. Time is granted them, not to be employed
“Marvelous beyond expression is the blindness of the people of this gen- in studying their own ease and becoming dwellers on the earth, but to be
eration. Thousands reject the word of God as unworthy of belief and with used in the work of overcoming every defect in their own characters and in
eager confidence receive the deceptions of Satan. Skeptics and scoffers helping others, by example and personal effort, to see the beauty of holi-
denounce the bigotry of those who contend for the faith of prophets and apos- ness. God has a people upon the earth who in faith and holy hope are trac-
tles, and they divert themselves by holding up to ridicule the solemn declara- ing down the roll of fast-fulfilling prophecy and are seeking to purify their
tions of the Scriptures concerning Christ and the plan of salvation, and the ret- souls by obeying the truth, that they may not be found without the wedding
ribution to be visited upon the rejecters of the truth. They affect great pity for garment when Christ shall appear.”—Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 306, 307.
minds so narrow, weak, and superstitious as to acknowledge the claims of
If we are faithful to Christ, what help is assured us? Luke
God and obey the requirements of His law. They manifest as much assurance
as if, indeed, they had made a covenant with death and an agreement with
10 21:14, 15; Isaiah 43:1, 2.
hell—as if they had erected an impassable, impenetrable barrier between
themselves and the vengeance of God. Nothing can arouse their fears. So fully
have they yielded to the tempter, so closely are they united with him, and so
thoroughly imbued with his spirit, that they have no power and no inclination “Despised of men, persecuted, forsaken, God’s children in every age
to break away from his snare.”—The Great Controversy, p. 561. have nevertheless been sustained by His sure promises. By faith they
have looked forward to the time when He will fulfill to His church the
How will the faithful people of God be treated because of their assurance, ‘I will make thee an eternal excellency, a joy of many genera-
8 adherence to the truth? Matthew 24:9; Luke 21:16–18. tions’ (Isaiah 60:15).
“Often the church militant is called upon to suffer trial and affliction;
for not without severe conflict is the church to triumph. ‘ The bread of
adversity,’ ‘the water of affliction’ (Isaiah 30:20), these are the common lot
“Persecution in its varied forms is the development of a principle of all; but none who put their trust in the One mighty to deliver will be
which will exist as long as Satan exists and Christianity has vital power.”— utterly overwhelmed.”—Prophets and Kings, pp. 722, 723.
The Great Controversy, p. 610. ❑ Friday
“The authorities will make laws to restrict religious liberty. They will REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS January 29
assume the right that is God’s alone. They will think they can force the a. What preoccupations may be af flicting us even now?
conscience, which God alone should control. Even now they are making a
beginning; this work they will continue to carry forward till they reach a b. How may we be as guilty as the evil ser vant in the parable?
boundary over which they cannot step. God will interpose in behalf of His c. Name some deceptions during earth’s final days.
loyal, commandment-keeping people.”—The Desire of Ages, p. 630.
d. Why should we pity the plight of scof fers?
❑ Thursday e. What should be our main concern as the end draws nearer?
WARNINGS AND PROMISES January 28
FOR FUR THER STUDY
What admonitions apply to those who are looking for ward to the Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 306–313.
9 soon coming of Christ? Luke 21:34–36; Matthew 24:4; 25:13. The Great Controversy, pp. 582–592.
“Faith is the spiritual hand that touches infinity. The simple prayers
Lesson 6 Sabbath, Februar y 6, 1999 indited by the Holy Spirit will ascend through the gates ajar, the open door
which Christ has declared: I have opened, and no man can shut. These
prayers, mingled with the incense of the perfection of Christ, will ascend
as fragrance to the Father, and answers will come.”—Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 467.
The First Angel of “[Revelation 3:8 quoted.] Light is shining from that door, and it is our
privilege to receive it if we will. Let us direct our eyes within that open
Revelation 14 door and try to receive all that Christ is willing to bestow.
“Each one will have a close struggle to overcome sin in his own heart.
This is at times a very painful and discouraging work; because, as we see
“And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the
everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to the deformities in our character, we keep looking at them, when we should
ever y nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people” (Revelation 14:6). look to Jesus and put on the robe of His righteousness. Everyone who
enters the pearly gates of the city of God will enter there as a conqueror,
“A great religious awakening under the proclamation of Christ’s soon and his greatest conquest will have been the conquest of self.”—Ibid., vol. 9,
coming is foretold in the prophecy of the first angel’s message of pp. 182, 183.
Revelation 14.”—The Great Controversy, p. 355.
❑ Monday
THE PRESENT TRUTH February 1
❑ Sunday
A FAITHFUL REMNANT January 31 Explain the reason for the sending of the three angels’ mes-
What shows that there were faithful souls even in the time of
3 sages. Revelation 14:6–13.
1 Sardis (1798–1833)? Revelation 3:4. What qualified them to
carr y on the work of God?
“To prepare a people to stand in the day of God, a great work of reform
was to be accomplished. God saw that many of His professed people were
not building for eternity, and in His mercy He was about to send a mes-
“[Revelation 3:4 quoted.] Because of their faith this honor is bestowed
sage of warning to arouse them from their stupor and lead them to make
on them. In this life they did not boast, nor lift up their souls unto vanity.
ready for the coming of the Lord.
With intensity of desire, with a pure, holy faith, they grasped the promise
“This warning is brought to view in Revelation 14. Here is a threefold
of eternal riches. Their one desire was to be like Christ. Ever they kept the
message represented as proclaimed by heavenly beings and immediately
standard of righteousness uplifted. To them is given an eternal weight of
followed by the coming of the Son of man to reap ‘the harvest of the
glory, because on the earth they walked with God, keeping themselves
earth.’ ”—The Great Controversy, p. 311.
unspotted from the world, revealing to their fellow beings the righteous-
ness of Christ.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 960. What does God call the specific message given to each genera-
“Let each church member feel that he himself must be right with God, 4 tion? 2 Peter 1:12.
that he must be sanctified through the truth. Then he can represent
Christian character to others and can set an example of unselfishness. If
each will do this, the church will increase in spirituality and in favor with
God.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 481.
“As we have followed down the chain of prophecy, revealed truth for
As forerunners of the threefold message, how were the faithful our time has been clearly seen and explained. We are accountable for the
2 from Sardis comfor ted during the time of Philadelphia privileges that we enjoy and for the light that shines upon our pathway.
(1833–1844)? Revelation 3:8, 10. If faithful, how can we be Those who lived in past generations were accountable for the light which
likewise comforted? was permitted to shine upon them. Their minds were exercised in regard
to different points of Scripture which tested them. But they did not under- tification of Christ with their nature and interest was complete. Truth was
stand the truths which we do. They were not responsible for the light made to shine forth, beautiful in its simplicity, dignified with a power and
which they did not have. They had the Bible, as we have; but the time for invested with an assurance unknown before the disappointment.”—Selected
the unfolding of special truth in relation to the closing scenes of this Messages, book 2, pp. 109, 110.
earth’s history is during the last generations that shall live upon the earth.
❑ Wednesday
“Special truths have been adapted to the conditions of the generations
THE DISAPPOINTMENT EXPLAINED February 3
as they have existed. The present truth, which is a test to the people of this
generation, was not a test to the people of generations far back.”— What did the disciples of Christ still expect after the resurrec-
Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 692, 693. 7 tion? Luke 24:21; Acts 1:6, 7. What expectations led the early
Adventists to their disappointment?
❑ Tuesday
MORE LIGHT WAS TO COME February 2
In proclaiming the soon coming of Christ, what message did

5 the early Adventists help to sound? Revelation 14:7. “As the disciples were mistaken in regard to the kingdom to be set up
at the end of the seventy weeks, so Adventists were mistaken in regard to
the event to take place at the expiration of the 2300 days. In both cases
there was an acceptance of, or rather an adherence to, popular errors that
blinded the mind to the truth. Both classes fulfilled the will of God in deliv-
“Like John, the forerunner of Jesus, those who preached this solemn
ering the message which He desired to be given, and both, through their
message felt compelled to lay the ax at the root of the tree, and call upon
own misapprehension of their message, suffered disappointment.”—The
men to bring forth fruits meet for repentance. Their testimony was calcu-
lated to arouse and powerfully affect the churches and manifest their real
character. And as the solemn warning to flee from the wrath to come was How was the connection between Daniel 8:14 and Revelation
sounded, many who were united with the churches received the healing 8 14:7 finally understood by some of the successors of William
message; they saw their backslidings, and with bitter tears of repentance Miller after the disappointment of October 1844? Hebrews 8:1, 2.
and deep agony of soul, humbled themselves before God. And as the Spirit
of God rested upon them, they helped to sound the cry, ‘Fear God, and
give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come’ (Revelation
14:7).”—Early Writings, p. 233.
“Those who followed in the advancing light of the prophetic word saw
“Miller and his associates preached the message based on Daniel 8:14
that instead of coming to the earth at the termination of the 2300 days in
and Revelation 14:7, and failed to see that there were still other messages
1844, Christ then entered the most holy place of the heavenly sanctuary,
brought to view in Revelation 14, which were also to be given before the
into the presence of God, to perform the closing work of atonement,
advent of the Lord.”—The Great Controversy, p. 353.
preparatory to His coming.”—The Story of Redemption, p. 378.
When Christ did not appear as expected in 1844, what occu-
6 pied the minds of the faithful few? Proverbs 4:18. A WORK OF JUDGMENT
❑ Thursday
February 4
Describe the investigative judgment which began in 1844? Daniel

9 7:9–14, 22, 26. How does this event affect us? Acts 3:19.
“After the great disappointment there were few who set themselves to
seek the Word with all their heart. But some souls would not settle down
in discouragement and deny that the Lord had led them. To these the
truth was opened point by point, and entwined with their most hallowed “[Daniel 7:13, 14 quoted.] The coming of Christ here described is not
recollections and sympathies. The searchers after truth felt that the iden- His second coming to the earth. He comes to the Ancient of Days in heav-
en to receive dominion and glory and a kingdom, which will be given Him
at the close of His work as a mediator. It is this coming, and not His second Sabbath, Februar y 6, 1999
advent to the earth, that was foretold in prophecy to take place at the ter-
mination of the 2300 days in 1844. Attended by heavenly angels, our great
High Priest enters the holy of holies and there appears in the presence of Special Mission Of fering
God to engage in the last acts of His ministration in behalf of man--to per-
form the work of investigative judgment and to make an atonement for all for a chapel and headquarters in Nicaragua
who are shown to be entitled to its benefits.” —The Great Controversy, p. 480.
“At the time appointed for the judgment—the close of the 2300 days, in The republic of Nicaragua is one of the independent Central American
1844—began the work of investigation and blotting out of sins. All who have states founded in 1821 under the name Española. It is bordered by
ever taken upon themselves the name of Christ must pass its searching Honduras, the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica, and the Pacific Ocean in an area
scrutiny. Both the living and the dead are to be judged ‘out of those things of approximately 50,193 square miles (130,000 square kilometers).
which were written in the books, according to their works.’ ” —Ibid. p. 486. The climate is tropical, and forests and lakes are abundant. Deposits
of volcanic material have enriched the soil, which is extremely fertile.
What event will take place when the work of the investigative Spanish is the official language among the population of over 3,870,000.
10 judgment is completed? Revelation 14:14–16 (compare Mat- Nearly 90% of the Nicaraguan people profess Roman Catholicism, the offi-
thew 13:39).
cial state religion. Most of the remainder are Protestants.
During the early 1960’s, the Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement
came to Nicaragua through colporteurs and ministers from other coun-
tries. However, the doors did not really open until 1996. Now the Lord’s
“The second coming of the Son of man is to be the wonderful theme work has expanded in our area and our membership has grown; we have
kept before the people. . . . We are pilgrims and strangers who are waiting, our own full-time Bible worker and are officially organized and registered
hoping, and praying for the blessed hope, the glorious appearing of our Lord as the SDA Reform Movement. With this encouraging progress, the next
and Saviour Jesus Christ. If we believe this and bring it into our practical life, necessary step is for a chapel in which to worship and a headquarters
what vigorous action would this faith and hope inspire; what fervent love from which to operate.
one for another; what careful holy living for the glory of God; and in our Economic growth in Nicaragua has been slow in the 1990’s following
respect for the recompense of the reward, what distinct lines of demarcation the long war which had plagued the whole nation. Nonetheless, by God’s
would be evidenced between us and the world.”—Evangelism, p. 220. grace and the sacrifices of our brethren, we have managed to acquire a
piece of land and to build a small, temporary place of worship. The total
❑ Friday cost to construct a proper building will be approximately US$35,000. So far
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS February 5
we have raised US$10,000, but we are still short of US$25,000. In order to
a. What can we learn from the remnant of Sardis? bring this project to full fruition, we will need the help of our brethren and
friends from around the world.
b. What are we to understand by the term “present truth”? When the Special Mission Offering is gathered on Sabbath, February
c. What characteristics were shown by those who proclaimed the first 6, 1999, please remember the
angel’s message? Nicaraguan Mission with your gen- Gulf THE
erous donation. It is our prayer that of

Mexico
BAHAMAS
d. Name one common error committed by the early disciples, the the Lord may cause His light to MEXICO CUBA
early Adventists—and perhaps by many today.
shine in this corner of the vineyard, CAYMAN
ISLANDS
JAMAICA
e. How should the first angel’s message af fect our daily lives? and abundantly bless both the gift BELIZE
GUATEMALA
and the givers! HONDURAS
EL SALVADOR
FOR FUR THER STUDY NICARAGUA
The Great Controversy, pp. 355–374. Your brethren from Nicaragua P a c i f i c O c e a n

Caribbean Sea
COSTA RICA
The Story of Redemption, pp. 356–363.
❑ Monday
Lesson 7 Sabbath, Februar y 13, 1999 THE FIRST HUMAN FAMILY February 8
How did Christ present the gospel to our first parents? Genesis
3 3:15.
The Everlasting Gospel

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power “Although gloom and darkness hung, like the pall of death, over the
of God unto salvation to ever y one that believeth; to the Jew first, and future, yet in the promise of the Redeemer, the Star of hope lighted up the
also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16). dark future. The gospel was first preached to Adam by Christ.”—The SDA
Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 1, p. 1084.
“The gospel is the revelation of God’s love to men, and means every- “It is the grace that Christ implants in the soul which creates in man
thing that is essential to the happiness and well-being of humanity.”— enmity against Satan. Without this converting grace and renewing power,
Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 186.
man would continue the captive of Satan, a servant ever ready to do his
bidding. But the new principle in the soul creates conflict where hitherto
❑ Sunday
ONLY ONE TRUE GOSPEL February 7
had been peace. The power which Christ imparts enables man to resist
the tyrant and usurper. Whoever is seen to abhor sin instead of loving it,
Ever since the fall of man, there has been only one true gospel. whoever resists and conquers those passions that have held sway within,
1 What does it teach? John 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 1:16, 17. displays the operation of a principle wholly from above.”—The Great
Controversy, p. 506.
What was the basis of Abel’s trust for salvation? Hebrews 11:4.
“Not alone at the Saviour’s advent, but through all the ages after the
4
Fall and the promise of redemption, ‘God was in Christ, reconciling the
world unto Himself’ (2 Corinthians 5:19). Christ was the foundation and
center of the sacrificial system in both the patriarchal and the Jewish age. “The power of Christ, the crucified Saviour, to give eternal life, should
Since the sin of our first parents there has been no direct communication be presented to the people. We should show them that the Old Testament
between God and man. . . . All the communion between heaven and the is as verily the gospel in types and shadows as the New Testament is in its
fallen race has been through Christ.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 366. unfolding power. The New Testament does not present a new religion; the
Old Testament does not present a religion to be superseded by the New.
In what sense is Christ “the Lamb slain from the foundation of
2 the world” (Revelation 13:8)? 1 Peter 1:18–20. The New Testament is only the advancement and unfolding of the Old.
Abel was a believer in Christ, and was as verily saved by His power as was
Peter or Paul.”—Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 392.
❑ Tuesday
“As soon as there was sin, there was a Saviour. Christ knew that He THE FAITH OF THE PATRIARCHS February 9
would have to suffer, yet He became man’s Substitute. As soon as Adam
Why do we say that Enoch and Noah were Christians? Hebrews
sinned, the Son of God presented Himself as surety for the human race,
with just as much power to avert the doom pronounced upon the guilty as
5 11:5; Genesis 5:24; 6:9.
when He died upon the cross of Calvary.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G.
White Comments], vol. 1, p. 1084.
“That God who walked with Enoch was our Lord and Saviour Jesus met antitype. He saw that only through Christ can man keep the moral
Christ. He was the light of the world then just as He is now. Those who law.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1096.
lived then were not without teachers to instruct them in the path of life; for “The Christian church . . . who profess the utmost faith in Christ, in
Noah and Enoch were Christians.”—Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 392. despising the Jewish system virtually deny Christ, who was the originator
of the entire Jewish economy.”—Selected Messages, book 1, p. 232.
What should we realize about the Lord that revealed Himself to
6 Abraham, Jacob, and Moses? Genesis 22:15–18; 32:30;
8
What should we learn from the fact that the people of Israel
failed to understand the gospel? Hebrews 3:14–19; 4:1, 2.
Hebrews 11:24–26.
“Christ was as much man’s Redeemer in the beginning of the world as “The unbelief and murmurings of the children of Israel illustrate the
He is today. Before He clothed His divinity with humanity and came to our people of God now upon the earth. Many look back to them, and marvel
world, the gospel message was given by Adam, Seth, Enoch, Methuselah, at their unbelief and continual murmurings, after the Lord had done so
and Noah. Abraham in Canaan and Lot in Sodom bore the message, and much for them, in giving them repeated evidences of His love and care for
from generation to generation faithful messengers proclaimed the Coming them. They think that they should not have proved thus ungrateful. But
One.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 126. some who thus think, murmur and repine at things of less consequence.
“There is no such contrast as is often claimed to exist between the Old They do not know themselves. God frequently proves them, and tries their
and the New Testament, the law of God and the gospel of Christ, the faith in small things, and they do not endure the trial any better than did
requirements of the Jewish and those of the Christian dispensation. Every ancient Israel.
soul saved in the former dispensation was saved by Christ as verily as we “Many have their present wants supplied, yet they will not trust the
are saved by Him today. Patriarchs and prophets were Christians. The Lord for the future. They manifest unbelief, and sink into despondency
gospel promise was given to the first pair in Eden, when they had by and gloom at anticipated want. Some are in continual trouble lest they
transgression separated themselves from God. The gospel was preached shall come to want, and their children suffer. When difficulties arise, or
to Abraham. The Hebrews all drank of that spiritual Rock, which was when they are brought into strait places—when their faith and love to God
Christ.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1061. is tested, they shrink from the trial, and murmur at the process by which
God has chosen to purify them. Their love does not prove pure and per-
❑ Wednesday fect, to bear all things. The faith of the people of the God of Heaven should
THE GOSPEL PREACHED TO ISRAEL February 10 be strong, active, and enduring—the substance of things hoped for. Then
the language of such will be, Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and all that is
What was the purpose of the sacrificial system entrusted to the within me, bless His holy name; for He hath dealt bountifully with me. Self-
7 people of Israel? Hebrews 10:1; Colossians 2:17; John 5:39, denial is considered by some to be real suffering. Depraved appetites are
46. indulged. And a restraint upon the unhealthy appetite would lead even
many professed Christians to now start back, as though actual starvation
would be the consequence of a plain diet. And, like the children of Israel,
they would prefer slavery, diseased bodies, and even death, rather than to
be deprived of the flesh-pots. Bread and water is all that is promised to the
“It was Christ who instituted the Jewish economy and the sacrificial
remnant in the time of trouble.”—Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3, pp. 251, 252.
service.”—Gospel Workers, p. 118.
“The types and shadows of the sacrificial service, with the prophecies, ❑ Thursday
gave the Israelites a veiled, indistinct view of the mercy and grace to be THE CLOSING WORK OF THE GOSPEL February 11
brought to the world by the revelation of Christ. To Moses was unfolded
the significance of the types and shadows pointing to Christ. He saw to the What points are vital in the proclamation of the everlasting
end of that which was to be done away when, at the death of Christ, type 9 gospel by the first angel of Revelation 14? Revelation 14:6, 7.
“That men may be prepared to stand in the judgment, the message
commands them to ‘fear God, and give glory to Him,’ ‘and worship Him Lesson 8 Sabbath, Februar y 20, 1999
that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters’
(Revelation 14:7). The result of an acceptance of these messages is given
in the word: ‘Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the
faith of Jesus’ (Verse 12). In order to be prepared for the judgment, it is Fear God
necessary that men should keep the law of God. That law will be the stan-
dard of character in the judgment.”—The Great Controversy, p. 436. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowl-
edge of the holy is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10).
Why does this angel fly in the midst of heaven, and what hap-
10 pens when the everlasting gospel has been proclaimed all over
“You can never enter heaven unless you enjoy the communion of God
the world? Matthew 24:14.
here below, for this is our fitting-up place for heaven. God should be the
object of the soul’s highest reverence, love, and fear.”—In Heavenly Places, p. 161.
❑ Sunday
“The angel’s flight ‘in the midst of heaven,’ the ‘loud voice’ with which APPROACHING OUR MAKER February 14
the warning is uttered, and its promulgation to all ‘that dwell on the
What should we realize about God, and how is it to af fect our
earth’—‘to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people’ —give evi-
dence of the rapidity and worldwide extent of the movement.”—The Great
1 attitude in approaching Him? Psalms 31:19; 89:6, 7.
“By giving the gospel to the world it is in our power to hasten our
Lord’s return. We are not only to look for but to hasten the coming of the
day of God. 2 Peter 3:12, margin. Had the church of Christ done her “Instead of coming in contrition before God, men come without rever-
appointed work as the Lord ordained, the whole world would before this ence in the family circle and in the congregation of the people. How many
have been warned, and the Lord Jesus would have come to our earth in come to the season of prayer full of self-importance, and their prayers
power and great glory.”—The Desire of Ages, pp. 633, 634. sound more as if they thought they must give the Lord information, than
as if they expected to receive something from His hand. They do not
❑ Friday approach God as humble suppliants, realizing that they are dependent
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS February 12 upon Him for life and health, for food and clothing, and for every tempo-
ral and spiritual blessing.”—The Review and Herald, May 28, 1895.
a. What common link binds our faith to that of the patriarchs?
What should we understand about the fear of God? Proverbs
b. How is the experience of Genesis 3:15 to continue in our lives? 2 9:10.
c. Give examples of how the patriarchs showed faith in Christ.
d. In what areas may we tend to be guilty of unbelief?
e. Why should we hasten to share this message with others? “How few realize how solemn a thing it is to approach the throne of
God. Angels bow before that throne with veiled faces, yet men who are
FOR FUR THER STUDY stained by sin rush heedlessly into the divine presence. Let us remember
that the holy angels approach the throne of God in reverence and holy
The Great Controversy, pp. 263, 264, 379. fear.”—The Review and Herald, May 28, 1895.
Selected Messages, book 2, pp. 104–106. “The Lord would have His people trust in Him and abide in His love,
but that does not mean that we shall have no fear or misgivings. Some
seem to think that if a man has a wholesome fear of the judgments of God, lash. This genuine fear leads to firm reliance on God.”—The Signs of the Times,
it is a proof that he is destitute of faith; but this is not so. September 22, 1898.
“A proper fear of God, in believing His threatenings, works the peace-
able fruits of righteousness, by causing the trembling soul to flee to Jesus. ❑ Tuesday
Many ought to have this spirit today, and turn to the Lord with humble UNGODLY FEAR February 16
contrition, for the Lord has not given so many terrible threatenings, pro-
nounced so severe judgments in His Word, simply to have them recorded, If we do not cultivate godly fear, what type of fear will we even-
but He means what He says.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White 5 tually experience? Daniel 5:1–6.
❑ Monday
GODLY FEAR February 15
“Hushed was the boisterous mirth, while men and women, seized with
Why are we given special admonition to fear God in these last nameless terror, watched the hand slowly tracing the mysterious charac-
3 days? 2 Timothy 3:1–5. ters. Before them passed, as in panoramic view, the deeds of their evil
lives; they seemed to be arraigned before the judgment bar of the eternal
God, whose power they had just defied. Where but a few moments before
had been hilarity and blasphemous witticism, were pallid faces and cries
of fear. When God makes men fear, they cannot hide the intensity of their
“The great danger of this age, and one which brings much unhappi- terror.
ness to individuals and families, is an intense and increasing worldliness. “Belshazzar was the most terrified of them all. . . . [He] had impiously
The love and fear of God, reverence for His name, and thoughts of heav- lifted himself up against the God of heaven and had trusted in his own
enly things, are banished through busy, anxious seeking for the things of might, not supposing that any would dare say, ‘Why doest thou thus?’ but
the world. God has made His claims known, but men pay no heed to them. now he realized that he must render an account of the stewardship
Religious principle becomes extinct in the family.”—The Review and Herald, entrusted him, and that for his wasted opportunities and his defiant atti-
February 24, 1885.
tude he could offer no excuse.”—Prophets and Kings, pp. 524–527.
“Christ’s followers today should guard against the tendency to lose the
spirit of reverence and godly fear. The Scriptures teach men how they
should approach their Maker—with humility and awe, through faith in a How and why will the terror of Jerusalem’s destruction be
divine Mediator.”—Prophets and Kings, p. 48.
6 repeated? Luke 21:22.
Describe the type of godly fear which the Lord would have us
4 develop. Philippians 2:12, 13.
“The Saviour’s prophecy concerning the visitation of judgments upon

Jerusalem is to have another fulfillment, of which that terrible desolation
was but a faint shadow. In the fate of the chosen city we may behold the
“With the peace and joy of those who . . . serve God, there is always doom of a world that has rejected God’s mercy and trampled upon His law.
seen a godly fear, ‘lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any . . . The records of the past—the long procession of tumults, conflicts, and
of you should seem to come short of it’ (Hebrews 4:1). This sanctified fear revolutions, the ‘battle of the warrior. . . with confused noise, and garments
is entirely proper. It is not a servile, cowardly fear; it is a dread to do any- rolled in blood’(Isaiah 9:5)—what are these, in contrast with the terrors of
thing that Christ will not approve. This fear regulates the Christian expe- that day when the restraining Spirit of God shall be wholly withdrawn from
rience. Those who feel it sanctify the Lord in their hearts. They regard the wicked, no longer to hold in check the outburst of human passion and
God with a reverence and love that leads to self-abasement. But their fear satanic wrath! The world will then behold, as never before, the results of
is very different from the terror of a slave, who lives in expectation of the Satan’s rule.”—The Great Controversy, pp. 36, 37.
❑ Wednesday ❑ Thursday
PREPARING FOR FUTURE PROTECTION February 17 OUR ONLY HOPE February 18
In view of the conditions developing in the world, how does the

7
While probation lingers, what should characterize our experi-
ence with Christ? Malachi 3:16, 17.
9 first angel’s message give a right direction to our fears?
Revelation 14:7 (first part); Psalm 46:1, 2.
“Do not gratify the enemy by dwelling upon the dark side of your expe- “Keep your wants, your joys, your sorrows, your cares, and your fears
rience; trust Jesus more fully for help to resist temptation. If we thought before God. You cannot burden Him; you cannot weary Him. He who num-
and talked more of Jesus, and less of ourselves, we should have much bers the hairs of your head is not indifferent to the wants of His chil-
more of His presence. If we abide in Him, we shall be so filled with peace, dren.”—Steps to Christ, p. 100.
faith, and courage, and shall have so victorious an experience to relate
when we come to meeting, that others will be refreshed by our clear, What assurances are given to those who put their entire trust
strong testimony for God. These precious acknowledgements to the 10 in the Lord? Psalm 91:1–10.
praise of the glory of His grace, when supported by a Christlike life, have
an irresistible power, which works for the salvation of souls.”—The SDA Bible
“In the ninety-first psalm is a most wonderful description of the com-

What is the only type of provision we can make for the time of ing of the Lord to bring the wickedness of the wicked to an end, and to
8 trouble? Isaiah 48:18. In the crisis hour, where will we find give to those who have chosen Him as their Redeemer the assurance of
refuge? Isaiah 26:20, 21; 33:16. His love and protecting care.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White
“In the time when God’s judgments are falling without mercy, oh, how
enviable to the wicked will be the position of those who abide ‘in the secret
place of the Most High’—the pavilion in which the Lord hides all who have
“The Lord has shown me repeatedly that it is contrary to the Bible to loved Him and have obeyed His commandments!”—Ibid.
make any provision for our temporal wants in the time of trouble. I saw
that if the saints had food laid up by them or in the field in the time of trou- ❑ Friday
ble, when sword, famine, and pestilence are in the land, it would be taken REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS February 19
from them by violent hands and strangers would reap their fields. Then
will be the time for us to trust wholly in God, and He will sustain us.”—Early a. What characteristic is essential for us to develop—and why?
Writings, p. 56. b. How can we best describe “godly fear”?
“The people of God will not be free from suffering; but while perse-
c. What causes “ungodly fear” and how can it be avoided?
cuted and distressed, while they endure privation and suffer for want of
food they will not be left to perish.”—The Great Controversy, p. 629. d. What are the special chambers in which God’s people can hide?
“[Isaiah 26:20 quoted.] What are the chambers in which they are to e. How will the faithful be comforted in the time of God’s destructive
hide?—They are the protection of Christ and holy angels. The people of judgments?
God are not at this time all in one place. They are in different companies,
and in all parts of the earth; and they will be tried singly, not in groups. FOR FUR THER STUDY
Every one must stand the test for himself.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G.
White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1143.
Early Writings, pp. 56–58.
Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 182, 183.
❑ Monday
Lesson 9 Sabbath, Februar y 27, 1999 GOD’S GLORY REVEALED February 22
What should we learn from the way God revealed His glor y to
3 Moses? Exodus 33:18–22; 34:6–8.
Give Glor y to Him
“That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 15:6). “False views of God, and hence of Christ, are largely entertained
today. Well may we offer the prayer of Moses, ‘Shew me Thy glory.’ What
“By implanting in [the] hearts [of Christ’s followers] the principles of did the Lord answer?—‘I will make all my goodness pass before thee’
His word, the Holy Spirit develops in men the attributes of God. The light (Exodus 33:18, 19). God might have answered Moses: ‘Why do you ask
of His glory —His character—is to shine forth in His followers. Thus they this question? Have I not revealed to you My glory in the deliverance of
are to glorify God.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 414. My people from Egyptian bondage? Did I not deliver you by the right arm
of My power, and lead you dry shod through the midst of the Red Sea? Did
❑ Sunday I not reveal My glory in giving you bread from heaven? Did I not bring you
CALLED TO GLORIFY GOD February 21 water out of the flinty rock? Have you not looked upon My glory in the pil-
lar of fire by night, and the cloud by day?’ Moses might have answered
What is the second essential point stressed in the first angel’s that all this only kindled his desire for greater manifestations of God’s
1 message? Revelation 14:7 (first part); Isaiah 42:10–12. power. The Lord granted the prayer of Moses, and He desires to answer
us in the same way. We need to have our perceptions quickened, our
hearts enlarged, that we may comprehend His glory—His goodness, His
forgiveness, His forbearance, His inexpressible love.”—The Signs of the Times,
October 17, 1892.
“There are many who claim that Jesus has cleansed them from the lep-
“The perfection of God’s goodness, His image, His excellency and
rosy of sin. But how few continue to offer a tribute of praise, ascribing
glory had been revealed to [Moses]. He saw the suffering, self-denial and
glory to God! The great gift that God has bestowed upon the world in His
self-sacrifice of Him who was one with the Father, to save fallen man. It
only-begotten Son, calls for as hearty a response of love and gratitude as
had been revealed to Moses that the glory enshrouded in the pillar of
that which fell from the lips of the Samaritan, who returned to give God
cloud was the Son of the infinite God, whom the sacrificial offerings typi-
glory. When our human friends bestow upon us gifts and favors, we feel
fied. In answer to his most earnest pleadings, ‘Show me thy way,’ the
an inclination to manifest gratitude, and to return gifts and favors to them.
future had been opened before him when the type would meet antitype in
But how indifferent and careless, how unappreciative, are the hearts of
the death of Christ. He saw mercy and justice blended in harmony and
men of the love of God! How little men seem to think of the blessings that
love expressed without a parallel.”—Ibid., June 17, 1880.
are showered upon them by our kind heavenly Father!”—The Signs of the
Times, July 2, 1896. Following the example of Moses, under what circumstances
4 can we catch glimpses of the glor y of God? 2 Corinthians 4:6.
How can we glorify the name of God? Revelation 15:4; Matthew
2 5:16; John 15:5–8.
“Moses was hid in the cleft of the rock when the glory of the Lord was
revealed to him; and it is when we are hid in Christ that we behold the love
“To give glory to God is to reveal His character in our own, and thus of God.”—Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 26.
make Him known. And in whatever way we make known the Father or the “It is sin that darkens our minds and dims our perceptions. As sin is
Son, we glorify God.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 979. purged from our hearts, the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in
the face of Jesus Christ, illuminating His Word, and reflected from the face But the life is molded by the faith. If light and truth is within our reach,
of nature, more and more fully will declare Him ‘merciful and gracious, and we neglect to improve the privilege of hearing and seeing it, we virtu-
long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth’ (Exodus 34:6). ally reject it; we are choosing darkness rather than light.”—The Great
“In His light shall we see light, until mind and heart and soul are trans- Controversy, p. 597.
formed into the image of His holiness.”—Sons and Daughters of God, p. 339.
❑ Wednesday
❑ Tuesday A DAILY TRANSFORMATION February 24
TRUTH ALLIED TO GOD’S GLORY February 23
What transformation do we experience by beholding Christ
What summarizes that which we are to learn from Christ’s life 7 continually? 2 Corinthians 3:18.
5 on earth? John 1:14.
“By beholding Christ, by talking of Him, by beholding the loveliness

“The burning bush, in which Christ appeared to Moses, revealed God. of His character we become changed. Changed from glory to glory. And
The symbol chosen for the representation of the Deity was a lowly shrub, what is glory? Character—and he becomes changed from character to
that seemingly had no attractions. This enshrined the Infinite. The all- character. Thus we see that there is a work of purification that goes on by
merciful God shrouded His glory in a most humble type, that Moses could beholding Jesus.”—Sons and Daughters of God, p. 337.
look upon it and live. So in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire
by night, God communicated with Israel, revealing to men His will, and What is the revelation of the glor y of God to the world?
imparting to them His grace. God’s glory was subdued, and His majesty
8 Habakkuk 2:14.
veiled, that the weak vision of finite men might behold it. So Christ was to
come in ‘the body of our humiliation’ (Philippians 3:21, R. V.), ‘in the like-
ness of men.’ In the eyes of the world He possessed no beauty that they
should desire Him; yet He was the incarnate God, the light of heaven and “When Christ reigns in the soul, there is purity, freedom from sin. The
earth. His glory was veiled, His greatness and majesty were hidden, that glory, the fullness, the completeness of the gospel plan is fulfilled in the
He might draw near to sorrowful, tempted men.”—The Desire of Ages, p. 23. life. The acceptance of the Saviour brings a glow of perfect peace, perfect
“The glory of God is His character. . . . This character was revealed in love, perfect assurance. The beauty and fragrance of the character of
the life of Christ. That He might by His own example condemn sin in the Christ revealed in the life testifies that God has indeed sent His Son into
flesh, He took upon Himself the likeness of sinful flesh. Constantly He the world to be its Saviour. . . .
beheld the character of God; constantly He revealed this character to the “The revelation of His own glory in the form of humanity will bring
world. Christ desires His followers to reveal in their lives this same char- heaven so near to man that the beauty adorning the inner temple will be
acter.”—That I May Know Him, p. 131. seen in every soul in whom the Saviour dwells. Men will be captivated by
the glory of an abiding Christ. And in currents of praise and thanksgiving
Since the truth and the glor y of God go together, under what from the many souls thus won to God, glory will flow back to the great
6 condition, only, can we glorify God? John 8:31, 32; 16:13 (first Giver.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 420.
part).
❑ Thursday
OUR DUTY BEFORE THE WORLD February 25
What is our present responsibility—and why? Isaiah 60:1, 2.

“The truth and the glory of God are inseparable; it is impossible for us, 9
with the Bible within our reach, to honor God by erroneous opinions.
Many claim that it matters not what one believes, if his life is only right.
“It is the darkness of misapprehension of God that is enshrouding the
world. Men are losing their knowledge of His character. It has been mis- Lesson 10 Sabbath, March 6, 1999
understood and misinterpreted. At this time a message from God is to be
proclaimed, a message illuminating in its influence and saving in its power.
His character is to be made known. Into the darkness of the world is to be
shed the light of His glory, the light of His goodness, mercy and truth.”— Worship Him
Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 415.
“Worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the
What har vest of souls will then be brought in? John 10:16.
10 fountains of waters” (Revelation 14:7).
“In Revelation 14, men are called upon to worship the Creator; and the
prophecy brings to view a class that, as the result of the threefold mes-
sage, are keeping the commandments of God. One of these command-
“Among earth’s inhabitants, scattered in every land, there are those
ments points directly to God as the Creator.”—The Great Controversy, p. 437.
who have not bowed the knee to Baal. Like the stars of heaven, which
appear only at night, these faithful ones will shine forth when darkness ❑ Sunday
covers the earth and gross darkness the people. In heathen Africa, in the A CRISIS OVER TRUE WORSHIP February 28
Catholic lands of Europe and of South America, in China, in India, in the
islands or the sea, and in all the dark corners of the earth, God has in What distinct characteristic of God is the basis of true worship
reserve a firmament of chosen ones that will yet shine forth amidst the 1 according to the first angel’s message? Revelation 14:7 (last
darkness, revealing clearly to an apostate world the transforming power of part). How does this message parallel the message of Elijah’s
obedience to His law.”—Prophets and Kings, pp. 188, 189. time? 1 Kings 18:21.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS February 26
a. In what sense is God’s glor y eclipsed today, and how are we to “History is being repeated. The world today has its Ahabs and its
reveal it? Jezebels. The present age is one of idolatry, as verily as was that in which
Elijah lived. No outward shrine may be visible; there may be no image for
b. What can we learn from the result of Moses’ request to see God’s the eye to rest upon; yet thousands are following after the gods of this
glor y? world—after riches, fame, pleasure, and the pleasing fables that permit
man to follow the inclinations of the unregenerate heart. Multitudes have a
c. How did Christ glorify God—and how are we to glorify Christ?
wrong conception of God and His attributes, and are as truly serving a false
d. What will be seen in ever y soul in whom the Saviour dwells? god as were the worshipers of Baal. Many even of those who claim to be
Christians have allied themselves with influences that are unalterably
e. How will the world be enlightened by God’s glor y? opposed to God and His truth. Thus they are led to turn away from the
divine and to exalt the human.”—Prophets and Kings, pp. 177, 178.
FOR FUR THER STUDY
How may the subtlety of popular philosophy seduce us away from
Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 327–330. 2 the worship of the true God? 2 Timothy 4:3, 4.
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pp. 38–44.
“In rejecting the truth, men reject its Author. In trampling upon the
law of God, they deny the authority of the Lawgiver. It is as easy to make
an idol of false doctrines and theories as to fashion an idol of wood or acters, which were believed to possess great power. Books had been writ-
stone. By misrepresenting the attributes of God, Satan leads men to con- ten by the Ephesians to explain the meaning and use of these symbols.
ceive of Him in a false character. With many, a philosophical idol is “Among those who gave close study to these costly books were many
enthroned in the place of Jehovah; while the living God, as He is revealed magicians, who wielded a powerful influence over the minds of the supersti-
in His Word, in Christ, and in the works of creation, is worshipped by but tious worshipers of the image within the temple.”—The Acts of the Apostles, p. 286.
few. Thousands deify nature while they deny the God of nature. Though in
a different form, idolatry exists in the Christian world today as verily as it ❑ Tuesday
existed among ancient Israel in the days of Elijah. The god of many pro- DIVINE TACT NEEDED March 2
fessedly wise men, of philosophers, poets, politicians, journalists—the god
How tactful was Paul among the Athenians and the Corin-
of polished fashionable circles, of many colleges and universities, even of
some theological institutions—is little better than Baal, the sun-god of
5 thians? Acts 17:22–31; 18:4.
Phoenicia.”—The Great Controversy, p. 583.
❑ Monday
IN THE NEW TESTAMENT DAYS March 1 “When the apostle [Paul] took up his work in Corinth, he realized that
he must introduce most carefully the great truths he wished to teach. He
Why did Christ face opposition in seeking to elevate true wor- knew that among his hearers would be proud believers in human theories,
3 ship? John 3:19, 20; 8:44, 45, 47. and exponents of false systems of worship, who were groping with blind
eyes, hoping to find in the book of nature theories that would contradict
the reality of the spiritual and immortal life as revealed in the Scriptures.
He also knew that critics would endeavor to controvert the Christian inter-
pretation of the revealed word, and that skeptics would treat the gospel of
“Truth looked down from heaven and saw not the reflection of her
Christ with scoffing and derision.
image; for dense clouds of moral darkness and gloom enveloped the
“As he endeavored to lead souls to the foot of the cross, Paul did not
world, and the Lord Jesus alone was able to roll back the clouds; for He
venture to rebuke, directly, those who were licentious, or to show how
was the Light of the world. By His presence He could dissipate the gloomy
heinous was their sin in the sight of a holy God. Rather he set before them
shadow that Satan had cast between man and God. Darkness covered the
the true object of life and tried to impress upon their minds the lessons of
earth, and gross darkness the people. Through the accumulated misrep-
the divine Teacher, which, if received, would lift them from worldliness
resentations of the enemy, many were so deceived that they worshipped a
and sin to purity and righteousness. He dwelt especially upon practical
false god, clothed with the attributes of the satanic character.”—
godliness and the holiness to which those must attain who shall be
Fundamentals of Christian Education, pp. 176, 177.
accounted worthy of a place in God’s kingdom.”—The Acts of the Apostles, p. 272.
How did the apostle Paul face the problem of false worship?
4 Acts 24:14; 28:17. How was he accused by the Jews? Acts 6
How careful should we be in our ef forts to emphasize true wor-
ship? 1 Peter 3:15, 16.
18:13. And by the Romans? Acts 16:20, 21. And by the
Greeks? Acts 19:26–28.
“God has jewels in all the churches, and it is not for us to make sweep-
ing denunciation of the professed religious world, but in humility and love,
“Ephesus was a popular center for the worship of Diana. The fame of present to all the truth as it is in Jesus. Let men see piety and devotion, let
the magnificent temple of ‘Diana of the Ephesians’ extended throughout them behold Christlikeness of character, and they will be drawn to the
all Asia and the world. Its surpassing splendor made it the pride, not only truth.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1184.
of the city, but of the nation. The idol within the temple was declared by “The truth should be presented with divine tact, gentleness, and ten-
tradition to have fallen from the sky. Upon it were inscribed symbolic char- derness. It should come from a heart that has been softened and made
sympathetic. We need to have close communion with God, lest self rise up, ❑ Thursday
as it did in Jehu, and we pour forth a torrent of words that are unbefitting, THE CLIMAX OF THE CONFLICT March 4
that are not as dew or as the still showers that revive the withering plants.
What test will soon be brought between true and false worship?
Let our words be gentle as we seek to win souls. . . .
“God’s plan is first to get at the heart. Speak the truth, and let Him
9 Revelation 13:4, 8, 12, 15.
carry forward the reformatory power and principle. Make no reference to
what opponents say, but let the truth alone be advanced. The truth can cut
to the quick.”—Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 400.
“We are nearing the close of this earth’s history. Satan is making des-
❑ Wednesday perate efforts to make himself god, to speak and act like God, to appear as
THE BASIS OF THE EXISTING CONFLICT March 3 one who has a right to control the consciences of men. He strives with all
his power to place a human institution in the position of God’s holy rest
What are the fundamentals of true worship as proclaimed by day.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, pp. 980, 981.
7 the first angel? Psalm 100:3; Ecclesiastes 12:13.
What is soon to distinguish the worshipers of God from the
10 worshipers of the beast? Exodus 31:16, 17; 1 John 5:2.
“God’s claim to reverence and worship, above the gods of the heathen,
is based upon the fact that He is the Creator and that to Him all other
beings owe their existence.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 336. “The keeping of God’s law, on the one hand, and its violation, on the
“By the first angel, men are called upon to ‘fear God, and give glory to other, will make the distinction between the worshipers of God and the
Him’ and to worship Him as the Creator of the heavens and the earth. In worshipers of the beast.”—The Great Controversy, pp. 445, 446.
order to do this, they must obey His law. . . . [Ecclesiastes 12:13 quoted.] “Thus the distinction is drawn between the loyal and the disloyal.
Without obedience to His commandments no worship can be pleasing to Those who desire to have the seal of God in their foreheads must keep the
God.”—The Great Controversy, p. 436. Sabbath of the fourth commandment. Thus they are distinguished from
the disloyal, who have accepted a man-made institution in place of the true
Sabbath. The observance of God’s rest day is a mark of distinction
What are the fundamentals of all false worship, even among between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.”—The SDA
8 professed Christians? Isaiah 29:13, 14; Matthew 15:3, 9. Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 981.
❑ Friday
REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS March 5
“In seeking to cast contempt upon the divine statutes, Satan has per- a. How is false worship practiced today, even among professed believers?
verted the doctrines of the Bible, and errors have thus become incorpo-
b. Name some obstacles encountered by the apostle Paul in his labors.
rated into the faith of thousands who profess to believe the Scriptures. The
last great conflict between truth and error is but the final struggle of the c. What is essential for us to be able to witness successfully for Christ?
long-standing controversy concerning the law of God. Upon this battle we
d. By what points can we distinguish between true and false worship?
are now entering—a battle between the laws of men and the precepts of
Jehovah, between the religion of the Bible and the religion of fable and tra- e. How are the vast majority of people soon to promote false worship?
dition.”—The Great Controversy, p. 582.
“No misfortune is so great as to become the worshiper of a false god. FOR FUR THER STUDY
No man is in such miserable darkness as he who has lost his way to heav- The Ministry of Healing, pp. 409–418.
en.”—Testimonies to the Ministers, p. 435. Prophets and Kings, pp. 183–189.
Sabbath, March 6, 1999 Lesson 11 Sabbath, March 13, 1999
Special Mission Of fering

for a chapel and headquarters in Japan The Cleansing of the Sanctuar y
Japan consists of four main islands and many smaller ones in the Pacific “And he said unto me, Unto two thousand and three hundred days;
rim, covering an area of about 146,000 square miles (378,000 square kilo- then shall the sanctuar y be cleansed” (Daniel 8:14).
meters). Since the terrain is quite mountainous, only about 21% of the land
is habitable, making the population density the highest in the world. “The subject of the sanctuary was the key which unlocked the mys-
Among the nearly 125,000,000 inhabitants, the two most popular reli- tery of the disappointment of 1844. It opened to view a complete system of
gions are Shinto (53.8%) and Buddhism (40.4%). Christianity comes next as truth.”—The Great Controversy, p. 423.
one of the three largest religious groups, but is professed by less than 4% of ❑ Sunday
the people. All of these religions seem to be considered more as habits and THE PILLAR OF THE ADVENT FAITH March 7
customs rather than being based on principles motivated by actual faith.
The Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement arrived in this country in What scripture was the central pillar of faith of the early
1974 and we now have a small but strongly committed membership. Ten 1 Adventists—and how did they interpret it at first? Daniel 8:14.
years ago the Lord provided us with our own church building near the city
of Tokyo. Recently, however, we became convinced that it was time for us to
move out to the countryside where we could worship God without distur-
bances or pollution—to a place where we could also hold camp meetings “The scripture which above all others had been both the foundation
more economically and spiritually.
and the central pillar of the advent faith was the declaration: ‘Unto two thou-
At the 1996 summer camp meeting, we prayed that the Lord might lead
sand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be cleansed’ (Daniel
us to the right place—and in the summer of 1997 we found a property in the
8:14). These had been familiar words to all believers in the Lord’s soon
mountains, suitable for a meeting hall, mission office, and camp meeting site.
We have been strengthened by the evidences of the Lord’s favor regarding coming. By the lips of thousands was this prophecy repeated as the watch-
this project, especially when He provided the extra income which seemed word of their faith. All felt that upon the events therein foretold depended
“impossible” to the carnal mind. All of our Japanese members, their families their brightest expectations and most cherished hopes. These prophetic
and friends— both young and old—are very enthusiastic about this new days had been shown to terminate in the autumn of 1844. In common with
church project, both economically and physically. But we are still short of the rest of the Christian world, Adventists then held that the earth, or some
finances since our church consists mainly of housewives and their children. portion of it, was the sanctuary. They understood that the cleansing of the
Your help is needed, and we ask every one sanctuary was the purification of the earth by the fires of the last great day,
of you around the world to please support this RUSSIA
and that this would take place at the second advent. Hence the conclusion
Sea of Okhotsk
project as much as possible when the Special CHINA that Christ would return to the earth in 1844.”—The Great Controversy, p. 409.
Mission Offering is gathered on Sabbath,
March 6, 1999. Let us be God’s faithful children NORTH
What did the Advent pioneers realize after the great disap-
in His vineyard, proclaiming the present truth
Sea of Japan
KOREA
SOUTH
KOREA Tokyo
2 pointment of 1844? Hebrews 8:3–5; 9:1–5, 8.
throughout Japan. JAPAN
Please pray for us and remember this finan-

cial need. Thank you in advance, and may the N o r t h P a c i f i c
Lord bless all of you till we meet each other in TAIWAN O c e a n “With earnest prayer they reviewed their position and studied the
the heavenly home. Scriptures to discover their mistake. As they could see no error in their
Philippine Sea
Your brethren from Japan PHILIPPINES Saipan reckoning of the prophetic periods, they were led to examine more close-
GUAM Agana ly the subject of the sanctuary.
“In their investigation they learned that there is no Scripture evidence “The daily service consisted of the morning and evening burnt offer-
sustaining the popular view that the earth is the sanctuary; but they found ing, the offering of sweet incense on the golden altar, and the special offer-
in the Bible a full explanation of the subject of the sanctuary, its nature, loca- ings for individual sins.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 352.
tion, and services; the testimony of the sacred writers being so clear and “Day by day the repentant sinner brought his offering to the door of
ample as to place the matter beyond all question.”—The Great Controversy, p. 411. the tabernacle and, placing his hand upon the victim’s head, confessed his
“The sanctuary in heaven, in which Jesus ministers in our behalf, is the sins, thus in figure transferring them from himself to the innocent sacri-
great original, of which the sanctuary built by Moses was a copy.”—Ibid., p. 414. fice. The animal was then slain. . . . The blood, representing the forfeited
life of the sinner, whose guilt the victim bore, was carried by the priest into
❑ Monday the holy place and sprinkled before the veil, behind which was the ark con-
THE NEW TESTAMENT SANCTUARY March 8 taining the law that the sinner had transgressed. By this ceremony the sin
was, through the blood, transferred in figure to the sanctuary.”—The Great
How did Scripture further confirm to the Advent believers that
3 the New Testament sanctuar y is in heaven? Revelation 11:19;
4:2, 5; 8:3.
What ser vice was performed once a year, and for what pur-
6 pose? Leviticus 16:8, 15–22.
“Those who were studying the subject found indisputable proof of the
existence of a sanctuary in heaven. Moses made the earthly sanctuary
after a pattern which was shown him. Paul teaches that that pattern was “The sins of Israel being . . . transferred to the sanctuary, the holy
the true sanctuary which is in heaven. And John testifies that he saw it in places were defiled, and a special work became necessary for the removal
heaven.”—The Great Controversy, p. 415. of the sins. God commanded that an atonement be made for each of the
“And as the prophecy of Daniel 8:14 is fulfilled in this dispensation, the sacred apartments, as for the altar, to ‘cleanse it, and hallow it from the
sanctuary to which it refers must be the sanctuary of the new covenant.”— uncleanness of the children of Israel’ (Leviticus 16:19).”—Patriarchs and
Ibid., p. 417. Prophets, p. 355.
“Once a year, on the great Day of Atonement, the priest entered the
What else must we understand about the heavenly sanctuar y? most holy place for the cleansing of the sanctuary. The work there per-
4 Hebrews 9:22, 23; 12:24. formed completed the yearly round of ministration. On the Day of Atone-
ment two kids of the goats were brought to the door of the tabernacle, and
lots were cast upon them, ‘one lot for the Lord, and the other lot for the
scapegoat’ (Leviticus 16:8). The goat upon which fell the lot for the Lord
was to be slain as a sin offering for the people. And the priest was to bring
“The cleansing, both in the typical and in the real service, must be his blood within the veil and sprinkle it upon the mercy seat and before the
accomplished with blood: in the former, with the blood of animals; in the mercy seat. The blood was also to be sprinkled upon the altar of incense
latter, with the blood of Christ. Paul states, as the reason why this cleans- that was before the veil.”—The Great Controversy, p. 419.
ing must be performed with blood, that without shedding of blood is no
remission. Remission, or putting away of sin, is the work to be accom-
plished.”—The Great Controversy, pp. 417, 418. [Author’s italics.] ❑ Wednesday
IN THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY March 10
❑ Tuesday
IN THE EAR THLY SANCTUARY March 9 Where did Christ exercise His priestly ministr y for eighteen
7 centuries after His ascension? Hebrews 9:11, 12, 24.
Of what did the daily ser vice consist? Numbers 28:1–6. How
5 were sins transferred to the sanctuar y? Leviticus 4:4–6, 14–17.
“For eighteen centuries this work of ministration continued in the first “We must not only cease to do evil, but we must learn to do well. God
apartment of the sanctuary. The blood of Christ, pleaded in behalf of peni- has given us powers to be exercised in good works; and if these powers
tent believers, secured their pardon and acceptance with the Father, yet are not put to use, we shall certainly be set down as wicked and slothful
their sins still remained upon the books of record.”—The Great Controversy, p. 421. servants.”—Selected Messages, book 1, p. 220.
“The blood of Christ, while it was to release the repentant sinner from
the condemnation of the law, was not to cancel the sin; it would stand on How is the heavenly sanctuar y to be cleansed? Isaiah 43:25;
record in the sanctuary until the final atonement; so in the type the blood 10 Acts 3:19. Why is this so important for us to understand?
of the sin offering removed the sin from the penitent, but it rested in the
sanctuary until the Day of Atonement.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 357.
As there was a work of atonement in the typical ser vice, once

8 a year, what work began in the antitypical ser vice, at the end of “As the typical cleansing of the earthly was accomplished by the
the 2,300 prophetic days (or literal years)? Hebrews 9:7. removal of the sins by which it had been polluted, so the actual cleansing
of the heavenly is to be accomplished by the removal, or blotting out, of
the sins which are there recorded. But before this can be accomplished,
there must be an examination of the books of record to determine who,
through repentance of sin and faith in Christ, are entitled to the benefits of
“As in the typical service there was a work of atonement at the close His atonement. The cleansing of the sanctuary therefore involves a work
of the year, so before Christ’s work for the redemption of men is complet- of investigation—a work of judgment.”—The Great Controversy, pp. 421, 422.
ed there is a work of atonement for the removal of sin from the sanctuary. “Many are deceiving themselves; for the principle of love does not
This is the service which began when the 2300 days ended. At that time, dwell in their hearts. They may close their eyes to their own errors and
as foretold by Daniel the prophet, our High Priest entered the most holy, defects; but they cannot deceive God. There must be a reformation. The
to perform the last division of His solemn work—to cleanse the sanctu- plowshare of truth must plow deep furrows in our proud hearts, and tear
ary.”—The Great Controversy, p. 421. up the sod of our unsanctified natures, that the Spirit and love of Jesus may
“In the great day of final award, the dead are to be ‘judged out of those be planted in our hearts. Time is fast hastening on, and every work will
things which were written in the books, according to their works’ soon be brought into judgment, and either our sins or our names will be
(Revelation 20:12). Then by virtue of the atoning blood of Christ, the sins blotted out of the Book of Life.”—Sons and Daughters of God, p. 49.
of all the truly penitent will be blotted from the books of heaven. Thus the
sanctuary will be freed, or cleansed, from the record of sin.”—Patriarchs and ❑ Friday
Prophets, pp. 357, 358. REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS March 12
❑ Thursday
a. Which texts of Scripture enable us to gain a correct understanding
THE BLOTTING OUT OF SINS March 11
of Daniel 8:14?
How can our sins contaminate the heavenly sanctuar y? What is
9 recorded in heaven? Isaiah 65:6, 7; Revelation 20:12.
b. What do the apostles teach us about the heavenly sanctuar y?
c. Name some points from the earthly sanctuar y ser vice which help
us understand the heavenly ser vice.
d. What work began at the close of the 2300 days’ prophecy?

“Opposite each name in the books of heaven is entered with terrible
e. Why is it essential that our sins be blotted out?
exactness every wrong word, every selfish act, every unfulfilled duty, and
every secret sin, with every artful dissembling. Heaven-sent warnings or
reproofs neglected, wasted moments, unimproved opportunities, the influ- FOR FUR THER STUDY
ence exerted for good or for evil, with its far-reaching results, all are The Great Controversy, pp. 409–422.
chronicled by the recording angel.”—The Great Controversy, p. 482. Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 355–358.
❑ Monday
Lesson 12 Sabbath, March 20, 1999 PURITY NEEDED March 15
What proves that the life and character of all must be judged
3 before the coming of Christ? Matthew 16:27. What should this
“The Hour of His Judgment fact inspire in our hearts? Haggai 1:5.
Is Come”
“Fear God . . . for the hour of his judgment is come” (Revelation
14:7). “The grand judgment is taking place, and has been going on for some
time. Now the Lord says, Measure the temple and the worshipers thereof.
“The announcement, ‘The hour of His judgment is come,’ points to Remember when you are walking the streets about your business, God is
the closing work of Christ’s ministration for the salvation of men.”—The measuring you; when you are attending your household duties, when you
Great Controversy, p. 435. engage in conversation, God is measuring you. Remember that your
words and actions are being daguerreotyped [photographed] in the books
❑ Sunday of heaven, as the face is reproduced by the artist on the polished plate. . . .
THE INVESTIGATIVE JUDGMENT March 14
“Here is the work going on, measuring the temple and its worshipers
What evidence proves that there is an investigative judgment?
to see who will stand in the last day. Those who stand fast shall have an
1 Revelation 11:18; 22:11, 12. abundant entrance into the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
When we are doing our work remember there is One that is watching the
spirit in which we are doing it. Shall we not bring the Saviour into our
everyday lives, into our secular work and domestic duties? Then in the
name of God we want to leave behind everything that is not necessary, all
“Before the final reward is given, it must be decided who are fitted to gossiping or unprofitable visiting, and present ourselves as servants of the
share the inheritance of the righteous. This decision must be made prior living God.”—The SDA Bible Commentary [E. G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 972.
to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven; for when He
comes, His reward is with Him, ‘to give every man according as his work What is our responsibility in preparing to meet our Lord in
shall be’ (Revelation 22:12). Before His coming, then, the character of 4 peace? 1 John 3:2, 3.
every man’s work will have been determined, and to every one of Christ’s
followers the reward will have been apportioned according to his deeds.”
—Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 310.
Why is the investigative judgment necessar y? Ezekiel 18:24.

2 How only can we be accounted worthy? Matthew 24:13. “Many do not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of
the Lord without a high priest in the sanctuary through the time of trou-
ble. Those who receive the seal of the living God and are protected in the
time of trouble must reflect the image of Jesus fully.
“Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be purified from
“All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed the blood of sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and their own
Christ as their atoning sacrifice, have had pardon entered against their diligent effort, they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. While the
names in the books of heaven; as they have become partakers of the right- investigative judgment is going forward in heaven, while the sins of peni-
eousness of Christ, and their characters are found to be in harmony with tent believers are being removed from the sanctuary, there is to be a spe-
the law of God, their sins will be blotted out, and they themselves will be cial work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God’s people upon
accounted worthy of eternal life.”—The Great Controversy, p. 483. earth.”—The Faith I Live By, p. 337.
❑ Tuesday “You are each living your probationary time day by day, obtaining your
THE HOUSEHOLD OF GOD March 16 experience as the days pass; but you can go over the ground only once.
Then let every precious moment be employed as you will wish it had been
With whom does the judgment begin? 1 Peter 4:17. What else
5 should we realize about this fact? Ezekiel 33:12, 13, 18.
when the judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened. Our Lord will
judge us according to the opportunities and privileges that we have
had.”—Manuscript Releases, vol. 13, p. 156.
❑ Wednesday
“In the great day of final atonement and investigative judgment the WHILE THE DOOR IS OPEN March 17
only cases considered are those of the professed people of God. The judg-
By what standard are our characters and lives tested in the
ment of the wicked is a distinct and separate work, and takes place at a
later period.”—The Great Controversy, p. 480.
7 judgment? Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14; Romans 2:12; James 2:12.
“Angels keep a faithful record of every man’s work, and as judgment

passes upon the house of God, the sentence of each is recorded by his
name, and the angel is commissioned to spare not the unfaithful servants,
but to cut them down at the time of slaughter. And that which was com- “The law of God is the standard by which the characters and the lives
mitted to their trust is taken from them. Their earthly treasure is then of men will be tested in the judgment.”—The Great Controversy, p. 482.
swept away, and they have lost all. And the crowns they might have worn, “The life of Christ on earth was a perfect expression of God’s law, and
had they been faithful, are put upon the heads of those saved by the faith- when those who claim to be children of God become Christlike in charac-
ful servants whose means was constantly in use for God. And everyone ter, they will be obedient to God’s commandments. Then the Lord can
they have been the means of saving, adds stars to their crown in glory, and trust them to be of the number who shall compose the family of heaven.”—
increases their eternal reward.”—Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 198. Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 315.
“Only that which is in accord with the principles of God’s law will stand
As we do not know when the judgment will pass from the cases in the judgment.”—Ibid., p. 316.
6 of the dead to the cases of the living, what warning of Christ
should we take to heart—and why? Mark 13:33; Revelation
What is Christ doing in our behalf while the door of probation
3:3. 8 is still open? 1 John 2:1; Hebrews 7:25. How only will we be
benefited by our Saviour’s intercession? 2 Corinthians 13:5, 6.
“Solemn are the scenes connected with the closing work of the atone-
ment. Momentous are the interests involved therein. The judgment is now
“The intercession of Christ in man’s behalf in the sanctuary above is
passing in the sanctuary above. For many years this work has been in
as essential to the plan of salvation as was His death upon the cross.”—The
progress. Soon—none know how soon—it will pass to the cases of the liv-
ing. In the awful presence of God our lives are to come up in review. At this
“All who would have their names retained in the book of life should
time above all others it behooves every soul to heed the Saviour’s admo-
now, in the few remaining days of their probation, afflict their souls before
nition: ‘Watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is’ (Mark 13:33). ‘If
God by sorrow for sin and true repentance. There must be deep, faithful
therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou
searching of heart.”—Ibid., p. 490.
shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee’ (Revelation 3:3).”—The
Great Controversy, p. 490. ❑ Thursday
“There is no command for anyone to search the Scripture in order to A WARNING AND A PROMISE March 18
ascertain, if possible, when probation will close. God has no such message
for any mortal lips. He would have no mortal tongue declare that which He To what warning should we give serious consideration? Pro-
has hidden in His secret councils.”—Selected Messages, book 1, p. 192. 9 verbs 28:13.
“Individuals are tested and proved a length of time to see if they will
sacrifice their idols and heed the counsel of the True Witness. If any will Lesson 13 Sabbath, March 27, 1999
not be purified through obeying the truth, and overcome their selfishness,
their pride, and evil passions, the angels of God have the charge: ‘ They are
joined to their idols, let them alone,’ and they pass on to their work, leav-
ing these with their sinful traits unsubdued, to the control of evil angels.”— The Wedding Gar ment
Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 187.
What promises should encourage those who are truly interested “And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man
10 in their salvation? 1 John 1:9; 2 Corinthians 12:9 (first part); which had not on a wedding garment” (Matthew 22:11).
Revelation 3:5.
“In the parable of Matthew 22 . . . the investigative judgment is clearly
represented as taking place before the marriage.”—The Great Controversy, p. 428.
“None need abandon themselves to discouragement and despair. ❑ Sunday

Satan may come to you with the cruel suggestion, ‘Yours is a hopeless A SYMBOLIC WEDDING March 21
case. You are irredeemable.’ But there is hope for you in Christ. God does
not bid us overcome in our own strength. He asks us to come close to His What does the marriage in the parable represent? Matthew 22:2.
side. Whatever difficulties we labor under, which weigh down soul and 1
body, He waits to make us free.”—The Ministry of Healing, p. 249.
“Let none, then, regard their defects as incurable. God will give faith
and grace to overcome them.”—The Great Controversy, p. 489.
“By the marriage is represented the union of humanity with divinity; the
“Those who come up to every point, and stand every test, and over-
wedding garment represents the character which all must possess who
come, be the price what it may, have heeded the counsel of the True
shall be accounted fit guests for the wedding.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 307.
Witness, and they will receive the latter rain, and thus be fitted for trans-
“At an infinite cost to heaven, provision has been made for all, that
lation.”—Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 187.
they may receive grace and sanctification of the Spirit, and be numbered
with the blood-washed throng.”—The Review and Herald, March 28, 1899.
❑ Friday
What other lessons do we need to learn from this symbolic
a. What is the investigative judgment, and why is it needed?
2 marriage? Daniel 7:13, 14; Revelation 11:15; 21:2.
b. In what way should a knowledge of the investigative judgment

af fect our daily lives?
c. Where does the investigative judgment begin—and why?

“The marriage represents the reception by Christ of His kingdom.”—
The Great Controversy, p. 426.
d. What is our duty in seeking the benefits of Christ’s intercession? “God has made every provision whereby our thoughts may become
purified, elevated, refined, and ennobled. He has not only promised to
e. How does the judgment message of fer hope as well as warning? cleanse us from all unrighteousness, but He has made an actual provision
for the supply of grace that will lift our thoughts toward Him and enable us
FOR FUR THER STUDY to appreciate His holiness. We may realize that we are Christ’s possession
and that we are to manifest His character to the world. Prepared by heav-
The Great Controversy, pp. 486–491. enly grace, we become clothed with the righteousness of Christ, in the
Testimonies, vol. 4, pp. 384–387. wedding garment, and are fitted to sit down at the marriage supper. We
become one with Christ, partakers of the divine nature, purified, refined, to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will,
elevated, and acknowledged to be the children of God—heirs of God and the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into cap-
joint heirs with Jesus Christ.”—Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p. 660. tivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the
garment of His righteousness.”—Ibid., p. 312.
❑ Monday “Are you ready? Have you the wedding garment on? That garment will
AN EXAMINATION BEFORE THE WEDDING March 22 never cover deceit, impurity, corruption, or hypocrisy. The eye of God is
upon you. It is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. We may
What must take place before the wedding—and how does this conceal our sins from the eyes of men, but we can hide nothing from our
3 af fect us? Matthew 22:11. Maker.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 220, 221.
❑ Tuesday
WHILE PROBATION LINGERS March 23
“Previous to the wedding the king comes in to see the guests, to see if
all are attired in the wedding garment, the spotless robe of character What condition must we be reaching now, while Christ is still
washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb (Matthew 22:11; 5 mediating in our behalf? John 14:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
Revelation 7:14). He who is found wanting is cast out, but all who upon
examination are seen to have the wedding garment on are accepted of God
and accounted worthy of a share in His kingdom and a seat upon His
throne. This work of examination of character, of determining who are
prepared for the kingdom of God, is that of the investigative judgment, the “Jesus did not allow the enemy to pull Him into the mire of unbelief,
closing work in the sanctuary above.”—The Great Controversy, p. 428. or crowd Him into the mire of despondency and despair. But many poor
“Read carefully and critically the parable of the wedding garment, and souls are feeble in moral power because they do not do the words of
make a personal application of the lessons it teaches. There are those who, Christ.
having heard the truth, assent to it, yet are not transformed by it. The “Christ in the weakness of humanity was to meet the temptations of
truth has not been received into the soul, and therefore it can not carry one possessing the powers of the higher nature that God had bestowed on
forward its work of purification in the life. Their family, their neighbors, do the angelic family. But Christ’s humanity was united with divinity, and in
not see in them the marked change which they have a right to expect. this strength He would bear all the temptations that Satan could bring
Those who make a profession of faith, and yet remain unchanged in habit against Him, and yet keep His soul untainted by sin. And this power to
and practice, are represented in the parable by the man who came to the overcome He would give to every son and daughter of Adam who would
feast without a wedding garment.”—The Review and Herald, February 26, 1901. accept by faith the righteous attributes of His character.”—The SDA Bible
How does the righteousness of Christ become the righteous- “Now, while our great High Priest is making the atonement for us, we
4 ness of the saints? Revelation 3:18; 19:8. should seek to become perfect in Christ. Not even by a thought could our
Saviour be brought to yield to the power of temptation. Satan finds in
human hearts some point where he can gain a foothold; some sinful desire
is cherished, by means of which his temptations assert their power. But
Christ declared of Himself, ‘The prince of this world cometh, and hath
“By the wedding garment in the parable is represented the pure, spot- nothing in Me’ (John 14:30). Satan could find nothing in the Son of God
less character which Christ’s true followers will possess. . . . It is the right- that would enable him to gain the victory. He had kept His Father’s com-
eousness of Christ, His own unblemished character, that through faith is mandments, and there was no sin in Him that Satan could use to his advan-
imparted to all who receive Him as their personal Saviour.”—Christ’s Object tage. This is the condition in which those must be found who shall stand
Lessons, p. 310. in the time of trouble.
“By His perfect obedience [Christ] has made it possible for every “It is in this life that we are to separate sin from us, through faith in the
human being to obey God’s commandments. When we submit ourselves atoning blood of Christ.”—The Great Controversy, p. 623.
While a work of purification is going on in the heavenly sanc- overcome by Satan. The more exalted their profession and the more hon-
6 tuar y (Hebrews 9:23), what is to be taking place among the fol- orable the position which they hold, the more grievous is their course in
lowers of Christ on earth? Malachi 3:2, 3. the sight of God and the more sure the triumph of their great adversary.
Those who delay a preparation for the day of God cannot obtain it in the
time of trouble or at any subsequent time. The case of all such is hope-
less.”—The Great Controversy, p. 620.
“Those who are living upon the earth when the intercession of Christ “I saw that many were neglecting the preparation so needful and were
shall cease in the sanctuary above are to stand in the sight of a holy God looking to the time of ‘refreshing’ and the ‘latter rain’ to fit them to stand
without a mediator. Their robes must be spotless, their characters must be in the day of the Lord and to live in His sight. Oh, how many I saw in the
purified from sin by the blood of sprinkling. Through the grace of God and time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful prepa-
their own diligent effort they must be conquerors in the battle with evil. ration; therefore they could not receive the refreshing.”—Early Writings, p. 71.
While the investigative judgment is going forward in heaven, while the
❑ Thursday
sins of penitent believers are being removed from the sanctuary, there is
READY TO MEET CHRIST March 25
to be a special work of purification, of putting away of sin, among God’s
people upon earth. This work is more clearly presented in the messages
When the work of purification is completed, and the investiga-
of Revelation 14.”—The Great Controversy, p. 425. 9 tive judgment is over, for what event will Christ’s followers be
prepared? 2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 5:27.
❑ Wednesday
A BLESSING OR A DISAPPOINTMENT March 24
What blessing is of fered to those whose sins will be blotted

7 out? Zechariah 10:1; Acts 3:19, 20 [compare RSV]. “When this work shall have been accomplished, the followers of
Christ will be ready for His appearing. ‘Then shall the offering of Judah
and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the Lord, as in the days of old, and as in
former years’ (Malachi 3:4). Then the church which our Lord at His com-
ing is to receive to Himself will be a ‘glorious church, not having spot, or
“The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former wrinkle, or any such thing’ (Ephesians 5:27).”—The Great Controversy, p. 425.
rain at the opening of the gospel are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain
at its close. Here are ‘the times of refreshing’ to which the apostle Peter What contrast will be seen between those who are unready and
looked forward when he said, ‘Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that 10 those who are ready for Christ’s second advent? Revelation
your sins may be blotted out [in the investigative Judgment], when the 6:14–17; Isaiah 25:9.
times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and he shall
send Jesus’ (Acts 3:19, 20).”—The Great Controversy, p. 611. [1888 edition; E.G.
White’s comment in brackets.]
On the other hand, what disappointment comes to those who “When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His
8 know the present truth, yet neglect the opportunity to obtain people, then He will come to claim them as His own.”—Christ’s Object Lessons,
the needed preparation? Jeremiah 8:20. p. 69.
“ The voice of God is heard from heaven, declaring the day and hour of
Jesus’ coming, and delivering the everlasting covenant to His people. Like
peals of loudest thunder His words roll through the earth. The Israel of God
stand listening, with their eyes fixed upward. Their countenances are lighted
“All who endeavor to excuse or conceal their sins, and permit them to up with His glory, and shine as did the face of Moses when he came down
remain upon the books of heaven, unconfessed and unforgiven, will be from Sinai. The wicked cannot look upon them. And when the blessing is
pronounced on those who have honored God by keeping His Sabbath holy,
there is a mighty shout of victory.
“Soon there appears in the east a small black cloud, about half the
size of a man’s hand. It is the cloud which surrounds the Saviour and
which seems in the distance to be shrouded in darkness. The people of
God know this to be the sign of the Son of man. . . .
“Before His presence ‘all faces are turned into paleness;’ upon the
rejecters of God’s mercy falls the terror of eternal despair. ‘ The heart
melteth, and the knees smite together, . . . and the faces of them all gath-
er blackness’ (Jeremiah 30:6; Nahum 2:10). The righteous cry with trem-
bling: ‘Who shall be able to stand?’ The angels’ song is hushed, and there
is a period of awful silence. Then the voice of Jesus is heard, saying: ‘My
grace is sufficient for you.’ The faces of the righteous are lighted up, and
joy fills every heart.”—The Great Controversy, pp. 640, 641.
❑ Friday
a. How only can we partake of the marriage supper of the Lamb?
b. What is our responsibility before the supper takes place?
c. How is the wedding garment obtained?
d. Why is confession and forsaking of sin vital to our salvation?
e. When will Christ return?
FOR FUR THER STUDY

Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 217–223; Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 307–319.
Now is the time to

read it!
Because our faith will soon be severely
tested, we should be prepared to give an
answer for our beliefs. Therefore, during
1999 we will study all of the Three
Angels’ Messages and “That Other
Angel.” These lessons are presenting very
controversial points of doctrine, and the book The Great
Controversy is an essential aid in understanding these
studies. We urge you to begin reading this book today!

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THE FIRST ANGEL’S

The Everlasting Gospel

“The whole Bible is a revelation; for all revelation to men comes

What can we learn from Christ’s appearance to Abraham and to

as a personal Saviour, came to the world. As a personal Saviour He ascend-

What is symbolized by the position of Christ in relation to the

“The angel of Revelation 10 is represented as having one foot on the

What words of Christ have often had an application among the

d. What is meant by the declaration that “there should be time no

a. What “myster y of God” is to benefit us in a practical way?

❑ Thursday FOR FUR THER STUDY

In America, which prophecy led William Miller to preach the

“The comprehension of truth, the glad reception of the message, is

c. Why was 1840 a landmark year?

What types of deception will lead many souls to perdition?

What will be the climax in the work of deception? Matthew

In proclaiming the soon coming of Christ, what message did

Describe the investigative judgment which began in 1844? Daniel

erous donation. It is our prayer that of

The Great Controversy, pp. 355–374. Your brethren from Nicaragua P a c i f i c O c e a n

The Everlasting Gospel

d. In what areas may we tend to be guilty of unbelief?

“The Saviour’s prophecy concerning the visitation of judgments upon

In view of the conditions developing in the world, how does the

“In the ninety-first psalm is a most wonderful description of the com-

“By beholding Christ, by talking of Him, by beholding the loveliness

What is our present responsibility—and why? Isaiah 60:1, 2.

Special Mission Of fering

Please pray for us and remember this finan-

As there was a work of atonement in the typical ser vice, once

d. What work began at the close of the 2300 days’ prophecy?

Why is the investigative judgment necessar y? Ezekiel 18:24.

“Angels keep a faithful record of every man’s work, and as judgment

“None need abandon themselves to discouragement and despair. ❑ Sunday

b. In what way should a knowledge of the investigative judgment

c. Where does the investigative judgment begin—and why?

What blessing is of fered to those whose sins will be blotted

FOR FUR THER STUDY

Now is the time to

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