Sabbath Bible Lessons: All Are Brethren

4/93 October - December 1993
Sabbath Bible Lessons

Senior Division
All re Are Brethren

Sabbath Bible Lessons
All Ye Are Brethren

Lesson Titles Page
1 Fundamental Differences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2 Under the Power of Darkness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3 The Kingdom of Christ 11
4 The Subjects of Christ's Kingdom. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 14
5 Christian Unity 17
6 Identifying the True People of God . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 21
7 Gospel Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 24
8 Leadership............................... 27
9 When Mistakes Are Made 31
10 Helping the Erring Souls 34
11 You Are the Light ofthe World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 37
12 Watching, Praying, and Working. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 40
13 Our Great Responsibility 44
Volume 68 Number 4
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,
FOREWORD
During this quarter we will study a series of lessons under the title, All Ye
Are Brethren. By these words (Matthew 23:8) Christ meant that all who profess
the same faith should understand their mutual relationships and act accordingly
so that the Lord can work .for them and through them.
The principle exalted by Jesus that all ye are brethren is thus explained by
the Spirit of Prophecy:
"The Lord has not qualified anyone of us to bear the burden of the work
alone. He has associated together men of different minds, that they may coun-
sel with and assist one another. In this way the deficiency in the experience and
abilities of one is supplied by the experience and abilities of another. We should
all study carefully the instructions given in Corinthians and Ephesians regard-
ing our relation to one another as members of the body of Christ.
"In our work we must consider the relation that each worker sustains to the
other workers connected with the cause of God. We must remember that others
as well as ourselves have a work to do in connection with this cause. We must
not bar the mind against counsel. In our plans for the carrying forward of the
work, our mind must blend with other minds.
"Let us cherish a spirit of confidence in the wisdom of our brethren. We
must be willing to take advice and caution from our fellow laborers. Connected
with the service of God, we must individually realize that we are parts of a great
whole. We must seek wisdom from God, learning what it means to have a wait-
ing, watching spirit, and to go to our Saviour when tired and depressed.
"It is a mistake to withdraw from those who do not agree with our ideas.
This will not inspire our brethren with confidence in our judgment. It is our du-
ty to counsel with our brethren, and to heed their advice. Weare to seek their
counsel, and when they give it, we are not to cast it away, as if they were our
enemies. Unless we humble our hearts before God, we shall not know His will.
"Let us be determined to be in unity with our brethren. This duty God has
placed upon us. We shall make their hearts glad by following their counsel, and
make ourselves strong through the influence that this will give us. Moreover, if
we feel that we do not need the counsel of our brethren, we close the door of our
usefulness as counselors to them."- Testimonies to Ministers, pp. 499, 500.
"It is those who accept the warnings and cautions given them who will walk
in safe paths. Let not men yield to the burning desire to become great leaders,
or to the desire independently to devise and lay plans for themselves and for the
work of God." -Ibid., p. 501.
" 'Though we have an individual work and an individual responsibility
before God, we are not to follow our own judgment, regardless of the opinions
and feelings of our brethren; for this course would lead to disorder in the
church. It is the duty of ministers to respect the judgment of their brethren; but
their relations to one another, as well as the doctrines they teach, should be
brought to the test of the law and the testimony; then, if hearts are teachable,
there will be no divisions among us.' "-Ibid., p. 503.
These instructions are unfolded in more detail in the present quarterly.
May the Spirit of God enlighten the minds of teachers and students!
- The General Conference Sabbath School Department ~
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Special Project Offering
for Angola
Angola (481,351 square miles; population nearly 10 million as of 1992) is
a Portuguese-speaking country in West Africa. Besides the official language
introduced by the Portuguese settlers in the early 16th century, many local
languages are also spoken.
In recent years the nation of Angola has been devastated by a prolonged
civil war, resulting in much poverty. Due to poor sanitary conditions, ma-
laria, cholera and other types of disease are common among the people. Yet
even in the face of such hardships, the message of reformation has managed
to make its way into that area.
The work in Angola started when a group of concerned Adventists,
shocked at the toleration of open violation of principles, began to advocate
the urgent need for revival and reformation (1983). As they saw the apostasy
growing in the church, they could not hold their peace, but continued "sigh-
ing and crying" aloud (3T 267). Before long, there was a conflict between
these brethren and the leadership. These reform-minded believers were not
willing to compromise the truth. Consequently, they suffered what many others
before them had suffered in other parts of the world-they were put out of
the church (1984). Soon after their disfellowshipment, they got in touch with
the Reform Movement in Portugal and Brazil, from whom they received let-
ters of encouragement and supplies of literature.
A brother engaged in ministerial activities in Portugal visited Angola
and organized the work with the first 32 believers who were ready to be bap-
tized. Before the end of 1992, there were about 200 members and more than
600 people interested in the message of reformation, scattered in some 20
groups throughout the country.
Due to their economic situation, these brethren are still meeting in thatched
huts. They are, nevertheless, encouraged in the truth and determined to pro-
mote the message of reformation. A minister from Brazil, who visited them
in May 1992, and who accepted the call to work in that area, reports that
they are now making plans to start building their first chapel with adjoining
rooms for an office to serve as their headquarters. However, in order to imple-
ment this project, their own sacrifices will not be enough. Thus they are mak-
ing an appeal for help from fellow Sabbath school students around the world.
Dear brethren, please think of the needs of the work in Angola and be pre-
pared to make a real sacrifice when the Special Project Offering is brought to
the Lord on December 25, 1993. Remember: "He that hath pity upon the poor
lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again"
(Proverbs 19:17). The Lord will certainly bless the gifts and the givers.
- The General Conference Sabbath School Department
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Lesson 1 Sabbath, October 2, 1993
FUNDAMENTAL DIFFERENCES
"In the estimation of Heaven, what is it that constitutes greatness? Not that
which the world accounts greatness.... When perverted to self-serving, the
greater the gift, the greater curse it becomes. It is moral worth that God
values. Love and purity are the attributes He prizes most," - The Desire of Ages,
p.219.
KEY TEXT: "At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the
greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" (Matthew 18:1).
o Sunday
TWO OPPOSITE PRINCIPLES September 26
1. What was one of the main differences between Lucifer and Christ? Isaiah
14:12-14; Philippians 2:5-8.
"While Lucifer counted it a thing to be grasped to be equal with God, Christ, the
Exalted One, 'made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a ser-
vant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He
humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.' Phil.
2:7, 8."-The Desire o/Ages, p. 436.
2. What evidence shows that, before their conversion, the disciples were con-
trolled by the very spirit and principle of Satan's kingdom? Luke 9:46.
"Now the cross was just before [Jesus]; and His own disciples were so filled with
self-seeking-the very principle of Satan's kingdom-that they could not enter into
sympathy with their Lord, or even understand Him as He spoke of His humiliation for
them." - The Desire 0/ Ages, p. 436.
"Jesus bears tenderly with [James and John], not rebuking their selfishness in
seeking preference above their brethren." -Ibid., p. 548.
"The spirit of selfishness is the spirit of Satan."- The Acts 0/ the Apostles, p. 339.
o Monday
SELF-SEEKING September 27
3. What is the most significant evidence of selfishness? Proverbs 20: 10; Ro-
mans 2:1.
"Selfishness will require of others that which we are unwilling to give them."-
Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 81.
"Selfishness is the root of all evil." -Evangelism. p. 633.
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4. What does selfishness cause everywhere and also in the church? James 4: 1.
"Selfishness prevents the unity that should exist."- The Youth's Instructor, March
22, 1900.
o Tuesday
"WHO IS THE GREATEST?" September 28
5. When Christ and the disciples were alone in the house at Capernaum, what
question did He put to them? Mark 9:33. What led them to keep silent?
Mark 9:34.
"Shame and self-condemnation kept them silent. Jesus had told them that He
was to die for their sake, and their selfish ambition was in painful contrast to His un-
selfish love."- The Desire of Ages, p. 435.
6. A little later, how did the disciples make known to Jesus the controversy
that was going on among them? Matthew 18: 1.
"That which Christ discerned they could not see. They did not understand the
nature of Christ's kingdom, and this ignorance was the apparent cause of their conten-
tion. But the real cause lay deeper. By explaining the nature of the kingdom, Christ
might for the time have quelled their strife; but this would not have touched the under-
lying cause. Even after they had received the fullest knowledge, any question of prece-
dence might have renewed the trouble. Thus disaster would have been brought to the
church after Christ's departure. The strife for the highest place was the outworking of
that same spirit which was the beginning of the great controversy in the worlds above,
and which had brought Christ from heaven to die."-The Desire of Ages, p. 435.
o Wednesday
TRUE GREATNESS September 29
7. How did Christ try to correct the evil discussed in the previous question?
Matthew 18:2-4.
"Very tenderly, yet with solemn emphasis, Jesus tried to correct the evil. He
showed what is the principle that bears sway in the kingdom of heaven, and in what
true greatness consists, as estimated by the standard of the courts above. Those who
were actuated by pride and love of distinction were thinking of themselves, and of the
rewards they were to have, rather than how they were to render back to God the gifts
they had received. They would have no place in the kingdom of heaven, for they were
identified with the ranks of Satan."- The Desire of Ages, p. 436.
8. When and how did Christ teach the disciples a lesson of humble and self-
denying service? John 13:4, 5, 12-17.
"No one was so exalted as Christ, and yet He stooped to the humblest duty. That
His people might not be misled by the selfishness which dwells in the natural heart,
and which strengthens by self-serving, Christ Himself set the example of humility. He
would not leave this great subject in man's charge. Of so much consequence did He
regard it, that He Himself, One equal with God, acted as servant to His disciples.
While they were contending for the highest place, He to whom every knee shall bow,
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He whom the angels of glory count it honor to serve, bowed down to wash the feet of
those who called Him Lord. He washed the feet of His betrayer.
"In His life and lessons, Christ has given a perfect exemplification of the un-
selfish ministry which has its origin in Cod."-The Desire of Ages, p. 649.
o Thursday
CONVERSION September 30
9. What did the disciples need much more than theoretical and practical in-
struction concerning the nature of Christ's kingdom? What did Christ mean
when He said to them, "Except ye be converted" (Matthew 18:3)? John 3:3.
"It was not enough for the disciples of Jesus to be instructed as to the nature of
His kingdom. What they needed was a change of heart that would bring them into
harmony with its principles. Calling a little child to Him, Jesus set him in the midst of
them; then tenderly folding the little one in His arms He said, 'Except ye be con-
verted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.'
The simplicity, the self-forgetfulness, and the confiding love of a little child are the at-
tributes that Heaven values. These are the characteristics of real greatness." - The
Desire of Ages, p. 437.
10. How can we be converted to the point of overcoming the sin of selfishness
and become likeminded? Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 2:2-5.
"When we see Jesus, a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief, working to
save the lost, slighted, scorned, derided, driven from city to city till His mission was
accomplished; when we behold Him in Cethsemane, sweating great drops of blood,
and on the cross dying in agony-when we see this, self will no longer clamor to be
recognized. Looking unto Jesus, we shall be ashamed of our coldness, our lethargy,
our self-seeking."- The Desire of Ages, p. 439.
o Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS October 1
a. How is the spirit of Satan revealed in contrast to the Spirit of Christ?
b. Name three bitter fruits of selfishness.
c. Like the disciples, why should we be ashamed if found seeking a position of

prominence?
d. How did Jesus handle this problem among the disciples?
e. What example of Jesus has power to subdue our selfishness?

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UNDER THE POWER OF DARKNESS
"The Lord does not sanction arbitrary authority, nor will He serve with the
least selfishness or overreaching. To Him all such practices are abhorrent."-
KEY TEXT: "We know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wicked-
ness" (1 John 5:19).
o Sunday
PAGANISM AND JUDAISM October 3
1. Who holds control of the kingdoms of this world? John 14:30; 1 John 5:19.
What is the basic principle upon which the kingdoms of the world have been
established? Matthew 20:25.
"In the kingdoms of the world, position meant self-aggrandizement. The people
were supposed to exist for the benefit of the ruling classes. Influence, wealth, educa-
tion, were so many means of gaining control of the masses for the use of the leaders.
The higher classes were to think, decide, enjoy, and rule; the lower were to obey and
serve. Religion, like all things else, was a matter of authority. The people were ex-
pected to believe and practice as their superiors directed. The right of man as man, to
think and act for himself, was wholly unrecognized."-The Desire of Ages, p. 550.
2. How far were the leaders of the Jewish nation influenced by the spirit of the
world? Mention three instances confirming the existence of this evil. Mat-
thew 21:23; John 9:13-23; Acts 5:27, 28.
"At the time of the first advent of Christ to our world, the men who composed
the Sanhedrin exercised their authority in controlling men according to their will.
Thus the souls whom Christ had given His life to free from the bondage of Satan were
brought under bondage to him in another form." - Testimonies to Ministers, p. 361.
o Monday
ROMANISM October 4
3. How did Paul predict the development of the mystery of iniquity in the so-
called Christian church? 2 Thessalonians 2:3,5-12. What authority is claimed
by the pope and who is actually behind this claim? 2 Thessalonians 2:4.
"It is one of the leading doctrines of Romanism that the pope is the visible head
of the universal church of Christ, invested with supreme authority over bishops and
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pastors in all parts of the world.... The same claim urged by Satan in the wilderness
of temptation is still urged by him through the Church of Rome, and vast numbers are
ready to yield him homage."-The Great Controversy, p. 50.
4. What is the first evidence that the Lord did not invest any of the apostles
·with superior authority? Luke 22:24.
"God has never given a hint in His word that He has appointed any man to be the
head of the church."-The Great Controversy, p. 51.
"If Jesus had delegated any special authority to one of the disciples above the
others, we should not find them so often contending as to who should be the
greatest."- The Desire of Ages, p. 414.
"If those who are declared to be the successors of Peter had followed his exam-
ple, they would always have been content to remain on an equality with their
brethren."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 195.
D Tuesday
STRIFE FOR SUPREMACY October 5
5. How did James and John reveal that they did not understand the fundamen-
tal principle of the kingdom of God? Matthew 20:21; Mark 10:35-37. Who
is it that inspires all questions of precedence?
"Lucifer desired God's power, but not His character. He sought for himself the
highest place, and every being who is actuated by his spirit will do the same. Thus
alienation, discord, and strife will be inevitable. Dominion becomes the prize of the
strongest. The kingdom of Satan is a kingdom of force; every individual regards
every other as an obstacle in the way of his own advancement, or a steppingstone on
which he himself may climb to a higher place."-The Desire of Ages, pp. 435, 436.
6. How did the other disciples react when they noticed that James and John
were actually striving to be the first? Matthew 20:24. How has this problem
been repeated among believers in the third angel's message?
"God's frown has been brought upon the church on account of individuals with
corrupt hearts being in it. They have wanted to be foremost, when neither God nor
their brethren placed them there. Selfishness and exaltation have marked their
course."- Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 122.
"Many of our people are in danger of trying to exercise a controlling power upon
others and of bringing oppression upon their fellowmen. There is danger that those
who are entrusted with responsibilities will acknowledge but one power, the power of
an unsanctified will. Some have exercised this power unscrupulously and have caused
great discomfiture to those whom the Lord is using. One of the greatest curses in our
world (and it is seen in churches and society everywhere) is the love of supremacy."
-Ibid., vol. 6, p. 397.
D Wednesday
EXCLUSIVISM October 6
7. How did Jesus rebuke the spirit of exclusivism revealed by James and Johp.?
Mark 9:38-40.
"God has not singled out a few men for His favor and left others uncared for. He
will not lift up one and cast down and oppress another. All who are truly converted will
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manifest the same spirit. They will treat their fellowmen as they would treat Christ.
No one will ignore the rights of another."-Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 209.
"Every line of God's work has a connection with every other line. Exclusiveness
cannot exist in an institution where God presides."-Ibid., p. 198.
8. What attitude must we be careful to avoid in our Christian experience?
Isaiah 65:5; 66:5.
"God never designed that one man, or four, or twenty, should take an important
work into their own hands, and carry it forward independently of other workers in the
cause. God wants His people to counsel together, to be a united church, in Christ a
perfect whole."-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 374.
"Let not men yield to the burning desire to become great leaders, or to the desire
independently to devise and lay plans for themselves and for the work of God."-
Testimonies to Ministers, p. 501.
"If they refuse to yoke up with others who have had a long experience in the
work, they will become blinded by self-confidence, not discerning between the false
and the true. It is not safe that such ones should stand in the position of leaders, to
follow their own judgment and plans."-Ibid.
o Thursday
THE KINGLY POWER October 7
9. What system of authority will not be adopted by the people of God? Mat-
thew 23:8 (first part), 9.
"Instead of appointing one to be their head, Christ said to the disciples, 'Be not
ye called Rabbi.' "-The Desire of Ages, p. 414.
"In such plain words the Saviour revealed the selfish ambition that was ever
reaching for place and power."-Ibid., p. 613.
"Organizations, institutions, unless kept by the power of God, will work under
Satan's dictation to bring men under the control of men; and fraud and guile will bear
the semblance of zeal for truth and for the advancement of the kingdom of God....
"They desire to reign and become a power, and, in the effort to justify their prin-
ciples, they adopt the methods of Satan....
"Thus they follow in the track of Romanism....
"Anything that lowers man's conception of righteousness and equity and impar-
tial judgment, any device or precept that brings God's human agents under the con-
trol of human minds, impairs their faith in God, and separates the soul from Him.
"God will not vindicate any device whereby man shall in the slightest degree rule
or oppress his fellowman." - Testimonies, vol. 7, pp. 180, 181.
10. How did Peter warn the believers against the danger discussed in question 9?
1 Peter 5:1-5. How was the Adventist Church warned against this danger?
"God has not set any kingly power in the Seventh-day Adventist Church to con-
trol the whole body or to control any branch of the work." - Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 236.
"Finite men should beware of seeking to control their fellowmen, taking the
place assigned to the Holy Spirit. ... That which makes me feel to the very depths of
my being, and makes me know that their works are not the works of God, is that they
suppose they have authority to rule their fellowmen. The Lord has given them no
more right to rule others than He has given others to rule them."- Testimonies to
Ministers, p. 76.
(Continued on page 20)
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THE KINGDOM OF CHRIST
"The cause of God is free from every taint of injustice. It seeks to gain no ad-
vantage by depriving the members of His family of their individuality or
their rights." - Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 179.
KEY TEXT: "But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant" (Matthew
23:11).
o Sunday
BASIC CONTRAST October 10
1. Why is it impossible to find a similarity between earthly governments and
the kingdom of Christ? Luke 13: 18.
"Worldly men are governed by worldly principles. They can appreciate no other.
Worldly policy and public opinion comprise the principle of action that governs them
and leads them to practice the form of rightdoing. But God's people cannot be governed
by these motives. The words and commands of God, written in the soul, are spirit and
life, and there is power in them to bring into subjection and enforce obedience. The
ten precepts of Jehovah are the foundation of all righteous and good laws."- Tes-
timonies, vol. 1, p. 361.
2. What are some of the basic contrasts between the earthly governments and
the kingdom of Christ? Romans 13:3 (d. Luke 13:1-3); Matthew 5:3-11.
"Earthly governments prevail by physical force; they maintain their dominion by

war; but the founder of the new kingdom is the Prince of Peace. The Holy Spirit rep-
resents worldly kingdoms under the symbol of fierce beasts of prey; but Christ is 'the
Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.' John 1:29. In His plan of gov-
ernment there is no employment of brute force to compel the conscience."-Christ's
Object Lessons, p. 77.
"The government of the kingdom of Christ is like no earthly government. ...
His court is one where holy love presides, and whose offices and appointments are graced
by the exercise of charity. He charges His servants to bring pity and loving-kindness,
His own attributes, into all their office work, and to find their happiness and satisfaction
in reflecting the love and tender compassion of the divine nature on all with whom
they associate."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1111.
o Monday
A NEW ORDER OF THINGS October 11
3. How did Christ explain the basic difference between these two forms of
government? Matthew 20:25-28.
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"Christ was establishing a kingdom on different principles. He called men, not to
authority, but to service....
. "In the king·dom of Christ those are greatest who follow the example He has
given, and act as shepherds of His flock. ...
"In Christ's kingdom there is no lordly oppression, no compulsion of manner.
The angels of heaven do not come to the earth to rule, and to exact homage, but as
messengers of mercy, to cooperate with men in uplifting humanity."-The Desire of
Ages, pp. 550, 55l.
4. W!;lat does it mean to be great in the kingdom of Christ? Matthew 23:11;

Galatians 6:10.
"In [Christ's] kingdom the principle of preference and supremacy has no place.
The only greatness is the greatness of humility. The only distinction is found in devo-
tion to the service of others."- The Desire of Ages, p. 650.
"To be great in God's kingdom is to be a little child in humility, in simplicity of
faith, and in the purity of love. All pride must perish, all jealousy be overcome, all am-
bition for supremacy be given up, and the meekness and trust of the child be encour-
aged."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 130.
D Tuesday
THE CONSTITUTION OF TIlE KINGDOM October 12
5. How did Christ define the basic duties of every Christian? Matthew
5: 17-~O; 22:36-40. Where and when did He open in detail the principles of
the Ten Commandments?
"The great principles of the law, of the very nature of God, are embodied in the
words of Christ on the mount."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 148.
6. What did Christ say about the iJJlportance of practicing the truths taught in
the sermon on the mount? Matthew 7:24-27. What does the Spirit of
Prophecy say about these truths?
"In the lesson of faith that Christ taught on the mount, are revealed the prin-
ciples of true religion. Religion brings man into personal relation with God, but not
exclusively; for the principles of heaven are to be lived out, that they may help and bless
humanity. A true child of God will love Him with all his heart, and his neighbor as him-
self. He will have an interest for his fellowmen." -Sons and Daughters of God, p. 267.
"The truths He taught are no less important to us than to the multitude that
followed Him. We no less than they need to learn the foundation principles of the
kingdom of God."-The Desire of Ages, p. 299.
D Wednesday
E.SSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE KINGDOM October 13
7. How did Christ mention meekness as one of the first qualifications for His
kingdom? Mattbew 5:5. How qoes the Spirit of Prophecy explain this quali-
fication?
"The independence and self-supremacy in which we glory are seen in their true
vileness as tokens of servitude to Satan. Human nature is ever struggling for expres-
sion, real;ly for contest; but he who learns of Christ is emptied of self, of pride, of love of
supreo1aCy, arid there'is silence in' th~ soul. Self is yielded to the disposal of the Holy
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Spirit. Then we are not anxious to have the highest place. We have no ambition to
crowd and elbow ourselves into notice; but we feel that our highest place is at the feet
of our Saviour."- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 15.
8. What does it mean to learn of Christ meekness and humility? Matthew

11:29.
"If we possess the humility of our Master, we shall rise above the slights, the
rebuffs, the annoyances, to which we are daily exposed, and they will cease to cast a
gloom over the spirit. The highest evidence of nobility in a Christian is self-control.
He who under abuse or cruelty fails to maintain a calm and trustful spirit robs God of
His right to reveal in him His own perfection of character. Lowliness of heart is the
strength that gives victory to the followers of Christ; it is the token of their connection
with the courts above." - The Desire of Ages, p. 301.
o Thursday
THE GOLDEN RULE October 14
9. What principle did Christ establish to cover "all the relations of human fel-
lowship?" Matthew 7:12.
"The standard of our obligation to others is found in what we ourselves would

regard as their obligation to us."- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 134.
"The standard of the golden rule is the true standard of Christianity; anything
short of it is a deception."-Ibid., pp. 136, 137.
10. How did Christ repeat, from a negative standpoint, the same truth that He
taught in the golden rule? Matthew 7:1, 2.
"That which we do to others, whether it be good or evil, will surely react upon
ourselves, in blessing or in cursing. Whatever we give, we shall receive again. The
earthly blessings which we impart to others may be, and often are, repaid in kind.
What we give does, in time of need, often come back to us in fourfold measure in the
coin of the realm. But, besides this, all gifts are repaid, even in this life, in the fuller in-
flowing of His love, which is the sum of all heaven's glory and its treasure. And evil
imparted also returns again. Everyone who has been free to condemn or discourage,
will in his own experience be brought over the ground where he has caused others to
pass; he will feel what they have suffered because of his want of sympathy and ten-
derness."- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 136.
o Friday
a. How can we be sure that we are governed by God's principles, and not by
those of the world?
b. What is the characteristic keynote of Christ's kingdom?
c. On what principles is Christ's kingdom founded?
d. Describe the character of a person imbued with the qualities of Christ.
e. How does the standard of Christianity affect human lives, both for good and
for evil?
-13 -
THE SUBJECTS OF CHRIST'S KINGDOM
"Through faith in Christ we become members of the royal family, heirs of

God, and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. In Christ we are one.... All national
distinctions, all sectarian differences are obliterated; all honor of rank, all
pride of caste is lost."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 258.
KEY TEXT: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there
is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus" (Gala-
tians 3:28).
o Sunday
ASSURANCE OF ACCEPTANCE October 17
1. What assurance does Christ give us that we are recognized as members of

the heavenly family? Isaiah 43:1; Matthew 12:49, 50; John 1:12, 13.
"All who would receive Christ by faith were united to Him by a tie closer than
that of human kinship. They would become one with Him, as He was one with the
Father."- The Desire of Ages, p. 325.
"Those who accept Christ as their personal Saviour are not left as orphans, to
bear the trials of life alone. He receives them as members of the heavenly family; He
bids them call His Father their Father." -Ibid., p. 327.
2. On what condition does God recognize us as His people? Jeremiah 31:33;

Romans 8:14 (d. John 16:13, first part).
"To a people in whose hearts His law is written, the favor of God is assured.
They are one with Him." - The Desire of Ages, p. 106.
"[God] has a kingdom prepared, not for disloyal subjects, but for His children
whom He has tested and tried in a world marred and corrupted by sin. As obedient
children, we have the privilege of relationship with God."-The SDA Bible Commentmy
[E.G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1077.
"Obedience to the commandments of God gives us a right to the privileges of His
church."-Ibid., vol. 7, p. 1079.
o Monday
CONDITIONS October 18
3. How will the true people of God relate to the world? 1 John 2:15, 16.
"Christians are to keep themselves distinct and separate from the world, its
spirit, and its influences. God is fully able to keep us in the world, but we are not to be
of the world." -Prophets and Kings, p. 59.
-14 -
"A profession of Christianity is nothing in the sight of God; but true, humble,
willing obedience to His requirements designates the children of His adoption, the re-
cipients of His grace, the partakers of His great salvation."-Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 441.
4. In what sense are the people of God a peculiar people? 1 Peter 2:9; Titus
2:13, 14; 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.
"Christ's followers are required to come out from the world, and be separate,
and touch not the unclean, and they have the promise of being the sons and daughters
of the Most High, members of the royal family....
"Such will be peculiar, a spectacle unto the world, to angels, and to men. Their
peculiar, holy character will be discernible, and will distinctly separate them from the
world, from its affections and lusts."- Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 441.
o Tuesday
OUR CREDENTIALS October 19
5. What credentials do the people of God bear before the universe? Ezekiel
11:19,20; John 13:34, 35.
"The church is firmly and decidedly to hold her principles before the whole
heavenly universe and the kingdoms of the world; steadfast fidelity in maintaining the
honor and sacredness of the law of God will attract the notice and admiration of even
the world, and many will, by the good works which they shall behold, be led to glorify
our Father in heaven. The loyal and true bear the credentials of heaven, not of earthly
potentates."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 17.
"[God's] followers are to bear, as their credentials to the world, the ineffaceable
characteristics of His immortal principles."-The Ministry of Healing, p. 37.
"The very best credentials we can carry is love for one another."- The SDA Bible
Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 5, pp. 1099, 1l00.
6. Besides love for one another and loyalty to the eternal principles of truth,
what other credentials will be carried by the people of God? John 17:21.
"When men are bound together, not by force or self-interest, but by love, they
show the working of an influence that is above every human influence. Where this
oneness exists, it is evidence that the image of God is being restored in humanity, that
a new principle of life has been implanted."- The Desire of Ages, p. 678.
o Wednesday
MUTUAL RECOGNITION October 20
7. Whom do we have to recognize on earth if we want to be recognized as

members of the family of God in heaven? 1 Corinthians 12:20-25; 1 John
4:20,21; 5:1.
"All who are found worthy to be counted as the members of the family of God in
heaven, will recognize one another as sons and daughters of God. They will realize
that they all receive their strength and pardon from the same source, even from Jesus
Christ who was crucified for their sins."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 259.
"Christ is the center to which all should be attracted; for the nearer we approach
the center, the closer we shall come together in feeling, in sympathy, in love, growing
into the character and image of Jesus. With God there is no respect of persons."-
Ibid.
-15 -
"It is [God's] plan that every part of His work shall depend on every other part,
as a wheel within a wheel, all acting in harmony."-The Desire of Ages, pp. 822, 823.
8. How did Christ set forth the principle of mutual recognition? Matthew 23:8
(last part). In what sense is ecclesiastical superiority excluded?
" 'All ye are brethren' will be the sentiment of every child of faith. When the
followers of Christ are one with Him, there will be no first and last, no less respected
or less important ones. A blessed brotherly fellowship one with another will bind all
who truly receive the Lord Jesus Christ in a firm loyalty that cannot be broken. All
will be equally one with Christ."- The sDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol.
5, p. 1098.
"By these words [in Matthew 23:8] Christ meant that no man is to place his
spiritual interest under another as a child is guided and directed by his earthly father.
This has encouraged a spirit to desire ecclesiastical superiority." -Ibid.
D Thursday
ONE BROTHERHOOD October 21
9. What kind of brotherhood did Christ establish? Galatians 3:26, 28.
"Christ came to this earth with a message of mercy and forgiveness. He laid the
foundation for a religion by which Jew and Gentile, black and white, free and bond,
are linked together in one common brotherhood, recognized as equal in the sight of
God."-Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 225.
"Whoever of the human family give themselves to Christ, whoever hear the
truth and obey it, become children of one family."-selected Messages, book 2, p. 342.
10. How is the oneness of this brotherhood described? Ephesians 2:17, 18; 4:1-6.
"Those who were actuated by pride and love of distinction were thinking of
themselves, and of the rewards they were to have, rather than how they were to
render back to God the gifts they had received. They would have no place in the
kingdom of heaven, for they were identified with the ranks of Satan." - The Desire of
Ages, p. 436.
"At the feet of Jesus all ... distinctions are forgotten. The rich and the poor, the
learned and the ignorant, meet together, with no thought of caste or worldly pre- I
eminence."-Ibid., p. 437. .
"In the sight of God all are on an equality, and to the Creator every human being
owes supreme allegiance."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 238.
"Let us as Christians who accept the principle that all men, white and black, are
free and equal, adhere to this principle. "-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 343.
D Friday
a. On what basis can I have assurance that I am a child of God?

b. Describe the peculiarities of Christ's true followers.
c. How can I prove that my Christianity is genuine?
d. If I am a real follower of Christ, what will be my attitude toward all others in
the church?
e. When we come into fellowship through Christ, what things are forgotten or
obliterated? •
-16 -
CHRISTIAN UNITY
"The members of the church need now to confess their backslidings and
press together. My brethren, allow nothing to come in that will separate you
from one another or from God. Talk not of differences of opinion, but unite
in the love of the truth as it is in Jesus." - Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 11, 12.
KEY TEXT: "If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one
with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from
all sin" (1 John 1:7).
D Sunday
BARRIERS BROKEN DOWN October 24
1. What barriers hindered the gospel work to some extent in the early days of
Christianity? John 4:7-9; Acts 6:1; 11:1-3. Wherever these barriers exist;
what does Christ want to do, with the help of His followers? Ephesians
2:12-14.
"The spirit which built up the partition wall between Jew and Gentile is still ac-
tive. Pride and prejudice have built strong walls of separation between different
classes of men. Christ and His mission have been misrepresented, and multitudes feel
that they are virtually shut away from the ministry of the gospel. But let them not feel
that they are shut away from Christ. There' are no barriers which man or Satan can
erect but that faith can penetrate."- The Desire of Ages, p. 403.
"Christ tears away the wall of partition, the dividing prejudice of nationality, and
teaches a love for all the human family. He lifts men from the' narrow circle which
their selfishness prescribes; He abolishes all territorial lines and artificial distinctions
of society. He makes no difference between neighbors and strangers, friends and
enemies. He teaches us to look upon every needy soul as our brother, and the world
/
as our field."-Ibid., p. 823.
2. What principle exalts the Christian culture? Ephesians 2:19; Romans

10:12.' ,
"Caste is hateful to God. He ignores everything of this character. In His sight the
souls of all men are of equal value."- The Desire of Ages, p. 403.
, "Men may converse as equal men.... God would h,we you work with your fel-
lowmen with this idea in view, that they are human like yourself, subject to tempta-
tion,s; and you are to meet them on equal grourid."-Unpublished MiI,nuscl-ipt Testimonies,
p.63.
~ 17-
D Monday
UNITY IN DIVERSITY October 25
3. How will a true Christian act when in contact with different nationalities
and cultures? 1 Corinthians 9:19, 20.
"Weare instructed by our Lord to work in such a way that all classes will be
reached."-Medical Ministry, p. 327.
"The worker in foreign fields will come in contact with all classes of people and
all varieties of minds, and he will find that different methods of labor are required to
meet the needs of the people. A sense of his own inefficiency will drive him to God
and to the Bible for light and strength and knowledge."-Gospel Workers, p. 468.
4. What rule should we follow in matters of conscience while abiding by a

"thus saith the Lord"? Romans 14:12, 13.
"There are rights which belong to every individual. We have an individuality and
an identity that is our own. No one can submerge his identity in that of any other. All
must act for themselves, according to the dictates of their own conscience."- Testi-
monies to Ministers, p. 422.
"In matters of conscience the soul must be left untrammeled. No one is to con-
trol another's mind, to judge for another, or to prescribe his duty. God gives to every
soul freedom to think, and to follow his own convictions."-The Desire of Ages, p. 550.
UNITY WITH CHRIST D Tuesday

ON THE BASIS OF THE TRUTH October 26
5. How does connection with Christ promote unity in diversity? John 15:1-12.
"The secret of true unity in the church and in the family is not diplomacy, not
management, not a superhuman effort to overcome difficulties-though there will be
much of this to do-but union with Christ."-The Adventist Home, p. 179.
"The branches in the True Vine are the believers who are brought into oneness
by connection with the Vine."- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 5,
p.1143.
"The branches of the vine cannot blend into each other; they are individually
separate; yet every branch must be in fellowship with every other if they are united in
the same parent stock. They all draw nourishment from the same source; they drink
in the same life-giving properties. So each branch of the True Vine is separate and ,
. I
distinct, yet all are bound together in the parent stock. There can be no division. They iI
are all linked together by His will to bear fruit wherever they can find place and op-
portunity." -Ibid. I
6. How does obedience to the truth promote unity among the followers of
Christ? 1 John 1:7.
"Those who are drinking from the same fountain of blessing will draw nearer
together, Truth dwelling in the hearts of believers will lead to blessed and happy
assimilation. Thus will be answered the prayer of Christ that His disciples might be
one even a$ He is one with the Father. For this oneness every truly converted heart
will be striving."-Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 100, 101.
-18 -
"Those who keep the law of God will be one with Him in the great controversy
commenced in heaven between Satan and God. "-Selected Messages, book 2, p. 160.
o Wednesday
UNITY WITH THE BODY October 27
7. In what sense does Christ demand unity with the body? 1 Corinthians 1:10.
"Christ is leading out a people, and bringing them into the unity of the faith, that
they may be one, as He is one with the Father. Differences of opinion must be yielded,
that all may come into union with the body, that they may have one mind and one
judgment."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 324.
"If all had sought to be in union with the body, the fanaticism which has brought
so deep a stain upon the cause of present truth ... would not have arisen; for it is the
result of drawing off from the body, and seeking to have an original, independent
faith, regardless of the faith of the body."-Ibid., p. 327.
8. How does Satan try to destroy the unity of the body? What God·given rule
must be observed, especially in the election of church leaders, to stop Satan
from dividing the church? Romans 15:5,6.
"The oneness and unity of God's truth-believing remnant people carries power-
ful conviction to the world that they have the truth, and are the peculiar, chosen peo-
ple of God. This oneness and unity disconcerts the enemy, and he is determined that
it shall not exist."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 327.
"Satan has used as agents individuals professing to believe a part of present
truth, while they were warring against a part. Such he can use more successfully than
those who are at war with all our faith. "-Ibid. , p. 326.
"The present truth is not difficult to be understood, and the people whom God is
leading will be united upon this broad, firm platform. He will not use individuals of
different faith, opinions, and views, to scatter and divide. "-Ibid.
D Thursday
A CAUSE·AND·EFFECT RELATIONSHIP October 28
9. What fundamental principle must be respected in the interest of unity? Mat-

I thew 7:12. What other rule should never be overlooked? 1 Corinthians 14:40.
"The secret of unity is found in the equality of believers in Christ." -Selected

Messages, book 1, p. 259.
"Those who have the unction from on high will in all their efforts encourage
/ order, discipline, and union of action, and then the angels of God can cooperate with
them."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 28.
10. What conditions will attend the oneness and love of the remnant church? 1
Peter 3:8,9; Romans 13:13. How will the Lord recognize this blessed one-
ness? Hosea 6:1,3.
"When the laborers have an abiding Christ in their own souls, when all selfish-
ness is dead, when there is no rivalry, no strife for the supremacy, when oneness ex-
ists, when they sanctify themselves, so that love for one another is seen and felt, then
the showers of the grace of the Holy Spirit will just as surely come upon them as that
God's promise will never fail in one jot or tittle. "-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 175.
-19 -
o Friday
TlIOUGlIT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS October 29
a.' What does Christ do with national, racial, and sociological distinctions?
b, How are we as Christians to relate to our brethren whose cultural customs

differ from our own?
c. For what goal will every converted heart be striving?
d. What are some of S!ltan's tactics to spoil church unity?
e. How can we be sure that unity in the remnant church is really possible?
Wh~Q will
it happen? •
1:1 * 1:1 * 1:1 * 1:1
(Continued from page 10)

"Thpse whom God has placed in positions of responsibility should never seek to
exalt themselves or to turn the attention of men to their work. They must give all the
glory to God. They m'ust not seek for power that they may lord it over God's heritage;
for only those who are under the rule of Satan will do this."-Ibid., pp. 279, 280.
o Friday
TQ;OUGijT AND ~EVI~W QUE:STIONS October 8
a. Despib~"the sYstem by. Which worldly kingd,oms operate. \'
b. How Qoes the papal syste~ contrast with tile gospel order established by I
Ghrist? ' .
c. To what d~ngerous pitfall might wt:' l~ke thl'l early disciples, easily be sub-
ject? . '" ' ". . .
Wh~t warnings do~s God give against tbespirit of exclusiveness and in-
qep.eOQeQce ~moll~ 'the beFe~~rs? . '.',. . .
e., . 119'Y c.an C"!u'cll officers, iostit~tio~ljl,~nd orgjlni,zatiops be guilty of nullify-
blgGod's~ridorsement'of thei.r Jabors?
; •. ', • . ' ',I .'. ~" _ .~ '.' . • • ',_ ", .: • - • -, -
' . •
-?O ~
Lesson 6 Sabbath, November 6, 1993
IDENTIFYING
THE TRUE PEOPLE OF GOD
"The calling and character of God's people are peculiar, their prospects are
peculiar, and these peculiarities distinguish them from all other people."-
Testimonies, voL 1, p. 283.
KEY TEXT: "Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue
in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed" (John 8:31).
o Surtday
CRITERION OF IDENTIFICATION October 31
1. What criterion has God used, from the Very beginning, to identify His
church on earth? Exodus 19:5,6; Leviticus 26:3, 12; Jeremiah 11:4 (last part).
"From the beginnirtg, faithful souls have constituted the church on earth."-The
Acts of the Apostles, p. 11.
"Where two or three are present who love and obey the commandments of God,
Jesus there presides, let it be in the desolate place of the earth, in the wilderness, in
the city enclosed in prison walls."- The Upward Look, p. 315.
2. Upon what principle does the apostolic succession rest? Matthew 3:9; John
) 8:39; Romans 9:6....8.
(
"A mere lineal descent from Abraham was of no value. Without a spiritual con-
nection with him, which would be manifested in possessing the same spirit, and doing
the same works, they were not his children.
"This principle bears with equal weight upon a question that has long agitated
the Christian world-the question of apostolic succession. Descent from Abraham
was proved, not by rtame and lineage, but by likeness of character. So the apostolic
succession rests not upon the trartsmissiort of ecclesiastical authority, but upon spiri-
tual relationship. A life actuated by the apostles' spirit, the belief and teaching of the
truth they taught, this is the true evidence of apostolic succession. This is what consti:
tutes meri the successors ofthe first teachers of the gospel."- The Desire of Ages, p. 467.
o Monday
CRITERION OF IDtNTIFICATlbN (continued) Noveinber 1
3. By what standard will the true people of God be distinguishedfrom the rest'
of the so-called Christian world? Isaiah 8:20; Matthew 7:21; John 8:31.
- 21-
"Obedience is the test of discipleship. It is the keeping of the commandments
that proves the sincerity of our professions of love. When the doctrine we accept kills
sin in the heart, purifies the soul from defilement, bears fruit unto holiness, we may
know that it is the truth of God. When benevolence, kindness, tenderheartedness,
sympathy, are manifest in our lives; when the joy of right doing is in our hearts; when
we exalt Christ, and not self, we may know that our faith is of the right order."-
Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pp. 146, 147.
4. How can we be sure to have the presence of Christ with us? John 14:23; 1
John 2:6; 3:24.
"God has a church. It is not the great cathedral, neither is it the national estab-
lishment, neither is it the various denominations; it is the people who love God and
keep His commandments. 'Where two or three are gathered together in my name,
there am I in the midst of them' (Matt. 18:20). Where Christ is even among the hum-
ble few, this is Christ's church, for the presence of the High and Holy One who in-
habiteth eternity can alone constitute a church."- The Upward Look, p. 315.
"To the end of time the presence of the Spirit is to abide with the true church."-
The Acts of the Apostles, p. 55.
o Tuesday
UNMISTAKABLE EVIDENCES November 2
5. On what evidence can true Christians be distinguished from false Chris-

tians? James 3:13-18.
"When we see men firm in principle, fearless in duty, zealous in the cause of
God, yet humble and lowly, gentle and tender, patient toward all, ready to forgive,
manifesting love for souls for whom Christ died, we do not need to inquire: Are they
Christians? They give unmistakable evidence that they have been with Jesus and
learned of Him. When men reveal the opposite traits, when they are proud, vain,
frivolous, worldly-minded, avaricious, unkind, censorious, we need not be told with
whom they are associating, who is their most intimate friend. They may not believe in
witchcraft; but, notwithstanding this, they are holding communion with an evil
spirit." - Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 224, 225.
6. What further evidence will be shown by the true followers of Christ? Micah
6:8; Ephesians 5:9, 15, 21; Philippians 4:8.
"All who became the subjects of Christ's kingdom, [John the Baptist] said,
would give evidence of faith and repentance. Kindness, honesty, and fidelity would be
seen in their lives. They would minister to the needy, and bring their offerings to God.
They would shield the defenseless, and give an example of virtue and compassion. So
the followers of Christ will give evidence of the transforming power of the Holy
Spirit. In the daily life, justice, mercy, and the love of God will be seen. Otherwise
they are like the chaff that is given to the fire."-The Desire of A"es, p. 107.
o Wednesday
THE MISSION OF CHRIST/OUR MISSION November 3
7. What was the mission of Christ on earth? Acts 10:38; Luke 4:18, 19.
"Christ went about doing good, and when men are united with Him, they love
the children of God, and meekness and truth guide their footsteps. The expression of
- 22-
the countenance reveals their experience, and men take knowledge of them that they
have been with Jesus and learned of Him. Christ and the believer become one, and
His beauty of character is revealed in those who are vitally connected with the Source
of power and love."-Selected Messages, book 1, p. 398.
8. Through which parable did Christ teach the nature of true religion? Luke
10:30-37. How are we to fulfill our mission? 1 Corinthians 2:16 (last part);
1 Peter 2:21 (last part); Luke 6:27-35.
"In the story of the good Samaritan, Christ illustrates the nature of true religion.
He shows that it consists not in systems, creeds, or rites, but in the performance of
loving deeds, in bringing the greatest good to others, in genuine goodness."-The
Desire of Ages, p. 497.
o Thursday
HEIRS OF SALVATION November 4
9. What work will decide our eternal destiny in the judgment day? Isaiah 58:7,
8; Matthew 25:34-40; James 1:27.
"[Christ] is the Son of man, and thus a brother to every son and daughter of
Adam. His followers are not to feel themselves detached from the perishing world
around them. They are a part of the great web of humanity; and Heaven looks upon
them as brothers to sinners as well as to saints. The fallen, the erring, and the sinful,
Christ's love embraces; and every deed of kindness done to uplift a fallen soul, every
act of mercy, is accepted as done to Him."-The Desire of Ages, p. 638.
"All who have been born into the heavenly family are in a special sense the
brethren of our Lord. The love of Christ binds together the members of His family,
and wherever that love is made manifest there the divine relationship is revealed."
-Ibid.
10. When shall we know who the heirs of salvation are? Matthew 24: 13; Revela-
tion 21:7. How are we to understand the statement that "God is no re-
specter of persons"? Romans 2:11; 1 Corinthians 12:25.
"The angels of heaven are sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of
salvation. We know not now who they are; it is not yet made manifest who shall over-
come, and share the inheritance of the saints in light; but angels of heaven are passing
throughout the length and breadth of the earth, seeking to comfort the sorrowing, to
protect the imperiled, to win the hearts of men to Christ. Not one is neglected or passed
by. God is no respecter of persons, and He has an equal care for all the souls He has
created." - The Desire of Ages, p. 639.
o Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS NovemberS
a. Who are the children of Abraham?
b. How do we know that the doctrine we accept is of God?
c. Compare the character traits of true Christians with those whose profes-
sion is counterfeit.
d. How can I follow in the footsteps of Christ, and live out His mission to my
fellowmen?
e. What is my obligation to the great web of humanity?
•
- 23-
GOSPEL ORDER
"Unless the churches are so organized that they can carry out and enforce
order, they have nothing to hope for in the future; they must scatter into
fragments." - Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 270.
KEY TEXT: "Now hath God set the members everyone of them in the body, as it
hath pleased him" (1 Corinthians 12:18).
o Sunday
WRONG CONCEPTS OF AUTHORITY November 7
1. What warning stands for those who are inclined to ignore the voice of the
church and act according to their own ideas? Romans 16:17, 18.
"Christ and His church are inseparable. To neglect or despise those whom God
has appointed to lead out and to bear the responsibilities connected with His work and
with the advancement and spread of the truth is to reject the means which God has or-
dained for the help, encouragement, and strength of His people. To pass these by and
think your light must come through no other channel than directly from God places
you in a position where you are liable to deception and to be overthrown."-Testimo-
nies, vol. 3, pp. 418, 419.
2. What is the evidence that God never intended to vest much authority in one
man or in a small group of men? 1 Corinthians 12:28.
"Never should the mind of one man or the minds 6f a few men be regarded as
sufficient in wisdom and power to control the work and to say what plans shall be
followed ....
"The error that some are in danger of committing is in giving to the mind and
judgment of one man, or of a small group of men, the full measure of authority and in-
fluence that God has vested in His church."- Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 260, 261.
"Christ in His earthly life gave an example that all can safely follow. He ap-
preciates His flock, and He wants no power set over th:em that will restrict their
freedom in His service. He has never placed man as a ruler over His heritage. True Bible
religion will lead to self-control, not to control of one another.; ,-Ibid., pp. 275, 276.
- 24-
o Monday
TaE CHURCH A UNITED WHOLE November 8
3. What scriptural evidence shows that the church of God is an organized body,
a united whole? 1 Corinthians 10:17; 12:18; Colossians 2:19; Ephesians 4:16.
"The figure of the members which compose the body represents the church of
God and the relation its members should sustain to one another."- The SDA Bible Com-
mentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1091.
4. What principle of authority was recognized by Paul and Peter? Ephesians

5:21; 1 Peter 5:5.
"Notwithstanding the fact that Paul was personally taught by God, he had no
strained ideas of individual responsibility. While looking to God for direct guidance,
he was ~ver ready to recognize the authority vested in the body of believers united in
church fellowship. He felt the need of counsel, and when matters of importance arose,
he was glad to lay these before the church and to unite with his brethren in seeking
God for wisdom to make right decisions.... With Peter, he taught that all united in
church capacity should be 'subject one to another.' 1 Peter 5:5."-The Acts of the
Apostles, p. 200.
"In His providence [God] places His servants in close connection with His church
in order that they may have less confidence in themselves and greater confidence in
others whom He is leading out to advance His work."-Ibid., p. 163.
o Tuesday
"ALL THE MEMBERS" FORM ONE BODY November 9
5. Whose voice should we recognize as the highest authority on earth? Mat-

thew 18:17.
"The church is God's delegated authority upon earth.... It is the want of defer-
ence for the opinions of the church that causes so much trouble among brethren.
. . . God has placed a voice in the church which must control its members."- Testi-
monies, vol. 5, pp. 107, 108.
"He who despises the authority of the church despises the authority of Christ
,I Himself."-The Desire of Ages, p. 806.
Ii
\ 6. What proportion of the membership does the mystic body of Christ com-
prise? 1 Corinthians 12:12. How can you prove that the authority of the
church is the combined atithorityof all of its members?
"Christ gives power to the voice of the church.... No such thing is countenanced
as one man's starting out upon his own individual responsibility and advocating what
views he chooses, irrespective of the judgment of the church. God has bestowed the
highest power under heaven upon His church. It is the voice of God in His united peo-
ple in church capacity which is to be respected."-Testimonies, vol. 3, pp. 450, 451.
. "As all the different members of the human system unite to form the entire
body, and each· performs its office in obedience to the intelligence that governs the
whole, so the members of the church of Christ should be united in one symmetrical
b6CJ.y, subjeCt to the sanctified intelligence of the whole." -Ibid.. vol. 4, p. 16.
- 25-
IMPORTANT DISTINCTIONS o Wednesday
AND RESPONSIBILITIES November 10
7. How and for what purpose was the church of Christ organized? Mark 3: 13,
14; Ephesians 4: 11, 12. What distinctions should we make when we use the
term "General Conference"?
a) "The General Conference is the joint connection of all Union Conferences,

and hence of the entire denomination in general." -Principles of Faith and Church Order,
Part III, Section D.
b) "God has ordained that the representatives of His church from all parts of the
earth, when assembled in a General Conference, shall have authority."-Testimonies,
vol. 9, p. 261.
c) "When a small group of men entrusted with the general management of the
work have, in the name of the General Conference, sought to carry out unwise plans
and to restrict God's work, I have said that I could no longer regard the voice of the
General Conference, represented by these few men, as the voice of God."-Testimo-
nies, vol. 9, pp. 260, 261.
8. Specify two of the most important responsibilities which belong to the Gen-
eral Conference delegation in session. Acts 15:1,6; 1:15,21-26.
a) "When dissension arose in a local church, as later it did arise in Antioch and
elsewhere, and the believers were unable to come to an agreement among them-
selves, such matters were not permitted to create a division in the church, but were
referred to a general council of the entire body of believers, made up of appointed
delegates from the various local churches, with the apostles and elders in positions of
leading responsibility. Thus the efforts of Satan to attack the church in isolated places
were met by concerted action on the part of all." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 96.
"The greater the responsibilities placed upon the human agent, and the larger
his opportunities to dictate and control, the more harm he is sure to do if he does not
carefully follow the way of the Lord and labor in harmony with the decisions arrived
at by the general body of believers in united council." -Ibid., p. 199.
b) "Every conference, every institution, every church, and every individual,
either directly or through representatives, has a voice in the election of the men who bear
the chief responsibilities in the General Conference."-Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 236, 237.
o Thursday
THE IMPORTANCE OF GOSPEL ORDER November 11
9. Why is it so important to distinguish between right and wrong concepts as
discussed in this lesson? 1 Corinthians 14:33,40.
"[God] requires that order and system be observed in the conduct of church af-
fairs today no less than in the days of old. He desires His work to be carried forward
with thoroughness and exactness so that He may place upon it the seal of His ap-
proval. Christian is to be united with Christian, church with church, the human in-
strumentality cooperating with the divine, every agency subordinate to the Holy
Spirit, and all combined in giving to the world the good tidings of the grace of God."-
The Acts of the Apostles, p. 96.
10. How are impostors to be shut out through the correct application of the
principles of gospel order? John 10:1, 5; Revelation 2:2 (last part).
- 26-
LEADERSHIP
"God wants minutemen. He will have men who, when important decisions
are to be made, are as true as the needle to the pole; men whose special and
personal interests are swallowed up, as were our Saviour's, in the one great
general interest for the salvation of souls." - Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 505.
KEY TEXT: "I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the
profit of many, that they may be saved" (1 Corinthians 10:33).
oSunday
THE ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS November 14
1. What rule did Christ establish for leadership and ministry in the church?
Luke 22:26,27.
"A man may render effective service for God although he is not the head or the
heart of the body of Christ. The service represented in the word of God by that of the
hand or the foot, though lowly, is nevertheless important. It is not the greatness of the
work, but the love with which it is done, the motive underlying the action, that deter-
mines its worth. There is work to be done for our neighbors and for those with whom
we associate. We have no liberty to cease our patient, prayerful labors for souls as
long as any are out of the ark of safety. There is no release in this war. We are
soldiers of Christ, and are under obligation to watch lest the enemy gain the advan-
tage and secure to his service souls that we might win to Christ." - Testimonies, vol. 5, p.
279.
2. How should we understand the question that Christ, after His resurrection,
put to Peter? John 21:15-17.
"The question that Christ had put to Peter was significant. He mentioned only
one condition of discipleship and service. 'Lovest thou Me?' He said. This is the es-
sential qualification. Though Peter might possess every other, yet without the love of
Christ he could not be a faithful shepherd over the Lord's flock. Knowledge, benevo-
lence, eloquence, gratitude, and zeal are all aids in the good work; but without the
love of Jesus in the heart, the work of the Christian minister is a failure." - The Desire
of Ages, p. 815.
- 27-
o Monday
STRIViNG TO BE A CONQUEROR November 15
3. What attitude will characterize a true Christian leader? Mark 10:44.
"When a burden bearer desires wisdom more than he desires wealth, power, or
fame, he will not be disappointed. Such a one will learn from the Great Teacher not
only what to do, but how to do it in a way that will meet with the divine approval.
"So long as he remains consecrated, the man whom God has endowed with dis-
.cernment and ability will not manifest an eagerness for high position, neither will he
seek to rule or control. Of necessity men must bear responsibilities; but instead of
striving for the supremacy, he who is a true leader will pray for an understanding
heart, to discern between good and evil."-Prophets and Kings, p. 31.
4. How will a competent leader strive to be a conqueror over self? James 4:6,
7,10.
"the path of men who are placed as leaders is not an easy one. But they are to
see in every difficulty a call to prayer. Never are they to fail of consulting the great
Source of all wisdom. Strengthened and enlightened by the Master Worker, they will
be enabled to sta!'J.d firm against unholy influences and to discern right from wrong,
good from evil." -Prophets and Kings, p. 31.
"Men of might and power in this cause, whom God will use to His glory, are
those who have been opposed, baffled, and thwarted in their plans."- Testimonies, vol.
3, p. 494.
o Tuesday
THE MINISTRY OF PAUL November 16
5. By what principles was Paul guided in his ministry? 1 Corinthians 9:19, 22,
23; 10:33; 11:1.
"Paul's heart burned with a love fOf souls, and he gave all his energies for the
conversion of men. There never lived a more self-denying, earnest, persevering
worker. His life was Christ; he worked the works of Christ. All the blessings he
received were prized as $0 many advantages to be used in blessing others."- The SDA
Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 6, pp. 1112, 1113.
"The eight-hour system finds no place in the program of the minister of God. He
must' hold :himself in readiness for serviCe at any hour." -Gospel Workers, p. 451.
6. How did Paul combat the spirit of favoritism? 1 Corinthians 3:1-7.
"There can be no stronger evidence in churches that the truths of the Bible have
riot sanctified the receivers than their attachment to some favorite minister, and their
unwillirigness to acc'ept and be profited by the labors of some other teacher who is
sent to 'them in the providence of God. The Lord sends help to His church as they
need, not as they choose; f,or shortsighted mortals cannot discern what is for their
best good. It is seldom that one minister has all the qualifications necessary to perfect
any one ¢hur~h in ali the requirements of Christianity; therefore God sends other
ministers 'to follow hiin,one after another, each one possessing some qualifications in
which;theothers wete deficient.
, "The church should gratefully accept these servants of Christ, even as they
,would accept their Master. Himself. They should seek to derive all the benefit possible
from the instruction which ministers may give them from the Word of God."- the
SDA Bible Cominentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1086.
-28 -
o Wednesday
THE MINISTRY OF PAUL (continued) November 17
7. How did Paul act when there was not enough tithe income to cover the
wages of all the workers? 1 Corinthians 9:11-18; 2 Corinthians 11:7-9;
Acts 18:3.
"Paul did not vacillate. He was established and grounded inthe faith. But as far
as possible he sought to make himself one with those for whom he labored...
"As a gospel minister, it was Paul's privilege to claim a support from those for
whom he labored. But though he became the servant of all, yet he worked with his
hands to support himself, that none might find occasion to charge him with selfish-
ness. He did not receive wages for his labor, though as a minister of the gospel this
was his right. Thus he made it evident that he was working for souls, not for money."
- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1088.
8. In his teachings, how did Paul exalt the true spirit of Christianity? 1 Corin-
thians 16:14; Romans 12:14-21. What does the Spfrit of Prophecy say on
this point?
"I saw that many prayed for God to humble them; but if God should answer their
prayers, it would be by terrible things in righteousness. It was their duty to humble
themselves. I saw that if self-exaltation was suffered to cOme in, it would surely lead
souls astray, and if not overcome would prove their ruin. When one begins to get
lifted up in his own eyes and thinks he can do something, the Spjrit of God is
withdrawn, and he goes on in his own strength until he is overthroWl\. I saw that one
saint, if he were right, could move the arm of God; but a multitude tQgether, if they
were wrong, would be weak and could effect nQthing.
"Many have unsubdued, unhumbled hearts, and think more of their own little
grievances and trials than of the souls of sinners. If they had the glory of God in vjew,
they would feel for perishing souls around them." -Early Writings, p. 120,
"If pride and selfishness were laid aside, five minutes would remove most diffi·
culties." -Ibid., p. 119.
o Thursday
A LESSON FROM SOLOMON'S PRAYER November is
9. What is significant about the prayer of Solomon? 1 Kings 3:7-9.
"Those who today occupy positions of trust should seek to learn the lesson
taught by Solomon's prayer. The higher the position a man occupies, the greater the
responsibility that he has to bear, the wider will be the influence that he exerts and
the greater his need of dependence on God. Ever should he remember that with the
call to work comes the call to walk circumspect.lybefore his felloWmen. He is to stand
before God in the attitude of a learner. Position does not give holiness' of character. It
is by honoring God and obeying HIS commands that it man is made truly 'gre.at."-
Prophets and Kings, pp. 30, 31. .
10. What will happen when those who have positiqns of trust in the. cljuxch turn
to the only right source in search of Wisdom? ~al1les 1:5. '
"The God whom we serve is no respecter of persons. He who gave to ,S<;>lomon

the spirit of wise discernment is willing to impart the same blessing to His children to·
day."-Prophets dnd Kings, p. 31. '. .,.' '" . '
.,.;.. 29-
"Men who are content to let others plan and do their thinking for them are not fully
developed. If they were left to plan for themselves they would be found judicious, close-
calculating men. But when brought into connection with God's cause, it is entirely
another thing to them; they lose this faculty almost altogether. They are content to re-
main as incompetent and inefficient as though others must do the planning and much
of the thinking for them. Some men appear to be utterly unable to hew out a path for
themselves. Must they ever rely upon others to do their planning and their studying,
and to be mind and judgment for them? God is ashamed of such soldiers. He is not
honored by their having any part to act in His work while they are mere machines."-
D Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS November 19
a. What is the essential qualification for effective service for God?
b. Describe the qualities of a God-fearing leader.
c. Why is it advisable to periodically transfer workers from place to place?
d. What can I learn from the example of Paul?
e. How is the prayer of Solomon applicable to each one of us? •
* * * * * * *
"Men whose lives are not holy and who are unqualified to teach the present truth
enter the field without being acknowledged by the church or the brethren generally,
and confusion and disunion are the result."-Early Writings, p. 97.
"If unmistakable evidence is not given that God has called them, and that the
'woe' is upon them if they heed not this call, it is the duty of the church to act and let it
be known that these persons are not acknowledged as teachers by the church. This is
the only course the church can take in order to be clear in this matter, for the burden
lies upon them.
"I saw that this door at which the enemy comes in to perplex and trouble the
flock can be shut. I inquired of the angel how it could be closed. He said, 'The church
must flee to God's Word and become established upon gospel order, which has been
overlooked and neglected.' This is indispensably necessary in order to bring the
church into the unity of the faith."-Ibid., p. 100.
D Friday
a. Explain the warning given by the Spirit of Prophecy to those in positions of

trust, as found in Testimonies, vol. 9, pp. 260, 261, 275, 276.
b. Why does God illustrate His church by using the term "body"?
c. Upon whom has God bestowed the highest power under heaven?
d. Explain the functions of a General Conference and the various uses and
misuses of this term.
e. What, according to the Spirit of Prophecy, is indispensably necessary in order
to bring the church into the unity of the faith? Why do you think this is true? •
- 30-
WHEN MISTAKES ARE MADE
"Those whom God has set apart as ministers of righteousness have solemn
responsibilities laid upon them to reprove the sins of the people." - Testimonies,
vol. 3, pp. 358, 359.
KEY TEXT: "These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let
no man despise thee" (Titus 2:15).
o Sunday
THE DUTY TO GIVE REPROOF November 21
1. What is our duty in the presence of open sin in the church? 2 Timothy 4:2;
Titus 2:15. When do personal sins become denominational sins? 1 Corin-
thians 5:6; 12:26.
"God would have His people disciplined and brought into harmony of action, that
they may see eye to eye and be of the same mind and of the same judgment. In order
to bring about this state of things, there is much to be done. The carnal heart must be
subdued and transformed. God designs that there shall ever be a living testimony in
the church. It will be necessary to reprove and exhort, and some will need to be
rebuked sharply, as the case demands. We hear the plea: 'Qh, I am so sensitive, I can-
not bear the least reflection!' If these persons would state the case correctly, they
would say: 'I am so self-willed, so self-sufficient, so proud-spirited, that I will not be
dictated to; I will not be reproved. I claim the right of individual judgment; I have a
right to believe and talk as I please.' The Lord would not have us yield up our in-
dividuality. But what man is a proper judge of how far this matter of individual in-
dependence should be carried?"- Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 360.
"[God] would teach His people that disobedience and sin are exceedingly offen-
sive to Him and are not to be lightly regarded. He shows us that when His people are
found in sin they should at once take decided measures to put that sin from them, that
His frown may not rest upon them all. But if the sins of the people are passed over by
those in responsible positions, His frown will be upon them, and the people of God, as
a body, will be held responsible for those sins." -Ibid., p. 265.
2. How does a person destroy himself by refusing to accept reproof? Proverbs

10:17; 12:1; 15:10, 12.
"There will be men and women who despise reproof and whose feelings will ever
rise up against it. It is not pleasant to be told of our wrongs. In almost every case
where reproof is necessary, there will be some who entirely overlook the fact that the
Spirit of the Lord has been grieved and His cause reproached. These will pity those
who deserved reproof, because personal feelings have been hurt. All this unsanctified
- 31-
sympathy places the sympathizers where they are sharers in the guilt of the one re-
proved. In nine cases out of ten if the one reproved had been left under a sense of his
wrongs, he might have been helped to see them and thereby have been reformed."-
Testimonies, vol. 3, p, 359.
o Monday
USE THE RIGHT APPROACH November 22
3. How careful should we be in dealing with one another? Galatians 6:1.
"The Lord desires His followers to exercise great care in dealing with one an-
other. They are to lift up, to restore, to heal. But there is to be in the church no ne-
glect of proper discipline."- Testimonies, vol. 7, p, 264.
"When souls are turned from sin to righteousness, there is joy in the presence of
the angels. Think you that the ministering spirits who watch over these souls are
pleased to see how indifferently they are treated by many who claim to be Christians?
Man's preferences rule. Partiality is manifested. One is favored, while another is
treated harshly."-Ibid., pp. 265, 266.
4. When someone needs to be corrected, how should this be done? 1 Peter 4:8;
1 Corinthians 13:4-7.
"Whenever you see or hear something that needs to be corrected, seek the Lord
for wisdom and grace, that in trying to be faithful you may not be severe,
"It is always humiliating to have one's errors pointed out. Do not make the ex-
perience more bitter by needless censure. Unkind criticism brings discouragement,
making life sunless and unhappy.
"My brethren, prevail by love rather than by severity. When one at fault be-
comes conscious of his error, be careful not to destroy his self-respect. Do not seek to
bruise and wound, but rather to bind up and heal."- Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 265.
o '(\lesday
THE BIBLICAL RULE November 23
5. When we see that a brother is in error, what is the first step that we should
take? Matthew 18: 15; Proverbs 25:8, 9.
"If one of these little ones shall be overcome, and commit a wrong against you,
then it is your work to seek his restoration. Do not wait for him to make the first effort
for reconciliation. . . . .
"In the spirit of meekness, 'considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted' (Gal.
6:1), go to the erring one, and 'tell him his fault between thee and him alone.' 1)0 not
put him to shame by exposing his fault to others, nor bring dishonor upon Christ by
making public the sin or the error of one who bears His name. Often the truth must be
plainly spoken to the erring; he must qe led to see his error, that he may reform. But
ypu are not to judge or to c;ondemn. Make no attempt at self-justification. Let all your
effort be for his recovery. In treating the wounds of the soul, there is need Qf the most
delicate touch, the finest sensibility. Only the love that flows from the Suffering One
of Calvary can avail here."- The Desire of Ages, p. 440.
6. If the first step remains fruitless, what is the second step? Matthew 18: 16.
"Take with you those who are spiritually minded, and talk with the one if\·errpr in
regard to the wrong. H.e may yield to the united appeals of his brethren. As h~ see~ their
agreement in the matter, hi~ mind may be enlightened."-Testimoni(!s. vol. 7, p. 262.
- 32-
o Wednesday
FOLLOW THE RULE: MATTHEW 18 November 24
7. If the second step fails also, what is the third step to be taken? Matthew
18: 17; 1 Timothy 5:20. Who has authority to disfellowship one who is in
error and refuses to be corrected?
"Matters of grave import come up for settlement by the church. God's ministers,
ordained by Him as guides of His people, after doing their part are to submit the
whole matter to the church, that there may be unity in the decision made."- Testimo-
nies, vol. 7, pp. 263, 264.
"On the church has been conferred the power to act in Christ's stead. It is God's
instrumentality for the preservation of order and discipline among His people. To it
the Lord has delegated the power to settle all questions respecting its prosperity,
purity, and order."-lbid., p.263.
"If [the erring one] will not hear [the two or three who come to him privately],
then, and not till then, the matter is to be brought before the whole body of believers.
Let the members of the church, as the representatives of Christ, unite in prayer and
loving entreaty that the offender may be restored.... He who rejects this united
overture has broken the tie that binds him to Christ, and thus has severed himself
from the fellowship of the church." - The Desire of Ages, p. 441.
8. What decisions concerning church discipline will be ratified in heaven? Mat-

thew 18:18.
"Whatever the church does that is in accordance with the directions given in
God's word will be ratified in heaven. "-Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 263.
SPECIAL EFFORTS o Thursday

IN BEHALF OF THE ERRING ONES November 25
9. How should we deal with our erring brother after he has been separated
from the church? James 5:19, 20.
"And even if he does not repent, even if he stands outside the church, God's ser-
vants still have a work to do for him. They are to seek earnestly to win him to repen-
tance. And, however aggravated may have been his offense, if he yields to the striv-
ing of the Holy Spirit and, by confessing and forsaking his sin, gives evidence of
repentance, he is to be forgiven and welcomed to the fold again. His brethren are to
encourage him in the right way, treating him as they would wish to be treated were
they in his place, considering themselves lest they also be tempted."-Testimonies. vol.
7, p. 263.
"The restoring is to be done, not in a proud, officious, masterly manner, but in
the spirit of meekness. Do not cast your brother aside, saying, He has disappointed
me, and I shall not try to help him."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments],
vol. 6, p. 1112.
10. How careful should we be with our own example in view of the weak breth-
ren who are ready to stumble? Hebrews 12:13. What work will be done by
the remnant people of God before the latter rain can be poured out?
- 33-
Lesson 10. Sabbath, December 4, 1993
HELPING THE ERRING SOULS
"As we partake of [Christ's] Spirit we shall regard all men as brethren, with
similar temptations and trials.... Then we shall meet them in such a way as
not to discourage or repel them, but to awaken hope in their hearts." - The
Ministry of Healing, p. 165.
KEY TEXT: "Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest
that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before
the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then
come and offer thy gift" (Matthew 5:23, 24).
D Sunday
IN THE RIGHT SPIRIT November 28
1. If we have the Spirit of Christ, what will be our attitude toward our erring
brother? Leviticus 19:16-18.
"The spirit we manifest toward our brethren declares what is our spirit toward
God."- The Desire of Ages, p. 505.
"When the ice of selfishness is melted from your hearts, you will be in sympathy
with God, and will share His joy in the saving of the lost." -Christ's Object Lessons, p. 211.
2. What warning should we take from the mistaken attitude of the elder son in
the parable of the prodigal son? Luke 15:25-32.
"Self-righteousness not only leads men to misrepresent God, but makes them
coldhearted and critical toward their brethren. The elder son, in his selfishness and
jealousy, stood ready to watch his brother, to criticize every action, and to accuse him
for the least deficiency. He would detect every mistake, and make the most of every
wrong act. Thus he would seek to justify his own unforgiving spirit. Many today are
doing the same thing. While the soul is making its very first struggles against a flood
of temptations, they stand by, stubborn, self-willed, complaining, accusing. They
may claim to be children of God, but they are acting out the spirit of Satan." -Christ's
"It is true that you claim to be a child of God; but if this claim be true, it is 'thy
brother' that was 'dead, and is alive again; and was lost and is found.' He is bound to
you by the closest ties; for God recognizes him as a son. Deny your relationship to
him, and you show that you are but a hireling in the household, not a child in the fami-
ly of God."-Ibid., p. 211.
- 34-
o Monday
THE DUTY OF CONFESSION November 29
3. What promise belongs to those who confess their sins? Proverbs 28:13; 1
John 1:9. Who is to take the first step in the work of confession? Ezra
9:1-6; 10:1-5.
"Those who profess to be servants of the living God must be willing to be ser-
vants of all, instead of being exalted above the brethren, and they must possess a
kind, courteous spirit. If they err, they should be ready to confess thoroughly. Hones-
ty of intention cannot stand as an excuse for not confessing errors. Confession would
not lessen the confidence of the church in the messenger, and he would set a good ex-
ample; a spirit of cohfession would be encouraged in the church, and sweet union
would be the result."-Early Writings, pp. 102, 103.
4. What are we to do when our conscience tells us that we have offended our
brother? Matthew 5:23, 24; James 5:16.
"How mistaken are those who imagine that confession of sin will detract from
their dignity, and lessen their influence among their fellowmen. Clinging to this er-
roneous idea, though seeing their faults, many fail to confess them, but rather pass by
the wrongs they have done others, so embittering their own lives, and shadowing the
lives of others. It will not hurt your dignity to confess your sins. Away with this false
dignity."-Selected Messages, book 1, pp. 326, 327.
"Our brother may have done us a greater wrong than we have done him, but this
does not lessen our responsibility. If when we come before God we remember that an-
other has aught against us, we are to leave our gift of prayer, of thanksgiving, of free-
will offering, and go to the brother with whom we are at variance, and in humility con-
fess our own sin and ask to be forgiven." - Thoughts From the Mount ofBlessing, pp. 58, 59.
"If you have committed one wrong and they twenty, confess that one as though
you were the chief offender." - The Review and Herald, December 16, 1884.
D Tuesday
THE DUTY OF CONFESSION (continued) November 30
5. Why is it that some of the believers do not have the peace of God in their
hearts? Psalm 32:1-5.
"If we have not experienced that repentance which is not to be repented of, and
have not with true humiliation of soul and brokenness of spirit confessed our sins,
abhorring our iniquity, we have never truly sought for the forgiveness of sin; and if we
have never sought, we have never found the peace of God. The only reason why we do
not have remission of sins that are past is that we are not willing to humble our hearts
and comply with the conditions of the word of truth. Explicit instruction is given con-
cerning this matter. Confession of sin, whether public or private, should be heartfelt and
freely expressed. It is not to be urged from the sinner."-Steps to Christ, p. 38.
6. Give examples of spurious confessions. 1 Samuel 15:24; Matthew 27:4.

Give examples of genuine confessions. Psalm 51:1-13; Luke 19:8,9.
"Confession will not be acceptable to God without sincere repentance and refor-
mation. There must be decided changes in the life; everything offensive to God must
be put away." -Steps to Christ, p. 39.
- 35-
o Wednesday
THE DANGER OF SELF·JUSTIFICATION December 1
7. Give an example of self-justification. Genesis 3:11-13. What attitude is

often the main obstacle to reconciliation between two parties?
"Some see their faults, but thinking confession will detract from their dignity,
they excuse their wrong, and shield themselves from the discipline that confession
would give to the soul. The thought of their manifest error will remain to embitter
their enjoyments and embarrass their movements; for in passing out of the path of
confession, they fail to be faithful examples to the people. They see the errors of
others; but how can they have courage to give the advice, 'Confess your faults one to
another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed,' when they have failed to
follow this instruction in their own lives?"-Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 240.
8. How did king Saul try to justify himself? 1 Samuel 15:13-15. How did his
self-justification end up in self·destruction?
"All through his course of rebellion Saul had been flattered and deceived by
Satan. It is the tempter's work to belittle sin, to make the path of transgression easy
and inviting, to blind the mind to the warnings and threatenings of the Lord. Satan, by
his bewitching power, had led Saul to justify himself in defiance of Samuel's reproofs
and warning. But now, in his extremity, he turned upon him, presenting the enormity
of his sin and the hopelessness of pardon, that he might goad him to desperation.
Nothing could have been better chosen to destroy his courage and confuse his judgment,
or to drive him to despair and self-destruction. "-Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 680, 681.
o Thursday
THE DUTY OF FORGIVENESS December 2
9. How ready should we be to forgive our erring brother? Matthew 18:21,22.
"We should not think that unless those who have injured us confess the wrong
we are justified in withholding from them our forgiveness. It is their part, no doubt, to
humble their hearts by repentance and confession; but we are to have a spirit of com-
passion toward those who have trespassed against us, whether or not they confess
their faults. However sorely they may have wounded us, we are not to cherish our
grievances and sympathize with ourselves over our injuries; but as we hope to be par-
doned for our offenses against God we are to pardon all who have done evil to
us. "-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pp. 113, 114.
10. How did Jesus teach the duty of forgiveness? .Luke 11:4.
"Jesus teaches that we can receive forgiveness from God only as we forgive
others. It is the love Of God that draws us unto Him, and that love cannot touch our
hearts without creating love for our brethren.
. "After completing the Lord's Prayer, Jesus added: 'If ye forgive men their
trespasses, your heavenly Father wili also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their
trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.' He who is unforgiving
cuts off the very channel through which alone he can receive mercy from God."-
Thoughts Prom the Mount of Blessing, p. 113.
- 36-
Lesson 11 Sabbath, December 11, 1993
YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
"Christians are to seek their light from the word of God and then in faith go
forth to give that light to those who sit in darkness." - Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 64.
KEY TEXT: "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannotbe hid"
(Matthew 5:14).
o Sunday
THE SOURCE OF LIGHT December 5
1. Who is the source of all our spiritual light? 1 John 1:5; John 8:12.
"God has flashed light upon the pathway of all."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 437.
"Jesus, the Saviour, is the only light that can illuminate the darkness of a world
lying in sin."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 39.
2. Through what instrument does God reveal light to us? Psalm 119: 105, 130;
2 Peter 1:19.
"[The Bible] does not leave men in uncertainty, without an object, but places be-
fore them the highest of all aims-the winning of souls to Cnrist. It puts in the hand a
lamp that lights the way to.heaven."-Gospel Workers, p. 250.
o Monday
GOD'S LIGHTBEARERS December 6
3. Upon whom does the Lord bestow a special measure of light? Psalm 97:11;
Proverbs 4: 18; 2 Corinthians 4:6.
"Do you not know the time of night? Do you feel no burden to lift the danger
signal an give the warnings for this time? If you do not, come down from the walls of
Zion, for God will not entrust you with the light He has to give. Light is only given to
those who will reflect that light upon others."-Evangelism, p. 144.
4: What are the true followers of Christ called? Matth~w 5: 14.
"Christ's followers are to be more than a light in the midst of men. Th~y are the
light of the world." - Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 40~ [Aut~or's emphasis,)
- 37-
o Tuesday
GOD'S LIGHTBEARERS (continued) December 7
5. How do we become lightbearers? Matthew 5:15; Ephesians 5:8.
"It was by receiving of His life that His disciples could become lightbearers. The
life of Christ in the soul, His love revealed in the character, would make them the light
of the world."- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pp. 39, 40.
"A consistent religious life, holy conversation, a godly example, true-hearted
benevolence, mark the representative of Christ. He will labor to pluck sinners as
brands from the burning; he will perform every duty faithfully. Thus he will become a
beacon light."-The Review and Herald, May 19, 1910.
6. How are we to keep our spiritual lamps burning? Isaiah 2:5; John 12:35, 36
(first part). What will happen if we neglect to walk in the light?
"Those followers of Christ who accept the light that God sends them must obey
the voice of God speaking to them when there are many other voices crying out
against it. It requires discernment to distinguish the voice of God.
"Those who will not act when the Lord calls upon them, but who wait for more
certain evidence and more favorable opportunities, will walk in darkness, for the light
will be withdrawn. The evidence given one day, if rejected, may never be repeated."
- Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 258.
o Wednesday
LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE December 8
7. How will the world be convinced that we have the light of heaven? Matthew
5:16; Philippians 2:15, 16; Ephesians 5:11-16.
"What is light? It is piety, goodness, truth, mercy, love; it is the revealing of the
truth in the character and life. The gospel is dependent on the personal piety of its
believers for its aggressive power, and God has made provision through the death of
His beloved Son, that every soul may be thoroughly furnished unto every good work.
Every soul is to be a bright and shining light, showing forth the praises of Him who
has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light." -Christian Service, p. 21.
8. What is the situation of the world and what work is to be done by the people
of God in these last days? Isaiah 60:1,2.
"It is the darkness of misapprehension of God that is enshrouding the world.

Men are losing their knowledge of His character. It has been misunderstood and mis-
interpreted. At this time a message from God is to be proclaimed, a message il-
luminating 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."-Christ's Object Lessons, p. 415.
o Thursday
WAITING, WATCHING, AND WORKING December 9
9. While the professed people of God are spiritually asleep, what attitude is to
characterize the faithful remnant? Compare Matthew 25:3-5 with Luke 21:36;
1 Thessalonians 5:4-6; Revelation 16:15.
"Many were sleeping, stupefied with the cares of this life and allured by the de-
ceitfulness of riches from their waiting, watching position."-Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 192.
- 38-
"Those not found waiting and watching are finally surprised in their unfaith-
fulness. The Master comes, and instead of their being ready to open unto Him im-
mediately, they are locked in worldly slumber, and are lost at last.
"A company was presented before me in contrast to the one described. They
were waiting and watching. Their eyes were directed heavenward, and the words of
their Master were upon their lips: 'What I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.' "-Ibid.
"The attitude of watching is to designate the church as God's people indeed. By
this sign the waiting ones are distinguished from the world and show that they are
pilgrims and strangers upon the earth." -Ibid., p. 205.
10. How will the faithful remnant show that they are actually waiting and
watching? 2 Thessalonians 3:5; Luke 19:13.
"By waiting and watching, God's people are to manifest their peculiar character,
their separation from the world. By our watching position we are to show that we are
truly strangers and pilgrims upon the earth. The difference between those who love
the world and those who love Christ is so plain as to be unmistakable. While world-
lings are all earnestness and ambition to secure earthly treasure, God's people are not
conformed to the world, but show by their earnest, watching, waiting position that
they are transformed; that their home is not in this world, but that they are seeking a
better country, even a heavenly."-Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 194.
"Those who are watching for the Lord are purifying their souls by obedience to
the truth. With vigilant watching they combine earnest working. Because they know
that the Lord is at the door, their zeal is quickened to cooperate with the divine in-
telligences in working for the salvation of souls."- The Desire of Ages, p. 634.
o Friday
THOUGHT AND REVIEW QUESTIONS December 10
a. What has God placed in our hands to light the way to heaven?
b. On what condition is God's light given to us?
c. How can I be a light in this world?
d. What special aspect of God's light is desperately needed today?
e. Describe the characteristics of those who are waiting and watching for their
Lord's return. •
- 39-
WATCHING, PRAYING, AND WORKING
"There are three watchwords in the Christian life, which must be heeded if
we would not have Satan steal a march upon us; namely, Watch, pray,
work:' - Testimonies, vol. 2, p. 283.
KEY TEXT: "Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong" (1
Corinthians 16:13).
o Sunday
NEGLECTING WATCHFULNESS AND PRAYER December 12
1. What danger confronts those who discontinue watching, praying, and

working? Revelation 3:3; Matthew 24:43; 1 Peter 5:8.
"Many have been altogether too long in a sleepy condition. While some have
worked intently, and have manifested unfailing energy, others have stood as spec-
tators, and have been ready to make remarks of a critical character as to methods and
results. This they are ready to do, though they have never exercised their minds in
originating any plans whereby precious souls might be saved for Christ. They stand
ready to find fault with those who do something."-Testimonies to Ministers, p. 206.
2. What will be the fate of this class if they do not overcome their neglect of
watchfulness and prayer? Luke 13:23-27; Matthew 24:48-51.
"The very beginning of the evil was a neglect of watchfulness and secret prayer,
then came a neglect of other religious duties, and thus the way was opened for all the
sins that followed. Every Christian will be assailed by the allurements of the world,
the clamors of the carnal nature, and the direct temptations of Satan. No one is safe.
No matter what our experience has been, no matter how high our station, we need to
watch and pray continually. We must be daily controlled by the Spirit of God or we
are controlled by Satan."- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 102.
o Monday
LOSING THE SENSE OF DISCERNMENT December 13
3. How easy is it to lose the sense of discernment between light and darkness?
John 12:35.
"The associations chosen by the workers are determining their destiny for this
world and the next. Some who were once conscientious and faithful have sadly changed;
- 40-
they have disconnected from God, and Satan has allured them to his side. They are now
irreligious and irreverent, and they have an influence upon others who are easily molded.
Evil associations are deteriorating character; principle is being undermined....
"Warnings to these persons fall unheeded. They are headstrong, self-willed, de-
fiant. They think the warning, counsel, or reproof does not apply to them. Their
course gives them no concern. They are continually separating themselves from the
light and love of God. They lose all discernment of sacred and eternal things, and
while they may keep up a dry form of Christian duties they have no heart in these
religious exercises." - Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 589.
4. Once men have yielded to Satan, how do they allow their senses to become
confused? Isaiah 5:20.
"Men may possess capabilities given them in trust of God, but if they are not
humble men, daily converted men, as vessels of honor, they will do the greater harm be-
cause of their capabilities. If they are not learners of Christ Jesus, if they do not pray
and keep their natural hereditary and cultivated tendencies under control, traits of
character that God abhors will pervert the judgment of those who associate with them."
- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1138.
o Tuesday
EXCHANGING LIGHT FOR DARKNESS December 14
5. When men lift up their souls in pride and self-sufficiency, what type of
reasoning do they employ? Isaiah 5:21; 50:11.
"[Isaiah 5:19-23 quoted.] The class here represented, in order to exalt their own
opinions, employ a reasoning which is not authorized by the Word of God. They walk in
the sparks of their own kindling. By their specious reasoning, they confuse the distinc-
tion that God desires to have drawn between good and evil. The sacred is brought
down on a level with common things. Avarice and selfishness are called by false
names; they are called prudence. Their rising up in independence and rebellion, their
revenge and stubbornness, in their eyes are proofs of dignity, evidences of a noble
mind. They act as though ignorance of divine things were not dangerous and even
fatal to the soul; and they prefer their own reasoning to divine revelation, their own
plans and human wisdom to the admonitions and commands of God. The piety and
conscientiousness of others are called fanaticism, and those who practise truth and
holiness are watched and criticized. They deride those who teach and believe the
mystery of godliness, 'Christ in you, the hope of glory.' The principles underlying
these things are not discerned by them; and they go on in wrong-doing, leaving the
bars open for Satan to find ready access to the soul."- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G.
White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1138.
6. What will happen to us if our eyes are blinded by the love of self? Matthew
6:22,23.
"If we do not choose to give ourselves fully to God then we are in darkness.
When we make any reserve we are leaving open a door through which Satan can
enter to lead us astray bY.his temptations. He knows that if he can obscure our vision,
so that the eye of faith cannot see God, there will be no barrier against sin.
"The prevalence of a sinful desire shows the delusion of the soul. Every in-
dulgence of that desire strengthens the soul's aversion to God. In following the path
- 41- .,0
\
of Satan's choosing, we are encompassed by the shadows of evil, and every step leads
into deeper darkness and increases the blindness of the heart.
"The same law obtains in the spiritual as in the natural world. He who abides in
darkness will at last lose the power of vision. He is shut in by a deeper than midnight
blackness; and to him the brightest noontide can bring no light."- Thoughts From the
Mount of Blessing, p. 92.
o Wednesday
DOUBLE-MINDEDNESS December 15
7. How do self-interest and self-justification lead men astray? John 3:19,20.
"Many who profess to be serving God are in the same position as Saul-covering
over ambitious projects, pride of display, with a garment of pretended righteousness.
The Lord's cause is made a cloak to hide the deformity of injustice, but it makes the
sin of tenfold greater enormity."- The SDA Bible Commentmy [E.G. White Comments], vol.
2, p. 1017.
"Those whose deeds are evil, will not come to the light, lest their deeds should
be reproved and their real characters revealed. If they continue in the path of trans-
gression, and sever themselves entirely from the Redeemer, stubbornness, and sul-
lenness, and a spirit of revenge will take possession of them, and they will say to their
own souls, Peace, peace, when there is every reason that they should be alarmed, for
their steps are directed toward destruction." -Ibid., pp. 1017, 1018.
8. What did Christ mean when He said that no man can serve two masters?
Matthew 6:24.
"Those who begin their Christian life by being half and half, will at last be found
enlisted on the enemy's side, whatever may have been their first intentions. And to be
an apostate, a traitor to the cause of God, is more serious than death; for it means the
loss of eternal life.
"Double-minded men and women are Satan's best allies. Whatever favorable
opinion they may have of themselves, they are dissemblers. All who are loyal to God
and the truth must stand firmly for the right because it is right. To yoke up with those
who are unconsecrated, and yet be loyal to the truth, is simply impossible. We cannot
unite with those who are serving themselves, who are working on worldly plans, and
not lose our connection with the heavenly Counselor."- The SDA Bible Commentary
[E.G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1086.
o Thursday
SELF-EXAMINATION December 16
9. In view of the dangers pointed out in this lesson, what duty should we
always keep in mind? 1 Corinthians 16: 13; 2 Corinthians 13:5.
"Those who have no time to give attention to their own souls, to examine
themselves daily whether they be in the love of God, and place themselves in the
channel of light, will have time to give to the suggestions of Satan, and the working
out of his plans."- The SDA Bible Commentmy [E.G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1107.
10. What evidence will prove whether or not we are walking in the light? Mat-
thew 7:20 (d. Galatians 5:19-23).
- 42-
"All whom God is leading will manifest a high regard for the Scriptures in which'
His voice is heard, The Bible will be to them 'profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect,
throughly furnished unto all good words: 'Ye shall know them by their fruits: We
need no other evidence in order to judge of men's sanctification; if they are fearful lest
they shall not obey the whole will of God, if they are listening diligently to His voice,
trusting in His wisdom, and making His Word the man of their counsel, then, while
they make no boasts of superior goodness, we may be sure that they are seeking to at-
tain to perfection of Christian character.' ,- The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Com-
ments], vol. 5, p. 1147.
D Friday
a. What do "sleepy churchgoers" tend to criticize?
b. What does God say about those who resist the warnings, counsels, and
reproofs of their brethren?
c. Describe the bitter results of pride and self-sufficiency.
d. Why is double-mindedness so destructive to the church of Christ?

I
e. What serious danger lurks before those who fail to take time for daily self-
examination? •
* * * * * * *
"Self-denying efforts will be put forth to save the lost, and many who have strayed
from the fold will come back to follow the great Shepherd. The people of God will draw
together and present to the enemy a united front." - Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 401.
D Friday
a. What is necessary to ensure that God's frown will not rest upon us as a people?
b. What should be my attitude when I must rebuke others?
c. What is my first responsibility when I see a brother overtaken in a fault or

sin? Should I tell anyone else about it yet?
d. If the erring person refuses to accept my reproof, what is my next step?

Should I tell anyone else besides those accompanying me? What if he re-
fuses again?
e. How should I treat one who has been disfellowshiped from the church? •
- 43-
OUR GREAT RESPONSIBILITY
"God's people are to be so earnest and faithful in their work for Him that all
selfishness will be separated from their lives. His workers will then see eye
to eye, and the arm of the Lord, the power of which was seen in the life of
Christ, will be revealed. Confidence will be restored, and there will be unity
in the churches throughout our ranks." - Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 33.
KEY TEXT: "For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for
necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gas-
pe!!" (1 Corinthians 9:16).
oSunday
THE GREAT COMMISSION December 19
1. What worldwide missionary responsibility has Christ placed upon us? Mat-
thew 28:19,20. To how many of us did He give this responsibility?
"It is not only upon those who preach the word that God has placed the responsibility
of seeking to save sinners. He has given this work to all."- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 18.
"The Saviour's commission to the disciples included all the believers. It includes
all believers in Christ to the end of time. It is a fatal mistake to suppose that the work
of saving souls depends alone on the ordained minister. All to whom the heavenly in-
spiration has come are put in trust with the gospel. All who receive the life of Christ
are ordained to work for the salvation of their fellowmen. For this work the church
was established."-The Desire of Ages, p. 822.
2. Name one of the most important characteristics of the last remnant. Revela-
tion 14:6-12.
"These truths [the law of God and the Sabbath], as presented in Revelation 14 in
connection with 'the everlasting gospel,' will distinguish the church of Christ at the
time of His appearing. For as the result of the threefold message it is announced:
'Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.' And this
message is the last to be given before the coming of the Lord." - The Great Controversy,
pp. 453, 454.
-44-
o Monday
AN INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY December 20
3. What should be the first interest of every true Christian? Philippians 1:21;
1 Corinthians 2:2; 9:16.
"Whatever one's calling in life, his first interest should be to win souls for Christ.
He may not be able to speak to congregations, but he can work for individuals. To them
he can communicate the instruction received from his Lord. Ministry does not consist
alone in preaching. Those minister who relieve the sick and suffering, helping the
needy, speaking words of comfort to the desponding and those of little faith. Nigh and
afar off are souls weighed down by a sense of guilt. It is not hardship, toil, or poverty
that degrades humanity. It is guilt, wrongdoing. This brings unrest and dissatisfaction.
Christ would have His servants minister to sin-sick souls."- The Desire of Ages, p. 822.
4. Since those who are under the influence of the Holy Spirit are led into all
truth (John 16:13, first part), how will they relate to the church of God?
Acts 2:47 (last part). Why? 1 Timothy 3: 15.
"All who believe are to be gathered into one church."-The Desil'e of Ages, p. 821.
"It is in the church that we are to grow and ripen for the garner of God." -Christ's
oTuesday
A WORK OF RESTORATION December 21
5. What work has been entrusted to us in these last days? Isaiah 58:12; Mat-
thew 17:11; Acts 3:21. What distinction is made between the professed
people of God and the true people of God?
"On every hand we see those who have had much light and knowledge deliber-
ately choosing evil in the place of good. Making no attempt to reform, they are grow-
ing worse and worse. But the people of God are not to walk in darkness. They are to
walk in the light, for they are reformers."-Testimonies, vol. 7, p. 62.
6. Mention some of the main doctrinal points to be restored in our days. Isaiah
56:1,2; 58:13; Revelation 12:17 (last part); 19:10.
"God's remnant people, standing before the world as reformers, are to show that
the law of God is the foundation of all enduring reform and that the Sabbath of the
fourth commandment is to stand as a memorial of creation, a constant reminder of the
power of God. In clear, distinct lines they are to present the necessity of obedience to
all the precepts of the Decalogue." -Prophets and Kings, p. 678.
"The only safety now is to search for the truth as revealed in the word of God, as
for hid treasure. The subjects of the Sabbath, the nature of man, and the testimony of
Jesus are the great and important truths to be understood; these will prove as an an-
chor to hold God's people in these perilous times."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 300.
o Wednesday
A WORK OF RESTORATION (continued) December 22
7. What will always be present with the true disciples of Christ? Isaiah 8:16.
How can you prove that this prophecy refers to the Christian era? Isaiah
8:14 (d. 1 Peter 2:8).
- 45-
"Those who belong to the Lord's kingdom must work earnestly for the saving of
souls. They must do their part to bind up the law and seal it among the disciples."-
"The seal of God's law is found in the fourth commandment. This only, of all the
ten, brings to view both the name and the title of the Lawgiver." - The Great Controver-
sy, p. 452.
8. Describe the two classes of Adventists mentioned in Isaiah 58. What is our
responsibility toward the professed people of God? Isaiah 58:1; Revelation
3:18-20.
"Though they are called the people of God, the house of Jacob, though they pro-
fess to be linked with God in obedience and fellowship, they are far from Him.
Wonderful privileges and promises have been given to them, but they have betrayed
their trust. With no words of flattery must the message be given them. 'Show my peo-
ple their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.' Show them where they are
making a mistake. Set their danger before them. Tell them of the sins they are commit-
ting,while at the same time they pride themselves on their righteousness. Apparently
seeking God, they are forgetting Him, forgetting that He is a God of love and compas-
sion, long-suffering and goodness, dealing justly and loving mercy. Worldly policy has
come into their business and religious life. Their hearts are not purified through the
truth. God looks on their outward ceremonies of humility as a solemn mockery." - The
SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 4, p. 1149. [Author's emphasis.]
"They are destitute of the Holy Spirit, destitute of the sweetness of the heavenly
influence. They manifest no repentance, nor faith that works by love and purifies the
soul. They are unjust and selfish in their dealings, mercilessly oppressing those whom
they regard as their inferiors."-lbid., p. 1150.
"Here [Isaiah 58:8-14] are given the characteristics of those who shall be re-
formers, who will bear the banner of the third angel's message, those who avow
themselves God's commandment-keeping people, and who honor God, and are ear-
nestly engaged, in the sight of all the universe, in building up the old waste places.
Who is it that calls them, The repairers of the breach, The restorers of paths to dwell
in? It is God. Their names are registered in heaven as reformers, restorers, as raising
the foundations of many generations."-lbid., p. 1151.
o Thursday
THE FINISHING OF THE WORK December 23
9. What event will signalize the finishing of the work of God on earth? Habak-
kuk 2:14; Revelation 18:1,4.
"The world can only be warned by seeing those who believe the truth sanctified
through the truth, acting upon high and holy principles, showing in a high, elevated
sense, the line of demarcation between those who keep the commandments of God
and those who trample them under their feet. The sanctification of the Spirit sig-
nalizes the difference between those who have the seal of God and those who keep a
spurious rest day."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 7, p. 980.
10. What will happen after the world has been enlightened with the final warn-
ing? Matthew 24:14; Revelation 14:14, 15 (d. Matthew 13:39, last part).
"Many who think themselves Christians will at last be found wanting. Many will
be in heaven who their neighbors supposed would never enter there. Man judges
- 46-
from appearance, but God judges the heart. The tares and the wheat are to grow
together until the harvest; and the harvest is the end of probationary time."-Christ's
D Friday
a. How do Christ's commission and the three angels' messages bring a respon-
sibility upon me personally?
b. What can I, as one single believer, do for lost humanity?
c. For what special work does God have a remnant in these last days?
d. What duty rests upon God-fearing Christians regarding persons whose
religion seems to be merely a form?
e. Relate the final activities of God's children before the end of probationary
time. •
7~, , ,
is the Special Project Offering.
See details on pages 4 and 48.

o Friday
a. In what ways does the spirit of self-righteousness manifest itself?

b. Describe the beautiful fruits of confession.
c. What are the characteristics of true confession?
d. How is a failure to confess sin inevitably tied to self-justification?
e. What attitude must I have in order for God to forgive my sins?
•
-47 -
Z A IRE
ANGOLA
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(PORT. W. AFR.) ZAMBIA

Lusakao
SOUTH WEST
Windhoek
Swakopmund"8 -0-------
Walvis Bay ~AFRICA
(S. Africa) rs· Africa Gaboron
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Cape Town . ~o'Port Elizabeth
The Special Project Offering of this quarter

is for the Lord's work in Angola. Please see
details on page 4.

Sabbath Bible Lessons: All Are Brethren

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Sabbath Bible Lessons: All Are Brethren

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4/93 October - December 1993

Sabbath Bible Lessons

All re Are Brethren

All Ye Are Brethren

a. How is the spirit of Satan revealed in contrast to the Spirit of Christ?

b. Name three bitter fruits of selfishness.

c. Like the disciples, why should we be ashamed if found seeking a position of

d. How did Jesus handle this problem among the disciples?

e. What example of Jesus has power to subdue our selfishness?

UNDER THE POWER OF DARKNESS

THE KINGDOM OF CHRIST

"Earthly governments prevail by physical force; they maintain their dominion by

4. W!;lat does it mean to be great in the kingdom of Christ? Matthew 23:11;

8. What does it mean to learn of Christ meekness and humility? Matthew

"The standard of our obligation to others is found in what we ourselves would

b. What is the characteristic keynote of Christ's kingdom?

c. On what principles is Christ's kingdom founded?

d. Describe the character of a person imbued with the qualities of Christ.

THE SUBJECTS OF CHRIST'S KINGDOM

"Through faith in Christ we become members of the royal family, heirs of

1. What assurance does Christ give us that we are recognized as members of

2. On what condition does God recognize us as His people? Jeremiah 31:33;

7. Whom do we have to recognize on earth if we want to be recognized as

9. What kind of brotherhood did Christ establish? Galatians 3:26, 28.

a. On what basis can I have assurance that I am a child of God?

2. What principle exalts the Christian culture? Ephesians 2:19; Romans

4. What rule should we follow in matters of conscience while abiding by a

UNITY WITH CHRIST D Tuesday

9. What fundamental principle must be respected in the interest of unity? Mat-

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

b, How are we as Christians to relate to our brethren whose cultural customs

c. For what goal will every converted heart be striving?

d. What are some of S!ltan's tactics to spoil church unity?

1:1 * 1:1 * 1:1 * 1:1

(Continued from page 10)

a. Despib~"the sYstem by. Which worldly kingd,oms operate. \'

5. On what evidence can true Christians be distinguished from false Chris-

4. What principle of authority was recognized by Paul and Peter? Ephesians

5. Whose voice should we recognize as the highest authority on earth? Mat-

a) "The General Conference is the joint connection of all Union Conferences,

9. What is significant about the prayer of Solomon? 1 Kings 3:7-9.

"The God whom we serve is no respecter of persons. He who gave to ,S<;>lomon

a. Explain the warning given by the Spirit of Prophecy to those in positions of

WHEN MISTAKES ARE MADE

2. How does a person destroy himself by refusing to accept reproof? Proverbs

8. What decisions concerning church discipline will be ratified in heaven? Mat-

SPECIAL EFFORTS o Thursday

(Continued on page 43)

HELPING THE ERRING SOULS

6. Give examples of spurious confessions. 1 Samuel 15:24; Matthew 27:4.

7. Give an example of self-justification. Genesis 3:11-13. What attitude is

9. How ready should we be to forgive our erring brother? Matthew 18:21,22.

YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

4: What are the true followers of Christ called? Matth~w 5: 14.

"It is the darkness of misapprehension of God that is enshrouding the world.

b. On what condition is God's light given to us?

c. How can I be a light in this world?

d. What special aspect of God's light is desperately needed today?

WATCHING, PRAYING, AND WORKING

1. What danger confronts those who discontinue watching, praying, and

7. How do self-interest and self-justification lead men astray? John 3:19,20.

a. What do "sleepy churchgoers" tend to criticize?

c. Describe the bitter results of pride and self-sufficiency.