SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY

SENIOR DIVISION

FOURTH QUARTER 1968.

FAITH and PRAYER

 FOREWORD

./!'aith and prayer have ever been the ch.annels of contact with
God and heaven. We know that through love and mercy God pro-
vided a means of reconciliation, but unless we intelligently appeal
for the measures of grace and obtain them, we receive little benefit
from this provision. In this .quarter the SllIbbath School lesson sub-
ject is based on this vitally important need.
./!'or every soul the way to the throne of grace and the source
of spiritual strength is open, hut the individual benefit must be
made, and the contact maintained. These brief lessons, will show
that there ·are no circumstances, no conditions which can prevent
us from the unlimited blessings available by the simple process of
faith and pra~'er. Whe]] all other means for spiritual and social
security will ultimately be denied God's people, these blessed channels
made available in God's love for His children, will remain. For this
rE'ason we should become familiar by the cqnstMlt use of these avenues,
then our responses will be spontaneous and natural. Combined with
the special season of prayel's for the Week of Prayer, we believe
that these lessons caill greatly increase our capacity to understand
the wonderful relationship that can be made with our Heavenly
l!'ather.

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I:labbath School Lesson Quail'terly. "Faith and Prayer" for

October to December 1968, is published by the Seventh
l)ay Adventist Reform Movement General Conference, Mailing Ad-
dress: P.O. Box 5254, S.acramento, CA., 95817, USA.
 .....".H HW H IHHUII III .. UIIlI ••• 111111 1.1, •• 111 ".11,." '

Lesson No. 1 Sabbath, October 5, 1968.

FAITH AND PRAYER

QUESTIONS:
1. What sense of perception and discernment was placed Within the
structure of man, which enables him to develop a spiritual nature
and character? Gen. 2:16,17; I Sam. 12:7; Isa. 1:18 (f.p.)
NO'l'.l!J: ".Man is finite; thel'e is no light in his wisdom. His un-
aided reason can expla~n nothing in the deep things of God, nor can he
understand the spiritual lessons th3Jt God has placed in the material
world. But reason is a gift of God, and His Spirit will aid those
who are willing to be taught. Man's words, if of any value, echo the
words of GO,d. In the education of youth they should never t3Jlre the
place of the divine word.' '-c'r 428.
2. What evidence do we have that in man's relationship with God
he had the right to accept or reject His instruction? Deut. 26:17,18;
Ruth 1 :16; Joshua 24:15,20-22.
N O'l'.l!J: "The government of God is not, as Sa tml would make it
appear, founded upon a blind submission, an unreasoning control.
It appeals to the intellect and the conscience. 'Come no,,", and let us
reason together,' is the Creator's im-ita tion to the beings He has
made. God does not force the will of His creatures. He can not
accept an homage that is not willingly and intel)igently given. A
mere forced submission would prevent all real developmcnt of mind
or character; it would make man a mcre automaton. Such is not the
purpose of the Creator. He desires that man, the crowning work of
His creative power, shall reach thc highcst possible developmcnt. He
sets before us the height of blcssing to which He desires to 1J.ring us
through His grace. He invites us to give ourselves to Him, that He
may work His will in us. It remains for us to choose whether we will
be set free from the bondage of sin, to share the glorious liberty of
the sons of God.' '-SC pp. 47,48.
3. How did man come to know good and evil? Gen. 3:22.

NOT.l!J: "'l'hough created innocent and holy, our first parents were
not placed beyond the possibility of wrong-doing. God might have
created them without the power to transgress His requirements, but
in that case thcre could have becn no development of character; their
service would not have been voluntary, but forced. Therefore He gave
them the power of choice-the power to yield 01' to withhold obedience.
And before they could receive in fullness the blessings He desired to
impart, their love and loyalty must be tested.

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 , 'In the Garden of Eden w.as the 'tree of knowledge of good and
evil. . . And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree
of the garden thou mayest freely eat: but of the tree of the know·
ledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat.' Genesis 2:9-17. It was
the will of God tha,t Adam and Eve should not know evil. The
knowledge of evil,-of sin and its results, of wearing toil, of anxious
eare, of disappointment and grief, of pain and death,-this was in
love withheld. "-Ed. 23.
4. While there eXisted a natural spiritual relationsJJ.ip between
man and God, what caused this relationsihip tp become broken?
How was it restored? Gen. 3:23; Isa. 59:2; Romans 5:1,2.
NO'l'.I!l: "Thus were revealed to Adam important events in the
history of mankind, from the time when the divine sentence was
pronounced in Eden, to the flood, and onward to the first advent
of the ~on of God. He was shown that whil~ tbe sacrifice of Christ
would be of sufficient value to save the whole world, mauy would
choose a life of sin rather than of repentance .and obedience. Crime
would increase through successive generations, and the curse of
sxn would rest more and more heavily upon the human race, upon
the beasts, and upon the earth. The days of man would be shortened
by his own course of sin; he would deteriorate in physical stature
and endurance, and in moral and itellectual power, until the world
would he filled with misery of every type. 'l'brough the indulgence
oj' appetite a,nd passion, mcn would become incapable of appreciating
the great truths of the plan of redemption. Yet Christ, true to the
plll'pose for which he left heaven, would continue his interest in
mell, and still invite them to hide their weakness and deficiencies
i~l him. He would supply the needs of all who would' come unto
him in faith. And there would ever be a few who wouid preserve
the knowledge of God, and would rema.in unsullied amid the pre-
vailing iniquity.' '-pp 6'7,68.
5. What was the result of the defeat of man, by participating in
sin? How could he regain the victory? Romans 5:12, 18'·20.

.N O'l'.I!l:
' "Erue faith and true prayer-how strong they are! They
are as two arms by which the human suppliant lays hold upon the
power of Infinite Love. Faith is trusting in God,-believing that
He loves us, and knows what is for our best good. Thus, instead
of our own w.ay, it leads us to choose His way. In place of our
ignorance, it accepts His wisdom; in place of our weakness, His
strength; in place of our sinfulness, His righteousness. Our lives,
ourselves, are already His; faith aelmowledges His ownership, and
accepts its blessing. Truth, uprightness, purity, are pointed out as
secrets of life's success. It is faith that puts us in possession of

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these. Every good impulse or aspiration is the gift of GOd; faith
receives from God the life that alone can produce true growth and
efficiency.' '-GW 259.
6, Why was Abel's sacrifice accepted, and Cain's offering rejected?
Genesis 4:3-8; Hebrews 11 :4.
. NOT~: "Because iniquity abounds, the love of many waxes cold.
There are many who have outgrown their advent faith. They are
living for the world, ·and while saying in their hearts, as they desire
it shall be, 'My Lord delayeth Hill coming,' they are beating their
fellow servants. They do this for the same reason that Oain killed
Abel. Abel was determined to worship God according to the directions
God had given. This displeased Oain. He thought that his own
plans were best, and that the Lord would come to his terms. Oain
in his offering did not acknowledge his dependence upon Ohrist. He
thought that his father Adam had been treated harshly in being ex-
pelled from Eden. The idea of keeping that sin ever before the mind,
and offering the blood of the slain lamb as a confession of entire
dependence upon a power outside of himself, was torture to the high
spirit of Cain. Being the eldest, he thought that Abel should follow
his example. When Abel's offering was accepted of God, the holy
fire consuming the s::Lcrifice, Oain's anger was exceedingly great.
The Lord condescended to explain matters to him; but he would
not be reconciled to God, and he hated Abel because God showea
him favor. He became so angry that he slew his brother.' '-TM 77,78.
7, In all our relationships .and contacts with God, what must be
assoclated with our prayers, and supplications? Hebrews 11: 6.
NOT~: "We may commune with God in our hea·rts; we may walk
in companionship with Christ. When engaged in our daily labour,
we may breathe out our heart's desire, inaudible to any human ear;
but that word cannot die away into silence, nor can it 1:'e lost. Nothing
can drown the soul's desire. It rises above the din of the street,
above the noise of machinery. It is God to whom we are speaking,
and our prayer i.s heard.' '-GW 258.
8. What faCUlty enables us to overcome sin? I .Tohn 5:4.
No'r~: "'This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our
faith.' It is f.::Lith that enables us to look beyond the present, with
its burdens and cares, to the great hereafter, where all that now
perplexes us Hiiall be made plain. Faith sees Jesus standing as our
Mediator at the right hand of God. Faith beholds the mansions that
Christ has gone to prepa·re for those who love Him. Faith sees the
robe and crown prepared for the oVeJ'comer, and hears the song of
the redeemed. "-GW 259, 260.

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 9. When we exercise the gift of faith, how is our spiritual con-
dition developed? Romans 1: 11,12.
NOT.J!]: "Often the Christian life is beset with dangers, and duty
seems hard to perform. The im3gina tion pictures impending 'l'u1n
before, and bondage and death behind. Yet the voice of God speaks
clearly, Go forward. Let us obey the command, even though our
sight cannot penetrate the darkness. The obstacles that hinder our
progress will never disappear before a halting, doubting spirit. Those
who defer obedience till every uncertainty disappears, and there re-
mains no risk of failnre or defeat, will never obey. Faith looks beyond
the difficulties, and lays hold of the unseen, even Omnipotence, there-
fOl'e it cannot be baffled. Faith is the clasping of the hand of
Christ in every emergency. "-GW 262.
10. When we live by faith, who will control our mind and facul-
ties? Philippians 2:13.

Lesson NO.2. Sabbath, October 12, 1968.

f' AITH IN PRAYER

QUESTIONS:
1. When man failed in his original covenant with God, and trans-
gressed the law, What provision had already been provided? John
3:16.
~,OT.J!]: "While the sinner ca'nnot save himself, he still has some-
thing to do to secure salvation. 'Him that cometh to lIle' says Christ,
'I will in no wise C3st out.' But we must come to him; and when
we repent of our sins, we must believe that he accepts and pardons
us. Faith is the gift of God, but the power to exercise it is ours.
~'aith is the hand by which the soul takes hoM upon the divine offers
of grace and mercy. "-PP 431.
2. In which way does tbe sinner come before Christ our High
Priest? Hebrews 10:19-23.
3. With what simple illustrallion did the Lord teach this basic
truth? John 15:1-6.
4. Is obedience an indispensable factor in our reconciliation with
God? Proverbs 28:9.
5. What did the Lord teach concerning all acceptable worship?
John 4: 19-24.
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 6. Wha.t faith had quickly developed in the family of Adam? Gen-
esis 4:25,26.
NOTE: " . . . The faithful had worshipped God before; but as
men increased, the distinction between the two classes bBcame more
marked. 'fhere was an open profession of loyalty to God all the
part of one, as there was of contempt and disobedience on the part
of the other. "-PP 80.
"Notwithstanding the prevailing iniquity, there was a line of
holy men who, elevated and ennobled by communion with God, lived
as in the companionship of heaven. They were men of massive intellect,
of wonderful attainments. They' had a great a,nd holy mission,-to
4evelop a character of righteousness, to teach a- lesson of godliness,
not oniy to the men of their time, but for future generations. Only
a few of the most pl'ominent are mentioned in the Scl'iptures; but
all through the ages, God had faithful witnesses, true-hearted wor-
shippers.' '-PP 84.
7. What.is faj,th, and What does unbelief do? Hebrews 11 :1,6.
NOTE: "-Faith is tl'llsting God-believing ,.that He loves us and
knows best wha,t is for our good. Thus, instead of our own, it leads
us .t~' choose His .'vaY. In place of our ignorance, it accepts His
wisdom; in place of our weakness, His strength; in place of OUI'
sinfulness, His righteousness. Our lives, ourselves, are already His;
f.aith acknowledges His ownership 'a·nd accepts its blessing. Truth,
uprightness, pUl'ity, have been pointed out as secrets of life's success.
It is faith that puts us in possession of these principles.' '-Ed. 253.

8. How is prayer inseparable from faith? John 14:6.

NOTE: '''fhcre are not many wa,ys to heaven. 'Each one may not
choose his own. waY. Christ ,says, 'I am the way.:, . . . no man cometh
unto the Father, but by Me.' Since the fir~t gaspe) sermon was
preached, when in Eden it was declared that the seed of the woman
should bl'llise the serpent's head, Christ had been uplifted as the
way, the truth, and the life. He' was the way when Adam lived,
when Abel presented to God the" blood of the slain lamb, representing
the blood of the Redeemer. Christ was the way by which patriarchs
and prophets were saved. He is the way by which alone we can have
accees to God.' '-DA 66·3.
9. What illustration shows the very close relationS'hip of faith in
pra.yer? Matthew 17:14-21.
NOTE: "In order to succeed in such a conflict they must come to
the work in a different spirit. Their faith must be strengthened by
fervent praJ·er and fasting, and humiliation of heart. They must be

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emptied of self, and be filled with the Spirit and power of God.
Bamest, persevering supplication to God in faith-faith that leads
to entire dependence upon God, and unreserved consecration to His work
-can alone avail to bring men the Holy Spirit's aid in the b.attle against
principalities and powers, the rulers of the darkness of this world, and
wicked spirits in high places. "-DA 43l.
10. Of What did the Lord say the suppliant in prayer could be cer·
tain? Mark 11:24; Matthew 21:22.

Lesson No.3 SAabbath, October 19, 196-8.

ASK AND YE SHALL RECEIVE

QUESTIONS:
J
1. Wbat condition is essential for the receiving answer to the prayer
of faith? John 15:7; I John 5:13-15.
NOTE: "There are conditions to the fulfilment of God '8 promises,
and prayer can never take the place of duty. 'If ye love Me,' Christ
says, 'keep My commandments.' 'He that hath My commandments,
and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me; .'lnd he that loveth Me
shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest
Myself to him.' Those who bring theiT petitions to Gc,d, claiming
His promise while they do not comply with tne conditions, insult
Jehovah. They bring the name of Christ as their authority for the
fulfilment of the promise, but they do not t.hose things th.'lt would
show faith in Christ and love for HIm.' '-COL 143.
2. How many times did the prophet Elijah pray for 1Ihe rain to
cease for three and a half years? James 5:17.
s. What great faith did the prophet display before the peGple
and the prophets of Baal? I mings 18:3&-40.
4. How many times did Elijah pray for the rain to return upon
the drought-stricken land? I Kings 18:41-45.

NOTE: "It was not because of any outward evidence tlw.t the
showers were about to fall, that Elijah could so confidently bid
Ahalb prepare for rain. The prophet saw no clouds in the heavens;
he heard no thunder. He simply spoke the word that the Spirit r,f the
Lord had moved him to speak in response to his own strong faith.
Throughout the day, he had unflinchingly performed the will of God,
and had revealed his implicit confidence in the prophecies of God's
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word; and now, having done ai1 that was in his powei' to do, he
knew that Heaven would freely bestow the blessings foretold. The
same God who had sent the drought had promised an abundance
of rain as the rewa'rd of right-doing; and now Elijah waited for
the promised olitpoul'ing. In an attitude of humility, 'his foace be-
tween his knees,' he interceded with God in behalf of pentitent
brael.
"Again and again Elijah sent his serva-nt to a point overlooKulg
the Mediterranean, to learn whether there were any visible tokens
that God had heard his prayer. Each time the servant returned with
the word, . There is nothing.' The prophet did not become impatient
or Jo~e faith, but continued his earnest pleading. Six times the
servant returned with the word thoat there was no sign of rain in
the brassy hea-vens. Undaunted, Elijah sent him forth once more;
and t.his time the servant returned with the word, 'Behold there
ariseth a little cloud out of the sea, like a man's hoand.' "-PK 155,156
5. Was Elijah endowed with powers beyond our possibility to re-
ceive? James 5:17.

NOTI<J: "l<'a,ith such as this is needed in the world today,-faith th,at

will lay hold on the promises of God's word, and refuse to let go until
Heaven hears. Faith such as this connects us closely with Heaven,
and brings us strength for coping with the powers of d,arkness.
Through faith God' s children have 'subdued kingdoms, wrough t righ t-
eousness, obtained promises, stopped t.he mouths of lions, quenched
the violence of fire, esca'ped the edge of the sword, out of weakness
were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies
of the aliens.' And through faith we to-day are to reach the heights
of God's purpose for us. 'If thou canst believe, all things a-re possible
to him that' believeth.' "-PK 157.
6. What real danger :-always exists for the careless and presump-
tioul! s0lcll in prayer? - James 4:3.
NO'l'E: "'fhe work of conquering evil is to be done through faith.
Those who go into the battlefield will find that they must put on
~he whole armour of God. The shield of faith will be their defense.
and will enable them to be more thlm conquerors. Nothing else will
I\vail but this,-f~itJl~'in the Lord of hosts, and obedience to His
orders. Voast a_rmieS:"furnished with every other facility will avail
nothing inLthe iast great conflict. Without faith, an angel host could
not help. Living faith alone will make them invincible, and enable
them to stand in the evil day, steadfast, unmovable, holding the be-
ginning of their confidence firm unto the end.' '-0'1' 182, 183.
7. Upon what spiritual basis does genuine reformation depend?
n Corinthians 5:17,18.

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NOTB: "From the secret place of praycr came the powcr that shook
the world in the Great Reformation. There with holy caImness, the
servants of the Lord set their feet upon the rock of His promises. . . "
-Great Controversy, 210.
8, Upon what is the individual believer dependent? Phil. 4:6,7.
9. What did the Lord say could be done with even a very small
degree of faith and prayer? Matthew 17:20.
NOTB: "Throughout the history of God's people, great mountains
of difficulty, apparently insurmountable, have loomed up befol'e 'those
who were trying to carry out the purposes of Heaven, Such obstacles
are permitted by the Lord as a test of faith. When we are hedged
about on every side, this is the time above all others to trust in God
and in the power of His Spirit. The exercise of a living faith means
an increase of spirtual strength and the development of an unf3Jtering
trust. It is thus that the soul becomes a conquering power. ,Before
the demand of faith, the obstacles placed by Sat3n a'cross the path-
way of the Ohristian will disappear; for the powers of heaven wilJ
come to his aid. 'Nothing shaH be impossible unto you.' "-PIC 594,595.
10, What must be associated with all desire for the gifts of God?
Matlthew 7:7-11.

Lesson No, 4. Sabbath, October 26" 1968.

FAITH AND PRAYER IN THE SANCTUARY SERVICES.,
QUESTIONS:
.; .
1. What was the significance of the offerings of the people during
the Patriarchal and Mosaic dispensations? Gen. 8:20; 12:7,8; 33:20:'
N O'l'E: ' '. , . 1'he solemn serviceo of the sanctuary typified the grand
truths that were to be revealed through successive generations, The
cloud of incense ascending with the prayers of Israel represents His
righteousness that alone can make the sinner's prayer acceptablfl
to God; the bleeding victim on the altar of sacrifice testifiiJd of a
Hedeemer to come; and from the holy of holies the v,sible token
of the divine presence shone forth, Thus through age after age of
darkness and apostasy, faith was kept alive in the heal'ts of men
until the time came for the advent of the promised Messiah.' '-PP 367.
2. What was the most important feature of the ceremonial sacri-
fices? I Samuel 15:22.

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MOTE: "uro obey IS better tilan sacrIfice.; The sacrlfidai off-
erings were, in themselves, of no value in the sight of God. They
werc designed to oxprcss, on the part of the offercr, penitence for
f:in alld fnith ill Christ, and to pledge future obcdiencc to the law
of God. But without penitence, faith, a'nd an obedient heart, the
offcrings were worthless. When, in direct violatlOn of God's com-
mand, Saul proposed to present a sacrifice of that which God had
devoted to destruction, open contempt was shown for the divine au-
thority. Thc service would have been an insult to Hea,ven. Yet with
the sin of &ml and its result before us, how many are pursuing a
similar coursc. 'While they refuse to believe and obey some re.qire-
ment of thc Lord, they persevere in offering up to God their formal
services of rcligion. 'rhere is no response of the Spirit of God to such
service. ~ a matter how zcalous men may be in their observance of
religious cercmonics, the Lord cannot accept them if they persist
in willful violation of onc of his commands.' '-pp 634.
3. What did the altar of incense symbolize? Leviticus 16:12,13;
Revelation 8:3.
~ U'I.'E: Between thc cherubim was a golden censer, a,nd as the
prayers of the saints, offercd in faith, came up to Jesus, and He pl'e-
sentcd them to His father, >a cloud of fragrancc arose from the in-
censc, looking like smoke of most beautiful colors. Above the place
where Jesus stood, before the ark, was exceedingly bright glory that
1 could not look upon; it appeal'ed like the thronc of God. As the
incense ascended to the Father, the excellent glory came from the
th'rone to J e'sus, and from Him it W>as shed upon those whose prayers
had comc up likc sweet incense. . . . ' '-EW 252.
. 4. While the work of the High Priest proceeded on the day of
atonement, what were the people to do? Leviticus 16:29-31.

1\ UTE: "'rhc wholc ceremony was designcd to impress the Israelitcs

with thc holiness of God and His abhol'l'ence of sin; and, furthcr,
to show them that they could not come in contact with sin without
becoming polluted. Evcry man was requi ['cd to afflict his soul while
this work of a,toncment was going forward. All business was to bc
laid aside, and the whole congregation of Israel were to spend the
day in solemn humiliation before God, with prayer, foasting, and deep
searching 6f heart. "-GO 419,420.
5. What ininistry is Chris~ performing at this time? How were
'the Advent believers encouraged by the Third Angel's Message? He-
brews 8:1,2; 9:11-15,28.
NOTE: ' 'After Jesus opened the door of the most holy, the light
of the Sabbath was seen, ,and the people of God were tested, as

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the children of Israel Wel'e tested anciently, to see if they would
keep God's law. I saw the third angel pointing upwa>rd, showing
the disappointed ones the way to the holiest of the heavenly &anct-
uary. As they bY' faith enter the most holy, they find Jesus, and hope
and joy spring up anew. . . ' '-EW 254,.255.
6. In which way are the prayers of the saints treated in the heavenly
sanctuary? Revelation 8:1-4.
NOT1£: ' 'I saw the incense in the censer smoke as Jesus offered their
confessions and prayers to His l<'ather. And as it ascended, a bright
light rested upon J'esus and upon the mercy-sea't; and the earnest,
praying ones, who were troubled because they had discovered them-
selves to be transgressors of God's law, were olessed, ,and their coun-
tenances lighted up with hope and joy. . . ' '-EW 256.
7. What faith and confidence did Job express concerning his hope
of 't.l,e resurrection? Job 14:12-16,.
8. Mow was the prayer of faith offered by Job for his a.CCUSerll,
finally answered? Job 42:1-6,9,10.
9. \'\There was the faith of the disciples of Christ centered a.fter
His ascension? Hebrews 6:19,20; 9:12.
NOTE: "Thither the faith of Christ's disciples followed Him as
He ascended from their sight. Here their hopes 'centered. . . "-GC 421,
., As anciently the sins of the people were by faith placed upon
the sin-offering, and through its hlood tr,ansferred, in figure, to -the
earthly sanctuary; so in the new covenant the sins of the repentant
are by faith placed upon Christ, and transferred, in fact, to the
heavenly sa>nctuary. . . ' '-GC 421.

10. As, the books of record are opened in the judgment, whose names
will remain in tile books of heaven? EX?dus 32:33.

NOT1£: "All who have truly repented of sin, and by faith claimed
the blood of Christ as their atoning sacrifice, ha>ve had pardon entered
against their names in the books of heaven; as they have become
partakers of the righteousness of Christ, and their characters are
found to be in harmony with the law of God, their sins will be
blotted out, and they themselves will be accounted worthy of eternal
life. . . ' '-GO 483.

11. Jesus gave a certain parable concerning the value of prayer, with,
what words did He conclude this parable? Luke 18:1,8.

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Lesson No.5. Sabbath, November 2, 1965.

THE PRAYER OF FAITH THAT REACHES HEAVEN

QUESTIONS:
1. What must be associated with prevailing prayer? Matt. 9:28,29.
2. How. does a child possess faith, and how did the Lord use the
illust'ration of tile faith of a child? Matthew 18:1-4.
\
NOT.r;:"J3efore honor is humility. To fill a high place before men,
Hea·ven 4hooses the worker who" like John the Baptist, takes a lowly
pl'llce before God. The most child-like disciple is the most efficient
in labor: for God. The heavenly intelligences can co-operate with
him who is seeking, not to exalt self, but to save souls. He who
feels most deeply his need of divine aid will plead for it; and the
Holy Spirit will give unto him glimpses of Jesus that will strengthen
and uplift the soul. From communion with Christ he will go forth
to work for those who a·re perishing in their sins. He is anointed
for his mission; and he succeeds where many of the learned and in-
tellectually wise would fail.' '-DA 436.
3. What is lacking in the prayer of the Laodicean? Revelation 3:17.
4. Wbat condition !lOon returns if faith is absent from the prayer?
I Tbesllalon.1&ns 3:5.
NOT.r;: "Prayer is the breath of the soul. It is the secret of spiritual
power. No other means of grace can be substituted, and the health
of t.l.le soul be preserved. Prayer brings the heart into immediate con-
tact with the Well-spring of life, and strengthens the sinew and
muscle of ' the religious experience. Neglect the exercise of prayer, or
eng-age in prayer spa:smodically, now and then, as seems convenient,
and you lose your hold on God. The spiritual faculties lose their vi-
tality, the. religious eli:perience lacks health and vigor.' '-GW 254, 255.
6. How!does the prayer of faith reach heaven? I John 5:4.
6. How does the prayer of faith strengthen the believer? James 5:15.
NOT.r;: "We should be much in secret prayer. Christ is the vine,
we are the branches. And if we would grow and flourish, we must
continually draw sap' and nourishment from the Living Vine; for
separated from the Vine, we have no strength.
"I .asked the angel why there was no more faith and power in
Israel. He said, 'Ye let go of the arm of the Lord too soon. Prllss
your petitions to the throne, and hold on by strong faith. The
promises are sure. Believe ye receive the things ye ask for, and
ye shaH have them.' • '-EW 73.

.....:.13-
7. While the Israelites many times disobeyed and afterward repented,
how did the Lord receive their prayers of penitence? Nehemiah
9:26-28; II Chronicles 30:27.
- ~ .:~,

8. What example did the mother of the proP~!lt Samuel.. display in

faith and prayer? I Samuel 1:9-11. .,.

9. How was the prayer answered? I Samuel 1:19,20,24-28,

NOTE: •• Hannah uttered no reproach. The' burden which she could
share with no earthly friend, she MLst upon God. Earnestly she pleaded
that he would take away her repr.oach, and grant her the precious
glft of a son to nurture and train for him. And she made a solemn
vow that if her request were granted, she would dedieate her ehild
tv God, even from its birth. Hannah had drawn nellir to the entrance
of the t::Lbel'llacle, and in the anguish of her spirit she' prayed, and wept
sore.' Yet she communed with God in silence, uttering nQ sound. . .

." . . . When separated from her child, the faithful mother's solici-
tude did not cease. Every day he was the suhject of her prayers.
.Iflvery year she made, with her own hands, a robe of service for him;
and as she went up with her husband to worship at Shiloh, she gave
the child this reminder of her love. Every fiber of the little garment
had been woven with a prayer that he might be pure, noble and true. She
did not ask for her son worldly greatness, but she earnestly pleaded
that he might attain that greatness which Heaven values,-that he
might honor God" and bless his fellowmen, "-PP 572.
10, What experience was made by the priest Zacharias. father of
John the Baptist? Luke 1 :5-23.
NOTE: •• . For many years he had pra,yed for the cOJiling of the
Redeemer; now heaven had sent its messenger to anllounce that
these prayers were about to be answered; but the mercy of God
seemed too great for him to credit. He was filled with fear and self-
condemnation.' '-DA 98.
• , The birth of a son to Zacharias, like the birth of the child
of Abraham, and that of jI,f,ary, was to reach a great spiritual truth,
a truth that we are slow to learn and ready to forget, In ourselves
we are incapa.ble of doing any good thing; but that which we cannot
do will be wrought by the power of God in every submissive and be-
lieving soul. It was through faith that the child of promise was given.
It is through faith that spiritual life is begotten, and we are enabled
to do the works of righteousness. "-PP 98.

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Lesson No.6 Sabbath, November 9, 1968.

THE HOLY SPffiIT AND PRAYER

QUESTIONS:
1. What precious promise· did the Lord give his disciples, and which
would remain until the end? JaM 15:26,; 16:7-14.
2. What did tale apostle Paul write concerning the help of the Holy
Spirit in prayer? Romans 8:26,27; Ephesians 6:18.
NOTE: " . . . The religion that comes from God is the only religion
that will lead to God. In order to serve Him adght, we must be born
of the divine Spirit. This will purify the heart and renew the mind,
giving us a new capacity for knowing and loving God. It will give
us a willing obedience to all His requirements. This is true worship.
It is the fruit of the working of the Holy Spirit. By the Spirit every
sincere pr,ayer is inclited, and such pra;yer is acceptable to God. Where-
ever a soul reaches out after God, there the Spirit's working manifest,
and God will reveal Himself to that soul. For such 'worshippers He
is seeking. He waits to receive them, and to make them His sons and
daugthers. "-:-'])A 189.
3. Wllat did the Lord tell his disciples to do? John 16:23.24.

NOT~: "A~ yet:.the. disciples were acquainted with the Saviour's un-
limited resources and' ·po·wer. He' said to them, 'Hitherto have ye asked
nothing in My name.' John 16:24. He explained that the cecret
of their success would be in asking for 11 strength and grace in His
name. He would be present before the Father to make request for
them. The prayer of the humble suppliant He presents as His own
desire in that soul's behalf. Every sincere pra;yer is heard in
he:tven. It may not be fluently expressed; but if the heart is in it,
it will ascend to the sanctuary where Jesus ministers, uncI He will
present it to the Father without one awkward, stammering word,
beautiful and fragrant with the incense of His own perfection."
-VA 667.
4. What is written concerning faith and prayer in behalf of the
sick? James 5:13-15.
NOTE: "I was shown that in case of sickness, where the way is
clear for the offering up of prayer for the sick, the case should be
committed to the Lord in calm faith, not with a storm of excitement.
He alone is a.cquainted with the past life of the individual, and knows
what his future will be. He who is acquainted with the hearts of all
men, knows whether the person, if raised up, would glorify his name,
or dishonor him by backsliding and apostasy. All that we are re-

-15-
quired to do is to ask God to raise the ,qick up if in accordance
with his will, believing that he hears the reasons which we present,
and the fervent pr,:qers offered. If the Lord sees it will best honor
him, he will answer our prayers. But to urge recovery without sub-
mission to 'his will, is not right.' '-2T 147,148.
"Christ has empowered His church to do the same work that He
did during His ministry, To-day He is the same. compassionate phys-
ician that He w,as whon on this earth. We should let the afflicted
understand that in Him there is healing balm for every disease,
restoring powel' fOl' every infirmity. His dis.ciples in this time
are to pray for the sick as verily a's His disciples of old prayed'.
And recoveries will follow, for 'the pr.a.yer of faith shall ~ave the nick'
James 5:15. 'We need the Holy Spirit's ),ower", the calm assuranee
of faith that can claim God's' promises.' '-eH 210.
6. From whence did the Lord .receive His glacious words? Is. 50:4.
NOTE: "We must not only pray in 'Christ's name, but by the inspir.
ation of the Holy Spirit. This explains what is meant when it is
salid that the Spirit' maketh intercession for us, with groanings which
can not be uttered.' Such prayer God delights to answer. When with
earnestness and intensity we breathe a prayer in the name of Christ,
there is in that very intensity a pledge from God tb.a,t He is about
to answer our prayer 'exceeding abundantly above all that we ask
or think.' "-COL 147.
" .. Nevel' a pra:yer is offered, however f.altering, never a teal'
is shed, however seCl'et, never a sincere desire after God is cherished,
however feeble, but the Spirit of God goes forth to meet it. Even
bl'fore the prayer is uttered, or the yearning of the heart made known,
grace from Christ goes forth to meet the grace ,that is working upon
the human soul.' '-COL 206. .

6. What interest.tng miracle occured through faith and prayer ot

Elijah? I Kings 17:17-24.

7. What does the converted belie;ver become, and what relation-

slIiIJ does the Holy Spirit have ,with his h,oly desircr.? I Cor-
inthians 6:19: .Tohn 14:16,17.

NO'fE: "Christ, our Mediator, and the Holy Spirit are constantly
interceding in mall's behalf, but the spirit pleat-s not for us as does
Christ, who presents His bolood, shed from the foundation of the
world; the Spirit works upon our hearts, dra,ving out prayers and
penitence, praise and tha~lksgiving. The gratit~de which flows from
our lips is the result of the Spirit's striking the cords of the soul
in holy memories, awakeniJ:lg the music of the he~J..rt.' '-ISM, 344.

-16-
 8. By what simple process may We have the gift and help ot the
Holy Spirit? LUke 11:13.
NOT.E: "The Lord would have His people sound in the faith-not
19naraut of the great salvation so abundantly provided for them.
They are not to look forwa1'd, thinking that at some future time a
great work is to be done for them; for the work is now complete.
'1'he believer is not called upon to make his peace with God; he
nover has nor ever can do this. He is to aecept Christ as his
peace, for with Christ is God and peace. Christ made an end of
sin, be.axing its heavy curse in His own body on the tree, and He hath
ta·ken away the curse from a1] those who believe in Him as a personal
l::laviour. He makes an end of the controlling power of sin in the
heart, and the life and character of the believer testify to the genuine
character of the grace of Christ. '1'0 those tha:t ask Him, Jesus im-
parts the Holy Spirit; for it is necessary that every belieV,llr should
be delivered from pollution, as weil as from the curse and condem-
nation of the law. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, the sancti-
fication of the truth, the believer becomes fitted for the courts of
heaven; for Christ works within us, and His righteousness is upon
us. Without this no soul will be entitled to heaven. We would not
cnjoy heaven unless qualified for its holy atmosphere by the influ-
ence of the Spirit and the righteousness of Christ. "-ISM 394,395.
9. When any difficulties arrive, can they destroy the effectiveness
of sincere and correct prayer? Ps. 72:12; Isaiah 26:3; 45:20-25.
10. Faith comes by the hearing of God's word. Who reveals its
understanding? Romans 10:17.
NOT.E: "We receive Christ through His Word; and the Holy Spirit
is given to open the .W·ord of God to our understanding, aud bring
home its truths to oUi.: hearts. We are to pray day by day that as
we read His Word, God will send His Spirit to reveal to us the truth
that will strengthen our souls for the day's need.' '-MB 164,165.

Lesson No.7. Sabbath, November 16, 1968.

EFFECTIVE FERVENT PRAYER

QUESTIONS:
1. What dominant factor is noticed in the life- and work of the
workers in the Gospel? Romans 15:30; COlossians 4:12.
2. What arrangement was made for the work of evangelism of
the chr1st1an church? Acta 6:3,4.

-17-
 3. Wbat deadly formality must be avoided in the work of 1418
church? Matthew 23:14.
.N01'B: ., .Many tedious prayers are offered, which are more like
giving the Lord a lecture than presenting to Him a re.q;uest. It would
be better if those offering such pratyers would confine themselves to
the one that Christ taught His disciples to offer. Long prayers are
tiring to those who hear, and do not prepare the people to listen
to the instruction that is to follow."-GW 175,176.
"It is the heart-felt prayer of faith that is heard in heaven
and .answered on earth. God understands the needs of humanity.
He knows wha;t we desire before we ask Him. He ~ees the soul's con-
flict with doubt and temptwtion. He marks the sincerity of the
suppliant. He will accept the humiliation and affliction of the soul.
• To this man will I look,' He declares, 'even to him that is poor and
of a contrite spirit, and trembleth a,t My word.' • '-GW 177.

4. What was the motive of the prayer of the Pharisee? Luke 18:11,12.
5. What was the spirit and the prayer of the Publican? LUke 18:13,14-•

.NOTE: "Whoever trusts in himself that he is righteous, will des-

pise others. As the Pha,risee judges himself by other men, so he judges
other men, by himself. His righteousness is estimated by theirs, and
the WOl'se they are, the more righteous by contrast he appears. His
self-righteousness leads to accusing. 'Other men' he condemns' as
t.rall8gressors of God's law. Thus he is making manifest the very
spirit of Satan, the accuser of the brethren. With this spirit it is
impossible for him to entel' into communion with God. He goes down to
his house destitute of the divine blessing.
, 'The publican had gone to the temple with other worshippers,
but he soon drew apart from them, as unworthy to unite in their
devotions. Standing Mar off, he 'would not lift. up so much as his
eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast,' in b,itter' anguish and
self-abhorrence. He felt that he had transgressed against God, that
he wa.s sinful and polluted. He could not expect even pity from those
around him; for they looked upon him with contempt, He knew
that he' had no merit to commend him to God, and in utter self-
despair he cried, 'God be mel'ciful to me, a _sinner. ' He did not
compare himself with others. Overwhelmed with a sense of guilt,
he stood as if alone in God's presence. His only desire was for
pardon a·nd peace, his only plea was the mercy of God. And he was
blessed. 'I tell you,' Christ said, 'this man went down to his house
justified rather than the other.' "-COL 151.
6. What request; did one of Christ's disciples make? Luke 11:1.

-18-
 7. What '\!Vas the substance and the pattern t.nlit jesus set them
for prayer? With what para.ble did He illustra.te this ideal prayer?
Luke 11: 2-4,5-13.
NOTE: "Here Ohrist represents the petitioner as asking that he lllay
give again. He must obtain the bread, else he C.:Ln not supply the
necessities of a weary, belated wayfarer. Though his neighbour is
unwilling to be trouhled, he will not desist his pleading; his friend
lllust be relicvcd; and at J.ast his importunity is rewarded; his wants
are supplied.
•• In like IUanner the disciples were to seek blessings from God.
In the feeding of the multitude and in the sermon on the bread from
heaven, Christ had opened to them their work as His representatives,
They were to give the bread of life to the people. He who had
appoInted their wo!'l" saw how often their faith would be tried. Often
they would be thrown into unexpected positions, and would realize
their human insufficiency. Souls that were hungering for the bread
of life would come to them, and they would feel themselves to be
destitute and helpless. They must l'eceive spiritual food, or they
would have nothing to impart. But they were not to tum one soul
awa,y unfed. Christ directs them to the source of supply. The man
whose friend came to him for entertainment, even at the unseasonable
hour of midnight, did not turn him away. He had nothing to set
before him, but he went to one who had food, and pressed his request,
until the neighbour supplied his need. And would not God, who had
Bent His servants to feed the hungry, supply their need for His own
work f' '-COL 140,141.
8. What is the sufficiency for the gospel worker? Romans 12:9-12.
NOTE: "Thosc who teach and preach the most effectively are those
who wait humbly upon God, and watch hungrily for His guidance
and His grace. Watch, pray, work-this is the Christia~l 's watchword.
The life of a true Christian is a life of constant prayer. He knows
that the light and strength of one day is not sufficient for the trials
and conflicts of the next. Satan is continually changing his temptations.
Every day we shall be placed in different circumstances; and in the
untried scenes that await us we shall be sUlTounded by fresh dangers,
and constantly assailed by new and unexpected temptations. It is
only through the strength and grace gained from heaven that we can
hope to lllect the temptations and perform the duties before us."
-GW 257,258.
9. What promise was given the disciples when Ohrist was about
to leave them? How is the contact to be maintained? Matt. 28:20.
NOTE: "At all times and in all places, in all sorrows and in all
a1llictions, when the outlook seems dal'k and the future perplexing,

-19-
 and we feel helpless -and llJlone, the Comforter will be sent in answer
to the prayer of faith. Circumstances may separate us from every
earthly friend; but no circumstance, no distance, can sepa-rate us from
the heavenly Comforter. -Wherever we are, wherever we ma)' go, He
is always at our right hand to support, sustain, uphold, a-nd cheer."
-DA 669,670.
10. What example did the Lord set for the trials that would come
to t!he disciples? Luke 6:12,13.
NOTE: "The Saviour knew the character of the men whom He had
chosen; all their weaknesses and enol'S were open before Him; He
knew the perils through which they must pass, the responsibility that
would rest upon them; and His heart yearned- over these chosen ones.
Alone upon a niountllJin near the Sea of Galilee He spent the entire
night in prayer for them, while they were sleeping at the foot of the
mountain. With the first light of dawn He summonc(l them to meet
Him; for He had something of iniportance to communicate to them."
-DA 291 292.

Lesoon No.8. Sabbath, November 23, 1968.

CHRIST AND PRAYER

QUESTIONS: ~ ~ ~ ~t"~
- - --?#~ . ~
1. How one)l was Clhris'l; found in ;>rayer? Mark 1:35; Luke 6:12.
:-Y/J..,.¢..A-r?U1~ ~~
O'1'E ~ •• In a life wholly dcvoted to the good of others, the Saviour
found it necessary to withdraw from the thoroughfdres of travel a.nd
from the throng that followed Him day after _d~y_. He must turn aside
from a life of ceaseless activity and contact with -human needs, to
seek retirement and unbroken communion with His Father. As one
with us, a shaxer in our needs and weaknesses, He was 'wholly de-
pendent upon God, and in the secret place of prayer He sought divine
strength, that He migl~t go forth braced for duty and trial. In a
world of sin Jesus endured struggles and torture of sou!. In com-
munion with God He could unburden the sonows that were crushing
Him. Here He foue.~;llfort anS! joy. "-DA 362,363.
#W1l~~ce did(J~~t:~~~)for HiB
disciples, and those who would follow them? John 17:9,20:)
N.oTE: ., When left alone, Jesus 'went up into a mountain apa!t to
pray.' ]'01' hours He continued pleading with God. Not for Himpelf
but for men were those prayers. He prayed for power to reveal to
'1IUIQ ,;;, ~~ '~-2~~ ~ ~0A~ j

1M ~~4t~~~/rr~~~.~.
men the divtl~raeter of His mission, that Satan might n?t blind
thJ~ir unge@ngjng and pervert their jndgment. The Saviour knew
that His days of person,al ministry on earth were nearly ended, and
that ~would receive Him as their Redeemer. In trR,vail and conflict
of soul' He prayed fOI' His disciples. 'l'hey were to be grievously iried.
'l'heir long-cherished hopes, based on a popular delusion, were to be
disappointed in a most painfut and humiliating manner. In the plliJCe
of ·His exaltation to the throne of David they were to witness His
crucifixion. This was to be indeed His true coronation. But they did
It0t discern this, and in consequence strong .tempta'tions would come to
them, which it would be difficult for them to recognize as temptations.
Without the Holy- Spirit to enlighte..!.l the mind and enlarge the com-
pl:eIiension the f,aith of thedisclp es would fail. It was painful to
Jesus that their conceptions of His kingdom were, to so great a
degree, limited to worldly aggrandizement and honor. For them the
burden was heavy upon His l~.art, and He poured out His -supplications I
l:2.. ~ :~~lld, t».':l~s~DA ),79. ,~/~ ~ t!Kd>
~"What e~ie~ll~ t:,,~ ~t:-~r~e' ~I'the disciples
o~ 1lbe Mount of Transfiguration? Matthew 17:1,2.
4. How ~l1ea..xen opened bef~re ~eir astonished gaze? Matt. 17:3-8.
t/?U ~a~~~,
NOTE: "P esently Christ tells them that they are now to go no
farther. Stepping a little aside from them, the Mall of Sorrows pours
out His supplications with strong cr:ying and tears. He prays for
strength to endure the test in behalf of humanity. He must Himself
ga:in a fresh ~d on Onlllipotenclt., for only thus can He contemplate
the future. And He pours out His heart longings for His disciples,
that in the hour of -.t.!le I!ower of d.arkne S-tbeir faith may not fail.
The dew is heavy upon His bowed form, but He heeds it not. The
shadows of night gather thickly about Him, but He regards not their
gloom. So the hours pass slowly by. At first the disciples unite their
prayers with His in sincere devotion; but after a time they are over-
come with weariness, and, even while trying to retain their interest in
the scene, they fall asleep. Jesus ha's told them of His sufferings; He
has taken them with Him that they might uilite with Him in prayer;
even now He is praying for them. The Saviour has seen the gloom
of His disciples, and has longed to lighten t ~ y an assurance
th~heir !!:!-i~~E-.a3~~..!?.e~1_l~2ain. Not all, even of the twelve,
can receive the revelation He desires to give. Only the three who
are to witness His anguish in Gethsemane had been chosen to be
with Him on the mount. Now the burden of His prayer is that they
mity be given a manifestation of the glory He had with the Father
before the world was, that His kiIlgdom may be revealed to human
roces, and that His disciples may be strengthened to behold it: He
pleads that they m~ witness a manifestation of His divinity that

-21-
 will comfort them in trle hour of His supreme agony with the knowredge
t~ He is of a surety the Son of God and that His shameful death
lis a part of the plan of I'edemption, .
{{ His pra,yer is heurd. While He is bowed in lowliness upon the
atony ground, suddenly the heavens open, the golden gates of the
city are thrown wide, and holy radiance descends upon the mount,
enshrouding the Saviour's form. Divinity from within flashes through
humanity, and meets t.he glory coming from above.. Arising from
His prostrate position, Christ stands in Godlike madesty. The soul
agony is gone. His countenance now shines 'as the sun,' and His
garments are {wIYt~ as the light.' "-Dl\, 419-421. _ 7';?' IJ .Ak./.. / i:IlI
/Q'11? l~ cLM,e. ~ ~- ~~ 4z;~~~~ ~I r
5. Whattdid Jesus go before t~ tomb of Lazantfl? John 11 :41,42.
A"M~~~~~~,
l' 6. What was the resul~o~ .this prayer? ~hn 1l:-:1,!3-46.
~~~~~ ~. ..
NO~E: "In a'l'1 that He did, Christ was co-operating with His Father.
Ever He had been careful to make it evident that He did not work
independelltJ~j it was by faith alld prayer that He wrought His
miracles. . . "-DA 536.
7. When the destiny of the whole human race wa.'J at stake, wha.t
~ s~w~~ di~~~~understand? Matt 26:36-46.
NOT'Ef:- -. i Turning ,away, esus sought again His retreat, and fell pros-
trate, overcome by the horror of a gl'eat -darkness. The humanity
of the Son of God trembled in that trying hour. He prayed not now
for His disciples that their faith might not fail, but for His own
tempted, agonized SOUl. The awful moment hoo come-t.hat moment
which was to decide the destiny of the world. The fate of humanity
trembled in the balance. Christ mIght even no; refuse to drmk
the cup apportioned to guilty man. It was not yet too late. He·
might wipe the bloody sweat from His brow, 3nd leave man to perish
in his iniquity. He might say, Let the transgressor receive the
penalty of his sin, and I will go back to :My Father. Will the Son
of God drink the bitter cup of humiliation and agony' Will the
innocent suffer the consequences of the curse of sin, to save the
~ilty, The words fa.ll tremblingly from the pale lips of .Jesus, '0
l'i!YFather, if this eup may not pass away from Me, except I drink
It, Thy will be done.'
"Three times ha_iLHe uttered that );!.ffi.l.'.ll. Three times has humanity
--!hrunk f;;~;;-;I the last, crowning sacrifice. . . ' '-DA 690.
8. 'What was the prayer of Christ eVJln for those who tortur~
Hlm upon the cross? Luke 23:34 /~~~~-: :n--

NOTE: "That prayer of Christ 01' His enemi~s embraced the world.
It took in every sinner that had lived or should live, from the be-

-22-
. ginning of the world to the end of time. . . 11-DA 745.
9.W1lat was t% clo&ing earthly prayer of JeS'ljs on the ,crOIS?/. • t:<..
Luke 23:4&. ~ I ~t£i.d ~ ,un11.~ <:9n-l #d)W'"I
10. With what confidence and assurance did the discip~s p~a!n/YJL.__
. rtfter Ohrist's resurrectiQ}J2 Acts 1:14."7i~ ~c.. ~~-.n-'~'-
~~Uv~
NOTE: "The disciples ~~_~y distrust of the future.
'l'hey knew that Jesus WlbS' in heave~and thi~ympathies were
with them still. They knew that they had a. ,frill~d at the throne
of 'God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father
iilthe name of Jesus. 'In solemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating
the assurance, 'Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He
will give it you. Hitherto have ye a:sked nothing in My name: ask,
and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.' John 16:23,24. They
e(!:-tended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the might~' argu-
~~!1j;,_' It is Christ that died, yea ra,ther, that is risen again, wJ10is
even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession fOr us.'
Romans 8:34. And Pentecost brought them fullness of joy in the
presence of the Comforter, even as Christ had promised. "-DA 833

Lesson No.9 sabbath, Novem1Jier 30, 1968.

PRAYER IN THE CHURCH

QUESTIONS:
1. WbereAllhoul~~ted prayer be ma<\.e?/ Isaiah 56:7. ~A4t-' 4nl '0
~~ ~ ~~~~~",. __ ~ k ~ ~
NOTE: "Heaven's plan of salvation is broad enough to emtlrace
the whole world. God longs to bre:.tthe into prostrate humanity the
breath of life. And He will not permit any soul to bc disap.pointed
who is sincere in' his Ion in for somethin hi her and nobler than
anything he world can offer. Constantly He is sending His angels
to those who, while surrounded by circumstances the most discouraging,
pra in faith for some power higher than themselves to take possession
of em, and 1}ring deliverance Mid peace. In various ways God will
reveal Himself to them, and will place them in touch with providences
that will establish their confidence in the One who hoas given Himself
a ransom for all, 'that they might set their hope in God, and not for-
get the works of God, but keep His commandments.' "-PE 377,378.
2. What happened to the church in Christ's time? Why 'Was its
pra.yer ineffectual? Mark 11:17; Luke 19:46,46.jJ~ ~
.~~~q-7 6t, ~~;,~ .~ ~ d~'
 3.
~/~~t»:
What happened ~o the· apostle l>eter when Herod Agrippa beglJ1
to severely persecute the church? Ae.ts 12:1-4. Pwu ~

4. What were the members of the churches doing in tue critical

part of the hiJtorr of the reformation of th~t. time? Acts 12:5.
.&. id.-.k ~.,4hv ~ ~ 4-'~ ..f,..y
hU.
NOT:li1: "The death of James caused great grief and consterllation .
among the believers. When Peter also was imprisoned, th ire
church engaged in fasting and prayer.' '-AA 144.
5. With what perseverance and fervency did the church continue
'Pleading with God? Aets 12:12. ~ ~ ~
/7<'- ?V1''-wCPo ~
NOTB: "The day of Peter's execution was at last appointed, but
still the prayers of the believers ascended to heaven; and while all
their energies and sympathies were called out in fervent a·.ppeals for
help, angels of God were watching over the imprisoned a.postle."
-AA 145.
~.e4~
6. What wonderful power was manifested in Joppa? Acts 9:36-41.

7. In which way did the first gentile believer j{Comelius) receive

the answers to his sincere desire? What conviction came to Peter
and the other disciples? Acts 10:1L4,9~18,34,35. ~ ~ .... ~
-<Uh.h J).;.)'?I'I1.f)~ ~.~~~
NOTE: ., Believing in God as the (Jfeator of heaveu -aild earth, Cor-
nelius revered Him, acknowledged His authority, and sought His
counsel in all the affairs of life. He was faithful to Jehovah in his
home life and in his official dutie~. He l1'3.d erected the altar of God
in hiB home; for he aared not attempt to (larry out his plans or to
bear his responsibilities without the help of God. "-AA 133.
"'fhe a~lgel appeared to Cornelius while he ,,-as at prayer. "
-AA 133.
"God caJls for earnest, humble workers, who will carry the gOB-
pel to the higher class. There are miracles to be wrought in genuine
conversions,-miracles that are not now discerned. The greatest
men of this earth are not beyond the power of a, wonder-working God.
If those who are workers together with Him will be men of oppor-
tunity, doing their duty bmvely and faithfully, God will convert
men who occupy responsible pos'itions, men of intellect and influence.
Through the power of the Holy Spirit many will accept the divine
principles. Converted to the truth, they will become agencies in the
h':llld of God to communicate the light. They will ha,ve a special burden
for other souls of this neglected class. Time and money will be
consecrated to the work of the Lord, and new efficiency and power
will be added to the church.' '-AA 140.

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 8. What kind or believers were those who were sdncerelY' and hope-
fUlly looking for the second coming of Christ, under the mes. ..
sage or the "second angel"? Matthew 25:1-13.~~ . ~

NO'rE: •• At that time there was faith that brought answers to

pruyer,-faith that had respect to the recompense of reward. Like
showers of rain upon the thirsty earth, fhe Spirit of grace descended
upon the earnest seekers. Those who expected soon to stand face
to fa.ce with their Redeemer, felt a solemn joy that was unutterable.
The softening, subduing power of the Holy Spirit melted the heart,
as His blessing was bestowed in rich measure upon· the faithful, be-
lieving ones.

"'Carefully and solemnly those who received the message came

up to the time when they hoped to meet their Lord. Every morn-
ing they felt that it was their first duty to secure the evidence of
their accepk\.llce with God. Their hearts were closely united, and
they prayed much with and for one another. They often met together
in secluded places to commune with Go(l, and the voice of· intercession
ascended to heaven from the fields and groves. The assurance of the
t:laviour's ,a.pproval was more necessary than their daily food; and
if a, cloud darkened their minds, they did not rest until it was swept
away. As they felt the witness of pardoning grace, they longed to be-
hold Him whom their souls loved.' '-GC 403.

9. WhUe many aba.ndoned tlhe advent message, in Which way did

the people or G<ld continue to keep in the "light"? Matt. 24:4&-51.

NOTE: "But God had led His people in the great Advent Movement;
His power and glory had attended the work, and He would not permit
it to end in darkness .aJHl disappointment, to be reproached as a false
a>lld fanatical exci tement. He would not lea ve His word involved in
doubt and uncertainty. Though many abandoned their former reckon-
ing of the prophetic periods, and denied the correctness of the move-
ment based thereon, others were unwilling to renounce points of faith
llnd experience that were sustained by 'the Scriptures and hy the
witness of the Spirit of God. They believed that they had adopted
sound principles of interpretation in their study of the prophecies,
and that it was their duty to hold foast the truths already gained, and
to continue the snme courRe of bil'licnl research. With earnest prayer
they reviewed their position, and studied the Scriptures to discover
their mistake. As they could see no errol' in their reckoning of the
prophetic periods, they were led to examine more closely the subject
of the sanctulll·y.' '-GC 410,411.

10. Because or the faith and prayer, what did they discover, and
how did this encourage them? Rev. U:6,7; Dan. 7:13; Mal. 3:1.
.N OT.I!;: ' 'The subject of the sanctuary was the key which unlocked
the mystery of the disappointment of 1844. It opened to view a com-
plete system of truth, connected and harmonious, showing that GOd's
hand had directed the grea.t Advent Movement, and reveaJing present
duty as it brought to light the position and work of His people. . .
, 'But the people were not yet ready to meet their Lord. There
was still a work of preparation to be aMomplished for tbem. Light
was to be given, directing their minds to the temple of God in heaven;
and as they should by faith follow their High Priest in His minis-
tration there, new duties would be revealed. Another message of
warnng and instruction was to be given to the church.' '-GC 423,424,,425.

Lesson No. 10. Stabba.th, December 7, 1968.

PRAYER AND FAITH IN THE TIME OF TROUBLE

QUESTIONS:
1. What happens when faith and prayer are pressed towards God?
I Timothy 2:1-6,8.
No'rE: I I The Holy Spirit illumines our darkness, informs our ignor'
ance, and understands and helps us in our manifold necessities.' But
the. mind must be constantly going out after God. If coldness and
worldliness aTe allowed to come in, we shall h·:tve no heart to pray,
n() courage to look up to Him who is th~sourcc of strength and wisdOm.
Then pray always, dear brcthren and sisters, 'lifting up holy hands,
without wrath ·and doubting.' Urge your requests to the throne of
grace, and rely upon God hour by hoUl' and moment by moment. The
service of Christ will regulate all your relations with YOUI' fellowmen,
and make your life fruitful in good works.' '-5T 410.
2. W1J.at impressive lesson can we learn from the danger 'tiha'ti
threatened the people of GOd in the rule of Jehosaphat? 2 Chron.
20:14. ~~Ut- cUt ~
3. To whom did Jehoshaph~t and the people t~rn in this hour of
trouble? 2 Chronicles 20:5-13. (). ~
NOTE: "With confidence Jehoshaphat could say to the Lord, 'Our
eyes a·re upon Thee.' For years he had taught the people to trust
in the One who in past ages had so often interposed to save His chosen
ones from utter destnlCtion;' and now, when the kingdom was in
peril, Jehoshaphat did not stand alone; 'all Judah stood before
the Lord with their little ones their wives, and their llhildren. '
Linitedly. 'they fasted and prayed; unite;lIy they besought the Lord

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..:.-.:

to put. their enemies to confusion, that the iiaflle' of Jehovah llllght

be glorified. I '-PE: 200.
"Goer was the strength of Judah in this crisis, and He is the
strength of His' people to-day. We are not to trust in princes, 01'
to set men in the place of God. We are to remember that llUman beings
a<l'e fallible and erring, and that He who has' 'all power is our strong
towel' of defense. In evcry emergency we are to fccl tha t the battle
l~ His. His resources are limitless, ,:i.nd apparcnt impossibilities
will make the victory all thc greater.' '-PE: 202.
4. lIow 'was the real faith of Jacob revealed in the time when
he. feared almost certain disaster? What did he do? Gen. 32:6-8,9-12.
NOT~: "But the servants retul'lled with the tidings that Esau was
approaching with foul' hundred men, and no response wa's sent to
the friendly message. It appeared certain that he was coming to seek
revenge. Terror pervaded the camp. 'Jacob was greatly ,afr,aid and
distl:essed.' He could not go back, and he feared to advance. His
company, unQ,rmed and defenseless, were whoIly ~nprepared for a
hostile encounter. He accordingly divided them into two bands, so
that if one should be attacked, the other might have an opportunity
to ·escape. He sent from his vast flocks generous presents to Esau, with
a friendly messa.ge. He did all in his power to atone for the wrong
to his brothel', and to avert the threatened dangel', and then in humili-
ation and repenta'l)Ce he pleaded for divine protection. . . "-PP 196.
5. How was his prayer answered? Gen 33:1-4.
. 6. What important lesson does this experience have for tihose who
will partake in the final struggle with the powers of evil? Luke
18:7,8. ,
NOTE: "Jacob's experience during that night of wrestling and a·n-
guish l'epresents the ti'ial through which the people of God must pass
just before Christ's second comiilg: The prophet Jeremiah, in holy
vision looking down to this time; said: 'We have heard a voice
of tl'embling, of fear, and not of peace. . . All faces arc: tUl'lled into
paleness. Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is
even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be 'saved out of it.'
, 'When Christ shall cease his work as mediator ill man's behalf,
then this time of trOUble will begin. Then the case of every soul
will have been decided, and there will be no atoning blood to cleanse
from sin. When 'Jesus leaves his position as man's intercessol' before
God, the solemn alll\ouncement is made, 'He that is unjust, let him be
l,mjust still; ,and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still; and he
that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let
him be holy still.' Then the restrBJining Spirit of God is withdrawn

-27-
 from the earth. As Jacob was threatened with death by his angry
brother, so the people of God will be in peril from the wicked who
are seeking to destroy them. And as the patriarch wrestled all night
for deliverance from the hand of Esau, so the righteous will cry to God
day and night ,for deliverance from the enemies that surround them."
-pp 201.

7. Wnat m3ssage does the. True Witness give in order to have the
people of God prepared for the time of Jacob's trouble? Reve-
l.a.tion 3:19-21.
NOTE: •• Had not Jacob previously repented of his sin in obtaining
the birthright ·by fraud,. God could not have heard his prayer and
mercifully preserved his life. So in the time of trouble, .f the people
of God had unconfessed sins to 'appear before them while tortur.ad
with fear and 'anguish, they would be oy-er:\£he med; despair would
cut off their faith, and they' could not have confidence to plead with
God for deliverance. But while they have a deep sense of their
unworthiness, they "iill
have no concealed wrongs to reveal. Their s.ins
<IIt1''':.ill
have been blotted out by the atoning 1:>lood of Christ, an. the
~annot ring them to remembrance.' )..-pp 202.

8. Where do we gain greatest victories of faith? Psalms 27:1-9.

NOTE: ., Jacob prevailed because he was persevering and deter-
mined. His experience testifies to the power' of importunate prayer.
It is now that we are to learn this lesson of prevailing prayer, Clf.
unyielding faith. • The gre'atest victories to the church of Christ
or to the individual Christian are not those th&t are gained by taleJl.t
or education, by wealth or: the favor of men. They are those vie·
tories that are ~~ned in the 'audience ~hambcr with God, when earnest,
agonizing faith ays -·hold upon the mIghty arm of power.' '-PP 203.
9. Wben were the; Israelites in the greatest danger? What is the
danger today? Revela.tion 3:17; Hosea 12:8.
NOTE: ' . it was when the' ·Israelites were in a condition of outward
ease and security that they were led into sin. They failed to keep
God ever before them, they neglected prayer and cherished a spirit
of self-confIdence. Ease and self-indulgence left the citadel of the
soul unguarded, and debasing thoughts found entrance.. .' '-PP 459.

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Le!80n No. 11. Sabbath, December 14, 1968.

PRAYER AND THE LATTER RAIN

QUESTIONS:
1. What events occur when the latter rain is manifested? Acts 3:19,20.
NOTE: "I saw th.at lllany were neglecting the preparation so need-
fUl, and were looking to the time of 'refreshing' and the 'latter rain'
to fit them to stand in the day of the Lord, adld to live in His sight.
Oh, how many I saw in the time of trOUble without a shelter! They
had neglected the needful preparation, therefore they could not receive
the refreshing that all must have to fit them to live in the sight
of a holy God. Those who refuse to be hewed by the prophets, and
fail to punfy their souls in obeying the truth, and who are willing
to believe that their condition is far better than it really is, will
/:{)me up to the time of the falling of the plagues, and then see
that they need to be hewed and squared for the building. But there
will be no time then to do it and no :Medi~tor to plead their cause
before the l!'ather. . . ' '-E·W 71

2. When ~d's people became truly repentant, what symbolic promise

was given by the prophet Joel? Joel 2:15-17,21~23.
iF M.t'.F~4/ O;V7ZJ /0'iI'OW"7'/'/£ ~1l"'.L>
3. How was tIle promise refleated by the prophet Hosea? Hosea 6: 13. / - -3
4. How did the aposicle Peter· explain the Pentecostal experience,
and its effect upon his hearers? Acts 2:1-13,14-18.
NOTB: .. In the East the former rain falls at the sowing-time.
It is necessary in order tha.t the seed may germinate. Under the
infl~en\le of the fertilizing showers, the tender shoot springs up.
'1'he lat'ter rain, falling near the close of the season, ripens the grain,
and prepa:res it for the sickle. The Lord employs these oper,ations
of nature to reprcsent the work of the Holy Spirit. As the dew al~d the
rain are given first to cause the seed to gcrmina,te and then to ripcn
the harvest, so the Holy Spirit is given to carry forward, from one
stage to another, the process of spiritual growth. The ripening of
the grain represents the completion of the work of God's grace in
the soul. By the power of the Holy Spirit the moml image of God
is to be perfected in the character. We are to be wholly transformed
into the likeness of Christ.
"The latter rain ripening earth's harvest, represents the spiritual
grace that prepares the church for the coming of the Son of .man.
Hut unless the former rain has fallen, there will be no life; the green
blade will not spring up. Unless the early showers have done their
work, the latter rain can bring no seed to perfection.' '-EW 506.

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 5. W1mt fmportant part does faith and prayer have in the reception
of the latter rain? Acts 2:21.
~\i o'r./<J: "At 110 POillt ill our cxperiellce call we dispcllse with the
assistance of that which enables us to make the first start. 'rhe
blessings received under the fanner rain are needful to us to the
end. Yet these aJone will not suffice. While we cherish the Messing
of the eoarly rain, we must not, on the other hand, lose sight of the
fact that without the latter rain, to fill out the ears and ripen the
grain, the harvest will not be ready for the sickle, and the labor
of the sower will have been in v·ain; Divine grace is needed at
the beginnillg, divine grace at every step of advance, and divine grace
alone can complete the work. There is no place for us to rest in a
Clueless attitude. We must never forget the warnings of Ohrist,
'Watch!. unto prayer,' '·Watch and pray alwa;ys.' A connectioll with
the .divine agency every moment is essential to our progress. We
may have !load a measure of the Spirit of God, but by prayer and
fai th we are continually to seek more of the Spirit. It will never
do to cease our efforts. If we do 1l0t progress, if we do not place
ourselves in an attitude to receive both the formel' and the latter rain,
we shall lose our souls, and the responsibility will lie at our own door.'
-TM 507,508.
6. What interesting figure did the prophet Zechariah use to illus-
tra.te the communication of the Holy Spirit to the Church?Zech-
ariah 4:1-6.
NOTE: "We may have long followed the narrow path, but it is
not safe to take this as proof that we shall follow it to the end.
If we hUlve walked with God in fellowship of the Spirit, it is be-
Cliuse we have sought Him daily by faith. ]<'rom the two olive
t.rees the golden oil flowing through the gold ell pipes has been
communicated to us. But those who do not cultivate the spirit and
habit of prayer can not expect to receive the goldcn oil of goodness,
patience, long-suffering, gentlelless, love.' '-TM 511.
7. What direction did the prophet give also concerning prayer for
the latter rain? Zechariah 10:1.
N 0'1' E: '.' The dispensation in which we are now living is to be,
to those that ask, the dispensation of the Holy Spirit. Ask for His
blessing. It is time we were more intense in our devotion. '1'0 us
is committed the aI'duous, but happy, glorious work of revealing
Christ to those who are in darkness. Weare called to proclaim the
special truths for this time. For all this the outpouring of the
Spirit is essential. We should pray for it. The Lord expects us
to ask Him. 'Ve have not been whole-hearted in this work. "-TM
511,,512.

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 8. What effect Will the latter rain have upon the souls who &x&r-
cise faith and prayer?
NO'l'l£: "Thus the message of the third angel will be proclaimed.
As the time comes for it to be given with greatest power, the Lord
will work through humble instruments, leading the minds of those
who consecl'oa.te themselves to His service. 'l'he laborers will be
.qualified rather by the unetion of His Spil'it than by the training of
literary institutions. Men of faith·' and prayer will be eonstrained
to g(} forth with holy zeal, deelaring the words which God gives them.. "
-GO 606.
"The message will be carried not so much by argument as by the
deep cOl,lviction of the Spirit of God. 'l'he arguments have been
presented. 1'he seed has been sown, and now it will spring up and
bear fmit. 'l'he publications distributed by missionary workers have
exerted their influence, yet many whose minds were impressed have
been prevented from fully comprehending the tmth or from yielding
obedience. Now the r'ays of light penetrate everywhere, the truth
is seen in its cleamess, and the honest children of God sever the
b.ands which have held them. Family connections, church relations,
are powerless to stay them now. Truth is more precious than': all
b€eides. Notwithstanding the agencies combined against the truth,
a large number take their stand upon the Lord's side.' '-GO 612.
9. What Will identify the true church and its believers? Rev. 14:12.
10. What happens when the third angel's message closes? What
will cease? Daniel 12:1.
NOTE: "When the third angel's message closes, mercy' no longer
pleads for the guilty inhabitants of the earth. The people of God
h.ave accomplished their work. They have received 'the latter rain,'
'the refreshing from the presenee of the Lord,' and they are prepared
for the trying hour before them. Angels are hastening to and fro in
heaven. An angel returning from the earth announces that his work
is done j the final test has been brought upon the world, and all
who have proved themselves loyal to the divine precepts have received
'the seal of the living God.' Th en Jesus ceases His intercession in
the sa~ctuary above. . . ' '-GO 613.;

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Lll8SOn No. 12. Sabbath. X>ecember 21. 1968.

BE NOT DOUBTING BUT BELIEVING

QUESTIONS:
1. Wha.t do we understand concerning the meaning of prayer?

NOTE: Through nature and revelation, through His providence, and

b~' the influence of His Spirit, God speaks to us. But these are not
enough; we need also to pour out our hearts to Him. In order to have
spiritual life and energy, we must have actual intercourse with our
heavenly Father. Our minds llIay be drawn out toward Him; we
way meditate upon His works, His mercies, His blessings; but this
is not, in the fullest sense, communing with Him. In order to commune
with God, we must have something to say to Him concerning our
actu.al life.
"Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend. Not
that it is necessail'y, in order to make known to God what we are, but
in order to enable us to receive Him. Prayer does not bring God
down to us, but br~ngs us up to Him.' '--SO 97.
2. What is faith'in Ohri$? What can be discovered through tlrue
fajth? Proverbs 2:3-5.
NOTE: "Faith in Ohrist as the world's Redeemer calis for an aek-
nowledgement of the enlightened intellect, controlled by a heart that
can discern and appreciate the heavenly treasure. This faith is in·
separable from repentance and transformation of character. To have
f.aith means to find and accept the gospel treasure, with all the obli-
gations which it imposes.' '-COL 112.
"The Holy Spirit, sent from heaven by the benevolence of infinite
love, takes the things of God, and reveals them to every soul that has
an implicit faith ··in Christ. By His power the vital truths upon
which the salvation of the soul depends are impressed upon the
mind, and tlie way of life is made so plain that none need err therein.
As we study the Scriptures, we should pray for the light of God's
Holy Spirit to shine upon the word, that we may see and appreciate
its treasures. "-COL 113.
" . . . Through a correct faith, divine knowledge will become
human knowledge.' '-OOL 113.
3. How did the Lord 1llustrate the simple but etfect,ive, value
of prayer and fajth to the Samaritan woman? John 4:6-15.
NOT]<;: "Jesus did not conyey the idea that merely one draught
of the water of life would suffice the receiver. He who tastes of
the love of Christ will continually long for more; but he seeks for

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nothing else. The riches, honors, and pleasures of the world do not
a, tract him. 'r'he consta,nt cry of his heart is,' More of Thee. And
He who reveals to the soul its necessity is w.aiting to satisfy its
hunger and thirst. Every human resource and dependence wil~
'1'he cistel'us will be emptie , he pools become dry; but our Redeemer
is an inexhaustible fountain. We m::lY drink, and drink again, and
ever find a fresh supply. He in whom Ohrist dwells has within himself
the fountain of blessing,-' a well of water spl',inging up into ever-
lasting life.' From this source he may dl'MY strength and gro.ee
sufficient for all his needs.' '-DA 187.
4. What is the primary condition for effective prayer? Matthew
6:6; Isaiah 44:3.
5. What did the Lord tell his disciples about prayer and faith?
Matthew 21:21,22.
NO'!'./<): •• If we take counsel with our doubts and fears, or try to
.olve everything that we cannot see clearly, before we have faith,
perplexities will only increase and deepen. But if we come to God,
feeling helpless '::l,nd dependent as we really are, and in humble, trusting
faith make known our wants to Him whose knOlYledge is infinite, who
sees everything in creation, and who governs everything by His will
and wOl'd, He ca,n and will attend to our cry, and will let light shine
iuto our hearts. Through sincere prayer we are hrought into connection
with the mind of the Infinite. We may have no remarkable evidence
at the time that the face of our Redeemer is bending over us in com-
['assion and love; but this is even so. We may not feel His visible
touch, but His hand is upon us in love and pitying tenderness. "-SO 101.

6. What should we understand concerning personal and secret prayer?

What reward do we receive? Matthew 6:5,6.

7. What. is Christ able to do for all who come to God by Him? H,eb-
rews 7:25.
8. What great help and encouragement is promised to those who
associate together in prayer? Hebrews lQ:ZZ-25.
N'OT.l<J: "God does not mean that any of us should l'ecome hermits
or monks, and reti re from the world. in order to clevote ourselves to
aets of worship. The life must be like Ohrist's Iife,-between the
mountain and the multitude. He who does nothing but pray will soon
cease to pray, 01' his prayers will become a. formal routine. When
men take themselves out (Of social life, aw'ay fre,m the sphere of
Christia,n duty and cross-bearing; when they cease to work earnestly
for the Master, who workeil eal'llestly for thein, they lose the subject-
matter of prayer, and have no incentive to devotion. 'l'heir prayers
become personal and selfish. They can not pray in regard to the wants

-33-
of humanity or. the upbuilding of Christ's kingdom, pleading for
strength wherewIth to work.' '-SC 106.
9. What should we do besides asking and receiving blessings from
G()d? Psalms 107:8; 50:23.
NOTE: .r.aise God more 'for His goodness, Rdld for
His wonderful works to the children of men.' Our devotional exer-
cises should not consist wholly in asking and receiving. Let us not
be always thinking of our wants, and never of the benefits we receive.
We do not pray any too much, but 'we & e too s2aring of giyin thank.
We ~u'e the constant recipients of God's mercies, and yet i tIe
gratituiLe we express, how little we praise Him for what He has
done for us. "-SC 107,108.
10. What happens when wesnbmit our m!nds to the will of God?
NOTE: "When the mind of man is brought into communion with
the mind of God, the finite witti Infinite, the effect on body, and
mind, and soul, is beyond estimate. In such communion is found the
highest edu iOll. It is God's OWl method of development. 'Acquaint
now thyself with Him,' is His message to mankind. "-AA 126.

0000000000

Lesson No. 13. Sabbath, December 28, 1968.

FAITH AND FEELINGS

QUESTIONS:
1. What mistaken idea is often associated wi1fu p.rayer and belief?
What was the difficulty held by: the apostle Thomas? john .20:214.
. . p,"»'-!~.#-'~" h74U~
2. Wb-at did the Lord sar to him? .John 20:25~28.
A--~)~~;~'-t9--a -4-0 ~ -?U) . ~ , 11 C~~-#?V
NO'l'E: "Jesus accepted his acknowfedgement, but gently reproved
his unbelief: 'Thomas, because thou ha.at seen Me, thou has be-
lieved: blessed are they th.3t have not seen, and yet have believed.'
The faith of Thomas would have be(jn more pleasing to Christ if he
had been willing to believe upon the testimony of Ins bretln:en. Shoutq
the world now follow the example of Thomas, no one would beli,eve
unto .salvatiou; for all who receive Christ must do so through the
testimony of oth ers,
"Many who are given to doubt excuse themselves by saying
that if the~' had the evidence which Thomas ha,d from his companions,
they would believe. They do not realize that they have not only
that evidenQe, but much more. Many who, like Thoma~, wait for
all cause of doubt to be removed, will never rea.lize their desire.
'1'hey gradually become confirmed in unbelief. Those who educate
themselves to look on the dark side, and murmur and complain, know
not what they do. They are sowing the seeds of doubt, and they will
have a harvest of doubt to I'eap. At a time when faith and con·
fidence are most essential, lllany will thus find themselves powerless
to hope and believe. "-DA 807,809.
2. - III wh!ch w~y was th~ humanity of Christ tested? _Matt•. 4.:5-11.
...- ~ve-~ ,h/tt-L~:J-i.<:.'7t(;" __ ~t'-rt<:-u .;oz;L - z;~
NOTE: "The tempter can never compel us to do evil. He cannot ~
control minds unless they are yielded to his control. The will must
consent, faith must let go its hold upon Ohrist, before Sa,tan can
exercise his power upon us. . .
I I When Satan quoted the promise, I He shall give His angels
charge over Thee,' he omitted the words, I to keep Thee in all Thy
ways; , that is, in -a.ll the ways of God's choosing. Jesus refused to
go outside the path of obedience. While manifesting perfect trust
in His Father, He would not place Himself, unbidden, in a position
that would necessitate the interposition of His Father to save Him
from death. He would not force Providence to come to His rescue,
and thus fail of giving man am example of trust and submission."
-DA 125.
3. In the prayers made under all circumstances, what firm assy~- __ _ .

~ 4-
ShOUIlJ we fe I? HeJmiws l,O:22'~3L~...:_-:-:r~)
?~ ~fJA,. ~~~«'-I.' .~~d_
aTE: I I . r.. e lOuld not present our petition!! to Go to prove~ 7:;
whether He will fulfill His word, hut because He will fulfill it; no!"'·.....,~
to prove that He loves us, but beca,use He loves us.. .' '-DA 126.
4. Where was the apostle Paul's faith placed when his life wa~
at stake before Agrippa? Acts 26:6,7. MlW'ee.,+Itt~ & 4fL
~~- ,'-
NOTE: "I have frequently seen that the children of tJ1P Lord neg·
lect prayer, especially secret prayer, altogether too much; that, many
do not exercise that faith which it is their privilege and duty to
exercise, often waiting for that feeling' which faith alone wn bring.
1"eeling is not faith; the two are distinct. Faith is ours to exercise,
but joyful feeling and the blessing aTe God's to give. The grace
of God comes to the soul through the channel of living faith, and
that faith it is ill our power to exercise.' '-EW 72.
5. At the conclusion of his dedicatory prayer, what cUd Solomon
say concerning the- fulfillment of the promises of God to His
people? I Kings 8 : /
NOTE: "True faith lays hold of a~ld claims the promised blessing
before it is realized and felt. We must send up our petitions in

~.dill~I~--S5--4~k/b~~/k..uL
~a-~~F£~~'~~/~
'"i~.J-N~/p ~r~·<UL~
faith within the second vail, and let our faith take hold of the
promised blessing, and claim it as ours. We aTe then to believe that
we receive the blessing, because our faith has hold of it, an ac-
cording to the Word it is ours. 'What things soever ye desire when
ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye sha,U have them.' Here
is faith, naked faith, to believe that we receive the blessing, even
before we realize it. When the promised blessing is realized' and
enjoyed, faith is swalJowei:l up. But many suppose they have much
faith when sharing largely of the Holy Spirit, and that they can
not have faith unless they feel the power of the Spirit. Such confound
faith with the blessing that comes through falith. The very time to
exercise faith is when we feel destitute of the Spirit. When thick
clouds of darkness seem to hover over the mind, then is the time to
let living faith pierce the darkness and scatter the clouds. True
faith rests (}l1 the promises contained in the word of God, and those only
who obey that Word ca<ll claim its glorious promises.' '-EW 72.
6. What sure prophetic sitUation will ultimately become ollr ,eT;- I.
penance? What will be our security? Isaiah 26:20. ,/b~~-Ul
~1tW ~~ ~~ ./i.:AuPl1uIM - ~P4t.~~.vrrhj ~IY,
NOTE: "The ~reat crisis is just before us. To meet its trials a<lld I"~ •
temptations, and to perform its duties, will l'equire persevering faith. ~
But we may triumph gloriously; not one wat!ilii!!g, praying, believing
soul will ]'e ensnared by the enemy. "-6T 404.
7. To whom would the disciples make their prayers after the resur-
rection of Christb }~om whom had Christ'received "all things"?
J~7:7-11. r~p~
8. What other believers would continue to petition the heavenly
Father for grace in times Of .every need? Jo'hn 17:20.
9. In the fearful stonn that tllreataned the lives of Paul and the
ship's passengers, what could he confidJmtly state? ._ How was
his faith demonstrated? Acts 27:25,44.-r£rdJ~~~~~
~AM ~ ~ aa/ ~r'?.4L.-~~~~. 0
NOTE: "'These things were not written merely that we might read~....
and wonder but that the same faith which wrought in God's servants A~JJ._.......
of old might work in us. In no l~s m~rked a manner than He wrough~
then will He work now wherever there are hearts of faith to be a. ~
channels of His power. "-Ed. 21>6.
10. What song of experience does the Lord want us to learn and
sing, fro!Jl the... life of faJ+b and... pr~~r? Song of SolOmon 2:3,4.
A!.-<J,..J4-- ~ .AI~'4!.~ ~~.
N(f'fE: "An intensity such as ·nevel before was seen is taking pos-
Rer.sion of the world. In amusell'l,ent, in money-making, in the contest
for power, in the very strugg:le for existence, there is a terrible force
that engrosses body and mind and soul. In the midst of this mad-
.-36-
dening rush, God is speaking. He bids us come apart and commune
with Him 'Be still, a.nd know that I am God.' P~,lm 4&:10.
"Many, even in their seasons of devotion, fail of receiving the
blessing of real communion with God. 'rhey are in too great haste.
With hurried steps they press through the circle of Christ's loving
presence, pausing perhaps a moment within the s,acred precincts, but
Rot waiting for counsel. They luwe no time to remain witn the divine
Teacher. With their burdens they return to their work.
"These workers can never attain the highest success until they
learn the seCl'et of strength. 'rhey must give themselves time to
think, to pray, to wait upon God for a renewal of physical, mental,
aald spiritual power. They need the uplifting influence of His Spirit.
Receiving this, they will be quickened by fresh life. 'rhe wearied frame
and tired brain will be refreshed, the burdened heart will be lightened.
" Not a pause for a moment in His presence, but personal con-
tact with Christ, to sit down in companionship with Him-this is
our need. . . ' '-Ed. 260,261.

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