sdarm qtr. 1 1991 bible study

8/8/2019 SDARM Qtr. 1 1991 Bible Study

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S ab ba th B ib le Lessons

THE CHURCH OF THE LIVING GOD

Lesson Titles Page

1 God's People Identified 52 A Living Structure 83 The Character ofthe Church 11

4 Th e Purpose of God for His People 14

5 Th e Appointed Work ofthe Church 176 Th e Church, a Mixed Body 21

7 Th e True Church in Symbols. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

8 Some Names of the Church 27

9 Other Names ofthe Church 3010 The Pillar and Ground of the Truth 3211 The Relationship of the Church to God 3512

The Changing Standof

the Church38

13 Characteristics of the Last Remnant 42

Volume 6 6 Number 1

Th e S a bb a th B ib l e Lessons is published quarterly by the Seventh Day Adventist

Reform Movement General Conference, Sabbath School Department, 5248 HollinsRoad, Roanoke, Virginia 24019-5048, U.S.A.

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FOREWORD

As a newborn baby is entrusted to the mother's care by divineplan, so the one who is born again is joined by Christ to Hischurch. "And the Lord added to the church daily such as shouldbe saved" (Acts 2:47). I t is the duty of the church to care for andtrain such ones for the Lord's service. As it so often happens innature, the mother is not entirely left alone to bear this responsibility. I t is such a joint mission that always calls for the closestcooperation between mother and father.

So it is with the church. She has been entrusted by God andshould ever be faithful in this trust and realize that she depends

on His support as a chosen wife does on her husband. The importance of the church is shown in the letter of Paul to the Galatianswhere the church is likened to the New Jerusalem. "ButJerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all"(Galatians 4:26).

This series of lessons, and the one to follow, on the subject ofThe Church of the Living God, is designed to refresh our mindsconcerning the church, her identity, her responsibility and herdependence upon the living God. She was chosen to be Hisrepresentative among lost fallen men. He has the greatest in-terest in her well-being and success in the task to which He hasappointed her.

At the same time, we are warned that Satan will, if possible,deceive the elect. This implies that he will have a counterfeitchurch that resembles the true church as closely as possible. Shemust profess present truth and the known specifications for theremnant church of God. However, her power and light are sup

plied by Satan.The elect, faithful believers need the eyesalve-the spiritual

discernment-to distinguish between the true and the counterfeitor false church. Close attention to the light given in the word ofGod and by inspiration will enable us to detect the false; butwithout the closest scrutiny, we could be deceived. While we donot say that we are saved, we must have the personal assurancethat we are walking with the Lord. "The Spirit itself bearethwitness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: and if

children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if sobe that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorifiedtogether" (Romans 8:16, 17).

The General Conference Sabbath School Department

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Special Proj ect Offering

forthe

Missionary School in Brazil

The Federative Republic of Brazil occupies nearly half of the land ofSouth America, covering an area of 3,286,488 square miles (8,511,965 squarekilometers). It is bounded by all the countries of that region of the world,except Chile and Ecuador. For almost 2,700 miles it extends from north tosouth and about the same distance from the Andes Mountains to the AtlanticOcean. By the end of this year (1991), the population projection of Brazilwill exceed 150 million people.

The message of the Reform Movement reached this country in the midtwenties. Currently some 6,000 baptized souls are registered in the twoBrazilian unions, and about half of them are young people.

Since its establishment in 1951, the Missionary School in Brazil has pre-pared young people for the Bible work and the ministry. This year, 1991,the school is completing forty years of continuous service. During this pe-

riod, over two hundred workers were trained and are presently working inall Brazilian states as well as in foreign countries such as Argentina,Australia, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Italy, Japan, Paraguay, Por-tugal, South Africa, Spain, United States, Uruguay and Venezuela.

Under temporary conditions, the school functioned first in Sao Paulo,and then in Brasilia. At present it is located in the Parana state, some ninemiles from Curitiba. It is annexed to the Naturalistic Center "Oasis Para-naense."

Inorder

that the Missionary Schoolmay

offer the students such condi-tions as are stipulated in the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy-a locationwith agricultural land and facilities for vocational training, together withdue religious preparedness-the unions in Brazil need to invest regularly aconsiderable amount of money. In view of the fact that our resources arevery limited and the country is going through another financial crisis, weappeal to the dear brethren throughout the world to contribute with a gen-erous thirteenth Sabbath offering, so that the school may continue its opera-tion to prepare young men and women to serve the Lord either in the na-tional field or in foreign missions.,

I

"We must advance the work, becoming laborers together with God."-Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 219.

"God loveth a cheerful giver." 2 Corinthians 9:7.

Your brethren in the blessed hope

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Lesson 1 Sabbath, January 5, 1991

GOD'S PEOPLE IDENTIFIED

God has always had His fai thful fol lowers w h o c on st it ut e the t rue churchrecognized by H im

KEY TEXT: " . . . Obey my voice, and do them, according to all which I commandyou: so shall ye be my people, and I will be your God."- Jeremiah 11:4(second part).

GOD'S WITNESSESo Sunday

December 30

1. What has God had in every age? In the Bible, what name i s g iv en to companies of believers? Acts 2 :4 7; I sa ia h 4 3 :1 0.

"Chris t has a church in every age."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 6, p. 1079.

"From the beginning, faithful souls have constituted the church on earth. Inevery age the Lord has had His watchmen, who have borne a faithful testimony to thegeneration in which they lived."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 11.

2. What is the object of G od 's s pe ci al interest in this world? Deuteronomy32:10; Zechariah 2:8 ( las t part ).

"The church is the property of God, and God constantly remembers her as shestands in the world, subject to the temptations of Satan."-Testimonies to Ministers, p. 19.

"The church, enfeebled and defective, needing to be reproved, warned, and counseled, is the only object upon earth upon which Christ bestows His supreme regard."-Ibid., p. 49.

A CHOSEN PEOPLEo Monday

December 31

3. What position do God's people hold in this world? Ho w do es this becometrue? 1 Peter 2:9 ( fi rs t part ).

"Consider, my brethren and sisters, that the Lord has a people, a chosen people,His church, to be His own, His own fortress, which He holds in a sin-stricken, revoltedworld; and He intended that no authority should be known in it, no laws be acknowledged by it, but His own."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 16.

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4. What characterizes God's people in a special way? W ha t m us t they do? Titus2:14; 1 John 3:3.

"But while the followers of Christ have sinned, they have not given themselvesto the control of evil. They have put away their sins, and have sought the Lord inhumility and contrition, and the divine Advocate pleads in their behalf."-Testimonies,

vol. 5, p. 474.

RECEIVING A MARKo Tuesday

January 1

5. What makes the true people of God different from all others? Revelation 7:3.

"Those who will be heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ to the immortal inheritance, will be peculiar. Yes, so peculiar that God places a mark upon them as His, wholly His. Think ye that God will receive, honor, and acknowledge a people so mixed up

with the world that they differ from them only in name?"-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 287.

6. Where are some of God's faithful few today, and what are they doing there?What will they receive? Ezekiel 9:4.

"The true people of God, who have the spirit of the work of the Lord and thesalvation of souls at heart, will ever view sin in its real, sinful character. They willalways be on the side of faithful and plain dealing with sins which easily beset the people of God. Especially in the closing work for the church, in the sealing time of the onehundred and forty-four thousand who are to stand without fault before the throne of

God, will they feel most deeply the wrongs of God's professed people."-Testimonies,vol. 3, p. 266."Mark this point with care: Those who receive the pure mark of truth, wrought

in them by the power of the Holy Ghost, represented by a mark by the man in linen,are those ' that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done' in the church."-Ibid., p. 267.

THE CHURCH AND THE REMNANTo Wednesday

January 2

7. What distinction does prophecy make between the nominal church and theremnant church? What history is repeated? Matthew 21:43; Romans 11:1-5 .

a. Nominal church. "Through union with the world the church will becomecorrupt,- 'a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.' " - The Review and Herald, February26, 1895.

"[Eze. 9:5, 6 quoted.] Here we see that the church-the Lord's sanctuary-wasthe first to feel the stroke of the wrath of God. The ancient men, those to whom Godhad given great light and who had stood as guardians of the spiritual interests of thepeople, had betrayed their trust." - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 211.

b. Remnant church. "The remnant church will be brought into great trial anddistress. Those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feelthe ire of the dragon and his hosts. Satan numbers the world as his subjects, he hasgained control of the apostate churches; bu t here is a little company that are resistinghis supremacy."-Ibid., pp. 472, 473.

"The day of wrath to the enemies of God is the day of final deliverance to Hischurch [the remnant church]."-Prophets and Kings, pp. 727, 728.

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c. The nominal church an d th e faithful remnant. "He [God] will take His Holy Spirit from the church, and give it to others who will appreciate it."- The Review andHerald, July 16, 1895.

8. What mus t the sighing and crying ones in the nominal Adventist church dobefore they can receive th e seal of God? Ezekiel 9:1-6; 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.

"The time of the judgment is a most solemn period, when the Lord gathers Hisown from among the tares. Those who have been members of the same family areseparated. A mark is placed upon the righteous."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 234.

"The angel is to place a mark upon the forehead of all who are separated fromsin and sinners, and the destroying angel will follow, to slay utterly both old andyoung."- Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 505.

OTHER FOLDSo Thursday

January 3

9. To whom else does the term "church" also apply apart from those consideredin questions 1 to 5 above? Isaiah 4:1; Revelation 17:5; 3:9.

"Satan has a large confederacy, his church. Christ calls them the synagogue ofSatan because the members are the children of sin. The members of Satan's churchhave been constantly working to cast off the divine law, and confuse the distinctionbetween good and evil."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 16.

"The church appeals to the strong arm of civil power, and, in this work [to suppress the message of the third angel], papists and Protestants unite."- The Great Con-

troversy, p. 607.

10. What people does God also want to liberate from that "church"? John 10:16;Revelatio'n 18:4 .

"Notwithstanding the spiritual darkness and alienation from God that exist in thechurches which constitute Babylon, the great body of Christ's true followers are stillto be found in their c o m m u n i o n . " - T h e Great Controversy, p. 390.

"[T]he light of truth will shine upon all whose hearts are open to receive it, andall the children of the Lord that remain in Babylon will heed the call: 'Come out of

her, My people' (Revelation 18:4). "-Ibid.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSo FridayJanuary 4

a. Why is th e c hu rc h t he special object of God's interest in the world?

b. What is the purpose of God in choosing a people out of the world?

c. What identifies the true people of .God?

d. What is to dist inguish the true people of God from the nominal church?

e. What may we know about the other churches and the people in them?

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Lesson 2 Sabba th , J a n u a r y 1 2 , 1 9 9 1

A LIVING STRUCTURE

The church is c o m pa re d w i th the building of a s p ir it u al t em p l e an d th e tru ebelievers are the m a t er ia ls u se d in this building

KEY TEXT: "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of Goddwelleth in you?"-l Corinthians 3:16.

o SundayTHE ROCK January 6

1. What does the Bible teach concerning the foundat ion of the church? Matthew

16:16-18; 1 Corinthians 3:11.

"Human power and human might did not establish the church of God, and neithercan they destroy it. Not on the rock of human strength, but on Christ Jesus, the Rockof Ages, was the church founded, 'and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.'Matthew 16: 18. The presence of God gives stability to His cause." -Prophets and Kings,pp. 595, 596.

2. What does C h ri st m e an by the "rock" in M a tt he w 1 6: 18 ? I sa ia h 28:16.

"The truth which Peter had confessed is the foundation of the believer's faith."- The Desire of Ages, p. 412.

OUR CONNECTION WITH THE ROCK

3. Ho w do we build on Chr is t? Matthew 7:24 , 25.

o MondayJanuary 7

" I t is not enough, He says, for you to hear My words . . . . If you build upon humantheories and inventions, your house will fall. By the winds of temptation, the tempestsof trial, it will be swept away. But these principles that I have given will endure.Receive Me; build on My words."-The Desire of Ages, p. 314.

4. What is the significance of the word "Peter"? What re la t ionship existedbetween P et er a nd the fundamental Rock, which is Christ? 1 Peter 2:4-6 .

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"The word Peter signifies a stone,-a rolling stone. Peter was not the rock uponwhich the church was founded. The gates of hell did prevail against him when hedenied his Lord with cursing and swearing. The church was built upon One againstwhom the gates of hell could not prevail."- The Desire of Ages, p. 413.

GOOD STONES

o Tuesday

January 85. What is writ ten concerning those who counted the w ork of building this

temple dearer than l ife i tself? N am e s om e to which history bears record inconnect ion with the building of this temple. Hebrews 11 : 3 6 - 3 8 .

"Like the apostles, many of them fell at their post, but the building of the templewent steadily forward. The workmen were slain, but the work advanced. The Waldenses, John Wycliffe, Huss and Jerome, Martin Luther and Zwingli, Cranmer, Latimer,and Knox, the Huguenots, John and Charles Wesley, and a host of others brought tothe foundation material that will endure throughout eternity. And in later years thosewho have so nobly endeavored to promote the circulation of God's word, and thosewho by their service in heathen lands have prepared the way for the proclamation ofthe last great message-these also have helped to rear the structure."- The Acts of theApostles, p. 598.

6. What are the only kind of people approved as useful "stones" in the buildingof this t emple? Reve la ti on 17: 14.

BUILDING T HI S T EM PL Eo Wednesday

January 9

7. What figure is often used in the Bible t o i ll us tr at e t he development of thechurch? Zechar iah 6:12, 15; Acts 15:14-17 .

8. How does Paul explain the process of building the church? 1 Corinthians3 : 1 0 - 1 3 .

"In the quarry of the Jewish and the Gentile world the apostles labored, bringingout stones to lay upon the foundation." ~ The Acts of the Apostles, p. 596.

REACHING THE PRESCRIBED DIMENSIONSo Thursday

January 10

9. I n o rd er to comple te t he s tr uc tu re , w h at part are we called'upon to act? 1 Cor inthians 3: 14, 15.

"Weare to bring to the foundation material that will stand the test of fire-gold,silver, and precious stones, 'polished after the similitude of a palace.' Psalm 144:12.To those who thus build for God, Paul speaks words of encouragement and warning:' I f any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. I fany man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yetso as by fire.' 1 Corinthians 3:14, 15. The Christian who faithfully presents the wordof life, leading men and women into the way of holiness and peace, is bringing to thefoundation material that will endure, and in the kingdom of God he will be honored asa wise builder." - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 599.

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10. What factors ensure the proper growth of the spir i tual temple? What is ourgoal? Ephesians 2 : 2 0- 2 2 ; 4 : 11 - 13 .

"The Lord in His wisdom has arranged that by means of the close relationshipthat should be maintained by all believers, Christian shall be united to Christian andchurch to church. Thus the human instrumentality will be enabled to cooperate withthe divine. Every agency will be subordinate to the Holy Spirit, and all the believerswill be united in an organized and well-directed effort to give to the world the gladtidings of the grace of God."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 164.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

a. What is the foundation t ru th for God' s chu rch?

o FridayJanuary 11

b. What explains the mistaken notion tha t the church is fo un ded o n Peter?

c. W ha t a re the quali f ica tions for all who would be par t of this temple?

d. How has this concept of a spir i tual temple been explained in Scripture?

e. What controls a re t he re for the quality of materials to be us ed in this build-~ .

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Lesson 3 Sabbath, January 19, 1991

THE CHARACTER OF THE CHURCH

The t rue church of God will have to manifest the characteristics of her Masterand be perfect

K E Y TEXT: "That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot,or wrinkle, or any such thing; bu t that it should be holy and withoutblemish."- Ephesians 5:27.

CLEANLINESS AND HOLINESSD SundayJanuary 13

1. What characteristic, if possessed by the professed peopl e o f God, ensurestheir recognition by th e Lord? 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 daughtersof the Most High, members of the royal family. But if the conditions are not compliedwith on their part, they will not, cannot, realize the fulfillment of the promise. 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 recipients ofHis grace, the partakers of His great salvation. Such will be peculiar, a spectacle untothe 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 lust."- Testi-monies, vol. 2, p. 441.

" 'God is sifting His people. He will have a clean and holy church. We cannot readthe heart of man. But the Lord has provided means to keep the church pure. ' "-Ibid.,vol. 1, p. 99.

2. What must be decidedly shut out i f we want to keep our pecul iar character

as God's people? James 4:4.

"Jesus is coming; and will He find a people conformed to the world? and will Heacknowledge these as His people that He has purified unto Himself? Oh, no. None butthe pure and holy will He acknowledge as His. Those who have been purified and madewhite through suffering, and have kept themselves separate, unspotted from the world,He will own as His."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 133.

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U NITY IN T HE T RUT Ho MondayJanuary 14

3. Wherein are the members of the t rue church united? Ephesians 4:3-6 .

"The oneness and unity of God's truth-believing remnant people carries powerful conviction to the world that they have the truth, and are the peculiar, chosen people of God. This oneness and unity disconcerts the enemy, and he is determined thatit shall not exist. The present truth, believed in the heart and exemplified in the life,makes God's people one, and gives them a powerful influence."-Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 327.

"Thus the true Christian church are united in one Lord, one faith, one baptism."- The Story of Redemption, p. 289.

4. What is the most convincing proof that God has sen t His Son i nt o t he world?How can this purpose be achieved? John 17: 17 -2 1 .

"Unity with Christ establishes a bond of unity with one another. This unity is themost convincing proof to the world of the majesty and virtue of Christ, and of His powerto take away sin."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1148.

LOVEo Tuesday

January 15

5. How can the real Christians be identified as the t rue followers of Christ?John 13:35.

"This love is the evidence of their discipleship. 'By this shall all men know thatye are My disciples,' said Jesus, 'if ye have love one to another.' When men are boundtogether, not by force or self-interest, but by love, they show the working of an in-fluence that is above every human influence. Where this oneness exists, it is evidencethat the image of God is being restored in humanity, that a new principle of life hasbeen implanted. I t shows that there is power in the divine nature to withstand the

supernatural agencies of evil, and that the grace of God subdues the selfishness in-herent in the natural heart."This love, manifested in the church, will surely stir the wrath of Satan."-The

Desire of Ages, p. 678.

6. W hat qualities are essential in all fai thful believers? Matthew 7:12; John15:10-14 .

"The qualities which it is essential for all to possess are those which marked the

completeness of Christ's character-His love, His patience, His unselfishness, andHis goodness."-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. White Comments], vol. 5, p. 1141."Love to man is the earthward manifestation of the love of God. I t was to implant

this love, to make us children of one family, that the King of glory became one withus. And when His parting words are fulfilled, 'Love one another, as I have loved you'(John 15:12); when we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished. We are fitted for heaven; for we have heaven in our hearts."-The Desireof Ages, p. 641.

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T HE S PI RI T OF J ES USD Wednesday

January 16

7. How is t he s pi ri t of Jesus to be revealed in us? Matthew 23:8-10 .

"Those who, in the spirit and love of Jesus, will become one with Him, will be inclose fellowship one with another, bound up by the silken cords of love. Then the tiesof human brotherhood would not be always on the strain, ready at any provocation tosnap asunder. 'All ye are brethren' will be the sentiment of every child of faith. Whenthe followers of Christ are one with Him, there will be no first and last, no lessrespected or less important ones. A blessed brotherly fellowship one with another willbind 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, pp. 1097, 1098.

8. W hat will the remnant church be able to show and do when they followChrist more closely? What history will be r epea ted? Ac ts 17:6 .

"When those who profess to serve God follow Christ's example, practicing theprinciples of the law in their daily life; when every act bears witness that they loveGod supremely and their neighbor as themselves, then will the church have power tomove the world."-Christ 's Object Lessons, p. 340.

PERFECTIOND Thursday

January 17

9. When will t he r em n an t c hu rc h b e ready for the kingdom of g lory? Matthew

5:48; Ephesians 5:27.

"Weare to receive the robe of righteousness woven in the loom of heaven, eventhe spotless robe of Christ 's righteousness."'-The SDA Bible Commentary [E.G. WhiteComments], vol. 7, p. 965. .

"The white raiment is the righteousness of Christ that may be wrought into thecharacter. Purity of heart, purity of motive, will characterize everyone who is washing his robe, and making it white in the blood of the Lamb. "-Ibid.

"Remember that a church without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing, will Jesuspresent to His Father." - Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 163.

10. What will happen when God's remnant people have re ac he d th is sta ge ofperfection? John 14:1-3 .

"When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in His people, thenHe will come to claim them as His own."-Christ 's Object Lessons, p. 69.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSD Friday

January 18

a. To w hat m ust all church members pay part icular heed so tha t t he c hu rc h

m ay b e a cc ep ta ble to God?b. What is the evidence tha t th e c hu rc h mus t demonstrate before men, to

show tha t she is commissioned by God?

c. What differentiates between the t rue and the professed believers?

d. How may i t b e k no wn tha t t he S pi ri t of Christ is in the believers?

e. W h at m us t we know of the perfection of the church?

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Lesson 4 Sabbath, J a nu a r y 2 6 , 1991

THE PURPOSE OF GOD FOR HIS PEOPLE

God des igns that His peop le shal l be a channel of light and grace by which thew or ld m ig ht know the way of salvation

KEY TEXT: " Y e are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid."-Matthew 5:14.

THE O BJ EC T O F GODD SundayJanuary 20

1. Why does God have a church on earth? 1 Peter 2 :9 ( last part); Titus 2: 11-13 .

"The object of God in choosing a people before all the world was not only that Hemight adopt them as His sons and daughters, bu t that through them the world mightreceive the grace that bringeth salvation."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 35.

2. Through the revelation of what principles does Go d want to bless the world?Deuteronomy 4 : 5 - 9 ; Matthew 22 :36-40 .

" I t is God's purpose to manifest through His people the principles of His kingdom.

That in life and character they may reveal these principles, He desires to separatethem from the customs, habits, and practices of the world. He seeks to bring themnear to Himself, that He may make known to them His will."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 9.

GOD'S P L A N FOR USD MondayJanuary 21

3. From the beginning, w h at h as been the plan of G od for His church? Matthew2 8 : 1 9 , 2 0 .

"The church is God's appointed agency for the salvation of men. I t was organizedfor service, and its mission is to carry the gospel to the world. From the beginning ithas been God's plan that through His church shall be reflected to the world His full-ness and His sufficiency. The members of the church, those whom He has called outof darkness into His marvelous light, are to show forth His glory."-The Acts of theApostles, p. 9.

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4. W h a t Scriptures rev eal G od 's p la n for His people, both in the pas t and inour time? Deuteronomy 7:6; P sa lm 6 7 :1 , 2.

"The purpose which God seeks to accomplish through His people today is thesame that He desired to accomplish through Israel when He brought them forth out ofEgypt. By beholding the goodness, the mercy, the justice, and the love of God re

vealed in the church, the world is to have a representation of His character. And whenthe law of God is thus exemplified in the life, even the world will recognize the superiority of those who love and fear and serve God above every other people on theearth."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 12.

CHANNELS O F LIG HTo Tuesday

January 22

5. How are God' s people to be channel s for t he ou tworking of the highest influence in the world? Z ec ha ria h 4 :2 , 3 .

"God's people are to be channels for the outworking of the highest influence inthe universe. In Zechariah's vision the two olive trees which stand before God arerepresented as emptying the golden oil out of themselves through golden tubes intothe bowl of the sanctuary. From this the lamps of the sanctuary are fed, that they maygive a continuous bright and shining light. So from the anointed ones that stand inGod's presence the fullness of divine light and love and power is imparted to His people, that they may impart to others light and joy and refreshing. They are to becomechannels through which divine instrumentalities communicate to the world the tide ofGod's love."-Testimonies, vol. 6, pp. 11, 12.

6. What cons tant supply represents tha t which enables the church to impar tlight? Zechariah 4:6.

"But no man can impart that which he himself has not received. In the work ofGod, humanity can originate nothing. No man can by his own effort make himself alight bearer for God. I t was the golden oil emptied by the heavenly messengers intothe golden tubes, to be conducted from the golden bowl into the lamps of the sanctuary, that produced a continuous bright and shining light. I t is the love of God contin

ually transferred to man that enables him to impart light. Into the hearts of all who areunited to God by faith the golden oil of love flows freely, to shine out again in goodworks, in real, heartfelt service for God.

"In the great and measureless gift of the Holy Spirit are contained all of heaven'sresources. I t is not because of any restriction on the part of God that the riches of Hisgrace do not flow ear thward to men. I f all were willing to receive, all would becomefilled with His Spirit."-Christ's Object Lessons, pp. 418, 419.

A WONDERFUL WORKo Wednesday

January 23

7. W h a t work does God design to accomplish t hr ou gh t he c hu rc h and throughe ac h i nd iv id ua l m em b er ? Ezekiel 47 :8 -12 .

"Wonderful is the work which the Lord designs to accomplish through His church,that His name may be glorified. A picture of this work is given in Ezekiel's vision ofthe river of healing: [Ezekiel 47:8-12 quoted].

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" . . . Everyone in whose heart Christ abides, everyone who will show forth Hislove to the world, is a worker together with God for the blessing of humanity. As hereceives from the Saviour grace to impart to others, from his whole being flows forththe tide of spiritual life. " - The Acts of the Apostles, p. 13.

8. In these last days, where in is the glory o f G od to be revealed? Isaiah 60:1, 2.

"The glory of the church of God is in the piety of its members; for there is the hiding of Christ's power. The influence of the sincere children of God may be esteemedas of little worth, bu t it will be felt throughout time, and rightly revealed in the day ofreward. The light of a true Christian, shining forth in steadfast piety, in unwaveringfaith, will prove to the world the power of a living Saviour. In His followers Christ willbe revealed as a well of water, springing up into everlasting life. Although scarcelyknown to the world, they are acknowledged as God's peculiar people, His chosen vessels of salvation, His channels whereby light is to come to the world." -Christian Serv-ice, p. 19.

"Thus in the night of spiritual darkness God's glory is to shine forth through Hischurch in lifting up the bowed down and comforting those that mourn."-Prophets andKings, p. 718.

A GREAT QUESTIOND Thursday

January 24

9. Why is the gospel of t ruth ineffective in the hands of the nominal church?Revelation 3:15.

"The world needs evidences of sincere Christianity. The poison of sin is at workat the heart of society. Cities and towns are steeped in sin and moral corruption. Theworld is full of sickness, suffering, and iniquity. Nigh and afar off are souls in povertyand distress, weighed down with a sense of guilt and perishing for want of a saving in-fluence. The gospel of truth is kept ever before them, yet they perish because the example of those who should be a savor of life to them is a savor of death. Their soulsdrink in bitterness because the springs are poisoned, when they should be like a wellof water springing up unto everlasting life."-Prophets and Kings, p. 232.

10. What ques tion should be asked b y a ll who profess the t ru th of the threefoldmessage? How can we qualify to fulfill God's purpose? 1 Corinthians 9:22;2 Corinthians 2: 16.

" . . . I f we decide that in these last days we have no work assigned to us that isout of the common course of the nominal churches, we shall meet with great disappointment. The great question to be investigated, weighed, and decided is, What canI do to reach souls that are lost? God calls for a work to be done by Seventh-dayAdventists that I need not define. Unless the work is first done in their own hearts, all

the specific directions that might be given to point out their course of action will belabor in vain."- Testimonies to Ministers, p. 125."But in order for us to fulfill God's purpose, there is a preparatory work to be

done. The Lord bids us empty our hearts of the selfishness which is the root of alienation. He longs to pour upon us His Holy Spirit in rich measure, and He bids us clearthe way by self-renunciation."- Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 43.

(Continued on page 20)

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Lesson 5 Sabbath, February 2, 1991

THE APPOINTED

WORK OF THE CHURCH

The church, as the representa tive of Christ , must f ol lo w H is example in medical m i ss io n ar y w o rk , m i ni st er in g to the sick and preaching the gospel

KEY TEXT: "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name ofthe Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."-Matthew 28:19.

LIGHT VS. DARKNESSD

SundayJanuary 27

1. What are the fol lowers of Christ to do in the face of the existing darkness?M a tt he w 5 :1 6; 2 5: 4.

"Every witness for God is now to work intelligently in the lines which God hasappointed. We should daily obtain a deep and living experience in the work of perfecting Christian character. We should daily receive the holy oil, that we may impart toothers. All may be light bearers to the world if they wilL" - Testimonies to Ministers, pp.510, 511.

"So the followers of Christ are to shed light into the darkness of the world.Through the Holy Spirit, God's word is a light as it becomes a transforming power inthe life of the receiver. By implanting in their hearts the principles of His word, the HolySpirit develops in men the attributes of God. The light of His glory-His characteris to shine forth in His followers." -Christ 's Object Lessons, p. 414.

2. H ow is mankind to see the glory of God shine for th through us? What practical works does Go d expect in t rue religion? Isaiah 58 : 7 ,8 .

"All around us are heard the wails of a world's sorrow. On every hand are theneedy and distressed. I t is ours to aid in relieving and softening life's hardships andmisery.

"Practical work will have far more effect than mere sermonizing. Weare to givefood to the hungry, clothing to the naked, and shelter to the homeless. And we arecalled to do more than this." -Chris t ' s Object Lessons, p. 417.

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AN INDIVIDUAL WORKo MondayJanuary 28

3. What kind of medical missionary work does God require? Matthew 25:34-40.

"There is a work to be done by our churches that few have any idea of. 'I was anhungred,' Christ says, 'and ye gave me meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; Iwas a stranger, and ye took me in; naked, and ye clothed me; I was sick, and ye visitedme; I was in prison, and ye came unto me.' We shall have to give of our means to support laborers in the harvest field, and we shall rejoice in the sheaves gathered in. Butwhile this is right, there is a work, as yet untouched, that must be done. Th e missionof Christ was to heal the sick, encourage the hopeless, bind up the brokenhearted. Thiswork of restoration is to be carried on among the needy, suffering ones of humanity.God calls not only for your benevolence, but your cheerful countenance, your hopefulwords, the grasp of your hand. Relieve some of God's afflicted ones. Some are sick,and hope has departed. Bring back the sunlight to them. There are souls who have losttheir courage; speak to them, pray for them. There are those who need the bread oflife. Read to them from the Word of God. There is a soul sickness no balm can reach,no medicine heal. Pray for these, and bring them to Jesus Christ. And in all your work,Christ will be present to make impressions upon human hearts.

"This is the kind of medical missionary work to be done ." -A Call to MedicalEvangelism, pp. 22, 23.

4. What type of work did Christ commit to His followers? Ecclesiastes 9:10(first part); 11: 1.

"Everywhere there is a tendency to substitute the work of organizations for individual effort. Human wisdom tends to consolidation, to centralization, to the buildingup of great churches and institutions. Multitudes leave to institutions and organizations the work of benevolence; they excuse themselves from contact with the world,and their hearts grow cold. They become self-absorbed and unimpressible. Love forGod and man dies out of the soul.

"Christ commits to His followers an individual work-a work that cannot be doneby proxy. Ministry to the sick and the poor, the giving of the gospel to the lost, is not tobe left to committees or organized charities. Individual responsibility, individual effort,

personal sacrifice, is the requirement of the gospel. " - T h e Ministry of Healing, p. 147.

TRAININGo Tuesday

January 29

5. What is the best medicine fo r the church in order that i t may be prepa red fo r IIthe la t te r rain? 1 Corinthians 15:58 .

"The best medicine you can give the church is not preaching or sermonizing, butplanning work for them. If set to work, the despondent would soon forget their despondency, the weak would become strong, the ignorant intelligent, and all would be prepared to present the truth as it is in Jesus. They would find an unfailing helper in Himwho has promised to save all who come unto Him."-TheReview and Herald, June 25,1895.

6. Where and how should church members be t rained for th e L ord 's work?W h a t p a rt ic u la r l ine of work s ho ul d b e given special attention? 2 Timothy2:15; M a tt he w 1 0: 8.

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"Every church should be a training school for Christian workers. Its membersshould be taught how to give Bible readings, how to conduct and teach Sabbath schoolclasses, how best to help the poor and to care for the sick, how to work for the unconverted. There should be schools of health, cooking schools, and classes in various linesof Christian help work. There should not only be teaching, but actual work under experienced instructors. " - T h e Ministry of Healing, p. 149.

"Begin to do medical missionary work with the conveniences which you have athand. You will find that thus the way will open for you to hold Bible readings. Theheavenly Father will place you in connection with those who need to know how to treattheir sick ones. Put into practice what you know regarding the treatment of disease.Thus suffering will be relieved, and you will have opportunity to break the bread of lifeto starving souls." - A Call to Medical Evangelism, p. 26.

LABORERS TOGETHER WITH GODD Wednesday

January 30

7. How only can Christians become laborers together with God for the blessingof mankind? 1 Corinthians 3:9; 1 Peter 4:10; 1 Corinthians 4 :1 ,2 .

"Our Lord designed that His church should reflect to the world the fullness andsufficiency that we find in Him. We are constantly receiving of God's bounty, and byimparting of the same we are to represent to the world the love and beneficence ofChrist."- Testimonies, yol. 5, p. 731.

"Those who faithfully carry forward the work of Christ, representing in word anddeed the character of God, fulfill the Lord's purpose for them, and Christ takes plea

sure in them."-The Review and Herald, May 26,1903.

8. What will h ap pe n t o t ho se who are too indifferent or too busy to cooperatewith God in the salvation of o the rs? Matthew 2 1 : 2 8 - 3 1 ; 25:24-30 .

"In the day of God not one will be excused for being shut up to his own selfish in-terests. And it is by working for others that you will keep your own souls alive."-ACall to Medical Evangelism, pp. 25, 26.

A SERIOUS APPEALD Thursday

January 31

9. What complaint and call should we take to hea rt ? Romans 10:14, 1 5; A cts1 6 : 9 , 1 0 .

"But very few of those who have received the light are doing the work entrustedto their hands. There are a few men of unswerving fidelity who do not study ease,convenience, or life itself, who push their way wherever they can find an opening topress the light of truth and vindicate the holy law of God."- Testimonies, yol. 5, p. 456.

10. When will the glory of God be man ife st ed in its fullness? Isaiah 6:8; Numbers 1 4 :2 1 ; A ct s 3:19.

"The great outpouring of the Spirit of God, which lightens the whole earth withHis glory, will not come until we have an enlightened people, that know by experiencewhat it means to be laborers together with God."- The Review and Herald, July 21, 1896.

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REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONSo Friday

February 1

a. By what means is the church to let her light shine?

b. What shows that this responsibi li ty c an no t b e discharged by proxy?

c. Where m ust t he experience and t ra in ing be gained?

d. What cooperation is essential for success?

e. How is the appeal of those in darkness to be satisfied?

'* * '* * '* * '*

(Continued from page 16)


January 25

a. Because the church is God's people, what should they be doing?

b. What knowledge was and is to be imparted to the world by His people?

c. What enables the church of God to be a l ig ht in the world?

d. How is t he c h ur ch t o r ev ea l the glory of God?

e. W h at m u st those w ho p ro fe ss t o believe the t ru th do so tha t they may fulfillthe purpose of the gospel?

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Lesson 6 Sabbath, February 9, 1991

THE CHURCH, A MIXED BODY

Although the evil one m ay introduce h is a ge nt s into t he c hu rc h of God for at ime, th is will n ot p erv ert th e t ru th o r p re ve nt its ul t imate t r i umph

KEY TEXT: "S o those servants went out into the highways, and gathered togetherall as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding wasfurnished with guests."-Matthew 22:10.

SATAN'S INTERFERENCE IN THE BUILDINGo SundayFebruary 3

1. How does Satan interfere with the building of this temple? What kind of"s tones" does he introduce? 2 Peter 3:1-3 .

" I t is his [the great deceiver's] plan to bring into the church insincere, unregenerate elements that will encourage doubt and unbelief, and hinder all who desire tosee the work of God advance and to advance with it. Many who have no real faith inGod or in His Word assent to some principles of truth and pass as Christians, and thusthey are enabled to introduce their errors as Scriptural doctrines."- The Great Con-troversy, p. 520.

2. What parables did Christ use to show thi s int er fe rence and its effect? With

whom is S at an m os t successful? Matthew 13:24-26 , 47 -49 ; 24:45-51 .

"Satan has many in his employ, but is most successful when he can use professedChristians for his satanic work. And the greater their influence, the more elevated theirposition, the more knowledge they profess of God and His service, the more successfully can he use them. Whoever entices to sin is his agent."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 137.

AN APPARENT OR A REAL CONNECTIONo MondayFebruary 4

3. What v it al connect ion is m iss in g i n the experience of many who join thechurch? John 15:5, 6 .

"Joining the church is one thing, and connecting with Christ is quite another. Notall the names registered in the church books are registered in the Lamb's book of life.Many, though apparently sincere believers, do not keep up a living connection with

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Christ. They have enlisted, they have entered their names on the register; but the in-ner work of grace is not wrought in the heart. As the result they are not happy, andthey make hard work of serving God."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 278.

4. How do indiv iduals in t h e c hu rc h place t hemse lves on the side of t he a rc hdeceiver? What profession keeps them unconscious of their dangerous condition? John 8:42-44 .

"One safeguard removed from conscience, the indulgence of one evil habit, a single neglect of the high claims of duty, may be the beginning of a course of deceptionthat will pass you into the ranks of those who are serving Satan, while you are all thetime professing to love God and His cause."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 398.

"He who does not give himself wholly to God is under the control of anotherpower, listening to another voice, whose suggestions are of an entirely different character. Half-and-half service places the human agent on the side of the enemy as a successful ally of the hosts of darkness. When men who claim to be soldiers of Christ engage with the confederacy of Satan, and help along his side, they prove themselvesenemies of Christ. They betray sacred trusts. They form a link between Satan and thetrue soldiers, so that through these agencies the enemy is constantly working to stealaway the hearts of Christ's soldiers."-Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 94.

TWO CLASSES OF BELIEVERSo TuesdayFebruary 5

5. What two classes of believers have always been in the church even in herbes t days? Matthew 13:36-43 .

"There have ever been two classes among those who profess to be followers ofChrist. While one class study the Saviour's life and earnestly seek to correct their de-fects and conform to the Pattern, the other class shun the plain, practical truths whichexpose their errors. Even in her best estate the church was not composed wholly ofthe true, pure, and sincere."- The Great Controversy, p. 43.

6. H ow lon g will t hi s p ro bl em e xi st w it ho ut giving anyone th e right to dou btt he t ru th ? 2 Timothy 2:20.

"The 'great house' represents the Church. In the Church will be found the vile aswell as the precious. The net cast into the sea gathers both good and bad."- The Reviewand Herald, February 5, 1901.

"The world has no right to doubt the truth of Christianity because there are un-worthy members in the church, nor should Christians become disheartened because

of these false brethren. How was it with the early church? Ananias and Sapphira joinedthemselves to the disciples. Simon Magus was baptized. Demas, who forsook Paul,had been counted a believer. Judas Iscariot was numbered with the apostles. The Redeemer does not want to lose one soul; His experience with Judas is recorded to showHis long patience with perverse human nature; and He bids us bear with it as He hasborne. He has said that false brethren will be found in the church till the close of time."-Christ 's Object Lessons, pp. 72, 73.

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SOME HISTORYo Wednesday

February 6

7. What evils existed in the days of Israel, in t he d ay s of the apostles, and alsoin the days of the ear ly Advent is t church? How did God help His peop le meetthese evils? 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 .

"Satan holds under his control not a few who pass as friends of the truth, andthrough them he works against its advancement. He employs them to sow tares amongthe people of God. Thus when danger was not suspected, great evils have existedamong us. But while Satan was working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness inthem that perish, stanch advocates of truth have stemmed the tide of opposition andheld the word uncorrupted amid a deluge of heresies. Although the church has at timesbeen weakened through manifold discouragements and the rebellious element theyhave had to meet, still the truth has shone brighter with every conflict. The energiesof God's people have not been exhausted. The power of His grace has quickened, revived, and ennobled the steadfast and the true.

"Again and again was ancient Israel afflicted with rebellious murmurers. Thesewere not always persons of feeble influence. In many cases, men of renown, rulers inIsrael, turned against the providential leading of God and fiercely set to work to teardown that which they had once zealouly built up. We have seen something of thisrepeated many times in our experience. I t is unsafe for any church to lean upon somefavorite minister, to trust in an arm of flesh. God's arm alone is able to uphold all wholean upon it."- Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 594.

8. What specific prob lem did the pioneers of t he t hi rd angel 's m e ss ag e h av e t oface? H ow d id G od h el p the church? What h i sto ry was repeated in tha t experience? Revelation 2:2.

"God's frown has been brought upon the church on account of individuals withcorrupt hearts being in it. They have wanted to be foremost, when neither God northeir brethren placed them there. Selfishness and exaltation have marked their course.A place is now open for all such where they can go and find pasture with those of theirkind. And we should praise God that in mercy He has rid the church of them."- Testi-monies, vol. I, p. 122.

9. What will there be among us to the end o f t im e? What compromise shouldw e n ev er make for the sake of false peace? What unity i s forbidden? John10:12, 13; Acts 2 0 : 2 9 , 3 0 .

THE CHURCH MILITANTo Thursday

February 7

"To the end of time, men will arise to create confusion and rebellion among

those who claim to be representatives of the true God. Those who prophesy lies willencourage men to look upon sin as a light thing. When the terrible results of their evildeeds are made manifest, they will seek, if possible, to make the one who has faithfullywarned them, responsible for their difficulties, even as the Jews charged Jeremiah withtheir evil fortunes. "-Prophets and Kings, p. 442.

"Until Christ shall appear in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory,men will become perverse in spirit and turn from the truth to fables. The church willyet see troublous times. She will prophesy in sackcloth. But although she must meet

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heresies and persecutions, although she must battle with the infidel and the apostate,yet by the help of God she is bruising the head of Satan. Th e Lord will have a peopleas true as steel, and with faith as firm as the granite rock."- Testimonies, yol. 5, p. 594.

"Shall we choose to take our stand with Satan and his host? Shall we join withthe transgressors of God's law? Rather let it be our prayer: 'Lord, put enmity betweenme and the serpent .' I f we are not at enmity with his works of darkness, his powerful

folds encircle us, and his sting is ready at any moment to be driven to our hearts."-Ibid., p. 595."[W]e are to make no compromise with evil. Weare not to unite with the rebel

lious and call this charity. " - T h e Acts of the Apostles, p. 555.

10. Despite all defections, what assurance do we have? Why? 2 Timothy 2:19.

"Ministers who have preached the truth with all zeal and earnestness may apostatize and join the ranks of our enemies, but does this turn the truth of God into a lie?'Nevertheless,' says the apostle, 'the foundation of God standeth sure.' Th e faith and

feelings of men may change; but the truth of God, never. The third angel's message issounding; it is infallible."- Testimonies, yol. 4, p. 595.

REVIEW AND THOUGHT QUESTIONS

a. What resul ts from t he int roduc t ion of counterfei t believers?

b. What makes the difference between a t rue and.a false member?

c. What should encourage us in these difficulties?

d. What history, oft repeated, may be a gai n fulfilled in our time?

e. What as su rance is given the t rue believers?

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Lesson 7 Sabbath , February 16 , 1991

THE TRUE CHURCH IN SYMBOLS

By means of symboli sm the Lord reveals different aspects of His t rue chu rch

.K E Y T E X T: "Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clearas the sun, and terrible as an army with banners?" -Song of Solomon6:10.

SALT, LIGHTo Sunday

February 10

1. What commentary does Inspiration give concerning the "salt of the earth"?Matthew 5:13.

"Salt is valued for its preservative properties; and when God calls His childrensalt, He would teach them that His purpose in making them the subjects of His graceis that they may become agents in saving others."- Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,p.35.

2. What does the Inspired Word say about the "light of the world"? Matthew5:14.

"God has called His church in this day, as He called ancient Israel, to stand as alight in the earth. By the mighty cleaver of truth, the messages of the first, second,and third angels, He has separated them from the churches and from the world to bringthem into a sacred nearness to Himself. He has made them the depositaries of His lawand has committed to them the great truths of prophecy for this t ime."- Testimonies,vol. 5, p. 455.

A WOMANo Monday

February 11

3. What does th e Bible say about the symbolic "pure woman"? Revelation12:1,6,17.

4. What should we learn from the symbolism of "a chaste virgin, a bride"? 2 Co-rinthians 11:2.

"The bride is the church who is waiting for the second appearing of our Lord andSaviour Jesus Christ."- The Review and Herald, October 31, 1899.

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A BODY, AN ARMYD TuesdayFebruary 12

5. Under the symbol of the "body of Christ ," how does Paul describe thechurch? 1 Corinthians 12:20-27 .

"We should all study carefully the instruction given in Corinthians and Ephesiansregarding our relation to one another as members of the body of Christ."-Testimoniesto Ministers, p. 500.

I

6. What is the significance of the reference to "an army with banners"? Song 1of Solomon 6:10.

"Then [under the final test] will the church of Christ appear 'fair as the moon,clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners.' " - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 82.

A FORTIFIED CITYD Wednesday

February 13

7. In what w ay does "a city on a hill" r ep re se nt t he purpose of God for Hischurch? I sa ia h 5 2 :1 , 2.

"During ages of spiritual darkness the church of God has been as a city se t on ahill. From age to age, through successive generations, the pure doctrines of heavenhave been unfolding within its borders. Enfeebled and defective as it may appear, thechurch is the one object upon which God bestows in a special sense His supreme regard. I t is the theater of His grace, in which He delights to reveal His power to transform hearts."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 12.

8. What w as t he p ur po se of a fo rt r es s and how does thi s represent the church?Zechariah 9: 12.

"The church is God's fortress, His city of refuge, which He holds in a revoltedworld."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 11.

A TEMPLE, A VINEYARDo Thursday

February 14

9. What lessons m ay b e l ea rn ed from Paul's description of the church a s " Go d 'sbuilding"? 1 Corinthians 3 : 9 - 1 6 ; Ephesians 2:21.

"Through the ages that have passed since the days of the apostles, the buildingof God's temple has never ceased. We may look back through the centuries and see

the living stones of which it is compo.sed gleaming like jets of light through thedarkness of error and superstition."- The Acts of the Apostles, p. 598.

10. In what ways may " the vineyard" represent God's church? Isaiah 5:7; Matt he w 2 1 :2 8 ; John 15:5.

(Continued on page 29)

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Lesson 8 Sabba th , F eb ru ar y 2 3, 1 99 1

SOME NAMES OF THE CHURCH

All names applied to the t rue church have a significance from whichprecious lessons m ay be learned

KEY TEXT: "But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; andall ye are brethren."-Matthew 23:8.

BELIEVERS, BRETHRENo Sunday

February 17

1. What does Luke call the Christians? What distinction and destiny does thisappellation imply? A cts 5 :1 4; M ark 1 6:1 6.

2. What other t i tle does Luke app ly to Christians? What concept does t hi s t it leconvey? Acts 15 :1 ,32 ; Matthew 20:25-28 ; 23 :8-12 .

"Jesus teaches us to call His Father our Father. He is not ashamed to call usbrethren. Hebrews 2:11. So ready, so eager, is the Saviour's heart to welcome us asmembers of the family of God, that in the very first words we are to use in approaching God He places the assurance of our divine relationship, 'Our Father.' "-ThoughtsFrom the Mount of Blessing, p. 103.

CHILDREN AND HEIRS OF GODD Monday

February 18

3. What contrast does Christ s ho w w he n He calls His followers "children ofthe kingdom," "children of l ight," and "sons of God"? Matthew 13 :38 ; Luke16:8; John 1:12 (1 Samuel 2 :12 ; John 8:44).

"God regards us as His children. He has redeemed us out of the careless worldand has chosen us to become members of the royal family, sons and daughters of theheavenly King. He invites us to trus t in Him with a trus t deeper and stronger thanthat of a child in his earthly father. Parents love their children, but the love of God islarger, broader, deeper, than human love can possibly be. I t is immeasurable."-Christ'sObject Lessons, p. 142.

4. I f we are children of God, what else are we? Romans 8: 17.

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FRIENDS, FOLLOWERSo TuesdayFebruary 19

5. Why does Christ call us "friends"? John 15:14, 15; Romans 5:9, 10.

6. When Paul tells th e believers to be "followers of God," what does that imply?Ephesians 5:1; Revelation 14:4; John 8:12.

" 'Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children.' Christians must be likeChrist. They should have the same spirit, exert the same influence, and have the samemoral excellence that He possessed. The idolatrous and corrupt in heart must repentand turn to God. Those who are proud and self-righteous must abase self and becomepenitent and meek and lowly in heart. The worldly-minded must have the tendrils ofthe heart removed from the rubbish of the world, around which they are clinging, andentwined about God; they must become spiritually minded. The dishonest and untruth

ful must become just and true. The ambitious and covetous must be hid in Jesus andseek His glory, not their own. They must despise their own holiness and lay up theirtreasure above."-Testimonies, vol. 5, pp. 249, 250.'

DISCIPLES, CHRISTIANSo Wednesday

February 20

7. What else are th e Christians called a nd w ha t are the implications? Acts 9:1,26; John 8:31; 1 3: 35 ; 1 5: 8.

"A rule is given by which the true disciple may be distinguished from those whoclaim to follow Christ but have not faith in Him. The one class are fruit bearing, theother, fruitless. The one are often subjected to the pruning knife of God that they maybring forth more fruit; the other, as withered branches, are erelong to be severed fromthe living Vine."-Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 229.

8. When and where were th e disciples first called "Christians"? What w as th ereason for thi s name being given them? Acts 11:26; 4:13.

ELECT, FIRST-FRUITSo Thursday

February 21

9. By calling us "the elect," what does Christ mean? Matthew 24:22 (Titus1:1); 2 Peter 1 :1 0, 11; I sa iah 65 :21 ,22 .

"Those who have risen with Christ to walk in newness of life are the elect ofGod. They are holy unto the Lord, and are acknowledged by Him as His beloved. As

such, they are under solemn covenant to distinguish themselves by showing humilityof mind. They are to clothe themselves in garments of righteousness. They areseparate from the world, from its spirit, its practises, and they are to reveal that theyare learning of Him." -Sons and Daughters of God, p. 133.

10. What title given us indicates preeminence among the created beings? James1:18.

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February 22

a. When believers are called "bre thren," what is it implied?

b. What is involved in being an heir?

c. When the Master calls us " fr ie n ds ," w h a t does He expect?d. What is t h e p a rt ic u la r significance of being t he " e le c t" ?

e. What is the meaning of the word disciple and why is it associa ted wi th beinga Christian?

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sdarm qtr. 1 1991 bible study

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