Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
QUARTERLY
Senior Division, First and Second Quarter, 1956
2. What special work was designated for Paul before his birth?
Isa. 49:6.
NOTE: From this testimony we clearly see that the call of God
. comes as a complete surprise to those who become apostles and
prophets or pioneers. They have never aspired to the position or
taken a special course of training with this in view. They have
been called before the church was organized. We have a striking
example of such a calling in the pioneers of the Advent Movement
and again in the present day work of fieformation.
9. true
10. Does God give His sanction to those who feel at liberty to
work independently of His organized church? Lev. 17:8,9.
NOTE: "The Son of God identified himself with the office and
authority of his organized church. His blessings were to come
through the agencies that he has ordained, thus connecting man
with the channel through which his blessings come••••
"In the conversion of Paul are given us important principles
which we should ever bear in mind. The nedeemer of the world
does not sanction experience and exercise in religious matters
independent of his organized and acknowledged church, where he
has a church.
"Many have the idea that they are responsible to Christ alone
for their light and experience, independent of his acknowledged
followers in the world." - Testimonies, vol. 3, pp. 432,433.
2. What was the main object of Paul in writing this book? Rom.
1:3-6.
5. What longing desire did Paul have for the believers in Rome
when he wrote this epistle? Rom. 1:9-11.
10. What was Paul's burden in the light of the many revelations
God had given him? Rom. 1:14,15.
NOTE: The Lord had impressed it upon Paul to write this that the
believers might be strengthened against the false philosophy of
both the Jews and the Romans. The application of this epis,tle
was more than local, however, and it has brought rich blessings to
Christians in each succeeding age and is a book with a special
message for today. We are living in the last days when "every
wind of doctrine" is blowing and the false application and inter-
pretation of this book has led many Christians astray. The false
philosophy of the Jews led the whole nation to reject Christ as
the promised Messiah while holding rigidly to the letter of the
law. The Christian world today has also been led astray by false
and subtle reasoning to think they are honoring Christ while they
deny the binding claims of the moral taw. In order to sustain this
philosophy, they appeal to the writings of Paul; therefore, the
true understanding of the book of Romans becomes a key to the
understanding of all Paul's epistles.
7. What great spiritual loss came to the Jewish church when they
rejected the gospel message? Luke 12:52; Matt. 15:14.
NOTE: "Never before had the world seen such a triumphal pro-
cession. It was not like that of the earth's famous conquerors.
No train of mourning captives, as trophies of kingly valor, made a
feature of that scene. But about the Saviour were the glorious
trophies of His labors of love for sinful man. There were the
captive's whom He had rescued from Satan's power, praising God
for their deliverance. The blind whom he had restored to sight
were leading the way. The dumb whose tongues He had loosed
shouted the loudest hosannas. The cripples whom He had healed
bounded with joy, and were the most active in breaking the palm
branches and waving them before the Saviour. Widows and orphans
were exalting the name of Jesus for His works of mercy to them."
-ld., p. 572.
10. Who were responsible for the discordant note brought into
that scene of praise and rejoicing? Luke 19:39,40.
4. What· was responsible for the failure of the Jews to find the
righteousness of God? Rom. 9:30,31.
10. How should the believer relate himself to the present work of
preparation? Phil. 2:12.
11. How did Paul describe the spiritual state of the Jews after
rejecting the message of righteousness through Christ? Rom.
1:20-25.
12. To what depths of iniquity did theY reach after the rejection
of the Messiah? Rom. 1:26-32.
NOTE: When those who have had great light yield themselves to
Satan, there is no telling how far they will go in transgression and
very often ordinary lustful practices become stale and the appetite
for ordinary sin sluggish, hence they stoop to most' abominable
transgressions, such as the apostle Paul declares in another place,
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"It is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of
them in secret," Eph.5:12.
1. What charge does the apostle bring against the Jews as the
professed people of God? Rom. 2:1-3.
NOTE: The law of God can only justify those who are in harmony
with it. The marginal reading for "justified" is "accounted
righteous." That is its meaning. Law declares of the absolute
doer that he is righteous. Dut some have not this written law,
yet in man's very being there are traces, convictions of the law
written by the Creator which condemn wrong and 'approve right.
Conscience appeals, condemns and approves. God will deal with
them wisely, justly and mercifully; we can leave them with Him,
knowing that it shall be well.
NOTE: The Jewish leaders felt that they really had something
to boast of, as it was true the law of God had been given to this
people and they had been appointed the keepers of the sacred
oracles. Further to this, the temple which they looked upon with
much pride had indeed been built according to God's own directions,
and there for centuries, the shekinah glory had been manifested.
They claimed the sole right to represent the God of heaven.
NOTE: "What greater deception can come upon human minds than
a confidence that they are right, when they are all wrong! The
message of the True Witness finds the people of God. in a sad
deception, yet honest in that deception. They know not that their
condition is deplor\lble in the sight of God. While those addressed
are flattering themselves that they are in an exalted spiritual con-
dition, the message of the True Witness breaks their security by
the startling denunciation of their true condition of spiritual blind-
ness, poverty, and wretchedness. The testimony, so cutting and
severe, cannot be a mistake, for it is the True Witness who speaks,
and his testimony must be correct." - Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 252.
NOTE: "Thus again was left upon the page of history a testimony
for all future ages, - that the iniquity of God's professed people
will not go unpunished. The greater the knowledge of God's will,
the greater the sin of those who disregard it••••
"It was not enough that the ark and the sanctuary were in the
midst of Israel. It was not enough that the priests offered sacri-
fices, and that the people were called the children of God. The
Lord does not regard the request of those who cherish iniquity in
the heart; it is written that 'he that turneth away his ear from
hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.''' - Patri-
archs and Prophets, p. 504.
9. What is the nature of the apostaSY which brought about separa-
tion in the Laodicean church?
10. When the vital power of godliness has given place to world-
liness and formalism, what influence will the church have
upon the world? Rom. 2:24; Micah 3:10,11.
11. What attitude did the apostle Paul take in meeting those Jews
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who still claimed that circwncision was necessary for sal-
vation? Rom. 2:25-29.
1. What advantage did the Jews have over the other nations?
Rom. 3:1,2.
3. To what great event then still in the future did Paul direct
the ~ttentioll of both Jews and Gentiles? Rom. 3:'1-8.
N01T: The meaning of this verse is made clear from the rendering
given in the nevised Version: "That thou mightest be justified in
thy words and mightest prevail when thou comest into judgment."
-lll-
Paul was quoting from Psalm 51:4, and with this rendering, the two
verses harmonize. 'In all his writings, the great apostle sought to
convince both Jews and converted pagans of the deeper meaning
of the plan of salvation and the future judgment which all must
face. "And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now
commandeth all men everywhere to repent because he hath appointed
a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man
whom he hath ordained." Acts 17:30,31. Even in his day, Paul
knew well that there was a judgment pending which must first
begin at the house of God. The message of justification was
incomplete without a knowledge of the investigative judgment.
NOT!':: If this were so, we could well say, "Let us do evil that
good may come." Such a principle God could not approve and
still be God. His infinite wisdom and love and power demand
glorious triumph over all evil, but God can never excuse evil.
"It is mysterious, unaccountable; to excuse it, is to defend it.
Could an excuse for it be found, or cause be shown for its exist-
ence, it would cease to be sin." -ld., p. 493.
5. Apart from the grace of Gon, what is the natural state of all
mankind? Rom. 3:9-18,23.
NOTE: God is doing all we will let Him do to save us, but He
does not want us to be deceived regarding ourselves. In our-
selves we are sinners, utterly hopeless so far as ought that we
can do. Our family, our birth, our education, our privileges, our
knowledge, our -outwardly blameless deportment, - none or all of
these will save us or will reconcile us to God. These verses tell
us the actual condition of humanity. They are fearful pictures,
but they are outlined with pencil of truth and no man can deny
their accuracy. The great loving lesson from the infinitely loving
God is that we are of ourselves hopeless sinners.
NOTE: The term "works of the law" refers to the efforts of hu-
manity to live the righteousness of God, that is, to live as God
would live, but apart from His life. This the righteousness of
God declares a complete failure. All the strivings of man to
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present an outward conformity to morality is of no avail as God's
holy law stops every mouth and brings all the world under the
condemnation of God.
The phrase "under the law" in verse 1<) ought to be rendered
."within the law," subject to the law, demanding the obedience of
all; but such a standard of living, man has not attained, hence all
are condemned by the law as transgressors.
10. Can any man or woman truthfully testifY that they have not
sinned? Rom. 3:23.
NOTE: The promises of God are sure to those who truly believe
in Him. They will find as did Paul a power in the gospel to free
man from sin; to give him victory over every wrong habit and
practice. If this is not the experience of those who profess to
believe, it is because they have never made a full surrender to
God.
1. Upon which two great pillars does the plan of salvation rest?
John 1:17.
NOTE: "Many who claim to believe and to teach the gospel are
in a similar error. They set aside the Old Testament Scriptures,
of which Christ declared, 'They are they which testify of me.'
In rejecting the Old, they v~rtually reject the New; for both are
parts of an inseparable whole. No man can rightly present the law
of God without the gospel, or the gospel without the law. The
law is the gospel embodied, and the gospel is the law unfolded.
The law is the root, the gospel is the fragrant blossom and fruit
which it bears." - Christ's Object Lessons, p. 120.
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2. By what means was man justified, by his obedience ~ the
law or by the grace of Christ? Rom. 3:24.
NOTE: "While God can be just, and yet justify the sinner through
the merits of Christ, no man can cover his soul with the garments
of Christ's righteousness while practicing known sin or neglecting
known duties. God requires entire surrender of the hearts before
justification can take place; and in order for man to retain justi-
fication, there must be continual obedience, through active, living
- 20-
faith, that works by love and purifies the sou!." - Review and
Herald, November 4, llJ90, by Ellen G. White.
NOTE: "There are two errors against which the children of God
- particularly those who have just come to trust in His grace -
especially need to guard. The first, already dwelt upon, is that
of looking to their own works, trusting to anything they can do,
to bring themselves in to harmony with God. He' who is trying to
become holy by his own works in keeping the law, is attempting
an impossibility. All that man can do without Christ is polluted
with selfishness and sin. It is the grace of Christ alone, through
faith, that can make us holy." - Steps to Christ, p. 64.
9. Does God have one condition of salvation for the Jews and
another for Christians? Rom. 3:29,30.
NOTE: In the new birth ,the heart is brought into harmony with
God, as it 'is brought into accord with His law. When this mighty
change has taken place in the sinner, he has passed from death
unto life, from sin unto holiness, from transgression and rebellion
- 21-
to obedience and loyalty. The old life of alienation from God has
ended; the new life of reconciliation, of faith and love, has begun.
Then "the righteousness of the law" will "be fulfilled in us, who
walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit." And the language
of the soul will be, "0 how love I thy law." "It is my meditation
all the day."
"'The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.' Without
the law, men have no just conception of the purity and holiness of
God, or of their own guilt and uncleanness. They have no true
conviction of sin, and feel no need of repentance. Not seeing
their lost condition as violators of God's law, they do not realize
their need of the atoning blood of Christ. The hope of salvation
is accepted without a radical change of heart or reformation of
life. Thus superficial conversions abound, and multitudes are
joined to the church who have never been united to Christ." -
Great Controversy, p. 4G8.
1. What fatal choice did the Jews make at the trial of Christ?
Matt. 27:20,22.
NOTE: Paul directly presented the problem that every Jew had
to decide for himself. By what means would they seek to be
reconciled to God, by the deeds of the law or by the grace obtained
through belief in Christ? By refusing Christ as a Saviour from
sin, they thus refused the only provision made by God for their
salvation.
- 22-
3. What powerful argument did Paul use to prove that the Jews
had made the wrong choice in rejecting Jesus while seeking
to justify themsel ves by their keeping of the law? Gal. 2:21.
6. How did Paul prove that the ceremonial law was not intended
to justifY the sinner? What was its real purpose? Heb.
10:1,14.
3. On what grounds only could David find pardon and peace with
God? Rom. 4:6-8.
NOTE: Our English word "impute" means "to ascribe," "to
credit," "to charge."
NOTE: The very fact that Abraham was blessed while still in
uncircumcision is a pledge to all who will believe whether cir-
cumcised or not. The new creature, the making righteous, is
what justification is designed to do - not that we can do it, but
God has done it for us in Christ Jesus.
8. What is the effect of the moral law when applied in its fuJI
meaning to the transgressor? If the moral law had been
abolished, wOldd there be any need of salvation from sin?
Rom. 4:15.
11. What lesson should the believer today learn from the experi-
ence of Abraham? Rom. 4:23-25; Phil. 3:7-10 ..
NOTE: "How shall we know for ourselves God's goodness and
his love? The psalmist tells us - not hear and know, read and
know, or believe and know; but - 'Taste and see that the Lord is
good.' Instead of relying upon the word of another, taste for
yourself.
- 26-
"Experience is knowledge derived from experiment. Experi-
mental religion is what is needed now. 'Taste and see that the
Lord is good.' Some - yes, a large number - have a theoretical
knowledge of religious truth, but have never felt the renewing
power of divine grace upon their own hearts. These persons are
ever slow to heed the testimonies of warning, reproof, and in-
struction indited by the Holy Spirit. They believe in the wrath
of God, but put forth no earnest efforts to escape it. They be-
lieve in Heaven, but make no sacrifice to obtain it. They believe
in the value of the soul, and that erelong its redemption ceaseth
forever. Yet they neglect the most precious opportunities to make
their peace with God." - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 221.
NOTE: Sin puts man at enmity with God. Paul explains this in
the words, "when we were enemies we' were reconciled to God
by the death of his son ••• ." nom. 5:10. Thus through faith in
the blood of the atonement, the one-time enemy of God and right-
eousness now enjoys the blessing and privilege of being at peace
with God.
"The grace of Christ received into the heart, subdues enmity;
it allays strife, and fills the soul with love. He who is at peace
with God and his fellowmen can not be made miserable. Envy wlll
not be in his heart; evil surmisings will find no room there; hatred
can not exist. The heart that is in harmony with God is a partaker
of the peace of heaven, and will diffuse its blessed influence on
all around.
"The spirit of peace is evidence of their connection with heaven.
The sweet savor of Christ surrounds them. The fragrance of the
life, the loveliness of the character, reveal to the world the fact
that they are children of God. Men take knowledge of them that
they have been with Jesus. 'Every one that loveth is born of
God.' 'If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of
His;' but 'as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the
sons of God.''' - Mount of Blessing, pp. 4G,47.
- 27 -
2. To what other great privilege does faith in Jesus Christ give
us access? Rom. 5:2.
NOTE: "Heavenly intelligences are waiting to co-operate with
human instrumentalities, that they may reveal to the world what
human beings may become, and what, through union with the Divine,
may be accomplishe.d for the saving of souls that are ready to
perish. There is no limit to the usefulness of one who, putting
self aside, makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon his
heart, and lives a life wholly consecrated to God. All who con-
secrate body, soul, and spirit to his service will be constantly
receiving a new endowment of physical, mental, and spiritual
power. The inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command.
Christ gives them the breath of His own Spirit, the life of His own
life. The Holy Spirit puts forth its highest energies to work in
mind and heart. Through the grace given us we may achieve
victories that because of our own erroneous preconceived opinions,
our defects of character, our smallness of faith, have seemed
impossible." - Ministry of Healing, p. 159.
5. How far reaching was God's plan to save man from his hope-
less condition? Rom. 5:6-8.
NOTE: "Herein His love commends itself in the most marvelous
manner to the rebellious race. What a sight for angels to behold!
What a hope for m an, 'that, while we were yet sinners, Christ
- 28-
died for us'! The just suffered for the unjust; He bore our sins in
His own body on the tree. 'He that spared not His own Son, but
delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely
give us all things?'
"As witnesses chosen of God, do we value Christ's purchased
possession? Are we ready to make any and every sacrifice within
our power, to place ourselves under Christ's yoke, to co-operate
with Him and to be laborers together with God? All who are
bearing the test of God, obeying His commandments, love the
perishing human race as Christ loved them. They follow the
example of Christ in most earnest, self-sacrificing labor, to seek
out in the highways and hedges the high and the low, the rich and
the poor, and to bear to all the message that they are the objects
of Christ's special love and guardian care." - Testimonies to
Ministers, p. 246.
NOTE: From nom. 3:25, we learned that ·faith in the shed blood
of Jesus gave "remission of sins that are past." .There is much
more to salvation than this, however. When we come to God con-
fessing all our sins, asking forgiveness in the name of Jesus
Christ, pardon is freely granted through His merits. Christ's
righteousness is then imputed to us. Sins, acts of disobedience;
transgressions of the divine law, God can forgive, but sin cannot
be forgiven. It is the nature with which we came into the world
and leads us to commit sin. When on earth, the Saviour expressed
it thus: "That which is born of the flesh is flesh and that which
is born of the Spirit is spirit." Thus it is evident that the only
way to get rid of a bad nature is by death. The only way to re-
ceive a new nature is to be born again. "Christ died for our
sins." 1 Cor. 15:3. "He died unto sin." nom. 0:10.
"God requires the entire surrender of the heart, before justi-
fication can take place; and in order for man to retain justification,
there must be continual obedience, through active, living faith
that works by love and purifies the soul." - Christ Our Righteous-
ness, p. 130.
7. Through whom did sin and sinflP.lness come upon the whole
human race? Rom. 5:12.
NOTE: Through Adam as the first father of the human race all
became automatically partakers of the curse with which he was
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cursed. This curse of death was upon both the righteous and the
unrighteous even though they had not committed the sin of Adam.
8. Was sin in the world before the law of God was given from
Sinai? Rom. 5:13,14.
NOTE: That sin existed long before the law was given in its
written form is evident from the universal fact of death in the
world. Much of the sin committed was counted as sins of ignorance,
yet the curse of death reigned and still reigns over the human
race.
NOTE: Just as sin came to all through one man and death fol-
lowed in its wake, so God in His great love offered the priceless
gift of justification through one man, Christ Jesus.
10. Was God's grace through Jesus Christ as broad as the con-
sequences of sin? Rom. 5:17-19.
NOTE: Just as through the unrighteousness of one man judgment
was pronounced upon all, so through the righteousness of one man
justification is offered to all. Through the disobedience of Adam,
all were counted as sinners, so through the humiliation and obedi-
ence of One, it is possible for all to be made righteous. God
does not compel men to serve Him. Obedience must be free,
willing, loya!. The choice rests with man, but the history of the
race and our own observation proves the sad fact that many do
not want God's way.
11. For what purpose was the law of God given to man officially
in written form? Rom. 5:20.
1. After beginning our new life in Christ, does grace make allow-
ance for a continuation in our past sins? Rom. 6:1,2.
NOTE: Our study deals with the progress of the individual in
justification and the first objection the apostle meets in this, that
if grace super abounds over sin, the soul can go on in its sin and
trust to God's grace. Such a thought was far from Paul, as it was
the teaching of the book of Romans as well as the rest of the Word
that the object of grace is not only to save us from sin, but also
from sinning. Jesus carne to save His people "from their sins,"
Matt. 1:21, and to "redeem us from all iniquity," Titus 2:14.
3. With what figure does the apostle illustrate the contrast be-
tween the old and the new life? Rom. 6:6-10.
4. When "the old man" seeks to assert itself in our nature. what
should we do? Rom. 6:11.
NOTE: Dear brother and sister, when you were buried in the
watery grave at baptism, did you really die to "the old man" of
sin? Was it indeed "the new man" that arose to live the victorious
life with Christ? If you can not answer "yes" with confidence,
then this admonition of the apostle applies to you. Therefore
reckon, calculate, set down, work out to a demonstration.
"You have repeatedly said, 'I can't keep my temper.' 'I have
to speak.' You lack a meek humble spirit. Self is all alive, and
you stand guard continually to preserve it from mortification or
insult. Says the apostle, 'For ye are dead, and your life is hid
with Christ in God.' Those who are dead to self will not feel so
readily. and will not be prepare,d to resist everything which may
irritate. Dead men cannot feel. You are not dead. If you were,
and your life were hid in Christ, a thousand things which you now
notice, and which afflict you, would be passed by as unworthy of
notice; you would then be grasping the eternal, and would be
above the petty trials of this life." -ld., vol. 2, p. 425.
- 32-
5. What change of masters does the Christian make when he
accepts Jesus Christ'? Rom. 6:12,13.
7. What choice must each individual make for himself'? Rom. 7:16.
NOTE: "A profession of Christianity without corresponding faith
and works, will avail nothing. No man can serve two masters. The
children of the wicked one are their own master's servants to whom
they yield themselves servants to obey, his servants they are, and
they cannot be the servants of God until they renounce the devil
and all his works." - Id., vol. 1, p. 404.
"~lany, while professing to be servants of Christ, are obeying
another master, working daily against the Master whom they profess
to serve. 'No man can serve two masters; for either he will hate
the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and
despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.''' - Id.,
vol. 2, p. 442.
10. How do the wise weigh life and character? Rom. 6:21-23.
2. How did Paul regard a second marriage while the first partner
was still alive? When only can a second marriage be justi-
fiable and not considered a transgression of the law? Rom.
7:3.
NOTE: Although Paul was a Jew and familiar with the law of
Moses concerning the Bill of Divorce, yet in h'is statement on
this occasion it is evident he bases his teaching on Christ's ex-
planation of the law in Matthew 5. It seems that in all his study of
the gospel of Matthew, Paul did not find the exception "except
in case of fornication" which is taken as the Scriptural ground for
justifying a second marriage while the first partner is still alive.
NOTE: It should be noted that the question thus put to Jesus re-
garding provision for divorce covered every likely cause.
NOTE: The reader will notice that Christ gave a direct answer
to the question and made no provision whatsoever for any exception.
He declared clearly "What therefore God has joined together, let
not man put asunder." Those who have made a wrong choice in
marriage or have hurried into this relationship without having been
properly counselled, very often find to their dismay that they have
made a mistake, but according to the Scriptures they have been
joined into "one flesh" and as a result of this union many times
children have been brought into the world. They are bound, how-
ever, by the law of marriage until the death of one party. The
majority, however, pay no attention to the established law of God,
and when difficulties arise in the marriage relation, instead of
making every effort and sacrifice to maintain the integrity of the
marriage and the family, they take the way of least resistance,
break up the marriage and on this ruin seek to build up another
which they think will bring happiness. It is many times those who
are thus involved themselves who make a special study of the
Scriptures to try to find justification for their course of action.
7. In His answer, what reason did Christ give for Moses' bill
of divorce? Matt. 19:8.
- 36 -
NOTE: Christ made it very clear that it was His purpose to re-
store marriage to its original purity, as He refers us back to the
time when the law of marriage was first given.
"Like every other one of God's good gifts intrusted to the
keeping of humanity, marriage has been perverted by sin; but it
is the purpose of the gospel to restore its purity and beauty."
- Mount of Blessing, p. 100.
12. Under which condition only does the Lord allow for separation?
1 Cor. 7:10,11.
NOTE: Paul does make prOVISIOn for separation of those who can
find no possible way of settling their differences, but always on
the strict condition that they do not remarry while the other partner
is still alive.
13. How sacredly should the marriage vow be held? Heb. 13:4.
NOTE: "My sister, dare you disregard these plain and positive
directions? As a child of God, a subject of Christ's kingdom,
the purchase of his blood, how can you connect yourself with one
who does not acknowledge his claims, who is not controlled by
his Spirit? The commands I have quoted are not the word of man,
but of God. Though the companion of your choice were in all other
respects worthy (which he is not), yet he has not accepted the
truth for this time; he is an unbeliever, and you are forbid de n of
Heaven to unite yourself with him. You cannot, without peril to
your soul, disregard this divine injunction." - Testimonies,
vol. 5, p. 3G4.
16. Why did Sister White adopt the popular view on divorce and
certain cases gave private instruction by letters approving of
remarriage? Did Sister White consider that the past attitude
towards th e law of God as the standard of the church was
- 39 -
sufficient. Did she instruct the leaders and the people that
more truth was to be revealed and a higher standard must be
adopted? Matt. 19:8.
NaTE: Sister White did no more than Moses who approved of the
divorce law to satisfy the carnal mind of the people. She always
urged to higher standards and sanctification in the marriage life,
but the leadership always prevailed in maintaining the popular
views. Finally after years of controversy on this matter, it has
been sealed by General Conference decision to legalize divorce
and remarriage, and that at the very time when Christ is expected
to come.
"Upon us rests the solemn obligation of taking a more decided
stand for truth and righteousness than we have taken in the past.
The line of demarcation between those who keep the commandments
of God and those who do not is to be revealed with unmistakable
clearness." - Testimonies, vol. 7, p. lOG.
"We cannot hold that a position once taken, an idea once ad-
vocated, is not, under any circumstances, to be relinquished.
There is but One who is infallible - He who is the way, the truth,
and the life." - Testimonies to Ministers, p. 105.
"Great truths that have lain unheeded and unseen since the day
of Pentecost are to shine from God's word in their native purity.
To those who truly love God the Holy Spirit will reveal truths
that have faded from the mind, and will also reveal truths that are
entirely new." - Fundamentals of Education, p. 473.
"Great truths which have been neglected and unappreciated for
ages, will be revealed by the Spirit of God, and new meaning will
flash out of familiar texts." - Counsels on Sabbath School Work,
p.35.
NOTE: The evil is not the pointing out of our sin; it is the sin
itself. The law is like a mirror that reveals our spiritual unclean-
ness, like the microscope that reveals the death-dealing organisms
in our food or drink. We will be thankful for these and seek the
remedy. In the light of the law, sin is "exceeding sinful."
7. Why is it impossible for an unconverted man to keep the law
of God? Rom. 7:14.
NOTE: "Oh, how many flatter themselves that they have goodness
and righteousness, when the true light of God reveals that all
their lives they have only lived to please themselves! Their
whole conduct is abhorred of God. How many are alive without the
law! In their gross darkness, they view themselves with com-
placency; but let the law of God be revealed to their consciences,
as it was to Paul, and they would see that they were sold under
sin, and must die to the carnal mind. Self must be slain."-
Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 475.
9. After vainly striving for peace of soul, what does the sinner
cry out in desperation? Rom. 7:24.
NOTE: "By sin we have been severed from the life of God. Our
souls are palsied. Of ourselves we are no more capable of living
a holy life than was the impotent man capable of walking. There
are many who realize their helplessness, and who long for that
spiritual life which will bring them into harmony with God; they are
vainly striving to obtain it. In despair they cry, '0 wretched man
that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death?' Rom.
7:24. margin. Let these desponding, struggling ones look up. The
Saviour is bending over the purchase of His blood, saying with
inexpressible tenderness and pity, 'Wilt thou be made whole?'
He bids you arise in health and peace. Do not wait to feel that
you are made whole. Believe His word, and it will be fulfilled.
Put your will on the side of Christ. Will to serve Him, and in
acting upon His word you will receive strength. Whatever may be
the evil practice, the master passion which through long indulgence
binds both soul and body, Christ is able and longs to deliver.
He will impart life to the soul that is 'dead in trespasses.' Eph ..
2: L He will set free the captive that is held by weakness and
misfortune and the chains of sin." - Desire of Ages, p. 203.
10. How only can deliverance be obtained? What was the ex-
perience of the Jews and is the experience of many who con-
sider themselves good Christians? Rom. 7:25.
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Lesson No. 15 - Sabbath, April 14, 1956
A LIFE OF VICTORY AND PROGRESS
Questions
3. By what means were the Galatian believers led away from the
true gospel? Gal. 1:7.
NOTE: There are many passages in the Scriptures which the
superficial reader could eaSily misinterpret to fit in with their
pre-conceived ideas. This Was the case with the rabbis in their
interpretation of the ceremonial law and its application. Christ
boldly stated to the professed teachers of Israel: "Ye do err,
not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God." Matt. 22:29.
Even in the reading of a certain passage of Scripture such an em-
phasis could be placed that an entirely wrong meaning is under-
stood by the listener. To the cavilling lawyer who sought to trap
Jesus in His speech, the Master effectively checked him with
these words: "What is written in the law? How readest thou?"
..
Luke IO:2G. It was such a perversion of the true meaning of the ~I
law by Judaizing teachers that led many Galatian believers astray.
In like manner today, we find modern teachers of the Bible mis-
applying and perverting the' writings of the apostle Paul to give
an entirely different meaning to what was intended. It should be
-44-
noted here that division of the books of the Bible into chapters and
verses is not an inspired work, but purely a mechanical means
of making the study of the Bible easier. Very often however these
chapter divisions cut off a theme before it is completed, thus
breaking the connection of thought. This is the case with chapters
7 and 0 of Romans. By reading only chapter 7, it is easy to come
to a wrong conclusion regarding the high standard required of a
Christian. Yet if the first five verses of chapter 0 are read along
with it, we can then understand the true meaning.
NOTE: "Christ declares that even now the power which gives
life to the dead is among them, and they are to behold its mani-
festation. This same resurrection power is that which gives life
to the soul ,'dead in trespasses and sins.' Eph. 2:1. That spirit
of life in Christ Jesus, 'the power of His resurrection,' sets men
'free from the law of sin and death.' Phil. 3:10; Rom. 0:2. The
dominion of evil is broken, and through faith the soul is kept from
sin. He who opens his heart to the Spirit of Christ becomes a
partaker of that mighty power which shall bring forth his body from
the grave." - Desire of Ages, p. 209.
5. What is the relationship between faith and the law under the
new covenant? Rom. 8:3,4.
NOTE: The law had no power to free us from the hold sin had over
us and therefore without the sacrifice of Christ, our case was hope-
less. By His victory, however, He condemned sin in the flesh, and
as by the new birth the heart was brought into harmony with God,
it was also brought into accord with His law. When this mighty
change has taken place in the sinner, the old life of alienation has
ended and the new life or reconciliation of faith and love have
begun. Then the "righteousness of the law will be fulfilled in us
who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit."
NOTE: "By nature the heart is evil, and 'who can bring a clean
thing out of an unclean? not one.' Job 14:4. No human invention
can find a remedy for the sinning soul. 'The carnal mind is enmity
against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither
indeed can be.' 'Out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders,
adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.'
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nom. n:7; Matt. 15:19. The fountain of the heart must be puri-
fied before the streams can become pure. He who is trying to
reach heaven by his own works in keeping the law is attempting
an impossibility. There is no safety for one who has merely a
legal religion, a form of godliness. The Christian's life is not a
modification or improvement of the old, but a transformation of
nature. There is a death to self and sin, and a new life altogether.
This change can be brought about only by the effectual working
of the Holy Spirit." -Id., p. 172.
NOTE: Now that our death sentence has been lifted by the grace
of God and a new element has entered into our lives, the power
and life of the Holy Spirit which promises us victory over the
power of sin in the flesh, shall we take heed to the promptings of
the carnal nature of our mortal bodies which we still inhabit and
go back to the old life? God forbid! In the new life the flesh is
still with us, but the Spirit reigns. Let us keep forever free in
Christ from its bonds of death.
"The children of God are those who are partakers of His nature.
It is not earthly rank, nor birth, nor nationality, nor religious
privilege, which proves that we are members of the family of God;
it is love, - a love that embraces all humanity. Even sinners whose
hearts are not utterly closed to God's Spirit, will respond to kind-
ness; while they may give hate for hate, they will also give love
for love. But it is only the Spirit of God that gives love for hatred.
To be kind to the unthankful and to the evil, to do good hoping
for nothing again, is the insignia of the royalty of heaven, the
sure token by which the children of the Highest reveal their high
estate." -Mount of Blessing, p. ll5.
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9. Who are truly the sons of God? "ow may we identify those
who are guided by the Holy Spirit? Rom. 8 :14.
NOTE: "Brethren, with the beloved John I call upon you to 'be-
hold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that
we should be called the sons of God.' What love, what matchless
love, that, sinners and aliens as we are, we may be brought back
to God, and adopted into his family! We may address him by the
endearing name, 'Our Father,' which is a sign of our affection for
him, and a pledge of his tender regard and relationship to us.
And the Son of God, beholding the heirs of grace, 'is not ashamed
to call them brethren.' They have even a more sacred relationship
to God than have the angels who have never fallen." - Testimonies,
vol. 5, p. 739.
NOTE: "We must not only pray in Christ's name, but by the in-
spiration of the Holy Spirit. This explains what is meant when it
is said 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
that He is about to answer our prayer 'exceeding abundantly above
all that we ask or think.''' - Christ's Object Lessons, p. 147.
15. What is the greatest proof of God's infinite love for us? Rom.
8:32-34.
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Lesson No. 16 - Sabbath, April 21, 1956
THE ISRAEL OF GOD
Questions
7. How was God's will fulfilled in all his dealings with Israel?
When nearly all the Jewish nation had apostatized, whom did
God regard as His true people? Rom. 9:19-26.
NOTE: "You are following the same path as did ancient Israel.
There is the same falling away from your holy calling as God's
peculiar people••••
"Your neglect to follow the light will place you in a more un-
favorable position than the Jews upon whom Christ pronounced
a woe." - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 75.
8. What was the only remedy offered for ancient Israel? What is
the only hope for modem Israel to be again brought in God's
favor? Jer. 3:12,13.
10. Over 700 years before the first advent of Christ, what pre-
diction was made concerning the fall of both houses of Israel-
Judah and the ten tribes represented as Samaria? Isa. 8:14;
Rom. 9:32.
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NOTE: The identity of the two houses of Israel in the Christian
dispensation is clearly revealed in Rev. 11:1,2. On the one hand
we have a mixed group 01 believers who prior to W44 were ob-
serving Sunday instead of the Sabbath with all sincerity. This
included all the reformers of the sixteenth century and the Protes-
tant church down through years until the Sabbath truth was brought
into open. Since that time we have a group of Sabbath keepers
who have been given the trust of upholding God's downtrodden
law. Both parties claim to be the people of God and can be sym-
bolized with the two houses of Israel. The Protestant churches
represent the ten tribes, or Samaria, while the Seventh-day Ad-
ventist church represent Judah - the keepers of the law. Both
parties can be brought under the general classification of modern
Israel. According to the prediction, both houses are found in an
apostatized state.
11. Whom did God recognize as His true people when both houses
of Israel rejected the Messiah? Rom. 9:33; Isa. 10:10,11,
17-22.
12. Who will constitute the remnant church of God when both
Christendom and Laodicea fulfil the prediction of apostasy?
Zech. 9:8,9; Isa. 11:12; Zeph. 3:12,13.
1. What was Paul's greatest desire for his kinsmen after the
flesh? Rom. 10:1.
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2. Wh~ credit did Paul give to the activity of the Jews in ed-
ucating the people in the knowledge of the true God? Rom. 10:2.
3. What estimate did the aposUe Paul put upon all this so-called
wisdom? 1 Cor. 1:20-24.
NOTE: John the Baptist was the last prophet to prepare the way
for the coming Messiah. His mission had been faithfully described
700 years before by the prophet Isaiah in chapter 40. The Levitical
law of sacrifices pointed to the same event when Christ was to be
revealed as the "Lanib of God, which taketh away the sin of the
world."
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9. When could it be said that this law or "schoolmaster" had
served its purpose and thus was ended? Col. 2:14.
NOTE: "There are many who try to blend these two systems,
using the tests that speak of the ceremonial law to prove that the
moral law has been abolished; but this is a perversion of the
Scriptures. The distinction between the two systems is broad and
clear. The ceremonial system was made up of symbols pointing
to Christ, to his sacrifice and his priesthood. This ritual law,
with its sacrifices and ordinances, was to be performed by the
Hebrews until type met antitype in the death of Christ, the Lamb
of God that taketh away the sin of the world. Then all the sacri-
ficial offerings were to cease. It is this law that Christ 'took
put of the way, nailing it to his cross.' Col. 2:14. But concerning
the law of ten commandments the psalmist declares, 'Forever, 0
Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.' Ps. 119:09." - Patriarchs
and Prophets, p. 3G5.
12. What wonderful victory over Satan was achieved at the cross?
What further evidence does Paul bring forward to prove which
law was abolished by the death of the Son of God? Col. 3:
15-17; Gen. 3:15; Isa. 61:1-3.
4. What provision has the Lord made through the gospel to reach
the sinner? How only could sin be cleansed? Isa. 1:18;
1 Pet. 1:18, HI; Acts 4:12.
7. What provision is made for the salvation of every soul born into
this world? Rom. 10:11-13; John 3:16.
N.OTE: For every soul born into this world there awaits him a
check of grace in the bank of heaven. From him is requested
nothing more than to endorse it with his signature. The sinner
must confess Christ Jesus with his mouth and accept Him by true
faith as his own personal Saviour. Heb.4:1G.
10. What had Moses predicted would provoke the Jewish nation to
jealousy? Rom. 10:19-21.
1. What proof did the apostle give that God had not cast off His
people? Rom. 11:1.
7. Against what grave danger did tJle prophet Jeremiah warn tlJe
people? Jer. 17:5; 7:4-7.
NOTE: "Christ would have averted the doom of the Jewish nation
if the people had received Him. But envy and jealousy made them
implacable. They determined that they would not receive Jesus of
Nazareth as the Messiah. They rejected the Light of the world,
and thenceforth their lives were surrounded with darkness as the
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darkness of midnight. The doom foretold carne upon the Jewish
nation." - Christ's Object Lessons, p. 295.
10. ~y what crime did the Jews fill up their CliP of iniqnity and
cease to be recognized as the chosen nation? Acts 7 :51-59.
5. What blJI"den did Paul have to break down the wall of separation
between Jews and Gentiles? At the same pme, what were his
feelings toward "his brethren after the flesh"? Rom. 11:13-16.
10. What prediction did the apostle make concerning both Jews
and Gentiles at the close of the gospel age? What do we
understand by the statement, "all Israel shall be saved"?
Rom. 11 :25,26.
NOTE: These verses have great significance for the church of
God at the present time. Unfortunately many modern preachers
and Dible commentators misuse these words of Paul in an endeavor
to prove th at there will be a literal restoration of the Jews as
God's people and Christ will come to Palestine to restore the
throne of David and the Jews will lead out in the proclamation
of the Kingdom Message. This is merely a resurrection of the old
Zionist philosophy with many variations, but it is Satan's purpose
in this to not only deceive the present-day Jews, but also the
m asses of Christendom, thus leading them to final deception.
According to the New Testament, Jews and Gentiles are on an
equal basis as far as :;;alvation is concerned. The true Jews in
God's sight are those who are "circumcised in the heart" and
not in the flesh. The statement "all Israel shall be saved" refers
to the sealed company, the 144,000 which John saw in vision.
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They are the spiritual Israel of God fathered by the prod amatiori
of the Third Angel's l\'lessage from every nation, kindred, tongue
and people. The "taking away of sin" points out the very time in
which we are living, the time of the investigative judgment when
sin is to be "blotted out."
11. With what prophecy does tJle prophet John tJuow further light
on this prediction of Paul? Rev. 11:1, 2.
NOTE: The court here referred to which was 'to be "left out"
and "not. measured with the rod" and was to be given to the Gen-
tiles for 42 months or 1,21)0 years, represents the church during
the dark ages. Those who are subjected to the measuring rod are
those who have accepted the ten commandments and the Sabbath
during the investigative judgment. These are the spiritual Israel
which will be prepared for the coming of the Lord.
12. Does the Lord have any concern for the literal Jews of today?
ROfTl. 11:28-32.
13. After revealing the fulness of God's grace to both Jew and
Gentile and settling the great dispute over the two laws and
God's way of finfling righteousness. what exclamation did
Paul make? Rom. 11:33-36.
NOTE: "It is the absence of the Holy Spirit and of the grace of
God that makes the gospel ministry so powerless to convict and
convert. After the ascension of Jesus, doctors, lawyers, priests,
rulers, scribes, and theologians listened with astonishment to
words of wisdom and power from unlearned and humble men. These
wise men marveled at the success of the lowly disciples, and
finally accounted for it to their own satisfaction from the fact that
they had been with Jesus and learned of him. Their character and
the simplicity of their teachings were similar to the character and
teachings of Christ." - Testimonies, vol. 4, p. 378.
5. What cause brought about the loss of power in the first Chris-
tian church? Rev. 2:4,5.
NOTE: During the dark ages, the simplicity and power of the
gosp-el was largely lost to view. To the church of Thyatira it was
declared, "I will put upon you no other burden." To her, however,
was promised the "morning star" which heralded the approaching
day.
7. When did the law and gospel again become an open maUer of
discussion as in the early church? Rev. 11:19.
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
the children of Israel were tested anciently, to see if they would
keep God's law••••
"It was represented to me that the remnant followed Jesus into
the most holy place and beheld the ark and the mercy seat, and
were captivated with their glory••••
"I saw a company who stood well guarded and firm, glvmg no
countenance to those who would unsettle the established faith of
the body. God looked upon them with approbation. I was shown
three steps - the first, second, and third angels' messages. Said
my accompanying angel, 'Woe to him who shall move a block or
stir a pin of these messages. The true understanding of these
messages is of vital importance. The destiny of souls hangs upon
the manner in which they are received.'" - Early Writings, pp.
254,255,258.
12. What was the final result of this controversy? What have many
hoped down through the intervening years?
NOTE: "In ID8n in the General Conference held at Minneapolis,
Minn., the angel of Revelation ID came down to do his work, and
was ridiculed, criticized and rejected, and when the message he
brings again will swell into a loud cry, it will again be ridiculed
and spoken against, and rejected by the majority." -"Taking up
a Repro ach," by E. G. Whi teo
14. What history has the church (or years been repeating?
16. J!ow only can the people of God today demonstrate to the
world the power of the gospel? Psalm 50:5.
NOTE: "Then I was pointed back to the years 1843 and 1844.
There was a spirit of consecration then that there is not now. What
h as come over the professed peculiar people of God? I saw the
conformity to the world, the unwillingness to suffer for the truth's
sake. I saw a great lack of submission to the will of God." -
Testimonies, vol. I, p. 128.
3. What warning did the apostle give against pride and seifish-
ness?
5. What earnest exhortation does Paul make to all who have re-
sponsibility in the church of God? Rom. 12:6-8.
NOTE: "There are many departments of labor; let everyone act
a part as best he can. The man with one talent is not to bury that
in the earth. God has given to every man his work, according to
his ability. Those to whom larger trusts and capabilities have
been committed, should not endeavor to silence others who are less.
able or experienced. Men wi.th one talent may reach a class that
those with two or five talents cannot approach. Great and small
alike are chosen vessels to bear the. water' of life to thirsting
souls. Let not those who preach the word lay their hands upon the
humblest worker, and say, 'You must labor in this channel, or not
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work at all.' Hands off, brethren. Let everyone work in his own
sphere, with his own armcr on, doing whatever he can do in his
humble way. Strengthen his hands in the work. This is no time
for Phariseeism to control. Let God' work through whom he will.
The message must go." - Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 4G2.
9. What duty has God enjoined upon the believer that will help
in overcoming seHishness? What should the Christian do when
tempted to retaliate? Rom. 12:13,14.
10. What unselfish interest should we take in the joys and sorrows
of others? What must we be prepared to do in order to pre-
serve unity among the believers? Rom. 12:15,16.
NOTE: Of all the apostles, it was Paul who felt the burden to
define clearly the obligation of the Christian to earthly governments.
The apostle understood very well how that Christ had separatpd
His church from the state in contrast to the old dispensation when
the civil government was in the hands of the church. He knew
also that the Lord is the real ruler over the nations and it is He
who allows a man or a nation to come to power if it is for the ful-
filling of His purpose. He can promote and pull down according to
His will. The Lord called Nebuchadnezzar "His servant" and
permitted him to punish disobedient Israel. Later He selected
"His servant Cyrus" to deliver His people once more. We serve
the same God today who rules over the nations and whatever power
may be ruling, it can only do so with His permission.
8. How did Christ clearly define our duty to God and our duty
to civil authority? Matt. 22:21.
NOTE: "I was shown that God's people, who are his peculiar
treasure, cannot engage in this perplexing war, for it is opposed
to every principle of their faith. In the army they cannot obey the
truth and at the same time obey the requirements of their officers.
There would be a continual violation of conscience. Worldly men
are governed by worldly principles. They can appreciate no other.
Worldly policy and public opinion comprise the principle of action
that governs them and leads them to practice the form of right-
doing." - Testimonies, vol. I, p. 3uI.
- 76-
Lesson No. 25 - Sabbath, June 23, 1956
OUR DUTY TO OUR FELLOW MEN
PERILOUS TIMES
Questions
2. Into what two divisions did Christ divide the Moral Law?
Matt. 26:36-40.
NOTE: In order to make clear the duty of man to God and to his
fellowmen, Christ divided the law into its two component parts. The
first four commandments deal wholly with man's duty to God, while
the last six express his duty to his fellowmen. Many misuse the
words of Christ and make it appear that all the other commandments
have been done away and that there now remain oilly two. Our
study will prove beyond doubt that every one of the ten command-
ments is embodied in the New Testament.
4. How does Paul sum up the whole ten commandments with one
word? Rom. 13:10.
7. What was the key-note of the apl'lstle's teaching? Rom. 13: 12.
NOTE: "The end of all things is at hand. The Lord is soon
coming. Already His judgments are abroad in every land. We are not
only to talk of Christ's coming, but in every action, we are to re-
veal the fact that He is soon to be manifested in the clouds of
heaven with power and great glory. Have we the wedding garment
on? Have we personal piety? Have we co-operated with divine
agencies in a wholehearted, unreserved manner, in weaving into
our life's practices the divine principles of God's holy law? It is
one thing to talk the law, and it is another thing entirely to practice
it. It is the doers of the law that shall be justified before God;
for those who do the law represent the character of God, and lie
not against the truth." - Testimonies to Ministers, p. 187.
9. How only is it possible to live a holy life and gain the victory
over every besetment? Rom. 13:14.
NOTE: "It is our own character and experience that determine our
influence upon others. In order to convince others of the power of
Christ's grace, we must know its power in our own hearts and
lives. The gospel we present for the saving of souls must be the
gospel by which our own souls are saved. Only through a living
faith in Christ as a personal Saviour is it possible to make our
influence felt in a skeptical world. If we would draw sinners out
of the swift-running current, our own feet must be firmly set upon
the nock, Christ Jesus," - Counsels on Sabbath School Work,
pp. 99-100.
NOTE: "We are living in the most solemn period of this world's
history. The destiny of earth's teeming multitudes is about to be
decided. Our own future well-being, and also the salvation of
other souls, depend upon the course which we now pursue. We
need to be guided by the Spirit of truth. Every follower of Christ
should earnestly inquire, 'Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?'
We need to humble ourselves before the Lord, with fasting and
prayer, and to meditate much upon His word, especially upon the
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scenes of the judgment. We should now seek a deep and living
experience in the things of God. We have not a moment to lose.
Events of vital importance are taking place around us; we are on
Satan's enchanted ground. Sleep not, sentinels of God; the foe is
I urking near, ready at any moment, should you become lax and
drowsy, to spring upon you and makc you his prey." - Great Con-
troversy, p. GOl.
N GTE: "God's church is the court of holy life, filled with varied
gifts, and endowed with the Holy Spirit. The members are to find
their happiness in the happiness of those whom they help and
bless." - A cts of Apostles, p. 12.
NOTE: As history tells us the Jews had for centuries been scat-
tered abroad and had accepted the nationality of the nations where
they were found. Many in Paul's day were noman citizens by
birth, yet they still clung to the Jewish traditions and customs.
Many pious Jews took a very strict stand in regard to their habits
of life and there were many who lived exclusively on a vegetable
diet. Such scruples in regard to diet were also observed among
the Corinthian Jews and it must not be forgotten that this was not
a doctrine enforced upon the believers by the apostle. Even among
the Greeks and nomans there were to be found sects who upheld
the vegetarian regime. The spirit of criticism and condemnation
which came as a result of these various ideas hindered the spiritual
progress of the church. Paul enjoined tolerance from the part of
both sides when it concerned matters which were not definite
principles of the church. Although Paul was not in harmony with
the spirit manifested by the vegetarians, he evidently shows more
sympathy for them.
NOTE: The real point of contention was not over the weekly
rest day as some would contend, as there was no question in the
church at that time about Sunday sacredness. This esteeming of
one day above another had to do with days set aside for fasting
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and according to the laws of the Jews certain days, such as the
new moon and the day of atonement, were considered as more
important than other days. All these special days were connected
with the ceremonial law and therefore had no binding power upon
the Christians. If they chose to fast, they had perfect liberty
to do so on any day and were not to judge others who might prefer
another.
Those who would try to prove that whatever day of the week we
should choose as a rest day is the same, are perverting the Scrip-
tures. We should ever bear in mind that these fast days brought
to view here were not ordinances of the Christian church, but were
brought in by newly converted Jews.
1. What is the duty and privilege of those who are strong in the
faith? Rom. 15:1-3.
NOTE: The gospel of Jesus Christ does not call for a confederacy,
or any other kind of union, but "life union." The Spirit of Christ
will work to unite the believers heart to heart. Those who are not
actuated by the same spirit are soon identified as being "uncircum -
cised in the heart" and are still "aliens from the commonweal th
of Israel and strangers from the covenant of promise." They not
only strive to reach the unity of faith in Christ Jesus, but they
love one another so much that they are ready to die for another.
This is the real power of the gospel manifested in action. They
find their greatest happiness in the happiness of others.
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3. What twofold assurance did Paul give to a mixed church of
both Jews and Gentiles? Rom. 15:8-12.
NOTE: It seems that to this sister had been entrusted the important
responsibility of conveying the manuscript of Paul's epistle to the
church at Rome. As much as Paul himself had desired to go to
Rome personally, this joy had been denied him; therefore a mes-
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senger had to be chosen who could find entrance to the imperial
city and at the same time could be trusted to faithfully discharge
this errand.
10. How did Paul recognize the labors of those whom he had
previously been acquainted with? What heartfelt greetings
did he send them? Rom. 16:5-16.
11. Through what means did Satan seek to bring disunion into
the church of Rome? What warning did Paul give to preserve
the church from these disturbing elements? Rom. 16:17-20.
13. In closing the epistle, with what words does Paul set forth
his trust and dependence upon the power of God? Rom. 16:
24-27.
S.D.A.Rh~.