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IN THIS ISSUE: The Character of Peter | Watch & Pray

France and the Reformation | When the Battle Gets NastyHealth Gem: Multi-Vitamins, Minerals & You

The Truth About Angels - EGW

FOUNDATIONour firm Volume 31, Number 6 • July 2016

The Immutable Law of God • Christ Our Righteousness • The Seventh-day Sabbath The Three Angels’ Messages • The Non-Immortality of the Soul • The Sanctuary

Is

Peter

the

Rock?

2 Our Firm Foundation

Three words that I have recently considered in my Christian walk are “Providence”, “Chance”, and “Luck”. In looking these words up in the Ellen White index, I found that there were four pages of references for the word, Providence, but only two references for Chance, and two references for Luck. I checked the definitions of all three words in Webster’s dictionary and found the following: 1. Providence—A. The act of providing; provision; preparation; foresight; timely care. B. Foresight accompanied with the procurement of what is necessary for future use, or with suitable preparation. C. The care or benevolent guidance of God. 2. Chance—A. Apparent absence of cause or design. B. A happening; fortuitous event; accident. C. Opportunity; favorable circumstances—can be good or bad. D. Synonym—accident, fortuity, hazard, fortune. E. To risk or hazard. 3. Luck—A. The seemingly chance happening of events which affect one. B. Good fortune, success, prosperity, advantage. C. Can be “good luck” or “bad luck”. I will share a few of the statements from Spirit of Prophecy in regard to Providence.

Providence: 1. Ministry of Healing, 417—“Above the distractions of the earth He sits enthroned; all things are open to His divine survey; and from His great and calm eternity He orders that which His providence sees best.” 2. Steps To Christ, 93—“Through nature and revelation, through His providence, and by the influence of His Spirit, God speaks to us. But these are not enough; we need also to pour out our hearts to Him. In order to have spiritual life and energy, we

must have actual intercourse with our heavenly Father.” 3. 3 T547—“Providence, though unseen, is ever at work in the affairs of men. God’s hand can prosper or withhold, and He frequently withholds from one while He seems to prosper another. All this is to test and prove men and to reveal the heart. He lets misfortune overtake one brother while He prospers others to see if those whom He favors have His fear before their eyes to love their neighbor as themselves and to help their poorer brother from a love to do good. Acts of generosity and benevolence were designed by God to keep the hearts of the children of men tender and sympathetic, and to encourage in them an interest and affection for one another in imitation of the Master, who for our sakes became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich.” 4. 5T427—“Whatever position in life we may occupy, whatever our business, we must be humble enough to feel our need of help; we must lean implicitly on the teachings of God’s word, acknowledge His providence in all things, and be faithful in pouring out our souls in prayer. Lean to your own understanding, dear brethren, as you make your way through the world, and you will reap sorrow and disappointment. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and He will guide your steps in wisdom, and your interests will be safe for this world and for the next. You need light and knowledge. You will take counsel either of God or your own heart; you will walk in the sparks of your own kindling, or will gather to yourself divine light from the Sun of Righteousness.” 5. 5T454—“We must sleep no longer on Satan’s enchanted ground, but call into requisition all our resources and avail ourselves of every facility with which Providence has furnished us. The last warning is to be proclaimed ‘before many peoples, and nations, and tongues, and kings;’ and the promise is

given, ‘Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.’” 6. Evangelism 158—“There are numbers of families who will never be reached by the truth of God’s Word unless the stewards of the manifold grace of Christ enter their homes, and by earnest ministry, sanctified by the endorsement of the Holy Spirit, break down the barriers and enter the hearts of the people. As the people see that these workers are messengers of mercy, the ministers of grace, they are ready to listen to the words spoken by them. But the hearts of those who do this work must throb in unison with the heart of Christ. They must be wholly consecrated to the service of God, ready to do His bidding, to go wherever his providence leads them, and speak the words He gives them.” 7. Steps to Christ 112 & 113—“By faith we may look to the hereafter, and grasp the pledge of God for a growth of intellect, the human faculties uniting with the divine, and every power of the soul being brought into direct contact with the Source of light. We may rejoice that all which has perplexed us in the providence of God will then be made plain, things hard to be understood will then find an explanation; and where our finite minds discovered only confusion and broken promises, we shall see the most perfect and beautiful harmony. ‘Now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.’” Dear Reader, can you see God’s Providence in your own life?

Editorial

“Providence, though unseen, is ever at work in the affairs of men."

Clark Floyd, editor of Our Firm Foundation magazine, has been co-host of the radio program Bible Answers with Clark and Lee and is a licensed attorney and an

ordained Seventh-day Adventist pastor. He has spoken internationally and makes his home in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina.

Clark Floyd

Volume 31, Number 6 3

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Contents June 2016 • Volume 31, Number 6

cover story 04 Is Peter the Rock?

Joe Olson

features 12 The Character of Peter Mrs. E. G. White

16 Watch & Pray R.E.L.

17 France and the Reformation Professor P.T. Magan

30 When the Battle Gets Nasty R.E.L.

departments 02 Editorial

20 Health Gem: Multi-Vitamins, Minerals & You

26 The Truth About Angels Ellen G. White

31 News Watch

32 Christian Crossword

ad features11 Heart Maximizer29 Hoxsiac

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16


Is

Peter

the

Rock?

This month I would like to address a question that we will come into as we defend the idea of “sola scriptura”, or the scriptures alone. We are to defend what we believe from the Bible and the Bible alone; especially as we address the forth commandment… the true Sabbath day, Saturday. As we continue to hear and see the efforts to exalt the spurious Sabbath, Sunday, the idea of who can change God’s law comes to mind. The Catholic Church, which claims to have the authority to do just that, has tried to change the holy seventh-day Sabbath day to the first day of the week. And all the world has followed after the beast and his changed day. Revelation 13:3 “… and all the world wondered after the beast.”

Was Peter the first “pope”?

And one of the main reasons that the Catholic Church has claimed to have the authority to change God’s holy law, is because she claims Jesus gave her that authority – not

By Joe Olson


to Catholicism directly, but to its supposed founder… Peter. They claim that Peter was the first “pope”. And they state that Jesus gave Peter authority as the church’s head. And they do use the Bible as their reference. The supposed transfer of authority is taken from this Bible verse… “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matt. 16:18. This was Jesus speaking and He was speaking in reference to a question He asked His disciples earlier. Let’s look at the story to get some context. It starts in Matthew 16…“The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. He answered and said unto

them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.” Matt. 16:1-4. The Pharisees and Sadducees wanted proof that Jesus was who He said He was. But they were not interested in the proof He had already been showing them… they wanted their own proof. They wanted to see miracles… specifically… signs from

heaven… like calling down fire from heaven, like Elijah did. But Jesus was not interested in being a carnival act and He walked away. And when He left, He told the disciples to beware of something.

Jesus reprimands

His disciples

for their lack of

perception

But before Matthew records what Jesus told them, he inserts this anecdotal note.Matthew 16:5 “And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread.” Matt. 16:5. Matthew makes this note because of

what comes next, so we would understand why the disciples thought what they did. And here is what Jesus says to them after He left His meeting with the Pharisees and Sadducees… “Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.”

Matt. 16:6. Jesus is talking to all of His disciples here. Peter is right there among the disciples. The same Peter that is supposedly going to be the head of the church. And here is what the disciples, including Peter, thought Jesus was talking about.“And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread.” Matt. 16:7. Now you see why Matthew inserted earlier that they had taken no bread when they left. They all

think Jesus is reprimanding them for not remembering to bring bread with them. They ALL think this. When Jesus realizes what they are thinking, He is amazed…“Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread?” Matt. 16:8. Jesus said that they had “little” faith. THEY had little faith… meaning them all… including Peter. The gospel of Mark went a little further with what Jesus said. “And when Jesus knew it, he saith unto them, Why reason ye, because ye have no bread? perceive ye not yet, neither understand? have ye your heart yet hardened? Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember?” Mark 8:17-18. This is what has taken place just before Jesus talks to Peter about being the “rock.” Jesus said to Peter, and the rest of them, that they had: little faith, did not yet perceive, didn’t understand, hearts that were hardened, eyes that could not see, ears that did not hear and couldn’t


remember. Does this sound to you like Jesus was preparing to select a leader and founder of His church?

Could the church really

be built on someone

with so little faith and

understanding?

Jesus proceeds to ask them about His feeding of the five thousand and the baskets they took up and the four thousand and the baskets of food that were left over. Then He asks them this: “How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?” Matt. 16:11. It’s like Jesus can’t even imagine how dull of understanding they are. “How is it you do not understand?” How is that even possible? Are they really that blind and

deaf and without perception? Remember… this is right before Jesus tells Peter, according to the Catholic Church, that he is the rock that the church will be built upon! I hope not! I hope the church is not built upon a man that Jesus just said was blind and deaf and without perception. Anyway, it appears that now they finally get it. “Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.”Matt. 16:12. Ohhhhh, You were talking about doctrine… not about a lack of bread. Now we get it! And not to single out Peter alone, because none of the disciples got it, but supposedly, Peter is getting ready to be made pope, or head of the church.

“Whom do men

say that I am?”

So, they have now sailed over to Caesarea Philippi and specifically, into the town of Bethsaida, and Jesus is brought a blind man, whom He heals with clay and spit. They then leave there and are on their way to other towns in the area, and as they are walking, Jesus asks the disciples a question. “And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I

am?” Mark 8:27. And they answer him… “And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.” Matt. 16:14. This is very important here. Jesus, after all of His miracles of healing, all of His teaching, all of His

other manifestations of divinity, like feeding thousands and thousands of people with a few loaves and fishes, wants to know what the people think of Him. Now… does Jesus know what the people think of Him? Of course. Then why is He asking this? For the disciples themselves. He wants them to know and understand what they are up against. The people do not think Jesus is necessarily the Messiah. They think He is someone who has died and is come back, like… John the Baptist, Elijah, Jeremiah or one of the other prophets, like Moses or somebody. Then He zeros in on what everyone needs to understand, and He wants to make sure His disciples get it. After all, if the very men closest to Him do not get this, He has big problems. And since they didn’t get the “leaven of the

Pharisees and Sadducees” He’d better go over this concept again. “He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?” Matt. 16:15. “Whom say ye…?” Who was He talking to? Not just Peter, was He? The Bible says that He… Jesus… saith unto “them”.

Their knowledge and

understanding was a gift

from the Father

This was not about Peter or any other single disciple… this was about all of them and what they understood about Jesus and who He was. Peter, as usual, was the first to open his mouth. “And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the


living God.” Matt. 16:16. Peter was the first one to say it, but they all thought the same thing. They all believed Jesus to be the Messiah. None of them understood what they were to be “saved” from, but they all thought He was the Saviour. And Jesus said to Peter… “And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.” Matt. 16:17. This is another very interesting text to me, related to Peter being the rock. Was it Peter who figured this out? Did Peter, with his massive intellect and pure and perfect mind come to this conclusion on his own? No, Jesus specifically said that he was blessed by having it revealed to him by His Father. It was given to

him. Jesus needed to make it clear that the knowledge and understanding that they did have did not come to them because they were so bright or smart. It was given to them because the Father chose to let them have it. This was all about Jesus and His Father, and as long as the disciples kept this in mind, they would stay humble and dependent upon the only True source of power. It is here, in this next verse, that the Catholic Church has assumed its power over times and laws and all Christianity. Jesus has spent all this time trying to get the disciples to see who He is and where He has received His power and where they are to get it. And as we have already discovered, they were

pretty clueless about things. But when Peter said that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the Living God, Jesus was happy that they at least got that part down. And after Peter said that, Jesus again pointed him and the rest of the disciples to where he got that understanding… it was the blessing of His Father… not of anything they did of themselves.

Jesus was simply telling

Peter who he was, and who

HE was

Then Jesus utters this: “And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matt. 16:18. Now, based on everything we have read, about the disciples’ cluelessness, their misunderstanding of what the Messiah was saving them from,

their blindness, deafness, hardness of heart, lack of perception and bad memory, and finally, the fact that Jesus wanted to make sure that it was not Peter that was able to figure out who Jesus was, but Jesus’ Father in heaven, can you even imagine that the “rock” Jesus was referring to was Peter? God’s church was to be built on Peter?… of ALL the disciples? The gates of hell will not prevail against the church because it is built on Peter? Can we actually even imagine it? Does it not make more sense that Jesus was telling Peter that the rock was Peter’s admission of who Jesus was… the Christ, the Son of the Living God? Peter said who Jesus was, and Jesus said who Peter was. Peter

said that Jesus was the Son of God, and Jesus said that Peter was the son of Jona. “And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona…” Matt. 16:17. The term, Barjona, meant son of Jona. Just like we used to say names like Williamson – Son of William. Nelson – Son of Nels. Wilson – Son of Will. Jacobson – Son of Jacob, and so forth.

Jesus gives everyone the

great commission

Then Jesus went on… “And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matt. 16:19. I assume we can all agree that Jesus did not give Peter any literal keys. So,


that means the keys were symbolic. And what would you imagine that the keys were a symbol of? Let’s let Jesus Himself interpret what He meant… “Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.” Luke 11:52. The key of “knowledge”. And what “knowledge” was it? The knowledge that would help them… enter. Enter what? What did Jesus constantly refer to and what did all the prophets talk about? The kingdom of heaven! And what would help anyone enter the kingdom of heaven? The words of Christ… His holy word! In the scriptures are found the way to eternal life. The words of the Saviour, if followed, will lead us back home. They will give us an abundant entrance into the heavenly kingdom. And sure enough, the lawyers and the scribes and the Pharisees and Sadducees were not entering in and each group was doing their best to hinder anyone who did want to enter. Doesn’t this just make sense?

Now… if it was the knowledge about entering the kingdom of heaven, not only Peter, but anyone who preached and taught Jesus’ words had those keys, didn’t they?That might be why Jesus gave all of His disciples, and everyone else within earshot, the “Great Commission”.

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matt. 28:19-20.

Traditions

of men had

replaced God’s

commandments

You see… Jesus spent most of His time on this earth trying to sweep away the traditions that were put in place by the religious class. They had replaced the word of God with their tradition. “… ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.” Matt. 15:6. “For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men…” Mark 7:8. “And he said unto them,

Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” Mark 7:9. By what Jesus said and tried to do for the three and a half years He was in public ministry, we can safely assume that tradition can never, ever be more important than the word of God. And what

denomination has more tradition in it than any other? Catholicism of course. So, what does that tell you… all by itself? Now, another thing that a lot of Protestants and Catholics argue about is the name of Peter. In the Greek, Peter’s name is translated “Petros” and means a small rock or a stone or a piece of a larger rock. When Jesus says, “upon this rock I will build my church”, the Greek word for rock there is “petra” and it means a mass of rock or a huge rock. But the Catholic hierarchy has fought against this translation by saying that Jesus spoke Aramaic and He called Peter by his name in Aramaic, and the name in Aramaic means either a small stone or a large rock. And that is true. However… there is no proof that Jesus

said Peter’s name in Aramaic because the only scriptures we have are written in Greek.

Peter actually took Jesus

and began to began to

rebuke Him

So… we are just supposed to take the word of the Catholic Church… since they have no proof? I don’t think so. But… just for the sake of argument… let’s just assume for the moment that Jesus did say that His Church would be built on Peter. What happened, almost immediately after this supposed proclamation? Back to the scriptures… “And he charged them that they should tell no man of him.” Mark 8:30.


Jesus told the disciples not to say anymore about who He was. He knew that the scribes and Pharisees wanted Him dead, and any more preaching about who He was would just endanger whatever time He had left with His apostles. And He wants this time to try and prepare His friends for what is about to happen to Him. “From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day.” Matt. 16:21. And guess what happens next. Let’s see if this is the foundation we want our church built on. “And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him.” Mark

8:32. Peter “took” Him. The Greek word here for “took” is to lead aside or away. Peter takes it upon himself to lead away the Son of God. Take that in just for a moment. Peter thinks Jesus, God’s holy Son, is going the wrong way… and Peter presumes to remove Jesus from His path. Not any of the other disciples… Peter.Then the Bible says, “and he began to rebuke him.” If you feel you have arrived at the point where you can rebuke the Son of God Almighty… you are in such delusion that everyone should just back away slowly.

“Get thee behind me,

Satan.”

This is right after he has supposedly

been made the foundation of the Church.His first act as the founder is to rebuke God? Not a good sign. And, after Jesus has been hauled away and rebuked by Peter, what happens next? “But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.” Matt. 16:23. The Bible says that Jesus said unto Peter… “Get behind me, Satan.” Now, can you possibly imagine that Jesus just made Peter the founder of the Church, and then called him Satan? Please.

I’d like to look at Mark’s gospel for a little more about this event. Mark 8:33 “But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.” Mark 8:33. All the disciples saw

Peter “take” Him and “rebuke” him.Jesus looks first at the rest of the disciples and then turns to Peter and says, “Get behind me, Satan.” He says that Peter does not savor the things of God, but the things of men. Now, we know that Jesus was speaking to Peter, but was actually referring to Satan, who had prompted these thoughts in Peter. Sounds like the gates of hell prevailed against Peter, doesn’t it? If the gates of hell could not prevail against the foundation of Christ’s church, and that foundation was Peter, then Jesus must have made a mistake. But that’s not possible, is it? So, we are left with but one conclusion… Peter is not the foundation of the church.

The truth that Peter spoke about Jesus being the Christ, the Son of the Living God, is the true foundation of God’s church. When the rabble came after Jesus, they all ended up fleeing… including the founder of the church. Then we have Peter… no other disciple… Peter the founder… who denied his Lord… not just one time but three times! Sounds like the gates of hell prevailed again.

Was Peter really in charge?

Then we have what I consider to be the final nail in this theory… “But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” Like 22:32. According to Jesus Himself, Peter is not yet converted! No wonder he denied his Lord three times. And interestingly, right after Jesus prays for Peter and his conversion, Peter is


slicing and dicing servant ears! Bad form for the foundation of the church. Then, after Jesus’ death, Peter had to be rebuked by Paul. “But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.” Gal. 2:11. Gates of hell one more time! And one, final idea about Jesus giving Peter the authority over His church… This is found in Acts… Acts 15:13 “And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me:” Acts 15:13.Sounds like someone else might be in charge here, doesn’t it? After James listens to the words of Barnabas and Paul, James says this: “Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God:” Acts 15:19. “My sentence is…”? Doesn’t

that sound like he is the one in charge? My sentence…my decision… my determination. And how was James and his “sentence” taken by everyone else? “Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; namely, Judas surnamed Barnabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren:” Acts 15:22. It “pleased” the apostles and elders and everyone else in the church! This

gives me the distinct impression that Peter is not the one in charge here, but the brother of Jesus. Peter, after getting out of prison, tells those who saw him this: “But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place.” Acts 12”17. Why say, “James” and the brethren? Does it appear that James had some sort of authority… even recognized by Peter?

Paul clearly

states the truth

Paul, after a missionary journey, returned to Jerusalem to report. And guess who he is reporting to? Acts 21:18 “And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the elders were present.” Paul went to

James, and the Bible says that all the elders were present. James, not Peter, is whom Paul came to. Paul, talking to the Corinthians, was telling them who saw Jesus after He had died and was raised from the dead. “After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles.” 1 Cor. 15:7. Why is James’ name specifically pointed out? Maybe because if he was in charge, it might give Paul’s report a little more credibility? Then, Paul speaking to the Galatians, said that after he returned from Arabia, he spoke with no one but Peter and James, and specifically mentioned that James was the brother of Jesus. “But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord’s brother.” Gal. 1:19.

All of these verses, and more, give me the distinct impression of who is in charge of the newly established church. But James was not the foundation of the church either. Then who is the foundation? Let’s hear Paul tell us what the truth actually is…“For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1 Cor. 3:11.

Joe Olson serves as the executive director and chairman of the board of Hope International. He also travels as an international speaker.


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used in bruise lotions or tonics because it stimulates blood circulation and is a good venous constrictor.Odorless GarlicKnown for its wonderful effects on the cardiovascular system, garlic promotes heart and cardiovascular health and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Bursting with nutrients, garlic contains: allicin, essential oils, iron, magnesium, potassium, sulphur, zinc, and vitamins A, B1, B2 and C! Cayenne PepperOne of the most powerful herbs for the cardiovascular system, cayenne is widely known as “heart food” as it contains so many nutrients known to nourish and improve overall heart health! Cayenne helps stimulate blood flow, dissolves clots and improves blood circulation, eases the pain of swollen, congested veins, and strengthens the heart, arteries, and nerves! Being a very rich source of vitamin C, bioflavonoids, and other nutrients, it strengthens the vein walls, and has been proven to clean the veins out and help them regain their elasticity! Citrus FlavonoidsMany studies show that citrus flavonoids have a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, keeping it in optimum working condition. They aid overall heart health by improving coronary vasodilatation, decreasing the ability of platelets in the blood to clot, and encouraging the liver to remove LDL (bad) cholesterol from the blood stream.NiacinAlso known as vitamin B3, niacin improves cardiovascular health, most notably by helping increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels!

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.

This product is not intended to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.

We have many other health products besides these advertised. Please call for a free catalog of all our health care supplements.

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Although Peter and John were chosen disciples of Christ, and were counted among the twelve, they were still imperfect in character. Peter was of a zealous, ardent temperament, and ever manifested great earnestness in the cause of Christ. At one time the disciples were on the sea, and the record declares that the ship was in the midst

of the sea, tossed with waves, for the wind was contrary; “and in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. Peter

answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” This incident illustrates much of the character of impulsive Peter. Faith and unbelief were blended in his words and actions. He said, “Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.” The Lord had assured the disciples, “It is I; be not

By Mrs. E. G. White

The Character of Peter


afraid.” And when Peter saw the waves around him, saw the boisterous winds, he forgot the power of his Lord, and began to sink; but at his cry of weakness, Jesus was at his side to grasp his outstretched hand, and lift him from the billows. When the Lord sought to prepare the minds of his disciples for their last great trial in his betrayal and crucifixion, Peter felt that he could not bear to have the words of the Lord fulfilled; and stirred with indignation at the thought of the injustice so soon to come upon Christ and his followers, he exclaimed, “Be it far from thee, Lord; this shall not be unto thee.” The impression which Christ desired to make upon the minds of his followers was one directly opposed to the impression that Peter’s words would make, and he rebuked his disciple with the sternest rebuke that ever fell from his lips. He said, “Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offense unto me; for thou savorest not the things that be of God; but those that be of men.”

Although Peter had been long with the Master, he had a very imperfect conception of the plan of salvation

He did not desire to see the cross in the work of Christ; but it was through the cross that life and hope were to come to dying men. When Jesus had spoken of his death, declaring that all his disciples would be offended because of him, Peter had said, “Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.” He assured his Lord that he would go with him both to prison and to death; but Jesus knew Peter much better than the disciple knew himself, and he said to him, “Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.” At the very first trial, Peter failed. When Jesus bowed in agony in the garden of Gethsemane, Peter was sleeping with the other disciples, and could not watch with his suffering Lord one hour. The thrice-repeated prayer was uttered that the bitter cup of woe might pass from the Saviour. Borne down with superhuman agony, Jesus staggered to his disciples, longing for human sympathy; but he found that instead of watching they were sleeping. From his quivering lips came the mild rebuke to Peter, “What, could ye not watch with me one hour?” Then he framed this tender excuse: “The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Jesus had said many things concerning the hour of

trial that was to come upon his disciples when he should be made the object of mockery and reproach. He had told them, “All ye shall be offended because of me.” But the disciples could not believe that they would manifest such unfaithfulness, and Peter especially had assured the Master that he would never leave him, but would be true to him


even if it should lead him to prison and to death. When Jesus was actually in the hands of the armed men, where were the boastful disciples?-- They had fled. Even Peter was in the rear, far from his suffering Lord. When the cruel trial began in the judgment hall, had Jesus a defender in the ardent Peter? Was he then by the side of his deserted Lord?--No, but with those who were mocking and reviling. It is true that Peter had a deep interest in the trial, and he did desire to be at the side of his Lord; but he could not endure the scorn, the reproach, that would fall upon him if he should take his place as a disciple of Christ. When one of the women of the palace said to Peter, “Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee,” he denied before all the company, saying, “I know not what thou sayest.” He who had made so confident a statement of his fidelity to Christ, now denied his Lord at the question of a maid in the palace. Did he now move nearer to his Lord?--No, he pushed his way out to the porch, seeking to escape the prying eyes of the enemies of his Lord; but again he was recognized, and another said to him, “This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth.” And again he denied with an oath, “I do not know the man.” Peter was irritated that he could not find an escape from the eyes of his enemies; he returned again to the hall, where he could better view the trial, but he stood among the mockers and revilers of Christ, and the third time he was recognized, and they said to him, “Surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech betrayeth thee.” Peter had been ready to take up arms in defense of Christ, but to acknowledge the Lord when he was the object of scorn and derision, was more than he had courage to do. He was a moral coward, and with curses and oaths he denied that he knew his Master.

Filled with self---confidence, Peter did not realize his danger

Peter had been warned of this temptation; but he did not realize his danger, and therefore had not prepared himself for the trial. He had been filled with self-confidence, and deemed that he was able to withstand any temptation, assuring the Lord that though all others should be offended, he would be ready to go with him to prison and to death. When he took his stand with the revilers of Christ, he placed himself on the enemy’s ground, and he fell. At his third denial of his Lord the cock crew, and Jesus turned his eyes upon Peter with a look of peculiar sadness, and the words that Christ had spoken to him came quickly to his mind. All through his life the memory of that look was with Peter. His sinful boasting, his Lord’s warning, his denial of the Saviour, all

came to him like a flash of lightning; and casting one pitiful look upon his suffering, insulted Lord, he hurried away from the sound of false accusation and reproach, rushed from the palace, plunged into the darkness, and weeping bitterly, hurried to Gethsemane. He began to see himself as he really was. Memory was alive, and his sins were pictured before him in all their heinous light. Peter threw himself on the spot where a few hours before, Jesus had prayed and wept in agony, and there the disciple prayed as he never before had prayed. With deep repentance and terrible remorse he pleaded for forgiveness, and he rose a converted man; but he felt that although Jesus would forgive him, he could never forgive himself. Jesus knew all the sorrow and remorse of his erring disciple, and when the heavenly messengers appeared to the women at the sepulcher, they told them of Christ’s resurrection, and bade them tell the disciples and Peter, that


Ellen G. White, 1827–1915, received the spiritual gift of prophecy, and the fruits of her life and work accord with the biblical tests of a true messenger of God. To this day, her counsels are an incalculable blessing to God’s people around the world.

he went before them into Galilee. How eagerly did Peter receive this word of love and compassion! He knew that his Lord still thought of him, still loved him, and he took this message as a sign of forgiveness.

Peter had severe trials to pass though After his resurrection, Jesus showed himself to his disciples at the sea of Tiberias; “and on this wise showed he himself. There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples. Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing. But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore; but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus. Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No. And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes. Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher’s coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.” When

the disciples came to land, they found that Jesus had prepared them fish and bread. “So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep. He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.” In the answers that Peter gave to the Lord’s thrice-repeated question, a different spirit is manifested from what we find in the boastful assurances before the crucifixion of Christ. Peter was a converted man, and showed in his life that transforming grace had taken possession of his heart. As firm as a rock, he ever after stood boldly up to witness for Christ. Jesus had said to Peter, “Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not; and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” Peter had severe trials to pass through, but although he was called to go to prison and to death for Christ’s sake, never again did he waver from his allegiance.

RH, April 7, 1891


Each day on earth a battle involves the human race:Some people look for pleasure while others seek God's face.

Temptations are abundant; we see them everywhere:A thousand demons tempt us and most folks do not care.

The average person listens to what has great appeal:But what does Jesus tell us? What does His word reveal?

If we don't study Scripture and search it constantly,We'll fall into temptation that curious eyes can see:

Soon history will face us and Christ will come again:We must be sure we serve Him; we must be ready then!

—R.E.L.

Watch Pray&


By Professor P.T. Magan(Battle Creek College)

“Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you.” --The Master It was on October 31, in the year of our Lord 1517, that Dr. Martin Luther walked boldly up to the church which the elector Frederick had built for the people of Wittenberg, and nailed upon its door his ninety-five theses, or propositions, against the doctrine of indulgences. This was the beginning, in a public way, of the great Reformation of the sixteenth century. In the autumn of the year 1530, the Diet of

Augsburg closed; and this, in a certain sense, was the end of the Reformation. It was during this period that the precious light from heaven shone down into the hearts of men with a luster that compelled obedience to its rays.

A faith is always purest when it is unpopular

There was a spiritual life and power working with the Reformers, which everywhere called men from the bondage of sin to the liberty of righteousness. After 1530, a certain kind of legality invested the Reformation, and dimmed the radiance of its proffered grace. Consequently the nations which received the Reformation between 1517 and 1530 were the nations which received it in its purity and power. Of these, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and England are the most prominent examples. It was during these few short years that the doctrines and the power of the primitive Christians reappeared. It was then that the pure, fresh, free breath of religious freedom, as it is in Jesus Christ, was wafted across the fair fields of Europe. And the men who received it then, received it in its strength and beauty. But the second generation of reformers, if I might so use the term, did not possess the deep spiritual power that was possessed by Luther and his comrades. Protestantism had then, to some extent,

become popular; but a faith is always purest when it is unpopular, and is loved for its own sake alone.

The rack, the wheel, and the stake were used to enforce the orders of the church and the

state It seemed almost impossible for the Reformation to strike roots in the soil of France. That monarchy, which was founded by the priests, was devoted to the priests. Again and again were attempts made to sow the good seed, and as often as made, they were frustrated. So tremendous was the hold which the Catholic clergy had obtained over the minds of the people, that their mandate to let this new heresy alone was very generally obeyed. They were told to look back to the days of the Albigenses, and behold how great a work God had wrought in their extermination. The French people were everywhere warned by their pastors and spiritual advisors to beware lest they should blindly follow in the footsteps of these deluded sectaries, and thus bring upon themselves the same retributive visitations of an offended Deity. Everywhere the civil power backed up these threats, and used every possible means to thwart the efforts of the bearers of light. The farce of the conversion of Clovis and the usurpation of Pepin now began to be seen and felt. The French

France and the Reformation


people were told that they had bound themselves to Rome, and in bondage they must remain. The rack, the wheel, and the stake were used to enforce the orders of the church and the state. Thus scores upon scores of noble men and women, who would have brought light and peace and joy to the hearts of thousands of their countrymen, were driven to Switzerland and other lands, and their labors were lost to France.

Families were dragged from their houses, and

chained and roasted to death over slow fires

In due time an order was issued for the arrest of every Protestant in Paris. “Let all be seized, and let Lutheranism be totally exterminated,” were the words of the king. Morin, the royal detective, accompanied by a Protestant who had turned traitor, passed slowly through the streets of the city. They were preceded by the host and surrounded by a throng of priests, incense bearers, monks, and soldiers. Whenever the house of a Protestant was passed, the betrayer made a sign. Not a word was spoken; but the procession halted, the house was entered, and the family dragged forth and loaded with chains. Then the grim company went forward in search of further prey. “No house was spared, great or small, not even the colleges of the University of Paris. Morin made the whole city quake.” “The Reign of Terror had begun.”

“There is no pulpit like the martyr’s pile”

Over slow fires these innocent victims were roasted to death. If the monarchy and church had not possessed such tremendous power, they dared not have

acted thus. In Germany, Switzerland, and England they were weaker, and consequently the Reformation was triumphant. I do not mean to say that it was not triumphant in France, it was; but there it was triumphant in death, while in other lands

it was triumphant in life. “There is no pulpit like the martyr’s pile.”

Three hundred years of the suppression of Protestantism

brought dire calamities upon France

Everywhere the priests and the emissaries of the church charged the Protestants with plotting to massacre the Catholics, to overturn the government, and to assassinate the king. These allegations were wholly untrue. Nevertheless the prophecies of evil were to have their fulfillment. “The cruelties that were inflicted upon the innocent Protestants by the Catholics accumulated in a weight of retribution, and in after centuries wrought the very doom they had predicted to be impending, upon the king, his government, and his subjects; but it was brought about by infidels, and by the papists themselves. It was not the establishment, but the suppression, of Protestantism that, three hundred years later, was to bring upon France these dire calamities.”

Church and state united to annihilate Protestantism

By a solemn and public ceremony, church and state in France united to commit the country to the utter annihilation of Protestantism. Jan. 21, 1535, was fixed upon for this horrible carnival. People from all over France thronged the streets of Paris. The houses were draped with crape because the mass had been insulted. Before every door a torch was burning in honor of the “holy sacrament”. Altars were erected at intervals along the streets. At the palace of the king the procession formed. Holy crosses and sacred banners were borne in the van. After them came citizens, walking in double file, and bearing lighted torches. Next followed the monastic orders, and after them a great collection of famous relics. Behind them rode bishops, archbishops, and cardinals, in their purple and scarlet and jewel-bespangled robes. Beneath a splendid canopy, supported by four princes of the blood, was borne the host. Behind came King Francis I in the garb of a penitent, with his queen and dignitaries of state.


Light now appeared to be darkness, and darkness

appeared to be light In the great hall of the bishop’s palace, the king addressed the high officials of church and state. He bewailed “the crime, the blasphemy, the day of sorrow and disgrace” that had come upon the kingdom. He called upon every loyal subject to aid in the extirpation of the dire heresy which threatened the destruction of the nation. “As true, messieurs, as I am your king,” he said, “If I knew one of my own limbs was spotted or infected with this detestable rottenness, I would give it to you to cut off…. And further, if I saw one of my children defiled by it, I would not spare him…. I would deliver him up myself, and would sacrifice him to God.” Deep was the darkness that enveloped France when once she rejected the light. To the French, light now appeared to be darkness, and darkness appeared to be light. Upon that fatal day, in the cathedral of Notre Dame, where, three centuries later, a nation of atheists worshiped the “Goddess of Reason”, they took a solemn oath to extirpate heresy. Then the officers commenced the work of destruction. Scaffolds were everywhere erected, and thousands suffered upon them. Too harrowing for recital are the details of their tortures.

Another procession was to pass through Paris, bringing about the Revolution and The Reign

of Terror Thus the gospel of peace was rooted

out of France, and terrible were the results which followed. Jan. 21, 1793, two hundred and fifty-eight years from the very day that fully committed France to the destruction of Protestantism, another procession passed through Paris. The king was again the central figure. This time he was led to the scaffold, there to yield up his life, a victim of the angry clamors of the Revolution. And the Revolution was the logical result of the rejection of the Reformation. When France rejected the Reformation, she sowed the seeds of anarchy and ruin; “and the inevitable outworking of cause and effect resulting in the Revolution and the Reign of Terror.”

Wisdom was imparted from on

high and differences were adjusted

At the time of the Reformation grave political and social questions were agitating the minds of the people of all the great nations of Europe. The rich were oppressing the poor, and the poor were discontented and threatening revolt. In Germany there were several out-breakings; but the softening, tendering

influences of the gospel pervaded society through and through, mollifying the passions of the oppressed, and extinguishing the cruel and rapacious desires of the oppressor. Thus the angry passions of men were soothed, the uplifted hand of violence was stayed; wisdom was imparted from on high, and differences were everywhere adjusted with but little shedding of blood.

No still small voice pleaded for mercy

France had these troubles the same as all the other nations; but France had rejected the gospel. The sweet Spirit of God had been slighted, and the voice of conscience deadened. The internal trouble grew apace, till in the Revolution the pent-up flood of misery and woe—the result of generations of oppression—burst through every barrier, hurling the monarch from his throne, the noble from his castle, and the prelate from his pulpit. In that dread day no “still small voice” pleaded for mercy. In crushing the Reformation, church and state had sown the wind, and in the Revolution they reaped the whirlwind.


Health GemMulti-Vitamins, Minerals & You

We would like to bring your attention to a subject that many of you have inquired about – “Do I need a multi-vitamin and mineral supplement?” In a recent Consumer Reports poll of more than 1,200 American adults, close to 90% said their diet was either “somewhat”, “very”, or “extremely” healthy. However, 43% of the survey respondents said they drank at least one sugary soda or sweetened drinks every day. A third also said they were at a healthy weight when they actually were overweight or even obese. The survey also revealed that 59% of Americans said they were either “careful” or “strict” about their food intake, while 23% said they ate pretty much whatever they wanted. But if you’re misinformed about what foods are actually healthy, then being “strict” about eating them is actually going to get you nowhere. There are a number of similar studies that have basically the same information; many of us believe we are eating healthy when we are not. When we are polled, are we embarrassed to say what we are really eating; or do we genuinely not know what vitamins and minerals we need and what foods provide them? At Hope for Health we hear from many of you who struggle to eat “right” – you struggle to get your kids to eat the proper food; you struggle with the immense amount of sugar-laden junk food readily available and the constant cravings for sugar and salt; you struggle with the cost of organic fruits and vegetables; you struggle with the time it can take

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Let’s review which minerals are present in Hope for Health’s Mega-Multi: Calcium: This vital mineral promotes bone health, which is good news for those of you who suffer daily from chronic pain and inflammation. Calcium also improves dental heath, may relieve insomnia, menopause issues, premenstrual problems, and cramps. Furthermore, it is important for cardiovascular health, including balancing blood pressure. Chromium: This trace mineral is important for glucose uptake in the body, so it is particularly relevant to those who have trouble maintaining their blood sugar levels. It increases glucose uptake

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balance blood sugar, regulate blood pressure, improve heart function, increase water flow in the body, alleviate muscle disorders and cramps, boost brain function and improve kidney function. As a vasodilator, it reduces the tension in the blood vessels, and ensures the proper distribution of oxygen to vital organ systems, while protecting against cardiovascular problems. Selenium: This may be a rare mineral, but its function is significant. It is one of the most powerful mineral antioxidants, and it may actually prevent the formation of


new free radicals by participating in various cellular reactions that lower the peroxide concentration in the cellular body. It also is essential for bone growth, along with calcium, copper, and zinc. Zinc: The final mineral on the list is very good at managing skin care and irritating skin conditions. It is essential in the process of wound repair.Other benefits include: help with prostate disorders, weight loss, pregnancy, reproduction, hair care, appetite loss, eye care, and night vision difficulties. It is an essential component of more than 10 important enzymatic functions of the body, and without zinc, the body will quickly lose overall function and the result will be a number of health concerns. To insure your overall health needs, Mega-Multi also contains a number of herbs that will help maintain your immune system as well as all your body systems!

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Concentrate

Due to the fact that so many of us suffer from any number of digestive issues, we have included in Mega-Multi all the necessary digestive aids and enzymes to keep you balanced!

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9. Best multi-vitamin ever! ��

Posted by Anonymous: “I have never taken a multi-vitamin that had so many ingredients valuable to my health. I especially like the fact that it is vegan. I only want products that are completely without animal parts. Thank you!”

At Hope for Health we strive to offer something for everyone Not every product resonates with every customer. To this end we have another offering to meet your multi-vitamin and mineral needs – you may be surprised, as you might have never considered moringa before. Because it is so super we named our product: Super Moringa! It is a super-food to beat all super-foods! The amount of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, vitamins, and minerals it contains is everything your body needs and more! Scientific research proves that one serving of moringa provides you with seven times the amount of vitamin C in oranges, four times the vitamin A in carrots, 50 times more vitamin B3 than peanuts, 25 times more iron than spinach and three times the potassium found in bananas! It is also an EXCELLENT source of calcium and protein.


Super Moringa truly is the ULTIMATE source of nutrition to get you energized for your day! Researchers have started to give moringa nicknames such as: “The Miracle Tree” and “The Elixir of Long Life” due to its nearly miraculous abilities. Here are some of the many benefits that justify these nicknames: ¾�May increase the natural

defenses of the body ¾�Provides nourishment to the eyes

and brain ¾�Promotes a healthy metabolism ¾�Promotes the cell structure of

the body ¾�Promotes natural serum

cholesterol ¾�May lower the appearance of

wrinkles and fine lines ¾�Promotes the normal functioning

of the liver and kidneys ¾�Beautifies the skin ¾�Promotes energy ¾�Promotes proper digestion ¾�A natural antioxidant and anti-

inflammatory ¾�Super support for the immune

system ¾�Promotes healthy circulatory

system ¾�May give a feeling of general

wellness, relieves stress, and improves mood ¾�Supports and helps maintain

healthy blood sugar levels Calcium and Magnesium One serving of Super Moringa provides approximately 125 percent of our RDI of calcium and 61 percent of our RDI of magnesium. These two trace minerals work in synergy; while

calcium is needed to build strong bones and teeth; we also need magnesium to help us absorb it. Since moringa contains generous quantities of both, it is especially good at guarding us from pain, inflammation, and bone loss.

Antioxidants This whole-food plant contains high amounts of protein, all eight essential amino acids, a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals, and a plethora of phytonutrients and other powerful antioxidants. According to analysis, the leaves of the moringa contain 46 types of antioxidants. One serving, in fact, contains 22 percent of our recommended daily

intake (RDI) of vitamin C, one of the most important antioxidants on earth, and a whopping 272 percent of our RDI of vitamin A. Antioxidants help to neutralize the devastating impact of free radicals, thereby guarding us from many of the degenerative conditions that affect so many people!

Excellent Source of Protein The leaves of the moringa tree contain 18 amino acids, eight of which are essential amino acids, making them a “complete” protein

– a rarity in the plant world. Super Moringa is considered to have the highest protein ratio of any plant so far identified, with the protein in moringa being comparable in quality to that of soy. Food scientists once believed that only soy had protein comparable to meat, dairy, and eggs. Now they have added moringa to that very short list. Some even consider Super Moringa protein better than soy protein as it is non-allergic. Protein


is, of course, needed to build muscle, cartilage, bones, skin, and blood, and is also needed to produce enzymes and hormones.

Cardiovascular Super Moringa also contains four vital compounds your body requires for a healthy cardiovascular system: Niacin A1, A5, and vitamins B3 and B10. It also provides the nutrients necessary to support your body’s production of nitric oxide (important in protecting organs). These include magnesium, zinc, potassium, calcium, and vitamin E. When your nitric oxide levels are healthy, blood flows properly through your blood vessels.

Weight Loss This is what you have been waiting for, isn’t it? The truth is, this supplement helps you lose weight in more ways than one. First, it suppresses your appetite. Obviously, if you are not hungry, you are not going to overeat – this is the rule of thumb anyway. Next, it increases your energy levels. The more energy you have, the more calories you will burn. Finally, since moringa helps improve your mood, you may be less likely to eat when you are not actually hungry. Some emotional eaters will tell you they eat whether the urge is present or not. According to Dr. Monica G. Marcu, researcher and clinical pharmacologist, moringa is unique because it can supply daily a wide gamut of vital nutrients with few calories. Super Moringa is indeed an excellent supplement and may be just the right choice for your nutritional needs!

Has our opening question, “Do I need a multi-vitamin and mineral supplement?” been answered for you? At Hope for Health we believe the answer for most of us is “YES!”This is due in part to our research, but mostly because we see and hear the difference in your health when you try Mega-Multi or Super Moringa.

If you happen to be 100% raw, eating only the organic food from your own garden, then you may be exempt from this need and can

pass this information along to a friend or neighbor who is not so blessed. We encourage all of you to strive to eat better and more nutritiously and to practice moderation in your eating habits; we are, however, practical and realistic and recognize the needs of the many, so we offer these supplements to keep you healthy and strong!

If you aren’t sure what you need, Dr. Kaye Olson and all of the Hope for Health staff are ready and willing to answer any product or health questions you may have. We are also happy to consult with you regarding your diet and lifestyle changes. Please call 828-649-0278.

If you wish to order or would like a free copy of our informative catalog that includes all the products mentioned, as well as all of our Hope for Health products, please call 1-800-468-7884.

Thank you for considering this information on multi-vitamins and minerals from Hope for Health!


About AngelsTHE TRUTH

The Marriage of Isaac In the mind of Abraham, the choice of a wife for his son [Isaac] was a matter of grave importance; he was anxious to have him marry one who would not lead him from God. . . . Isaac, trusting to his father’s wisdom and affection, was satisfied to commit the matter to him, believing also that God Himself would direct in the choice made. The patriarch’s thoughts turned to his father’s kindred in the land of Mesopotamia. . . . [He] committed the important matter to “his eldest servant [Eliezar],” a man of piety, experience, and sound judgment, who had rendered him long and faithful service. . . . “The Lord God of heaven,” he said, “which took me from my father’s house, and from the land of my kindred, . . . He shall send His angel before thee.” . . . . The messenger set out without delay. . . . [At] Haran, “the city of Nahor,” he halted outside the walls, near the well to which the women of the place came at evening for water. . . . Remembering the words of Abraham, that God would send His angel with him, he prayed earnestly for positive guidance. In the family of his master he was accustomed to the constant exercise of kindness and hospitality, and he now asked that an act of courtesy might indicate the maiden whom God had chosen. Hardly had the prayer been uttered before the answer

was given. Among the women who were gathered at the well, the courteous manners of one [Rebekah] attracted his attention. As she came from the well, the stranger went to meet her, asking for some water from the pitcher upon her shoulder. The request received a kindly answer, with an offer to draw water for the camels also, a service which it was customary even for the daughters of princes to perform for their father’s flocks and herds. Thus the desired sign was given. . . . Abraham dwelt at Beersheba, and Isaac, who had been attending to the flocks in the adjoining country, had returned to his father’s tent to await the arrival of the messenger from Haran. . . . “And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide. . . . And the

servant told Isaac all the things that he had done. And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah’s tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife.”

Jacob and Esau Jacob and Esau, the twin sons of Isaac, present a striking contrast, both in character and life. This unlikeness was foretold by the angel of God before their birth. When in answer to Rebekah’s troubled prayer he declared that two sons would be given her, he opened to her their future history, that each would become the head of a mighty nation, but that one would be greater than the other, and that the younger would have the preeminence. . . . Isaac . . . plainly stated that Esau, as the eldest, was the one entitled to the birthright. But Esau had no love for devotion, no inclination to a religious life. . . . Rebekah remembered the words of

Angels in the Patriarchal AgePart 2By Ellen G. White


the angel, and . . . she was convinced that the heritage of divine

promise was intended for Jacob.

She repeated to Isaac the angel’s words; but the father’s affections

were centered upon the elder son, and he was unshaken in

his purpose. Jacob had learned from his mother of the divine intimation that the birthright should fall to him, and he was filled with an unspeakable desire for the privileges which it would confer. It was not the possession of his father’s wealth that he craved; the spiritual birthright was the object of his longing. . . . When Esau, coming home one day faint and weary from the chase, asked for the food that Jacob was preparing, the latter . . . offered to satisfy his brother’s hunger at the price of the birthright. “Behold, I am at the point to die,” cried the reckless, self-indulgent hunter, “and what profit shall this birthright do to me?” And for a dish of red pottage he parted with his birthright. . . . Jacob and Rebekah succeeded in their purpose, but they gained only trouble and sorrow by their deception. God had declared that Jacob should receive the birthright, and His word would have been fulfilled in His own time, had they waited in faith for Him to work for them. . . . Threatened with death by the wrath of Esau, Jacob went out from his father’s home a fugitive. . . . The evening of the second day found him far away from his father’s tents. He felt that he was an outcast, and he knew that all this trouble had been brought upon him by his own wrong course. The darkness of despair pressed upon his soul, and he hardly dared to pray. But he was so utterly lonely that he felt the need of protection from God as he had never felt it before. With weeping and deep humiliation he confessed his sin, and entreated for some evidence that he was not utterly forsaken.

God did not forsake Jacob The Lord compassionately revealed just what Jacob needed—a Saviour. . . . Wearied with his journey, the wanderer lay down upon the ground, with a stone for his pillow. As he slept, he beheld a ladder, bright and shining, whose base rested upon the earth, while the top reached to heaven. Upon this ladder, angels were ascending and descending; above it was the Lord of glory, and from the heavens His voice was heard: “I am the Lord God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac.” . . . . In this vision the plan of redemption was presented to Jacob. . . . The ladder represents Jesus, the appointed medium of communication. Had He not with His own merits bridged the gulf that sin had made, the ministering angels could have held no communion with fallen man. . . . With a new and abiding faith in the divine promises, and assured of the presence and guardianship of heavenly angels, Jacob pursued his journey to “the land of the children of the East.” Though Jacob had left Padan-aram in obedience to the divine direction, it was not without many misgivings that he retraced the road which he had trodden as a fugitive twenty years before. His sin in the deception of his father was ever before him. . . . As he drew nearer his journey’s end, the thought of Esau brought many a troubled foreboding. . . . Again the Lord granted Jacob a token of the divine care.

As Jacob went on his way, the angels of God met him. And when he saw them, he said, “This is God’s host.” He saw the angels of God in a dream, encamping around about him.


Directly before . . . [Jacob], as if leading the way, he beheld two armies of heavenly angels marching as a guide and guard; and when he saw them he broke forth in language of praise, and exclaimed, “This is God’s host.” And he called the name of the place Mahanaim, which signifies two hosts, or camps.

Yet Jacob felt that he had something to do to secure his own safety He therefore dispatched messengers with a conciliatory greeting to his brother. . . . But the servants returned with the tidings that Esau was approaching with four hundred men, and no response was sent to the friendly message. . . “Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed.” . . . He accordingly divided them [his family and servants] into two bands, so that if one should be attacked, the other might have an opportunity to escape. . . . They had now reached the river Jabbok, and as night came on, Jacob sent his family across the ford of the river, while he alone remained behind. He had decided to spend the night in prayer, and he desired to be alone with God. . . . Suddenly a strong hand was laid upon him. He thought that an enemy was seeking his life, and he endeavored to wrest himself from the grasp of his assailant. In the darkness the two struggled for the mastery. Not a word was spoken, but Jacob put forth all his strength, and did not relax his efforts for a moment. While he was thus battling for his life, the sense of his guilt pressed upon his soul; his sins rose up before him, to shut him out from God. But in his terrible extremity he remembered God’s promises, and his

whole heart went out in entreaty for His mercy. The struggle continued until near the break of day,when the stranger placed his finger upon Jacob’s thigh, and he was crippled instantly. The patriarch now discerned the character of his antagonist. He knew that he had been in conflict with a heavenly messenger, and this was why his almost superhuman effort had not gained the victory. The One who wrestled with Jacob is called a man; Hosea calls Him the angel; while Jacob said, “I have seen God face to face.” He is also said to have had power with God. It was the Majesty of heaven, the Angel of the covenant, that came, in the form and appearance of a man, to Jacob. It was Christ, “the Angel of the covenant,” who had revealed Himself to Jacob The patriarch was now disabled, and suffering the keenest pain, but he would not loosen his hold. . . . He must have the assurance that his sin was pardoned. . . . The Angel tried to release Himself; He urged, “Let me go, for the day breaketh”: but Jacob answered, “I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.” Had this been a boastful, presumptuous confidence, Jacob would have been instantly destroyed; but his was the assurance of one who confesses his own unworthiness, yet trusts the faithfulness of a covenant-keeping God. Jacob “had power over the Angel, and prevailed.” While Jacob was wrestling with the Angel, another heavenly messenger was sent to Esau. In a dream, Esau

beheld his brother for twenty years an exile from his father’s house; he witnessed his grief at finding his mother dead; and saw him encompassed by the hosts of God. This dream was related by Esau to his soldiers, with the charge not to harm Jacob, for the God of his father was with him. . . . Jacob’s experience during that night of wrestling and anguish represents the trial through which the people of God must pass just before Christ’s second coming.


*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.

This product is not intended to prevent,

diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.To Order Call Today: 1-800-468-7884

or Visit us on the web at: www.hopeforhealthusa.com*Prices listed above do not include shipping and handling or sales tax

HOXSIAC

Hoxsiac is a proprietary herbal formulation containing an infusion of ten botanicals in purified water. This combination of potent synergistic herbs is used for blood purification, gland stimulation, and for its powerful

anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and antioxidant properties!Hoxsiac contains a powerful immune-supporting blend of:

Burdock Root • Sheep Sorrel • Red Clover Blossom • Licorice Root • Slippery Elm Bark Queen’s Delight Root • Prickly Ash Bark Turkish Rhubarb Root • Cat’s Claw Bark • Bladderwrack Herb

We have many other health products besides these advertised. Please call for a free catalog of all our health care supplements. 1-800-468-7884

Burdock RootA member of the daisy family, burdock root has been used as a powerful health-aid for centuries! It is one of the most well-known herbs for helping prevent the growth of unhealthy cells and protect the body from many degenerative conditions. A highly nutritious plant, burdock contains many nutrients vital to the immune system and essential for optimum health, including: iron, amino acids, plant sterols, fatty oils, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, folic acid, riboflavin, pyridoxine, niacin, vitamin E, and vitamin C. This nutrient powerhouse helps the body stave off infections, strengthens the nervous system, boosts the immune system, and protects against unhealthy cell growth. Burdock is also known as one of the best blood purifiers, as it contains certain diuretic principles, which help expel toxins from the blood through the urinary tract. A valuable source of many non-starch polysaccharides such as inulin, glucoside-lappin, and mucilage, burdock acts as a gentle laxative and supports the digestive system.Sheep SorrelSheep Sorrel is known to be a cleansing and detoxifying diuretic that helps stimulate healthy cell regeneration and contains powerful antioxidants and free radical scavengers. Highly praised as a vermifuge, intestinal worms are said to have no resistance to the natural properties of this herb! Sheep sorrel is a rich source of oxalic acid, sodium, potassium, iron, manganese, phosphorous, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. The combination of these vitamins and minerals promote the glandular health of the entire body. Another notable property of this herb is its ability to help regulate digestive health, meaning that it can act as an anti-diarrhea agent as well as a laxative, depending on the health of the digestive tract.

Red Clover BlossomContains genistein, an valuable compound that prevents new blood vessels from forming within unhealthy cell growths. Since these unhealthy cells rely on new blood vessels to grow, genistein effectively starves them while allowing new blood vessels to grow only in healthy tissue! Red clover is a powerful blood cleanser, helps eliminate toxins from the body, reduces swelling and inflammation, promotes tissue repair, and relieves pain!Licorice RootContains polyphenols that have been shown to attack unhealthy cells while protecting healthy cells from damage. Stimulates immunity, supports the adrenal glands, provides lymphatic energy, supports the liver and proper sugar balance.Slippery Elm BarkContains high levels of anti-oxidants, supports immune function and healthy digestion, soothes the digestive tract, helps maintain normal elimination, absorbs and eliminates toxins from the bowel. Contains both beta-sitosterol and a polysaccharide which have been shown to destroy unhealthy cell growth. American settlers used slippery elm as a food due to its exceptional nutritional value. It is said that George Washington and his troops survived several days on slippery elm by making it into a gruel during the winter at Valley Forge.Queen’s Delight RootPromotes detoxification, helps to maintain normal elimination, works to expel thick mucous congestion from the respiratory system, soothes a cough and supports the lungs, promotes healthy cell formation, cleanses the blood and lymphatic system, supports liver function, and acts as a gentle diuretic.Prickly Ash BarkStimulates circulation, helps to relieve chronic pain, invigorates the stomach, spleen, intestines, and lymphatic system, soothes mucous membranes, and helps the body fight infections.

Turkish Rhubarb RootHas been shown to inhibit the growth of unhealthy cells. Supports normal bowel function and encourages a healthy digestion and appetite. Purges the body of bile, parasites, and stagnate food by stimulating the gall duct to expel toxic waste matter. Helps support the bowel’s natural cleansing and detoxification process. Supports health breast cell formation.Cat’s Claw BarkKnown for its immune-stimulating effects, cat’s claw inhibits unhealthy cell production while encouraging healthy cell division. Bladderwrack HerbBladderwrack is a form of kelp that has been used for centuries to remineralize the body. Bladderwrack is rich in iodine, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, sulfur, silicon, iron, B-complex vitamins, phosphorus, selenium, manganese, zinc, vitamins A, C, E, K, algin, mannitol, carotene, and zeaxanthin.

WARNING: Burdock is considered safe and nontoxic, however, pregnant women should not take burdock supplements due to the possible uterine stimulation. People with allergies to chrysanthemums should not take burdock supplements.

Price:32 oz. liquid .......................................................... $42.99Suggested Adult Usage: • For those with major health concerns, an aggressive

amount of Hoxsiac should be taken. For these individuals, we recommend: 3 tablespoons taken 3 times a day on an empty stomach.

• For those with no major health concerns, who just want to improve overall health, we recommend a maintenance amount of 2 tablespoons taken 3 times a day on an empty stomach.

**Refrigerate after opening.


When John the Baptist went to jail, he languished there a bit:Christ did not rescue him at all; what did he think of it?

He'd baptized Jesus long ago, had heard God's voice declare,“This is My own beloved Son;” and saw the dove back there.

But he began to doubt if Christ might not be God's own Lamb:The devil tempted him to think He might not be “I AM.”

So John sent men who could inquire if he had been deceived:But Jesus showed them how He worked and as they saw, believed.

We know not what may come upon our lives in times ahead:But think what Christ has done for you and raise your faith instead.

—R.E.L.

When the Battle Gets Nasty

Hope International does not solicit tithes; however, we are a tithe-worthy organization and accept tithes. We use the tithe only for the gospel ministry. Donations designated “Gospel Ministry” will be considered tithe.

Our Firm Foundation is offered free on-line each month. Please tell your friends!

SHIPPING, SALES TAX & CURRENCYFor all products advertised in this publication (unless otherwise noted): • USA destinations: $0.01- $25.00= $6.25,

$25.01- $50.00 = $9.25, $50.01- $100.00 = $13.50, $100.01-$200.00 = $16.75, $200.00 or more = FREE! • To destinations outside the USA: Actual shipping rate will be charged. Sales tax: North Carolina residents,

please add 6.75%. All money sent must be in US funds, drawn on US banks.

News Watch

End Time Perspective: "In the last scenes of this earth's history, war will rage. There will be pestilence, plague and famine. The waters of the deep will overflow their boundaries. Property and life will be destroyed by fire and flood." Maranatha 174.

Hope International does not solicit tithes; however, we are a tithe-worthy organization and accept tithes. We use the tithe only for the gospel ministry. Donations designated “Gospel Ministry” will be considered tithe.

Our Firm Foundation is offered free on-line each month. Please tell your friends!

SHIPPING, SALES TAX & CURRENCYFor all products advertised in this publication (unless otherwise noted): • USA destinations: $0.01- $25.00= $6.25,

$25.01- $50.00 = $9.25, $50.01- $100.00 = $13.50, $100.01-$200.00 = $16.75, $200.00 or more = FREE! • To destinations outside the USA: Actual shipping rate will be charged. Sales tax: North Carolina residents,

please add 6.75%. All money sent must be in US funds, drawn on US banks.


6 May 2016 – The exact scale of the damage is difficult to assess, as access to the city is restricted. Officials have given few details other than to report that 1,600 homes and

other buildings have been destroyed. However, people who have seen the damage say whole neighbourhoods have been wiped out.

PICTURES OBTAINED BY THE BBC SHOW LARGE PARTS OF THE CANADIAN CITY OF FORT MCMURRAY IN RUINS FOLLOWING A DEVASTATING WILDFIRE.

Canada Wildfire: Image Shows Fort McMurray DevastationBy James Cook, BBC News, Fort McMurray, Alberta


Christian Crossword

ACROSS 1. Pilate’s successor5. The early name for the month Nisan6. Cornelius had what position in the Roman army9. The number of Jesus’ disciples16. The life span of Moses’ successor is in which Bible Book?17. The occupation of Ezekiel19. The son of Hannah21. Good King _______ reigned 25 years23. He held the trusted position of cupbearer at the Persian Court25. He went with Saul on his first missionary journey26. A word meaning ‘house of God’27. Paul’s method of death28. The author of Ecclesiastes29. The nationality of King Darius

DOWN2. Israel’s southern neighbor3. The head-dress of the high priest4. John Mark returned home from what city on his first missionary journey5. A layman, a shepherd and dresser of fig trees7. A piece of “wisdom literature” that observes life around and draws logical

conclusions8. The location of the home of the shepherd in Number 5 down10. Elijah pronounced God’s judgment on this king’s idolatry11. The rebellion of Korah, Dathan and Abiram12. A foreign convert to the Jewish religion13. Total years Jacob served to receive Rachel as his wife14. The father of Hezekiah

15. Speech defamatory of the Divine Majesty18. The last word of the handwriting on the wall in Daniel20. The king that seized Naboth’s vineyard22. A race of very large men as found in the Bible24. Galilee was a Roman province under the jurisdiction of ________

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Across1. In which Book of the Bible are the 10

commandments first listed? [EXODUS] 2. The Day of Atonement is “Yom ______”. [KIPPUR] 7. How many people escaped the flood? [EIGHT]

10. ,VDLDKҋV��QDPH�PHDQV�´BBBBBBB�LV�RI�WKH�/RUG�µ[SALVATION]

11. 1DRPLҋV�KXVEDQG�>(/,0(/(&+@�12. He lied to the Holy Spirit [ANANIAS] 13. Who wrote the 23rd Psalm? [DAVID] 16. This Bible Book has as many chapters as the

number of books in the Bible [ISAIAH] 18. The prophet son of Hilkiah [JEREMIAH] 20. Psalm 91 is often called the Psalm of _________

[PROTECTION]21. He was a cupbearer to the king of Persia

[NEHEMIAH]24. The shortest book in the Old Testament [OBADIAH] 25. A teacher of law, a Pharisee, that spoke up for Paul

[GAMALIEL]26. The fourth Book of Moses [NUMBERS] 27. Which commandment is left out of the Catholic 10

commandments? [SECOND]

Down1. The purported author of the Chronicles [EZRA] 3. The killers of King Saul [PHILISTINES] 4. The son of Uzziah [JOTHAM] 5. The occupation of Luke [PHYSICIAN] 6. “My God, My God, why have you _______me”?

[FORSAKEN]8. Which commandment is divided into two by the

Catholic Church? [TENTH] 9. He was not to use any of the means that men employ

to win allegiance [MESSIAH] 12. A Biblical ground for divorce [ADULTERY] 14. The number of years Moses was a shepherd

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Israel.” [JOSHUA] 19. The first living man to be taken alive from earth

[ENOCH]22. A son of David killed by Joab [ABSALOM] 23. Who will help preserve the righteous in the time of

trouble [ANGELS]

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16. 7KH�OLIH�VSDQ�RI�0RVHVҋ�VXFFHVVRU�LV�LQ�ZKLFK�%LEOH�%RRN"17. The occupation of Ezekiel19. The son of Hannah21. Good King _______ reigned 25 years23. He held the trusted position of cupbearer at the Persian

Court25. He went with Saul on his first missionary journey26. $�ZRUG�PHDQLQJ�ҊKRXVH�RI�*RGҋ27. 3DXOҋV�PHWKRG�RI�GHDWK28. The author of Ecclesiastes29. The nationality of King Darius

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missionary journey5. A layman, a shepherd and dresser of fig trees7. A piece of “wisdom literature” that observes life around and

draws logical conclusions8. The location of the home of the shepherd in Number 5

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________

Answers from Christian Crossword published in the May 2016 issue of Our Firm Foundation

our firm foundation 2016/june16 off.pdf · work must throb in unison with the heart of christ. they...

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